With airstrikes targeting major cities and airports closed, hundreds of Nigerians remain stranded in high-risk areas, causing growing concern among families at home. Evacuation plans are underway, with Nigerian embassies in both capitals coordinating efforts with international partners.
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
Video - Nigeria rushes to evacuate citizens from Israel, Iran
With airstrikes targeting major cities and airports closed, hundreds of Nigerians remain stranded in high-risk areas, causing growing concern among families at home. Evacuation plans are underway, with Nigerian embassies in both capitals coordinating efforts with international partners.
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Nigerian man handed 76-year sentence in sextortion of B.C. boy
RCMP have said that the boy’s sudden death in 2023 came after he fell victim to “financial sextortion.”
Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission says in social media posts that Olukeye Adedayo faced 18 charges, including possession and distribution of child pornography, attempted extortion by threats and money laundering.
It says Adedayo set up an Instagram account using the boy’s name to distribute the images, which the RCMP said the 14-year-old thought he sent to a teenage girl in an online interaction that was over within minutes.
The Nigerian agency says Adedayo pleaded not guilty to all counts but a judge convicted him of all charges and sentenced him last Thursday.
However, the agency said the 18 sentences are to run concurrently, suggesting the longest sentence he’ll serve is seven years for each of four counts of obtaining property under false pretences.
The commission says the prosecution witnesses included a sergeant with the RCMP Serious Crime Unit.
Related story: FBI nabs Nigerian over teen sextortion, gets five years
Friday, June 20, 2025
Nigerian university sparks outrage as staff check whether female students are wearing bras before exams
A Nigerian university is facing backlash after a viral video appeared to show young women who were queuing for exams being checked for whether they were wearing bras before being allowed in.
In a short clip that spread quickly on social media, two women seem to be touching the breasts of the women in the queue as they walk past. Students at Olabisi Onabanjo University confirmed to CNN that the video was shot at their school, in Nigeria’s southwestern Ogun state.
In the video, one female student appeared to be removed from the queue after one of the women touched her.
CNN has not been able to confirm when the video was taken but a student representative at OOU, who defended the school over what he dubbed the, “no bra, no entry policy,” said exams began this week.
The university has not responded to CNN’s request for comment and has not commented publicly on the alleged policy amid widespread outrage on Nigerian social media.
Student union leader Muizz Olanrewaju Olatunji said in a post on X Tuesday that the check for bras “is not a new policy” in the school, which he stated, “promotes a dress code policy aimed at maintaining a respectful and distraction-free environment, encouraging students to dress modestly and in line with the institution’s values.”
Olatunji shared parts of what he said were the school’s policies, which described indecent dressing as that which shows sensitive body parts “such as breasts, buttocks, nipples and belly-buttons,” including “any dressing that is capable of making the same or opposite sex to lust after the student in an indecent manner.”
By Nimi Princewill, CNN
In a short clip that spread quickly on social media, two women seem to be touching the breasts of the women in the queue as they walk past. Students at Olabisi Onabanjo University confirmed to CNN that the video was shot at their school, in Nigeria’s southwestern Ogun state.
In the video, one female student appeared to be removed from the queue after one of the women touched her.
CNN has not been able to confirm when the video was taken but a student representative at OOU, who defended the school over what he dubbed the, “no bra, no entry policy,” said exams began this week.
The university has not responded to CNN’s request for comment and has not commented publicly on the alleged policy amid widespread outrage on Nigerian social media.
Student union leader Muizz Olanrewaju Olatunji said in a post on X Tuesday that the check for bras “is not a new policy” in the school, which he stated, “promotes a dress code policy aimed at maintaining a respectful and distraction-free environment, encouraging students to dress modestly and in line with the institution’s values.”
Olatunji shared parts of what he said were the school’s policies, which described indecent dressing as that which shows sensitive body parts “such as breasts, buttocks, nipples and belly-buttons,” including “any dressing that is capable of making the same or opposite sex to lust after the student in an indecent manner.”
