Mother Detained After Throwing Disabled 5-Year-Old Into River on Seer's Orders

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

A wave of outrage has swept across Nigeria following the apprehension of a woman in the Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State. The mother was detained by local community members after she allegedly threw her five-year-old disabled child into a river—a drastic action reportedly fueled by the instructions of a self-acclaimed spiritual seer based in Benin City.

The disturbing incident came to light on Tuesday after videos surfaced and rapidly circulated on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter). The footage, initially shared by a digital creator, has triggered intense public debate regarding the dangerous influence of unregulated spiritualists and the vulnerabilities of desperate parents.

According to the details accompanying the viral video, the woman resorted to the horrific act after being convinced by a local prophet that her child was spiritually compromised. Speaking to community members who cornered her, the mother defended her actions by explaining her prolonged struggle with secondary infertility. She revealed that she had been unable to conceive another child since giving birth to the five-year-old, who had been unable to walk since birth.

Desperate for a solution, she sought spiritual intervention from a seer in Benin City, who allegedly blamed the disabled child for her plight.

“The seer told me that the child was a python and that if I did not get rid of the child, I would either continue giving birth to children with the same condition or never conceive again,” she confessed in the video.

Driven by the chilling prophecy, the woman reportedly took the vulnerable child to a nearby river and threw him into the water.

The viral footage has sparked a massive outcry online, with thousands of Nigerians condemning both the mother's actions and the deceptive nature of false prophets. While many expressed outright fury, others lamented the deep-seated superstitions that still plague many communities.

Reacting to the heartbreaking development on social media, an X user wrote:

“Someone told you to throw your own child and you accepted. I have said this before, some people don’t deserve to be mothers.”

Another commentator expressed a mix of sympathy and blame, pointing fingers at the spiritualist:

“I pity the lady though, she’s tired of the child and at the same time needs another, I blame the seer for deceiving her, but what if the seer is true?”

Expressing utter disbelief at the breakdown of maternal instinct, a third netizen added:

“This is unbelievable….a mother who is supposed to be full of affection and love for a child is the one throwing him/her into a river. Who has bewitched her or what could have turned her to cold stone like this?”

As public pressure mounts for justice, official state authorities are working to verify the exact details of the harrowing event. At the time of compiling this report, the Edo State Police Command had not yet released a formal statement regarding the arrest.

When PUNCH contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the command indicated that she was not yet formally briefed on the situation and could not provide an immediate reaction. Local authorities and emergency responders have yet to independently confirm the current whereabouts or the physical condition of the five-year-old child.

Nationwide Registration Opens for Historic Geneith Health Competition

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

LAGOS, NIGERIA – Registration has officially commenced for the groundbreaking Geneith Health Competition, a first-of-its-kind national initiative designed to mobilize secondary school and tertiary institution students across Nigeria. This ambitious campaign aims to eliminate malaria and create a healthier future for the nation by transforming young Nigerians into active agents of public health change.

The competition is organized by CEOAFRICA, sponsored by Geneith Pharmaceutical Limited, and powered by Coatal Forte Softgel. In a major boost for the initiative, it is being held in partnership with the Department of Public Health of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, representing a bold and innovative response to Nigeria’s persistent malaria burden.

Announcing the opening of the registration portal, the Initiator of the competition and Managing Director of CEOAFRICA, Prince Cletus Sunday Iloabanafor, described the initiative as a historic opportunity for students, parents, educational institutions, and communities across the federation to participate in a movement that could redefine Nigeria’s public health landscape.

According to Prince Iloabanafor, the Geneith Health Competition is not merely another awareness campaign, but a national call to action that places young people at the center of the fight against one of the country’s most devastating diseases. He urged Nigerians to embrace the initiative with confidence and determination, drawing inspiration from nations that have successfully overcome malaria through coordinated public health efforts and citizen participation.

“Other nations have stood where we are standing today, took decisive collective action, and successfully eliminated this disease through deliberate public health policies,” Prince Iloabanafor stated. “Nigeria is the Giant of Africa and the natural leader of this continent. If other nations could achieve this feat, Nigerians can do even better and establish a new benchmark for Africa.”

The initiative has already begun generating immense excitement among students nationwide. Many participants view the competition as a rare opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to national development while gaining valuable knowledge and leadership experience.

Health professionals and stakeholders have warmly welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention capable of translating awareness into measurable community action and accelerating the nation’s progress toward a malaria-free future. Project coordinator Adams echoed these sentiments, highlighting that the competition is a transformative platform that goes far beyond conventional health campaigns.

