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  • ‘I’m unapologetic about who I am’ — Dieko, Kunle Afolayan’s son replies critics

    ‘I’m unapologetic about who I am’ — Dieko, Kunle Afolayan’s son replies critics

    Dieko Afolayan, the 19-year-old son of acclaimed filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, has spoken out against the online scrutiny surrounding his sexuality.

    The discussion erupted following Dieko’s appearance at the premiere of his father’s latest film, Recall.

    His demeanor and fashion choices became the subject of heated debates on social media, with some users questioning his sexuality and others accusing him of being influenced by Western views on gender identity.

    While criticism surfaced, many users came to Dieko’s defense, condemning the backlash as cyberbullying and unwarranted hate.

    Amid the controversy, Dieko addressed the issue directly, affirming his commitment to authenticity and self-expression in a society that often pressures individuals to conform.

    “I will keep on introducing myself at certain times until people know me. If you are looking for where hard work meets success or how your guy will become that person, you’re welcome to my page,” he stated.

    Emphasising his determination, Dieko described himself as “ambitious and hardworking,” noting his self-awareness and diverse talents.

    “I am an individual of many talents. I am 19 years old. I would describe myself as ambitious and hardworking. I would describe myself as self-aware.

    “One thing people should know about me is that I am very reserved. I am an influencer, creator, and entrepreneur. I come from a line of stars. I am also an individual who is trying to find himself in a world of chaos, in a world of not being accepted, being made to conform to society’s measures of what they expect of me. It is annoying.

    “I want to be a role model to boys and girls out there. To be honest, the majority of my role models are women. I am someone who is unapologetic about who I am. I am unapologetic about my values and standards.”

  • From Makoko to Master: The rise of chess prodigy Ferdinand Mehunu

    From Makoko to Master: The rise of chess prodigy Ferdinand Mehunu

    LAGOS – In the heart of Makoko, one of Africa’s largest slums, a 10-year-old boy with cerebral palsy defied all odds to become a chess champion, inspiring a nation and the world.

    Ferdinand Mehunu had never attended school, had no friends, and lacked access to proper medical care. His father, a fisherman, struggled to provide for the family, while his mother sold fish in the local market.

    But everything changed when he discovered Chess in Slums Africa, a non-profit initiative founded by Babatunde Onakoya to empower underprivileged children through chess.

    At first, Ferdinand was an outsider, watching other kids play through a window. When the coaches finally invited him in, he stunned everyone—learning chess piece movements within 20 minutes and solving complex patterns almost instantly.

    Despite his physical condition, Ferdinand excelled. Less than a month after learning chess, he entered a local tournament and won the junior category with a perfect score. The same community that once laughed at him cheered him on, carrying his trophy home by boat.

    His mother, once skeptical, wept tears of joy at his first tournament. “For the first time, my child was no longer the joke of the community—he was a hero.”

    Ferdinand’s incredible journey soon attracted national attention. He played a ceremonial game with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and even faced Nigeria’s former Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo in a friendly match.

    In 2024, he won the prestigious Indomie Heroes Award in the Intellectual category, recognizing his courage and determination.

    But his greatest honor came when he traveled to Athens, Georgia, USA, for his first international tournament. In recognition of his talent and resilience, Ferdinand received the Young Genius Award, a tribute to his brilliance and the impact of chess on his life.

    Today, Ferdinand continues to inspire. He teaches chess to his younger brother and dreams of a brighter future. His story is a powerful reminder that with opportunity, inclusion, and determination, no obstacle is too great to overcome.

    Ferdinand Mehunu is not just a chess champion—he is a symbol of hope for countless children in underserved communities.

  • HURIWA condemns Tinubu’s ‘nepotism’ in key appointments

    HURIWA condemns Tinubu’s ‘nepotism’ in key appointments

    The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of fostering nepotism by extending the tenures of key public officials predominantly from the Yoruba ethnic group.

    The group argues that this trend undermines meritocracy and promotes tribalism in national governance.

    HURIWA’s criticism follows the recent extension of Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap’s tenure as Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), which President Tinubu has approved until December 31, 2026. The group labeled the move an “abuse of power”, questioning whether no other qualified officers within the service could assume the role.

    In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA expressed concern that the president is prioritizing ethnicity over competence.

    “This decision suggests that competent candidates outside the Yoruba ethnic group are being overlooked for strategic national positions. It mirrors the nepotism of the Buhari administration, which heavily favored Fulani appointees.”

