DSS, NIA probe Natasha Akpoti's attendance at IPU meeting - Newstrends
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DSS, NIA probe Natasha Akpoti’s attendance at IPU meeting

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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

DSS, NIA probe Natasha Akpoti’s attendance at IPU meeting

Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies have launched an investigation into how Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central attended the recent Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting in New York without official nomination.

According to a report by Premium Times, officials from the Department of State Service (DSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) are reportedly examining the circumstances surrounding her attendance, including who facilitated her participation, how she obtained accreditation, and whether her presence was intended to embarrass the Nigerian government.

The investigation follows concerns that the senator did not receive official clearance from the Nigerian Senate to represent the country at the IPU event on March 11.

According to the IPU’s regulations, participation is generally restricted to official delegates nominated by their respective national parliaments, with details submitted in advance for accreditation. While some individuals may attend as observers, this typically requires explicit approval from both the IPU and the home country’s delegation.

At the meeting, Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan raised concerns about her recent suspension from the Nigerian Senate, describing it as a politically motivated move aimed at silencing her. She also made allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. In response, IPU President Tulia Ackson stated that the organization would investigate the matter while also considering the Nigerian Senate’s perspective.

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However, Nigerian delegate Kafilat Ogbara, who chairs the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, challenged Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims, presenting a letter from Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele. The letter stated that the senator’s suspension was due to violations of Senate standing rules rather than retaliation for her statements against Mr. Akpabio.

During a plenary session last Thursday, Mr. Bamidele questioned the legitimacy of Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attendance at the IPU event, emphasizing that the IPU operates based on established protocols.

“So, if for any reason one of our colleagues, who was not even supposed to be there, found her way to the place, sat on the seat meant for Nigeria, and spoke for herself rather than for Nigeria, you know, that’s another issue altogether,” he stated.

Similarly, Jimoh Ibrahim, chairman of the Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Activities, issued a statement on Friday asserting that Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan had no official authorization to represent Nigeria at the IPU meeting.

Sources indicate that the DSS and NIA’s inquiry is examining whether Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan obtained unauthorized credentials or was assisted by external facilitators in securing her participation. Investigators are also looking into whether her presence violated IPU regulations or Nigeria’s parliamentary protocols.

Additionally, the probe aims to determine if her statements at the meeting misrepresented Nigeria’s official position and whether any individuals or organizations played a role in facilitating her attendance without the government’s knowledge.

It remains unclear how the security agencies will act once their findings are concluded.

 

DSS, NIA probe Natasha Akpoti’s attendance at IPU meeting

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Cleric in Anambra Faces Suspension for Staging ‘Miracles,’ False Prophecies

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Cleric in Anambra Faces Suspension for Staging ‘Miracles,’ False Prophecies

The Diocese of the Niger, Anglican Communion, has suspended a priest, Reverend Ifunanya Maduka of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Nteje in Anambra State, over allegations of staging fake miracles and delivering false prophecies.

The suspension, which takes immediate effect, was conveyed in an official letter dated April 27, 2026, and signed by the Bishop on the Niger, Rt. Rev. Dr. Owen Nwokolo. According to the Church authorities, the cleric will serve a six-month suspension without pay following findings of conduct deemed grossly unbecoming of an ordained minister.

In the letter, the Diocese accused Rev. Maduka of orchestrating deceptive spiritual acts, including arranging and manipulating prophetic sessions and miracles with the involvement of individuals allegedly known to him and financially induced to participate. These acts were reportedly presented to congregants as genuine manifestations of divine power.

Church authorities further disclosed that when confronted with evidence of the alleged misconduct, the priest admitted to his involvement in the activities described as “unholy practices.”

The Diocese expressed strong disapproval of the actions, stating that they contradict the sacred duties and ethical standards expected of clergy within the Anglican Communion. It noted that such behavior raises serious ecclesiastical, moral, and disciplinary concerns, including deception of worshippers, abuse of the name of God, and actions that could be interpreted as obtaining money under false pretence.

“Such actions are wholly inconsistent with the calling, character, and sacred responsibilities of an ordained minister of the Gospel,” the statement read.

The Church also lamented the broader impact of the incident, stating that the alleged actions have brought dishonour to the Christian faith, undermined the integrity of the Diocese, and exposed the Church to public ridicule.

