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Tems Celebrates Body Positivity, Embraces Curves as a Black Woman

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems has sparked widespread admiration with her heartfelt embrace of body positivity, declaring, “I love being curvy” in a recent interview. The Grammy-nominated artist, known for her soulful voice and global hits like Essence and Burning, shared what she cherishes most about being a Black woman, highlighting her curves and “that little booty” with a playful confidence that has resonated across social media.

In a candid moment, Tems responded to an interviewer’s question during the Met Gala about her favorite aspect of Black womanhood, saying, “I love being curvy .” Her unapologetic self-love has inspired fans and prompting a wave of supportive posts across social media platforms.

Tems’ statement comes right at a time when body positivity and representation remain critical conversations in the entertainment industry. Her words not only reflect personal pride but also serve as an empowering message for women, particularly Black women, to embrace their natural beauty. Fans have praised her for challenging conventional beauty standards and radiating confidence, with @SemiNigerian

quoting her directly: “Being curvy is what I love most about being a Black woman.”

The Born in the Wild singer’s comments have also sparked lighthearted discussions online, with many applauding her for keeping it real. As one X post put it, Tems’ love for her curves is a reminder of the power of self-acceptance in a world often obsessed with perfection.

Tems continues to make waves both musically and culturally, using her platform to uplift and inspire. Her latest remarks are a testament to her authenticity, proving once again why she’s a beloved figure in Nigeria and beyond

 

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Nenadi Usman Dares Julius Abure to ‘Expose’ Peter Obi, Alex Otti Amid Labour Party Crisis

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By Prosper Mene 

The ongoing leadership crisis within Nigeria’s Labour Party (LP) escalated as Senator Nenadi Usman, head of the party’s Caretaker Committee, boldly challenged the suspended National Chairman, Julius Abure, to follow through on his threats to “expose” prominent party figures, including Peter Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti. The confrontation, has deepened divisions within the party, raising concerns about its unity ahead of future elections.

The dispute stems from Abure’s suspension on May 7, 2025, by the Usman-led Caretaker Committee, which accused him of impersonation, anti-party activities, and other criminal allegations. In response, Abure threatened to reveal damaging information about Obi, Otti, and other LP leaders, prompting Usman’s defiant retort: “I dare you”.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Usman dismissed Abure’s threats as baseless and urged him to substantiate his claims. “Expose us,” she challenged, emphasizing the committee’s commitment to transparency and restoring order within the party. Sources close to the committee, cited by @channelstv

, indicated that Usman’s response was a strategic move to call Abure’s bluff and refocus attention on the probe into his alleged misconduct.

The crisis has drawn significant attention on Social media, particularly X, with users like @PO_GrassRootM

Citing Usman’s challenge and expressing support for Obi and Otti. However, sentiments vary, with some users questioning the timing of the internal conflict, given the LP’s growing influence as a third force in Nigerian politics. The suspension of Abure followed a contentious national convention in Anambra, which Obi and Otti reportedly opposed, further fueling tensions.

Stakeholders, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), have called for reconciliation, warning that prolonged infighting could undermine the party’s credibility. The Caretaker Committee, co-led by Senator Darlington Nwokocha, has vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into Abure’s tenure, with findings expected to shape the party’s leadership structure.

Despite LP’s turbulent period, Usman’s bold stance has placed Abure under pressure to either substantiate his allegations or face further scrutiny.

 

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Oby Ezekwesili Slams JAMB Over 2025 UTME Technical Glitch, Calls for Accountability

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By Prosper Mene 

Former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, has publicly criticized the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the Federal Ministry of Education for their handling of a technical glitch that disrupted the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results, affecting nearly 380,000 candidates across 157 examination centers. The incident has caused widespread outrage, with stakeholders demanding greater transparency and systemic reform.

In a series of posts on X on May 15, 2025, Ezekwesili described the situation as a “classic fiasco,” quoting physicist Stephen Hawking: “The greatest enemy of knowledge is not ignorance, it is the illusion of knowledge.” She questioned why JAMB and the Ministry of Education failed to conduct a prompt and unbiased system check when unusual trends in the results were first reported, particularly in the five South-East states and Lagos, where the glitch was most pronounced. “The Ministry of Education and JAMB were embarrassingly anecdotal in their pejorative non-evidence-based explanation of the significantly unusual results,” she stated, highlighting a lack of professionalism in addressing the issue.

