NEMA Welcomes 147 Nigerians Back From Libya Under Assisted Return Programme

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has received 147 Nigerians who were stranded in Libya through the Assisted Voluntary Return programme, jointly supported by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the Federal Government. In a statement posted on Wednesday via X, NEMA said the returnees arrived at the Cargo Terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, aboard an Air Libya Airlines flight with registration number 5A-BAE at about 5:15 p.m. on October 21, 2025. The repatriation exercise was coordinated by NEMA’s Lagos Operations Office in partnership with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons. According to the agency, the returnees included 100 adults (32 men and 68 women), 34 children (18 boys and 16 girls), and 13 infants (5 boys and 8 girls). Officials of the Nigeria Immigration Service were on hand to carry out biometric registration and documentation to facilitate their smooth reintegration. NEMA explained that the operation was part of the Federal Government’s ongoing effort to ensure the safe and dignified return of Nigerian citizens stranded abroad. The statement added that all returnees were given food, clean water, medical care, counselling, and transportation assistance to support their resettlement. “The reception process was orderly, efficient, and focused on the welfare and dignity of all returnees,” the agency noted.

Read More
Ondo Police Remove DPO Over Mishandling Of Mandykiss Cyberbullying Case

Ondo Police Remove DPO Over Mishandling Of Mandykiss Cyberbullying Case

The Ondo State Police Command has redeployed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Enu-Owa Division in Ondo West Local Government Area over what it described as unprofessional conduct in the handling of a case involving social media influencer Mandykiss. Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, announced the decision on Tuesday after a viral video showed Mandykiss recording and taking pictures of two female suspects inside a police station — a scene that sparked widespread public criticism. The controversy began on Saturday when Mandykiss confronted a woman and her daughter, identified as Mrs. Akinwole Sabitu and Miss Akinwole Oyindamola, over allegations of repeated cyberbullying. The confrontation, which initially started online, escalated into a police matter after the influencer and her followers reportedly tracked down the suspects. Lawal explained that preliminary findings revealed no police officers were present during the alleged arrest of the two women. Instead, the suspects were brought to the Enu-Owa Division by Mandykiss and some of her supporters. The influencer was later seen filming herself with the suspects inside her vehicle and within the police premises before posting the footage online. The commissioner condemned the development, describing it as a breach of professional ethics and a violation of the suspects’ right to presumption of innocence. “This incident reflects a lack of proper supervision and professionalism at the divisional level. The command will not tolerate any action capable of undermining public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force,” Lawal stated. He stressed that photographing or filming suspects in custody contravenes ethical standards and human rights principles. According to him, the redeployment of the DPO became necessary to restore discipline and integrity within the command. Lawal further reminded officers of their duty to protect the rights of all parties involved in police matters, urging them to uphold professionalism, fairness, and respect for the rule of law at all times.

Read More
Fans Reportedly Gift BBNaija’s Kaybobo A Luxurious Lekki Duplex, ₦4 Million, And iPhone 17

Fans Reportedly Gift BBNaija’s Kaybobo A Luxurious Lekki Duplex, ₦4 Million, And iPhone 17

Former Big Brother Naija housemate Kaybobo has reportedly been showered with extravagant gifts from his fans, including a fully furnished duplex in Lekki, Lagos, ₦4 million in cash, an iPhone 17 Pro Max, and several other luxury items. The generous surprise came shortly after his eviction from the reality show, as fans gathered to celebrate his journey and express their appreciation for his lively personality and entertainment value during the competition. Reports suggest that the duplex came with a year’s rent already paid, said to be worth over ₦11 million. Videos making the rounds on social media show Kaybobo visibly overwhelmed with emotion as his fans presented the keys to the house, the cash gift, and the high-end smartphone. Supporters described the gesture as a token of love and recognition for his charisma and positive energy on the show. Many hailed him online as one of the standout personalities of the season. Although Kaybobo is yet to personally confirm the gifts on his social media pages, multiple fan pages and entertainment outlets have shared footage of the presentation, sparking widespread excitement and admiration from viewers. The gesture adds Kaybobo to the growing list of BBNaija stars whose fan bases have gone above and beyond to reward their favorites with lavish gifts — a reflection of the deep loyalty and enthusiasm that reality TV continues to inspire in Nigeria’s entertainment scene.

