The Voice Nigeria season four contestant Yunus Emmanuel Abdulrazak, better known as Manuel Muzic, has died.
Manuel’s death was confirmed by fellow singer Ric Hassani who reacted to the tragic news in the comment section of the singer’s latest music video on Instagram on February 5. Ric Hassani wrote:
“I am refusing to accept this all day. So heartbroken. Manuel. You were just at my place eating and playing just last week I don’t get all of this. I am so sorry, I don’t even know how to process this. I truly don’t, I don’t even just know what to say,”
Manuel competed in the fourth edition of the singing competition under the mentorship of singer Niyola. He, however, did not make it to the finals.
During his time on the show, Manuel performed songs like Cee Lo Green’s ‘Forget You’, ‘Mona Lisa’ by Lojay, and ‘Sexual Healing’ by Marvin Gay which he performed as a duet with fellow contestant, Gidion.
He released the music video for his single ‘Photos’ on December 8, 2023
Although the cause of his death is not yet known, many reports say he died of typhoid and malaria.
Manuel died two months after celebrating his birthday on December 19.
“Happy birthday to me. The above picture is our mood board. The future is orange! May the oranges be with us as ride through the next year,” he wrote in a Facebook post on his birthday.
Yoruba market women in Ogun State say the government of president Bola Tinubu has brought nothing but excruciating pain and unbearable hardship to the people.
The livid traders said the poorly conceived and haphazardly implemented policies promulgated by Tinubu have further plunged Nigerians into the abyss of poverty as they negatively affect the prices of goods.
The lamentation and exasperation of the hapless market women were captured in a viral video shared by an X user, Somto Okonkwo, on Tuesday and seen by Within Nigeria.
The market women speaking to a Sugarlink Concepts reporter in their local dialect, expressing their disappointment and discontent as they lamented the soaring prices of goods in the country.
They said the rising cost of living engendered by the economic hardship has eroded the purchasing power of the people and push the prices of hitherto affordable staple food items beyond their reach.
The traders who said Tinubu disappointed Nigerians, particularly the Yorubas, threatened to beat the president.
“He’s not behaving like a Yoruba man; he has disappointed us in Yoruba land,” another elderly woman stated.
A fish seller said, “As things are now, we’re tired. A carton of sardine is N100,000.”
Another trader appealed to the president to have mercy on Nigerians, saying, “We’re tired of Nigeria; everything is costly, everything is getting costly every day.”
An elderly woman who also voiced her displeasure with the current administration lamented that several Nigerians starved to death over Mr Tinubu’s economic policies.
“Countless people are being killed because of food, we don’t see food to eat, the elderly that are dying are too much,” she lamented.
Asked what they would tell the president if they had the opportunity to see him, one of the traders threatened, “We will beat him up, the president.”
The trader added, “What he promised us is not what’s happening now. This is too much.”
A plantain seller, who also urged Mr Tinubu to find a solution to the hardship, lamented that traders made losses due to the high cost of petrol.
“Things are too costly; we’re tired,” another fish seller grumbled. “A carton of Titus is N100,000; it used to cost N17,000. Kote is going to N60,000. Shawa, which we used to sell for N70, now goes for N700. Garri, that used to be N50, is now N700.”
Nigerian actress, Nkechi Blessing Sunday has warned friends on their comportment around her partner.
The controversial thespian stated that her friends are not permitted to smile with her man.
She argued that even though she trusts him to be faithful to her, she doesn’t trust her friends.
She further added that her friends aren’t allowed to ask her man for help when they get stranded as she noted how a lady stole her friend’s man, got pregnant for him, and even dared her friend to do her worst.
Nkechi Blessing also warned them to stay away from her ex-boyfriends. She said:
“As my friend ,you aren’t permitted to shine your teeth at my man. He wouldn’t even answer you. To the point you will now say, you’re stranded, can you please go and spend a night in his house, my sister I no go allow you. I trust my man oo but I no trust the nyash wey you carry.
