Heartfelt Gratitude To Our Amazing Partners And Regulatory Body, THE GOOD HANDS INITIATIVE, Canada🌟🚨⛑️

Our school, College of Basic Medical Health Sciences Consult, Suleja, a nongovernmental institute of Allied health, in collaboration with The Good Hands Initiative, Canada, recently organized a wonderful outreach program for the elderly in the Suleja community, Niger State.

A huge thanks to our incredible sponsor and School Oversight Organization, THE GOOD HANDS INITIATIVE, Canada, for their unwavering support in training Caregivers and support for the elderly in our community. Your dedication to bringing care, comfort, and love to those who need it most is truly inspiring!

We're grateful for your partnership and Oversight, and we look forward to continuing this impactful work together! 🙏 #College.bmhsc #cbmhsnigerian.blogspot.com #cbmhs nigeria #TheGoodHandsInitiative #ElderlyCare #CommunitySupport Become a heart that Cares💝 Become Our Student Trainee📗📝

Why people go back to sin after Ramadan – Al-Hikmah Chief Imam, Lafiagi

Islamic scholar and Chief Imam of Al-Hikmah University, Kwara State, Dr Sanusi Lafiagi, tells AYOOLA OLASUPO about the importance and blessings of the Islamic month of Ramadan and why many struggle to sustain post-Ramadan holiness Ramadan is often described as a month of mercy and transformation. What makes this period spiritually different from the rest of the year? Bismillahi al-Rahman Rahim (In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful), the month of Ramadan is very special in so many ways because it is a month of spiritual rejuvenation and a month of character formation. One of the things that make Ramadan very different and unique is the fact that the Prophet (S.A.W.) said whenever the month of Ramadan commences, all the gates to Jannah (paradise) are opened, all the gates to hellfire are closed, and the devils are put in chains. What this implies is that it is easier for the believer to attain Jannah in Ramadan than in any other month because the gates are opened in this month. It is more difficult for the believer to commit sins that will take him to hellfire in this month because all the gates to hellfire are shut, and the devils, who instigate and inspire people to commit sins against Allah, are in chains. This is why their influence is usually weakened in the month of Ramadan. So, as a result of this, Ramadan is very special for Muslims because it takes us closer to Allah’s mercy, farther away from His punishment, and also weakens the influence of the devils. Beyond abstinence from food and drink, what is the deeper purpose of Ramadan in a Muslim’s life? Abstinence from eating and drinking during certain hours of the day is just to prepare Muslims for the greater purpose of Ramadan, which includes self-discipline. Muslims not only abstains from eating and drinking, but also from making false statements, from acting upon falsehood, and from committing sins. Another one is effective time management. You have to wake up for Suhoor (the meal eaten before dawn during Ramadan), you have to break your fast at certain times, and then you will realise that people are even more cognisant of Solat (prayer) in this month than in any other month. Then people want to recite the Quran because Ramadan is the month of the Quran. So everybody tends to manage their time effectively. Nobody wants to waste their time surfing the internet, going on social media, or doing frivolous things that have no spiritual or moral value. Self-restraint is another thing. In the month of Ramadan, the Prophet (S.A.W.) said if any of you is fasting and someone insults or attacks him, let him not retaliate but let him respond by saying, ‘I am fasting.’ This teaches self-restraint and that a Muslim should prioritise forgiveness over retaliation, even when he is under pressure or when he is provoked. Another lesson we have learnt in Ramadan is charity. Abdullah bn Abbas said Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) was the most charitable of people, and he usually gave charity more in the month of Ramadan. But why do some people find it difficult to continue with some of these good deeds after Ramadan? As I said earlier, the Prophet said that when the month of Ramadan commences, all the gates to Jannah are opened, all the gates to hellfire are closed and the devils are put in chains. Simply, what this implies is that with the passage of the month of Ramadan, things go back to their normal meaning that the gates of Jannah will be closed. It is more difficult at that time to attain Jannah because you have to put in extra effort. The gates of hellfire are opened. It is easier to commit these evil deeds. Then the devils are released, so once the devils are released, what else do we expect other than inspiring and inciting and seducing people to go back to their evil ways? This is why after Ramadan it is even more difficult for most people to maintain this consistent level of obedience and of worship of Allah, and of abstinence from evil deeds. From your experience, have you seen lives genuinely transformed during Ramadan? Absolutely! There are people who in the month of Ramadan were reformed, rejuvenated, and able to maintain that consistent level at least for a longer period of time beyond the month of Ramadan. We have seen people who abandoned gambling for the sake of Ramadan, and they didn’t return to it because they listened to admonitions that stated clearly that these things are forbidden and these are the punishments for people who do not abandon drinking alcohol, smoking, and so on. I have seen examples here around me in Ilorin. I can’t really collect names, but really there are people who were truly transformed by Ramadan, and after Ramadan they were able to maintain a constant level. Is it a sign of weak faith if someone returns to old sins after Ramadan, or is it just part of human nature? Absolutely! The human mind is weak, and it takes serious admonition and divine intervention to keep the human mind away from committing sins. Let me start by saying that sinning is natural. Nobody is infallible. Every one of us commits one sin or the other. The difference is maybe in the rate, the gravity, and the nature of the sin, but nobody is sinless. Secondly, committing a sin itself is a sign of the weakness of the heart. The heart is weak; that is why it commits sins, and most importantly, that someone returns to his sinning ways after Ramadan clearly indicates that such a person has only passed through Ramadan but has not allowed Ramadan to pass through him or her. It means that Ramadan has had no real impact on that person’s soul because if Ramadan has a real impact as a preparatory ground for how to live our lives after Ramadan, one should take a cue from his life during Ramadan and just abandon sin generally, in such a way that even if he is going to commit sins, it should not be major sins. How does Ramadan help address social issues such as greed, injustice, or lack of compassion in society? The month of Ramadan goes beyond just fasting. It’s also a month during which many Muslim scholars deliver lectures in terms of Tafsir-ul-Quran. In terms of morning, evening, and even night lectures, and there are many of us who are also invited to give lectures at different fora. So, when people come for these lectures, because it is Ramadan, everyone creates time to attend them. When people come for these lectures in the month of Ramadan, it