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FG releases names of Nigerians killed in Northern Cyprus as Turkey reacts
The Federal Government has released the names of some Nigerians, especially students, who have been killed in Northern Cyprus.
This followed a letter circulating on the social media on Thursday allegedly authored by the Turkish Government.
The letter comes days after the Federal Government issued a warning to Nigerians, especially would-be students, on travelling to Northern Cyprus.
According to a statement on Thursday by the Head of Media, Public Relations and Protocols of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the warning issued by the Federal Government was only advisory and not enforceable.
The statement said: “The attention of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has been drawn to a letter purportedly written to our Chairman/CEO, Hon. (Dr) Abike Dabiri-Erewa by His Excellency, Hidayet BAYRAKTAR, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye, on the welfare of Nigerians living in Northern Cyprus.
“Firstly, no official letter was received till date in our office except the unsigned one being circulated in the media. However, we thank the Ambassador and glad that our recent media briefing has elicited his response pertaining to the unfortunate incidents in Northern Cyprus.
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“It will be recalled that Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa and a team from NIDCOM had been to the Turkish Embassy twice to discuss issues related to Nigerians welfare in Turkey and Northern Cyprus, but got no response from the Ambassador.
“It is on record that we received petitions on regular basis from Nigerians, especially parents whose children had been victims in one way or the other in Northern Cyprus.
“Some of the deaths recorded in Northern Cyprus without any resolution from 2016 till date include:
i. Mr. Ibrahim Khaleel Bello (25), son of Justice Amina Ahmad Bello of Kaduna State High Court, 2020.
ii. Kennedy Taomwabwa Dede, 28, student of Eastern Mediterranean University and was killed on February 1, 2018.
iii. Walshak Augustine Ngok, a student of Marine Engineering at Near East University, murdered on April 19, 2019.
iv. Gabriel Soriwei, a first year student of Electrical Electronics of Cyprus International University, Nicosia.
v. Osabanjo Adeola Owoyale, 33, went missing and found dead on July 1, 2019.
vi. Augustine Wallies killed on April 19, 2019.
vii. Stanley Eteimo (28).
viii. Hassan Babatunde (28).
ix. Temitayo Adigun.
x. Kubiat Abasi.
xi. Abraham Okon.
xii. Oziegbe Godspower Airekugose.
xiii. Olasubomi Ope.
“However, we still appeal to the Turkish Embassy to do all they can to protect Nigerians in Northern Cyprus, particularly students, and we are optimistic that the reaction to our recent statement would elicit a positive and pro active reaction from the Embassy.
“While we pray for the repose of the souls of many students who have died in mysterious circumstances in Northern Cyprus, we also pray and hope that only good stories would henceforth emanate from Northern Cyprus.
“Above all, what we have given is advisory in line with our citizens diplomacy. One has option to either key into it or ignore. It should not be misconstrued as exaggeration or an attempt to scare away potential travelers to Northern Cyprus
“Whether it is Nigerians killing Nigerians or drug related crimes, there is some form of danger emanating from Northern Cyprus as alluded to in the Ambassador’s letter thus: ‘I do not dispute that some unfortunate criminal incidents took place in the TRNC, as it happens in any part of the world. However, the occurrence of such incidents is certainly not a daily routine and all these cases are taken seriously and investigated thoroughly by the TRNC authorities. Moreover, since in many cases, Nigerian citizens are not only victims, but also perpetrators of crimes committed in the TRNC, necessary measure will be taken by the relevant agencies in order to prevent young Nigerians and every other student from falling victims.’
“This is our concern as a responsible Commission whose mandate is to oversee the welfare and well being of Nigerians, and we are glad that the Ambassador has promised to take ‘necessary measures’.
“Inasmuch as we do advise our citizens to always be law abiding wherever they find themselves and be good ambassadors of the country, Nigeria will not fold its arms and allow her citizens to be molested or killed in any unjustifiable manner while seeking for knowledge in a foreign land
“May we continue to witness peace, love and mutual respect across the land.”
Eagle
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FG’s N50,000 Relief: OPay Details Eligibility Check Process, Issues Strong Warning Against Scams
FG’s N50,000 Relief: OPay Details Eligibility Check Process, Issues Strong Warning Against Scams
Lagos, Nigeria — Following the Federal Government’s introduction of the N50,000 relief package, leading financial technology platform, OPay, has released comprehensive guidelines on how customers can verify their eligibility for the funds. The company has simultaneously issued a stern warning to users regarding the rise of fraudulent schemes targeting beneficiaries.
In a statement released on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, and reported by Punch, OPay clarified the procedural steps for Nigerians to determine if they qualify for the government’s financial intervention. The move comes as millions of citizens seek clarity on accessing the relief aimed at cushioning economic hardship.
How to Check Eligibility
According to OPay, the verification process is designed to be seamless and accessible directly through the OPay mobile application. Customers are advised to log into their updated OPay app to access the dedicated section for the Federal Government’s relief program.
