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Senator Natasha Petitions IGP, AGF, Accuses Senate President Akpabio, Sandra Duru of Defamation and Blackmail

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

Suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has filed a formal petition with the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, demanding an urgent investigation into what she describes as a coordinated campaign of defamation, cyberstalking, and blackmail orchestrated by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and U.S.-based activist Sandra Duru, also known as Professor Mgbeke. The petition, dated May 15, 2025, alleges serious criminal acts, including conspiracy and attempted assassination, aimed at destroying the senator’s reputation and silencing her allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio.

The controversy stems from a February 2025 television interview where Senator Natasha accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, claiming he made inappropriate remarks and linked her legislative bill’s progress to personal favors. The allegations sparked a legal and political firestorm, culminating in Natasha’s suspension from the Senate in March 2025 for alleged misconduct, despite a court order restraining disciplinary actions. Akpabio has denied the accusations and filed a contempt claim against Natasha, with a Federal High Court hearing adjourned to May 13, 2025.

The petition centers on a May 1, 2025, Facebook Live broadcast by Sandra Duru, who allegedly presented manipulated voice recordings and call logs to claim Natasha fabricated the harassment allegations to destabilize the Nigerian government. Duru further accused Natasha of offering her ₦200 million to falsely implicate Akpabio in organ harvesting and the 2021 murder of Iniubong Umoren. Natasha has vehemently denied these claims, describing the broadcast as a “criminal act” intended to incite violence and ruin her reputation. Her legal team, led by Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN), argues that Duru’s broadcast violated multiple Nigerian laws, including those on cyberstalking and defamation.

A key point of contention is Duru’s call log, inadvertently displayed during the broadcast, which included contacts labeled “Senator Akpabio,” “IGP Kayode,” and “My Daddy Directline.” Natasha’s petition suggests these contacts indicate a conspiracy involving Akpabio and possibly senior security officials. The petition also highlights Duru’s use of the alias “Professor Mgbeke,” which Natasha claims was a deceptive persona used to manipulate public opinion and launch a “treasonous smear campaign.”

Further complicating the saga, Nigerian journalist Francess Olisa Ogbonnaya recently accused Duru of paying her ₦300,000 to manipulate audio recordings against Natasha. Ogbonnaya claimed she edited out defamatory content, leading Duru to reject the final product. While Ogbonnaya called for a police investigation, she clarified there is no direct evidence linking Akpabio to Duru’s actions.

Natasha’s petition urges the IGP and AGF to investigate Akpabio, Duru, and their associates thoroughly, prosecute those found culpable, and ensure her protection amid escalating threats.

The Senate President’s office has yet to respond to the latest petition, though Akpabio previously dismissed Natasha’s allegations as baseless. Duru, who has petitioned international and Nigerian authorities to probe Natasha’s claims, maintains her accusations are supported by evidence. The Nigeria Police Force and AGF’s office have not publicly commented on the petitions.

As the legal battle intensifies, public reactions remain two sided. Some groups, like the Afenifere Youth Stakeholders Forum, have called on Akpabio to clarify his alleged ties to Duru, while others, including the Arewa Youths Progressive Assembly, have labeled Duru a “serial blackmailer” and demanded her deportation from the UK.

 

 

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Actress Mercy Aigbe Pens Heartfelt Apology to Daughter for Harsh Upbringing

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By Prosper Mene 

Nollywood actress Mercy Aigbe has publicly apologized to her daughter, Michelle, for the strict and sometimes harsh parenting style she employed during her upbringing. The emotional revelation, which has sparked widespread discussion on social media, cites the actress’s reflections on her journey as a single mother and her desire to mend past wounds with her daughter.

In a recent video shared across platforms, Aigbe opened up about the challenges of raising Michelle single-handedly, admitting that her disciplinary methods were often severe. “For years, I was a single mom to my daughter, Michelle, and just three days ago, I had to send an apology text to her for the harsh upbringing I gave her,” Aigbe shared, as reported in posts across social media platforms like X. She recounted a particularly striking moment when Michelle, now studying in Canada, revealed she was “traumatized” after recalling an incident where Aigbe struck her with a bucket. “I said, ‘Are you mad?’” Aigbe recounted with a mix of humor and regret, acknowledging the intensity of her past actions.

