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  • Aondoakaaa, ex-AGF blames Nigeria’s food insecurity on escalating herders/farmers clashes, profers solutions

    Aondoakaaa, ex-AGF blames Nigeria’s food insecurity on escalating herders/farmers clashes, profers solutions

    A former Minister for Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Mike Kaase Aondoakaaa, SAN said that the escalating conflicts between farmers and herders over land and water resources have disrupted food production in Nigeria.

    Chief Kaase Aondoakaaa, a Fellow of the International Dispute Resolution Institute in the United Kingdom said this today, Sunday October 19, 2025 at the ongoing Plant Science And Molecular Biology World Conference and Agriculture, Forestry and Horticulture, 2025 with its Theme: Mitigating Food Insecurity in Central Nigeria: Gender-Inclusive Agri-Innovative Solutions.

    In his 40 minutes Keynote address at the International Conference which was held at Millennium Hotel, Paris, France, Aondoakaaa, a 2027 Frontline governorship aspirant in Benue state added that the clashes have also displaced millions of Nigerians and have as well exacerbated food insecurity, according to a 2024 report of the UNDP.

    According to him, women and youth who play crucial but often overlooked roles in agriculture have been at the receiving ends of the attacks.

    Speaking further, Chief Kaase Aondoakaaa, SAN expressed that traditional humanitarian responses have proven insufficient, necessitating innovative, gender-inclusive agro-solutions that addresses both food security and conflict resolution.

    According to him, thirty three states out of the thirty six states of Nigeria have been affected with the farmer/herders clashes.

    Aondoakaaa’s presentation also showed the devastation at a farm settlement in Guma local government area of Benue State where he highlighted the massacre of farmers at Yelewata and the responses from the government.

    He said: “On Friday 13th June, 2025, there was a massacre at Yelewata community of Benue State in North Central Region Nigeria where over 200 people were killed. Majority of the victims (60%) were women and youth.

    “The President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Dr. George Akume CON visit to the Yelewata community is of recent memory”

    Proffering solutions, the Chairman of Mikap Nigeria Limited which the producers of MIVA Rice stated that Nigeria can truly transform if it can intentionally dismantle systemic barriers that exclude women and youth groups that form the backbone of food production but still made to face disproportionate challenges.

    “The culture excluded women and youth from farmland ownership. This needs specific intervention from government. This pillar demands targeted interventions like flexible training schedules for women balancing farm and family duties and youth-focused agripreneurship programs with startup grants” he noted.

    Meanwhile, Chief Kaase Aondoakaaa hinted that Mikap Nigeria Limited, processor of MIVA Rice is collaborating with GIZ/MOVE program in capacity building for women, youth and people with disabilities.

    He pressed further that the company is encouraging the formation of agricultural cooperatives for women and youth.

    According to him, it goes beyond token inclusion to address structural inequalities in land ownership (where women control less that 10% of agricultural land despite providing 70% of farm labor) and financial access (where young agripreneurs face rejection rates of over 50% for formal loans).

    In his conclusion, Chief Kaase Aondoakaaa SAN stated that a transformed agricultural system stands as one of Nigeria’s most powerful levers to unlock door security, ignite sustainable economic growth, and harness the untapped potential of the country’s youth and fertile lands.

    He however acknowledged efforts of the Federal Government of Nigeria under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope but stated that more still needs to be done. He equally called on stakeholders in the sector to contribute to complement the efforts of the government.

    In his recommendation, he said that the country must first create visible success stories by elevating women and youth time models through media campaigns and innovation awards.

    Secondly, he said the government should establish gender-sensitive extension services and mobile learning platforms that account for literacy gaps.

    He also urged the government to institutionize affirmative policies like quotas for women in agricultural leadership programs and youth-focused land leading schemes.

    “He said: When implemented holistically, this pillar won’t just promote inclusion. It will unlock Nigeria’s most underutilized resource: the creativity and energy of its women and young farmers, potentially increasing agricultural output by 20-30% according to FAO estimates.

    “Increase capital access and international support for agric value added companies like Mikap Nigeria Limited”

    In his closing gratitude, Chief Aondoakaaa extended his deepest appreciation to the organizers and participants for their engaged participation and shared commitment for transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.