My gender, I fear una, I fear myself sef. I can’t lose guard like that and again if you are my friend, you think that it’s someone that I have dated before that you want to marry, e don dey enter your eye when we dey date. Thief, you didn’t know how to say it. You know see man again, it is the one I dump that you feel is good. E good na im I leave ma”.
Born on 14 February, 1989, Blessing is a Nigerian actress, film producer, film director, and screenwriter, born and raised in Surulere, Lagos State.
She also serves as the director and chief executive officer of Nkechi films production, and NBS Foundation.
Following her breakup with Ekiti politician Opeyemi Falegan, Nkechi found solace in the arms of Eseoghene Obire aka Xxssive, who recently became SSA to the governor of Delta state on new media.
Controversial Nigerian actress, Lizzy Anjorin has shared her side of the story in a more detailed video.
The actress denied using a fake transfer to purchase gold jewellery, claiming that the reports about her were false.
Recall that Lizzy Anjorin was made fun of by several shopkeepers on Lagos Island when she was said to have used a fake transfer to pay for gold jewellery.
Lizzy Anjorin provided her version of the incident in a video, explaining that she had contacted her husband to transfer the N91,000 she had paid for clothing accessories from the business in Idumota Market to the seller’s account.
When the well-known actor questioned the store owner if he had received the money, he initially said that he had not, but he subsequently acknowledged receiving it.
She recently went back to the store, though, and the businessman approached her, informing her that the money she had sent for her previous transaction had not been received.
The actress claimed she immediately called her husband to pay another N100k to the businessman’s account pending the time they are able to figure out what happened at the bank.
Lizzy Anjorin said before she knew it, the man had gathered people who started threatening her and yanked off her hijab.
She also shared proof of her conversation and debit alert receipt as evidence, emphasizing that all those involved are now in police custody asides the man.
Watch her speak below:
Media
“Why Men should have sex at least 21 times a month” - Dr. Rasheed Adedapo recommended “side chic”
AdminPopular Nigerian doctor, Dr. Rasheed Adedapo Abassi, has opened up on the purported reasons why men should engage in sexual intercourse 21 times a month.
According to Dr. Rasheed Adedapo, during an interview with Classic FM, he revealed that engaging in such activity comes with various health benefits.
Dr. Rasheed began the interview by referencing a well-established physiological concept, stating, “If you don’t use it, you lose it.”
According to the doctor, erections, which are exclusively achieved through sexual activity, are crucial for exercising the prostate gland, leading to a healthier and more robust prostate.
The doctor supported his claims with research findings, suggesting that men should aim for 21 sexual encounters per month to potentially prevent cardiovascular problems and reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
While the specifics of the research were not provided during the interview, Dr. Rasheed stressed the importance of regular intimate relationships in promoting overall well-being.
In his advice to men, Dr. Rasheed recommended doing whatever it takes to convince their partners to engage in regular intimate activities.
He also suggested, somewhat controversially, that if feasible, men should consider having a “side chic” to help achieve the recommended frequency of sexual encounters.
‘Let’s get it done'” - Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala urges Super Eagles to soar in AFCON semi-final against South Africa
AdminRenowned Nigerian economist and Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has extended her well wishes to the Super Eagles, ahead of their semi-final match against South Africa in the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Okonjo-Iweala, the former Nigerian Minister of Finance, expressed her confidence in the team’s abilities and urged them to secure victory in the semi-finals to advance to the finals of the prestigious tournament.
The Nigerian national football team (Super Eagles) are set to face South Africa at Stade Bouaké in Bouaké, Ivory Coast.
Taking to her official Twitter page in a tweet posted on Tuesday, Okonjo-Iweala encouraged the Super Eagles.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala urges Super Eagles to soar in AFCON semi-final against South Africa
Super Eagles.
She wrote;
“Wishing our very own Super Eagles the best of luck tomorrow!! Let’s get it done.”
See below;
Wishing our very own Super Eagles the best of luck tomorrow!! Let’s get it done.
— Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (@NOIweala) February 6, 2024
The late singer Mohbad Aloba’s mother has made a shocking revelation, asserting that her ex-husband, Mr Joseph Aloba, is not the biological father of the singer.
