D.O. Akintoye

Operatives of the Hisbah Board in Kano State have arrested several individuals for allegedly violating Islamic laws on the first day of Ramadan.

The Deputy Commander General of the Board, Dr. Mujahideen Abubakar, confirmed the arrests, stating that Hisbah officers apprehended young men accused of not observing the Ramadan fast during routine patrols across the Kano metropolis.

In addition to enforcing fasting rules, the board also arrested around 60 people for sporting what it described as “indecent haircuts,” which it claims violate Islamic law and local cultural standards.

Additionally, Hisbah officials detained some commercial tricycle (keke napep) drivers for allegedly allowing male and female passengers to share rides, a practice the board insists is unacceptable.

Dr. Abubakar reiterated that Hisbah would continue its patrols throughout the month to ensure strict compliance with state Sharia law.

Ramadan: Kano Hisbah arrests residents for not fasting, ‘indecent’ haircuts

Hisbah officials detained some commercial tricycle (keke napep) drivers for allegedly allowing male and female passengers to share rides, a practice the board insists is unacceptable.

So, in case you haven’t been paying attention (or just ran out of fuel while scrolling), there’s been a not-so-secret competition between Dangote Refinery and NNPC over petrol prices—especially for PMS.

And let’s be real: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/nnpc-reacts-to-viral-comparison-video-with-dangote-fuel-2025021515075340025">Dangote currently appears to be winning</a> the narrative as NNPC struggles to catch up.

Why? For the second time in a month, Dangote has dropped its prices, and for the first time in 2025, the price per litre has fallen below ₦900.

And you know what that means—wherever it’s cheaper, that’s where the people go!

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/report-dangote-refinery-supplies-60percent-of-nigerias-petrol-needs-2025022519265111181">Excitement in the air as Dangote crashes petrol price to N860/litre for Lagosians</a>

If you’re tired of your wallet crying every time you visit the pump, here are some filling stations offering Dangote’s discounted fuel:

<h3 style="text-align: start">MRS – The MVP of Cheap Petrol</h3>

MRS is flexing with lower fuel prices across the country. If you’re in Lagos, you can get petrol for ₦860 per litre. In the South-West? That’ll be ₦870. Up North? ₦880. And for those in the South-South and South-East, it’s ₦890. It's not perfect, but hey, it's better than whatever NNPC is cooking.

<h3 style="text-align: start">Ardova PLC (AP) – Fancy Name, Friendly Prices</h3>

Once known as Forte Oil, Ardova PLC has over 450 stations, which means you won’t have to trek too far. If you’re in Lagos, you’ll pay ₦865 per litre. South-West peeps, it’s ₦875. Up North, it’s ₦885. And for the South-South and South-East, it’s ₦895—just enough savings to buy a bottle of chilled Pepsi after filling your tank.

<h3 style="text-align: start">Heyden – The Underdog We Love</h3>

With over 50 stations nationwide, Heyden is holding its own in this price war. Their rates? ₦865 per litre in Lagos, ₦875 in the South-West, ₦885 in the North, and ₦895 in the South-South and South-East. Not bad for a station that sounds like the name of that one rich kid from secondary school.

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/fuel-importation-court-fixes-date-to-hear-nnpcls-objection-against-dangote-refinery-2025013018365981330">Fuel Importation: Court fixes date to hear NNPCL’s objection against Dangote Refinery</a>

Enyo filling station is part of the AP group. Ardova PLC acquired Enyo in November 2021 as part of its subsidiaries. By extension, their rates are ₦865 per litre in Lagos, ₦875 in the South-West, ₦885 in the North, and ₦895 in the South-South and South-East.

So, if you’re looking to save a few extra naira (because life is already expensive enough), now you know where to go. Meanwhile, NNPC (Their retail department, of course) might need to step up before Dangote makes them completely irrelevant.

Filling stations selling cheap Dangote Refinery petrol

For the second time in a month, Dangote has dropped its prices, and for the first time in 2025, the price per litre has fallen below ₦900.

FULL LIST: Filling stations selling cheap Dangote Refinery petrol

Nigerian activist and lawyer Dele Farotimi has stated that he is still considering his legal options despite the withdrawal of criminal charges against him.

Speaking on The Duke Rants podcast, published on YouTube on Saturday, Farotimi was asked what he would say if he met Chief Afe Babalola today. He responded, “Like a good Yoruba boy, I’ll give him his salutations. It doesn’t change the fact that I’m still considering my options regarding what to do about what I went through.”