A ‘draconian’ policy
Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong described the OOU’s bra policy as “draconian” and “arbitrary,” and one that “might amount to some form of sexual harassment.”
He told CNN that “physically examining the bodies of students to determine whether they are wearing a bra or not is not only degrading but also undignifying.”
“There could be medical explanations for why certain students may not feel comfortable wearing a bra at a particular time,” he said, adding that enforcing the policy “without exceptions, or without taking peculiarities into consideration is arbitrary,” and could lead to legal actions.
Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong described the OOU’s bra policy as “draconian” and “arbitrary,” and one that “might amount to some form of sexual harassment.”
He told CNN that “physically examining the bodies of students to determine whether they are wearing a bra or not is not only degrading but also undignifying.”
“There could be medical explanations for why certain students may not feel comfortable wearing a bra at a particular time,” he said, adding that enforcing the policy “without exceptions, or without taking peculiarities into consideration is arbitrary,” and could lead to legal actions.
Student leader Olatunji said in another post on X Tuesday that talks were ongoing with OOU’s administration “to explore alternative approaches to addressing indecent dressing, focusing on respectful and dignified interactions between students and staff.”
Unmasking the silent rise of ritual killings in Nigeria
Nigeria is grappling with an alarming surge in ritual killings—a trend that has left many citizens in shock and fearful of what seems like an unrelenting menace. The country has witnessed a rise in these heinous crimes, with young people, particularly young girls, becoming frequent victims, Ruth Tene Natsa writes.
These ritual killings have spread across all regions of the country, sparing no one. From the South-West to the South-East and even the capital city located in Nigeria’s North-Central region, no area appears immune.
Just a few weeks ago, social media users were shocked by the arrest of a well-known herbalist from Enugu State, suspected of being involved in ritual killings. Eyewitnesses claimed that several bodies were discovered buried in a secret soakaway in his house. He was eventually apprehended while attempting to cross the border into the Republic of Benin.
Similarly, a recent incident in Gwarinpa, an Abuja suburb, sparked national outrage when a young woman was found tied, gagged, sexually assaulted, and murdered in a hotel. In response, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command launched a manhunt for those responsible.
This came shortly after a disturbing case in January 2025, where a man was apprehended during a church service in Orozo for carrying the decapitated head of his alleged girlfriend in a polybag. Despite the gruesome evidence, there are growing fears that Timileyin Ajayi’s case may eventually fade into obscurity like many others.
These appalling acts have raised serious concerns about the safety and security of Nigerians, particularly women and children.
Many experts attribute the rise in ritual killings to a toxic pursuit of wealth, power, and perceived protection. Some individuals believe that human sacrifice can guarantee good fortune or success, leading them to commit unspeakable atrocities.
According to President Muhammadu Buhari, the increasing cases of ritual killings and deadly attacks against innocent Nigerians are matters of urgent national concern requiring immediate intervention.
The consequences of these killings are devastating, inflicting deep emotional trauma on victims’ families and fostering a culture of fear and distrust. Nigerians are now more cautious, often suspicious of those around them, especially strangers.
In Abuja, some residents attribute the surge in such crimes to the indifferent “mind your business” attitude among neighbours. Others blame the excellent road networks, which, while a sign of progress, unfortunately make it easier for criminals to flee the scene of their crimes.
Beyond ritual killings, Nigeria is also witnessing a rise in “One Chance” criminal gangs. These gangs pose as commercial vehicle operators, only to rob and sometimes kill unsuspecting passengers. One such victim, Madam Bolanle, recounted being held captive for over four hours, during which she was driven around the city and coerced into handing over large sums of money.
Experts warn that the relentless pursuit of wealth and social validation is fuelling these crimes. Reports have implicated a diverse range of individuals, including medical professionals and politicians. The growing “get-rich-quick” culture, especially among the youth, has contributed to a dangerous trend that now threatens the moral foundation of Nigerian society.
