Wahala Don Set for Delta! 26-Year-Old Woman Accuses Baby Daddy, Family of Brutal Beatings, Child Neglect

Wahala don sup for Delta State as a 26-year-old woman, Favour Kalamatoro, has come out with a heartbreaking story of alleged domestic abuse, assault and child neglect by her children’s father and his family.

Favour, an Urhobo indigene from Obiayagha in Ughelli South, told SaharaReporters that her nightmare began after she went to her children’s father’s house in Udu Local Government Area to check on her two kids. Instead of peace, she said she was attacked by the man, Ikovie Odephiare, his mother, Mrs Ikovie Ekaete, his elder brother, Ikovie Etabunor, and other relatives.

According to her, she has two children with the man—a four-year-old boy and a seven-month-old baby girl—and has endured years of abuse, abandonment and suffering that pushed her into street begging and menial jobs just to survive.

Favour revealed that the violence started while she was pregnant with her second child.
“I was physically assaulted by my children’s father, his mother and his elder brother, all because I went to visit my kids,” she said.

She alleged that during her pregnancy, she was constantly insulted, starved and beaten.
“The abuse started when I was seven months pregnant and living in his house. He would insult me, beat me and even starve me, forcing me to go outside and beg for food while I was pregnant,” she narrated.

Things reportedly got worse when she was eight months pregnant.
“He beat me until I fainted, threw me out of the house and locked the door. Neighbours rushed me to a clinic, and I almost lost my baby. I survived, but the next day, the beatings continued.”

Unable to cope anymore, Favour said she left the house with her first child and began hawking sachet water just to feed herself and the boy.
“I packed my things and left with my four-year-old son. I started selling ‘pure water’ just to survive,” she said.

She further alleged that after she delivered her second child, the man and his family abandoned her completely.
“When I gave birth, none of them came to see me. My father and siblings paid all the hospital bills and took care of me and my two children.”

Although the children’s father later promised her family that he would take responsibility, she said he never fulfilled it.
“Six months later, he came and told my father he would take care of the children and pay the hospital bills, but he never did.”

According to Favour, whenever she asked for money to buy baby food or diapers, she was insulted and threatened.
“He told me not to ask him for anything again and said if I was tired, I should bring the children to him. Later, he told me never to contact him again because he wanted to start a new life and family, while we had nothing to eat.”

She said she once involved the police in Warri so he could formally agree to support the first child, but after sending ₦15,000 once, he allegedly stopped.
“He told me I could do my worst, that he was not afraid of the police or anybody.”

Favour also explained that years of dependence left her without any skills or stable source of income.
“He left me handicapped. I had no handwork, no business to fall back on. The small business I tried to run was ruined because he kept borrowing money from me.”

Out of desperation, she said she eventually took the children to their grandmother’s house for care, begging her to feed them. According to her, the woman initially agreed.

But wahala really burst when she went back to visit her children on Monday, January 10, 2026.
“When I went to see my children, their father, his mother and elder brother gathered and beat me. They punched me, flogged me with a cane and even a shovel, damaged my phone, and I sustained bruises on my mouth and all over my body,” she alleged.

Favour said she reported the matter to the police, but before officers could make an arrest, the children’s grandmother reportedly fled with the kids. She added that when police contacted the children’s father, he claimed he was out of town. Officers later discovered that the mother’s shop had been abandoned, allegedly on his instruction.

As of the time of filing this report, SaharaReporters said attempts to reach Ikovie Odephiare were unsuccessful, with his phone lines reportedly switched off.

“This is my story,” Favour said. “I am seeking urgent help to protect myself and my children.”

For many Nigerians reading this, one thing is clear: domestic violence and child neglect remain serious issues, and in this case, wahala don truly set oo for Delta.

Two Adamawa Siblings Allegedly Strangle Father Over Mother’s Police Detention in Numan

Residents of Numan town in Adamawa State were shocked after two brothers, aged 23 and 25, allegedly strangled their father, businessman Ogar ThankGod, at their home in the Gwe-da-Mallam neighborhood around 1 a.m. on January 3. One of the suspects was identified as Joshua.

Neighbours suggested the killing may be linked to a prior domestic dispute between the deceased and his wife, the mother of the suspects. The brothers reportedly fled the scene immediately after the attack.

Ogar ThankGod’s remains were later evacuated by the Numan Divisional Police Headquarters, while the suspects remain at large. The Adamawa State Police Command is yet to provide further details.

