Victory Idewe Foundation Pays N10 Million fine for 27 imates

A non-governmental organisation, Victory Idewele Foundation, has paid the sum of 10 million naira to enable 27 inmates with the option of fine and compensation to regain their freedom in Kogi state.

The Chief Judge of Kogi State, Justice Josiah Majebi, made this known on Saturday during a three-day visit to the six correctional centres in the state.

“Aside from the payment of fines and compensations made by the foundation, the NGO has also decided to train the freed inmates for three months in Abuja to enable them to acquire skills and become self-reliant in society”, Justice Majebi said.

According to him, at the Koton-Karfe Maximum Security Correctional Centre, two inmates, Mustapha Idris, who was fined N50,000, regained his freedom, while Kehinde Amaka, sentenced to one-year imprisonment with a fine of N300,000, benefited from the gesture of the foundation but has to remain in custody until January 15, 2025, to complete his jail term.

Celebrating 25 Years of Impact: Stephanie Busari Launches Global Storytelling Academy ...New Media Vision to Elevate African Narratives

 In a glittering celebration that drew together international media heavyweights, thought leaders, royalty, and policymakers, Stephanie Busari was honoured for her 25 years of

groundbreaking work in journalism and 16 years of distinguished service at CNN. The event, held in Lagos at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture & History and attended by a constellation of influential figures, paid tribute to Busari’s extraordinary legacy—an Emmy,

Peabody, and Gracie award-winning journalist whose reporting has reshaped global perspectives on Africa.

The evening overflowed with accolades, heartfelt testimonials, and stirring endorsements from a chorus of eminent voices. They hailed Busari not only as a trailblazer in media but also as a mentor, inspiration, and catalyst for positive change. Her expertise, integrity, and

unyielding commitment to telling the world’s most important—and often untold—stories were placed front and centre.

Some of the dignitaries and prominent Nigerians in attendance included Honourable Minister of Health, Muhammad Ali Pate, Her Excellency First Lady of Kwara, Amb.

Olufolake Abdulrazaq, Honourable Abike Dabiri, Pastor Paul and Ifeanyi Adefarasin, Mo Abudu, Chairman Arise News Channel Nduka Obaigbena, John Momoh, Channels TV, Tonye Patrick Cole min, Honourable Commissioner Folashade Ambrose, Pastor Bolaji Idowu, Betty and Soni Irabor, Mrs. Kate Isa, Kemi Adetiba, Colette Otusheso, Adebola Williams, Reality TV star Chioma Ikokwu and Mary Ojulari.

Global Tributes and Testimonies

A remarkable highlight of the night was a video tribute from Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, the first female President of Mauritius, who acknowledged Busari’s courage, vision, and the significance of her accomplishments, recalling her first encounter with Stephanie in 2017 at

the TED Global conference. “I saw then a very articulate, determined, and ambitious young lady. Stephanie has become the face of Africa at CNN.

 People like Stephanie provide the voice that our continent needs,” said Gurib-Fakim.From within the CNN family, renowned anchor Richard Quest said it was “an honour and a pleasure to … celebrate your achievements in broadcast and journalism,” he said.

“Over the years, we’ve done many stories trying to bring the excitement, vibrancy,

imagination, and enthusiasm of Africa to the global audience. You are unique in your ability to do this,” he added.

Other CNN colleagues underscored her role as a mentor and leader, praising the standards of storytelling she championed and her lasting impact on the industry.

Celebrated Nigerian leaders and influencers also weighed in. Jumoke Oduwole, Nigeria’s Minister of Trade and Investment, described Busari’s career as a testament to the power of narrative in shaping economic and cultural landscapes, saying “I’m so proud of you.

Sixteen years at CNN is no joke, on the global stage representing your country.

 This isn’t just journalism; it’s impact. Your life has made a difference in this career, and my prayer is that you continue to shine. Your best is yet to come.”

