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Bianca Ojukwu Leads Nnewi Delegation to Thank Governor Soludo for Support in Ministerial Appointment

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By Prosper Mene 

Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, led a delegation of prominent Nnewi stakeholders on a courtesy visit to Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, to express gratitude for his support during her nomination and appointment to President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet. The visit, which took place at the Old Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia, Anambra State, shows the strong bond between the minister and the governor, as well as the unity of purpose in advancing Anambra’s interests on the national stage.

The delegation, comprised of elders and key figures from Nnewi, commended Governor Soludo for his solidarity and thoughtful guidance throughout Bianca Ojukwu’s journey to her ministerial role. As a distinguished daughter of Ndigbo and a Board of Trustees member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Ojukwu’s appointment has been widely celebrated as a testament to her exceptional leadership and diplomatic experience, including her tenure as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain from 2012 to 2015.

During the visit, Bianca Ojukwu expressed heartfelt appreciation for Soludo’s instrumental role in supporting her nomination, describing his encouragement as crucial to her success. She emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in driving progress for Anambra State and Nigeria as a whole. The delegation also acknowledged Soludo’s broader contributions to the state, including infrastructural projects like the dualisation of the Nnewi-Ozubulu-Okija Road and efforts to tackle insecurity, which have bolstered development in the region.

Governor Soludo, in response, reiterated his confidence in Bianca Ojukwu’s ability to excel in her new role, describing her as a “shining light” in President Tinubu’s administration. He praised her appointment as a reflection of Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive governance, noting that it marks the first time an APGA member has been appointed to a federal ministerial position. Soludo expressed optimism that Ojukwu’s expertise would enhance Nigeria’s foreign relations and bring pride to Anambra State.

The event served as a platform to celebrate the growing influence of Ndigbo in national politics, with Ojukwu’s appointment seen as a bridge between regional and federal aspirations.

Bianca Ojukwu’s leadership and cultural sensitivity are set to boost Nigeria’s global standing, as evident in her Foreign Service Academy address. The Nnewi delegation’s visit to Soludo also showcases a shared commitment to progress and excellence.

 

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AXA Mansard Partners with Lagos DSVA to Combat Violence Against Girl Child

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AXA Mansard, Nigeria’s foremost insurance provider, has joined forces with the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) to raise awareness and promote education on domestic and sexual violence, with a special focus on protecting the girl child across the country.

This collaboration coincides with AXA Mansard’s annual “Week for Good,” a global corporate social responsibility initiative. The partnership will feature a variety of activities, including employee-led training, public awareness campaigns, and school-based activations, all supported by expert guidance from the DSVA.

Speaking at the partnership launch at the DSVA office, Olusesan Ogunyooye, Head of Marketing at AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, expressed admiration for DSVA’s efforts and emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting their work.

“Our belief is that the future should not be at risk,” Ogunyooye said. “To safeguard the future, we must protect our children. Building on our ongoing fight against sexual and gender-based violence, we see this partnership with DSVA as a vital step during our Week for Good to contribute to a safer society.”

He also highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts: “DSVA’s work in Lagos is commendable, and we see this partnership as an opportunity to show our support and work together to eliminate violence from our communities.”

Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of DSVA, welcomed the partnership, describing it as a positive move in addressing violence against girls. She underscored the significance of private sector involvement in amplifying Lagos State’s zero-tolerance stance on sexual and gender-based violence. She reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to providing expertise and resources to ensure the initiatives under AXA Week for Good make a meaningful impact, fostering a safer, more inclusive environment for all.

Under the theme, “Being a Girl Shouldn’t Be A Risk,” this year’s AXA Week for Good aims to spotlight the devastating effects of sexual and domestic violence on the girl child.

Data from the 2014 Nigerian National Survey on Violence Against Children reveal that 25% of girls experience sexual violence before age 18, and 15% of girls coerced into forced sex before 18 become pregnant. Ogunyooye described these statistics as deeply troubling.

He added, “It is alarming that these acts of violence occur in environments where children should feel safe, such as homes and schools. The normalization of violence, often justified by cultural norms, is a ripple effect we must address.”

