Iranian women light cigarettes with burning photo of their country’s supreme leader

Iranian women have launched a striking new form of protest, lighting cigarettes with burning images of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a bold act of defiance that has spread rapidly online.

Videos and photographs of the protests have been shared thousands of times across social media platforms, showing women without headscarves smoking cigarettes ignited by portraits of the country’s most powerful figure. Burning images of the supreme leader is a serious criminal offence under Iranian law, while women smoking in public has long been restricted or discouraged.

By combining both acts, and openly defying mandatory hijab laws,protesters are challenging not only Iran’s political authority but also its rigid social controls.

Observers say the symbolism of the act makes it particularly difficult for authorities to suppress.

“This kind of protest doesn’t rely on mass gatherings that can be dispersed,” one analyst noted. “It spreads digitally and privately, making enforcement far more complex.”

The trend has emerged amid deepening economic hardship and renewed nationwide unrest. Iran has been gripped by protests over inflation, unemployment and the collapse of the rial, with demonstrations breaking out in cities across the country.

While the current unrest has not yet reached the scale of the mass protests seen three years ago, human rights groups say dozens of people have been killed during clashes with security forces in recent weeks.

Authorities imposed a nationwide internet and phone blackout on Thursday night as protests intensified, largely cutting Iran off from the outside world. The blackout followed days of growing demonstrations and reports of escalating violence.

Ayatollah Khamenei has accused protesters of acting on behalf of foreign powers, particularly the United States and President Donald Trump. He said demonstrators were attacking public property and warned that Iran would not tolerate what he described as “mercenaries for foreigners.”

Is Abuja Safe Anymore? NBA Raises Alarm Over Return of ‘One-Chance’ Killings After Murder of Nurse and Lawyer

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has raised a grave alarm over what it described as the disturbing return of “one-chance” criminal operations in Abuja following the brutal killing of two professionals in separate incidents across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). In a statement signed by its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the association warned that insecurity is once again tightening its grip on Nigeria’s seat of power.

According to the NBA, the victims were Ms. Chinemerem Pascalina Chuwumeziem, a nurse, and Princess Chigbo Mediatrix, a lawyer and former Treasurer of the NBA Abuja Branch. Both women were allegedly murdered after falling prey to criminals posing as commercial transport operators—an infamous tactic known locally as “one-chance.” Their bodies were later discovered in different parts of the city, sparking widespread fear among residents.

The association described the killings as a chilling reminder of the growing vulnerability of Abuja residents, stressing that the victims were not faceless individuals but professionals who simply intended to return home safely from their daily engagements. The NBA said the incidents had plunged the capital into grief and exposed a dangerous deterioration in public safety.

Condemning the attacks in the strongest terms, the NBA warned that the pattern of “one-chance” crimes could no longer be ignored. It stated that criminal gangs masquerading as transport operators have turned routine commuting into a life-threatening gamble, making ordinary citizens, workers, and professionals targets on the city’s roads.

Osigwe described the killing of Princess Chigbo Mediatrix as particularly painful for the legal community, noting that she was a committed member of the Bar whom he knew personally. He said her death was not only a professional loss but a deeply personal blow, underscoring that lawyers—like all Nigerians—remain dangerously exposed in an environment where criminals operate with impunity.

The NBA warned that the murders represent more than individual tragedies, arguing that they signal a broader erosion of security in the FCT. It stressed that when citizens cannot commute safely, when professionals are attacked in plain sight, and when criminal networks act unchecked in the nation’s capital, the foundations of social order are severely threatened.

Calling for urgent action, the association urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies to treat the situation as a full-scale security emergency. It demanded immediate, visible, and coordinated measures to dismantle “one-chance” syndicates, including intensified intelligence gathering, surveillance, policing of transport corridors, and targeted operations against known criminal networks.

The NBA also insisted on thorough, transparent, and time-bound investigations into the killings, warning that failure to deliver justice would deepen public fear and embolden criminal elements. It emphasized that justice must not only be promised but must be seen to be done, with perpetrators, collaborators, and enablers identified, arrested, and prosecuted.

Reaffirming the state’s duty to protect lives, the association said citizens should not have to choose between earning a living and staying alive. It warned that Abuja must not become a hunting ground where criminals prey on the vulnerable while law enforcement appears distant or reactive.