Royal support came from Olori Atuwatse III, who underscored the cultural significance of

Busari’s work, saying: “We recently met, but I felt immediately connected to you

because of your excellence, your commitment, your passion, and the professionalism with which you approach your work. His Majesty and I have been very blessed to

know you. We celebrate with you from the Iwere Kingdom and join the rest of the world in acknowledging the wonderful, excellent, and amazing gift that you are to the media world and to the world at large.”

A Platform for the Future: Stephanie Busari Storytelling Academy

While the evening was a tribute to her illustrious past, Busari also used the platform to unveil her vision for the future. The newly launched Stephanie Busari Storytelling Academy aims to nurture 100,000 African storytellers over the next decade, while mobilizing a $100 million fund to support thousands of emerging narratives. Guided by Chairman Tonye Cole, the Academy will provide training, mentorship, and resources to aspiring journalists, filmmakers, and creators determined to present Africa’s stories with authenticity and nuance.

“Tonight is a celebration of the journey so far, but it is also a moment to look ahead,” Busari stated. “For 25 years, I’ve told stories that matter. Now, I want to help others do

the same. 

The Academy will equip a new generation of storytellers with the tools to share their truth—unfiltered, undiluted, and unafraid. If we are to shift global

perceptions and unlock Africa’s full potential, we must invest in the people who will shape how the world sees us.”

Expanding Her Reach: SBB Media and StephanieBusari.com The night also marked the debut of Busari’s new website, StephanieBusari.com, and the

official introduction of SBB Media, her innovative consultancy poised to take African narratives global. 

SBB Media will offer a suite of services—from documentary filmmaking and media training to public speaking coaching and strategic communications consultancy—tailored for individuals, brands, and organizations looking to engage authentically with African audiences and issues.

“SBB Media is my personal pledge to keep forging ahead,” Busari explained.

 “After decades of reporting at the frontline of some of the world’s biggest stories, I’ve learned one thing: who tells the story matters. Through SBB Media, we will partner with visionaries, activists, and entrepreneurs to ensure their messages resonate far beyond their borders. We will use our media acumen to elevate African voices in global dialogues, shifting mindsets and policies.” Prominent Voices and Supporters High-profile guests, including Pastor Paul Adefarasin, John Momoh, Mo Abudu, Debola Williams, and Toyin Saraki, delivered impassioned speeches, each reflecting on Busari’s influence. 

They spoke of her unwavering moral compass, her eye for detail and human connection, and the profound ripple effects of her work. “Stephanie has been a light in the media world,” said Mo Abudu. “With this Academy, website, and media company, she is sharing the burden of the torch, giving countless others the opportunity to discover their voices, refine their craft, and find global audiences.”

Corporate partnerships also shone through. Chivas Regal and major media outlets like 54 News and Channels TV affirmed their support for Busari’s initiatives, recognizing the transformative power of inclusive and representative storytelling. Their involvement ensures that budding storytellers trained by the Academy will have platforms to reach audiences and the backing of a robust international network.

A New Chapter, A Renewed Promise

As the evening drew to a close, Busari’s words captured the essence of the celebration. “I stand here grateful for the 25 years behind me and excited for the decades ahead,”she said. 

“We have much work to do—rewriting outdated narratives,highlighting talent and innovation, and investing in the next wave of creators. Tonight, we honour the past, but starting tomorrow, we build a future of limitless storytelling, where Africa’s many stories are told with pride, accuracy, and enduring impact.”

Firm Writes Tinubu Over Alleged Illegal Arms Stockpiling By Tantita Security Company

 

Warri based Legal firm, Robinson Ariyo & Co has raised an alarm over allegation of stockpiling of small, medium and heavy Firearms against Tantita Security Limited, (TSSL), a private company owned by Ex-Niger Delta Militant, Government Ekpemupolo popularly known as ‘Tompolo’.

The firm while calling on President Bola Tinubu to investigate the activities of the Tompolo's said the recent finding clearly shows that Tantita is an arm stockpiling company which is against its mandate. 