When pressed for details, he said, “All the areas of options that are open to a person who was unlawfully kidnapped from his office, hauled before a magistrate for a non-existent crime.”

Farotimi criticised the process of his arrest, alleging that law enforcement officials violated legal procedures.

“Policemen crossed five state lines, entered a sixth state — from Ekiti to Ondo, to Osun, to Oyo, to Ogun, and then crossed into Lagos. Somebody has to explain the basis of my incarceration for 21 days,” he said.

His legal troubles began after Babalola petitioned the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, alleging defamation in Farotimi’s book, 'Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.'

Farotimi was subsequently arrested and arraigned before an Ekiti State Magistrate Court for criminal defamation and before the Federal High Court in Ado Ekiti for alleged cyber-bullying.

On January 27, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/afe-babalola-drops-defamation-charges-against-dele-farotimi-after-onis-intervention-2025012707444746856">Babalola withdrew his petition</a> following interventions by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and other traditional rulers. However, Farotimi revealed that he still faces four separate lawsuits filed by members of Babalola’s law office across different states.

“My inability to speak to certain aspects of this issue is borne out of the fact that, despite the discontinuation of the criminal proceeding, I still have four suits that I am aware of, in four different states of the federation, filed by members of the same law office, against my person,” he said.

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/tearful-dele-farotimi-thanks-nigerians-for-overlooking-ethnicity-religion-to-defend-him-2024122915031742039">Tearful Dele Farotimi thanks Nigerians for overlooking ethnicity, religion to defend him</a>

Farotimi defended his book, insisting it was based on research and personal experience rather than falsehoods. “I wrote a book. Let us deal with veracity. Anybody can go and read and then come back and challenge me with the lie that I have told,” he said.

He maintained that the controversy was not about his personal reputation but about Nigeria’s legal system.

“This is not a trial of Dele Farotimi. Let nobody make that error. It is a trial of the legal system that we have built as a collective,” he stated.

Farotimi also stressed that his book was not a personal attack on Babalola but a critique of corruption in the judiciary.

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/activist-dele-farotimi-named-2024-titan-of-the-year-2025010214290703013">Activist Dele Farotimi named 2024 Titan of the Year</a>

“Chief Afe Babalola is more than old enough to be my father. I did not set out to destroy the man or to tarnish his image. Nothing personal. I was writing about the institution of the judiciary,” he said.

I respect Afe Babalola, but my legal battle isn’t yet over — Dele Farotimi Vows

Farotimi criticised the process of his arrest, alleging that law enforcement officials violated legal procedures.

Florence Otedola, known as DJ Cuppy, has spoken about how her view of her upbringing has changed over time.

The disc jockey and daughter of billionaire businessman Femi Otedola said she did not always realize how different her life was from others.

Growing up, she never had to worry about basic needs, and her lifestyle seemed normal to her. But as she got older, she began to see that what she took for granted was something many people could only hope for.

Sharing her thoughts on X (formerly Twitter), she wrote, “Growing up, I didn’t fully realize just how privileged I was. I never had to worry about anything. Thank God I see it now. What felt normal to me is something someone else is praying for. Gratitude changes everything.”

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/entertainment/this-is-my-last-valentine-unmarried-dj-cuppy-says-prays-for-husband-2025021518141781161">This is my last Valentine's unmarried, DJ Cuppy says; prays for a husband</a>

Her post has led to conversations online, with people sharing different views. Some appreciated her honesty and said it was good to recognize privilege, while others pointed out that many people struggle with daily needs.

Cuppy isn’t the only privileged Nigerian celebrity who was unaware of their social strata. Akin to Cuppy’s self-realisation is singer David Adeleke, otherwise known as Davido.

DJ Cuppy and billionaire father, Femi Otedola

While OBO didn’t take as long as Cuppy to realise he was raised with a silver spoon, he didn't know his father was rich until he was 13 years old. He made this revelation in an interview with the American podcast Earn Your Leisure.

He said, “As much money that I have been seeing, all these rich this, rich that. My dad is very disciplined.

“I ain’t know we had money till I was 13. My dad was a billionaire driving a Honda Accord. Let me tell you how I knew he was lit. So, there was an explosion and a lot of houses got destroyed including our first house that we have been since when I was a kid.

"When that happened, we had to leave that day because the house got so f*cked up.