    “Your presence here today reflects the collective will needed to drive meaningful change. I eagerly anticipate the actionable insights and partnerships that will emerge from this conference, knowing that together, we hold the power to turn dialogue into tangible progress. Let’s carry this momentum forward, ensuring the seeds of collaboration we have planted today yield a harvest of innovation and prosperity for generations to come”

  • Arewa Voters Assembly Warns Sowore Against October 20 Protest, Declares ‘Enough of His Rascality and Impunity’

    The Arewa Voters Assembly (AVA) has warned activist Omoyele Sowore to desist from his planned protest scheduled for October 20, 2025, in Abuja, describing it as a dangerous plot to destabilize Nigeria’s peace, unity, and democracy.

    In a statement released today in Abuja and signed by its Convener, Comrade Ismail Ibrahim Bakori, the Assembly said it was “pertinently and vehemently speaking in unequivocal language to all enemies of the country who have overtly and surreptitiously been working to reverse the appreciable mileage that Nigerians have strenuously struggled to cover in entrenching democracy and representative governance in the country, especially the gains so far achieved by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration.”

    “In tune with the mood of most rational and patriotic Nigerians, we are hereby warning Sowore that we can no longer put up with his serial acts of rascality that threaten the very foundation of the corporate existence of the country and his unguarded utterances and statements against state institutions and statesmen, very unbecoming of a child brought up from a good home with parents,” Bakori said. “Enough is enough.”

    According to the Assembly, “Omoyele Sowore is an unpatriotic quisling who has been masquerading in the guise of a ‘human rights and democracy activist.’ This posturing is a facade behind which he has been carrying out his treacherous and treasonable offences and actions against the Nigerian state and institutions for a few years now, masquerading under the so-called garb to blackmail and commit atrocious activities that are very inhuman.”

    The statement further alleged that, “Sowore is a hired destabilization agent in the service of foreign forces and interests that have been scheming over the years to disintegrate Nigeria by igniting the fire of ethnic, regional and religious conflagration and inclinations. They have found an ally in Sowore, who does not have the fear of God in him and is never patriotic to the cause and aspirations of the Nigerian state, and who will do anything to bring the country to its knees in order to satisfy his selfish, delusional behavior and character traits of a failed childhood not brought up from a good parentage and family life.”

    “Since the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1999, it has long become obvious to us in the Arewa Voters Assembly, and to discerning Nigerians and certainly to every patriotic observer, that several shadowy forces have been at work in efforts to scuttle the trajectory of our hard-won democracy, to which Sowore has lent his life and service as a traitor and fifth columnist of the first order and an enemy of the state,” Bakori added.

    The AVA further accused Sowore of being “provocative, vulgar, uncouth and lawless,” with “a habit of instigating violence, chaos, anarchy and conflicts between communities, parties, individuals and regions by always whipping up divisive sentiments along the nation’s fault lines.”

    “His latest antics, woven around the trial and detention of Nnamdi Kanu, vividly illustrate the character of Sowore as an opportunistic interloper and renegade spent force who goes on scavenging expeditions for the slightest chance and opportunity, however senseless, of plying his vocation of a rabble-rouser and an enemy of the Nigerian nationhood,” the statement continued.

    “It is obvious to us in the Arewa Voters Assembly (AVA) that Sowore’s recent penchant for hauling disparaging verbal attacks, dissolute, crude and odious invectives at the administration and person of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is a deliberate strategy aimed at arousing the disaffection of the citizens towards their democratically elected political leadership and to cast aspersions on our hard-fought democracy that is thriving in leaps and bounds to the detriment of the undertaker’s principals and sponsors, who are daily licking their wounds because Nigeria is indeed moving towards the right direction under the present dispensation.”

    The Assembly made several demands, including an end to what it described as Sowore’s “narcissistic and egocentric vituperations,” and called on the nation’s security agencies “to, as a matter of urgent national security exigency, go for the scum and threat to the nation in the person of Omoyele Sowore.”

    On the planned protest, Bakori declared:

    “The Arewa Voters Assembly is, for emphasis, vehemently and unequivocally reiterating its position that the Sowore’s planned so-called ‘Free Nnamdi Kanu’ protest slated for the 20th of October, 2025, in Abuja, WILL NOT HOLD! We are very emphatic because that will be his last!”

    He revealed that the Assembly has mobilized 60,000 of its members from across the country to converge on the Federal Capital Territory as a counterforce.