As part of the disciplinary measures, Rev. Maduka has been directed to hand over all church property, including records, documents, and keys, to the People’s Warden of the parish. He has also been instructed to vacate the church premises within four days of receiving the suspension notice.

The Diocese confirmed that a disciplinary panel will be set up to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and recommend further actions in line with Church regulations.

The development has sparked conversations within the Christian community about accountability, integrity, and the need to uphold ethical standards in religious leadership.

 

Cleric in Anambra Faces Suspension for Staging ‘Miracles,’ False Prophecies

 

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Bride Abandoned 24 Hours After Wedding as Groom Declares Marriage ‘a Mistake’

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Bride Abandoned 24 Hours After Wedding as Groom Declares Marriage ‘a Mistake’

A newlywed woman was left devastated after her husband abruptly ended their marriage just hours after their lavish wedding ceremony, in a shocking turn of events that has since drawn widespread attention online.

The incident, shared by a relative on a popular discussion forum, involved a couple described as childhood sweethearts in their mid-20s whose relationship had long been admired within their social circle. Their wedding, attended by more than 250 guests, was reportedly a grand affair, symbolising what many believed to be a perfect union.

However, the marriage unravelled almost immediately.

According to the account, the couple had barely begun their honeymoon journey when the groom made a startling confession. While seated on a flight to their destination, he reportedly turned to his bride and said, “This was a mistake,” before withdrawing completely and refusing further communication.

Upon arrival, the bride returned home on the next available flight, while the groom remained behind. It was later alleged that he spent his time at the honeymoon resort engaging in reckless behaviour, further compounding the emotional distress caused.

In the weeks that followed, the bride was left to manage the aftermath of the failed marriage, including returning wedding gifts and responding to guests, while coping with public embarrassment and personal heartbreak.

About a month later, the groom reportedly attempted to reconcile, offering explanations that he “wasn’t ready” for marriage and had felt pressured into the commitment. His efforts, however, were rejected.

The marriage was subsequently annulled.

Sources indicate that the former couple, who share overlapping social and academic networks, now face awkward encounters at public gatherings.

Despite the ordeal, the woman has since moved on with her life. She is now married with three children, a development many observers have described as a testament to her resilience.

The story has sparked varied reactions online, with some users questioning the pressures surrounding early marriage and others pointing to the complexities that can exist behind seemingly ideal relationships.

The incident serves as a reminder, commentators say, that outward appearances of perfection may mask deeper personal uncertainties within relationships.

Bride Abandoned 24 Hours After Wedding as Groom Declares Marriage ‘a Mistake’

 

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Teen Murder Suspect Confesses, Reveals Chilling Details in Ikorodu Killing

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Teen Murder Suspect Confesses, Reveals Chilling Details in Ikorodu Killing

A murder suspect, Anthony Oghenetega, has confessed to his involvement in the killing of a teenager in Ikorodu area of Lagos State, providing chilling details that suggest the crime was carefully planned.

Oghenetega made the confession during an interview on Sahara TV, where he narrated how the victim was allegedly lured and attacked shortly after returning from writing an examination.

According to his account, the teenager had travelled to Epe to sit for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination and was on his way back when he was deceived by an acquaintance. The suspect disclosed that the victim was persuaded to visit his apartment, where the attack was carried out.

He revealed that both he and an accomplice had prepared for the assault in advance, assembling weapons and materials before the victim’s arrival. Items allegedly used include chains, padlocks, a “Ghana-must-go” bag, a cutlass, and a stick embedded with nails.

The suspect’s statement indicates that the act was premeditated, raising further concerns about the nature and motive of the crime.

Police authorities in Lagos State have confirmed that Oghenetega is in custody, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other suspects believed to have participated in the incident. The case is being treated as a homicide, with investigators working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the killing.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage among residents of Ikorodu and beyond, with community leaders and civil society organisations calling for swift justice. Many have also urged security agencies to strengthen surveillance and preventive measures to curb rising violent crimes in the area.

Authorities have assured the public that all those found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

 

Teen Murder Suspect Confesses, Reveals Chilling Details in Ikorodu Killing

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