The controversy intensified after JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, admitted during an emotional press conference on May 14, 2025, that errors by one of JAMB’s service providers had distorted results, forcing affected candidates to retake the exam between May 16 and 19. Ezekwesili criticized the short notice given to candidates for the resit, noting a message from a distressed candidate who claimed JAMB provided insufficient preparation time. “Could JAMB please reconsider this rush to do a reset? What just happened requires thoughtful next steps,” she urged.

Referencing her past critiques, Ezekwesili shared screenshots of her 2018 and 2023 tweets, including one where she called for a former Minister of Education to be reassigned to an airport toll gate for prioritizing revenue over systemic integrity. She also revisited the 2023 Mmesoma Ejikeme controversy, where she had advocated for an independent tech investigation into allegations of result forgery, a call she reiterated for the current crisis.

The fallout from the glitch has been severe, with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) linking the death of Miss Timilehin Faith Opesusi, who reportedly took her life after scoring 190, to the psychological toll of the flawed results. NANS demanded Oloyede’s resignation and compensation for affected families. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has launched an investigation into the glitch, and Lagos-based lawyer Evans Ufeli has filed a N10 billion lawsuit against JAMB, citing violations of candidates’ rights.

Public sentiment on social media reflects growing frustration, with users like @olorunwababs on X

calling JAMB’s response a “national shame” and criticizing the board’s casual dismissal of responsibility. Despite some praise for Oloyede’s accountability, stakeholders, including Peter Obi and the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), have warned of deeper systemic issues in Nigeria’s examination systems.

Ezekwesili’s outspoken critique has heightened calls for a thorough audit of JAMB’s systems and greater investment in robust, transparent infrastructure to restore public trust. As candidates begin the rescheduled exams, the nation watches closely, hoping for justice and lasting reforms to prevent future failures.

 

 

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Patience Jonathan’s 2027 Campaign Pledge Sparks Controversy, Nigerians React

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By Prosper Mene 

Former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan’s recent declaration to campaign alongside current First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections has ignited a firestorm of reactions across Nigeria, with some accusing her tenure of undermining the Office of the First Lady.

Jonathan, who served as First Lady from 2010 to 2015 during her husband Goodluck Jonathan’s presidency, ruled out any ambition to return to Aso Rock Villa, stating, “I didn’t just know her [Senator Oluremi Tinubu] because she’s the First Lady, no. We worked together. We are groups. We worked.” She expressed her intent to support Tinubu and President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid, a move that has drawn both praise and sharp criticism.

Critics on social media and in political circles have been quick to revisit Jonathan’s tenure, with some claiming her time as First Lady “ridiculed” the office. “Patience Jonathan’s era was marked by controversies that diminished the dignity of the First Lady’s role,” said political analyst Chidi Okoye. “Her decision to campaign for Tinubu now raises questions about her motives and legacy.” Others pointed to her public speeches, often criticized for their informal style, and allegations of overreach in political matters as stains on her record.

Supporters, however, argue that Jonathan’s tenure brought visibility to the First Lady’s office through her advocacy for women’s empowerment and education. “She connected with everyday Nigerians in a way few have,” said Amina Sule, a women’s rights activist. “Her support for Tinubu shows political maturity and unity.”

Posts on X reflect a divided sentiment. One user wrote, “Patience Jonathan campaigning for Tinubu? Nigerians will remind her of her Aso Rock drama in 2027.” Another countered, “She’s free to support who she wants. The hate is unnecessary.”

The announcement has also disrupted speculation about a “Bring Jonathan Back” campaign for her husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, to contest in 2027. Analysts suggest her endorsement of Tinubu could signal a strategic alignment to maintain political relevance.

As the 2027 elections loom, Jonathan’s pledge has set the stage for a polarized debate. “Nigerians will decide in 2027,” said Okoye, echoing a sentiment shared across X posts. “Her legacy and this decision will be judged at the polls.”

The controversy in a broader sense reveals the enduring influence and scrutiny surrounding Nigeria’s First Ladies, with Jonathan’s next moves likely to remain under intense public watch.

