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Kwara Court Orders Release of Hafsor Lawal’s Remains for Islamic Burial

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By Prosper Mene 

Justice Hannah Ajayi of the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin has granted an application for the release of the dismembered remains of Hafsor Lawal, allowing her family to conduct a burial in accordance with Islamic rites. The ruling came during a hearing on Monday in the ongoing trial of AbdulRahman Bello and four others, who face charges of conspiracy and murder in connection with Lawal’s death.

The prosecution, led by Kwara State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Senior Ibrahim, moved the application to release the body parts, which had been admitted as exhibits in the case. Justice Ajayi approved the request, ensuring the deceased’s family could proceed with a proper burial.

During the session, three additional witnesses testified, including two police officers and Dr. Olaleke Folaranmi, an anatomic pathologist from the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital. Police Sergeant Moses detailed how Lawal’s phone was traced to AbdulRahman Bello, the primary suspect, and recounted Bello’s alleged attempt to bribe him during the investigation. The officer further revealed that parts of Lawal’s body were recovered from Bello’s apartment, with additional remains found at a government dumpsite.

The case, which has drawn significant public attention, has now seen testimony from seven witnesses. Justice Ajayi adjourned the trial to May 21, 2025, for further proceedings.

The court’s decision to release Lawal’s remains has been met with relief by her family, who have been grappling with the tragic loss. The ruling marks a step toward closure as they prepare to lay Hafsor Lawal to rest according to Islamic traditions.

 

 

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Kemi Badenoch Slams Labour’s Immigration Proposal, Demands Tougher Reforms

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By Prosper Mene 

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has sharply criticized the Labour government’s latest immigration proposal, branding it “weak” and insufficient to address the UK’s immigration challenges. In a fiery statement posted on X, Badenoch accused Prime Minister Keir Starmer of dismissing her calls for stricter measures, including a legally binding cap on immigration and an end to what she describes as an “automatic route” to British citizenship.

Badenoch’s remarks comes in a time the Parliament preparing to debate Labour’s Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill, which aims to enhance police powers against people-smuggling gangs. The Tory leader has repeatedly argued that the current immigration system is unsustainable, pointing to record-high net migration figures under previous Conservative governments—peaking at 906,000 in the year to June 2023—and Labour’s reluctance to implement robust controls.

“Keir Starmer once called all immigration laws racist,” Badenoch posted on X. “So why would anyone believe he actually wants to bring immigration down? When I proposed ending the automatic route to British citizenship and introducing a legally binding cap, the government laughed it off.” She further criticized Labour’s approach as “playing games” and urged support for a Conservative-backed Deportation Bill to streamline the removal of illegal immigrants.

Badenoch’s own immigration proposals, unveiled earlier this year, include extending the residency requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from five to ten years and imposing a 15-year wait for citizenship eligibility. She has also advocated barring immigrants who claim benefits, rely on social housing, or have criminal records from obtaining settled status, emphasizing that only “net contributors” should earn a British passport. However, these plans have sparked controversy, with critics arguing they are punitive and could harm integration efforts. A Focaldata poll found that only 8% of the public support Badenoch’s 15-year citizenship threshold, with 56% favoring a wait of five years or less.

Labour’s Minister for Border Security, Angela Eagle, hit back, accusing the Conservatives of creating “chaos” during their 14 years in power. “After 14 years of shameful Tory failure, no one will take seriously anything they claim or promise now,” Eagle said, pointing to the £700m spent on the failed Rwanda deportation scheme.

Badenoch’s take on immigration is seen as a strategic move to counter the rising influence of Reform UK, which has capitalized on public frustration with high migration levels. However, critics, including some within her party, warn that her hardline stance risks alienating moderate voters and fails to address practical challenges, such as staffing shortages in sectors like healthcare and hospitality.

With the next general election years away, her ability to translate rhetoric into credible policy may determine whether she can regain voter trust lost during the Conservatives’ tenure.

 

 

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Court to Rule on Contempt Case Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on May 13

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By Prosper Mene 

The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled Tuesday, May 13, 2025, for the definitive hearing of contempt allegations against suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, as announced during Monday’s proceedings. The case, presided over by Justice Binta Nyako, involves claims by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who accuses Akpoti-Uduaghan of violating a court order through a social media post.

