Category: News

  • Ibas urges strict implementation of PPP agreements in Rivers sea ports

    Ibas urges strict implementation of PPP agreements in Rivers sea ports

    The Administrator of Rivers, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), has emphasised the need for strict implementation of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreements at Rivers sea ports to maximize benefits and boost economic growth.

    Ibas made the remark when he received members of the House of Representatives Committee on Public Assets, led by its Chairman, Ademorin Kuye who called on him in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.

    According to him, in spite of the state’s critical role in maritime, oil and gas operations, and other industrial activities, weak regulatory frameworks, lack of accountability, and conflicting stakeholder interests have hindered business growth.

    He noted that assets operating under the PPP framework in the state included the Onne Port Complex, oil and gas service zones, and certain segments of the Nigerian Ports Authority facilities.

    Ibas said that some partnerships had enhanced operational capacities and revenue, while others underperformed due to weak regulatory frameworks and lack of accountability.

    Ibas stressed the need for a comprehensive assessment of the assets to determine their state and chart a clear path forward.

    He expressed that the National Assembly could help fine-tune existing PPP arrangements by ensuring transparency, adherence to contractual obligations, and improved monitoring mechanisms.

    The Administrator emphasised the importance of collaboration with institutions like the National Assembly to achieve his administration’s mandate.

    He called for continued support in repositioning Rivers State on the path of peace, progress, and prosperity.
    Earlier, Mr Ademorin Kuye the House Committee Chairman, explained that the committee’s visit aimed to conduct oversight on federal assets, determine their usage and status, and evaluate PPP arrangements at Port Harcourt, Ibeto, and Onne Ports.

    Kuye said that the committee would work with the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission(ICPC), and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC) to ensure Nigerians benefit from asset disposal.

  • UK top court rules definition of ‘a woman’ based on sex at birth

    UK top court rules definition of ‘a woman’ based on sex at birth

    Britain’s Supreme Court ruled Wednesday the legal definition of a “woman” is based on a person’s sex at birth, a landmark decision with far-reaching implications for the bitter debate over trans rights.

    In a win for Scottish gender-critical campaigners who brought the case to the UK’s highest court, five London judges unanimously ruled “the terms ‘woman’ and ‘sex’ in the Equality Act 2010 refer to a biological woman, and biological sex”.

    However, the court underlined that the Equality Act also protected transgender people from discrimination.

    The act “gives transgender people protection” through the protected characteristic of gender reassignment, but also protecting against discrimination in their acquired gender, Justice Patrick Hodge said handing down the verdict.

    It is the culmination of a years-long battle between the Scottish government and campaign group For Women Scotland (FWS) — which launched an appeal to the Supreme Court after losing pleas in Scottish courts over an obscure legislation aimed at hiring more women in public sector bodies.

    Dozens of FWS and other gender critical campaigners, who argue that biological sex cannot be changed, cheered with joy after the ruling, hugging and crying outside the court.

    “This has been a really, really long ride,” said Susan Smith, co-director of For Women Scotland, adding the campaigners were “enormously grateful for this ruling”.

    “Today, the judges have said what we always believed to be the case: that women are protected by their biological sex,” she said, adding “women can now feel safe that services and spaces designated for women are for women”.

    Ahead of the verdict, trans rights activists raised concerns that a ruling in favour of FWS could risk discrimination against trans people in their chosen gender.

    “The court is well aware of the strength of feeling on all sides which lies behind this appeal,” Hodge said, recognising the fight of women against sex discrimination, as well as a “vulnerable” position of the trans community.

    – Single-sex spaces –
    At the heart of the legal battle were clashing interpretations of the Equality Act.While the Scottish government argued that the Equality Act (EA) afforded trans women with a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC) with the same protections as a biological female, FWS disagreed.

    In its judgement, the Supreme Court ruled that the devolved Scottish government’s “interpretation is not correct” and that the Equality Act was inconsistent with the 2004 Gender Recognition Act which introduced GRC certificates.

    According to the judges, allowing for the Scottish government’s interpretation would “cut across the definitions of man and woman” in the Equality Act “in an incoherent way”.

    And, single-sex spaces and services including changing rooms, hostels and medical services “will function properly only if sex is interpreted as biological sex”, the judgement added.

    Despite underlining protections from discrimination, the ruling will be a blow for transgender women and their ability to access single-sex spaces — a significant contention in the polarised debate on trans rights.

