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The Edo State Police Command said it has arrested 37 suspects over alleged involvement in sexual and domestic abuse in the state.

The State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, disclosed this while addressing journalists on the command’s achievements in the month of September.

He said as part efforts to tackle the disturbing trend of sexual and gender-based violence, including domestic violence, 37 suspects allegedly involved in rape and domestic abuse were arrested.

He added that the suspects have been investigated and are being prosecuted in the court.

According to him, the Command also arrested suspects allegedly involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, murder, cultism, among others, in the State.

‘Seven suspected Kidnappers were arrested while two others were neutralised,’ he said.

He added that 48 kidnap victims were also rescued during various operations within the period under review.

He further disclosed that the Command successfully disrupted cult initiation in Benin City, Auchi and Ekpoma, leading to the arrest of 38 suspected cultists, including leaders of rival groups.

He explained that the command also reduced cult killings in Benin City within the period to zero percent.

Agbonika listed the items recovered within the period to include eight firearms, 56 live ammunition, and five expended cartridges.

Others included nine vehicles,

18 motorcycles, six car master keys, 10 University of Benin’s Car Security Access Cards, android and nine Apple phones, and two POS machines.

He said as part of its renewed operational strategy, the Command has intensified its focus on intelligence-led policing, proactive crime prevention, and most importantly, community-driven partnerships through flagship Community Safe partnership and Informal Policing Initiative.

He further noted that the command has built a network of support that has greatly enhanced its crime-fighting

capabilities in the State.

The pen has fallen silent and the microphone dimmed, yet the voice, courage and legacy of Comrade Aliyu Abubakar Getso will forever echo in the hearts of all who knew him.

Early on Sunday, October 5, 2025, the sad news of the passing of our veteran journalist, respected broadcaster and committed unionist, my boss and mentor, Comrade Getso, spread across Kano State. Radio stations, online platforms and the social media were flooded with tributes mourning the departure of a great communicator, translator and editor fondly known among younger journalists as ‘Baba Getso.’

Born in 1956 at Getso town, Gwarzo Local Government Area of Kano State, Aliyu hailed from the royal San-Getso family, the son of Malam Abubakar, Chiroman Getso (Sidi), the village head of Getso.

The late Comrade Aliyu Getso lived an exemplary life defined by dedication to duty, passion for truth and steadfast commitment to serving humanity through journalism.

Educational background and career

Alhaji Aliyu Getso began his early Qur’anic education at Getso town before he was enrolled at Gwarzo Boarding Primary School from 1962 to 1968. He proceeded to Government Boarding Secondary School, Dambatta, completing his studies there between 1969 and 1974.

He later attended the Federal School of Arts and Science, Mubi, Adamawa State from 1975 to 1977, and further enhanced his professional skills by undertaking a television broadcasting course in London, United Kingdom in 1981.

Getso joined the Kano State civil service from the Ministry of Information in 1977, where he served diligently until his retirement in 1999.

After his public service career, he continued to contribute to the media industry, working with several reputable radio organisations, including Freedom Radio, Vision FM and Premier Radio, Kano.

A former staff of the Kano State Ministry of Information, where he served as head of the broadcasting unit and producer of the popular programme ‘Jihar Kano A Yau,’ he distinguished himself as a disciplined, resourceful and principled public servant.

His illustrious career in the media industry spanned several decades and institutions, where he left an indelible mark. Renowned for his eloquence and mastery of both English and Hausa languages, he was celebrated as a translator, editor and broadcaster par excellence. His professionalism and creativity helped shape the standard of modern broadcasting in Kano and inspired a new generation of communicators.

Beyond journalism, Comrade A.A. Getso was a devoted unionist and advocate for workers’ rights. He served as secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Information Chapel from 1986 to 1988. He was also elected as secretary of the NUJ, Kano State Council from 1992 to 1996, and later as assistant secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Kano chapter, positions in which he demonstrated uncommon integrity, courage and a resolute commitment to justice.

On a personal note, I received the news of his passing with deep shock and sorrow. It was through Comrade Getso that I first found my footing in journalism back in 1990 after receiving appointment in the Kano State Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, History and Culture. Together with Malle Balarabe, he mentored me and my contemporaries, including Mustapha Namadi Ringim, Idris Zakariyau Zaura and others, teaching us how to write news reports, conduct interviews and produce radio scripts etc.

