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Nigerian-Australian Woman Arrested for Alleged Trafficking of 15 Papua New Guinean Students

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By Prosper Mene 

A 56-year-old Nigerian-Australian woman, Binta Abubakar, was arrested by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) at Brisbane Airport on Tuesday, June 11, 2025, for allegedly trafficking 15 Papua New Guinean (PNG) students and forcing them into unpaid farm labor under the guise of educational scholarships. The arrest follows a two-year investigation by the AFP’s Northern Command Human Trafficking Team, initiated in July 2022 after a tip-off from Queensland Police.

Abubakar, a dual citizen primarily based in PNG, allegedly lured the students, aged 19 to 35, to Australia between March 2021 and July 2023 through her company, BIN Educational Services and Consulting. She promised fully funded scholarships but instead coerced the students into signing agreements to repay undisclosed costs for tuition, airfares, visas, insurance, and legal fees, placing them in significant debt. The victims were then forced to work on Queensland farms, including fruit farms in Lockyer Valley and Stanthorpe, often for 10 hours a day, seven days a week, in violation of their visa conditions. Some reportedly lived in oppressive conditions, including shipping containers.

The AFP alleges Abubakar collected the students’ wages and withheld them to repay their “debts,” threatening deportation or harm to their families in PNG if they resisted. The farmers employing the students were unaware of the trafficking scheme. Abubakar faces 31 charges, including four counts of human trafficking (maximum penalty: 12 years’ imprisonment), 14 counts of deceptive recruitment (seven years), and 13 counts of debt bondage (four years).

She appeared in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Wednesday, June 12, 2025, and was granted conditional bail, with a court reappearance scheduled for September 19, 2025. AFP Detective Superintendent Adrian Telfer condemned the exploitation, emphasizing the vulnerability of foreign workers lured by false promises. “The AFP is committed to protecting those targeted by greed and profits,” Telfer said, urging the public to report suspected trafficking. The Australian Red Cross’s Support for Trafficked People Program is assisting victims, some of whom remain in Australia.

This case tails recent international efforts to combat Nigerian-linked trafficking networks, including the arrest of 13 suspected syndicate members in Germany and a key trafficker in Nigeria in 2024. Authorities believe there may be additional victims and are encouraging them to come forward.

 

 

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Last Surviving Twin Rescued by Mary Slessor Dies at 115 in Arochukwu

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By Prosper Mene 

Madam Malinda Mgbafor Okereke, fondly known as Mama Nsu Bekee, the last surviving female twin rescued by Scottish missionary Mary Slessor in Nigeria’s Arochukwu Ancient Kingdom, has passed away at the remarkable age of 115. Her death was announced by her only surviving son, Bishop Okechukwu Okereke, in a statement released to the press in Umuahia, Abia State, on Thursday, June 12, 2025.

Born over a century ago, Madam Malinda and her twin sister, Mgbokwo, were saved from a grim fate by Mary Slessor, who arrived in the region in the late 1800s to end the traditional practice of twin-killing. At the time, twins were considered taboo in Arochukwu and parts of the Lower Cross River region, often killed and discarded in the “evil forest” due to cultural beliefs that viewed their birth as an abomination. Slessor, a devoted missionary, enforced a ban on this practice in 1876 and personally rescued and fostered many twins, including Malinda and Mgbokwo, whose births were attended by Slessor and her team at their maternity in Obinagu, Amasu Village, Arochukwu.

Under Slessor’s care, the twins were raised and educated at the Mary Slessor Primary School (now Mary Slessor Secondary Technical School) in Arochukwu, where they received formal education under the direct supervision of Scottish missionaries. This opportunity marked a significant departure from the fate that awaited twins before Slessor’s intervention. Mgbokwo, Malinda’s twin sister, passed away nearly two decades ago, leaving Malinda as the last living symbol of Slessor’s transformative work in the region.

Madam Malinda’s life stood as a testament to the enduring impact of Mary Slessor’s missionary efforts, which not only saved countless lives but also challenged deeply rooted cultural practices. Her passing marks the end of an era, closing a chapter on a remarkable story of survival, and the power of compassion to change lives.

The family has not yet announced funeral arrangements, but Madam Malinda’s legacy as a survivor of a bygone era and a beneficiary of Slessor’s humanitarian work will continue to inspire the living. Her story is a reminder of the progress made in abolishing harmful traditions and the influence of one woman’s mission to protect the vulnerable.

