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Matters Arising as Nigeria’s Komolafe Leads AFRIPERF

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Matters Arising as Nigeria’s Komolafe Leads AFRIPERF

By Moses Dan

When Gbenga Komolafe, chief executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), assumed the role of interim chairman of the newly launched African Petroleum Regulators Forum (AFRIPERF), many across the continent’s oil and gas sector hailed it as a watershed moment. His elevation was not just a personal milestone but a recognition of Nigeria’s growing influence in shaping the governance of Africa’s energy future. Yet, even as praise pours in, questions linger about capacity, politics, and the sustainability of the project.

The launch and charter-signing of AFRIPERF took place on September 18, 2025, during Africa Oil Week in Accra, Ghana. Sixteen African countries participated, and eight of them — including Nigeria, Ghana, Somalia, Gambia, Madagascar, Sudan, Guinea, and Togo — formally endorsed the AFRIPERF Charter. Seven others pledged to join after domestic consultations. Komolafe was unanimously selected as interim chairman, a role that effectively positions Nigeria at the forefront of continental oil and gas regulation.

The forum’s objective is ambitious but urgent: to harmonise petroleum laws, standards, and regulatory practices across Africa. Over the decades, differences in national legislation, fiscal regimes, and licensing procedures have discouraged cross-border investments and weakened collective bargaining power. AFRIPERF is conceived to bridge those divides by creating a platform for knowledge exchange, peer review, and regional cooperation.

According to its charter, AFRIPERF will operate through an Executive Committee of national regulators, a Technical Committee of industry experts, and a rotating Secretariat to coordinate activities among member states. The framework builds on Nigeria’s earlier leadership in regulatory reform under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021.

Komolafe, who first proposed the idea of a continental regulatory network in 2023, has long argued that Africa must “own its resources with efficiency and integrity” rather than compete in isolation. The Abuja Declaration, introduced during Nigeria Oil and Gas Week in 2024, laid the philosophical foundation for AFRIPERF — emphasising transparency, environmental responsibility, and collaboration. The Accra meeting in 2025 marked the institutional birth of that vision.

The symbolism is significant. Nigeria remains one of Africa’s most experienced hydrocarbon producers, and its reform-driven regulatory commission has been widely seen as a model of post-PIA transformation. Komolafe’s emergence as the forum’s interim head therefore reinforces the view that Nigeria can export regulatory expertise in addition to crude oil.

*Nigeria’s Reformist Reputation Meets Continental Expectations*

Komolafe’s tenure at NUPRC offers clues about what to expect from his new continental assignment. Since assuming office, he has pushed reforms to digitise upstream licensing, streamline approvals, strengthen host community engagement, and curb oil theft through tighter metering systems. Under his leadership, the Commission has prioritised data transparency, community participation, and gas monetisation — themes that resonate with AFRIPERF’s founding principles.

But moving from national regulation to continental coordination is an entirely different challenge. Africa’s oil-producing nations operate under vastly different fiscal models, political pressures, and institutional capacities. Some have mature frameworks with digital monitoring systems; others still rely on paper records and manual audits. Aligning these disparities will test both Komolafe’s diplomatic skill and the credibility of the new forum.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Pan-African Regulatory Excellence Forum (PAREF), an industry think tank, commended Komolafe’s appointment as “a fitting recognition of Nigeria’s reform trajectory and the strength of his leadership.” The statement, signed by its executive director, Dr Aisha Njoroge, described the AFRIPERF chairmanship as “an opportunity to turn the rhetoric of regional cooperation into measurable results”.

According to her, “The success of AFRIPERF will depend not on the size of its membership but on the quality of its deliverables. It must demonstrate practical value by harmonising gas measurement standards, emissions regulations, and digital compliance systems. Otherwise, it risks becoming another talk shop”.

Dr Njoroge urged the interim chair to prioritise inclusivity and transparency in early decisions, ensuring that smaller or less-resourced countries are not marginalised. “Regulatory convergence should not become regulatory domination,” she added.

