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Showing posts from April, 2025

E-Money’s Arrest for Naira Abuse: A Case of Culture, Law, and the Battle for Compliance in Nigeria By Daniel Okonkwo The enforcement of laws against the abuse of the Nigerian currency, the Naira, has moved from rhetoric to reality, with high-profile arrests bringing unprecedented attention to a long-overlooked aspect of Nigeria’s cultural and legal view. The recent arrest of popular Nigerian socialite and CEO of Five Star Music, EMEKA OKONKWO DANIEL, popularly known as E-MONEY, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), for alleged Naira abuse and defacement of foreign currencies, has reignited conversations. According to reports, E-MONEY was picked up by EFCC operatives on Monday night at his residence in Lagos. He is accused of spraying US dollars at an event—an act that violates Nigeria’s Foreign Exchange Act and is also deemed a form of currency abuse under Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) regulations. While the EFCC has not officially commented, credible sourc...

WHO SHOULD BE APOLOGIZING TO WHO? A REFLECTION ON VDM, AKPABIO, AND THE STATE OF NIGERIA By Daniel Okonkwo In a democratic society, the right to freedom of speech must be sacred and protected. The recent call by the South-South Zonal chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for popular social media activist, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to apologize to the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, demands closer examination. VDM has been given a one-week ultimatum to tender an apology for what the APC termed "disparaging remarks" in one of his latest videos. But one must pause and ask: Why should VDM apologize, and for what exactly? The doctrine of equity teaches that "he who comes to equity must come with clean hands." Anyone seeking redress must be free of any wrongdoing themselves. In this context, before demanding an apology, it is worth evaluating: Who truly owes an apology—VDM to Akpabio or Nigeria’s political leader...

THE ILLEGAL AND HEALTH RISKS OF CONSUMING CROCODILE MEAT IN NIGERIA Suya is the king of Nigerian street food, but consuming endangered animals like crocodiles could land you in jail — and worse, it threatens our health and wildlife! In Nigeria, grilled crocodile meat is sold in places like Abuja and Lagos — but many don't realize it's illegal to hunt, kill, or trade crocodiles under Nigerian law (Endangered Species Act of 1985, CITES regulations, etc.). If you're caught eating or buying it, you could face serious legal action. Ignorance is no excuse. Plus, eating wild-caught crocodile meat poses serious health risks (zoonotic diseases!). Globally, people have been fined huge amounts for trafficking endangered species meat — like a man in Canada fined $7,500 for smuggling dwarf crocodile meat. Bottom line? - Know the law. - Protect your health. - Save endangered wildlife. Stay informed. Stay responsible. Written by Daniel Okonkwo for Profiles International Human Rights Advo...

THE ILLEGAL AND HEALTH RISKS OF CONSUMING CROCODILE MEAT IN NIGERIA: I thought you should know Eating suya is considered the ultimate African street food, particularly popular in countries like Nigeria. However, in recent times, some individuals have strayed from the norm, venturing into consuming endangered animals—a dangerous practice that can have serious legal consequences. In Nigeria, the consumption of grilled crocodile meat—or crocodile meat in any form—can land you in jail. Yes, you heard that correctly. The Nigerian government has sued individuals for killing and consuming crocodiles, citing violations of environmental and wildlife protection laws. In cities like Abuja and Lagos, there are numerous joints where crocodile meat is openly sold, often without the knowledge of customers regarding the dangers and legal risks involved. If you are caught buying or eating such meat by government enforcement agents, you could face arrest and prosecution. Importantly, ignorance of t...

Businessman Alleges Collusion Between Landlord, FCT Officials in Illegal Eviction Attempt By Daniel Okonkwo Abuja — A businessman in Abuja has accused his landlord and some officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) of colluding to harass him, obstruct his business operations, and threaten his life and property. In a petition to the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Chinedu Okonkwo, who operates an electronics store at 106 Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II, alleged that his landlord, in concert with unidentified FCTA officials, is attempting to forcefully evict him from his business premises without due process. Mr. Chinedu Okonkwo, who has operated at the location for nearly 20 years, said the troubles escalated after the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC) demolished an illegal structure allegedly erected by the landlord on government land on April 8, 2025. He claimed FCTA officials had assured him that his store was unaffected by the demolition, only fo...

IGBO PRESIDENCY AND THE QUEST FOR SOUTHEAST TRANSFORMATION The question of whether an Igbo presidency is possible in Nigeria is not only timely—it reflects a deeply rooted political and socio-economic reality. The marginalization of the Southeast, despite its immense contributions to national development, remains a subject of passionate discourse across the country. For decades, the Igbos have been at the forefront of commerce, innovation, and nation-building. They are among the most patriotic Nigerians, contributing to the growth of every region without tribal sentiment. Yet, the irony persists: while the Igbo play a crucial role in national progress, they remain underrepresented at the highest levels of political leadership. This has stimulated a sense of political disillusionment, with many believing that systemic tactics have long conspired to prevent an Igbo presidency. However, the issue extends beyond presidential power—it is a matter of representation, equity, and the broa...