“This is more than a malaria awareness initiative,” Adams said. “It is a life-saving mission that empowers students to become active participants in protecting their communities. By equipping young people with the right knowledge and tools, this competition is turning an entire generation from passive victims of a public health challenge into frontline champions of change.”

Adding his voice to the campaign, the Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited and primary sponsor of the competition, Mr. Emmanuel Umenwa, challenged Nigerian youth to seize the opportunity and become drivers of a new healthcare reality for the country. Speaking during an exclusive interview, Chief Umenwa emphasized that the future of Nigeria’s health sector rests heavily on the energy, creativity, and commitment of its young population.

“Young people represent the future of this nation, and they possess the power to permanently transform Nigeria’s healthcare narrative,” Chief Umenwa said. “This initiative is about enabling them to lead that transformation rather than inheriting the burden of preventable diseases.”

Chief Umenwa noted that while conventional, top-down approaches to malaria control have achieved significant gains, they are no longer sufficient to secure complete eradication.

“Unless we fully carry young people along in this fight, malaria elimination will remain a distant goal,” he warned. “The energy, digital literacy, innovation, and sheer population strength of Nigerian youth are the critical ingredients required to finally win this decades-long battle.”

He further described the competition as a strategic investment in the future of healthcare leadership and advocacy in Nigeria, adding that the initiative would contribute significantly to sustainable human capital development by inspiring participants to pursue lifelong commitments to health promotion and community service.

The partnership aligns seamlessly with the broader objectives of the Department of Public Health of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, which has continually emphasized the importance of community-driven strategies. In its official letter of partnership, the department noted that achieving long-term success against malaria requires moving beyond periodic interventions and embedding prevention efforts into everyday community life, particularly at the grassroots level.

To accomplish this vision, every registered participant will undergo specialized training and be empowered to serve as a certified "Malaria Ambassador." Through this process, students will acquire practical knowledge and advocacy skills that will enable them to:

Champion malaria prevention within their schools.

Promote healthy behaviors in their immediate communities.

Drive targeted awareness campaigns across local government areas.

Organizers believe that this grassroots approach will create a powerful nationwide network of youth advocates capable of translating the Zero Malaria vision into tangible results across every corner of the federation. Prince Iloabanafor stressed that the initiative comes at a critical moment, as the social and economic impact of malaria continues to place enormous pressure on healthcare systems nationwide.

Students, educational institutions, youth organizations, and stakeholders across the country are encouraged to take immediate advantage of what observers are calling one of Nigeria’s most innovative public health interventions.

Registration for the Geneith Health Competition is now officially open and can be completed online through the competition portal at **[www.geneithhealthcompetition.com](http://www.geneithhealthcompetition.com)**.

As momentum continues to build, the initiative is poised to become a defining national movement—one that empowers young Nigerians to lead the charge toward a future where malaria is no longer a threat, but a chapter permanently closed in the nation’s history.

Badagry LG Chairman Hunpe Hails Emergence of Damilola James as Deputy Governorship Candidate

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

 

Babatunde Hunpe and Damilola Sonayon-James 

LAGOS, NIGERIA — In a major political development shaping the future of Lagos State, the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, fMHR, has formally congratulated Hon. Damilola Sonayon James on her historic emergence as the All Progressives Congress (APC) Deputy Governorship candidate for the upcoming Lagos State Governorship election.

Sonayon James, the current APC Deputy State Woman Leader for Lagos State, is set to run alongside the party's standard-bearer, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.

Speaking on the historic development, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe described the selection of Sonayon James as a massive milestone that underscores the core values of the progressive movement in Lagos. He noted that her elevation is a clear testament to her years of quiet diligence and grassroots mobilization.

"This historic development is a fitting recognition of competence, loyalty, capacity, and years of unwavering commitment to the progressive ideals that have shaped the remarkable growth and development of Lagos State," Hunpe stated. "It is also a powerful affirmation of the increasing role of women in leadership and governance, demonstrating that leadership is not defined by geography or gender, but by character, competence, and the ability to serve."

For the people of the Badagry Division, the nomination carries an even deeper emotional and strategic weight, signaling a deliberate effort by the state’s political leadership to ensure peripheral border communities are given a seat at the highest decision-making table.

"For us in Badagry Federation, this moment carries profound significance. It is not merely the emergence of a candidate; it is the elevation of a worthy daughter of our land to a position from which she can contribute meaningfully to the governance and continued transformation of Lagos State," Hunpe added.

