The United States and the United Kingdom have both advised their nationals in Qatar to “shelter in place until further notice”.
According to an online update from the US Embassy, this advice was given “out of an abundance of caution”. Meanwhile, UK officials explained that their warning followed the US advisory.
These alerts were issued shortly after the US State Department advised Americans worldwide to “exercise increased caution,” in the wake of the recent American airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities on Saturday. Iran has since vowed to respond.
Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded by confirming that various nations were asking their citizens to take precautions. However, the ministry stressed that this embassy advice “does not necessarily reflect the existence of specific threats”.
“The security situation in the country is stable,” the statement said, adding that “the relevant authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are ready to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of citizens, residents, and visitors”.
Qatar hosts the Al Udeid Air Base the largest US military facility in the region. The State Department estimates that around 8,000 American nationals currently reside there.
Roughly 40,000 US military personnel are deployed throughout the Middle East.
Following the embassy’s message, various institutions in Qatar including several universities also issued notices urging students and staff to remain at home.
The State Department describes ties between the US and Qatar as “strong”, noting the Gulf nation’s financial, political, and military involvement in addressing ongoing regional conflicts.
On Sunday, President Bola Tinubu brought his tenure to an end as the Chairperson of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
As a result of this transition, President Julius Bio of Sierra Leone has been appointed as his successor.
Tinubu disclosed this development during the 67th Ordinary Session of the Authority held at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja.
He said, “It has been a profound honour and privilege to lead this esteemed body, and I remain deeply humbled by the trust and support you have extended to me throughout my channel as I now hand over the mantle of leadership to my great friend and dear brother, His Excellency, President Julius Bio of Sierra Leone.”
“I do so with a deep sense of fulfilment and of commitment for the future of West Africa.”
Prior to handing over, Tinubu voiced his concern about the sluggish progress in operationalising the ECOWAS Standby Force. He called on West African leaders to urgently shift from mere planning to concrete action in the joint effort to combat terrorism and transnational crimes.
“I am a little bit worried about the slow pace of its (ECOWAS Standby Force) activation, which is taking longer than desired,” the President said in his opening speech.
President Tinubu advocated for the establishment of a regional standby force and a counter-terrorism centre to combat terrorism in Africa’s most volatile regions in April 2024.
He described the counter-terrorism centre as a hub for intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and capacity building across the continent. Tinubu highlighted ransom-taking and illegal mining as “evil branches” fueled by underlying issues like poverty, inequality, and social injustice, which sustain terrorist networks throughout Africa.
“Key to our collective efforts against terrorism is the urgent need for a fully operational Regional Counter-Terrorism Centre,” Tinubu stated at the African High-level Meeting on Counter-Terrorism in Abuja on April 22, 2024.
Two months later, at the sixth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union in Ghana, he noted that ECOWAS was seeking alternative funding sources for its $2.6 billion Standby Force. In August 2024, he reiterated the commitment of member states to finance the force, presenting it as a critical response to terrorism in the Sahel.
However, a year later, reflecting on his two-year tenure as ECOWAS chairman since July 2023, Tinubu voiced frustration over the slow progress of the initiative, as security challenges in the Sahel continued to escalate.
He emphasized the critical need to activate the force swiftly due to the rising insecurity throughout the sub-region.
“The ECOWAS Standby Force must move from concept to operational reality. I am a little bit worried about the slow pace of its activation, which is taking longer than desired,” the President said.
He pointed out that the threats facing the region were transnational, fueled by dynamic and dangerous networks that disregarded national borders.
“No single nation can, therefore, address these challenges alone. We must strengthen coordination, amplify political will, and prioritise a collective approach to secure it,” he added.
Tinubu outlined key achievements during his tenure as leader of the regional bloc. He noted that the newly completed ECOWAS Military Logistics Depot in Lungi, Sierra Leone, would be vital in supplying equipment and logistics to ECOWAS-deployed forces.
“Last February in Addis Ababa, Nigeria signed the Sixth Agreement with the African Union. With the depot’s completion, Nigeria is committing itself to sea-lift and air-lift arrangements with ECOWAS,” he said.