AXA Week for Good is the flagship program of AXA’s employee volunteering initiative, AXA Hearts in Action, which saw employees contribute over 20,000 volunteer hours in 2024.

 

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Two Years of Tinubu’s Administration: Nigerian Women Bear the Brunt of Economic Hardship

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

As President Bola Tinubu’s administration marks its second year, many Nigerians are voicing growing discontent, with women disproportionately impacted by worsening economic conditions. Rising inflation, soaring food prices, and widespread unemployment have left families struggling to survive, and women, often the backbone of households, are facing unprecedented challenges.

In markets across Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, women traders report reduction in sales and skyrocketing costs of goods. Aisha Mohammed, a single mother and vegetable seller in Lagos, shared, “Two years ago, I could feed my children three meals a day. Now, we’re lucky to have one full meal. Everything is so expensive, and customers aren’t buying.” Her story exposes the dilemma of millions of Nigerian women who say they are hungrier and more impoverished than ever.

Economic data paints a grim picture. Inflation has surged past 33% in 2025, with food inflation hitting record highs. The removal of fuel subsidies in 2023, a key policy of Tinubu’s administration, has driven up transportation and commodity costs, hitting women hardest, as they often manage household budgets. Rural women, who rely on subsistence farming, face additional burdens from erratic weather patterns and limited access to agricultural support.

Women-led households, which make up a significant portion of Nigeria’s poor, are particularly vulnerable. Ngozi Okorie, a widow in Enugu, has this to say, “My small tailoring business can’t keep up with the cost of materials. I’ve had to pull my daughter out of school because I can’t afford fees.” Education cuts and rising school fees have forced many girls out of classrooms, deepening gender disparities.

Despite government initiatives like conditional cash transfers and microfinance schemes aimed at empowering women, many complain of inaccessibility and bureaucratic hurdles. “They tell us about loans, but the process is too complicated, and the money never reaches us,” said Fatima Usman, a hairdresser.

Women’s rights advocates are calling for urgent action. “The government must prioritize policies that directly address women’s economic struggles affordable childcare, accessible credit, and subsidies for essential goods,” said Dr. Amaka Nwosu, a gender policy expert. Without targeted interventions, women risk sinking deeper into poverty.

As Tinubu’s administration touts reforms aimed at long-term growth, the immediate reality for Nigerian women remains bleak. Their resilience is being tested, but many are left wondering how much longer they can endure.

 

 

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Taraba Governor Reveals Sister’s Death Caused by Police Escort, Not Bandits

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By Prosper Mene 

In a shocking disclosure, Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas revealed that his sister, Atsi Kefas, was killed by a police escort assigned to their mother, not by bandits as initially reported. The incident, which occurred in December 2024, raised questions about the conduct of security personnel, and intensified scrutiny on the handling of firearms by law enforcement in Nigeria.

Governor Kefas made the clarification during a press briefing in Jalingo on May 30, 2025, correcting earlier reports that attributed the attack to bandits, a persistent threat in Nigeria’s northern regions. According to the governor, the tragedy took place during a chaotic encounter involving unidentified gunmen who targeted the family. In the ensuing commotion, a police officer assigned to protect the governor’s mother discharged his firearm, inadvertently striking Atsi Kefas. Despite efforts to save her, she succumbed to her injuries.

“The loss of my sister is a painful wound for our family,” Governor Kefas said, his voice heavy with grief. “It was not bandits as initially thought, but a tragic mistake by a security operative. We are cooperating with authorities to ensure a thorough investigation, and I appeal for calm as we seek justice.”

The Taraba State Police Command has remained tight-lipped, stating only that an internal investigation is underway to ascertain the circumstances of the shooting. Sources within the police, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the officer involved has been detained pending the outcome of the probe. The incident has reawakened long-standing concerns about the training, discipline, and oversight of security operatives in Nigeria, where accidental discharges have claimed numerous lives in recent years.

The Taraba incident shows the pervasive nature of insecurity, with banditry, kidnappings, and communal clashes plaguing multiple regions. According to a 2024 World Food Programme report, 33.1 million Nigerians are projected to face acute food insecurity in 2025, worsened by violence that prevents farmers from accessing their lands.