 

 

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Nollywood Grieves as Monalisa Stephen, Beloved Actress and Body Positivity Icon, Passes Away

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By Prosper Mene 

The Nigerian entertainment industry is reeling from the tragic loss of beloved Nollywood actress, plus-size model, and body positivity advocate Monalisa Ayobami Stephen, who passed away on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, in Lagos. The 33-year-old, affectionately known as Gabacci, succumbed to complications related to low blood sugar and internal bleeding, as confirmed by her younger sister.

 

The news was announced on Wednesday by Seun Oloketuyi, CEO of Best of Nollywood (BON), in an emotional Instagram post. “Brand influencer Monalisa Ayobami Stephen is dead. She died yesterday in Lagos after losing the fight against low sugar and internal bleeding. Her immediate younger sister confirmed the death of this hardworking and beautiful soul,” Oloketuyi wrote.

Monalisa Stephen was a vibrant figure in Nollywood, known for her roles in films such as Mami Wata (2023) and Breaded Life (2021), as well as her engaging presence in comedy skits. Beyond her acting career, she gained widespread admiration as a vocal advocate for self-love and body positivity, particularly for plus-size women. Her bold stance against body shaming and her candid discussions about personal challenges, including surviving an abusive relationship, resonated with fans across Nigeria and beyond.

Her passing has ignited an outpouring of grief from colleagues, fans, and industry peers. Nollywood stars, including Toyin Abraham and Mo Bimpe, expressed their sorrow on social media, while fans hailed her as an inspiration for embracing authenticity and confidence. One fan wrote on X, “Rest in Perfect Peace, Monalisa Stephen. Your light touched so many lives.”

Monalisa’s final social media post, a video celebrating a song by Davido, reflected her vibrant spirit and love for life. Her death marks yet another loss for Nollywood, which has mourned several talents in 2025, including Nkechi Nweje and Pat Ugwu.

The actress’s family has not yet released details regarding funeral arrangements. As the industry and her fans grieve, Monalisa Stephen’s legacy as a trailblazer for body positivity and a talented performer will continue to inspire.

May her soul rest in peace.

 

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Leah Sharibu’s Prolonged Captivity Sparks Urgent Plea for Action

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By Prosper Mene 

Seven years after her abduction by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), an offshoot of Boko Haram, Leah Sharibu remains in captivity, prompting renewed calls for her release. On May 14, 2025, as Leah marked her 22nd birthday, her eighth in captivity, a Nigerian advocacy group urged President Bola Tinubu and the National Security Adviser to prioritize her freedom, labeling her prolonged ordeal a “sad development.”

Leah, abducted at 14 from her school in Dapchi, Yobe State, in February 2018, was one of 110 schoolgirls kidnapped by ISWAP. While most of her peers were released, Leah, the only Christian among them, was held back after refusing to renounce her faith. Reports indicate she has been subjected to enslavement and, according to some sources, forcibly married to an ISWAP commander. The Nigerian government has confirmed she is alive, yet her continued captivity has drawn widespread concern.

“Leah has spent over 2,649 days away from her family, all because she held firm to her beliefs,” EiE Nigeria posted on X, demanding action. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom also highlighted her plight, with Commissioner Maureen Ferguson noting, “Her family, friends, and community long for her return.”

Critics argue the government’s response has been inadequate, with the advocacy group pressing Tinubu to leverage intelligence and diplomatic channels to secure Leah’s release. The call comes amid broader concerns about Nigeria’s handling of insurgent abductions, with Leah’s case citing the intersection of religious persecution and security challenges.

Leah’s story is a stark reminder of the human cost of insurgency and the need for resolute action to bring her home.

 

 

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Yaba Tech Student Appeals for N30m to Fund Life-Saving Kidney Transplant

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By Prosper Mene 

Prisca Udochukwu, a Higher National Diploma (HND) student at Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) in Lagos State, is urgently seeking N30 million to undergo a kidney transplant to save her life. The aspiring engineer, whose education has been halted by chronic kidney disease, has appealed to kind-hearted Nigerians for financial support to help her resume her studies and achieve her dreams.

Udochukwu’s health challenges began in December 2024, when she was diagnosed with kidney disease, rendering her unable to return to class. The condition has since worsened, requiring a transplant to restore her health. Speaking to Hallmark News, she expressed her determination to survive, stating, “I am appealing for support to fund a kidney transplant so I can resume my studies and fulfill my dream of becoming an engineer.”

