Author: Lifestyle & Wellness Desk

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has strongly condemned the appointment of individuals with questionable integrity into ministerial and public service roles, stating that Nigeria must stop rewarding those who steal public funds with leadership positions. Speaking during an appearance on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme aired on Wednesday, the former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor expressed dismay over the erosion of the nation’s moral compass, saying the country’s value system has collapsed. “A society in which material wealth, no matter how you get it, is respected… where people who are known to have stolen money get rewarded with ministerial appointments… that society will continue to reproduce itself,” Sanusi warned. He criticised the prevailing culture where individuals with tainted reputations are not only tolerated but celebrated and reappointed into positions of power. According to him, such a system encourages a cycle of corruption and dishonesty that undermines national development. Sanusi further noted that many public officials enter government for personal enrichment rather than service, stating, “Many people go into government to make money, but you don’t go into government to make money.” He lamented the decline of values such as diligence, honesty, and compassion, pointing out that these have been replaced by a widespread glorification of wealth regardless of how it is acquired. “We have been ruled by people who have no values… They define themselves by what they own: houses, private jets, billions in bank accounts,” he said. The Emir’s remarks have sparked renewed conversation around the quality of leadership in Nigeria and the urgent need for value-driven governance.

Veteran Fuji musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as Kwam1 or K1 De Ultimate, has denied reports of unruly conduct during a boarding incident at the Abuja airport, insisting that he was the victim, not the aggressor, in the matter currently under investigation by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). In a statement issued by his media aide, Kunle Rasheed, the music icon described media reports alleging he breached aviation security protocols on a ValueJet flight on August 5, 2025, as exaggerated and misleading. “Our attention has been drawn to reports alleging that K1 displayed unruly conduct while attempting to board a ValueJet flight… We categorically state that this narrative is both exaggerated and misleading,” the statement read. The statement clarified that the item that triggered airport security concern was a bottle of plain drinking water handed to Kwam1 in the lounge, not a prohibited substance. The artiste said his efforts to explain the situation were ignored, leading to an unnecessary escalation of events. “Despite his respectful effort to clarify this, the situation was unnecessarily escalated,” the statement added. Kwam1 dismissed claims that he attempted to block the aircraft or cause a disruption. He emphasized his adherence to aviation protocols, highlighting his global travel experience and respect for airport security procedures. “Claims that K1 blocked the aircraft or attempted to disrupt operations are completely unfounded. He is a globally respected artiste who travels frequently and is fully aware of aviation protocols,” the statement said. The statement further revealed that the incident prompted personal apologies from the Chairman and Managing Director of ValueJet, who even offered to fly Kwam1 back to Lagos on a private jet — an offer he graciously declined. “If indeed there had been anything inappropriate in his conduct, officials from FAAN, NCAA, and ValueJet management would not have reached out personally to appeal and apologise. Despite being offered a private jet ride to Lagos at no cost, K1 declined the gesture,” the aide said. Kwam1 clarified that only he and his personal assistant were directly involved in the incident, contrary to some reports suggesting widespread disruption. He also noted that concerned passengers, who witnessed the event, appealed for calm and recognized that he was under undue pressure. Responding to media coverage involving the pilot, the statement claimed the pilot has since had her license suspended, and any attempt by her to shift blame was expected. “It is no surprise if she attempts to deflect blame. Surely, she must lie to cover herself up,” the statement said. Kwam1 concluded by calling on the media and public to avoid sensationalism and allow investigations to reveal the true circumstances of the incident. “We urge the media and the public to avoid sensationalism and allow the truth — not assumptions — to guide their judgment,” he said. The incident, which has sparked public debate on celebrity conduct, airport security, and corporate accountability in Nigeria’s aviation sector, remains under active investigation by FAAN.

