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  • Pastor Bags Life Jail for Raping Church Member’s Daughter

    A 63-year-old cleric, Chris Douglas, has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the Lagos State Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja for raping a church member’s daughter.

    What happened

    Delivering judgment on Thursday, Justice Rahman Oshodi held that Douglas, the General Overseer of Peculiar Generation Assembly Church, Oshodi, grossly abused his position of spiritual authority and trust to exploit the victim.

    “The convict occupied a position of spiritual authority and was regarded as a father figure by the victim and her family,” the judge said.

    Instead of protecting that trust, the judge added, Douglas “betrayed it in the most reprehensible manner.”

    The court heard that the abuse took place in a hotel on several occasions while the victim and her family looked up to the cleric for spiritual guidance.

    Victim’s trauma

    Justice Oshodi noted that the victim suffered severe psychological trauma as a direct result of the abuse.

    “The court accepts the evidence that the victim suffered depression and recurring suicidal thoughts as a direct consequence of the convict’s actions,” he said.

    Prosecution’s case

    The prosecution, led by Director of Public Prosecution Dr Babajide Martins, called five witnesses, including the victim, her mother, and a medical doctor.

    The victim testified that Douglas drugged and raped her in September 2017.

    “I trusted him like a spiritual father. I never imagined he could do this to me,” she told the court.

    Her mother recounted confronting the cleric at his church, where he allegedly cried and blamed the devil before begging for forgiveness in the presence of church elders.

    The matter was later reported to a human rights organisation, the police at Makinde Division, and the Mirabel Centre for medical examination.

    Defence and court ruling

    Douglas denied the allegations, claiming the relationship was consensual.

    However, Justice Oshodi rejected the consent defence, ruling that the prosecution proved rape beyond reasonable doubt.

    “The defence of consent is not supported by the totality of the evidence before the court,” the judge held.

    The court discharged Douglas on six counts of defilement and sexual assault but found him guilty on three counts of rape.

    Sentence

    Justice Oshodi sentenced the convict to life imprisonment on each of the three counts, with the sentences to run concurrently.

    “The law must protect the vulnerable, and this court will not hesitate to punish abuse of trust in the strongest terms,” the judge said.

    The court also ordered that Douglas’ name be entered into the Lagos State Sexual Offenders Register.

    This is a clear case of betrayal of trust by someone who was supposed to provide spiritual leadership. The judgment has sparked discussions on the need for stricter oversight in religious institutions.

  • “Power Has Improved Since 2015” — Tinubu’s Aide Bwala Defends Electricity Supply Gains

    Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, has said electricity supply has improved in parts of Nigeria, insisting that Nigerians now enjoy more power than they did in 2015 and 2023.

    Aide speaks on current situation

    Bwala made the claim during an interview on Arise TV, where he acknowledged that challenges still exist in the power sector but argued that there are noticeable improvements in some areas.

    He pointed to the Federal Capital Territory as one of the regions experiencing relatively stable electricity compared to others.

    Focus shifts from supply to tariffs

    According to him, many of the current complaints about electricity are now centred more on tariffs than on availability in certain locations.

    He suggested that this reflects a shift in concerns, as some areas are seeing better supply than before.

    Reforms opening up the sector

    Bwala also credited recent government reforms for expanding participation in the power sector.

    He said the legal framework now allows state governments, local authorities, and private investors to play active roles in electricity generation and distribution.

    “We have created the legislative environment that has given rise to the capacity of state, local government, and even the private sector to participate,” he said.

    ‘Judge by hours of supply’

    The presidential aide argued that progress should be measured by actual hours of electricity supply rather than political comparisons with previous administrations.

    He maintained that Nigerians are more concerned about how much power they receive daily than past benchmarks.

    Debate over real impact continues

    While Bwala insists there has been measurable improvement, discussions around electricity supply remain a key national issue, with many Nigerians still raising concerns about access, cost, and consistency.

  • Mohbad’s Father Breaks Silence on Burial Delay, Insists DNA and Justice Must Come First

    The father of late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, has explained why his son’s burial has been delayed, insisting that uncovering the truth behind his death remains his top priority before any final rites can take place.

    Why Mohbad has not been buried

    Speaking in a recent interview with Channels Television, Mr. Joseph Aloba said the decision to delay burial was deliberate, stressing that the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death must be fully established first.

    He maintained that justice and clarity are more important to him at this stage than immediate burial arrangements.

    DNA controversy over grandson Liam

    Mr. Aloba also addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the paternity of his grandson, Liam, noting that he needs clarity on the situation before taking any final position.