The N30 million is needed to cover the cost of the transplant surgery, hospital admission, medications, and post-operative care. Udochukwu’s family has exhausted their resources on her treatment, leaving her reliant on public generosity. Her plight has sparked an outpouring of sympathy, with calls for donations to help her reclaim her future.

Donations can be made to FCMB Account Number: 1030595893, Account Name: Udochukwu Prisca Nneka. For further inquiries or to offer support, Udochukwu can be reached at +234 814 419 1267.

Yabatech, known as Nigeria’s premier polytechnic, has not issued an official statement on the matter, but the student’s appeal has gained traction on social media, with posts on X amplifying her call for help.

As Udochukwu battles for her life, her story serves as a reminder of the resilience of young Nigerians and the power of collective support in times of crisis.

 

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Court Sets June 27 for Final Judgment in Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension Case

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By Prosper Mene 

Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed June 27, 2025, to deliver a final judgment in the high-profile legal battle involving suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The senator is challenging her six-month suspension from the Senate, which she alleges was unjust, biased, and a violation of her right to a fair hearing.

The case, which has drawn significant public attention, stems from a contentious dispute between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, marked by allegations of misconduct, sexual harassment, and defamation. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension in March 2025 followed a Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct report, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen, citing alleged gross misconduct. The senator claims the disciplinary process was unfair and politically motivated, naming the National Assembly, the Senate, Akpabio, and Imasuen as defendants in her suit.

During Monday’s hearing, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team, led by Jibrin Okutekpa (SAN), informed the court that all required documents had been submitted as per prior directives. The team urged the court to invalidate the suspension, arguing it defied a valid court order. Okutekpa emphasized the urgency of the matter, noting that the six-month suspension period was time-sensitive.

The hearing also addressed contempt claims filed by both parties. Akpabio accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of breaching a gag order issued by Justice Nyako on April 4, 2025, which barred all parties from making public statements about the case, particularly regarding sexual harassment allegations. The Senate President’s legal team, led by Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), pointed to a satirical apology posted by Akpoti-Uduaghan on social media on April 27, where she mockingly apologized for “maintaining dignity and self-respect.” They argued this violated the court’s directive and requested that she delete the post and issue a written apology in two national newspapers.

In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s counsel, Michael Numan (SAN), countered with an earlier contempt motion against Akpabio, the Senate, and others, alleging they disobeyed a court order by proceeding with the suspension despite ongoing litigation. Numan argued that a statement attributed to Akpoti-Uduaghan had “no connection” to her and did not constitute contempt. Justice Nyako, after hearing submissions from both sides, adjourned the case to June 27 for a final ruling on the suspension suit, contempt claims, and preliminary objections challenging the court’s jurisdiction.

The case originated before Justice Obiorah Egwuatu, who recused himself on March 25, 2025, following accusations of bias from Akpabio. Egwuatu had initially granted an ex-parte motion on March 4, halting the Senate’s disciplinary proceedings, but later vacated an order declaring the suspension null after the Senate proceeded on March 6. The case was reassigned to Justice Nyako, who has maintained strict oversight, including barring media interviews and social media posts to prevent prejudicing the case.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio, first aired publicly in February 2025 during a Senate seating arrangement dispute, have fueled debates about the treatment of female lawmakers. Her subsequent international media appearances, including interviews with BBC and Sky News, and a speech at the Inter-Parliamentary Union conference in New York, have amplified the controversy, prompting accusations of political victimization.

Akpabio has denied the harassment allegations, and his wife, Ekaette Akpabio, has filed defamation suits against Akpoti-Uduaghan, seeking ₦350 billion in damages. The senator, in turn, has sued Akpabio and his aide for ₦100 billion over defamatory social media posts. These related suits remain pending, adding layers to the ongoing saga.

As the June 27 judgment date approaches, Nigerians await an end to a case that has exposed tensions within the Senate and sparked broader conversations about justice, fairness, and accountability in the nation’s political sphere.

 

 

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Bille Women Storm Rivers Government House, Demand Release of Abducted Students

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By Prosper Mene 

Hundreds of women from the Bille community in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State took to the streets of Port Harcourt on Tuesday, staging a peaceful protest at the Government House to demand the immediate release of eight students abducted by suspected pirates. The students, who were traveling by boat from Port Harcourt to Bille to sit for their West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams, were among 13 passengers kidnapped on May 6, 2025, along the Port Harcourt-Bille waterways.