The explosive claims surfaced in a leaked audio where Mohbad’s mother reached out to a blogger known to support Mr Joseph Aloba in the fight for justice for the late singer.
In the leaked audio, the grieving mother expressed her dissatisfaction with the blogger and Mohbad’s father, even resorting to hurling curses at them.
The focal point of the conversation was her demand for a DNA test within three days to confirm that Mr Joseph Aloba is not the biological father of Mohbad.
Amidst the emotionally charged dialogue, Mohbad’s mother accused Mr Joseph Aloba of never truly caring for the children, alleging that he exploited their situation to raise funds for himself.
She questioned the blogger’s motives, asking whether justice for Mohbad was genuinely the goal or if they were merely attempting to profit from the situation.
In her words;
“Is it justice for Mohbad you’re looking for? Is he your sibling? Do you want Justice or you’re trying to steal money.
“You’re disturbing Nigerians; dribbling them left and right. Have you forgotten you have your own children? What you’re making my son face, you shall face it too.
“You thief! I give you three days to do dna; you’ll know that Baba Mohbad is not the biological father of Mohbad.
“You know I’m married to someone else. He’s not the owner of those kids; he’s just taking money on their behalf and you say you’re looking for justice for Mohbad.”
See below;
Media
Former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Bar. Olumide Akpata, has announced his candidacy for the Edo state governorship, citing the perceived shortcomings of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) administration led by Governor Godwin Obaseki as a primary motivation.
Speaking to journalists following his disassociation from protests against Julius Abure, National Chairman of the Labour Party, Akpata clarified his stance amidst speculation of being aligned with Obaseki’s interests.
“I am not Governor Obaseki’s proxy or supporter,” Akpata asserted. “The question arises: what message would Obaseki convey to me as an emissary? Is it the lack of educational infrastructure, unpaved roads, or inadequate healthcare facilities the PDP provides? Is that the message he expects me to carry as a representative? One cannot offer what one does not possess.”
Akpata dismissed notions of being Obaseki’s ally, suggesting such assumptions stem from scepticism regarding his candidacy.
Regarding allegations of instigating anti-Abure sentiments, Akpata reaffirmed his commitment to fortifying the Labour Party and collaborating with like-minded leaders to ensure its efficacy as an opposition force.
“I have joined the Labour Party to contribute to its growth and work alongside dedicated party members to bolster its capabilities,” Akpata declared. “My allegiance to the LP is steadfast, and no individual can sway me otherwise. Political opportunism is not within my purview. I have consciously aligned with the LP, and that allegiance remains unwavering.”
Akpata’s decision to enter the gubernatorial fray underscores the dynamic political landscape in Edo state, with contenders positioning themselves amidst evolving narratives and aspirations for effective governance.
In a crucial meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, convened with National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, key ministers, and the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Yemi Cardoso, to deliberate on the pressing issues of food security and the recent protests erupting in some states.
The assembly, which kicked off at around 5:30 pm yesterday, was a strategic response to the growing concerns over the cost of living protests in Niger and Kano states.
The gathering witnessed the participation of Ministers of Education, Dr. Tahir Mamman; Finance, Wale Edun; Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu; Agriculture, Abubakar Kyari; and State for Agriculture, Sabi Abdullahi.
The meeting came against the backdrop of a political dispute, with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) accusing opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), of instigating anti-government protests.
The opposition, in turn, criticized the APC for what they describe as a failure to address the economic hardships facing the nation, which they argue has led to the demonstrations.
Following the meeting, which lasted approximately three hours, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, briefed State House correspondents.
He relayed President Tinubu’s deep concerns over the situation and announced the President’s directive for the Presidential Committee to take decisive steps to alleviate the hardships experienced by the Nigerian populace.
Minister Idris reassured the public that the country has adequate food supplies but acknowledged that certain individuals are exploiting the situation of high food prices and the depreciation of the naira for their benefit.
He said, “We just rounded off a meeting. It is a special presidential committee to address the issue of food shortage or lack of enough food on the table of most Nigerians.
