₦airaland Forum

Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Asake has officially been named the most-streamed artist in Nigeria on Spotify, according to new figures released by the global streaming platform.

The milestone announcement comes as Spotify celebrates five years of operations across Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana, highlighting the rapid growth of digital music consumption in Africa. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Asake topped a competitive list featuring some of Nigeria’s biggest music exports, including Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, and Seyi Vibez.

His hit single “Remember” emerged as the most-streamed song in Nigeria, while “Lonely at the Top” also secured a place among the platform’s top five most-played tracks nationwide.

Spotify credited Nigerian listeners for driving the platform’s expansion, revealing that users in the country have created more than 25 million playlists over the past five years. Data from the platform also shows that the average Nigerian listener is 26 years old, underscoring the influence of a young and digitally connected audience.

Asake’s meteoric rise has been powered by his distinctive blend of street-inspired sounds, mainstream Afrobeats, and energetic rhythms that frequently go viral on social media platforms such as TikTok.

His album “Lungu Boy” also achieved a historic feat by becoming the first African project to top the global Spotify debut chart, further strengthening his reputation as one of the leading voices of modern Afrobeats.

With Spotify’s continued growth in Africa, Asake’s achievement reflects not only his personal success but also the expanding global impact of Nigerian music and the sustained dominance of Afrobeats on international streaming platforms.

Achraf Hakimi, defender for Paris Saint-Germain and the Morocco national team, is set to face a legal battle in France following a rape allegation he has strongly denied.

In a statement shared on his social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Hakimi maintained his innocence, stressing that he is prepared to defend himself in court. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

“Today, a rape accusation is enough to justify a trial, even though I deny it and everything proves it’s false,” he wrote.

The footballer added that the situation is unfair both to innocent individuals and to genuine victims of sexual violence, noting that he remains calm and confident that the truth will emerge during the judicial process.

The prosecutor’s office in Nanterre, France, initially opened an investigation into the matter in 2023 after the allegation was reported. Authorities have not released additional details about the case, and legal proceedings are expected to determine the outcome.

Hakimi, who has been a key player for both club and country, continues to deny all accusations as the matter moves toward court review.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised concerns over the health and welfare of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai following reports that he allegedly suffered a nosebleed while in detention.

Reacting to claims made by El-Rufai’s media aide that the former governor experienced bleeding from the nose and that his family members were denied direct access to him, Atiku described the situation as troubling and inconsistent with democratic standards. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

He called on the Federal Government to clearly state which security agency currently has El-Rufai in custody, questioning whether he is being held by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), the Department of State Services (DSS), or any other law enforcement body.

According to Atiku, uncertainty surrounding the detention only fuels public suspicion, stressing that Nigerians deserve transparency regarding the circumstances of the former governor’s custody.

The former presidential candidate further stated that whichever agency is responsible has a constitutional obligation to guarantee El-Rufai’s safety, dignity, access to medical treatment, and the right to communicate with his family members and legal representatives.

He described reports suggesting that El-Rufai suffered a nosebleed while relatives were allegedly denied access to him as unacceptable in a democratic society.

Atiku also warned that if authorities are unable to guarantee El-Rufai’s health and fundamental rights, the appropriate and humane course of action would be to grant him bail without delay.

In addition, he raised concerns about what he termed a growing perception of selective prosecution, cautioning that anti-corruption campaigns must not be used as tools against political opponents.

According to him, the continued detention of the former Kaduna governor under unclear conditions raises questions about motive, emphasizing that justice must remain transparent and accountability should be applied evenly without political bias.

Old social media posts by Nigerian singer Simi have resurfaced online, revealing her once-humorous admiration for American rapper J. Cole, sparking reactions among fans and internet users.

The tweets, shared years before her marriage, captured the singer joking about her attraction to the award-winning rapper and fantasising about meeting him. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

In one of the posts that has now gone viral again, Simi wrote:

“If I see Cole, I will kiss his pinky n beg 4 his hand in marriage. If he say no, I will beg him for 1 baby. If he say no, Plan B: Babalawo.”

