₦airaland Forum

Cross Rivers State Command: CP Olusegun Omosanyin is committed to transparent policing; caution officers over underhanded tactics and extortion

...affirm zero tolerance for crime and criminality in the state.

By Naomi Onome

The Commissioner of the Cross River State Command, CP Olusegun Omosanyin, in his 4th week in office, sensitized officers on clarity, transparency, and professionalism following a recent rumor involving some officers' underhanded tactics in the state.

He assures that there will be zero tolerance for unethical professionalism from officers seen perpetrating actions not in line with the code and conduct of a police officer.

Also in line with his authority, the situation regarding extortion by operatives of anti-cultism on some youngsters recently has been addressed in swift response by CP Olusegun Omosanyin, and monies extorted have been refunded to the victims within 24 hours of the report.

Parents who expressed worry over the safety of their wards in the surrounding universities of the state have renewed hope in the present CP of the state, in assurance that their wards will enjoy security and safety as against previous fears on reports of mishandling and extortion in years.

The Commissioner of Police also noted that there will be no tolerance or peaceful existence for criminal elements amongst the residents if found culpable of a criminal act after due investigation.

He said his office is open to receive valuable information about certain concerning issues, for this ensures that the residents' interests are not compromised or jeopardized in the state. "If you see something, say something," he added.

Following recent achievements, CP Olusegun Omosanyin noted that the command is prepared to serve Cross River State wholeheartedly to ensure the safety of the people. He warned that Indigenes abide by the rules and regulations governing the state, avoid late-night walks, ensure safety and security measures in their environs, cease from criminal activities, and avoid situations capable of breaching public peace.

Fight Against Malaria: Geneith National Health Competition empowers students with over N1bn cash and gift items

.....as stakeholders commend the fight against malaria initiative involving students from secondary and tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

By Onome Naomi

Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited launched a health competition for students of secondary and tertiary institutions to create awareness in the fight against malaria and its enabling factors. The launch of the health competition with the backing of the federal government empowered students from the 36 states of the federation with one billion naira in cash and gift items to enable the youths to explore, innovate, and advocate for malaria prevention.

Guest speakers at the launch event in Abuja include the special guest of honor, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, honorable Minister of Health and Social Welfare;Her Excellency, Sarah Anyang Agbor, former Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, African Union Adviser, Committee of College of Assessors, GHC; Dr. (Prof.) Bala Mohammed Audu, President, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Co-Chairman, College of Assessors; and Prof. Cyril Usifoh, Immediate Past President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Co-Chairman, College of Assessors. The official flagging of the Geneith Health Competition was done by Hajia Wosilat Giwa FPSN, Chairman, Council Board, Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, Idu Industrial Layout, Abuja, and others. …

In the opening remarks of the event, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, Managing Director, CEOAFRICA, mentioned that the Geneith Health competition launch, as organized by CEOAFRICA, sponsored by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd. and powered by Coatal Forte Softgel, aims at combating Nigeria's most formidable public health challenge by empowering the youth to champion malaria awareness and prevention. It is said that when the youth take the lead in advocating for health initiatives, it creates ripples of awareness that resonate throughout society. However, engaging these young minds not only fosters a sense of responsibility but also helps to cultivate a culture of active participation in public health matters. By equipping students with the knowledge and tools to promote malaria prevention, this essentially empowers the next generation to become ambassadors of health in their communities.

The CEO of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Chief Emenwa Emmanuel, stated during the launch that the initiative not only underscores commitment to public health but also seeks to catalyze meaningful change among the youths through strategic corporate social responsibility—the Geneith Health Competition. Says WHO's statistics of critical malaria cases in Nigeria are alarming, needing a redress by several approaches, including involving the youths in active campaigns in the fight against malaria, as it is Nigeria’s number one health challenge. Affirming the numbers arising from the malaria surge and fatalities is scary and sufficient enough to warrant declaring the battle against malaria a national emergency.

In Emmanuel's delivered speech, he stated that

"The 2025 World Malaria Day theme encapsulates the unified mission and serves as a guiding principle for collective efforts in combating malaria."

"There must be a reinvestment in the public health infrastructure to confront the malaria scourge, and this will involve ensuring that necessary resources—financial, human, and technological—are strategically allocated to combat this preventable illness (malaria)."

"It will also require investing in community health programs, enhancing access to medical care, and ensuring that sufficient funding is directed towards malaria prevention and treatment initiatives."

"The battle against malaria also demands reimagining. It is important that we reimagine our approach to this challenge by embracing innovation and creativity, especially in how we address it."

"The aim, therefore, is to use the Geneith Health Competition to encourage young minds to think outside the box with a view to developing new ideas, concepts, and strategies for malaria prevention. This will involve leveraging technology, social media, and community engagement to raise awareness and drive positive change."

"The target also includes 'Reigniting' the passion for the battle against malaria. This will involve rejuvenating our collective commitment to the cause, especially among the youths, who are the change-makers of today. By motivating them to take action, we will be empowering them to become champions of public health, who will assist in spreading the message of prevention and awareness in their communities."

"It is important to stay 'committed' to the battle against malaria if the above actions are taken to see that it is completely defeated. By reinforcing our dedication through continuous engagement, collaboration, and advocacy, we will ensure that we maintain momentum in the battle until we achieve a malaria-free Nigeria."

"The Geneith Health Competition is not a mere event but a movement and a platform designed to engage students, especially those in the tertiary institutions, in innovative problem-solving and advocacy around malaria prevention."

"Throughout this competition, participants will engage in public health advocacy, project design, and community outreach programs. These are efforts aimed at fostering a culture of health awareness and advocacy that is deeply rooted in the unique needs of local communities."

"With a prize pool exceeding one billion Naira to empower the youth with tools for awareness creation and campaigns against malaria, the initiative reflects our unwavering belief in the potential of our youths to effect change. We understand that malaria disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations, particularly children under five and pregnant women. The goal of this competition is to inspire a new generation of healthcare champions, who would truly grasp the importance of prevention and effective communication."

"The initiative also aligns with the strategic objectives of the World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigeria’s National Rollback Malaria (RBM) program for malaria elimination. The partnership amplifies our efforts, ensuring that we are reinforcing global and national goals in combating malaria."

"By focusing on youth-led action, we aspire to illuminate pathways for a malaria-free society, encouraging collective action at every level—from families to communities."

In conclusion, Emmanuel implores that all stakeholders—honorable ministers of health and education, state commissioners, development partners, policy makers at various levels, educators, civil society leaders, members of the press, and others—join in the campaign against malaria and magnify the prevention strategies; commit to the thematic framework; reinvest our resources and efforts into effective healthcare solutions; reimagine how we approach malaria prevention; reignite our passion for public health advocacy; and stay committed to our goal of totally eradicating malaria in Nigeria.

The chairperson at the event and chairman of the Council Board, Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), Hajia Wosilat Giwa, laid emphasis on poverty and poor funding as the basis for the spread of malaria in Nigeria. Says new tools like advanced insecticide-treated nets and vaccines offer hope; although the real game-changer is an informed, engaged youth population. Applaud the organizers for focusing on young people; affirm they are the ideal group to champion the fight against malaria.

Prof. Pate, represented by the Director of Public Health, Dr. Godwin Ntadom, applauds the organizers for the initiative, saying the project is strategic in the ongoing battle against malaria. He mentioned that malaria is not just a health issue; it’s an infrastructural and environmental problem, and the consequences could be emotional, economic, and several others. Other guests in attendance also commended the efforts of Geneith and CEOAfrica in proffering the timely intervention in tackling the malaria scourge vastly engulfing Nigerians and affirmed support in the creation of awareness, especially in the grassroots.

The organizers of the Geneith Pharmaceuticals Health Competition launch for students urge all collaborators, including the World Health Organization, Nigeria's National Rollback Malaria Program, and all other stakeholders, including the Honorable Ministers of Health and Education, State Commissioners, Development Partners, Policy Makers, Educators, Civil Society Leaders, and the press, to amplify the impact and make significant strides in the campaign toward eliminating malaria in Nigeria.

For participation, the Geneith Health Competition invites students from junior and senior secondary schools and tertiary institutions across Nigeria. The registration portal for schools and students across the six geopolitical zones will open in June, marking the start of the longstanding contest.

It is also said that this initiative aligns with global public health efforts, including the World Health Organization's goals for malaria elimination. to explore innovative strategies for raising awareness about malaria prevention, treatment, and the importance of early diagnosis. Participants will engage in health education, community outreach, and advocacy, enabling them to develop context-sensitive solutions that cater to the unique challenges faced in their localities.

See categories of JSS, SSS, and tertiary institutions awarded cash and gift items at the Geneith Health Competition Awards:

For the Junior Secondary School (JSS) Category State Level Awards, the first winner gets ₦300,000, the second-place winner was awarded the sum of ₦200,000, and the third place is ₦100,000. The Regional Level Awards First winner gets ₦500,000, Secondlace wins ₦300,000, and Third place wins ₦200,000. National Level Awards for first place wins ₦5,000,000, second place ₦2,000,000, and third place ₦1,000,000.

For the Senior Secondary School (SSS) Category, the State Level Awards for First place were given ₦500,000, Second—₦300,000, and Third—₦150,000. Regional Level Awards: First place got ₦1,000,000, second ₦500,000, and third ₦200,000. The National Level Awards First place got ₦10,000,000, Second—₦5,000,000, and Third—₦2,000,000.

For the Tertiary Category, the State Level Awards First winner was given ₦2,500,000, Second ₦1,500,000, and Third ₦1,000,000. Regional Level Awards: First place—₦5,000,000; ₦ second—₦3,000,000; ₦ third—₦2,000,000. In the National Level Awards, the first place was given ₦15,000,000, second ₦10,000,000, and third ₦5,000,000, respectively. Gift items include pens, branded caps, books, school bags, and others...

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https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/fight-against-malaria-geneith-national-health-competition-empowers-students-with-over-n1bn-cash-and-gift-items/

USDIA calls on Gov. Umo Eno over the sabotage of AKISCOM by opposition, allege the Lagos liaison officer of prejudice

....seek redress

By Naomi Onome

Uyo Senatorial District Indigenes' Association (USDIA) at a press conference held on Wednesday, April 30th, 2025, in Lagos addressed concerns over the malicious attempt by an opposition, namely Akwa Ibom North East Consultative Forum (AKNECF), to restructure the already recognized and authorized USDIA.

The press conference conducted at the Akwa Ibom State Community (AKISCOM) hall in Lagos had members, executive members, and stakeholders of the association in attendance. The speech as delivered by the President General of USDIA, Chief Matthew Udoheyop expressed displeasure over the Liaison officers' role in favor of the opposition 'AKNECF' without due consultation and a fair hearing before his alignment with the AKNECF leading to sabotage, division, and further victimization experienced by USDIA.

The speech made reference to the fact that Gov. Umo Eno might be oblivious to the fact of the matter on ground, hence the public outcry by USDIA for his involvement to set the records straight. Moreover, the governor of Akwa-Ibom State hails from the Uyo Senatorial District, where his office is premised, which makes USDIA a standing and recognized body to oversee the affairs of Akwa Ibom indigenes in Lagos State and diaspora.

Other parts of the speech read:

"The purpose of this important gathering with members of the press today is to correct the negative impressions about the Uyo Senatorial District Indigenes' Association in Lagos."

"We have noticed, with great sadness, the divisive and malicious attempt to restructure the Uyo Senatorial District Indigene's Association in Lagos by the elements of the Akwa Ibom North East Consultative Forum, AKNECF, in Lagos."

"We are seriously irked over the current Liaison Officer's political alignment of favoring our opposition, Akwa Ibom North East Consultative Forum (AKNECF), Lagos, against USDIA, the recognized Association in Lagos."

"We are also using the media to enlighten and educate others on the activities of the Uyo Senatorial District Indigene's Association, here in Lagos."

"We started as a community of all sons and daughters of the 9 local government areas of Akwa Ibom State extraction here in Lagos, namely in no particular order : Uyo, Uruan, Ibiono Ibom, Ibesikpo/Asutan, Nsit Ibom, Nsit Ubium, Nsit Atai, Etinan, and Itu."

"We have been in existence in Lagos for the past 13 years, and we are registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) with registration number 7074814 as Uyo Senatorial District Indigenes' Association, USDIA, Lagos Chapter."

"Our aims and objectives as a socio-cultural, economic, and welfare development group are our concerns about the welfare and economic development of our people in the 9 local government areas."

"Over the years within our lean financial base, we have been able to unite, improve, and manage the welfare of our members and non-members."

"We are one of the stakeholders in the Akwa Ibom State Community, AKISCOM, Lagos, the umbrella body of all Akwa Ibom people. The essential components of AKISCOM are the local government areas and the 3 senatorial districts, namely, Uyo , Ikot Ekpene, and Eket senatorial districts, and the chapters".

"Recently, we heard that the leader of a separatist political group in Lagos, Akparawa Ubong Jackson Essien, told members of his political gathering that he doesn’t recognize Uyo Senatorial District in Lagos but recognizes Ikot Ekpene and Eket Senatorial Districts."

"Of course we wouldn’t expect him to say otherwise as a separatist leader who is orchestrating division, destruction, blackmail, and impunity among a peaceful community as Uyo Senatorial District, who never supported imposition or disintegration crises, impunity, discrimination, and cheating, hence his statement."

"Let it be on record that Otuekong Ubong Jackson, who sponsored candidates to take over AKISCOM during the 2023 AKISCOM election, cannot say any good thing about our community because we didn’t support his selfish ambition. They thought we were that type of group that put to death his abortive group of selfish, ambitious, discriminative, and thuggery drive to take over AKISCOM in 2023."

"We were not the ones but the entire Akwa Ibom people who know the evils he has been doing. A man who boasts that the government of Akwa Ibom State is sponsoring him can go any length to achieve his evil ambitions."

"One wonders if the government has given him so much money. Why is he not using such money to help or support the masses of downtrodden Akwa Ibomites in Lagos rather than channeling it to destroy, divide, disunite, discriminate, blackmail, and politically terrorize Akwa Ibom groups in Lagos?

