close
Women Times

News

News

UK-Based Nigerian Woman Laments Separation from Husband After ‘Japa’ Move in 2023.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene Prosper 

In a heartfelt outcry, a Nigerian woman who relocated to the United Kingdom in 2023 has shared her emotional struggle, expressing deep longing for her husband left behind in Nigeria. The woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, broke down in tears as she recounted the personal toll of her decision to “japa”—a Nigerian slang term for emigrating in search of better opportunities.

The woman’s story shows the emotional challenges faced by many Nigerians who leave their homeland for greener pastures abroad. “I miss my husband,” she cried, reflecting on the sacrifices made in pursuit of a better life. Her relocation in 2023 was driven by hopes of improved economic prospects and stability, but the separation from her spouse has left her grappling with loneliness and regret.

Her experience is not an isolated one. The wave of Nigerian migration, particularly to countries like the UK, Canada, and the US, has surged in recent years due to economic hardships, insecurity, and limited opportunities at home. However, the emotional and psychological costs of such moves often go unspoken. For many, leaving loved ones behind creates a bittersweet reality, where professional or financial gains are tempered by personal loss.

This woman’s story resonates with a broader narrative of Nigerian diaspora experiences. A related post from 2024 on X by Instablog9ja highlighted another UK-based Nigerian woman facing marital challenges, illustrating the compounded difficulties of navigating relationships across borders. While the two cases differ, they both shed light on the complex dynamics of migration, where dreams of a better future can come at a steep personal cost.

Stories like these highlight the need for support systems to address the emotional and social challenges faced by migrants. For this woman, the ache of missing her husband serves as a constant reminder that the pursuit of a better life often demands sacrifices that weigh heavily on the heart.

 

 

read more
News

Awolowo’s Granddaughter Resigns from Labour Party Executive Committee, Cites Erosion of Integrity

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

Pastor Funke Awolowo, granddaughter of the late Nigerian statesman Chief Obafemi Awolowo, has resigned her membership in the Labour Party’s Lagos State Executive Committee, effective immediately. The announcement, made public on Friday, has sparked discussions within political circles due to her prominent family legacy and her stated reasons for stepping down.

Pastor Awolowo, who served as the Head of the Mobilisation and Integration Team for the Labour Party in Lagos, expressed deep concerns about the party’s direction in a resignation letter addressed to Lagos Labour Party Chairperson, Dayo Ekong. She cited a perceived erosion of integrity within the committee and its leadership, stating that personal interests had overshadowed the party’s commitment to impactful governance.

“For years, I have served with sincerity and dedication, committed to the vision of impactful governance,” Awolowo wrote. “However, when the purpose of service is blurred by personal interests and the space for integrity begins to shrink, it becomes necessary to step aside.” Her resignation cites her belief that continuing in her role would compromise her personal values and public image.

Despite stepping away from her formal role, Pastor Awolowo emphasized her unwavering commitment to public service and political engagement. “My dedication to national development and the political process remains steadfast,” she affirmed, hinting at continued involvement in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape, albeit outside the Labour Party’s structure.

The granddaughter of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a revered nationalist and one of Nigeria’s founding political figures, Pastor Funke Awolowo carries a significant legacy. Her grandfather’s contributions to Nigerian politics, particularly as a champion of federalism and social welfare, continue to resonate. Her resignation has thus drawn attention not only for its political implications but also for its symbolic weight, given her family’s storied history.

The Labour Party has yet to issue an official response to Awolowo’s resignation. Political analysts suggest that her exit could prompt further introspection within the party as it navigates its role in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape ahead of future elections.

As news of the resignation spread, posts on X reflected a mix of surprise and support for Awolowo’s decision, with some users praising her for prioritizing integrity. “Funke Awolowo’s resignation shows principle over politics. The Labour Party needs to reflect,” one user wrote. However, these sentiments remain inconclusive and do not fully capture the broader public reaction.

Pastor Awolowo has not indicated her next steps but has left open the possibility of engaging in other platforms to advance her vision for Nigeria’s development.