The Lagos State Police Command has arraigned Wasiu Akinwande, also known as Olori Eso, a 44-year-old suspected contract killer, on 11 criminal charges including multiple counts of murder, unlawful possession of firearms, and other related felonies. The arraignment took place at the Ogba Magistrate Court, following his recent arrest by the Command’s Tactical Squad in a covert operation tagged “Silence, Speed, and Surprise.” According to a statement released on Tuesday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the suspect was apprehended at his hideout in Agbado, Ogun State, after evading capture for several years. Hundeyin described Akinwande as “one of the most wanted, vicious, and notorious hired killers” in Lagos. History of Violence Akinwande, alleged to be the ringleader of a feared faction operating in Mushin and its environs, was linked to several killings and violent attacks in Lagos over the past decade. He had reportedly been on the police radar for years due to his involvement in bloody clashes and cult-related violence. Recovered from his residence during the raid were: Two AK-47 rifles (breach numbers: 0275 and 5688) One K2 assault rifle (breach No. AR72739) Two locally made single-barrel pistols 70 rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition 27 rounds of 9mm live ammunition 57 cartridges Three walkie-talkies A poisonous dagger The suspect allegedly admitted the weapons were used in operations carried out with his gang. Charges of Murder and Grievous Harm Some of the charges filed against Akinwande include: The murder of Bankole Yusuf and Ramadan Yusuf during a gang clash in Mushin on July 31, 2024 The killing of 10-year-old Aminat Lateef on December 9, 2010, while she was on an errand in Fadeyi The attempted murder and grievous harm inflicted on Awawu Ajalara, 58, who was shot in both legs on February 17, 2011, at Awoniyi Street, Idi-Araba, leaving her permanently disabled Additional charges involve the unlawful possession of high-grade firearms and ammunition, with no satisfactory explanation as to how they came into his possession — a violation of Nigeria’s Firearms Act. Extract from Charge Sheet One charge reads: “That you, Wasiu Akinwande alias Olori Eso, and others now at large, on or before the 31st day of July 2024 at Idi-Araba area of Lagos, did unlawfully kill five unidentified individuals during a clash involving your faction, using AK-47 rifles, and subsequently absconded to Alagbado before being apprehended…” Another states: “That you, on the 17th of February 2011, did unlawfully cause grievous bodily harm to one Awawu Ajalara, aged 58, by shooting her in both legs with an AK-47 rifle, resulting in permanent disability…” Next Steps The Lagos Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling violent crime and bringing perpetrators to justice. The case is expected to proceed to the High Court, where the suspect will face trial on the full charges under the Criminal Laws of Lagos State and the Firearms Act of the Federation.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan is preparing to return to the political arena as one of the leading contenders for Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election, a close associate confirmed it. f The ally, a prominent member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), revealed that advanced consultations were ongoing to draft the former President into the race. According to the source, Jonathan has accepted the proposal in principle, motivated by the need to address deepening economic hardship, rising poverty, and the general suffering of Nigerians. “This project is being driven by prominent Nigerian leaders and elders who believe Jonathan stabilised the nation and economy during his six years in office. They believe he’s the right man to restore hope,” the source said. The plan reportedly includes allowing Jonathan to serve a single four-year term, after which power could return to the North in 2031 without contention from the South — a move perceived as a strategic compromise. Behind-the-Scenes Consultations Underway Jonathan has reportedly begun behind-the-scenes meetings with influential leaders within and outside the PDP. One such meeting was held recently with former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd.) at his Minna residence. The source disclosed that Jonathan is currently touring the South-South, engaging stakeholders to secure regional backing, with a discreet visit to Port Harcourt earlier this week. His ally expressed confidence that Jonathan’s support base in the region would rally behind him. PDP Moves to Woo Jonathan Multiple sources confirm that the PDP leadership is actively courting Jonathan’s return to frontline politics. According to reports monitored via BBC Hausa, several PDP governors and party stalwarts have intensified efforts to persuade him to accept the party’s presidential ticket. Speaking on the development, PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Ibrahim Abdullahi, said: “Nigerians have realised they made a mistake by not re-electing Jonathan in 2015. They now acknowledge his achievements and are asking him to return.” Abdullahi confirmed that Jonathan has shown interest, but is seeking clarity on whether he would go through a competitive primary or be offered an automatic ticket. Party Leaders Back Automatic Ticket PDP National Financial Secretary, Daniel Woyengikuro, strongly endorsed Jonathan’s candidacy in an interview, stating: “Dr. Jonathan remains the national leader of our party. He is the right person to lead the PDP and salvage the country.” Woyengikuro said granting Jonathan the ticket unopposed would be the most strategic move, noting that his entry into the race would reshape the political dynamics of 2027. He also praised Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State as a future presidential prospect and highlighted the importance of grooming leaders who can bridge generational divides. Legal Controversy: Is Jonathan Eligible? Amid the rising calls for Jonathan’s return, debates over his constitutional eligibility have resurfaced. A 2018 constitutional amendment—Section 137(3)—states that anyone who has completed another President’s term is only eligible for one additional term. However, legal experts remain divided: Proponents argue that since the amendment came into effect after Jonathan had already served, it cannot be applied retroactively. In 2022, the Federal High Court in Yenagoa ruled in Jonathan’s favour, affirming his eligibility to contest, since he had only been elected once (in 2011). Senior Advocates like Dayo Akinlaja and Elekwachi Nnabuihe agree that Jonathan is not barred under the current legal framework. Opponents, including rights lawyer Johnmary Jideobi, contend that a potential third tenure would exceed the constitutional 8-year cap, citing the Marwa v. Nyako Supreme Court decision which warned against tenure elongation. Party Veterans Voice Support Former PDP Deputy National Chairman, Chief Olabode George, defended Jonathan’s return: “He never left the PDP. His track record, especially in managing the economy, speaks for him. He’s the most marketable candidate for us right now.” George also dismissed concerns about Jonathan being sworn in twice, stating that his first oath of office followed the Doctrine of Necessity after the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua — not through an election. As the 2027 election approaches, Jonathan’s potential comeback is poised to redefine Nigeria’s political terrain. Whether he will secure the PDP ticket — by consensus or primary — and how legal debates on his eligibility play out, remain key developments to watch in the coming months.

