Senator Adams Oshiomhole has called on the Federal Government to take strong economic action against South African companies operating in Nigeria following renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa. Speaking during plenary, the lawmaker representing Edo North urged authorities to revoke the licences of MTN Nigeria and DStv, both of which are South African-owned. He also encouraged Nigerian investors to step in and fill any resulting gaps. Oshiomhole argued that Nigeria must move beyond diplomatic protests and adopt a more assertive, reciprocal approach. “We didn’t come here to shed tears or sympathise alone. If you hit me, I’ll hit you. This is an economic struggle,” he said. According to him, companies like MTN and DStv generate significant revenue from Nigeria, and decisive action against them would send a strong message to South Africa. The former Edo State governor also emphasized that Nigerians living in South Africa are hardworking contributors to the economy, not dependents. “They are not there on holiday. They are there to work and earn,” he noted, adding that firm retaliation could compel South African authorities to better protect Nigerians. Oshiomhole linked the recent surge in xenophobic violence to internal political tensions in South Africa, where anti-immigrant sentiments have increasingly influenced public attitudes. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has condemned the attacks, warning that the safety of Nigerians abroad must not be taken lightly. Lawmakers called for stronger diplomatic engagement and concrete measures to safeguard citizens. Also contributing to the debate, Senator Victor Umeh described the situation as alarming, stating that many Nigerians in South Africa now live in fear and face restrictions on their movement. He further urged the African Union to intervene, suggesting that sanctions could be considered if the attacks persist. Umeh stressed that the recurring violence should no longer be treated as isolated incidents.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has strongly opposed a recent judgment by a Federal Capital Territory High Court, which awarded ₦100 million in damages to officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) in a defamation case. The ruling, delivered by Justice Yusuf Halilu, also directed SERAP to issue a public apology, pay ₦1 million in legal costs, and a 10 percent annual interest on the damages until the full amount is settled. Background of the Case The lawsuit was initiated by two DSS officials, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele, following statements released by SERAP in September 2024. In those statements, the organization alleged that DSS operatives unlawfully entered its Abuja office. The incident reportedly occurred after SERAP called on the federal government to investigate issues involving the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited and to reverse fuel price increases. SERAP Reacts In response to the judgment, SERAP described the decision as “unacceptable” and a significant setback for civil liberties in Nigeria. The organization argued that the ruling reflects a growing trend of using defamation laws to silence criticism and weaken accountability. According to SERAP, the case represents what is known as a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP), which is often used to intimidate civil society groups and discourage advocacy. Plans to Appeal SERAP has confirmed that it will challenge the judgment at the appellate court. The organization maintains that its actions were lawful and carried out in the public interest, particularly in promoting transparency and fighting corruption. Wider Implications SERAP warned that the ruling could have a chilling effect on freedom of expression and civic engagement in Nigeria. It emphasized that such decisions may discourage individuals and organizations from speaking out on issues of public concern. As the case moves to the appellate level, it is expected to spark further debate on the balance between protecting reputations and safeguarding free speech in Nigeria.

Social media has been buzzing with mixed reactions following allegations involving Ogbonna Kanu, husband of Nigerian influencer, Laura Ikeji. According to unverified reports circulating online, Ogbonna was allegedly involved in a relationship with a 23-year-old woman who reportedly believed he was single. The claims suggest that the relationship lasted for several months before she discovered his marital status through a third party. Further reports allege that after being confronted, he made certain promises before eventually cutting off communication. Additional controversial details have continued to surface online, although none have been officially confirmed. The allegations have sparked widespread reactions among Nigerians, with many expressing sympathy for Laura Ikeji, while others remain skeptical about the authenticity of the story. Some social media users questioned the credibility of the claims, suggesting it could be a case of blackmail, while others criticized the alleged actions and expressed concern over the situation. Others, however, pointed out that Ogbonna maintains an active social media presence where he occasionally shares photos of his wife and children, raising doubts about claims that the alleged partner was unaware of his marital status. As the story continues to unfold, many observers have urged caution, emphasizing the need to verify information before drawing conclusions.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Comrade Adetunji Adene, has been attacked by suspected thugs at his residence. According to reports, the incident occurred shortly after Adene returned from an official assignment in Akure. A group of about 20 armed men reportedly stormed his home with the intention of causing harm. The situation, however, took a turn when family members and neighbours raised an alarm, forcing the attackers to flee before carrying out their mission. Despite their escape, Adene sustained serious injuries during the attack and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre in Owo, where he is currently receiving treatment. Reacting to the incident, the Ondo State NULGE Chairman, Comrade Fredrick Akinrinlola, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a direct assault not only on the victim but also on the union and the entire local government system. He further expressed concern over what he described as a growing trend of violence targeting union leaders and workers in Owo Local Government Area. Speaking on the development, Akinrinlola said: “We condemn in strong terms the barbaric attack on our Owo Branch Chairman, Comrade Adetunji Adene. This is not just an attack on an individual, but a threat to the foundation of our local government system.” The incident has raised fresh concerns about the safety of public officials and union leaders in the area.