    According to him, resolving the matter is tied to his willingness to reconcile with Mohbad’s partner, Wunmi, and formally accept the child.

    “My vision is to know exactly what killed Mohbad. Once I have the answers, I’ll work on reconciling with Liam and Wumi. I’ll even go on any media platform to claim Liam as my grandson. But now, I can’t do all that because we are still at the war front,” he said.

    “Body is evidence” — Mohbad’s father insists

    He further argued that Mohbad’s remains are still central to the investigation, saying the body must not be buried yet due to the need for DNA testing.

    “The reason his remains haven’t been reburied is that his body is evidence, and a DNA test is necessary. If we bury him now, the DNA evidence will be compromised,” he added.

    Calls for transparency in investigation

    Mr. Aloba also expressed dissatisfaction with how the case has been handled, calling for a more transparent and impartial investigation.

    He urged the Inspector General of Police to reassign new officers to the case, alleging compromise in the current process.

    “They can change the nature of that environment with just a bottle of wine and 100,000 Naira. That means they are compromised. They should help me change them. They should investigate this case,” he pleaded.

    The case continues to generate public attention, with renewed calls for clarity and closure surrounding Mohbad’s death.

    https://www.instagram.com/channelstelevision/?utm_source=ig_embed

  • VeryDarkMan Reacts to FG’s Reintegration of 744 Ex-Terrorists, Questions Justice for Victims and Soldiers

    Popular Nigerian social media critic VeryDarkMan has reacted strongly to the Federal Government’s decision to reintegrate 744 repentant terrorists into society, sparking fresh debate over Nigeria’s deradicalisation strategy.

    FG confirms reintegration of 744 ex-insurgents

    The Federal Government recently confirmed that 744 former insurgents who completed the deradicalisation programme under Operation Safe Corridor in Gombe State have been reintegrated into society.

    The announcement was made on April 17, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to stabilise Nigeria’s North-East region, which has been heavily affected by Boko Haram-linked violence over the years.

    The ex-combatants, drawn from states including Borno, Yobe, Kano, and Adamawa, reportedly underwent months of rehabilitation, psychological counselling, vocational training, and civic education aimed at preparing them for civilian life.

    Military explains rehabilitation programme

    Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, clarified that the initiative is not an amnesty programme but a structured deradicalisation process designed to reduce violence and discourage future recruitment into extremist groups.

    He also urged communities to support the reintegrated individuals as they attempt to rebuild their lives.

    VeryDarkMan kicks against move

    Reacting via social media, VeryDarkMan condemned the development, describing it as unfair to victims of insurgency and Nigerian soldiers who have lost their lives in the conflict.

    He questioned the government’s approach, arguing that repeated rehabilitation and release of former fighters raises concerns about accountability and justice.

    Concerns over monitoring system

    The critic also raised doubts about the effectiveness of monitoring mechanisms for reintegrated individuals, warning that some could relapse into criminal activity if economic incentives from rehabilitation programmes are not sustainable.

    His comments have triggered widespread reactions online, with Nigerians divided over whether rehabilitation should take priority over stricter punitive measures in addressing insecurity.

    https://www.instagram.com/reel/DXObzDujL2T/?igsh=YzljYTk1ODg3Zg==

  • Peller Slams TVC News Over Criticism, Says “Should I Just Buy TVC?” as He Calls Out Female Anchor

    Nigerian TikToker Hamzat Habeeb Adelaja, popularly known as Peller, has reacted strongly to criticism from TVC News anchors over his recent remarks about Nigerian civil servants, escalating the conversation with controversial comments about the media station and one of its presenters.

    Peller reacts to TVC criticism

    In a viral video circulating online, Peller questioned whether he should acquire TVC News, suggesting frustration over repeated criticism directed at him.

    “Guys, should I buy TVC news? What do you guys think about this? Let’s think about this. Should I buy TVC?” he said.

    The comment quickly gained traction, drawing widespread reactions across social media platforms.

    Calls out female anchor

    Peller specifically singled out a female anchor who had criticised him during a panel discussion, accusing her of constantly targeting him for attention.

    “Especially that lady that drags me all the time, if I buy TVC, I will first sack that lady. That lady wey dey always talk bad about me, if she no talk about me she no go trend,” he said.

    The remarks sparked further debate online, with users divided over his response to media criticism.

    Controversial warning

    The influencer also issued a strongly worded statement directed at the anchor, saying he would confront her physically when he returns to Nigeria.

    “Let me reach Nigeria first. I’ll branch TVC and I’ll come and slap your face in that office. You think it’s everybody that is your mate,” he added.

    The comment has continued to generate backlash and discussion across social media platforms.

