Profiles International Human Rights Advocate

 MIKE EJEAGHA BOWS OUT AT 95: THE GENTLE GIANT OF IGBO FOLK HIGHLIFE LEAVES BEHIND A TIMELESS LEGACY By Daniel Okonkwo Legendary highlife musician Mike Ejeagha has passed away at the age of 95, leaving behind a towering legacy in the world of folk music and Igbo cultural preservation. He died on Friday evening, June 7, 2025, at approximately 8 p.m. at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu after a prolonged illness. His death was confirmed by his eldest son, Emma Ejeagha, who expressed that the beloved patriarch had battled a long-standing ailment. Born on April 4, 1930, in Imezi Owa, Enugu State, Mike Ejeagha’s life and career became deeply interwoven with the soul of Eastern Nigeria. His journey into music began in the 1950s, but it was during the 1960s through the 1980s that he rose to national prominence with his unique brand of Igbo highlife and storytelling folk music. Timeless classics such as Omekagu, Uwa Mgbede Ka Mma, and Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche (Gwogwogwongwo) solidified his ...

 WHY BUYING A HOUSE IN NIGERIA IS A TRAP FOR THE UNINFORMED By Daniel Okonkwo There is a profound sense of relief and security that comes with owning a home. Unlike renting, homeownership offers numerous benefits—long-term financial stability, the ability to build equity, and the freedom to personalize your living space to your taste. While it comes with its responsibilities—such as property maintenance, taxes, and regulatory compliance—the advantages often far outweigh the costs. Property values generally appreciate over time, making real estate a reliable investment vehicle. Moreover, research has shown that owning a home contributes to a positive sense of well-being and personal fulfillment. However, for many Nigerians, the dream of homeownership can quickly become a nightmare—especially when falling into the hands of unscrupulous agents and realtors. These are desperate times, and unfortunately, some desperate individuals exploit the vulnerabilities of aspiring homeowners for p...

 GO PAY YOUR GROUND RENT OR LOSE YOUR PROPERTY: FCTA ISSUES 14-DAY ULTIMATUM – OVER 3,383 ABUJA PROPERTY OWNERS RISK LOSING LAND TITLES OVER UNPAID GROUND RENT By Daniel Okonkwo  Profile International Human Rights Advocate In a sweeping move aimed at boosting revenue and enforcing compliance, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to 3,383 landowners in Abuja to pay outstanding ground rent arrears or face revocation of their land titles. This public warning, released by the Department of Land Administration, underscores a growing push by the FCTA to recover unpaid dues across prominent districts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), including Asokoro, Maitama, Wuse, Guzape, Central Area, and Garki. Ground rent is an annual fee leaseholders must pay to the FCTA for the continued use of land on which their property stands. While leaseholders may own the buildings, the land remains under government ownership. Failure to pay ground rent...

 CONGRATULATIONS ARE NOT IN ORDER, MR. PRESIDENT — YOUR PEOPLE ARE SUFFERING: LEADERSHIP, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND THE NIGERIAN REALITY — YOUR TANGIBLE IMPACT, YOUR EXCELLENCY, IS NOT FELT. By Daniel Okonkwo Leadership, at its core, is the capacity to translate vision into reality. It is not merely about holding power; it is about empowering others, creating solutions, and ensuring that the impact of one's leadership outlasts their presence. As the renowned leadership expert John C. Maxwell put it, “The function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers.” Yet, for over four decades, Nigerians have yearned for such transformative leadership—one that uplifts, delivers, and resonates with the people. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marked his second year in office with a message of reform, progress, and hope. He insisted that his economic reforms were working, citing a narrowed fiscal deficit, improved revenue generation, and the rebasing of the inflation index. Yet, on the ...

 OVER 120 DEAD AS DEVASTATING FLOODS RAVAGE NIGER STATE — THIS TRAGEDY MUST NOT BE IGNORED! By Daniel Okonkwo  The devastating floods that swept through Mokwa in Niger State have once again laid bare the fragility of human security in the face of nature’s fury—and the systemic failure of governance structures meant to prevent such calamities. With at least 115 lives lost, thousands of homes destroyed, and many more missing, this disaster is not only a natural tragedy—it is a humanitarian crisis demanding urgent intervention, accountability, and long-term reform. According to officials from the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the floodwaters came from distant origins and overwhelmed the market town before washing victims into the River Niger. Recovery teams continue their search, and the death toll is tragically expected to rise. This is not an isolated incident. Every year, Nigeria faces heavy rains and floods that lead to loss of life, property, and livelihood...

