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Lauretta Onochie Caused Me Mental, Psychological Trauma —- Atiku Tells Court, Demands N2.5bn For Defamation

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Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has narrated before a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, how President Muhammadu Buhari’s aide, Lauretta Onochie, caused him mental and psychological trauma through what he termed as fabricated offensive electronic messages.

Atiku who was the presidential candidate of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, in the last general election, told the court that Onochie leveled series of “baseless allegations” against him on twitter and facebook, to the extent that his hard-earned reputation and all that he laboured for over the years, was destroyed.

In a witness statement on oath he personally deposed to before the court, Atiku, decried that all the alleged disparaging social media posts against him came at a time he was challenging President Buhari’s re-election before the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal Tribunal, insisting that Onochie’s action was “accentuated by malice and bad faith”.

He specifically prayed the court to punish Onochie who is Buhari’s Special Assistant on Social Media, over a post she shared through her twitter handle on May 7 and on Facebook on May 20.

In a libel suit he filed through his lawyer, Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, the former VP demanded for N2.5billion representing general, aggravated, punitive and exemplary damages over the untold embarrassment, derision, public ridicule, odium, obloquy, marital disharmony, mental agony and psychological trauma which the Defendant’s publications have caused him.

According to Atiku, Onochie had in the said post, portrayed him as someone on the watch list of security operatives in the United Arab Emirates, and who had traveled to shop for terrorists in the Middle East.

He told the court that his public image was battered by the allegation to the extent that he was regarded as a security threat both within and outside the country.

He said he would in the course of the hearing, tender call logs showing an avalanche of text messages and calls he received in the aftermath of Onochie’s posts.

“That I am the Claimant in this suit and by virtue of which I am seized with the facts deposed herein.

‘I am an astute politician, businessman, philanthropist and former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“That I am a notable and respected personality in my community, Nigeria and the World at large, a distinguished elder statesman, who has served the Nigerian people, the Federal Government of Nigeria and humanity in various capacities.

“I had a sterling career in the political sector.

“That sometime in May 2019, I embarked on a foreign trip to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as I have done over the years.

“That while still in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on the said trip, the Defendant on 7th day of May, 2019, through her twitter handle page, which is linked to, and belongs to the Defendant, published a most libelous story about me on her said twitter and also published same globally online on the social and other print media and electronic media, making the following false and unfounded allegations against me.

“Atiku on UAE watchlist-Security sources Security operatives in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are keeping a close tab on a former Nigerian Vice-President Atiku Abubakar who has been in the Middle East nation for several weeks now, What is he doing there? Me: Shopping for Terrorists?”

“That in the said defamatory publication against me made by the defendant on 7th May 2019, the defendant amongst other baseless allegations falsely and maliciously accused me of being on the watch list of Security Operatives in the United Arabs Emirates (UAE).

“The defendant further falsely accused me of shopping for terrorists in the Middle East, thereby portraying me as an evil man, mentor of terrorists, someone who has links with terrorists, and a person who is interested in destabilizing the peace and unity of Nigeria. The publication also portrayed me as a security threat and terrorist to right-thinking members of the public and the society at large.

“That since the 7th day of May 2019, when the said libelous and offensive electronic message vide twitter, was sent and also published globally online `in the social and other print media, the odious publication has clearly rubbished my image and reputation.

“It has caused me national and international backlash and embarrassment and has done incalculable damage to me.

“The publication of the defendant has also caused me, in the eyes of reasonable members of the public, unspeakable odium, obloquy, hatred, ridicule, mental and psychological trauma.

“I have thereby been subjected to the shame and infamy of being viewed by members of the public as not only corrupt but as a terrorist and sponsor of terrorism.

“Numerous telephone calls, emails, visits, letters and private social media chats by my family members, friends, political and business associate, and international statesmen and women attest to the alarm and serious concerns generated by the defendant’s false publication.