"We have disagreed with him. Our governor, who is a man of integrity, fairness, equity, and inclusivity, cannot sponsor Otuekong Ubong Jackson and his group of failed election candidates to continue causing crisis, division, segregation, and disunity among a peaceful coexisting people and group."

"He is a liar, a deceiver, a destroyer, a political bandit, and an opportunist. We have to expose him and his collaborators now. Their attempt in Uyo Senatorial District Indigene's Association failed when his ally, a former General Secretary of Uyo Senatorial District, Akparawa Uwem Idaha (as we know him in Uyo Senatorial District, but known elsewhere as Uwem George Umana), who is presently a member of the BOT of USDIA, came to the next meeting to upturn the decision of the BOT, stakeholders, and the general house. Today, he is the political thuggery and adviser of Otuekong Ubong Jackson. Come to imagine, birds of the same feather are flocking together."

"As I was appointing Electoral Committee Members, a member moved a motion that the current regime should continue their second term in office because of their track record. A counter motion was also moved. Both motions were supported. At that instance, an election was conducted for and against The house overwhelmingly voted for continuation with 21 votes, while those against had only 7 votes out of 31 voters. A motion was thereby moved, supported by more than 2/3 (two-thirds) majority of the members present to step down the section and was carried".

"USDIA is recognized worldwide. We must not support political thuggery, invasion, and manipulation of a few people."

"Finally, if the government of Akwa Ibom State supports these people

In any way, it’s a monumental error that must not be allowed to thrive as we are struggling to get away from bad governance, corruption, fraud, and political banditry."

"Our governor, Pastor Umo Eno, is a God-sent man to Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, and the world. He is a man of integrity, uprightness, friendliness, inclusivity, kind-heartedness, and love."

"We are supporting his giant strides performance 200%. He is our father, brother, and patron. We will not allow him to play into the hands of opportunists and blackmailers using the party to blackmail others while their heads are in one party and their legs in another party. We don’t talk about political parties but good governance, which our indefatigable governor is demonstrating to Nigeria".

In addition, stakeholders and executives related their input in the ongoing crisis to buttress reasons why the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, should not treat the matters arising with kid gloves to halt the negative attempts by AKNECF against USDIA.

In relativeness, it was noted that Otuekong Ubong Jackson, the chaperone of the AKNECF course, is ably aided by the Liaison officer, Mr Samuel Asuquo and that he (the liaison officer) should not use his office to align with the splinter group of the formidable AKISCOM in Lagos State. The letter sent to Gov. Umo Eno as regards the rumors causing damage to the image of the AKISCOM also awaits a favorable response.

Contributions were unanimously made by Chief Matthew Udoheyop, Chief Elijah Ifot, Obonganwan Elizabeth Udoheyop, Sir Asuquo Inuikim, Elder Monday King, Akparawa (Barr) Cletus Obong Eyo-Udo, Pastor Gabriel Moses Bassey, Prince Okon Edet, Elder Edohoukwa, Chief Edet Ambang, Akparawa Gospel Etim, Mr. Idong Stephen, Akparawa-anwan Uduak Young, Prince Edet Etim and Elder Edohoukwa, during the press conference organized by the Uyo Senatorial District Indigene's Association.

The stakeholders clearly stated that the slander of USDIA is an insult to the office of Gov. Umo Eno, and Uyo Senatorial District should be accorded its due regard. Caution the Lagos State Liaison officer over being deceived by the opposition.

Extra

It should be noted that the former military president of Nigeria, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, gave authorization for the permanent site of AKISCOM in Lagos after operating from a temporary location. USDIA is rising up against the opposition to affirm the stands of AKISCOM in Lagos.

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https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/usdia-calls-on-gov-umo-eno-over-the-sabotage-of-akiscom-by-opposition-allege-the-lagos-liaison-officer-of-prejudice/

FHI 360 Alive and Thrive Project Coordinator Commend NAWOJ Lagos Daycare Initiative

By Naomisophyblog

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos State Chapter, on Monday, April 14, 2025, played host to Mrs. Toyin Adewale-Gabriel, the FHI 360 Alive and Thrive Project Coordinator from Abuja, during her visit to the NAWOJ Lagos Daycare Centre situated at the Radio Lagos Office Complex, off Agidingbi, Ikeja Lagos.

Mrs. Adewale-Gabriel and by Mr. Adeniyi Adeyanju, the Executive Secretary of the Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW),

Mrs. Adewale-Gabriel was accompanied by Mr. Adeniyi Adeyanju, the Executive Secretary of the Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW), a key partner in the establishment of the creche project. The visit was part of an assessment tour of creches supported by NNEW under the Alive and Thrive initiative aimed at promoting workplace breastfeeding and supporting working mothers.

The highlight of the visit was a comprehensive facility tour of the NAWOJ Lagos Daycare, where Mrs. Adewale-Gabriel expressed delight and commended the exceptional efforts of the Lagos NAWOJ Executives, led by its Chairperson, Dr. Mrs. Adeola Ekine. She described the creche as a “model of sustainability and commitment” to maternal and child welfare within the media space.

According to Mrs. Adewale-Gabriel, “It is heartwarming to see that a project that commenced in 2021 has not only remained functional but has become a beacon of hope and support for breastfeeding mothers, the dedication of the leadership of Dr. Adeola Ekine is indeed commendable.”

The Alive and Thrive representative noted that the initiative aligns with the organization’s commitment to improving infant and maternal nutrition through workplace support systems, adding that NAWOJ Lagos has demonstrated the practical impact of such interventions.

Dr. Adeola Ekine, Chairperson NAWOJ Lagos

In her remarks, Dr. Adeola Ekine appreciated the visit and the continued support of NNEW and FHI 360. She reaffirmed the association’s dedication to promoting a balanced work-family life for women and reiterated the need for more partnerships to scale up similar daycare facilities across the state.

Mr. Adeniyi Adeyanju, in his remarks, applauded the resilience and creativity of NAWOJ Lagos in sustaining the project beyond the pilot phase. He emphasized the importance of institutional commitment and leadership in driving developmental initiatives.

The NAWOJ Lagos Daycare, since its inception in 2021, has catered to the needs of several breastfeeding mothers working in companies around the daycare, allowing them to remain productive while nurturing their infants in a safe and professional environment.

The visit ended on a high note, with a renewed pledge by the stakeholders to continue working together towards creating more inclusive, supportive, and family-friendly workspaces for women across sectors.

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https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/fhi-360-alive-and-thrive-project-coordinator-commend-nawoj-lagos-daycare-initiative/

AMPEF display charity, blame federal govt. over neglect of the less privileged in the society

.....Urge other business owners to make staff welfare a priority.

By Onome Naomi

Following the spate of hardship plaguing Nigerians, Comrade Saviour Iche, the president of Ambassadors of Peace and Enlightenment Foundation 'AMPEF,' is saying the vulnerable citizens have imbibed the 0-0-1, 0-1-0, or 1-0-0 ways of keeping alive. Many families in Nigeria do not have food; they also cannot pay rent due to a lack of jobs and low salaries.

Comrade Iche, who's also a business owner, recently and periodically provides sustainability for his staff and the less privileged in the form of food items and increased salaries to cushion starvation and lays blame on the federal government and other private business owners over neglect of the vulnerable in the society.

He said many children are out of school due to poverty on the part of the parents, who would prefer to keep their wards at home rather than burden school owners with their surmounting debts from school fees owed as a result of lack of jobs. The situation of out-of-school children still bothers them on how to feed them while at home.

Iche stated that

"On a daily basis, the food items and essential commodities have steadily increased in price, and nobody knows when the inflation will stop."

"Our senators and House of Representative and Assembly members are busy representing themselves and their families and not the people. The government has failed woefully in its primary assignment to the citizens of the nation; they have neglected the security and welfare of the people but would rather makes plans to remain in power in the next tenure to further enrich themselves."

However, as a result of the aforementioned lapses the federal and state government has created, Comrade Iche noted that he's made it a point of duty to serve and assist the less privileged in representation of AMPEF's magnanimity by periodically giving food relief to vulnerable persons. He noted that as a business owner, salaries paid to his staff seem insufficient considering the hike in price of food commodities in the market and family needs; hence, the need to increase salaries steadily and provide welfare packages, as he's done constantly.

Iche calls on Nigerians who have the means to support the less privileged to trust NGOs, community leaders, and stakeholders in the grassroots for an even distribution of relief packages. He said the act of charity he displays is majorly not out of abundance but a commitment to serve the people in his business place and the community, with hopes that other privileged Nigerians will see his effort and contribute to the same course, particularly to assist those at the grassroots, for they are the sufferers of the economic situation.

He further stated,

"As a human rights body and a private business owner, we have empathy for the less privileged; what will happen if we have enough to share? Probably, there are some privileged persons looking for genuine people to channel their resources for charity purposes but do not know whom to trust."

"We are open to receiving donations, whether they are food items or other essentials. AMPEF is open to receiving generous donations with the assurance that those at the grassroots level will be widely reached, for they are the real sufferers of the harsh economy. We, as chaperones of the grassroots people, know the really poor residents."

In addition, Iche urges other business owners to regularly or periodically cater to the welfare of their staffs; he says that recently and previously, he increased staff salaries by 20% to meet the situation of the economy. Moreover, the dire situation of the economy has reached the point where the privileged will have to support the less privileged to create a balance for survival.

 Read more on:
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/ampef-display-charity-blame-federal-govt-over-neglect-of-the-less-privileged-in-the-society/

Advocacy and Capacity Building: LIFE rounds up 18-month project on strengthening access to justice for vulnerable survivors of GBV in Lagos State

By Onome Naomi

During a dissemination event held in Lagos on Friday, April 11, 2025, with partners and stakeholders present, Leadership Initiative for Youth Empowerment (LIFE) concluded its 18-month project on advocacy and capacity building to improve access to justice for vulnerable survivors of gender-based violence.

At the event, LIFE program officer Oluwatoyin Mokwe explained that the area of sensitization and capacity building on GBV centered on self-actualization of the youth, the girl child, and other concerning situations involving the girl child. In review of cases of vulnerable survivors over the years, LIFE has worked on situations arising from GBV and street sex, worked with different street sex organizations, sensitized people on the causes and effects of HIV and AIDS, and others. ...

Currently, LIFE, she says, is implementing and gradually concluding three projects; two of these projects are on gender-based violence. The GBV implementation over the years has attracted sensitization of people from the grassroots, which includes communities, religious homes, and schools. Moreover, LIFE has rescued people suffering from drug abuse, arrested perpetrators of GBV, and provided psychosocial support for survivors traumatized by domestic violence.

Oluwatoyin told stakeholders at the event that the act of reporting a GBV situation in the community is a wake-up call for all. As much as sensitization is increasingly reaching the nooks and crannies of the society, it is still the social responsibility of inhabitants to report a violent act. She acknowledged some people do not have access to this information; hence, the need for continuous sensitization to awaken the minds of people. Moreover, the lack of the right information has kept many persons in ignorance of not being able to understand that GBV is a crime. She says, "It is our responsibility as individuals who already understand the concept of GBV to also sensitize other communities that we represent."

The executive director of LIFE, Mrs. Abiodun Rufus-Unegbu, engages stakeholders on the lived experience of vulnerable persons of GBV. She said the project 'GBV' has been on for 18 months, and research has shown underreported cases while some are unaware of their rights to report cases of GBV. LIFE also realized that there is the issue of stigmatization of survivors and mandated reporters of sexual abuse cases from the home front, church/mosque, and palace of traditional rulers where these reports are tabled. The lack of adequate information on where to report such cases, like the police station or law court, has led survivors or families of these survivors to seek solutions using the aforementioned means, which can be detrimental to their image.

Abiodun itemized the key challenges identified by LIFE in the course of working with vulnerable persons, and they are

*Harassment and criticism of the victim by law enforcement officers.

*Limited knowledge and bias in law enforcement and the society at large (people do not know that there are laws against GBV, and some law enforcement officers are biased based on their religious or cultural beliefs).

*Fear and mistrust (a lot of people fail to report abuse cases due to fear of being judged or condemned, and also, if the perpetrators of the evil act are those trusted by the victims)

* Ineffective framework (a situation whereby it takes too long a time for judgment to be passed on perpetrators, and this can damage the victim emotionally).

Meanwhile, Abiodun says the systemic barriers involved in GBV cases include criminalization and inadequate legal protection; lack of inclusive and survivor-centered policies; weak enforcement and limited accountability; cultural stereotypes and social discrimination; and limited safe spaces for leadership and expression. For these reasons, LIFE is in collaboration with the Nigeria police and other sister agencies to create a safe space where people can have trust and believe in the justice system.

During the engagement, law enforcement officers in attendance addressed the laxity created by some other officers in cases of GBV. ASP Blessing, who is the OC Human Rights of Ijesha Division, said the attitude of an officer in addressing cases of GBV is not the representation of others. She said the Nigerian Police has upgraded its system of operation over the years and has established rules to address law enforcers who have conducted themselves wrongly while dispensing their duties; character and level of professionalism differ.

She added that

"For a rape case, the victims should not delay before reporting to the Mirabel Center, an NGO, or to the police to avoid tampered evidence; when evidence is presented, it takes the Mirabel Center a 72-hour window frame to produce results before the case can be taken up by the relevant authorities. The moment a victim takes his bath or delays reporting, the evidence will have been washed away, which makes it difficult to present the case."

Mrs. Funke Daniel, the DCO of Okota Police Division, also dismissed claims of police officers making misguided utterances and being judgmental over victims of GBV, saying such conduct, if found, should be reported to the higher authority of that division or command for an immediate redress.

Dr. Ngozi Nwosu, in her project research for LIFE on vulnerable persons of GBV, said women are vulnerable due to the socio-cultural values against women in the society. However, the people with disabilities, the hermaphrodites (those who possess both male and female organs), and sex workers are mostly affected vulnerable persons of GBV. Also, according to research, in every five children, two are victims of domestic violence; GBV is said to affect more women than men, that is, women are more exposed to sexual harassment at their workplace, when seeking a job, by lecturers, others...