    – Online discourse –
    The debate has been particularly vicious in the UK, pitting gender critical activists against trans rights campaigners and often resulting in bitter, even hateful discourse.

    One of the most prominent supporters of gender critical campaigns is “Harry Potter” author JK Rowling, who lives in Scotland and has been the target of hate but also been accused of transphobia.

    The ruling also comes at a time when transgender rights are under threat in the United States under President Donald Trump.

    Since retaking office, Trump has declared the federal government would recognise only two sexes, male and female, sought to bar trans athletes from women’s sports and curbed treatments for trans children.

    The latest UK ruling could pile pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government — which has remained largely silent on trans issues since coming into power last July — to further clarify legislation.

    The opposition Conservative administration had blocked Scottish legislation to make gender change easier in 2022 and has supported the clarification of sex as biological sex rather than assumed gender.

  • Benue: 13 killed, 50 houses burnt in Otobi Akpa attack

    An attack on the Otobi Akpa community in Benue State on Tuesday evening left at least 13 people dead, several others injured or missing, and over 50 houses destroyed.

    The violence reportedly began around 6:00 p.m. near Otobi Junction when armed herdsmen launched an assault on the town. Eyewitnesses said that sporadic gunfire created panic, causing residents to flee for safety. Unfortunately, several people were caught in the crossfire and lost their lives, while others sustained injuries and were taken to the hospital.

    Local sources say the absence of community vigilantes—many of whom had travelled to a neighboring village for a burial—contributed to the attackers’ unchallenged entry into the area.

    According to residents, the attackers used weapons including firearms and machetes during the assault. Some of the victims were reportedly targeted in their homes, while others were attacked while trying to flee. At least 14 bodies have so far been recovered and taken to the mortuary, though the search for missing persons is ongoing.

    Community elder Adikwu Ogbe, expressing sorrow over the incident, said Otobi Akpa has historically been a peaceful part of Idoma land and had coexisted with herding communities for many years. He noted, however, that tensions have risen in recent times over open grazing and related security concerns.

    Three weeks prior to this attack, a security guard at the Otukpo Dam was reportedly killed during a nighttime incident in the area.

    As of the time of this report, no security personnel were visibly present in Otobi Akpa. Many residents have begun relocating to nearby areas for safety, and several are currently taking refuge at the Federal Government College in Otobi.

    Benue State Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, visited the affected community alongside a contingent of security operatives to commiserate with victims and assess the situation. He assured the residents that the government is taking steps to prevent further violence and restore peace to the area.

    The atmosphere in the community remains tense, and residents continue to flee due to fears of additional attacks.

  • Nnewi murder: Anambra CP sets up team to monitor Agunechemba operatives

    Nnewi murder: Anambra CP sets up team to monitor Agunechemba operatives

    AWKA – Following the tragic killing of a woman during a traffic gridlock in Nnewi on Tuesday, the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has established a special team to monitor the activities of Agunechemba, the new state government security outfit. One of its operatives is allegedly responsible for the fatal shooting.

    According to eyewitness reports, the incident occurred at Ibeto Junction, where motorists were stuck in a heavy traffic jam. Agunechemba operatives reportedly arrived at the scene and attempted to forcefully clear the road for their convoy. In the process, they began shooting indiscriminately, and a stray bullet struck a woman identified as Chiamaka Okeke, who later died at the hospital.

    The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Anambra State, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident and stated that the command had initiated immediate steps to identify the patrol vehicle and the personnel involved in the shooting.

    Ikenga said: “We have escalated the matter to the leadership of Agunechemba to help identify the patrol teams that were in Nnewi on that day and the specific operative who discharged the firearm.”

    He added that CP Orutugu has appointed a monitoring team, headed by DCP Mantu Chong, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), Awka, to ensure all operatives maintain civility and adhere strictly to operational guidelines.

    Ikenga continued: “The CP, on behalf of other security agencies, expresses gratitude to the state government and well-meaning individuals for their support. He also appreciates the coordinated efforts of the police and other security outfits in tackling crimes such as armed robbery and kidnapping, particularly during the Easter season.”

    The Commissioner emphasized the force’s commitment to justice and accountability, highlighting that community policing and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms are in place for peaceful resolution of issues where applicable.

    “We appeal for calm. The command is working closely with relevant security stakeholders to identify the suspect and ensure justice is served. Investigations are ongoing, and updates will be provided as events unfold,” Ikenga assured.

    He concluded by reaffirming the police command’s resolve to continuously review operations and adopt new strategies to enhance public safety and security across Anambra State.

