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Billie Eilish Sweeps 2025 American Music Awards, Winning All Seven Nominated Categories Las Vegas, NV – May 27, 2025 – Billie Eilish dominated the 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs), held on May 26 at the Fontainebleau Resort in Las Vegas, securing victories in all seven categories for which she was nominated. The 23-year-old pop sensation solidified her status as a generational talent, taking home top honors including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year for Hit Me Hard and Soft, and Song of the Year for her hit single “Birds of a Feather.” Eilish, who was unable to attend the ceremony due to her ongoing Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour, delivered heartfelt virtual acceptance speeches, expressing gratitude to her fans. “Oh my God, Artist of the Year, this is so crazy,” Eilish said in one of her recorded messages. “I feel speechless, thank you all so much, I love you so much.” Her other wins included Favorite Touring Artist, Favorite Female Pop Artist, Favorite Pop Album, and Favorite Pop Song, marking a flawless sweep at the fan-voted awards show. The 2025 AMAs, hosted by Jennifer Lopez, marked the return of the ceremony after a two-year hiatus. The event featured electrifying performances, including a show-opening medley by Lopez that incorporated hits from nominees like Eilish, Beyoncé, and Sabrina Carpenter. Other highlights included Janet Jackson’s first television performance in seven years, following her receipt of the Icon Award, and Rod Stewart closing the night with “Forever Young” after receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by five of his children. Eilish’s seven wins outshone other major nominees, including Kendrick Lamar, who led with 10 nominations but took home only one award for Favorite Hip-Hop Song with “Not Like Us.” Beyoncé earned two awards—Favorite Female Country Artist and Favorite Country Album for Cowboy Carter—while Eminem marked a triumphant return, winning Favorite Male Hip-Hop Artist and Favorite Hip-Hop Album for The Death of Slim Shady (Coup De Grâce), his first AMA wins in 15 years. New Artist of the Year went to Gracie Abrams, and BTS’ RM made history as the Best K-Pop Artist. Despite the star-studded event, notable absences included Eilish, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Kendrick Lamar, with some critics noting a lack of A-list star power, as social media influencers filled much of the guest list. Swift, who holds the record for the most AMA wins with 40, was nominated in six categories but did not win any, a surprising shutout for the pop icon. Eilish’s sweep underscores her continued influence in the music industry, following her nine Grammy Awards and two Academy Awards. Her album Hit Me Hard and Soft, released in May 2024, has been praised for its introspective lyricism and innovative production, resonating deeply with fans who voted her to the top of multiple categories. The 2025 AMAs also introduced new categories, including Social Song of the Year, won by Doechii for her viral track “Anxiety.” Other notable winners included Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars for Favorite Music Video and Collaboration of the Year for “Die With a Smile,” and Post Malone, who earned his first country music award as Favorite Male Country Artist. The ceremony, broadcast live on CBS and streamed on Paramount+, celebrated a diverse range of talent across genres, reaffirming the AMAs’ status as the world’s largest fan-voted music awards. As Eilish’s victories continue to make headlines, her sweep at the 2025 AMAs cements her as one of music’s brightest stars. Sources: Vanguard News, India Today, The Hindu, Deadline, American Music Awards official posts on X 25 posts 15 web pages details on Billie Eilish’s tour other AMA winners’ performances

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

Billie Eilish dominated the 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs), held on May 26 at the Fontainebleau Resort in Las Vegas, securing victories in all seven categories for which she was nominated. The 23-year-old pop sensation solidified her status as a generational talent, taking home top honors including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year for Hit Me Hard and Soft, and Song of the Year for her hit single “Birds of a Feather.”

Eilish, who was unable to attend the ceremony due to her ongoing Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour, delivered heartfelt virtual acceptance speeches, expressing gratitude to her fans. “Oh my God, Artist of the Year, this is so crazy,” Eilish said in one of her recorded messages. “I feel speechless, thank you all so much, I love you so much.” Her other wins included Favorite Touring Artist, Favorite Female Pop Artist, Favorite Pop Album, and Favorite Pop Song, marking a flawless sweep at the fan-voted awards show.