 

The legal firm in a letter of protest addressed to President Bola Tinubu and copied the President of the Senator, Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas and the Delta state Governor, Rt. Sheriff Oborevwori said the activities of Tompolo and Tantita poses great threat to National, West African and Regional Peace.

 

The protest letter signed by Chief Robison Ariyo among others called on President Tinubu set up a panel of enquiry to investigate the activities of Tantita Security Service Limited, (TSSL).

 

Part of the protest reads, “ We act for Mrs Tsaye Mene, Edward Omagbemi, Prince Sammy Egbele Okoro , Dennis Mene, Arugha Weyinmi , Jonathan Okotie, James Ereku, Ojumude Bishop, and Lily -White Esigbone who are the accredited representatives of the members of Concerned Itsekiri Communities Organization and affiliate bodies in Warri North , Warri South-West and Warri South Local Government Area of Delta of Nigeria on whose instruction we hereby humbly register the extant petition.

 

“ That our client vehemently protest the cocktail of illegal and life threatening activities of Tantita Security Services Limited, an arm stocking, land grabbing and human violating firm disguised as registered security outfit.

 

“ The proliferation of small, medium and heavy arms in the hands of private actors in Warri Coastal Areas comprising of Warri , Warri South , Warri South West and Warri North local Government Area of elta state of Nigeria.

“The incident of usurpation, encroachment and illegal renaming of Itsekiri homeland by the Ijaw with the aid of persons violent persecution. We therefore hereby formally lodge the instant petition with Your Excellency with the hope that as usual , a proper investigation would be launched into same with the possibility of a swift prosecution of the said suspect in the circumstance

UBA Donates N500 Million to Lagos State Security Trust Fund, Pledges Support for State’s Effort at Improving Security

 United Bank for Africa(UBA) through UBA Foundation, its corporate social responsibility arm, has donated the sum of N500 million to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), as part of its continued commitment to secure environment for individuals and businesses

The N500m cheque was presented to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, by the UBA Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, who was accompanied by the bank’s Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Muyiwa Akinyemi, at the State House, Marina, Lagos on Sunday.

 

Speaking during the presentation, Elumelu reiterated the bank’s dedication to supporting initiatives that ensure the safety and prosperity of communities across Nigeria adding that “At UBA, we understand that security is critical for economic growth and societal well-being. Our donation to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund is a reflection of the bank’s belief in building safer communities to enhance the quality of life for all. We are proud to partner with the Lagos State Government to achieve this shared vision of a secure environment conducive to investment and development.”

 

While receiving the N500m cheque, the Lagos State Governor expressed appreciation to the UBA Group and  UBA Foundation for the significant contribution and commended Mr. Tony Elumelu for its unwavering commitment to impactful projects, state’s progress and well-being.

 

He said, “we are grateful to the UBA Group for their significant contribution to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund. This donation will strengthen our efforts to enhance security and protect our citizens. Together we are building a safer Lagos for all”

 

This latest gesture aligns with UBA Foundation's Special Projects initiative, which focuses on addressing pressing societal issues through strategic partnerships and impactful interventions. Over the years, UBA Foundation has actively contributed to enhancing education, the environment, and economic empowerment and special projects such as these critical donations across Africa. The Foundation’s commitment to security as a driver of sustainable development is evident in its support for programs like the LSSTF.

 

Group Chairman, United Bank for Africa(UBA), emphasised the bank’s role as a leader in giving back to society. He explained that in pledging its support to the state’s efforts at improving security, UBA recognizes the vital link between safety and economic stability. 

 

He said, “This partnership with the Lagos State Government reinforces the Bank’s  belief in collaborative efforts as the key to addressing security challenges and creating environments where individuals and businesses can thrive. We believe that a secure Lagos State is integral to a secure Nigeria. UBA Foundation will continue to support transformative initiatives that uplift lives and drive development.”