May Allah comfort his family, friends and colleagues and give us the strength to bear this irreparable loss.

Today marks the third day without you, Comrade – answering the call of our creator – embarking on a journey from which none returns.

Adieu, Comrade Aliyu Abubakar Getso, the people’s voice, the journalist’s journalist and the unionist with a heart of gold.

Kofar Na’isa is a retired information officer, Ministry of Information, Kano State and currently, the editor/publisher, The Stentor News online. He can be reached via sunusiknaisa@gmail.com

Hon. Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives has defended former Kogi State, Governor Yahaya Bello, asserting that he will emerge stronger from the ongoing money laundering allegations levelled against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Speaking yesterday outside the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, Abuja, Agbese stood in solidarity with Bello, describing the trial as a test of a patriot’s resilience rather than evidence of wrongdoing.

The lawmaker representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency described Bello as a leader of unblemished integrity.

‘Yahaya Bello is one Nigerian who cannot and will never steal a dime from the public purse,’ he declared emphatically.

‘I have known Yahaya for over two decades, and I can vouch for his character as a patriot, a nationalist, and a man wholly dedicated to the progress of his people.

‘This is not a trial of a corrupt politician; it is the trial of a patriot who left Lugard House [Kogi State Government House] poorer than he entered it, having poured his heart and resources into transforming Kogi State.’

Agbese emphasized the former governor’s selflessness and commitment to public service.

‘In my over 20 years of knowing Yahaya Bello, I have seen a man who consistently placed the welfare of his people above personal gain,’ he said.

‘When he assumed office in 2016, Kogi was grappling with infrastructural decay, insecurity, and economic stagnation.

‘Bello changed that narrative through bold reforms, youth empowerment programs, and massive investments in roads, healthcare, and education. He didn’t amass wealth for himself; instead, he left office with a leaner pocket but a richer legacy of service. Nigerians must recognize that what we are witnessing is a politically orchestrated attempt to tarnish the image of a man who dared to prioritize governance over personal enrichment.’

The lawmaker urged Nigerians to look beyond the EFCC’s allegations, which he described as ‘a smokescreen designed to distract from Bello’s transformative achievements.’

He highlighted Bello’s tenure as one marked by fiscal discipline and transparency. ‘Under Bello’s watch, Kogi State saw unprecedented development,’ Agbese noted.

‘From the construction of the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre to the establishment of the Kogi State University Teaching Hospital in Anyigba, Bello’s projects were tangible and people-centered. He introduced free education policies, empowered women and youths, and tackled insecurity head-on, making Kogi safer.

‘These are not the actions of a man who loots public funds. I am confident that when the dust settles, Yahaya Bello will walk out of this trial not just vindicated but stronger, with his reputation as a patriot intact.’

Agbese also called on Nigerians to critically evaluate the motives behind the EFCC’s pursuit.

‘This case is less about accountability and more about settling political scores,’ he asserted.

In Lagos State, the grassroots political climate appears gloomy as not less than five female politicians who won among the 114 female councilorship and 10 chairmanship candidates that participated in the local government election held on July 12 have died within two months after they were inaugurated by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on July 27.

The news of their deaths did not only send shockwaves across the state but raised concerns over their short stint in office, especially amidst the advocacy for the inclusion of women in politics. Weekend Trust writes on the circumstances behind their deaths.

Oluwakemi Rufai (ward C, Ibeju-Lekki)

It began when Oluwakemi Rufai, the councillor representing Ward C, died 17 days after her inauguration.

The councillor, who was the only woman among the new lawmakers, passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, August 13, following a brief illness.

The news of her death was confirmed by both the chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Sesan Olowa and the chairman of Lekki Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Rasaki Kasali.

Five days later, Zainab Shotayo, who served as the chief whip of Odiolowo-Ojuwoye LCDA, passed away 22 days after inauguration. She was the only female elected councillor in the council. She died on August 18, 2025 at age 29.

Princess Oluremi Nutayi Ajose, vice chairman, Badagry West LCDA

Princess Ajose was the daughter of His Royal Majesty, Oba Oyekan Possi Ajose, the Alapa of Apa Egun-Awori kingdom. She died 55 days after inauguration alongside the chairman of Badagry West LCDA, Rauf Ibrahim Kayode Yemaren, popularly known as Rikay.

