The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • I regret Usifo Ataga’s death, Chidinma tells court

    I regret Usifo Ataga’s death, Chidinma tells court

    The ongoing trial of Chidinma Ojukwu, the prime suspect in the death of Super TV CEO, Michael Usifo Ataga, resumed yesterday at the Lagos State High Court, Tafawa Balewa Square.

    The defendant told the court she regretted the businessman’s death.

    Ojukwu made the statement while giving evidence during her trial before the Lagos State High Court sitting at Tafawa Balewa Square.

    She is standing trial alongside her sister, Chioma Egbuchu, and one Adedapo Quadri on charges of murder, conspiracy and stealing.

    During cross-examination led by the prosecution counsel, Y. A. Sule, Ojukwu was questioned about the phones and MacBook found in her possession at the time of her arrest, as well as her understanding of how mobile devices and laptops operate.

    She was confronted with allegations that she took Ataga’s gadgets after his death. Ojukwu and Ataga were reportedly lodged at a short-let apartment in Lagos, where his body was later discovered in a pool of blood.

    Read Also: Tinubu orders 24-hour aerial surveillance, tightens security cordon over Kwara, Kebbi forests

    The prosecution presented two receipts showing her transaction with a company, Phone Hub, where she reportedly swapped her iPhone. Ojukwu denied prior knowledge of the documents but admitted she visited the outlet to sell her MacBook Pro, for which she received N495,000 paid into her Sterling Bank account.

    While the prosecution sought to tender the documents as exhibits, the defence counsel, led by Mr Onwuka Egwu, objected, arguing that the documents were being used to ambush the defendant and were not previously disclosed to the defence, contrary to legal requirements.

    However, Justice Adesanya overruled the objection and admitted the documents as relevant evidence.

    When questioned by the prosecution about whether the transaction took place after Ataga’s death, Ojukwu said it occurred days after she left the apartment.

    She also confirmed that her personal details were present on the phone recovered by the police and that she continued to use the phone to make calls after leaving the apartment.

    When asked if the MacBook was a birthday gift and how she had the receipt, she replied: “Yes, it was a birthday gift and the person who gave it to me also gave me the receipt.”

    Responding to whether she was the last person to see the deceased alive, she claimed she was not. She also denied leaving the apartment with Ataga’s gadgets.

    When asked if she regretted his death, she replied, “I regret that he died.”

    During further questioning by the defence, Ojukwu stated that she was a 300-level Mass Communication student before her arrest and had no expertise in information technology.

    Her testimony marked the first defence witness called by her legal team, who informed the court they intend to call about four witnesses. The prosecution had earlier called over 10 witnesses.

    The case, which began in 2021, has now entered its fifth year. It was adjourned to February 9, 10, 17 and 23, 2026 for continuation of trial.

  • Ondo varsity female student drugged, raped by colleague

    Ondo varsity female student drugged, raped by colleague

    • Two suspects arrested

    Ondo State Police Command has arrested two students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) over the alleged rape of a 20-year-old female undergraduate (name withheld).

    One of the suspects, identified as Tom Samuel, allegedly lured the victim to a residence on Cele Street in Akungba on November 21, last year, where she was reportedly drugged after consuming an alcoholic drink served to her.

    Samuel’s arrest led to the arrest of the second accomplice.

    The Nation gathered that a medical report from General Hospital, Iwaro-Oka, confirmed that the victim was sexually assaulted, following tests conducted on November 22, last year.

    A video obtained by reporters also showed friends arriving at the scene to find the young woman unconscious beside Samuel.

    Confirming the incident in a statement yesterday, Police spokesperson Deputy Superintendent of Police Olayinka Ayanlade said the Commissioner of Police has ordered the immediate transfer of the case to the Gender Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for  investigation.

    Read Also: ‘How alleged terrorists’ negotiator, Mamu got N50million for his efforts,’ DSS official tells court

    Ayanlade said preliminary findings indicated the involvement of a female friend, Queen Sodo, who allegedly supplied the drug-laced drink and invited the male accomplice.

