Nurse fighting for her life after being stabbed in Greater Manchester hospital
A nurse in her 50s is in critical condition after being attacked by a member of the public at the Royal Oldham Hospital in Greater Manchester, Uk. The incident occurred at approximately 11:30 p.m. on Saturday in the hospital’s Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. A 37-year-old man was swiftly arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in police custody for questioning. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that the suspect used a sharp instrument, though it was not a knife, to carry out the attack. The force stated, “It’s believed that a member of the public attacked a member of staff,” adding that the victim’s injuries are serious and potentially life-changing. GMP reassured the public that no other suspects are being sought and there is no ongoing threat to the wider community. Staff at the hospital have suggested that the incident stemmed from frustration over waiting times in the busy A&E department. One nurse described the situation, saying, “It’s terrible—there was a row with a patient. I think they became angry because they had to wait to be seen. It’s scary.” Another staff member noted, “It just got out of hand, but it wasn’t a case of the patient going berserk. It was just a disagreement that can happen late at night. It happens all the time, but it’s shocking that the nurse was attacked.” Heather Caudle, Chief Nursing Officer at the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, expressed deep shock and concern. “We are incredibly shocked and saddened by last night’s incident, and our focus is on supporting the colleague involved and their family,” she said. “Our thoughts are also with colleagues and patients who were there at the time of the incident and for whom this has been distressing and frightening.” The hospital remains fully operational, and staff are cooperating with police inquiries. Detective Sergeant Craig Roters of the Oldham district stated, “This is a serious incident which has left a woman in a critical condition. Our thoughts are with her family and colleagues, and we will continue to support them throughout this investigation.” The local community will see an increased police presence at the hospital as investigations continue. Officers are on-site to provide reassurance and address concerns. Detective Sergeant Roters added, “We know that news of this nature will come as a shock, and if you have any concerns or anything you would like to share, please speak to [the officers].” This distressing incident highlights the increasing challenges faced by healthcare workers and raises concerns about safety within hospital environments. Authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward. Read Also: Holiday chaos as 3 shot, 1 stabbed in horror airport fight Read Also:Terrorist shouts ‘Allahu Akbar’ murders woman, 83, in Israel
Video of Lagos Teacher Slapping 3-yr-old Pupil Sparks Calls for Teacher Psychological Screening
The education sector in Nigeria has come under intense scrutiny following the release of a shocking viral video showing a teacher physically abusing a three-year-old boy at Christ-Mitots School in Ikorodu, Lagos State, fuelling widespread outrage and demands for systemic reforms, including the psychological evaluation of teachers before employment. It is no news that children all over the world often suffer from abuse. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over one billion children globally experience some form of abuse annually. This alarming statistic highlights the urgency of creating safer learning environments in schools worldwide. Evidence also shows that children who suffer from abuse experience worsened mental health, reduced social-emotional learning skills and poorer educational outcomes. The Call Educational experts, parents, and stakeholders are now calling for psychological screening to become a standard requirement for teacher recruitment. Such assessments would evaluate a candidate’s emotional stability, temperament, and ability to handle the pressures of managing young children. The incident, described as “disheartening and abusive” by Ms Favour Emmanuel, a resident of Rivers State, has reignited conversations about child safety and the mental fitness of educators. The incident has resonated deeply with parents and Nigerians, many of whom have shared their perspectives on social media and in interviews. Speaking with New Daily Prime on 11 January, Mrs Victoria Gabriel, a mother of school-aged children in Rivers State, emphasised the importance of understanding and nurturing children’s unique behaviours. She shared her personal approach to managing her daughter’s reluctance to do homework: “Like my child, if I call her to do her homework, initially she won’t be happy, and that act might get me angry. But when I start petting her and