Basirat Oluwakemi Mayabikan, councillor, Ward F, Shomolu

Basirat Oluwakemi Mayabikan, the councillor who represented Ward F, Shomolu, died 56 days after inauguration.

Also, Adebimpe Akintola, the manager of Coker Aguda LCDA and chairman of the Forum of Council Managers in Lagos State, died on Monday, September 29, 2025 after a brief illness.

The Forum of Council Managers confirmed her death in a statement released recently, expressing condolence.

‘With total submission to the will of Allah, we announce the passing of our chairman, Mrs Adebimpe Akintola on Monday, September 29, 2025. She served as the council manager of Coker/Aguda LCDA until her death,’ the statement reads.

Her death sent shockwaves across the state, plunging members of staff of Coker Aguda LCDA and the community of council managers into grief.

Council managers serve as administrative heads and accounting officers for the 20 local governments and 37 LCDAs across the state, a role also referred to as Head of Administration (HoA).

Since the demise of the above council officials, there have been different insinuations from various quarters about the cause of their deaths.

Weekend Trust reports that the election period was marred with internal wrangling in the ruling party, with the leadership being accused of imposition. There were several before the elections.

Nothing strange – Sources

Sources within the All Progressives Congress (APC) who spoke with our correspondent on the unfortunate development said there was nothing strange about their deaths other than natural occurrences.

It was learnt that most of them were ill during the election while their sickness was compounded by election stress.

One APC member who spoke with our correspondent said investigations indicated that most of the officials died of natural ???.

The party official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity said, ‘I can tell you that there is nothing strange in what happened. For instance, I was in Badagry two weeks ago after the death of the vice chairman. The woman was on treatment before the election; she even travelled out of the country before the election.

‘I can recall that during the swearing-in, the woman was visibly sick, coupled with election stress. I am sure it was due to the stress of the election. I will not say it is a curse, it is just a natural circumstance.’

It is a sad reality – APC

The spokesman of the Lagos State chapter of the APC, Seye Oladejo, described the deaths as a sad reality, saying it is unfortunate.

‘It is so sad that they (the elected officials) all happened to be female. It is just a sad occurrence. I have been busy urging people not to read unnecessary meaning to it. People should not read anything more than that.

‘The report we had was that they fell ill after the election. The intensity of the election itself was also a factor. Some people have been around for so long; some good veteran politicians take a break to go and recover.

‘Other than that, it is a very sad coincidence and reoccurrence. There was nothing more to it. It is just unfortunate. It was a personal pressure. When you are at a certain age, it is always in everybody’s interest to take personal interest in your health,’ he said.

He added that the vacant offices would not be left void, disclosing that the state executives would not intervene in grassroots politics.

‘Every politics is local; and all of them were councillors. I think it is the immediate constituency and their leadership that will determine what would happen. The headquarters of the party will not take decisions that are not appropriate,’ he said.

He stressed that the Lagos State Electoral Commission (LASIEC) would figure out the process of a rerun.

‘I don’t know if the LASIEC has made any announcement, but it is just a matter of time and they will fill those vacancies,’ he said.

One of the residents of the affected constituencies, Tunde Ajayi, called on the Lagos State Ministry of Health to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the causes of these deaths.

He said the ministry should prioritise the health of elected officers: ‘The health of our elected officials, particularly young women who are stepping into leadership roles, must be prioritised to ensure that such tragedies are prevented in the future.

‘I call on the ministry to provide clear recommendations and implement measures to safeguard the wellbeing of all public servants, including regular health screenings and support systems tailored to the demands of their roles.

‘The loss of Rufai and Shotayo is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the need to protect those who dedicate themselves to serving our communities. I extend my deepest condolence to their families, friends and constituents and pledge to honour their legacies by advocating a healthier and safer environment for all public officials.

‘The public should demand accountability and action from the Ministry of Health to address this pressing issue,’ he said.

LASIEC prepares for rerun

After two councilors first passed away, the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission met political parties to intimate them on preparation for by-elections.

Commending the stakeholders for continuous support and collaboration, the chairman of the LASIEC, Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile (retd), said the commission would not take the yet-to-be-fixed by-elections for granted nor leave any stone unturned.

Okikiolu-Ighile, who was represented by a LASIEC electoral commissioner, Mr Samson Ajibade, said the commission was poised to accomplish its mandate of conducting free, fair and credible elections.