The actress’s apology comes from her realization that her strict approach, rooted in traditional African parenting values, may have left lasting emotional scars. “I was harsh, but I raised a vessel for God,” Aigbe said, expressing pride in Michelle’s growth while recognizing the need to address the pain caused by her methods. The heartfelt gesture has resonated with many, with fans and observers praising Aigbe’s vulnerability and accountability.

Social media reactions, reflect a mix of admiration and empathy. One user described the apology as “beautiful,” noting the courage it takes for a parent to publicly own their mistakes. Others have sparked conversations about the implications of African parenting styles, with Aigbe’s story prompting debates on balancing discipline with emotional nurture.

Aigbe’s apology not only humanizes her as a mother but also underscores the evolving dynamics of parent-child relationships in modern African families.

Her apology serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of reflection, forgiveness, and growth in family bonds.

 

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Suspected Rapist Machetes 14-Year-Old Girl into Coma in Abia

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By Prosper Mene 

Obete Nchina Village, Ntighauzo community in Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State, was thrown into shock on when a suspected rapist, identified as Chinazum Ubani, allegedly attacked a 14-year-old girl, leaving her in a coma. The victim, identified as Felicia, suffered severe machete wounds after reportedly resisting an attempted rape by the suspect.

According to reports, the incident occurred when Ubani allegedly lured Felicia to a bush area in the village. When she resisted his advances, he attacked her with a machete, inflicting deep cuts that caused significant blood loss. A search party later found the girl unconscious in the bush and rushed her to a hospital, where she remains in critical condition.

The victim’s father expressed his anguish, stating, “My daughter had fallen into a coma when she was rescued by the search party in the bush.” He appealed to the wife of the Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, for assistance, noting that his daughter may face permanent disability due to the severity of her injuries.

Local authorities have launched an investigation, and the suspect is reportedly in custody. The brutal attack has sparked outrage in the community, with residents calling for justice and increased security measures to protect vulnerable individuals.

This tragic incident sheds light on the ongoing issue of gender-based violence in the region, ganarring renewed calls for stronger interventions to ensure the safety of women and girls.

 

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NiDCOM Welcomes 13 Trafficked Nigerians Rescued from Ghana and Mali

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By Prosper Mene 

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has successfully received 13 Nigerian citizens, including 12 young women and a five-year-old boy, who were rescued from human trafficking networks in Ghana and Mali. The announcement was made in a press statement by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols at NiDCOM, on Sunday.

The rescued individuals, comprising 10 women aged 16 to 30 from Ghana and two women aged 27 and 35 from Mali, hail from Cross River (4), Benue (4), Imo (1), Oyo (1), and Adamawa (2) states. According to NiDCOM, the victims were lured with false promises of lucrative job opportunities, only to be forced into prostitution and subjected to sexual abuse, physical assault, and emotional trauma.

Speaking on behalf of NiDCOM Chairman/CEO Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Mr. Dipo Odebowale, Head of NiDCOM’s Lagos Liaison Office, recounted the victims’ harrowing experiences. “The girls from Ghana were deceived with job offers but coerced into prostitution. The women from Mali shared similar stories of deception and abuse,” Odebowale stated. Dabiri-Erewa called for the prosecution and public exposure of traffickers to combat modern-day slavery, emphasizing NiDCOM’s commitment to protecting Nigerians under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The rescue operation was a collaborative effort involving the Ghanaian Anti-Human Trafficking Police, the Nigerian High Commission, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), and the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Ghana. The victims have been handed over to NAPTIP for profiling, rehabilitation, and reintegration, with NiDCOM ensuring coordination with state governments for family reunification.

This latest rescue brings the total number of trafficked Nigerians repatriated from Ghana since July 2024 to 176, following earlier operations that saved 163 victims. NiDCOM expressed gratitude to key stakeholders, including First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru, and Chief Callistus Elozieuwa of NIDO Ghana, for their support in facilitating the safe return of the victims.

Dabiri-Erewa urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities, reiterating the need for continued awareness to curb human trafficking. “We must work together to end this menace and protect our citizens, both at home and abroad,” she said.