“This is just the beginning of that meeting. It is going to continue tomorrow and day after tomorrow. The government is very concerned about what Nigerians are going through, especially what has happened in Minna yesterday, and therefore government is taking some action to ensure that Nigerians have some relief in terms of the availability of food on the table.
“Of course, this meeting is not by itself exhaustive. It’s just like I said, the beginning. It is going to continue tomorrow and the day after.
“Now, some of these will involve unlocking the foods that are available in most of the storage facilities (National Food Reserve) around the country. You know that the Federal Minister of Agriculture has some food reserves. That is going to be made available to Nigerians.”
[NaijaNews]
The Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, on Tuesday claimed that Nigeria is currently better than it was when President Bola Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023.
Speaking when he appeared before the House of Representatives, the Minister said the Nigerian economy was almost collapsing before Tinubu assumed power.
He, however, added that the policies introduced by the current administration have now set the country on the road to economic recovery.
He said: “Where we are as a nation economically is a much better place than we were on the 29th of May, 2023. We have heard from the governor of the CBN. He has talked about the importance of sustainability.
“Before the implementation of the 8-point agenda of the President began, we were in an unsustainable place in terms of the fiscal situation of Nigeria. We were on the road to economic disaster.”
The Minister added that under the previous administration, fuel subsidies and wrong foreign exchange policies resulted in wasteful and unsustainable spending.
He said: “We had expenditure which was wasteful and unsustainable by way of the subsidy not just on fuel but the subsidy on foreign exchange which confused the incentive framework and people were chasing cheap dollars in other to make an instant profit.”
Edun stated that though inflation has increased and prices of other things have spiked, Tinubu is committed to improving the quality of life of Nigerians and ensure no one is left behind.
“Likewise, there have been other benefits which have accrued as a result of the changes that have been made. However, inflation has increased, the cost of living has spiked, and right from the onset, Mr President is committed to making sure that the poorest and the most vulnerable are not left behind. The palliatives, the interventions have been rolled out,” Edun added.
More...
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Capital Market, Osita Izunazo has said that the Senate will review legislative frameworks awaiting amendment in the National Assembly to boost more listings and curb tax evasion
Izunazo who stated this when he led the delegation’s visit to the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group) on Tuesday reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to driving legislative reforms aimed at propelling the Nigerian capital market to greater heights.
He highlighted the crucial role of the capital market in fostering economic prosperity and urged stakeholders to unite in pursuit of common goals.
- “We are committed to reviewing various legislative frameworks awaiting amendment in the National Assembly. This includes the Investment and Securities bill, the CIS bill, and the Private Companies Conversion and Listings (PCCL) Bill, among others,” stated Izunazo.
Public enlightenment on the stock market
Emphasizing the importance of public enlightenment on stock market investment benefits, Izunazo underscored the role of legislative interventions in encouraging companies to list on the Exchange.
- “Listing on the stock exchange promotes transparency, curbs tax evasion, and fosters both individual company and economic growth,” he remarked.
- “Our visit to NGX underscores our dedication to advancing the Nigerian capital market’s growth agenda. We will continue collaborating closely with market stakeholders to tackle existing challenges and unlock growth opportunities,” Izunazo concluded.
The Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Lamido Yuguda assured the Exchange of strengthening its regulatory framework aimed at supporting the Exchange and diversifying the market.
Speaking on the efforts to motivate more private investors into the market, he stated:
- “We are doing everything that we can to get regulations that give confidence to both domestic and foreign investors.
- For example, we have the policy on custody of all CIS products in our market, whether bilateral or public and we have seen the CIS sector responding positively to this development.
- The asset under management is growing and investors are better advised to invest through the CIS because they have experienced portfolio managers who are best equipped to manage their investments.”
Collaborative efforts between government, regulatory bodies
The Group Chairman of NGX, Umaru Kwairanga, in his remarks, emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between government, regulatory bodies, and market participants to unlock the market’s full potential.
The Chief Executive Officer of NGX Group, Temi Popoola, echoed Kwairanga’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of legislative interventions to encourage dollar-denominated transactions and the role of the capital market in revenue mobilization and tax compliance. He also highlighted the importance of pension reforms and the introduction of derivatives as instruments to mitigate market volatility.