 

 

read more
News

Tinubu Appoints Usoro Akpabio as SSDC Managing Director, Urges Akwa Ibom Support

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Madam Usoro Offiong Akpabio, a prominent politician and strategist from Akwa Ibom State, as the Managing Director of the newly established South South Development Commission (SSDC). The announcement, made on May 8, 2025, has sparked optimism about the region’s development prospects.

The SSDC, headquartered in Uyo, is tasked with driving infrastructure and economic growth across Nigeria’s South-South region, including states like Akwa Ibom, Delta, and Rivers. Alongside Akpabio, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche from Rivers State, was nominated as the Commission’s Chairman.

Okpolupm Etteh, the House of Representatives member for Eket/ONNA/Esit Eket/Ibeno Federal Constituency, praised the appointment, calling it a strategic move by President Tinubu. In a statement on May 9, 2025, Etteh urged the people of Akwa Ibom to rally behind Akpabio, emphasizing that her leadership could “unlock unprecedented development opportunities” for the South-South region.

“As the SSDC begins operations, I call on all Akwa Ibom people to support Miss Akpabio in this important assignment,” Etteh said, expressing gratitude to the President for the confidence shown in Akwa Ibom’s leadership.

Public reactions, reflect excitement about the appointment, with many viewing it as a chance to address longstanding infrastructural challenges in the region. However, details about Akpabio’s previous roles remain limited, prompting curiosity about her experience leading such a significant initiative.

The Senate is expected to review the nominations, which include 16 additional board members, to finalize the Commission’s leadership structure. With its focus on regional development, the SSDC is poised to play a pivotal role in transforming the South-South’s economic landscape under Akpabio’s leadership.

As Akwa Ibom residents await the Commission’s next steps, Etteh’s call for unity shows the collective hope that Akpabio’s tenure will mark a new era of progress for the state and the broader region.

 

 

read more
News

Federal High Court Grants N20 Million Bail to EeZeeTee in Alleged Forex Fraud Case, Mercy Chinwo’s Former Manager

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

The Federal High Court in Lagos, presided over by Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke, has granted N20 million bail to Ezekiel Onyedikachi, popularly known as EeZeeTee, a music producer and former manager of celebrated gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. The ruling follows allegations of a $255,000 foreign exchange transaction fraud brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), casting a spotlight on the complexities of the music industry and the challenges faced by women like Chinwo navigating its business landscape.

EeZeeTee, CEO of EeZee Global Concept Ltd, faced an amended seven-count charge accusing him of unauthorized forex transactions and failing to disclose financial activities to the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering (SCUML) between 2022 and 2023. The EFCC alleges that in June 2023, EeZeeTee negotiated a $52,895 forex deal with Oladotun Olaobaju Mureke without Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) authorization, with his company receiving $255,436 during the period without proper disclosures. EeZeeTee pleaded not guilty, and the trial is adjourned to June 20, 2025.

For Mercy Chinwo, a leading figure in Nigeria’s gospel music scene, the case shows the often unseen struggles of female artists in an industry where trust in management is paramount. Chinwo, known for hits like Excess Love, has not publicly commented on the case, but earlier allegations, later dropped by the EFCC, suggested EeZeeTee misappropriated her earnings. These claims, though unproven, highlight the vulnerability of women in music who rely on managers to handle complex financial dealings. Chinwo’s rise to fame, built on her talent and faith-driven music, has made her a role model for many young women, yet this case reveals the potential pitfalls even successful female artists face when business relationships sour.

Justice Aneke set EeZeeTee’s bail at N20 million, requiring a surety with Lagos property worth the same amount. EeZeeTee was temporarily released to his lawyer, Ojukwu Chikaosolu (SAN), with 72 hours to meet the conditions. Defense counsel argued for lenient bail, citing EeZeeTee’s role as the sole caregiver for his two ill children and ongoing settlement talks. The EFCC opposed, alleging EeZeeTee evaded service, with tensions peaking when operatives attempted to rearrest him outside court, only for a senior official to intervene.

The case cites the need for greater transparency in the music industry, particularly for women like Chinwo, who often juggle artistic demands with the pressures of navigating financial and legal complexities.

