Business
American Woman voices out as Nigerian husband scams and dumps her after obtaining green card
An American woman, business entrepreneur, Deborah Hendrickson is crying out after her Nigerian husband, Tony Ettah, according to her, ‘scammed her, used her to get to the US and then dumped her after he got his Greencard.
Read her story below…
I don’t know where to start . . . I guess I’ll start with meeting Inyang Obaten Ettah, AKA Tony Ettah back in June 2010, we met through a friend of mine named, Charles. I’ve been visiting Nigeria since 2008, had an NGO there (Open Arms International) that never really got started, I know lots of people in Nigeria, Rich & Poor. I thought I was savvy when it came to the Romance Scammers, the 419ers, but, I was not prepared for how Inyang Obaten Ettah PLAYED ME, yes, I did inquire about Inyang via Charles, Charles vouched for Inyang’s authenticity (so HE THOUGHT) because Charles knew Inyang for 10 years (at that time – June 2010), there is where it began.
Once Inyang contacted me, we talked, when Inyang told me his age (36 at that time) I was 51, immediately, I hung up on him, he called back thinking we got disconnected, I explained to Inyang that he was way out of my age range and I KNOW the culture in Nigeria of Older, especially AMERICAN WOMEN and younger Nigerian Men, for weeks I ignored his calls, till finally he begged me to just “talk to him,” which I did – WRONG FOR ME, but, too late. Inyang talked that sweet talk (I can say that now), he saw I was a Christian and began to use that to his Advantage, I asked Inyang “why won’t he leave me alone?” Finally he said “Because GOD SAID YOU ARE MY WIFE so I am pursuing you.” Those words took me off guard because NEVER had a man say that to me, and never would I have thought One – Inyang would LIE ON GOD! From there, he got my attention, by that time 2 months had passed (August 2010).
As Inyang and I began conversing, we discussed the difference in Age and the fact that I could not have any children, Inyang response was “it doesn’t matter because God said you are my Wife and I had made up in my mind that however God sent my wife, that is how I would ACCEPT her.” He shared with me how many women in his church (Faith Tabernacle AKA Winners, David Oyedepo is Pastor) cannot have children, and some are even older than their husbands, but, they still married and are still married today (was referring up to that moment he made that statement). He even shared how his Auntie is in the exact situation (no Child(ren), yet she and her husband are STILL TOGETHER (at that time August 2010)
Time went on, Inyang then asked that I come to Nigeria to visit him, by that time he had CONVINCED me that he was AUTHENTIC and SINCERE – HE WASN’T. Anyway, I visited Inyang December 2010 (6 months after officially meeting). I was in Nigeria for 21 days, the entire time Inyang was the Perfect Host, he took me everywhere, introduced me to EVERYONE, family, friends, enemies, church associates, he even took me to church at Winners’ Chapel, Canaan Land, Ota Nigeria; Inyang was so active at Winners, he volunteered as Security (Bus & Church), he pretty much, so I THOUGHT lived in church, always talking about God (to me), he told me how he attended Pre-Marital classes at Winners because he wanted to Prepare to be an EXCELLENT HUSBAND to ME, he had me FOOLED, he was the World’s Greatest Pretender.
While in Nigeria Inyang proposed to me (December 21, 2010) during my Launch Party of Royal Entertainment Nigeria, I accepted his Proposal because I was convinced he was AUTHENTIC! He did not perform in the typical way that of a Romance Scammer or Yahoo Boi, as stated, he introduced me to EVERYONE, took me EVERYWHERE, etc. After the proposal, eight months later I returned to Nigeria and we were married 8 months later (August 12, 2011). What I thought that was going to be a Marriage, turned out to be MARRIAGE FRAUD!
I submitted Inyang’s Immigration paperwork to USCIS December 12, 2011, the first process was was Approved May 2012, his Interview in Lagos was October 30, 2012 and his Visa was issued, the entire process from submission to Approval was 10 months, Inyang even used that quick process to say “the Lord Caused it to happen because it is HIS WILL because I’m his Wife.” LIAR!
Inyang arrived in the U.S. November 21, 2012 and that’s when HE CHANGED – IMMEDIATELY! He was no longer the loving speaking, affectionate man I visited December 2012, his excuse was “he’s in a new place, give him time to adjust.” In the meanwhile I did my part as his wife. I later learned that Inyang never attended school in Nigeria when I took him to our local college (Danville Community College) to enroll, I was upset because Inyang TOLD ME he was college educated (in Nigeria), Education means a lot to me and I only aligned myself with college educated men, so, he could not enroll. he was advised to enroll in the Adult Education program, which he did, but was unable to do the work so he stopped attending. He applied for a job at a Company name EBI in Danville, VA (June 6, 2013) and was terminated (July 4, 2013) due to violation of company code by using profane language and misconduct, thereafter Inyang obtained a job at Ebay through Adecco a Temporary Employment Agency, he didn’t keep that job and was released approximately 4 weeks later (those dates elude me). Thereafter Inyang could not find employment in Danville, VA, it was a strain on the marriage.