Speaking about the barriers in seeking justice for vulnerable survivors, Dr. Ngozi said denial of access to justice has remained a factor, stating that the perpetrators will approach victims with money as compensation to halt court proceedings.

She said,

"When a victim does not appear in court several times for a hearing, the court will automatically strike out the case. Another significant factor is oppression from perpetrators to instill fear in their victims as well as societal backlash. Some law enforcers also dismiss some domestic violence cases; they would rather advise victims to go and settle with their abusers."

"In leadership, women are very few compared to their male counterparts, for they are the vulnerable ones in spite of Nigeria's signed and ratified laws on women's and peoples' rights. Article 3 of that law says every individual has the right to equal protection by the law. At the national level, chapter 4 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on fundamental human rights guarantees the rights of all citizens irrespective of sex, place of birth, origin , religion, or political opinions, while article 5 entitles every individual to respect for their integrity and prohibits torture and other cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment or punishment. In spite of the signed law, it is not fully implemented on the vulnerable women who have gone through abuses."

"The VAPP Act (Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act) and African Charter on Human and People's Rights that says we are all equal as signed by the Nigerian Government has been underutilized and non-implemented but still holds. During the war, the Police Anti-Torture Act was signed, which also shows that police have no right to torture anybody, and if approached, the citizens have a right to know why they are being apprehended."

More findings reveal that many, when abused, do not know that there's a law that exists to protect them. The lived experiences of vulnerable persons in Lagos State have shown various forms of violation identified as GBV, denial and poor access to justice , and a low percentage of vulnerable persons' participation in leadership."

Dr. Ngozi recommended that there should be establishments of laws, policies, and implementation of laws; the need to train more paralegals as a means of ending extortion and blackmail; the need for education, awareness, and knowledge; partnership with other mainstream organizations (advocates for rights); safety and security trainings and capacity building around resilience; and building knowledge around identities, multiple forms of abuse, and discrimination of other vulnerable persons such as sex workers and drug users.

The attendees of the LIFE workshop in groups presented a brief lowdown on the information gotten from the sensitization program in the last 18 months, which includes that when a victim is physically and sexually abused, the mandated reporter should:

*Identify the case.

* Seek consent of the victim.

*Report to the law enforcement agency.

* Involve third parties such as NGOs or human rights advocates to ensure victims get the right support and follow-up cases.

*Give moral and emotional support

* Reach them their rights.

Read more on;
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/advocacy-and-capacity-building-life-rounds-up-18-month-project-on-strengthening-access-to-justice-for-vulnerable-survivors-of-gbv-in-lagos-state/

A Life of Service and Purpose: Comrade Eric Imonite, Ward 4, Felicitates With Rt. Hon. Barr. Eric A. Okaka on His DOB Anniversary

By Onome Naomi

Comrade Eric Imonite and Ward 4 in its entirety celebrate an icon, Rt. Hon. Barr. Eric A. Okaka, on his special day of birth. In his birthday greetings, it is said by his well-wishers that Hon. Eric, who represents Owan East at the Edo State House of Assembly, has led an exemplary leadership worthy of commendation across Owan East and beyond, for his service speaks of progress, hope, and accountability to the people.

Moreover, his unwavering dedication to serving the people, his assertiveness, confidence, and powerful voice at the Edo State House of Assembly, consistently pushing for development in his jurisdiction of service, are applaudable; he is setting a pacesetter for remarkable achievements to serve his people.

Comrade Eric Imonite, the APC leader of Ward 4, in collaboration with stakeholders and members of his ward and Ihievbe in totality, wishes Rt. Hon. Barr. Eric A. Okaka a joyful and fulfilling birthday; the celebrant's partnership with leaders at the grassroots is a testament to his humility and people-first leadership qualities.

The birthday message also includes that the people of the Otua Community extend their heartfelt birthday wishes in deep appreciation for the borehole project created by the celebrant to better the day-to-day lives of the people. The act of kindness portrayed by this project has brought clean water, relief, and joy to families who will never forget his thoughtful intervention.

Owan East as a whole prays that the celebrant, Rt. Hon. Barr. Eric A. Okaka, is blessed with more grace, wisdom, and strength to carry on the good work; that he will live a long and healthy life; that his path will be bright, and that his legacy will be even more powerful.

Happy Birthday!!!!

Read more on:
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/a-life-of-service-and-purpose-comrade-eric-imonite-ward-4-felicitates-with-rt-hon-barr-eric-a-okaka-on-his-dob-anniversary/

Domestic Abuse: Women at Risk Do Not Know Their Worth—Ogechukwu Giovanna Onoh

.....call on Sen. Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, Minister of Women Affairs, to hold a campaign to sensitize vulnerable women on the effect of domestic violence.

By Onome Naomi

An advocate for women and vulnerable persons Ogechukwu Giovanna Onoh address women's over-forbearance of physical abuse by perpetrators, especially from their partner (the husband, fiancé, or boyfriend), by ensuring the abuser is apprehended by law according to the Domestic Violence Act.

Violence against women simply means all acts perpetrated against women that could cause physical, sexual, psychological, and economic harm, including the threat to take such acts or to undertake the imposition of arbitrary restrictions on or deprivation of fundamental freedoms in private or public life in peacetime and during situations of armed conflicts or war.

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone.

According to Oge, domestic violence is vastly spreading its reach in Nigeria as a result of tolerance and silence by the victims for fear of societal backlash. Meanwhile, most women are yet to understand and identify their worth, which enhances unrestricted abuses by the perpetrator to commit more harm in confidence that the victim/survivor does not have the right backings to make a case out of the battering due to ignorance of the law; a woman should be purposeful, she said.

In reference to stories of domestic violence issues in the public space via social media stories, Oge cited situations arising from physical abuse as she recapped on the trending story of a uniformed personnel who allegedly beat his wife to death. The story also says that during a rift between the now dead couple, both husband and wife inflicted violent injuries on each other, leading to their deaths. In another scenario, a husband cuts his wife's palm off during an argument, and information has it that they are a newly wedded couple whose marriage ceremony trended on social media. Yet another situation is a husband's fury during an argument resulting in a hammer to the head of his wife and death.

Oge further said,

"Domestic violence can be attributed to both the elites and the non-elites in the society; it is fast becoming a norm."

"During my research, it is found that most women are to be blamed for their predicament for refusing to speak up; moreover, women do not pay attention to red flags in the course of their relationship before marriage, and this is crucial. A lady who notices that her boyfriend is violent will rather forgive him at the slightest plea than walk away from the relationship in the belief that when they get married, the man will not exhibit the violent trait."

"In some other situations, women who stay in an abusive relationship do so for fear of the unknown; they are afraid to leave a relationship and start afresh with another. On the other hand, economic reasons (finance) are also a factor for victims to remain in an abusive relationship."

"During an interview with some women who suffer physical assault from their abusive partners, they expressed the interest to leave their marriages only if they have the financial means to survive after divorce. Moreover, some of these vulnerable women already have children, which further relegates the decision to leave their marriages unless they are financially capable of providing the basics for these kids if they have to leave with them."

In conclusion, Oge noted that economic and financial reasons are a challenge for several vulnerable women who intend to leave their abusive husbands. This begs for the intervention of the Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, FSI, the Nigerian Women Lawyers Association, and the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, to help empower the women by leading a campaign on self-esteem and financial enhancement and creating sensitization programs that will enlighten the women on 'knowing when to walk away.' In addition to this, Oge said domestic violence should not be handled with kid gloves; the guilty one should be severely punished by the law, and the implementation of domestic violence laws must be ensured.

Read more on;
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/domestic-abuse-women-at-risk-do-not-know-their-worth-ogechukwu-giovanna-onoh/

LIFE gives a review on the implementation project of GBV, FGM, and Maternal Morbidity

By Naomi Onome

LIFE's mission to empower the girl child and other vulnerable females by sensitization on gender-based violence (GBV), female genital mutilation (FGM), and maternal morbidity has yielded a considerably successful outcome in the last 3 years of the project. The NGO's recount of projects handled speaks of progressive development with a wide range of outreach to communities in the rural and urban areas of Lagos State.

While speaking to journalists in Lagos, LIFE Program Officer Toyin Mokwe noted extensively that the organization is centered on amplifying the voice of females by empowering the girl child and other vulnerable females on issues of gender-based violence, human rights, leadership skills, and economic empowerment. These strategies, she says, are delivered through advocacy, sensitization, innovative awareness, and research.

In review of the projects, Toyin stated that LIFE has worked on issues around female genital mutilation (FGM), gender-based violence (GBV) which lasted for 32 months, and reducing the maternal mobility rate caused by unsafe abortion. She also stated that, due to the limited information and lack of knowledge in the society on knowing one's right to justice, especially in the remote communities, LIFE created sensitization programs that revolved around understanding the concept of GBV and its binding laws.

Citing an example of societal approach to situations of GBV, Toyin gave an account of an issue arising from a woman badly beaten by her husband and how the law enforcement agency maligned her reports; she was also alienated by the society until LIFE advocates stepped into the situation to seek justice, a typical example of inadequate information on 'Know your rights for justice' and 'Do not die in silence.'

Still in the review of sensitization projects on maternal morbidity, Toyin said research shows that Nigeria has one of the highest rates of unsafe abortions in the world, with unwanted pregnancies as the root cause. She says a doctor once mentioned that over 200 cases of organ damage due to unsafe abortion are recorded yearly. Moreover, during specific sensitization programs for youths on unsafe abortion, an attendee once attested to being in collaboration with her other female colleagues at the JSS level to provide a pregnant friend with concoctions to terminate a pregnancy, which ended badly as the victim ended up losing her womb.

Also speaking on sensitization on maternal morbidity caused by unsafe abortions, the managing director of LIFE, Abiodun Rufus-Unegbu, affirms the organization has been able to reach a large audience on issues arising from unsafe abortions leading to maternal morbidity by sensitization programs, thereby giving comprehensive analysis on sexuality education. The sensitization, she says, also encourages that parents should be friends with their children to enable healthy discussions on sex and should shun religious and sentimental ways of treating a sexually active child but instead teach them to stay faithful to a partner and prevent self by using medically recommended preventive measures to avoid unwanted pregnancies leading to unsafe abortions.

Abiodun said the teenagers need to be educated on the menstrual cycle and how sexual activities can lead to unwanted pregnancies. Peer pressure, she says, can be a big factor in shaping a child's mentality; hence, the needed guidance of the parents through open discussions. There is a need to strike a balance between being too hard or soft with the children; if the parents do not educate their teenagers, the internet will, and what the internet teaches might not align with their family values. The youths and teenagers make irrational decisions; hence, the need for continuous sensitization to make informed decisions, she noted.

In her review of GBV, Abiodun Rufus-Unegbu revealed that LIFE has led sensitization to the grassroots over the years with testimonies of improved outcomes in GBV cases. She said the organization is presently working with several support groups at the grassroots level and has advanced to creating measures to support the mental well-being of survivors of GBV during and after crisis. The crisis care coordinator, Laura Moore, she says, is in charge of the psychosocial support for vulnerable survivors to help them cope mentally while awaiting justice.

Abiodun stated that LIFE is deeply rooted in communities, which include Isolo, Ejigbo, and Oshodi. In addition, she said,

"The justice system in Nigeria is favorable to a few people; hence, LIFE's initiative to breach the gap by helping vulnerable survivors get justice. While a survivor awaits justice, psychosocial support is provided through the crisis management team of LIFE, solely dedicated to enabling survivors to share their issues to ease their minds; a room with calming facilities has been established to that effect."

Laura Moore, the crisis care coordinator, also emphasized the significance of the sensitization projects on GBV and maternal morbidity due to unsafe abortions carried out by LIFE. She said psychosocial support is paramount to help survivors heal mentally after a traumatic experience. In addition , Laura stated that the cooling-off room was created by LIFE to accommodate vulnerable women and has yielded positive impacts so far; she revealed she's readily available to work with survivors from far and near in Nigeria.

Read more on;
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/life-gives-a-review-on-the-implementation-project-of-gbv-fgm-and-maternal-morbidity-in-3-years/

How Lagos LG Chairman allegedly attacked on-duty mobile police officers with armed thugs

By Naomisophyblog  

According to Police officers from the Lagos State Command, on-duty mobile policemen were attacked with thugs by Mayor Dele Oshinowo, the Executive Chairman, Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area, and that the fate of two Mobile Police officers, Supol Daniel Samuel and Inspector Bulus Yahona, is in jeopardy after they were allegedly attacked and shot by these armed thugs.

Naomisophysblog reports that the two officers, Supol Samuel and Inspector Yahona, are lying critically ill at an undisclosed hospital as doctors are battling to save their lives due to severe injuries they sustained during the attack.

The incident happened in the Idene Owode Onirin area of Mile 13, Ikorodu Road, Lagos, where the officers were performing their lawful duty on execution of a valid Lagos High Court judgment.

According to the residents, the LCDA Chairman, Mayor Oshinowo, allegedly led the armed men with dangerous weapons to the parcel of land, which the LG lost the matter before the court after several years of litigation.

The Court gave judgment in favor of the Olowu family, which made the LG Chairman, Mayor Oshinowo, resort to self-help in total disregard of the court order, and the victims were attacked in the process.

Trouble was said to have started after the Olowu Family went to execute the Lagos State High Court judgment, which granted them possession of the landed property located at Owode Onirin, which was covered by survey plan number MAL/121/77 made by Mr. Olaoye, a licensed surveyor, dated 26th February, 1977.

The suit with number ID/1757/1994 between Mr. Femi Festus Olowu and Bode Olowu for themselves and on behalf of the B.I.Olowu Family versus the Local Government and Agbajowo Market Association.

The presiding judge, Justice M.A. Savage, gave the order to the Olowu family to take possession of the land and directed the Lagos State Police Command, Task Force, and other security agencies under the Command to provide sufficient security in ensuring the execution of the orders of the Court dated 20th June, 2024.

While the Mobile Police officers were there on lawful duty to enforce the judgment of the court, Mayor Oshinowo mobilized police officers from the Lagos State Command led by ASP Salako and some thugs, including the officials of the local government, who went there and attacked the victims, including the police officers, who were allegedly shot in the process.