has addressed many moral crises that we find in society. There are people who are giving testimony of the power because of the consistency in these lectures. After Ramadan it’s possibly maybe just once a week, but during Ramadan it is like an everyday thing. The more the heart listens to admonition consistently, the more it is likely to take one or two lessons. People may not be completely reformed to leave their vices, but to a very large extent some people take these lessons for as long as six months after Ramadan or thereabouts. For instance, society tends to be safer in Ramadan than outside Ramadan. That’s why you see that people are able to attend lectures at night and even return sometimes at 12 am or 1 am during Ramadan. But in any other month, nobody dares do that. That’s why you see that people wake up during the middle of the night and will be beating drums to wake others up for Suhoor in Ramadan. But in any other month they dare not do that because they would be scared of the darkness of the night So, it seems that Ramadan has a barakah (divine blessings) that makes society safe and gives us peace and tranquility. I’m not saying it doesn’t happen, but it’s very rare in Ramadan to hear some of those criminal cases that we hear daily because the heart seems to be softened towards obedience. Do factors such as the environment, friends, social media, or workplace play any role in pulling people back into old patterns of living after Ramadan? It is true that the kind of friends we keep, the kind of environment we live in, and the kind of things we expose ourselves to have significant impacts on our character, and this is what the Prophet said: ‘Every one of you will be on the religion and character of his friend.’ So, be aware of whom you keep as friends, and then the scholars will also say that before you pick a place to live, check the neighbours, check the kind of people living in that environment because in one way or the other the company you keep, the environment you live in, and what you expose yourself to — the social media, the television and the like — have significant impact on how you think, behave, talk, and so on. Are there important moments Muslims are expected to take advantage of during Ramadan? In the month of Ramadan, there are certain key moments a Muslim must take advantage of. First of all, it is the nights of the month of Ramadan, especially the last 10 nights. The last 10 nights are the best of nights because one of these nights is called the Laylatul Qadr (night of majesty), the night of power, and it is a night during which Allah predetermines and predestines what will happen to all His creatures. It is on that night that whatever will happen to you in your life for the next one year is decreed by Allah. Worshipping Allah on this night alone is more significant and rewarding than an act of worship performed in 1,000 months. One thousand months is around 83 years and four months or thereabouts, and when you look at the average lifespan, according to the Prophet, the average lifespan is between 60 and 70. Only a few people will go beyond 70. So if an act of worship performed on this singular night is not equal but more rewarding than what is performed in a thousand nights, then this is a key moment that a Muslim must ensure he does not miss in terms of waking up for Salat in those 10 nights, giving charity and reciting the Quran. Another key moment is the last three days of the month of Ramadan, especially the Eid, which is the first of Shawwal. This is when Muslims are entitled to give Zakat ul-Fitr (the charity of breaking the fast). But one can start from the last three nights of the month of Ramadan. Giving Zakat ul-Fitr serves two purposes. The Prophet said Zakat ul-Fitr is food for the needy and it is also a purifier for the fasting Muslim because in the course of fasting we may have committed one infraction or the other, so giving Zakat ul-Fitr purifies all those infractions and also serves as food for the needy within the Muslim community. Most importantly, the last third of every night of Ramadan, just like any other night, is a period that the Prophet said Almighty Allah would descend to the lowest heaven and will start calling out His servants: who needs X? Who needs Y? Call on Me and ask Me, I will deliver it to you. This is a time that most people find more convenient to sleep. So most importantly in the month of Ramadan we must ensure that in the last third of every night we make judicious use of that time to submit to Allah. Is there any category of people who are exempted from fasting? Basically every Muslim, whether male or female, old or young, who has attained the age of puberty is obligated to fast in the month of Ramadan. However, some people are exempted from fasting, and these people are also of two categories. There is a category that is exempted from fasting and is expected to repay the fast after the completion of the month of Ramadan. Another category is required to feed a needy Muslim one square meal at the least in the month of Ramadan. So let’s start with the first one. If someone is ill — and when we say ill it doesn’t mean it has to be serious — as long as one is sick and cannot observe the fast, such a person is exempted but is required to repay the fast after Ramadan. However, if it is a terminal ailment such as diabetes or cancer or chronic ulcer, or ailments that are serious — kidney, heart, or liver problems — whatever it is that is considered to be chronic and medical experts have confirmed that this person needs to be on constant medication, he cannot fast. Such a person is only required to feed one person a square meal per day in lieu of the days of Ramadan that he has missed. The second category is menstruating women. When a woman is menstruating, she is exempted from fasting and observing Salat. But such a person will only repay her fast after the conclusion of her menstrual cycle. She will not repeat the Salat, so she has to repay the fast. Also, when a woman is pregnant or nursing a child, she is not automatically exempted from fasting unless fasting will affect her pregnancy or the breastfeeding of her child. If fasting becomes difficult for her, this is when it becomes necessary for her to abandon fasting. If the exempted person does not have the capacity to feed another person in lieu of the fasting days he or she missed, what will such a person do? It is nearly possible that one could not fast due to these reasons and does not have the means to feed anyone because he is also poor and needy. For such a person, Allah has not placed any burden on him. Allah will forgive him. Allah does not place a burden on a soul beyond what it can bear. So if such a person has people who can give him Sadaqa or Zakat (alms giving), then they can do it for him. But if he has no one to even help him with anything and he has nothing to do, he should just keep praying to Allah. That is all and there is no burden on him. What is the true measure of a successful Ramadan? Is it the intensity during the month or the consistency afterward? Both are important. When you look at the enormous rewards that Ramadan brings, one will agree that intensifying efforts in Ramadan is a key indicator of a successful Ramadan. However, when one considers the significance of consistent efforts to attain the Ultimate (Jannah), one will conclude that it is more important to remain consistent after Ramadan. Ayoola Olasupo

