The police have launched a manhunt for Mrs. Dupe Onitiri-Abiola, a suspected sponsor of the invasion of the Oyo State Government Secretariat in Ibadan by some Yoruba Nation agitators.

The manhunt for Mrs Onitiri-Abiola, a widow of the business mogul and prominent politician, the late Chief Moshood Abiola, began after the emergence of a viral video in which she claimed responsibility for the violence on Saturday, April 13.

The armed agitators, clad in military camouflage, invaded the Oyo State House of Assembly complex located inside the secretariat and hoisted their flag on Saturday morning. They also attempted to breach the security of the governor’s office, before they were repelled by security operatives.

No fewer than 21 of the agitators were rounded up.

Those arrested were on Monday, April 15, paraded by the police with the arms, ammunition, camouflage and other items recovered from them.

Oyo State Police Commissioner, Adebola Hamzat, who paraded the 21 suspects, described the invasion as a criminal, unpatriotic and a clear case of treasonable felony and terrorism, which would be meted with adequate sanctions.

Although he did not mention the name of Mrs Onitiri-Abiola, Special Adviser to the Oyo State Governor on Security Matters, Mr Fatai Owoseni, said he was aware that she is leading a group of Yoruba Nation agitators. Owoseni, in a televised statement, acknowledged Mrs Onitiri-Abiola’s longstanding involvement in separatist movements and highlighted the need for security reform and youth engagement to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Prof. Banji Akintoye, who is the leader of another Yoruba group along with Sunday “Igboho” Adeyemo, in a statement on Saturday dissociated his group from the action. He alluded to the group as the one led by Mrs. Onitiri-Abiola.

Subsequently, a viral video by Mrs Onitiri-Abiola claiming leadership of the group surfaced on social media.

The Oyo State Police Commissioner said the arrested suspects have been listing the names of their sponsors, adding that the police had visited some locations within Oyo State where some incriminating items were recovered.

The Commissioner urged parents and leaders to discourage their wards from engaging in activities that threaten public order, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to safeguard the state and nation.

•We don’t regret our actions —Defiant suspects

•Local security outfit discovers hideouts •

•Invasion is treasonable —Oyo govt

ONE of the suspects, who was among Yoruba Nation agitators that invaded the Oyo State House of Assembly and Governor’s office, on Saturday, Ayanwale Rofiayat, yesterday, disclosed that those who sponsored the invasion, promised to put an end to starvation in her life.

This came as the Oyo State Government, yesterday, described the invasion as treasonable.

Recall that some self-acclaimed Yoruba Nation agitators hoisted their flag on the building housing the state House of Assembly last Saturday.

The woman suspect was among other 20 suspects paraded by the Oyo State Police Command, Eleyele in Ibadan.

Other items were displayed by the police. They include two security jackets, 30 pieces of torchlights, 49 bells, 5 horse tails, 7 pieces of walkie-talkies, two photographs of Modupe Onitiri Abiola, 261 belts, 12 Yoruba Nation flags, one Oodua Nation coat of arms, 405 live cartridges, 72 pairs of camouflage uniforms and others.

Speaking while being paraded, Rofiat said: “I’m from Igbo Ora in the Ibarapa zone of the state. The sponsors promised me and my entire family that they would empower us and that our future would be assured. Starvation would no longer be in our lives and that cost of living would automatically come down.”

She explained where they got the foreign military camouflage from saying, “The Army camouflage attire on me was given to me and other members when we converged on Ibadan before moving to the Secretariat.”

Another suspect, Mr Alabi Ogundeji, who is a 55-year-old lecturer at a Federal College of Education, said the membership of the Yoruba movement is spread across all Yoruba-speaking states.
Ogundeji said: “Our leaders went to all Yoruba-speaking states to serve officials letters written and we were given our copies.

“Then the proclamation was made and after the declaration, occupation, and notification to the world that Yoruba is an indigenous nation.”

We don’t regret ouractions—Defiant suspects

On his part, a 29-year-old phone repairer, Ademola Adeniyi, was defiant saying he didn’t regret his action.
Adeniyi said: “We all know that nothing is working in Nigeria and things are hard for everyone except those in government, we were at the Secretariat waiting for our leader to come and address us.