    “Preliminary investigation reveals that the victim was invited to the residence of her long-time friend, Queen Sodo, 19, also a student of the same school.

    “Trusting their long friendship from secondary school to university, the victim accepted a drink provided by her friend, which was later found to be laced with drugs, causing her to lose consciousness,” he said.

    According to Ayanlade, Sodo allegedly left the room after the victim became incapacitated, summoned her male co-conspirator, and stood guard while the assault took place.

    He added in the statement that the victim was reportedly rescued by a neighbour who heard unusual noises and found her unconscious, naked, and in a compromising position with the male suspect.

    “She was rushed to a hospital for urgent medical care and later referred to a specialist hospital, where she is receiving treatment and recuperating,” the police spokesperson said.

    Ayanlade confirmed that both suspects have confessed to their roles in the crime. Investigators also recovered key exhibits, including the bottle of the drug-laced drink, which will undergo toxicology testing.

    “The suspects are in lawful custody and will be transferred to the Gender Desk Office, Akure, for further discreet investigation and prosecution,” he added.

    However, the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, assured the public that the command remains committed to bringing perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence to justice, regardless of their relationship with victims.

    He urged parents and guardians to educate their children on the importance of caution in relationships, warning that even long-term friendships can be manipulated for criminal purposes.

  • EFCC arraigns businessman, firm over alleged N23m theft in Lagos

    EFCC arraigns businessman, firm over alleged N23m theft in Lagos

    The Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Okotie Eboh, Ikoyi, on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, arraigned a businessman, Oti Jonathan Idowu, before Justice O.A. Okunuga of the Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja, for allegedly stealing a total sum of N23 million.

    Idowu was docked with his company, Boundless Multi Service Solution Nigeria Limited, on an 11-count charge bordering on stealing.

    One of the charges alleged that Idowu and his company, on March 30, 2021, stole N5 million belonging to one Nneoma Okebugwu, an offence said to violate Section 278(1)(f) and punishable under Section 285(1) of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2011.

    Another count accused the defendants of unlawfully taking the sum of N3 million on July 24, 2020, property of Umar Lukmon Agbomhere, obtained through one Umaru Salmot.

    READ ALSO; Wike vows timely completion of Kuje road project June

    The defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges.

    Following the plea, prosecution counsel A.M. Dambuwa requested a date for trial and applied for the remand of the first defendant in a correctional facility.

    Defence counsel I.O. Lala informed the court of a pending bail application and sought a date for its hearing.

    Justice Okunuga adjourned the matter to December 3, 2025, for hearing of the bail application, noting that the date for commencement of trial would also be set on that day.

    The court ordered that Idowu be remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending further proceedings.

  • SAN urges stronger commitment to end violence against women

    SAN urges stronger commitment to end violence against women

    The former General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Aare Akinboro, has called for renewed and sustained efforts to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls as the world marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the commencement of the 16 days of activism.

    In a statement on Tuesday, Akinboro aligned himself with global voices demanding a society where women and girls can live, learn, work, and thrive without fear. 

    He condemned all forms of violence—physical, emotional, economic, and digital, describing them as incompatible with any community that values justice and humanity.

    He said, “As lawyers, parents, leaders, and citizens, we carry a solemn responsibility to stand against every form of abuse and to support systems that protect survivors and uphold their dignity.”

    Akinboro reflected on his experiences working across various communities, noting that he has witnessed both the resilience of women and girls and the transformative power of legal awareness, support services, and collective action. 

    These experiences, he said, underscore the need to strengthen access to justice and amplify voices that often go unheard.

    He emphasized that building a culture rooted in respect must be a societal priority, urging individuals and institutions to extend their commitment beyond the 16-day campaign.

    “May we all commit beyond these 16 days to creating homes, workplaces, and institutions where safety is assured and humanity is honoured,” he added.

    Akinboro, stresses that while Violence diminishes us all, protecting women and girls strengthens us all.