    “We will chase and hunt for any miscreants seen on that day on the streets of Abuja in the name of protest. It is our fervent prayer that Sowore will not test our resolve,” Bakori warned.

    The statement also addressed reports that protesters planned to disrupt business at Wuse Market, saying:

    “On the intelligence we got that architects of the so-called peaceful protest plan to disrupt business activities at the Wuse market, we have promptly called on our members at the market to link up with other traders to jointly come out to resist the anarchists.”

    Clarifying its position, the Assembly said it was not against Nnamdi Kanu’s person but insisted that his case must follow the rule of law.

    “The Arewa Voters Assembly (AVA) wishes to make it very clear that its position on Sowore’s planned protest should not be misconstrued to mean that we are against the person of Nnamdi Kanu. As democrats, our position is based on our ardent belief in the principles of the rule of law. Neither VIOLENCE, BLACKMAIL NOR GRANDSTANDING should prevail in the resolution of conflicts and dialogue.”

    Bakori continued:

    “While we are also not averse to the suggestion from certain quarters for ‘a political solution’ to the situation, we insist however that justice, due process, equity and fair play should take precedence over sentiments.”

    “We insist that the freedom or otherwise of Nnamdi Kanu should follow due judicial process. Let him go through his trial that is now ongoing in the court of law and face the outcome at the end of the day.”

    “As much as we are not against justice for Kanu, we are also not unmindful of his violent activities, those of his lieutenants and foot soldiers that resulted in multitudes of deaths, various forms of physical disabilities and massive economic ruination in the Southeast. We believe that the victims of these wanton atrocities also deserve retribution and justice.”

    Bakori concluded with a reaffirmation of the Assembly’s loyalty to the unity and peace of Nigeria:

    “Long live one united, peaceful Nigeria. Long live democracy.”

  • Network of Peace & Security Condemns Sowore’s “Destructive Agenda”

    Network of Peace & Security Condemns Sowore’s “Destructive Agenda”

    The Network of Peace & Security, a coalition of concerned citizens committed to promoting national unity and progress, has strongly condemned what it described as the “atrocious and unpatriotic activities” of activist Omoyele Sowore, accusing him of attempting to destabilize Nigeria and undermine government efforts to deliver on its mandate to the people.

    In a statement issued in Abuja, Comrade Maduka Ogbonna, the National Convener of the Network of Peace & Security, described Sowore’s actions as “reckless, irresponsible, and a threat to national security.”

    “Sowore’s calls for violence and unrest are a clear attempt to disrupt the peace and stability of our nation, and we condemn them in the strongest terms possible,” Ogbonna said.

    The Network commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for what it termed a strong commitment to upholding human rights and promoting the rule of law. According to Ogbonna, “The government has shown respect for human rights, and it is unfortunate that self-proclaimed human rights crusaders like Sowore are abusing this right to pursue their selfish interests.”

    He urged Nigerians to be wary of Sowore’s tactics and instead support the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to entrench peace, security, and development across the country.

    “The President Bola Tinubu Administration is focused on delivering dividends of democracy to the people, and we should support these efforts,” he added.

    The statement further called on security agencies to “immediately arrest” Sowore and ensure that anyone seeking to incite chaos or destabilize the country is brought to justice. The Network also alleged that Sowore is being sponsored by opposition political parties and accused him of being an “undertaker and serial blackmailer,” noting that his family resides abroad.

    The Network of Peace & Security reaffirmed its commitment to defending Nigeria’s stability and unity, warning against any attempts to exploit freedom of speech for destructive purposes.

  • NELMCO, CSOs Hold Strategic Engagement on Power Sector Reforms

    NELMCO, CSOs Hold Strategic Engagement on Power Sector Reforms

    • Stakeholders commend Dekalu Thomas’ leadership,

    • Reaffirms commitment to transparency, collaboration, and sustainable solutions to post-privatization challenges.

    The management of the Nigeria Electricity Liability Management Company (NELMCO) held the second edition of its annual Strategic Stakeholders’ Engagement with over 40 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), aimed at strengthening collaboration, promoting accountability, and advancing reforms in Nigeria’s power sector.