“We believe our leader knows much about the law and so we are not afraid to join when we were called upon. Our leaders told us that all challenges Yoruba are facing shall be addressed if we achieve our aim.”

Also, a septuagenarian, who was among the suspects, Mr Peter Adeyemo, had denied being a member noting that, he and his daughter went to Itamerin Market to buy some items and on their way back, they saw people gathered and inquired from a policeman, but was later rough-handled and arrested.

On the charms and amulets found on his body, Adeyemo, a furniture carpenter from Iwere Ile in the Ibarapa zone of Oyo State, admitted that he and his daughter were given some insignias including a flag found in possession of the daughter.

It’s a treasonable felony —Oyo CP

While parading the suspects, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Adebola Hamzat said: “On Saturday, 13/04/2024 at about 0855hrs, information was received that some men dressed in military-like camouflage, armed with pump action semi-automatic rifles, riding on motorcycles, were sighted moving into the main city from Olomi axis of Ibadan.

“At about 0915hrs, the hoodlums, later known as Yoruba Nation Agitation Group, were trailed to the State Secretariat, spreading from the Flyover to within the Premises of the Governor’s Office, and hoisted their Flag at the House of Assembly, proclaiming the creation of a democratic republic of the Yoruba.

“With Police re-inforcement, the miscreants were warned to dispatch. The agitators turned violent and opened fire on the Police and a detachment of Amotekun corps was present. The Police responded and were joined by Operation Burst Patrol teams and Personnel of other security agencies who suppressed the treason and dealt with the agitators in line with Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

“A total of 21 Suspects were arrested, seven rifles made up of five English Pump Action semi-automatic rifles, two wooden double-barreled guns and other items of exhibits as displayed, were recovered.

“While declaring this act as criminal, unpatriotic and a clear case of treasonable felony and terrorism to be meted with adequate sanctions through purposeful prosecutions, the Command re-assures the good people of Oyo State that it remains solidly unwavering to the protection of their lives and property as constitutionally required by the laws of the land.”

Local security outfit discovers hideouts

Meanwhile, a local security outfit, Oluyole Security Surveillance Team, OSST, said it has uncovered another hideout of Yoruba nation agitators.

The hideout is located around the Fatusi and Shagari areas of the Oluyole Local Government Area of the state.

Some items which were allegedly recovered from the agitators included military camouflage, bulletproof jackets, Torch Lights, Generators, Megaphones, and Standing Fans amongst other items.

Makinde commends security agencies for keeping peace in Oyo

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, yesterday, commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for keeping the peace in the state.

Governor Makinde stated this when he received the 46th General Officer Commanding the 2 Mechanised Division, Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan, Maj. Gen. Obinna Onubogu, at the Governor’s Office, Secretariat in Ibadan.

The governor, who seized the occasion to throw light on the invasion of the Government Secretariat last Saturday by suspected Yoruba Nation agitators, explained how the effective security system in the state was able to bring the aggressors to their knees in no time.

Makinde said: “On what happened on Saturday, the Emergency Security Response was activated and it worked. The response was quick, and timely and I believe the hoodlums and miscreants met something that was beyond their imagination. Within one hour, everything was under control. 

“Everybody responded timely and we are grateful for the timely response.

“Concerning the unfortunate incident, what I can say is that we must win the war but we must also win peace. It is a challenging period.”

Speaking earlier, Maj. Gen. Onubogu said: “We are indeed in a period of security challenges and I want to commiserate with you and the good people of Oyo State over the invasion of the Secretariat by some self-acclaimed, irredentists on April 13, 2024.

“This incident is unfortunate as it shows that despite the peace that exists in Oyo State, there are still sons and daughters of South-West Nigeria who are bent on challenging Oyo State, the entire South-West as well as Nigeria as a whole.

“I have taken note of some of the gaps that preceded this incident and I want to assure you that under my watch, we will play our part to ensure that such a situation does not arise again. 

“As our adversaries have made their intentions known, it will be foolhardy for us not to refocus and ensure the people of Oyo remain safe.”

Invasion is treasonable — Oyo govt

Also reacting to the invasion, the Oyo State government described it as treasonable.

Addressing newsmen, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, who condemned the act said there are better ways of agitation other than craving for bloodshed.