“We Buried Ashes”: Family Alleges Lagos Govt Cover-Up After Three Relatives Died In Collapsed 25-Storey GNI Building Fire At Balogun Market

A Nigerian family has accused the Lagos State Government and emergency agencies of downplaying casualties following the devastating fire and partial collapse of the 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building at Balogun Market, Lagos Island. The blaze, which started on December 24, spread rapidly through several floors and caused part of the structure to collapse, trapping traders inside.

According to a relative, Mr. Emmanuel Anumba, three siblings from the Omatu family were killed, but their bodies were burnt beyond recognition, forcing the family to bury ashes recovered from the debris. He alleged that rescue efforts lacked urgency, adequate equipment, and proper evacuation, despite repeated pleas to authorities. Traders and eyewitnesses also claimed that firefighting efforts were delayed and that many victims remain unaccounted for, with unofficial estimates suggesting dozens may have died.

While the Lagos State Government maintains that no casualty was officially recorded, it has ordered the immediate evacuation of buildings within a 100-metre radius of the site after experts warned of structural dangers. The incident has intensified public concern over safety standards, emergency response failures, and alleged attempts to suppress the true human toll of the tragedy.

Bandits Kill Pregnant Woman and Brother, Abduct Two Siblings in Night Attack on Gombe Community

Bandits attacked a private residence in Pindiga town, Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, late Saturday night, killing a pregnant woman and her brother while abducting two other siblings. Residents said the gunmen stormed the house under cover of darkness, shooting indiscriminately before fleeing with their victims. The brutal incident has thrown the community into mourning and renewed fears over persistent insecurity in the state. Police confirmed the attack and said tactical units, hunters, and vigilante groups have been mobilised to rescue the abducted victims and apprehend the perpetrators, while Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya condemned the killings as barbaric and unacceptable.

SAD NEWS: Last night, bandits attacked a private residence in Pindiga town, Akko LGA of Gombe State, killing Prince Yusuf Derdoski and his pregnant sister, and abducting two other siblings. The brutal incident has thrown the community into mourning.

Given the recurring security breaches in parts of Gombe State, how are security agencies reassessing intelligence gathering and rapid response mechanisms to protect vulnerable communities like Pindiga?

Lion King Broadway Star Imani Dia Smith Stabbed to Death at 25 in New Jersey, Boyfriend Arrested

Imani Dia Smith, a 25-year-old Broadway actress best known for her role as Young Nala in Disney’s The Lion King, was tragically stabbed to death at her residence in Edison, New Jersey. Authorities responded to a 911 call reporting a stabbing on December 21, discovering Smith with fatal wounds. She was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Smith’s 35-year-old boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, has been arrested in connection with her death and faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, unlawful possession of a weapon, and endangering the welfare of a child. Officials stated that the incident was not random, as both parties knew each other prior to the attack.

Smith leaves behind her three-year-old son, parents, two younger siblings, and extended family. Her aunt, Kira Helper, described her as a “vivacious, loving and fiercely talented person” and a “true triple-threat performer.” A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to cover funeral and memorial expenses, legal costs, trauma therapy for family members, and care for Smith’s son and pet.

The actress’s death has shocked the theatre community and fans worldwide, highlighting the tragic consequences of domestic violence. Smith’s mother works as a hairdresser in the film industry and was recently credited for her work on The Housemaid.

Wahala

15-Year-Old Texas Boy Charged with Triple M¥rder of Ex-Girlfriend’s Mother and Two Young Siblings

A 15-year-old boy in Odessa, Texas, has been arrested and charged with capital m¥rder after allegedly shooting and k+lling his ex-girlfriend’s mother, 39-year-old Jessica Rodriguez, along with her 9-year-old son and 13-year-old daughter on Wednesday, December 10.

The suspect’s ex-girlfriend survived the attack. The Odessa Police Department has not released the identities of the juvenile suspect or the surviving teenager. He remains in custody facing charges of capital m¥rder of multiple persons.

JAPA: If you’re earning a good salary in Nigeria, it’s better to stay than move the U.K for a job you’ll despise — DJ DSF

On a recent episode of Jay On Air Podcast, media personality Ms DSF shed light on the realities of working abroad, cautioning that not all opportunities overseas are as lucrative as they appear.

“People think you’re abroad and you’re making pounds. They could be abroad doing a cleaner job, making however much per hour. You probably have better opportunities here in Nigeria,” she said, stressing that a good salary at home may outweigh taking a job abroad that one dislikes.