To address this crisis, security agencies must be strengthened, properly equipped, and held accountable in tracking and dismantling criminal networks. Community-level efforts are equally crucial, building trust between local populations and law enforcement and establishing early warning systems to prevent crimes before they occur.
Some stakeholders have proposed stringent penalties, including the death sentence without the option of imprisonment, for anyone found guilty of ritual killings.
The Nigerian government has been repeatedly urged to take immediate and decisive action. According to media executive Sunday Oyinloye, “The federal government and other tiers of government, as well as relevant stakeholders, must urgently confront the alarming rise in the ritual killing of girls for money-making purposes.”
In a rare move, the Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has also weighed in on the matter, instructing Imams across the state to preach against ritual killings during Friday sermons.
Ultimately, combating ritual killings requires a united front involving government institutions, security agencies, religious and traditional leaders, and the general public.
Nigeria must return to its moral compass, where hard work and integrity are recognised as the true paths to success. Parents must instil in their children a strong work ethic, while religious leaders must teach values that promote honesty and diligence, not materialism.
Only through collective action can Nigeria build a safer, more secure society. The government must prioritise the safety of its citizens and take bold, sustained measures to reverse this deadly trend.
In conclusion, the rise in ritual killings in Nigeria demands urgent attention and concrete action. By confronting the root causes, strengthening law enforcement, and reviving core societal values, Nigeria can begin to restore hope and safety for all its citizens.
By Ruth Tene Natsa, Business Day
These ritual killings have spread across all regions of the country, sparing no one. From the South-West to the South-East and even the capital city located in Nigeria’s North-Central region, no area appears immune.
Just a few weeks ago, social media users were shocked by the arrest of a well-known herbalist from Enugu State, suspected of being involved in ritual killings. Eyewitnesses claimed that several bodies were discovered buried in a secret soakaway in his house. He was eventually apprehended while attempting to cross the border into the Republic of Benin.
Similarly, a recent incident in Gwarinpa, an Abuja suburb, sparked national outrage when a young woman was found tied, gagged, sexually assaulted, and murdered in a hotel. In response, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command launched a manhunt for those responsible.
This came shortly after a disturbing case in January 2025, where a man was apprehended during a church service in Orozo for carrying the decapitated head of his alleged girlfriend in a polybag. Despite the gruesome evidence, there are growing fears that Timileyin Ajayi’s case may eventually fade into obscurity like many others.
These appalling acts have raised serious concerns about the safety and security of Nigerians, particularly women and children.
Many experts attribute the rise in ritual killings to a toxic pursuit of wealth, power, and perceived protection. Some individuals believe that human sacrifice can guarantee good fortune or success, leading them to commit unspeakable atrocities.
According to President Muhammadu Buhari, the increasing cases of ritual killings and deadly attacks against innocent Nigerians are matters of urgent national concern requiring immediate intervention.
The consequences of these killings are devastating, inflicting deep emotional trauma on victims’ families and fostering a culture of fear and distrust. Nigerians are now more cautious, often suspicious of those around them, especially strangers.
In Abuja, some residents attribute the surge in such crimes to the indifferent “mind your business” attitude among neighbours. Others blame the excellent road networks, which, while a sign of progress, unfortunately make it easier for criminals to flee the scene of their crimes.
Beyond ritual killings, Nigeria is also witnessing a rise in “One Chance” criminal gangs. These gangs pose as commercial vehicle operators, only to rob and sometimes kill unsuspecting passengers. One such victim, Madam Bolanle, recounted being held captive for over four hours, during which she was driven around the city and coerced into handing over large sums of money.
Experts warn that the relentless pursuit of wealth and social validation is fuelling these crimes. Reports have implicated a diverse range of individuals, including medical professionals and politicians. The growing “get-rich-quick” culture, especially among the youth, has contributed to a dangerous trend that now threatens the moral foundation of Nigerian society.