Another tweet from 2015 humorously read:

“Simi and J Cole sitting on a tree… K I S S I N G.”

In a separate post, she joked about possibly leaving her partner if she ever met the rapper.

“Bae knows to hold on to me tight if we ever around J Cole. Because I might just switch bfs. Kinna like a Sim Swap. Just like that.”

The singer also teased about being jealous of the rapper’s wife in a 2016 tweet, writing:

“Like now, I’m a hater of J Cole’s wife. You dig?”

In another playful confession, she wrote:

“I’m ready to sacrifice everything for J.Cole, but he doesn’t even read my twitter messages.”

Social Media Reactions

The resurfaced posts have triggered mixed reactions online, with many fans finding the tweets amusing and relatable, while others noted how old celebrity posts often resurface years later in the age of digital footprints.

Observers pointed out that the tweets reflected a lighthearted celebrity crush rather than serious intent, as Simi has since moved on with her life and career.

The singer is currently married to fellow Nigerian artiste Adekunle Gold, and the couple share a daughter together.

Nigerian music star Bella Shmurda has sparked reactions online after claiming he is biologically related to fellow artiste Adekunle Gold.

The “Cash App” crooner, whose real name is Abiola Ahmed Akinbiyi, made the revelation via his account on X (formerly Twitter), stating that he recently discovered the family connection.

“Just found out Adekunle GOLD is my uncle, Iga Kosoko mo foh oo small world,” he wrote. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

The statement quickly generated buzz among fans and social media users, with many expressing surprise at the alleged relationship between the two popular musicians.

While Bella Shmurda did not provide further details about how they are related, the mention of “Kosoko” in his post has fueled speculation about possible family ties linked to the Kosoko lineage, a prominent name in Lagos history.

As of the time of filing this report, Adekunle Gold, born Adekunle Kosoko, has not publicly reacted to the claim.

Both artistes are among Nigeria’s leading contemporary music acts, known for their distinct sounds and influence in the Afrobeats scene.

Renowned Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has sealed a landmark collaboration between his company, Kunle Afolayan Productions (KAP) Group, and the Republic of Benin in a move aimed at strengthening cross-border creative development and advancing African cinema.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Lagos at the KAP Hub, the filmmaker’s creative headquarters, following an official invitation from the Beninese Presidency to establish a strategic partnership focused on transforming the region’s audiovisual and film production ecosystem. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Both parties described the agreement as a significant milestone designed to leverage cinema, youth empowerment and creative enterprise as tools for cultural diplomacy, economic development and global positioning of African storytelling.

The partnership comes weeks after Afolayan, alongside KAP Executive Director Seun Soyinka, led a senior management delegation to Benin Republic, where discussions were held with government officials and key stakeholders in the country’s film and creative sectors.

The consultations focused on developing sustainable structures to boost local content creation, enhance technical expertise and position Benin as a growing hub for film production on the continent.

Following directives from the Beninese President, a high-level delegation travelled to Lagos to formalise the agreement.

Members of the delegation included presidential advisers on media, audiovisual, arts and culture, as well as representatives from cultural development agencies and creative institutions.

On the Nigerian side, the hosting team featured Afolayan, Soyinka and Professor Tunji Azeez, Head of School at the KAP Film & Television Academy.

The collaboration is structured around three major pillars:

Film Co-Production: Joint production of films that showcase authentic African narratives while expanding international market reach.

Youth Training and Capacity Development: Structured training programmes covering filmmaking, production and creative entrepreneurship.

Film Infrastructure Development: Establishment and operation of a world-class Film City in Ouidah, Benin Republic.

The initiative will also utilise the expertise of KAP subsidiaries, including KAP Motion Pictures, the KAP Film & Television Academy and the KAP Film Village & Resort in Igbojaye-Komu, Oyo State.

