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Benue Women Protest Rising Killings, Demand Action to End Banditry

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By Prosper Mene 

On Wednesday, June 18, 2025, a group of women in Benue State took to the streets, storming the Government House in Makurdi to protest the relentless killings by suspected herders and bandits plaguing their communities. The demonstrators, carrying placards with poignant messages, called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently address the escalating insecurity that has left residents, particularly farmers, living in fear.

“We can’t farm without getting killed,”  one of the placards read, envisioning the dire situation faced by rural communities in Benue, where agricultural livelihoods are under constant threat. The women’s protest sheds light on the devastating impact of banditry, which has disrupted farming activities, displaced families, and claimed numerous lives. Other placards bore inscriptions pleading for an end to the violence and for inclusive engagement to restore peace in the state.

The demonstration stems from a series of violent attacks by armed groups, which have long plagued Benue, a state known as Nigeria’s food basket. The protesters, organized under various women’s groups, expressed frustration over the government’s perceived inaction and demanded immediate intervention to curb the bloodshed. Their call for action was directed not only at President Tinubu but also at state authorities, urging a collaborative effort to ensure safety and security.

“We are tired of burying our loved ones,” one protester told reporters, her voice heavy with emotion. “Our farms are no longer safe. We want to live and work in peace.” The women also appealed for policies to address the root causes of the violence, including disputes over land and resources, which have fueled tensions between farmers and herders.

The protest has drawn attention to the wider issue of insecurity in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, where Benue remains a flashpoint. Local and international organizations, including women’s advocacy groups, have echoed the protesters’ demands, calling for sustainable solutions to the crisis.

The protest addresses the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms and dialogue to address the ongoing violence in Benue State, ensuring that residents can live and work without fear.

 

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Women Bear the Brunt of Soaring Food Prices in Borno, Bayelsa, and Taraba

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By Prosper Mene 

In Nigeria’s Borno, Bayelsa, and Taraba states, women are facing an unprecedented challenge as food inflation rates skyrocket, with Borno recording a staggering 64.36%, Bayelsa at 39.85%, and Taraba at 38.58% year-on-year in May 2025, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). These figures, the highest in the country, are more than just numbers, they represent a growing crisis that disproportionately impacts women, who often serve as the backbone of household food security.

For women like Aisha Mohammed, a mother of five in Maiduguri, Borno, the rising cost of staples like rice, beans, and cooking oil has turned daily survival into a relentless struggle. “Before, I could buy a bag of rice for N30,000; now it’s over N80,000,” she said. “My husband’s income hasn’t changed, so we eat less. Sometimes, I skip meals so my children can have something.” Aisha’s story is one amongst many cases across these states, where women, who are frequently responsible for managing household budgets and feeding families, are forced to make impossible choices.

In Bayelsa, where food inflation hit 12.68%, women traders like Ebiere Okoye, who sells vegetables in Yenagoa’s markets, are caught in a vicious cycle. “The cost of transporting goods has gone up, and farmers charge more because of flooding and insecurity,” Ebiere explained. “I can’t sell at a loss, but customers complain about high prices and buy less. My own family is suffering too.” Studies show that women in Bayelsa are increasingly buying smaller quantities due to shrinking incomes, a trend that adds to nutritional challenges.

Taraba’s rural women, many of whom rely on subsistence farming, face similar hardships. Grace Bitrus, a farmer in Wukari, said erratic weather and banditry have slashed her harvests. “We can’t afford fertilizers, and bandits steal our crops. Now, even garri is too expensive to buy,” she said. With food inflation at 38.58%, women like Grace are not only producers but also primary caregivers, stretching meager resources to feed children and elderly relatives.

In Borno, ongoing insurgency and flooding, worsened by the 2024 Alau Dam collapse, have disrupted livelihoods, leaving women headed households, which has become common due to conflict-related losses, particularly vulnerable. In March 2025, over 1,000 women in Enugu protested similar insecurity, showcasing how violence compounds economic strain. In Bayelsa and Taraba, women also face rising risks of gender-based violence as economic desperation grows.