Ms DSF highlighted the high cost of living in the UK, noting, “Do you know how much rent is in the UK? Do you know how much public transport is there? Before you even make your salary, let’s say you’re doing cleaner work or driving a taxi.”

Sharing a personal example, she recounted her father’s experience: “When my dad first went, he was a taxi driver. Imagine what he was making while trying to take care of his whole family me, my brother, all my siblings, my mum. He was working 9 to 5, then 5 to 9… taxi driver, security, accountant just to make a little money.”

Ms DSF concluded by acknowledging that earning abroad can be appealing but comes with challenges: “I get it, like if you make it in the UK it’s great because pounds are stronger and it’s nice to make pounds, but it’s not like that you really have to hustle to build your way up.”

"Senator Ned is reaping what he sowed, Betrayed everyone who has ever helped him"— Senator Ned’s alleged brother, Chuks Nwoko, Reveals.

Chuks Nwoko, brother of Senator Ned Nwoko, has publicly criticized the senator, saying he is “reaping what he sowed” and bringing shame to the family name.

Speaking in a video, Chuks said he has tried to reach his brother but has been unable to do so, stressing that as a sibling, he feels compelled to speak the truth. “You are bringing so much disrepute to the name Nwoko.

You are not ashamed, but we, your siblings, are ashamed for you,” he said. Chuks urged Senator Ned to use this moment to reflect and change, quoting a Bible verse to emphasize the importance of a change of heart.

He accused the senator of promoting “things that have nothing to do with the core values of which they were brought up” and criticized his public image on social media, noting that Ned portrays himself as self-made despite coming from a modest background and having been supported through school by Omoye.

He further lamented that Senator Ned has “betrayed and done so much harm to everyone who helped him in life,” beginning with his immediate elder brother, and called on him to stop bringing shame to the Nwoko family.

Chuks’ message, part of a wider video statement, highlighted family disappointment and a call for humility and accountability.

Ned Nwoko Releases Evidence, Accuses Regina Daniels’ Brother Of Harassment.

Businessman and lawmaker, Senator Ned Nwoko, has released fresh details and video over the crisis between him, his wife Regina Daniels, and her brother Samuel “Sammy West” Ojeogwu, who is currently in police custody.

Lengthy statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Saturday night, the Delta North senator said the videos show Sammy invading his residence and harassing his children and domestic staff, especially when he was not at home.

“These videos show Sammy, Regina’s brother, repeatedly coming to my home and harassing my children and domestic staff, especially whenever I was not around. His visits were often aggressive and disruptive,” Nwoko wrote.

He said he was compelled to speak publicly again to counter what he described as “misleading narratives” surrounding Sammy’s arrest, insisting the matter was not a domestic quarrel but a serious security concern.

Senator Nwoko also detailed years of financial support allegedly extended to Regina’s family, including to Sammy himself.

“This is someone I sponsored through his last two years at the University of Ekpoma. I bought his musical instruments, rented and furnished a flat for him in Abuja… I also routinely provided allowances to all members of the family, including her mother, Rita Daniel,” he said.

He further claimed that ₦125 million had been transferred to Regina’s mother in the last two years.

The senator alleged that Regina’s personal rehabilitation efforts had been repeatedly undermined by her siblings and friends, whom he accused of introducing drugs into his household while Regina battled addiction with medical and therapeutic support.

You know I am capable of making you fall —Actress Regina informs Ned after he arrested her siblings.

Nollywood star Regina Daniels has allegedly issued a stern warning to her estranged billionaire husband, Ned Nwoko, following reports that he ordered the arrest of her siblings amid their ongoing family dispute. In what appears to be one of the most dramatic escalations in their marital saga, Regina was said to have confronted Nwoko with a message filled with defiance, emotion, and a pledge to protect her family at all cost.

“You know I am capable of making you fall,” the actress reportedly declared, signaling that she is prepared to stand her ground and challenge her husband’s influence and power. The statement, which has since gone viral across social media platforms, reflects growing tension between the former couple, whose once-glamorous union has spiraled into a public conflict.

A man wearing a white traditional outfit with geometric patterns and a red cap stands next to a woman in a white long-sleeved dress with a pink floral skirt holding a white fan and a black handbag both smiling and posing in a room with beige walls adorned with a large decorative plate and several framed photos including one of a man in formal attire.