To address this crisis, security agencies must be strengthened, properly equipped, and held accountable in tracking and dismantling criminal networks. Community-level efforts are equally crucial, building trust between local populations and law enforcement and establishing early warning systems to prevent crimes before they occur.
Some stakeholders have proposed stringent penalties, including the death sentence without the option of imprisonment, for anyone found guilty of ritual killings.
The Nigerian government has been repeatedly urged to take immediate and decisive action. According to media executive Sunday Oyinloye, “The federal government and other tiers of government, as well as relevant stakeholders, must urgently confront the alarming rise in the ritual killing of girls for money-making purposes.”
In a rare move, the Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has also weighed in on the matter, instructing Imams across the state to preach against ritual killings during Friday sermons.
Ultimately, combating ritual killings requires a united front involving government institutions, security agencies, religious and traditional leaders, and the general public.
Nigeria must return to its moral compass, where hard work and integrity are recognised as the true paths to success. Parents must instil in their children a strong work ethic, while religious leaders must teach values that promote honesty and diligence, not materialism.
Only through collective action can Nigeria build a safer, more secure society. The government must prioritise the safety of its citizens and take bold, sustained measures to reverse this deadly trend.
In conclusion, the rise in ritual killings in Nigeria demands urgent attention and concrete action. By confronting the root causes, strengthening law enforcement, and reviving core societal values, Nigeria can begin to restore hope and safety for all its citizens.
Nigeria Arrests 76 Vessels, Seizes 171,000 Barrels Of Crude Oil To Combat Oil Theft
Over the past two years, the Nigerian Navy has detained 76 vessels and more than 242 individuals linked to oil theft. During this period, the Navy destroyed over 800 illegal oil refining sites.
Widespread oil theft from pipelines and wells has severely impacted Nigeria’s oil industry in recent years, reducing government revenue and hindering export activities. The Navy has been working to stop these losses by targeting criminal groups operating in oil-producing areas.
At a briefing in Abuja, Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla said that since June 2023, the Navy had seized around 171,000 barrels of stolen crude oil. He also stated that millions of litres of illegally refined fuel were recovered during various operations.
Ogalla said the Navy started inspecting oil cargoes at Nigeria’s five main export terminals in January to stop oil theft and smuggling. This step was taken to track shipments and prevent smuggling from the point of origin.
The Navy has added new patrol boats and three new ships to its fleet to boost its operations. It has also acquired three AW 139 Trekker helicopters for better aerial surveillance. Additionally, two seaward defense boats are currently under construction.
Ogalla also said that the Navy will soon receive two 76-meter-long offshore patrol vessels from Dearsan Shipyard in Turkey. These new assets are expected to help the Navy improve its presence and patrol ability across Nigeria’s coastal waters.
Widespread oil theft from pipelines and wells has severely impacted Nigeria’s oil industry in recent years, reducing government revenue and hindering export activities. The Navy has been working to stop these losses by targeting criminal groups operating in oil-producing areas.
At a briefing in Abuja, Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla said that since June 2023, the Navy had seized around 171,000 barrels of stolen crude oil. He also stated that millions of litres of illegally refined fuel were recovered during various operations.
Ogalla said the Navy started inspecting oil cargoes at Nigeria’s five main export terminals in January to stop oil theft and smuggling. This step was taken to track shipments and prevent smuggling from the point of origin.
The Navy has added new patrol boats and three new ships to its fleet to boost its operations. It has also acquired three AW 139 Trekker helicopters for better aerial surveillance. Additionally, two seaward defense boats are currently under construction.
Ogalla also said that the Navy will soon receive two 76-meter-long offshore patrol vessels from Dearsan Shipyard in Turkey. These new assets are expected to help the Navy improve its presence and patrol ability across Nigeria’s coastal waters.
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