speaking positively to her, she will finish it on time. We should remember that children are children.” Mrs Gabriel criticised the actions of the teacher in the video and called for strict measures against such behaviours. “Teachers are supposed to be friendly. Even if she wanted to discipline the child, she could have used a pencil to tap his hand or scared him with an imaginary cane while speaking positively to him instead of slapping him. Maybe she has a hot temper, but that doesn’t justify her actions.” She further recommended that school management assess teachers’ behaviour regularly and consider employing parents as teachers. “Parents often have a better understanding of children’s emotions,” she said, adding that she knows of a woman who has been retained as a schoolteacher for over 20 years due to her excellent relationship with students. Similarly, Ms Chidinma Mathew, another resident in Rivers State, described the video as an eye-opener. She stressed the need for school management to engage with students regularly to assess their relationships with teachers. “This is a wake-up call for schools to monitor their classrooms closely,” she said. The Background A video was shared by an X user, @dammiedammie35, on 8 January, sparking a widespread reaction from netizens. The footage showed when a teacher slapped the lad several times, repeatedly asking him to write some numerical numbers. “Footage from Christ-Mitots School in Ikorodu shows a teacher named Stella Nwadigo being witnessed mistreating and physically abusing a 3-year-old boy, Abayomi Micheal. The footage has raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of our little ones in school,” the X user described in the shared video. https://twitter.com/dammiedammie35/status/1876897367154163769 Earlier, the New Daily Prime, on 8 January, reported that police had arrested the private school teacher, Stella Nwadigo, for assaulting a toddler and remanded her to a correctional facility after she pleaded not guilty to charges read to her. Netizen Reactions An X user with the name Mazimum said, “A teacher slapping a 3-year-old and then justifying it by saying, “He’s my son” or ‘His mother is my friend, is beyond disgraceful. If this is how you treat someone you claim to care for, how do you treat others? This isn’t discipline; it’s outright abuse. Such behaviour destroys trust in educators and scares innocent children for life.” Another user, @Jaiyejejeomo, described the arrest as a warning to other teachers to learn, “This will serve as a serious warning and lesson to all other teachers treating and beating their pupils. While for some netizens, the manner in which the 45-year-old teacher is being called out is unjust. https://twitter.com/jamesbolug1565/status/1877018772294242426 https://twitter.com/TheJagaban/status/1877295010397257732?t=im42KUJSUw3JdalMNREcJA&s=19 Expert Insight Mr. Samuel Afolabi, a seasoned education professional with twelve years of experience, emphasised the importance of empathy in teaching. “First of all, if we as teachers don’t identify the root causes of a child’s problem, it will not be kind of all of us to face the end of discipline with brutality or with some kind of harsh response. It will be very unkind of us to do that; empathy will be a great choice or idea to make in place of harsh responses.” “We should be emphatic,” he said while highlighting that identifying students’ problems is paramount in rendering academic solutions to a child who suffers difficulty in comprehending. The educational expert describes the recent attack on the minor as a breach of trust and unspeakable in the teaching profession. “Teachers are not meant to cause harm or inflict physical abuse on children or pupils, especially the young and vulnerable ones. A three-year-old child should not be treated in such a harsh manner.” He advised academic scholars to become patient with their students while inculcating morals and making an impact, noting that children who grow up without love and in an unfriendly environment tend to display violence in the future. Call to Action Mr. Afolabi stressed the need for teachers to undergo psychological assessment, stating that it is necessary for all teachers while calling on proprietors and proprietresses to adopt this measure to avoid casualties. He defined teaching as a profession with foundational and willed great influence or cloud on the character formation and maturation of the child’s brain and mind. “It is a foundation on which the child builds his or her life,” the educational expert noted. “In this case, it is very
Skepta praises Portable as genuine music talent