The NBA extended condolences to the families of the victims, the healthcare community, the NBA Abuja Branch, and residents of the FCT. The killings have reignited public debate over safety in Nigeria’s capital, raising urgent questions about urban security, policing, public transport safety, and government accountability in protecting citizens from organized street crime.

Is Ebonyi Government Threatening Community Land and Mineral Rights? Host Communities Petition Gov. Nwifuru Over Nigercem Dispute

Host communities of the Nigerian Cement Company (Nigercem Plc) in Ebonyi State have petitioned Governor Francis Nwifuru over what they describe as growing threats to their land, mineral resources and legally established rights. The communities, through a petition dated January 7, 2026 and signed by Dr. Sulaiman Usman, SAN, accused unnamed political actors of attempting to undermine existing court judgments and community consents under the pretext of building a new state-owned cement plant.

In the petition addressed to the governor at the Ebonyi State Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, the communities warned that recent developments could “gravely prejudice” their proprietary rights and destabilize the lawful future of Nigercem Plc. They recalled that Ibeto Group lawfully acquired majority shares in Nigercem in 2010, but that the Ebonyi State Government under former Governor Martin Elechi allegedly revoked the company’s mining lease, a move they resisted through litigation.

According to the petition, prolonged court battles ended in 2013 with judgments in favour of Ibeto Group and the host communities. The communities said they supported the investor because earlier plans to site a new cement plant outside their area would have reduced them to mere limestone suppliers without benefiting from the economic and social gains of hosting a functioning cement factory.

While welcoming Governor Nwifuru’s campaign pledge to work with Ibeto Group to revive Nigercem, the communities expressed disappointment that a 15-member committee set up in August 2025 has yet to publicly present its findings. Their concerns deepened after the governor announced plans during the 2026 budget presentation to borrow ₦150 billion to build a new state-owned cement plant, despite the existence of Nigercem Plc.

The petition further alleged that some political office holders from the host clan were pressured on December 31, 2025, to sign a fresh consent letter purportedly revoking earlier agreements with Ibeto Group. The communities described this development as “deeply unsettling,” adding that the proposed site for the new plant lacks commercially viable limestone deposits and would still depend on resources from their land.

They also rejected what they called an “unauthorised and self-appointed committee” allegedly acting in their name, warning that they would resist any attempt to reduce Nigercem to a mere limestone excavation zone or to bypass existing legal rights through political manipulation.

In their appeal, the communities urged Governor Nwifuru to halt any action affecting ownership, mineral rights or control of Nigercem Plc and to convene an inclusive town hall meeting involving traditional rulers, professionals, youth and women groups, religious leaders and other stakeholders to transparently determine the company’s future.

As of the time of filing, the Ebonyi State Government had not issued an official response. However, the communities said they remain open to dialogue, expressing confidence in the governor’s sense of justice and statesmanship.

The unfolding dispute raises critical questions about resource control, investor confidence, community rights, and state-government intervention in Nigeria’s extractive sector. Observers warn that failure to address the grievances transparently could trigger renewed legal battles and social tensions in Ebonyi State.

Is the U.S. Turning Its Back on the United Nations? Why UN Chief Guterres Regrets Trump’s Withdrawal From Dozens of Global Bodies and What It Means for World Governance

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed strong regret over the United States’ decision to withdraw from multiple international organisations, warning that financial obligations to the UN remain legally binding under international law. The reaction follows a sweeping policy directive signed by U.S. President Donald Trump, ordering American withdrawal from 66 international bodies, including 31 United Nations entities and 35 non-UN organisations.

In a statement delivered by UN Spokesman Stéphane Dujarric, the Secretary-General described the decision as “regrettable” and stressed that assessed contributions to the UN’s regular and peacekeeping budgets are mandatory under the UN Charter for all member states, including the United States. “Assessed contributions… are a legal obligation under the UN Charter,” Dujarric said, adding that all UN agencies would continue implementing their mandates despite political or financial challenges.

While the UN statement did not specify which bodies would be affected or the immediate financial consequences, officials have long warned that funding shortfalls could undermine peacekeeping operations, humanitarian assistance, development programmes, and human-rights initiatives worldwide.

The development stems from a Presidential Memorandum issued by Trump, declaring that continued U.S. participation in the listed organisations no longer serves American interests. The directive follows a comprehensive review ordered under Executive Order 14199 in February 2025, which assessed U.S. involvement in all international organisations, treaties, and conventions receiving American funding or support. After reviewing the findings with his Cabinet, Trump ordered federal agencies to take “immediate steps” to withdraw, where legally permissible.