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/entertainment/celebrities/dj-cuppy-responds-to-mr-nigerias-comment-on-her-singleness-2025012110430125734">DJ Cuppy responds to Mr Nigeria's comment on her 'singleness'</a>

“So, my mum was like, David, we are leaving, we are going to the new house. I was like, ahnn! New house? He [my dad] has been building the house in another part of the town since, but I didn’t even know.

"We started driving, when he got there, it was mad. Big crib. He still stays there now. I was like, mummy, what’s going on? That was when I started realising that my dad was rich.”

Growing up, DJ Cuppy said she never had to worry about basic needs, and her lifestyle seemed normal to her.

I didn't know my father was rich, I thought I had a normal life - DJ Cuppy

The National President of the Afenifere Youth Council, Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, who kidnappers abducted, has finally regained his freedom. Ojajuni was released after spending 12 days in captivity.

His release was confirmed on Saturday, March 1, 2025, by the National Secretary of the Afenifere Youth Council, Biodun Aderohunmu. In a brief message, Aderohunmu simply stated, “He has been released.”

A video that surfaced online on the same day showed Ojajuni speaking about his freedom. According to him, he was released at Ibillo, a town in Edo State.

Details about the circumstances of his release, including whether a ransom was paid or if security forces were involved, remain unclear.

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/husband-and-wife-hit-with-murder-charge-after-killing-young-mother-kidnapping-baby-2025021021374130217">Husband &amp; wife hit with murder charge after killing young mother, kidnapping baby</a>

However, his family, associates, and members of the Afenifere Youth Council have welcomed his return with relief.

Ojajuni was abducted on Monday, February 17, 2025, in an incident that sparked widespread concern and condemnation from various quarters.

His kidnapping highlighted the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, where abductions for ransom have become a frequent occurrence.

During his time in captivity, there were growing calls from political leaders, civil society organizations, and Yoruba interest groups demanding his immediate release. Many feared for his safety, given the rise in violent kidnappings across the country.

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/man-connives-with-native-doctor-to-kidnap-relative-for-money-police-arrest-them-2025020612414051639">Man connives with native doctor to kidnap relative for money, Police arrest them</a>

Now that he has regained his freedom, Ojajuni is expected to share more details about his ordeal and the circumstances leading to his release in the coming days.

Afenifere youth leader regains freedom after 12 days in kidnappers' den

Ojajuni was abducted on Monday, February 17, 2025, in an incident that sparked widespread concern and condemnation from various quarters.

Dozens of women in Akwa Ibom staged a protest against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following her accusation of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

The protesters, chanting solidarity songs, expressed their displeasure over what they described as an insult to the Senate President, whom they referred to as their son.

They warned Akpoti-Uduaghan against making further allegations that could tarnish Akpabio’s reputation.

Holding placards with messages such as “As Nigerian women, we respect our men and our tradition” and “Respect the office of the Senate President,” the women called for an end to what they termed the denigration of the Senate President’s office.

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/akpabio-sexual-advances-allegation-natasha-2025022811002795826">Akpabio targeting me for rejecting his sexual advances - Senator Natasha alleges</a>

A video from the protest captures the demonstrators voicing their concerns as they marched through the streets.

<h3 style="text-align: start">Natasha at loggerheads with Akpabio's wife</h3>

Matters have come to a head as Mrs Unoma Akpabio, wife of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, appears to be in the front of messy sexual allegations from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against her husband.

Mrs Akpabio filed two defamation lawsuits against Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, demanding N350 billion for damages to her husband’s reputation.

The lawsuits followed sexual harassment allegations made by Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan against the senate president during an interview on Arise Television on Friday.

In response, Senator Natasha has asked Mrs Akpabio to stay out of the ongoing controversy surrounding allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation against her husband.

In a letter dated March 1, 2025, addressed to Mrs Akpabio through her lawyer, Victor Giwa, Akpoti-Uduaghan cautioned her against getting involved in the matter.

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/akpabios-wife-sues-natasha-for-n350bn-defamation-damages-kogi-senator-fires-back-2025030115462932569">Akpabio's wife sues Natasha for N350bn defamation damages, Kogi senator fires back</a>

Titled, ‘Stay Away from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Sexual Harassment and Intimidation Allegation Against Senate President Godswill Akpabio To Safeguard Your Sanity and That of Your Family’, the letter emphasised that the allegations were directed at the Senate President and that he should be left to defend himself.