 

UBA Foundation, the CSR arm of the UBA Group, is committed to the socio-economic betterment of the communities in which the bank operates, focusing on development in the areas of Education, the Environment, Economic Empowerment and other Special Projects.

 

 

l-r: Group Deputy Managing Director, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Muyiwa Akinyemi; Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and Group Chairman, UBA, Mr. Tony Elumelu, during the presentation of N500m to Lagos State Security Fund by UBA Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of UBA, held at Lagos House, Marina on Sunday.

Olori Atuwatse III to Host Prestigious Networking Dinner & Discussion Celebrating Leadership, Innovation, and Featuring a Tribute to Former Liberian Vice President Jewel Taylor

Olori Atuwatse III, Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom, transformational speaker, lawyer, social entrepreneur, and founder of Elevate Africa, will host a highly anticipated Networking Dinner & Discussion at the iconic John Randle Centre, Onikan, Lagos. A Modern African Queen known for her visionary leadership and commitment to innovation and sustainable development, Olori Atuwatse III has created this platform to foster collaboration, leadership, and actionable strategies for Africa’s future.

The event, themed “Women Allying Women: Strengthening Bonds for a Brighter Future,” will pay a special tribute to Her Excellency Jewel Taylor, former Vice President of Liberia who will be in attendance. This celebration will honour her exceptional legacy of leadership, resilience, and advocacy for women’s rights and education. Hosted by award-winning journalist Stephanie Busari, the gathering promises to be an inspiring and impactful platform for dialogue and networking, uniting leaders from diverse sectors. The event is expected to attract women leaders from different industries, including business, technology, education, and the arts.

Why This Event is Unmissable

Olori Atuwatse III is celebrated as a trailblazer for her contributions to leadership, community transformation, and innovation. As the founder of Elevate Africa, she champions Africa’s development through technology, entrepreneurship, and strategic collaboration. By hosting this event, she underscores the importance of collective efforts in driving progress, not only for women but for Africa’s development as a whole.

The John Randle Centre, a recently renovated cultural landmark in Lagos, offers a fitting venue for this prestigious event. Combining Nigeria’s rich heritage with modern architecture, the Centre provides an inspiring backdrop for meaningful conversations and impactful connections.

Objectives of the Event

1. Honouring Jewel Taylor

Celebrate the inspiring legacy of Her Excellency Jewel Taylor, whose leadership and advocacy continue to uplift African communities.

2. Fostering Collaboration

Unite leaders across diverse sectors to facilitate dialogue and partnerships for sustainable solutions.

3. Driving Innovation and Leadership

Highlight opportunities to advance Africa’s growth through innovation, entrepreneurship, and transformative leadership practices.

A Message from Olori Atuwatse III

Leadership is about building bridges and creating opportunities for transformation. Through initiatives like Elevate Africa and events like this, we aim to inspire collective action and celebrate the visionaries who shape our continent’s future. Together, we can strengthen our bonds and drive sustainable progress,” said Olori Atuwatse III.

About Olori Atuwatse III

Olori Atuwatse III, Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom, is a modern African queen and a transformative leader who blends her royal heritage with a contemporary vision. She is a qualified lawyer, a philanthropist, and a social entrepreneur dedicated to fostering community empowerment, education, and innovation. As the founder of Elevate Africa and The Royal Iwere Foundation, she drives initiatives that uplift underserved communities, empower young people, and promote sustainable development. Through her work, Olori Atuwatse III continues to inspire and lead change across Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.

Mob attack Agboola's house in Lagos, sets building on fire

 Armed hoodlums brandishing all kind of weapons, invaded Billiaminu Agboola's residence in Lagos, setting it on fire in process.

The attackers, led  by a notorious street urchin in the area made it known that they are protesting the return of the owners of the house because information reached them that they would be returning to the house with their daughter who is allegedly involved in same sex activities abroad.

 In Nigeria, people involved in any form of sexual orientation apart from heterosexuals are treated with hatred by the society, including family members, taken to court where they can jailed for up to seven years.