 

read more
News

Kaduna Court Remands 10 Men Over Alleged Rape of 14-Year-Old Disabled Teenager

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

A Kaduna Chief Magistrates’ Court has ordered the remand of 10 men, including a grandfather, for the alleged gang rape of a 14-year-old physically challenged teenager. The suspects, identified as Ibrahim Yahaya, Jibrin Haruna, Abubakar Yahaya, Mustapha Lawal, Jibrin Musa, Haruna Yahaya, Ibrahim Audu, Musa Yahaya, Jibrin Yahaya (the grandfather), and Jibrin Isah, were arraigned on charges of conspiracy and rape.

The court, presided over by Chief Magistrate Ibrahim Emmanuel, did not take the pleas of the accused, citing a lack of jurisdiction. Instead, the magistrate directed that the case file be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice. The suspects were ordered to be held at the Kaduna Correctional Centre pending further proceedings, with the case adjourned to June 17, 2025, for mention.

According to the prosecution, led by Inspector Chidi Leo, the incident occurred on April 28, 2025, in the Ungwan Dosa area of Kaduna. The complainant, whose identity is protected, reported the assault to the police, alleging that the 10 men lured the teenager to an uncompleted building and took turns sexually assaulting her. The victim’s disability is said to have made her particularly vulnerable to the attack.

The case has sparked outrage in Kaduna, with community members and activists demanding justice for the teenager. Hajiya Rabi Salisu, Kaduna State Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, described the incident as a “heinous act” and vowed that the state would pursue justice relentlessly. “This is a reminder of the need to protect our most vulnerable citizens,” Salisu said, urging stronger community vigilance against sexual violence.

The arrests were made following a police investigation triggered by the victim’s family, who reported the assault to local authorities. The case adds to growing concerns over sexual and gender-based violence in Kaduna State, where the Ministry of Human Services reported securing three rape convictions between June 2024 and February 2025.

As the legal process unfolds, advocates are calling for comprehensive support for the victim, including medical and psychological care, and stricter measures to deter such crimes. The Kaduna State government has reiterated its commitment to combating sexual violence, with plans to strengthen partnerships with civil society organizations to raise awareness and provide survivor support.

The trial’s outcome is expected to set a significant precedent in the state’s fight against sexual violence, particularly for protecting vulnerable populations. For now, the community awaits justice for the 14-year-old, whose ordeal has garnered calls for reform and accountability.

 

 

read more
News

Father’s Tears Shake Ilorin Court in “Facebook Killer” Trial

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

A heartrending scene unfolded in the Kwara State High Court on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, as the trial of AbdulRahman Bello, infamously dubbed the “Facebook killer-lover,” took a devastating turn. The father of the late Hafsoh Lawal broke down in uncontrollable tears, his anguish echoing through the courtroom as police presented the severed remains of his daughter as evidence. The chilling display, accompanied by a foul odor, left attendees in shock and showed the brutality of the crime that has gripped Ilorin.

The tragedy traces back to February 2025, when Hafsoh Lawal vanished under mysterious circumstances. Authorities arrested Bello, an Ilorin-based cleric, on February 13 after he allegedly confessed to murdering Lawal and dismembering her body in a failed attempt to use her remains for a money ritual. The prosecution, led by Inspector Ayodele Azeez, submitted the gruesome exhibits, human body parts recovered from Bello’s residence and a nearby dumpsite, preserved at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital. Yusuf Dauda, an officer with the State Criminal Investigation Department, testified to documenting the evidence, intensifying the courtroom’s somber mood.

Justice Hannah Ajayi presided over the emotionally charged session, where four of the 16 scheduled prosecution witnesses appeared alongside Bello and four co-accused. The defense, represented by Chukwudi Maduka, challenged the evidence’s recovery process, noting Dauda’s absence at the retrieval site. Yet, Inspector Mohammed corroborated the findings, detailing how the parts were meticulously collected and stored.

For Lawal’s father, the sight of his daughter’s severed hands was unbearable, a stark reminder of a life cut short by betrayal. The case has sparked outrage across Kwara State, with residents decrying the rise of ritualistic crimes and the dangers lurking in online relationships. Social media platforms, where Bello allegedly lured his victim, have come under scrutiny, prompting calls for stricter digital safety measures.

