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‎EU, NWTF Empower Anambra Women with Voter Education Ahead of Elections

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By Prosper Mene 

‎As a part of it’s bid to boost women’s participation in the democratic process, the European Union (EU) has partnered with the Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF) to train 30 women from diverse communities across Anambra State on voter education.

The initiative, aimed at curbing voter apathy and addressing electoral challenges, is part of a three-day “Train the Trainers” workshop held in Awka, ahead of the August 16 senatorial by-elections and the November 8 governorship polls.The EU-funded program, which began on Thursday, equips participants with the knowledge and skills to conduct local voter education forums, fostering informed participation and promoting peaceful elections. Malliya Manu, Programme Officer at NWTF, emphasized the importance of familiarizing women with the electoral process to encourage greater involvement. “The objective is to reduce voter apathy, which has often marred past elections, and ensure more women participate fully in the upcoming polls,” Manu told journalists.Venezia Gregory, a lead resource person, highlighted key challenges such as double registration, transportation difficulties, and a lack of voter education resources. She stressed that voter education is critical to strengthening democracy by promoting tolerance, acceptance of election results, and inclusive governance. “This training is designed to create a multiplier effect, with each participant mobilizing and educating 50 more women in their communities,” Gregory added.Anambra’s Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Elizabeth Agwu, urged participants to uphold integrity and resist vote-buying, emphasizing the role of women in ensuring credible elections. The participants, carefully selected in collaboration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Social and Integral Development Centre, are expected to drive grassroots campaigns to enhance electoral awareness.

‎INEC reported over 96,000 new voter registrations in just nine days during the recent Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, with women and youth leading the surge. With campaigns set to commence on June 11, this voter education effort is set to play a pivotal role in ensuring a transparent and inclusive electoral process in Anambra State.

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‎Bauchi State Police Arrest 19-Year-Old Woman for Child Theft and Murder of Two Young Girls

by Women Times on

‎By Prosper Mene 

‎The Bauchi State Police Command has apprehended 19-year-old Esther Gambo in connection with the horrific murder of two seven-year-old girls and the abduction of a newborn baby in Toro Local Government Area. The incident, occurred on July 22, 2025, and has sparked widespread outrage and violent protest in the community of Unguwan Sarkin Yaki.

‎According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Ahmed Wakil, Esther Gambo, a resident of Lemoro Village, allegedly lured two young girls, Khadija Sama’ila and A’isha Dahiru, from Unguwan Sarkin Yaki Village under false pretenses. Preliminary investigations reveal that Gambo’s motive was to kidnap a newborn baby girl belonging to Nafisa Dahiru. After abducting the infant, Gambo reportedly led the two girls to a nearby maize farm, where she brutally killed them with a machete before fleeing the scene.

‎Swift action by a combined team of police operatives and local vigilantes led to Gambo’s arrest, the recovery of the deceased girls’ bodies, and the safe rescue of the kidnapped newborn. The tragic incident triggered public unrest, with angry youths in the predominantly Muslim community setting churches ablaze and attempting to burn down the Tulu Divisional Police Headquarters. Police reinforcements from Toro Area Command and neighboring divisions successfully restored order.

‎In addition to Gambo, 15 other suspects have been arrested in connection with the murders and subsequent unrest. The suspects, identified as Abbas Abdullahi (20), Mubarak Auwal (19), Abdullahi Muhammad (19), Dauda Abdullahi (19), Abubakar Sama’ila (18), Abdulmutallib Ibrahim (18), Yazid Auwal (20), Abdulrahman Ibrahim (17), Abdulwahid Sulaiman (17), Salihu Shuaibu (20), Sirajo Halliru (24), Musayib Abdullahi (21), Ibrahim Abubakar (19), Esther Idi (19), Gambo Yakubu (20), and Idi Bitrus (50), are currently under investigation.