Among the non-UN organisations affected are bodies dealing with climate change, energy, environmental protection, democracy promotion, cybersecurity, and regional cooperation, including the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and the Freedom Online Coalition. The order also targets several security and justice-focused groups, such as the Global Counterterrorism Forum and the International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law.

On the UN side, the memorandum directs the United States to cease participation in or funding for multiple agencies and programmes, including UN Women, the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and offices focused on peacebuilding, development, oceans, water, international law, and human rights. It also affects entities such as the Peacebuilding Fund, UN Water, UN Oceans, and the UN University system.

Despite the decision, the UN leadership insists its mission will continue. “All United Nations entities will go on with the implementation of their mandates as given by Member States,” the statement said, underscoring the organisation’s responsibility to people worldwide who rely on its work.

The move has intensified global debate: Can the United States legally withdraw while still bound to financial obligations? Will UN programmes suffer operational setbacks? Does this signal a broader retreat from multilateralism—or a recalibration of U.S. foreign policy priorities? As the review process remains ongoing, with more organisations potentially targeted, the episode raises urgent questions about the future of international cooperation, global governance, and the stability of multilateral institutions.

Is Community Justice Taking Over the Law? Why Women in Anambra Banished an Elderly Man Over an Alleged Rape and What It Means for Due Process

Women from the Egbema Ozubulu community in Anambra State have reportedly banished an elderly man accused of raping a married woman, invoking what they described as a traditional form of communal justice. The incident, which took place in Uruezi Egbema, Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area, drew widespread attention after videos of the action circulated on social media.

In the footage, the women were seen escorting the elderly man to the outskirts of the community while chanting “onye ohi otu”, an Igbo phrase translated as “private parts thief.” According to eyewitnesses, the women collectively declared him unfit to remain in the community following the allegation.

An anonymous source told reporters that the action was taken after the alleged victim reported the incident to community members. “The women said they could not tolerate such an abomination in the land. They believed sending him away was necessary to cleanse the community,” the source said. Another resident explained that the response followed long-standing customs, noting that in cases involving serious sexual allegations—especially against married women—women in the community traditionally take charge and enforce sanctions.

As of the time of reporting, the Anambra State Police Command had not confirmed whether the case had been formally reported or whether an official investigation had begun. Attempts to reach the police spokesperson were unsuccessful, while a police source stated that although the command had seen the circulating videos, no formal complaint had yet been filed, urging the public to report criminal matters for proper investigation.

The development has triggered mixed reactions online. While some Nigerians praised the women for taking a bold stand against sexual violence and abuse, others expressed concern about the absence of due process, warning that community-led punishment could undermine the legal system and the presumption of innocence.

As debate grows, questions remain: Should traditional justice systems intervene where formal law enforcement has not acted? Does community action protect victims or risk replacing lawful investigation with mob justice? And will authorities step in to review or reverse the banishment? The incident has reignited national discussion about the balance between cultural practices, women’s collective resistance to sexual violence, and the rule of law in Nigeria.

Is Ondo’s Governor Above the Law? Outrage as Commissioner Decorates Gov Aiyedatiwa at Public Event Despite Court Order for Her Arrest

Is the rule of law being deliberately undermined in Ondo State, and why was a commissioner facing a court-ordered arrest allowed to appear publicly with the governor?

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has come under intense public criticism after his Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Seun Osamaye, was seen participating in an official state event and decorating him with the 2026 National Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem, despite a subsisting court order directing her arrest and remand.

The controversy stems from a ruling delivered on December 31, 2025, by a Magistrate Court in Ondo State, which ordered the arrest and imprisonment of Mrs Osamaye over allegations of assault, intimidation, and threats against a serving Chief Magistrate, Mrs Temitope Alphonso. According to court records, the commissioner was accused of verbally and physically confronting the magistrate during an official visit to the Ministry of Women Affairs following a judgment that was reportedly unfavourable to her.

Public outrage erupted after photographs of the commissioner at Wednesday’s event circulated on social media. Legal commentators noted that no court order had vacated or overturned the ruling, and that the magistrates’ indefinite strike in Ondo State made it impossible for any judicial review to have lawfully taken place. “The order remains valid and enforceable,” one observer said, describing the public appearance as “a slap on the judiciary.”