British rapper Skepta has publicly expressed his admiration for Nigerian artist Portable, calling him a refreshing and authentic presence in the music industry. Their collaboration on the 2023 hit song “Tony Montana” has sparked Skepta’s appreciation for Portable’s unique approach to music and life. In a recent post on social media, the rapper explained why he finds Portable’s genuine personality so impactful. Portable’s authenticity shines through In his post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Skepta praised Portable for standing out in an industry often filled with insincerity and superficiality. The British rapper described how rare it is to encounter artists who remain true to themselves. He pointed out that, while many in the music industry put on facades, Portable’s authenticity is a breath of fresh air. He highlighted that Portable’s genuine nature makes him stand out in a world where appearances can be deceiving. A shared understanding of the music industry He also revealed that he relates to Portable’s unconventional style and unapologetic attitude. While their music styles may differ, the rapper noted that they both share a common understanding of the pressures in the music business. Skepta explained that he respects Portable’s fearlessness and his ability to remain true to his identity, despite the challenges the industry throws at him. This kind of honesty and confidence is what makes Portable unique, and it’s something Skepta finds both inspiring and admirable. Skepta on the pressure to conform Reflecting on the music industry’s challenges, he acknowledged how difficult it can be to stay authentic in a world that often rewards conformity. “I’ve met so many fake guys in this game,” Skepta admitted, adding that it was refreshing to meet someone like Portable. The rapper’s comments emphasize the struggle of navigating an industry filled with superficiality, and how Portable’s refusal to fit into a mold is something that should be celebrated. Respect for Portable’s energy and uniqueness He also took the opportunity to explain that, while their styles may differ, he immediately recognizes the energy that Portable brings to his music and his persona. “Whatever Portable does, I recognize. I may not do it myself, but I know that energy and respect it,” He shared. For the rapper, Portable’s authenticity is not just about his music; it’s about his overall attitude and approach to life. Skepta’s admiration for Portable lies in his unapologetic and bold approach, which stands out in the industry. Portable’s growing influence in global music Skepta’s praise adds to the growing recognition of Portable’s impact on the global music scene. Despite facing criticism and controversy, Portable has remained steadfast in his identity. His raw, unfiltered approach to both music and life has earned him respect, even from established figures like Skepta. This collaboration and mutual respect signal a shift in the industry, where authenticity is becoming more valued than ever before. Conclusion: The power of staying authentic His comments about Portable serve as a reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself, even in an industry that often encourages artifice. As the music world continues to evolve, Portable’s unapologetic attitude and unique style offer inspiration to others. In praising Portable, Skepta highlights how authenticity not only resonates with fans but also earns the respect of fellow artists. In a time when image often trumps substance, Portable’s genuine presence shines as a powerful example of what it means to be true to yourself. Read Also: Portable thanks Skepta for “Tony Montana” royalties
Cobhams Asuquo reveals decision to charge in foreign currency
Cobhams Asuquo recalls a key moment from his early career that shaped his path to success as a renowned Nigerian music producer and songwriter. In an exclusive interview with Pulse TV, the multi-talented artist revealed how he made a game-changing decision in 2005 to charge his clients in foreign currency, specifically U.S. dollars. At the time, Cobhams was only 24 years old, yet he made a bold and confident move that few others in his field had considered. He began pegging his fees to the dollar, a decision driven by both a recognition of the value of his work and a desire for financial stability in an unpredictable economy. Pioneering move in the industry Cobhams candidly discussed how he felt compelled to make the shift to dollars. “I am one of the few producers who started charging in a different currency for the purpose of stability,” he shared. The move, which was largely ahead of its time, was driven by his realization that charging in a more stable currency would protect his earnings from the fluctuating value of the Nigerian naira. Reflecting on his decision, Cobhams stated, “As far back as 2005, I began to peg my charges in dollars because I felt it was a stable thing to do. I was obviously getting signed and getting things going, and I needed to be able to transact in that space.” At that point in his career, Cobhams was emerging as a promising figure in the Nigerian music scene, but he had yet to fully realize