The local government chief extended his immense gratitude to national and state leaders who facilitated this inclusive transition. Chief among them is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whom Hunpe described as the foundational architect of the state's modern political framework.

"I wish to express profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the architect of modern Lagos and leader of our progressive family, whose enduring vision continues to shape a political culture that rewards merit, loyalty, inclusion, and service," said Hunpe.

He further commended the current Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, and the incoming flagbearer, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, for maintaining the developmental trajectory that has long made Lagos a model state in Nigeria.

The decision has sent waves of excitement through various party organs, including the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) and the state chapter of the APC under the chairmanship of Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi. According to Hunpe, the victory belongs to everyday party faithful who believe that hard work eventually paves the path to higher responsibility.

"Today is not only a victory for Hon. Damilola Sonayon James; it is a victory for women, a victory for grassroots politics, a victory for inclusion, and a victory for the enduring ideals of progressive governance," Hunpe remarked.

Concluding his message, the Council Chairman charged the sons and daughters of Badagry, both at home and across the diaspora, to rally firmly behind the joint ticket to ensure shared prosperity and broader development for the entire region.

Badagry’s Victor Aihawu Hosts Vibrant Africa Day 2026 Cultural Festival in United Kingdom

By: Manoah Kikekon

Careen Joseph, Victor Aihawu and Avoseh-Akwe Senami Oluwakemi 

MANCHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM — In a spectacular showcase of heritage, economic dialogue, and international collaboration, Badagry-born cultural and migration expert Mr. Victor Aihawu successfully hosted The Africa Day 2026 Cultural Hangout Festival in the heart of the United Kingdom.

The prestigious event, which took place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, transformed Manchester into a lively hub for African creative entrepreneurs, global policy speakers, and diaspora community stakeholders dedicated to promoting cross-border tourism and trade.

Hosted at the upscale Crowne Plaza Manchester City Centre, the summit served as an strategic sandbox for discussing how physical and digital cultural assets can accelerate destination promotion and fuel sustainable urban development.

As the Founder and CEO of the Cultural Hangout Festival, Victor Aihawu welcomed global delegates and delivered a compelling presentation detailing why preserving historical identity is a crucial economic engine for younger generations.

"We often celebrate culture through food, fashion, and entertainment, but culture is also a powerful tool for education, tourism, business, and community development."

Aihawu encouraged the audience to look beyond seeing local heritage purely as static symbols of the past. Instead, he urged stakeholders to brand these narratives as high-value resources capable of generating foreign direct investment and deepening diplomatic relations between African municipalities and the United Kingdom.

Mr. Victor Aihawu and Avoseh-Akwe Senami 

A major high point of the festival was an interactive panel debate featuring insights from public sector administrators working directly in West African tourism corridors.

Ms. Avoseh-Akwe Senami Oluwakemi, Council Manager representing Badagry Local Government of Lagos State, delivered a masterclass on how historic coastal towns can leverage ancestral memories for civic growth. Drawing extensively from Badagry’s landmark monuments and deep-rooted heritage, she demonstrated how local populations reap immediate economic rewards when historical sites are professionally conserved and globally marketed.

Careen Joseph, international tourism strategist, she analyzed open avenues for tourism exchanges. Her talk centered on how targeted cultural partnerships, reciprocal traveling exhibits, and collaborative art projects build resilient, long-term bridges between UK institutions and modern African creative communities.

A Tapestry of Rhythm and Business: Beyond high-level panel discussions, the festival grounds came alive with the sights and sounds of the continent. Attendees experienced traditional drumming performances, live instrumental sets, and an interactive open market where creative entrepreneurs showcased bespoke African fashion, arts, and culinary products.

The highly rated international event was delivered through critical corporate partnerships with leading youth development and real estate organizations, including CareersBar, Reftop Homes Ltd, and the Centre for Youths Integrated Development (CYID).

Suntan Beach Director Wheto Mesharck Debunks Viral Panic Reports, Reaffirms Visitor Safety

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — The management of Suntan Beach Resort, Badagry, has firmly debunked viral social media rumors alleging a severe security scare at the popular coastal destination. The Director of the resort, Pastor Wheto Mesharck, clarified that the incident in question was simply a successful execution of the facility’s standard gate-screening protocols, which posed absolutely no danger to tourists, beachgoers, or workers.

Reacting to the sensationalized narratives circulating on digital platforms, the director described the rumors as highly misleading fabrications capable of creating unfounded anxiety among residents, domestic tourists, and prospective international travelers planning excursions to Badagry.