Critics questioned how a public official facing a lawful arrest order could be allowed to take part in a high-profile state function—especially one honouring the governor, who is constitutionally bound to uphold the law. “How can a governor permit an appointee who ought to be in custody to decorate him in public?” one source asked, calling the episode “a show of shame” and evidence of “disrespect and disregard for the rule of law.”

Court documents allege that Mrs Osamaye verbally abused and threatened Magistrate Alphonso, reportedly telling her to “shut up,” referring to her as “a mere magistrate,” and boasting that even the Chief Judge of Ondo State could not challenge her authority. The affidavit further claims she issued threats suggesting the magistrate could be made to “go missing,” actions described as intimidation and abuse of political influence.

Mrs Osamaye failed to appear in court on the hearing date. Her counsel submitted a medical report claiming she was receiving treatment, but the presiding magistrate, Mr Damilola Sekoni, rejected the document for lacking essential details. He subsequently ordered her arrest and remand, citing what he described as a clear disregard for the authority of the court, and adjourned the matter to January 12.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Akure Branch, has since called on Governor Aiyedatiwa to suspend the commissioner to allow her face prosecution without interference. The NBA warned that the alleged conduct, if proven, constitutes a direct attack on judicial independence and a dangerous erosion of public confidence in the justice system.

The episode has raised urgent questions:
Did the Ondo State Government knowingly disregard a valid court order?
What message does this send about accountability and equality before the law?
And can public trust in the judiciary survive when court directives appear openly defied?

As legal bodies demand action and citizens express outrage, the controversy has become a critical test of rule of law, separation of powers, and democratic accountability in Ondo State.

Trump Orders U.S. Withdrawal From 66 International Organizations, Including 31 UN Bodies

U.S. President Donald J. Trump has signed a Presidential Memorandum directing the United States to withdraw from 66 international organizations, including 31 United Nations bodies and 35 non-UN entities. The decision, part of Trump’s “America First” foreign policy, follows a review mandated under Executive Order 14199 on February 4, 2025, which tasked the Secretary of State with evaluating U.S. participation in all international intergovernmental organizations, conventions, and treaties receiving American support.

According to the memorandum, the Secretary of State submitted findings, which were reviewed by the president and Cabinet, leading to the determination that continued membership in these organizations no longer aligns with U.S. interests. The memorandum instructs all executive departments and agencies to take “immediate steps” to implement withdrawals where legally permissible, including ceasing participation or funding for affected UN bodies.

The withdrawal list encompasses a wide array of policy areas, from climate change, energy, and environmental conservation to human rights, peacebuilding, democracy promotion, and cybersecurity. Notable non-UN organizations affected include the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, International Renewable Energy Agency, International Union for Conservation of Nature, and the Global Counterterrorism Forum.

UN entities affected include major offices and programs such as the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, UN Women, UN Population Fund, UN Conference on Trade and Development, UN Peacebuilding Fund, UN Oceans, and the UN University system.

Trump emphasized that the review is ongoing, and additional organizations or agreements may be targeted in the future. The memorandum clarifies that this directive does not override existing legal authorities or budgetary controls and does not create enforceable legal rights for any party.

The announcement marks one of the largest U.S. withdrawals from international institutions in modern history, reflecting a strategic pivot toward national sovereignty, cost reduction, and reevaluation of multilateral commitments. The State Department will oversee implementation and provide additional guidance to federal agencies.

Lagos Police Transfer Pastor Chris Okafor Rape Allegations to Force HQ for Investigation
January 7, 2026 – Lagos, Nigeria

The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed that allegations of rape against Pastor Chris Okafor, Senior Pastor of Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, have been transferred to the Force Headquarters via Zone 2 Command for further investigation.

Key updates:

Pastor Okafor was formally invited to appear before the police but initially failed to honor the invitation. He later appeared voluntarily.

Police Commissioner Moshood Jimoh explained that the matter was escalated because Zone 2 Command, under the supervision of an AIG, was already handling it.

Social media complaints are now considered valid sources of information for law enforcement investigations.

Investigations are ongoing, and the police stress that public interest will guide their actions.


Background:

In December 2025, Pastor Okafor issued a public apology to actress Doris Ogala over a marriage dispute, while denying several other allegations.

A former church member named Ama accused Okafor of raping her at age 15, impregnating her, and later sexually abusing the daughter born from that assault. Both women have shared their accounts with SaharaReporters.


