Tragic Shooting Incident: Woman Shot While Bathing at Home

A woman named Adijat, who lived in the Oke Akute Area of Iba, Osun State, was shot by unknown individuals while she was taking a bath at her home around 10:00 PM on Tuesday. Adijat, who belonged to the Fulani tribe and had a three-month-old baby, was quickly taken to a private hospital in Iree for treatment after the incident. Unfortunately, she passed away in the early hours of Thursday while receiving medical care at the hospital.

The incident caused fear and panic among the residents of Iba, and the motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Witnesses reported seeing police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps personnel at the crime scene the day after the shooting. The community is now living in fear following the tragic event.

The spokesperson for the Osun State chapter of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Kehinde Adeleke, confirmed that the incident occurred on September 19th, 2023, at around 10:00 PM. Adijat, the victim, was shot by unidentified gunmen while she was in the bathroom at her residence in the Oke Akute Area of Iba. Sadly, Adijat, a mother of a three-month-old baby, passed away on September 21st, 2023, at approximately 5:00 AM. The NSCDC is collaborating with other security agencies to investigate and uncover the mystery behind the incident.

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Mohbad's body exhumed by police for further examination

The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed that they have dug up the body of the late Afrobeats musician, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, for an autopsy.

Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesperson for the Lagos Police, made this confirmation in a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). The autopsy is scheduled to begin soon.

In the meantime, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has invited the Department of State Services (DSS) to participate in the investigation of Mohbad's death.

The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, issued a statement acknowledging the developments following Mohbad's death. The state government has urged anyone with crucial information that could assist in the investigation to come forward and share it with the investigative team.

Furthermore, the government has requested that the investigating team ensure the confidentiality and protection of all witnesses who provide vital information or evidence.

Omotoso appealed to the deceased's friends and fans to remain calm and avoid making inflammatory statements or forming premature conclusions regarding the matter.

The Lagos State government expressed condolences to Mohbad's family and fans. Omotoso emphasized that they understand the pain of losing such a talented and promising young man who had made a name for himself in a highly competitive industry.

A special investigative team, assigned with the responsibility of unraveling the circumstances surrounding Mohbad's death, has been instructed to submit an interim report within two weeks from the day of its inauguration, which was Monday, September 18.

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Taliban police rescue woman held captive in a room for 25 years.

The Taliban Interior Ministry has announced that Taliban police have rescued a woman who was held captive in a dark room in the capital of Afghanistan for a period of 25 years.

According to the ministry, the room where the woman was imprisoned was filled with debris and garbage, as depicted in disturbing images released by the ministry.

During her captivity, she was provided with food through a window.

Ministry spokesman Abdul Matin Qani described the woman's ordeal, stating that she feels unsafe and fearful whenever she encounters other people.

Currently, the woman is receiving medical treatment in a hospital in Kabul, as she has suffered both mental and physical harm.

A doctor reported that she is malnourished and has developed severe anemia.

Medical professionals also observed that her bones were deteriorated and her joints were damaged.

According to the police, the woman endured years of turmoil, including a separation from her first husband, struggles with infertility, her brothers' involvement in criminal activities, and a dispute over inheritance.

In connection with the case, the police have arrested four of her family members, including her brother and nephews.

The police have stated that a comprehensive investigation into the case is currently underway.

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Power-Hungry Police Officers from Lagos Invade Lekki Shop, Arrest Worker, and Scheme to Press False Charges

A group of police officers associated with the Ikoyi Police Station in Lagos State have been accused of assaulting an employee of Dash Me Stores, a clothing shop located on Muiz Banire Street in the Lekki Phase 1 area. According to reports, the officers, led by Inspector Funmi Odukoya, carried out the assault based on instructions from an unhappy customer named Juwareto Okaisabor.

The incident stems from Okaisabor's purchase of a second-hand Fiendi designer bag at a charity auction organized by the store in October 2022. After a few weeks, she returned the bag, claiming that it had a problem. The store's management agreed to refund her once the item was resold and collected the bag.