    HURIWA further lamented that Tinubu—once a pro-democracy advocate under NADECO—now appears to be embracing ethnic favoritism rather than fostering inclusive governance.

    HURIWA also condemned the extension of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun’s tenure, arguing that the amendment to the Police Act, which allowed him to stay beyond the mandatory retirement age of 60, was driven by ethnic and personal affiliations rather than public service rules.

    The group insisted that the government must prioritize merit, competence, and patriotism over ethnic considerations to promote national unity and fairness in governance.

  • Kebbi reviewing maritime laws to unlock full potential – Gov Idris

    Kebbi reviewing maritime laws to unlock full potential – Gov Idris

    Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has announced that the state is reviewing its maritime laws to harness its vast maritime potential and enhance economic activities.

    Speaking at the 6th Quadrennial National Delegates Conference of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) in Lagos, the governor highlighted the Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) ferry services, which he said are already improving water transportation in the state.

    While Kebbi is a landlocked state, Governor Idris emphasized its rich maritime resources, extending beyond the Argungu Fishing Festival, which has gained international recognition.

    “Dolekaina community in Dandi Local Government Area is a marine hub on the banks of River Niger, bordering Benin and Niger Republic. This has drawn the interest of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, and we are working closely with the Kebbi State Investment Promotion Agency (KIPA) to harness these opportunities,” he said.

    He assured that the government is engaging stakeholders to enhance the safety of waterways and boost the import and export of goods.

    The NIWA ferry services, recently launched in Kebbi, offer an alternative transportation system, reducing reliance on road networks. Governor Idris also emphasized his administration’s commitment to mechanized farming, aiming to increase food production for both local consumption and exports.

    Governor Idris, who received an award for exemplary leadership from MWUN, reiterated his dedication to workers’ welfare.

    “Since assuming office, we have ensured that workers’ salaries and pensions are paid promptly. We have also cleared backlogs of leave allowances and included workers in the distribution of palliatives to cushion the impact of fuel subsidy removal,” he stated.

    He urged trade unions to bring innovative solutions to improve labor conditions, in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative.

    “Times are tough, and workers are not getting the rewards they deserve, but this phase will pass. Let’s support one another so we can celebrate our collective success,” the governor concluded.

  • Tinubu should be worried about Wike’s reckless comments  —  Bayelsa Commissioner

    Tinubu should be worried about Wike’s reckless comments  —  Bayelsa Commissioner

    Alfred Kemepado, Bayelsa State’s Commissioner for Youths Development, said President Bola Tinubu should be worried that his appointee, Nyesom Wike, makes reckless statements.

    The commissioner said Wike’s disrespect to people would discourage people. Wike has disrespected from voting for the president in the 2027 presidential election.

    He said people who hold respectable positions should be careful of their public statements, adding that no public office holder should insult or make reckless statements about the ancestry of any group in the country.

    Kemepado said this in reaction to Wike’s description of the Ijaws as a minority group.

    Wike’s comment drew criticisms from the Ijaw Nation as members of the ethnic group fired back at the FCT Minister for allegedly disrespecting their late leader, Edwin Clark, and associating the ethnic group with criminality.

    While appearing on Arise TV’s The Morning Show on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, Kemepado said President Tinubu should not tolerate Wike’s ‘reckless comments’ about the Ijaws.

    According to him, “Nobody gets more votes for the president by insulting the people.”

    He said, “If anybody serving the president goes about insulting people everywhere, is that how to woo more votes for the president? So on the day of election, would you leave your units and wards and go to these places you’ve been insulting people? It is not about whether the PDP is worried, the presidency that one of his appointees is going about disrespecting and insulting people.”

    The commissioner also defended Governor Douye Diri’s recent directive that no political rally should be held in Bayelsa, saying the directive was issued because the governor knew the rally being planned by a group loyal to Wike was a ploy to disrupt the peacefulness of the state.

    He added that the directive was issued to avert any political crisis the rally might cause in Bayelsa, and the governor is not afraid of a state of emergency rule imposed on neighbouring Rivers State.“Governor Diri is afraid of nothing. We have a responsibility to provide governance and one of the things we have achieved is peace,” he said.

  • One dead as minibus collides with LAWMA truck

    One dead as minibus collides with LAWMA truck

    The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) on Tuesday said a minibus collided with a Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) truck.

    The LASEMA Permanent Secretary, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, confirmed the incident in a statement, saying the accident occurred at about 11:59 pm on Monday night.

    He confirmed that the incident resulted in the death of a LAWMA official in the Ketu area of the state.