The 2025 AMAs, hosted by Jennifer Lopez, marked the return of the ceremony after a two-year hiatus. The event featured electrifying performances, including a show-opening medley by Lopez that incorporated hits from nominees like Eilish, Beyoncé, and Sabrina Carpenter. Other highlights included Janet Jackson’s first television performance in seven years, following her receipt of the Icon Award, and Rod Stewart closing the night with “Forever Young” after receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by five of his children.

Eilish’s seven wins outshone other major nominees, including Kendrick Lamar, who led with 10 nominations but took home only one award for Favorite Hip-Hop Song with “Not Like Us.” Beyoncé earned two awards, Favorite Female Country Artist and Favorite Country Album for Cowboy Carter while Eminem marked a triumphant return, winning Favorite Male Hip-Hop Artist and Favorite Hip-Hop Album for The Death of Slim Shady (Coup De Grâce), his first AMA wins in 15 years. New Artist of the Year went to Gracie Abrams, and BTS’ RM made history as the Best K-Pop Artist.

Despite the star-studded event, notable absences included Eilish, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Kendrick Lamar, with some critics noting a lack of A-list star power, as social media influencers filled much of the guest list. Swift, who holds the record for the most AMA wins with 40, was nominated in six categories but did not win any, a surprising shutout for the pop icon.

Eilish’s victory shows her continued influence in the music industry, following her nine Grammy Awards and two Academy Awards. Her album Hit Me Hard and Soft, released in May 2024, has been praised for its introspective lyricism and innovative production, resonating deeply with fans who voted her to the top of multiple categories.

The 2025 AMAs also introduced new categories, including Social Song of the Year, won by Doechii for her viral track “Anxiety.” Other notable winners included Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars for Favorite Music Video and Collaboration of the Year for “Die With a Smile,” and Post Malone, who earned his first country music award as Favorite Male Country Artist.

The ceremony, broadcast live on CBS and streamed on Paramount+, celebrated a diverse range of talent across genres, reaffirming the AMAs’ status as the world’s largest fan-voted music awards.

 

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Natasha’s Lawyers Vow Robust Defense Against FG’s Defamation Suit Involving Akpabio

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

The legal team of suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has confirmed receipt of a formal summons from the Federal Government in a defamation suit filed against her, involving Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. The team, led by Michael Numa (SAN), stated they are prepared to present a vigorous defense in court at the appropriate time.

The suit, filed on May 16, 2025, at the Federal Capital Territory High Court (CR/297/25), accuses Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan of making defamatory remarks during a live broadcast on Channels Television’s Politics Today on April 3, 2025. The Federal Government alleges that the senator claimed Akpabio and Bello plotted to assassinate her, statements deemed harmful to their reputations under Section 391 of the Penal Code, CAP 89, Laws of the Federation, 1990. The offense is punishable under Section 392 of the same law.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyers confirmed receiving the court documents on May 23, 2025, and expressed confidence in their defense strategy. “We have received the information filed by the Director of Public Prosecutions containing three counts bordering on allegations that our client made imputations which she had reason to believe would harm the reputation of Senator Godswill Akpabio,” the statement read. “We will present our defenses in court with factual evidence at the appropriate time.”

The legal team also addressed the broader context, noting that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension from the Senate on March 6, 2025, for “gross misconduct” following a seating arrangement dispute with Akpabio, has fueled tensions. The senator has maintained that her suspension was politically motivated to silence her and has filed a separate suit challenging it, with a ruling expected on June 27, 2025.

The Federal Government has listed Akpabio, Bello, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, Sandra Duru, Maya Iliya, and Abdulhafiz Garba as witnesses in the defamation case. The allegations stem from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims that Akpabio instructed Bello to orchestrate her assassination in a manner that would appear as a mob attack, as well as earlier accusations of sexual harassment against her.