Oyelade said: “Attempting to barge into the hallowed chambers of the legislature and take it over with an arsenal of seven pump action submachine guns, over 700 live cartridges, is an act of terrorism.”

The commissioner further disclosed that sponsors of Saturday’s invasion had succeeded in leading them into serious trouble.

Treat invaders as coupists, YCE tells FG

Similarly, the Yoruba Council of Elders, YCE, has described the invasion of the Oyo State House of Assembly and State Secretariat as a coup just as it insisted that those involved in the act should be treated as coupists and punished accordingly.

Reacting to the invasion, Secretary-General of the YCE, Chief Oladipo Oyewole, said the elders condemned the act adding that the Federal Government should fish out perpetrators of the act.
Oyewole said: “The ill-fated mission of misguided persons in Military Camouflage/outfit to the Oyo State Government Secretariat Ibadan is bad.

“The Yoruba Council of Elders, YCE, condemn this unlawful invasion in its entirety.

“Unequivocally, we stand to say that the nauseating act is a coup d’etat. It is barbaric and unwarranted. From reports and analysis, it is an ill-conceived action which was dead on arrival.

“We are of the position, in line with the laws of Nigeria, that all the people involved should be treated as coupists and punished accordingly. 

“Yoruba land and our inherited culture abhor violence.

“The Yoruba man, because of his Omoluwabi ethos, would maintain decorum and dialogue rather than take part in any forceful takeover.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria should, without delay, deploy its apparatus to fish out parties involved in the dastardly act by all means and mete out judgement commensurate with this dastardly act.

“Going by all indicators, Nigeria is ready for take-off to prosperity through proper planning and application of rules of engagement that will give our nation, the cutting edge we earnestly desire and deserve for our comfort and mutual prosperity. We condemn this unfortunate act in all ramifications.”

Invasion is act of treason —Bode George

Also joining in condemning the invasion by the Yoruba Nation agitators, former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Bode George, yesterday, described the invasion in Oyo State as an act of treason. 

Speaking in an interview on Arise Television, George said: “You don’t just go and take up arms against your government, it is treason. That they called Amotekun and the police is something; if it were people from my old profession, they would have seen them as enemies and fired at them.

“I was completely very angry because that is not the way you talk to your government. What could have driven them into that? My conclusion is that they might not be educated. You don’t take up arms against your nation.

“It’s unimaginable; you brought guns and charms; were they dreaming? It’s unacceptable; it’s the highest breaking of the law of the land. You have your freedom of speech which is the most sensible way to approach this problem. The problem is that this thing never leaked to the intelligence of this nation.

“Agitators carried their weapons in military uniforms, and nobody stopped them on the road; you now see the urgent need for state police because they could not have been meeting somewhere if we are well organized like the state police.”

Abiola’s son slams Onitiri-Abiola for instigating invasion

On his part, the Special Assistant to the President on Special Duties in the Office of the Vice-President, Mr Jamiu Abiola, yesterday, faulted the invasion of Oyo State House of Assembly and the Governor’s Office by suspected Yoruba nation agitators. 

Abiola, in a chat with Vanguard, also said it was sad that a woman connected with his father, the late Moshood Abiola, could have declared the South-West region a Democratic Republic of Yoruba Nation, stressing that her call for secession was against all that MKO was known for.

His words: “I have never met her and I don’t think that she told members of the Abiola family because the family members I spoke to are furious about this. They are shocked. Our family patriarch, Chief Moshood Abiola, was well known for his strong belief in Nigeria’s unity and that was why it was easy for him to convince Nigerians from all regions to give him their votes.

“It is sad that a woman bearing his name could have made such a declaration, particularly now that the Nigerian President, Senator Bola Tinubu, is a Yoruba man who is doing a lot of what my father had wanted to do as Nigeria’s President.

“By doing that, we would be giving her declaration more attention than it deserves. We will ignore her just like most Nigerians have done.”

We’re not terrorists, youth group tells Ondo govt

Meanwhile, a group of Yoruba Nation Youths, both Home and Diaspora, yesterday, insisted that they are not terrorists but a legitimate group of youths demanding Yoruba Nation, self-determination and independence.

Governors in the South-West and some major stakeholders in the region have expressed their disapproval of the recent incursion of Yoruba Nation agitators into Oyo State.

Naija News reported last week that several individuals wearing masks forced their way into the Oyo State Government Secretariat, with some of them armed.