Tinubu expressed optimism that the current diplomatic efforts with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger would eventually result in their reintegration into the regional bloc.
“Under my chairmanship, I deployed all diplomatic means to engage and dialogue with our brothers in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. I am confident that before too long, they may return to the family,” he said.
The Nigerian President emphasized the need to enhance economic collaboration, strengthen the private sector, and eliminate trade obstacles to fully harness West Africa’s potential.
“Our intra-regional trade remains low, even as we possess the potential to be an economic powerhouse. We must create the enabling environment, empower the private sector, and create the conditions necessary for innovation to flourish,” he said.
He also advocated for the prompt execution of vital regional infrastructure initiatives, such as the West African Gas Pipeline, West African Power Pool, and Abidjan–Lagos Corridor Highway, describing them as essential for growth and integration.
After taking over leadership, President Bio praised Tinubu for setting a strong foundation in regional engagement, economic revitalization, and peace efforts.
“I am humbled to build upon the strong foundation you have established,” he said
Recognizing the challenges of the present situation, the Sierra Leonean president observed that West Africa faced a critical juncture, contending with terrorism, illegal arms trafficking, political unrest, and cross-border crime, especially in the Sahel and coastal areas.
“The democratic space is under strain in parts of our region. In some countries, the constitutional order has been disrupted.
“Yet, across West Africa, citizens—especially our youth—are demanding not just elections, but also accountability, transparency, and a fair stake in national life,” he said.
When Favour Ofili blazed her way into the hearts of Nigerians with record-breaking sprints, the country thought it had found its next great track queen. But now, that same queen is walking away—not from the sport, but from Nigeria.
The 22-year-old sprint star has formally requested to switch her international allegiance to Turkey, leaving behind the green-white-green flag she once proudly represented.
Her decision is rooted in years of alleged neglect and administrative mismanagement by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC).
Ofili’s tipping point came at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where, despite meeting the qualifying standard in the 100m, her name was mysteriously missing from the start list. The reason? A familiar Nigerian tale: paperwork failure.
This blunder mirrored another that happened in Tokyo 2020, where she was also denied the opportunity to compete due to similar incompetence.
For Ofili, lightning struck twice—but not on the track. It struck in the boardrooms of Nigerian sports bureaucracy.
Ofili is not just another fast runner. She is one of Nigeria’s brightest athletic exports, with personal bests of 10.93 seconds in the 100m and 21.96 seconds in the 200m—numbers that put her firmly in the elite global category.
Despite her talent and commitment, the recurring administrative chaos has now driven her to seek a more reliable support system under the Turkish flag.
Not the first, sadly not the last. Ofili’s move might sting, but she is far from the first to feel let down by the system.
Here’s a look at five other Nigerian-born athletes who ditched the dysfunction and now shine for other countries:
Francis Obikwelu (Portugal)
Born in Nigeria, Obikwelu switched allegiance to Portugal after being frustrated with neglect by Nigerian sports authorities. He went on to win silver in the 100m at the 2004 Athens Olympics, becoming one of Europe’s top sprinters.
Tobi Amusan (Under consideration)
Though still representing Nigeria as of now, there have been whispers around the global track community that the reigning world champion and record-holder in the women’s 100m hurdles may be reconsidering her loyalty, especially following controversies with the AFN and doping procedural disputes.
Fikayo Tomori (England – Football)
Though a footballer, Tomori’s switch is symbolic. Born to Nigerian parents and eligible to play for Nigeria, the defender chose to represent England, citing better developmental structures and long-term vision—reasons that echo across multiple sports.
Yusuf Aminat Jamal – Bahrain
Formerly known as Aminat Yusuf, she now competes for Bahrain in the 800m and 1500m races. Like many others, her switch was driven by the need for better training conditions and career support.
Oluwakemi Adekoya (Bahrain)
The 400m hurdler and sprinter moved to Bahrain in 2014. Adekoya has since won multiple Asian Games medals and enjoyed a flourishing career—something she struggled to achieve under the Nigerian system.