As part of the official activities scheduled between February 19 and 22, the Beninese delegation is expected to tour KAP’s production facilities in Lagos and the film village in Oyo State, which has become a model for integrated film production, training and cultural tourism in Africa.

Speaking on the agreement, Afolayan described the partnership as a defining moment for African cinema, emphasising the importance of collaboration in projecting African stories globally.

A representative of the Beninese government also expressed optimism about the partnership, particularly in the area of skills development and industry capacity building.

Both parties noted that the MoU marks the beginning of a long-term alliance aimed at raising standards in film production, creative education and cultural expression across Africa.

Nigerian music stars Tems and Burna Boy have achieved a historic milestone by becoming the African artists with the highest number of entries on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The record was previously shared with South African rock band Seether, who had seven entries. However, the Nigerian superstars have now surpassed that mark following new chart appearances this week. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Both artists secured additional entries through collaborations on J. Cole’s latest album, The Fall-Off.

Tems appeared on the track Bounce Road Blues alongside Future, which debuted at number 34 on the chart. Meanwhile, Burna Boy featured on Only You, which entered at number 78.

These new placements pushed both artists to a total of eight Billboard Hot 100 entries each — the highest ever recorded by African performers.

Tems has also recorded three Hot 100 appearances in 2026 alone, including Raindance featuring Dave, What You Need, and Bounce Road Blues.

This achievement makes her the African artist with the most Billboard Hot 100 entries in 2026 so far, further strengthening her global reputation.

Burna Boy has also set another major record, becoming the first African artist to appear on the Billboard Hot 100 for six consecutive years.

Some of his charting songs over the years include Loved By You (2021), Last Last (2022), Sittin’ On Top Of The World and Talibans II (2023), Just Like Me and We Pray (2024), WGFT (2025), and Only You (2026).

The milestone underscores the continued global rise of Afrobeats and African music, as Nigerian artists increasingly dominate international charts and collaborations with global superstars.

Tems and Burna Boy’s achievements highlight how African music has evolved from regional popularity to worldwide cultural influence.

The Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide, David Oyedepo, has publicly criticised the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marking his first major political commentary in about three years. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

The cleric made the remarks while addressing members of his congregation at the Faith Tabernacle in Ota, Ogun State, on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

During his sermon, Oyedepo questioned the performance and accountability of the current administration, urging leaders to accept honest feedback.

According to him:

“You’re not doing well; you’re not doing well. They must tell you that you’re not doing well. What’s your problem? Hear me, please, tell me. Is this government doing well?”

His comments quickly gained attention across social media, with many Nigerians debating the state of the nation and the role of religious leaders in political discourse.

The statement has sparked mixed reactions nationwide. While some citizens praised the bishop for speaking out, others argued that religious leaders should remain neutral in political matters.

Oyedepo has previously made comments on governance and national development, but he had largely refrained from direct political criticism in recent years before this latest statement.

“Japa Gone Wrong”: Three Men Arrested in Algeria After Attempting to Enter Spain Disguised as Sheep

Three men have been arrested in Algeria after allegedly attempting to enter Spain in an unusual disguise that has since gone viral on social media.

According to reports, the suspects were trying to cross the border illegally by hiding inside a truck transporting livestock. In an effort to avoid detection, they allegedly wore sheep costumes to blend in with the animals being transported. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

The plan reportedly failed during a routine inspection when border officials noticed unusual movements among the animals. Some of the “sheep” were said to be walking upright on two legs, raising suspicion among officers.

Upon closer examination, authorities discovered that three of the animals were actually men wearing disguises. They were immediately removed from the truck and taken into custody.

The suspects are now reportedly facing charges related to immigration fraud. Reports also suggest they could face additional allegations, including claims that they disrupted and stepped on livestock while attempting to conceal themselves.