Read More
Governor Otti Hands Over 28 Brand-New Cars To Abia Permanent Secretaries

Governor Otti Hands Over 28 Brand-New Cars To Abia Permanent Secretaries

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has presented 28 brand-new official cars to Permanent Secretaries in the state civil service as part of efforts to strengthen efficiency and restore pride in the public sector. The vehicles were handed over on Tuesday evening during a brief ceremony at the newly commissioned Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia. Speaking at the event, Governor Otti said the gesture was aimed at making the work of the Permanent Secretaries easier and more effective. “Gone are the days of coming to work with keke. Your documents are ready, including all amortization details, but you don’t have to pay anything. These cars are yours,” he said. He explained that the initiative reflects his administration’s resolve to equip the civil service with the necessary tools for better service delivery. Otti stressed that the appointments of the Permanent Secretaries were based strictly on merit and competence, noting that the process was transparent and free of favoritism. “All of you attained this position on your own merit. Even those I knew personally didn’t make it because the process was transparently conducted,” he stated. The governor also commended the Permanent Secretaries for their cooperation and dedication, describing them as vital to the implementation of his administration’s programmes and policies. According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, Otti expressed confidence that the new vehicles would enhance productivity and motivate the officials to deliver improved service. He reaffirmed his commitment to transforming the state’s civil service through technology and digital reforms aimed at promoting efficiency and accountability. “As we embark on this next phase of civil service transformation, I’m counting on you to drive the digitalization process. I’ve approved the purchase of internet-ready devices for everyone, and we’re working to make the entire state internet connected,” Otti added. In a vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Lands, TPL Ukpabi Ukeje, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, expressed deep appreciation to the governor for the gesture and prayed for God’s guidance and strength for him. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Sir Chris Onwuegbu, described the donation as a morale booster that would further motivate them to deliver quality service. The event was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, the Head of Service, the Chief of Staff, Commissioners, and other senior government officials.

Read More

Lagos Director Dies In Hit-And-Run Crash Four Days To Retirement And 60th Birthday Celebration

A senior Lagos State Government official, Mrs. Serifat Talabi, has died in a tragic hit-and-run accident just four days before her long-awaited retirement and 60th birthday celebration. Talabi, who was the Director of Procurement at the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA), was knocked down on Saturday while crossing the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway near the Redemption Camp in Ogun State. A civil service source confirmed that the incident occurred suddenly as Talabi attempted to cross the busy road. “She was hit by a speeding vehicle that fled the scene immediately. She was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival,” the source said. The late director had spent decades in public service and was set to retire officially on Monday, October 13. However, her farewell event — which was also meant to mark her 60th birthday — had been shifted to Wednesday, October 22, to allow the agency’s General Manager to attend. “She had already printed and distributed invitation cards to her colleagues, friends, and family members,” another source said. “Everyone was preparing to celebrate her achievements and milestone birthday when the news of her death broke. It’s heartbreaking.” Her colleagues at LASRRA described her as a dedicated and warm-hearted civil servant who was looking forward to her retirement after years of service to Lagos State. The family has since released her burial arrangements. A wake will be held on October 23, 2025, followed by a burial service on October 24, both at her residence, 10 Ore-Ofe Street, Ara Hall Bus Stop, Ibafo, Ogun State. What was meant to be a week of celebration has now turned into one of mourning, as family, friends, and colleagues struggle to come to terms with the sudden loss of Serifat Talabi — a woman remembered for her diligence, kindness, and lifelong dedication to public service.