The fintech giant explained that users will be required to provide specific details to verify their status. Once logged in, customers can navigate to the designated “Government Relief” or notification tab where the eligibility checker is situated. The system cross-references the user’s verified identity (such as their Bank Verification Number, BVN, and National Identification Number, NIN) with government databases to confirm qualification.
Strict Warning Against Fraudsters
In a critical advisory, OPay warned customers to remain vigilant against scammers who are leveraging the news of the N50,000 relief to defraud unsuspecting citizens. The company emphasized that it will never ask customers to pay a fee or provide sensitive information over the phone to claim the relief.
“OPay urges all Nigerians to be cautious. The N50,000 relief is a government initiative, and no fee is required to check eligibility or receive funds,” a representative stated. “We will never ask for your OPay PIN, passwords, or OTPs via phone calls, text messages, or social media. Beware of fake links claiming to be from OPay or the government.”
Security Tips for Users
To ensure safety, OPay advised users to follow these guidelines:
· Use Only the App: Only check your eligibility through the official OPay mobile application.
· Protect Your Data: Never share your ATM card details, OPay PIN, or One-Time Passwords (OTPs) with anyone.
· Ignore Suspicious Links: Do not click on links received via SMS or WhatsApp claiming to offer the N50,000 relief.
· Verify Information: Always confirm information through OPay’s official customer service channels or verified social media pages.
The company reaffirmed its commitment to the financial security of its customers and stated that it is working closely with relevant government agencies to ensure a smooth and transparent disbursement process for eligible beneficiaries.
For those who may face difficulties checking their eligibility, OPay has encouraged customers to contact their customer care team through the in-app support feature.
FG’s N50,000 Relief: OPay Details Eligibility Check Process, Issues Strong Warning Against Scams
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‘I Went to My Pastor for Deliverance, Ended Up in Bed With Him’ – Lady Recounts Encounter
‘I Went to My Pastor for Deliverance, Ended Up in Bed With Him’ – Lady Recounts Encounter
A Nigerian woman has sparked controversy on social media after recounting an alleged sexual encounter with her former pastor during a deliverance session.
The unidentified woman reportedly made the revelation during a video interview shared by social media platform NewsVista, claiming that what began as a visit to seek spiritual intervention eventually ended in a sexual encounter.
In the viral clip, the woman expressed confusion over how the incident happened, insisting that she still struggles to understand how a session she had expected to be devoted to prayer and deliverance turned into an intimate encounter.
The interview has since attracted attention online, with the allegation raising concerns about the relationship between religious leaders and members who approach them for spiritual guidance and counselling.
Although details surrounding the alleged incident remain unclear, the woman’s account has triggered discussions about the responsibility of religious leaders to maintain professional and ethical boundaries while attending to vulnerable members of their congregations.
Some social media users have criticised the alleged conduct, arguing that pastors and other religious leaders occupy positions of trust and should not exploit their spiritual authority or the vulnerability of people seeking assistance.
Others have called for religious organisations to strengthen accountability measures and introduce safeguards for private counselling and deliverance sessions.
However, the identity of the pastor, the church involved and the location where the alleged incident occurred have not been disclosed.
It is also unclear when the alleged encounter took place or whether the woman has made any formal complaint to the relevant authorities.
NewsTrends.ng cannot independently verify the circumstances surrounding the woman’s account. The allegation should therefore be treated as unverified pending further details or an official response from the person concerned.
The development has once again drawn attention to the need for accountability, transparency and appropriate boundaries in religious counselling, particularly where individuals place their trust in spiritual leaders for help with personal challenges.
‘I Went to My Pastor for Deliverance, Ended Up in Bed With Him’ – Lady Recounts Encounter
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Port Harcourt Married Women Use Husbands’ Cars To Visit Lovers, Lady Alleges
Port Harcourt Married Women Use Husbands’ Cars To Visit Lovers, Lady Alleges
A Nigerian lady has stirred controversy on social media after making a sweeping allegation about the alleged infidelity of some married women in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The unidentified woman reportedly made the controversial claim in a viral video, alleging that some married women in the oil-rich city use vehicles provided by their husbands to visit their secret lovers.
According to a report by Gistlover dated November 3, 2026, the lady claimed that the alleged practice was particularly common in Port Harcourt, a remark that has since triggered widespread reactions across social media platforms.
In the video, she reportedly expressed surprise at what she portrayed as a disturbing pattern of marital betrayal, suggesting that some women allegedly use the comfort and resources provided by their husbands to maintain extramarital relationships.
Her remarks have generated mixed reactions among social media users, with some finding the allegation amusing, while others criticised the generalisation, arguing that infidelity is not peculiar to any city or gender.
Others questioned the basis of her claim, insisting that allegations involving marital relationships should not be used to stereotype women or residents of an entire city.
The controversy has once again sparked conversations about marital trust, fidelity, loyalty and the growing debate surrounding infidelity in modern relationships.
However, the woman’s allegation has not been independently verified, and there is no evidence establishing that the alleged conduct is widespread among married women in Port Harcourt.
Port Harcourt Married Women Use Husbands’ Cars To Visit Lovers, Lady Alleges
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