“When food prices rise, women often prioritize feeding others, leading to their own health decline,” said Dr. Ngozi Okonkwo, a nutritionist in Abuja. Data from 2024 showed 18.6 million Nigerians faced acute hunger, a number likely worsened by 2025’s inflation trends.

Despite these challenges, women are not passive victims. In Borno, women’s cooperatives are pooling resources to buy food in bulk, while in Bayelsa, some female traders are exploring urban farming to offset costs. In Taraba, women like Grace are advocating for government support, such as subsidized fertilizers and security for farmlands.

Nigeria’s inflation rate dropped to 22.97%, but this doesn’t tell the whole story. Women in states like Borno, Bayelsa, and Taraba are being hit hard. If nothing is done, rising food costs could make life even tougher for women, making it harder for them to survive.

 

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Nigerian Woman Faces Up to 20 Years in Indian Jail for Alleged Drug Trafficking

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By Prosper Mene 

A 25-year-old Nigerian woman, Ifeoluwa Akinwunmi, is facing severe legal consequences in India after being arrested for alleged drug trafficking involving 5.325 kilograms of MDMA crystals, commonly known as ecstasy, valued at over N1.8 billion (approximately ₹10 crore or $1.2 million). The arrest, carried out by the Anti-Narcotics Wing of the Central Crime Branch (CCB) in Bengaluru’s Tarahunase village on June 10, 2025, has drawn significant attention due to the scale of the seizure and the potential penalties under Indian law.

Akinwunmi, who identified herself as a hairstylist and nail artist, was intercepted following a tip-off as she arrived from Delhi with a suspicious bag. Authorities discovered the MDMA crystals concealed among 11 new churidars, traditional Indian outfits, intended for delivery to a group of African drug peddlers, according to police reports. A senior officer described her as a courier, stating, “She had come to hand over the drugs to a group of African peddlers.” Four unidentified men on scooters were observed in the area but fled without collecting the package.

During initial questioning, Akinwunmi, also known by the alias “Princess,” claimed she was unaware of the bag’s contents, stating a friend in Delhi had asked her to deliver it to a man wearing a black hat. She told police she had come to India in October 2021 on a business visa with plans to open a beauty salon but later switched to a student visa for a university in Telangana, which she never attended. Her visa expired in 2022, and she has been living in India illegally since. Authorities are also pursuing her boyfriend in Delhi, who is currently absconding and believed to be connected to the case.

Under India’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, possession of a commercial quantity of MDMA, such as the amount seized, carries a minimum sentence of 10 years and up to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment, along with fines ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh. Additionally, under the Foreigners Act of 1946, Akinwunmi faces potential prosecution and deportation for overstaying her visa. This is her first recorded case in Bengaluru, but police are investigating whether she has a criminal history elsewhere in India.

The arrest is coming just days after another Nigerian national, Emmanuel Bediako (alias Maxwell), was apprehended by the Telangana Anti-Narcotics Bureau for similar charges, showcasing a concerning trend of drug-related arrests involving Nigerian nationals in India.

Akinwunmi has been handed over to the Chikkajala Police Station for further investigation as authorities work to uncover potential links to a broader drug trafficking network.

 

 

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Court Rejects FG’s Bid to Arrest Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in Defamation Case

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By Prosper Mene 

The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed the Federal Government’s application for a bench warrant to arrest suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who failed to appear in court for a defamation case arraignment. Justice Muhammed Umar ruled on Monday that the prosecution’s request was premature, as the senator had not been personally served with the charge or hearing notice, a prerequisite for such an action.

The case, initiated by the Federal Government on behalf of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, comes from statements Akpoti-Uduaghan allegedly made during a live television interview on Channels Television on April 3, 2025. The senator is accused of claiming that Akpabio and Bello conspired to orchestrate her assassination and frame it as a mob or local attack, charges that fall under cybercrime and defamation laws.