    “Following distress calls at 23:59 hours, LASEMA activated the State’s Emergency Response Plans from the Command and Control Centre, Alausa.

    “Upon arrival at the scene at 00:07 hours, it was discovered that a registered commercial minibus, popularly known as ‘korope.’ with registration number AGL 97 YK, had collided with a parked LAWMA truck.

    “Th registration number remains unknown.

    “Preliminary investigations at the scene indicated that the accident resulted from reckless driving on the part of the minibus driver and carelessness on the part of the parked LAWMA truck.

    “The truck driver failed to indicate its parked status with a C-Caution sign at the required position and appropriate distance, leading to the collision with the LAWMA compactor truck,” he stated.

    Further investigations revealed that, during the accident, the minibus struck a LAWMA official who was performing his lawful duties.

    “Unfortunately, the LAWMA official succumbed to his injuries before the arrival of the Agency’s Response Teams.

    “The minibus driver sustained significant injuries and was given immediate medical attention by paramedics from the Agency’s Pre-Hospital Care Unit at the scene,” he added.

    He said noth vehicles involved sustained damage.

    “The LAWMA compactor truck suffered minor damage at the rear, while the minibus’s front section and cabin were severely damaged.

    “Safety measures were implemented at the scene during the recovery operation to prevent secondary incidents.

    “A search and rescue operation was conducted to extract the injured minibus driver.

    “The deceased LAWMA official was recovered and bagged by the Agency’s Response Team.

    “The remains of the deceased were handed over to officials of the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit (SEHMU) for further processing,” he said.

    He said the affected LAWMA compactor truck had been moved to the Ketu Police Station.

    “All accident vehicles have been removed from the road, which is now clear and safe for vehicular movement.

    “The recovery operation has been concluded,” he confirmed.(NAN)

  • 6 Nigerian banks report N3trn profit amid complaints, challenging environment

    6 Nigerian banks report N3trn profit amid complaints, challenging environment

    Six banks in the country have posted N3.41 trillion as Profit After Tax (PAT) for the year 2024 ended against the N2.1 trillion recorded in the 2023 financial year.

    This is in spite of diverse transaction and service complaints, dissatisfaction among customers and the challenging economic situation of the country.

    The figure represents a 62.38 per cent increase from the amount recorded during the 2023 financial year (FY).

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondent, who monitored banks’ 2024 audited financial statements posted on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) platform, reveals that all the banks recorded increase in their gross earnings.

    Similarly, their Profit Before Tax (PBT) rose to N4.1 trillion in 2024, which represents 42.7 per cent increase compared to N9.61 billion recorded in the corresponding period in 2023.

    The banks analysed include Zenith Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) Plc, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, Fidelity Bank Plc, Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC and Wema Bank Plc.

    The banks attributed the profit to equity holders, non-controlling interests, earning per share (basic and diluted).

    As part of its earnings, GTCO announced a final dividend of N7.03 per share, which brought the total dividend for the 2024 financial year to N8.03 per share, against the N3.20 per share paid in 2023.

    Zenith proposed a final dividend of N4.00 per share in addition to N1.00 per share interim dividend, which amounted to N5.00 per share.

    UBA proposed a total dividend of N5.00 per share, while Fidelity proposed a final dividend of N2.10 per ordinary share, and Stanbic IBTC proposed a final dividend of N3.00 against N2.20 paid in N2023.

    Similarly, the banks’ donations to charitable and non-political organisations rose to N969 billion for the 2024 FY compared to their N2.6 billion contribution in 2023.

    However, there were still unresolved customers’ complaints recorded by the banks.

    GTCO received 941,241 complaints and resolved 935,081, leaving 7,998 complaints unresolved, while UBA received 3,210,708 complaints and resolved 2,090,122 out of them, leaving 1,120,907 unresolved for the 2024 FY.

    Zenith Bank has 203,787 complaints including the ones brought forward and resolved 202,384, leaving 1,403 unresolved.

    Wema Bank received 783,461 and resolved 780,063, leaving 11,372 complaints unresolved, including the number carried forward (C/F).

    Reacting to these headwinds, financial experts urged the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to step up its monitoring and supervisory role to ensure that banks are not over-charging customers.

    Prof. Uche Uwaleke, the President, Capital Market Academics of Nigeria (CMAN), told NAN that
    the CBN’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) enabled a number of banks to increase interest income.

    Uwaleke said that interest income made lending rates to increase without commensurate increase in savings rates.