This legal battle has drawn significant attention, with Akpoti-Uduaghan’s team accusing Akpabio of attempting to suppress her voice through judicial processes. They argue that her right to free speech, including political satire, is being unfairly targeted. The case underscores broader issues of gender dynamics in Nigerian politics, as highlighted by North Central women’s groups calling for greater protections for women in political roles.

As the court date approaches, the nation awaits a high-profile legal showdown that could have far-reaching implications for political discourse and accountability in Nigeria.

 

 

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North Central Women Urge President Tinubu to Champion Women’s Rights in Politics

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

A coalition of women’s groups from Nigeria’s North Central region has called on President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action to uphold and advance the rights of women in politics. The appeal, made during a press conference in Abuja, highlights the urgent need for policies and reforms to ensure greater female representation and participation in the country’s political landscape.

The group, comprising women leaders, activists, and professionals from Benue, Kwara, Kogi, Plateau, Niger, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory, emphasized that women in the region have been historically underrepresented in political leadership despite their significant contributions to grassroots mobilization and community development. They urged President Tinubu to prioritize gender-inclusive policies to address systemic barriers that limit women’s access to political offices.

“We call on President Tinubu to honor his commitment to national unity by ensuring women’s voices are not only heard but amplified in Nigeria’s political sphere,” said Mrs. Esther Aondowase, spokesperson for the coalition. “Women in the North Central region are ready to lead, but we need deliberate support to break the glass ceiling in politics.”

The coalition specifically demanded the implementation of affirmative action policies, including quotas for women in political appointments and party candidacy lists, as well as increased funding for women-led political campaigns. They also called for stronger legal protections against gender-based discrimination and violence targeting women in politics.

Citing the recent appointment of Bianca Ojukwu and other women to Tinubu’s cabinet as a positive step, the group expressed hope that the administration would build on this momentum to create a more equitable political environment. However, they stressed that more comprehensive measures are needed to address deep-rooted challenges.

The women also referenced the region’s broader push for political inclusion, noting that North Central stakeholders have previously demanded greater representation in national leadership, including the presidency in 2027. They argued that advancing women’s political rights aligns with the region’s quest for equity and could strengthen Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The coalition concluded by urging the President to engage with women’s groups across Nigeria to develop a national strategy for gender parity in politics, emphasizing that empowering women is critical to the nation’s democratic and economic progress.

 

 

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Anambra First Lady, Mrs. Soludo, Calls for Urgent Action Against Child Malnutrition

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By Prosper Mene 

Anambra State’s First Lady, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has urged collective action to combat child malnutrition, declaring that “no child should die of malnutrition when we can do something about it.” Her passionate statement cites the pressing need to address the crisis of hunger affecting vulnerable children across Nigeria.

While Speaking at a recent event, Mrs. Soludo emphasized that malnutrition is not just a health issue but a societal failure that demands immediate attention. She highlighted the devastating consequences of hunger on young lives, including stunted growth, weakened immunity, and long-term developmental challenges. “Every child deserves the chance to grow strong and healthy. We have the resources and knowledge to prevent these tragedies, it’s time we act,” she said.

As part of her advocacy, Mrs. Soludo has been championing initiatives to improve nutrition through her Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo campaign. The program promotes access to nutritious meals, educates families on balanced diets, and supports local efforts to tackle food insecurity. She called on government agencies, private organizations, and communities to join forces in ensuring no child goes hungry.

The First Lady’s message hits deeply in a country where millions of children face food insecurity due to economic challenges, conflict, and climate-related issues. Her call serves as a reminder that solutions are within reach if stakeholders prioritize investment in nutrition programs, sustainable agriculture, and community-driven support systems.