 

 

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Democracy Must Serve Nigerians Beyond Voting, Says Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

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By Prosper Mene 

On Democracy Day, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, called for a democracy that prioritizes the welfare of Nigerians beyond election periods. She emphasized the importance of justice, equity, inclusion, and unity to ensure the system delivers meaningful progress and improves the quality of life for all citizens.

 

“June 12 stands as a symbol of our collective struggle for democratic governance,” Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan said, paying tribute to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola and other pro-democracy heroes whose sacrifices paved the way for Nigeria’s democratic system. “It is a tribute to the courage of Chief M.K.O. Abiola and countless Nigerians, known and unknown, who stood firm to defend the sanctity of the people’s will.”

Uduaghan stressed that while Nigeria has made strides in sustaining democracy, true progress must be measured by its impact on citizens’ everyday lives. “Democracy must bring real development, empower the weak, uphold the rule of law, and protect the dignity of every Nigerian,” she said. Her call to action resonated across social media, with posts on echoing her message that democracy should translate into concrete improvements for all.

The Senator’s remarks come at the time when Nigerians are reflecting on the state of governance, with many expressing concerns over economic challenges and social inequalities. Her statement has spiked discussions about the need for accountable leadership and policies that prioritize the welfare of the masses.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s message serves as a reminder that the essence of democracy lies in its ability to uplift and unite the nation, not just during elections but in the daily lives of its people.

 

 

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Rivers State Police Rescue 13-Year-Old Girl Abducted in Umuebule

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By Prosper Mene 

The Rivers State Police Command has successfully rescued a 13-year-old girl who was abducted while running an errand for her mother in the Umuebule community, Etche Local Government Area. The operation, conducted on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, marks another decisive action by the police to combat kidnapping in the region.

According to reports, the young girl was abducted last Thursday in Oyigbo while carrying out a task for her mother. Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the Rivers State Police Command swiftly mobilized and located the victim in Etche, where she was being held captive. A video circulating on social media shows the moment of her rescue, alongside the interrogation of a suspect who confessed to involvement in the crime.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, has yet to release an official statement, but sources confirm the suspect is in custody, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the circumstances surrounding the abduction and identify any additional perpetrators.

This rescue follows a pattern of criminal activity in the Etche area, which has been noted for its notoriety as a hotspot for kidnappings. The police’s timely intervention has been commended by community members, who are calling for sustained efforts to ensure safety in the region.

The Rivers State Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting residents and urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly. Further details on the case are expected as investigations progress.

 

 

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World’s Tallest Woman, Rumeysa Gelgi, Pays for Six Plane Seats to Travel the Globe

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By Prosper Mene 

Rumeysa Gelgi, recognized by Guinness World Records as the tallest living woman at 7 feet 0.7 inches, has shared the extraordinary measures required for her to travel by air. Due to her height and a rare genetic condition called Weaver syndrome, which causes accelerated growth and other physical challenges, Gelgi must pay for six plane seats to accommodate a specially designed stretcher, as she is unable to sit in standard airline seats.

Gelgi, a 28-year-old Turkish advocate and web developer, first flew in September 2022, traveling from Istanbul to San Francisco with Turkish Airlines, which removed six economy seats to install a stretcher for her 13-hour journey. Describing the experience as “flawless from start to finish,” she praised the airline’s staff and medical team for their support. Since then, she has relied on this unique arrangement to visit countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Spain, and Italy, with plans to explore East Asia next, targeting cities like Tokyo and Seoul.

Traveling presents significant challenges for Gelgi, who uses a wheelchair or walker for mobility due to her condition and scoliosis, which limits her ability to sit upright for extended periods. She must arrive at airports four hours early to coordinate with medical staff and cover the cost of the six seats her stretcher occupies. Despite these hurdles, Gelgi remains determined to explore the world, expressing hope to travel by bus or train in the future.

Beyond logistics, Gelgi faces accessibility barriers at historic sites, including in her hometown of Safranbolu, Turkey, where Ottoman-era landmarks remain out of reach due to a lack of wheelchair-friendly infrastructure. “It’s upsetting to hold myself back from visiting remarkable places and experiencing the richness of history,” she told Luxury Travel Daily. With spinal implants making even minor falls risky, she prioritizes safety and advocates for innovative solutions to improve access for people with mobility limitations.

While Gelgi plans her next adventures, she remains a powerful voice for change, urging the travel industry and historic sites to prioritize accessibility so everyone can “connect with the past, regardless of mobility.”