On Tuesday morning, Okaisabor returned to the store accompanied by armed policemen who were not in uniform. They entered the shop, physically attacked the shop attendants, and arrested them. Witnesses reported that the officers, while Inspector Odukoya watched, punched and assaulted the sales girl. The policemen also locked the shop, handcuffed the sales girl, and took her away. The detained attendant, a 20-year-old, remained in custody at the police station as of Tuesday evening.

Furthermore, the Divisional Police Officer, Kehinde Adedara, added a troubling twist to the case by accusing the attendant of assaulting the policewoman and her colleague. The Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, was unavailable for comment as calls to his phone went unanswered, and a text message sent to him remained unanswered at the time of filing this report.

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Silent killer: High blood pressure often goes unnoticed by half of those affected, warns WHO.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has published its inaugural report on the severe global impact of high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. The report includes recommendations on how to combat this silent killer and reveals that half of all people with hypertension are unaware of their condition. It further discloses that approximately 80% of individuals with hypertension do not receive adequate treatment. Scaling up the coverage of hypertension could potentially prevent 76 million deaths between 2023 and 2050.

According to the WHO report, one in three adults worldwide suffers from hypertension. This prevalent and dangerous condition increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney damage, and other health problems. The number of individuals affected by hypertension has doubled from 650 million to 1.3 billion between 1990 and 2019.

The report identifies older age and genetics as factors that can contribute to high blood pressure. However, modifiable risk factors such as consuming a high-salt diet, leading a sedentary lifestyle, and excessive alcohol consumption also increase the risk. The report recommends lifestyle changes, including adopting a healthier diet, quitting tobacco use, and engaging in regular physical activity, to help lower blood pressure.

The report emphasizes that effective hypertension control can be achieved through simple and affordable medication regimens. However, only one in five individuals with hypertension currently have their condition under control. Hypertension control programs are underfunded and neglected, and the report calls for their strengthening and integration into universal health coverage.

The report's launch took place during the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, including goals related to health, pandemic preparedness, tuberculosis eradication, and universal health coverage. It asserts that better prevention and control of hypertension are vital for progress in these areas.

Furthermore, the report states that achieving treatment levels comparable to those in high-performing countries could prevent millions of deaths, strokes, heart attacks, and cases of heart failure by 2050. Michael R. Bloomberg, WHO Global Ambassador for Non-communicable Diseases and Injuries, highlights the potential to prevent heart attacks and strokes with affordable medications and interventions such as sodium reduction.

In conclusion, the report underscores the urgent need to prioritize hypertension prevention, early detection, and effective management. It calls for global commitment and investment in primary health care systems to save lives and reduce healthcare costs associated with hypertension.

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Two additional doctors caught in Plateau for organ harvesting

Two additional medical doctors have been apprehended by the Police Command in Plateau State for their alleged involvement in the illegal harvesting of vital human organs. The arrest was made in connection with a suspected quack doctor named Noah Kekere. The Police Public Relations Officer for the command, Alabo Alfred, revealed this information to the News Agency of Nigeria in Jos on Tuesday.

The suspects, along with Kekere, are currently in police custody and are undergoing investigation. Kekere, who is believed to be a fake doctor, was previously arrested on accusations of extracting a woman's kidney during a surgical procedure. The Plateau State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association has distanced itself from Kekere, affirming that investigations have shown he is not a qualified medical practitioner.

Alabo did not disclose the identities of the two newly apprehended individuals. He further mentioned that the State Commissioner of Police would soon establish a committee comprising skilled medical experts to conduct a thorough investigation and examine the woman who claimed that Kekere removed one of her vital organs during surgery. The objective is to determine if there was indeed tampering with the victim's vital organ.

"We have arrested two additional suspects who actually performed the surgery on the woman. We are in contact with the State Ministry of Health and the Nigerian Medical Association to provide us with professionals who can assist us in our investigation. The Commissioner of Police will form a committee of experienced medical experts to thoroughly investigate these allegations and uncover the truth," stated Alabo.