She said the commission received with profound shock and sadness, the news of the untimely passing of the councilors, which she noted ‘created vacancies that must, in line with LASIEC laws and democratic principles, be duly filled.’

‘Democracy thrives on representation, so the people of the affected wards deserve the opportunity to once again elect their representatives.

‘The LASIEC, in the discharge of its constitutional mandate, has set in motion the processes that will culminate in credible, free and fair by-elections.

‘We are committed to ensuring that the will of the people in the affected wards is reflected through transparent processes that guarantee inclusiveness, accountability and legitimacy,’ Okikiola noted.

As at the time of filing this report, no date had been fixed for the by-elections, while family members and members of the ruling party are still grieving over the loss of the five elected council officials.

The Flying Eagles’ 2023 U-20 World Cup campaign was one of courageous defiance undone by heartbreaking margins. Despite a display of grit and gallantry, their journey in Chile ended as it so often has: in defeat against archrivals, Argentina.

The journey began against Norway, a match that would set the tone for a tournament of missed chances. For all their dominance – the neat one-touch football, the high pressing, and the ceaseless energy – fortune refused to smile on them.

Barely 9 minutes into the contest, the referee awarded Norway a contentious penalty, which they duly converted. From then on, it was a siege. Nigeria attacked with ferocity and flair, but the ball would not go in.

In the 47th minute, Kparobo Arierhi fired a thunderous left-footed shot inside the box – the goalkeeper beaten – but the ball drifted agonisingly wide. Tahir Maigana came even closer in the 63rd, his curling effort smacking the upright. Two legitimate penalty appeals were waved away, and when Nasiru Salihu’s rising shot beat the keeper only to kiss the crossbar, it felt as though fate itself was conspiring.

Seven minutes from time, Maigana again tried from distance, narrowly missing. Despite waves of Nigerian pressure, Norway held on. The Eagles had fallen 0-1 – a cruel result for a team that had done almost everything right except score.

The second group match brought a different energy – defiance blended with urgency. Against Saudi Arabia, Nigeria played with a controlled ferocity that reminded the watching world of their pedigree.

In the 10th minute, Nasiru Salihu opened the scoring with a tidy finish. But the joy was short-lived; the Saudis equalised in the 21st minute through Amar Alyuhaybi. Still, Nigeria kept faith in their rhythm. Amos Ochoche restored the lead just before halftime and the Eagles went into the break flying high

Six minutes after the restart, the Saudis drew level again through Talal Haji, setting up a tense finale. But deep into stoppage time, Captain Daniel Bameyi stepped up to bury a dramatic penalty – sealing a 3-2 victory and breathing life into Nigeria’s campaign. With three points secured, the path to the Round of 16 had brightened.

Their final group game against Colombia was a test of composure. It began cagily but soon opened into an entertaining end-to-end affair. Nigeria hit the woodwork twice, with Maigana and Arierhi tormenting the South American defence.

Colombia drew first blood in the 51st minute through Kener González, but Nigeria refused to panic. They rallied, pressing high and forcing errors. In the 86th minute, a Maigana shot was handled in the box, and once again, Captain Bameyi rose to the occasion, calmly slotting home the penalty for a 1-1 draw.

The result sent Nigeria through to the Round of 16, where destiny served a familiar foe – Argentina, the six-time champions who had tormented Nigeria at youth level for decades.

Under the bright lights of the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos, the Flying Eagles’ campaign met its fiercest test. From the opening whistle, Argentina imposed themselves.

Only two minutes in, Alejo Sarco silenced Nigerian hopes with a clinical finish. In the 23rd minute, Maher Carrizo curled in a spectacular free kick after a foul on Salihu, doubling the lead and destabilising Nigeria’s rhythm.

The Eagles rallied bravely, with Oseer Achihi troubling Argentina’s defence from the flanks, but their efforts met a wall of blue resistance. A strong penalty appeal – following a rough challenge by Ramirez on Salihu – was dismissed.

Just before halftime, Daniel Daga’s close-range effort forced a stunning save from the Argentine goalkeeper, Santino Barbi, ensuring the halftime score remained 2-0. The second half brought no mercy: Carrizo added a third in the 53rd minute, and substitute Matheus Silvetti completed the rout in the 66th.