The bizarre incident has triggered widespread reactions online, with many users describing it as a desperate but poorly executed attempt at migration, often referred to in Nigerian slang as “japa.” Others expressed concern over the risks people take in pursuit of opportunities abroad.

No fewer than 1,000 police officers in Lagos State have benefited from the Sanwo-Olu Police Care Initiative, a medical outreach programme designed to improve the health and welfare of security personnel.

The initiative commenced at the Police Headquarters in Ikeja, where officers received free eye screening, prescription glasses, and general medical checks as part of the intervention. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

The programme is fully funded by the Lagos State Government and forms part of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s broader efforts to strengthen institutions responsible for protecting lives and property.

Speaking after the outreach, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transportation and Logistics, Hassan Adekoya, explained that the decision to include police officers followed a request by the Nigeria Police Force, in recognition of the critical role officers play in maintaining law and order.

According to him, the Police Care Initiative builds on the success of the Drivers’ Care Programme recently launched at Lillypond Terminal in Apapa and later extended to Eleko Junction, Obalende, and Iyana-Iba.

The Drivers’ Care Programme targets about 10,000 professional drivers across the state, offering free eye screening, prescription glasses, drug testing, sensitisation, and free Lagos State Drivers’ Institute cards.

Adekoya noted that extending the initiative to police personnel demonstrates the government’s appreciation of security officers and their contributions to public safety.

He added that ensuring officers are medically fit improves operational efficiency and strengthens the overall security framework within the state.

With the successful completion of the 1,000-officer target, the state government reaffirmed its commitment to welfare-focused programmes aimed at supporting frontline workers and enhancing service delivery.

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has confirmed that it is investigating a viral social media video involving a young woman who narrated an alleged sexual assault at her residence.

In an official statement, the agency disclosed that it is actively working to locate the survivor in order to provide immediate intervention, safety support, and access to professional care services. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

The agency also appealed to members of the public who may have credible information about the survivor’s whereabouts to reach out through its verified communication channels.

“The Lagos State Government maintains a zero-tolerance stance against all forms of domestic and sexual violence,” the statement read. “Sexual assault is a crime, and every survivor deserves protection, care, support, and justice. We encourage survivors to speak up and assure the public that reports are treated with utmost confidentiality and urgency.”

Details shared in the viral video indicate that the survivor allegedly experienced the assault after opening her door to someone she believed to be a neighbour.

She reportedly explained that she had been struggling with insomnia and was under the influence of substances at the time of the incident, which may have affected her ability to respond quickly to the situation.

According to her narration, the intruder forced his way into her residence, leading to a physical struggle and eventual assault, leaving her traumatized.

Authorities said efforts are ongoing to ensure the survivor receives appropriate protection, medical attention, and psychological support once she is reached.

The agency reiterated the importance of public vigilance and cooperation, urging residents to report credible leads that could assist ongoing intervention efforts.

Observers note that the case has drawn widespread attention online, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety and gender-based violence in urban communities.

The trial involving Nigerian rapper Odumodublvck, whose real name is Tochukwu Ojogwu, has been adjourned to April 8, 2026, by the Federal Capital Territory High Court in a N2 billion alleged assault and battery suit filed against him.

The adjournment followed the inability of the court to sit at the Life Camp division in Abuja due to ongoing renovation work in the courtroom. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Despite the development, counsel to the claimant, Uchenna Ojembe, and counsel to the defendant, Taiwo Akinsulie, were present in court and agreed on a new date convenient for both parties to commence hearing.

The claimant, Ogbogiri Okey Levi, popularly known as Kraziecent, had instituted the civil suit alleging that the rapper assaulted him during a public event in December 2024.

According to the suit, Kraziecent claimed he was peacefully taking photographs and videos when Odumodublvck allegedly attacked him without provocation.

He further alleged that the incident caused him emotional distress and resulted in damage to his mobile phone, identified as an iPhone 15 Pro Max.

In the case before the court, the claimant is seeking several reliefs, including:

Payment of medical expenses incurred following the alleged assault.