 

 

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Nollywood Actress Rosy Meurer Denies Domestic Violence Allegations Against Husband Olakunle Churchill

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By Prosper Mene 

Nollywood actress Rosy Meurer has publicly addressed and dismissed rumors alleging that her husband, businessman Olakunle Churchill, physically abuses her, labeling the claims as “fabricated and malicious.” The Gambian-born Nigerian actress took to her Instagram page on Wednesday to set the record straight.

In a candid post, Meurer stated, “If you don’t tell your side of the story, they will tell it for you in ways that suit them for the world to believe. It’s the world we find ourselves in. YOU MUST SPEAK UP FOR YOURSELF!” She firmly denied the allegations, asserting that her husband is “not a woman beater” and expressed frustration over what she described as false narratives spread by “amateurs and jobless, idle minds.” Meurer added, “My husband never fit talk wetin dey him mouth finish, let alone beating a woman,” describing Churchill’s character as soft-spoken and non-violent.

The rumors gained momentum after netizens noticed Meurer had reportedly deleted photos of Churchill from her Instagram account, sparking speculation of a marital crisis. Addressing this, Meurer clarified that she felt compelled to speak out for the sake of her family and children, who look up to her. She also took a swipe at detractors, suggesting that those spreading such claims might be projecting their own experiences, saying, “It’s funny when haters wish beating in my marriage when it’s obvious their mothers, daughters, and sisters will fall victims of massive beatings.”

Churchill, the ex-husband of Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh, also responded to the rumors in a lighthearted manner, noting that his family was enjoying a vacation at Disneyland Paris. He humorously remarked, “I hear say I dey trend. Who cooked am? My family dey Disney Paris dey enjoy summer life. Una go wait until menopause come.” The couple, married since 2019 and parents to two children, have faced recurring speculation about their relationship, often fueled by Churchill’s high-profile divorce from Dikeh.

Meurer, known for her roles in Oasis (2014) and Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons (2018), has previously addressed rumors about her marriage, including allegations of infidelity and Churchill’s rumored plans to take another wife. In each instance, she has maintained that their relationship remains strong, emphasizing mutual support and love. In a 2022 anniversary post, she wrote, “A strong marriage rarely has two strong people at the same time. It has a husband and a wife who take turns being strong for each other.”

The actress’s response has wasn’t left without criticism from fans. While some fans praised her for defending her family, others questioned the timing and authenticity of her statement, with comments like, “There’s no smoke without fire,” and “Na only you know wetin dey happen for your marriage. Meurer remains steadfast, urging the public to focus on facts rather than rumors.

Meurer and her spouse, Churchill continue to project unity, with the actress reiterating her commitment to her family and her resolve to counter false narratives.

 

 

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Nollywood Star Abiola Adebayo Addresses Backlash Over Divorce Announcement

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By Prosper Mene 

Nollywood actress and podcaster Abiola Adebayo has publicly addressed the criticism and ridicule she faced online after announcing her separation from her husband, Oluwaseyi Akinrinde. The announcement, which coincided with her ex-husband’s birthday, sparked significant backlash, with some fans accusing Adebayo of deliberately choosing the timing to humiliate him.

In a heartfelt video posted on her YouTube channel, Adebayo clarified that her decision to share the news was intentional, aimed at controlling her narrative and preventing misinformation. Speaking in a mix of English and Yoruba, she stated, “I am human too. I posted about my marriage because I didn’t want people to tell my story for me, yet you all used it against me.” She emphasized that her ex-husband was informed of the announcement beforehand and that it was not intended to tarnish his image.

Adebayo, who married Akinrinde in April 2021 after a brief courtship, confirmed that the couple had been separated since April 2024. The pair, who share a son born via surrogacy in April 2023, are now focused on co-parenting. Addressing rumors, Adebayo firmly denied allegations of domestic violence in their relationship, stating, “No form of physical abuse or violence occurred.”

Looking back on the emotional toll, Adebayo revealed she had endured private struggles, saying, “While I go about making other people happy during the day, my pillow is drenched with my tears almost every night for the past 14 months.” She expressed regret that the marriage did not work out but prioritized her well-being, noting, “It’s better to stay alive to tell the story.”

The actress also faced comments from controversial singer Portable, who questioned her ability to interview wives on her podcast given her marital challenges. The remarks sparked further outrage online, but Adebayo urged her followers to show kindness, emphasizing that people often face silent battles.

Adebayo, a prominent figure in Nollywood known for roles in films like Fist Hit and her work on the TalkToB podcast, remains committed to her career and co-parenting her son. She concluded her response by calling for empathy, stating, “Let’s learn to be kind to people. You have no idea what others are going through.”

Fans and colleagues, including actress Regina Chukwu, have rallied in support, praising Adebayo’s resilience and transparency.