CAN AFRICA PRODUCE THE NEXT POPE? NAVIGATING THE REALITIES AND REVELATIONS OF A CONTINENT’S CANDIDACY By Daniel Okonkwo In the profession of journalism, one cannot afford the comfort of half-truths or the luxury of narratives that please at the expense of facts. It’s not about selling fabricated hope—it’s about telling the better truth. This truth, particularly when addressing the white elephant in the room, often reveals depths far more complex than we dare imagine. Today, that elephant is the question: Can Africa truly produce the next Pope? This question, while delicate and deeply spiritual, is layered with political, cultural, and institutional complexities. Despite Pope Francis’ efforts to integrate Africa into the higher echelons of the Catholic Church—raising the proportion of cardinals from sub-Saharan Africa from 8% in 2013 to 12% by 2023—real power and influence remain elusive. Names such as Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana, Cardinal Robert Sarah of Guinea, and Card...

Simon Ekpa Extradition to Nigeria? By Profiles International Human Rights Advocate “Nonviolence means avoiding not only external physical violence but also internal violence of the spirit.” “Nothing good ever comes of violence.” The arrest and possible extradition of Simon Ekpa—a dual citizen of Finland and Nigeria—has emerged as one of the most closely watched legal developments in Africa-Europe diplomatic relations. Finnish authorities arrested Ekpa on Thursday, November 21, 2024, on charges of inciting terrorism and promoting violence. The Päijät-Häme District Court in Lahti ruled to detain him on probable cause for publicly inciting crimes with terrorist intent. The charges stem from his alleged use of social media to spread separatist propaganda and incite violence in Nigeria’s Southeast region—activities Finnish investigators say are directly linked to violent unrest, including attacks on civilians and security forces. His arrest followed sustained diplomatic pressure by the...

REST IN PEACE, POPE FRANCIS: A LEGACY OF COMPASSION, HUMILITY, AND GLOBAL IMPACT By Daniel Okonkwo, Profile International Human Rights Advocate "Though your earthly journey has ended, your legacy of faith and service will continue to inspire and guide us." "The passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, marks a remarkable chapter in the history of the Catholic Church and the global Christian community." The 88-year-old pontiff passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. local time (05:35 GMT), a moment officially announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican Camerlengo: "This morning at 07:35 local time, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father." Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was the first pope from the Society of Jesus (Jesuit Order), the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pontiff in nearly 1,300 years—since Pope Gregory III, a Syrian, in the 8t...

COURT BLOCKS TRUMP’S CONTROVERSIAL DEPORTATION ORDER: A VICTORY FOR HUMAN RIGHTS AND DUE PROCESS By Daniel Okonkwo | Profiles International Human Rights Advocate Happy Easter In a victorious and urgently needed intervention, the Supreme Court of the United States has issued a temporary order blocking the continued use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to summarily expel migrants—specifically targeting Venezuelan nationals—without due process. The emergency ruling, which saw dissent from two of the Court's most conservative justices, is a timely affirmation of the principle that fundamental human rights cannot be overridden by executive overreach, even in times of national concern. The decision comes in the wake of President Donald Trump's recent invocation of the centuries-old Alien Enemies Act, a statute with a deeply controversial history. Its last major application, notably, was during World War II to justify the internment of Japanese-American citizens—one of the darkest chapt...

US Supreme Court Pauses Trump Deportations The emergency ruling noted that two of the most conservative justices on the nine-member panel had dissented. The order temporarily prevents the government from continuing to expel migrants under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act — last used to round up Japanese-American citizens during World War II. Trump invoked the law last month to deport Venezuelans to a notorious prison in El Salvador that holds thousands of that country’s gangsters. The court decision was triggered by imminent plans late Friday to expel dozens more Venezuelans under the act, meaning they would have been deported with next to no ability to hear evidence or challenge their cases. https://independent.ng/us-supreme-court-pauses-trump-deportations/ Supreme Court Stop Donald Trump's Deportations Under Antique Law.

ARE COWS MORE VALUABLE THAN HUMANS IN NIGERIA? WHAT IS THE VALUE OF LIFE IN A NATION IN CRISIS — HOW MANY MORE MUST DIE? By Daniel Okonkwo In recent years, the value of human life in Nigeria has come under intense scrutiny, particularly due to the relentless attacks on farming communities, primarily in the Middle Belt and North-Central regions. The haunting question that continues to echo across local and international discourse is: Are cows more valuable than human beings in Nigeria? This question becomes even more unsettling when viewed through the lens of recurring, unprovoked attacks by armed herdsmen—mostly identified as Fulani militants—on rural communities. Headlines consistently portray the devastating impact of these attacks: “At least 21 killed in Nigeria after herdsmen attack villagers,” “At least 140 villagers killed by suspected herders,” and “On April 12, 2022, armed herdsmen attacked several villages in Benue State, killing over 25 people and injuring many more.” Th...