According to circulating accounts, Regina’s brother and sister were allegedly picked up by police under directives linked to Nwoko, sparking outrage among fans and fueling speculation that the businessman is leveraging his position to intimidate her family. Regina, known for her calm public presence, took a rare combative tone, expressing frustration over what she described as unnecessary aggression.

“Why go after my siblings? They are innocent. If you have issues with me, face me directly,” she reportedly said, while calling for the immediate release of her family members. She emphasized that no amount of intimidation would silence her or force her into submission.

A screenshot from Instagram shows a post by Regina Daniels with text about a violent arrest and power dynamics, accompanied by a photo of a man in traditional attire and a woman in a red dress posing together. Another image depicts a Nigerian police officer in uniform standing near a group including a man in white and red outfit and a woman in a black top. A third photo features the couple in elegant attire, the woman in a sparkling red gown and the man in a suit, sitting closely on a couch.

Observers note that Regina’s tone marks a dramatic shift from the early days of their marriage, when she was often cautious and reserved when addressing controversies surrounding her relationship with Nwoko. This time, she appears unapologetically protective of her family, asserting that wealth and political influence should not be weaponized.

Fans have been divided online — with some supporting Regina for finally “standing up for herself,” while others urge both parties to settle their issues privately to avoid further public embarrassment. Meanwhile, legal experts and public commentators warn that the matter could escalate if not handled with caution.

"Everything Is Under Control"— Senator Ned Nwoko assures concerned Nigerians amid his marital crisis with Actress Regina Daniels.

Senator Ned Nwoko has responded publicly for the following recent allegations of domestic violence made against him by his wife, Nollywood actress Regina Daniels, and her siblings.

Appearing as a guest on a Channels TV programme , the lawmaker from Delta North was asked about the controversy that has dominated social media in recent days.

The host began by saying, “Thank you so much indeed for making time to join us. It’s good to see you your face has been all over the media in the last few days for personal reasons. I hope everything is calm and under control?”

Responding, Nwoko said simply, “It happens.”

When the interviewer noted that many people often underestimate his capacity, the senator replied, “Well, I am who I am.”

The host went on to describe him as “an Old Testament man,” to which Nwoko responded, “Yes, I am.”

Pressed again on whether everything was now under control, the Delta-born politician reaffirmed, “Yes, thank you.”

Nwoko’s brief but composed remarks mark his first public reaction since Regina Daniels’ accusations surfaced, sparking widespread debate across social media and within political circles.

Gov. Soludo Bans Graduation Ceremonies, Christmas Parties in Anambra Schools.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has banned graduation ceremonies and Christmas parties in all schools across the state to ease financial pressure on parents and guardians.

Speaking during an All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) campaign rally in Awka North on Friday, ahead of the November 8 governorship election, Soludo said the decision is part of efforts to make education more affordable and equitable.

He expressed concern that many schools—government, private, and mission-owned—had turned education into a source of unnecessary financial burden for struggling families.

“This directive applies to all schools in Anambra. We are setting basic standards to ensure poor parents are not made to spend excessively because their children are in school,” he said.

Soludo also announced a ban on the use of textbooks designed for students to write in, explaining that such books prevent them from being reused by younger siblings. “Once a child finishes a class, he should be able to pass on his textbooks,” he said.

The governor criticized schools for organizing elaborate “graduation ceremonies” for pupils advancing from one class to another, describing the practice as exploitative since it often requires parents to pay for special gowns or uniforms.

“Even Christmas parties should not be funded by parents. These are unnecessary expenses,” Soludo declared.

He warned that the state government would begin strict enforcement of the new policy, adding that any school found violating it would be sealed. “We will begin enforcement immediately, and if your school fails to comply, we will close it. You can go to court—we will meet there,” he said.

Soludo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing quality, accessible, and affordable education for every child in Anambra State.

Boat Accident Wipes Out 5 Siblings In Benue.

Tragedy struck in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State on Sunday evening when a small boat carrying a family of seven capsized in Obagaji, the local government headquarters, killing five siblings.

In a telephone interview, a local identified himself as John, said the incident occurred when a small boat carrying a man, his wife, and their five children lost balance and sank in the water.

According to him, the man and his wife were rescued alive, but all five children drowned before help could reach them.

Another eyewitness, Ameh Ejeh, said local divers and community members immediately launched rescue efforts, but all the children rescued were confirmed dead at the scene.

The heartbreaking incident has thrown the community into mourning, as sympathisers trooped in and out of the residence of the bereaved parents to offer condolences.

