Sahara Weekly Magazine

Tag: Featured

  • Senate Grills Police Chief Over 178,459 Missing Firearms, N1.1bn Contract Scandal

    Senate Grills Police Chief Over 178,459 Missing Firearms, N1.1bn Contract Scandal

    Senate Grills Police Chief Over 178,459 Missing Firearms, N1.1bn Contract Scandal


    The Senate Public Accounts Committee on Tuesday summoned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, over alarming revelations from a 2019 Auditor General’s report highlighting 178,459 missing firearms, predominantly AK-47 rifles, and allegations of N1.1bn contract splitting within the Nigeria Police Force.

    Egbetokun, who apologized for previous absences due to the demands of his office, introduced Assistant Inspector General of Police Abdul Sulaiman as his official committee liaison. Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) accepted the apology but stressed the importance of accountability for all officials.

    The audit report presented by Samuel Godwin on behalf of Shaakaa Chira painted a grim picture: 178,459 firearms were unaccounted for as of December 2018, with an additional 3,907 rifles and pistols missing by January 2020. The Senate raised concerns about these firearms potentially falling into criminal hands, heightening Nigeria’s security crisis.

    Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi (APC, Ebonyi North) voiced fears that such a loss endangered both citizens and the police, insisting Nigerians deserved answers. In response, AIG Sulaiman explained that some weapons were lost to robberies or seized by criminals during attacks on officers. However, a committee review revealed only 15 cases of officers losing firearms due to injury or death.

    AIG Sulaiman requested more time to provide a comprehensive report, but Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) demanded stronger action. “Officers responsible must be arrested and paraded—just as the police do to ordinary Nigerians. No double standards,” he asserted.

    Further scrutiny was directed at eight audit queries, including a N1.1bn contract-splitting allegation, which violated the Public Procurement Act. The committee ordered the police to present detailed explanations of all flagged irregularities.

    The IGP has been mandated to reappear on Monday, January 17, 2025, with a full report on the missing firearms and contract irregularities.

  • NDLEA Declares Four Wanted Over Links to Lagos Drug Kingpin Barryshine

    NDLEA Declares Four Wanted Over Links to Lagos Drug Kingpin Barryshine

    NDLEA Declares Four Wanted Over Links to Lagos Drug Kingpin Barryshine

    The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has declared four individuals wanted for their alleged involvement in a drug trafficking syndicate linked to Lagos drug kingpin, Alhaji Suleiman Ganiu, popularly known as Barryshine.

     

    Barryshine was apprehended on August 26, 2024, following a two-year investigation by the anti-narcotics agency. According to a statement released by NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, on Monday, Barryshine, the Managing Director/CEO of Barryshine Suleiman Nigeria Ltd., had been under the agency’s watchlist for his alleged role in four failed attempts to smuggle cocaine to Saudi Arabia and Qatar via Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, between 2022 and 2024.

     

    The statement further revealed that multiple drug mules associated with Barryshine had been arrested, prosecuted, and convicted, while the drug kingpin himself is currently facing multiple criminal charges.

     

    In a major development, NDLEA has now declared four additional suspects wanted in connection with the syndicate. The individuals named are:

    1. Olarenwaju Abdulai (a.k.a. Alhaji Loyingbo)
    2. Oluwafemi Abidoye (a.k.a. Igbono, Baba Eje, Ade Iwaya, Femi Iwaya)
    3. Olumuyiwa Ilori (a.k.a. Murphy)
    4. Alate Bukki of Kaffy Travels

    The declaration follows a court order issued by Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court in Lagos, directing that a public notice, including the suspects’ photographs, be prominently displayed to aid their capture.

    In an appeal to the public, Babafemi urged anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the wanted suspects to come forward.

    “Members of the public with any information on the whereabouts of the four wanted suspects are encouraged to contact the nearest NDLEA command, call our toll-free helpline: 080010203040, or send direct messages to any of our social media accounts,” the statement concluded.

    As the NDLEA intensifies its crackdown on drug syndicates, the agency remains committed to ensuring that all culprits face the full weight of the law.

     

  • Lil Smart Makes U-Turn on Allegations Against Former Boss, Naira Marley

    Lil Smart Makes U-Turn on Allegations Against Former Boss, Naira Marley

    Lil Smart Makes U-Turn on Allegations Against Former Boss, Naira Marley

    Former Marlians Records signee, Lil Smart, has retracted his earlier accusations against his former record label boss, Naira Marley, in a surprising turn of events.