“I categorically deny each and every allegation contained in the said publication which is a figment of the imagination of the defendant. I state most emphatically that the entire opprobrious and denigrating story above referred to is most misleading, baseless, false, malicious and totally bereft of any foundation howsoever.

“I state most emphatically that the inference and grave conclusions made by the defendant in the obviously politically orchestrated story were invented by the defendant and others of her ilk, solely to cause maximum damage to my high reputation.

“That Contrary to the defendant’s derogatory, disparaging, mendacious and unrestrained defamatory statement, as published in various print, electronic and online media platforms, and as concerning me, is not and I have never been on the security watch list of UAE, or any other country, for that matter. I have neither ever been denied entry into, interrogated, nor been declared wanted by the UAE Authorities, or any of its security agencies.

“That I was at the time of the said publication in the UAE and was never accosted by any security agencies over the said frivolous and baseless allegations.

“That the allegation by the Defendant to the effect that I was shopping for terrorists is not only dishonest and reckless but was calculated and

“Politically, designed to instigate agents against me not only in the UAE but across the world”, Atiku averred.

He told the court that the Defendant failed to retract her allegations, despite a letter his lawyer wrote to her on May 14 to that effect.

Atiku said rather than to apologize to him, Onochie, in a follow-up post on facebook on May 20, “portrayed me to right-thinking members of the society as a depressed person without the mental fitness to hold the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria or any public whatsoever.”

He said: “Further and by way of innuendo, the defamatory words complained of the above used by the Defendant also meant and were understood to mean that I am a hypocrite”.

“That after these defamatory publications by the Defendant, several people, both within and outside the country, who read the publications have called me and expressed their disappointment that they never knew that I was a man of dubious character and sponsor of terrorists, despite my apparent sterling and distinguished career in the public sector and enviable achievements in the private sector.

“Some of them challenged me to sue the author of the publications to clear my name if I believed that the publications were false.

“That it is most uncharitable of the Defendant to disparage my reputation, who has done everything humanly possible to serve Nigeria and humanity with a view to alleviating poverty and unemployment in Nigeria and beyond.

“That I deserve accolades for my personal commitment and sacrifices by creating employment and alleviating poverty through the empowerment of the youths. I have made outstanding contributions to the development of our country and humanity for which I do not deserve to be insulted or vilified.

“I plead that my character, reputation, person, psyche, honour, dignity, being and all I have ever stood for in life, have been smeared, maligned, assaulted and denigrated, without any justifiable basis by the electronic messages vide twitter and Facebook, and also published globally online in the social and other print media circulated around the World by the Defendant.

“That upon the receipt of the electronic messages vide twitter and Facebook, containing the highly libelous statements, the contents have been the subject matter of discussion in my matrimonial home and amongst other persons who heard about them both within and outside the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“That unless restrained by an order of this Honourable court, the Defendant will continue to cause to be published, the same, or similar defamatory publications against me.

“Upon the afore pleaded premises, that I am entitled to punitive, exemplary and aggravated damages, as well as injunctive reliefs against the Defendant.

“That I shall at the hearing of this suit, found upon all the documents relating to the facts pleaded herein, including, but not limited to the electronic messages vide Twitter, Facebook, other text messages, letters and e-mails from family members, concerned relatives and associate all over the World”, Atiku added.

Aside praying for an order of perpetual injunction restraining the Defendant from making further offensive posts against him, Atiku, also sought an order compelling the defendant to make a retraction of, and an apology to him for the said offensive twitter and Facebook publications on the same platforms, and also to be published in three national newspapers with wide circulation within the country and also broadcast on AIT, Channels and NTA television stations.

Atiku also sought an order compelling her to write to him, “a letter of unreserved apology for the said offensive twitter and facebook publications.”

