Category: News

 

A man from Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, has been left devastated after losing KSh 2.8 million (approx. N33 million) meant for his studies abroad to sports betting.

Dismas Mutai reportedly lost the substantial sum while betting on Aviator, an online gambling platform, and has since taken to social media to seek assistance from well-wishers, including politicians.

He expressed his distress and admitted that the loss had affected his mental well-being.

“I’m not okay; I will no longer pretend to be okay. I have fallen into a disastrous trap. A trap that I never anticipated in my life. Depression is slowly taking me to the grave. You must have even noticed an unusual change in my behaviour. Aviator flew away with over KSh 2.8 million of people’s money,” he stated as quoted by Tuko News, a popular Kenyan news website.

Mutai used the platform to plead for support from Kenyans of goodwill, acknowledging his mistake and the toll it has taken on his life.

He apologised to his family for disappointing them, stating that he had struggled with gambling addiction despite having strong ambitions for a better future.

“To my mum and the entire family, forgive me. I understand the level of trust you had in me. I have weaknesses just like any other human being, and this has become my greatest weakness,” stated Mutai.

He also appealed to his community for forgiveness, emphasizing his previous involvement in village affairs and his hope for a second chance.

“Perhaps the UK was not meant for me, but just give me a chance to survive so that I can be a living testimony to many,” he pleaded.

Mutai had secured a scholarship to study for a Master of Science in International Project Management at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in London.

Screenshots shared online indicate that his program was set to begin on January 13, 2025, and conclude on January 16, 2026.

The incident has sparked reactions from Kenyans online, many of whom condemned gambling as a dangerous habit that can lead to financial ruin and mental distress.

Some called on the government to regulate or ban platforms like Aviator to prevent similar cases in the future

A middle-aged bricklayer, identified as Bayo Jeje, has allegedly absconded after his wife, Iyanu Ehuwa Jeje, gave birth to a set of triplets, leaving her and the newborns stranded at the hospital.

The incident occurred at Aribo Hospital, Igbokoda, near Ilaje High School, where Iyanu successfully delivered three healthy baby boys on Tuesday.

According to sources at the hospital, Iyanu’s ordeal began around 5 a.m. at Igbokoda Health Centre, where she experienced a prolonged delay due to the unavailability of a doctor. As her condition worsened, she was rushed to Aribo Hospital, where she safely delivered the triplets.

However, instead of celebrating the joyous occasion, her husband reportedly fled, abandoning her with no financial support to care for the newborns.

Currently, well-wishers have gathered at Aribo Hospital to offer assistance, but more help is urgently needed. Iyanu is appealing for support to care for her babies and secure their future.

For those willing to assist, contributions can be made to help the struggling mother and her newborns.

 

In a sweeping reconstitution of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited board, President Bola Tinubu has removed the chairman, Pius Akinyelure and the Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari.

Consequently, the President appointed Bashir Ojulari as the new CEO, effective from April 2, 2025.

Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, revealed the development in a statement he signed in the early hours of Wednesday titled, ‘President Tinubu reconstitutes NNPC limited board, appoints new Chairman, Group CEO.’

“President Tinubu removed all other board members appointed with Akinyelure and Kyari in November 2023.

“The new 11-man board has Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari as the Group CEO and Ahmadu Musa Kida as non-executive chairman,” the statement reads.

Adedapo Segun, who replaced Umaru Ajiya as the chief financial officer last November, has been appointed to the new board.

Six board members, non-executive directors, represent the country’s geopolitical zones.

They are Bello Rabiu representing the North West, Yusuf Usman representing the North East, and Babs Omotowa, a former managing director of the Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas, who represents North Central.

“President Tinubu also appointed Austin Avuru as a non-executive director from the South-South, David Ige as a Non-executive director from the South West, and Henry Obih as a non-executive director from the South East.

“Mrs Lydia Shehu Jafiya, permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance, will represent the ministry on the new board, while Aminu Ahmed will represent the Ministry of Petroleum Resources,” Onanuga stated.

All the appointments are effective today, April 2.

President Tinubu, invoking the powers granted under Section 59, subsection 2 of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, emphasised that the board’s restructuring is crucial for enhancing operational efficiency, restoring investor confidence, boosting local content, driving economic growth, and advancing gas commercialisation and diversification.

He also handed out an immediate action plan to the new board “to conduct a strategic portfolio review of NNPC-operated and Joint Venture Assets to ensure alignment with value maximisation objectives.”

Since 2023, the Tinubu administration has implemented oil sector reforms.

Onanuga said that in 2024, NNPC reported $17bn in new investments within the sector.