  According to neighbours, the house is owned by one Mr. Billiaminu Agboola, a former banker. Before now, there has been a lingering family tussle over property left by the patriarch of the Agboola's family in Abeokuta, Ogun state. We gathered that the mob attack on his residence was because he failed to also heed the family rule that his daughter, Mariam based in Canada must do some traditional rites to sanctify herself because they considered her sexual orientation as abomination to the family tradition.

Agboola and his wife, who are obviously supporting the sexual orientation of their daughter are also been threatened by traditionalists. They know he  would not have a cover with the law enforcement agencies since the government did not support such gays,lesbians and bisexuals.

  

Preliminary findings shows that Agboola, his wife and daughter travelled abroad some years ago because of threats to their lives. Those in the know claimed that it took a more dangerous turn when a local militia group known as Oodua Peoples Congress was used by one of the warring factions to attack them at some point. 

  A witness in the neighbourhood described that it was shocking and devastating to residence of the area as they saw armed hoodlums shooting indiscriminately before setting the house on fire . 

Two security personnel was rushed to the hospital after they were brutalized by the armed men.

 Efforts to reach the owner has proved abortive. Another neighbour who simply gave his name as John said the family will definitely be in a state of despair at this point having lost their home, possessions, and a sense of security. 

Further investigations confirmed  that some family members are angry with Agboola after hearing that he is protective of his daughter,Mariam said to be bisexual, highly considered as abomination in their tradition and illegal in the country's constitution.

This incident  serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unresolved family disputes leading to wanton killings and arsonist attacks. Property inheritance issues can be highly emotionally charged and, if left unaddressed, can lead to tragic outcomes.

Herbert Wigwe’s Estate: Parents Allegedly File Caveat to Disinherit Children

  In less than one year of the demise of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, former Group Managing Director, Access Holdings, who died on February 9, 2024, in a helicopter crash in States of America, a bitter fight seemed to be brewing over the execution of his Will. 

With the campaign of calumny on the social media and falsehood propagated by hired hands, Herbert Wigwe’s parents’ heinous desire to disinherit the deceased’s children by thwarting the rightful execution of Herbert’s Estate by filling a caveat at the Probate Registry, is coming to the open.

The caveat was filed on the instruction of Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, late Herbert Wigwe’s father, and the affidavit was deposed to, by one Christian Chukwuka Wigwe, who claimed to be Herbert’s cousin, to prevent the rightful execution of Herbert Wigwe’s Will. 

The motivation for this action was that the deceased’s father requested that his son’s directives on the administration of his Estate should be altered. Pastor Shyngle Wigwe demanded that 20% of Herbert’s Estate should be taken from his children, and given to him, Herbert’s brothers and sisters.

Meanwhile, Herbert had drawn his Will, which provided that his wealth should be distributed amongst his children only, was lodged at the Ikeja Probate Court, before his unfortunate death early this year. 

Since Herbert’s death in February 2024, there have been exhibition of some ridiculous behaviours and attitudes by members of the Wigwe family when well-wishers, friends and associates, from across the globe are still mourning the demise of the top banker. 

Instead of the expected melancholy that should grip a family experiencing a genuine sense of loss, entitlement seemed to have taken over the entire Wigwe family. Herbert Wigwe’s parents would only travel on a private jet, claiming that they would fall ill, if they fly First class. 

Unfortunately, with Herbert’s demise, the dysfunctional of his family, which his accomplishments had shielded from the public glare, is beginning to manifest indecently. For instance, Pastor Shyngle Wigwe had locked up Emeka, one of Herbert’s brothers, at Panti Police Station for three months, for fighting one of Herbert’s sisters, who had cursed the deceased that “his plane would crash, and money would drop from the sky for people to pick”, because he did not grant one of her requests. 

Herbert was not genuinely loved by his family, especially siblings. He was envied for his success, and the hatred they harboured toward him is now being extended to his children, whose inheritances they are plotting to take away from them.