his potential. His decision to adopt the dollar-based pricing model not only showcased his foresight but also positioned him as a forward-thinking professional in a rapidly changing industry. A visionary at 24 As he continued to recount his journey, Cobhams noted that his decision was, in many ways, pioneering. At the time, few, if any, music producers were charging in foreign currency, let alone the U.S. dollar. His bold move to go against the norm set him apart from his peers, establishing him as someone with a clear vision of his worth and the future of the music business. “I hear music producers charge now in dollars, and I say to myself, I started doing this in 2005 when I was just 24,” he reflected. “I didn’t know anybody else who was doing that at the time.” Looking back, Cobhams recognizes how instrumental that decision was in shaping his career. He credits his early realization of his own worth as the driving force behind the decision. “That’s me waking up to the value of my work,” he said with a sense of pride and accomplishment. For Cobhams, understanding his worth was more than just about financial compensation. It was a reflection of his confidence in his craft, his ability to deliver high-quality work, and his desire to thrive in a competitive industry. Commitment to excellence Despite his success, Cobhams remains humble about the quality of his work. In the same interview, he emphasized that while he always strives to do his best, he does not promise perfection. “Till tomorrow, I cannot promise that what I will give you is the best in the world,” he explained. “But it’s the best I can give you—and it is very well close to the best in the world.” This humility, combined with his unwavering dedication to his craft, has earned Cobhams a respected place in the Nigerian music industry. His commitment to excellence is evident in his work, which spans across music production, songwriting, and artist development. Cobhams Asuquo’s journey serves as a testament to the importance of believing in oneself and making bold decisions in the face of uncertainty. His early recognition of the value of his work helped him build a foundation for success that continues to inspire new generations of music producers and artists. Read Also: Yemi Alade lost voice before Beyoncé collab
Police arrest father for alleged killing of his 14-year-old son
Mr. Monday Elela has been apprehended by the Ondo State Police Command for allegedly killing his 14-year-old son, Tope, who was described as being involved in criminal activities. The incident occurred in Ajowa Akoko, in the Akoko Northwest Local Government Area (LGA). The State Commissioner of Police (CP), Mr. Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, disclosed in a statement on Sunday, Mr. Monday and 24 others were paraded for various crimes, including murder, cultism, burglary, and theft. The statement revealed that Mr. Monday and his wife allegedly buried their late son, Tope, in a shallow grave under a banana tree behind their house. According to Mr. Monday, the death of Tope was not intentional but occurred at night when he was beating him after the deceased escaped from the State Security Network, codenamed Amotekun Corps. The father of seven, Monday, described his son as the black sheep of the family, claiming he was involved in criminal activities such as housebreaking, theft, and other criminal acts. Read Also: Atiku condemns Sokoto airstrike killings Meanwhile, his wife, who was allegedly involved in the death of their son, has evaded arrest. The CP said, “On the 30th of December, the police received an anonymous call that one Elela Monday living in Ajowa Akoko killed his 14-year-old son named Tope Elela and buried him in a shallow grave under a banana tree behind his house. “The suspect was arrested, and during interrogation, he said the boy was always involved in criminal activities and was embarrassing him, so in order to put a stop to the disgrace, he and his wife decided to kill the boy.” It was also revealed that no fewer than 25 individuals linked to the Owo cult clashes, led to the death of few person’s in Owo Local Government Area, has been arrested. “We have arrested 25 individuals in connection with the recent crisis in Owo. Some of the suspects have been identified as having direct involvement in the criminal activities. One Olamide Ogunseyila, 28-year-old, confessed to being a member of a cult group. “The remaining suspects are currently undergoing thorough interrogation to ascertain their roles in the crisis while the command is intensifying efforts to apprehend Steven Dada (alias “Ogodo”) and any other individual connected to these criminal activities.” The CP reaffirmed their commitment to protect lives and properties of citizens in the state, calling the members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious cases to the police and other security agencies.