    He said that other factors which led to growth in banks’ profits exchange rate, included the depreciation of the Naira, which made banks holding foreign denominated assets to benefit.

    According to him, there is the issue of the banking sector recapitalisation, which enables banks to raise some money from the capital market and invest in Information Technology (IT) infrastructure.

    ”It is very true that a number of banks, especially the tier 1 banks, are declaring huge profits in spite of the economic situation in the country.

    “The reason is not far-fetched. If you recall, 2024 was characterised by a high interest rate environment.

    ”The economy is still experiencing weak growth and we see that in virtually all the sectors, particularly the risk sectors of the economy, manufacturing, agric, did not really make any meaningful growth in 2024,” he said.

    He, however, noted that the services sector had powered growth, adding that the banking sector is within the services sector.

    “Now how do we really bridge this disconnect, this gap between the financial sector and the risk sector and how do we also ensure that the bank customers also begin to have a feel of the fortunes of banks, if one might put it that way?

    ”The CBN needs to really monitor and supervise the banks to ensure that they are not overcharging the customers.

    ”I know there is the recommended bank charges by the CBN for banks, but it is important for the regulator to ensure that customers don’t bear the brunt of some of the inefficiencies we see from some banks,” he said.

    Uwaleke said the CBN should also advise advise banks to increase savings rates in tandem with lending rates.

    ”It is also the duty of the CBN to ensure that whenever the policy rate is increased, as we saw in 2024, usually banks are quick to increase lending rates, but savings rates don’t usually respond by as much.

    ”So the CBN needs to advise the banks on the margin between savings and the lending rates that it shouldn’t exceed a particular limit.

    ”So it is important that savings rates increase in tandem with lending rates each time policy rates are increased,” he suggested.

    The expert said that customers were also very important stakeholders in the banking business, hence the need for the CBN to protect them.

    Mr Okechukwu Unegbu, a former President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) said that banks usually initiate all forms of charges at the expense of their customers.

    Unegbu regretted that some customers were reluctant about challenging their banks in the event of some ‘illegal’ charges.

    ”Banks charge all sorts even illegal charges and if customers complain they won’t respond because they feel that money is not much.

    ”Customers are docile too, they are sleeping, they should wake up and take these banks to court for some of these illegal charges,” he said.

    The customer will say for example, is it because of N50 that I’m going to court?

    ”It is not the N50 but the underlining principle and the banks are using this as a very good excuse to rip customers of their hard earned money.

    ”If you charge N50 to 1,000 customers, you can see how much it is,” he said.

    Unegbu called on Bank Customers Association of Nigeria (BCAN) to rise up to their responsibility by holding banks accountable for their ‘unfair’ actions to customers.

    Some bank customers who spoke to NAN alleged that there complaints to their banks on transaction failure and debits had yet to be resolved by the banks.

    Mrs Catherine Itoha, a customer of GTCO, said the bank had yet to reverse over N20,000 debited from her account through various failed Point of Sale (PoS) transactions since 11 months.

    Itoha urged some banks and their staff to adopt principles of fair practice in handling their customers.

    ”Customers are the reason why banks are in existence so, we deserve to be treated fairly.

    ”GTB debited me in about four different transactions that I did but up till now, they did not reverse any of these monies.

    ”I visited the bank, filled forms, spoke to their staff personally but still the issue was not resolved since last year,” she said.

    Mr Augustine Ode, a Zenith Bank customer, appealed to the CBN to check the excesses of some banks, who were allegedly defrauding customers and posting huge profits.

  • Uromi 16: Okpebholo lauded over action to ensure justice

    Uromi 16: Okpebholo lauded over action to ensure justice

    ABUJA – THE Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, Tuesday, hailed the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, over action to ensure justice in the killing of 16 northern travellers in Uromi, Edo State.

    In a statement signed by the Executive Director, CISLAC, Awual Rafsanjani, expressed confidence that Okpebholo’s swift reaction to the horrible and gruesome killing of the hunters by visiting the bereaved families in Kano State to offer his condolences, where he also assured them of his commitment to justice, which he had earlier suspended all vigilante groups in Edo State and the suspension of the Edo State Security Corps Commander, CP Friday Ibadin (Retd.), after it was revealed that the vigilante group responsible for the alleged killings and was operating illegally.

    The CISLAC boss also commended the Governor for taking a firm stance on ensuring that all security organizations operate within legal frameworks, thus fostering an environment where citizens’ rights are upheld, therefore, he (Rafsanjani) said CISLAC strongly supports the governor’s actions, especially the disbanding of unregulated vigilante groups that pose a serious threat to public safety and the rule of law.