  • Osun signs 100million dollars investment deal with British investors

    Osun signs 100million dollars investment deal with British investors

    Following his recent investment drive in the United Kingdom, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke disclosed that his administration has secured a hundred million dollars in investment from British investors.

    In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed and made available to reporters in Osogbo on Wednesday, the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding, which was witnessed by the UK Prime Minister’s trade envoy, Hon Florence Eshalomi, covers investments in different areas including agriculture, water, tourism and free trade zone.

    The trip also yielded a partnership deal with the British Museum on cultural tourism, focusing on Osun’s cultural assets.

    “Contrary to the fake news and doctored video from members of the opposition, the state governor successfully and flawlessly addressed four major high-profile meetings, which include the landmark trade meeting in the House of Commons; the address at the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce trade mission; the cultural tourism engagement at the British Museum; and the investment briefing with a select group of investors.

    “In the end, a total of $100 million investment deals were made with a group of investors who attended the signing of the investment facilitation MOU in the presence of UK Prime Minister’s trade envoy, Hon Florence Eshalomi. The investment areas include agriculture, water, tourism and free trade zones.

    “An investment collaboration framework with the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce and Industry was agreed upon during the chamber’s trade mission. Alongside the Osun State Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the relationship is to create a tripartite working framework among the binational chamber, the State government and the UK Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

    “A partnership deal with the British Museum on cultural tourism focusing on Osun cultural assets and confirmed a huge link between the museum and Ile Ife, the cradle of the Yoruba nation.

    “A new framework relationship between the British Museum and the state government on digitization of cultural assets.

    “Multiple hosting and briefing of Osun indigenes on state of governance at home with two full days of feedback and brainstorming on governance ideas”, the statement added.

  • 10 most dangerous countries to travel to in 2025

    In the year 2025, despite the endeavours of the UN, WHO, and other world organisations to make the world a safer, peaceful, and healthy place to be, there are a few countries as of 2025 that are high-risk and pose a dangerous threat for anyone looking to travel there.

    The 10 most dangerous countries to travel to in 2025 are as follows:

    Sudan
    The war in Sudan has made the country one of the least hospitable travel destinations on the planet, due to the ongoing civil conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which erupted in April 2023. This conflict has severely disrupted the country’s infrastructure, economy, and society, leading to a humanitarian crisis. Sudan’s situation remains critical due to ongoing violence, a collapsed healthcare system, and acute shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. The challenges are compounded by rising prices, making life almost unbearable for the population.

    Yemen
    In January 2015, Yemen fell into utter war and chaos after Houthi fighters seized the presidential compound in Sanaa. The war has raged on ever since, bringing famine to the country and instability in the region. As of March 2025, the United States launched its biggest air and naval strikes. This marked the largest U.S. military operation in the Middle East. Humanitarian efforts are crumbling under the violence, making Yemen one of the most dangerous places in the world to travel to in 2025.

    Myanmar
    Myanmar isn’t a safe place to travel right now due to the ongoing civil war. The civil war in Myanmar has been recorded as the world’s longest ongoing civil war, which has spanned almost eight decades. Since staging a coup in 2021, Myanmar has experienced severe unrest that has led to the displacement of over 3 million people and crimes against humanity. The War in Myanmar has led to the collapse of essential services, including health and water systems, combined with natural disasters like cyclones and floods. Visiting Myanmar in 2025 might not be a good idea.

    Syria
    Syria is a nation still devastated by years of war, with active combat zones and various militant groups. 13.8 million Syrians have been displaced due to the war and unrest in the nation. Syria can be noted as one of the largest humanitarian crises globally.

    South Sudan
    Since its independence in 2011, South Sudan has experienced ethnic conflicts, battling major political crises, and severe flooding. To add to the list of troubles, South Sudan is home to nearly 900,000 refugees from Sudan due to the war, straining its limited resources. South Sudan’s instability at the moment has made it unsafe.

    Ukraine
    The ongoing conflict with Russia has led to widespread destruction of property, displacement of thousands of Ukrainians, and a volatile security situation, making Ukraine a dangerous destination for travellers.

    Somalia
    The situation in Somalia is a complex humanitarian crisis. The extremist group Al-Shabaab, has carried out over 120 attacks in 2024 alone. Drought has also been a major issue in the country, with thousands of people needing assistance.