‎Commissioner of Police Sani-Omolori Aliyu condemned the violence and emphasized the importance of upholding the law. “We are committed to ensuring justice is served,” Aliyu stated, urging residents to remain calm and refrain from taking the law into their own hands. He assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to uncover the full details of the crime and bring all perpetrators to justice.

‎The Bauchi State Police Command has called for community cooperation and vigilance, encouraging residents to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via emergency contact numbers: 112 or 08156814656.

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‎Super Falcons Soar to WAFCON 2024 Final with Dramatic 2-1 Victory Over South Africa

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎Nigeria’s Super Falcons have secured their place in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a thrilling 2-1 victory over defending champions South Africa at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.

The hard-fought semi-final win keeps alive Nigeria’s “Mission X,” their quest for a record-extending 10th continental title.The match was a tense affair, with both sides showcasing their strength in a clash befitting a final. The Super Falcons struck first just before halftime when captain Rasheedat Ajibade calmly converted a penalty in the 45th minute, following a handball by South Africa’s Bambanani Mbane. The goal sent Nigeria into the break with a 1-0 lead, buoyed by their dominant first-half display.South Africa, known as Banyana Banyana, responded in the second half, leveling the score in the 60th minute through a penalty by Linda Motlhalo after Osinachi Ohale was penalized for a foul in the box. The equalizer shifted momentum, and with the game seemingly headed for extra time, the Super Falcons found a moment of magic in stoppage time. Defender Michelle Alozie unleashed a stunning 35-yard strike in the 94th minute, catching South Africa’s goalkeeper Andile Dlamini off guard, causing wild celebrations among Nigerian fans and players.The victory marks Nigeria’s first WAFCON final appearance since 2018 and sets up a highly anticipated showdown with host nation Morocco, who defeated Ghana 4-2 on penalties in the other semi-final. The final, scheduled for July 26 at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, promises to be a blockbuster, with Nigeria seeking redemption after losing to Morocco in a penalty shootout in the 2022 semi-finals.

‎Coach Justine Madugu praised his team’s resilience, stating, “We knew Banyana Banyana would be tough, but our tactics paid off. The girls showed incredible determination, and we’re ready to make history in Rabat.”

‎The Super Falcons’ journey to the final has been marked by dominance, with a 5-0 thrashing of Zambia in the quarter-finals and an unbeaten record in the tournament, scoring nine goals without conceding until Motlhalo’s penalty. Their blend of experienced stars like Ajibade and emerging talents like Esther Okoronkwo has made them a formidable force.

‎President Bola Tinubu joined the chorus of praise, posting on X, “Congratulations to our Super Falcons! Your incredible #WAFCON2025 semi-final victory over South Africa was nothing short of superlative.” First Lady Oluremi Tinubu also hailed the team, noting, “This win is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we believe in ourselves and stand together.”

‎As Nigeria prepares to face Morocco, the Super Falcons are fueled by their “Mission X” campaign, a rallying cry for their pursuit of a historic 10th WAFCON title. With a new trophy and a $1,000,000 prize at stake, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the 2024 WAFCON.

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‎Elderly Israeli Woman Charged with Plotting to Assassinate Netanyahu Using Rocket Launcher

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎A 73-year-old Israeli woman from Tel Aviv, whose identity remains anonymous under a court gag order, has been charged with conspiring to assassinate Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG). 

‎The terminally ill anti-government activist allegedly planned the attack after learning of her diagnosis, intending to “sacrifice” her life to “save” Israel from the current government, according to the indictment filed by the Tel Aviv district court.

‎ ‎The woman was arrested approximately six weeks ago by Israel’s Shin Bet internal security agency following an investigation prompted by reports from other activists. She reportedly shared her plan with a fellow activist, asking for assistance in acquiring an RPG and gathering intelligence on Netanyahu’s movements and security arrangements. The activist refused to cooperate, attempted to dissuade her, and ultimately alerted authorities, leading to her arrest.

