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The hip-hop mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs was sentenced to more than four years in prison on Friday for his conviction on prostitution-related charges.

Prosecutors had sought 11 years behind bars for Combs but Judge Arun Subramanian handed down a 50-month sentence after an emotional daylong court hearing.

Combs’s lawyers had urged the judge to sentence the 55-year-old hip-hop star to 14 months, which would effectively have been time served since he has been incarcerated in Brooklyn for more than a year.

Addressing the court before the judge handed down the sentence, Combs said he was ‘truly sorry’ for his actions and asked the judge for ‘another chance.’

‘I ask your honour for mercy,’ he said. ‘I beg your honour for mercy.’

Diddy Combs was acquitted by a jury in July of the most serious charges against him – sex trafficking and racketeering – but convicted of two counts of transporting people across state lines for prostitution.

Combs’s former girlfriend Casandra Ventura submitted a letter to the judge asking him to consider ‘the many lives that Sean Combs has upended with his abuse and control.’

Ventura, the 39-year-old singer known as Cassie, described in wrenching detail the physical, emotional and sexual abuse she suffered while in a more than decade-long relationship with Combs.

Ventura and another woman, identified as Jane, said they were coerced into performing so-called ‘freak offs’: sexual marathons with hired men that Combs directed and sometimes filmed.

‘The entire courtroom watched actual footage of Combs kicking and beating me as I tried to run away from a freak off in 2016,’ Ventura wrote.

She said she has nightmares and flashbacks ‘on a regular, everyday basis.’

Ventura said she and her family had left the New York area for fear of ‘retribution’ from Combs if he is released.

Speaking before the sentencing, prosecutor Christy Slavik said Combs has not accepted responsibility for his actions.

‘His remorse was qualified. It’s as though he thinks the law doesn’t apply to him,’ Slavik said.

Slavik said Combs had booked speaking engagements in Miami next week in anticipation of a light sentence, which she called ‘the height of hubris.’

Arguing for a lesser sentence, Nicole Westmoreland, one of Combs’s lawyers, called him an ‘inspiration’ to the Black community and a social justice crusader.

‘No, Combs is not larger than life,’ she said. ‘He’s just a human being. He’s made mistakes.’

But he is remorseful and ‘it’s of no benefit to anyone to warehouse him in a prison.’

Combs’s six adult children each delivered an emotional plea on their father’s behalf, with the eldest Quincy Brown calling him ‘a changed man.’

‘Please, please give our family the chance to heal together,’ said one of his daughters, D’Lila Combs. ‘Not as headlines but as human beings.’

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN’s) decision to clear over $7 billion unsettled FX backlogs raised investors’ confidence in the economy, supporting dollar inflows and foreign reserves accretion, the CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso has announced.

He spoke yesterday at the Inaugural Lagos Business School Lecture Theme: ‘Next Generation Leadership in Monetary Policy and Nation Building’ held in Lagos.

The CBN boss said although he had no idea where the funds for the backlog clearance would come from when he assumed office, he believed it was the right thing to do, and gave investors his word.

He said: ‘Credibility is at the heart of any central bank. If you don’t have credibility, people do not trust you and they do not invest in your economy. When I took office, I made a promise we would pay the backlog, the verifiable backlog of monies that were owed by Nigeria to third parties.’

‘And it was, at the time, estimated at over $7 billion US dollars. And to be honest with you, I had no idea how I was going to do it, but I just felt it was not something to be negotiated.’

Cardoso explained that Nigeria needed to ensure that its integrity is maintained.

He said the apex bank started with a forensic audit to understand the issues better and based on the recommendations, the backlog of foreign exchange transactions was paid, which was a huge sacrifice.

He explained that as a going concern, the CBN knows that if it expected people to continue to trust and invest in our economy, you’ve got to keep your promises.

‘I have no idea in my mind either that that particular action contributed in no small way, and it may not appear to many as such, but it contributed in no small way to the rise in foreign exchange reserves that we have been able to acknowledge,’ he stated.

Cardoso said the increased forex liquidity has supported naira stability and made it easier for many commercial banks to approve use of their naira-debit cards abroad.

He said the use of naira-debit cards abroad is definitely a step in the right direction. It’s transformative. It is here to stay, and you can be sure that going forward, you will continue to see this kind of initiative in the country.

He said ‘the event marks the first edition of the Central Bank of Nigeria Governor’s Lecture, part of our new Knowledge Acceleration and Thought Leadership Series.

‘This platform is a deliberate effort to bridge policy and practice, and to nurture a culture of informed, values-driven leadership. It is also the first of what we hope will become a series of engagements with institutions of higher learning across Nigeria,’ he said.