 

 

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President Tinubu Celebrates Professor Mary Lar at 90, Lauds Her Legacy in Education and Diplomacy

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By Prosper Mene 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to Professor Mary Lar, a distinguished educationist and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Netherlands, on the occasion of her 90th birthday. The milestone was marked with tributes from prominent Nigerian leaders, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), and Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, during a celebratory event in Abuja that also featured the launch of her book, Walking with My Best Friend.

In a statement delivered through Senator Simon Lalong, President Tinubu described Professor Lar as a “woman of virtue, grace, and quiet strength,” highlighting her enduring contributions to Nigeria’s educational and diplomatic sectors. “At 90, Her Excellency remains a symbol of dignity and devotion. As one of the first female professors from Northern Nigeria, she has inspired generations of women and girls across the nation,” Tinubu said. He also commended her role as a pillar of support during the tenure of her late husband, Chief Solomon Lar, the first civilian governor of Plateau State and pioneer National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Born on May 15, 1935, in Langtang, Plateau State, Professor Lar has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s academic landscape. Starting her career in government secondary schools, she rose to become the first female professor from Northern Nigeria, breaking barriers and paving the way for countless others. Her dedication to mentoring generations of students has earned her widespread respect, with many of her former students continuing to apply her teachings for societal good.

The President also acknowledged Professor Lar’s diplomatic service, noting her impactful tenure as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Netherlands. Her contributions to nation-building, Tinubu said, reflect her as a “pace-setter and dedicated nation-builder” whose legacy continues to inspire. During the event, Tinubu announced a donation of N50 million in support of the book launch, showing his administration’s appreciation for her lifelong service.

Former President Jonathan described Professor Lar as “an Amazon who has greatly impacted society,” emphasizing her unwavering commitment to nurturing minds and serving humanity. General Gowon and Governor Mutfwang echoed similar sentiments, praising her as a role model whose life exemplifies resilience and dedication. Former Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha, quoting Psalm 91:16, attributed her long life to her prayers and love for God, calling her “humanity personified.”

The event, attended by dignitaries and students alike, celebrated not only Professor Lar’s remarkable life but also her continued influence as a beacon of hope and progress for Nigeria. President Tinubu concluded his tribute by wishing her good health and strength, expressing gratitude for her invaluable contributions to the nation’s development.

 

 

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Atiku Abubakar Celebrates Mary Zira’s Rise to World-Class Chess Champion

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By Prosper Mene 

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has hailed the remarkable journey of Mary Victor Zira, a young girl from an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp in Adamawa State, who has defied the odds to become a world-class chess champion. In a heartfelt statement, Abubakar described Mary’s story as “a powerful symbol of opportunity and hope,” highlighting her inspiring transformation from displacement to global acclaim.

Mary, who was once displaced by conflict in northeast Nigeria, caught the attention of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) through its Feed and Read programme, which supports vulnerable children’s education and development. The initiative played a pivotal role in nurturing her talent, providing her with the tools and opportunities to excel in chess. Today, she stands as a beacon of resilience, earning international recognition for her strategic prowess on the chessboard.

In a post shared on his official X account on Friday, Atiku praised Mary’s determination and credited the AUN Feed and Read team for discovering her potential. “The story of Mary Zira is a story of opportunity and hope. From uncertainty, today she’s a world-class chess champion,” he wrote. “I am deeply grateful to the AUN Feed and Read team for discovering Mary.”

During a recent event at AUN, Mary was celebrated on stage, where she presented a silver medal to Atiku, a moment that underscored her growing legacy. The former vice president, a founder of AUN, used the occasion to call attention to the plight of countless other displaced children across Nigeria. “There are many more Marys whose future continues to be ruined by the devastation of insecurity across the country,” he noted, urging collective action to support their education and development.

Mary’s achievements not only spotlight her individual brilliance but also highlight the transformative impact of community-driven initiatives like AUN’s Feed and Read programme. As Nigeria grapples with ongoing challenges of displacement and insecurity, Mary Zira’s triumph serves as a clarion call for investment in the potential of its youth.

Atiku’s commendation has garnered widespread admiration on social media, with many Nigerians celebrating Mary as an inspiration. Her journey from an IDP camp to the global stage shoes the possibility of a brighter future, even in the face of adversity.

