celebrity radar - gossips

Former Golden Eaglets Defender, Douglas Uzama murdered by cultists in Benin

Published

9 years ago

December 31, 2016

The circumstance that led to the death of former Golden Eaglets and Flying Eagles defender, Douglas Uzama who was brutally murdered by suspected cultists on Thursday in Sakponba area of Edo state is so sad

Revealing details of the incident, the father of the 18-year-old Gombe United defender said the cultists tricked his son away from home and killed him at a nearby bar in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

Uzoma was a left-back was a member of the 2015 Golden Eaglets team before his death. He played in the qualifiers for the 2015 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Niger, but did not make the final squads to the tournament and the Chile 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where Nigeria won their fifth title.

According to the father, Uzama, who is the last child of his family, was expected to travel on January 10, 2017, to sign a deal with a club in Argentina before he met his untimely death.

The late footballer’s father, Jacob Uzama, said he had left home on Thursday evening to their family house, only to be told 20 minutes later that Douglas had been shot dead.

Jacob said his son went out from their 14, Apostolic Street, Off Sakponba Road, after receiving a phone call from some friends. But the retired army personnel said on getting to a nearby bar to join his friends, two boys came in and shot Uzama at the back of his neck.

It was learnt that the footballer died instantly, as the same boys went further to kill two other people on the same street.

“I was not at home when the incident happened but I was told that Douglas’ friends called him on phone and he went to meet them. When I got there, I met he was shot at the back of his head. His brother rushed him to Central Hospital but Douglas was dead before he got to hospital. We have deposited his corpse at a mortuary. We’ve also reported the matter to the police but we’ve not heard from them yet,” Jacob stated.

However, when the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Haliru Gwandu, was contacted on the issue, he said the state police command was unaware of Uzama’s death.

“I don’t have any information about the killing of any footballer but the Edo State Police Command has been arresting suspected cultists over clashes in the Sakponba area of Benin City recently,” Gwandu said.

According to an eyewitness, who pleaded anonymity for fear of being attacked by the cultists, the attack on the Edo State-born player was planned.

“Sakponba is notorious for the activities of cultists. It was a well-planned attack on Douglas. It’s a cult-related incident but whether he was a cultist or they used him to get back at somebody else is what we don’t know.”

It’s the second time a Premier League player would be killed in 2016. Shooting Stars’ defender Izu Joseph was reportedly shot dead by soldiers in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, in October while also on holiday.

In 2009, Bayelsa United captain, Abiel Tabor, was shot dead hours after leading his club to the league title. Tabor was driving home after Bayelsa’s league triumph when he was stopped and shot in the head by suspected armed robbers as he tried to get away from the gunmen.

Also in 2009, two defunct Ocean Boys players, Eniye Dennis and UbotoOchokoma, were shot dead in their home by suspected cultists, while sleeping.

Earlier, Igeniwari George, the younger brother of Nigeria legend Finidi George, died on September 9, 1995, from gunshot wounds during a Federation Cup match between his club Enugu Rangers and Stationery Stores at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.

In a statement signed by Tosin Akinde, Secretary, Edo State Council of the National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers, the players union said, “Douglas is a dedicated player and his untimely death has thrown the entire football community in Benin into shock. The rate of killings of innocent footballers at their prime in Nigeria has reached an alarming stage and the union must seek justice this time around.

“Izu’s case is still fresh and we are yet to recover from the shock. Now we are mourning a promising young footballer, who has played for the national teams at the U-17 and U-20 categories.”

His club Gombe United lamented the loss of the young defender.

The rate of killings of innocent souls in Nigeria is reaching an alarming stage; we mourn the untimely and grim murder of Douglas Uzama. He nursed the dream of playing at the very top; for some thugs to brutally take his life at this stage of his career means the life of an ordinary Nigerian is at risk every day.