The death of Atsi Kefas has also fueled discussions about the safety of public officials and their families, who often rely on armed escorts for protection. Analysts argue that this incident calls for the need for stricter protocols on the use of firearms by security personnel, as well as comprehensive reforms to address Nigeria’s security challenges. “This is a wake-up call,” said Dr. Chidi Okoye, a security analyst based in Abuja. “We cannot continue to lose lives to preventable errors. The government must prioritize training and accountability for those entrusted with protecting citizens.”

Governor Kefas, a retired military officer, has vowed to pursue justice for his sister while urging residents of Taraba to remain peaceful. He also called for unity in addressing the state’s security challenges, which include recurring clashes between farmers and herders, as well as banditry in rural areas.

The governor is determined to bring justice and unity to Taraba State, tackling its security issues.

 

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Igbo Women Criticize Tinubu Over Rising Hunger and Insecurity

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By Prosper Mene 

The Igbo Women Assembly (IWA) has issued a damning critique of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, asserting that Nigerians are grappling with unprecedented levels of hunger, insecurity, and economic hardship compared to two years ago. The group attributed these challenges to the abrupt removal of fuel subsidies and what they describe as poor governance.

In a statement released on Saturday, May 31, 2025, the IWA condemned the government’s economic policies, particularly the elimination of fuel subsidies in May 2023, which they claim was implemented without adequate preparation. This policy, they argue, has triggered a sharp rise in the cost of living, making basic necessities unaffordable for many Nigerians. The group also accused the administration of tribalism in key appointments, alleging that the dominance of Yoruba individuals in top positions has marginalized other ethnic groups, including the Igbo.

“Nigerians are worse off today than they were two years ago,” the IWA declared, pointing to soaring inflation, which peaked at 34% last year, and persistent insecurity, including banditry and abductions, as evidence of governance failures. They criticized Tinubu’s economic reforms, which have been praised by international bodies like the World Bank and IMF, for prioritizing long-term economic stability over immediate relief for citizens. The group highlighted that many Nigerians are now forced to reduce meals or rely on inadequate food sources due to escalating prices.

The IWA’s statement tells broader sentiments of frustration, as seen in recent protests and criticisms from opposition groups and public figures. They called on the administration to review its policies and prioritize inclusive governance to address the nation’s challenges.

The Presidency has yet to respond to the IWA’s allegations. However, Tinubu’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, has previously defended the administration’s reforms, stating that they aim to stabilize the economy in the long term and that relief measures, such as cash transfers to 15 million households, are in place to mitigate short-term hardships.

The situation remains ongoing, with the government’s policies and responses continuing to be closely watched by the public and opposition groups.

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Benue Police Command Welcomes DSP Udeme Edet as New Public Relations Officer

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By Prosper Mene 

The Benue State Police Command has announced the appointment of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Udeme Edet as its new Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), effective immediately. The appointment follows recent administrative postings approved by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.

DSP Edet succeeds Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Sewuese Catherine Anene, who has been commended for her outstanding engagement with the public during her tenure. Edet, a distinguished graduate of the Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil, Kano State, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and International Relations. Prior to her new role, she served as the Divisional Crime Officer (DCO) at Ikpai Omni Division in Calabar, Cross River State.

In her new position, DSP Edet will oversee public engagement and media relations for the Benue State Police Command, aiming to strengthen police-community relations and enhance public safety across the state. The command has called on residents and the media to extend their support and cooperation to Edet as she takes on this critical role.

“We are confident that DSP Udeme Edet will bring her expertise and dedication to foster stronger ties between the police and the people of Benue State,” a statement from the command read.

The appointment comes as Benue State continues to address security challenges, including recent incidents of violence and abductions. The police command has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.

 

 

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Lagos First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, Advocates for Women’s Education to Build Stronger Nigeria

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By Prosper Mene 

Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the First Lady of Lagos State, has called for increased focus on women’s education as a critical driver for national development and societal progress. Speaking on Thursday, she emphasized that empowering women through education is essential for building a stronger Nigeria and fostering better communities.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu, a medical doctor and Chairperson of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), cited the transformative power of educating women during an event in Lagos. “Investing in women’s education is not just a matter of fairness; it is a strategic imperative for the growth and development of our country,” she stated. “Educated women are key to creating healthier, more prosperous, and equitable societies.”