NANS decries disconnection of UCH by Ibadan Disco…says lives of patients endangered
By Alade Adisa The National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, has called for immediate resolution of the face-off between the management of the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan and the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, IBEDC, over N3.1 billion debts.The student body notes that the development, which has led to the disconnection of power supply to the teaching hospital, is not only endangering the lives of patients, but also jeopardizing the training of medical personnel.In a statement by the Clerk of the Senate, Comrade Oladimeji Uthman, yesterday, NANS called on the Ministers of Health and Power to intervene in the matter and find a lasting solution to it.“The national leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has observed with grave concern the ongoing crisis between the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) and the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. “This development has had dire consequences, affecting critical healthcare services and the academics of students.“The disconnection of UCH’s power supply on October 26, 2024, due to an outstanding debt of approximately N400 million—a fraction of an accumulated bill of N3.1 billion since 2019, has led to significant disruption in patient care, research, and training at the institution despite that the health institution made payment of N2.9 billion at the same year.“The situation has escalated to the point where patients, families, and staff are facing avoidable hardships, including postponed test results, canceled surgeries, and reliance on flashlights in various wards at the hospital.“The inability of UCH to deliver on its mandate as a leading healthcare institution jeopardizes the lives of patients and the future of students undergoing training at the hospital. NANS strongly believes that this issue demands urgent and humane resolution. We hereby call on the Minister of Power and his counterpart at the Ministry of Health to find a lasting solution to this lingering crisis.“To ensure that University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan continues to function effectively while addressing the legitimate concerns of IBEDC, the following are our demands: Reclassification of UCH’s Tariff Structure.“IBEDC should cease charging UCH under an industrial tariff structure. UCH is not a profit-making industry but a public health institution that renders essential services. The hospital’s tariff classification must reflect its non-commercial status to alleviate its financial burden.“Proper Meter Placement: IBEDC should install UCH’s meter after their transformer. The current placement of the meter before the transformer leads to inflated readings, forcing the hospital to pay for unused energy. This technical adjustment will ensure fair billing practices and prevent further financial strain on UCH.“Return to Band B Tariff Classification: The University College Hospital (UCH) should be removed from Band A and reassigned to Band B, which is more affordable and sustainable for the health institution. This reclassification will enable the hospital to meet her obligations without compromising on the quality of care provided to patients.“Compliance with NERC Regulations on Life-Saving Machines: The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) explicitly prohibits the disconnection of electricity to facilities that house life-saving machines. IBEDC must strictly adhere to this regulation and put a halt to disconnection of power at UCH to prevent further endangerment of lives.“While we acknowledge IBEDC’s financial obligations, we would like to remind all stakeholders that healthcare institutions like University College Hospital (UCH) are critical to the survival and well-being of the populace. The disconnection between profit-driven decisions and public health necessities must be bridged with empathy and pragmatism.“We hereby call on he management of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) to urgently engage with the hospital management and implement the above-listed demands in order to end the timely crises.“The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan should pay the university’s portion of the indebtedness of UCH to IBEDC for power supply to the College of Medicine, Alexander Brown Hall and Professor Ayodele Falase Postgraduate Hall that are situated within UCH premises.“The Federal Ministry of Power and Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to intervene and ensure compliance with regulations governing electricity distribution to critical infrastructure and institutions.“As the voice of Nigerian students, we stand in solidarity with the medical students of the University of Ibadan, as well as the patients who rely on quality healthcare services of the hospital. NANS will continue to monitor this situation closely and will not hesitate to escalate its actions if our demands are not met promptly.”