The agitators were said to have breached the government building after Ms Modupe Abiola Onitiri, the wife of the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993, Presidential election, allegedly made a declaration.

Ms Onitiri, who is currently residing outside Nigeria, reportedly declared herself as the President of a new Sovereign State called the Yoruba Nation in a widely circulated video.

Leaders in the South-West geopolitical zone have condemned the development and are taking steps to prevent any uprising in the name of agitation in the region.

Popular Yoruba nation agitators, such as Chief Sunday Adeyemo, also known as Sunday Igboho, and Chief Banji Akintoye, have since distanced themselves from Onitiri and have called for her arrest.

However, some close associates of Abiola, who spoke with journalists on Monday, April 15, clarified that Ms Onitiri was not one of Abiola’s officially recognized wives.

The South-West states are taking the situation seriously and have issued warnings against any form of agitation or attempts to overthrow democratically elected governors in the region.

Onitiri Not Official Wife Of Late Abiola – Aide

Addressing journalists about Onitiri’s role in the agitation in the southwest region, Dr Wale Fasakin, an aide of the late MKO Abiola, stated that Onitiri, who pronounced herself the president of a new Yoruba Nation, is not one of the officially recognised wives of Abiola.

“She is not one of the officially recognised wives. The agitators are saying Oduduwa Nation. The Yoruba Nation she is talking about, I don’t know what she wants to achieve.

“Where does she get the power to organise such a thing? How can they organise such a thing?

“She is not one of the recognised official wives – the official wives are four – Kudirat, Simbiatu, Bisi, and Doyin. She may be Abiola’s wife but she is not one of the wives declared when he was campaigning.

“These were the people living in his house. When Simbi died, those living with him were three. Those are the three he referred to as official wives during the Hope 93 Campaign. So Onitiri is not one of the official wives,” Fasakin told reporters.

It Is Clearly An Act Of Terrorism – Oyo Govt

Governor Seyi Makinde’s led government of Oyo State has since condemned the actions of the Yoruba Nation agitators.

The government sternly berated the group for attempting to take control of the state secretariat, labelling their action a treasonable felony.

In a statement issued yesterday, the State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, stated that investigations are ongoing and assured that there were no fatalities during the confrontation with the agitators.

“Attempting to barge into the hallowed chambers of the legislature and take it over with an arsenal of seven pump action submachine guns, over 700 live cartridges, is clearly an act of terrorism,” Daily Trust quoted Oyelade saying.

The commissioner noted that the governor’s office and the State House of Assembly were invaded on Saturday, emphasizing that the sponsors of this invasion have put themselves in serious trouble.

Security Efforts

In a related development, the state police command paraded 21 individuals suspected to be Yoruba Nation agitators, while a joint security force cracked down on their hideout in Sanyo.

Naija News understands that the paraded suspects included a female and two elderly men in their sixties.

During his address, the state Commissioner of Police, CP. Adebola Hamzat, confirmed the arrest of the 21 suspected agitators and warned others with criminal intentions to leave the state.

Prior to this, a joint security operation successfully uncovered a hideout belonging to the attackers, resulting in the discovery of a cache of weapons.

Upon receiving information about the whereabouts of the agitators, the Oluyole Security Surveillance Team (OSST), led by Comrade Idowu, alerted other security agencies, including the Sanyo police station.

Acting on the provided intelligence, the police organized and apprehended the suspects as they tried to transport their weapons from Sanyo to an undisclosed location.

The operation also led to the discovery of another hideout of the agitators in the Shagari area. Naija News learnt that all seized weapons and other items are being held at the police station for further investigation.

Ondo Gov’t Frowns At Agitators

The event in Oyo State has prompted the Ondo State government to issue a strong warning to individuals who seek to disrupt the peace in the state by claiming to advocate for the Yoruba nation.

In a statement issued yesterday, the Special Adviser to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Information, Olugbenga Omole declared that any activities that threaten the current peace and unity among the state’s residents will not be tolerated by the government.

Additionally, Omole emphasized that the government will oppose any individuals or groups that undermine the initiatives of the federal government.

“We will arrest them here in Ondo. We will not support anybody that is against the federal government,” he said.

