According to Nivo News, security around the Abia State Government House in Umuahia was significantly increased on Thursday following the controversial judgment by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which convicted the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The intensified security deployment is reportedly precautionary, as Kanu’s family residence is located close to the Government House. By mid-afternoon, heavily armed police officers were stationed at both the main entrance and exit gates, drawing the attention of passersby and motorists, many of whom slowed down to take in the unusual security presence.

Authorities appear to have acted to forestall any potential unrest or spontaneous demonstrations in reaction to the verdict. Despite the heightened security, the city of Umuahia remained largely calm, although the atmosphere was noticeably tense, with residents quietly discussing the ruling.

Reactions among locals were mixed, with some expressing dissatisfaction while others openly opposed the court’s decision. Observations across Abia State indicate that public order was maintained, with no incidents reported.

Nigerian singer Yemi Alade has opened up about the sexual harassment she endured from music executives during the early stages of her career. According to reports, the ‘Johnny’ singer shared her experiences during a recent episode of the Swift Conversations podcast.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Alade revealed that sexual harassment was one of the biggest challenges she faced, but she remained focused on her music and refused to compromise her integrity. She explained that her success came from a mindset of perseverance, saying she realized she “needed to stop walking through the doors and start breaking down the walls.”

Reflecting on her early career, the singer said she relied solely on her talent and determination, without financial backing. She recounted disturbing incidents in which executives attempted to touch her inappropriately during meetings and studio sessions. “Many times from business meetings to studio sessions to even winning certain awards, you meet maybe the managing director or any other executive, and they are trying to rub your thighs under the table. And I was just a teen. My grandpa is rubbing my legs and I can’t speak because I’m in shock,” she said.

Alade emphasized that despite the harassment, she made a conscious decision to continue pursuing her passion. “If music was what I wanted to do because the sexual harassment was becoming too rampant, something in me told me to keep pushing my talent. So, I still showed up. If a door was left open for me, I would walk in. If it was shut in my face, I would walk away,” she added.

Her revelation sheds light on the challenges young female artists face in the music industry, highlighting the resilience and courage required to succeed.

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has dismissed claims that it advised corps members to pay ransom in the event of kidnapping....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a statement released on its official account on Thursday, the NYSC addressed a social media circulation suggesting that the scheme had recommended ransom payment as a safety measure for kidnapped corps members.

According to the NYSC, a similar recommendation was presented by a consultant in 2021 but was never approved or implemented by the organization. The management emphasized that the circulating statement is false and does not reflect the official policy of the NYSC.

Reaffirming its commitment to the safety and welfare of corps members, the NYSC urged the public to disregard the misinformation. The statement highlighted ongoing collaboration with security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure the protection of staff and corps members.

“The Management of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) wishes to clarify that the document being circulated is not an official NYSC publication and does not represent the Scheme’s policy regarding the security of staff and corps members,” the statement read. “Management remains committed to the welfare, security, and safety of its staff and corps members and will continue to collaborate with security agencies and other stakeholders in this regard.”