society

Oriyomi Hamzat Speaks Out on Ibadan Funfair Stampede, Blames Parents for Chaos

Published

1 month ago

December 23, 2024

Oriyomi Hamzat Speaks Out on Ibadan Funfair Stampede, Blames Parents for Chaos

Media personality Oriyomi Hamzat has broken his silence regarding the tragic stampede that occurred at a funfair event in Ibadan, shifting blame onto parents for the chaotic situation that led to casualties. In a detailed recount of the incident, Hamzat defended Prophetess Naomi, the event organizer, and highlighted the various challenges faced during the event’s preparation and execution.

In his statement, Hamzat shared that he had visited the venue the day before the event to inspect the arrangements. During this visit, he underscored the importance of proper security and crowd management. He emphasized the need for efficient ticketing and insisted on printing 5,500 tickets to manage the expected crowd, noting that the audience in Ibadan might behave differently compared to other locations where similar events had been held.

Despite these preparations, things began to spiral out of control early on the event day. By 4 a.m., parents had already started gathering at the venue, even though the program was scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. By 5:45 a.m., Hamzat arrived to find blocked roads and scenes of desperation, with mothers throwing their children over the fence in an attempt to secure entry. Tragically, one child died after hitting his head on the ground when his mother threw him over the fence, assuming someone would catch him.

Hamzat criticized the parents’ reckless actions, questioning how Prophetess Naomi could be blamed for such behavior. He expressed disbelief that the responsibility for the tragedy was being placed on the shoulders of the event’s organizer, who had made significant efforts to ensure the event’s safety.

“A day before the funfair, I went to inspect the venue to ensure that all the necessary things were in place. Prophetess Naomi was there and she said the place was more spacious than the venue they originally intended to use,” Hamzat explained. “I asked about the security arrangement, and she assured me that security would be on site by 8 a.m. I told her and the team that Ibadan is different from other places and promised to provide 200 boys who would be handing out tickets to the children. Initially, there were no plans to use tickets.”

He continued, recounting his arrival at the venue early in the morning, where he found the situation already deteriorating. “I arrived at 5:45 a.m. and saw a massive crowd. Roads were blocked, and mothers were already throwing their kids over the fence. The event was scheduled to start at 10 a.m., and security wasn’t due until 8 a.m. I began begging everyone to go home, but they wouldn’t listen. By 7 a.m., the stampede had started.”

Hamzat also revealed that despite anticipating 5,000 children, Naomi had rented 7,000 chairs, as he had advised her to make provisions for mothers who would bring their kids. He further criticized the behavior of some parents, with one woman reportedly bringing 19 children to the venue.

“The stampede occurred because of the actions of the parents, not due to any lack of planning by Prophetess Naomi or her team,” Hamzat said. “How can it be Naomi’s fault when over 2,000 mothers threw their children over the fence as early as 4 a.m.?”

The tragedy has raised serious concerns over crowd management and safety at public events, and Hamzat’s statements have sparked a wider conversation about the role of event organizers and parents in ensuring the safety of attendees.

society

Pastor Peter Oyediran Achieves Remarkably: A Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University ~Oluwaseun Fabiyi

Published

17 minutes ago

January 24, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Pastor Peter Oyediran Achieves Remarkably: A Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University
~Oluwaseun Fabiyi

Pastor Peter Oyediran is an American-based Nigerian-born pastor who serves as resident pastor at RCCG Jesus House Huntsville Alabama and graduated with honors as a Master of Science from Walden University on Friday, January 24th, 2025; he is a resilient and easygoing man of God

Having practiced as a psychiatric nurse practitioner for years and acquired a new degree, he has further solidified his professional standing

As an illustrious figure in Nigeria and America, Pastor Peter Oyediran is celebrated for his remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s development, peace, and the diaspora. His visionary leadership, established many decades ago, has made him a reference point amongst his contemporaries

His tireless endeavors within Christendom represented a crucial turning point in the evolution of his community and the parish, which he guided into an era of advancement

Pastor Peter’s developmental achievements transcended religion, as he also explored physical health and medical practice. He acknowledged the importance of education and economic empowerment and thus established a scholarship scheme and initiated a soft loan program to support women in petty trading.These initiatives established a foundation for sustained growth and improved livelihoods

Pastor Peter’s contributions are equally profound globally, and his pivotal role in Christendom is unmatched

The accomplishments of Pastor Peter continue to stand as a lasting testament to his dedication to progress and peace, leaving a lasting impact on his community, state, the African continent, and the world.