According to NAN reports, Kekere was arrested by the police following a complaint from a businessman named Alhaji Kamal. Kamal accused Kekere of removing one of his wife's kidneys during a surgery conducted in 2018. Kamal explained that his wife, Kehinde, had been suffering from chronic stomach pain for five years and was taken to Kekere's clinic in the Nasarawa Gwom community of Jos North Local Government Area. Kekere diagnosed her with a ruptured appendix and performed an urgent operation accordingly.

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Court verdict: Public officer to serve life sentence for rape crime

A public official, Dr. Abubakar Danraka, has been given a life sentence for the crime of rape (sodomy) according to section 1 of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP Act) of 2015. The Abuja High Court, presided over by Justice A. Akanbi-Yusuf, delivered the sentence after determining the defendant's guilt.

Dr. Abubakar, who previously held positions as the Chief Pharmacist of National Hospital, Abuja, and Senior Special Adviser (Technical) to the Director of the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, was arrested on March 27, 2020, for sexually assaulting a minor.

The Director-General of the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Fatima Waziri-Azi, expressed her admiration for the judiciary's unwavering commitment to ensuring justice. She commended the judiciary for its consistent collaboration and support in implementing the VAPP Act, which ultimately led to this significant judgment. She regarded it as a triumph for the nation.

In their ongoing efforts to create a violence-free Nigeria, she pledged to continue working with all partners and stakeholders, scaling up their endeavors to secure more convictions and reduce impunity.

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Heartbreaking confession: Father admits to poisoning baby after drugging wife.

According to a Vanguard report dated September 16, 2023, Musbau Salisu, a 28-year-old man from Doka community in Tofa Local Government Area of Kano State, has admitted to killing his infant daughter using rat poison. Salisu confessed that he drugged his wife, Saade, who is the mother of the baby, with sleeping pills in order to carry out his plan. He was apprehended by the Kano State Hisbah Board three months after committing the crimes and has confessed to the acts.

The motive behind the crime was Salisu's preference for a male child. Since his wife gave birth to a girl, he felt compelled to kill the child. Salisu disclosed that he bought rat poison from Rimingado and mixed it with tea, which he then gave to the baby. However, it took some time for the poison to take effect. Additionally, he purchased sleeping pills to drug his wife and make her sleep. He obtained these items from roadside drug peddlers.

When questioned about whether he killed the baby due to her gender or because of the mother, Salisu denied both reasons, stating that he committed the crimes for personal interests.

Dr. Mujahid Aminudeen, the Hisbah Deputy Commander General in charge of operations, characterized the case as a criminal matter and confirmed that it would be handed over to the police Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation. Aminudeen expressed his astonishment at the incident, emphasizing that the blessing of any marriage is for Allah to grant the union with a child, and it is not acceptable to prioritize a male child over a female child. He condemned the father for taking the life of his own daughter.

Ondo farmer brutally killed by laborer under the influence of drugs

According to a report by Punch on September 16th, 2023, a man named Sunday Clement has been ordered by the Chief Magistrate Court in Akure, Ondo State, to be held in prison custody for allegedly murdering a farmer named Taye Alatoye.

The 24-year-old defendant, who worked as a laborer, was arrested by the state police command after the incident. He was subsequently charged with murder and brought before the court.

The incident occurred as both Clement and Alatoye were on their way to the farm in Ofosu community, Idanre Local Government Area of the state. Clement suddenly moved backward, took out a sharpened cutlass, and slashed the victim's neck, causing his head to hang.

According to the prosecutor, Mary Adebayo, the offense took place on September 4, 2023, around 2:30 p.m. at Baba Odun Camp, Ofosu in Odigbo Local Government Area of the state. Adebayo stated that the defendant's actions violated Sections 316 and 319 of the Criminal Code Law of Ondo State, 2006.

Adebayo requested the court to remand the defendant in the correctional center in Akure, pending advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions. Chief Magistrate Folasade Aduroja granted the prosecutor's request, ordering the defendant to be held in prison custody. She also instructed that the case file be duplicated and sent to the DPP for advice. The case was adjourned until November 28, 2023.