     

    Gistreel recalls that Lil Smart was previously embroiled in a heated controversy with Naira Marley, accusing the singer of cyberbullying, kidnapping, assault, and robbery. However, in a recent interview, he refuted those claims, stating that Naira Marley never bullied, kidnapped, or financially exploited him.

     

    The controversy escalated when the Nigerian police confirmed the arrest of Lil Smart following a petition filed by Naira Marley. According to a statement released on the official Instagram page of the Nigerian Police Force, Lil Smart was arrested last month at his residence in Mejamogun Estate, Ajah, Lagos. Law enforcement also reported recovering relevant exhibits from the scene.

     

    During a recent interview with Muyiwa Adejobi, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Police Force, Lil Smart addressed the allegations, stating that he had misunderstood the situation.

     

    “Naira Marley never abducted me, and he didn’t steal my $300. I thought his boys acted on his behalf,” Lil Smart admitted.

     

    The retraction has sparked a wave of reactions from social media users, with many expressing skepticism over his new stance. Some believe he initially fabricated the allegations to gain public sympathy, while others question whether he was pressured into reversing his claims.

     

    Reactions from netizens include:

    Alo Joseph: “I used to pity this boy. I thought he was innocent too. Not until after he insulted VDM and ran away because VDM wanted to help him investigate.”

    Emmanuel Sunday: “See as dem give am mic like person wey dey give testimony for church.”

    Jozzy Mayana: “The truth shall set you free. No be for this kind case Ooo 😂😂😂.”

    Maureen Gift: “Make Naira Marley collect 10 billion naira. He knows Marley has been in trouble because of Mohbad’s case. He really wants Nigeria to judge him. Let him face the law.”

    As the controversy continues to unfold, many are eager to see how Naira Marley and Lil Smart handle the situation moving forward. Will this reversal clear the singer’s name, or will it raise further suspicions? More updates to follow as events develop.

     

  • Spyro Defends BBNaija Star Nengi Amid Pregnancy Rumors Involving Bayelsa Governor

    Spyro Defends BBNaija Star Nengi Amid Pregnancy Rumors Involving Bayelsa Governor

    Afrobeats Star Spyro Reacts to Pregnancy Rumors Surrounding BBNaija’s Nengi Hampson and Bayelsa State Governor, Duoye Diri

     

    Afrobeats singer Spyro has weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding Big Brother Naija star Nengi Hampson, who was recently rumored to be pregnant. The speculation was fueled by a report from popular gossip blog, Gistlover, which alleged that Nengi is expecting her first child with Bayelsa State Governor, Duoye Diri.

     

    However, Nengi was quick to address the rumors in a series of tweets, confirming her pregnancy while firmly refuting claims that Governor Diri is the father of her unborn child. In her response, she urged the public to disregard the misinformation and respect her privacy.

    Spyro Defends BBNaija Star Nengi Amid Pregnancy Rumors Involving Bayelsa Governor

    Amidst the swirling controversy, Spyro took to Instagram to show his support for Nengi, urging critics to shift their focus away from her personal life. Expressing his admiration for the reality TV star, Spyro emphasized that the unborn child should be celebrated as a blessing rather than a subject of public scrutiny.

    “Honestly, you all should please leave her alone and face your lives o 🙄. That baby is of the Lord and a big gift btw ❤️. Beautiful in and out ❤️ always #Nengi,” Spyro wrote.

    Spyro’s reaction has added another layer to the public conversation, with some fans applauding him for standing by Nengi, while others continue to speculate about the identity of the child’s father. The debate remains a trending topic on social media, with supporters and critics voicing their opinions.

    As the discussions persist, Nengi remains focused on her pregnancy journey, choosing to steer clear of further controversies. More updates on this developing story will be provided as additional details emerge.

     

  • Elon Musk’s Team Accuses FEMA of Misusing $59 Million to House Illegal Migrants in Luxury Hotels

    Elon Musk’s Team Accuses FEMA of Misusing $59 Million to House Illegal Migrants in Luxury Hotels

    Elon Musk’s Team Accuses FEMA of Misusing $59 Million to House Illegal Migrants in Luxury Hotels

    Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has made serious allegations against the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), claiming that the agency misused $59 million to accommodate illegal migrants in luxurious hotels.

     

    The billionaire entrepreneur revealed this in a tweet on Monday morning, stating that the discovery was made last week. According to Musk, the funds were intended for American disaster relief but were instead diverted in violation of national regulations.

     

    He wrote: “The @DOGE team just discovered that FEMA sent $59M LAST WEEK to luxury hotels in New York City to house illegal migrants. Sending this money violated the law and is in gross insubordination to the President’s executive order. That money is meant for American disaster relief and instead is being spent on high-end hotels for illegals! A clawback demand will be made today to recoup those funds.”