Secessionists Will Be Treated As Armed Robbers – Ogun Police

The Ogun State Police Command has labelled the suspected secessionists as armed robbers and stated that they would be treated accordingly.

According to the police spokesman, Omolola Odutola, even the leader of the self-proclaimed Yoruba Nation, has disowned them, further solidifying their classification as criminals.

Odutola said: “It has some political colouration because I don’t see how some people will just wake up one morning and start carrying knives and start disturbing the peace of a state. The ones in Oyo State, were all arrested.

“There is no cause for panic. We don’t know them, anybody that is arrested will be charged with sedition or treasonable felony because you can’t just come up with a country within a country.

“They are armed robbers who want to go and attack innocent people and give it a political colouration. We will deal with them squarely.”

Journalists who went around the state on Monday reported that the residents carried on with their regular activities during the day without any signs of panic.

Similarly, in the state capital of Abeokuta, no extraordinary security measures were observed.

Police Beef Up Security In Ekiti

Ekiti State Police operatives have reportedly enhanced security measures around the Government House in the Okesa area of Ado-Ekiti following the incident in Oyo State.

Naija News learnt that the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) has taken up positions in key areas that lead to the governor’s office.

This precautionary action aims to prevent any potential incursion by the Yoruba Nation Agitators, similar to the incidents witnessed in Oyo State, Nigeria.

Currently, the state capital in Ekiti State enjoys a serene and peaceful environment, reports revealed.

Reps S/West Caucus condemns agitators

In the meantime, the House of Representatives South West Caucus has expressed its disapproval of the attacks carried out on the Oyo State House of Assembly by certain Yoruba Nation agitators.

Naija News understands that the disapproval was conveyed through a statement issued by the Caucus’s leadership on Monday, jointly signed by its chairman, Rep. Abiodun James Faleke, Rep. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, and Rep. Taofeek Ajilesoro.

The lawmakers strongly criticized the actions of the self-proclaimed Yoruba Nation agitators, as it caused unrest and posed a significant threat to the peace and stability of the South West region.

The statement reads: “As representatives of the people, we stand firmly against any form of unlawful behaviour and violence that undermines the rule of law and the unity of our country, Nigeria. It is essential that all grievances and demands be addressed through peaceful and lawful means, respecting the rights and well-being of all citizens.

“We urge all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue, prioritize the welfare of our people, and work towards finding peaceful and lasting solutions to any grievances.”

Faleke, the Chairman of the South West Caucus, emphasized the importance of rejecting violence and lawlessness in society, urging everyone to embrace the values of peace, unity, and adherence to the rule of law.

“The South West Caucus remains committed to upholding the values of democracy, justice, and unity in our region and the country at large. Together, we can overcome challenges and build a better future for all,” he added.

The community of Eket Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State was cloaked in mourning on Monday as the remains of the late Nollywood makeup artist, Abigail Edith Frederick, were laid to rest in her family home in Ikot Udoma.

The 24-year-old artist tragically lost her life in a boating accident on the River Niger, which also claimed the lives of five other film practitioners, including the notable actor Junior Pope.

The burial ceremony was a poignant affair, marked by the outpouring of grief from family members and friends who gathered to bid their final goodbyes.

Governor Umo Eno, who had visited the bereaved family over the weekend, ordered that Frederick’s initially buried remains by the bank of River Niger be exhumed and returned to her hometown for a proper burial.

This directive was part of efforts to provide closure to the family and honor the deceased in accordance with local customs.

In tribute to her memory, a candle-light procession was held, illuminating the evening as those who knew and admired Frederick celebrated her contributions to the Nollywood industry.

A Facebook user, Ubong David, who shared pictures from the burial on Monday wrote, “Today, the late Abigail Frederick, the Nollywood makeup artist who tragically lost her life in the ill-fated boat mishap, has been laid to rest at the family compound in Ikot Udoma, Eket Local Government Area.

“The funeral service was conducted by the Church of Christ, Ikot Udoma, and was attended by various dignitaries, including the Eket Transition Committee Chairman, Akaniyene Tommey; Commissioner for Tourism, Charles Udoh; SA on Entertainment, Moses Eskor; Godfada Uko, members of the Eket Transition Committee, Nollywood actress, Eve Esin, the Nollywood community, friends, and sympathisers.”