By April 2014 a friend of mine, Amos Ajo conference with Inyang and I to discuss Inyang moving to Atlanta, Georgia to work for him, the plan was for Inyang to move, get established, and I to follow no less than 6 months later – that NEVER HAPPENED! Inyang officially moved to Atlanta April 14, 2014, and Mr. Ajo did as promised, gave Inyang a job, Inyang and I talked everyday, he visited me periodically in Danville, VA; when I visited Inyang in Atlanta, he was always too busy to be with me, always said “he was working,” causing my trip to be wasted. As time went on I noticed I was not hearing from Inyang, his excuse was always “he’s working,” yet he NEVER SENT ANY MONEY TO ME FOR the HOUSEHOLD in Danville, his excuse was “he had to pay for expenses where he was staying,” Mr. Ajo arranged temporary lodging for Inyang at 3502 Adkins Road, Atlanta, GA 30331 where he shared space with Mr. Gabriel Owolabi, a friend of Mr. Ajo.
I didn’t notice until AFTERWARDS that Inyang played Me, what I mean by that is, from April 14, 2014 to July 2014 I barely heard from Inyang. By August 2014 he began calling regularly, his excuse was, he got a new Job working at a company named United Distributors Inc., 5500 United Dr. SE, Smyrna, GA 30082, 678.305.2000 and was flexible and could now talk when at work. By September 2014 Inyang did a surprise visited, I realized AFTERWARD that it was because the I-751-Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence Arrived, Inyang gathered all documents, and the form was Signed by me. I remained consumed with the preparation of opening my Christian Venue, Debs Gospel Cafe in Danville, VA, which opened November 2014. Inyang did another surprised visit for Thanksgiving 2014.
Thereafter it went back to him not calling. I visited Inyang in Atlanta, GA March 14, 2015 after the last seeing him since November 2014, that visit did not turn out to be good, Inyang complained that I could not stay with him at 3502 Adkins Road, Atlanta, GA 30331 because there “was no place for me to sleep,” so, I rented a Motel at the Super 8 in Stockbridge, GA, Inyang spent 1 night with me then left me at the hotel, not hearing from him again, he said he had to “go home to wash clothes.” I left Georgia devastated!
My daughter married March 24, 2015, to appease me from his doing me wrong a week later he attended her wedding, he was very cold, everyone around noticed his negative attitude towards me and quickly voices their opinion. March 26, 2015 was the LAST TIME I SAW INYANG. Inyang kept in touch, each time asking me “did his Permanent Green Card arrive,” he said he needed it because his job was in jeapordy and now that his finances was getting better better, he needed to keep his job at United Distributors, Inc. so he can begin sending me money – EVENTUALLY, HE NEVER SENT A DIME! Finally, May 1, 2015 his Permanent Resident Card arrived, I mailed it to him because he expressed the urgency of it to show his Employer.
Once Inyang received his Permanent Resident card, he BLOCKED ME from ALL Social Network, MOVED to 1121 Ridgebrook Trail, Duluth, GA 30096, and changed his Job (unknown to me now). Because Inyang refused to give me the necessary job information (while at United Distributors, Inc.) I was unable to apply and received Healthcare, Inyang filed his 2014 Income Tax but I have no clue under what Status, he did tell me that he filed SINGLE for 2015, and we were still married. Inyang changed his Driver’s License from Virgina #T60274200 to Georgia Driver’s License 059553398, he then moved his phone 434.203.5226 from my AT&T Family Plan to his own.
Inyang has severed ALL TIES WITH ME, as soon as he RECEIVED HIS PERMANENT RESIDENT CARD, to me, showing MARRIAGE FRAUD, IF he was serious about our Marriage, we would still be together.
nyang has told many lies on me, saying, I threw water in his face, hit him, etc., I KNOW his Nigerian friends put him up to saying that, because IF I’d done those things, that’s considered ABUSE and he could have called Danville Local Police and file charges against me, but, IT NEVER HAPPENED. He must make me look like the bad guy when all I ever did was love him.