The Lagos Police continue to investigate these serious allegations under the Force’s hierarchy and protocols.

Who Killed Princess Ochigo? Why Was a High Court Staff Found Dead by the Roadside in Abuja? | Fintter

Who is responsible for the mysterious death of Princess Ochigo—and why are so many questions still unanswered?
Shock and anxiety are spreading across Nigeria’s capital after the lifeless body of Princess Ochigo, a female staff member of the High Court, was reportedly found dumped by the roadside in Abuja. Identified through an official identity card found on her body, her death has sent fresh waves of fear through the city, already grappling with growing concerns over unexplained killings.
According to reports, Ochigo was discovered lying motionless under circumstances that remain unclear. There were no immediate signs of a road accident, raising disturbing questions about whether foul play may have been involved. As of the time of reporting, authorities have not confirmed the cause of death, leaving the public to speculate—and worry—about what may have truly happened.
What makes the incident even more alarming is its timing. Just days earlier, the body of an Igbo nurse was also found abandoned by the roadside in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The back-to-back nature of these grim discoveries has intensified public anxiety and sparked concerns about a possible pattern of targeted or unexplained deaths in Abuja.
The FCT Police Command has acknowledged the case. According to spokesperson Josephine Adeh, investigators are currently working to “unravel the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident,” promising that more details will be released as inquiries continue. Yet for many Nigerians, the absence of immediate clarity only deepens mistrust and frustration over security in the nation’s capital.
Beyond the tragedy itself, this case raises urgent questions about public safety, women’s security, and the effectiveness of law enforcement in Abuja. How could a court worker—someone within the justice system—end up dead by the roadside with no immediate explanation? If a public servant can vanish and be found lifeless without answers, what does that mean for ordinary residents?
For residents, activists, and observers, Princess Ochigo’s death has become more than a single incident—it is now a symbol of broader fears about crime, accountability, and silence. Many are demanding transparent investigations, swift identification of those responsible, and stronger measures to protect citizens, especially women who are increasingly vulnerable in urban centers.
As investigations continue, one question remains at the center of national attention:
Was this a tragic accident, or a crime that someone is trying to hide?
Debate Starters for Fintter Comments
Why are more bodies being found by the roadside in Abuja? Coincidence or pattern?
Can residents still consider the FCT a “safe city”?
Should there be a special probe into recent unexplained deaths?
What must the government and police do differently to restore public confidence?
Join the conversation on Fintter:
Do you believe Princess Ochigo’s death will be properly investigated—or will it become another unresolved tragedy?

Controversy Erupts as Olu of Warri Greets Governor Sanwo-Olu After Female Executive’s Handshake Blocked”

A viral video has sparked widespread discussion after Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, visited Lagos State and was seen greeting Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu with a handshake, contrasting a recent incident where a female executive’s handshake attempt was blocked by his aides. The event took place during the Storytellers Conference at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, with the governor also giving the traditional ruler a tour of the renovated National Theatre in Iganmu.
The footage shows Olu of Warri standing to shake hands with Governor Sanwo-Olu, prompting social media users to comment on the apparent double standard regarding his interactions with men and women. Many pointed out that the king’s aides had previously prevented a woman from shaking his hand, a decision interpreted by some as cultural tradition, while others criticized it as outdated or unfair.
Social media reactions captured the variety of opinions, with some defending the traditional protocol:
tontolofabrics argued hierarchy should be respected, noting the king’s status versus the executive.
defenderofjust cited African customs where kings typically avoid handshakes with women due to traditional beliefs about purity.
Others highlighted perceived inconsistencies:
_ismo99 and Jamesdeyemi pointed out the king shakes hands with prominent officials like the governor but blocks ordinary individuals, especially women.
ashleightatti commented on the irony of cultural traditions intersecting with modern governance and social expectations.
The incident reignited discussions on gender norms, protocol, and respect for traditional authority in Nigeria. It also followed previous highlights of Olu of Warri’s public appearances, including inspecting road projects on a scooter and hosting Big Brother Naija stars Kellyrae and Kassia, who donned Itsekiri-themed attire and posed with the traditional ruler.
This episode underscores the public scrutiny of cultural leaders in modern Nigeria, especially when their actions intersect with official government figures and evolving social expectations. While some praise the adherence to tradition, others call for reconsideration of gendered protocols in public interactions.