NDLEA seizes 2,217.6 kg of cannabis, arrests traditionalist for drug trafficking
A substantive numbers of cannabis, weighing 2,217.6 kilogram and a 40-ft trailer load of skunk have been seized by the operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at Abuja. Femi Babafemi, the Director of Media and Advocacy, on Sunday disclosed the federal agency made this interception while being distributed into six vehicles at an abandoned fuel station in the Kagini area of Kubwa, Abuja, which was meant for onwards distribution to some part of Northern States. Babafemi said this operation was made possible following an intelligence-led operation carried out on Saturday at around 1:20 am, which led to the seizure of six vehicles and the arrest of 42-year-old Isaac Desmond. “The consignment was loaded onto the trailer at Uzebba in the Owan local council area of Edo State,” Babafemi stated. On 25 October, 2024, the federal agency revealed that a traditional chief priest of the Igunuko shrine at Alpha Beach, Ajah Lekki of Lagos State, Bariu Aliu, known as Malo, who evaded arrest for over three-month has been arrested in connection to alleged drug trafficking. Over 2,760 kg of skunk were said to have been found in the traditionalist shrine. “Though two of his accomplices were earlier arrested at the shrine last year and had since been charged and convicted in court, Bariu was said to be the leader of the syndicate.” Read Also: NDLEA nabs cocaine kingpin in Lagos In a similar vein, the NDLEA officers at Nyanya apprehended two suspects, Anthony Nnamdi, 42, and Abba Ali, 27, for the possession of 1.398 kg of cocaine and a precursor substance used in preparing crack cocaine. Also, the federal agency acknowledged officers of the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation, DOGI, in NDLEA had recovered no fewer than 20 wraps of cocaine weighing 330 grams from a cargo heading to Australia at a logistics firm in Lagos. The agency stated, “The cocaine parcels were concealed around the body of face cream containers in the shipment.” Furthermore, Babafemi said that following credible information, the NDLEA seized about 338,200 bottles of codeine-based syrup worth more than N1,190,168,200.00 in street value, concealed in two containers. “The illicit consignments were discovered during a joint examination of the containers by NDLEA operatives, Customs, and other security agencies on Thursday 9th and Friday 10th January 2025 at the Port Harcourt Ports Complex, Onne, Rivers State.” “A suspect, Habibu Ya’u, 23, was nabbed by NDLEA officers who raided Gadar Tamburawa, Zaria Road, Kano, on Thursday, 9th January, where they recovered 45 blocks of cannabis weighing 24.2 kg and 40,800 pills of opioids, including tramadol, from him.” The federal agency highlighted their commitment to halting illegal drug trafficking across the country with a sensitisation programme titled War Against Drug Abuse (WADA), which is held in schools, worship centres, and other places. The agency noted key areas visited include students and staff of Ijaye Housing Estate Junior Secondary School, Lagos State; surrendered Boko Haram members at Hajj Camp, Maiduguri, Borno State; among others. The Chairman of Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), hailed the effort of the officers of DOGI, FCT, PHPC, Lagos, and Kano for their successful operation as the war against drug trafficking continues.
Segun Arinze hints at making a music comeback
Nollywood star Segun Arinze has revealed why he decided to step away from the music industry, addressing misconceptions about his career decisions. Speaking on the popular show Curiosity Made Me Ask, hosted by content creator Bae U Barbie, Arinze shared insights into his career choices and future plans. Contrary to assumptions, the seasoned actor made it clear that his departure from music was not due to failure. “I didn’t fail as a musical artist,” Arinze emphasized. “I left music on my own volition. If I wanted to do music, I would have continued.” Theatre arts background shaped his career path The actor explained that his academic background in the arts played a significant role in his journey. “I read theatre arts at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife. I left school and did well. I pursued music because I wanted to, not because I had to. But when I decided to focus on acting, I gave it my all,” he said. Arinze’s transition from music to acting allowed him to achieve great success in Nollywood, cementing his status as one of the industry’s most respected figures. Love for music remains alive While Arinze shifted his focus to acting, his passion for music never faded. During the interview, he hinted at a possible return to the music scene but on his own terms. “I can always go back to music. I didn’t fail. I have two albums. I paused my music career. When the time feels right, I’ll return. I still sing, and the voice is still there,” he revealed. Passion, not profit, drives his comeback Arinze clarified that his potential return to music would not be for commercial purposes. Instead, he sees it as a personal and creative endeavor. “I will be going back to music, but not for commercial reasons. I’ll return because I love to sing, not because I want to make money,” he explained. This