His plan was for us to REMAIN married so he can file for Citizenship in 5 years, because by now I figured out he USED ME for MARRIAGE FRAUD, he knew I would not submit the necessary paperwork for citizenship, he told me he could still do it in 5 years and that I could not STOP HIM FROM BECOMING A CITIZEN. Though it’s MY WORD AGAINST HIS, all I have is HIS ACTIONS, He ADMITTED TO ME THAT he USED ME, and that I CAUSED IT BECAUSE I KEPT TELLING HIM THAT I SENSE HE WAS USING ME AND MY “WORDS” CAUSED IT TO HAPPEN (Him using me). When Inyang made that statement I immediately filed (online) a Fraud Case.
divorced Inyang August 2016, he gladly signed the Papers because he has a Fiancee, who he’s probably married to by now, offering him the opportunity to now file for citizenship.
I have been told that USCIS WILL DO NOTHING, because Inyang has not committed a Crime, YES HE HAS, He COMMITTED MARRIAGE FRAUD! That’s a Federal Crime. I’ve since learned (by people who know him) that he has a Shipping Company, he ships cars to Nigeria, and he has a Clothing Line Winners Clothes, he makes his money and sends it back to Nigeria, Inyang once told me that America is the Land of Opportunity and how he WILL RAPE this Country of their dollars and take advantage of All Opportunities, and he’s doing it. Inyang has 3 loaded bank accounts at SunTrust Bank, accounts ending in 6881, 1387 & 1341.
Submitted are copies of all documents I have, I just want JUSTICE to be done for me. I am a FIGHTER, I know of 15 Women who has Married Nigerian men and the men used them for Green Card Purposes and they “think” nothing can be done, I want to show them that, YES, SOMETHING CAN BE DONE! YES! they can be DEPORTED for Immigration Marriage Fraud. I will sound the Alarm, Once Trump is in Office I will contact him and tell him my Story, I’m almost sure I will get RESULTS! Inyang should not have played with my life, I am a Good, Christian Woman Who Believes in Doing Right – all The Time. I trust that the Lord WILL GIVE ME JUSTICE by the Fraud Division recognizing that Inyang Obaten Ettah MARRIED ME FOR IMMIGRATION MARRIAGE FRAUD.
Business
Nigerian Excellence in Medicine: Dr. Dennis Agbazue Makes History in South Africa with Groundbreaking Spine Surgery
Nigerian Excellence in Medicine: Dr. Dennis Agbazue Makes History in South Africa with Groundbreaking Spine Surgery
By George O. Sylvester
On March 22, 2025, a new chapter was written in the annals of spinal surgery in South Africa. In what medical professionals are hailing as a major breakthrough in minimally invasive spine treatment, Nigerian-born orthopaedic and spinal surgeon, Dr. Dennis Agbazue, successfully performed Gauteng Province’s first fully endoscopic lumbar spinal decompression and fusion at Mediclinic Vereeniging. This landmark procedure has not only redefined the surgical possibilities within the province but has also elevated South Africa’s standing in the realm of advanced spinal care. More importantly, it represents the growing global footprint of Nigerian professionals who are transforming lives and industries in their host countries.
The patient, a 55-year-old male suffering from spondylolisthesis; a condition where one vertebra slips over another, often causing debilitating nerve compression and spinal stenosis underwent a complex yet precise surgical procedure executed entirely through two tiny incisions. Known as the bi-portal endoscopic technique, this method allows for bilateral laminectomy (removal of part of the vertebral bone), disc removal and spinal fusion all done with minimal disruption to muscle and tissue. This technique, relatively new in South Africa, reduces hospital stay, speeds up recovery and offers patients immediate relief from pain.
This is a monumental stride, not just for Mediclinic Vereeniging but for the entire province of Gauteng. Until now, endoscopic spinal surgeries, especially bi-portal decompression and fusion, were rarely performed in the region due to their high level of technical difficulty and the need for specialized training and equipment. Dr. Agbazue’s success now opens the door to a future where such procedures become commonplace, benefiting thousands of patients suffering from chronic spinal conditions.
A Surgeon of Many Firsts
Dr. Agbazue is not new to trailblazing. Since 2022, he has emerged as one of the few spinal surgeons in South Africa proficient in both uni-portal and bi-portal endoscopic spinal techniques. His journey into endoscopic spine surgery began with the uni-portal approach, a technique that involves a single incision for both visualization and surgical instruments. Since adopting it, he has successfully completed approximately 330 cases, earning him accolades from both peers and patients.
What sets him apart is not just his technical expertise, but his commitment to patient-centered care and surgical innovation. The transition to the bi-portal technique in 2024 allowed Dr. Agbazue to tackle more complex spinal conditions with enhanced surgical visibility and dexterity. Unlike open surgery, which often requires long incisions and extended recovery periods, the bi-portal method uses two small portals, one for a camera and another for surgical tools enabling more precision and less trauma to surrounding tissues.