[Nairametrics]
The House of Representatives yesterday called on the federal government to urgently take steps to tackle the rising cost of living with devastating effects on Nigerians.
The lawmakers made the call during the appearance of the Ministers of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu; the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso and the Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, before the House.
The session was part of the second edition of the Sectoral Debate/Dialogue, which was introduced by the House to interact with heads of ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) on government policies.
The lawmakers demanded an explanation of the measures being taken by the CBN, FIRS and the ministries as regards the current economic situation in the country.
Earlier, they adopted a motion on matters of urgent public importance moved by Rep. Ayokunle Isiaka (APC, Ogun), asking the federal government to act fast and address the rising cost of living.
Speaking, Rep. Ahmed Jaha Babawo (APC, Borno) said nobody needed a soothsayer to conclude that Nigerians were hungry and angry.
He said the government must take action, especially in terms of security, to make things work better for Nigerians.
According to him, from 2020 to date, the prices of staple food and other items have risen by over 500%, placing Nigerians in a precarious situation.
Rep. Kingsley Chinda (PDP, Rivers) said people were living in poverty, penury and pervasive insecurity.
He said, “The least we can do is to tell the truth to power.”
Other lawmakers questioned the ministers, CBN governor and FIRS chairman over their policies and their effects on Nigerians.
The officials later responded to the questions and shed more light on the policies being pursued, as well as the measures being put in place to address the challenges facing the nation.
Speaking, the CBN governor said the country was at a turning point. He said though the reforms across different segments of the economy were initially challenging, they were aimed at addressing the challenges sustainably.
He said, “I am confident that positive outcomes are already emerging and will become more apparent shortly. The dedicated and relentless efforts being made are certain to bring about significant and positive changes for our economy.
“Notably, recent reports from international rating agencies such as Fitch, Moody’s, S&P and commendations from multilateral banks like the World Bank reflect this positive trajectory, with upgrades to Nigeria’s ratings from stable to positive.
“These reports acknowledge the potential reversal of the deterioration in the country’s fiscal and external position due to the authorities’ reform efforts. While recognising the painful adjustments, they all point to a direction that will unlock much-needed growth and development for our economy in the medium to long term”, he added.
Cardoso, however, informed the lawmakers that despite the commendations, the concerns regarding the cost of living and currency exchange rates remained.
He said: “Indeed, this is the major topic of concern in our villages, our towns and our cities. The urgency of the matter is not lost on us at the Central Bank and I assure you, we are working tirelessly with colleagues from across government, including with the leadership of this House to bring lasting solutions.
“Broader escalation of conflicts could disrupt energy markets, trade routes, and financial markets, leading to a slowdown in growth and increased inflationary pressures. Additionally, rising trade barriers, protectionist policies, and global value chain restructuring could exacerbate uncertainties in global trade.
“In this challenging landscape, key policy priorities involve ensuring durable inflation reduction, addressing fiscal pressures, and fostering sustainable and inclusive growth.
“Inflationary pressures are expected to decline in 2024 due to the CBN’s inflation-targeting policy, aiming to rein in inflation to 21.4 per cent, aided by improved agricultural productivity and easing global supply chain pressures.
“The CBN’s inflation-targeting framework involves clear communication and collaboration with fiscal authorities to achieve price stability, potentially leading to lowered policy rates, stimulating investment, and creating job opportunities”, he added.
The CBN governor said the Nigerian foreign exchange market was facing increased demand pressures, causing a continuous decline in the value of the naira.
“Factors contributing to this situation include speculative forex demand, inadequate forex supply due to non-remittance of crude oil earnings to the CBN, increased capital outflows, and excess liquidity from fiscal activities.
“To address exchange rate volatility, a comprehensive strategy has been initiated to enhance liquidity in the FX markets. This includes unifying FX market segments, clearing outstanding FX obligations, introducing new operational mechanisms for BDCs, enforcing the Net Open Position limit, and adjusting the remunerable Standing Deposit Facility cap.