BIG STORY

As WAFCON Kicks Off Today, The Falcons Of Nigeria Will Win Their 10th Title — By Seun Oloketuyi

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The energy in Morocco is electric. From the bustling streets of Rabat to the buzzing stadium corridors in Casablanca, a continental celebration of football has begun. The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, delayed until 2025, kicks off today — and as the anthem rings out to open the tournament, one team walks into the spotlight with more than just ambition. The Super Falcons of Nigeria are here to reclaim what they’ve long considered theirs: the WAFCON crown.

Nine-time champions, decorated with decades of dominance, Nigeria’s women’s team has been the pride of African football. But this time, there’s something different. It’s not just about titles or rankings. It’s about redemption. Two years ago, the Falcons fell short, narrowly edged out of the final by host nation Morocco and forced to watch South Africa take the throne. That sting hasn’t faded — it’s fuel.

The players know what’s at stake. Asisat Oshoala, now playing for Bay FC in the U.S. after an illustrious run with Barcelona, returns with fire in her eyes and form in her boots. Alongside her, a younger generation is rising — bold, unshaken, hungry. In training, the tempo has been sharp. In their voices, confidence. In their hearts, belief,She is expected to inspire the younger generation lead by the team Captain Rasheedat and the new blood of Alozie,Ashley,Esther and Toni Payne plus Ayinde a lot is expected.

Now led by new head coach Justine Madugu, following the departure of Randy Waldrum, the Falcons are embracing a refreshed style of play — blending tactical discipline with expressive, fearless attacking football. Madugu has not only brought structure but also instilled belief, trust, and a renewed fighting spirit,Many including me are still stunned Monday Gift is not in this team but yet we are behind them.

The road won’t be easy. Morocco is loud and proud on home soil. South Africa still glows from their 2022 triumph. Zambia arrives with momentum. But even in the shadows of rising stars, Nigeria still stands tallest. When the Super Falcons walk out tomorrow against Tunisia for their opening match, they’ll carry more than just jerseys on their backs. They’ll carry history. Legacy. And expectation.

This is a team that has shaped the narrative of African women’s football for decades. Their dominance isn’t luck. It’s culture. Discipline. Passion. Every touch of the ball, every sprint, every tackle will be driven by the memory of past glories — and the desire to write a new chapter.

As the tournament kicks off today, the message from Nigeria is clear: the Falcons are flying again. Not with arrogance, but with assurance. And by the time the final whistle blows in Rabat on July 26, they believe they’ll be right where they belong — lifting the trophy for a record 10th time.

Africa is watching. Nigeria is ready.

I Totally believe Falcons will come home with the 10th Wafcon

  • Seun Oloketuyi the producer of Flying with the Falcons

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BIG STORY

“Adron Homes Made My Dream Come True” — New Homeowner Shares Inspiring Testimony

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For many Nigerians, the dream of owning a home often feels out of reach, clouded by financial limitations, uncertainty, and broken promises. But for Engr. & Mrs. Taiwo Ademola, that dream has become a beautiful reality, made possible by Adron Homes.

Speaking proudly from the comfort of his newly completed home in one of Adron’s thriving estates in Shimawa, Ogun State, Engr. Ademola shared his joy and fulfillment at finally becoming a landlord.

“When I thought about owning a home, it felt like a far-off dream,” he recalled. “But Adron Homes changed everything. Their flexible installment plan gave me the confidence to start. Today, I stand here as a proud homeowner. For anyone still doubting, Adron Homes is real, and they are here to stay.”

The Ademolas’ new home, now dedicated and celebrated, is a symbol of stability, dignity, and the fulfillment of a long-held dream. Their success story is a powerful reminder of Adron Homes’ mission to make quality, affordable housing accessible to every hardworking Nigerian, regardless of financial background.

In his congratulatory message to the family, Sir Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, Chairman/CEO of Adron Group, expressed his delight at yet another fulfilled homeowner.

“At Adron Homes, our vision has always been to make home ownership possible for every Nigerian, and I am glad we are living up to this vision” he stated. “Every key we hand over is a step towards fulfilling that vision”.

He welcomed them into the family, describing this feat as the foundation of new beginnings and joyful memories.