“Southern Kaduna Crisis: 138 Kidnapped, 16 Killed in Less Than Two Months — Communities Petition Governor Sani”

Communities in Southern Kaduna have submitted an urgent petition to Governor Uba Sani and top Nigerian security officials, highlighting a “silent and neglected crisis” that has left 138 people kidnapped and 16 others killed between late November 2025 and early January 2026. The petition, presented by Comrade Nasiru Jagaba, provides a detailed village-by-village account of the violence in Kauru Local Government Area, underlining the severe human toll on residents.
The worst-affected village, Kabari (Gobirawa), recorded 53 abductions and four killings, followed by Rumaya (28 kidnapped, 3 killed) and Nasarawan Kadage (29 kidnapped, 2 killed). Other villages, including Kajunga, Fadan Rishiwa, Darmanu, and Ningi Karku, reported similar abductions and deaths. Smaller incidents occurred in Rafin Iwa, Fagen Rawa, Unguwan Baka, and Zaman Chawai, showing the widespread nature of the attacks.
The petition emphasizes that the victims are not mere statistics but farmers, women, youths, and breadwinners whose lives have been shattered. It draws particular attention to a 30 November 2025 incident, in which the Chawai Youth Leader and six others were killed just meters from a military checkpoint, yet there was no immediate response from security forces.
The petition criticizes local authorities, highlighting the “continued silence” of the Kauru LGA Chairman and the absence of advocacy from state and national lawmakers, which has deepened the community’s sense of abandonment.
The community is calling for urgent action, including:
Immediate deployment of security personnel.
Intelligence-led operations targeting criminal hideouts.
A public government plan to address ongoing insecurity.
An independent investigation into the November killings.
Accountability from elected officials.
While Governor Sani has promoted a “whole-of-society approach” to tackle insecurity, at the time of reporting, neither the Kaduna State Government nor federal security agencies had responded to the petition, leaving residents desperate for intervention.

First Lady Appreciates RHI Team For Sustained Support

Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu extends heartfelt gratitude to Renewed Hope Initiative team across the country, led by Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, First Ladies of States and RHI State Coordinators, Wives of federal legislators,ministers, service Chiefs, and other women leaders across the nation for their support to the initiative since the inception of this administration.

In a personal message to begin the new year, the First Lady applauds their compassion, dedication, and readiness to act, noting that this has strengthened the collective efforts aimed at delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and empowering all Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable, regardless of status or background.

Wishing them a peaceful, productive, impactful and a prosperous 2026, the First Lady again appreciates all their efforts and partnership, while looking forward to continued support in 2026 and beyond.

“Is Night Duty a Death Sentence for Female Workers in Nigeria? How Safe Are Women Like Nurse Chinemerem?”

The tragic killing of Nurse Chinemerem Pascalina Chuwumeziem on January 3, 2026, after returning home from night duty at the Federal Medical Centre in Abuja has exposed a stark reality for female workers in Nigeria: the night shift can be deadly. In a country where insecurity is rampant, especially in major cities, women working late hours are disproportionately targeted by criminals, including notorious “one-chance” taxis.
Despite widespread awareness of these risks, many employers continue to schedule female staff for night shifts without providing safe transportation or alternatives, a failure that amounts to negligence. Under Nigerian labour laws, organizations have a duty of care to protect employees, but for female workers on night duty, these protections often stop at the workplace gate. The predictable dangers faced by women like Nurse Chinemerem demand accountability, not mere condolences.
The article highlights that employers have practical solutions: dedicated night buses, transport allowances for safe services, or support for personal vehicle acquisition. Unions, too, must do more than issue statements—they must demand safety as a non-negotiable condition for night work. Failure to do so signals that women’s lives are valued less than their labour.
This tragedy raises critical questions for Nigerians: Should female workers be forced into dangerous night shifts without protection? Are unions and employers doing enough to prevent such deaths? How can Nigeria reform workplace safety to ensure women are not exposed to predictable dangers?
Fintter readers, we want your voice: How should the government, employers, and unions act to protect women like Nurse Chinemerem? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments to join this urgent conversation.