During the hearing, the prosecution, led by David Kaswe from the Federal Ministry of Justice, argued that serving the charge to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s counsel, Johnson Usman (SAN), was sufficient notice for her to appear in court. However, Justice Umar disagreed, emphasizing that proper procedure in criminal matters requires direct service to the defendant to ensure fairness, especially when personal liberty is at stake. The court subsequently granted the prosecution’s request for substituted service through the senator’s counsel and adjourned the case to June 30, 2025, for arraignment.

Counsel to Akpoti-Uduaghan, Jacob Usman, described the prosecution’s application for an arrest warrant as “strange and uncourteous,” noting that he had only received the charge on behalf of his client on the morning of the hearing. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan herself confirmed the government’s attempt to arrest her, stating, “Suddenly, the Prosecuting Counsel applied for a bench warrant against me, which my counsel stiffly opposed. Gratefully, the court rejected the bench warrant for my arrest.” She expressed her commitment to appear in court on the scheduled dates.

The case has garnered broader concerns, with the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) urging President Bola Tinubu to withdraw the charges, arguing that they infringe on Akpoti-Uduaghan’s right to free expression. SERAP’s call follows an earlier Court of Appeal ruling on May 21, 2025, which struck out motions by Akpabio and ordered him to pay a ₦100,000 fine to the senator, further highlighting tensions between the parties.

Critics have also questioned the credibility of the case, pointing at the involvement of a controversial witness, Sandra Duru, who reportedly faces unresolved fraud charges and allegations of fabricating evidence against the senator. Civic groups and the senator’s media team have called for transparency and urged the Attorney General and Inspector General of Police to address these concerns.

The arraignment is now set for June 30, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where further developments are expected to expose more on this high-profile dispute.

 

 

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Super Falcons Ready for WAFCON Glory, Ajibade Urges NFF Support

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By Prosper Mene 

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has declared the team’s readiness to reclaim the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title at the 2024 tournament in Morocco, while issuing a clarion call to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to provide comprehensive support to ensure the team’s success. The statement spotlights the squad’s ambition to secure a record-extending 10th continental crown from July 5 to 26.

Ajibade, speaking on the Super Falcons Show, expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and determination to overcome past challenges. “We all understand what’s at stake,” she said, emphasizing the squad’s focus on reclaiming the title last won in 2018. The Super Falcons, nine-time WAFCON champions, are drawn in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana, with their campaign kicking off against Tunisia on July 6.

The captain’s comments follow a thrilling 2-0 win against Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses in a friendly match on June 3 at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, which boosted team morale.

Ajibade, who scored both goals, hailed the team’s spirit and fan support as critical to their performance. However, she subtly warned the NFF to address longstanding issues, including inadequate welfare and logistical support, which have frustrated players in previous tournaments. “There’s a lot of confidence in camp, and we’re committed to our goal, but we need everything in place to succeed,” she noted.

The Super Falcons’ preparations, dubbed “Mission X” by the NFF, aims to restore Nigeria’s dominance after South Africa claimed the 2022 WAFCON title. The team’s recent friendly against Cameroon, though reduced from two matches to one due to logistical challenges, showcased their strength, with standout performances from players like Rinsola Babajide, Deborah Abiodun, and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. Head coach Justine Madugu described the win as a “psychological boost” but louded Ajibade’s call for improved support to fine-tune strategies ahead of the tournament.

Ajibade’s leadership has been vital, both on and off the pitch. Her brace against Cameroon and her vocal advocacy for better treatment reflect her growing influence as she prepares to lead Nigeria in Morocco. The 25-year-old, who recently bid an emotional farewell to Atlético Madrid, is also weighing her next career move, with reports linking her to a club in the United States post-WAFCON.