  • Foundation reaffirms commitment to combating gender-based violence in Nigeria 

    Foundation reaffirms commitment to combating gender-based violence in Nigeria 

    • …urges men to stand against GBV

    In a compelling call to action, the FAME Foundation used its press conference during the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence to reaffirm its unwavering commitment to supporting survivors and tackling gender-based violence (GBV) across Nigeria.

    The foundation’s executive leadership highlighted new initiatives and issued an urgent appeal for increased male participation in the fight against GBV.

    Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, Executive Director of FAME Foundation, emphasised that the 16-day campaign is part of a continuous, year-round effort to provide assistance and justice to survivors.

    “It’s not just about the 16 days; this is our daily work,” Atoyebi said.

    She highlighted the foundation’s partnership with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), noting that joint efforts have led to the arrest of men involved in GBV, with the foundation’s legal team actively pursuing cases in court.

    Aderonke also stressed the importance of addressing digital violence, in line with the UN’s global theme for this year’s activism.

    “We need to fight digital and cyberstalking,” she urged.

    Kemisola Ibitoye, Director of Programs, unveiled the foundation’s findings on the underlying causes of gender-based violence. 

    According to Ibitoye, many instances of GBV stem from those closest to the victims, including partners and family members. 

    The foundation’s Femicide Tracker, launched last year, tracks and reports such cases to ensure they are addressed. 

    Ibitoye appealed for men to speak up, urging them to become allies in the battle against GBV. 

    “We need more men to speak out. It’s not enough for women to speak out; we need men as partners in this fight,” Ibitoye said.

    When asked about the root causes of GBV, Aderonke responded candidly, stating, “It’s unfair to ask why. We are dealing with mentalities shaped by society and upbringing.”

    She stressed the importance of educating men and boys about respect for women and combating harmful behaviors at an early age. 

    “Men need to step up and be allies, not just silent bystanders,” Aderonke concluded, reinforcing the need for a societal shift in how both men and women address and prevent gender-based violence.

    As the campaign unfolds, FAME Foundation continues to advocate for justice, healing, and societal change, fostering a critical dialogue around the role of men and the need for collective action to end gender-based violence.

  • UNODC partners NSCDC to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against illegal mining

    UNODC partners NSCDC to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against illegal mining

    Nigeria’s drive to eliminate illegal mining and protect its mineral resources has gained new momentum with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) launching a specialised capacity-building programme for the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals.

    The initiative is part of the Canada-funded Project to Strengthen Nigeria’s Response to Criminal and Terrorist Finance Related to Minerals.

    It will equip the Mining Marshals Corps (MMC) personnel with enhanced skills to detect, investigate, and disrupt criminal and terrorist financial networks linked to mineral exploitation.

    The four-day workshop, scheduled for November 25–28, 2025, in Abuja, aims to deepen the operational capacity of selected NSCDC officers in combating illicit financial flows tied to illegal mining, the financing of armed groups, and money laundering within the mineral value chain.

    It will also foster stronger collaboration among law enforcement agencies responsible for safeguarding Nigeria’s mineral wealth.

    UNODC has called for the nomination of 20 technical officers, including a coordinating officer, preferably with prior experience handling illegal mining cases and mineral-related financial crimes.

    Declaring the workshop open, NSCDC Commandant General, Prof. Abubakar Ahmed Audi, described the UNODC partnership as “a collective global response to securing Nigeria’s mineral deposits from exploitation and criminal infiltration.”

    Represented by ACG Muktar Lawal, he reiterated the Corps’ commitment to supporting UNODC’s objectives, aligning with the federal government’s renewed agenda for resource protection.

    The Commander of the Mining Marshals Corps, John Onoja Attah, said the UNODC’s focus on the Mining Marshals endorses the government’s determination to sanitize the mineral sector. He pledged the Corps’ dedication to discipline, diligence, and proactive enforcement in line with its founding principles.