Passengers recount shocking experiences on Abuja–Kaduna train, lament overcrowding

Some passengers aboard the Abuja–Kaduna rail line have narrated unpleasant and shocking experiences along the corridor, ranging from alleged ticket racketeering and overbooking to operational and mechanical failures. The passengers, who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja, said they were left standing for more than three and a half hours on a journey designed to last no more than two hours. More alarming were claims that attendants on the train were forced to pour buckets of water on an overheating power car mid-journey, each time plunging the coaches into darkness as the cooling systems and lights tripped off. They expressed disappointment that the service, meant to be a safer alternative to the insecurity reported on the Abuja–Kaduna highway, had turned into a gruelling ordeal. 0:00 / 0:00 A passenger, Mr Solomon Abiona, told NAN that his ordeal began four days before his planned journey from Abuja to Kaduna. Abiona said he made repeated attempts to purchase tickets on the Nigerian Railway Corporation booking platform but was informed that all seats were fully booked. He explained that he needed five tickets for companions travelling with him to Kaduna for a ceremony, but was unable to secure even a single seat online. With his guests unwilling to travel by road due to fears of kidnapping and attacks along the Abuja–Kaduna highway, Abiona said he sought alternatives. “A regular passenger on the service told me that purchasing tickets online is a big challenge because the site is down most of the time, and when you are lucky enough to log in, the tickets are already fully booked. “He sent me the number of one of the racketeers, an NRC official, who assured me of tickets upon payment of N6,000 per ticket instead of the official fare of N3,600. “Eventually, the six of us were issued tickets that were not in our names,” he said. He added that on the day of departure, an official was already on standby at the Kubwa station to facilitate their entry and escort them to the coach. Abiona narrated that the return journey from Kaduna to Abuja was even worse, as they were issued tickets without seat numbers and instructed to board and occupy any available seat. “When the passengers whose names were on the seats we occupied eventually located their seats, we had no choice but to join others standing in the aisle for over three hours,” he said. Fabunmi added that he feared the slow speed could expose passengers to security risks. “This was my first experience on the service, and I have vowed not to use the train again until there are improvements,” he said. Mr Wusi Lawrence lamented that the Abuja–Kaduna standard gauge railway was not significantly different from the narrow-gauge rail services of the 1980s. He noted that the service pales in comparison with rail systems in developed countries and even in some African nations such as South Africa and Kenya. “It is unfortunate that while many countries are talking about high-speed trains moving at 360 kilometres per hour with top-class comfort and hospitality services, we are still this far behind. “I really do not know what we will get right in this country,” he said. For many commuters, the Abuja–Kaduna rail line was expected to represent progress — a safer and more efficient transportation alternative. Instead, their testimonies reveal a service struggling with overcrowding, alleged corruption, mechanical challenges, and deep public dissatisfaction. Responding, Mr Abubakar Bunma, Personal Assistant on Media to the NRC Managing Director, Kayode Opeifa, said there was no provision in the corporation’s operations for issuing tickets without seat numbers. He explained that tickets are booked and paid for online, with an automatically generated number capturing the passenger’s name, National Identification Number and phone number. “If your name and NIN do not match, you cannot even get a ticket,” he said. Bunma acknowledged that there could be instances of failed bookings where passengers were debited. In such cases, he said, affected passengers who show up at the station may have their trips rescheduled. “Those who insist on travelling could be given the option to stand, but only if no seats are available,” he said. Clarifying reports about overheating, he said it was not the locomotive engine being cooled with water but the power car that supplies electricity for onboard services. “If the engine is off, the train will not move. The power car, which powers the air conditioning, lights, and toilets, has a generator inside the coach. “There was a time we had issues; it overheated. They turned it off, poured water on it, and then turned it back on,” he said. He also stressed that the NRC does not permit passengers to stand for long-distance journeys. “We do not allow passengers to stand. If anyone is standing, it is either a staff member, security personnel, a cleaner, or a medical official,” he said. Bunma insisted the train could not be overbooked, as tickets are sold strictly according to capacity. On the extended travel time, he explained that following the accident recorded on August 16, 2025, the journey duration was increased from two and a half hours to three hours for safety reasons. He added that management had concluded plans to increase daily trips along the corridor from one to three or four to accommodate passengers. While the NRC has refuted claims of overbooking and clarified reports about overheating, commuters’ experiences reveal deep frustration and eroding public confidence. As demand along the corridor continues to grow, stakeholders say the focus must shift from damage control to tangible reforms, including improved ticketing systems, increased daily trips, stricter staff oversight, and enhanced maintenance protocols. Until visible improvements are made, the Abuja–Kaduna rail line risks losing the public trust it was meant to restore. NAN

TikTok star Peller escapes fire in Lagos mansion

By Samuel Omotere

Nigerian TikTok sensation and streamer, Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, has escaped a fire incident involving his generator.