    He said CISLAC also applauds Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to ensuring justice for the victims and their families, emphasizing that the perpetrators will be apprehended and prosecuted.

    The collaboration between the Edo and Kano State governments is also hailed as an exemplary model for other Nigerian leaders, showcasing the importance of unity, compassion, and decisive leadership during times of tragedy.

    He said: “We commend the swift investigation by the Edo State government, which has already led to the arrest of 14 suspects, and we welcome the assurance from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that security agencies are working tirelessly to ensure justice is served.

    “This tragedy should serve as a reminder of the need for strong leadership and cross-regional solidarity.

    “CISLAC acknowledges Governor Okpebholo’s efforts as a significant step in fostering peace and solidarity between the northern and southern regions of Nigeria, particularly at a time when such incidents can easily sow division.”

    Meanwhile, CISLAC has commended the people of Edo State, especially, those in Uromi, who risked their lives to save some of the victims on that fateful day, as their brave actions reflect the values of empathy, courage, and unity that transcend ethnic and regional boundaries, which emphasized the collective spirit that binds Nigerians together.

    Therefore, he said all levels of government should ensure that the welfare and protection of citizens are prioritized, and also ensure justice for victims of violence, and promote peaceful coexistence across Nigeria.

    The organization urges the Edo State government to follow through on its commitment to dismantling unregistered security groups and to strengthen the legal framework for community security to prevent such tragedies in the future.

    “CISLAC remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting transparency, accountability, and justice in Nigeria, and we stand in solidarity with the victims and their families during this challenging time”, he added

  • Edo gov poll dispute: Anxiety as tribunal fixes Wednesday for judgement

    Edo gov poll dispute: Anxiety as tribunal fixes Wednesday for judgement

    ABUJA–The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja has fixed Wednesday to deliver its judgement on the case the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, filed to challenge the outcome of gubernatorial poll that held in the state on September 21, 2024.

    The Justice Wilfred Kpochi-led three-member tribunal communicated the judgement date to the parties in the early hours of Tuesday.

    The panel had on March 3, reserved its verdict after all the parties adopted their final briefs of argument.

    PDP and Ighodalo are challenging the declaration of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress, APC, as the winner of the gubernatorial contest.

    It will be recalled that the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, had declared that Okpebholo of the APC secured a total of 291, 667 votes to defeat his closet rivalry, Ighodalo of the PDP, who got a total of 247, 655 votes.

    Dissatisfied with the outcome of the poll, the PDP and its candidate approached the tribunal, alleging that it was not conducted with substantial compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022.

    In the petition marked: EPT/ED/GOV/02/2024, it was alleged that Governor Okpebholo did not secure the highest number of lawful votes that were cast at the election.

    It was equally the contention of the petitioners that INEC failed to serialise and pre-record some of the sensitive materials that were deployed for the poll, a situation they said aided the rigging of the election in favour of the APC and its candidate.

    While adopting their final written address on Monday, the petitioners, through their team of lawyers led by Adetunji Oyeyipo, SAN, alleged that there was wrong computation of results in 765 polling units in the state.

    According to the petitioners, results from the polling units were manipulated at the collation centers.

    “We concede that elections took place at the polling units, but my lords, for instance, how 25 votes metamorphosed to 525 votes at a particular collation center, is what we are quarrelling with,” counsel to the petitioners submitted.

    Insisting that they adduced sufficient evidence needed to prove their case, the petitioners urged the tribunal to nullify the Certificate of Return that was issued to governor Okpebholo and declare Ighodalo as the bonafide winner of the governorship contest.

    However, on their part, all the respondents in the matter — INEC, Okpebholo and APC — prayed the tribunal to dismiss the petition which they maintained was devoid of merit.

    According to the respondents, the petitioners failed to by way of credible evidence, establish their claim that they won the election.

    INEC’s lead counsel, Kanu Agabi, SAN, noted that the petitioners’ reliefs were incongruous with the case they brought before the tribunal.

    He noted that whereas the petitioners claimed that the gubernatorial election was invalid by reason of alleged non-compliance, they still sought to be declared winner of the same poll.

    Agabi, SAN, further noted that despite the number of polling units the petitioners challenged their results, they only brought five polling unit agents to testify before the tribunal, a number he said was insignificant.

    More so, Agabi, SAN, argued that all polling unit agents that appeared as witnesses, admitted that they signed copies of results of the election.