 REGULATORY OVERREACH OR STATE-BACKED EXTORTION? NAFDAC’S BRIDGEHEAD RAID AND THE INFAMOUS ₦700,000 "ACCESS FEE" SCANDAL By Daniel Okonkwo The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), mandated to ensure the safety and quality of medicines and consumables in Nigeria, recently launched sweeping enforcement operations across three major open drug markets—Idumota (Lagos), Ariaria (Aba), and Bridgehead (Onitsha). While the agency claims it was acting to safeguard public health, the nature, process, and consequences of the raids—particularly in Onitsha—raise grave concerns about transparency, fairness, and the rule of law. Between February and March 2025, NAFDAC conducted what it described as a comprehensive enforcement campaign targeting unregistered, expired, substandard, and falsified medicines, as well as violations of storage and distribution standards. According to a statement signed by the agency’s Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the r...

 NOLLYWOOD PLASTIC SURGERY: WHO'S WHO BETWEEN BEAUTY, PRESSURE, PERCEPTION AND DECEPTION By Daniel Okonkwo In recent years, plastic surgery has become a topic of increasing relevance and curiosity in Nigeria's entertainment industry, particularly within Nollywood. But what exactly is plastic surgery? In simple terms, plastic surgery encompasses a range of surgical procedures designed to restore, reconstruct, or alter the human body. These procedures fall broadly into two categories: reconstructive surgery, which seeks to correct functional impairments caused by injuries, birth defects, or disease; and cosmetic (aesthetic) surgery, which focuses on enhancing a person’s appearance. While the former addresses medical needs, the latter often responds to societal expectations and personal desires for beauty or youthfulness. Across the global entertainment industry, from Hollywood to Nollywood, plastic surgery has become an open secret. The pressure to maintain a flawless appearance—...

 CHILDREN’S DAY REFLECTION: THE ALMAJIRI, ABANDONED SCOURGE, AND THE DESOLATION OF NORTHERN CHILDREN. As we join the world today, May 27th, in celebrating Children’s Day, it is essential to reflect on the plight of some of the most vulnerable and forgotten children in Nigeriaㅡthe Almajiri children of Northern Nigeria and abandoned children as the result of the insurgency. While many children are in school, surrounded by love and learning, millions of others roam our Northern streets, barefoot and hungry, their childhoods stolen by a system that has long lost its essence. The Almighty Allah has blessed me with two exceptional children who mean the whole world to me. I can lay down my life for them instantly because the hope of tomorrow lies in them. What I want for my children is what I desire for all Nigerian children, especially Northern Nigeria children, to be safe and protected. This is why it breaks my heart as a parent and as a human rights advocate whenever I see our childre...

 THE LEGEND AND LEGACY OF NIGERIA’S MOST DECORATED SUPERCOP, WHAT'S NEXT FOR ABBA KYARI. By Daniel Okonkwo The duties of a police officer encompass several crucial responsibilities, including enforcing laws, responding to emergencies, investigating crimes, maintaining public order, and protecting life and property. These responsibilities also involve responding to distress calls, dismantling criminal organizations, making arrests, and testifying in court. Supercop Abba Kyari embodied all these roles and more. The trial of suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Abba Kyari in the drug-related charges preferred against him and others by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) was stalled on Wednesday following the death of the daughter of Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN. During proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the prosecution counsel drew the court’s attention to an affidavit alleging that Kyari had undergone prostate surgery. However, a letter from the Gwagwal...

 Go Viral Massively: The Killer Strategies to Go Viral on Facebook By Daniel Okonkwo Published by Profile International Human Rights Advocate Feeling frustrated creating high-value content that doesn’t go viral? You’re not alone. As a journalist myself, I understand how important it is to see your content get the attention it deserves. Going viral is not just a dopamine boost—it’s a motivator, a reward, and often, the recognition we need for our work. If you've been struggling to break through the noise, don't worry—I’ve got you. Here are the powerful, field-tested strategies that can skyrocket your content on Facebook: What Does Going Viral on Facebook Mean? Going viral on Facebook means your post reaches massive audiences organically—thanks to high engagement through likes, shares, and comments. Whether it's a video, photo, or written post, viral content captures attention quickly and spreads rapidly through newsfeeds. Strategies to Go Viral on Facebook Know Your Target A...

 ABUJA UNDER SIEGE: ROAMING COWS THREATEN THE CAPITAL'S BEAUTY AND MODERNITY By Daniel Okonkwo Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria, stands as one of the most beautiful and strategically developed urban centers in Africa. With over four thousand modern housing estates and an ever-evolving infrastructure aimed at aligning with global urban standards, Abuja is a reflection of Nigeria’s aspiration for progress and modernity. Under the leadership of the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, the city has witnessed remarkable development—transforming swiftly and impressively into a modern metropolis. The commitment to a Western-style urban blueprint is evident in every corner of the city. However, this progress is under threat from a long-standing and increasingly disruptive practice: open grazing of livestock within the city limits. The sight of cows roaming freely across roads, residential areas, and public spaces is becoming alarmingly common. This not onl...

 CHINESE IKPEAZU: HER LIGHT SHONE BRIGHT, EVEN IN FAREWELL By Daniel Okonkwo  In a moment that should have been filled with joy, celebration, and the realization of years of hard work, tragedy struck — and the Nigerian legal community now stands in grief, mourning the untimely death of Chineze Ikpeazu, beloved daughter of Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN. Chineze was not just a name in a law school register. She was an illuminant of brilliance, grace, and promise. Having recently passed her final Bar examinations, she stood on the threshold of a remarkable legal career, ready to follow in the distinguished footsteps of her father and contribute meaningfully to the Nigerian legal system. That her journey was cut short just days before her Call to the Bar is a heartache too deep for words. To lose a child is a pain no parent should endure — to lose two daughters within two years is a burden no soul should bear. Our hearts go out to Dr. Ikpeazu and his family in this unimaginable time of...

 About Daniel Okonkwo Journalist | Human Rights Advocate | Writer Daniel Okonkwo is a Nigerian journalist, human rights advocate, and professional writer with a career rooted in social justice, media advocacy, and public accountability. Based in Abuja, his work focuses on equitable access to healthcare, environmental consciousness, legal integrity, and the protection of human rights in Nigeria. He writes for respected publications including Sahara Reporters and Profile International Human Rights Advocate, where his investigative and opinion pieces reflect a deep commitment to truth, democracy, and humanity. Some of his widely recognized works include: “Illegal And Health Risks Of Consuming Crocodile Meat In Nigeria” – A bold exposé detailing the legal consequences and public health dangers of eating crocodile meat in Nigeria. “Nigeria Journalists At 70: In The Forefront Of It All” – A tribute to the resilience and historical contributions of Nigerian journalists in nation-building....

 “You Cannot Jail a Citizen for Choosing Silence: The Nigerian Bar Association Condemns Compulsory Voting Bill as Unconstitutional and Draconian” The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) unequivocally condemns the proposed bill seeking to amend the Electoral Act 2022 to make voting compulsory for all eligible Nigerians, describing it as an unconstitutional affront to civil liberties and democratic values. The bill, which prescribes sanctions including fines of up to ₦100,000 or imprisonment for failure to vote, is not only regressive but wholly inconsistent with the spirit and letter of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). Section 39(1) of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression, which includes the right to silence, dissent, and abstention. In a democracy, the right to vote is a civil liberty, not a legal obligation. Compelling citizens to vote through coercive legal measures violates the fundamental right of Nigerian...

 Ifeyinwa Dada: The Visionary Behind Summit-Gate LTD – Redefining Beauty with Purpose and Passion Mrs. Ifeyinwa Dada stands as a powerful symbol of entrepreneurial excellence, resilience, and innovation. A celebrated Nigerian entrepreneur and the founder of Summit-Gate LTD, she has revolutionized the cosmetics and beauty industry with her visionary approach, world-class products, and resolved dedication to quality. Born into the family of Engr. Godwin Okonkwo, Ifeyinwa is the second child and shares a unique bond with her twin sister, Ifeoma Okonkwo. Her journey into business and beauty began early in life, driven by a passion for modeling and commerce. As a teenager, she modeled for several Nigerian brands, swiftly establishing herself in the spheres of style, vogue, cosmetics, and trendsetting fashion. This early exposure ignited a spark that would grow into a lifelong pursuit of excellence in the beauty industry. Summit-Gate LTD was founded from a place of purpose and precision—...

 Comrade Ijeoma Chinonso: A Natural-Born Leader Redefining Leadership for Women The ability to understand and manage emotions, as well as to recognize and respond to the emotions of others, is crucial for building strong relationships and promoting a positive work environment. Successful female leaders often possess a unique blend of traits that enable them to inspire and achieve tangible results. These traits include emotional intelligence, pliability, strong communication skills, adaptability, a collaborative approach, empathy, and strategic vision. One exemplary figure who symbolizes these attributes is Comrade Ijeoma Chinonso, the newly appointed Women Leader of the Kaura Market community. She is also the CEO of Emusonachi & Sons Resources Ltd., a name that has become synonymous with quality, excellence, and healthy living in Abuja. If you are a lover of life and wellness, Emusonachi & Sons Resources Ltd. is undoubtedly a household name. Known as the number one destinat...

 THE MINIMUM WAGE AND YOU: A DOUBLE-EDGED SWORD FOR EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES By Daniel Okonkwo, Political Analyst and Human Rights Advocate The debate surrounding the minimum wage in Nigeria continues to dominate public discourse, especially with the recent implementation of the new wage law in 2024. While the legislation aims to improve the standard of living for Nigerian workers, it also raises critical questions about sustainability, fairness, and economic impact—particularly for small-scale traders and employers in the informal sector. Has the minimum wage policy brought tangible benefits, or has it become a burden due to poor economic planning and rising inflation? Despite its good intentions, the current minimum wage of ₦70,000, implemented in July 2024, cannot even purchase a bag of locally produced rice. Before its enforcement, the fuel pump price had already surged to nearly ₦1,100 per liter, effectively undermining the purpose of the wage increase. In Nigeria, fuel impacts...