“This technique represents the future of spine surgery,” Dr. Agbazue noted. “We are now able to offer patients the best of both worlds: surgical efficacy and a rapid return to normal life. It’s truly transformative.”
Building a Hub of Excellence in Vereeniging
Since leading the first endoscopic spinal surgery at Mediclinic Vereeniging on August 9, 2022, Dr. Agbazue has been instrumental in transforming the facility into a center of excellence for minimally invasive spine care. By March 2024, he had performed over 200 successful endoscopic spinal procedures, with outstanding outcomes and low complication rates.
His collaboration with Q Surgical, a medical instrumentation firm, has played a pivotal role in advancing the hospital’s capabilities. Together, they have introduced state-of-the-art endoscopic equipment and surgical tools, ensuring that local patients receive world-class care without the need to travel abroad.
As a result, Mediclinic Vereeniging has seen an influx of patients from across Gauteng, including metropolitan hubs like Johannesburg and Pretoria, seeking treatment under Dr. Agbazue’s expert care. For many, this represents not only hope but a second chance at life free from the chronic pain and disability associated with spinal disorders.
Representing Nigeria with Pride
At a time when negative narratives often dominate discussions about Nigeria and its citizens abroad, individuals like Dr. Dennis Agbazue offer a powerful counter-narrative. A proud Nigerian, Dr. Agbazue embodies the resilience, intellect and work ethic that define the best of the Nigerian spirit. His achievements are not isolated; rather, they are part of a broader wave of Nigerian professionals excelling globally in medicine, law, academia, technology and business.
From the corridors of Johns Hopkins and Mayo Clinic in the United States to the consulting rooms of top hospitals in the UK, Canada and Australia, Nigerian doctors have built a formidable reputation for excellence. According to a 2021 report by the UK’s General Medical Council, over 7,000 Nigerian-trained doctors were registered to practice in the UK, one of the largest contingents of foreign-trained doctors. In the United States, Nigerian-Americans are among the most highly educated immigrant groups, with medicine ranking among the top professions.
In South Africa, despite facing xenophobic challenges, Nigerians like Dr. Agbazue continue to distinguish themselves through competence and integrity. They fill critical gaps in healthcare and education and contribute to national development in quiet yet powerful ways.
The Global Shift Toward Minimally Invasive Surgery
Dr. Agbazue’s success must also be seen within the global context of medical innovation. The past two decades have seen a seismic shift from traditional open surgeries to minimally invasive procedures across all specialties. Spinal surgery, once known for long recovery periods and high complication risks, has now embraced technologies such as robotics, navigation systems and endoscopic tools.
In endoscopic spinal surgery, the benefits are indisputable. Studies published in peer-reviewed journals such as The Spine Journal and Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine have shown that endoscopic techniques result in less blood loss, shorter operative times, lower infection rates and faster functional recovery compared to open surgery. This approach is particularly beneficial for older patients or those with comorbidities who might not tolerate extensive surgery well.
Dr. Agbazue’s use of bi-portal endoscopy aligns South African spinal care with these international best practices, giving local patients access to treatment modalities previously reserved for developed countries.
A Call to Celebrate Nigerian Excellence
As Nigerians, we must learn to recognize, amplify and celebrate our own. In a world quick to highlight the failures and shortcomings of African professionals, stories like that of Dr. Dennis Agbazue remind us of our boundless potential. These are the narratives that must dominate our airwaves, newspapers and social platforms not only as a source of national pride but as an inspiration to young Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.
The future of Nigeria lies in the excellence of its people. Whether in medicine, innovation or public service, it is those who dare to push boundaries and defy odds that will shape our nation’s global identity. In Dr. Agbazue, we find one such individual a healer, a pioneer, and a worthy ambassador of the Nigerian dream.
Final note
The March 22 procedure at Mediclinic Vereeniging was more than a surgical first, it was a testament to the transformative power of skill, vision and perseverance. Dr. Dennis Agbazue’s achievement has not only raised the bar for spinal surgery in South Africa but has also positioned him as a beacon of excellence among Nigerian professionals abroad.
As we look to the future, may we continue to support and celebrate the likes of Dr. Agbazue, whose work reminds us that, regardless of where we come from, greatness knows no boundaries.
A Home for Heritage: ILÉ IYÁN Opens Headquarters to Celebrate Nigerian Roots
ILÉ IYÁN, a proudly Nigerian culinary brand, has officially unveiled its state of the art headquarters with a 200 guest capacity facility. The grand opening ceremony not only marked a milestone in the company’s growth but also paid tribute to Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, drawing attention to the role of indigenous cuisine and tradition in promoting tourism across Lagos State.