<blockquote>Our client is not desirous of calling you out into the unfortunate saga concerning her allegations against the Senate President and wishes that you restrain yourself from delving into the obscene circumstances.</blockquote>

“While she has tolerated all the harassment from the Senate President, she was constrained to reveal the unfortunate torture and victimisation she has endured in the Red Chambers,” the letter partly read.

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGqiuLGN9Vy/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGqiuLGN9Vy/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGqiuLGN9Vy/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Lindaikejiblog (@lindaikejiblogofficial)</a></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

Akwa Ibom women protest against Natasha over sexual harassment claim against Akpabio

A video from the protest captures the demonstrators voicing their concerns as they marched through the streets.

A National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Rofiat Lawal, who was kidnapped along the Benin-Ore Expressway on Tuesday, has been released after her family paid a ransom of N1.1 million.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/bandits-break-into-ex-nysc-d-g-gen-tsigas-residence-abduct-him-and-others-2025020612204904962">Lawal was abducted</a> while travelling from Benin, Edo State, to Ibadan, Oyo State, for her primary assignment. The kidnappers initially demanded N20 million but later reduced it to N5 million after negotiations.

A friend of the victim, identified as Agbakwara, confirmed her release on Saturday. He said, “In the early hours of Friday, the kidnappers pressured us, warning that if we failed to meet their demands, we should not expect her return.”

Agbakwara explained that she gathered contributions from her friends, school colleagues, and religious associations, eventually raising N1.1 million. At 4:20 p.m. on Friday, the ransom was sent to an account provided by the kidnappers.

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/ex-nysc-dg-regains-freedom-from-bandits-after-22-days-in-captivity-2025030109402654904">Ex-NYSC DG regains freedom from bandits after 22 days in captivity</a>

The account holder, identified as Isaac Ayo, claimed his sister had also been kidnapped and assured them he would deliver the money alongside his own ransom payment.

“For hours, we anxiously waited,” Agbakwara stated. “Finally, at around 10 p.m., we received the long-awaited call: they had been released and taken to the hospital.”

By Saturday morning, Lawal had reunited with her family. Agbakwara said, “I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed, shared the news, and tagged the necessary authorities. Your support made this possible.”

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/fg-approves-naira77000-nysc-allowance-2025013114223231503">FG approves ₦77,000 NYSC allowance - payments begin in February</a>

Friends, religious associations raise N1.1m to secure release of kidnapped NYSC member

A friend of the victim, identified as Agbakwara, confirmed her release on Saturday.

Matters have come to a head as Mrs Unoma Akpabio, wife of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, appears to be in the front of messy sexual allegations from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against her husband.

The lawsuits followed <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/hes-disciplined-akpabios-wife-defends-husband-amid-natashas-sexual-harassment-claim-2025022818213860589">sexual harassment allegations made by Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan</a> against the senate president during an interview on Arise Television on Friday.

Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan, a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), detailed an incident on 8 December 2023 when she and her husband visited Mr Akpabio’s residence in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State.

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/women-group-slams-senator-natasha-for-lashing-out-at-akpabio-wants-her-suspended-2025022120072132292">Women group slams senator Natasha for lashing out at Akpabio, wants her suspended</a>

During the visit, she alleged that the senate president held her hand, led her around his house, and then made inappropriate advances towards her, even in her husband’s presence.

She also claimed that Mr Akpabio once insinuated that she should “take care of him” if she wanted her motions to receive favourable consideration on the Senate floor.

In response, the senate president’s wife filed two separate defamation lawsuits at the Federal High Court in Abuja to defend her husband's reputation.

In the suits marked CV/814/25 and CV/816/25, the wife of the Senate President demanded N250 billion and N100 billion in general damages, respectively.

Mrs Akpabio claimed the allegations against her husband had caused her and the children emotional and psychological abuse.

She also said since the allegations have been made public, her family has been living under constant fear and threat to their lives.

The wife of the Senate president then asked the court to declare the allegations defamatory and a violation of her husband’s fundamental rights.

She also prayed the court to restrain Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan and her associates from making defamatory statements against the Akpabio family.

Mrs Akpabio urged the court to mandate Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan to issue a formal written retraction and tender an unconditional apology to the senate president, which should be published in two national newspapers.

She requested the court to award a total of N350 billion in damages against the senator as compensation.

<h3 style="text-align: start">Senator Natasha’s Response</h3>

L-R: Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti. [Facebook]

Senator Natasha has asked Mrs Akpabio to stay out of the ongoing controversy surrounding allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation against her husband.