Warmest congratulations are in order for this exceptional and esteemed man of God.

Oluwaseun Fabiyi a seasoned journalist writes from Lagos

society

Jailed for Snooping: Wife Faces Prison for Reading Husband’s WhatsApp Messages”

Published

15 hours ago

January 24, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Jailed for Snooping: Wife Faces Prison for Reading Husband’s WhatsApp Messages

In a case that has sparked heated debates, a young woman, Dumsile Dludlu, is set to serve up to three years in prison after being found guilty of breaching Swaziland’s strict Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act of 2022.

Dludlu was accused of unlawfully accessing her husband’s WhatsApp messages without his consent—a move that landed her in legal trouble under a law designed to protect individuals’ privacy in the digital age.

The Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act criminalizes any unauthorized access to a computer system or digital platform. Violations of this law carry harsh penalties, including fines of up to E500,000 (approximately R500,000) or imprisonment for up to five years.

Dludlu reportedly went through her husband, Samukeliso Matse’s, private WhatsApp conversations, prompting a domestic confrontation. During the altercation, Dludlu allegedly insulted her husband after uncovering messages that upset her.

“I did insult him, but it wasn’t as severe as what’s in the police statement,” Dludlu told the court, pleading not guilty to the charge of unauthorized access but admitting to the verbal altercation.

The case highlights the far-reaching consequences of the Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act, a law aimed at curbing unauthorized access to digital information. Critics argue that the law, though necessary to protect privacy, may be disproportionately punitive in domestic or minor disputes like this one.

The ruling has sparked a conversation about digital privacy and the boundaries of personal relationships in the digital age. Some have expressed support for the husband’s decision to pursue legal action, while others question whether such matters should be handled in court.

A New Era of Privacy

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting digital privacy, even in close relationships. As more countries adopt stringent cybersecurity laws, individuals are urged to be mindful of accessing someone else’s digital devices or accounts without permission.

Dludlu’s sentencing is expected to set a precedent for similar cases under Swaziland’s new cybercrime law, drawing attention to the balance between protecting privacy and navigating the complexities of personal relationships.

society

The Heart’s GPS: Coping with the Emotional Effects of Distance By Femi Oyewale

Published

15 hours ago

January 24, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Love Across Miles: The Psychological Toll and Triumphs of Long-Distance Relationships

Long-distance relationships (LDRs) are a unique test of love, resilience, and patience, often stirring up a whirlwind of emotions. While they can strengthen bonds and build character, they also present a range of psychological challenges. Here’s a closer look at how LDRs impact individuals—both positively and negatively.

The Struggles of Distance

Being apart from a loved one can feel like an emotional labyrinth, with many grappling with:

Loneliness and Isolation: The absence of physical closeness can intensify feelings of solitude, particularly during life’s challenges.
Anxiety and Insecurity: Distance may fuel doubts about the relationship’s stability, leading to worries about infidelity or fading commitment.
Communication Strain: Misunderstandings can easily arise through text or video calls, creating emotional tension.
Emotional Highs and Lows: The anticipation of reunions juxtaposed with the sadness of goodbyes often leaves individuals on an emotional roller coaster.
Depression: Prolonged loneliness and stress may lead to depressive symptoms, affecting overall mental health.
Adapting to Change: Partners may grow apart as they experience personal changes and milestones without each other’s immediate presence.

Silver Linings of Separation

Despite its challenges, an LDR can nurture personal growth and strengthen relationships in surprising ways:

Sharper Communication Skills: Distance encourages partners to express themselves more openly and articulate their feelings effectively.
Deeper Emotional Bonds: Without physical proximity, couples often rely on meaningful conversations and shared emotional intimacy to stay connected.
Fostering Independence: Time apart allows individuals to pursue personal interests, careers, and friendships, fostering a sense of self-reliance.
Cherishing Togetherness: Reunions become cherished moments, helping couples appreciate their time together more deeply.
Focused Goals: Many long-distance couples set clear goals—such as closing the gap geographically—giving their relationship direction and purpose.

Navigating the Distance

Ultimately, the psychological effects of long-distance relationships depend on the couple’s approach. Open communication, trust, and mutual commitment are the cornerstones of thriving despite the distance. While LDRs can be emotionally taxing, they also offer opportunities for growth, resilience, and deeper connection.

Whether miles apart or side by side, love endures when both partners remain dedicated to weathering the journey together.