Some residents who spoke to our correspondent have called on the authorities to enforce safety measures on waterways and monitor agents to checkmate the excesses of those handling boats in rural communities.

Ebonyi Bishop Arrested Over Alleged Sexual Exploitation of 22-Year-Old Church Member.

The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested Bishop Samuel Onyeagoziri, General Overseer of Champions of the Truth Church, following allegations by a 22-year-old congregant, Euphemia Ede, that he lured her into years of sexual exploitation disguised as “divine healing” for her sickle cell condition.

Police spokesperson, Joshua Ukandu, confirmed on Friday that the cleric was picked up on Wednesday and remains in custody. “We have commenced an investigation and he will definitely be arraigned upon the conclusion of our findings,” Ukandu stated.

Ede, in a viral podcast interview, recounted how the preacher manipulated her parents’ desperation after losing three siblings to sickle cell. She alleged that while still in SS3, the bishop told her that sleeping with him for seven days would miraculously change her genotype from SS to AA.

“He is the one who broke my virginity,” she said tearfully, adding that despite years of intercourse, her health only worsened.

The victim further accused the bishop, also known as Ndubueze Onyeagoziri Okorie, of threatening her with a rifle and forcing her to pose for nude photographs. She claimed the explicit images, which recently went viral, were taken under duress. While the cleric denied the photos, saying they were AI-generated by “detractors,” Ede insisted they were authentic.

According to her, between 2021 and 2025 she tried several times to escape his residence but was threatened with death if she exposed him. The abuse escalated in 2025 when he allegedly sought to marry her, despite being married already.

The shocking revelations have sparked outrage across Ebonyi State and beyond, with women’s groups, civil society organizations, and residents demanding justice. Many describe the case as a litmus test for Nigeria’s criminal justice system, urging police not to bow to political or religious pressure.

Police Launch Probe As ARISE News Anchor Dies After Robbery Incident In Abuja Home.

A female member of staff of ARISE News Channel, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, has died following a case of armed robbery at her residence in Katampe District of Abuja on Monday morning.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi on behalf of the management of ARISE News Channel on Monday evening.

The statement noted that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has, however, launched an investigation in the incident.

Beyond the airwaves, ARISE News Channel described the 29-year-old journalist referred to as Sommie as “a lawyer who was a professional and supportive colleague and a friend to many.”

“It is with heavy hearts that the management and staff of the ARISE News Channel announce the passing of our beloved colleague, News Anchor, Reporter and Producer, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu. Sommie tragically passed away in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025 following an armed robbery incident in her residence in Katampe area of Abuja that is being investigated by the Nigeria Police.

“Sommie, 29, was not only a cherished member of the ARISE News family but also a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with our viewers.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Sommie’s parents, siblings, extended family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time. Sommie’s voice is now silent but her spirit, passion and legacy will endure as part of our collective memory. We remain in shock and call for a speedy investigation, apprehension and prosecution of the culprits,” Usman-Ajayi stated.

Otunba Bamidele Akingboye, the Social Democratic Party governorship candidate in the 2024 Ondo State election has died at the age of 60.

His Personal Assistant and Media Adviser, Oyeniyi Iwakun, confirmed that he passed away on Thursday at his residence in Victoria Garden City, Lagos. Born on April 2, 1964, Akingboye was a businessman, philanthropist & community leader.

He served as Chief Executive Officer of Benshore Maritime & Clog Oil Systems, as well as President of WeAfrica Group. He also held the traditional title of Olowomeye I of Ikaleland. He is survived by his wives, children, grandchildren & siblings. The family said burial arrangements will be announced later.

In his tribute, Ondo SDP Chairman, Ebenezer Akinbuli, described Akingboye as a visionary leader committed to service. “During his campaign, he shared his vision for a brighter Ondo State, anchored on good governance, social justice & sustainable development. His passion and leadership inspired many & his legacy will endure” Akinbuli said.

He stressed that the Federal Government has not borrowed from local banks since the beginning of the year, underscoring the impact of the improved fiscal position.

The Presidency further explained that the revenue surge has boosted allocations at the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), with disbursements to states and local governments exceeding ₦2 trillion in July for the first time in history.

This, it said, has provided subnational governments with greater resources to fund food security, infrastructure, and social services. It, however, admitted that despite the record revenue, allocations are still insufficient to meet the administration’s ambitions in education, health, and infrastructure.