Every child deserves a healthy start in life. As we combat malnutrition, her appeal serves as a powerful reminder that our collective efforts can illuminate a path to a brighter, healthier future for Nigeria’s children. Let’s take action now to ensure no child suffers unnecessarily, every life matters, and every effort counts

 

 

 

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Delta’s Otiti Kate Shines Bright, Claims Gold in Women’s 10m Air Rifle at Gateway Games 2024

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

The crowd at Stephen Keshi Stadium was on its feet Thursday as Delta’s own Otiti Kate pulled off a stunner, grabbing gold in the women’s 10m air rifle at the 2024 National Sports Festival, better known as the Gateway Games. With a jaw-dropping final score of 211.0, Kate didn’t just win, she smashed a Games and National Record, leaving everyone buzzing.

It was a nail-biter from start to finish. Kate, cool as a cucumber, powered through a stacked field of shooters, earning her spot in the final with laser focus. When it came down to the wire, she held steady, outgunning the competition with every shot. The hometown fans went wild as Kate sealed the deal with a performance that was nothing short of electric.

“I’m still pinching myself,” Kate said with a grin, clutching her medal. “Winning at home, breaking the record, it’s everything I’ve worked for. The crowd’s energy just carried me through.”

Her big win put Delta State front and center, adding serious shine to their Gateway Games campaign. The 10m air rifle isn’t for the faint of heart. it’s all about precision and keeping your cool under pressure. Kate made it look easy, proving she’s got the heart and skill to compete with the best.

Social media lit up with love for the champ. “Otiti Kate is a superstar! Gold and a national record? She’s unstoppable!” tweeted @LISinternationl

Over at @MakingOfChamps , they shared pics of Kate beaming, medal around her neck, soaking in the moment with fans chanting her name.

It wasn’t a cakewalk, though. The event was packed with talent from across Nigeria, each shooter gunning for glory. But Kate stayed locked in, showing the kind of grit that’s got people talking about her as Nigeria’s next big thing in shooting.

With the Gateway Games still rolling, Kate’s win has Delta dreaming big. Will she grab more hardware? For now, she’s the pride of Asaba, a hometown hero who turned hard work into gold and gave fans a moment they won’t forget.

 

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FG Sues Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Over Alleged Defamatory TV Remarks

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By Prosper Mene 

The Federal Government of Nigeria has filed a criminal lawsuit against suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, accusing her of making defamatory statements during a live television interview. The suit, lodged on May 16, 2025, at the Federal Capital Territory High Court and marked CR/297/25, names Akpoti-Uduaghan as the sole defendant.

According to court documents, the charges comes from comments the senator made on Channels Television’s Politics Today on April 3, 2025. The government alleges that her statements were defamatory and intended to harm the reputation of certain individuals, violating Section 391 of the Penal Code, which carries penalties under Section 392. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello are listed as nominal complainants and are expected to testify against her.

The specific remarks were not detailed in the suit, but sources indicate they relate to ongoing disputes involving Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has been embroiled in multiple legal battles. The senator, currently serving a six-month suspension from the Senate for alleged misconduct, has faced separate defamation lawsuits, including a N250 billion claim by Akpabio’s wife, Ekaette Unoma, over alleged sexual harassment accusations against the Senate President, and a N5 billion suit against Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi for remarks made on Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, a prominent figure and the first female senator from Kogi State, has maintained that her suspension and the legal actions against her are attempts to silence her advocacy for women’s rights and good governance. Her legal team has yet to respond publicly to the federal government’s suit, and no court date has been set for the hearing.

The case has kick started a debate, with some Nigerians questioning the timing of the charges, given Akpoti-Uduaghan’s vocal criticism of political figures. Others see it as part of efforts to address defamatory statements in public discourse. From indications, the case is likely to draw significant attention due to the senator’s high-profile status and the involvement of key political figures.