The social media influencer disclosed the incident in a post shared on his Instagram page on Saturday, where he uploaded a video capturing the early morning blaze.

In the footage, flames were seen engulfing the generator as Peller, who was visibly distressed, repeatedly called for help to assist in putting out the fire.

The fire, however, was eventually contained after what appeared to be prolonged efforts using buckets of water 

The generator was destroyed, while the house and occupants were spared.

The accident scene…Photo Credit: IG/ Peller089

Fans and followers flooded the comment section with messages of relief, attributing the outcome to quick intervention and luck.

The video also circulated across other social platforms, drawing safety concerns from viewers.

As of the time of filing this report, the cause of the fire could not be independently verified.

The fire scene…Photo Credit: IG/ Peller089

The incident comes months after Peller survived a separate scare on the Lekki–Epe Expressway.

During that episode, which unfolded in a widely shared livestream, the influencer was seen driving his Mercedes-Benz while visibly emotional.

The broadcast, titled “RIP Peller,” triggered concern after he made a series of distressing remarks.

In the video, Peller appeared agitated during a phone conversation believed to involve his girlfriend, amid speculation about their relationship.

At several moments, he expressed fear and made statements that alarmed viewers before crashing the vehicle into a roadside object.

Samuel ometere 

Mirabel’s lawyer urges patience as police probe TikToker’s rape allegations

By Samuel Omotere

Legal counsel to Mirabel, the TikTok user at the centre of a widely debated sexual assault allegation, has called on the public to remain calm and allow the police investigation to run its course.

The lawyer identified as Taofeek Akinbo made the call in a series of posts on X on Friday, where he formally confirmed his role in the matter and appealed for restraint amid growing online commentary.

Based on social media interactions, the lawyer appears to have a connection with the Ogun Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi.

Mirabel (@mirab351 on TikTok). Photo credit: Mirabel

In his posts, he tagged the PPRO and social media commentator VeryDarkMan, to whom the TikToker reportedly confessed that aspects of her initial story were false

”I am pleased to formally announce that I serve as legal counsel to Mirabel.

“Please be assured that this matter is being handled with the utmost diligence, professionalism, and respect for due process,” Akinbo wrote.

He further urged the public to avoid speculation while authorities conclude their findings.

“We kindly urge the public to exercise patience as we await the outcome of the ongoing investigation by the Nigeria Police Force, specifically the Gender and Rape Allied Matters Unit, Zone 2 Area Command, Abeokuta, Ogun State,” he added.

Akinbo also acknowledged the actions taken by the police so far, commending the process.

“We acknowledge and commend the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force in conducting a thorough and orderly investigation. Further updates will be communicated as appropriate upon the conclusion of the investigative process. Thank you for your understanding,” he stated.

The lawyer’s intervention comes amid sustained public interest in the case, which has generated intense debate across social media platforms.

PUNCH Online had earlier reported that the Ogun State Police Command said Mirabel had been discharged from hospital but remained with the police for further investigation.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the command, Babaseyi, disclosed this in an interview with News Central Television, where she outlined the circumstances surrounding Mirabel’s interaction with officers.

According to Babaseyi, Mirabel voluntarily presented herself at the Ibafo Police Division but was initially unable to provide a coherent account when debriefed, prompting immediate medical attention.

“And the DPO was trying to debrief her to get facts of the case, but we found out that she wasn’t that coherent at that point in time, so he had to promptly take her to the hospital, a state hospital, for attention,” Babaseyi said.

She explained that the police acted based on the seriousness of the allegations contained in Mirabel’s viral TikTok posts.

“As you know, already, she is somebody, a victim of sexual assault as we presumed, as it was allegedly stated from her post on TikTok and the posts that were going viral on X. We acted in good faith.

“The DPO did everything professionally within his power to make her get medical attention. She was admitted into the ICU,” she added.

Babaseyi stressed that Mirabel was not arrested at any time, noting that her welfare remained paramount.

“She has been happily discharged from the hospital and as we speak now, she’s with us for us to further the investigation and to get to the logical conclusions of whether those allegations were true or not,” the police spokesperson stated.

The controversy began after Mirabel, known on TikTok as @mirab351, shared a distressing video alleging that she had been sexually assaulted in her apartment.

The claim triggered widespread outrage and calls for justice.

Initial reactions had linked the alleged incident to Lagos State. However, preliminary checks later indicated that the event occurred in Ogijo, Ogun State, shifting jurisdiction to the Ogun State Police Command.

Amid conflicting narratives online, the police dismissed rumours that Mirabel had been arrested, reiterating that she had voluntarily reported the matter and was receiving appropriate care while investigations continue.

Samuel Omotere

Becoming a king won’t end my showbiz career — Okey Bakassi

Actor, comedian and traditional ruler of the Umuihuocha Autonomous Community in Imo State, Okechukwu Onyegbule, popularly known as Okey Bakassi, speaks to NAOMI CHIMA about how he is balancing his career with his role as a traditional ruler

You have spent over three decades in the comedy industry. At what point did you realise that comedy was no longer a hobby, but your life’s calling?

Comedy is just one aspect of what I do. I prefer to describe myself as an entertainer. My work is a blend of acting, stand-up comedy and public speaking; all wrapped into one package.

It began as a hobby during my university days. But when I moved to Lagos for my youth service, I had to confront a defining question: what next? Do I get a paid job or pursue my interest in entertainment? Initially, I wanted to do it part-time because it came naturally to me and brought me joy.

However, I soon realized that entertainment is not something you dabble in. The industry wasn’t as structured as it is today. Roles weren’t waiting for you; you had to chase them relentlessly. It demanded the same level of commitment and energy as any full-time profession.