The contempt charge stems from an April 4, 2025, court directive prohibiting all parties in Akpoti-Uduaghan’s ongoing lawsuit from making public statements about the case. Akpabio’s legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Kehinde Ogunwumiju, alleges that Akpoti-Uduaghan breached this order by posting a “satirical apology” on her Facebook page on April 27, 2025, which they claim mocked the Senate President and referenced the legal dispute.

In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan has filed a counter-affidavit, denying the allegations and asserting that her post did not violate any active court order. She claims the interim order cited by Akpabio was suspended on April 8, 2025, and argues that her post was a political satire protected under Section 39(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression. She further alleges that Akpabio’s motion is an attempt to intimidate her and suppress her rights.

Akpoti-Uduaghan has also lodged a contempt claim against Akpabio, the Senate, the Clerk of the National Assembly, and Senator Neda Imasuem, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct. She argues that her six-month suspension from the Senate on March 6, 2025, violated a March 4, 2025, court order by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, which restrained the Senate from proceeding with disciplinary actions against her pending the resolution of her lawsuit.

The legal battle traces back to a February 20, 2025, altercation in the Senate chamber over seating arrangements, where Akpoti-Uduaghan allegedly defied Akpabio’s directives and disrupted plenary proceedings. This led to her referral to the Ethics Committee, which recommended her suspension despite the court’s restraining order. The senator’s lawsuit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025, names the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Senate, Akpabio, and Imasuem as defendants.

Justice Nyako emphasized the priority of resolving the contempt issues, stating, “I cannot proceed with this matter until I conclude on the issue of contempt.” She warned that continued disobedience of court orders could lead to severe consequences, including summoning the parties to court. The judge also requested a copy of the Senate rules and cleared her schedule for the May 13 hearing to address both contempt applications.

While the court prepares for Tuesday’s hearing, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, her allegations against Akpabio, and the Senate’s adherence to judicial directives. The Citizenry awaits a resolution to this high-profile clash, which has sparked debates about free speech, judicial authority, and parliamentary conduct in Nigeria.

 

 

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Patience Jonathan Backs Tinubu for 2027, Says No Return to Aso Rock

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By Prosper Mene 

Former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan has publicly declared her support for President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections, firmly dismissing any intentions of returning to the Presidential Villa. Speaking at the Women Icon Leader of the Year 2025 award ceremony hosted by Accolade Dynamics Limited in Abuja on Saturday night, Jonathan emphasized her commitment to national unity through rotational leadership and her longstanding personal ties with the Tinubu family.

“I’m not going back to the Villa. If you call me, I will not go,” Jonathan stated, addressing speculations about her husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, potentially running for president in 2027. She expressed unwavering support for President Tinubu, whom she described as a “wonderful president,” and pledged to campaign alongside Senator Oluremi Tinubu. “I stand by my friend. My friend is great. I told her I would campaign with her. I’m not running,” she added.

Jonathan emphasized her deep-rooted relationship with Senator Tinubu, noting their collaboration as wives of deputy governors and governors, predating their time in Aso Rock. “I didn’t just know her because she’s the First Lady. We worked together even when I was a deputy governor’s wife. Even when my husband was vice president, Oluremi stood with her husband and supported us during our first presidential election,” she said, citing her loyalty.

The former First Lady also reiterated her belief in a “turn-by-turn” leadership model, which she views as essential for Nigeria’s unity. “I believe in one president. When it’s your turn, I will support you. When it’s not your turn, step back, so that the country can move forward,” she said, addressing the audience, which included Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, President Tinubu’s daughter and Iyaloja-General of Nigeria. Jonathan praised Tinubu-Ojo for her advocacy for women, urging her to continue supporting Nigerian women.

Reflecting on her award, Jonathan dedicated the honor to those who have worked with her to advance women’s health and economic empowerment through her NGOs, the Aurora Richard Foundation and Women for Change and Development Initiative. “This award is a testament to the tireless efforts of countless women and men who have worked alongside me,” she said.

Jonathan also used the platform to advocate for 35% affirmative action for women in governance, expressing disappointment over the National Assembly’s repeated rejection of gender equality bills. She recalled the policy’s adoption under former President Olusegun Obasanjo and its continuation during her husband’s administration, urging lawmakers to reconsider their stance.

Her remarks come amid speculations that some political groups, particularly in the North, have been urging former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidency. However, Jonathan’s unequivocal stance has put such rumors to rest, signaling her family’s support for Tinubu’s re-election bid.