     

    The revelation has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that FEMA’s allocation of funds should prioritize American citizens affected by disasters. The allegations have also intensified scrutiny on FEMA, which has faced previous accusations of financial mismanagement.

     

    An inspector general audit recently revealed that FEMA mishandled nearly $10 billion in COVID-19 relief funds. The audit stated that $8.1 billion in costs remained questionable, while $1.5 billion was allocated prematurely and could have been better utilized for other emergencies.

     

    As scrutiny mounts, former President Donald Trump has reportedly considered abolishing FEMA, describing the agency as “a disaster.” To address these concerns, Trump has established a council, led by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, to review FEMA’s operations and propose necessary reforms by late June.

     

    The allegations against FEMA have triggered a broader debate on the proper allocation of taxpayer funds and the government’s role in disaster management. More updates are expected as the situation develops.

     

  • Police Investigate Gruesome Murder of Akwa Ibom Makeup Artist

    Police Investigate Gruesome Murder of Akwa Ibom Makeup Artist

    Police Investigate Gruesome Murder of Akwa Ibom Makeup Artist

    The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has launched an investigation into the brutal murder of a makeup artist, Emrich Effanga, who was allegedly killed by her boyfriend, identified as Ndifreke.

    Confirming the incident on Monday in Uyo, the state capital, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, stated that the case had been reported to the command and that the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, had ordered an investigation into the matter.

    “Information at our disposal has it that the matter has been reported to us and an investigation is ongoing at the moment. Further developments will be communicated to you,” John said.

    She, however, declined to provide further details, stating that certain information could not be disclosed at this stage as the investigation was still ongoing.

    “There are things we cannot reveal now for investigation purposes, just take it that we are aware of the incident and that investigation has begun already,” she added.

    Sources close to the deceased revealed that Effanga, a promising young entrepreneur in the beauty industry, was allegedly attacked in a domestic dispute. Her tragic demise has sparked outrage and concern among friends, family, and the general public, who are calling for swift justice.

    Meanwhile, authorities have assured the public that the case will be thoroughly investigated and that justice will be served.

    The police have urged anyone with useful information regarding the incident to come forward and assist with the investigation.

     

  • Apostle Suleman’s Teaching: Life Is Transient, No One Reigns Forever

    Apostle Suleman’s Teaching: Life Is Transient, No One Reigns Forever

    Apostle Suleman’s Teaching: Life Is Transient, No One Reigns Forever

     

    Human life is fleeting, like grass and flowers, but God’s Word is eternal

    -1 Peter 1:24-25

     

    The above-quoted Scripture describes the subject of the latest teaching by servant of God and general overseer of the Omega Fire Ministries (OFM) worldwide, Apostle Johnson Suleman. The lecture given at one of his ministry’s recent Sunday services, highlights the concept of impermanence. Nothing in life is permanent, the lecture suggests; everyone experiences change and eventually loses whatever they possess, whether it be material things, relationships, or even life itself.

     

     

    Apostle Suleman’s Sunday sermon provides a clue to the fact that humans can only experience some moments of joy and sorrow, and life and then they are taken away at their expiration.

     

     

    “Life is transient,” the Restoration Apostle admonishes; “don’t get arrogant with whatever you have today because nobody has it permanently. Everybody has a season, no one reigns for life.” The God’s servant adds that, what anyone is able to do to people and for people in the days of their glory is what determines what they will enjoy when their season expires.

    Life is in a state of constant motion. One minute, it is morning, and the next minute, it is night. Using women’s reproductive stages as a standard, Apostle Suleman addressed the uniqueness of females’ life events.

     

     

    Liking women’s beauty at adolescence to the beauty of a cherry blossom which is enhanced by its fleeting nature, Apostle Suleman says “Nobody reigns for life. No young lady will be beautiful forever, no young lady will be as fresh forever. Ask our mothers, they will tell. Now, everything the ladies wear fits them. But by the time they have dropped one (baby), two, three…,” the famous prophet posits that such is the example of life’s impermanence. Recognizing that everything and everyone has their expiry date, Apostle Suleman noted, will help people appreciate life.

  • Opemititi Ajayi Repositions Butter Skin Luxury Skincare Business

    Opemititi Ajayi Repositions Butter Skin Luxury Skincare Business

    Opemititi Ajayi Repositions Butter Skin Luxury Skincare Business

     

     Opemititi Ajayi, a former banker and seasoned entrepreneur, has successfully made a name for herself in the beauty industry. Since 2013, she has ventured into various lines of business, starting as an interior designer and collaborating with notable clients.