Eno had during his visit to the deceased’s family announced automatic employment to her elder sister and directed the renovation of the family house.

He said, “This is deeply unfortunate. A young girl, 24 years old, who finished her National Youth Service Programme just last year, and decided to pursue her passion.

“This is a reflection of our Arise Spirit. It shows that our young people are willing to go out there, not begging, not waiting for handouts, but to pursue their passions. Sadly, her life ended the way it did.

“Once I was fully briefed, I decided to come here personally with the full complement of Government to console and encourage the family.”

Eno had said going there meant the state cared. According to him, “You know Akwa Ibomites are like Americans. We don’t leave each other behind. The government will be with the family and support them.”

The Federal Government of Nigeria, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, declared April 7 as National Police Day.

Vice President Shettima made the announcement during the inaugural awards and commendations event organized by the police force in Abuja.

Vice President Shettima, delivering a speech on behalf of President Tinubu titled “Courage Under Fire: A Bouquet for Our Police Force,” lauded the Nigerian police for their dedication amidst the country’s profound security challenges.

He attributed the resilience of the Nigerian people largely to the steadfast efforts of the police force.

During his speech, VP Shettima detailed the administration’s strong commitment to modernizing and professionalizing the Nigeria Police Force to align with national values and aspirations.

This commitment is showcased through substantial reforms, including training and capacity-building investments.

These initiatives are designed to equip officers with the skills and expertise needed to address modern policing challenges effectively.

Furthermore, the Vice President pledged continuous government support for enhancing police operations. This includes significant upgrades in equipment and technology to improve the force’s operational efficiency and effectiveness.

The establishment of National Police Day aims to recognize and celebrate the critical role and sacrifices of the police in maintaining security and enforcing the law throughout the nation.

A 26-year-old Nigerian man, Michael Chidozie, has died of spinal injury complications after his wife shot him four times during an argument inside their Houston residence, Texas, US.

Chidozie’s wife, Keaiirra Shavoiyae, two years older, shot him in the middle of an argument on March 21 in front of their two children, claiming she acted in self-defence.

He was rushed to Ben Taub Hospital after police found him with gunshot wounds and his wife in a panic holding their two kids, aged three and two.

According to Daily Mail, Chidozie lingered 18 days on life support in the hospital before dying of spinal injury complications.

Consequently, Shavoiyae has been charged with aggravated assault but it has not been upgraded to murder since his death.

She claimed to have shot Chidozie in self-defence as she feared for her life during the argument when he followed her into their bedroom.

The argument began elsewhere in the house before she went to the bedroom, where she picked up a pistol and shot him, the police said.

However, the report did not reveal whether the Nigerian national who was a bodybuilder had physically assaulted his wife for her to resort to shooting him for self-defence.

Chidozie was shot once in the arm, once in the chest, and twice in his torso and left to die on the bedroom floor.

Police found Shavoiyae with the children in a nearby parking lot after witnesses called police to say she was frantically running around asking for help.

Friends said they had never seen the couple be violent towards each other and were shocked that an argument escalated into fatality.

Chidozie’s family who prayed for him when he was in the hospital, now trying to raise $70,000 to bring his body back to Nigeria for burial, as it was his dream to one day return to the country.

“His passing has left a profound void in the lives of all who knew and loved him. He was a devoted father, a cherished son, and a dear friend to many,” they said.

“Chidozie’s kind heart, infectious laughter, and unwavering love for his family will forever be remembered and cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know him.”

Chidozie’s wife, Shavoiyae was released on bail and is set to face court on May 23, and their children are being cared for by another family.

There are indications that Nigerians are fast relegating cash transaction to the background as the value of electronic payment transactions skyrockets.

According to the latest report released by the Nigerian Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS) yesterday, value of electronic payment transactions (EPT) grew year-on-year (YoY) by 89 percent to N257.73 trillion in the first quarter of 2024 (Q1’24) from N136.2 trillion in Q1’23.

The data also showed that the value of NIBSS Instant Payment (NIP) recorded high value of transactions, growing YoY by 90.8 percent to N236.46 trillion in Q1’24 from N123.9 trillion in Q1’23.

According to the report the value of Mobile Money Operations (MMO) transactions grew by 87.8 percent to N17.11 trillion in Q1’24 from N9.11 trillion in Q1’23.