 

 

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Couple Arrested in Ebonyi for Scalding Widow with Hot Water in Violent Dispute

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By Prosper Mene 

A couple, Chigozie and Ginika, have been arrested by the Ebonyi State Police for allegedly pouring hot water on their neighbor, a widow named Cynthia Ucha, during a violent altercation in Abakaliki, the state capital. The incident, which took place on Akidi Street, has shocked the local community and raised concerns about ongoing harassment of the victim.

According to eyewitness Ozioma, the incident started from a verbal disagreement between Ginika and Cynthia, which escalated into a physical assault. Ozioma alleged that Ginika enlisted her husband, children, and brother-in-law to join in attacking the widow. “They beat her mercilessly with sticks and other dangerous objects,” Ozioma recounted. “While Cynthia was already severely injured, Ginika fetched a pot of boiling water and poured it on her.”

The witness further claimed that the couple had repeatedly threatened Cynthia since she moved into the compound, despite her quiet and reserved nature. “She’s been quiet and keeps to herself, but Ginika and her family have constantly harassed her,” Ozioma added.

The Ebonyi State Police acted swiftly, apprehending Chigozie and Ginika. The suspects were initially detained at the Central Police Station before being transferred to the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit at the Police Headquarters in Abakaliki. Confirming the arrests, Police Public Relations Officer SP Joshua Ukandu stated that the couple remains in custody and will face charges in court once investigations are complete.

The brutal attack sparked outrage among residents, with many calling for justice for Cynthia Ucha. The incident points out the need for stronger measures to protect vulnerable individuals, such as widows, from harassment and violence in local communities.

Authorities have assured the public that the case will be thoroughly investigated, and justice will be served. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.

 

 

 

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Tragedy Strikes as Woman Collapses and Dies in Ado-Ekiti Hotel

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By Prosper Mene 

A saddening incident has shaken the capital city of Ekiti State, as a yet-to-be-identified woman tragically slumped and died in a prominent hotel located along NTA Road, Ado-Ekiti. The hotel, reportedly owned by a well-known politician and situated adjacent to a private radio station, became the scene of the unexpected tragedy, prompting swift response from local authorities.

According to reports, the woman collapsed in one of the hotel’s bathrooms and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite efforts to save her, medical personnel confirmed her death upon arrival. The Ekiti State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, SP Sunday Abutu, has acknowledged the incident and stated that investigations are underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding the woman’s sudden collapse.

Details about the deceased, including her identity and the cause of death, remain undisclosed as the police continue their inquiries. The incident has endeared concern among residents of Ado-Ekiti, with many expressing shock over the event in such a high-profile establishment.

Authorities have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine whether the incident was due to natural causes or other factors. The hotel management has yet to release an official statement regarding the tragedy.

Editor’s Note: The identity of the deceased has been withheld pending notification of her family. The public is urged to refrain from speculation as authorities work to establish the facts.

 

 

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First Lady Remi Tinubu Honored with ‘Ugosimba 1’ Title by Enugu Traditional Rulers

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By Prosper Mene 

In a vibrant ceremony steeped in cultural significance, the traditional rulers of Enugu State have conferred the prestigious chieftaincy title of “Ugosimba 1 of Enugu,” meaning “Jewel of Empowerment” in Igbo, on Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu. The honor, bestowed during her two-day working visit to the South-East region, recognizes her relentless efforts in advancing women’s empowerment and social development across Nigeria.

The conferment ceremony, held in Enugu, was a highlight of Mrs. Tinubu’s visit, which focused on strengthening community health initiatives and supporting women in the region. Addressing the gathering, the First Lady urged traditional rulers to maximize their grassroots influence to champion campaigns against critical health issues, including cervical cancer, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and female genital mutilation. She emphasized the crucial role of local leaders in driving public awareness and fostering healthier communities.

As part of her visit, Mrs. Tinubu distributed professional kits to midwives across the South-East, a move aimed at bolstering maternal healthcare services and empowering women in the health sector. “The chieftaincy title of Ugosimba is not just symbolic, it represents a recognition of real action,” the event organizers noted, praising her commitment to tangible social impact.

The title has sparked varied reactions on social media. While many celebrated the recognition of her contributions, some expressed skepticism, referencing past controversies, others standing on the ground that Igbos do not confer chieftaincy title to women. Nonetheless, the conferment shows her growing influence in promoting gender equity and community development.

The event marks a significant moment in Mrs. Tinubu’s ongoing mission to uplift Nigerian women and strengthen healthcare systems nationwide.

 

 

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