perspective reflects his genuine passion for the arts, emphasizing that creativity often goes beyond financial motives. Fans anticipate his musical return His comments have sparked excitement among fans, many of whom fondly remember his early days as a singer. With two albums already to his name, his comeback promises a fresh perspective on his musical talent. For now, however, Arinze remains committed to his acting career, where he continues to thrive and excel. Story of passion and purpose Arinze’s journey highlights the importance of following one’s heart. By stepping away from music to focus on acting, he demonstrated remarkable self-awareness and dedication. Now, as he considers revisiting his musical roots, his fans eagerly await the next chapter in his career. His decision to pursue music purely for passion reminds us that creativity is most powerful when driven by love. In a world where commercial success often takes precedence, Arinze’s approach is refreshing and inspiring. An artist who refuses to be boxed in Segun Arinze remains a multifaceted artist, excelling in both acting and music. His announcement hints at an exciting future—one where his talents shine through, whether on the screen or in the studio. For fans of both his acting and music, one thing is certain: Segun Arinze’s journey is far from over. His passion and creativity ensure that the best is yet to come. Read Also: Segun Arinze denies Nollywood homosexuality claims
Bobrisky pleads Burna Boy to forgive Speed Darlington
Controversial crossdresser and influencer Bobrisky has made a heartfelt and emotional plea to Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy, sparking reactions online. In a series of Instagram story posts on Sunday, Bobrisky appealed to Burna Boy to forgive fellow entertainer Darlington Okoye, popularly called Speed Darlington, and facilitate his release from prison. Bobrisky voiced deep concern for Speed Darlington’s well-being, asserting that his 45-day detention is sufficient punishment. He wrote, “I just want to mind my business this year and stay away from anything involving Nigerian celebrities, but my soft heart won’t stop me from thinking about many things. Please, Burna Boy, forgive Speed. Prison is not a nice place. I don’t think he has the money for the VIP section because it’s expensive.” This statement underscores Bobrisky’s compassion, even though, as he admitted, most celebrities he has supported in the past never reciprocated the gesture. He acknowledged the unique kindness of his heart, saying, “None of these people I’m using my platform to stand for did the same for me when it was my time. But you know what? Our hearts are different. I can’t stand seeing human beings hurt. I pray, Burna, please release him. Forty-five days in prison is enough punishment.” Bobrisky condemns Fans’ role Beyond pleading for Speed Darlington’s release, Bobrisky turned his attention to fans, whom he accused of enabling the singer’s controversial actions. He urged followers to hold their favorite celebrities accountable instead of encouraging harmful behavior. In his post, he noted, “Fans, learn how to tell your favourites the truth when they are crossing the line. You all were applauding Speed when he was saying unpleasant things. Now, none of you is in prison with him.” Bobrisky’s message highlights the responsibility fans bear in shaping public figures’ behavior. By encouraging Speed Darlington’s inflammatory remarks, they inadvertently contributed to his current predicament. Speed Darlington’s legal troubles Speed Darlington’s recent troubles began in October 2024 when he was arrested on allegations of defamation and cyberstalking Burna Boy. Initial reports stated that he was taken into custody in Lagos before being transferred to Abuja. He was detained by the Inspector General of Police’s Intelligence Response Team in Guzape, Abuja. Though he was released from police custody, his freedom was short-lived. Just days after returning to the country, Speed Darlington was re-arrested in November while performing at a show in Owerri, Imo State. This series of events left the singer embroiled in a legal battle that has kept him behind bars. Burna Boy yet to respond As of now, Burna Boy has not publicly addressed Bobrisky’s plea or commented on Speed Darlington’s imprisonment. The Grammy winner has maintained silence on the matter, leaving fans and observers to speculate about his next move. Bobrisky’s call for compassion and forgiveness has sparked conversations about justice, accountability, and empathy within the entertainment industry. While some applaud his boldness, others believe Burna Boy is justified in pursuing legal action against Speed Darlington. Growing debate The controversy surrounding Speed Darlington has drawn mixed reactions. Some argue that his arrest and detention are warranted, considering his alleged actions. Others believe that the 45 days he has already spent in prison should serve as a wake-up call and sufficient deterrent. In an industry where public opinion can make or break careers, this situation serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked behavior and the influence of fans. Bobrisky’s appeal shines a light on the importance of empathy and second chances, even amid personal and professional conflicts. As the debate continues, the spotlight remains on Burna Boy and whether he will heed Bobrisky’s request to show mercy. Meanwhile, Speed Darlington’s plight raises broader questions about the role of fame, accountability, and forgiveness in the ever-dynamic world of Nigerian entertainment. Read Also: Bobrisky returns, drops quote about strong women