Clad in black attire and carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Government, Save Us from Sea Pirates,” “Our Children Writing WAEC Are with Pirates in the Bush,” and “Bille People Are Suffering,” the protesters, under the aegis of Concerned People of Bille Kingdom, marched from the State Police Headquarters on Moscow Road to the Government House on Azikiwe Road. Their chants and songs echoed their frustration and anguish over the rising spate of piracy in their waterways.

The protest was sparked by the abduction of the students, who remain in captivity over a week after the incident. According to reports, heavily armed pirates intercepted a speedboat carrying the passengers, diverted it into the creeks, and seized goods and property worth millions of naira. Disturbing allegations have surfaced, with some protesters claiming that the pirates raped some of the abducted female students and disposed of their belongings.

Janet Adebayo, a leader of the protest, presented a formal address to a Government House official, detailing the incident and appealing for urgent intervention. “On May 6, 2025, along the Port Harcourt-Bille waterways, a speedboat carrying 13 passengers was intercepted by heavily armed pirates who diverted them into the creeks,” Adebayo stated. “Our children, who were going to write their WAEC exams, are still in the hands of these criminals. We are begging the government to act swiftly to secure their release.”

Another protester, Alale, a mother from the community, expressed her heartbreak: “These are children going to write WAEC. Their siblings are writing exams, but these ones have missed out on all the papers written so far. We are here to say enough is enough. We need our children back.”

The women’s demonstration has drawn attention to the growing insecurity along the Port Harcourt-Bille waterways, a vital transportation route for the island community. Israel Pepple, Chairman of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, Port Harcourt Commercial District, condemned the “incessant” pirate attacks and announced that the union may suspend transport operations to press for government action to secure the waterways.

The protesters called on President Bola Tinubu, the Inspector General of Police, the Rivers State Administrator, and the State Commissioner of Police to deploy marine police and naval units to curb the criminal activities plaguing the region. An elderly protester, overcome with emotion, flung herself to the ground outside the Government House, crying, “Government, please help me! My son is inside the creek with sea pirates!”

The Rivers State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement on the abduction or the protest, and no reports have confirmed the release of the captives as of Tuesday evening. The incident follows a series of pirate attacks in the region, including the abduction of five passengers in early April and 18 others in separate incidents reported on May 7, 2025, highlighting the escalating threat to riverine communities.

The Bille women vowed to continue their protests if no concrete action is taken to rescue the abducted students and restore safety to their waterways. For now, the community waits in anguish, hoping for the safe return of their children and an end to the terror on their waters.

 

 

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Nollywood Star Jumoke George Seeks Help Amid Homelessness and Health Issues

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By Prosper Mene 

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Jumoke George has made a heartfelt public plea for support, revealing she has been homeless for nearly six years and is battling significant health challenges. The 64-year-old actress, known for her roles in Yoruba-language films and her contributions to the Nigerian film industry, shared her struggles in a tearful video circulating on social media, prompting an outpouring of concern from fans and colleagues.

In the video, George detailed her dire situation, stating, “I’ve been homeless for five or six years now. Please, I need your prayers.” She also alluded to health issues, including arthritis, which she previously discussed in 2024, noting the physical toll of her condition and the challenges of living without stable housing. Sources close to the actress suggest she has faced financial hardship, exacerbated by a 14-year hiatus from Nollywood due to industry blacklisting over her refusal to comply with unethical demands, such as trading sexual favors for roles.

In interviews last year, she recounted her difficult childhood, including rejection by her parents and an abusive marriage, which she endured before finding solace in acting. Her return to Nollywood in recent years was celebrated, but her current circumstances examplifies the precarious nature of life for some aging stars in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

The actress’s situation also sheds light on broader issues of homelessness and healthcare access in Nigeria. According to a 2023 report by the Lagos State Government, over 70,000 people in the state are homeless, with limited social safety nets for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with chronic illnesses.

As of now, no official response has been issued by Nollywood’s governing bodies or public officials regarding George’s plea. Fans and well-wishers are rallying online, sharing messages of support and organizing crowdfunding efforts to assist the actress with immediate needs like housing and medical care.

George’s story is a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by many in Nigeria’s creative industry, where fame often does not translate to financial security.

 

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