Toward the end of my service year, after deep reflection, I decided to pursue entertainment fully before considering paid employment. I was driven purely by passion. It gave me happiness and felt effortless. I told myself that if I could also make a living from it, then this was what I was meant to do.

Growing up, did you ever envision that you were a funny person destined for entertainment?

Not at all. I grew up in a close-knit family where we gathered in the living room to gist. My mother was an excellent storyteller. My father, though a military man, had a cheerful side when he wanted to. From a young age, we were encouraged to express ourselves freely, speak our minds and joke around. That environment shaped me.

As a child, I actually wanted to be a military doctor. I eventually studied engineering and somehow ended up in show business. Life has an interesting way of unfolding. At some point, I simply looked at life and said, “Let me do this first.”

Growing up as the eldest in a disciplined military home, how did that shape your humour and work ethic?

Life in the barracks influenced me tremendously. Any “barracks pikin” will tell you it’s a mini Nigeria; a melting pot of tribes, languages and cultures. You grow up with friends from everywhere. That exposure gives you stories, accents, behavioural patterns and perspectives you won’t easily find elsewhere.

Everything was around me — drama, diversity and humour. It all became material without me even realising it.

You’ve spoken about arriving in Lagos with nothing and even experiencing homelessness. What kept you going?

When I left Port Harcourt (Rivers State capital), my family was going through financial difficulties. I’m the first of five children, and I had never even been to Lagos before youth service.

What kept me going was understanding how tough things were back home. I had to choose my own version of “tough”: stay home with a false sense of security while still struggling, or face the obvious hardship in Lagos and fight to survive. I chose to survive in Lagos rather than add to my parents’ burden.

The comedy show, “Night of a Thousand Laughs”, was pivotal in your career. What stands out about its birth?

I was instrumental in creating Night of a Thousand Laughs. When I arrived in Lagos, I realised there was no defined comedy industry. There were travelling theatre groups and actors who did comedy within drama, but no structured platform for stand-up comedy.

Seeing comedians in Lagos who were as funny — or even funnier — than my friends in Port Harcourt made me realise talent was scattered across the country.

The question became: how do we bring them together?

At the time, I worked as Opa Williams’ production manager, alongside Reginald Ebere. We conceptualised a nationwide comedy reality platform to discover talent and bring them to Lagos to compete. Opa Williams embraced the idea. Reginald and I drafted the original concept, and it ultimately contributed significantly to the growth of stand-up comedy in Nigeria.

After acting opportunities slowed down, you reinvented yourself through stand-up. How crucial was that reinvention?

Reinvention was everything. Financial experts talk about multiple streams of income, but at that time, everyone focused on acting because stand-up wasn’t yet an industry.

After my first movie, I experienced what I’d call deliberate isolation from the acting space, and I didn’t understand why. It was a wake-up call. If one door closes, another must open.

I decided to take stand-up seriously, refine my craft and make it versatile. Eventually, I began earning more from stand-up than acting.

Which platform stretches your creativity the most?

Stand-up comedy. Acting and music are collaborative efforts. Radio is unique because you speak to people who can’t see you. But stand-up is just you, the audience and a microphone. There’s no safety net.

It requires presence of mind, sharp mental alertness and the ability to deliver a compelling and funny story in real time. Every audience is different. Their mood changes everything.

It’s intense. In my opinion, it’s the toughest art form.

You were recently crowned the Okwe II of Umuihuocha Obohia. How do you see yourself evolving with this role?

Life evolves in stages. You begin as a bachelor finding direction, then become a husband, a father, and now, in my case, a community leader.

When a community asks you to represent them, it means they see something in you. I see this role as an opportunity, not retirement. We’ve wrongly framed traditional leadership as something for people who are tired. It shouldn’t be.

While you’re strong and connected, you can leverage those connections to uplift vulnerable people and put your community on the map.

When I first “Googled” Umuihuocha, nothing came up. It felt like we didn’t exist. Today, there’s presence and visibility. By the time of the official coronation, the structures will be firmly in place.

How will you balance comedy with the restraints of royalty?

Every stage of life comes with restraints. Marriage brings restraint. Fatherhood brings more. Public office demands another level of responsibility.

I have adapted through each stage. This is simply another phase. Change is constant. There’s nothing frightening about it.

Having spoken about the dangers of intolerance in leadership, how do you assess Nigeria’s present political climate, and what advice would you give both leaders and citizens?

Power reveals character. Give someone power or money, and you’ll see who they truly are.

Leadership should teach humility. History shows that many rise and fade quickly. The people who celebrate you today can withdraw their support tomorrow.

If you’re in leadership, your security matters, but the welfare of the people matters more. Don’t assume a God-like status. You’re not God.

Why do you think your people chose you to lead them?

Years in the public eye without scandal speak volumes. I have carried myself responsibly. I hold a degree in Agricultural Engineering, a diploma in Public Relations, and I’m committed to self-development.

I turn 57 this year. Life has prepared me. I have maintained a stable family life and remained grounded. People recognise consistency.

What role should government policies play in empowering entertainment?

Entertainment is one of the largest employers of youth. One creative person can support hundreds.

Government must create an enabling environment — stable power supply, security and grants for creatives. Without electricity, content cannot be consumed. Without security, creators can’t travel or research safely.

Partnerships can boost tourism, foreign exchange and cultural exports.

You have been married for over 25 years. What’s the secret of your enduring union?

Intentionality. I approached my career with focus and did the same with marriage. My wife is my childhood sweetheart. Early years were turbulent, but grace and intentionality built synergy.

Poverty puts immense strain on families, so working hard to provide is crucial. Respect, faith and shared vision matter.