    The one-day engagement, held at the Stratton Hotel, Asokoro, Abuja on Tuesday, brought together the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NELMCO, Mrs. Mojoyinoluwa Dekalu-Thomas, senior directors, special advisers, personal assistants, and representatives of civil society groups across the country. Themed “Establishing a National Power Assets Register for Nigeria’s Power Sector,” the meeting provided a platform for frank discussions on the way forward in addressing long-standing challenges in the electricity value chain.

    In her presentation, Mrs. Dekalu-Thomas emphasized that NELMCO remains central to the Federal Government’s efforts to tackle post-privatization debts and liquidity challenges that continue to impede growth in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). She noted that, in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, NELMCO has been entrusted with additional responsibilities to drive measurable progress and operational efficiency across the sector.

    Referencing the President’s March 7, 2024 statement affirming NELMCO’s pivotal role in ensuring expeditious and measurable progress in managing the power sector’s liabilities, Mrs. Dekalu-Thomas stated that while the task is complex, modalities have been developed to ease, if not completely eliminate, the financial burdens that have long constrained the industry.
    She reiterated her commitment to transparent and accountable leadership, stressing that the active participation of civil society remains crucial for ensuring public confidence and fairness in the reform process.

    Speaking on behalf of the CSOs, Comrade Ogakwu commended Mrs. Dekalu-Thomas for her visionary leadership and consistency in pursuing reform within the power sector. He noted that since her appointment, NELMCO has demonstrated resilience, innovation, and a renewed sense of direction, reflecting the spirit of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
    “Mrs. Dekalu-Thomas has shown exceptional leadership and dedication in tackling long-standing sectoral challenges. Her performance has inspired confidence among stakeholders, and we believe she deserves even greater responsibilities in the service of the nation,” Ogakwu remarked.

    The session concluded on an optimistic note, with participants agreeing that sustained collaboration between NELMCO and the CSO community will strengthen transparency, enhance data management through the proposed National Power Assets Register, and accelerate Nigeria’s journey toward a more stable and efficient power sector.

  • Sowore and Divisive Anti-Democratic Forces Must Be Stopped; Enough is Enough-ACN

    Sowore and Divisive Anti-Democratic Forces Must Be Stopped; Enough is Enough-ACN

    Sowore and Divisive Anti-Democratic Forces Must Be Stopped; Enough is Enough-ACN

    The Amalgamated Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria (ACN) has raised alarm over what it described as a dangerous campaign of division, blackmail, and anarchy being spearheaded by Omoyele Sowore and other paid agents of destabilization plotting to cause a breakdown of law and order in Nigeria.

    In a strongly worded statement jointly signed by Comrade Gbenga Ashiru Abiodun, National Coordinator of the Amalgamated Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria (ACN), and Comrade Yakubu Abdullahi, General Secretary of the group, the organization condemned in totality the ongoing attempts to incite crisis under the guise of protest and advocacy.

    The statement reads:

    “The ongoing campaign of division, blackmail, distraction, disharmony, and anarchy against the Nigerian government, especially the one being spearheaded by the so-called Omoleye Sowore, as well as by some paid characters and agents of destabilization trying to cause a breakdown of law and order in our country, is a cause for concern in our nascent democracy.

    This campaign of calumny, distraction, politics of hate, bitterness, and outrageous intent to precipitate crisis in our dear country must be resisted by democracy-loving Nigerians and forces.

    In memory of the late Comrade Abiodun Aremu of blessed memory, we have resolved not to participate in the planned protest being organized by a known blackmailer and insurrectionist, Sowore, using the name of Nnamdi Kanu as a cheap political cover to unleash mayhem and anarchist tendencies against state institutions, including the National Assembly, National Ecumenical Centre, National Mosque, security formations like Kuje prison, and the courts of the land.”

    The group further alleged that available intelligence revealed plots by Sowore and his associates to burn down major markets, train stations, airports, and other critical infrastructure in Abuja in a bid to precipitate violence and an ethno-religious crisis.

    “We have resolved to urgently alert relevant security and intelligence agencies to nip Sowore’s plot in the bud to curtail the planned insurrection and mayhem that may result from it. Enough is enough of this blackmailer’s shenanigans!” the statement continued.

    The group accused Sowore of lacking moral justification to lead any protest while facing prosecution, adding that his activities pose a serious threat to national peace and democratic stability.

    “In any civilized world, Sowore would have lost all moral justification to stage a violent protest while undergoing prosecution before relevant courts of competent jurisdiction for a series of incitement and questionable cybercrime-related cases in Nigeria.