During the proceedings, the defendant pleaded for forgiveness and claimed that he committed the act while under the influence of hard drugs. He explained that they had greeted each other on the path to the farm when an inexplicable urge overcame him to sever Taye's head. He attributed his actions to the drugs he had consumed, specifically mentioning "Ice" he had taken in the hot sun.

Calabar residents worried about missing genitals, turn to bitter kola and alligator pepper

Residents of Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, are currently experiencing a sense of fear and unease due to a rising number of reports about the disappearance of male private organs, as stated in a report by Vanguard News on September 16th, 2023.

Over the past two weeks, what initially began as rumors from distant areas has gradually spread throughout the city, with almost everyone claiming to know someone whose private organ has vanished after a simple encounter such as a handshake or physical contact with strangers.

This situation has raised several questions in the minds of the people. They are curious about who could be responsible for these disappearances, what motives they might have, and what fate awaits those who have lost their private organs. The authenticity of these claims is also being scrutinized, with some wondering if they are genuine or if they are merely attempts to incite chaos in the city.

The Cross River State Government, through its Commissioner for Information, Erasmus Ekpang, has issued a statement denying the veracity of these claims. This official position has been supported by the Cross River State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Ms. Irene Ugbo, who labeled the claims as the work of troublemakers. She has urged the public to continue their daily routines without fear.

However, the residents of Calabar remain skeptical of the assurances from the police and government. Reports of missing private organs continue to emerge from different parts of the town, leading to disturbances and unrest.

It is alleged that there have been over fifteen cases of organ disappearance reported throughout the city, with some victims having their organs returned by the perpetrators, while others have not been so fortunate.

According to a spare parts dealer named Chibuike, there are rumors that these organs are being sold on the black market for exorbitant prices. He claims that the organs are used for ritual purposes to generate money, and anyone whose genitalia is stolen will die within a few days. Chibuike warns that unless the authorities take decisive action to address this alarming situation, more people will fall victim to these crimes.

In response to the prevailing fear and uncertainty, men in the city have resorted to carrying bitter kola and alligator pepper in their pockets or holding their private organs tightly while walking in public or using public transportation. The increased demand for bitter kola has led to a rise in its price.

Reports of organ disappearances have emerged from various areas in the city, including Atimbo, Nyahasang, Moore Road, Satellite Town, Ekpo Abasi, 8 Miles, Watt Market, Atakpa/Mayne Avenue, and other locations.

Residents have shared their accounts of these incidents. For example, one resident named Blessing Ngi mentioned an occurrence in her area where a person lost their penis, but it was only restored after a confrontation with the perpetrator.

A particularly dramatic incident took place on the outskirts of the city along the Goodluck Jonathan bypass. An angry mob had gathered to attack two young men after a person claimed that their penis and testicles had disappeared following a handshake with the duo. The prompt arrival of the police prevented the lynching.

Some residents have taken to carrying bitter kola and alligator pepper as protective measures against potential attacks on their genitals. However, it is worth noting that some residents claim this protection to be ineffective.

A resident shared their experience with Saturday Vanguard, stating that their friend, whose organ had disappeared, had filled their pocket with bitter kola and alligator pepper.

Sam Larry claims innocence in the death of Mohbad

On September 15th, 2023, Punch reported that Samson Erinfolami Balogun, known as Sam Larry, a well-known socialite, has refuted any involvement in the demise of singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, also known as Mohbad. This comes in the wake of public outcry over an old video showing Mohbad being attacked by a group allegedly led by Sam Larry during a video shoot.

Furthermore, Punch reported that an online petition from the late singer has emerged, in which he claimed his life was in danger and requested police protection against Sam Larry and others.

In a video making rounds on social media, Larry, who had remained silent on the controversy since Mohbad’s death, expressed his affection for Mohbad, describing him as a brother.

Larry, speaking in Yoruba, clarified, “I want to make it clear that I had no part in Mohbad’s death. He was like a brother to me and during his time at Marlian records, he knew I cared for him. His wife and everyone else are aware of my affection for him.