As a husband, you must paint a future your partner believes in. Consistent progress keeps people together.

As a father, what are you intentional about passing down to your children?

Family values. Without values, a family collapses. We raise our children with the fear of God and a strong sense of identity.

They must understand that their achievements reflect on generations before and after them.

My wife and I operate as a team. The children see that unity and understand its seriousness.

You’ve spoken about polygamy. Would you consider it as a traditional ruler?

I believe polygamy is a valid African system of marriage. Every system has challenges; monogamy included. Divorce rates prove that.

Many modern arrangements are already functionally polygamous; we just don’t label them as such.

The key is responsibility. Marriage systems should protect families and children. The conversation should be honest, not emotional.

Has fatherhood changed you?

Completely. “Daddy” is the highest title a man can hold.

Fatherhood makes you accountable. A traditional African father is wired to protect and provide, sometimes at the expense of emotional closeness. That’s something men must be careful about.

Can you compare parenting across generations?

Technology has changed everything. I won’t say this generation is worse, because every generation says that about the next.

But today’s children face higher exposure to trauma and digital overload. Less outdoor interaction reduces empathy and connection.

That worries me. The world is different, and we must adapt wisely.

Beyond entertainment and a royal title, what legacy matters most to you?

My greatest legacy is the example I set for my children. My primary responsibility before God is to raise people who will become blessings to society, not curses. Every terrorist or criminal out there is someone’s child who was poorly raised and eventually became a scourge to society.

You cannot fail at home as a father and claim success as a leader. Charity begins at home. If you cannot manage your household, how can you lead a community?

At the end of the day, my personal mantra is the pursuit of happiness. I want to be remembered as a man who came, who saw and who was happy.

As a veteran, what is your advice on competition and rivalry in the entertainment industry?

Competition and rivalry are natural in any industry. The important thing is to keep it healthy. Someone else’s failure should not be the foundation of your success.

Rivalry can be intense, but there is no need to harm or sabotage anyone to move forward. Focus on improving your craft. Let your growth speak for you.

You recently served as master of ceremonies at an event in Imo State. How do you respond to those who question a traditional ruler continuing to work as an MC?

Nigerians are still learning to appreciate the dignity of labour. We tend to rank professions unnecessarily; looking down on some and placing others on a pedestal.

In other societies, janitors and fast-food workers are respected because they are earning an honest living and contributing to society. Anyone who works legitimately to serve humanity deserves respect and can aspire to any position.

That mindset is something I hope to challenge. Becoming a king does not mean retiring from meaningful work. As long as I can balance both roles effectively, I will continue. The only time I would reconsider is if one responsibility becomes so demanding that I need to scale back.

Besides, kings are public speakers, and that’s what I do professionally. So I’m well within my lane.

What’s your favourite food and sport?

Football, and I still play to this day. As for food, I enjoy swallow with any good soup.

How do you relax?

I relax by watching sports or movies and by reading. I set a goal to read at least three books a year.

Naomi Chima

Naomi was trained in the Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, and the University of Lagos, Akoka. She writes crime and court stories for PUNCH

Continuation From PrintWhy my people hate Nigerians — South African beauty queen, Ntashabele

By Biodun Busari

Ntashabele, tells BIODUN BUSARI about the circumstances surrounding the murder of a 22-year-old Nigerian e-hailing driver, Isaac Satlat, in South Africa and the struggle to get justice for him

Can you introduce yourself?

I’m Phumzile Grace Nsabele. I’m a widow and a mother of two. I’m a model, an international queen with a master’s in business administration. I’m a motivational speaker and an author. I’m Mrs Global Universe South Africa 2025, who is always standing for justice.

Who was Isaac Satlat to you?

He was my son’s friend. My son is Kagiso. I’m like a godmother to him. Isaac was one of my son’s friends, so I take all of them as my boys. Contrary to what many think, I’m not his biological mother. I liked him because he was my son’s best friend.

So, they grew up under me. I went with them everywhere that had to do with modelling, though I stayed in Johannesburg, while they stayed in Pretoria. There were like 10 of them, because I helped them in modelling; all of them, including Ugandans and other nationalities.

I met Isaac in 2024. We met at Soweto Fashion Week. He accompanied his friends, who were models. I saw him as they were taking pictures with his other model friend, Emmanuel.

I told him that he could be a model too, and he said, ‘Mummy, I’m short.’ I encouraged him that his height didn’t matter because he was confident. He appreciated me, and that was how we knew each other and got along.

How would you describe him?

He was a young man who was full of life. He had a promising future. He was a 22-year-old young man. Isaac was studying Mechanical Engineering at Divine Favour Progressive College. He was due to graduate next month. His next birthday would be on March 12.

He was going to be 23 next month. Isaac was a loving and jolly boy. He was a champion to all his friends. He was respectful everywhere.

He attended schools from primary to tertiary level in South Africa and was leading a church. He was a God-fearing child, and he was just awesome.

What do you know about his parents?

His father is a Nigerian. He lives in South Africa. Isaac was staying with his dad because he raised him. His mother and two sisters are in Nigeria. There is another man, Mr Solomon; he’s a family member and their spokesperson. We’ve been working together to get justice for him.

Where was Isaac before he received a message that led to his death?

He was with his friends, including my son, because they stayed together. He came back from work, then went into the gym. After the gym, that was when he got a notification to go and pick somebody for his e-hailing business.

His friends even asked him when he would be back and he told them that it was a short trip and that he would be back in 15 minutes. That was the last time his friends saw him.

You said he came back from work; did he have another job?

He was an intern. He was working as an intern at St. Julian. That’s where he was studying. He was not a full-time Uber driver. He was doing Uber only part-time and was also a model.