‎ ‎According to the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, the woman expressed a desire to “take Netanyahu with her” after her diagnosis, prompting several individuals to contact police. She was initially detained and later released to house arrest under strict conditions, including a ban on approaching government buildings or the prime minister.

‎ ‎The indictment charges her with conspiracy to commit a crime and conspiracy to carry out a terrorist act. Prosecutors described her as dangerous, requesting she remain under house arrest. Her lawyer, Giora Zylberstein, told Channel 12 that his client had no intention of killing Netanyahu, though he declined to comment further until reviewing the evidence.

‎The case has ignited critisms and public shock, with some questioning Netanyahu’s leadership, though these sentiments remain inconclusive. The case is unfolding under intense secrecy, with limited details released due to the sensitive nature of the allegations.

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Nigerian Digital Storyteller Advocates for AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement for Human Creativity

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Ayeni Dorcas, widely known as Misstechy, a prominent Nigerian digital storyteller and tech advocate, has spoken on the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in fostering innovation. However, she firmly believes that AI should serve as a supportive tool rather than a substitute for human creativity.

‎In a recent statement, Misstechy highlighted the importance of leveraging AI to enhance creative processes while preserving the unique essence of human ingenuity. “AI can amplify our ability to innovate, streamline tasks, and unlock new possibilities, but it must never overshadow the human spark that drives true creativity,” she said.

‎As a leading voice in Nigeria’s tech and creative communities, Misstechy has inspired many through her storytelling and advocacy for responsible technology adoption. Her perspective hits the need for a balanced approach to AI integration, ensuring it complements rather than competes with human talent.

‎Her comments are rightly timed as AI technologies are rapidly reshaping industries globally, originating discussions about their role in creative fields like storytelling, design, and content creation. Misstechy’s advocacy calls for a thoughtful embrace of AI, encouraging innovators to harness its capabilities while safeguarding the authenticity of human-driven work.

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‎Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Remains Suspended, Senate Insists, Despite Court Ruling

by Women Times on

‎By Prosper Mene 

‎The Nigerian Senate has reaffirmed that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, remains suspended and was rightfully barred from resuming legislative duties this week, despite her claims of a court ruling in her favor. 

‎Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 for six months following a heated altercation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which the Senate described as a violation of its rules. The incident came from a dispute over seat arrangements, during which Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual misconduct, an allegation he vehemently denied. The Senate maintains that her suspension was due to “gross misconduct and unruly behavior,” including refusing to sit in her assigned seat and defying the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges.

‎ ‎On July 4, 2025, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled that the six-month suspension was “excessive” and unconstitutional, arguing that it effectively silenced the voice of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituents. The court urged the Senate to review its Standing Orders and reconsider the suspension. Citing this ruling, Akpoti-Uduaghan attempted to resume her duties on July 22, arriving at the National Assembly with supporters, including activist Aisha Yesufu. However, security operatives blocked her entry, leading to a tense standoff.

‎ ‎Senate spokesperson Senator Yemi Adaramodu defended the decision, stating that the court’s ruling was advisory, not a mandatory order for her immediate reinstatement. “There is no formal communication from the courts mandating her recall,” Adaramodu said, describing Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attempt to return as a “publicity stunt.” He emphasized that the Senate would not act on “media interpretations or individual claims” and that her suspension remains in effect until the Senate resumes from its two-month recess.

‎ ‎The Senate further noted that Akpoti-Uduaghan was found guilty of contempt of court for a social media post that violated a restraining order. She was fined ₦5 million and ordered to issue a public apology in two national newspapers and on her Facebook page, directives she has reportedly not fulfilled.

‎ ‎Akpoti-Uduaghan, undeterred, vowed to consult her legal team and potentially seek clarification from the Court of Appeal. “My suspension is wrong. The recommendation itself is faulty,” she told journalists at the National Assembly gate. Her supporters, chanting “Push!” during the confrontation, argue that her treatment shows wider issues of gender-based discrimination in Nigeria’s male-dominated Senate, where only four of 109 senators are women.

