YORUBA elders under the auspices of Kaaro Oojiire ÌmÍ Oodua Foundation, KOOOF, yesterday, expressed worry over the rising cases of ritual killing and body parts harvesting in the South West.

The Yoruba elders, in a statement by their Vice President/Diaspora Counsel, Gbenga Adewusi, wondered how cases of human decapitation and harvesting of human bodies have now become a daily occurrence.

Adewusi said: “The recurrence of the activities of those involved in the human ritual in the Southwest is indeed a shameful episode that should no longer be ignored and or swept under the carpet by all stakeholders in Yoruba land.

“What makes the news alarming is the regularity of the sordid and inhuman activities, and the various types of people involved – from Muslim imams to Christian pastors, from teenagers to old and young men and women.

“If urgent actions are not taken it will ultimately affect the peace, tranquillity, progress, and development of the Southwest because no investor wants to invest in an area where citizens are regularly and gruesomely murdered to harvest their body parts.

“The current evidence gleaned from news reports indicate that the majority of those caught by the security services have been Muslim Alfas and Christian pastors. However, this simple fact is not an excuse to exonerate the Yoruba people from the menace of ritual killing because all those caught by the authorities were mostly sons and daughters of the Southwest soil.”

While condemning the act, KOOOF insisted that something urgent needed to be done to bring the scourge to a halt.
“We are all aware that there is a false narrative about ritual killing in the Southwest. The false narrative is that ritual killing is practised by the traditional Yoruba religious believers. This false perception is neither supported with available evidence nor is far separated from the truth.”

“We, members of KOOOF boldly state that there is no money ritual at all. Those engaged in ritual killings for money are not practising the authentic Yoruba tradition.”

The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja on Thursday granted the immediate past Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, bail in the sum of N500 million and three sureties.

The trial judge, Justice MaryAnne Anenih, made the pronouncement after listening to the fresh bail application brought before the court following the court’s refusal to grant Bello bail at the last sitting.

Bello, alongside two others, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, are facing trial on 16 counts preferred against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission bordering on criminal breach of trust and money laundering to the tune of N110.4 billion.

The court, however, granted the second and third defendants, bail in the sum of N300m with two sureties alongside other conditions. 

Further reading out the conditions for Bello’s bail, the judge held that the sureties must be responsible citizens who are landowners in any of the listed areas in Abuja – Maitama, Guzape, Apo, Wuse 2 or Asokoro.

She ordered that the sureties must deposit the documents of the property with the court’s registrar alongside two recent passport photographs.

Justice Anenih also ordered that Bello must deposit two copies of his recent passport photograph alongside a photocopy of a means of identification which could be either an International Passport or National Identity card after showing the original to the court’s registrar.

She held, “The first defendant must not travel without the permission of this court and he shall remain in the Kuje Correctional Facility until the bail conditions are met.”

Recall that on December 10, the court had rejected Bello’s bail request citing procedural irregularities in the filing of the application.

Justice Anenih, while delivering the ruling, stated that the application was premature and filed before Bello was present in court or custody.

The court noted that the bail application, dated November 22, 2024, was filed before Bello’s arraignment, which took place on November 27, 2024; days after he was taken into custody on November 26, 2024.

She said, “Having not been filed when the first defendant was either in custody or before the court, this instant application is incompetent.

“Consequently, the application, having been filed prematurely, is hereby refused.”

At the resumed sitting on Thursday, the defendant’s counsel, J.B Daudu, said, “My Lord, the matter is for hearing of bail application for the first defendant.”

Daudu, further told the court that he had been in discussions with the lead prosecution counsel and they had agreed to ensure a speedy trial.

While he urged the court to grant the first defendant’s bail application, he requested that the court graciously review the bail conditions for the 1st to 3rd defendants.

He urged the court to spread out the conditions for the sureties and not limit the property to only the Maitama area of the FCT. He said it is difficult for property owners in Maitama to volunteer their C of O’s being that the properties are mostly commercial for businesses.

He said, “We urge your lordship to grant the application. Now if my lordship is minded to grant bail we ask for the terms granted to be what the defendant can meet.

“I’m asking if the net can be spread out to other high-brow areas like Apo, Wuse 2, Asokoro, Garki and other areas within the FCT area.”