    Iraq
    While the territorial threat of ISIS has diminished, Iraq remains unstable due to recurring insurgent attacks, militia violence, and political turmoil. Security remains fragile, especially in rural areas, and deep-rooted ethnic and sectarian divisions continue to fuel unrest.

    Haiti
    The government in Haiti is at its weakest point now, unable to tackle the insecurity in the country, with armed groups in constant conflict with the police. Some areas in the country have fallen into the hands of these armed groups, spiking Crime, kidnappings, and food shortages. At the same time, natural rake through communities.

    Lebanon
    Lebanon has been in deep turmoil due to multiple overlapping crises, over 1.5 million refugees have stretched resources in the country dry, a political crisis, an outbreak of cholera, a blast that killed over 200 people and displaced thousands.

  • Rivers women call for removal of CP Adepoju, reinstatement of Fubara

    Rivers women call for removal of CP Adepoju, reinstatement of Fubara

    The Rivers Women Unite Prayer Group has called for the immediate removal of the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, citing alleged bias in his handling of peaceful protests against the recently imposed emergency rule in the state.

    The women also demanded an immediate end to the emergency rule, the reinstatement of the democratically elected Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Prof. Ngozi Ordu, and the Rivers State House of Assembly.

    In a statement jointly signed on Wednesday by Dr. Nancy Chidi Nwankwo and Dr. Vivian Ige-Elenwo, the group condemned what they described as the unconstitutional and unjust imposition of an emergency administration in the state.

    “For the umpteenth time, we, the women of Rivers State under the umbrella of the Rivers Women Unite Prayer Group, strongly reiterate our unwavering demand for the immediate termination of the unconstitutional and unjust emergency rule currently imposed on our dear state,” the statement read.

    The group accused the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), of deepening political divisions and dismantling democratic institutions instead of fostering reconciliation among stakeholders.

    “Nearly one month after assuming control, rather than fostering reconciliation among political stakeholders, Vice Admiral Ibas has deepened the divide. His actions serve only the interests of those who appointed him,” the women stated.

    They also accused the police of using excessive force during a peaceful protest held on April 11, 2025, noting that tear gas was used to disperse demonstrators. The group further alleged that on April 14, 2025, a counter-protest was staged with hired individuals posing as Rivers women in support of the emergency rule, and that this protest was shielded by the same police force.

    “This deliberate provocation and double standard is nothing short of sabotage and a direct assault on democratic rights,” they said.

    The group lamented the growing economic toll of the emergency rule, warning that businesses are shutting down, investments are fleeing, and the state’s economy is on the brink of collapse — with women and children bearing the brunt of the hardship.They appealed to Nigerians of conscience, civil society organizations, and the National Assembly to speak out and take urgent steps to reverse what they described as “a deeply unpopular and undemocratic action.”

    “It is disturbing that in other regions where terrorism and violence claim lives daily, no state of emergency has been declared. Yet in Rivers, over 10,000 police personnel and countless military operatives have been deployed — not for security, but for political intimidation,” the statement said.

    According to the group, further protests in Mbiama were also met with police violence, while pro-emergency rule demonstrators were protected.

    The women’s demands include: Immediate removal of CP Olugbenga Adepoju, Termination of the emergency rule in Rivers State, Reinstatement of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the state legislature

    They also urged the international community to take a strong diplomatic stance and prevail on the Nigerian government to restore democracy and protect the rights and dignity of Rivers people.

  • INEC Chairman, Yakubu, urges youth to champion peaceful elections

    INEC Chairman, Yakubu, urges youth to champion peaceful elections

    ABUJA: Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has asked African youths to lead the charge in promoting peaceful and credible elections across the continent.

    Yakubu spoke on Tuesday while delivering a lecture on “Democracy and Peaceful Elections in West Africa” to students of International Affairs and Diplomacy and those of Peace and Conflict Studies at the Civil Service University in the Republic of The Gambia.

    The INEC Chairman who was a guest of the University, also urged the youths to actively engage in the electoral process with a positive mindset, shun electoral malpractices, and uphold democratic values.

    Highlighting the indispensable role of young people in the electoral processes, the INEC Chairman noted that elections in Africa cannot succeed without youth participation.

    He said; “Young people form the backbone of election duty staff,” he said, pointing out that Election Management Bodies EMBs lack the manpower to conduct elections without recruiting youths as temporary or ad hoc staff.

    “Beyond logistics and staffing, he emphasized that youths also make up the largest segment of the voting population. His words: “Before the elections, they are involved in voter registration, one of the most critical stages of the electoral cycle. It is a duty that must be undertaken with sincerity, patriotism, and a sense of responsibility.”