Adron Homes has become synonymous with reliability, integrity, and innovation in Nigeria’s real estate sector. With flourishing estates across Shimawa, Lagos, Abuja, Nasarawa, Epe, Badagry, and beyond, the company continues to redefine affordable luxury and accessible home ownership nationwide.

As more Nigerians like the Ademolas proudly unlock the doors to their dream homes, one truth remains undeniable, with Adron Homes, dreams are not just imagined; they are built, one family, one house, one community at a time.

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BIG STORY

UBA, Wema, GTB Resume International Transactions On Naira Cards After Years Of Suspension

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Three commercial banks in Nigeria have revealed the recommencement of international transactions on their naira cards. In separate messages to customers, the United Bank of Africa (UBA), Wema Bank, and Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) confirmed that the service is back on their naira cards. This change comes about three years after several banks halted international transactions on naira debit cards.

In a recent notice to customers, UBA stated the resumption is part of its ongoing commitment to delivering seamless and improved banking experiences. “In line with our continued commitment to providing you with seamless and enhanced banking experiences, we are pleased to inform you that all UBA Premium Naira Cards, including Gold, Platinum, and World variants are now enabled for international transactions,” the message read. “This means you can now use your Premium Naira Card for everyday payments, online shopping, POS, and ATM transactions across the world, with more ease and flexibility. If you haven’t used your card recently, now’s a great time to rediscover the convenience and prestige that comes with being a UBA premium cardholder.”

In its own statement, Wema Bank informed customers they could now “pay in dollars” using their naira cards. “Your Wema Naira Mastercard just went global! Now you can pay in dollars on all your favourite international platforms; Amazon, eBay, AliExpress? Netflix, Spotify, YouTube,” the bank noted.

In an email to customers, GTB explained that users can spend up to one thousand dollars every quarter with its naira card worldwide. “We are pleased to inform you that you now have a quarterly limit of $1,000 on your GTBank Naira Card to pay for all your favourite things anywhere in the world,” it said. “Withdrawals at ATMs Abroad: $500 quarterly. Online and POS Transactions: $1,000 quarterly. Kindly note that the quarterly limit of $1,000 covers all transactions including ATM cash withdrawals abroad, purchases on international websites, POS payments outside Nigeria, and more.”

WHY BANKS ARE MAKING THE SHIFT

Ayokunle Olubunmi, head of financial institutions ratings at Agusto & Co, explained that the improved liquidity in the foreign exchange (FX) market encouraged banks to restart global transactions with their naira cards. “The moderating premium on the parallel market transactions and the reduced arbitrage opportunities is also responsible for the decision,” he said.

Charles Sanni, chief executive officer of Cowry Treasurers, told TheCable that the smaller spread between the official and parallel market rates likely influenced the move. He added that interest rates are very high in Nigeria, which discourages borrowing to speculate on foreign exchange. “The naira has also continued to appreciate against the other major currencies of the world. More so, there has been increased diaspora remittances based on the new policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on opening of accounts for non-residents, particularly Nigerians in diaspora,” he explained.

Sanni also pointed to renewed confidence in FX management by the federal government and the CBN, noting improvements in fund transfers and capital repatriation. He mentioned that factors such as an improved credit rating for Nigeria, the clearance of FX backlogs, a “new trading platform, increase in oil prices from geopolitical conflicts, and banks capitalisation” also played a role.

Between July 2022 and January 2023, several other banks had also temporarily stopped international transactions on ATMs and POS channels. The pause was due to severe FX scarcity, which posed a risk to vital sectors of the economy.

In July, Standard Chartered Bank halted international transactions on its naira visa debit card. First Bank of Nigeria (FBN), on September 21, 2022, announced it would stop international transactions on its naira Mastercard. Three months later, Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) suspended global payments on its naira Mastercard, and Zenith Bank followed suit on January 9, 2023.

Flutterwave, Eversend, and other fintech platforms also suspended their virtual card services for international transactions.

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