N2 billion in damages for the incident.

A court order directing the defendant to issue a public apology across his social media platforms and in two national newspapers.

The matter has now been scheduled for hearing on April 8, 2026, when proceedings are expected to begin, subject to the completion of renovation work at the court facility.

Veteran Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has shared the story behind her famous nickname, “Omosexy,” which has become synonymous with her brand over the years.

Speaking during an interview on Naija FM, the award-winning actress disclosed that the name was coined by her husband, Captain Matthew Ekeinde, early in their marriage.

According to her, the nickname originated after her husband bought her a Lincoln Navigator SUV and customised the vehicle’s number plate with the name “Omosexy,” a gesture that eventually stuck and became widely recognised by fans and the entertainment industry. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Responding to a question from the interviewer about the origin of the name, she said in pidgin English:

“Na my honey boy give me that name… e buy me one Lincoln Navigator that time… e put am for the plate number, you know, him write am there.”

The revelation has since generated mixed reactions on social media, with some users expressing surprise at the story while others shared humorous takes on the luxury gift mentioned by the actress.

Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, who married her husband in 1996 at the age of 18, remains one of Nollywood’s most influential figures, with a career spanning over two decades in film, television, and philanthropy.

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the proposed date for the 2027 general elections, urging the electoral body to reconsider its timetable due to a potential clash with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

INEC had earlier announced that Nigeria’s presidential and National Assembly elections would hold on February 20, 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections are scheduled for March 6, 2027, in line with the constitutional electoral calendar released in Abuja. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

In a statement shared via his social media platforms, Atiku warned that conducting elections during Ramadan — expected to run from February 7 to March 8, 2027 — could significantly affect voter turnout, particularly among Muslim faithful observing fasting, prayers, and other religious obligations.

According to him, the timing raises concerns about inclusivity and sensitivity to Nigeria’s socio-religious realities.

“Elections demand maximum participation, physical endurance and collective focus,” he said, noting that these requirements may be difficult to meet during a sacred period of fasting and spiritual reflection.

The former presidential candidate also questioned the electoral commission’s judgment in fixing the date, suggesting that difficulties in addressing such a fundamental logistical issue could raise doubts about its ability to deliver credible polls.

The controversy has sparked nationwide debate, with religious leaders, civil society organisations, and political stakeholders expressing concerns that the overlap with Ramadan could reduce civic engagement.

INEC has acknowledged the growing public reactions and stated that it is consulting relevant stakeholders on the matter. The commission also indicated that legislative intervention may be required if adjustments to the timetable become necessary, while ensuring compliance with constitutional and statutory provisions.

Observers say the discussion highlights the broader challenge of balancing constitutional deadlines with Nigeria’s diverse religious and cultural considerations as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.

Former Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah, has submitted a plea bargain-related application in connection with the ₦2.5 billion fraud charges pending against her before the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Abuja.

The development was disclosed on Thursday, February 12, by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Rotimi Oyedepo, during court proceedings.

Oyedepo informed the court that the application was received by the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) in line with the provisions of Section 270 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, which governs plea bargaining in federal criminal cases. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

According to the DPP, the matter had been slated for the commencement of trial when the plea bargain request was submitted.

“As the prosecution was preparing for trial, the Attorney-General of the Federation received an application from the first defendant seeking discussions. This is in line with Section 270 of the ACJA 2015,” Oyedepo told the court.

While the specific terms of the application were not disclosed in open court, Oyedepo confirmed that discussions were ongoing and requested an adjournment either for a progress report or to proceed with trial if talks failed.

Oduah, her co-defendant Gloria Odita, and their legal representatives were present in court. Counsel to Oduah, Tobechukwu Michael, confirmed the submission of the application, while Wale Balogun, counsel to Odita, also acknowledged the development.

Justice Hamza Muazu subsequently adjourned the case until March 5 for either a report on the plea discussions or the commencement of trial.