Stakeholders at the 2025 Business Leadership Roundtable, convened by Nubian American Advanced College (NAAC), have called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s tertiary education sector to enhance graduate employability and better align academic programs with the evolving demands of the labour market. The event, themed “Realigning Tertiary Education for Nigeria’s Growth and Sustainable Development: A Conceptual Framework,” brought together key voices from government, academia, industry, and the international community to explore sustainable solutions to the sector’s challenges. In a statement issued Wednesday, Chairman of the occasion, Kiri Wakama, stressed the urgent need to bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace realities. “We’re at a crossroads where education must directly respond to enterprise. It’s no longer sufficient to teach theory alone—we must embed practical experience, encourage innovation, and strengthen links between universities and industry,” Wakama said. He urged institutions to revise their curricula to meet current industry needs and collaborate more closely with employers to tackle the rising unemployment among graduates. Dr. Azhinoto Ikpah, Chief Promoter of NAAC and Chairman of the Nubian Group, highlighted the role of education as a bridge between business and society. He noted that producing work-ready graduates must be a top priority for all institutions. “Our graduates must reflect the realities of the industries they are entering. This disconnect is no longer acceptable,” he stated. Dr. Ikpah also referenced NAAC’s strategic collaboration with Johnson C. Smith University in the United States, showcasing how international partnerships can strengthen curriculum innovation, student exchange, and research outcomes. The Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, presented a policy brief on education reform and youth employability. He criticised the disconnect between academic training and labour market needs. “While UNESCO recommends a minimum of 15–20% of national budgets for education, Nigeria’s allocation in 2024 was only 5.5%. Underfunding and outdated curricula have left many of our graduates ill-equipped for the job market,” Oyerinde said. He called for reforms that embrace transnational education models and introduce curricula grounded in global best practices and labour market intelligence. Oyerinde also reaffirmed NECA’s commitment to employability initiatives, citing ongoing projects such as the NECA–ITF Technical Skills Development Project, the Employability Scheme, and the Job Creation Fair. In a compelling address, Archbishop Doye Agama presented a paper titled “Bridging the Digital Divide: Embedding Affordable Digital Skills in Nigeria’s Tertiary Education.” He advocated for integrating digital skills across all academic disciplines, rather than treating them as standalone courses. “Business students should gain hands-on experience with CRM tools and analytics platforms; engineers must engage with IoT and digital twins; arts students should master digital storytelling. Every graduate must be fluent in AI collaboration and remote working,” he argued. From a public sector perspective, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Tertiary Education, Mr. Adeniran Kasali, commended the roundtable and reaffirmed the state’s efforts to drive innovation in higher education. “We’re actively repositioning our tertiary institutions to produce globally competitive graduates. That includes curriculum redesign, investment in digital teaching tools, staff training in AI, and promoting international exchange,” Kasali said. He expressed confidence that the outcomes of the roundtable would inspire concrete reforms, applauding the depth of contributions made by participants. “This engagement must translate into improved teaching quality, internationally relevant qualifications, and stronger global partnerships,” he concluded.