“We call on the security forces to hunt for Douglas Uzama’s murderers and bring them to book. They should be made to pay for this dastardly act and shall never be allowed to go scot free,” the club said in a statement.

celebrity radar - gossips

Accolades to Empress Genevieve Wining as she Celebrate birthday in Grand style

Published

4 hours ago

April 4, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Accolades to Empress Genevieve Wining as she Celebrate birthday in Grand style

Emmanuel Clement

Vilnius, Lithuania – The Grand Hotel Vilnius will host a grand birthday celebration in honor of Her Majesty The Empress Genevieve Wining of the United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA) on April 4th, 2026.

The four-day event promises to be an extravagant affair, marking the special birthday of Empress Genevieve Wining. The celebration will take place at the prestigious Grand Hotel Vilnius, Lithuania, renowned for its luxurious ambiance and exceptional service.

According to the event flyer, the birthday celebration will be a spectacular occasion, fitting for an empress. Guests can expect an elegant setting adorned with golden accents, sparkling champagne, and festive decorations, creating a regal atmosphere befitting the occasion.

The Empress Genevieve Wining of UKA is expected to grace the event, which will include various festivities and celebrations in her honor. The occasion aims to bring together dignitaries, followers, and guests to commemorate the empress’s birthday with grandeur and joy.

For media inquiries, accreditation, or further information about the birthday celebration of The Empress Genevieve Wining of UKA, please contact the event organizers.

Courtesy of His Excellency Emperor Prof. Solomon Wining. UKA

celebrity radar - gossips

Today, Dr. Chris Okafor turns a year older

Published

5 hours ago

April 4, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Today, Dr. Chris Okafor turns a year older

~By Sunday Adeyemi

It is widely acknowledged that the exceptional Dr. Chris Okafor, a man of great character, always celebrates his birthday on April 4th, and in recognition of this occasion, I am inspired to write this special tribute to honor him.

Today marks a momentous occasion as we commemorate the birthday anniversary of Dr. Chris Okafor, a rare gem, a perfect gentleman, and the revered founder of Grace Nation Church, aka Liberation City.

Without reservation, this versatile and dependable Oracle foundry has consistently proven itself worthy of the accolades bestowed upon it on this notable anniversary.

Let it be reiterated that Dr. Chris Okafor is a leader known for his generosity and commitment to humanity’s welfare and advancement. The special gifts donated recently to widows and widowers within and outside the church are a testament to his exceptional leadership.

Your reputation as an outstanding and authentic man of God is evident in your exceptional goodwill and philanthropic endeavors.

Your dedication and perseverance have yielded impressive results, and numerous people, including myself, are justifiably proud of the remarkable work you are doing.

You have consistently exemplified outstanding leadership in the Christian community, demonstrating the profound impact of your role as a gift from God to humanity. I firmly believe this to be true.

Here’s to a year of productivity, success, and happiness. Congratulations and warm wishes on your birthday, sir.

Sunday Adeyemi

Your Son

celebrity radar - gossips

Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51

Published

2 days ago

April 2, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51

The management and staff of Adron Homes and Properties Limited have joined family, friends, associates, and well-wishers across the globe to celebrate their Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, as he marks his 51st birthday.

In a statement released by the company, the milestone was described as a celebration of an exceptional leader whose vision, resilience, and entrepreneurial brilliance have not only transformed Adron Homes into a household name in Nigeria’s real estate sector but have also redefined affordable housing across the country.

Under his dynamic leadership, Adron Homes has continued to expand its footprint, delivering value-driven residential solutions while empowering thousands of Nigerians with opportunities for home ownership. His commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction has remained the driving force behind the company’s sustained growth and industry leadership.

The statement further highlighted Aare EmmanuelKing’s passion for nation-building and community development, noting his significant contributions to job creation, youth empowerment, and the promotion of socio-economic development through real estate investments.

“As a leader, mentor, and visionary, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing has consistently inspired a culture of excellence, integrity, and dedication within the organization. His ability to turn bold ideas into reality continues to position Adron Homes as a trailblazer in the industry,” the statement read.

The company expressed profound gratitude for his steadfast leadership and prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and sound health as he embarks on another year of impactful achievements.

As he celebrates his 51st birthday, the entire Adron Homes family proudly honours a man whose legacy continues to shape the future of real estate in Nigeria.

Happy 51st Birthday, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing!