Lifestyle
EFCC: Why we have not arrested or investigated Blessing CEO over cancer claims
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has explained why it has yet to take action against influencer Blessing Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, amid the controversy surrounding her cancer claims.
The agency said no formal complaint has been submitted against the social media figure, despite growing public criticism and calls for her arrest.
The issue began in January when Blessing announced she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and appealed for financial support to fund surgery. Her claim was widely questioned, with some accusing her of fabricating the illness to solicit donations.
Last Thursday, she clarified that her appeal was made as a precaution before the actual cost of treatment was confirmed. A day later, she defended her decision not to release medical test results, citing patient confidentiality.
Blessing, who initially claimed to have “stage 4” cancer, later described the situation as a misunderstanding. She also stated that she received N13 million in donations, disputing reports that the amount was as high as N100 million.
Her explanations have not quelled criticism. Alafaa Kariboye-Igbo, Chief Executive Officer of Karib Oil and Gas Limited, challenged her claim, saying he personally transferred N20 million and has since demanded a refund.
Responding to the situation, an EFCC official said the commission cannot act based on social media pressure alone, stressing that a formal petition is required to initiate any investigation.
“People are calling for her arrest, but no one has submitted a petition to the commission. We do not operate on online agitation without a credible complaint,”
The official noted that a petitioner is necessary not only to trigger an investigation but also to serve as a witness if the matter proceeds to court.
“If a case arises, who will testify? Who formally reported the matter? These are essential requirements,” the source added, urging those making allegations to come forward with evidence.
The EFCC further advised that anyone who believes they were misled should submit proof of transactions, including receipts of donations made.
According to the agency, any case involving alleged false pretence must be supported by verifiable evidence before action can be taken.
....See MoreLifestyle
The Only Country Without Church Buildings
An online article has claimed that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the only country in the world without church buildings, highlighting restrictions on public religious structures.
The piece states that while Christians are present in many countries globally, Saudi Arabia does not have churches or other formal Christian religious buildings. It adds that Christians in the country are allowed to practice their faith privately but not in public places of worship.
The article also references global Christian populations, mentioning countries such as the United States and Armenia in its broader discussion of Christianity’s worldwide presence and history.
It further notes that Saudi Arabia, as an Islamic nation, regards Mecca as its spiritual center and maintains strict regulations on public religious expression.
Despite these restrictions, the report claims that Christian residents in the country continue to practice their faith privately within their homes.
The article concludes by reiterating its claim that Saudi Arabia remains the only country without churches or other formal religious buildings, though this assertion is presented as part of its narrative rather than independently verified context.
....See MoreLifestyle
Adekunle Gold Surprises Simi with Mercedes-Benz and Diamond Ring on Her Birthday
Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold marked his wife Simi’s birthday on April 19 with two luxury gifts, presenting her with a Mercedes-Benz and a diamond ring reportedly worth millions of naira.
A video circulating on social media captured the moment the singer revealed the presents to Simi. She appeared visibly surprised as she received both gifts from her husband.
The gesture has drawn attention online, with fans reacting to the couple’s celebration of the special occasion.
Lifestyle
12-Year-Old Student Dies After Alleged Bullying at Akwa Ibom Unity School
Tension has enveloped Federal Government College Ikot Ekpene in Akwa Ibom State following the death of a 12-year-old student, Ufokobong Edwin Godwin, who reportedly suffered injuries linked to alleged bullying by a senior student.
The deceased, a Junior Secondary School 2 student, was said to have been attacked prior to the Easter break by a Senior Secondary School 3 student after refusing to share his provisions during the examination period.
Accounts from fellow students indicate that the confrontation turned violent, with the senior student allegedly striking the younger boy on the neck. One student claimed the victim collapsed and slipped into a coma after the assault.
The boy was reportedly taken to the hospital on Easter Sunday, where he later died. Medical personnel were said to have attributed his death to complications arising from blood clots around the neck area.
Sources said the student had earlier regained consciousness and returned to school before the holiday, with his parents allegedly unaware of the incident when they picked him up at the close of term.
Another account alleged that the assault involved repeated blows to the neck, causing the victim to faint multiple times before other students raised the alarm.
After returning home for the holiday, the boy reportedly complained persistently of severe neck pain. Family sources said he repeatedly cried out in distress, prompting his parents to initially administer pain relief medication.
However, as his condition worsened, he was rushed to the hospital by his father, where he eventually died.
The school principal, Jude Ezeogu, confirmed the incident and described the development as tragic, noting that the school community is in mourning.
He added that the school management committee would convene to review the circumstances surrounding the incident and provide further clarification.
Meanwhile, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command said it is yet to issue a detailed statement, with spokesperson Timfon John indicating that the matter is being verified.
The family of the deceased has called on the Federal Government to investigate the case and ensure justice is served. The boy’s father, who spoke briefly, appealed for intervention, saying he would provide more details at the appropriate time.
....See More-
Latest2 months agoWike Declares End to Rift with Governor Fubara Following Tinubu’s Peace Intervention
-
Latest2 months agoEx-ADC National Woman Leader Kayauta Yakubu Officially Joins APC in Abuja
-
Latest3 weeks agoJUST IN: Fuel Prices Drop Again as NNPCL, Dangote Cut Rates Across Nigeria
-
Politics3 weeks agoWave of Defections Rocks Reps as 26 Lawmakers Dump Parties
-
Latest2 months agoEl-Rufai Accuses Akpabio of Driving Electoral Act Amendment Controversy [Video]
-
Latest2 months agoOkonjo-Iweala Raises Alarm Over Fake AI Video Impersonating Her
-
Latest2 months agoIPOB Condemns Anambra Government for Sealing Shops During Monday Sit-at-Home
-
Latest2 months agoTinubu Vows to Defeat Banditry in Nigeria