society
A Journey of Resilience: US-Based Nigeria returnee Samsondeen Goloba Path Through Adversity and the Ongoing Pursuit for Justice”
“A Journey of Resilience: US-Based Nigeria returnee Samsondeen Goloba Path Through Adversity and the Ongoing Pursuit for Justice”
In a heartfelt and brave account, Samsondeen Goloba has shared a powerful narrative of enduring tragedy, discrimination, and a relentless quest for justice. This story spans decades and continents, unveiling the challenges faced by an individual due to their sexual orientation in a society deeply rooted in tradition and bias.
This narrative begins in the aftermath of his father’s passing in May 2003, a crucial moment that set the stage for the tumultuous journey ahead. The loss of his father brought significant changes to his family dynamics, exposing a darker side marked by hostility and discrimination against his mother and her children. It was during this trying period that his mother exhibited unwavering resilience and commitment to her faith and her children’s education amidst the chaos.
Fast forward to 2005, Samsondeen mother started a fabric business in the lively town of Ilasa, Lagos. As a devout Christian, Samsondeen mother sought spiritual protection by attending a local church, the Apostolic Church of God, led by Pastor Tony Ikechukwu. During this spiritual journey, their lives intersected with Pastor Tony Ikechukwu, who exploited Samsondeen’s vulnerability under the guise of spiritual guidance.
In a society that showed no tolerance for homosexuality and clung to tradition, Samsondeen endured unimaginable suffering in silence. It wasn’t until 2006, when he gathered the courage to confide in his mother, that the veil of secrecy began to lift. Her love and concern for his safety prompted a report to the authorities, but justice remained frustratingly elusive as Pastor Tony Ikechukwu evaded accountability.
After revealing his sexual orientation, Samsondeen found himself caught in a nightmarish cycle of persecution. He became an outcast in his own community, enduring physical abuse, constant humiliation, and societal rejection. Despite these relentless trials, he tenaciously pursued his education, facing further challenges during his time at Lagos State University (LASU). His mere presence on campus made him a target for discrimination and abuse.
In 2015, Samsondeen’s quest for a life free from discrimination and prejudice led him to the United States. Here, he met his wife, Jasmine, and began the arduous process of rebuilding his life. Tragically, upon Samsondeen’s return to Nigeria, his dear friend Kola Adeyemi Buta, along with two other victims, Akeem Ajaiy and David Akinola, met a violent end in Ajax, Lagos, Nigeria. They were victims of a heinous hate crime by the OPC (Odua People Congress) due to their sexual orientation. Kola’s tragic fate highlights the urgent need for justice and transformation in a society that continues to perpetuate hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community.
Samsondeen’s traumatic journey stands as a testament to his resilience and unwavering determination. His story serves as a reminder that no one should have to endure such torment due to their sexual orientation. He implores the Nigerian government and law enforcement to seek justice for Kola’s death and emphasizes the importance of eradicating discrimination and violence against the LGBTQ+ community.
In Samsondeen’s courage, we find hope and inspiration. His story calls for justice, compassion, and transformation in a society that must progress towards acceptance and empathy. May Kola’s tragic loss be a catalyst for ending discrimination and sparking profound change and progress in Nigeria and around the world.
society
Bright Brain Community Initiative, TMRI Host International Women’s Conference on Gender-Based Violence
Bright Brain Community Initiative, TMRI Host International Women’s Conference on Gender-Based Violence
society
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE: Wisdom Benson Celebrates 44 Years of Entrepreneurial Triumph
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE: Wisdom Benson Celebrates 44 Years of Entrepreneurial Triumph.
Wisdom Benson, the visionary CEO of Wisic Services, is celebrating a major milestone – his 44th birthday on 18th February! A seasoned entrepreneur, accomplished networker, and dedicated leader, Wisdom has spent over 20 years driving business growth, empowering individuals, and shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Nigeria and beyond.
As the helm of Wisic Services, Wisdom has demonstrated exceptional leadership, guiding his team with vision, resilience, and courage. His entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of consistency, integrity, and strategic thinking. Under his leadership, Wisic Services has become a beacon of innovation and excellence, making a lasting impact in the industry.
Wisdom’s commitment to mentoring young entrepreneurs and promoting businesses has inspired countless individuals. He has been a driving force behind the success of many startups and SMEs, providing them with the necessary tools and guidance to thrive.