 

 

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Bianca Ojukwu, Uche Azikiwe Call for Support at Ojukwu University’s 25th Anniversary

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By Prosper Mene

Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) marked its 25th anniversary with a grand silver jubilee celebration, honoring key figures instrumental in its establishment and growth. The event, held on May 22, 2025, saw Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Ojukwu, and Prof. Uche Azikiwe, widow of Nigeria’s first civilian President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, calling for increased support to elevate the institution to global standards.

The university, founded in 2000 by the late former Anambra State Governor, Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju, celebrated its legacy with the conferment of the Ojukwu Legacy Award on notable individuals, including Mbadinuju, the university’s pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Emeritus Prof. Cornelius Ezekwe, former Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Barth Onugbolu, and entrepreneur Chief Emma Bishop Okonkwo. Other distinguished alumni, such as Mr. Ifeanyi Matthew Ihebom and Engr. Paul Okafor, were also recognized for their contributions.

Amb. Bianca Ojukwu, widow of the late Biafran leader Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, after whom the university is named, described the milestone as a celebration of “triumphs, visions, perseverance, and the indomitable Igbo spirit.” She emphasized her late husband’s vision of education as the cornerstone of a nation’s future, noting that COOU embodies his dream of empowering youth to shape their destiny. As a member of the university’s governing council, she commended Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kate Omenugha for her leadership and urged stakeholders to support the institution’s growth.

Prof. Uche Azikiwe applauded the call for support, stressing the need for improvements to ensure COOU reflects the legacy of Ojukwu’s name. Both women praised the university’s progress under past and present administrations but emphasized that more investment is needed to elevate its status.

Prof. Omenugha highlighted COOU’s achievements, noting its growth from humble beginnings to a diverse institution with students from 24 Nigerian states and other African countries. The university now boasts 17 faculties and 73 programs across arts, sciences, technology, law, medicine, pharmacy, engineering, and humanities. She described the jubilee as a celebration of “legacy, valour, excellence, unity, and heritage.”

Chief Emma Bishop Okonkwo, a recipient of the Ojukwu Legacy Award, expressed gratitude for the honor and pledged a N50 million borehole project to address water challenges for students, further demonstrating the commitment of alumni to the university’s development.

The event, attended by prominent figures including Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo, showed the university’s significance as a beacon of education and cultural heritage. Bianca Ojukwu also praised Gov. Soludo for his support, which has drawn national attention, including project commissions by President Bola Tinubu.

The call by Bianca Ojukwu and Prof. Uche Azikiwe for collective support acts as a rallying cry to ensure the university continues to uphold its founding vision while striving for excellence on a global stage.

 

 

 

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Why teenage pregnancy is on the rise in Nigeria – Expert explains

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By Prosper Mene 

A growing crisis of teenage pregnancy in Nigeria has sparked concern, with medical expert Mrs. Roseline Akinlabi, Adolescent Desk Officer at the Osun State Primary Healthcare Board, sounding the alarm on its causes and consequences. Speaking at an enlightenment program organized by The Challenge Initiative (TCI) in Osogbo, Akinlabi attributed the surge to a combination of social, cultural, and systemic factors, urging a comprehensive response to curb the trend.

Akinlabi identified child marriage, peer pressure, early onset of menstruation (menarche), and sexual violence, including rape, as primary drivers of the rising rates. She referenced UNICEF data indicating that Nigeria has one of the highest teenage pregnancy rates globally, with one in ten girls projected to become mothers before age 18, particularly in the North Central and North-West regions like Bauchi and Gombe.

The health risks are severe, with complications such as eclampsia, puerperal endometritis, pregnancy-induced hypertension, gestational diabetes, and systemic infections posing significant threats to young mothers. Beyond physical dangers, teenage pregnancy often leads to school dropouts, limited career prospects, and profound emotional and psychological impacts, including depression, anxiety, and trauma.

“Teenage pregnancy can cause stress and traumatic experiences, potentially leading to mental health issues,” Akinlabi noted, emphasizing additional risks like unsafe abortions and physical abuse. She stressed that preaching abstinence, especially during early adolescence, remains the safest preventive measure.