Some members of the Olowu family were arrested and detained at the State Police Command, allegedly aided by Oshinowo and his cohorts to subvert the subsisting court judgment.

Meanwhile, the family has written a petition to the Inspector General of Police to intervene and bring those who perpetrated the dastardly act without recourse to the judgment of the Lagos State High Court in favor of the Olowu family.

What still baffles the family is how a local government chairman, who is the enforcer of the law, will be the breaker of the law and he was aware of the court judgment and yet he mobilized hoodlums to cause violence in the area.

They called on the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to call the local government officials, including Oshinowo, to order not to cause a breach of public peace in the area and indeed in the state.

Efforts to reach the Chairman of the Local Government, Mayor Dele Oshinowo, over the matter proved abortive as at the time of filing the report.

'Distinguished' should be removed when addressing senators like Onyekachi Nwaebonyi representing Ebonyi State—Iche

By Naomi Onome

The recent fallout between Sen. Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, representing Ebonyi State, and Obiageli Kathryn Ezekwesili, an economic policy expert and former Minister of Solid Minerals of Nigeria, during a public hearing on the sexual harassment allegation made by Natasha Akpoti against Senator Godswill Akpabio has been described as horrific and completely unacceptable by Comrade Prince Saviour Iche, a human rights advocate and founder of Ambassadors of Peace and Enlightenment Foundation 'AMPEF,' The Voice of the Voiceless.

Iche said it is commendable that Oby Ezekwesili expressed herself clearly by exposing the antics and gimmicks of the lawbreakers Nigerians regard as lawmakers. It is clear that the hostility exhibited by Sen. Nwaebonyi corroborates with the lived experiences of women in leadership roles, which is a call for concern, he said.

Speaking further, Iche stated that

"Sen. Nwaebonyi and Oby Ezekwesili's scenario highlights the extent to which women are marginalized, denigrated, and bullied; therefore, women must step up to prevent these circumstances from becoming the norm in their individual workplaces. The senator's demeanor already conveys how he manages his household as a husband and parent; I feel sorry for his wife, who may suffer as a result of his haughtiness and disregard for women."

"That senator's speech to Oby was completely inappropriate. It is wrong to use disparaging and disrespectful language to silence a woman who is a mother, a well-respected member of society, and most likely a grandmother in front of millions of Nigerians worldwide by name-calling. Nigeria is being ridiculed by the world because of our insensitive leaders."

"The Ministry of Women's Affairs has been silent on the intimidation of women in leadership positions, despite the fact that our women are being mistreated and stomped underfoot much too frequently these days. The fact that women in leadership positions have virtually no influence over economic issues and have been so severely undercut that they are essentially unimportant is not new information but must be addressed."

"In order to stop the excesses that are quickly taking over the leadership space, the Ministry of Women Affairs should step in and take action against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Sen. Onyekachi Nwaebonyi. This will serve as a deterrent to others who may have plans to treat female colleagues in leadership in the same patronizing manner."

"Nigerians, particularly women, should not be harassed or dehumanized in any way for demanding accountability, which is fundamentally necessary in making decisions. Those in positions of power must remember that our children are watching and learning from their actions."

Iche added that, in order to prevent adding lunatic appointees such as Sen. Onyekachi Nwaebonyi to the already precarious administration, it is crucial to conduct a mental evaluation of political representatives before selecting them for offices.

 Read more on:
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/distinguished-should-be-removed-when-addressing-senators-like-onyekachi-nwaebonyi-representing-ebonyi-state-iche/

Ajayi Crowther Alumni Launches New Branches In UK, US, Canada

...Opens New website for Loan Disbursement to Alumni Members

By Naomisophyblog

The Ajayi Crowther University Alumni Association has expanded its global network with the launch of new branches in three countries, including the United States of America, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
 
A statement signed by Busoye Ogunlade, President, ACU Alumni on March 24, 2025 noted that the association has also launched new branches in Abuja, Lagos, and Ibadan.
 
This is contained in a statement signed by the Alumni’s President, Busoye Ogunlade, in Ibadan on Monday.
 
He said the alumni inaugurated new executives that would run the affairs of the organisation in the aforementioned countries and states for the next three years.
The new branch Executives are:

ACU Alumni United States Coordinator: Temitope Okegbemiro

ACU Alumni United Kingdom (UK) Coordinator: Omowumi Yewande Ajayi
ACU Alumni Ibadan Branch Coordinator: Oni Ayodeji Emmanuel
ACU Alumni Lagos State Branch Coordinator: Oluwatobiloba, Babatunde-Ayoola
ACU Alumni Abuja Branch Coordinator: Slim-Wonah Oluwaseun Oluwatomi (nee Adetayo)
ACU Alumni Canada Coordinator: Seyi Adepoju.
 
According to him, it was part of his manifesto, when he contested for the position of the Alumni’s President, that he will expand the Alumni association across the globe, adding that the new branches are an exclusive launch pad for excellence.
 
Ogunlade said the Alumni Association has enjoyed full collaboration with the university and will look into ways to establish an endowment fund for research and support lecturers to mitigate brain drain.
 
Mr. Ogunlade noted that the marvellous support given to them by the management of the institution culminated in the successful launch of the new branches.
 
The President urged graduates of the institution to play a complementary role in driving reform and development in ACU, even as the university celebrates her 20th anniversary this year.
 
He said the new executives who will hold the affairs of each chapter comprise senior public servants and professionals in various fields of endeavours.
 
The President therefore called on all members to cooperate with the new officials to enable them to perform well, charging the new executives to lead by example and exhibit good leadership qualities at all times.
 
He equally called on members not to relent in their support to enable the new officials to thrive.
 
“On this note, we invite all old students of ACU to give the executives in their countries and states your unwavering support so that we can collectively, steadily and fearlessly navigate the tough terrain ahead of us,” Ogunlade said.
 
He added, “Members’ support would enable the new teams to build a strong, efficient, and prosperous alumni association to the glory of God and humanity.”
 
Mr. Ogunlade also added that the alumni association has launched its website, www.acu-alumni.com, for easy access to information on the institution and processing of transcript.
 
He advised members to register on the website for easy collation of names and disbursement of loans for small-scale businesses to members of the association. 
 
“We have come up with different ideas to ease the burden on each student. This is why we created a new website to assist them in different ways, including disbursement of loans and processing their results and transcripts”.

Read more on;
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/ajayi-crowther-alumni-launches-new-branches-in-uk-us-canada/

NAWOJ, Lagos State Chapter Congratulates Mr. Olanrewaju Adetokunbo Bajulaye on His Appointment as Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Art & Culture 

By Naomisophyblog

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos State Chapter, has extended its warm congratulations to Mr. Olanrewaju Adetokunbo Bajulaye on his appointment as the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Art and Culture on Thursday, 24th March, 2025, the Lagos State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) paid a courtesy visit to Mr. Olanrewaju Adetokunbo Bajulaye at his office in Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja. The visit was to congratulate him on his well-deserved appointment as the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture.

His elevation to this well deserved position is a testament to his dedication, professionalism, and commitment to public service.


In recognition of this milestone, a delegation from NAWOJ, Lagos State Chapter, led by its Chairperson, Dr. Mrs. Adeola Ekine, paid a courtesy visit to Mr. Bajulaye to present an official congratulatory letter. The visit was an opportunity to celebrate his achievements and reaffirm the association’s support for his continued success in his new role.

Speaking during the visit, Ekine described Mr. Bajulaye as an exemplary leader whose contributions to public administration and strategic communication have earned him widespread respect. She noted that his wealth of experience, particularly as an astute Public Affairs Director, will bring significant transformation to the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Art and Culture.

She further highlighted his long-standing relationship with NAWOJ, Lagos State Chapter, emphasizing his consistent support for the association’s initiatives and his active role as a He-for-She Ambassador. His advocacy for gender inclusivity and the advancement of women in journalism has set a remarkable precedent for other public officials to emulate.

Dr. Ekine commended Mr. Bajulaye’s dedication to promoting ethical journalism and providing an enabling environment for female journalists to thrive. She acknowledged his open-door policy, she expressed confidence that under his leadership, the Ministry will witness significant growth and innovation.

His vast experience in public relations and governance will undoubtedly enhance the state’s tourism sector, making Lagos a more attractive destination for both local and international visitors.

In response, Mr. Bajulaye expressed profound appreciation to NAWOJ, Lagos State Chapter, for the thoughtful recognition and goodwill. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the association’s efforts in promoting gender equity and ensuring that female journalists receive the necessary support and opportunities to excel in their careers.

He acknowledged the critical role of journalists in nation-building and pledged to continue strengthening the synergy between the government and the media. He emphasized the importance of responsible journalism in shaping public perception and policies that drive societal progress.

Mr. Bajulaye assured NAWOJ of his continuous collaboration with the association in areas of capacity building, advocacy, and public enlightenment. He also encouraged female journalists to leverage their platforms to promote positive narratives about Lagos State’s tourism sector and developmental strides.

The visit was marked by a warm atmosphere of camaraderie, as members of NAWOJ commended Mr. Bajulaye for his open-mindedness and commitment to gender-inclusive governance. They expressed optimism that his leadership will bring about greater partnerships that will benefit both the media and the tourism sector.

NAWOJ, Lagos State Chapter, remains steadfast in its mission to champion the interests of female journalists and foster positive relationships with key stakeholders in government and society. The association looks forward to working closely with Mr. Bajulaye in areas that will promote sustainable tourism development and media advocacy.

Once again, NAWOJ, Lagos State Chapter, celebrates Mr. Olanrewaju Adetokunbo Bajulaye on this well-deserved appointment and wishes him a successful and impactful tenure as Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism.

Read more on:
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/nawoj-lagos-state-chapter-congratulates-mr-olanrewaju-adetokunbo-bajulaye-on-his-appointment-as-permanent-secretary-ministry-of-tourism-art-culture/

GOV. UMO ENO SPREADS JOY IN RURAL COMMUNITIES ON INTL DAY OF HAPPINESS

By Naomisophyblog

March 20, recognized globally as the International Day of Happiness, is a time to celebrate well-being and compassion. Marking the occasion, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, reaffirmed his commitment to humanitarian service by bringing joy to rural communities through an impactful outreach.

Governor Eno, through the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, extended kindness to underserved areas, uplifting lives with unexpected acts of generosity.
As part of the Arise Care and Share outreach, the ministry’s team visited several communities, distributing essential gifts to families and providing free fuel and daily tickets to motorbike riders, easing their daily burden.

One of the most touching aspects of the outreach was the overwhelming surprise and gratitude expressed by beneficiaries. Many found it remarkable that a leader, whom they had never met personally, would go to such lengths to support and uplift them.

Their heartfelt appreciation reflected the true essence of kindness and the profound impact of the initiative.

Speaking to journalists, the Honourable Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, emphasized the importance of this year’s theme, "Caring and Sharing", in advancing the state’s development goals.

She highlighted how the outreach targeted vulnerable groups, including petty traders, transporters, the elderly, and widows, reinforcing the state’s dedication to community well-being.

"These activities reflect the belief that happiness flourishes through compassion and shared humanity, aligning with the global message of this special day,” she stated.

The Commissioner praised Governor Eno’s unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes, citing transformative programs like the Compassionate Homes, which have significantly improved lives across the state.

She expressed confidence that the outreach would strengthen communal bonds and reinforce Akwa Ibom’s humanitarian policies, while re-affirming the Governor's commitment to spreading happiness and improving the life of its citizens regardless of location or status.

The International Day of Happiness, established by the United Nations, underscores the importance of well-being as a fundamental human goal. This year’s theme, Caring and Sharing, highlights the power of kindness and empathy in building a better world.

Akwa Ibom State’s celebration of the day aligns seamlessly with this vision, showcasing the administration’s dedication to inclusive growth and community development.

The Commissioner, who led one of the outreach teams, was accompanied by the Governor’s aides on Humanitarian Affairs, Prince Nsikanabasi Umoekpo and Mrs. Mfon Israel.

Information and Public Relations Unit
Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs
March 20, 2025

Read more on;
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/gov-umo-eno-spreads-joy-in-rural-communities-on-intl-day-of-happiness/

Ndidiamaka Akpaumontia Lives Her Dream; Empowers The Vulnerable in The Society

.....Ndidiamaka Akpaumontia Spreads Love as SANGDID Foundation Empowers Over 100 Widows, Others

By Naomisophyblog

The week-long event, organized by SANGDID Foundation kicked off from February 24 to March 01, 2025 at TA Lagbaja Cantonment , Ikeja, Lagos. It was a fresh touch on the beneficiaries and participants of the event, as food items were distributed to widows and other vulnerable members of the society.

Established by Barrister (Mrs) Ndidiamaka Akpaumontia, SANGDID Foundation is a humanitarian and non-governmental organization, for the total well-being of the family. It is for positive impacts on the lives of widows, children and communities in need. The Foundation, established to cater for the well-being of the family, aims at promoting a culture of care, compassion and empowerment. SANGDID Foundation’s activities focus on providing support to the less privilege, the needy and other vulnerable groups particularly widows and promoting community development.

With the theme of year 2025 event, "Spread Love", Founder of SANGDID Foundation, Barr. (Mrs) Akpaumontia said it had been her passion to touch lives and she is living her dream effectively, to the glory of God.

The highpoint of SANGDID’s Year 2025 program was the free medical outreach organized to carry checkups and distribute free drugs to widows, children and the aged persons.

Among the services offered to the beneficiary at the program included: Checking of BP, Malaria and Typhoid Tests, Hepatitis A, B, C, D and E test, Free Eye Test by qualified Entomologist, Free Eye glasses for vision correction and enhancement. Also, the health workers during the program, offered free medical advice to encourage the beneficiaries to take matters of their health seriously.

Akpaumontia participated fully in the exercise to show love and encouragement while distributing the food items to the less privileged, widows and others.

Prior to the commencement of the program, there was medical talk to the participants by the Public Health Workers. The talk was basically to encourage them to be more conscious of their healthcare and also take the matters that concern their health seriously.