Cardoso disclosed that when he assumed office as Governor in 2023, Nigeria’s economy faced formidable headwinds.

‘Inflation was spiraling, external reserves were strained, investor confidence was shaken, and nearly every macroeconomic indicator was under pressure.

It was a moment that demanded not just technical skill, but leadership rooted in courage, credibility, and accountability. We had to act decisively,’ he said.

To rein in inflation, the CBN tightened policy aggressively, raising rates by more than 800 basis points and strengthening liquidity management.

‘We restored orthodoxy by halting central bank financing of government beyond statutory limits and re-anchoring monetary policy on its core mandate. On foreign exchange, we introduced a willing-buyer, willing-seller framework, unified exchange rate windows, and cleared the backlog of verifiable FX commitments, restoring market confidence,’ he said.

‘We strengthened reserves, now standing above $42 billion, and created new channels for diaspora remittances and investments, including the Non-Resident BVN platform, which allows Nigerians abroad to open accounts seamlessly from anywhere in the world,’ he said.

Continuing, he said the real task is to ensure that these hard-won gains translate into durable prosperity, especially for the next generation. And this is where leadership becomes critical.

‘That said, we cannot also ignore the reality that life remains hard for many Nigerians, nor deny that leadership has sometimes fallen short. Yet reputation matters. When it falters, confidence weakens and opportunities narrow, but when it is rebuilt, confidence returns, capital flows, and stability takes root.

‘I have seen this at the Central Bank, where restoring credibility has opened new possibilities. And it is you, the next generation of Nigerians, who will carry this reputation forward, shaping how our nation is seen, and showing the world a nation that is resilient, creative, and determined to rise,’ he stated.

A Nigeria tech firm, MOL Tech Accessories and Afro-beat singer/songwriter, Simi, have signed a 5-year collaboration deal.

As a starter, both parties will be launching MOM x SYMS, a collaboration that blends technology, lifestyle, and culture in fresh and innovative ways.

MOL and Simi have begun work on the collection, which they will unveil in the coming months. While details remain under wraps, the partners promise products and experiences designed to excite young Nigerians and global audiences.

Speaking during the signing of the deal in Lagos recently, Simi described the partnership as a natural extension of shared creativity and vision. ‘Working with MOL has been inspiring. We are building something special that reflects quality, accessibility, and creativity. Fans should be ready for products and experiences they can truly connect with,’ she added.

On his part, CEO of MOL Tech Accessories, Sanmi Oladunni, emphasised the broader significance of the collaboration, saying, ‘Many people have lost trust in local brands, and we want to change that. Partnering with Simi brings passion, credibility, and imagination. Together, we want to prove that Nigerian brands can deliver excellence and inspire confidence.’

Since launching over 2 years ago, MOL has expanded operations to 27 states across Nigeria. The company has established a reputation for producing high-quality chargers, cables, power banks, earphones, and headsets, backed by an 18-stage quality assurance process that ensures every product meets international standards. This commitment to quality and innovation has already earned MOL several industry recognitions, further cementing its position as one of the country’s fastest-growing tech companies.

Associate Pastor of The Fountain of Life Church, Toluwani Odukoya, has shared the journey of separation from the husband, a period she said significantly shaped her life.

In a recent interview with Truthtable, Toluwani revealed that she is separated due to circumstances beyond her control, describing the experience as akin to a death.

The 40-year-old emphasised that separation doesn’t necessarily imply failure or fault on either side.

‘I’ll say I’m separated. Most of you don’t know I’m separated and that’s actually defined or has shaped my life. It was circumstances beyond my control,’ she said.

She praised her ex-husband, calling him a ‘great man,’ and believes that their marriage wasn’t ordained by God, making it difficult to last.

‘My ex-husband is a great man. but if God doesn’t ordain you guys to be together and you force-fit yourselves, the likelihood of staying together is very low,’ she explained.

She stated the past few years have been particularly trying for her, marked by a series of family tragedies.

She lost her stepmother, her father’s twin sister, and eventually, her father, Senior Pastor Taiwo Odukoya, who passed away on August 7, 2023.

Through her struggles, Toluwani said she has leaned heavily on her faith and found solace in her family’s support.

‘When the call came, I told God, ‘You know all the baggage I’m trying to navigate. But if You call me to serve, then maybe you’ve put something in me.’ I just decided to keep my eyes on Jesus,’ she recounted.

Support from her family, particularly her late father and her siblings, played a pivotal role in helping her stay grounded during those challenging years. ‘My dad fought for me. My family encouraged me. That embrace added to my self-esteem and self-worth,’ she said.