    Defends Maldives comment

    Peller also revisited his earlier statement about the Maldives, maintaining that the destination is expensive and challenging TVC to support the critic he referred to.

    “TVC, that lady is working you, please sponsor her, let her come to Maldives. TVC, if it’s sure for you, sponsor that lady, make her come to Maldives,” he said.

    He further argued that sustaining such a lifestyle would be difficult even if she were sponsored.

    “See, if they sponsor you to come to Maldives, like for 5 months, dem no go fit pay you. They will just want use you to oppress me. Dem no go pay you because dem go know am for body…”

  • Atiku Fires Back at Tinubu, Accuses President of ‘Hypocrisy and Historical Amnesia’ Over Privatisation Clash

    Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has launched a sharp rebuttal against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing him of hypocrisy, distortion of history, and political desperation following a heated exchange over Nigeria’s privatisation programme.

    Tinubu’s initial remarks trigger controversy

    The confrontation began after President Tinubu, during a meeting with the Renewed Hope Ambassadors at the State House in Abuja on Thursday, accused Atiku of attempting to “privatise” the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and questioned the outcomes of past privatisation efforts overseen by the former vice-president.

    Tinubu argued that several assets sold under the programme, including steel projects and Ajaokuta Steel Company, had failed to deliver expected results.

    “The head [Atiku] was the chairman of the privatisation council of Nigeria… is it working today? No,” Tinubu said.

    Atiku responds through aide

    In a strongly worded statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku dismissed the president’s comments as a “reckless tirade” and accused him of rewriting established economic history.

    The statement described Tinubu’s remarks as “a troubling pattern of hypocrisy and historical amnesia,” insisting that the privatisation programme under Atiku produced long-standing private sector success stories.

    It listed companies such as Oando, Conoil, Ardova Plc, Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals, Benue Cement Company, and Transcorp Hilton Abuja as examples of successful reforms.

    Defence of privatisation legacy

    Atiku’s camp maintained that the former vice-president played a key role in driving reforms that revived struggling state enterprises and strengthened private sector participation in the economy.

    It also argued that Tinubu had previously opposed some of the reforms he now appears to support in office, particularly in the oil sector.

    According to the statement, current economic policies are being implemented “without transparency and accountability.”

    Personal jabs escalate tension

    The response took a more personal tone, accusing the president of ignorance and questioning his academic history, while also referencing past controversies around his educational background.

    “If he were properly educated he would have acquainted himself with the privatisation records,” the statement said.

    It further described Tinubu’s comments as reflective of “a leadership more comfortable with insults than facts.”

    Economic hardship enters the debate

    Atiku’s camp also linked the exchange to Nigeria’s current economic situation, pointing to rising inflation, job losses, and worsening cost of living across the country.

    It argued that what is being described as reform has instead translated into hardship for ordinary Nigerians.

    Political tension deepens ahead of future contests

    The latest exchange highlights growing political friction between both camps as debates around Nigeria’s economic direction and past reform policies continue to intensify.

  • Phyna Praises Peller’s “Romantic Gestures”, Sparks Reactions Over Relationship Standards and Luxury Travel Comment

    Former reality TV star Phyna has stirred fresh conversations on social media after praising entrepreneur Peller’s romantic gestures, while also sharing a humorous reflection about her personal experience with luxury travel.

    Peller gets praise for romantic gestures

    Phyna, in a recent statement, suggested that an award category should be created for “Romantic Man of the Year,” adding that Peller would be a strong candidate for it.

    She noted that he treats his partner well and sets a standard she believes other men should emulate.

    The comment quickly spread across social media, triggering mixed reactions as users debated modern relationship expectations and what truly defines romance in today’s celebrity culture.

    While some agreed with her assessment, others argued that public perceptions of relationships are often shaped by curated online moments rather than reality.

    Mixed reactions over relationship talk

    Her remark added to ongoing discussions about love, dating standards, and public displays of affection among young celebrities.

    The conversation has continued to trend, with users split between support for her opinion and criticism of celebrity relationship narratives on social media.

    Luxury travel comment sparks attention

    Phyna also drew attention with a lighthearted reflection on her travel lifestyle, revealing that the second time she visited the Maldives alone, she “almost went bankrupt.”

    The comment was widely interpreted as a humorous take on the cost of luxury travel and the financial pressure that can come with maintaining such experiences.

    It quickly fueled reactions online, with fans engaging both her relationship comments and her candid admission about spending habits.

    The discussions continue to circulate across social platforms.

  • Naira Holds Ground At ₦1,340/$ As CBN Interventions Boost Stability

    The Nigerian naira maintained a relatively stable position against the United States dollar on Friday, April 17, 2026, opening at ₦1,340.88/$ at the official Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM).