The prosecution counsel, Olukayode Enitan, confirmed that the defendant’s counsel had been in talks with the prosecution team, saying, “I confirm the evidence given by the distinguished member of the bar that is leading the defence, J.B. Daudu (SAN), that he has been in conversation with the leader of the prosecuting team.

“As with the legal tradition that we should cooperate with members of the bar when it does not affect the course of justice, we have decided not to make this contentious, bearing in mind that no matter how industrious the defence counsel might be in pushing forward the application for bail and no matter how vociferous the prosecution counsel can argue against the bail application, your lordship is bound by your discretion to grant or not to grant the application. We are, therefore, leaving this to your lordship’s discretion.”

After listening to both counsel, Justice Anenih stated that the offence brought against the former governor is a bailable one, saying, “The offence on which the first defendant is charged are ordinarily bailable. After due consideration, the bail application for the first defendant succeeds and the bail application is hereby granted in the sum of N500 million.”

She also proceeded to spread out the bail conditions for the second and third defendants, stating that the two sureties should be landowners in like sum in any of the following areas in Abuja: Wuse 2, Garki, Maitama, Asokoro, Gwarimpa or Guzape.

As fixed in the last proceeding, The adjourned date remains January 29 and 30, 2025, for hearing.

The 10th Senate led by Godswill Akpabio, on Thursday, passed the N49.7tn 2025 Budget for a second reading.

The budget was passed during plenary after various deliberations on the budget which was presented yesterday by President Bola Tinubu.

The budget was later referred to the Committee on Appropriations after being put to a voice vote by Akpabio, who presided over the session.

The Committee on Appropriations is chaired by Senator Solomon Adeola.

Tinubu, on Wednesday had presented the 2025 Budget of Restoration to a joint session of the National Assembly, targeting peace and prosperity with a revenue projection of ₦34.82tn to fund the aggregate expenditure of ₦47.9tn.

In the proposed budget, which has a deficit of ₦13.0tn, Tinubu earmarked ₦4.91tn for Defence and Security, ₦4.06tn for Infrastructure, ₦3.5tn for Education, and ₦2.48tn for Health.

The President, in his budget speech, also disclosed that ₦15.81tn is allocated for debt servicing, with salient parameters including 2.06 million barrels of oil production per day, an exchange rate of ₦1,500 to a US dollar, and an inflation rate of 15%, down from the current 34.6%.

He said, “The numbers for our 2025 budget proposal tell a bold and exciting story of the direction we are taking to retool and revamp the socio-economic fabric of our society.

“In 2025, we are targeting ₦34.82tn in revenue to fund the budget.

“Government expenditure in the same year is projected to be ₦47.90tn, including ₦15.81tn for debt servicing.

“A total of ₦13.08tn, or 3.89 per cent of GDP, will make up the budget deficit.

“This is an ambitious but necessary budget to secure our future.

“The Budget projects inflation will decline from the current rate of 34.6 per cent to 15 per cent next year, while the exchange rate will improve from approximately 1,700 naira per US dollar to 1,500 naira and a base crude oil production assumption of 2.06 million barrels per day (mbpd).

“These projections are based on the following observations: (i) Reduced importation of petroleum products alongside increased export of finished petroleum products, (ii) Bumper harvests, driven by enhanced security, reducing reliance on food imports, (iii) Increased foreign exchange inflows through Foreign Portfolio Investments, and (iv) Higher crude oil output and exports, coupled with a substantial reduction in upstream oil and gas production costs.”

Tinubu informed federal lawmakers that a series of economic reforms being carried out by his government are yielding positive results, saying, “Our economy grew by 3.46 per cent in the third quarter of 2024, up from 2.54 per cent in the third quarter of 2023.

“Our Foreign Reserves now stand at nearly 42 billion US dollars, providing a robust buffer against external shocks.”

The ex-wife of the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Naomi Silekunola, has been arrested by the Oyo State Police Command following the tragic stampede at a children’s carnival she organised.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan.

In a statement on Thursday, the state police spokesperson, Adewale Osifeso, said Naomi was arrested alongside seven event organisers.

According to Osifeso, the stampede resulted in the tragic loss of 35 minors, with six children in critical condition and receiving various medical interventions.

The statement read, “Eight persons have since been arrested for their various involvements in the event.