“Permit me to say that put simply, the exchange rate is determined by the dynamics of supply and demand for a product or service. In essence, similar to the pricing of cows or cars, the value of the US dollar in Nigeria is determined by the balance of US dollars entering the country and the demand for US dollars among Nigerians,” he added.
‘Nigeria better than before Tinubu took over’
In his address, the minister of finance said despite the challenges being faced, Nigeria is currently better than in 2023 when the present administration took over.
According to him, although inflation had increased while the cost of living had also risen astronomically, President Tinubu was ready to protect the poorest and vulnerable Nigerians through various positive policies.
“As things improve, there will be further intervention on behalf of the vulnerable to assist in the cost of living.
“Let us be confident, calm, and assured that Nigeria will change in terms of economic management and that there will be intervention in every sector”, Edun said.
The minister said inflation must be tackled head-on as it presently accounts for 33 per cent of the consumer price index.
According to him, there was a robust plan to put the country on the path to becoming a production economy as the president moves to address the challenges in the energy sector, especially the vested interests in the oil sector.
Similarly, Bagudu said the president was committed to national development.
On his part, Adedeji, said the FIRS was doing more to increase the nation’s revenue base through various positive reforms.
He said the revenue collection target for 2024 was N19.2 trillion, adding that while the agency is not collecting new taxes; it had strategised to bring more people into the tax net.
In his address earlier, the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the plenary, said the issue of the rising cost of living must be treated with the urgency and importance it deserves.
The House had earlier adopted a motion on matters of urgent public importance and appealed to the federal government and all critical stakeholders to open up the national food reserve and complement same by the importation of grains, poultry products, meats, beverages, healthcare and pharmaceutical products from top exporting countries in the world as a short-term measure.
It also urged the federal government to help increase food production and improve distribution, including by ensuring adequate access to fertilisers and crop diversification as part of measures to address the rising cost of living in the country.
Take quick action – Northern elders
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF), while expressing concern yesterday about the unchecked rise in inflation in Nigeria, which it said is posing a significant threat to the wellbeing of citizens, demanded urgent measures from the government to address this crisis before it plunges the nation into greater conflict and chaos.
NEF said in a statement signed by its Director of Publicity and Advocacy, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, that: “The welfare of its citizens must be prioritised, and policies must be implemented to alleviate the burden of inflation.
“This includes increasing agricultural productivity, investing in infrastructure to reduce transportation costs, and implementing social safety nets to support the most vulnerable members of society.”
The NEF added that the government needed to take decisive steps to curb corruption and wasteful spending, adding that the mismanagement of public funds only exacerbates the inflationary pressure and erodes the trust of the people.
We’ll address food shortages — FG
Meanwhile, the federal government said it has taken measures to tackle food shortages in the country.
A special presidential committee met at the presidential villa yesterday to articulate actions necessary to stem the tide, including the release of available food in stock.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who spoke to journalists after the meeting, said the government was concerned about the cost of living protests, particularly the one that occurred in Minna, Niger State, and wanted to ensure that there was relief for citizens.
He said that the meeting was the first in a series of planned sessions as he revealed that the government will make available the food in its storage facilities across the country.
He said the government is also in talks with private millers and major commodity dealers to see what they can provide.
The session was also attended by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and Ministers of Education, Dr Tahir Mamman; Agriculture, Abubakar Kyari; and the Minister of State for Agriculture, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi.
[DailyTrust]
Prof Ndifon Insisted On Virginity For Admission, Witness Alleges; Says She Sent Him A ‘Tightness’ Vulgar Video Under Duress
AdminA witness on Tuesday told the court that the suspended Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Calabar, Cyril Ndifon, promised to help her secure admission into the LLB programme in exchange for her virginity.
The witness, a law diploma graduate identified as TKJ (name withheld based on the order of court to protect the witness), was called by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.
TKJ said he assured her that if she gave him her virginity, she would secure admission into the main programme.
The professor and his lawyer, Sunny Anyanwu, are standing trial on amended four counts of alleged sexual harassment and an attempt to perverse the cause of justice.
Led in evidence by the prosecution counsel, Osuobeni Akponimisingha, TKJ who is the second witness on the matter, said the professor boasted of offering admission to about 50 students.