Was there any time he was attacked by criminals before the one that took his life?

No, I don’t think there was any record of such. These killers just acted like normal people and requested any Uber driver who was available.

He picked up the call and went to attend to them. So, he wouldn’t know they were criminals; he just got a notification from his place to the other place. It was a very short distance.

Do you think it was one of the xenophobic attacks on Nigerians?

It was not a xenophobic crime. It was not Nigeria versus South Africa. It was just a crime that happened here in South Africa; it’s happening to people in many places, especially in Cape Town and Durban.

It’s been happening a lot. Apparently, this was the first time in Pretoria. Even the way they killed him was just so uncalled for.

Are you saying this was the first time a Nigerian would be killed in Pretoria?

Not only a Nigerian, but this was also the first time anyone that I know in the e-hailing business was killed. They’ve been robbing Uber drivers, but it was the first time in Pretoria where an Uber driver was killed.

Remember, nobody knew that Isaac was a Nigerian. I don’t think they targeted him because he was Nigerian. Nobody knew that he was Nigerian. They just wanted an e-hailing driver. They requested one, and it was so unfortunate that it was Isaac.

The sad part was that they did not even take anything, not even his phone. They only took his life. They found the phone near his wallet and his passport; everything was in the car.

Apart from this incident, why do you think Nigerians in South Africa are being killed by South Africans?

The truth is that a lot of Nigerians in South Africa are drug dealers. That’s what the South Africans are fighting against. They say that Nigerians sell drugs to their children. They are angry that Nigerians are destroying their children.

Many South Africans hate Nigerians because of drug dealing in South Africa. Meanwhile, it is not all Nigerians who are criminals. As a South African, I’ve been friends with Nigerians for the past 25 years.

My late husband was Ugandan. My whole life, I’ve been surrounded by foreigners, and they’ve been good friends to me. There was not even one Nigerian who ever disrespected me or did me any harm or wrong. They are my family.

That’s why most Nigerians are my family. It was the reason I liked Isaac. It is the reason I want justice for him. He was such a good young man. He was hardworking and focused.

Even with what I was doing for him and his family, my own South African people have called me names on social media. I’m told to leave South Africa because I am siding with drug dealers and drug lords.

The problem with South Africans is that they think all foreigners are criminals in South Africa. I tell my people that the Nigerians I see around me are hardworking. They are specialists and professionals like doctors, filmmakers, and brilliant people. They have legitimate businesses.

So, that’s why I cannot relate to my fellow South Africans when they are painting all Nigerians as drug dealers. I always tell them that drugs were in South Africa even before Nigerians arrived here. South Africans are just using Nigerians as scapegoats.

Do you think South Africans hate Nigerians because they are successful in their country?

Not all Nigerians are doing bad things in South Africa. The same applies to South Africans. We have rapists who are South Africans. We have murderers, just like those who killed Isaac. But there are good people, too.

I’m South African, and we have many good people like me. I used to say that if we blame foreigners for our problems and pursue them, South Africans will still have internal problems. It will start as racial grudges. It will be white and black.

After that, it is going to be tribal. It would be, ‘This one is Ndebele, and this one is Zulu’. We are always having something to fight about. It’s not foreigners. It’s not Nigerians. We, as South Africans, have our issues to deal with. I think it is self-hate or something like that.

But when we talk and when we side with foreigners, we are told that we are sleeping with Nigerians or foreigners. They will say we must leave the country. I’m taking all the insults. But I know that I’m an African queen. I am the queen that I am today because of foreigners.

It was when I represented South Africa as Mrs Universe South Africa that I won Mrs Worldwide South Africa. I represented South Africa in Singapore. The people who were with us were Nigerians. There were white people also; there were Congolese. So, I became the queen that I am because of foreigners.

When I reached Singapore, I did not represent South Africa. I represented all Africans, and they supported me. That’s why I support Africa in all the things I do. There are just these little people who are hurt. They are painting all Nigerians with the same brush.

How are the South African authorities treating the case?

Initially, a 25-year-old lady handed herself over to the police. Then, two other guys were arrested and there was a court case yesterday (Monday, February 16). It was adjourned till Monday, February 23, when they are going to appear again in the Pretoria Court.

The fourth suspect handed himself over yesterday. So, he appeared in court today (Tuesday, February 17). So, we have suspects. They are in the age group of 25 to 30.

In what ways have you sought justice for Isaac?

I posted Isaac’s pictures as seen in the video because if it were not for that video that was circulating on social media, we would not have been able to arrest these guys.

It was through this video that we managed to get this girl to hand herself in. People already saw who she was. That’s why she handed herself in. We are still circulating all the pictures and asking people to support.

We are asking Africans who are in South Africa to support, because this concerns all nations. It’s not only South Africans and Nigerians.

We are pleading with all Africans who are here to support us to get justice for Isaac. We are also pleading for financial assistance to take Isaac back home. There’s already a link where the connection has been made. We’ve been sharing that.

We designed something where people can make payments to help the father and Isaac go back home.

What kind of justice do you have in mind from the court?

First of all, they don’t deserve bail, which they were not granted. They are criminals. They deserve life imprisonment.

Unfortunately, in South Africa, there’s no death penalty. But if it were any other country, they would deserve the death penalty. Since there is no death penalty in South Africa, I think it should be life imprisonment. They do not deserve parole.

How can you be a woman and do this? If you see the video, Isaac fought for his life. He wanted to get out of the car. But for that woman to even hold his legs until his last breath, she is wicked.

Mind you, she didn’t even show any remorse, even yesterday in court. There was another guy among them who was smiling. They were not remorseful. That’s why their place shouldn’t be in society.