Read More

Arne Slot Faces Major Selection Dilemmas After Liverpool’s Defeat to Manchester United

Liverpool’s 2-1 loss to Manchester United at Anfield has left head coach Arne Slot facing several critical selection dilemmas as he searches for a formula to get the champions back to winning ways. The defeat marked the first time since Brendan Rodgers’ tenure in 2014 that Liverpool have lost four consecutive matches in all competitions, putting immense pressure on Slot ahead of key fixtures in Europe and the Premier League. The Reds now face a challenging week with a trip to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League on Wednesday, followed by a Premier League clash with Brentford on Saturday. With performances faltering and results dipping, Slot must quickly find solutions to his team’s tactical imbalances and selection inconsistencies. One of the main issues concerns the full-back positions, where both Milos Kerkez and Conor Bradley struggled against United. Andy Robertson is now being considered to return on the left, offering experience and composure, while on the right, Dominik Szoboszlai could again fill in for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who remains sidelined. Slot’s defensive setup will be crucial in determining whether Liverpool can regain stability. Midfield remains another area of concern. Alexis Mac Allister, who has yet to complete a Premier League match since April due to fitness struggles, may be rested to recover fully. Curtis Jones impressed after replacing him in the second half against United, and many believe he deserves a starting role. Slot must now decide whether to prioritise Mac Allister’s gradual reintegration or opt for Jones’ energy and dynamism. Attention has also turned to summer signing Florian Wirtz, who once again started on the bench for Liverpool’s biggest match of the season. The German playmaker joined from Bayer Leverkusen with great expectations, but fans and pundits, including Jamie Carragher, have questioned Slot’s reluctance to start him. Carragher argued that Liverpool must build their attacking play around Wirtz and record signing Alexander Isak. Mohamed Salah’s recent dip in form adds another complication. The Egyptian forward has now gone seven Premier League games without scoring a non-penalty goal, his longest drought since joining Liverpool in 2017. Carragher suggested that Salah should no longer be an automatic starter, urging Slot to consider rotating him or testing Jeremie Frimpong in his position to add more pace and defensive balance. Up front, Slot faces a difficult choice between Isak and Hugo Ekitike. Despite being the most expensive player in British football history, Isak has yet to score in the Premier League this season, while Ekitike has netted five times in 11 appearances. The Frenchman’s form before his suspension has led many to call for him to start ahead of the Swede as Liverpool search for goals. Jamie Carragher believes the solution lies in finding a way to integrate all of Liverpool’s key signings — Isak, Ekitike, and Wirtz — into the same starting eleven. He proposed deploying Wirtz on the left wing to complement Kerkez defensively while providing creativity in attack. As Liverpool prepare for crucial games, Slot’s ability to balance his squad selections could determine whether the champions can bounce back from this early-season crisis.

Read More

Arsenal Crush Atletico Madrid 4–0 as Arteta’s Side Dominate Champions League Clash