Oduah and Odita were arraigned on December 10, 2025, on five counts bordering on fraud involving ₦2.5 billion.

The prosecution alleged that in January 2014, the defendants fraudulently obtained ₦2,469,030,738.9 from the Ministry of Aviation through Broad Waters Resource Nigeria Limited and Global Offshore Marine Limited, under the guise of payments for “technical supervision, security integration, and logistics support services.”

The charges were filed under Sections 8(a) and 1(1)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006, punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act. Both defendants pleaded not guilty.

Oduah is also facing a separate ₦5 billion money laundering trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja, alongside Odita, CCECC Nigeria Limited, and other defendants, including Nwosu Nnamdi, Chukwuma Irene Chinyere, Global Offshore and Marine Ltd, Tip Top Global Resources Ltd, Crystal Television Ltd, and Sobora International Ltd.

The 25-count charge, filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on December 17, 2020, alleges that about ₦5.05 billion was laundered between February and June 2014.

The prosecution claimed that CCECC Nigeria Limited transferred over ₦2.5 billion into a “Private Banking Nominee” account during the period, funds it allegedly ought to have known were proceeds of unlawful activity.

All defendants have denied the allegations. The trial, which began in July 2023, has recorded limited progress due to procedural delays.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, has vowed that those responsible for the killing of a police officer during an operation against illegal mining activities in Niger State will be brought to justice.

The incident occurred on Wednesday during a joint patrol operation involving the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), and local security operatives known as Anti-Drugs Control (ADC), in collaboration with Millennium Metals Mining Company.

Alake made this known in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Niger State Commandant of the NSCDC, Suberu Aniviye, said the officer was killed at Zuzungi, Kataeregi, in Katcha Local Government Area of the state. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Aniviye explained that the attack occurred during a routine operation aimed at curbing illegal mining and preventing the smuggling of solid minerals from the mining site operated by Millennium Metals Mining Company.

He said the joint security team came under attack from armed illegal miners while intercepting suspected smugglers. During the attack, a police officer was killed, and an NSCDC Hilux patrol vehicle was set ablaze.

Reacting to the development, Dr Alake disclosed that relevant security and intelligence agencies have been placed on red alert to ensure the perpetrators are tracked down and prosecuted.

“Those involved will be smoked out and made to face the full wrath of the law,” the minister said.

He added that the arrest and prosecution of the suspects would serve as a deterrent to others engaging in illegal mining activities.

“The illegal miners responsible for the murder of this gallant officer in active service will be punished accordingly. This administration has zero tolerance for illegal mining and will continue to defend its personnel,” Alake stated.

The minister, who recently established the NSCDC Mining Marshals to strengthen enforcement of mining laws, said the killing of the officer and the burning of official property would not deter the Federal Government’s resolve to sanitise the sector.

“This unfortunate incident will not weaken the Federal Government’s determination to secure the solid minerals sector and protect legitimate miners and host communities,” he said.

Alake further noted that strong investor interest in Nigeria’s mining sector, as seen at the ongoing Mining Indaba conference in Cape Town, South Africa, underscores the need for government to sustain confidence in the industry by confronting violent and illegal actors.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has introduced stiffer penalties for commercial banks that engage unaccredited cheque printers, imposing fines of up to ₦10 million and mandating the withdrawal of affected cheques from circulation.

The new sanctions are contained in a revised framework addressing violations of the Nigeria Cheque Standard (NCS) and the Nigeria Cheque Printers’ Accreditation Scheme (NIPAS 2.0). Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Under the updated rules, any bank found to have patronised an unapproved commercial cheque printer or personaliser will face significant penalties.

According to the apex bank, a first offence will attract the withdrawal of the affected cheques from circulation and a ₦10 million fine, while a repeat offence will result in a ₦20 million fine in addition to the withdrawal of the cheques.

The CBN further stated that banks which fail or refuse to submit personalised cheque samples for testing and analysis, where required, will be fined ₦5 million.