Eight people, including Ghana’s Ministers of Defense and Environment, were killed in a military helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, according to the Chief of Staff to the President. Defense Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed were among five passengers on board the helicopter, along with three crew members. Earlier, Ghana’s Armed Forces reported losing contact with the Z9 military helicopter as it traveled from Accra to the mining town of Obuasi in southern Ghana. In a televised statement, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah described the crash as a “national tragedy” and announced that national flags would be flown at half-mast until further notice. Also among the deceased passengers were Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; and Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate. The crew members who lost their lives were identified as Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah. This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

At least nine people, including a police officer, have been killed in a renewed wave of attacks by suspected armed herders in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State. According to local sources, the attacks believed to have been launched from neighbouring Kogi State spanned several days, affecting communities such as Okwutanobe, Okpokpolo, Olegagbani, and Ikpele. A resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, detailed the timeline of the incidents: Friday: Two people were killed in Okwutanobe. Saturday: One person was killed in Okpokpolo. Monday: Another death was reported in Olegagbani. Tuesday: A police officer and four civilians were killed in Ikpele. “People are fleeing their homes out of fear. No one knows which community could be targeted next,” the resident added. Chairman of Agatu LGA, James Melvin, confirmed the fatalities, stating that the attacks, which lasted three days, left a total of nine people dead, including a police officer. He suggested the violence may be retaliatory, possibly linked to allegations that herders’ cattle were rustled by unknown criminals. Meanwhile, tensions are also rising in Oju and Obi LGAs, home to the Igede-speaking population, following the killing of two middle-aged men Jonathan Ogah and Gabriel Ogodo by suspected Tiv youths in Ulam, a community in Gwer East LGA. The victims were reportedly ambushed and killed while traveling by motorcycle along the Oju-Awajir road on Monday. One of them was said to be recently married. The incident has escalated tensions between Igede and Tiv communities, particularly affecting students and commuters who have abandoned the busy Oju-Aliade Road due to fears of reprisal attacks. The long-standing land dispute between the Tiv and Igede ethnic groups remains unresolved, despite efforts by past administrations. Governor Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum Over Killings Reacting to the twin tragedies, Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned both the Agatu attacks and the killing of the Igede youths. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor also condemned a separate attack in Nyifon community, Mbaikyongo Ward of Buruku LGA, reportedly carried out by youths from Mbayaka community in Kusuv, following a boat mishap-related dispute. Governor Alia gave security agencies a 48-hour deadline to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. “Nobody has the right to invade another community or inflict harm under any circumstance,” the governor said, adding that security operatives must liaise with traditional leaders to thoroughly investigate and restore calm. “Benue is gradually regaining stability. I will not tolerate any act capable of undermining the peace we are working tirelessly to restore,” he added, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property. Senator, Youth Groups Condemn Killings Senator Abba Moro, who represents Benue South Senatorial District and serves as the Senate Minority Leader, described the killings of the Igede youths as “barbaric and dastardly.” In a statement released by his media adviser, Emmanuel John, Senator Moro urged the state government to urgently intervene in the Gwer/Konshisha/Oju axis, where tensions and violence continue to escalate. The Ito Youths Association (ITA) also condemned the killings. In a statement signed by its National President, Andrew Abi, and Secretary, Ijoga Ipesi, the group said: “This act has once again shaken the fragile peace in our communities.” Both the senator and the youth body called for swift action to prevent further bloodshed and ensure justice for the victims.