In a letter dated March 1, 2025, addressed to Mrs Akpabio through her lawyer, Victor Giwa, Akpoti-Uduaghan cautioned her against getting involved in the matter.

“Our client is not desirous of calling you out into the unfortunate saga concerning her allegations against the Senate President and wishes that you restrain yourself from delving into the obscene circumstances.

Akpoti-Uduaghan maintained that she had enough evidence to support her claims, urging Mrs Akpabio to let her husband defend himself rather than intervene in the matter.

“Our client has concrete evidence to substantiate her allegations. We suggest that you leave the defence of these allegations to the Senate President to maintain your sanity and that of your family,” the letter added.

She reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for Nigerian women, stressing that, as a family woman, she remained dedicated to upholding family values and principles.

Akpabio's wife sues Natasha for N350bn damages, Kogi senator fires back

Natasha claimed that Akpabio once insinuated that she should “take care of him” if she wanted her motions to receive favourable consideration on the Senate floor.

Akpabio's wife sues Natasha for N350bn defamation damages, Kogi senator fires back

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on February 28, 2025, to discuss a minerals agreement and continued U.S. support for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia.

However, the meeting quickly turned tense, ending abruptly without signing the anticipated deal.

The exchange became heated when Vice President JD Vance criticised Zelenskyy’s diplomatic approach, suggesting Ukraine was too demanding of U.S. assistance.

Trump then accused Zelenskyy of failing to show enough gratitude for previous U.S. aid and warned that Ukraine’s reluctance to negotiate with Russia could escalate the war.

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/6565-chatgpt-said-macron-backs-trump-putin-outreach-europe-troops-2025022506134859447">Macron endorses Trump’s outreach to Putin - urges US backing for European troops</a>

In response, Zelenskyy defended his country’s position, arguing that conceding to Russian demands would compromise Ukraine’s sovereignty.

The meeting concluded <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/china-supports-trump-putin-negotiations-on-ending-russia-ukraine-war-2025021311162515923">without any formal agreement</a>, and planned joint events, including a scheduled press conference, were canceled.

The fallout has raised concerns about the future of U.S. military support for Ukraine, as Trump’s administration has taken a more cautious stance on further aid.

European leaders responded swiftly, expressing strong support for Zelenskyy and condemning Trump’s treatment of the Ukrainian president.

Meanwhile, Russian officials welcomed the discord, seeing it as a potential weakening of Ukraine’s international backing.

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/trump-unveils-dollar5-million-gold-card-us-visa-scheme-2025022614450700791">Trump unveils $5 million ‘Gold Card’ US visa scheme</a>

The incident marks a shift in U.S.-Ukraine relations, with uncertainty over how much support Kyiv can expect from Washington moving forward.

The White House has not commented further on whether negotiations will continue.

Trump Vs. Zelensky: Here's what happened during shouting match at White House

Zelenskyy defended his country’s position, arguing that conceding to Russian demands would compromise Ukraine’s sovereignty.

The governments of Katsina, Kebbi and Bauchi states have directed all schools--public and private--to proceed on holiday for the whole month of Ramadan, when Muslims observe strict fasting.

The government said the holiday is to allow students, teachers and other stakeholders to observe the holy month, which begins on Saturday, March 1, 2025.

According to Kebbi State’s revised 2024/2025 academic calendar, the second term will conclude on February 28, 2025, and Ramadan will commence on March 1, 2025.

Ahmed Idris, the Chief Press Secretary to the state governor, said the state government approved the break to allow the Muslim communities in the state’s educational institutions to fully engage in fasting, prayers and other religious activities associated with Ramadan.

According to Idris, schools across the state are scheduled to resume for the third term on April 7, 2025.

“The government urges all educational establishments to adhere to this schedule and wishes the Muslim faithful a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan.”

The Katsina State government also directed all schools in the state to shut down for Ramadan. The Commander General of the state’s Hisbah Board, Dr. Aminu Usm, issued a statement specifically ordering private schools to close and warning against non-compliance.

The statement reads: “In accordance with the Katsina State government’s directive, all private schools are required to close for the Ramadan period to allow pupils to fully observe the holy month. The directive includes extra lessons, please.

The holiday directive in Bauchi State passed down through the Ministry of Education, states that all schools operating in the state, including privately owned and faith-based ones, are expected to be closed for the next 40 days.