 

 

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Tems Celebrates Body Positivity, Embraces Curves as a Black Woman

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By Prosper Mene 

Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems has sparked widespread admiration with her heartfelt embrace of body positivity, declaring, “I love being curvy” in a recent interview. The Grammy-nominated artist, known for her soulful voice and global hits like Essence and Burning, shared what she cherishes most about being a Black woman, highlighting her curves and “that little booty” with a playful confidence that has resonated across social media.

In a candid moment, Tems responded to an interviewer’s question during the Met Gala about her favorite aspect of Black womanhood, saying, “I love being curvy .” Her unapologetic self-love has inspired fans and prompting a wave of supportive posts across social media platforms.

Tems’ statement comes right at a time when body positivity and representation remain critical conversations in the entertainment industry. Her words not only reflect personal pride but also serve as an empowering message for women, particularly Black women, to embrace their natural beauty. Fans have praised her for challenging conventional beauty standards and radiating confidence, with @SemiNigerian

quoting her directly: “Being curvy is what I love most about being a Black woman.”

The Born in the Wild singer’s comments have also sparked lighthearted discussions online, with many applauding her for keeping it real. As one X post put it, Tems’ love for her curves is a reminder of the power of self-acceptance in a world often obsessed with perfection.

Tems continues to make waves both musically and culturally, using her platform to uplift and inspire. Her latest remarks are a testament to her authenticity, proving once again why she’s a beloved figure in Nigeria and beyond

 

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Nenadi Usman Dares Julius Abure to ‘Expose’ Peter Obi, Alex Otti Amid Labour Party Crisis

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By Prosper Mene 

The ongoing leadership crisis within Nigeria’s Labour Party (LP) escalated as Senator Nenadi Usman, head of the party’s Caretaker Committee, boldly challenged the suspended National Chairman, Julius Abure, to follow through on his threats to “expose” prominent party figures, including Peter Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti. The confrontation, has deepened divisions within the party, raising concerns about its unity ahead of future elections.

The dispute stems from Abure’s suspension on May 7, 2025, by the Usman-led Caretaker Committee, which accused him of impersonation, anti-party activities, and other criminal allegations. In response, Abure threatened to reveal damaging information about Obi, Otti, and other LP leaders, prompting Usman’s defiant retort: “I dare you”.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Usman dismissed Abure’s threats as baseless and urged him to substantiate his claims. “Expose us,” she challenged, emphasizing the committee’s commitment to transparency and restoring order within the party. Sources close to the committee, cited by @channelstv

, indicated that Usman’s response was a strategic move to call Abure’s bluff and refocus attention on the probe into his alleged misconduct.

The crisis has drawn significant attention on Social media, particularly X, with users like @PO_GrassRootM

Citing Usman’s challenge and expressing support for Obi and Otti. However, sentiments vary, with some users questioning the timing of the internal conflict, given the LP’s growing influence as a third force in Nigerian politics. The suspension of Abure followed a contentious national convention in Anambra, which Obi and Otti reportedly opposed, further fueling tensions.

Stakeholders, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), have called for reconciliation, warning that prolonged infighting could undermine the party’s credibility. The Caretaker Committee, co-led by Senator Darlington Nwokocha, has vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into Abure’s tenure, with findings expected to shape the party’s leadership structure.

Despite LP’s turbulent period, Usman’s bold stance has placed Abure under pressure to either substantiate his allegations or face further scrutiny.

 

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Oby Ezekwesili Slams JAMB Over 2025 UTME Technical Glitch, Calls for Accountability

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By Prosper Mene 

Former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, has publicly criticized the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the Federal Ministry of Education for their handling of a technical glitch that disrupted the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results, affecting nearly 380,000 candidates across 157 examination centers. The incident has caused widespread outrage, with stakeholders demanding greater transparency and systemic reform.

In a series of posts on X on May 15, 2025, Ezekwesili described the situation as a “classic fiasco,” quoting physicist Stephen Hawking: “The greatest enemy of knowledge is not ignorance, it is the illusion of knowledge.” She questioned why JAMB and the Ministry of Education failed to conduct a prompt and unbiased system check when unusual trends in the results were first reported, particularly in the five South-East states and Lagos, where the glitch was most pronounced. “The Ministry of Education and JAMB were embarrassingly anecdotal in their pejorative non-evidence-based explanation of the significantly unusual results,” she stated, highlighting a lack of professionalism in addressing the issue.