The trial has brought the courtroom to a point of intense emotional pain and unresolved questions. A community’s trust was shattered in the most violent way possible, how can it be restored? Can any form of justice bring solace to a father’s overwhelming grief? The people of Ilorin are looking for answers, believing that Hafsoh Lawal’s memory deserves to drive lasting change.

 

 

read more
News

First Lady Launches Free Medical Outreach, Upgraded Hospital, School in Bayelsa

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

On Thursday, April 3, 2025, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, launched a transformative free medical outreach program and commissioned the renovated Cottage Hospital and Community Secondary School in Otuasega, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The initiatives, executed in collaboration with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), aim to bolster healthcare and education in the Niger Delta region.

The event marked the flag-off of the NDDC’s 2025 Free Medical Outreach, designed to deliver critical health services to underserved communities across the nine NDDC states: Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Rivers, Edo, Imo, Abia, and Ondo. Senator Tinubu also introduced a tailored health insurance scheme to provide affordable and reliable medical care to rural families, emphasizing its potential to reduce mortality rates by ensuring timely access to healthcare.

“I am honored to be in Bayelsa State, and it is a great delight to officially flag off the NDDC medical outreach program, health insurance scheme, and the distribution of school desks, benches, and textbooks in collaboration with the Renewed Hope Initiative,” Senator Tinubu said. She urged residents to take full advantage of these interventions, stating, “To the good people of Bayelsa State and the entire Niger Delta Region, this is your program.”

The First Lady also donated 11 fully equipped ambulances to enhance emergency response across the region, with Bayelsa and Delta each receiving two, and one allocated to each of the other NDDC states. Additionally, medical equipment and personal protective gear were distributed to health facilities to strengthen healthcare delivery.

In education, the upgraded Community Secondary School in Otuasega received 32,000 school desks, benches, and textbooks to create a more conducive learning environment for students. These efforts align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes health, education, and social investment to empower communities.

Senator Tinubu commended the NDDC for its commitment to development, noting that “health and education are essential pillars of progress.” She also unveiled a prototype for the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Mother and Child Amenity Ward, a model for future healthcare expansions in the region.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, praised the partnership between the state government and the NDDC, describing it as a model of collaboration that transcends political divides. “We cannot play politics with the development of our region if we love our states,” he said, expressing gratitude for federal projects, including road infrastructure linking coastal communities.

The First Lady’s visit shows the federal government’s dedication to addressing long-standing neglect in rural areas, with a focus on improving healthcare access and educational opportunities. The Otuasega projects are expected to serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives across Nigeria, fostering a healthier and more educated populace.

 

read more
NewsUncategorized

Governors’ Wives Defend Pivotal Role in Governance, Advocate for Greater Visibility

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

The spouses of Nigeria’s 36 state governors have called for increased recognition and communication initiatives, emphasizing their unique position at the “intersection of compassion and influence.” At a recent gathering, the governors’ wives highlighted their often-overlooked contributions to state-led development programs, asserting that their efforts deserve greater visibility to amplify their impact on policy, public perception, and societal change across Nigeria and beyond.

“Despite being the wives of elected governors, we each have stories that can move policy, shape perception, and inspire change, not just in our states, but across the continent,” one governor’s spouse passionately declared, encapsulating the group’s shared sentiment. Their initiatives, which range from education and healthcare advocacy to women’s empowerment and poverty alleviation, complement state governance but frequently go unnoticed due to limited media coverage and institutional support.

The governors’ wives argued that their proximity to power grants them a unique platform to bridge grassroots needs with policymaking. By leveraging their influence, they aim to humanize governance, bringing attention to marginalized voices and driving community-focused reforms. However, they stressed the need for enhanced communication capacity to share their stories effectively and sustain their momentum.

This call to action comes amid growing scrutiny of the role of political spouses in governance, with critics questioning their unelected influence. The governors’ wives countered these concerns, framing their work as a voluntary commitment to public service rather than an extension of political authority. Their advocacy, they insist, is rooted in compassion and a desire to uplift their communities.