The event, attended by prominent figures, was described by Accolade Dynamics’ Managing Director, Ms. Dofan Chizaram, as a tribute to leaders who have impacted Nigeria through mentorship and community development. Jonathan’s endorsement of Tinubu and her call for unity will likely resonate as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 polls.

 

 

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UK-Based Nigerian Woman Laments Separation from Husband After ‘Japa’ Move in 2023.

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By Prosper Mene Prosper 

In a heartfelt outcry, a Nigerian woman who relocated to the United Kingdom in 2023 has shared her emotional struggle, expressing deep longing for her husband left behind in Nigeria. The woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, broke down in tears as she recounted the personal toll of her decision to “japa”—a Nigerian slang term for emigrating in search of better opportunities.

The woman’s story shows the emotional challenges faced by many Nigerians who leave their homeland for greener pastures abroad. “I miss my husband,” she cried, reflecting on the sacrifices made in pursuit of a better life. Her relocation in 2023 was driven by hopes of improved economic prospects and stability, but the separation from her spouse has left her grappling with loneliness and regret.

Her experience is not an isolated one. The wave of Nigerian migration, particularly to countries like the UK, Canada, and the US, has surged in recent years due to economic hardships, insecurity, and limited opportunities at home. However, the emotional and psychological costs of such moves often go unspoken. For many, leaving loved ones behind creates a bittersweet reality, where professional or financial gains are tempered by personal loss.

This woman’s story resonates with a broader narrative of Nigerian diaspora experiences. A related post from 2024 on X by Instablog9ja highlighted another UK-based Nigerian woman facing marital challenges, illustrating the compounded difficulties of navigating relationships across borders. While the two cases differ, they both shed light on the complex dynamics of migration, where dreams of a better future can come at a steep personal cost.

Stories like these highlight the need for support systems to address the emotional and social challenges faced by migrants. For this woman, the ache of missing her husband serves as a constant reminder that the pursuit of a better life often demands sacrifices that weigh heavily on the heart.

 

 

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Awolowo’s Granddaughter Resigns from Labour Party Executive Committee, Cites Erosion of Integrity

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By Prosper Mene 

Pastor Funke Awolowo, granddaughter of the late Nigerian statesman Chief Obafemi Awolowo, has resigned her membership in the Labour Party’s Lagos State Executive Committee, effective immediately. The announcement, made public on Friday, has sparked discussions within political circles due to her prominent family legacy and her stated reasons for stepping down.

Pastor Awolowo, who served as the Head of the Mobilisation and Integration Team for the Labour Party in Lagos, expressed deep concerns about the party’s direction in a resignation letter addressed to Lagos Labour Party Chairperson, Dayo Ekong. She cited a perceived erosion of integrity within the committee and its leadership, stating that personal interests had overshadowed the party’s commitment to impactful governance.

“For years, I have served with sincerity and dedication, committed to the vision of impactful governance,” Awolowo wrote. “However, when the purpose of service is blurred by personal interests and the space for integrity begins to shrink, it becomes necessary to step aside.” Her resignation cites her belief that continuing in her role would compromise her personal values and public image.

Despite stepping away from her formal role, Pastor Awolowo emphasized her unwavering commitment to public service and political engagement. “My dedication to national development and the political process remains steadfast,” she affirmed, hinting at continued involvement in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape, albeit outside the Labour Party’s structure.

The granddaughter of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a revered nationalist and one of Nigeria’s founding political figures, Pastor Funke Awolowo carries a significant legacy. Her grandfather’s contributions to Nigerian politics, particularly as a champion of federalism and social welfare, continue to resonate. Her resignation has thus drawn attention not only for its political implications but also for its symbolic weight, given her family’s storied history.

The Labour Party has yet to issue an official response to Awolowo’s resignation. Political analysts suggest that her exit could prompt further introspection within the party as it navigates its role in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape ahead of future elections.

As news of the resignation spread, posts on X reflected a mix of surprise and support for Awolowo’s decision, with some users praising her for prioritizing integrity. “Funke Awolowo’s resignation shows principle over politics. The Labour Party needs to reflect,” one user wrote. However, these sentiments remain inconclusive and do not fully capture the broader public reaction.

Pastor Awolowo has not indicated her next steps but has left open the possibility of engaging in other platforms to advance her vision for Nigeria’s development.