Despite their historical dominance, with 12 consecutive years in the global top 40, the Super Falcons face stiff competition from rising teams like South Africa, Morocco, and Zambia. Ajibade, however, remains unfazed, asserting that the squad’s talent and depth can weather any storm. “The Super Falcons is a very big squad and a very talented squad,” she said, addressing the absence of key players like Asisat Oshoala in recent matches.

With a friendly against Portugal looming on June 23, Nigeria’s Super Falcons are concentrating on strengthening teamwork and gaining momentum. Led by Ajibade and buoyed by “Mission X” fan enthusiasm, the team is primed for success if the NFF fully backs their captain’s plea for consistent support.

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NDDC Reaffirms Commitment to Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in Niger Delta

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By Prosper Mene 

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reaffirmed its dedication to advancing gender equality and empowering women across the Niger Delta region. This pledge was made during a three-day workshop held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to commemorate International Women’s Day, showcasing the Commission’s ongoing efforts to foster inclusive development.

Speaking at the event, Sir Victor Antai, NDDC’s Executive Director of Projects, emphasized the Commission’s alignment with the Renewed Hope Initiative, championed by Nigeria’s First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s national agenda. “The NDDC is committed to creating opportunities that elevate women’s status in education, health, economic empowerment, and governance,” Antai stated, stressing the Commission’s vision for a balanced society where women are not only included but trusted and empowered.

The workshop, which brought together stakeholders from across the region, focused on building skills, confidence, and visibility for women, positioning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 5 (Gender Equality) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Earlier this month, NDDC Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku described women in the Niger Delta as “catalysts for economic growth, social change, and community resilience,” reinforcing the Commission’s belief that empowering women is key to sustainable development.

The NDDC’s initiatives include expanding its “Help the Girl Child” program to communities in Imo and Bayelsa States, providing education and resources to young girls, and supporting policies that promote women’s leadership and economic participation. These efforts aim to address systemic barriers and create transformative opportunities for women in the region.

Stakeholders at the event praised the NDDC’s inclusive approach, with many calling for sustained efforts to ensure women’s contributions continue to drive progress in the Niger Delta. As the Commission marks 25 years of impact, its focus on gender equality cites a promising future for women and girls in the region.

 

 

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University of Lagos Issues Urgent Warning Over Fraudsters Impersonating Vice-Chancellor in N13.8 Billion Ponzi Scheme

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By Prosper Mene 

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has issued a public alert following reports of fraudsters impersonating its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, in a sophisticated procurement scam linked to a broader N13.8 billion Ponzi scheme. The warning comes as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) remanded Precious Williams, a director of Glossalalia Nigeria Ltd. and Pelenged Nigeria Ltd., in Port Harcourt for her alleged role in the Ponzi scheme, raising concerns about the increasing prevalence of financial fraud in Nigeria.

According to a statement released by UNILAG’s Head of the Communication Unit, Mrs. Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, scammers have been targeting individuals through social media platforms, including LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and WhatsApp, posing as Professor Ogunsola. The fraudsters are orchestrating sham procurement processes, falsely claiming to represent the university in deals involving laptops and computers. They entice victims with promises of a 60/40 profit-sharing arrangement, demanding upfront payments and secrecy, and directing communication through private email addresses rather than official UNILAG domains. “This fraudulent activity is not only illegal but deeply concerning,” the statement noted.

The university emphasized that it adheres strictly to transparent and competitive procurement processes in line with Nigerian procurement laws. UNILAG urges the public to verify any suspicious claims or requests by contacting the university through official channels. The University has escalated the matter to law enforcement agencies and is cooperating fully with investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice,” the statement added.

The UNILAG scam exploits the university’s reputation and the authority of Professor Ogunsola, the institution’s first female Vice-Chancellor, appointed in October 2022. Previous reports have highlighted similar impersonation attempts, with at least five fake Facebook accounts claiming to be Ogunsola’s in 2024. One such account offered job slots at UNILAG for N3 million, prompting warnings from the university and Ogunsola herself.

