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Outrage as guardian beats 14-year-old boy to death over missing N1000

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A yet-to-be-identified woman and her son, known only as Chukwuemeka, have allegedly beaten a 14-year-old boy named Testimony to death at their home on Delta Street, Ayanre, off Ibiye bus stop, Badagry, Lagos.

Our correspondent gathered that the deceased was reportedly beaten for allegedly misplacing N1,000 note given to him by one of the suspects to buy items at the market.

Multiple sources who spoke with our correspondent said that the deceased teenager was allegedly beaten for several hours starting at 11 pm on Wednesday, before succumbing to his injuries around 1 am on Thursday.

One of the neighbours who spoke with our correspondent on Friday said, “This young boy was beaten to death by his guardians, who were not his biological parents. The neighbours tried to intervene, but the doors were locked from the inside.

“Around 6 am this morning (Thursday), he (the deceased) wasn’t responding to his name, so they rushed him to a nearby hospital. The hospital didn’t have oxygen therapy, so they brought him back home, which aggravated the boy’s condition.

“The woman then called her prayer partners in the church to start praying for miracles to happen before the boy finally gave up the ghost. The police came exactly around 5.10 pm on Thursday to pick up the woman, who was the main suspect in the brutalities shown to the deceased.”

Meanwhile, Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesperson for the state police command, said he could not confirm the incident when our correspondent inquired about it.

“I cannot confirm that now,” Hundeyin wrote in response to our correspondent inquiry on Friday.

However, a one-minute and 32-second video shared with our correspondent by another eyewitness, who chose to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the matter, showed the lifeless body of the boy with severe bruises, covered with a cloth in the apartment.

One of the men suspected to be behind the camera was heard saying, “This is the dead boy with bruises,” while others were screaming in disbelief.

NGX digital investment platform gets SEC approval

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Securities and Exchange Commission has approved the Nigerian Exchange Group’s Invest, a digital platform designed to streamline public offerings and rights issues in the capital market.

In a statement made available to the According, the NGX noted that the platform, was live, promising an efficient, convenient, and seamless experience for managing primary market transactions.

It stated that the platform was built on the success of the country’s first digital public offering in 2021, which attracted over 150,000 new retail investors, with 75 per cent being female and 85 per cent under the age of 40.

It noted that the platform aimed to enhance transparency and accessibility in primary market transactions.

According to NGX, the launch of Invest coincides with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s banking recapitalisation directive, which has led to numerous subscription offers and rights announcements by Nigerian banks.

The organisation disclosed that Access Holdings, FCMB Group, and Fidelity Bank were utilising the NGX Invest APIs to distribute their offerings to retail investors, with more banks in the process of onboarding.

The Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Emomotimi Agama, commended the initiative, stating, “The e-offering platform aligns perfectly with our objective of future-proofing the Nigerian capital market. By digitalising and automating financial intermediation processes, we are fostering a more efficient, transparent, and inclusive capital market. Our focus is on creating an enabling regulatory environment that promotes innovation without compromising compliance or investor protection.”

The Group Chairman of NGX Group, Umaru Kwairanga, praised the regulator, noting, “The supportive regulatory environment has provided a solid foundation that enabled the swift delivery of the platform. This reflects our mutual commitment to market development and will undoubtedly contribute to boosting the participation of retail investors in the capital market.”

He added that the integration of technology, strong partnerships, and collaboration, alongside a positive policy environment, would be essential to Nigeria’s economic development.

Also, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NGX Group, Temi Popoola, expressed enthusiasm for the new platform, stressing its significance in NGX Group’s digital transformation journey and its potential to enhance market access and foster economic growth.

“We sincerely appreciate SEC and CBN for their strong support and leadership. Our intermediaries and partners, including the Central Securities Clearing System, have been instrumental in achieving this success. This platform demonstrates our commitment to innovation and strengthening Nigeria’s capital markets, particularly as we support the banking sector’s recapitalisation efforts,” he said.