    With illegal mining linked to revenue loss, insecurity, environmental degradation, and the financing of criminal networks, stakeholders note that the UNODC-NSCDC collaboration is a pivotal step toward strengthening Nigeria’s ability to safeguard its mineral resources and dismantle illicit economies surrounding them.

    The workshop is expected to set a new benchmark for coordinated, intelligence-driven mineral resource protection in the country.

  • Ondo govt declares zero tolerance for gender-based violence, focuses on digital abuse

    Ondo govt declares zero tolerance for gender-based violence, focuses on digital abuse

    The Ondo state government has declared zero tolerance for all forms of sexual and gender-based violence (GBV) as part of renewed efforts to curb the rising cases of abuse across the state.

    Dr. Seun Osamaye, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, made the declaration on Tuesday at an event heralding the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.

    Osamaye said the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa would no longer condone any form of GBV, including rape, defilement, domestic violence, and all forms of sexual or psychological abuse.

    She noted that the government remained committed to building an inclusive society “where gender-based violence is not tolerated and where justice is accessible, timely, and uncompromised.”

    According to her, this year’s campaign places special emphasis on digital violence, which she described as “silent, pervasive, and often overlooked.”

    “Fighting against gender-based violence cannot be achieved effectively if digital violence is ignored,” she said.

    Reaffirming government’s resolve to eradicate all forms of violence against women and girls, Osamaye assured residents that the state would continue to work closely with civil society groups, traditional institutions, security agencies, and development partners to strengthen protection systems.

    She added that every woman and girl has the right to live in dignity, safety, and equality, and directed relevant ministries and agencies to reinforce existing frameworks, enhance community sensitisation, and ensure full enforcement of laws safeguarding women and girls.

    Osamaye further highlighted the urgency of tackling rising cases of online harassment, cyberstalking, revenge pornography, and other forms of digital abuse targeting women and girls.

    “Technology should empower, not endanger our women and girls,” she said.

    She announced that the 16-day campaign, scheduled for November 25 to December 10, 2025, will feature a series of activities aimed at raising awareness, strengthening response systems, and fostering collective action statewide.

    According to her, key events include the official launch and press briefing alongside the symbolic “Orange the World” illumination at the ministry on Tuesday, November 25, and an awareness walk and roadshow across major streets in Akure on November 26.

    She said the campaign is being organised in collaboration with the Ministries of Health and Justice, the Nigeria Police, NSCDC, UNFPA, UNICEF, civil society organisations, traditional rulers, media organisations, and disability groups to ensure wide reach and impact.

    The Director of the Ondo State Agency Against Gender-Based Violence, Tunde Emoruwa, also raised alarm over the increasing prevalence of gender-based violence, warning that many victims continue to suffer and die in silence.

    He lamented the erosion of moral values and societal discipline, which he said is creating an environment where abuse thrives unchecked.

    Emoruwa said the menace is not only rising but “increasing at a geometric rate,” causing devastating harm to families, communities, and society at large.

    He, however, called for urgent collective action to halt the growing trend and protect vulnerable groups, especially women and girls.

  • Actionaid Nigeria celebrates 25th anniversary, recommits to salvaging humanity

    Actionaid Nigeria celebrates 25th anniversary, recommits to salvaging humanity

    The Secretary General of ActionAid International, Arthur Larok, with other dignitaries, will join ActionAid Nigeria on Tuesday (today) to mark 25 years of its journey in the country and its interventions in critical areas affecting the lives of many Nigerians.

    By addressing global challenges like poverty, inequality, corruption and poor governance through collective action, sustainable practices, and political engagement, ActionAid Nigeria said it has achieved systemic changes such as improving healthcare, promoting quality and affordable education, developing sustainable agriculture, and promoting an inclusive governance system. 

    Apart from celebrating the past years of growth, successes, and excellence in humanitarian activities across the country, stakeholders are also gathering to reflect on the next 25 years of the organisation and plan ahead.

    According to the organisation’s Director of Business Development and Innovation, Nkechi Ilochi-Kanny, marking 25 years of salvaging humanity is worthy of acknowledgement and that the renewal of commitment was necessary towards achieving the set objectives.