Victims of the Ponzi scheme, including some who gathered outside the Port Harcourt court, expressed devastation. “I sold my land to invest N5.5 million, believing it would secure my family’s future,” said Chukwuma Eze, a 47-year-old trader from Lagos. “Now, we’re left with nothing but promises.” The EFCC noted that Ponzi schemes have cost Nigerians over N911 billion ($589 million) in the past 23 years, underscoring the urgency of public awareness and regulatory action.

UNILAG’s statement reaffirmed its commitment to integrity and transparency, urging vigilance among the public. The university’s cooperation with law enforcement aims to dismantle the fraudulent networks exploiting its name. Meanwhile, the EFCC continues its investigation into Williams and her associates, with the next hearing scheduled for July 10, 2025, in Port Harcourt.

 

 

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Precious Williams Remanded in Port Harcourt Over Alleged N13.8 Billion Ponzi Scheme

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By Prosper Mene 

A Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has ordered the remand of Precious Williams, a director of Glossalalia Nigeria Ltd. and Pelenged Nigeria Ltd., in connection with an alleged N13.8 billion Ponzi scheme that defrauded numerous investors. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Williams on multiple charges of fraud, money laundering, and operating an illegal investment scheme, following a series of complaints from victims across Nigeria.

The EFCC’s Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate revealed that Williams and her companies allegedly lured investors with promises of exorbitant returns, ranging from 20% to 50% monthly, on investments in purported cryptocurrency and forex trading ventures. Investigations, however, uncovered that the companies operated a classic Ponzi scheme, using funds from new investors to pay returns to earlier participants, with no legitimate underlying business to sustain the payouts. The scheme reportedly collapsed in early 2025, leaving thousands of investors, including retirees and small-scale entrepreneurs, with significant financial losses.

According to the EFCC, the N13.8 billion figure represents the total amount allegedly collected from investors between 2022 and 2025. Prosecutors presented evidence of bank transactions, promotional materials, and victim testimonies, which detailed how Williams and her associates used aggressive marketing tactics, including social media campaigns and religious endorsements, to gain trust. The EFCC further alleged that a significant portion of the funds was diverted for personal use, including the acquisition of luxury properties and vehicles.

During the court session, presided over by Justice E.A. Obile, the prosecution argued for Williams’ remand, citing the severity of the charges and the risk of her interfering with ongoing investigations. The defense, led by Williams’ counsel, requested bail, arguing that their client was a first-time offender with strong community ties. However, the court denied the bail application, ordering Williams to be held at the Port Harcourt Correctional Centre pending the next hearing scheduled for July 10, 2025.

The case has garnered widespread concern in Nigeria, where Ponzi schemes have proliferated amid economic hardships and rising unemployment. A recent report by the EFCC highlighted that Nigerians have lost over N911 billion ($589 million) to such scams over the past 23 years, with perpetrators exploiting financial illiteracy and desperation for quick wealth. The Williams case is among the largest of its kind in recent years, drawing comparisons to the infamous MMM Nigeria collapse in 2016.

Victims of the alleged scheme, many of whom gathered outside the courthouse, expressed frustration and despair. “I invested my life savings, N4 million, hoping to secure my children’s future,” said Esther Okon, a 52-year-old widow from Akwa Ibom. “Now, it’s all gone, and we’re left with nothing.” Community leaders and financial experts have called for stricter regulations on investment schemes and increased public awareness to prevent similar incidents.

The EFCC has vowed to intensify its crackdown on financial crimes, with ongoing investigations into other individuals and entities linked to Williams’ operations. The agency also urged the public to report suspicious investment schemes and verify the legitimacy of financial institutions before investing.