The Odukoya family has been at the heart of The Fountain of Life Church since its founding.

After the passing of Pastor Taiwo Odukoya in the United States, his son, Jimmy Odukoya, succeeded him as the Senior Pastor, serving alongside Toluwani in leadership.

Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has described the late retired Inspector General of Police, Dr. Solomon Arase, as a distinguished officer who exemplified the virtues of humility, compassion and hard work in his service to the country.

Senator Diri stated this on Friday at the funeral mass in honour of Arase at the St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Benin, the Edo State capital.

Arase, who was appointed IGP by former President Goodluck Jonathan, served between 2015 and 2016 and passed on in August this year at the age of 69.

Speaking as Chairman of the South South Governors Forum, the Bayelsa governor paid glowing tributes to the late IGP, stating that by dint of hard work and service rose through the ranks to the pinnacle of his career.

He said: ‘We have lost a great officer in Arase, who we thought could have been of greater service not only to Edo State but the South South region and indeed to Nigeria after he retired as IGP. We all grieve but at the appointed time, no matter the position we occupy, we will all lie in state like our brother, father and friend here today.

‘For me, moments such as these are humbling. So we should all be humbled and continue to give service to our country and states to the best of our abilities. We will always be remembered by what we have done.

‘Today, we remember Arase and his good deeds in service of his country as a police man from the beginning to the zenith of his profession. His relationship with the rest of society was marked with humility and spreading love wherever he went.’

In his remarks, son of the deceased, Victor Arase, expressed gratitude to the Bayelsa governor and his Edo counterpart as well as all those who identified with the Arase family in its moment of grief.

Dignitaries in attendance included the Governor of Edo State, who was represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt.Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, the Inspector General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede represented by Commander, Nigerian Army Training and Doctrine Command, Maj-Gen. Kelvin Aligbe.

Others were Commissioners of Police across the country, DIGs, AIGs and other senior police officers among other top government functionaries.

Four persons escaped death while one sustained serious injury in an auto crash along the ever-busy Awka-Onitsha highway.

The crash which occurred on Friday near Igbariam Junction, involved a diesel-laden tanker and a tipper truck.

Confirming the incident, Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Commander Bridget Asekhauno said the injured was taken to the hospital for medical attention.

She attributed the cause of the crash to loss of control by the tipper driver, which resulted in the heavy collision.

She said the incident disrupted traffic flow, as the tanker was fully loaded with diesel and required immediate transloading to another vehicle.

While sympathizing with the injured, Asekhauno, reminded motorists of the importance of road discipline, urging road users to remain vigilant and cooperate with officers to ensure safety on roads.

‘We are committed to working tirelessly to reduce road traffic accidents and enhance public safety in Anambra State.

‘FRSC personnel from the RS5.33 Nteje Unit swiftly responded to the incident, managing traffic and securing the scene during the ongoing diesel transloading.

‘Motorists on the route are advised to maintain patience, avoid reckless overtaking, and stay alert – especially around high-risk junctions like Igbariam.’

The Corps also appealed to the public to report crashes or roadside emergencies through the FRSC toll-free number 122 or any nearby command post.

The Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has dissolved another board, the Rivers State Microfinance Agency, inaugurated by the former Sole Administrator of the state, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd).

The dissolution occurred about two days after Fubara disbanded the Rivers Pension Board and directed the state’s Accountant-General to take charge of the board’s activities till further notice.

The recently dissolved Microfinance Board was among the eight agencies inaugurated in one fell swoop by Ibas on August 14th with Prof. Adolphus Toby named as the Chairman.

The governor in a statement signed by the Head of Service, Dr Inyingi Brown, appointed Pastor Jonathan Tobin to act as the Managing Director of the Agency.

The statement said: ‘The Rivers State Governor hereby announces the dissolution of the Board of the Rivers State Microfinance Agency and the immediate appointment of Pastor Jonathan Tobin as the Acting Managing Director of the Agency.

‘Consequently, members of the defunct Board are advised by this notice to hand over all properties and assets of the Board in their possession to the Acting Managing Director of the Agency.

‘His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara will in due course reconstitute the Board.’

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed his happiness with the first of its kind E1 Lagos GP- electric powerboat racing championship, kicking off in the metropolitan today.

He said: ‘I am proud and happy that this city keeps making history. It was the host of the first Festival of Black Arts and Culture (FESTAC 77), which brought the world to Nigeria. A few weeks ago, Lagos hosted the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX), the annual global technology event and the world’s largest startup show. It was a huge success. The Lagos International Marathon, which draws elite athletes worldwide, has been running since 2016. Now, Lagos is making history as the host of the E1 Lagos GP. It is the first city in Africa to host the powerboat racing championship, joining the ranks of Monaco, London, Jeddah, and Venice.’