Chicago State University’s Confirmation of President Bola Tinubu’s Graduation

According to a report released by Vanguard on September 15th, 2023, Chicago State University (CSU) confirmed that President Bola Tinubu attended the university and graduated in 1979 with a bachelor's degree in Business and Administration.

In a statement published by CBS News, CSU expressed confidence in the accuracy and integrity of their records regarding Tinubu's completion of graduation requirements and degree certificate. However, they mentioned that United States federal law prohibits them from divulging further information about Tinubu's records without consent or a court order.

The controversies surrounding Tinubu's academic records took a new turn when Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, brought the matter before a US court. During a hearing in Chicago, Atiku requested a federal judge to compel CSU officials to release Tinubu's academic documents and provide depositions. Judge Jeffrey Gilbert of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois did not make a ruling on the request.

It is worth noting that Atiku Abubakar's case was previously dismissed by the election tribunal. However, Atiku expressed his determination to continue the fight.

The statement issued by Chicago State University, as reported by CBS, stated that as an educational institution, they sometimes receive requests for student records. They explained that federal law, specifically the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), safeguards the privacy of student records and limits the information an institution can disclose.

In August 2023, a request was made in a US federal court for CSU to provide educational records related to Bola Tinubu, the President of Nigeria and a former CSU student. The university confirmed Tinubu's attendance and graduation in 1979 with a bachelor's degree. However, federal law prevents them from sharing additional information without consent or a court order.

CSU expressed confidence in the accuracy of their records regarding Tinubu's graduation and degree certificate. They emphasized that they are not involved in the Nigerian legal proceedings that prompted the request, and it will be up to a US federal judge to determine whether further information will be provided.

The university stated that their response to the request for Tinubu's academic records aligns with their practices, policies, and federal law. They clarified that they would handle any request for student information from a third party in the same manner.

Dangers associated with taking aphrodisiacs to boost sexual potency

Dr. Gbenga Oladipo, a Dietician at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, stated that young people do not require aphrodisiacs and expressed concern about the trend of using illicit drugs to enhance sexual performance, as it has negative health consequences.

Aphrodisiacs are substances, either made from food or drugs, that are used to stimulate sexual desire and address erectile dysfunction in men. However, these substances can be misused due to peer pressure or misinformation. It is important to consult a physician before using aphrodisiacs because of the potential side effects, such as liver and kidney problems.

Dr. Bright Oniovokukor, the Project Manager of Indomitable Youth Organisation, attributes the misuse of aphrodisiacs to a lack of knowledge and emphasizes the need for education about the potential side effects.

Nutritionist Phil Ebiowei from Yenagoa believes that the unregulated advertising of medications claiming to enhance sexual potency on social media platforms contributes to the misuse of aphrodisiacs. The abundance of these advertisements makes it difficult for individuals not to believe in their efficacy.

Mrs. Christiana Esenwah, a Medical Practitioner and Deputy Director at the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), warns against the use of sex-enhancing drugs. While some of these drugs are registered by NAFDAC, they should only be taken under the supervision and prescription of a qualified medical practitioner to avoid harmful effects. Indiscriminate and abusive use of these drugs can have serious consequences.

The Impact of Weight Gain in Middle Age: Increased Risk of Premature Death and Cardiovascular Events

Gaining weight in your 40s and 50s can increase the likelihood of premature death by almost a third compared to maintaining a slim physique during middle age. People with slightly elevated blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood sugars and carrying excess weight are up to 30 percent more likely to die younger. These traits also raise the risk of heart attacks or strokes over the next 30 years.

A study conducted in Sweden between 1990 and 1999 examined around 34,000 individuals in their 40s and 50s who participated in a cardiovascular screening program. Participants completed a questionnaire about their lifestyle habits, medical history, and socioeconomic factors. Findings revealed that 15 percent of the participants met the criteria for metabolic syndrome, which included certain measurements for waist circumference, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and blood glucose.

