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How Snake Killed 9-month-old Baby Of A Boko Haram Commander

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A nine-month-old child whom a Boko Haram commander had with one of his female captives has been killed by a snake.

The incident happened last weekend when the deceased child was sleeping beside his 17-year-old mother.

According to the BBC, the snake crept into their compound where they were relaxing as a result of the heat inside the house.

The mother identified as Zara was rescued during a military operation in Sambisa Forest, a stronghold of the sect in Borno.

In her first conversation with outsiders since her abduction over a year ago, she said she had not recovered from the pains.

Zara said life was tough and dangerous, as air force jets bombarded the vast Sambisa.

“They gave us a choice – to be married, or to be a slave. I decided to marry,” the BBC quoted her as saying.EXTRA: How snake killed the 9-month-old baby of a Boko Haram commander

She was eventually rescued and reunited with her relatives, but the stigma she faced made her yearn for a return to Sambisa.

“People call me a Boko Haram wife and called me a criminal. They didn’t want me near. They didn’t like me,” Zara said.

Commenting on Zara’s life after Sambisa, Mohamed Umaru, her uncle said: “The women in our family realised she was three months pregnant.

“In our family it happens that some of us are Christians and some are Muslims. She was a Christian before she was kidnapped but the Boko Haram who married her turned her into a Muslim.”

There was a split in the family over what to do and they took a vote as to whether she should abort or keep the child.

The majority prevailed and she gave birth to a boy.

“She said her husband’s father is called Usman, so that is how she named the child,” Mohamed said.

Zara said she had become an outcast in her community.

Zara

Zara, the traumatised teenager

She now sits inside the small walled compound around her house, afraid to go outside because of the cruel insults of the neighbourhood children – messages of hate learned from their parents.

“They didn’t like my child. When he fell sick nobody would look after him,” she said.

“Some were happy that he died. They were happy the blood of Boko Haram had gone from the family.”

Zara’s uncle said the girl’s condition had become so bad that she sometimes contemplates suicide.

“They said thank God that the kid is dead, that God has answered their prayers,” Mohamed explained.

“Sometimes she says she wants to go to school and become a doctor and help society, but sometimes, when people insult her, she says she wants to go back to the Sambisa Forest.

“She always talks about her husband who happens to be a Boko Haram commander. She says the guy is nice to her and that he wants to start a new life with her.

“She will go and do a suicide mission if she gets the chance.

“People should understand that these children didn’t create this, but if we continue to stigmatise people with such trauma we might create something much, much bigger than Boko Haram in the future,” her uncle says.

“You are creating a more dangerous thing than Boko Haram if you grow up not welcomed by society and with nobody wanting to help you.

“My prayer is for the government to do something. They should come to their aid and reintegrate them and show them love.”

Zara says she is in love with her husband although she believes she has been brainwashed. She feels abandoned by her family.

“The feeling for the forest is strong now, but it will go away. I will forget the time with Boko Haram, but not yet,” she said.

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Nigerian Born Int’l Journalist, Livinus Chibuike Victor, attempts to attain Interviewing Marathon of 72hours 30 Seconds

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Journalists plays an essential role in promoting transparency, challenging power, and giving a voice to the voiceless. Despite increasing threats to press freedom across the world.

As the world reflects on the vital role journalists play in upholding democratic values, Livinus Chibuike Victor, Imo State born globally acclaimed journalist, proudly announce a historic Guinness World Record attempt for the longest interviewing marathon, with the Theme (NIGERIA OUR STRENGTH) scheduled to take place from 28th September to October 1st 2025, at Tangier Hotel, 34, Ekukinam street, Besides ABC Transport, Utako, Abuja.

The record attempt according to Victory, aims to highlight the enduring impact of journalism in a democratic society, a profession that continues to educate, empower, and hold those in power accountable. In an age where truth is often under siege, this initiative seeks to draw attention to the essential need for a free, ethical, and fearless press.

“Democracy is impossible without an informed public, and journalists are the ones who make that possible, “This attempt is not just about setting a new world record; it’s about celebrating truth, integrity, and the powerful role journalism plays in building and sustaining open societies.