Also, the CEO of NGX, Jude Chiemeka, highlighted the platform’s transformative potential noting, “NGX Invest addresses the demand for a more efficient and transparent process in managing public offers and rights issues.

Jude stated that the platform would expedite reconciliation and allotment processes, reduce unclaimed dividends, and boost investor confidence.

“All stakeholders – including investors, registrars, issuing houses, brokers, banks, and regulators stand to benefit significantly from this innovation,” Jude remarked.

Tinubu appoints new MD, board chairman for NPA

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President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Dr Abubakar Dantsoho as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority.

The President has also approved the appointment of Senator Adedayo Adeyeye as Chairman of the Board of the Nigerian Ports Authority.

Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, revealed this in a statement he signed on Friday titled, ‘President Tinubu appoints new managing director and board chairman for the Nigerian Ports Authority.’

Dantsoho holds a Doctorate in Maritime Technology from Liverpool John Moores University, the United Kingdom, and a Master’s degree in International Transport from Cardiff University of Wales, United Kingdom.

Before his appointment, he had served in various roles in the Nigerian Ports Authority as Assistant General Manager; Technical Assistant to the Managing Director; Port Manager, Onne Port; and Principal Manager, Tariff & Billing.

Senator Adeyeye, the Board Chairman, is a seasoned lawyer, journalist, and politician.

He is a former Minister of State for Works and former Senator representing Ekiti South Senatorial District.

Stephen Angbulu

With three years of experience, Stephen, The According correspondent, has been covering Nigeria’s presidency, politics, security, immigration and trafficking in persons

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Toyin Abraham faces backlash over fan’s arrest

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Actress, Toyin Abraham, has continuously found herself at the centre of controversy for publicly supporting President Bola Tinubu (then the presidential candidate of the All Progressive Congress) in the 2023 general elections.

Even after the election ended, social media users were always quick to lambast her online, especially as economic hardship worsened across the country.

The situation took a different turn earlier in the week when Abraham allegedly got the police to arrest some persons who she claimed had made derogatory comments about her.

A social media user, simply identified on X as #YVRLO, had made a post where he insulted the actress and wished death on her son.

Another X user with the username, Ayo, accused Abraham of using ‘Tinubu’s money’ to pay for her husband, Kolawole Ajeyemi’s hair transplant.

Reacting to the backlash, Abraham stated that she did not get anybody arrested. She stated that she only wrote a petition against the persons involved. She said, “I only exercised my democratic right. You keep bullying me, even after I came on social media to beg everybody to stop bullying me. As I am here, I want to die, because people want to kill me. But, before I die, I will die along with some people. You guys have pushed me to the wall.

“I have had it up to here because you people cursed my child, but I did not arrest anybody’s mother. I simply wrote a petition, and they said I should go to the (police’s) cybercrime department, which I did, and I wrote a petition there.

“These people were paid to ruin my career and life. But, I have not committed any crimes, so I am not scared. I am ready to die, but before I die, I won’t take it easy with everybody who bullied and defamed me.”

Meanwhile, as the controversy raged on, some social media users called for people to submit petitions to Netflix, urging the video streaming platform to take action against her.

However, the actress’ fans have also been rallying behind her, stating that she was just being harassed for political reasons.

Five finalists battle for N20m

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As the music competition, Naija Star Search Season 2, nears its grand finale, the top five finalists— HighCap, Blakk, Clement Daniel, Alaye Baba, and Accolade TMP— are set for the ultimate showdown, competing for the coveted N20m grand prize.

According to a statement sent to Saturday Beats, the programme will be aired at 8pm on StarTimes today.

The statement read in part, “Naija Star Search has undoubtedly been a thrilling ride this season. From the outset, the show promised to unearth the next generation of afrobeats stars, and it hasn’t disappointed. Contestants have brought an infectious energy and undeniable passion to the stage, showcasing the depth and diversity of Nigeria’s musical landscape.