After accounting for factors like physical inactivity, BMI, and living situation, researchers discovered that individuals with metabolic syndrome were more likely to experience cardiac events earlier in life. More than a quarter of those with metabolic syndrome died compared to a fifth of those without the condition, making them 30 percent more likely to die within that time frame. They were also 33 percent more likely to experience non-fatal heart attacks and strokes.

Metabolic syndrome affects approximately one in four UK adults, with increasing obesity levels being a major factor. Each condition on its own, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity, can damage blood vessels, but having all three together poses a particularly dangerous situation.

To reduce the risk, it is important to adopt simple measures like maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking. If lifestyle changes alone are insufficient, consulting with a GP can provide guidance on medication that can help mitigate the risk.

The significance of doctors providing drug names to patients

In a report by Punch on September 4th, 2023, it was revealed that the doctor had neglected to include the name of the prescribed drug on the envelope.

Aipoh, a medical professional, highlighted the importance of doctors informing patients about the names of the drugs they are prescribed. One significant reason for this is that if a patient does not recover and decides to seek another doctor or try a different medical facility, they would need to know which medication they had previously taken. Therefore, it is crucial for doctors to clearly write the name of the drug for their patients.

Aipoh advised patients to always inquire about the names of the drugs they are given if the information is not provided by the doctor. Patients have the right to know what they are taking, and it is unacceptable for doctors to withhold this vital information. Aipoh emphasized the need for patient-centered care, ensuring that patients are fully aware of the treatments they receive.

Dr. Usman Ali, a former Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association Kanu State chapter, supported Aipoh's statement, stating that it is inappropriate for doctors to withhold the names of the drugs they prescribe. Ali emphasized the significance of effective communication between doctors and patients, which is an essential aspect of medical training. This effective communication includes discussing the prescribed medications, and many doctors even explain to patients how the drugs will affect their system and how the system can impact the drugs.

Ali acknowledged that there may be individual differences among doctors, but he firmly stated that it is unacceptable for any doctor to withhold the name of the drug from the patient. He believes that this issue should be reviewed and addressed to ensure proper patient care. By effectively communicating with patients, the issue of doctors not disclosing the name of the drug would not even arise.

Furthermore, Ali emphasized that it is not appropriate for doctors to become angry or irritated when patients seek to know the details of the drug prescribed to them. Patients have the right to ask questions, and doctors should respond with understanding and respect. Trust is a vital component of the doctor-patient relationship, and doctors should foster an environment where patients feel comfortable inquiring about their prescribed medications.

Fraudster and soldiers join forces to track down Islamic cleric after prayers go wrong

In a report from Punch Newspaper dated September 4th, 2023, a man named Hamzat has raised an alarm after claiming that suspected soldiers forcefully entered his block factory situated in Bankole Estate, Magboro, Ogun State. They allegedly seized his Toyota RAV 4 vehicle during the incident.

Hamzat, who spoke with PUNCH Metro on Saturday, stated that the soldiers, approximately five in number and travelling in a pick-up van, were searching for his younger brother, Sulaimon, who happens to be an Islamic cleric.

According to Hamzat, the series of events began when he introduced a yet-to-be-identified individual, suspected to be involved in internet fraud and also the brother of his girlfriend, to Sulaimon for special prayers. After the successful prayer session, his girlfriend's brother expressed a desire for additional special prayers. Subsequently, Sulaimon introduced him to another Islamic cleric in the Agege area of Lagos, whose identity remains unknown.

Hamzat mentioned that he is unaware of the exact circumstances that unfolded between his brother and the individual he introduced him to for special prayers.

On Tuesday, Hamzat received a call informing him that some people were present at his block factory and wished to purchase blocks. In response, he quickly went to the factory and provided the interested party with the price of the blocks. During this time, he noticed a group of soldiers entering the estate. They approached him and expressed their desire to speak with him. Confused by the situation, Hamzat inquired about what was happening, but the soldiers forcefully grabbed him.

Upon looking inside their vehicle, Hamzat recognized the individual he had introduced to his brother and the individual's sister, who happened to be his girlfriend. The soldiers demanded that Hamzat accompany them and offered to drive his car, but he refused to hand over the car keys. Instead, he agreed to drive alongside them, asserting that he had not committed any crime or engaged in any form of theft.