The value of Automated Clearing House (ACH) transactions grew by 127.9 percent to N10.1 billion in Q1’24 from N4.43 billion in Q1’23, while its volume increased by 6.7 percent to 6.46 million in Q1’24 from 6.05 million in Q1’23.

The growths signify Nigerians’ increased adoption of electronic payment channels for transactions.

Meanwhile, The value of Cheque transactions grew by 22 percent to N935.24 billion in Q1’24 from N765.9 billion in Q1’23.

But its volume of transactions fell by 16.6 percent to 900.3 million in Q1’24 from 1.08 billion in Q1’23.

However, the value of Point of Sale (PoS) transactions, the grass cash option, fell YoY by 8.09.percent to N2.61 trillion in Q1’24 from N2.84 trillion in Q1’23.

This came against the backdrop of a similar decline of 5.29 percent month-on-month recorded in February to N805 billion from N850 billion in January.

But the volume of PoS transactions increased by 4.09 percent to 313.98 million in Q1’24 from 327.4 million in Q1’23.

AI Robots are now set to enter the beauty pageant world as a new artificial intelligence pageant is set to dole out thousands of dollars to the best chatbot babes.

“‘Miss AI’ is the world’s first beauty pageant for AI-generated models,” announced Fanvue, a subscription-based social media platform, of its forthcoming event slated for May.

“Contestants will be judged on their beauty, tech, and clout for the chance to earn the Miss AI crown.” 

The event, an offshoot of the World AI Creator Awards (WAICAs), which recognizes artificial intelligence content creators across the globe will welcome digital divas who’ve been designed to dazzle the eye, mind and internet.

A panel of human judges such as beauty pageant historian Sally-Ann Fawcett, as well as AI influencers Aitana Lopez and Emily Pellegrini, will select the best and sexiest robots.

“Each judge will use their wealth of expertise to assess contestants across three core categories,” said pageant organizers. “A points-based system will be used to score each creator across the three categories with each entrant given an overall score.”

The top bot will log out with a whopping $13,000 reward, including a $5,000 check, a $3,000 mentorship scholarship and $5,000 in public relations support.

The second and third runners-up will receive grand totals of $5,000 and $2,000, respectively.

AI photos competing for the titles must be “100% AI-generated” to be considered for the money. The creators of the masterpieces must be at least age 18.

“Contestants will be judged on some of the classic aspects of pageantry including their beauty, poise and their unique answers to a series of questions like, ‘If you could have one dream to make the world a better place what would it be?,’” per Fanvue.

“Contestants will earn points for their skill and implementation of AI tools used to create their digital masterpieces, including the use of prompts and their output, and visual detailing around hands, eyes, and backgrounds.”

“AI Creators’ social clout will be assessed based on their engagement numbers with fans, rate of growth of audience,” Fanvue explained, “and [their] utilization of other platforms such as Instagram.”

A recent research carried out by market research company GitNux has uncovered that women in South Africa possess the widest average hip size, implying they may have the biggest backsides.

South Africa clinched the top spot with an average hip size of 41.73 inches, as per data from the report titled “Statistics About The Average Hip Size For Women,” which measured hip sizes in Nigeria and 16 other nations.

The ranking indicates that South Africa outperforms Brazil, which is commonly associated with wide hips and ample backsides, even though Brazil was not part of the dataset.

Argentina, renowned for its flourishing plastic surgery industry, particularly Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs), closely followed in second place at 41 inches.

Sweden, breaking the mold of tall and slender stereotypes, earned the third rank with an average hip measurement of 40.9 inches.

Greece and Germany secured the fourth and fifth positions on the list, with average hip sizes of 40.74 and 40.6 inches, correspondingly, while the US ranked sixth, with an average hip measurement of 40.2 inches.

The report pointed out that Nigerian women averaged a hip circumference of about 38.56 inches, measured at the widest point, serving as a gauge for pelvic size.

The researchers clarified that this average is derived from a sample group and may not accurately represent the size of every Nigerian woman.

India, ranking second-lowest in global obesity rates, maintained the record for the smallest average hip size at 36.1 inches.

While the study does not offer insights into the underlying reasons for the rankings, it hints that multiple factors like obesity rates, prevalence of plastic surgery, and inherent bone structure could be contributing factors.