The decision taken by the state has sparked reactions from various quarters, with concerns raised over the implications of prolonged school closures on academic performance.

Critics argue that such scheduling prioritises religious observances over education, potentially affecting students in the long run.

Abiodun, a social media user, lamented what he described as an imbalance in governance, stating, “A state government has closed down all schools for the next month because of Ramadan. This country isn’t designed to make it.”

Others, however, defended the move, asserting that the adjustment aligns with the curriculum’s structure.

A National Youth Service Corps member, Khaleef Aniwura, currently serving in Bauchi, who shared the state-approved calendar, explained, “As a corps member here in Bauchi State, the holiday is according to the school curriculum. We have already finished the curriculum for academic activities for the second term. The school will resume in April to continue all other activities and the third term.”

The debate over the calendar has also reignited discussions on the role of religion in governance, particularly in the education sector. Some have questioned whether similar considerations would be given to non-Muslim religious observances.

Another X user identified as TheGrinch commented, “Brother, it has always been alleged that it [Sharia law] isn’t for non-Muslims, so how come non-Muslim alcoholic drink traders are having their goods destroyed in the North? Or will Sharia in the North be different from the one in the South? Call a spade a spade, please.”

Full List: Here are northern states that have shut schools for Ramadan

As Ramadan fasting begins, some Northern states shut down educational activities.

On February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court of Nigeria nullified the October 2024 local government elections in Rivers State, resulting in the removal of all serving local government chairmen.&nbsp;

The court determined that the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) violated the Electoral Act by continuing voter registration after announcing the election date.&nbsp;

Consequently, all local government councils formed from the annulled election have been dissolved, and the state government is required to organize fresh elections in compliance with the law.

Supreme Court Bars Federal Allocations to Rivers State, Affirms Amaewhule-Led Assembly

The Supreme Court has also barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Accountant General of the Federation from releasing funds to the Rivers State government, citing the state’s disobedience to court orders.

In a judgment delivered by Justice Emmanuel Akomaye, the court dismissed Governor Siminalayi Fubara&rsquo;s appeal challenging the legitimacy of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule. The five-man panel ruled that Fubara acted unlawfully by presenting the 2024 budget to a four-member House, denying 28 constituencies proper representation.

The court ordered Amaewhule and his lawmakers to resume legislative activities immediately. It also condemned Governor Fubara&rsquo;s handling of the Assembly crisis, calling his actions dictatorial and an attempt to prevent the legislature from functioning.

Additionally, the Supreme Court described the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex as an abuse of executive power aimed at undermining the Assembly&rsquo;s authority.

How the Apex court&rsquo;s ruling affects Wike and Fubara&rsquo;s issues&nbsp;

The Supreme Court&rsquo;s ruling, which halts federal allocations to Rivers State and upholds Martin Amaewhule&rsquo;s Assembly, tilts the power struggle in Nyesom Wike&rsquo;s favor while weakening Governor Siminalayi Fubara.&nbsp;

With financial constraints and a hostile legislature, Fubara&rsquo;s administration faces governance challenges, limiting his control over state affairs. The court&rsquo;s criticism of his actions as dictatorial further damages his credibility, while Wike&rsquo;s influence strengthens through his loyalist-dominated Assembly.&nbsp;

However, Wike risks public backlash for appearing to overreach. Fubara must now decide whether to negotiate with Wike&rsquo;s camp or risk further political isolation and possible impeachment.

All LGA chairmen in Rivers state have been removed

Wike defeats Fubara as Supreme Court sacks Rivers LG Chairmen

In the vast expanse of Nigeria’s political history, few figures remain as elusive and burdened by the weight of their own decisions as General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida. Decades after stepping away from power, his name still evokes strong emotions— of scepticism and, for many, outright disdain.&nbsp;

Unlike his predecessors and successors, who have severally been subject to moments of nostalgia or revisionist sympathy, Babangida has largely remained a villain in the nation&rsquo;s historical imagination.

This is the context in which his new book, A Journey in Service arrives: an attempt, not so much at historical documentation, but at historical redemption.&nbsp;

For a leader who spent considerable time outside the public eye, his book represents a long-overdue effort to reclaim his narrative. Yet, for those of us who did not witness his rule firsthand, the question remains, did Babangida succeed in rewriting his legacy?