Highlighting the shift away from oil dependency, the Presidency disclosed that non-oil revenues contributed ₦15.69 trillion of the total, accounting for three out of every four naira collected. While inflation and foreign exchange revaluation played a role, it said the growth was mainly reform-driven — through Customs automation, digitised filings, tighter enforcement, and expanded compliance.

Otunba Bamidele Akingboye, the Social Democratic Party governorship candidate in the 2024 Ondo State election has died at the age of 60.

His Personal Assistant and Media Adviser, Oyeniyi Iwakun, confirmed that he passed away on Thursday at his residence in Victoria Garden City, Lagos. Born on April 2, 1964, Akingboye was a businessman, philanthropist & community leader.

He served as Chief Executive Officer of Benshore Maritime & Clog Oil Systems, as well as President of WeAfrica Group. He also held the traditional title of Olowomeye I of Ikaleland. He is survived by his wives, children, grandchildren & siblings. The family said burial arrangements will be announced later.

In his tribute, Ondo SDP Chairman, Ebenezer Akinbuli, described Akingboye as a visionary leader committed to service. “During his campaign, he shared his vision for a brighter Ondo State, anchored on good governance, social justice & sustainable development. His passion and leadership inspired many & his legacy will endure” Akinbuli said.

He stressed that the Federal Government has not borrowed from local banks since the beginning of the year, underscoring the impact of the improved fiscal position.

The Presidency further explained that the revenue surge has boosted allocations at the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), with disbursements to states and local governments exceeding ₦2 trillion in July for the first time in history.

This, it said, has provided subnational governments with greater resources to fund food security, infrastructure, and social services. It, however, admitted that despite the record revenue, allocations are still insufficient to meet the administration’s ambitions in education, health, and infrastructure.

Highlighting the shift away from oil dependency, the Presidency disclosed that non-oil revenues contributed ₦15.69 trillion of the total, accounting for three out of every four naira collected. While inflation and foreign exchange revaluation played a role, it said the growth was mainly reform-driven — through Customs automation, digitised filings, tighter enforcement, and expanded compliance.

Kogi Joins Other States To Ban Basic And Secondary Schools Parties.

Kogi State Government has banned graduation ceremonies in basic and secondary schools across the state.

This decision was announced by the state Commissioner for Education, Wemi Jones, during a meeting with critical stakeholders in the education sector on Wednesday in Lokoja, the state capital.

Jones said, “The practice of incessant graduation ceremonies in nursery, primary, and secondary schools is hereby prohibited in the state with immediate effect.”

He stressed that the practice has become economically unaffordable, putting undue pressure on parents, and attracts social ills associated with such celebrations.

He emphasised that the ban is aimed at reducing the financial burden on parents and promoting a more meaningful approach to celebrating students’ achievements.

The state government also introduced a new policy requiring parents to provide notebooks for their children to do classwork and assignments, rather than using textbooks converted to workbooks, especially in private schools.

The commissioner emphasised that the policy aims to make textbooks reusable by siblings of the same parents.

“The use of textbooks as workbooks, especially in private schools, must stop, and parents must provide separate notebooks for their children.

“We’ll introduce new celebration modalities to encourage competition and commitment to studies. No more social ills or undue pressure!

“We’ll also ensure students progress through required classes without jumping grades.

“Private school owners should note that writing mock exams is now a prerequisite for West African Examination Council registration,” Jones said.

19-year-old fatally smashes cousin, 14, with cylinder for resisting molestation then buries her body in shallow hole.

A 19-year-old man brutally killed his 14-year-old cousin for resisting his attempt to molest her in their village home in Baghpat district of Uttar Pradesh, India.

The accused, identified as Samoon, attacked the girl with a gas cylinder and then struck her repeatedly with a spade, causing her death.

Following the murder, he dug a pit inside the house and attempted to hide the body by burying it partially with soil and wood.

The victim’s mother found the body when she returned home and immediately alerted the police, leading to the arrest of Samoon.

A police official condemned the crime and confirmed that Samoon and his accomplices are in custody while the investigation is ongoing.

The incident occurred in Boudha village under the Chhaprauli police station area, where the victim lived with her widowed mother and siblings.

On the day of the murder, the girl was home alone as her mother was out collecting fodder and her siblings were at school.

The boy, who confessed to harboring one-sided love for the girl, took advantage of her being alone to make an assault attempt. When she refused, his anger escalated, and he fatally attacked her.