American rapper DDG: ‘I might have to move to Lagos’
American rapper and YouTuber Darryl Dwayne Granberry Jr., widely known as DDG, has hinted at the possibility of relocating to Lagos, Nigeria. The artist shared his feelings of discontent with life in the United States and expressed uncertainty about staying there for much longer. His statement has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many speculating about the reasons behind his decision. DDG’s viral post sparks discussion In a post that quickly went viral on his X account, DDG openly discussed his dissatisfaction with the current state of life in America. The rapper, who has gained significant attention for both his music and his online presence, revealed that he was considering a move to either London or Lagos. His comment, “America lowkey not it no more ngl. Might have to move to London or Lagos,” left many of his followers surprised and curious about what prompted such a drastic statement. Country in crisis Though he didn’t specifically mention the reasons for his discontent, his remark coincided with a particularly turbulent time in the United States. The nation has been grappling with a series of ongoing challenges, from political unrest to social tensions, and, most notably, the devastating wildfires ravaging Los Angeles. These wildfires have caused immense damage, claiming lives and leaving thousands displaced. While DDG did not directly link his feelings to these natural disasters, it is easy to imagine how the ongoing crisis in California could contribute to his negative perception of the country. The devastating wildfires in california In recent years, Los Angeles has faced increasingly frequent and severe wildfires. The latest wave of fires has been particularly deadly, destroying homes, businesses, and natural landscapes. The emotional toll on residents has been immense, and the physical destruction is visible throughout the city. It’s no surprise that public figures like DDG, who have strong ties to the area, might be contemplating a change of scenery. For many, the reality of natural disasters and the growing concerns about climate change have made certain regions less livable. Growing trend among celebrities Despite his public frustration with the United States, DDG’s comments are not entirely unique. Many individuals, including public figures, have expressed similar sentiments about leaving the country. Over the years, several celebrities have openly discussed relocating to other parts of the world, citing political instability, safety concerns, or a desire for a change of environment. For DDG, it appears that the combination of personal frustrations and external circumstances may be prompting him to consider new opportunities elsewhere. Why London and Lagos? His mention of London and Lagos specifically is noteworthy. London, a global hub for music, fashion, and entertainment, offers a thriving creative scene that could attract someone with DDG’s talents. Meanwhile, Lagos, Nigeria’s largest city, is increasingly becoming a focal point for African culture, music, and business. For an artist like DDG, who has a significant following both in the U.S. and internationally, a move to either of these cities could offer fresh prospects and a chance to tap into different markets. Public reaction and social media buzz Though DDG’s statement was brief, it resonated with many of his fans and followers. On social media, users quickly jumped in with their opinions, with some encouraging the rapper to go ahead with his plans, while others questioned the reasoning behind such a major life decision. It’s clear that his comments have sparked a broader conversation about the challenges facing America, especially among younger generations who may feel disconnected from the country’s current trajectory. The impact of natural disasters on decision making The ongoing wildfires in California have added an additional layer of complexity to the situation. As entire communities face destruction, the question of whether people will continue to stay in areas prone to natural disasters is becoming more pressing. The reality is that many are looking for more stability, safety, and a sense of belonging, which can sometimes be hard to find in a nation grappling with various crises. DDG’s choice reflects a broader mood DDG’s potential move to Lagos or London could be seen as a personal choice, but it also speaks to larger issues affecting many Americans today. Whether or not he follows through with his plans remains to be seen, but his comments have certainly contributed to the ongoing conversation about the future of life in America. In the end, it’s clear that public figures like DDG have a unique perspective on the challenges facing their country, and their decisions could serve as a reflection of the broader mood among the American public. Read Also: BBNaija’s Tacha announces move to the UK