     

    In 2021, fueled by her passion for skincare, Opemititi launched “Butter Skin Luxury Skincare,” specializing in addressing diverse skincare concerns. Her brand stands out due to her keen eye for quality and aesthetics. At Butter Skin, all raw materials are internationally sourced, and the focus is on delivering high-quality products rather than merely increasing output.

     

    Opemititi emphasizes, “We care deeply about providing our customers with exceptional value. From our containers to our labels, every aspect is carefully curated to ensure the best results for our clients.”

     

    Despite the challenges faced in the competitive beauty industry—such as rising raw material costs and logistics—Opemititi remains resilient and committed to her vision. “Running a business is never easy, but I’ve navigated these obstacles to keep thriving,” she asserts.

     

    In addition to her skincare line, Opemititi also manages a transportation and real estate business, showcasing her entrepreneurial versatility.

     

    With her dedication to quality and an unwavering passion for beauty, Opemititi Ajayi continues to make significant strides in the beauty sector, offering consumers luxurious skincare options that deliver real results.

  • Nigerian Woman Accuses Husband of Domestic Violence in Shocking Facebook Post

    Nigerian Woman Accuses Husband of Domestic Violence in Shocking Facebook Post

    Nigerian Woman Accuses Husband of Domestic Violence in Shocking Facebook Post

     

    Uyo, Nigeria – A Nigerian woman, Evelyn Isaac, has publicly accused her husband, Isaac Mefo, of domestic violence, stating that she can no longer endure the abuse.

    In a Facebook post on Sunday, February 9, 2025, Evelyn, a mother of two, alleged that her husband physically assaulted her earlier that day. Expressing her frustration and pain, she wrote:

    “God will punish you, Isaac Mefo, for beating me this afternoon. I have tolerated enough.”

    The emotional post quickly gained attention, sparking widespread concern and discussions about domestic violence.

    Evelyn further expressed her distress, seeking strength from God as she navigates this difficult period.

    “God, I need all the strength and love I can get at this point, and I know You will do it for me,” she added.

    Nigerian Woman Accuses Husband of Domestic Violence in Shocking Facebook Post

    The revelation has come as a shock to many, especially as the couple celebrated their seventh wedding anniversary just two months ago, in December 2024. At the time, Evelyn had shared a heartfelt message expressing prayers for continued love and happiness in their marriage.

    “Congratulations and happy wedding anniversary to me and mine. Wishing us more love and sweetness in our home. Happy seven years wedding anniversary to us, my darling husband. It can only be God,” she had posted.

    Her latest allegations have ignited intense reactions on social media, with many expressing concern for her safety and urging her to seek help. Others have called for legal action to be taken against domestic violence, emphasizing the need for victims to speak up and receive adequate protection.

    As the situation unfolds, advocates for women’s rights and domestic violence awareness are rallying behind Evelyn, calling for swift intervention. Meanwhile, there has been no public response from Isaac Mefo regarding the accusations.

    This developing story raises further awareness of domestic abuse and the importance of supporting victims in their quest for justice and safety.

  • Revealing the Identity of Today’s Celebrant: A Resplendent and Distinguished Daughter of Eruku City Eyitayo Boyede Adegalu

    Revealing the Identity of Today’s Celebrant: A Resplendent and Distinguished Daughter of Eruku City Eyitayo Boyede Adegalu

    Revealing the Identity of Today’s Celebrant: A Resplendent and Distinguished Daughter of Eruku City Eyitayo Boyede Adegalu

    ~ By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

     

    It is with immense joy and admiration that I join in celebrating our beloved sister, a devoted marriage coach, and a proud daughter of Eruku City—our very own Big Aunty Eyitayo Omo Oba-Agbe, as she marks another milestone today, Monday, 10th February 2025.

    With heartfelt sincerity, we honor the CEO and founder of Eyitayo Global Concept, an exceptional culture promoter and an embodiment of grace and wisdom. By divine providence, she has been granted yet another glorious year to reflect on life’s blessings and embrace the remarkable journey ahead.

    As you celebrate this special day, may the Almighty God continue to enrich your life with success, grace, favor, and unending blessings. From this moment forward, may every report concerning you and your household be filled with good news, joy, and divine testimonies.

    It is our earnest prayer that God’s benevolent presence will shine ever brightly upon you, surrounding you with His infinite kindness and compassion—today and always.

    Happy Birthday, Eyitayo Boyede Adegalu! May your day be filled with love, laughter, and celebration, and may the year ahead bring you immeasurable joy and fulfillment.

    Congratulations! 🎉🎂🎊