The First Lady pointed to the ripple effect of educating women, noting that it leads to improved family welfare, economic productivity, and community development. She cited her ongoing initiatives through COWLSO, which include programs aimed at promoting education, healthcare, and empowerment for women and children across Lagos State.

She also urged stakeholders, including government bodies, private organizations, and community leaders, to prioritize policies and initiatives that ensure equal access to quality education for women and girls. She stressed the importance of addressing barriers such as poverty, cultural biases, and inadequate infrastructure that hinder educational opportunities for women.

Her advocacy is in alignment with the Lagos State government’s THEMES+ agenda, which emphasizes education and technology as pillars for sustainable development. Dr. Sanwo-Olu’s efforts have previously included projects like the ‘Adopt a Student’ initiative at the University of Lagos, which provides medical and financial support to needy students, and other grassroots programs aimed at uplifting vulnerable populations.

The First Lady’s take have been welcomed with widespread support, with many commending her commitment to advancing the welfare of women and children.

 

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Family of Slain Delta Governor’s Aide, Shimite Bello, Demands Federal Action in Murder Case

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By Prosper Mene 

The family of the late Chief Shimite Bello Love, former Special Adviser to Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Trade and Export, has urgently appealed to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to ensure justice in the investigation of her alleged murder. Shimite, a prominent public servant and entrepreneur, died under suspicious circumstances on Easter Sunday, April 21, 2025, with allegations pointing to her husband, Pastor David Favour Love, as the prime suspect. The family’s call for federal intervention follows concerns over the Delta State Police Command’s handling of the case, including the reported release of the suspect, who is now allegedly on the run.

Shimite Bello, widely known as “Madam Sabificate,” was found unconscious and foaming at the mouth at her residence in Asaba, according to family sources. Her maid alerted her elder brother, who rushed her to St. Luke’s Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Initial reports suggested poisoning, prompting the arrest of Pastor David, who was later placed in protective custody after claiming threats from Shimite’s family. However, the Delta State Police Command, led by spokesperson SP Bright Edafe, has maintained that the case is being treated as a natural death pending autopsy results, which were conducted on April 24, 2025, but have yet to be released.

The family, led by Chief Kimashinor Nwakalo-Imu, accuses the Delta Police of conducting a “sloppy and unprofessional” investigation, alleging that the command failed to comply fully with an IGP directive to transfer both the case file and the suspect to the IGP Monitoring Unit in Abuja. While the case file was reportedly sent, Pastor David was released on bail and is now believed to have fled, raising fears of obstruction of justice. “We urge the Delta State Police Command to immediately rearrest Mr. David Favour Love and hand him over to the IGP Monitoring Unit as directed,” Nwakalo-Imu stated, calling for the suspect to be declared wanted if he remains at large.

Shimite’s death has sparked widespread outrage, with family members and activists citing a pattern of alleged domestic violence. Relatives claim Pastor David isolated Shimite, controlled her movements, and even transferred her properties to his name, raising suspicions of manipulation. “Since he came into her life, everything changed,” a family source said, alleging that Shimite’s trust in her husband, whom she described as her “spiritual father,” may have clouded her judgment.

A celebrated figure, Shimite served as the Coordinator of the Delta State UNIDO Centre and was a vocal advocate for the Federal Government’s Social Investment Programme. She produced the TV documentary “African Pot,” promoting African cuisine and culture, and was a member of the USAID/NEXTT Lakaji Trade Corridor steering committee. Her death has left a void in Delta State’s political and economic landscape, with colleagues like Harrison Gwamnishu, a fellow governor’s aide, mourning her unfulfilled plans.

As the investigation moves to the federal level, the family has called on human rights organizations and the public to maintain pressure for transparency and accountability. The case’s outcome could set a precedent for addressing gender-based violence in Nigeria, with advocates emphasizing the need for systemic reforms to protect women in abusive relationships. The Delta State Police Command has yet to comment on the family’s latest demands, and the public awaits the autopsy results, which could clarify the cause of Shimite’s tragic death.