One of the participants, recounting her experience said she had been battling with her BP since the demise of her husband, who was the bread winner of the family. She had no work as she was a full-time housewife when her husband was alive. Now she is the one taking over the responsibility of the home because the children are still young. She added that when she heard about this medical outreach, she and her four children were given gate pass for the program. They got drugs for their various ailments. She also appreciated the organizers of the program and prayed for them for successful outing every year.

During the program, some highly elated beneficiaries prayed for Akpaumontia and her family for preaching and showing love to the less privileged in the society.

The medical personnel expressed their gratitude too, to the Founder for always reaching out to them for support every year.

SANGDID Foundation was established for the total well-being of the family. Since its establishment and every year, SANGDID Foundation area of impacting lives had covered Economic Empowerment Programmes for Widows, Education and Skills Training, Mediation and Conflict Resolution Services, Health and wellness Initiative, Community Outreach and Development programs.

The Founder, Mrs. Akpaumontia is a woman with a heart of gold, whose philanthropy services are centered on the widows and their families whom she gives succor to, yearly, through her outreach, SANGDID Foundation.

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https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/ndidiamaka-akpaumontia-spreads-love-as-sangdid-foundation-empowers-over-100-widows-others/

IWD 2025: Bridging the gender gap with contributory articles on Wikimedia

.....as WikiGap Nigeria holds a symposium in commemoration of International Women's Day.

By Onome Naomi

Wikimedia, in collaboration with NAWOJ Lagos Chapter, held its yearly training for female media professionals on Thursday and Friday, 6th-7th March, 2025, in Lagos. The essence of the training is meant to spur media professionals into bridging the gap between the female and male contributory articles on Wikipedia and Wikidata.

Wikimedia, as said, is committed to creating a world in which everyone can freely share in the sum of all knowledge by way of contribution. The Wikimedia products include Wikipedia, Wikibooks, Wikiquote, Wikidata, Wikisource, MediaWiki, WikiUniversity, Wikispecies, Wiki News, Wiktionary, and Wikimedia (incubator, meta-wiki, common), Wikivoyage...

The program director of Wikimedia Nigeria, Ayokanmi Oyeyemi, urges media professionals to be contributors on Wikipedia in the interest of female professionals and career women, noting that women have a low percentage of contributory articles compared to the male folks. The training also centered on how to go about contributing practically and successfully without a hitch or rejection from volunteers who work as editors on the Wikimedia platform.

For your article to be successfully endorsed for publication, Wikipedia is said to only accept information from reliable sources, and no single organization has editorial control over Wikipedia. Wikipedia is entirely edited by volunteers, and disputes are addressed through open dialogue on the platform. Wikipedia articles are dynamic and continuously improved, and new edits can be deleted or reversed while old edits can be restored if necessary.

The Wikimedia platform also gives autonomy to the noble course of free information, and as a contributor, giving back to a resource you've benefitted from is vital. The platform allows expert input on difficult topics; it enables a contributor to be part of the world's largest open-access project. A contributor has the benefit of public engagement and education, massive exposure, and reach. You must also ensure your field is thoroughly and accurately represented; Maximize use of the writing and images that you've already done; Improve your non-specialist.

Wikidata is Wikimedia's youngest sister project, launched on October 29th, 2012, as part of the Wikimedia movement ecosystem with over 116 million items, 46,000 creative editors, 300 languages, and 1 billion edits. It's an open linked data-structured multilingual knowledge base read and edited. This means both the information and the data structure can be freely used, shared, and remixed; moreover, the data acts as central storage for the structured data of its Wikimedia sister projects, including Wikipedia, Wikivoyage, Wiktionary, Wikisource, and others.

However, Wikidata also provides support to many other sites and services beyond just Wikimedia projects! As learned by aspiring contributors (media professionals), the ability to know how Wikimedia works is an advantage to achieving set goals of bridging the gender gap to ensure women are visible on the Wikipedia and Wikidata platforms.

The Wikigap symposium

The Wikigap symposium held on March 11th, 2025, in commemoration of International Women's Day, conclusively emphasized that information is the key in bridging the gap between women and men on the Wikimedia platform by making contributory efforts to create articles on successful women.

The speakers: Toyin Ogunlana—Director General, Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau; Oluwatoyin Atanda—President, Junior Chambers International (JCI) Nigeria; Dr. Nkiru Balonwu—Founder, African Soft Power Group; Korede Demola Adeniji—Executive Director (South), Alternative Bank all talked extensively about acquiring and sustaining knowledge through books and trainings.

The representative of Toyin Ogunlana urged the Wikigap to consider women at the grassroots level for inclusivity in its contributory articles. Says the audacity put into challenging roles could spur a person into achieving goals and objectives.

Oluwatoyin Atanda noted that women are not encouraging their gender to succeed. She added that, to succeed in life, you have to put your first foot forward to make sure you are seen and will be rewarded in time to come. Encourages women to help each other succeed.

Dr. Nkiru Balonwu added that it is necessary to read books, learn from them, and put into use what is being learned, saying that's a recipe for being a successful woman. Encourages women to be more visible out there, take on challenging roles and responsibilities, and see it through.

Korede Demola gave insights on the formula to achieving great feats as a woman, saying women's visibility in the Wikigap will give room for more encompassing achievements. Women will break barriers to reach great heights and be documented for their achievements; there will be space for a healthy competition through profiling, a situation where women will be willing to be documented on Wikigap to showcase that they have achieved notable feats and are ready to do more.

The symposium ended with a press conference where representatives of NAWOJ Lagos—Olawunmi Shittu, Women FM—Mrs. Aiki Odiawa, Head of Political Affairs, Nordic Embassy of Sweden Abuja—Frederick Ahsberg, the Executive Director of Wikimedia Nigeria— Omolayo Olasiji, all noted that the contribution of female articles on Wikigap will see a considerable change in 2025.

The Lagos NAWOJ Chairperson, Dr. Adeola Ekine's representative, Mrs. Olawunmi Shittu, assures of NAWOJ's contribution to promoting the female gender and sensitization of the girl child. She reviewed antecedents and subsequent programs organized by NAWOJ Lagos Chapter to promote the inclusivity of women in taking on leadership roles in politics and other sectors. Says there are plans underway to ensure sustainability in the campaign for women-inclusive governance as well as the grooming of the girl child in the society.

She added that the collaboration between Wikimedia and NAWOJ will be promoted and sustained to enable female contributors to focus on creating articles for more women, thereby bridging the margin between both genders.

In her words,"Women are underrepresented not just on Wikipedia but in all other aspects of life, be it in academics, politics, or others. As a gender-focused organization, NAWOJ has been partnering with some gender-based organizations."

"We are constantly doing this to create a balance and breach that gap amongst both genders. On Wikipedia, only 20% is represented, which is a far cry from what is expected."

"We cater for children, not only women; we train women to take leadership positions in notable professions. The N.U.J., for example, has women in leadership positions; we also carried out lots of philanthropic works during the Covid-19 pandemic, sensitizing citizens."

"Our partnership with Wikipedia is aimed at encouraging female practitioners to promote the female gender. It's our joy to extend our collaborations. We concentrate on training women not just in journalism, and we are scouting for more partners so that we can reach a larger audience of women in other sectors."

"NAWOJ needs more financial support to expand our reach, and that's why we need more partners."

"Wikipedia spokesperson Mrs. Korede Demola Adeniyi says,'Supporting initiatives such as this is a priority for us. We support gender rights and human rights in general, and Nigeria is a country of interest. And it is all about documenting Nigerian history."

" Mrs. Aiki Odiawa says,Women Radio will be 10. Every year, we hold a conference called 'The Voice of Women.' It is an empowerment conference created to enhance visibility for women in all sectors, as well as support more women in government."

"The men need to see that we are not a threat; rather, we have so much value to offer. We have partnered with Wikipedia to train and award outstanding journalism."

"We train women, especially the young journalists coming up from the private and state-owned media; we fight for their welfare as well. We also support women in the political circle."

Read more on;
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/iwd-2025-bridging-the-gender-gap-with-contributory-articles-on-wikimedia/

NUJ @70: Nigeria Association of Women Journalists(NAWOJ ) Celebrates A Frontline Union and its Dynamic Leadership

By Naomisophyblog

The National Secretariat of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, hereby joins the rest of humanity to heartily congratulate the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, and felicitate with the leadership and members of the union across zones and state councils on the attainment of the age of 70, a remarkable milestone in our chequered history as a union.

We have grown in leaps and bounds, and there is no doubt, there will be greater and even more continuous growth, healthy solidarity, camaraderie. professional growth of members informed by a union that is firmly rooted and mindful of the need of its members, as exemplified by the candour and fatherly disposition of the team led by our capacity-driven President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya ably supported by the first ever female Deputy National President, Dr. Mrs Abimbola Oyetunde.

We are proud of the union bequeathed to us by our Founding Fathers, and we remain proud of the union we have all teamed up to build today.

It is our sincere prayer that the Almighty God, in His infinite mercy, will continue to show our revered union and its leadership the right direction towards attaining more glorious years of impactful achievements, and in meeting its mandate to groom well-rounded membership, one that is committed to the ethics of the profession in the discharge of the primary tasks of information dissemination, members equally committed to our national integrity as a nation by upholding and balancing the tripod of national unity, peace and progress of all.

NAWOJ particularly expresses her deep appreciations to the number one journalist in Nigeria, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya for taking up a frontal role with members of his team in hitting the ground running and leading the union towards stardom and excellence since its assumption of office.

Once again, we reaffirm our implicit trust in your exemplary leadership and pray for your tenure to be peaceful and productive.

We also pray for God's protection to all members and their families as they go about their responsibilities of being news managers.

We also pray for the peace, unity and progress of our nation Nigeria.

Congratulations, once more, to all of us!

Comrade Aishatu Ibrahim
National Chairperson

A British school, Whiteplains School Abuja, has petitioned the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), demanding the investigation of the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, Mohammed Babadoko.

Director of Whiteplains British School, Dr Francis Nwufoh, in the petition to the AGF, dated March 4, 2025, alleged that Babadoko, unilaterally removed a caveat emptor placed on a property of the school in dispute, with the motive of aiding the sale of the property to Maryam Abacha American University of Niger (MAAUN).

Dr Nwufoh informed the AGF that the former DPPF, Mohammed Umar had upon receiving several investigation reports; "First by IGP IRT on the 1st of April 2019, secondly by FIB CR: 3000/FIB/ABJ/TA/FBN/Vol. 1, thirdly by National Assembly (Report of the Committee on Public Petitions) dated June 17, 2019, and the fourth report, I haven't had access to till date" issued a "Caveat Emptor" on the property file at the Abuja Geographical Information System(AGIS).

He said he learnt it on good authority that some people wanted to sell the property in issue, which made him to write series of letters to the AGF, the latest being the one dated 9th August 2024.

Findings by the Director of Whiteplains, revealed that Babadoko wrote to the AGIS to lift the caveat emptor placed on the property.

Dr Nwufoh wondered why upon assumption of office as DPPF, Mohammed Babadoko, removed the caveat placed on the property, without the notice of Whiteplains, the complainant.

He therefore requested the swift intervention of the AGF to stop the DPPF from eroding the positive strides already made in the investigation.

"We plead that the caveat is restored and that the Police properly investigates the matter by interviewing the bank staff named and whose signatures are on the forged, offensive Tripartite Legal Mortgage in issue" Nwufoh demanded.

In the petition made available to judiciary correspondents on Thursday, Dr Nwufoh narrated how his ordeal in the hands of First Bank started.

"The school secured a facility of N650m loan from First Bank and paid back a total of N300m within a space of two years for a loan with a maturity period of five years.

"The bank thereafter frustrated the continued repayment of the loan and subsequently sought to foreclose and takeover the school.

"This led to series of litigation which culminated in an appeal at the Court of Appeal.

"When it was discovered that the Tripartite Legal Mortgage Agreement that the bank had predicated its case on was forged, a formal request was made to your esteemed office to intervene in the matter.

"Your office subsequently directed the Nigerian Police Force to investigate the allegation of forgery.

"The report that was sent back to your office by the Police had so many lacunae, whereupon the then Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, Mohammed Umar, asked the Police to reinvestigate the matter along specified lines" Dr Nwufoh told the AGF.

Up till date, Nwufoh said he has not been intimated on the outcome of the last investigation and forensic report.

He prayed the AGF to
compare all the reports by the investigative intelligent officers to see for himself the facts and trace out the discrepancies.

Due to the extenuating circumstances, Nwufoh said he had sent a letter to the DIG of Police dated 18th July 2024, titled "Letter of complaint of my dissatisfaction of how my matter is being handled"

Public Notice: Retraction And Apology Statement

This is to notify the entire public that the contents of the publications that we have made on several occasions with respect to Mrs. Aderemi Olaleye published on Newsconnect Online, ClipTV, Fortress and other social media handles were untrue.

Recent facts revealed by Mrs Aderemi Olaleye in the course of a fact finding exercise at zone 2 Police station predicated our retraction of previous malicious publications which emanated largely from Dr Femi Olaleye.

As a media organization dedicated to ethical journalism, objectivity, and accuracy, we acknowledge our responsibility to uphold the highest standards of truth and fairness in our reporting.

We deeply regret any distress, embarrassment, or inconvenience our publications may have caused Mrs. Olaleye, her family, associates, or the public at large.

As part of our commitment to responsible journalism, we will take additional steps to strengthen our editorial processes to ensure published reports on our platform are thoroughly verified before dissemination.

In light of the above and without mincing words, we at Newsconnect Online retract all previous stories published Online against Mrs Aderemi Olaleye and also tender an unreserved apology to Mrs Aderemi Olaleye for any injury, harm our publications may have done to her.

Once again, kindly accept our apology also accept the assurances of our highest professional regards going forward.

Thank you,

E-Signed

Elias Adagunduro

Editor-in-Chief

3rd Anniversary: 'Eze Chika Nwokedi shares secret to success at thanksgiving

....says people should do thanksgiving to God when alive; than allow strangers hold thanksgiving service at your demise'

.....as he observes thanksgiving for 3 years on throne as Ezendigbo Ijegun Ijeododo at the Fire Grace and Mercy Restoration Ministry.