Tinubu further said: ‘I am excited because, despite being Nigeria’s President – a job that I am truly honoured and privileged to have – I remain a proud Lagosian. The state is, once again, affirming its place as a bold, forward-looking city and a gateway to innovation, technology, and global sporting excellence. Lagos, the cultural capital of Nigeria, the heartbeat of our economy, and a symbol of our resilience, is the perfect host. Its vibrant waterways and dynamic people embody the spirit of competition, creativity, and hospitality. I commend Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, his team, and all partners, particularly the E1 and sponsors of this event, for the vision and hard work that made this possible. Let the E1 Lagos GP be more than a race. Let it signal to Nigeria, Africa, and the world that we are ready to lead in the great transition to clean energy and sustainable prosperity.’

A civic organisation – Ondo Redemption Front has charged the state Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa on total autonomy for local government administration to allow for grassroots development.

The civic organisation which is committed to truth and accountability noted that this was to compliment the Federal Government’s desire in ensuring that effective governance was enhanced through effective local government administration.

Chairman of the organisation, Ayodeji Ologun, made the call at the group’s September Edition of its State of state address in Abuja.

Ologun said that as a group of concerned lawyers, the group had earlier raised serious concerns regarding the state of healthcare, governance, infrastructure, and financial accountability in Ondo state.

He said: ‘Ordinarily, we ought to have had this press conference in Akure but our deep concern to draw the attention of the Federal Government on the Local Government funds in Ondo State have brought us here.

‘You will recall that the Attorney General of the Federation sometimes approached, the Supreme Court in order to give life to our Local Governments. The reliefs sought by the Federal Government for our Local Government were granted.

‘The Attorney General assured Nigerians and by extension Ondo State people that our local governments will have an independent way of accessing their funds directly from the federation account for effective local government administration.’

Ologun added: ‘We hereby call on the Federal Government and the Attorney General of the Federation to revisit the implementation of the Supreme Judgment on Local Government autonomy.

Ologun said that true governance demanded listening, planning, and acting decisively.

He said that the group was worried about the implementation of some programmes which have little benefit to the people instead of strengthening community participation and resolving long-standing conflicts through dialogue.

The Ondo Redemption Front, therefore, called for the immediate and unconditional release of Local Government funds to all the Local Government in Ondo state as released by the federal government through the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).

Also speaking, Co-Chairman of the Ondo Redemption Front, Mogbojuri Kayode said: ‘Citizens should not be at the mercy of governance. It is only right for the government to tell us how the Ondo state funds have been used so far. ‘It is the right of the people for the government to disclose this information.’

The political developments in Osun State provide a case in point that lays bare the clear trend in Nigeria’s democracy. Whichever side of the ideological fence one may be tempted to stand on, these events have established, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that we are contending with the maggot of a deformed democracy.

Tragically, a century after its first elections in the Lagos and Calabar Colonies, Nigeria is still wallowing in the cesspool of flawed democratic norms. This is especially true concerning local government polls.

In the imbroglios and endless claims and counter-claims about the Osun State crisis, the essential political debate is missing two key elements: the conditions of the people and the impact of the impasse on economic development. Local governments should be effective, as they have a direct bearing on daily lives and the economy as a whole. Citizens rely on them for vital permits and essential services.

It is characteristic of the lack of interest in governance that no one has performed a Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) – including the opportunity cost – of shutting down the local governments in a state. Obviously, the concept of development no longer has any meaning. This is a shame because local governments have an integral input in primary education, primary healthcare, and social welfare. Consequently, what’s happening in Osun is in contradistinction to any known conventional definition of development.

Although the matter is, to an extent, subjudice, it is imperative that the warring parties extend the limit of their imagination and find a democratic compromise or sign a ceasefire agreement to immediately revitalize the local governments. Allowing this political combat to continue has a direct, negative impact on the daily lives of citizens and, if not contained swiftly, risks becoming an existential crisis for local governance. The immediate focus must be on political resolution to restore the essential services that local government provides.

We have gone beyond game-playing and must now focus intently on the human consequences of this crisis. Any investor contemplating a commitment in Osun State will seriously consider the detrimental impact of shutting down the local governments on his or her venture. An investor cannot deal with the state government in isolation; he or she faces unacceptable risks, especially since he or she must also engage with the local governments for vital approvals and operations.

This present back and forth cannot be the way to attract investments, let alone heighten economic activities in the state. Something has to be done immediately!

May the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, grant us peace in Nigeria!