The 4-0 defeat was harsh but decisive. Nigeria’s flight had ended. Their dream of U-20 glory was over.

The story of Nigeria’s U-20 team is one of glory, heartbreak and resilience: a tale told over four decades.

The dawn of flight (1983-1985)

It all began in 1983 when Nigeria made its maiden appearance at the FIFA U-20 World Cup. It was a bold new venture for African football – a young team stepping into the unknown. Though they did not go far, the foundation was laid

Two years later, the Flying Eagles stunned the world, finishing third in 1985 – Africa’s first major youth podium finish on the global stage. The world took notice: Nigeria was not just participating anymore; they were competing.

The miracle of Dammam (1989)

Then came the 1989 World Cup in Saudi Arabia, the stage for one of the greatest comebacks in football history. In the quarter-finals, Nigeria trailed 4-0 to the Soviet Union after 46 minutes. What followed was pure magic.

With indomitable belief, the Flying Eagles clawed back to 4-4, forcing penalties, and won. It became immortalised as ‘The Miracle of Dammam.’ Nigeria advanced to the final, losing 2-0 to Portugal, but history had been made: they were the first African team to reach a U-20 World Cup final. The world would never underestimate Nigeria again.

The 2005 resurgence: When Mikel met Messi

Fast-forward to 2005, and a new generation of Eagles had taken flight. This was the era of John Obi Mikel, Taye Taiwo and others – a side rich in flair and discipline.

The tournament, held in the Netherlands, saw Nigeria meet Argentina, led by a teenage Lionel Messi, in the final. The Flying Eagles dazzled the world en route, but Messi’s two penalties handed Argentina a 2-1 victory.]

It was Nigeria’s second silver medal at the U-20 World Cup – proof of enduring excellence and a testament to the team’s global reputation for producing stars.

The rollercoaster years (2007-2015)

The following decade brought alternating waves of promise and frustration. In 2007, the Eagles reached the quarter-finals, while in 2009, they exited in the Round of 16.

A strong campaign in 2011 restored some shine, with players like Olarenwaju Kayode and Uche Nwofor lighting up the tournament. But by 2013 and 2015, the magic dimmed. Nigeria’s youth sides still brimmed with raw talent, but the global competition had caught up.

The lost years and the rebuild (2017-2023)

Post-2015, the Eagles faced turbulence. They failed to qualify for the 2017 World Cup, a rare blot in their storied history. 2019 brought a Round of 16 exit, while 2023 ended in the quarter-finals – respectable, yet short of their old dominance.

By 2025, Nigeria had appeared in 13 editions of the U-20 World Cup, winning two silvers (1989, 2005) and a bronze (1985) – achievements that rank them among the most successful youth sides in world football.

Masters of Africa

If their global story is one of near-glory, their continental record reads like empire. On African soil, the Flying Eagles have reigned supreme. Between 1983 and 2015, they won seven U-20 African titles – 1983, 1985, 1987, 1989, 2005, 2011 and 2015 – more than any other country.

They were also runners-up twice (1999, 2007) and frequent semi-finalists, dominating the African scene for over three decades. Yet, since 2015, cracks have appeared: missed qualifications in 2017, a fourth-place finish in 2019, and third in 2023 hint at a fading dominance that cries out for renewal.

been made: they were the first African team to reach a U-20 World Cup final. The world would never underestimate Nigeria again.

The 2005 resurgence: When Mikel met Messi

Fast-forward to 2005, and a new generation of Eagles had taken flight. This was the era of John Obi Mikel, Taye Taiwo and others – a side rich in flair and discipline.

The tournament, held in the Netherlands, saw Nigeria meet Argentina, led by a teenage Lionel Messi, in the final. The Flying Eagles dazzled the world en route, but Messi’s two penalties handed Argentina a 2-1 victory.]

It was Nigeria’s second silver medal at the U-20 World Cup – proof of enduring excellence and a testament to the team’s global reputation for producing stars.

The rollercoaster years (2007-2015)

The following decade brought alternating waves of promise and frustration. In 2007, the Eagles reached the quarter-finals, while in 2009, they exited in the Round of 16.

A strong campaign in 2011 restored some shine, with players like Olarenwaju Kayode and Uche Nwofor lighting up the tournament. But by 2013 and 2015, the magic dimmed. Nigeria’s youth sides still brimmed with raw talent, but the global competition had caught up.