By Onome Naomi

It's in records that the magnanimous Eze Chika Nwokedi Ezendigbo Ijegun Ijeododo Chairman Council of Ezes in Lagos, President Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria, and former chairman of the Ladipo International Spare Parts Market observed his 3rd anniversary on the throne on Saturday, March 8th, 2025, and succeeded the event with a thanksgiving service at the Fire Grace and Mercy Restoration Ministry Ijegun on Sunday, March 8th, 2025.

The thanksgiving service had charitable events by Eze Chika as he also preached the advantages of thanksgiving. His testimonials, as conveyed in an inspirational message to the congregation, suggest that it is better to give thanks while alive than allow strangers to hold a thanksgiving service at a person's demise. Says the act of thanksgiving spurs God to do more, especially provisional assistance.

Eze Chika noted that the act of magnanimity he displays is inborn and considered a mere act done willingly to achieve fulfillment of purpose. He encouraged the listening congregation to be steadfast in thanksgiving; nobody on earth can be considered perfect, but appreciate God in any given situation, whether it's good or bad.

Giving instances, Eze Chika revealed secrets to his success, saying he started his early life as a trader in the Ladipo market; he had no home and, however, slept in his shop. Achieving recognition and greatness for him, he says, is expected, for he never stopped giving, especially during his down moments, which greatly helped in achieving a higher feat.

Eze Chika Nwokedi noted that his philanthropic prowess paved the way for his selection by election as Chairman of Ladipo International Market in 1999. He told the congregation that being a billionaire is not a criterion for charity unto others, he quoted James 4:17 to buttress his points, dwelling more on the importance of thanksgiving.

During the Thanksgiving service, Eze Chika expressed his calling by demonstrating philanthropy as he rewards a member of the church who works as a cleaner for a living with the sum of N20,000 plus a stipend of N20,000 monthly. He also rewarded another sick woman with the sum of N20,000 to support her medical bills in promise he will do more if the need arises.

Thr service was attended by two chiefs from Eze Chika's cabinet of chiefs, executive members of Igbo speaking community Ijegun Ijeododo, friends and well-wishers. The occasion was also graced by a special band as well as ministrations from choristers of Fire Grace and Mercy Restoration Ministry chaperoned by the founder Ugoeze Pst (Amb) Tessy Chika Nwokedi.

Visit: Naomi Sophy Blog to read more stories

Natasha vs. Akpabio: Lawmakers Now Lawbreakers— Iche

By Onome Naomi

Comrade Prince Saviour Iche expresses concern over the period of suspension given to Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the approval of the Senate President Godswill Akpabio; says the Senate has misrepresented the law they make if allegations such as sexual harassment can be suppressed rather than addressed.

Iche said he is particularly disappointed at the activities of some of the elected lawmakers. That a verbal confrontation from Natasha, who felt wronged by the indecent actions of the senate president towards her, has received backlash from her colleagues, who should have been in the best position to propose an inquest into the sexual harassment allegations.

Iche said,

"I have a big concern about the activities of the acclaimed lawmakers; some members of the House of Senate are not upright lawmakers but rather should be named lawbreakers; they ought to have known that there is a court injunction restricting the Senate from probing Natasha further but chose to ignore the law they must abide by, bending the laws to suit their purpose."

"A committee was set up to address the situation within the Senate; out of 32 lawmakers, 13 of them didn't sign authorization for suspension, and concerns have been raised about the apparent rush by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, chaired by Senator Neda Imaseun (LP, Edo South), in handling the case."

"Meanwhile, the committee had initially scheduled the hearing for Tuesday, March 11, only for it to be abruptly rescheduled. Why didn’t the committee wait? The absence of ranking senators from the process shows we knew where it was heading,” as said by a senator who chose to remain anonymous. He said a few others went behind the other 31 prominent senators and dishonorably signed and imposed a 6-month suspension on Natasha with seized salaries and other privileges."

"If our laws are binding, the senators who authorized that suspension would have been under investigation and arrest by now because this is a slap on the judiciary; the senators, instead of maintaining the laws of the land, are rather breaking the law."

"When Natasha was ready with her petition, she submitted the petition to the senate president. If Nigeria is a country where things are done rightly, Akpabio will step aside for a neutral body to preside over Natasha's application or petition, not the alleged (Godswill Akpabio). Is Akpabio now the judge over his own issue? What a government!!!!"

"Still on the issue of suspension, why was she given a six-month suspension with salary and privileges withdrawn? What's her offense? As a wife and mother, will Natasha lay allegations without an iota of truth? Remember that this same Akpabio had a case of sexual harassment in 2020 by someone else. The senate president and his cohort of lawbreakers in the senate should resign and let Natasha be. Natasha's case should never be swept under the carpet, for there is always Karma."

"It is important that the human rights body challenge the abnormality in the Senate that we've seen so far. We know what our women go through in their primary place of assignments, especially in the government and educational sectors. Not addressing Natasha's issue appropriately simply means women have no immunity at all and are susceptible to underhanded treatment. Natasha's punishment has become a reference point to further silence women. No! We have to challenge it."

"What have Nigerians benefitted from the essence of appointing senators? Only a few of these senators live up to standard in developing their communities; when anti-people's policies created by the government set in, the senators will not challenge these policies head-on; they seldom check and balance the government's excesses."

In conclusion, Iche said as a human rights advocate, it is an error to see one's rights trampled upon without being their voice. He said if truly this matter with Natasha and Akpabio is suppressed, it means that the Nigerian judiciary is now silencing the voice of Nigerian women. It's high time all human rights groups come out in unison to challenge the lawbreakers in the Senate.

Read more on;
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/natasha-vs-akpabio-lawmakers-now-lawbreakers-iche/

For Insulting Mr. President, El-Rufai Has Seven Days To Apologize—Satguru Maharaj Ji 

By Naomisophyblog

By the Grace of the Grace, we are in the second half of the first tenure of 4 years of President Tinubu’s 8-year tenure as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and would like to express our deepest appreciation to Mr. President for his tolerance, patience, dedication, and determination to free Nigeria from self-induced poverty, violence, hunger, ethnic chauvinism, religious imperialism, tribalism, and insecurity.

First and foremost, for calling Mr. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu an “Agbero President,” I give Nasir El-Rufai seven days to tender a public apology to President Tinubu and also to the general Nigerian public. The said insult was issued by El-Rufai in the course of an interview on Arise TV, as anchored by Charles Aniogolu. “Agbero” is a Yoruba street name for hoodlum.

For as long as Bola Ahmed Tinubu occupies the highest office in Nigeria, he deserves to be accorded the respect due to the office.

It is not surprising that Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, is unable to distinguish the private person of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the status of Bola Tinubu as president.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu ceased to be a private personality the very moment he was made President of Nigeria!

For the duration of his eight ( years tenure as President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu personifies all that make and sustain Nigeria. As such, to call Bola Ahmed Tinubu dirty names while he occupies Nigeria’s most powerful office is to spit in the faces of all Nigerians, signifying total disregard for Nigeria—the same country El-Rufai claims he loves!

Nasir El-Rufai is one of Nigeria’s most notorious politicians whose skin and garment are drenched with cold blood, and his existence is totally lacking good conscience. During his tenure as Kaduna State Governor under review, it was alleged that some students of Greenfield University were kidnapped, and after millions of naira were paid, some were released, while others were killed.

Could you believe that the same “Untouchable Above the Law Mallam” that he calls himself withdrew his children from the school for safety purposes …

In the same way, up till now, some traditional heads have been kidnapped, and after millions of naira are paid as ransom, the bandits still kill them afterwards on the watch of Governor El-Rufai, only to run their areas into emirates without any referendum, salutes, or legal constitutional backing.

It was the same kingpin of the “Nigeria Untouchables,” Alhaji El-Rufai, who came out publicly to say, some years back, that he had a meeting with the Kaduna Mafia Terrorists and paid them big money to stop killing. This is to tell you how backward and unintelligent and the type of “APANYA” mentality this graduate of architecture, now turned politician, has; otherwise, in his days in the university, I believe he must have been taught how not to kill fire with fire but to love, care, and protect your fellow citizens, instead of arming the same killers to continue the genocide against the people of the state and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Throughout his tenure as a governor, El-Rufai never visited some parts of Kaduna greatly affected by the pogrom, nor did he ever visit the IDP camps because, as he claims, the people of Southern Kaduna are KAFIRIS (non-believers of the doctrine of “Allah in the sky) and his nomadic foot soldiers of the colonial masters given the assignment impossible to destroy African culture and tradition.

The Untouchable El-Rufai is yet to tell the people of Nigeria how much he has earned in this lucrative, murderous business of destroying innocent lives.

El-Rufai is historically worse than a hoodlum; Nasir El-Rufai has lots of questions to answer regarding the thousands of lives lost in Kaduna State under his watch. What about the billions of money he has been looting from Nigeria’s treasury ever since he found his way to the corridors of high power in Nigeria?

The diametric ruin of the Nigerian economy since the advent of neoliberal globalization is partly and deeply rooted in some of the decisions made by El-Rufai as the head of Nigeria’s Bureau for Public Enterprises (BPE). How can this man head the Bureau, judging by his almajiri background?

Well-brought-up children do not do bad things and turn around to slap other people with dirty names. That is typical ‘Agbero” behavior, which El-Rufai has shamelessly exhibited by calling President Bola Tinubu an “Agbero” on public TV after presiding over open plunder and slaughter for several years across Nigeria! Under ex-presidents who were not deeply touched by the suffering of the Africans under the yoke of religious imperialism.

After selling Nigeria’s economic assets cheap to his prostitutes, political cronies, and rings of international hustlers, El-Rufai transited to the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) to become the territory’s minister who ran bulldozers through an orphanage, rendering scores of fatherless and motherless children homeless without compensation.

The kids were said to have been evacuated by El-Rufai’s sinister agents to a destination unknown to the people of Nigeria till this very day. It is not surprising that sanguinary El-Rufai has refused to clear the air regarding the missing infants.

Short and satanic, El-Rufai worships at the altar of unlimited evil where the governing dogma is “Marathon Mass-Slaughter, Maximum Brigandage!”!

Nasir El-Rufai has no love for anything and for anybody who does not resonate with his congenital Fulani-centric addiction to pillage and genocide.

Like he is presently doing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nasir El-Rufai attacked Goodluck Ebele Jonathan while Goodluck was President of Nigeria. Goodluck’s offense was that he was not working in consonance with the spirit and principle of bad luck against Nigeria, as desired by El-Rufai and his criminal benefactors!

I warned him then very seriously that our president is president for all of us, not for one section of Nigeria. I did the same thing when the late President Musa Yar’Adua’s whereabouts were being tribalized by the Northern Aristocracy by filing a suit in Abuja High Court 4 slated for hearing on May 5, asking the Senate President, the Legislature, and the Government to produce our President Musa Yar’Adua, who has exceeded the mandatory 42 days sick leave as the number one public office holder, or swear in the Vice President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as President. A motion of urgency was moved by the Senate President to install Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as Acting President on the eve of the hearing date; otherwise, I would have been the one to nominate the President.

The decision of the imp and Satan in Nasir El-Rufai to launch sustained verbal attacks against Goodluck cost him his son! Goodluck is alive and well; El-Rufai’s son is dead!

The karmic price payable for disrespecting whoever occupies the office of President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is not cheap. But the propagators of the false doctrine of God in the sky, of which El-Rufai is one of their ambassadors, have cunningly put this supreme law aside and replaced it with sin and repentance to manipulate and eliminate any traces of the Nucleus Black Race as the origin of mankind, hence the endless wars to decimate the Blacks in vain with unsubstantiated religious dogma that does not correspond with the social practice of the Blacks.

It appears that El-Rufai can afford it, the reason he goes about with his smelling mouth packed with insults against the current president of Nigeria. Does El-Rufai want to lose another child?

What wrong has President Tinubu done to El-Rufai, some of the press, and the looters that has been denying him (El-Rufai) sleep since Bola Ahmed Tinubu became president of Nigeria?

Did Mr. President promise him a so-called juicy appointment and not live up to the promise? If “yes,” the right thing for El-Rufai to do is to run a thorough and objective historical review of his presence in the corridors of power and his use of power therein. He is a failure in this area in contemporary political development.

I here assert that the level of filth and felony in chameleonic Nasir El-Rufai is too much for any sane and logical person to bring him close.

El-Rufai should count himself lucky to still be alive despite his savage fixation on negativity against peace and progress in Nigeria.

El-Rufai is a shape-shifting hater of Nigerians who do not subscribe to being dominated, controlled and robbed by Fulani in the name of Arabs’ Allah.

Nasir El-Rufai and his Anglo-Fulani fellows in neo-colonial criminality want all Southern Nigerians and non-Fulani Nigerians dead! In other words, he wants all indigenous Nigerians eliminated! As such, any president of Nigeria who works against the genocidal agenda as surreptitiously supported by Western powers is his very big enemy!

In light of the above, we are asking that El-Rufai apologize to the President and all Nigerians for that insulting language against the Father of the Nation. There is an old saying in the Nucleus language that ……. “ENIKENI TOBA TAKO OLORI LORI ASAN YODI ONIHOHO”

He should be charged with treason and genocide for the loss of lives during his watch.

After that, El-Rufai should be made to face a judicial commission of inquiry to clear his name on all the accusation from the ICPC, EFCC and Kaduna State Government of Nigeria because El-Rufai is not happy that he is being exposed and also that their group are afraid that President Tinubu is positively uniting the Igbos, Yorubas, Hausas and Ijaws together by giving them their rights which were denied in the past through buying and manipulating some of the uncultured and half-baked  Police, the Army and the Press with money to mishandle the citizens thereby destabilizing the Nation and the good people of Nigeria to satisfy the whims and caprices of the few neo colonialist groups among us who are not aware that their time is up for the African Renaissance to start.

I urge President Bola Tinubu to issue an executive order for the looters to please release the money stolen, which is very vital for developmental infrastructures voluntarily; else, if caught, there will be no mercy.

Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

My Divine Love and Blessings!