Beyond institutional design, several issues now dominate the agenda. The first is capacity disparity. Many African regulators lack technical manpower, laboratory infrastructure, and stable funding. Without a plan for shared resources or training exchanges, the forum could reinforce existing inequalities. The second is the question of authority. AFRIPERF’s recommendations are currently advisory, not binding, which may limit their impact unless member states voluntarily adopt harmonised frameworks.

Another pressing challenge is financing. Sustaining the forum will require predictable revenue — either through member dues, donor partnerships, or cost-sharing arrangements. Overreliance on external funding, especially from Western partners with decarbonisation agendas, could tilt priorities away from Africa’s own developmental needs.

There is also the matter of political independence. Regulators in several countries remain vulnerable to executive interference, particularly during licensing rounds and fiscal negotiations. Komolafe’s reputation for professionalism and non-partisanship at NUPRC will be critical in keeping AFRIPERF free from political capture.

*The Road Ahead for Africa’s Energy Governance*

Meanwhile, energy transition pressures loom large. Global investment in fossil fuels is tightening amid climate-related restrictions, yet Africa still relies on hydrocarbons for more than 70 per cent of government revenue in producing countries. AFRIPERF will need to navigate this paradox — promoting efficiency and environmental stewardship while defending the continent’s right to exploit its resources responsibly.

For Komolafe, the ultimate test will be turning vision into execution. The first set of deliverables expected from AFRIPERF include harmonised reporting templates for production data, a regional petroleum data repository, and shared capacity-building programmes for regulatory staff. Progress on these fronts will determine whether the forum becomes a genuine platform for transformation or fades into the background of African bureaucracy.

In his remarks at the Accra signing ceremony, Komolafe was clear about his priorities. “This is not just about creating another institution,” he said. “It is about aligning Africa’s regulatory systems with the demands of a new global energy order — one that rewards transparency, innovation, and sustainability.” He pledged that under his leadership, the forum would set measurable goals and enforce accountability through peer review.

Nigeria’s oil reforms have already strengthened its domestic regulatory identity. If Komolafe can translate that momentum into continental cooperation, AFRIPERF could become a defining institution for Africa’s late-oil era — a forum that speaks with one voice in global energy diplomacy while setting common rules for its own internal market.

But ambition alone will not suffice. The forum’s success depends on political will across capitals, not just the competence of its chairman. Africa has seen many grand alliances fade for lack of sustained follow-through. As one senior industry observer put it, “Komolafe’s leadership gives AFRIPERF credibility; now it must earn legitimacy.”

The months ahead will reveal whether Nigeria’s stewardship can turn this continental experiment into a lasting framework for energy governance. For now, the mood within the sector is one of cautious optimism — and a growing sense that, at least this time, Africa’s regulators might finally be speaking the same language.

Dan is an oil and gas expert writing from Port Harcourt.

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When Ramadan And Lent Meet : Prophet Genesis Calls For Peace Beyond Religion

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When Ramadan And Lent Meet : Prophet Genesis Calls For Peace Beyond Religion

 

Prophet Genesis has described the rare convergence of Ramadan and Lent as “a divine reminder that humanity must choose peace over prejudice,” urging believers across faiths to see the sacred alignment as an opportunity for unity rather than division.

“There are moments in history that feel bigger than calendars, doctrines, or denominations,” he said. “When Ramadan and Lent align in the same season, it is not coincidence — it is a reminder that God’s sovereignty transcends religion, borders, and human systems.”

Ramadan, a sacred month in Islam, is marked by fasting, prayer, charity, and deep reflection. Lent, the Christian season leading to Easter, is devoted to fasting, repentance, sacrifice, and spiritual renewal.

Though observed in different faith traditions, both seasons call believers into humility, self-discipline, generosity, repentance, and closeness to God.

“Is it not powerful,” Prophet Genesis added, “that two major faiths — followed by billions around the world — enter a period of fasting and reflection at the same time? What seems separate to us is not separate to God.”

*What Is God Showing Us?*
According to the cleric, the alignment carries a spiritual message beyond ritual observance.