    Yakubu further urged the youths to be upright and law-abiding, saying; “If you want peaceful elections, play your part for God and country. Do the right thing. Obey the laws and regulations. That’s how we make every vote count.”

    He also drew attention to the role of youths as political party agents, cautioning against misrepresenting facts or feeding political stakeholders with false information which, he warned, could trigger violence and undermine public trust in the process.

    Turning to the influence of digital media, Prof. Yakubu warned against the spread of fake news, particularly during election periods. “Don’t be among the fake news merchants. If it’s not verified, don’t share it. As citizen reporters, you have a duty to report elections truthfully and responsibly,” he said.

    He encouraged young people not to lose faith in democracy or withdraw from civic engagement.

    “This is the system we have chosen. It is ours to nurture, defend, and improve. Every young African must play a role in deepening and strengthening democratic institutions”, he stated.

  • CBEX: My wife and I lost over N11m — Victim laments

    CBEX: My wife and I lost over N11m — Victim laments

    Tension flared in the Egbeda-Idimu area of Lagos State on Wednesday as investors stormed the office of Crypto Bridge Exchange Smart-Treasures, known as CBEX, following the sudden collapse of the cryptocurrency trading platform.

    CBEX, an artificial intelligence-powered crypto trading outfit, had promised investors 100 per cent returns on their dollar-denominated investments within 30 days.

    The platform reportedly operated under the guise of legitimacy, displaying certificates from the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) within a lavishly furnished office that inspired confidence in unsuspecting investors.

    When Vanguard visited the CBEX office located at Seliat Bus Stop in Egbeda, Alimosho Local Government Area, scores of angry investors were seen breaking through the main gate in an attempt to access the deserted premises.

    Although they forced their way inside the compound, they were unable to enter the main office. No staff or security personnel were on site.

    Officers of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and the Lagos State Police Command arrived at about 10 a.m. to restore order and prevent further chaos.

    As of press time, it remained unclear whether any arrests had been made, including of CBEX officials or the landlord of the property.

    The unrest followed widespread panic that began last Friday when CBEX subscribers discovered they could no longer access their accounts, signalling the platform’s collapse.

    The development has left thousands of investors stranded, many of whom say they lost life savings, loans, and cooperative funds.

    One of the victims, Mr Victor Ozime, told Vanguard he and his wife jointly lost over $7,000—more than N11 million at the current exchange rate. “We are on ground zero,” he said. “How do we finance our children’s school fees and pay house rent? I had so many plans for the money. Right now, I feel like ending it all.”

    Another investor, Mr Segun, who invested $1,700 from a cooperative loan, said he was drawn in by convincing testimonials and seminars hosted by CBEX.

    “They said the platform was AI-assisted, with 100 per cent ROI in 30 days,” he said. “Many early entrants made millions. Someone even built a house. My wife encouraged me to join. Now look where we are.”

    Segun added that CBEX had recently opened new branches in Ikeja and Ikorodu, and regularly held large seminars every Wednesday and Saturday. “These Ponzi operators have targets. Once they hit the figure they want, they vanish,” he said, adding that the scammers may have raked in over a trillion naira before disappearing.

    Tragically, the fallout from the crash has had deadly consequences. “A pensioner reportedly died after hearing he had lost everything. A medical doctor is in critical condition at a hospital in Abule Egba, and a woman allegedly committed suicide after borrowing money and handing it to her husband for investment,” another source told Vanguard.

    The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), in response to the incident, reiterated that under the newly enacted Investments and Securities Act 2025, it is illegal for any entity to operate a digital asset exchange or online forex trading platform in Nigeria without proper registration.

    In a statement issued on Sunday, the Commission warned Nigerians to be wary of unregistered investment schemes and reaffirmed its commitment to clamp down on illegal financial operators exploiting the digital space.

  • ‘Truth or Dare’ game: FCT residents raise concern

    ‘Truth or Dare’ game: FCT residents raise concern

    Concerned Nigerians in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have expressed displeasure over the moral and cultural decline associated with the trendy  ‘Truth or Dare’ game, particularly among young people.

    The residents spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in separate interview on Wednesday in Abuja.

    According to them, although ‘Truth or Dare’ has been an age-long staple game for social interaction, among peers and relatives, it has seen an unwholesome resurgence among young people in recent times.

    NAN reports that ‘Truth or Dare’ is a game played at social gatherings, where players choose to either answer a question truthfully or complete a daring challenge.