<h4>A History Well Told, A Truth Half Kept</h4>

There is no doubt that Babangida offers a unique perspective on Nigeria&rsquo;s history. Unlike historians or journalists who reconstruct the past through secondhand accounts, Babangida was at the very center of power.&nbsp;

He recalls events with detail, naming individuals and exposing scenarios often glossed over by others. This alone gives the book historical value, as it fills gaps in the collective memory of a nation that too often forgets.

But history is more than just recounting events; it is about context, accountability, and honesty. And it is here that Babangida falters.&nbsp;

In the book, his role in Nigeria&rsquo;s defining crises like the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP), political instability, and the annulment of the June 12 elections are recounted with a familiar, almost predictable detachment.&nbsp;

He does not outright deny responsibility, but he does something more frustrating: he minimizes it.

Babangida paints himself as a man trapped by forces beyond his control—either the economy dictated his policies, political actors forced his hand, or fate itself orchestrated events in ways he could not alter.&nbsp;

It is a careful balancing act: neither an outright confession nor a complete exoneration, but an attempt to blur the lines between agency and inevitability.

<h4>A Legacy Unchanged for our Generation&nbsp;</h4>

For those of us who did not witness Babangida&rsquo;s rule in real-time, the book is unlikely to alter much. Babangida&rsquo;s legacy has not been softened by time.&nbsp;

Unlike figures like General Yakubu Gowon, who despite his wartime controversies, is sometimes credited with youthful idealism. Even Abacha, the most notorious of them all, is sporadically praised in certain circles for his infrastructural projects.&nbsp;

Babangida, however, has remained a figure of suspicion, his name synonymous with political manoeuvring, economic hardship, and institutionalized corruption.

This book, for all its attempts at nuance, does little to disrupt that perception. If anything, it reinforces it.&nbsp;

The launch event itself was telling, an extravagant affair attended by figures who symbolize the Nigeria Babangida helped shape: wealthy, shadowy, and utterly detached from the struggles of ordinary Nigerians.&nbsp;

It was, in essence, a performance of power, a reminder of why his reputation remains largely unredeemed.

<h4>A Justification, Not a Revelation</h4>

At its core, Babangida&rsquo;s memoir is not a revelation, it is a justification. It does not challenge his historical image so much as it seeks to soften its edges. But history is not so easily rewritten. Legacy is not crafted by mere words but by the weight of real consequences.

For those of us seeking a candid, unvarnished account of one of Nigeria&rsquo;s most controversial leaders, this book offers only half the story. And as history has shown, half the story is often more dangerous than it&rsquo;s omission in entirety.

For a leader who spent considerable time outside the public eye, his book represents a long-overdue effort to reclaim his narrative. Yet, for those of us who did not witness his rule firsthand, the question remains, did Babangida succeed in rewriting his legacy?

D.O. Akintoye

Articles written by the author

Ramadan: Kano Hisbah arrests residents for not fasting, ‘indecent’ haircuts

FULL LIST: Filling stations selling cheap Dangote Refinery petrol

I respect Afe Babalola, but my legal battle isn’t yet over — Dele Farotimi Vows

I didn't know my father was rich, I thought I had a normal life - DJ Cuppy

Afenifere youth leader regains freedom after 12 days in kidnappers' den

Akwa Ibom women protest against Natasha over sexual harassment claim against Akpabio

Friends, religious associations raise N1.1m to secure release of kidnapped NYSC member

Akpabio's wife sues Natasha for N350bn defamation damages, Kogi senator fires back

Trump Vs. Zelensky: Here's what happened during shouting match at White House

Full List: Here are northern states that have shut schools for Ramadan

Wike defeats Fubara as Supreme Court sacks Rivers LG Chairmen

A Journey In Service: Who is Babangida, What’s in his book & Why is it important to Nigerians under 30?

Kanye West shares wife, Bianca Censori's nude ahead of premiere of $25m movie

7 killed, 6 injured in clash between cocoa farmers and hoodlums in Edo

Believe IBB’s book and follow him to damnation – Abacha’s grandson fires back

Gunmen disrupt vigil in Delta, shoot pastor, abduct 6 members

They’ve always envied you - Abacha’s son defends father amid IBB’s June 12 claim

Rihanna, A$AP Rocky enjoy intimate birthday after rapper narrowly escapes prison

No Igbo coup - Babangida refutes claims of ethnic agenda in 1966 coup

3 Niger youths arrested for offering pregnant woman N30m to sell 6-month foetus