 

 

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ASCON Director General Urges Attitudinal Shift in Public Service

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By Prosper Mene 

The Director General of the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Mrs. Cecilia Gayya, has called for a transformative change in the mindset and work ethics of public servants to enhance efficiency and service delivery in Nigeria’s public sector. While speaking at a recent training program in Lagos, Gayya emphasized the need for a renewed commitment to professionalism, accountability, and excellence among civil servants.

“Attitudinal change is critical to reforming the public service. We must move away from complacency and embrace a culture of diligence, transparency, and innovation,” Gayya stated. She highlighted that outdated practices and resistance to change have hindered progress in government institutions, urging public servants to adopt a proactive approach to problem-solving and decision-making.

She stressed that training programs at ASCON are designed to equip civil servants with modern skills and a service-oriented mindset to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving society.

Participants at the event, including senior government officials, louded Gayya’s sentiments, noting that a shift in attitude could bridge the gap between policy formulation and implementation. The call to action aligns with broader national goals to improve governance and public trust in institutions.

Gayya also urged public servants to leverage technology and embrace continuous learning to stay relevant in their roles. “The world is changing, and we must change with it to deliver value to the Nigerian people,” she added.

The event concluded with a renewed pledge from attendees to drive positive change in their respective agencies, signaling a potential turning point for Nigeria’s public service sector.

 

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19-Year-Old Nigerian Innovator Clinches Top Prize at WE Innovate, Aims to Revolutionize Agriculture and Save the Planet

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At just 19 years old, Nigerian-born innovator Ifeoluwa Afolayan, a Master’s student in Design Engineering at Imperial College London and the Royal College of Arts, has emerged as one of the first-prize winners at WE Innovate, Imperial College London’s flagship pre-accelerator programme supporting women-led ventures. Her team was awarded €15,000 to further develop their innovative agricultural initiative, which aims to transform farming practices and contribute to a sustainable planet.

The solution, Aeropod (by Muju Earth) is a capsule designed to aerate and enrich soil that activates in response to heavy rain, helping to provide a climate-proof alternative to intensive farming methods.

Ifeoluwa, founder of Aeropod, alongside her talented team members — Yuchen Cai, Alex Clark, and Ocean Hu — pitched their groundbreaking project at WE Innovate. The programme supports the next generation of women entrepreneurs by helping them develop new businesses through masterclasses, business coaching, expert support, and peer mentoring.

The team’s winning concept garnered widespread acclaim for its potential to enhance crop resilience against climate change, reduce environmental impact, and empower local farmers with innovative technology— while promoting environmental sustainability. The success at WE Innovate marks a significant milestone in their journey to make a tangible difference in the United Kingdom, Nigeria, and globally.

“I’m incredibly honoured to be part of WE Innovate and to win first prize,” said Ifeoluwa Afolayan. “This initiative has the power to revolutionise agriculture in Nigeria, helping farmers adapt to climate change and ensuring food security for future generations. Our goal is to create solutions that not only transform farming but also help save our planet from the adverse effects of climate change.”

Ifeoluwa and her team plan to partner with a Nigerian firm to expand their initiative, leveraging the €15,000 grant and mentorship support from WE Innovate to scale their impact across the region. Their project aims to introduce climate-resilient farming techniques, innovative crop management systems, and sustainable resource use to Nigerian farmers.

Ifeoluwa believes that collaboration with Nigerian industry partners will accelerate the deployment of their solutions, creating new opportunities for local farmers and contributing to Nigeria’s efforts in achieving sustainable agricultural development.

“This achievement is a testament to the power of innovation and resilience. Our project aims to transform agriculture in Nigeria, making it more sustainable and climate-proof. We believe that with the right support and partnerships, we can create lasting change that benefits farmers and helps safeguard our planet for future generations,” Ifeoluwa stated.

Aeropod (by Muju Earth), a soil regeneration startup from Imperial College London, and Dainty Grace, an innovative lingerie startup from Queen’s University Belfast (QUB), each won first prizes of £15,000 in the WE Innovate 2025 Grand Final.

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