    The game thrived among people of close social circles, where peer pressure, compromise and friendly competition heighten the fun.

    Before now, most people preferred to play such a daring game with only relatives and those they had known for a long time, and were comfortable with.

    Perhaps, this was due to the fact that secrets could be revealed during those games, and there was also the possibility that the game could get heated up.

    Recently, the game has taken an unusual dimension in Nigeria, particularly among young people, under the guise of ‘catching cruise’ and unbridled desire for entertainment.

    The once harmless game has now evolved into an instrument that activates decadence among peers, with dares now leading to situations where individuals feel pressured or forced into actions they wouldn’t otherwise choose.

    In some reported cases, the game has been linked to situations where individuals have engaged in sexual and other immoral acts they later regretted, often influenced by alcohol or other substances.

    The FCT residents expressed concerns that if the lewdness associated with ‘Truth or Dare’ game was not checked, it has the potential of normalising risky or inappropriate behavours that society hitherto  frowns at.

    They cited instances where the game was used to coerce or manipulate people into immoral acts, including a recent incidence involving Nigerian celebrity couple.

    According them, a comedian and skit in an interview detailed how his wife allegedly participated in a “Truth or Dare” game with another actor, leading to a sexual encounter.

    A corps member, who simply  identify herself as Jane, narrated how she got entangled in the ‘truth or dare’ game that made her engaged in an amorous act.

    According to her, she was in the university when she first played the game at a course mate’s birthday party, as someone said the party was getting bored and should be made interesting.

    “Before then, I had never heard of the game but others were very interested and excited to play it,so I decided to play along, not to feel left out.

    “The rules were that anyone that would not tell the “truth” or carry out a “dare” would have to drink some quantity of alcohol.

    “When it got to my turn, I was told to kiss a guy, but I refused, and I was punished  to drink some alcohol, which I did and began to feel tipsy.

    “As the game continued, another guy was asked to kiss me and caress my breasts in the presence of everyone, and I initially refused but others pressured me to do it.

    “I eventually allowed him to do it, but after the party, I started feeling guilty”, she said.

    Jane noted that if it was in the social media age, pictures and videos from the act would have  flooded the internet , which would hunt her for life.

    She added that “something has to be done because our youths are doing crazy things under the influence of alcohol in the name of Truth or Dare.”

    An upcoming singer, Martins J, lamented that if nothing was done to check the spate of acceptance of the game, it would end up making unsuspecting youths get heavily addicted to alcohol.

    “I know of one babe that was asked to have a quickie in the toilet with a guy after she has taken  alcohol very well because of the ‘Truth or Dare’, and she did it.

    “ As the thing is going now, everybody is enjoying it as  fun and cruise so there is no shame again, so I think people have to speak against it openly”, he said.

    However, for Judith John, the game is for the ‘wild and daring’ and not for everyone.

    “I think that 99 percent of individuals that are participating in ‘Truth or Dare’ already have an idea in their head to use it as a means to carry out immoral acts.

    “This game is played at parties and clubs and all of that, so for me, I feel most of the time, people who play the game already know what they are going to carry out with it.

    “Nobody can actually force you against what you have no premeditation to do”, she said.

    Mrs Mabel  Adebayo, a school teacher and  mother of two, said  everything  about a game that influences or forces people to do things out of their will was inhuman.

    She therefore advised parents and guardians to protect their wards against it, adding that the game was evil and has the potential of hardening a child’s conscience.

    “You dare not mention that game in my house and at the school where I teach, because they have used it to turn innocent children into monsters”, she said.

    Some Clerics who spoke with NAN said it was both morally and spiritually wrong to get people do what they would not have done with their clear eyes and senses.

    Pastor Emmanuel Udeh said: “Truth or Dare game is a devilish game and no one with the fear of God should be involved, as it only brings moral compromise.

    “If you look at it carefully, it is those vices such as drinking and other debauchery tendencies that brings the so called fun in the game.

    “I think we all should speak against any activity, including a game,that can bring moral and spiritually decay to our society”, he said.

    Mallam Shaibu Ibrahim , a Muslim, said: Anything at all that will lead you into temptation is forbidden in Islam.

    “For instance, if I have friends that drink, and I have an intention of following them to the beer parlor without even wanting to drink is already a sin.

    “Honestly in my opinion, this is not game but a device from the devil to destroy the youths, this game must not be encouraged at all because it causes more harm than good.”(