 

 

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Tinubu Appoints Usoro Akpabio as SSDC Managing Director, Urges Akwa Ibom Support

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By Prosper Mene 

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Madam Usoro Offiong Akpabio, a prominent politician and strategist from Akwa Ibom State, as the Managing Director of the newly established South South Development Commission (SSDC). The announcement, made on May 8, 2025, has sparked optimism about the region’s development prospects.

The SSDC, headquartered in Uyo, is tasked with driving infrastructure and economic growth across Nigeria’s South-South region, including states like Akwa Ibom, Delta, and Rivers. Alongside Akpabio, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche from Rivers State, was nominated as the Commission’s Chairman.

Okpolupm Etteh, the House of Representatives member for Eket/ONNA/Esit Eket/Ibeno Federal Constituency, praised the appointment, calling it a strategic move by President Tinubu. In a statement on May 9, 2025, Etteh urged the people of Akwa Ibom to rally behind Akpabio, emphasizing that her leadership could “unlock unprecedented development opportunities” for the South-South region.

“As the SSDC begins operations, I call on all Akwa Ibom people to support Miss Akpabio in this important assignment,” Etteh said, expressing gratitude to the President for the confidence shown in Akwa Ibom’s leadership.

Public reactions, reflect excitement about the appointment, with many viewing it as a chance to address longstanding infrastructural challenges in the region. However, details about Akpabio’s previous roles remain limited, prompting curiosity about her experience leading such a significant initiative.

The Senate is expected to review the nominations, which include 16 additional board members, to finalize the Commission’s leadership structure. With its focus on regional development, the SSDC is poised to play a pivotal role in transforming the South-South’s economic landscape under Akpabio’s leadership.

As Akwa Ibom residents await the Commission’s next steps, Etteh’s call for unity shows the collective hope that Akpabio’s tenure will mark a new era of progress for the state and the broader region.

 

 

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Federal High Court Grants N20 Million Bail to EeZeeTee in Alleged Forex Fraud Case, Mercy Chinwo’s Former Manager

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By Prosper Mene 

The Federal High Court in Lagos, presided over by Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke, has granted N20 million bail to Ezekiel Onyedikachi, popularly known as EeZeeTee, a music producer and former manager of celebrated gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. The ruling follows allegations of a $255,000 foreign exchange transaction fraud brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), casting a spotlight on the complexities of the music industry and the challenges faced by women like Chinwo navigating its business landscape.

EeZeeTee, CEO of EeZee Global Concept Ltd, faced an amended seven-count charge accusing him of unauthorized forex transactions and failing to disclose financial activities to the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering (SCUML) between 2022 and 2023. The EFCC alleges that in June 2023, EeZeeTee negotiated a $52,895 forex deal with Oladotun Olaobaju Mureke without Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) authorization, with his company receiving $255,436 during the period without proper disclosures. EeZeeTee pleaded not guilty, and the trial is adjourned to June 20, 2025.

For Mercy Chinwo, a leading figure in Nigeria’s gospel music scene, the case shows the often unseen struggles of female artists in an industry where trust in management is paramount. Chinwo, known for hits like Excess Love, has not publicly commented on the case, but earlier allegations, later dropped by the EFCC, suggested EeZeeTee misappropriated her earnings. These claims, though unproven, highlight the vulnerability of women in music who rely on managers to handle complex financial dealings. Chinwo’s rise to fame, built on her talent and faith-driven music, has made her a role model for many young women, yet this case reveals the potential pitfalls even successful female artists face when business relationships sour.

Justice Aneke set EeZeeTee’s bail at N20 million, requiring a surety with Lagos property worth the same amount. EeZeeTee was temporarily released to his lawyer, Ojukwu Chikaosolu (SAN), with 72 hours to meet the conditions. Defense counsel argued for lenient bail, citing EeZeeTee’s role as the sole caregiver for his two ill children and ongoing settlement talks. The EFCC opposed, alleging EeZeeTee evaded service, with tensions peaking when operatives attempted to rearrest him outside court, only for a senior official to intervene.

The case cites the need for greater transparency in the music industry, particularly for women like Chinwo, who often juggle artistic demands with the pressures of navigating financial and legal complexities.