‎ ‎Women’s rights groups, including the Womanifesto coalition, have rallied behind Akpoti-Uduaghan, with protests in Lagos, Enugu, Edo, and Kaduna under the banner “We are all Natasha.” Critics, including legal expert Femi Falana, have called the suspension “legislative recklessness,” arguing it undermines the democratic rights of Kogi Central’s electorate.

‎ ‎Meanwhile, Senate President Akpabio has filed an appeal against the July 4 ruling, further complicating the matter. The Senate insists it is committed to due process and the rule of law, accusing Akpoti-Uduaghan of attempting to enforce a non-binding judicial recommendation prematurely. ‎

‎The Senate is set to resume in September 2025, when Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension is scheduled to end, unless further legal or legislative developments alter the course of events.

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Udeme Ufot Applauds Lagos for New Women Empowerment Policy

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The Chairman of the Policy Innovation Centre (PIC), Mr. Udeme Ufot, has applauded the Lagos State Government for launching a strong plan to support women’s growth in business and the economy. He made these remarks at the launch of the Women’s Economic Empowerment Policy Roadmap held at the Shell Hall, MUSON Centre in Onikan, Lagos.

Speaking on behalf of the Policy Innovation Centre, Mr. Ufot congratulated the state government and described the new policy as a big step toward building a fairer society where women are fully included in progress.

“This is not just the start of a policy. It is a strong signal that Lagos is serious about helping women grow and take part in shaping the economy,” Mr. Ufot said.
He explained that the roadmap was created through wide consultations with women from all parts of Lagos, including women with disabilities, market traders, young professionals, and community leaders.

Mr. Ufot noted that the Policy Innovation Centre was proud to be part of the process and believes that true change only comes when policies are shaped by facts, empathy, and real-life experiences.

He praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Cecilia Bolaji Dada, for leading the charge. He also promised that the PIC would continue to support Lagos in bringing the policy to life.

“We must think big, work together, and stay committed,” Mr. Ufot said. “When we invest in women, we invest in the strength and future of our families and our nation.”
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‎House of Representatives Approves Bill for Specialized Women’s Hospital in Imo State ‎

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The House of Representatives has passed a bill for the establishment of a National Hospital for Women in Ideato, Imo State, through its second reading.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, representing Ideato North and South Federal Constituency, aims to address critical gaps in women’s healthcare, with a particular focus on obstetrics fistula, maternal care, and reproductive health research.The bill, which was put to a voice vote by presiding officer Hon. Benjamin Kalu, seeks to create a specialized tertiary hospital dedicated to promoting reproductive and maternal health, preventing and treating obstetrics fistula, and serving as a national center of excellence for women’s healthcare. According to Hon. Ugochinyere, obstetric fistula remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with an estimated 12,000 new cases annually, disproportionately affecting women in rural and underserved areas like Ideato.

‎ ‎“Despite efforts by various organizations, access to quality treatment and preventive measures remains a significant challenge, particularly in rural communities,” Ugochinyere stated during the debate on the bill’s general principles. He emphasized that the National Hospital for Women will not only provide specialized treatment but also focus on education, prevention, and training for healthcare professionals to enhance the quality of care for Nigerian women, especially in disadvantaged regions.

‎ ‎The proposed hospital is expected to serve as a hub for research and sensitization, addressing maternal complications and improving overall healthcare delivery. The initiative has garnered widespread support, with stakeholders highlighting its potential to reduce maternal mortality and improve health outcomes for women across Nigeria.The bill’s passage through the second reading marks a crucial milestone in its legislative journey, with further deliberations and a potential third reading to follow before it is sent to the Senate for concurrence. If successful, the National Hospital for Women in Ideato could become a transformative step in addressing Nigeria’s maternal and reproductive health challenges.