“Among those detained are Silekunola, aged 31, and Fasasi Abdulahi, the 56-year-old principal of the school.”

“The other individuals arrested include Genesis Christopher, Tanimowo Moruf, Anisolaja Olabode, Idowu Ibrahim, and Abiola Oluwatimilehin, with ages ranging from 25 to 52 years. So far, 35 minors have been documented dead while 6 others are critically injured.”

Osifeso also stated that the command had taken significant steps in the investigation, transferring the case to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, where the Deputy Commissioner of Police will lead the inquiry, and justice will be served accordingly.

He said police have increased their presence in the area to maintain peace and security, adding that residents have been advised not to panic, as police patrols will be heightened to prevent any potential unrest.

The statement emphasised.“Residents around the axis are advised not to panic as they would witness high level patrols and visible Police presence.

“The Oyo Police Command then expressed its condolences to the families affected by this tragedy, stating, “The Oyo State Police Command sympathises with all the families and loved ones affected by the tragedy.”

The command also provided emergency contact numbers, including a toll-free line at 615 and control room numbers: 08081768614, 09054133071, and 09061299291.

Fuji musician, Rdot maWasiu Alabi Ajibola Odetola, popularly known as Pasuma Wonder, marked 40 years anniversary in the entertainment industry on December 18, 2024.

The grand event, held at the Sheraton Bamora Hall in Ikeja, Lagos, was a spectacular affair, bringing together a host of Nigerian celebrities and music legends.

The evening saw a star-studded attendance, including Fuji maestro K1 De Ultimate, actress Faithia Balogun, and several other prominent figures, all coming together to honor the legendary musician’s remarkable career.

One of the most emotional moments of the evening was captured in a viral video, where K1 De Ultimate, who has been a mentor to Pasuma, sang praises and offered heartfelt prayers for him.

In a show of deep respect, Pasuma bowed his head in gratitude, creating a touching moment that stirred social media, with fans and followers expressing their admiration for the veteran artist.

Pasuma’s journey in music began in 1984, inspired by his mentor, K1 De Ultimate.

Over the years, he has solidified his position as one of the most influential figures in the Fuji music scene, making a significant impact not only as a musician but also as an actor.

Another highlight of the evening was the emotional reunion between K1 De Ultimate and Ayinla Kollington, two Fuji legends who had been estranged for years.

The duo was seen together, laughing and reminiscing, finally putting an end to years of speculation about their relationship.

See below;

The world football governing body, FIFA has unveiled the final world rankings for national teams in 2024, showcasing where each country stands at the close of the year.

Among African nations, Nigeria’s Super Eagles have claimed the fifth position, although they have experienced a considerable decline in their global ranking.

According to the rankings published by FIFA on Thursday, December 19, Nigeria remain in their previous position as the fifth-best team in Africa.

However, the Super Eagles have faced a tumultuous year, culminating in an eight-place drop to 44th globally by the end of 2024.

This fall in the rankings can be attributed to lackluster performances during the crucial final 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. In matches against regional rivals Benin Republic and Rwanda, Nigeria struggled significantly, resulting in a series of disappointing outcomes and no victories.

In contrast to Nigeria’s struggles, South Africa’s Bafana Bafana have had a remarkable resurgence, climbing three spots to finish the year ranked 57th in the world. This improvement reflects their recent form and victories during the qualifiers, highlighting a successful turnaround for the team.

Nigeria’s West African counterparts, Ghana, faced their own set of challenges this year, concluding the year in a disappointing 77th place globally. This ranking illustrates the difficulties both Ghana and Nigeria have encountered in maintaining their status among Africa’s elite football teams.

Top 10 African Teams in FIFA Rankings:

1. Morocco – 14th
2. Senegal – 17th
3. Egypt – 33rd
4. Algeria – 37th
5. Nigeria – 44th
6. Côte d’Ivoire – 46th
7. Cameroon – 49th
8. Mali – 51st
9. Tunisia – 52nd
10. South Africa – 57th

On the world stage, the top ten international teams remained stable from the previous month, with Argentina securing the number one position. France holds strong at second, while Spain maintains third place in the rankings.

England and Brazil round out the top five, showcasing the prominence of these nations in global football.