    Though ActionAid International is 53 years old, the establishment of ActionAid Nigeria did not happen until 2000. Coinciding with the country’s return to democratic governance,  it presented a hitherto rare atmosphere for development organisations to operate and collaborate towards addressing critical gaps in national development plans.

    With a seasoned practitioner with Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO), the pioneer Country Director of AAN, Charles Abani, built a credible presence capable of mobilising communities, donors, and government partners in the country.

    By 2004, under Mr Abani’s leadership, ActionAid Nigeria had grown its seed fund of £500 into over £4 million through institutional donors such as the European Union, DFID, USAID, and the World Bank.

    With programmes in education and health initiated, coalitions such as Civil Society Action Coalition on Education for All (CSACEFA) and Civil Society Consultative Group on HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (CiSGHAN) emerged as vital partners in advocacy and intervention towards tackling systemic barriers to education and healthcare.

    Today, whether in health, education, agriculture, commerce, or human rights, AAN said it has mobilised people to achieve the best results through various initiatives such as the Citizens’ Led Engagements on Judicial Accountability in Post-Election Justice Delivery in Nigeria (CLEAP JUSTICE), which birthed the Independent Judicial Accountability Panel (IJAP), as well as the reputable Women’s Voices and Leadership (WVL) project.

    AAN also initiated other projects, including the Strengthening Citizens’ Resistance Against Corruption (SCRAP-C); STAR Circles; Poor Education Plus; Family Life and HIV Education, and Commonwealth Education Fund. 

    Next level

    As part of the efforts towards renewing its pledge to advancing humanitarian interventions in the country and beyond, ActionAid Nigeria has lined up a series of activities not just to mark the quarter-century celebration but to clearly identify the next steps it aspires to take.

    On Monday, 24 November, the organisation set out with an internal gathering of its committed workers, celebrating collective efforts and achievements over the years.

    “We not only reflected on our journey so far, but also discussed our vision for the next 25 years, envisioning ActionAid Nigeria at 50 years, transitioning into a wealth-creation organisation,” Ms Ilochi-Kanny said.

    On Tuesday, supported by the ActionAid Nigeria International Secretary General, AAN will be visiting a community in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to interact with beneficiaries of different interventions.

    Meanwhile, on Thursday, the organisation said it will honour its long-standing and outstanding partners in recognition of their contributions.

    Caption: 

    1. Management and staff of ActionAid Nigeria in a group photograph on Monday marking the 25th anniversary.

    2. L – R: Director of Finance, Collins Chinyere; Director of People & Culture, Funmi Olukeye; Country Director, Andrew Mamedu; Director, Business Development & Innovation, Nkechi Ilochi-Kanny, and Head of Programmes, Celestine Odo Okwudili, on Monday, 24 November, marking the 25th anniversary celebration. 

  • Eko Atlantic expansion lures investors to new estate

    Eko Atlantic expansion lures investors to new estate

    The Carnelian in Victoria Island is drawing growing interest from investors and Nigerians in diaspora who see it as a strategic move in the path of Nigeria’s most ambitious urban development.

    Developed by Digital Landlords with contractor ECM and inspired by Keji Giwa, Founder of Giwa Gardens Water Park, the project is now linked to the rising economic activity around Eko Atlantic City.

    Its position offers access at an entry point that remains within reach while aligning with long-term shifts in Lagos’ real estate market.

    The location of The Carnelian places it in the Okunde zone near Bluewater, overlooking the Eko Atlantic Resort Beach and the Coastal Road.

    This gives the development direct access to spaces that draw steady movement from residents, workers, and short-term visitors. The site is also four minutes from Eko Atlantic City.

    This keeps it outside the new district yet close enough to serve people whose work or travel connects to it.

    The link to Victoria Island and Ikoyi widens its reach across business and diplomatic circles.

    Many of the early enquiries have come from people who want to stay near Eko Atlantic without taking on the cost of living inside it.

    This is why the project is often described as a suburb of the new city.