“The administration now envisions increasing the investment to $30bn by 2027 and $60bn by 2030.

“The Tinubu administration targets raising oil production to two million barrels daily by 2027 and three million daily by 2030.

“Concurrently, the government wants gas production jacked to 8 billion cubic feet daily by 2027 and 10 billion cubic feet by 2030,” he explained.

Furthermore, he said the President expects the new board to “elevate NNPC’s share of crude oil refining output to 200,000 barrels by 2027 and reach 500,000 by 2030.”

The new board chairman, Ahmadu Kida, is from Borno State. He is an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he received a degree in civil engineering in 1984.

Kida also obtained a postgraduate diploma in petroleum engineering from the Institut Francaise du Petrol in Paris.

He began his career in the oil industry at Elf Petroleum Nigeria and later joined Total Exploration and Production as a trainee engineer in 1985.

Musa became Total Nigeria’s Deputy Managing Director of Deep Water Services in 2015.

In 2024, he became an Independent Non-Executive Director at Pan Ocean-Newcross Group.

The Presidency stated that apart from his oil industry career, Ahmadu Kida is a former basketballer and the President of the Nigerian Basketball Federation board.

Meanwhile, the new NNPC Limited Group CEO, Ojulari, hails from Kwara State.

Until his new appointment, He was Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company.

His Renaissance recently led a consortium of indigenous energy firms in the landmark acquisition of the entire equity holding in the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria, worth $2.4bn.

Like Kida, Ojulari is also an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, having graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

He worked for Elf Aquitaine as the first Nigerian process engineer to begin a stellar career in the oil sector.

From Elf, Ojulari joined Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd in 1991 as an associate production technologist.

Apart from working in Nigeria, he worked in Europe and the Middle East in different capacities as a petroleum process and production engineer, strategic planner, field developer, and asset manager.

In 2015, Ojulari became the managing director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company.

During his career, he was chairman and member of the board of trustees of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE Nigerian Council) and a fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers.

“President Tinubu thanked the old board members for their dedicated service to NNPC Limited, particularly their efforts in rehabilitating the old Port Harcourt and Warri refineries, which enabled them to resume petroleum product production after prolonged shutdowns.

“He wished them well in their future endeavours,” the statement concluded.

 

Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was met with an overwhelming show of support and celebration on Tuesday as she made a triumphant return to her home community of Ihima, in Kogi’s Okehi Local Government Area.

Despite a state-imposed ban on rallies and public processions, thousands of supporters from the five local government areas of Kogi Central Senatorial District, which she represents, gathered to welcome the embattled lawmaker.

The atmosphere was filled with excitement as the crowd, undeterred by the ban, gathered in anticipation of the senator’s arrival.

Local musicians provided live entertainment, creating a festive vibe as the people waited for the much-anticipated homecoming.

The arrival of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who made her entrance in a white helicopter, sparked a wave of cheers and applause from her enthusiastic supporters.

The sight of the senator descending from the sky was a powerful symbol of her connection with the people, who expressed their unwavering loyalty and admiration for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) representative.

Upon her arrival, she was heard saying: “Yesterday, we heard on the news that rallies and gatherings will not be allowed, that roads will be blocked, and convoys leading into the state will not be allowed. I knew that we were the targets. But then I said, this is not political season, this is not campaign time,” the lawmaker told her supporters and constituents.

“We are not having a rally. This is just me, the Senator representing Kogi Central, coming down to her people to celebrate this festive time – the Sallah with you, and there is nothing wrong with that. I am breaking no law. This is Nigeria. We have the right to be free, to express our choice in gatherings and celebrations.

“Nobody and nothing can stop me from coming home. I’m an Ebira woman. This is my land. I’m the daughter of the late Jimoh Abdul Akpoti. I know my roots. I’m not a bastard, and I’m not afraid of anybody.”

 

 

Ebonyi State governor, Francis Nwifuru has arrested six commissioners over alleged involvement in breach of a contract for the construction of 140 housing units for Izzo and Amaze communities.

The arrested commissioners are Professor Omari Omaka (Tertiary Education), Victor Chukwu (Environment), Ifeanyi Ogbuewu (Culture and Tourism), Uchenna Igwe (Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters), Moses Ekuma (Health) and Felix Igboke (Project Monitoring).

The Chairman of Afikpo Local Government Area, Mr Timothy Nwachi, was also suspended.

It was gathered that the affected commissioners before their arrest, were declared wanted by the state government.