 

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Kaduna Court Remands 10 Men Over Alleged Rape of 14-Year-Old Disabled Teenager

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By Prosper Mene 

A Kaduna Chief Magistrates’ Court has ordered the remand of 10 men, including a grandfather, for the alleged gang rape of a 14-year-old physically challenged teenager. The suspects, identified as Ibrahim Yahaya, Jibrin Haruna, Abubakar Yahaya, Mustapha Lawal, Jibrin Musa, Haruna Yahaya, Ibrahim Audu, Musa Yahaya, Jibrin Yahaya (the grandfather), and Jibrin Isah, were arraigned on charges of conspiracy and rape.

The court, presided over by Chief Magistrate Ibrahim Emmanuel, did not take the pleas of the accused, citing a lack of jurisdiction. Instead, the magistrate directed that the case file be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice. The suspects were ordered to be held at the Kaduna Correctional Centre pending further proceedings, with the case adjourned to June 17, 2025, for mention.

According to the prosecution, led by Inspector Chidi Leo, the incident occurred on April 28, 2025, in the Ungwan Dosa area of Kaduna. The complainant, whose identity is protected, reported the assault to the police, alleging that the 10 men lured the teenager to an uncompleted building and took turns sexually assaulting her. The victim’s disability is said to have made her particularly vulnerable to the attack.

The case has sparked outrage in Kaduna, with community members and activists demanding justice for the teenager. Hajiya Rabi Salisu, Kaduna State Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, described the incident as a “heinous act” and vowed that the state would pursue justice relentlessly. “This is a reminder of the need to protect our most vulnerable citizens,” Salisu said, urging stronger community vigilance against sexual violence.

The arrests were made following a police investigation triggered by the victim’s family, who reported the assault to local authorities. The case adds to growing concerns over sexual and gender-based violence in Kaduna State, where the Ministry of Human Services reported securing three rape convictions between June 2024 and February 2025.

As the legal process unfolds, advocates are calling for comprehensive support for the victim, including medical and psychological care, and stricter measures to deter such crimes. The Kaduna State government has reiterated its commitment to combating sexual violence, with plans to strengthen partnerships with civil society organizations to raise awareness and provide survivor support.

The trial’s outcome is expected to set a significant precedent in the state’s fight against sexual violence, particularly for protecting vulnerable populations. For now, the community awaits justice for the 14-year-old, whose ordeal has garnered calls for reform and accountability.

 

 

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Father’s Tears Shake Ilorin Court in “Facebook Killer” Trial

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By Prosper Mene 

A heartrending scene unfolded in the Kwara State High Court on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, as the trial of AbdulRahman Bello, infamously dubbed the “Facebook killer-lover,” took a devastating turn. The father of the late Hafsoh Lawal broke down in uncontrollable tears, his anguish echoing through the courtroom as police presented the severed remains of his daughter as evidence. The chilling display, accompanied by a foul odor, left attendees in shock and showed the brutality of the crime that has gripped Ilorin.

The tragedy traces back to February 2025, when Hafsoh Lawal vanished under mysterious circumstances. Authorities arrested Bello, an Ilorin-based cleric, on February 13 after he allegedly confessed to murdering Lawal and dismembering her body in a failed attempt to use her remains for a money ritual. The prosecution, led by Inspector Ayodele Azeez, submitted the gruesome exhibits, human body parts recovered from Bello’s residence and a nearby dumpsite, preserved at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital. Yusuf Dauda, an officer with the State Criminal Investigation Department, testified to documenting the evidence, intensifying the courtroom’s somber mood.

Justice Hannah Ajayi presided over the emotionally charged session, where four of the 16 scheduled prosecution witnesses appeared alongside Bello and four co-accused. The defense, represented by Chukwudi Maduka, challenged the evidence’s recovery process, noting Dauda’s absence at the retrieval site. Yet, Inspector Mohammed corroborated the findings, detailing how the parts were meticulously collected and stored.

For Lawal’s father, the sight of his daughter’s severed hands was unbearable, a stark reminder of a life cut short by betrayal. The case has sparked outrage across Kwara State, with residents decrying the rise of ritualistic crimes and the dangers lurking in online relationships. Social media platforms, where Bello allegedly lured his victim, have come under scrutiny, prompting calls for stricter digital safety measures.

The trial has brought the courtroom to a point of intense emotional pain and unresolved questions. A community’s trust was shattered in the most violent way possible, how can it be restored? Can any form of justice bring solace to a father’s overwhelming grief? The people of Ilorin are looking for answers, believing that Hafsoh Lawal’s memory deserves to drive lasting change.

 

 

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