In addition, failure to properly encode cheques or comply with mandatory security and quality standards will attract a penalty of ₦10,000 per cheque instrument.

The revised sanctions were announced in a circular signed by the Director of the Banking Services Department, Mr Hamisu Abdullahi. The CBN recalled that it had earlier issued guidelines on penalties for breaches of the Nigerian Cheque Standards and the Cheque Printers’ Accreditation Scheme in 2019.

Explaining the reason for the review, the regulator said the move was part of its ongoing efforts to enhance efficiency and security within the Nigerian clearing system.

“In furtherance of the bank’s commitment to increase the efficiency and safety of the Nigeria Clearing System, it has become imperative to review the sanction grid to reflect current realities in the banking industry,” the CBN stated.

The apex bank added that the updated framework is designed to strengthen compliance, improve cheque security features, and safeguard the integrity of the nation’s payment and clearing system.

A young content creator in Kogi State has reportedly been arrested by his own father following a viral video in which he declared that he could “sacrifice his parents for the All Progressives Congress (APC).”

The young man, identified on social media as Mc Isa Aha, shared the controversial video earlier this week. In the clip, he made the shocking statement while expressing extreme political loyalty, a remark that quickly triggered outrage and widespread criticism online. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

The video spread rapidly across social media platforms, drawing condemnation from many Nigerians who described the statement as disturbing, reckless, and inappropriate.

Several users criticised what they viewed as excessive political fanaticism, arguing that such remarks cross moral and cultural boundaries. While a few viewers dismissed the comment as a joke or a desperate attempt to trend online, others maintained that such statements should not be taken lightly, particularly in Nigeria’s sensitive political environment.

According to a post shared by a close friend of the content creator, his father reportedly took action after seeing the viral clip. The friend claimed the arrest took place on Tuesday evening.

“Mc Isa Aha was arrested by his father this evening about the video he was dropping where he said he can sacrifice his parents for APC,” the friend wrote.

The post further appealed to members of the public to plead with the father to show leniency, describing the incident as a mistake.

“Please my good people, I want us to beg his father to release my friend. It is a mistake and it will never repeat itself again.”

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the family or law enforcement authorities, and details regarding the nature of the arrest remain unclear.

The incident has since reignited conversations online about political extremism, clout chasing on social media, and the consequences of provocative content creation.

A woman has ignited widespread controversy on social media after boldly stating that cheating alone is not a sufficient reason for a woman to leave her partner.

The statement, which has since gone viral, was made in a video shared on X (formerly Twitter), where the woman openly discussed relationships, fidelity, and what she described as unrealistic expectations in modern dating. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

In the video, the woman argued that infidelity should not automatically signal the end of a relationship, especially if other important factors such as care, provision, and emotional support are present.

“You all are going to hate what I’m about to say, but I’ll say it anyway,” she said.
“Cheating is not enough to leave that man.”

She further claimed that all men cheat, suggesting that women should be more pragmatic in their approach to relationships rather than holding on to what she described as an idealistic view of loyalty.

According to her, how a man treats his partner should matter more than absolute faithfulness.

Her comments quickly triggered heated reactions online, with users sharply divided. While some agreed with her perspective and described it as “realistic,” others strongly disagreed, arguing that infidelity breaks trust and emotional safety in any relationship.

Many women pushed back against the claim that cheating is universal among men, describing the statement as harmful and dismissive of personal boundaries and self-respect.

The viral clip has since reopened long-standing conversations around love, trust, compromise, and what individuals should or should not tolerate in romantic relationships.

As debates continue to unfold online, the statement remains one of the most discussed relationship opinions currently trending on social media.

Dami Marshall, daughter of Fuji music icon King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, popularly known as KWAM 1 or K1 De Ultimate, has denied rumours suggesting she is romantically involved with Afrobeats singer Asake.