 

 

read more
News

Tragic Incident in Akwa Ibom: Boyfriend Allegedly Kills Girlfriend in Violent Altercation

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

A saddening incident has rocked the Qua River Quarters in Eket Local Government Area, where a man allegedly stabbed his girlfriend, Ruth Ngozi Sunday, to death on May 6, 2025. The Akwa Ibom State Police Command confirmed the incident in a press release issued on May 7, 2025, by spokesperson DSP Timfon John, LLB, Anipr, stating that the suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, is under investigation following the fatal altercation.

According to the police, operatives responded to a distress call at approximately 10:15 AM on May 6, 2025, and discovered both Ruth Ngozi Sunday and her cohabiting boyfriend lying in a pool of blood. Preliminary investigations reveal that the couple engaged in a violent dispute involving a kitchen knife, resulting in both sustaining stab wounds. Ruth was pronounced dead at a local hospital, while the suspect, who remains in critical condition, is receiving medical treatment under police supervision.

The police recovered the suspected murder weapon, a kitchen knife, from the scene. While the motive behind the altercation remains unclear, the investigation is ongoing to uncover the circumstances that led to this tragic outcome. Efforts are underway to contact the suspect’s relatives, and the family of the deceased has been notified, with further updates promised as the investigation progresses.

The Police Public Relations Officer emphasized the command’s commitment to thorough investigation and justice, stating, “The Akwa Ibom State Police Command is working diligently to ensure all facts are established.” This incident has sparked renewed concerns about domestic violence in the region, prompting calls for increased awareness and intervention to prevent such tragedies.

The community of Eket remains in shock as authorities continue to investigate this heartbreaking loss of life.

 

 

read more
UncategorizedNews

Olu of Warri Mourns with Senator Owie Over Wife’s Passing

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, has conveyed profound condolences to Senator Roland Owie, former Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate, following the death of his beloved wife, Lady Helen Owie, at the age of 71. The monarch’s condolence message, shared via a post on X by @Lord_Of_Warri

on May 7, 2025, described the late Lady Helen as a “Quintessential Mother,” whose exemplary life and enduring legacy profoundly impacted her family, community, and beyond.

Lady Helen Owie passed away peacefully in Abuja on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, after a brief illness, as confirmed by a statement personally signed by Senator Owie. Reflecting on their over 50-year marriage, the former senator expressed deep admiration for his wife’s unwavering devotion, faith, and strength. “When Helen came into my life over five decades ago, she lovingly made our home a safe space,” he wrote. “She united my family and treated my late mother, Aghatise Owie, who delivered 11 children for my father, of whom I am the only surviving child, with the deepest compassion and honour.” He further praised her as a God-fearing woman, a devoted follower of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and a pillar of their family, whose humility, kindness, and grace held them together.

The Olu of Warri, in his message, emphasized Lady Helen’s nurturing and unifying presence. He prayed for divine strength and comfort for Senator Owie, their children, grandchildren, and extended family during this time of mourning. “The loss of such a remarkable woman is deeply felt, but her legacy of love and faith will continue to inspire,” the monarch noted, urging the family to find solace in her cherished memories.

Lady Helen’s passing has elicited widespread tributes across Nigeria, including from prominent figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who, in a post on X on April 10, 2025, lauded her exemplary life and the positive impact she had on her family and community. Her role as a steadfast supporter of Senator Owie’s political career, which included his tenure as a House of Representatives member in 1979 and as a senator for Edo South Senatorial District from 1999, was widely acknowledged. Her faith-driven life and commitment to family values were highlighted as a testament to her enduring influence.

The Olu’s condolence shows the Warri Kingdom’s tradition of solidarity and compassion, with His Majesty standing as a pillar of support for the Owie family. The Royal Court of Warri has not announced any formal events related to the condolence, but the monarch’s message reflects the deep cultural and communal bonds within the Itsekiri nation.

The Owie family has requested prayers for the peaceful repose of Lady Helen’s soul, invoking the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

 

read more
1 … 53 54 55 56 57 … 71
Page 55 of 71