    Calmer trend emerges

    The latest rate reflects a more stable phase for the local currency after weeks of volatility earlier in the month driven by rising import demand.

    Market watchers say the naira is now experiencing milder fluctuations across both the official and parallel markets.

    CBN support drives stability

    Recent data points to sustained interventions by the Central Bank of Nigeria as a key factor behind the improved stability.

    Liquidity injections into the official window have helped balance supply and demand, reducing sharp swings in exchange rates.

    Analysts also note that the evolving structure of the NFEM is improving transparency and gradually restoring investor confidence.

    Parallel market still higher

    Despite the gains in the official market, the parallel market continues to trade at slightly higher rates.

    Currency dealers in major cities like Lagos and Abuja say the dollar is still sold at a premium, although the gap between both markets has narrowed compared to previous months.

    External risks remain

    Experts warn that global economic conditions could still impact the naira’s performance in the coming weeks.

    Factors such as global inflation and possible interest rate changes in the United States remain key risks to watch.

    What it means for Nigerians

    For individuals and businesses, demand for foreign exchange remains strong as economic activities pick up.

    Traders say access to forex has improved slightly, but sustained stability will depend on consistent policies and favourable global conditions.

  • FIFA Under Fire As US Cities Plan $100 Transport Fares for 2026 World Cup Fans

    FIFA has called on host cities in the United States to ensure affordable transportation for fans during the 2026 World Cup, following backlash over proposed fare hikes by local transit agencies.

    Transport row deepens

    The football governing body reminded organisers that the original 2018 hosting bid included free transport for match ticket holders.

    However, a revised agreement in 2023 now allows cities to charge fares at cost, a move that has triggered sharp increases in projected prices.

    Fans face steep costs

    Reports show that trips to Gillette Stadium could cost as much as $80, while New Jersey Transit is considering over $100 for round trips to MetLife Stadium.

    The development has raised concerns that attending matches could become significantly more expensive for fans.

    Political pressure mounts

    The issue has also drawn political attention, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and other lawmakers insisting that FIFA should bear the transport costs.

    They argue that fans and taxpayers should not be burdened, especially as FIFA is expected to generate about $11 billion in revenue from the tournament.

    FIFA responds

    FIFA acknowledged the concerns and pointed to ongoing efforts to secure federal infrastructure support.

    However, the organisation maintains that the revised agreement permits cities to charge at-cost fares.

    Who should pay?

    Local officials have pushed back, arguing that the responsibility of moving millions of fans should not fall on public systems alone.

    The disagreement highlights growing tension between organisers and authorities as preparations intensify for the global tournament.

  • Nigeria Won’t Seek IMF Loan Despite $50bn Support Plan, Edun Declares

    The Federal Government has ruled out any plan to approach the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for financial support, despite the fund’s proposal to make up to $50 billion available to struggling economies, including countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

    Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun, made this known on Thursday during a press briefing at the ongoing World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings in Washington DC.

    Government takes firm stance

    Edun stated clearly that Nigeria is not considering taking on additional debt from the IMF at this time.

    “Nigeria has no plan at the moment to approach the IMF for any other such burden,” he said while responding to questions from journalists.

    His comments come a day after the IMF disclosed plans to provide between $20 billion and $50 billion in financial support to vulnerable economies in the near term.

    Why IMF funding is on the table

    According to the IMF, the proposed support will cover both expansions of existing programmes and new funding requests from at least a dozen countries, many of them in Africa.

    The move is aimed at cushioning the economic impact of global challenges, including the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

    Pressure on African economies

    Edun, however, noted that African countries are facing increasing economic pressure despite not being directly responsible for the global crisis.

    He explained that the situation threatens macroeconomic stability, slows growth, and weakens efforts to reduce poverty across the continent.

    “They need and deserve extra help at this time,” the minister said, referring to vulnerable economies, particularly oil-importing nations.

    IMF warns of global slowdown

    IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva also raised concerns about the wider economic impact of global tensions, especially the Middle East conflict.

    She warned that disruptions to supply chains and rising oil prices could slow global growth significantly.

    According to her, global growth is projected to drop from 3.4 percent last year to about 2.1 percent in 2026, with a worst-case scenario of 2 percent if the crisis persists.

    What it means for Nigeria

    While Nigeria is opting out of immediate IMF borrowing, the government’s position suggests a focus on managing existing economic challenges without adding to its debt burden.

    The decision also highlights ongoing concerns about fiscal sustainability and the long-term impact of external loans on the country’s economy.