The soldiers took Hamzat to their barracks in Ebute where, as alleged by Hamzat, they collected ₦10,000 from him and seized his car until he produces his brother. Hamzat mentioned that one of the soldiers consistently called him, asking for his brother to be produced.

When the number belonging to the soldier was contacted by the correspondent, the recipient requested that the correspondent come to the Army base at Arepo.

Upon being contacted, the spokesperson for the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Lt Col Ayeni Olabisi, promised to investigate the matter. Similarly, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, confirmed that the case is currently under investigation.

Words you don't know have Racist Root in American #Racism

Racism is the marginalization and/or oppression of people of colour based on a socially constructed racial hierarchy that privileges white people.

Here are the phrases which you should know are offensive to an African American person:

1. Tipping point

In the late 1950s, this phrase was commonly used by the Whites and it means a point of no return or a force of change. “Tipping point” described the “white flight,” when white families moved away from neighbourhoods that had a large number of Black residents, according to Merriam-Webster.

For instance, in a 1958 letter to the University of Pennsylvania Law Review, Will Maslow, a civil rights leader and former director of the American Jewish Congress, wrote, “The percentage of minority occupancy that initiates withdrawal of other tenants has been denominated the ‘tipping point.'”

2. Peanut gallery

The peanut gallery is the top gallery in a theatre where the cheaper seats are located. It is reported that most Americans use this term to describe hecklers.

However, the phrase came about in the 19th century in Vaudeville theaters. The “peanut gallery” referred to the worst seats in the house, typically in the very back, where Black people were forced to sit. Peanuts were sold at the shows (much like they are at modern- day baseball games), and if the performances were bad, sometimes the audience would throw peanuts.

3. Call a spade a spade

If you have ever thought that this popular expression which means to “say it like it is,” is about a gardening tool, you got it wrong.

Variations of this phrase date back to 120 A.D. with the ancient Greek phrase, “to call a fig a fig and a trough a trough.” But, it took on a racist slant during the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s, when a “spade” became a derogatory slur for a Black person, according to NPR.

4. Uppity

This word is often thought to be synonymous with the term arrogant but it has a racist connotation. It was first written in the Uncle Remus series of Black folk tales published in the 1880s by Joel Chandler Harris. Later on, white supremacists would use it to describe “insolent” Black people who were lynched for “not knowing their place,” according to PBS.

Even today, the word still lingers: Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have been called “uppity” by critics.

5. Grandfathered in

In America, companies often use the “grandfather clause” to mean that you are exempted from a set of rules even after new laws or terms are put into place. For instance, if you have a membership or plan that raises its prices, you would be able to pay the same amount because you’re “grandfathered in,” while new members would have to pay a higher rate to join.

And what you also may not realize is that the phrase is actually rooted in slavery. It is said that after the 15th Amendment was ratified on Feb. 3, 1870, prohibiting racial discrimination in voting, several Southern states created the “grandfather clause” to disenfranchise Black voters. The “grandfather clause” stated that requirements (such as literacy tests and poll taxes) were suspended for anyone eligible to vote on or before Jan. 1, 1867, as well as their descendants. But, since Black people were not legally allowed to vote until 1870, they were excluded.

6. Sold down the river

Today, this expression signifies betrayal, but really, it is a reference to slaves who were literally sold down the Mississippi or Ohio Rivers to cotton plantations in the Deep South, according to NPR. Louisville, Kentucky, was at the heart of this horror, being one of the country’s biggest slave-trading marketplaces throughout the first half of the 19th century.

7. Eeny, meeny, miny, moe

This is considered to be a children’s counting rhyme which has existed since 1820. But the lyrics changed from the original iteration as seen in The Counting-out Rhymes of Children: Their Antiquity, Origin, and Wide Distribution, a Study in Folk-lore (published in 1888), the rhyme which means the “tiger” that was caught by the toe was actually originally the N-word. This version of the rhyme was popular during slavery, when it was used to describe slave selection or punishment for runaway slaves, according to Vox.