The lost years and the rebuild (2017-2023)

Post-2015, the Eagles faced turbulence. They failed to qualify for the 2017 World Cup, a rare blot in their storied history. 2019 brought a Round of 16 exit, while 2023 ended in the quarter-finals – respectable, yet short of their old dominance.

By 2025, Nigeria had appeared in 13 editions of the U-20 World Cup, winning two silvers (1989, 2005) and a bronze (1985) – achievements that rank them among the most successful youth sides in world football.

Masters of Africa

If their global story is one of near-glory, their continental record reads like empire. On African soil, the Flying Eagles have reigned supreme. Between 1983 and 2015, they won seven U-20 African titles – 1983, 1985, 1987, 1989, 2005, 2011 and 2015 – more than any other country.

They were also runners-up twice (1999, 2007) and frequent semi-finalists, dominating the African scene for over three decades. Yet, since 2015, cracks have appeared: missed qualifications in 2017, a fourth-place finish in 2019, and third in 2023 hint at a fading dominance that cries out for renewal.

Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, has criticised some members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) abandoning the party for the All Progressives Congress (APC), labeling their action as cowardly.

Speaking at the inauguration of the media sub-committee of the National Convention Organising Committee (NCOC), Mohammed said staying back to fight is what makes a man.

The PDP has been embroiled in crisis since the conduct of the presidential primaries for the 2023 general elections, which produced former Vice President Atiku Abubakar against the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

The party’s crises have been compounded by the defection of some governors, including those of Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno.

Reports have also emerged that the Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, will on Tuesday declare for the APC, with some speculating that the Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, may follow suit.

However, addressing members of the media sub-committee and other stakeholders, the Bauchi Governor expressed confidence in the forthcoming convention and the PDP’s strength, saying no dark force could succeed against the party.

He said, ‘By the grace of God, no Jupiter will stop us. No dark forces will succeed over us. The dark forces – if they succeed over PDP, they have succeeded over Nigeria.’

He emphasised that the PDP is ready to change the country’s leadership style, adding that the party has the requisite machinery to conduct a successful convention.

‘We have to change governance style of this country, and this is the beginning. This is the time to do it. We have never suffered as a country as we are suffering today under the APC. You have seen what is happening. We don’t have to go into deep melancholy and be crying as whipping boys or girls.

‘We thank the convention committee for giving us the opportunity to do that.

‘We are going to constitute sub-committees that will go into swift interaction, so that we will start informing Nigerians about what we are doing – what the convention committee is doing. We will work with all the committees or sub-committees of the convention because we are interconnected with all of them.

‘They make up this system, and that is what we are here to do. We have the experience. We have been doing conventions. When I was FCT Minister, we conducted conventions with most of you. Mike Omeri is here. So, it is not rocket science. We are going to do it by the grace of God. And seeing the human capital here, I know our task is made easy because you can deliver.’

Speaking on the defections in the party, the Governor tasked party members not to be deterred, stressing that it’s an act of cowardice to leave the party because of one or few individuals.

‘We are confident. Please, be emboldened. Don’t be disturbed by the defections, by the shenanigans, by all those doubting Thomases. Don’t be disturbed. You should be encouraged because staying back to fight is what makes a man or a woman. It’s an act of cowardice to leave because of one or two people. You are also men and women of strength and integrity. We thank you most sincerely for coming on short notice to attend this inauguration meeting.’ he said.

When asked specifically about reports of Governor Mbah’s potential defection, Mohammed said, ‘Governor Mbah has not told me he is is leaving the PDP.’

Real life is indeed crazier than fiction. One Friday, a middle-aged man with a face etched with the maps of a nomadic life and confusion so profound that it seemed to alter the very air around him, came to the hospital looking for answers. He was in a quagmire and wondered if his enemies had finally caught up with him. His story arrived not in a linear narrative but fractured pieces like shards of a broken pot he was desperately trying to glue back together.

Twenty-three years ago, in the bustling, anonymous ghetto of Lagos, he had entered a Muta’a marriage. For my non-Muslim readers, this is a temporary, time-bound marriage contract permissible in the Shia Islamic tradition. It is a union with a predetermined expiration date. His lasted six months and he moved on; a Fulani man tracing the familiar paths of his heritage, eventually putting down roots in Zaria, where he built a life with two wives and seven children.