According to administrative logs, the incident occurred during a mandatory security screening exercise at the resort's primary entrance gate, where all incoming patrons must undergo routine physical checks before gaining access to the beachfront.

A group of individuals arrived at the beach entrance, and upon a thorough inspection of their personal belongings, security personnel flagged and intercepted various weapons and local traditional protective items locally known as Igbadi and Ifunpa (charms) alongside pocket knives.

"As part of our security procedures, we do not permit guests to enter the beach with charms, dangerous objects or any prohibited items. During the routine checks, some of these items were discovered and immediately confiscated by our security personnel," Wheto said.

The director strongly emphasized that the checkpoint interception should never be misinterpreted as an attempted assault, a security breach, or an active threat to public safety. Instead, the incident stands as definitive proof that the holiday resort's preventative safety architecture is operating exactly as designed.

"To suggest that some people came to the beach to harm visitors or carry out any criminal activity is completely wrong. Our security team discovered the items during routine checks, collected them and prevented them from being taken into the facility. That is exactly what our security system is designed to do," Wheto said.

The director further disclosed that while a few of the affected individuals later returned to the security post to retrieve their confiscated personal belongings upon leaving the area, others simply abandoned them.

At no point during the screening process did the situation trigger public panic, stampedes, or structural disorder. Holidaymakers inside the resort enjoyed their beach activities without interruption throughout the day, and professional guards maintained absolute control.

"There was no panic at Suntan Beach. Visitors were safe, activities went on as usual and our security personnel handled the situation professionally. The incident only demonstrates that our security measures are working effectively," the director added.

Lagos Fishermen Cry Out for Support as LASWA Enforces Strict New Regulations

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — Lagos State waterway authorities have issued an urgent directive to artisanal fishermen operating across local inland waterways to adhere strictly to maritime safety protocols. However, coastal fishing community leaders argue that without targeted government subsidies and economic support, surviving the harsh economic climate and actively participating in Nigeria’s emerging blue economy will be nearly impossible.

The administrative clash came to the forefront during the 2026 Anniversary of the Badagry Fishermen Association, where representatives from the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) met with local stakeholders to outline compulsory operational rules.

To mitigate the recurrence of preventable boat mishaps, LASWA officials laid down rigid safety benchmarks that all fishing operators must meet. The core prerequisites include mandatory registration of all local watercraft, comprehensive vessel seaworthiness inspections, absolute compliance with regional navigation pathways, and strict protection of the marine environment.

Central to this enforcement drive is LASWA's unwavering safety stance on personal protective equipment. The agency confirmed that every fisherman and passenger on the inland waterways must wear a standard life jacket under a zero-tolerance policy. Furthermore, maritime operators were strongly cautioned against the practice of overloading wooden boats and were told to completely suspend fishing activities during severe weather disruptions, including heavy rainstorms, high winds, and periods of critically low visibility.

Speaking on behalf of LASWA General Manager Damilola Emmanuel, Samuel Olorunwa stressed that keeping the state's marine channels secure requires a collective effort from all user groups:

"Wear your life jacket, avoid overloading, respect weather warnings, maintain your boat, and keep the waterways clean. Safety on the waterways is everyone's responsibility."

In response to the tightened safety regulations, community leaders from the fishing sector explained that while they do not oppose safety measures, hyperinflation and a total lack of structured welfare programs are threatening the survival of their generational trade.

Sunday Aiyedogbon, the Chairman of the Athomengante Fishermen Association in Badagry, called out the lack of protective representation for grassroots workers within the state's agricultural and maritime ministries:

"The government knows what to do for us. If you don't have a fishermen representative in government, you may not have anyone to speak on your behalf. The net we used to buy for 400 is now 4,000. You expect me to go fishing and sell at a cheaper price; it is not done."

Beyond demanding financial intervention, Aiyedogbon urged federal and state security networks to formally recognize the critical role that local fishermen play in border security and intelligence gathering along the vast coastal stretches of Lagos.

"The fishermen are always on the waterways. They see things and can alert the security agencies. They see more and know more."

Elijah Samuel, the chairman of the planning committee for the 2026 anniversary of the Badagry Fishermen Association, echoed the call for direct material assistance, noting that fishermen want to comply but lack the tools. "We are educating our members on safety on the waters that will help improve our operations so we are not found wanting," Samuel noted while appealing to the state to distribute free life jackets, standard nets, and safer modern boats.