    How can someone who is a known blackmailer in the country with no character or moral rectitude be threatening government institutions, state apparatus, and other law-abiding citizens going about their lawful businesses in a country guided by the rule of law?”

    They described him as “a serial rapist, a blackmailer, and a rogue politician” who, despite his rejection at the polls in 2023, continues to sponsor mischief and recklessness.

    “Sowore is also part of the system that has brought Nigeria to its knees, as he was instrumental in fighting on the side of politicians against the hardworking people all these years,” the statement added.

    The organization accused him of receiving funding from foreign powers and opposition elements, describing him as a “non-state actor used by anti-democratic forces to destabilize the country.”

    “We hereby wish to make it abundantly clear to the relevant security agencies and intelligence, especially the NSA, DSS, Nigeria Police, and DIA, to quickly intervene in this matter to prevent the breakdown of law and order,” it stated.

    The group vowed to institute a legal framework to restrain Sowore and his allies from further lawless behavior, while also mobilizing “thousands of democracy-loving Nigerians to confront him anywhere he is seen in Abuja.”

    “We hereby declare Sowore a persona non grata anywhere he is sighted in Abuja. We have assembled a team of citizen volunteers across ethnic and religious divides to enforce this resolution… Nigeria’s unity and peace are more important than the aspiration of one individual! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!”

  • Super Eagles Trail South Africa Despite Osimhen’s Brace in World Cup Qualifiers

    Super Eagles Trail South Africa Despite Osimhen’s Brace in World Cup Qualifiers

    The Super Eagles of Nigeria remain under pressure in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, as South Africa extended their lead in the group standings with a commanding performance against Rwanda on Tuesday.

    Playing concurrently with Nigeria’s clash against Benin Republic, South Africa struck early at the Mbombela Stadium through goals from Mbatha in the 5th minute and Appollis in the 26th, tightening their grip on the top spot.

    Meanwhile, in Uyo, Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen scored twice — in the 3rd and 37th minutes — to give the Super Eagles a comfortable lead against Benin. His brace lifted Nigeria to 17 points, just one point behind group leaders South Africa.

    Both teams are in a fierce race for qualification to the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

  • Osimhen Fires Hat-Trick as Nigeria Thrash Benin 4–0 in World Cup Qualifier

    Osimhen Fires Hat-Trick as Nigeria Thrash Benin 4–0 in World Cup Qualifier

    The Super Eagles of Nigeria delivered a dominant performance on Tuesday, defeating the Cheetahs of Benin Republic 4–0 in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

    Victor Osimhen stole the spotlight with a brilliant hat-trick, while substitute Frank Onyeka sealed the victory with a late strike, securing three points for Nigeria in their push for World Cup qualification.

    Despite the emphatic win, Nigeria missed out on an automatic qualification ticket as group leaders South Africa booked their spot at the 2026 tournament with a 3–0 victory over Rwanda earlier in Mbombela.

    Head coach Finidi George made four changes from the previous win against Lesotho, with Wilfred Ndidi captaining the side and Moses Simon earning his 85th cap. Osimhen started upfront alongside Akor Adams, supported by Samuel Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi in attack.

    Nigeria’s line-up: Stanley Nwabali (GK), Benjamin Fredrick, Zaidu Sanusi, Wilfred Ndidi (C), Semi Ajayi, Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, Akor Adams, and Calvin Bassey.

    Osimhen opened the scoring in the third minute after connecting with a precise cross from Chukwueze. He doubled the lead in the 38th minute, once again finishing off a Chukwueze assist. The Napoli striker completed his hat-trick six minutes after the restart, firing past the Beninoise goalkeeper in the 51st minute.

    Nigeria continued to press, with Ndidi missing a close-range effort in the 68th minute. However, substitute Frank Onyeka capped off the performance with a well-taken goal in stoppage time to seal a 4–0 victory.

    The result keeps Nigeria’s qualification hopes alive as they look ahead to the next phase of the 2026 World Cup campaign in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

  • Nigeria, South Africa Secure Dominant Wins in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

    Nigeria, South Africa Secure Dominant Wins in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

    African nations continued their push for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday, with several teams recording decisive victories in matchday 10 fixtures across the continent.