Speculation about a possible relationship surfaced after Dami shared a photo with the singer at a public event, captioning it “Mr Money and Mrs Money.” The post quickly gained attention online and sparked dating rumours across several blogs and social media platforms. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Reacting to the claims, Dami clarified that she is not in a relationship with Asake, explaining that the photo was taken during her first-ever meeting with the singer.

Taking to her Instagram page, she urged the public to disregard unverified reports, stating that some blogs often fabricate stories to drive traffic.

“Guys, that was my first time meeting him, so I took a picture. Do not believe blogs, they can do anything for traffic,” she wrote.

Her statement effectively put an end to the rumours, with many fans applauding her for addressing the issue directly.

Asake has remained largely private about his personal life and has not been publicly linked to any romantic partner since his reported split from his former Gambian girlfriend, Madame Mystique, in 2024.

Neither Asake nor his representatives have commented on the recent speculation.

The Ikorodu High Court in Lagos State has ordered that three separate DNA tests be conducted abroad to determine the paternity of Liam, the son of late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.

The ruling followed ongoing legal proceedings between Mohbad’s father, Joseph Aloba, and the singer’s widow, Wunmi, over claims surrounding the child’s biological paternity. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Mohbad died on September 27, 2023, under circumstances that sparked nationwide outrage and intense public scrutiny. Since his death, disputes concerning his estate and family affairs — particularly the paternity of his son — have continued to draw significant attention.

At the resumed hearing on Tuesday, February 3, counsel to Joseph Aloba, Barrister Oladayo Ogungbe, disclosed that the court directed both parties to recommend three foreign medical facilities capable of conducting tissue-based DNA testing.

According to Ogungbe, the legal teams representing both Joseph Aloba and Wunmi are required to submit their preferred testing centres located outside Nigeria. The court will then select one laboratory from each party’s submission, alongside a third independent facility, bringing the total number of DNA tests to three.

He added that the court specifically emphasised that all selected laboratories must possess the technical capacity to carry out tissue-based DNA analysis, rather than standard cheek-swab testing.

Joseph Aloba has consistently maintained that the remains of his late son will not be buried until the paternity of Liam is conclusively established through DNA testing.

The court subsequently adjourned the case to February 10 for further proceedings.

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has said that Islamic extremists were responsible for the recent deadly attacks on communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of the state.

At least 75 residents were killed, while several houses were razed when armed assailants attacked Nuku and Woro communities earlier this week.

Confirming the incident, the Kwara State Police Command said the attack began at about 6:00pm on Tuesday, leaving the affected communities in shock and mourning. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Speaking after the incident, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, told TheCable that the victims were moderate Muslims who were allegedly targeted for refusing to submit to extremist beliefs.

According to him, the attackers preached what he described as a “strange and perverted doctrine”, which the affected communities rejected.

Addressing religious leaders, security officials, and traditional rulers at the Government House in Ilorin, Governor AbdulRazaq said preliminary findings indicated that the massacre was carried out because the communities refused to alter their Islamic practices.

“From the information we’ve been getting, this village refused to succumb to a perverted form of Islamic doctrine,” the governor said.
“They aligned under the emirate and practised their faith the way they understood it. They didn’t want changes to how they pray to God, how they pray to Allah. Because they rejected this extremist doctrine, they were attacked and massacred.”

The governor noted that the nature of the attack differed from previous incidents of banditry and kidnapping for ransom in the region.

“This was not about ransom. This was a pure massacre, and it should be condemned by all,” he added.

Following the killings, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered the immediate deployment of an army battalion to the affected area to restore security and prevent further attacks.

In a statement issued on Wednesday night, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the establishment of a new military command to lead Operation Savannah Shield in the area.

Onanuga said the President strongly condemned the attack, describing it as “cowardly and beastly”, while also referring to the perpetrators as “heartless” for targeting vulnerable communities.

The operation, he said, is aimed at neutralising the attackers, protecting residents, and restoring peace to the troubled communities.