To address the crisis, Akinlabi advocated for multifaceted solutions, including combating gender-based violence, empowering girls through education, providing comprehensive sex education, and improving access to contraception. She called for a structured, holistic approach to tackle the root causes and mitigate the long-term consequences.

The issue is compounded by systemic challenges in Nigeria, such as limited access to healthcare and education, particularly in rural areas. UNICEF has committed $1 billion over the next five years to address adolescent health issues, including teenage pregnancy, signaling a renewed focus on the crisis.

 

 

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Nurses Protest at UCTH Over Arrest of Colleagues in Calabar

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By Prosper Mene 

The University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) was thrown into chaos on Monday as over 200 nurses staged a protest, barricading the hospital’s main gate and halting vehicular movement. The demonstration was sparked by the arrest of three nurses, identified as Joy, Mary, and Deborah by the Nigeria Police Force following the death of a patient and the alleged theft of the deceased’s SIM card.

The incident began when a patient, brought to the hospital by an unidentified Good Samaritan, died during the night. According to reports, the nurses failed to record the Good Samaritan’s details, a lapse deemed unethical by some observers. When the patient’s relatives arrived, they discovered the missing SIM card and demanded information about the Good Samaritan. Unable to provide answers, the nurses faced accusations of theft, leading to their arrest.

Outraged by what they called an “unfair” and “humiliating” detention, nurses marched to the Cross River State Police Command, demanding the immediate release of their colleagues. The protest disrupted medical services, leaving patients unable to access treatment and causing tension at the facility. In one reported incident, protesting nurses allegedly assaulted a visitor attempting to enter the hospital morgue.

The UCTH chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives condemned the arrests, describing the police’s actions as “unlawful” and “dehumanizing.” They called for a full investigation into the conduct of the officers involved and the unconditional release of the detained nurses.

Efforts to obtain a response from UCTH management were unsuccessful, as the chief medical director’s office did not respond to inquiries. The hospital’s silence has fueled frustration among staff, with one nurse, speaking anonymously, expressing dismay at the administration’s failure to address the issue before it escalated.

The protest has raised questions about hospital protocols for patient admission and the treatment of healthcare workers in Nigeria.The public awaits further developments on the nurses’ release and the investigation into the patient’s death

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Zamfara Government Denies False Claims of Sharia Trial for Woman Allegedly Converting to Christianity

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By Prosper Mene 

The Zamfara State Government has strongly refuted viral social media reports claiming that a 22-year-old woman, Zainab Muhamadu, faces trial in a Sharia court for converting from Islam to Christianity. In an official statement released on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, Sulaiman Bala Idris, spokesperson for Governor Dauda Lawal, described the story as “mischievous fake news” spread by individuals aiming to incite religious tension.

The government clarified that no such case exists before any Sharia court in Zamfara State, emphasizing that the claims are entirely fabricated. Authorities, including the Grand Khadi of the Zamfara Sharia Court of Appeal, were consulted to verify the story, which was confirmed to be false. The statement also revealed that the image accompanying the viral report, falsely presented as Zainab, was of an American woman named Aalia from Texas, misappropriated to fuel the narrative.

“The Zamfara State Government has acted swiftly by summoning all relevant authorities and security agencies to verify the authenticity of the story, which ultimately proved to be a blatant falsehood,” Idris said, attributing the report to an online platform notorious for spreading unverified content, specifically naming Sahara Reporters as the source.

The government condemned the spread of misinformation, criticizing media platforms for republishing unverified social media content without due diligence. “This is a clear example of yellow journalism that should be condemned by all well-meaning citizens,” the statement noted, highlighting the potential of such reports to disrupt peace and stir religious tension in Zamfara and Nigeria at large.

Zamfara authorities have called on security agencies to investigate the origins of the false report and prosecute those responsible, aiming to deter future misinformation. The government reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and urged the public to verify information before sharing.

 

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