SATGURU MAHARAJ JI

(Living Perfect Master)

Read more on;
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/for-insulting-mr-president-el-rufai-has-seven-days-to-apologize-satguru-maharaj-ji/

'Tame Your Third' Leg'—Human Rights Advocate Calls Out Senate President Akpabio Over Recent Scandal With Sen. Natasha

By Onome Naomi

In recent times, a trend in the public space suggests Senate President Godswill Akpabio's clash with colleague Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is borne out of sexual advances declined by the female lawmaker.

It should be recalled that her allegations came amid a recent confrontation in the Senate chamber. On Thursday, February 21st, 2025, Akpabio ordered sergeants-at-arms to remove Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the chamber after she resisted relocating to a new seat assigned to her following the defection of two opposition senators to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Citing Orders 24 and 6, Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno asserted that it was within the Senate President’s authority to reassign seats and that a senator could only speak from their designated position. Akpoti-Uduaghan, insisting that her privileges had been breached, attempted to raise a point under Order 10, leading to a heated session in the chamber. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan's inclination is tilted towards the fact that she has refused to succumb to the Senate president's sexual advances, hence the victimization experienced.

However, Kingibe, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, admitted that the Senate is not gender-friendly, but the situation has improved, adding that women should follow the rules of the institution they chose to enter. Kingibe said, “This is about the rules of the Senate, so other women have been moved several times. On that day, I wasn’t there but gathered that other men were also moved."

To this effect, human rights advocate Comrade Prince Saviour Iche, founder of Ambassadors of Peace and Enlightenment Foundation 'AMPEF' Voice of the Voiceless, is saying that the aforementioned issue has generated a lot of controversy with public opinions in support of and against both lawmakers, but it should be noted that the same Senate president, Akpabio, has a trail of records in the spotlight suggesting a sexual misdemeanor.

Iche cited an incident involving Sen. Akpabio and ex-NDDC MD Joy Nunieh. The lady in concern alleged that she was being harassed sexually, but Akpabio debunked the allegations as usual. This happened in July 2020, as Joy Nunieh, the former acting Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), publicly accused Godswill Akpabio, then Minister of Niger Delta Affairs and current Senate President, of sexual harassment during a live television interview.

Iche noted that Nunieh claimed Akpabio attempted to harass her sexually at his guest house in Abuja, leading her to slap him in response. She stated, "I am the only woman that slapped Akpabio. He thought he could come up on me. He tried to harass me sexually."Nunieh also alleged that Akpabio sought to involve her in corrupt practices, including inflating the NDDC budget and taking a blood oath of secrecy before confirming her as the substantive head of the NDDC.In response, Akpabio denied these allegations, describing them as "false, malicious, and libelous."

Iche's reviewed that Natasha and Akpabio's fallout already had suspicions from public opinion even before the female lawmaker divulged these allegations to the public. People speculated on reasons Natasha's confrontation towards her leader was without regard, with deductions that something fishy was afoot and most likely romance, which later became the truth the public sought.

Iche further stated,

"In my opinion, Senator Akpabio has sold his respect; hence, the talk down he's getting. Natasha's details of interaction over time with her leader (Sen. Akpabio) with allegations of sexual harassment as exposed to the public need to be addressed with caution and given a listening ear. Nigerians should not be quick to judge Natasha for her truth but rather should examine the situation critically to discourage the sexual harassment of women by their bosses in all sectors."

"The public should note that sexual harassment can also be alleged when a man or woman initiates inappropriate suggestions or discussions with the opposite sex, especially sexual advances. Harassment can also be said to have occurred when one is touched inappropriately, without the person's consent."

"For Senator Natasha, who is a married woman, to come out in the public domain alleging that Akpabio had harassed her severally, leading to the stagnation of her Ajaokuta motion, is a public embarrassment to the Senate president."

"The body of the Human Rights Advocate is giving Senator Akpabio four (4) working days to come out on national television to debunk the allegations levied against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan; otherwise, pay the price of the lawsuit slammed against him by the female lawmaker. Akpabio should also give a public account of the ex-NDDC MD who claimed she slapped him for sexual assault."

"Akpabio has been a controversial lawmaker since he assumed the office of the Senate president. By the look of things, Akpabio doesn't possess that value or respect; it is an error for him to occupy that post. Aside from the issue of sexual harassment, Akpabio has been on the wanted list of the EFCC; a questionable character is not fit to be a leader, especially the senate president of a country. What laws can be put into effect when he does not respect the law he enacts?."

"By the Nigerian order of ranking, the Senate president is the number 3 most important man in the country after the president and the vice. A person with a questionable character should not even be a member of the Senate, not to talk of holding such an exalted post; he holds a non-impressive record so far. As a human rights body, we suggest that Sen. Akpabio step down honorably, for he has fumbled."

"Also, the committee of women's affairs condemning Natasha's public outcry should be investigated; obviously, they are either seeking validation or might have been bought over by the senate president. I encourage other women in Nigeria to rise up and back Natasha up to reduce the spate of employers-to-employees' harassment in every sector, whether it's a government or private parastatal."

In conclusion, Iche commends women who are courageous enough to speak up against victimization, sexual harassment, and violation of their rights, as seen in Senator Natasha's recent public outburst; he says if Senate President Godswill Akpabio cannot uphold uprightness, he should resign from office. Meanwhile, the Senate President’s Wife, Unoma Godswill Akpabio, files fundamental rights and defamation suits against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Unoma stated that Natasha was maligning her husband and “creating content for personal gains.”.

Read more on;
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/tame-your-third-leg-human-rights-advocate-calls-out-senate-president-akpabio-over-recent-scandal-with-sen-natasha/

Government should prioritize indigenous languages for national development---Ilobanafor

By Naomisophyblog

The Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of CEOAFRICA, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, has called on the Nigerian government to implement robust language policies to foster national development.

Speaking at the 4th Edition of the African Languages Week (ALW) 2025, Ilobanafor emphasized that prioritizing indigenous languages in governance, education, and technology would accelerate progress in the country.

"For Nigeria to witness unprecedented development, the use of our major languages, Hausa, Igbo, Yorùbá, and others, must be encouraged in all domains of life," he stated.

His remarks come amid growing concerns that the neglect of indigenous languages threatens Nigeria’s cultural identity and socio-economic advancement. Ilobanafor, a prominent advocate for African languages in the digital space, warned that failure to promote linguistic inclusivity could hinder Nigeria’s ability to compete globally.

This year’s African Languages Week, held from February 21 to 28, is themed "African Languages: Voices for Reparations, Justice, and Dignity for the Africa We Want." The event underscores the role of African languages in social justice, digital transformation, and cultural empowerment.

Ilobanafor also congratulated key stakeholders, including the African Union, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and officials from the African Academy of Languages (ACALAN), for their efforts in preserving African linguistic heritage.

"May our languages continue to unite us for a peaceful, prosperous, and healthy Africa," he remarked, echoing the week’s slogan: "My language, my heritage, my dignity."

The call for language-centered policies aligns with broader African Union objectives to integrate indigenous languages into governance and education systems. Experts argue that such measures would not only enhance literacy and communication but also drive economic inclusion and innovation.

Ilobanafor urged Nigerians to embrace their linguistic heritage in everyday life, stressing that sustainable development is impossible without language preservation. "Let us work together to ensure that our languages thrive in the digital age, empowering future generations with their rich heritage," he concluded.

As Nigeria continues its pursuit of digital transformation and global economic relevance, the challenge remains: Will policymakers heed this call and take decisive action to elevate indigenous languages in national development?

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https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/government-should-prioritize-indigenous-languages-for-national-development-ilobanafor/

Re: Alleged Defection of 27 Lagos Assembly Members to Labour Party

By Naomisophyblog

The Lagos State House of Assembly wishes to categorically debunk the malicious and unfounded publication alleging that twenty-seven members of the Assembly are planning to defect from the ruling party to the opposition Labour Party (LP). This publication is entirely false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public.

We find this report not only offensive but also riddled with inaccuracies and outright falsehoods that serves no purpose other than to sow discord and confusion within the Assembly and among the good people of Lagos State.

The recent developments in the House, including the removal of the erstwhile Speaker, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, and the election of Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker, are purely internal matters. These actions were carried out in accordance with the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria as Ammended.

These events in no way suggest any intention by members to leave the party. We emphasize, without any ambiguity, that no member of the Assembly is contemplating defection.

We were elected under the Leadership of the Ruling Party, The ruling party remains united and focused on delivering its mandate to the people of Lagos State. The falsehood being spread originates from agents of destabilization who seek to create unnecessary tension and division within the Assembly.

To our party leaders and supporters across the state, we assure you that all members remain committed to the party.

Furthermore, we reaffirm that any internal disagreements within the House will be resolved amicably through peaceful and democratic mechanisms. There is no crisis that warrants any member considering defection.

We also call on all media partners to uphold the ethics of journalism by verifying facts before publication and refraining from spreading unverified reports that could mislead the public.

E- Signed

Hon. (Otunba) Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode
Chairman, House Committee on Information, Strategy and Security
Lagos State House of Assembly

3-Day Capacity-Building Workshop: LIFE Enlightens Young Girls/Women on Preventable Maternal Deaths From Unsafe Abortions

By Naomisophyblog

The 3-day capacity-building workshop with the theme "Amplifying female voices in demanding accountability on preventable maternal deaths in Lagos State," specifically targeted at young girls and women, aims at creating widespread awareness of preventative procedures needed to curb maternal deaths from unsafe abortions, which remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria. The theme of the year 2025 program is 'Amplifying

LIFE program officer Oluwatoyin Mokwe enlightened the audience of young girls and women on building self-awareness, confidence, and positive self-image for empowered decision-making. She noted that self-indulgence in sexual acts without information on safe reproductive health choices to make informed decisions can lead to the unsafe abortion of unwanted pregnancies, causing bodily harm and possibly death.

She enumerated possible causes of maternal morbidity from unsafe abortions, which include lack of knowledge about their bodies and rights, low self-confidence in decision-making, societal pressure and stigma, and limited access to safe reproductive health services. Moreover, Toyin noted that every year, thousands suffer complications from unsafe abortions due to fear, stigma, and lack of access to good health care services; many also do not feel empowered to make informed choices about their reproductive health.

However, self-awareness, she says, is important in reproductive health; the ability to recognize personal values and beliefs helps individuals make productive choices aligned with their well-being. Meanwhile, understanding peer and societal pressures reduces the likelihood of being influenced into unsafe decisions, promotes awareness of reproductive rights and health, and empowers individuals to seek safe, legal healthcare services as well as build emotional intelligence, enabling individuals to handle relationships and reproductive decisions with confidence.

To put self-awareness in action, Toyin mentions that young girls and women should seek safe and legal reproductive health services, avoid risky sexual behaviors that may lead to unintended pregnancies, and stand firm against coercion or stigma when making reproductive choices even in the face of external pressures. This, she says, is why confidence is considered integral in reproductive health, as it encourages seeking reliable information on accurate sexual and reproductive health (SRH), which helps to empower women and girls to make safe choices (they are more likely to access contraception, safe healthcare, and support systems). It also reduces vulnerability to coercion and stigma, as confidence helps individuals resist pressure from peers, partners, or society, enhances communication skills, and enables assertiveness in discussing reproductive health with partners, family, and healthcare providers.

To put confidence in action, a young woman who is confident in her reproductive health choices will say no to unwanted sexual advances and seek contraception without fear or shame. Speak up and demand safe medical care if needed. Make informed decisions about pregnancy, including avoiding unsafe abortion and seeking legal, medical options where available.

More also, building positive self-image and making informed decisions on reproductive health choices is vital in curbing unsafe abortion; self-worth, body confidence, and belief in one's abilities help an individual develop a positive self-image as self-worth leads to self-care. Individuals who value themselves are more likely to prioritize their health; they seek safe reproductive health services rather than engaging in risky behaviors, Toyin noted.

She further stated that

The link between empowerment and prevention of unsafe abortion and understanding the root causes of unsafe abortion below is a lack of information about reproductive health and rights, stigma and societal pressure leading to secrecy and unsafe methods, limited access to contraception and safe abortion services, low self-esteem, and lack of confidence, causing poor decision-making.

Research has shown how empowerment reduces maternal morbidity from unsafe abortion, and this includes informed decision-making, increased confidence to seek help, breaking the cycle of shame & stigma, and economic and social empowerment (education and financial independence reduce vulnerability to unplanned pregnancies and unsafe abortion). Women with opportunities plan their futures and make informed reproductive choices.

However, strategies to build self-awareness, confidence, and positive self-image state that education and awareness, communication and assertiveness training, peer support and mentorship, addressing emotional and mental well-being, and access to reproductive health services are appropriate measures towards curbing unsafe abortions. Also, to advocate for lesser vulnerability to unsafe abortions and their complications entails that non-governmental bodies and individuals should seek policies that support reproductive rights through campaigns to draw the government's attention; empower youths through education and mentorship; strengthen access to safe reproductive health services; and break the stigma around reproductive health decisions.

To create knowledge for a positive effect leading to change, it is important that respective advocates educate (share knowledge with others and debunk myths about reproductive health); Advocate (Speak up for policies that support safe reproductive choices); Support (encourage women and girls to make empowered, informed decisions about their health).

In addition, navigating challenges in implementing safe abortion guidelines involves the interplay of policy, religion, and public health in Nigeria, promoting friendly family planning services.

Eliminating the contribution of unsafe abortion and lack of contraceptive use leading to maternal mortality in Nigeria, as presented by Dr. Adeboje Jimoh Fatimah, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, states that the family planning method is a low-cost yet effective way of preventing maternal deaths whereby risky pregnancies are avoided and unsafe abortions prevented. Unsafe abortions, she says, have great public health significance and are one of the leading causes of maternal mortality worldwide.

She noted that developing countries have 85% of cases of unsafe abortions and 98% of deaths. Care by skilled health professionals before, during, and after childbirth can save the lives of women and newborns. Maternal deaths can be caused by hemorrhage, sepsis, hypertensive disease of pregnancy (pre-eclampsia/eclampsia), labor complications/obstructed labor, and unsafe abortion. Together, this can account for about 2/3 of all maternal deaths.