    “This is a clear indication that the election was conducted in compliance with the Electoral Act, 2022.

    “The results were duly collated at all levels of collation. The petitioners have not pleaded any alternative results on the basis of which they can be declared as winners.

    “The case of the petitioners is based on analysis undertaken by hired consultants,” INEC’s lawyer added.

    While adopting his processes, counsel to governoror Okpebholo, Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, maintained that the petition was an academic exercise.

    He contended that the law only mandated INEC officials to indicate the number of sensitive materials they received and the quantity returned, insisting that it did not include recording of serial numbers of the materials.

    Governor Okpebholo’s lawyer equally argued that the Supreme Court earlier held that one could not prove over-voting without the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, BVAS, Machines.

    He insisted that the petitioners merely produced and dumped the BVAS before the tribunal without opening any of them to demonstrate the alleged over-voting.

    Likewise, the APC, through its counsel, Mr Emmanuel Ukala, SAN, argued that the petitioners failed to discharge the burden of proof that was placed on them by the law.

    He argued that the apex court had repeatedly held that over-voting must be proved in each of the disputed polling units, wards and Local Governments.

    Therefore, he urged the tribunal to dismiss the petition and affirm INEC’s declaration that governor Okpebholo was the valid winner of the governorship contest.

    Whereas the petitioners closed their case after they called 19 witnesses that testified and tendered evidence before the panel, INEC, failed to call any witness, though it tendered the certified copy of the election result as an exhibit.

    On their part, while governor Okpebholo produced only one witness, the APC closed its own case with the evidence of four witnesses.

  • I’ll sue BBC for defamation – Nigerian doctor accused of UK job scam

    I’ll sue BBC for defamation – Nigerian doctor accused of UK job scam

    Nigerian medical doctor and author Kelvin Alaneme has vowed to sue the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) for defamation, insisting that allegations against him are false.

    Alaneme, accused of running an immigration scam through his agency CareerEdu, maintained that he is helping Nigerians relocate abroad, stating, “I have never scammed or defrauded anyone in my life, and I never will.”

    A BBC ‘Africa Eye’ investigation claims Alaneme charged $13,000 for fake UK care job visas. A secretly recorded BBC report exposed the operations of UK immigration fraudsters, revealing a surge in scams since the UK expanded its visa scheme in 2022 to include care workers. The scheme requires applicants to secure a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed UK employer, a process that has fueled fraudulent activities.

    Between July 2022 and December 2024, the UK government revoked over 470 care sector licences, affecting more than 39,000 foreign medical professionals and care workers recruited since 2020.

    The BBC linked Alaneme to fraudulent relocation services, alleging that he provided job placements that did not exist.

    In an undercover recording, Alaneme, believing he was speaking with a business partner in the UK care sector, attempted to recruit her, saying, “Just get me care homes. I can make you a millionaire.”

    He explained he would pay £2,000 ($2,600) for each care home vacancy she secured, plus a £500 ($650) commission. These positions were allegedly sold to Nigerian applicants.

    The BBC also found that Efficiency for Care, a company tied to the scam, issued 1,234 CoS between March 2022 and May 2023 despite employing only 16 people in 2022 and 152 in 2023.

    The UK government revoked its sponsorship licence in July 2023, preventing it from hiring foreign workers.

    In another secretly filmed meeting, Alaneme detailed how migrants could obtain CoS for non-existent jobs, with fake payroll records disguising the fraud.

    One alleged victim, Praise, claimed he paid Alaneme over £10,000 ($13,000) for a job with Efficiency for Care in Clacton-on-Sea, only to discover upon arrival that the job did not exist.

    Denying the allegations, Alaneme emphasised that CareerEdu does not employ care workers but only connects candidates with legitimate recruiters.

    “We are not Care Job employers in the UK. We have always made this clear. Our job is to link qualified employees to legitimate and licensed employers and recruiters who do provide Certificate of Sponsorship,” he said, adding that some recruiters charge additional costs for training, transport, and accommodation.

    “In the event that these clients are not successful, they do get a full refund of these extra costs, no questions asked.”

    When challenged online to sue the BBC if his business was legitimate, Alaneme responded, “We’ll do that.”

    The Nigerian doctor further accused the BBC of bias, saying, “If the BBC really wanted to do a ‘real story,’ there are many individuals exploiting people, issuing fake CoS, and outrightly scamming people… We have done none of this, yet they insist on putting out this one-sided falsehood. I believe that the truth will win and posterity will vindicate the just.”