She said, “After my classes that day, I went to his office. When I got there he had many visitors waiting for him. He asked that I wait for him. After some hours, he dismissed his visitors and asked me to lock the door. I did as he instructed. He stood up from his seat and asked me to hug him. I moved back and he asked if I was scared. I nodded my head. He said I should not be scared and that I should see him as a father. He requested for the hug again. I gave him a side hug.
“He asked me if this was how I hug my boyfriend, I told him I don’t have a boyfriend. He asked if It was a man friend I had, and I told him I had none. He held my waist and told me I don’t have to bother about admission and that he brought a Diploma of Law into the faculty. He said he made about 50 students transition to the LLB programme.
“When he held my waist, I went back. He told me to stop doing that and asked why was I doing it like a baby. He asked if I was a baby, and I said yes. He said am I sure? He said that it was very good. He asked ‘Can I give him my virginity’? I shouted Jesus! He said I should give it to him and he told me he would give me admission. I told him I would think about it.
“He touched my chest which is my breast area. He said he never knew I was this big. While all these were going on, people would come and knock and go. I asked him why does he not want to open the door, and he asked me to forget it. When I asked him why he was the one that gave up to 50 persons admission, he told me he was the owner of the diploma and that I should not bother myself that I will get admission.”
TKJ also told the court that the first defendant asked her to visit him on a public holiday, and she had to lie that she was on her menstrual cycle to escape his advances.
She said at a point, the suspended dean began pressuring her for a nude video.
She said, “He asked that I make a nude video and send it to him. Before I could say anything, he ended the call. Later he called again and demanded the video. I told him that I was still a virgin and he ended the call.
“I sent him a message on WhatsApp that I’m still very tight. He told me he would give me admission that I should not worry I should send the video. After so many calls, I had to send the video to him. ”
TKJ also told the court that after the sexual harassment protests on campus, the suspended dean requested more nude pictures.
TKJ told the court that while the university panel probe was on, he came to the front of her hostel in the car with a tainted glass.
She said she joined him in the car and was having a discussion when the suspended dean tried to put his hand inside her trousers.
TKJ recalled that her path crossed with the suspended dean during her first year in the diploma programme.
After her testimony, the prosecution counsel requested to submit the bank receipt for the N3 000 sent to the witness for treatment as exhibit.
Initially, the counsel for the first defendant, Joe Agi (SAN), objected to the application on the ground that the receipt was not being frontloaded with the proof of evidence.
However, he withdrew his objections when the prosecution counsel mentioned that the same receipt was included in exhibit H.
The trial judge, James Omotoso, admitted the receipt in evidence and adjourned the matter till February 7.
VIDEO: Dangote Varsity Queries, Suspends Lecturer For Administering Corporal Punishment On Students.
AdminThe management of Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, Kano State, has announced the suspension of a staff member who allegedly subjected students to corporal punishment for minor infractions during their ‘Nigerian People and Culture’ lesson.
The incident gained widespread attention through a viral video on social media, prompting a Kano-based lawyer, Barr. Abba Hikima, to pen an open letter condemning the actions of the lecturer as barbaric and inhuman.
Recall that Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil is owned by the Kano State Government. It was initially known as Kano State University of Science and Technology before it was later renamed after Africa’s richest man and businessman, Aliko Dangote, who hails from the State.
In response to the lawyer’s open letter, the university swiftly addressed the issue through a press release signed by the Deputy Registrar of Information and Public Relations, Sa’idu Abdullahi Nayaya.
According to Nayaya, the University management became aware of the viral video depicting corporal punishment inflicted on the students by the erring lecturer during a teaching session. He said the management promptly issued a query and thereafter suspended the staff member and forwarded the case to the Disciplinary Committee for further investigation.
Nayaya emphasised the university’s commitment to ensuring the welfare and safety of its students, stating that, “These measures were taken swiftly to arrest the situation and bring justice.
The management is hereby assuring parents and the general public that any breach of student welfare and safety will not be tolerated and will be met with appropriate consequences.”