    The economic pull of Eko Atlantic City is shaping the valuation outlook.

    The district is expected to serve as a financial and diplomatic hub, with land scarcity and its modern infrastructure pushing projected prices upward.

    The expectation that apartments in Eko Atlantic will sell for $1.8m by 2029 has become a reference point for investors.

    The Carnelian, with a projected value of $1.2m, stands at a 33 percent discount to that benchmark.

    This creates room for buyers who want access to the district’s lifestyle and convenience but prefer a lower entry point.

    The $450,000 starting price for early buyers opens a valuation gap that forms the core of the investment story.

    The projected rise from $450,000 to $1.2m reflects a 167 percent increase by completion in 2029, which is one of the strongest arguments for long-term investors.

    The rental market adds another layer to the opportunity.

    The location supports nightly rates of $350 to $450. At a 50 percent occupancy rate and an average of $400 per night, monthly gross revenue sits around $6,000.

    The demand comes from expatriates, diplomats, diaspora Nigerians, HNI guests, and corporate teams who want access to serviced accommodation near the beach, business districts, and the airport.

    The ease of movement from these locations to The Carnelian reduces friction and supports consistent rental interest. Investors also point to ongoing work in Eko Atlantic City as a signal that the surrounding market is moving.

    Visible development reduces uncertainty and shows that the main driver of future value is real. With units priced in USD, foreign investors also see a currency hedge. Land in this corridor remains finite, and this continues to tighten supply.

    The Carnelian brings together capital growth potential, rental income, and positioning next to a rising district. Buyers who enter at $450,000 gain access to a future $1.8m market while operating a rental model that can support holding costs. It offers a path into an emerging zone at a lower cost while generating income as the wider market evolves.

  • CJN kicks off 31st annual judiciary sports competition in Akwa Ibom

    CJN kicks off 31st annual judiciary sports competition in Akwa Ibom

    The judiciary on Monday, November 24, kicked off its 31st annual sports competition at the Uyo Township stadium, Akwa Ibom State.

    Declaring the event open, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, said the annual Sports Competition has played a vital role in strengthening the bond and well being of staff members.

    The CJN, who was represented by Justice Uchechukwu Onyemenam, Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal, Calabar Division, noted that the tournament represents more than recreation but a reflection of values that underpin the judiciary’s institutional life, team work, resilience, fairness, integrity and respect. 

    She said, “It is my honour and privilege to join you on this auspicious occasion of the opening ceremony of the annual Judiciary Sports Competition organised by the National Sports Association for the Judiciary (NASAJ).

    “The Judiciary is often perceived sorely through the prism of its solemn responsibilities of interpreting the law, resolving disputes, and safeguarding the rights and liberties enshrined in our constitution.

    “Yet, behind these formalities stand a dedicated workforce of men and women, whose mental clarity, physical wellbeing, and emotional balance contribute significantly to the proper functioning of our justice system.

    “Today’s event serves as an important reminder that the strength of the judiciary rests not only on its judicial officers, but equally on the vitality and commitment of its staff, who keep the wheels of justice turning everyday. Sports play a vital role in nurturing these collective wellbeing. They promote camaraderie, discipline, strategic thinking and healthy competition,” she said.

    She, therefore, commended the National Sports Association. For Judiciary (NASAJ) the organisers of the event, for their steadfast commitment to fostering wellbeing, fellowship and unity within the judicial family. She also thanked Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom for hosting the event and his consistent support for the judiciary in the state.

    Earlier in her welcome remarks, the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom, Justice Ekaette Obot, expressed gratitude to God Almighty for granting the officials and participants in the annual competition safety.

    Obot assured organisers of the competition of standard sporting facilities across the stadium for effective and healthier competition even as she thanked governor Eno for his unrelenting support to the judiciary.

    Highlights of the tournament was the National Judicial Institute taking the first position at the Match Pass while Court of Appeal took the second position. 

    For the football competition, Supreme Court of Nigeria scored two goals against Federal High Court of Appeal which scored one