Bauchi State Pensioners Suffer Delays as Auditor-General Reveals ₦1.2 Billion in Undocumented Payments Across Ministries

Bauchi State pensioners continue to face severe financial hardship as delays in pension and gratuity payments persist. Danjuma Babaji, who retired in November 2022, went nine months without salary or pension, surviving on subsistence farming and livestock rearing. While he eventually began receiving monthly pension in July 2023, his ₦3.7 million gratuity remains unpaid. Similarly, Adamu Ibrahim, retired in 2017, endured months without income and now relies on his children for support.
An analysis of the Bauchi State Auditor-General’s 2024 report reveals widespread failures in financial accountability, with millions of naira spent across ministries without proper documentation, approval, or authorisation. Notable figures include ₦182.8 million spent without supporting documents, ₦104.5 million paid without approval, and ₦261.7 million disbursed without Accounting Officer authorisation. Ministries affected include the Office of the Chief of Staff, Finance, Budget, Women Affairs, Religious Affairs, Education, and Housing & Environment, with the largest undocumented payment totaling ₦565 million in the latter.
The findings underscore systemic lapses in public finance management, leaving pensioners and citizens unable to hold officials accountable and raising further questions about corruption and institutional oversight in Bauchi State.

Olu of Warri’s Security Aide Blocks Female Executive’s Handshake Attempt During Lagos Visit, Sparking Social Media Debate

During the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III’s visit to Lagos on January 6, 2026, a viral video captured a female executive attempting to shake the traditional ruler’s hand. The king’s security aide swiftly blocked the gesture, adhering to cultural protocol that prohibits direct physical contact with the monarch.
The encounter took place at an airport lounge while the Olu of Warri was in Lagos for the Storytellers Conference at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts. The aide acknowledged the executive with a nod, respecting tradition without physical contact.
The video has sparked a heated debate on social media, with some praising the aide for upholding cultural etiquette, while others questioned the strictness of the protocol. Experts and netizens emphasized that many Nigerian cultures require subjects, especially women, to show deference through gestures such as bowing, kneeling, or prostrating rather than handshakes.
The story also highlighted the Olu of Warri’s public engagements, including inspecting the Trans-Warri-Ode-Itsekiri Road and receiving BBNaija stars Kellyrae and Kassia, who honored him in Itsekiri-themed attire.

Minister Sympathises with Borgu Victims After Deadly New Year Terror Attack

In a heartfelt statement, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security Dr Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi expressed deep sorrow over a brutal terrorist attack on Kasuwan Daji rural communities in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, which claimed 42 lives just three days into the New Year.

The assault, which occurred on January 3, left scores injured, homes destroyed, and an unknown number of residents abducted, including women, children, and the elderly.

Dr Abdullahi described the violence as "senseless, deliberate, and murderous," highlighting the "depravity of the terrorists and bandits" who disrupted the peaceful livelihoods of the affected communities.

"My heart goes out to the families who have lost their loved ones, just as I wish a quick recovery to the many who were injured during the rage of atrocities," the minister said in his statement released on Tuesday.

He extended support to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, acknowledging the "challenging times" and praising the governor's efforts to enhance security for residents, particularly in vulnerable areas.

Urging resilience among Borgu residents, the minister called for unity against the perpetrators.

"Let us grieve, because we have lost our loved ones and our possessions. But I call on the Borgu communities to invoke their age-old spirit of resilience, wipe away their tears, and firmly resolve to never allow the lawless terrorists and bandits dictate their rhythm of life," he stated.

Dr Abdullahi emphasised the indiscriminate nature of the violence, noting that the attackers target individuals regardless of religion or ethnicity whether Bussawa, Hausa, Kambari, or Fulani.

He encouraged communities to collaborate with security forces to eliminate the threats, asserting that Borgu must not become a "haven nor a theatre for their atrocities."

The minister reassured residents of President Tinubu's commitment to pursuing and prosecuting those responsible for the "heinous crimes." Security agencies have yet to provide further details on the ongoing investigation or rescue efforts for the abducted.

Authorities Seal Divine Hope Orphanage in Abuja Amid Investigation Into Alleged Unlawful Activities

The Federal Capital Territory authorities have sealed Divine Hope Orphanage and Less Privileged Home in Kagini, Abuja, as part of an ongoing probe by the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat. Officials cited concerns over alleged unlawful activities and non-compliance with child welfare regulations.
The orphanage operator reportedly ignored multiple summons to cooperate with the investigation. Authorities have called on the public to assist in locating the operator to ensure the investigation is completed. The closure underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing standards and protecting vulnerable children in Nigeria.