The historic launch of the ILÉ IYÁN Headquarters held on Sunday the 11th May, 2025, now officially recognized as a national monument, took place in grand style, marking a significant milestone in the celebration and preservation of Nigerian cultural heritage and a major boost to the tourism industry.
The atmosphere was electric as the official opening ceremony of Ile Iyan’s new edifice commenced with a symbolic ribbon-cutting by the proud parents of the CEO, Alhaji and Alhaja Sanni. The emotional moment was met with cheers and applause from attendees, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s journey.
In a heartfelt speech, the CEO’s mother Alhaja Sanni shared her immense joy and pride in her son’s achievements. “I never imagined this day would come so soon. He defied all odds and has made us proud,” she said, her voice filled with emotion.
Celebrating Nigeria’s cultural richness, the event featured vibrant performances by Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa cultural troupes. Dressed in colourful traditional attire, the troupes dazzled the audience with electrifying dances that underscored the Ile Iyan brand’s commitment to promoting indigenous cuisine and cultural values.
The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Abisola Olusanya; Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende; Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Culture and Tourism, Mr. Idris Aregbe; SSA on New Media, Mr. Jubril Gawat; Hon. Remi Durojaiye; Engr. Bola Babarinde; Prince Olu Kosoko of Badagry, Guiness World Record Holder, Dr Fola David; Mr Chigozie Okwara, Vice President of Culinary Arts Practitioners of Nigeria,Chef Dee; Culinary expert and Hospitality Consultant, Chef Gibbs; CEO of Novarick Homes and Properties Limited Mr Noah Ibrahim; Barrister Lateef Oyefeso, Barrister Gbolahan Oluyemi, Alhaji Mohammed Luqman, Alhaji Mojeed Animashaun, Alhaji Qudus Animashaun, Mr Emmanuel Akinseloyin, Alhaja Onigbanjo, Captain Dare, Alhaji Luqman Obileye, Mr Fola Gbemisola(Fatgbems), Mr Taiwo Kafidipe, Mr Ihuoma Raymond, the iconic music executive and cultural ambassador, Otunba Dayo Adeneye (D1) of Kennis Music, alongside Dr. Agarawu, numerous captains of industry, and cultural enthusiasts.
ILÉ IYÁN, long revered for its authentic celebration of Yoruba gastronomy particularly the traditional preparation of pounded yam has now been elevated to a symbol of national pride, serving as a cultural hub that connects history, heritage, food, and tourism. With its headquarters now officially open, ILÉ IYÁN is positioned as a dynamic force in reviving indigenous food practices, promoting cultural tourism, and offering immersive experiences rooted in Nigerian traditions.
In her keynote address, Mrs. Bisola Olusanya praised the initiative, stating: “ILÉ IYÁN is not just a space for food, it is a celebration of our roots, our resilience, and our creativity as Nigerians. This headquarters will play a vital role in our agricultural value chain while preserving culinary heritage for future generations.”
Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende emphasized the importance of youth engagement in cultural sustainability, while Hon. Idris Aregbe lauded ILÉ IYÁN as a “trailblazer in cultural entrepreneurship,” bridging the gap between tradition and innovation.
Mr. Sanni Afeez, General Manager of ILÉ IYÁN, Shares His Thoughts on the Launch
Speaking at the launch, the General Manager, Mr. Sanni Afeez, expressed his excitement and optimism about the future of the brand.
“This launch represents more than just a new building, it’s a bold step toward redefining the culinary and cultural experience in Nigeria,” he said. “ILÉ IYÁN is not just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of who we are as a people. From our locally inspired menu to the cultural performances that marked today’s opening, we are showcasing the beauty, depth, and unity of Nigerian heritage. This headquarters will serve as a hub for not only great food but also for cultural exchange and tourism growth in Lagos.”
Founder, CEO, and cultural curator of ILÉ IYÁN, Mr. Sanni Sheriff, shared a powerful message during the launch event, emphasizing the deeper vision behind the brand.
“This is not just a building; it is a movement,” he declared. “A space where the stories of our people, our food, and our shared heritage are honored and preserved.”
Mr Sanni Sheriff, known for his passion for cultural preservation and storytelling through cuisine, reiterated his commitment to creating a space that celebrates Nigeria’s diverse identity, promotes local tourism, and empowers future generations to take pride in their roots.
With this launch, ILÉ IYÁN cements its place as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s cultural renaissance and a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
EKAABO SI ILÉ IYÁN
EYIN OLOLUFE WA
For ILÉ IYÁN dining experience and food delivery kindly visit or contact any of our locations
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