“When Ramadan and Lent come together, it feels like a divine whisper,” he said. “‘Slow down. Purify your heart. Love your neighbour. Seek Me sincerely.’”

Both seasons strip away excess — food, distractions, pride — and expose the condition of the heart. And in that stripping away, he noted, humanity discovers something profound: we are more alike than different.

Muslims fast from dawn to sunset.
Christians fast in various ways, giving up comforts.
Both give in charity.
Both pray more intentionally.
Both seek forgiveness.

“This convergence reveals that the core values God desires — mercy, discipline, compassion, humility — are universal,” he stated.

*Beyond Religion: Embracing Peace and Love*
In a time marked by global tension, economic hardship, displacement, and social division, Prophet Genesis stressed that religious hostility only deepens existing wounds.

“If sacred seasons themselves can align,” he asked, “why can’t we?”

Religion, he said, was never meant to divide humanity into hatred but to guide it toward righteousness. Yet history shows that faith is often used as a boundary instead of a bridge.

“When we choose peace over prejudice, love over labels, and understanding over suspicion, we reflect the very heart of God.”

He emphasised that discrimination weakens communities, division delays progress, and hatred blinds wisdom. By contrast, love strengthens society, peace builds nations, and unity multiplies impact.

For communities working closely with women and children across diverse nations and religious backgrounds, he added, peace is not optional — it is necessary for healing and empowerment.

*The Greater Lesson*
Perhaps, he suggested, the meeting of Ramadan and Lent carries a deeper reminder:

“You are one human family.
You were created by the same Creator.
Your shared humanity matters more than your differences.”

Faith, according to Prophet Genesis, should elevate character rather than inflate ego. True spirituality produces compassion, not condemnation.

“The power of this moment is not in theological debate,” he said. “It is in the opportunity for unity.”

When Muslims and Christians fast in the same season, neighbourhoods can pray for one another. Communities can share meals at sunset. Friends can check on each other’s well-being.

“This is how peace begins,” he concluded. “Not in global conferences, but in hearts.”

*A Call to Embrace Peace*
Prophet Genesis called on religious leaders, youth organisations, and families to use the sacred overlap as a practical platform for dialogue, mutual respect, and visible acts of kindness.

“Let us embrace one another beyond religion. Let us protect each other’s dignity. Let us teach our children love instead of suspicion.”

Because at the end of every fast — whether Ramadan or Lent — the true goal is transformation of the heart.

“And a transformed heart,” he said, “does not discriminate. It loves.”

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Stop Means Stop”: Legal Experts Warn Ignoring ‘Stop’ During Intimate Acts Can Be Criminally Punishable

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Stop Means Stop”: Legal Experts Warn Ignoring ‘Stop’ During Intimate Acts Can Be Criminally Punishable

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG

“Grounded in international law and consent principles, legal authorities stress that continuing sexual activity after a partner withdraws consent may constitute sexual assault and lead to imprisonment.”

A growing body of legal interpretation and expert opinion reaffirm that consent in intimate encounters is not a one-off event but an ongoing requirement; withdrawn at any time by either participant. Legal practitioners and rights advocates are increasingly warning that if one partner clearly says “stop” during sexual activity and the other continues, this conduct can constitute a criminal offence with significant penalties, including imprisonment.

Consent must be “a voluntary agreement to engage in the sexual activity in question,” and crucially can be revoked at any stage. Once a partner expresses withdrawal of consent (by words like “stop” or by unmistakable conduct) the other party is legally obligated to cease all activity immediately. Failure to respect this is widely recognised in multiple legal jurisdictions as sexual assault or rape.

Professor Deborah Rhode, a prominent authority on legal ethics, has stated: “Respect for autonomy and bodily integrity lies at the core of consent law. Ignoring a partner’s withdrawal of consent undermines basic personal freedoms and is treated as a serious offence in criminal law.”

According to experts, this legal principle is not limited to strangers but applies equally to long-term partners and spouses. The Criminal Code in many countries explicitly rejects implied or blanket consent based on relationship status.