 

 

 

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Senator Ireti Kingibe Condemns Unlawful Property Sealing in Abuja, Calls for Due Process

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By Prosper Mene 

Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has strongly criticized the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) for its ongoing practice of sealing properties over unpaid ground rent, labeling the actions as illegal and unconstitutional. In a press statement issued on May 26, 2025, the senator condemned the “indiscriminate and sometimes abrupt” sealing of properties, arguing that such measures violate legal procedures and exacerbate economic hardship for residents and business owners in the FCT.

The controversy started from the FCTA’s recent enforcement actions, which began on May 26, 2025, targeting properties, including high-profile establishments like the national secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), offices of the National Agency for Trafficking in Persons, Access Bank, and the Federal Inland Revenue Service, for alleged non-payment of ground rent. Senator Kingibe, however, contends that the Land Use Act and the Urban and Regional Planning Act stipulate that penalties for non-payment should be limited to fines or surcharges, not the seizure or sealing of properties without proper legal recourse.

“The indiscriminate sealing of properties, often executed without proper notice, engagement, or adherence to legal procedure, only serves to deepen the economic distress of individuals, families, and business owners already facing mounting hardship,” Kingibe stated. She emphasized that any revocation of land titles must follow due process, including adequate notice and fair compensation where necessary, as mandated by Section 42 of the Land Use Act.

Kingibe’s remarks have sparked a public dispute with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, whose aide, Lere Olayinka, accused the senator of ignorance of the Land Use Act and harboring personal animosity toward the minister. Olayinka defended the FCTA’s actions, citing Section 28 of the Land Use Act, which allows the government to revoke a Statutory Right of Occupancy for breaches such as non-payment of ground rent. He argued that some property owners have failed to pay ground rent for up to 43 years, justifying the enforcement measures.

In response, Kingibe maintained her stance, vowing to protect the rights of FCT residents and ensure their sealed properties are reopened. “As a senator, I will not turn a blind eye while residents are subjected to enforcement practices that contravene established laws and compound their suffering,” she said. The senator is actively engaging with relevant authorities and exploring legislative avenues to address the issue, urging residents to remain calm and law-abiding.

The sealing of properties has raised more concerns about economic stability and public trust in government institutions in the FCT. Kingibe warned that such actions undermine livelihoods and threaten the region’s fragile social and economic fabric. Her outspoken criticism aligns with her previous advocacy against arbitrary demolitions in Abuja, which prompted a Senate probe in December 2024 following her motion on the issue.

 

 

 

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Tinubu’s Mid-Term Assessment: Prioritizing People’s Welfare is Key, Says Adamolekun

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By Prosper Mene

As President Bola Tinubu’s administration reaches the midpoint of its term, renowned social commentator and public policy analyst, Dr. Kayode Adamolekun, has emphasized that the success of the administration hinges on policies that prioritize the welfare of Nigerians. In a recent statement, Adamolekun urged the government to focus on addressing pressing socio-economic challenges to improve the quality of life for citizens.

Speaking on the mid-term performance of the Tinubu administration, Adamolekun highlighted the need for policies that directly tackle poverty, unemployment, and access to basic services like healthcare and education. “The essence of governance is the welfare of the people,” he stated. “Policies must be designed and implemented with the primary goal of uplifting the standard of living for the average Nigerian.”

Adamolekun’s remarks adds to the mixed reactions on the administration’s performance. While the government has rolled out initiatives such as economic reforms and infrastructure development, critics argue that the impact of these policies has yet to translate into tangible benefits for many Nigerians grappling with inflation and rising living costs.

The analyst called for greater transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in policy formulation to ensure that government initiatives align with the needs of the populace. He also stressed the importance of inclusive economic growth, urging the administration to prioritize job creation and social safety nets to cushion the effects of ongoing reforms.

Adamolekun’s call for people-centered governance acts as a reminder of the expectations placed on the Tinubu administration to deliver measurable progress by the end of its term. The coming months will be critical in determining whether the government can translate its policies into meaningful outcomes for Nigerians.

 

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