However, the method of family planning with the use of contraception is advisable to serve as preventive measures and is divided into traditional and modern contraception. The traditional contraception involves rhythm (periodic abstinence) and the withdrawal method, while the modern contraception is the use of combined hormonal contraception, progesterone-only preparation, emergency contraception, intrauterine contraception, barrier methods, and sterilization.

Also, there is the 'Unmet Need for Contraception,' defined as the proportion of currently married women who do not want any more children but are not using any form of family planning (unmet need for contraception for limiting), while the 'Contraceptive Prevalence' is the percentage of women who are currently using, or whose sexual partner is currently using, at least one method of contraception, regardless of the method used.

Fatima stated that the use of contraceptives is low, leading to unsafe abortions. On central roles of contraception, she mentioned that awareness is low, low usage, 3% usage in women in union, unmet need for family planning 18.89%, low felt need, low contraceptive prevalence rate, and a large family is the norm, especially for poor homes. However, safe motherhood initiatives have benefits of an increased planned pregnancy, a reduction in the risk for STIs and HIV and other transmitted diseases, a decreased mother-to-child transmission of HIV, increased capacity of facilities to respond to obstetric emergencies, increasing referrals to gynecological care, increased girl child education, increasing women's status, poverty reduction, and sustainable economic development.

Prevention and the way forward to curbing maternal morbidity through unsafe abortions can be achieved by advocacy to increase awareness, public education, and reproductive health education in schools on contraception, abortion and its complications, abstinence when not ready for conception, and if otherwise, using effective contraception and SDGs universal basic education on gender equality, women empowerment, and eradicating poverty.

A secondary prevention will be the upgrading of the healthcare system to provide safe and affordable abortion services in terms of training, equipment, and infrastructure; the reformation of abortion laws to address other issues like physical and mental health, rape, incest, and congenital malformations, among others; political willingness; and social, cultural, and religious involvement, while tertiary prevention is the prompt and appropriate treatment of abortion complications, the concept and practice of comprehensive abortal care by community/provider partnerships, counseling and treatment of post-abortal patients, provision of contraceptive services and linkage to other reproductive health services, and provision of 'Emergency Obstetric Care (EmOC)' and post-abortion care (PAC).

In conclusion, it should be noted that maternal mortality is a global issue, unsafe abortion is a major contributor to maternal mortality, contraception has a major role in the reduction of maternal mortality, all levels of intervention have to work simultaneously to curb maternal morbidity, and Nigeria is lagging behind in the recent global trend. Appropriately directed political advocacy can serve as an essential factor in eliminating unsafe abortion in Nigeria. Access to quality reproductive health and family planning is essential, especially as we move into the 'Survive, Thrive, and Transform' agenda of sustainable development. We need to transform the way we visualize the problem of unsafe abortion and non-usage of contraceptive services.

Read more on:
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/3-day-capacity-building-workshop-life-enlightens-young-girls-women-on-preventable-maternal-deaths-from-unsafe-abortions/

E-X-P-O-S-E-D: How commission record shows Ruzu company paid N70m to Dr. Isa Ahmed from 2020-2021; not N4m as claimed by his lawyer Barr. Uche Uwazuruonye

.....as Dr. Uzu Onyemaechi Roberts holds Dr. Isa Ahmed and his lawyer Barr. Uche Uwazuruonye accountable in settling FIRS.

By Onome Naomi

As the face-off continues between Dr. Uzu Onyemaechi Roberts, CEO of Ruzu Herbal Products and Services Ltd., and Dr. Isa Ahmed, aka ordinary president of Berekete Family, more startling facts in contrast with Dr. Isa Ahmed's claims surface.

It should be recalled that on November 19th, 2024, when Dr. Isa Ahmed had the first broadcast debunking ever being a close ally with Dr. Uzu Onyemaechi, he made claims that:

Dr. Uzu Onyemaechi Roberts was a man he helped due to the issues he had with a certain pastor who had the intention to overtake his herbal company, and he (Dr. Isa) came to Dr. Uzu's rescue.

His platform (Berekete Family), which used to promote the Ruzu herbal products, was stopped due to customer complaints about its reduced efficacy.

He (Dr. Isa Ahmed) had no business with the said account in dispute that had made transactions of N50bn in the last four years, accruing N2bn in tax unpaid.

However, during the second broadcast in January, he admitted to knowing of an account created for the payment of his commission from Ruzu Herbal Products that he initially debunked ever existed.

Barr Uche Uwazuruonye noted that only N4m was realized from revenue paid for over a year of partnership with Dr. Uzu when, in fact, the commission account realized N70m during the one-and-a-half-year period of partnership.

In response to the letter of demand sent across to the ordinary president and his lawyer Barr. Uche Uwazuruonye by Dr. Uzu's lawyer Gyang Zi SAN to own up to their responsibility of paying tax generated from the account in dispute, the ordinary president made false claims that Dr. Uzu Onyemaechi Roberts offered to support the Brekete Family Program and, through Barr. Uche Uwazuruonye, sent some money to him for that purpose. Meanwhile, the relationship that exists between Dr. Uzu and Dr. Isa was business, and there is evidence to show how much sales Dr. Isa Ahmed made by marketing the Ruzu products and how much commission he gets after sales as against his claims of support fees. Dr. Isa Ahmed gets 30% of sales made from marketing Ruzu products, and Barr. Uwazuruonye was the middleman who received the alert of money paid into the account in dispute, as he's the sole signatory to the account.

More also, Barr Uche Uwazuruonye claimed that only N4m was realized as commission earned by his principal Dr. Isa Ahmed during the one year and a half period of partnership with Dr. Uzu, but the records show otherwise. In the records available for only two months, one week of recorded transactions, it shows over N6m was realized in just that period and over N70m commission paid during the one year and a half partnership as against N4m claims by Barr. Uwazuruonye.

To further show how inaccurate and despicable the duo of Dr. Isa Ahmed and his lawyer has become, the address during account opening was not Dr. Uzu Onyemaechi's office address but that of the Berekete Human Rights Radio TV office address. This remains a significant error when they both debunked not being deeply associated with the account.

It should also be recalled that the situation at hand began when Dr. Uzu Onyemaechi Roberts, CEO of Ruzu Herbal Products, was invited by FIRS to clear an outstanding bill of N2bn unpaid tax from an alien account he gave out company details to open for the payment of commission on sales of his product by Dr. Isa Ahmed of Berekete Family. As of the time of the one year and a half partnership and for accountability's sake, Dr. Isa Ahmed had requested a separate account be created for payment of his 30% commission on products sold for the Ruzu company and later demanded a 50% commission, leading to Dr. Uzu's withdrawal as partners.

The account was created using Dr. Uzu Onyemaechi Roberts company details, but he was not a signatory to the said account; instead, Barr. Uche Uwazuruonye was a signatory to the account, standing as a middleman for both partners as instructed by his principal, Dr. Isa Ahmed. Dr. Uzu, out of trust and commitment, had released the company's CAC registration without fear or doubt of Dr. Isa Ahmed's integrity until he was called by FIRS that there is an accrued tax.
The accounts are:                               
Ruzu Herbal Products and Services Ltd. 0482756836 Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) 0482756843 Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) 0482756850 Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) 0482756867 Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB)

Upon investigations, he found out the account that was supposed to remain dormant after the partnership was terminated four years ago was turned to Dr. Isa Ahmed's and Barr. Uche Uwazuruonye's personal account, where they transacted about N50bn, leading to an unpaid tax of N2bn, and he hopes to push tax payment on the Ruzu company, forgetting the other significant details on the account, such as their addresses and signature, which is the ordinary president's organization address and Barr. Uwazuruonye's signature.

The question therein is:

Is Dr. Uzu Onyemaechi Roberts, who is not a signatory to the account and does not have any personal information about the said account in dispute, paying taxes for the users of the account?

The ordinary president should question Barr Uche Uwazuruonye on the true nature of that said account—that is, if he's truly not aware. It is still in doubt that the ordinary president does not know for sure that the said account held that much money as a commission or had other transactions out of Ruzu company payments.
Read more on;
https://naomisophyblog.com.ng/e-x-p-o-s-e-d-how-commission-record-shows-ruzu-company-paid-n70m-to-dr-isa-ahmed-from-2020-2021-not-n4m-as-claimed-by-his-lawyer-barr-uche-uwazuruonye/

Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria pays courtesy visit to AIG Augustina N Ogbodo of FCIID Alagbon and Other Commands

By Onome Naomi

As part of the mission of the association, Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria paid a courtesy visit to the office of AIG Augustina N. Ogbodo and her subordinates CP Simeon Akpanudom (Commissioner of Police Anti-Fraud Unit), CP Saadat Ismaila (Commissioner of Administrative Dept), and CP Okunnade Ronke Nurat (Commissioner of Police General Investigation) on Thursday, January 5th, 2025; others present during the courtesy visit are DC Ezinrin and ACP Obiora.

The aforementioned officers warmly welcomed the guests as the president of the association, Eze Chika Nwokedi, expressed his admiration and continuous support for the Nigerian police over the last 30 years. He said as a form of encouragement to the Nigerian police in combating crime while protecting lives and properties, the association has made it a mandatory task to commend their efforts by showing love and support through visitations and sharing some gift items to say thank you.

More also, the association is ready and willing to assist the Nigerian police operations by donating necessary materials to aid swift and responsive operations as done in previous years, where the association donated tires for operational vehicles and gadgets needed to make policing effortless. He added that officers whom the association is friends with today were once occupying smaller positions with smaller ranks but have grown into bigger positions through hard work and resilience. Commends the Nigeria Police from all formations as he encourages them to keep up with efforts to rid the society of crime and criminality.

Eze Chika mentioned that another vital reason the members of the association are visiting is to build relationships with the Nigeria Police to assist in concerning issues, particularly to not cover fraudulent acts. He said members of the association do legitimate businesses that need police assistance once in a while to avoid being intimidated by their oppressors. Some have cases of business gone wrong, where a client fraudulently absconded with money meant for a smooth transaction but confiscated and other cases involving business transactions. The ability to seek succor and justice with the Nigeria Police will further foster peace of mind and protectiveness, Eze Chika said.

In response and appreciation over the courtesy visit, AIG Augustina N. Ogbodo, Assistant Inspector General of Police, Force Criminal Investigation Dept. (FCIID) Annex Lagos, stated that her knowledge of Eze Chika Nwokedi over the years has been positive reviews. She described Eze Chika as a receptive man with a good heart; he's indiscriminatory regardless of tribe or age.

AIG Augustina noted that her appointment to Lagos seems more fulfilling with the support of Igbo brothers and sisters; urge the Igbo to be responsive to her calls anytime she needs their assistance, especially on information and any other needs. Advised the Igbos to keep their hands clean, as she will be welcoming and attentive to those with legitimate concerns, appreciates members of the association for the visit and show of love.

CP Saadat Ismaila, Commissioner of Police Administrative Dept FCIID Alagbon Annex Lagos, also appreciated the courtesy visit by the association; she said her many years of knowing the founder of the association, Eze Chika Nwokedi, have been nothing but a good and cordial relationship for his show of support to the Nigeria Police, advising members of the association to emulate their leader as well as seizing the opportunity of the visit to build good relationships with the Nigerian police.

CP Okunnade Ronke Nurat fsi, Commissioner of Police General Investigation FCIID Alagbon Annex Lagos, said as an Ogbomoso-born and bred, she's a true Nigerian, welcoming of all tribes but will not associate herself with criminally minded people; she prefers to ally along with people who have like minds, the very reason she aligns so well with the president of the Association, Eze Chika Nwokedi.

CP Okunnade revealed that the many years of acquaintance with Eze Chika Nwokedi show he likes justice, he doesn't get involved in criminal cases, and he does not try to cover up for criminal elements. She appreciates the love and support the association showed and advised members to see other tribes as one and let love radiate to all regardless of tribe. Describes Eze Chika as a loved traditional leader who has the love of the police at heart; advises all to be friends with the police. Says police do not discriminate with civilians because information to investigate criminals is in their hands; she prays God rewards Eze Chika and members of his association for the constant show of love, encouragement, and support for the Nigeria Police.

CP Simeon U. Akpanudom, PSC, FDC, MNIM, Commissioner of Police, Anti-fraud Unit, FCIID Alagbon Annex, Lagos, commended Eze Chika's leadership qualities in carrying his subjects and subordinates along to enjoy the same opportunities and relationship benefits from the Nigeria Police as the association shows support in return. Says his office is always open to attending to the needs of members of the association as long as they need justice and accountability, especially over fraud cases. He noted that he has zero tolerance for criminals as he advised all to promote peace and love. Appraised Ugoeze Pst. Tessy Chika Nwokedi for supporting her husband to excel, appreciates the visit.

At Adeniji Adele Police Command for

Special Weapons and Tactics, DCP Ayilara Olukayode of SWAT, FSARS Force CIID Annex Lagos, also welcomed the Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria representatives, appreciated the association for the support shown by philanthropic acts, noted that there is no place within the force Eze Chika is not spoken well of, appreciated him and the members for having the Nigeria Police in mind, and promised continuous effort to rid the society of crime and criminal elements.

ACP Obiora Okonkwo of SWAT FSARS Force CIID Annex Lagos was appreciated by the association for being very helpful and attentive to the needs of the Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria; putting the interest of the association first in his dealings before personal interest shows goodwill and cordiality. The association commended his good will as they promise to keep up with legitimate dealings with the Nigeria Police.

Representatives of the Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association who attended the courtesy visit on Thursday, February 6th, 2025, include Mark Ogu Onyeka, SP. Ekeocha Osinachi Patrick, Onyekachi Okonkwo, Chinedu Ebirim Anara Ndioma, Ebuka Gregory Nwagu, Nkemka Jude Odinaka, Mr. Michael O. Umejiego, Mr. David Otti, Chief Udegbe Sylvester, Oguegbe Chibuike E, Dr. Chukwu Obioma Damian, Princewill Nawbughigo, Obi Tochukwu, Triple Lolo Ifeoma Goodness Ogbuka, Chief Emeka Onwukaobi (ONOWU), Okwudiri Obiorah, Richard Okoye, Chinonso Osuji, Isaac Onyebuchi Okorie, Engr. Ugochukwu Ufomadu, and Onwuka Chukwuemeka.