Biodun Busari

ABUJA CHURCH EXPELS NEWLYWED WOMAN FOR REFUSING SEX IN MARRIAGE, PASTOR LABELS HER A 'DEMON'

The Holiness Revival Movement Worldwide (HOREMOW), an Abuja-based Pentecostal church, has publicly expelled a newly married woman named Oyiza from its congregation after she allegedly refused to consummate her marriage with her husband, Isaac.

The expulsion was announced by the church’s International Director, Pastor Paul Rika, in a video posted on the church’s YouTube channel earlier this month. The decision followed five months of unsuccessful mediation attempts by church leaders and family members.

According to Isaac’s account, Oyiza initially consented to the marriage but later expressed doubts and a loss of feelings for him in the months leading up to the wedding. Despite counseling from the church’s marriage committee and prayers, the couple proceeded with the ceremony.

Isaac described post-wedding challenges, including Oyiza’s repeated claims of “no love, no joy, no peace,” resistance to intimacy, and accusations of attempted rape when he initiated physical contact. He recounted incidents such as her insisting on nightly baths, restricting his movements in their home, and even involving children in their room to deter advances. He claimed she described their marriage as suffocating and attributed her behavior to being coerced into the union by her mother.

Church mediation, including sessions with pastors in Ibadan and Lokoja, failed to resolve the issues. In the announcement video, Pastor Rika strongly condemned Oyiza, calling her a “demon” involved in spiritism and a “marine girl” married to a marine demon with children in the spiritual realm. He alleged a demonic covenant that would result in death if she consummated the marriage with a human husband.

“So, we have delivered her to Satan. We have expelled, excommunicated her,” Pastor Rika stated in the video. “You want to bring shame, what do you mean that you don’t love Isaac?” He referenced historical cultural practices of forcing reluctant brides and compared the situation to transactional relationships, urging members to pray for her “destruction” for allegedly shaming the assembly.

Isaac maintained that Oyiza had appeared happy in pre-wedding photos shared on Facebook with friends and church members, but the problems escalated immediately after the wedding.

Oyiza was not present at the church service where the expulsion was announced and has not publicly responded to the allegations. Efforts to reach her for comment were unsuccessful.

Mental health experts consulted on the matter pointed to possible psychological and medical explanations rather than supernatural causes. Clinical psychologist Oluwakemi Akintoyese suggested factors such as parental pressure leading to forced marriage, or conditions like vaginismus (involuntary muscle spasms making penetration painful or impossible). She emphasized the need to hear Oyiza’s perspective and explore underlying issues before drawing conclusions.

Another psychologist, Afolabi Aroyehun, highlighted gametophobia (fear of sex), potentially rooted in upbringing, past trauma, sexual abuse, or societal pressures to marry despite unreadiness.

Marriage counselor Sunday Anani stressed that love and emotional connection are foundational to intimacy in marriage. He questioned proceeding with the union after Oyiza reportedly expressed disinterest in sex, noting that unresolved trauma, such as past rape or assault, could cause deep-seated resistance.

NIGERIA COURT SENTENCES WINNERS CHAPEL PASTOR TP DEATH BY HANGING FOR MURDER PF FIRST -CLASS STUDENT LANDLORD

A State High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has sentenced 29-year-old Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel) pastor Emmanuel Umoh to death by hanging for the murder of his landlord, Gabriel Edward, a 23-year-old final-year civil engineering student of the University of Uyo. Posthumous results released after his death showed Edward graduated with a first-class degree. Justice Gabriel Ette delivered the judgement Thursday, finding Umoh guilty of stabbing Edward to death on December 21, 2020, at Ifa Ikot Ubo, Uyo. The court heard that tensions developed between the men over the missing belongings of Edward's late mother and rent money. On the day of the killing, witnesses saw Umoh enter the compound; neighbours later heard screams of "Jesus." Edward's decomposing body was discovered on December 26, wrapped in a mat with deep cuts, a butcher's knife beside him. In his ruling, Justice Ette declared: "Life is sacred, and those who claim to represent God on earth should teach that."

Key Points:

 The killing of a first-class student by a pastor entrusted to protect him shocks the conscience.

It underscores the betrayal of trust within sacred spaces meant for worship.

Edward's family loses a brilliant son, while justice delivers closure.

This signals that religious leaders are not above the law.

The timing, with posthumous first-class results, adds tragic irony.

The Winners Chapel pastor was sentenced to death for murdering a first-class student landlord, with the judge condemning the irony of a man of God killing in church premises.

Sources: Premium Times, State High Court, Uyo

yesterday at Lagos House, Marina, I inaugurated the Board of the Lagos State Sports Trust Fund.

I have asked this team to stay focused on one clear goal, which is to grow sports in Lagos from the grassroots up. This means investing in school sports, supporting community competitions, and improving the facilities we already have across our divisions. Lagos has never had a shortage of potential, but we all know that even the best athletes can only go so far without the right infrastructure or funding. The talent is here and it is our responsibility to give it the support it deserves. The Board is chaired by Enitan Oshodi, with Olaposi Agunbiade serving as Executive Secretary and CEO. They are joined by Olabode Agoro, Adeniyi Adedokun Adekoya, Gbolahan Onibuje, Jubril Gawat, Kikelomo Bolarinwa, Olayemi Sarumi, Lekan Fatodu, Moshood Ajide, Engr. Ibrahim Adigun, Chairman of the LGAs and LCDAs chairmen and the Chairman of the Lagos State Sports Commission. I have charged them to use their professional experience to attract private sector support. Together, we will build the strong institutions needed to sustain sports development in Lagos for years to come.