The controversy intensified after JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, admitted during an emotional press conference on May 14, 2025, that errors by one of JAMB’s service providers had distorted results, forcing affected candidates to retake the exam between May 16 and 19. Ezekwesili criticized the short notice given to candidates for the resit, noting a message from a distressed candidate who claimed JAMB provided insufficient preparation time. “Could JAMB please reconsider this rush to do a reset? What just happened requires thoughtful next steps,” she urged.

Referencing her past critiques, Ezekwesili shared screenshots of her 2018 and 2023 tweets, including one where she called for a former Minister of Education to be reassigned to an airport toll gate for prioritizing revenue over systemic integrity. She also revisited the 2023 Mmesoma Ejikeme controversy, where she had advocated for an independent tech investigation into allegations of result forgery, a call she reiterated for the current crisis.

The fallout from the glitch has been severe, with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) linking the death of Miss Timilehin Faith Opesusi, who reportedly took her life after scoring 190, to the psychological toll of the flawed results. NANS demanded Oloyede’s resignation and compensation for affected families. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has launched an investigation into the glitch, and Lagos-based lawyer Evans Ufeli has filed a N10 billion lawsuit against JAMB, citing violations of candidates’ rights.

Public sentiment on social media reflects growing frustration, with users like @olorunwababs on X

calling JAMB’s response a “national shame” and criticizing the board’s casual dismissal of responsibility. Despite some praise for Oloyede’s accountability, stakeholders, including Peter Obi and the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), have warned of deeper systemic issues in Nigeria’s examination systems.

Ezekwesili’s outspoken critique has heightened calls for a thorough audit of JAMB’s systems and greater investment in robust, transparent infrastructure to restore public trust. As candidates begin the rescheduled exams, the nation watches closely, hoping for justice and lasting reforms to prevent future failures.

 

 

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Patience Jonathan’s 2027 Campaign Pledge Sparks Controversy, Nigerians React

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By Prosper Mene 

Former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan’s recent declaration to campaign alongside current First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections has ignited a firestorm of reactions across Nigeria, with some accusing her tenure of undermining the Office of the First Lady.

Jonathan, who served as First Lady from 2010 to 2015 during her husband Goodluck Jonathan’s presidency, ruled out any ambition to return to Aso Rock Villa, stating, “I didn’t just know her [Senator Oluremi Tinubu] because she’s the First Lady, no. We worked together. We are groups. We worked.” She expressed her intent to support Tinubu and President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid, a move that has drawn both praise and sharp criticism.

Critics on social media and in political circles have been quick to revisit Jonathan’s tenure, with some claiming her time as First Lady “ridiculed” the office. “Patience Jonathan’s era was marked by controversies that diminished the dignity of the First Lady’s role,” said political analyst Chidi Okoye. “Her decision to campaign for Tinubu now raises questions about her motives and legacy.” Others pointed to her public speeches, often criticized for their informal style, and allegations of overreach in political matters as stains on her record.

Supporters, however, argue that Jonathan’s tenure brought visibility to the First Lady’s office through her advocacy for women’s empowerment and education. “She connected with everyday Nigerians in a way few have,” said Amina Sule, a women’s rights activist. “Her support for Tinubu shows political maturity and unity.”

Posts on X reflect a divided sentiment. One user wrote, “Patience Jonathan campaigning for Tinubu? Nigerians will remind her of her Aso Rock drama in 2027.” Another countered, “She’s free to support who she wants. The hate is unnecessary.”

The announcement has also disrupted speculation about a “Bring Jonathan Back” campaign for her husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, to contest in 2027. Analysts suggest her endorsement of Tinubu could signal a strategic alignment to maintain political relevance.

As the 2027 elections loom, Jonathan’s pledge has set the stage for a polarized debate. “Nigerians will decide in 2027,” said Okoye, echoing a sentiment shared across X posts. “Her legacy and this decision will be judged at the polls.”

The controversy in a broader sense reveals the enduring influence and scrutiny surrounding Nigeria’s First Ladies, with Jonathan’s next moves likely to remain under intense public watch.

 

 

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