“One of the season’s highlights has been the impressive vocal prowess of many contestants. From soulful afrobeats ballads to energetic afrobeat anthems, the talent pool has been deep. The judges— Cobhams Asuquo, Sasha P, and Vector— have provided invaluable mentorship, offering constructive criticism and words of encouragement that have helped the contestants grow and evolve.

“Each finalist has showcased exceptional talent, captivating audiences with unique musical styles. From Accolade TMP’s energetic performances to Blakk’s soulful vocals and Clement Daniel’s vibes, the competition is fierce. The decision of who will be crowned the ultimate winner rests with the viewers and judges, as they prepare for a thrilling showdown.”V

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I didn’t blame mothers for daughters’ waywardness, K-Solo clarifies

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Music producer, Solomon Oyeniyi, popularly known as K-Solo, has refuted the claims that he blamed mothers for fuelling Internet fraud and prostitution, popularly known as ‘hook-up’ in Nigeria.

In a recent interview with Saturday Beats, Oyeniyi said, “I did not blame prostitution on mothers. Many Nigerians often react to headlines without reading the full story. That’s part of the problem we’re facing.

“I feel like mothers have a major role to play. They have a powerful influence on their children. If they say something won’t happen, it won’t.”

K-Solo stated that he rather spoke on the influence and responsibility that women, particularly mothers, have in shaping the lives of their children and society in general.

“Look at Adam in the Bible. Despite God giving him direct instructions, it didn’t take long for Eve to convince him to do otherwise. God has given women distinct powers, and when they harness this energy, Nigeria and the world will be a better place.

“A lot of mothers know when their children are lying but remain silent because of the benefits they receive. When their children go out and return with things, most times the mothers are the first takers,” K-Solo noted.

He urged influential figures to guide the younger generation by telling them their own stories, while recognising the vital contributions of mothers.

K-Solo also advised artistes and producers to leverage social media for the growth of their careers.

He said, “Tap into social media. That is where you can make money and gain recognition. However, the fame from social media is like a flash of light; to stay relevant, you need to constantly update and engage, which can be draining. It takes hard work and dedication to remain in the spotlight and make a name for yourself in this industry.”

Kleson Kvsh spreads hope in new single

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Afro-street sensation, Kleson Kvsh, has stated that he is determined to spread hope and positivity through his music.

Speaking on his latest single titled, ‘Italawa’, he told Saturday Beats, “My recently released single, on which I featured another rising star, BhadBoi OML, is an anthem of hope, ambition, and the unwavering strength that defines the streets.”

Kleson Kvsh, who hails from Ijora Badia in Lagos, has been steadily making a name for himself with his bold sound. With his latest single, he added that he aims to connect with his audience on a deeper level, delivering a groovy street anthem that resonates with the struggles and triumphs of everyday life.

Having already worked on three projects and collaborated with notable artistes, such as Seyi Vibez, Kleson’s sound has been gaining recognition on the street music scene.

On what makes his music unique, the singer said, “My sound is an authentic and bold one that audiences love.”

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My EP not controversial – Berri Tiga

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Singer and songwriter, Blessed Agada, aka Berri Tiga, has said that his new Extended Play album titled, ‘Blessed’, does not contain any controversial song, adding that he decided to name the album after himself because he feels blessed.

He told Saturday Beats, “I just released my EP, and none of the songs is controversial. The EP is named after myself because I feel blessed.”

Recall that in 2022, the artiste was involved in a dispute with skitmaker, Oderhohwo Efe, aka Carter Efe, over the ownership of the hit single, ‘Machala’. Though they both featured on the song, both parties clashed over ownership and song rights.

Expressing his love for his fans, Berri Tiga said, “My fans should expect the fire. I love you guys. Keep supporting me.”

Talking about some of the things people don’t know about him, he said, “Some people don’t know I’m from Benue State. Some don’t know I am very talented. Aside from singing, I also draw. Some people don’t know that I am a superstar.”