The Sokoto State Government has introduced a mandatory two-year rural service programme for all medical professionals trained through state-sponsored institutions. The initiative, announced by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Faruk Abubakar, applies to doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health workers. Under the new policy, these professionals will be required to serve in rural health facilities across the state immediately after graduation. Dr. Abubakar said the move aims to address the critical shortage of healthcare workers in underserved communities, following a recent needs assessment that revealed a stark imbalance in the distribution of medical personnel. “Too many of our professionals are concentrated in urban centres, while rural areas suffer from a dire lack of qualified personnel. This policy is designed to correct that imbalance,” he stated. To encourage participation and long-term retention, the commissioner outlined a package of incentives for those deployed under the scheme. These include: A 10% salary bonus Access to upgraded health facilities Improved security arrangements “We’re not just sending people to rural communities; we’re making those places attractive to work in,” Dr. Abubakar said. “Our goal is to motivate health professionals to remain in these areas even beyond their mandatory service.” He further noted that the policy is part of a wider health sector reform agenda under Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s administration, aimed at revitalizing Sokoto’s healthcare system. One of the administration’s major achievements, according to the commissioner, has been the harmonization of salaries for state-employed medical workers with federal pay scales—a reform that has been welcomed by health professionals and labour unions alike. Dr. Abubakar revealed that, since the implementation of the new salary structure, several healthcare workers who had previously resigned have now withdrawn their letters and returned to service, citing improved working conditions. “These reforms are not just about addressing immediate challenges. They’re about building a sustainable and equitable healthcare future for Sokoto State,” he said.

The UK’s Charity Commission has cleared Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, of bullying allegations linked to a public dispute at Sentebale, the charity he co-founded in 2006 to support children living with HIV and AIDS in Lesotho and Botswana. The Commission’s findings, released on Wednesday, followed a months-long investigation into internal turmoil at Sentebale that unfolded in March and April 2025. The dispute drew public attention after the charity’s chairperson, Sophie Chandauka, accused Prince Harry of “bullying” amid a fallout with the board of trustees. The tension escalated when both Harry and co-founder Prince Seeiso of Lesotho resigned from the charity following the mass resignation of trustees. Their exit came after a failed demand for Chandauka to step down from her voluntary leadership role, which she had held since 2023. In its official conclusion, the Charity Commission found no evidence of widespread or systemic bullying, harassment, misogyny, or misogynoir within the organisation. However, it criticised all parties involved for allowing the conflict to play out publicly, stating that the “damaging internal dispute severely impacted the charity’s reputation.” The Commission noted “a lack of clarity in delegations of authority,” which it said contributed to mismanagement in the administration of the charity. A governance improvement plan has since been issued to address these structural weaknesses. Prince Harry, in an April statement, expressed deep dismay over the controversy, saying the events had been “heartbreaking to witness, especially when such blatant lies hurt those who have invested decades in this shared goal.” Chandauka had previously claimed, in an interview with Sky News, that Harry attempted to force her out through bullying and harassment. She cited, among other grievances, his decision to allow a Netflix film crew access to a Sentebale polo fundraiser and an unannounced appearance by his wife, Meghan, at the same event. These developments marked another chapter of public scrutiny for Prince Harry, who has retained only a few private patronages—including Sentebale—since his high-profile departure from royal duties in 2020. He and Meghan now reside in North America with their children. Charity Commission Chief Executive David Holdsworth urged all stakeholders to refocus on Sentebale’s mission, saying, “Moving forward, I urge all parties not to lose sight of those who rely on the charity’s services. Governance improvements must now follow.” The name Sentebale, meaning “forget me not” in Sesotho, was chosen by Prince Harry in honour of his late mother, Princess Diana, who died in a car crash in 1997. The phrase also symbolises farewell in the local language. (Source: AFP)

The Iranian government on Wednesday carried out the execution of a man found guilty of espionage for Israel, accused of leaking information about a nuclear scientist killed during the 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel in June. According to Iran’s judiciary news outlet, Mizan Online, the convict, identified as Roozbeh Vadi, was hanged after the Supreme Court upheld his sentence. He was accused of providing classified information about a nuclear scientist who was assassinated during what Iranian authorities described as “the Zionist regime’s recent aggression.” The report noted that Vadi had been recruited by Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad, through online contact. However, it did not specify when he was arrested or when the sentencing took place. The execution comes in the wake of a major Israeli military operation in mid-June, during which Israel launched a sustained bombing campaign on Iran. The offensive triggered a short but intense conflict, with Iran retaliating through missile and drone strikes. The Israeli strikes reportedly killed senior military officials, nuclear scientists, and hundreds of civilians, hitting both strategic and residential areas. Local media sources indicated that at least a dozen nuclear scientists were among those killed. In response, Iranian authorities vowed swift justice for individuals accused of collaborating with Israel. Since the conflict, several arrests and executions have been announced targeting individuals allegedly connected to Mossad or accused of spying for Israel. Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, continue to raise concerns over the pace and fairness of trials in such cases. Iran remains the second-highest executioner globally, behind China, according to these organizations. (Source: AFP)