The Public Relations Officer of the Athomengante Fishermen Association, Amos Joseph, brought up another pressing issue, pointing to the reckless behavior of commercial ferry and speedboat pilots who use the same waterways.

"It is so disheartening that the boat drivers don't treat us as human. They drive recklessly, putting our lives in danger."

Joseph revealed that multiple artisanal fishermen have lost their lives or sustained permanent, debilitating injuries due to high-speed wakes and direct collisions caused by non-compliant commercial transport pilots.

As the regulatory clampdown intensifies, the Badagry fishing communities are pleading with the Lagos State Government to strike an intentional balance between rigid law enforcement and economic empowerment. They maintain that true growth in the blue economy can only be achieved when safety drives are backed by affordable gear and institutional protection for the citizens who feed the state.

History Made in Badagry as Olart-B Launches First-Ever 'Olat Baking Academy', Celebrates Birthday

 By: Manoah Kikekon

The mother, Abigeal Olaitan and the father 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — A historic record has been set for the vocational sector in Badagry as Oderinde Abigeal Olaitan, the visionary entrepreneur behind the renowned Olart-B Catering and Decorating Service, officially launched the Olart Baking Academy on Friday, June 5, 2026.

The grand opening of the institution was also the celebration of her birthday, the institution is the very first dedicated baking academy within the ancient coastal city of Badagry. The facility, strategically situated behind the Luna Hotel along Agric Road, drew an enthusiastic crowd of community leaders, industry peers, family members, and well-wishers who gathered to witness the unveiling of the state-of-the-art training hub.

The grand launch held a double significance for the founder, as the opening ceremony coincided with her birthday celebration. Addressing the audience during her welcome address, an emotional Oderinde Abigeal Olaitan described the launch as the manifestation of a long-held aspiration.

“Today is a very special day for me, not just because it is my birthday, but because it marks the beginning of a dream, a vision, and a journey I have carried in my heart for a long time. Seeing every one of you here to celebrate and support me means so much, and I do not take this love for granted.”

Olaitan expressed deep gratitude to her ecosystem of supporters, highlighting the communal backing that fueled her consistency:

“I sincerely appreciate everyone who has supported me in one way or another through encouragement, prayers, patronage, advice, and belief in my craft and vision. Your support has been one of the reasons I never gave up. Olart Baking Academy was born out of passion, creativity, and the desire to empower others with baking skills and opportunities for growth.”

Looking toward the future, the founder emphasized that the academy is built to serve as an empowerment center for the next generation of culinary entrepreneurs:

“My prayer is that this academy becomes a place where talents are discovered, dreams are built, and lives are transformed. To my family and friends, thank you for standing by me. To my esteemed clients, thank you for trusting my brand and always believing in my work... As we celebrate today, I pray that God blesses and rewards every one of you abundantly.”

The event featured goodwill messages from notable cross-sectoral leaders who praised Olaitan's transition from a modest roadside operation into an institutional business owner.

Ashade Abdulsalam, the CEO of Green Janitors Sustainable Initiative and former Olorunda Youth Council Coordinator, reflected on the early stages of Olaitan's career. He recalled the visible grit she displayed when starting out small by the side of the road.

Abdulsalam pointed out that her relentless hard work ultimately earned her the elite reputation she commands today. He noted that despite facing numerous personal and operational obstacles that made her journey deeply emotional, Olaitan remained completely determined to make a tangible societal impact. According to Abdulsalam, her journey of working across multiple establishments before setting up her own brand stands as an inspiring blueprint for local youths.

Adding her voice to the commendations, Alhaja Gidado Durojaye, the CEO of Halal Event, admonished the celebrant to remain anchored in gratitude and continuous self-improvement.

Gidado lauded Olaitan’s remarkable humility and steadfast consistency, traits that have defined her catering career. She observed that while many aspire to pull off such large-scale projects, not everyone lives to see their visions materialize, urging the founder to see the academy as a stepping stone to even greater exploits.

Mrs. Ife Zofun, CEO of Ife Catering and the sitting Ajara NAPCEP President, commended Olaitan’s structural resilience and strict dedication to her craft, describing her as a stellar example of a young woman who chose virtue over wayward paths.

Zofun remarked that thriving in the catering profession demands high-level creativity and exhaustive physical labor, stating plainly that lazy individuals cannot survive the industry's pressures. She concluded with an encouraging charge to the founder, reminding her that her ultimate destination is still ahead and advising her never to relax on her current laurels.

Following the formal ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests were invited to tour the facility, network, take pictures, and join in the festive reception hosted by the academy.