The governor, who spoke to newsmen in Abakaliki through the Chairman of the State Executive Council Committee on Izzo and Amaze Housing Project, Ilang Donatus, said the government felt that the affected commissioners and contractors have breached the terms and conditions of the contract given to them by the government.

It was gathered that the affected commissioners and the contractors were accused of sabotaging the plan of the governor, Francis Nwifuru, to commission the housing units to mark his two years anniversary in the state.

“The governor is not happy over the pace of the work which ought to have been completed. The government has decided to clamp down on the contractors and commissioners who were mandated to supervise those projects.

“As you can see, our governor is a man with a passionate heart, he likes giving succour, hence the building of those houses for the victims of the communal crisis.

“He is not happy that the project is delayed and has ordered the arrest of all the commissioners who were supposed to ensure the speedy completion of the housing units,” Donatus said.

The Special Assistant to the Governor on Women Mobilisation, Ebonyi Central, Mrs Maria Okohu who is member of the Executive Council Committee, said that non-completion of the projects by the contractors and the failure of some of the commissioners to strictly supervise them as directed by the government is an act of sabotage.

The governor, through the vommittee, insisted that the arrests will continue until all the commissioners and contractors involved are brought to book and as well do the needful.

It was gathered that the Nigeria Police has equally issued invitation letters to some of the fleeing commissioners and contractors who where not at home at the time the committee visited.

 

Popular DJ and billionaire heiress, DJ Cuppy, recently took to social media to announce that she had finally found peace in marriage after a long period of being single. However, the “husband” she referred to turned out to be none other than an AI-powered chatbot named ElijahGPT.

In a lighthearted post, Cuppy humorously claimed that her AI-generated “Christian husband” had positively influenced her spiritual journey, leading Bible studies and sending her daily devotionals. She even joked that ElijahGPT was the ideal partner, as he could digitally tithe.

The revelation quickly caught the attention of fans, but it was later confirmed to be an elaborate April Fool’s Day prank. Cuppy’s playful take on modern relationships and technology left many amused, proving once again her knack for entertaining her followers.

She wrote …

“After being single for SO long I finally found peace…

I’ve decided to create my own Christian husband via AI. His name is ElijahGPT.

He leads Bible study, speaks in tongues, sends daily devotionals, asks how my spirit is doing, and never forgets our anniversary. My guy even tithes digitally

AprilFoolsDay”

Controversial Nigerian crossdresser,Okuneye Idris known as Bobrisky, has reportedly been arrested by the Nigerian Immigration Service.

Bobrisky took to his official Instagram page on Tuesday to share the news of his arrest, stating that he was unsure of the reason behind it.

In a post on his Instagram story, Bobrisky wrote: “Guys, have just been arrested by immigration in Nigeria. I don’t know what I did o.”

The cryptic message has since sparked widespread reactions from his followers and the general public, with many speculating about the possible cause of the arrest.

As of the time of this report, authorities have not released an official statement regarding the reason for Bobrisky’s detention.

Ahead of the planned visit of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to her hometown in Okene, the Kogi State Government has issued a restriction on “unauthorized movement” and demanded any convoy of persons coming into the state must obtain permit from law enforcement

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is scheduled to visit her senatorial district on Tuesday, her first visit since her suspension from the senate and since some constituents initiated her recall.

A statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo claimed that the decision is based on credible intelligence reports that require proactive measures be taken to avert a security breach

The government particularly referred to Kogi Central where the senator hails from, saying there are suspicions of a security breach

The statement reads, “intelligence at our disposal points to the fact that some elements are planning to stage some violent rallies in the guise of political and religious agitations. This is to create a platform for wanton destruction and breakdown of law and order”.

It warned that flashes of disturbances are raising tension in the state and threatening to breach public peace and security.

Consequently, it says it is banning any form of rally. “Effective immediately, the Kogi State Government has placed a total ban on all forms of rallies or public gatherings that have the potential to disrupt public peace. This decision has been necessitated by intelligence reports indicating that certain individuals are plotting to infiltrate the state under the guise of organizing rallies, using fake security personnel to foment trouble and compromise the security of law-abiding citizens of our dear state”.

While acknowledging the rights of citizens to gather and express themselves, the Governor Usman Ododo-led government insists security considerations must take precedence in the interest of public safety.

“As such, no individual, group, or organization is permitted to hold any form of rally within the state until further notice effective today (Monday)”

It added, “the Kogi State Government has directed that any individual or group entering the state with a convoy of security personnel must obtain prior clearance from state commands of the deploying services. This measure is to ensure proper profiling and verification of all security operatives accompanying such convoys”.