Arsenal produced another dominant European performance as they thrashed Atletico Madrid 4–0 at the Emirates, sending a clear message to the rest of Europe — Mikel Arteta’s men are not just contenders; they look unstoppable. The Gunners have now kept four straight clean sheets, facing just one shot on target in their last three matches, while continuing their remarkable record from set-pieces — 10 goals already this season from dead-ball situations. Wednesday night’s victory was a masterclass in control, discipline, and ruthlessness. Declan Rice once again orchestrated proceedings in midfield, delivering two assists from set-pieces, while Viktor Gyökeres ended his nine-game goal drought with a confidence-boosting brace. When Arsenal dismantled Real Madrid 5–1 on aggregate last season, it was seen as their arrival among Europe’s elite. Six months later, Diego Simeone’s Atletico have suffered a similar fate. Atleti came prepared, compact, and disciplined — vintage Simeone football — but were eventually blown away by an Arsenal side operating at frightening efficiency. The Spanish giants, who scored five goals against Real Madrid earlier this season, managed just one shot on target all night. David Raya has made just one save across Arsenal’s last three fixtures, and the team has conceded only three goals in 12 games — their best-ever defensive start to a season. For all the legendary backlines under George Graham and Arsène Wenger, this defence may be reaching even greater heights. Arsenal’s set-piece record is becoming almost absurd. The Gunners scored twice from dead-ball situations again, making it the fourth match this season they’ve done so. Gabriel opened the scoring from a Rice free-kick, continuing a trend where Arsenal inevitably break opponents through well-drilled routines. Critics may argue Arsenal rely too heavily on set-pieces — but at this level of execution, it’s a weapon few teams can counter. As Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson put it: “No one beats Atletico by four. Arsenal steamrolled them.” It was also a night of redemption for Viktor Gyökeres. The Swedish striker, under pressure after a goalless spell, silenced doubters with two well-taken goals and another selfless, high-energy performance. “He makes us a better team,” Arteta said post-match. “His work rate and intelligence create so much space for our wingers. The goals were a reward for that effort.” With upcoming fixtures against Crystal Palace, Brighton, Burnley, Slavia Prague, and Sunderland, Gyökeres has a prime opportunity to build momentum — and Arsenal to extend their dominance. Top of the Premier League, joint-leaders in the Champions League, and statistically the best defence in Europe’s top five leagues — Arsenal’s rise under Arteta shows no signs of slowing down. If they continue combining tactical control with devastating set-pieces and newfound attacking depth, the question is no longer whether they can win major silverware — but who can stop them.

Read More
Marriage Is Deeper Than Physical Intimacy: Blaqbonez Sparks Debate With Views on Open Marriage and Modern Love

Marriage Is Deeper Than Physical Intimacy: Blaqbonez Sparks Debate With Views on Open Marriage and Modern Love

Nigerian rapper and songwriter Emeka Akumefule, popularly known as Blaqbonez, has once again set social media abuzz — this time with his unconventional take on marriage, intimacy, and relationships. Speaking on the “In My Opinion” podcast, the Chocolate City artist argued that open marriages could offer a practical and emotionally balanced approach for some couples navigating today’s demanding lifestyles. According to Eyes of Lagos, Blaqbonez emphasized that marriage should go beyond physical exclusivity, noting that emotional connection and mutual understanding matter more than rigid fidelity. “Marriage is more than physical intimacy,” he said. “If my partner needs closeness while I’m unavailable, I don’t see harm in her seeking it elsewhere — as long as our emotional connection remains solid.” Openness Over Possession The rapper, known for his candid and often controversial views, maintained that honesty and consent should define modern relationships. He described traditional monogamy as unrealistic for everyone, particularly for couples separated by work or travel. “Physical intimacy doesn’t define loyalty,” he added. “A partner can have a momentary experience but still stay emotionally devoted to you. What matters is connection, trust, and mutual respect.” While many fans applauded his progressive perspective, others condemned it as incompatible with Nigeria’s cultural and religious values. Separate Rooms, Shared Values Blaqbonez also shared another unorthodox relationship idea — keeping separate rooms from his future wife. He explained that personal space helps sustain attraction and individuality in long-term partnerships. “Having separate rooms doesn’t mean separation,” he clarified. “It means preserving personal space so that intimacy becomes intentional, not routine.” He believes that constant proximity can dull passion, while healthy boundaries encourage appreciation and emotional renewal. Challenging Traditional Norms Blaqbonez’s comments highlight a growing cultural shift among young Nigerians exploring new definitions of love and partnership. While monogamy remains dominant, conversations around emotional transparency, independence, and self-awareness are gaining traction. “People evolve, careers evolve, and so should our understanding of relationships,” he said. “We shouldn’t be afraid to define love in ways that work for us.” Emotional Connection as the Core of Marriage Concluding, Blaqbonez asserted that emotional and spiritual intimacy form the true foundation of lasting unions. “A fling can’t replace what you build with your partner,” he said. “True marriage is about mental, emotional, and spiritual connection — not just sex.” His remarks continue to spark intense debate online, with many viewing them as part of a broader rethinking of marriage, fidelity, and partnership in modern African society.

Read More