The woman from Lagos became a ghost, a faint memory until a rumour, whispered years ago, resurfaced with a vengeance. She had claimed to be pregnant when they parted. He had never seen a child, never received a message. The rumour faded until a few days ago when the ghost materialised at his doorstep.

There she was, his ex-wife, accompanied by a 21-year-old woman she presented as his daughter. The reason for this sudden apparition after two decades? The young woman was due for marriage and her suitor required family consent. The foundation of his settled life in Zaria trembled. He knew seven children and two wives he provided for; was there an eighth? A stranger who shared his blood?

His request was simple, yet it carried the weight of a lifetime: ‘Doctor, I want to know if she is truly my own?’

I was as clueless and confused as the day I heard about the forged certificate scandal of a certain minister. To be quite honest, I am still dazed. Was he not cleared by the State Security Service (SSS)? If the SSS is not doing their job correctly, then who the hell is? A whole science and technology? Not minister of tourism (no offence), not humanitarian o! Science, technology and innovation that should be the backbone of our country; that is the one we are doing wuruwuru with. That is what we are playing politics with.

Like someone said: ‘If they explain Nigeria to you and you understand, then you are part of the problem.’

Wallahi, I don’t understand. Just as I don’t understand how you can enter into a ‘temporary marriage’ with a woman. What about the Islamic ‘Iddah’ period? Is that not what it is meant for?

Anyway, let me mind my business. I quickly put a few calls to my colleagues in the lab in order to find a reputable lab where paternity screening is done. And that is where another wahala started. His journey for a simple paternity test became a detective story, exposing a landscape rife with fraud and scientific deception.

He was referred to a laboratory that proudly advertised, ‘DNA Paternity Testing.’ But a closer look revealed the scam. What they were offering was not DNA analysis but basic blood group matching. The principle is rudimentary: If the child’s blood group is one that couldn’t possibly result from the combination of the alleged parents,’ then paternity can be excluded. But if it is possible, it means nothing; absolutely nothing.

Let me be clear: Blood group compatibility is a rough, archaic suggestion, not proof. It is like identifying a criminal because he was seen in the same city as the crime; it excludes the innocent in only a few specific scenarios but never confirms the guilty. The chance of accurately confirming paternity this way is nowhere near 50 per cent.

These laboratories are peddling false certainty, cashing in on the desperation of men and women in the midst of identity crises, charging them for a result that is, at best, an educated guess, and at worst, a life-altering lie.

True DNA paternity testing is the gold standard. It compares specific genetic markers between the alleged father, mother and child. The accuracy is 99.9 per cent for exclusion and inclusion. But it is expensive. And in northern Nigeria, it is scarce. Samples often have to be carefully collected and shipped to Abuja or Lagos, a process that requires a chain of custody as meticulous as a police evidence log. This logistical and financial hurdle is what creates the vacuum that these fraudulent labs so eagerly fill.

As I guided this man towards a legitimate testing centre, my mind kept returning to the Muta’a marriage at the heart of this drama. To many, it is a religious provision, but to others, a controversial practice. But in this man’s story, it was the genesis of a profound human dilemma – a union with a built-in end date, potentially creating a lifelong, unbreakable bond in the form of a child. It highlights the immense responsibility that accompanies any union, temporary or permanent, and the long shadows it can cast.

What about the young woman in question who is at the centre of this storm? What must she be feeling? Her entire identity, the name she carries, the lineage she claims, hangs on the result of this test. She is a potential daughter in search of a father; her future marriage suspended in the limbo of a biological truth. This is more than a paternity test; it is a quest for self.

For the confused father who came, the question is equally existential. To accept a new daughter is to recalibrate his entire life’s narrative, his financial obligations and emotional landscape. To reject her is to live with the ghost of a child that could have been his.

We live in an age where science can offer us the ultimate clarity on questions of lineage that would have haunted generations past. But when that science is gate-kept by cost and corrupted by fraud, we fail people at their most vulnerable state.

Why must we always exploit the vulnerable? How can you claim to be doing DNA paternity testing and yet churn out half-baked result based on probability? An answer that could change and destroy lives and future generations to come? Is nothing sacrosanct in this country?

His samples are on their way to a proper lab now. Soon, a machine will spell out a truth that will change lives irrevocably. I pray that whatever the result, he, his potential daughter and the family he has built in Zaria, find the grace to navigate the aftermath.