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Nigeria to be paid P&ID cost in Pounds- Fagbemi

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The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has said that the United Kingdom Court of Appeal has ordered that Nigeria’s P&ID Post judgment costs be paid in Great Britain Pounds Sterling.

This was contained in a statement by the Special Assistant to the President on Communications and Publicity, Office of the AGF, Kamarudeen Ogundele, on Friday.

Ogundele stated that the AGF lauded the U. K Appellate Court’s decision that rejected P&ID’s request to pay the judgment cost in Naira which would have reduced the legal cost by a wide margin.

He described the request to pay the fees in naira as another desperate attempt to defraud Nigeria, saying the court’s refusal is another victory won against corruption.

“The Hon. Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef O. Fagbemi, (SAN) is delighted at a report just received from our UK solicitors on the latest victory recorded by Nigeria in its fight against corruption and extortion by litigation hawks. Consequent to our success in defeating the fraudulent USD 11 billion claim by P&ID last year, Nigeria is continuing its efforts to recover its substantial costs from P&ID and its vulture fund backers.

“Today (being the 12th day of July 2024), the United Kingdom Court of Appeal validated Nigeria’s claim for the post-judgment costs to be paid in Pound Sterling (GBP), which P&ID tried to reduce drastically by claiming that Nigeria should only be entitled to recover its costs in Naira, which evidently will produce a much lower cost.

“This was another misconceived and desperate attempt by fraudsters to deprive the Nigerian people of hard-earned public revenue. As a government, we are very determined to recover these costs and make P&ID and its US funders pay for their scam so as to serve as a deterrence to others of their ilk. We commend the dedication and tenacity of our legal team for this accomplishment,” the statement read.

Recall that P&ID had sued Nigeria for allegedly breaching the terms of a gas supply and processing agreement contract signed in 2010.

However, a tribunal in the United Kingdom in 2017 ordered Nigeria to pay the firm $6.6 billion as damages as well as pre-and post-judgment interest that amounted to about $11 billion.

Dissatisfied with the judgement, Nigeria filed an appeal before the UK appellate court that delivered judgment in her favour.

Evra dismisses prison sentence reports as ‘rubbish news’

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Former Manchester United star Patrice Evra has responded defiantly to recent reports of his suspended prison sentence, calling them “rubbish news” in a social media post.

The 43-year-old ex-France captain was reportedly handed a 12-month suspended sentence by a French court for allegedly abandoning his wife and two children.

However, Evra, in a post via his Instagram account seems to mock these claims, stating, “Let me shutdown this rubbish news: look how much I enjoyed myself in prison.”

He released a video following the cryptic message. In the video, Evra can be seen handcuffed and sporting what looks to be a jail costume in the video. Then, in an area that appears to be designed like a jail, he is playing basketball and dancing to background music.

He further added, “France lose at euros then late put something about mister,” hinting at a possible connection between the timing of these reports and France’s performance in the Euro 2024.

This comes after the Nanterre prosecutor’s office reportedly confirmed that Evra had been found guilty of family abandonment from May 2021 to September 2023. The court ordered him to pay substantial damages and allegedly owes €969,000 (£813,640) in unpaid alimony.

Evra’s lawyer, Jerome Boursican, had previously stated that his client filed an appeal against the decision. “Mr Patrice Evra filed an appeal, knowing that he provided his wife with an apartment, a house with a swimming pool in the south of France and that he lent her almost two million euros for her daily life,” Boursican said.

The case stems from Evra’s separation from his wife Sandra, whom he married in 2007.

Sandra Evra’s lawyer, Nathalie Dubois, had commented on the initial verdict, saying, “I hope that, thanks to this decision, Patrice Evra will finally understand that he is not above the law and that you cannot abandon your wife and children overnight.”

Evra, who played 379 times for Manchester United between 2006 and 2014, has been in a relationship with Danish model Margaux Alexandra since 2020, with whom he now has two children.