#AbujaOrphanage #DivineHopeOrphanage #ChildWelfare #FCTAuthorities #NigeriaNews #OrphanageInvestigation #ChildProtection #FCTWomenAffairs

FCT DEPARTMENT OF CHILD DEVELOPMENT RESCUES CHILDREN FROM AN ORPHANAGE HOME

The Federal Capital Territory Administration, through the Department of Child Development under the Women Affairs Secretariat, has intensified efforts to protect vulnerable children with the commencement of a rescue and monitoring operation involving adopted children within the FCT, some of whom were reportedly brought in from Benue State.

The operation, conducted with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and other security and social welfare agencies, led officials to an orphanage in Kagini, under the Bwari Area Council.

The intervention followed weeks of discreet investigations by the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, led by the Director of Child Development, Dr. Idris Attah, over concerns about the orphanage’s operations and child welfare.

However, upon arrival, officials discovered the proprietress had fled hours earlier, abandoning the facility.

Authorities suspect her disappearance is linked to the investigation and possible violations of adoption and child protection laws.

Officials say Some of the rescued children have been identified and placed in protective custody, with arrangements underway for their safety, medical checks, and psychological support.

The FCT Administration reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the Child Rights Act and sanitizing the adoption process, warning that offenders will face the law. Investigations continue as security agencies intensify efforts to locate the suspect and uncover the full scope of the orphanage’s activities.

US Congressman Riley Moore Warns of Escalating Violence Against Christians in Nigeria, Cites ISIS ‘Convert or Die’ Threats and U.S.–Nigeria Security Cooperation

U.S. Congressman Riley Moore has raised fresh alarm over what he describes as a worsening campaign of violence against Christian communities in Nigeria, citing threats from ISIS-linked groups demanding that Christians “convert or die.” Speaking on Newsmax TV, Moore said he visited Nigeria in December as part of a congressional delegation sent at the direction of President Donald Trump to assess security conditions and humanitarian needs.

Moore recounted harrowing testimonies from internally displaced persons (IDPs), including women who witnessed the قتل of their children, families torn apart, and unborn babies killed. He said these accounts point to targeted religious persecution, not random criminal violence. According to him, extremist groups—such as ISIS-affiliated factions and Islamist militants active in Nigeria’s Middle Belt—are deliberately attacking churches, Christian villages, and IDP camps.

The West Virginia lawmaker stated that U.S.–Nigeria security cooperation has intensified, claiming recent joint military actions, including a reported strike around Christmas, helped deter attacks during the holiday period. While some details of these operations have not been independently verified, Moore said discussions are ongoing to establish a broader strategic security framework to strengthen Nigeria’s military capacity, improve intelligence sharing, and close operational gaps.

Rejecting explanations that attribute the violence mainly to climate change or land disputes, Moore argued that the rhetoric and actions of extremist groups clearly show a specific focus on Christian communities. He acknowledged that Nigerians of all backgrounds have suffered but insisted that Christians face targeted persecution.

Human rights groups continue to document widespread insecurity in Nigeria involving Boko Haram, ISIS–West Africa Province (ISWAP), and armed militias, with debate persisting over the root causes of the violence. Moore said his conclusions are based on firsthand observations: “What is happening in Nigeria is Christian persecution,” he maintained, urging sustained international attention and support.

Abuja Health Centre in Kuje Left in Ruins for Years, Linked to Childbirth Deaths as Residents Urge FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to Intervene

Residents of Sabo community in Kuje Area Council, Abuja, have raised alarm over the prolonged neglect of their only primary healthcare facility, linking its dilapidated condition to preventable maternal deaths. The Sabo Primary Health Care Centre, which serves an estimated 7,200 people, has been largely non-functional for years, severely limiting access to basic and emergency medical services, particularly for pregnant women.

According to Tracka, BudgIT’s public expenditure tracking platform, the centre’s infrastructure has collapsed, with damaged roofs and ceilings, wards without beds, and a complete lack of drugs and essential medical equipment. The facility has reportedly remained abandoned and vandalised for nearly seven years, forcing residents to depend on local chemists and unqualified alternatives for treatment. Community members disclosed that several women have died during childbirth due to the absence of functional maternal healthcare services.

In response, Tracka and affected residents have appealed directly to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, alongside Senator Ireti Kingibe and Hon. Abdullahi Sabo, urging them to prioritise the reconstruction, equipping, and staffing of the centre. They stressed that restoring the facility is critical to safeguarding public health, reducing maternal mortality, and ensuring that vulnerable residents can access lifesaving medical care within their community.