“Every year is not just an addition of time, but an addition of wisdom, strength, and purpose. The journey continues,” Wisdom said ahead of his birthday. “I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others, and I look forward to continuing to inspire and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.”
As we celebrate Wisdom Benson’s 44th birthday on 18th February, we honor a man whose story inspires determination, excellence, and forward thinking. His legacy is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and passion.
“We are thrilled to celebrate Wisdom’s milestone birthday and acknowledge his contributions to the business community,” said a spokesperson for Wisic Services. “His vision, leadership, and commitment to excellence are an inspiration to us all, and we look forward to many more years of success and impact.”
Here’s to many more years of expanded territories, deeper impact, and greater accomplishments!
*About Wisdom Benson*
Wisdom Benson is a seasoned entrepreneur, accomplished networker, and the visionary CEO of Wisic Services. With over 20 years of experience, he has established himself as a leader in the business community, driving growth, empowering individuals, and shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Nigeria and beyond.
society
Nuhu Ribadu’s Office Denies Toxic Chemical Import Claim, Challenges Nasir El‑Rufai to Provide Proof
Nuhu Ribadu’s Office Denies Toxic Chemical Import Claim, Challenges Nasir El‑Rufai to Provide Proof
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“Security adviser rejects allegation of thallium procurement from Poland, refers matter to DSS investigation.”
The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has firmly denied allegations by former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai that it imported a deadly toxic substance from Poland, describing the claim as baseless and formally referring the matter to the Department of State Services (DSS) for investigation.
The controversy began after El-Rufai, in a letter dated January 30, 2026, wrote to the National Security Adviser requesting clarification over what he described as intelligence available to opposition figures. According to the letter, the NSA’s office allegedly procured about 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate—a colourless, odourless, and extremely toxic chemical—from a Polish supplier.
In the letter, El-Rufai demanded full disclosure of the purpose of the chemical, the identity of the supplier, the authorisation process, and the agencies involved in the transaction. He also sought clarification on whether regulatory bodies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) or the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) had knowledge of or oversight over the alleged importation.
Thallium sulphate is widely recognised as a highly dangerous compound historically used as a rodenticide and insecticide. It is now heavily restricted worldwide due to its extreme toxicity. Even small doses can cause severe neurological damage, organ failure, and death, making its alleged procurement by a state security agency a matter of grave public concern.
The allegation quickly drew attention within political and security circles, especially given the deteriorating relationship between El-Rufai and segments of the ruling establishment. The former governor made the letter public in mid-February, amplifying public scrutiny and political tension.
However, in an official response dated February 13, 2026, the NSA’s office categorically rejected the allegation. The reply, signed by Brigadier-General O. M. Adesuyi on behalf of the NSA, stated that ONSA neither procured nor initiated any process to purchase the substance and had no intention of doing so.
The response also challenged El-Rufai to submit any credible evidence to the DSS for a formal investigation, noting that the allegation had already been referred to the security agency. The NSA’s office maintained that national security institutions operate within strict legal and procedural frameworks and do not engage in unlawful procurement.
With the denial now on record, the controversy has shifted from the alleged chemical importation itself to the credibility of the accusation and the existence—or absence—of verifiable evidence.
Security and governance analysts warn that allegations involving toxic substances and state institutions must be handled with exceptional care. Nigerian political analyst Dr. Jide Ojo has often argued that “when security issues become instruments of political conflict, the greatest casualty is public trust.” Similarly, former electoral commission chairman Professor Attahiru Jega has repeatedly stressed that “credibility and transparency in public institutions are essential pillars of democratic stability.”
The timeline of events is clear. On January 30, 2026, El-Rufai wrote to the NSA raising the allegation. In mid-February, the letter became public, triggering widespread attention. Within days, the NSA’s office issued a formal denial and referred the matter to the DSS for investigation.
As of now, there is no publicly available evidence confirming that any such chemical was imported by the NSA’s office. The security establishment insists the allegation is false, while the burden of proof rests with the accuser.
The outcome of the DSS investigation will determine whether the episode fades as a political dispute or escalates into a major institutional controversy. In a country already grappling with economic strain and persistent security challenges, any suggestion of toxic chemical procurement by a state agency inevitably provokes public anxiety.
For now, the official position remains unequivocal: no toxic chemical was procured, and any claims to the contrary must be substantiated through evidence and due process.
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