Human rights lawyer Amal Clooney has similarly emphasised that clear communication and mutual agreement are essential, and that “once consent is withdrawn, any continued sexual activity crosses the line into criminal conduct.”

This means that in places where consent law is well-established, ignoring an explicit “stop” can lead to charges of sexual assault, with courts interpreting such conduct as a violation of an individual’s autonomy and dignity.

The issue has gained media and legal attention in recent years across numerous jurisdictions (including Canada, parts of Europe, and reform discussions in U.S. states) as courts and legislatures clarify that sexual consent is continuous and revocable at any time. Although no globally consolidated database exists of individual cases tied specifically to a news report on this warning, reputable legal frameworks consistently reinforce that continuing after “stop” is unlawful.

The subject engages legal scholars, criminal law practitioners, human rights experts, and statutory bodies advocating sexual violence prevention. Law enforcement agencies and prosecutors may pursue charges when clear evidence shows that consent was withdrawn and ignored.

In practice, consent frameworks require that the person initiating or continuing sexual activity take reasonable steps to ensure ongoing affirmation of willingness. Silence, passive behaviour, or failure to stop when asked cannot substitute for ongoing consent.

In summary, the legal maxim is clear: verbal or unambiguous withdrawal of consent must be respected. Ignoring it shifts the encounter from consensual to criminal, potentially resulting in serious legal consequences including imprisonment.

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Lagos Family Property Dispute Turns Violent After Death of Omotayo Ojo

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Lagos Family Property Dispute Turns Violent After Death of Chief Omotayo Ojo

By Ifeoma Ikem

A festering family dispute over property has escalated into a series of violent attacks in Lagos, leaving residents of a contested apartment in fear for their safety.

Mrs. Omotayo-Ojo-Alolagbe (Nee Omotayo-Ojo) the third child and first daughter of the late Omotayo Ojo, has alleged repeated assaults and destruction of property by her siblings from her father’s other marriages.

According to her account, hostility against her began while her father was still alive, allegedly fueled by the affection and support he showed her. She claimed that tensions worsened after his death in 2019.

Mrs. Alolagbe stated that her late father had given her a particular apartment during his lifetime, assuring her she would not suffer hardship, especially after her husband left the marriage. She said the property became her primary source of livelihood and shelter.

However, she alleged that her siblings had sold off several other family properties and were determined to dispossess her of the apartment allocated to her by their father.
The dispute reportedly turned violent on Nov. 15, 2025, when unknown persons allegedly attacked the building. She said the incident prompted her to petition the Chief Judge of Lagos State and the Commissioner of Police.

Despite the pending legal proceedings, she alleged that another attack occurred on Jan. 21, 2026. During that incident, parts of the building were vandalised, including the walkway and the main gate, which was reportedly removed.

A third attack was said to have taken place on Feb.18, 2026, during which the roof, gates, and sections of the walkway were allegedly dismantled. Residents were reportedly assaulted, and some were allegedly forced to part with money under duress.

Tenants in the apartment complex are said to be living in fear amid the repeated invasions, expressing concern over their safety and uncertainty about further violence.

Mrs. Alolagbe alleged that the attacks were led by a man identified as Mr. Alliu, popularly known as aka “Champion,” whom she described as a political thug. She claimed he arrived with a group of about 50 men, allegedly brandishing weapons and breaking bottles to intimidate residents.

She further alleged that the group boasted of connections with senior police officers, politicians in Lagos State, and even the presidency, claiming they were untouchable.

According to her, some arrests were initially made following the incidents, but the suspects were later released. She expressed concern that the alleged perpetrators continue to threaten her, making it difficult for her to move freely.

She also disclosed that during a meeting on Feb. 23, 2026, an Area Commander reportedly told her that little could be done because the matter was already before a court of law.

The development has raised concerns about the enforcement of law and order in civil disputes that degenerate into violence, particularly when court cases are pending.
As tensions persist, residents and observers are calling on relevant authorities to ensure the safety of lives and properties ,while allowing the courts to determine ownership and bring lasting resolution to the dispute.

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