 

The Guinness World Record attempt will feature a series of activities designed to engage the public, celebrate press freedom, and honor the sacrifices made by journalists around the world.

Members of the public, media professionals, and civic leaders are invited to witness and support the event as it unfolds over three inspiring days at the Tangier Hotel, Ekukinam Street, Utako,.Abuja, Nigeria.

About Livinus Chibuike Victor
Livinus Chibuike Victor is a Nigerian journalist known for his fearless reporting and advocacy for Press Freedom. He has worked tirelessly to promote transparency and accountability in society through his work.

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South East NUJ hosts homecoming, awards Chris Isiguzo Lifetime Achievement Honour

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The immediate past National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Chief Dr. Chris Isiguzo (MFR), has been celebrated with a Lifetime Achievement Award by journalists from the South East Zone C during a special homecoming held in his honour at the NUJ Enugu Council Press Centre.

Speaking at the event, NUJ Vice President (South East), Comrade Ezenwa Adiuku, said the recognition was in appreciation of Isiguzo’s remarkable leadership and contributions during his tenure as National President. He described him as “a pathfinder, a trailblazer, a mentor, and a leader,” noting that he positioned the South East as a strong voice within the Union.

Chairman of the occasion and SSA to the Enugu State Governor on External Media Relations, Mr. Uche Anichukwu, stressed the importance of quality leadership recruitment in a democracy, urging citizens to reject vote buying and selling. He charged the media to intensify civic education to ensure credible leadership choices.

The current NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, praised the South East leadership for honouring Isiguzo, adding that it was the first time a sitting national president would honour his predecessor. He expressed confidence in the new Enugu Council leadership under Comrade Obinna Ogbuka, urging members to give full support.

In his response, Isiguzo expressed gratitude to the Union, recounting his administration’s achievements such as member registration, creation of the NUJ website, restoration of peace in councils, improved relations with state governments, and enhanced staff welfare.

Delivering a keynote address on “Leadership Recruitment Amid Challenges of Poverty: The Role of the Media”, UNN Vice Chancellor, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, represented by Prof. Olaiwola Usman, linked Nigeria’s poverty crisis to poor leadership choices, stressing the media’s role in promoting credible recruitment of leaders.

The high point of the ceremony was the presentation of the NUJ South East Zonal Lifetime Achievement Award portrait to Isiguzo by Comrade Yahya, alongside tributes from NUJ and NAWOJ leaders.

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NSITF mourns Afriland Towers fire VICTIMS, calls for stronger workplace safety

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The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) has expressed deep sorrow over the lives lost in the recent fire at Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos.

The Fund said its thoughts are with the families, colleagues, and organisations affected, including the Federal Inland Revenue Service, United Capital Plc, UBA, Afriland Properties, and others.

NSITF’s Managing Director and Chief Executive, Barr. Oluwaseun Faleye, sent heartfelt condolences, saying: “Our hearts go out to those who have lost loved ones. We stand with you in this time of grief.”

He also commended the courage of emergency workers and the swift action of the Lagos State authorities in containing the situation.

To support those affected, NSITF has activated its Lagos support desk to work with employers, families, and government agencies. The desk is helping with incident reports, claims processing, and benefits under the Employees’ Compensation Scheme.

This covers dependants of the deceased as well as rehabilitation support for survivors. “Our case officers are ready to guide families and employers every step of the way,” Faleye assured.

The Fund noted that the tragedy highlights the importance of workplace safety and the need for organisations to take precautions to prevent such disasters.

NSITF urged all employers to: Strengthen workplace safety measures and emergency protocols, especially in high-rise buildings and around backup power systems.

Report incidents quickly to NSITF so support can be provided without delay.

Ensure their organisations are registered with NSITF and that Employees’ Compensation contributions are up to date to guarantee full protection for their workers.

“These measures can save lives, reduce risks, and ensure timely support for those in need,” Faleye stressed.

On behalf of NSITF’s Board, Management, and Staff, he extended the Fund’s deepest sympathies to all those affected, pledging continued collaboration with the Federal Government and Lagos State authorities to protect Nigerian workers.

May the souls of the departed rest in peace.

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