THE INVISIBLE UNIFORM: WHY SOUTHEAST YOUTHS SHUN MILITARY SERVICE IN NIGERIA By Daniel Okonkwo > "If there is to be reconciliation, first there must be truth. Empathy is a necessary step for truth and reconciliation." The question, “Why don’t Southeast youths join the military?” is more than rhetorical — it carries the weight of history, a deep scar left by past events, and an indelible mark on Nigeria’s consciousness. For someone like me, born after Nigeria became a unified nation, the marginalization of the Igbo people remains both perplexing and painful. I have never witnessed an Igbo person entrusted with the nation's security leadership — until former President Olusegun Obasanjo's administration — and that absence is telling. Even the startling revelations by former military president Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) about the Civil War have done little to change the dynamics. When national sacrifice is demanded, the Igbos suddenly become part of Nigeria. Yet...

WHY YOU SHOULD THINK TWICE BEFORE IGNORING UNKNOWN CALLS: YOU MIGHT BE SAVING A LIFE By Daniel Okonkwo In today’s digital world, ignoring calls from unknown numbers has become second nature. With the rise of scams, robocalls, identity theft, and spam, people have become more guarded—and for good reason. Answering such calls can validate your number for scammers, expose you to fraud, or land you on endless telemarketing lists. But there’s another side to this story—one that is rarely told, yet potentially life-altering. A "missed call" might seem trivial—just an unanswered ring. But sometimes, that one ignored call can mean everything. Emergencies don’t follow protocol. In a crisis—an accident, a health scare, or a moment of helplessness—people may not have access to their phones. A stranger’s phone, a landline, or a borrowed device may become their only means of reaching out. And when they do, the number on your screen will likely be unfamiliar. There are heartbreaking acco...

Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” Banned: A Protest Anthem Silenced in Nigeria By Daniel Okonkwo For Profiles International Human Rights Advocate Published by Profiles International Eedris Abdulkareem’s powerful new song “Tell Your Papa” highlights the harsh realities of life in Nigeria. Its ban by authorities raises questions about censorship and free speech in a democratic society. Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” – A Voice for the Voiceless in a Silenced Nation At a time when millions of Nigerians are grappling with hunger, joblessness, insecurity, and economic despair, veteran hip-hop artist and activist Eedris Abdulkareem released a raw and heartfelt song titled “Tell Your Papa.” The lyrics are a poignant message directed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—through his son Seyi Tinubu—pleading, “Tell your papa say people dey die... tell your papa say we dey suffer.” Rather than address the truths embedded in the song, authorities have reportedly banned its public broadcas...

Obi Cubana @ 50 Celebrating a Visionary Entrepreneur and Icon of Hospitality By Daniel Okonkwo Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, marked a significant journey as he celebrated his 50th birthday in grand style at his prestigious Villa Cubana in Abuja. The event was not only a birthday celebration but also a monumental to his legacy as a leading figure in Nigeria's hospitality and entertainment industry. The Chairman and Founder of the Cubana Group, Obi Cubana, began his entrepreneurial journey in 2006 with the establishment of Ibiza Club, an icon nightclub in Abuja. Driven by a steadfast vision and entrepreneurial acumen, he expanded the Cubana brand in 2009 with the launch of Cubana, a hospitality club in Owerri, Imo State. What started as a modest venture has since evolved into a nationwide empire of elite lounges, clubs, and hotels. Today, the Cubana Group boasts an impressive portfolio of establishments across Nigeria, including: Opium By Cubana, Owerri Casa C...

Landlord, FCTA Officials Accused of Collusion in Intimidation and Attempted Illegal Eviction of Abuja Businessman By Daniel Okonkwo, Profiles International Human Rights Advocate Abuja, Nigeria – April 2025 In a disturbing turn of events, Mr. Chinedu Okonkwo, an established entrepreneur and owner of an electronics store at 106 Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II, has filed a formal complaint with the Inspector General of Police. He is accusing his landlord, Mr. Sunny, CEO of AIA International Limited, and certain officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) of conspiring to intimidate him, obstruct his lawful business, and illegally evict him from his premises. Background of the Dispute Mr. Okonkwo, who has operated his business at the premises for nearly 20 years, describes a targeted campaign of harassment following an incident on April 8, 2025, when the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), a department of the FCTA, demolished an illegal structure on land al...