    In **Group C**, Nigeria cruised to a 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo. Victor Osimhen was the standout performer, netting a hat-trick in the 3rd, 37th, and 51st minutes, while Onyeka sealed the win with a stoppage-time goal. The result strengthened Nigeria’s position in the qualification race.

    South Africa also secured their World Cup ticket with an emphatic 3–0 win over Rwanda in Mbombela. Mbatha opened the scoring in the 5th minute, followed by Appollis in the 26th and Makgopa in the 72nd minute to seal the victory.

    Elsewhere in **Group F**, Gambia delivered one of the day’s biggest results, thrashing Seychelles 7–0 in Saint-Pierre. Sidibeh scored twice (2nd, 46th minutes), Manneh bagged a hat-trick (24th, 67th, 75th), while Barrow added a brace (47th, 52nd).

    In **Group G**, Guinea were held to a 2–2 draw by Botswana in Casablanca. Boy and Mohutsiwa found the net for Botswana, while Traore and Balde equalised for Guinea. Mozambique earned a narrow 1–0 win over Somalia in Oran, thanks to Catamo’s early strike.

    In another Group G fixture, Algeria left it late to edge Uganda 2–1 in Tizi Ouzou. Mukwala gave Uganda the lead in the 6th minute, but Amoura converted two penalties in the 81st and 90+9th minutes to seal the comeback.

    Other matches, including **Senegal vs. Mauritania**, **DR Congo vs. Sudan**, **Morocco vs. Congo Brazzaville**, **Gabon vs. Burundi**, and **Ivory Coast vs. Kenya**, were scheduled to take place later on Tuesday.

  • Frank Edwards Recalls Childhood Healing as He Pays Tribute to Late Evangelist Uma Ukpai

    Frank Edwards Recalls Childhood Healing as He Pays Tribute to Late Evangelist Uma Ukpai

    Popular gospel artist, Frank Edwards, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Nigerian evangelist, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, recalling how he was miraculously healed through the preacher’s ministry as a child.

    In an emotional post shared on Instagram on Monday, Edwards revealed that he was cured of asthma and pneumonia at the age of eight during one of Ukpai’s crusades in Enugu.

    “At age 8, I got healed of asthma and pneumonia in one of your crusades in Enugu! Thank you for specially impacting the world! You finished well, papa. Rest on,” he wrote.

    The award-winning singer, who has previously shared his testimony of overcoming chronic respiratory illness, described the encounter as a life-changing moment that freed him from years of dependence on inhalers and influenced his musical journey.

    Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, founder and president of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, was confirmed dead by his family on Monday. He passed away on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.

    Popular gospel artist, Frank Edwards, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Nigerian evangelist, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, recalling how he was miraculously healed through the preacher’s ministry as a child.

    In an emotional post shared on Instagram on Monday, Edwards revealed that he was cured of asthma and pneumonia at the age of eight during one of Ukpai’s crusades in Enugu.

    “At age 8, I got healed of asthma and pneumonia in one of your crusades in Enugu! Thank you for specially impacting the world! You finished well, papa. Rest on,” he wrote.

    The award-winning singer, who has previously shared his testimony of overcoming chronic respiratory illness, described the encounter as a life-changing moment that freed him from years of dependence on inhalers and influenced his musical journey.

    Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, founder and president of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, was confirmed dead by his family on Monday. He passed away on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.

  • Iyanya Urges Fans to Show Empathy to Celebrities

    Iyanya Urges Fans to Show Empathy to Celebrities

    Nigerian singer, Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk, popularly known as Iyanya, has urged fans to show greater empathy towards celebrities, reminding the public that fame does not shield entertainers from emotional challenges.

    In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, the *Your Waist* crooner described the life of a celebrity as “a double-edged sword,” highlighting the intense pressures that come with public attention.

    “We need to understand that celebs are humans with deep feelings and struggles like everyone else,” he wrote. “Beyond the media glamorisation of their lives and personalities is a human simply asking and wishing and yearning to be human like the rest of us. It is a double-edged sword.”

    Iyanya also drew attention to the unique emotional battles faced by male celebrities, noting that societal expectations often discourage them from expressing vulnerability.

    “For male celebrities, perhaps there may be an even deeper level of struggle to come back up when one has hit a low — because men are wired to be stoic, not show vulnerability, not ask for help or they’d be considered weak,” he added.

    His message has since sparked conversations online, with fans and fellow entertainers applauding his honesty about the hidden emotional toll of fame.