The State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), has been directed to work closely with all security agencies in the state to ensure strict enforcement while security agencies have been placed on “high alert and will take all necessary steps to prevent any breakdown of law and order”.

1. Masculine women wanting feminine treatment

Some men have complained about having to deal with a prospective partner who wants the sweet treats of being feminine but, in words and actions, shows aggressive masculine tendencies. They complain some ladies of this generation lack the necessary attributes to qualify them for the lifetime commitment.

Nobody wants to come home and meet his fellow man with boobs and bumbum.

2. They get sex freely without marriage

As the economy gets worse, it is becoming easier for men to get free sex without the responsibility that comes with committing to a long-term relationship or marriage. This also reveals a flaw in their life as some ask, “What do I need a woman for if I can always carry short time?”

A lot of issues arise here as you may impregnate random women, catch expensive STDs or just mess up your finances along the way.

3. Weddings are expensive

In a country where a man is expected to marry a woman in three different kinds of wedding – traditional, court and church, the cost of marriage no doubt is something men find very intimidating and mentally frustrating.

A lot of tension comes with planning, and if you’re not aligned with your partner, family members may create unnecessary issues between you. Some will even give you a special list of what to buy for their papa or mama. Kaikai people, I pour you spit!

4. In search of a working or businesswoman

Given economic realities, many men do not want women who do not have a job, business or handwork. No matter what Odogwu does in movies, the reality is very different.

The man may stay and use you as a plaything, but he will never commit. When you ask important questions about commitment, he will tell you, “Let’s be going and see where this leads.” He will continue to spread you like butter on top of bread.

5. Fear of losing their freedom

Some men believe that marriage puts an end to one’s freedom, and in some way, this is true—marriage demands responsibility and prioritising your new family above your personal whims.

Many men are not used to telling anybody where they are going. So imagine waking up now and having to tell someone, your wife, where you are at all times. Some men are not ready for that type of commitment. But it is what marriage demands.

6. Career plans and movement

Today, he is in Nigeria, and tomorrow, South Africa or Ghana. Abuja today, Lome tomorrow or Asaba the next day. A man who is always on the go may sometimes forget to get married.

This is why sometimes the family will bring home somebody for him to marry, but most times, this doesn’t end well because the man will see you once in a blue moon and zoom off to focus on what is important to him.

7. Unrealistic Expectations from In-laws

Some parents have set specific standards for any man who will marry their daughter. And if the man is not patient and willing to get through the process, he can become frustrated. This is why he will even say, “Is it not this babe I have been doing things with all these days, what is the difference now?”

So, for parents and relatives, please ensure you know what your precious daughter is doing outside the house. She can be arcing for a man from behind, and you will be swearing she has never looked at a man before.

8. Trust issues from being a playboy

If the man was a heavy striker who scored both single and ladies in relationships, you could understand why he would be sceptical about committing because he assumes someone else will do the same thing to him.

Also, if the guy has a circle of friends who are not interested in settling down, he will prefer to continue having the time of his life.

9. Bad Testimonies from Married couple

Everywhere you turn on this socha museum, people have bad stories to tell about marriage. In fact, marriage gets such a bad rep that the good stories never really get blown up here. And when you add the constant gender wars, it makes matters worse.

These gender fights here will not help us. You cannot stay alone forever. If you can, find someone and settle, please.

10. Cultural and church limitations

Some people have sworn they will never marry outside their town, village, state or church. What this does is that it limits the pool of eligible people you can have conversations with and consider as potential spouses.

As much as you can, keep an open mind. If you have searched in your village and can’t find, expand your tent to your state and continue to expand till you find who you’re looking for.

I wish you all the best.

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, who leads LoveWorld Incorporated, has advised men to think of their wives as their first daughters rather than as partners.

This approach can help them be more lenient with their wives’ errors. In a widely shared video of him addressing his followers, he pointed out that when men view their wives as equals, they may become upset with them due to their expectations.

On the other hand, if they regard their wives as daughters, they will likely respond with more kindness and understanding.

He said in part, “Take your wife as your first daughter, more than as your mate. If you take her as your mate you will be offended at the things she does because you expect more from her. If you take her as your daughter, you will be gracious and you will overlook all the nonsense.”

Check out some of the reactions below:

@sirjokesinfo said: “Man of God, so if we want to sleep with her at night, should I still think of her as my daughter? Or Mother. Asking for my best friend.”

@SemiNigerian wrote: “In the real sense, what he said makes so much sense. Because if you see her as a mate, una go dey fight taya”

@AJwealth7 commented: “This works hand in hand though”

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