2024 FIFA World Ranking (Top 10):

1. Argentina – 1867.25 points
2. France – 1859.78 points
3. Spain – 1853.27 points
4. England – 1813.81 points
5. Brazil – 1775.85 points
6. Portugal – 1756.12 points
7. Netherlands – 1747.55 points
8. Belgium – 1740.62 points
9. Italy – 1731.51 points
10. Germany – 1703.79 points

Social critic Vincent Martins Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has opened up about how he has slept with about 30 ladies this year, 2024.

According to him, he has never been in a relationship but having bedroom activities with ladies is one issue that has been a cause of worry to him.

He said that he does not have limitations to the kind of ladies he has slept with, as he has handled slim, tall, short, and fat ladies. Besides, he does not have any problem with single mothers.

VDM noted that he wanted a solution to sleeping with different women and called on guys with the same habit to listen to his idea.

The social media critic advised that men should settle down with one woman and take care of her needs. He believes that if he is dating only one lady, her needs become his responsibility. Nevertheless, it does not mean he would see the lady as a call girl.

VeryDarkMan, who has gotten himself involved in several controversies, spoke about the essence of getting married and sticking with one woman. He cited a challenge with it because of his habit of having bedroom activities with several women.

Speaking about his kind of woman, VDM said he loves slim women and it has been his choice for a while, but it did not stop him from having private fun moments with other types of women. Watch him speak in instagram video clip below:

Actress Nkechi Blessing has shared her thoughts on relationships and the measures she takes to prioritize her man’s well-being.

Her comments came in response to a tweet from a user who mentioned that they have trouble sleeping since entering into a relationship.

“Since I enter relationship I never close my eyes say I wan sleep. Sleep ke? Nothing consine me and sleep o. Make una no tiff my man. I, too, love my baby; I dey watch over am as e dey sleep.
I go lie for una?” the post read.

Nkechi Blessing in response, revealed that she can relate to the sentiment, suggesting that she too is vigilant when it comes to her partner’s safety and well-being.

She mentioned that she likes to keep a watchful eye on her partner, even while they sleep, to ensure that nothing happens to him.

Nkechi Blessing joked that she is always on the lookout for potential threats, even something as minor as a mosquito bite.

She captioned …

“Like this, I Dey watch am sleep, in case mosquitoes want bite am. Love you baby”.

Her comments were met with amusement and understanding from her followers.

Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Social Media, Olusegun Dada, has responded to Nigerians curious about the consistent meeting of his principal and comic Nollywood actor, Abiodun Ayoyinka, better known as Papa Ajasco, at Lagos airport.

Tinubu received a grand reception at the Lagos airport on Wednesday when he arrived ahead of Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Dada shared a video of Tinubu greeting Papa Ajasco at the airport.

Reacting to the video, an X user wrote, “I’m curious, do they meet every time he’s at Lagos airport? Cos this scene happened months ago too”

Tinubu’s aide responded, “I’ve seen this question pop up in my comments a lot. For context, Papa Ajasco is in charge of the cultural troop that welcomes Mr president whenever he is in Lagos. Hope this helps”

Nigerian actor and former presidential candidate, Yul Edochie, has once again ignited discussions online regarding his political ambitions.

In a recent update on his official Instagram account, Edochie posted a photograph of himself with Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu, and expressed his desire to become the next governor of Anambra State, while also endorsing Seyi Tinubu as a prospective governor for Lagos State.

The image, paired with a caption detailing their political aspirations, quickly attracted significant attention from Nigerians on various social media platforms.

Having previously sought the presidency, Edochie now appears to be redirecting his focus towards a governorship campaign in Anambra, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to engaging in Nigerian politics.

Recalls that barely a month ago, the Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) declared that the governorship seat in the state is not a gift to be handed to the Bola Tinubu family.

This reaction follows the recent group campaigns and endorsement of Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Tinubu, to succeed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as the next Governor of Lagos State.

PDP, however, has said that Lagosians would resist any attempts to impose the president’s son as the next to attain the state’s highest political position in 2027.

In a statement issued in November, the state PDP spokesperson, Hakeem Amode, said, “Lagos will not serve him.”

Amode inquired about the appropriateness of governorship as an inherited position, indicating that it is unsuitable for a son to succeed his father in such a capacity.

He emphasized that should the Tinubu faction employ strategies akin to those previously utilized in Ondo and Edo states, they would encounter significant opposition.