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‎Hajiya Nana Shettima Expresses Gratitude to President Tinubu and First Lady for 50th Birthday Support

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎Hajiya Nana Shettima, wife of Nigeria’s Vice President, has conveyed heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for their warm support and goodwill messages on her 50th birthday, celebrated on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.

In a statement on Wednesday, Mrs. Shettima described their gestures as deeply humbling and uplifting, highlighting the significant impact of their recognition.“My deepest and most profound gratitude goes to our beloved Father and Leader, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his heartfelt and gracious birthday message,” Mrs. Shettima said. “Your thoughtful and inspiring words have deeply touched my heart and soul. I am truly humbled and honored by your generous recognition of my modest contributions to the growth and development of our great nation, Nigeria.”

‎ ‎Mrs. Shettima also extended special thanks to the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her warm tribute, which described her as a “worthy partner.” She noted, “I feel profoundly honored and blessed to be referred to as a ‘Worthy Partner’ in your warm-hearted and uplifting birthday wishes on this remarkable milestone of my life.” She praised the First Lady’s leadership and advocacy, calling her an extraordinary source of inspiration for women across Nigeria.

‎ ‎In her message, Mrs. Shettima also acknowledged the support from the wives of the 36 state governors, whom she described as her sisters under the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum, for their love and fellowship. “I deeply appreciate your genuine love, unwavering support, and warm fellowship on this special and memorable day,” she said.

‎ ‎The First Lady, in a personal goodwill message titled “50 Golden Cheers, Your Excellency,” lauded Mrs. Shettima’s dedication to her family, Borno State, and Nigeria, citing her contributions to humanitarian causes and national development. “Working with you has not only been pleasurable but complementary,” Senator Tinubu added, celebrating their collaborative efforts.

‎ ‎The outpouring of support is a testament to the strong partnership between the families of Nigeria’s President and Vice President, showing their shared commitment to the nation’s progress

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Indian Brothers Marry Same Woman in Rare Polyandry Ceremony

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By Prosper Mene 

‎In Himachal Pradesh, two brothers, Pradeep and Kapil Negi, married the same woman, Sunita Chauhan, in a three-day ceremony that has revived an ancient tribal tradition and caused widespread debate.

The wedding, which took place on July 12, 2025, in Shillai village of Sirmaur district, was a public celebration of the Hatti tribe’s polyandrous custom known as “Jodidara,” drawing hundreds of villagers who participated with folk songs, dances, and sacred rituals.

‎The Jodidara tradition, also referred to as Draupadi Pratha due to its resemblance to the Mahabharata epic where Princess Draupadi married five brothers, allows brothers to share a wife to preserve ancestral land and maintain family unity. Under this custom, the wife alternates between brothers on a mutually agreed schedule, and children are raised collectively, with the eldest brother recognized as the legal father. “We followed the tradition publicly as we are proud of it, and it was a joint decision,” Pradeep Negi told the Press Trust of India. Sunita Chauhan emphasized her consent, stating, “I was aware of this tradition and chose it willingly. I respect the bond we’ve formed.”

‎Though polyandry is illegal under India’s Hindu Marriage Act of 1955, the Himachal Pradesh High Court recognizes Jodidara under customary “Jodidar Law” for certain tribal communities, including the Hatti, who were granted Scheduled Tribe status in 2022.

‎The practice, historically has it’s root in preventing land grabbing and fostering familial bonds in resource-scarce Himalayan regions, remains socially accepted in places like Sirmaur, though it is declining due to rising literacy and socio-economic changes.

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‎Local leaders, including lawmaker Harshwardhan Singh Chauhan, defended the custom, citing its deep cultural roots. “We have a customary law to protect polyandry,” he told reporters. Kundan Singh Shastri, a Hatti leader, linked it to economic necessity, explaining that it prevents land division and ensures security in tribal life.

‎However, the All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) condemned the practice, with General Secretary Mariam Dhawale calling it “an act of women’s exploitation” that violates fundamental rights.

‎ ‎This rare public display of polyandry is one of only five such marriages in the region over the past six years.

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