Ofili’s decision is a loud warning siren: talent is no longer enough to keep loyalty. Without proper investment, organization, and respect for athletes, Nigeria risks becoming a breeding ground for other nations’ champions.
A female suicide bomber detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) at a crowded fish market in Konduga, Borno State, Nigeria, on June 20, 2025, killing 12 people and injuring 18 others. The attack, which occurred around 9:30 p.m., targeted a food joint within the market, a bustling hub for local traders and residents.
The Borno State Police Command confirmed the incident, noting that the bomber infiltrated a civilian crowd before triggering the explosion.
“A suicide bomb attack occurred on Friday, 20th June, 2025, at about 2130hrs, at fish market area in Konduga town, Borno State where a female suicide bomber, who had an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) strapped to her body, infiltrated a crowd of unsuspecting civilians and detonated the device, resulting in the unfortunate loss of lives and multiple injuries,” said ASP Nahum Daso, the state Police Public Relations Officer.
The blast left a grim scene, with the bomber’s body severely dismembered and only her head recovered for identification.
“We were bargaining a fish when we heard a loud sound that later turns out to be a suicide bomb attack. It was a gory sight,” a local source recounted.
Emergency responders, including the Nigeria Police Force, military, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD-CBRN) units, were swiftly deployed to secure the area and prevent further attacks.
The injured were rushed to Maiduguri Specialist Hospital for treatment, while ongoing investigations aim to uncover the full details of the attack. No group has claimed responsibility, but security sources point to Boko Haram, whose 16-year insurgency has killed thousands and displaced over 2 million in Borno.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu condemned the attack as a “cowardly” act by “remnants of the Boko Haram insurgents who resort to attacks on soft targets as a diversionary tactic.”
In a statement issued on June 22 by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed deep anguish and mourned the victims.
“President Tinubu has expressed anguish over the suicide bombing in Konduga, Borno State, at the weekend. The President mourned those who lost their lives, describing the attack as cowardly,” the statement read.
He urged security agencies to intensify efforts to eliminate the insurgents, stating, “He urged security agencies to double their efforts in routing remnants of the Boko Haram insurgents who resort to attacks on soft targets as a diversionary tactic.”
Tinubu also directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide immediate support to survivors and extended condolences to the Borno State government and its people.
The Commissioner of Police, Borno State Command, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, expressed condolences and assured the public of ongoing efforts to restore normalcy.
“The CP urges members of the public to remain calm, vigilant, and security conscious, and to promptly report any suspicious movement or activity to the nearest security agency,” Daso added.
The attack follows a pattern of Boko Haram’s recent tactics, with similar bombings in Gwoza and Kauri in 2024 claiming dozens of lives.
In a separate incident, Tinubu addressed an explosion at a scrap metal factory in Kano State on June 21, which killed five people and injured ten others.
“Meanwhile, the President has sympathised with the families of those killed or injured by an explosion on Saturday morning in Kano,” Onanuga’s statement noted, emphasizing the need for stricter safety protocols.
Tinubu tasked relevant authorities with investigating the incident to prevent future tragedies.
The Konduga bombing underscores the persistent threat of insurgency in Nigeria’s northeast, despite military efforts to curb Boko Haram’s activities.
Residents, shaken by the attack, called for enhanced security measures to protect vulnerable communities. As investigations continue, the nation mourns, and Tinubu’s pledge for justice resonates, “We will not rest until peace is restored.”
Nigeria’s trailblazing fighter pilot, Flight Lieutenant Kafayat Sanni, has once again made the nation proud by clinching two major awards at the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC).
Sanni, who holds the distinction of being Nigeria’s first female fighter pilot, was honored as the Best Allied Student and also received the Best Assistant Commandant Paper award. She emerged top among an elite group of international military officers, showcasing exceptional performance and academic excellence.
The prestigious awards were presented during the GAFCSC graduation ceremony, which was graced by senior military leaders and dignitaries from several African countries. Her dual recognition stands as a powerful testament to her discipline, skill, and unwavering dedication.
Flight Lieutenant Sanni’s continued success not only strengthens Nigeria’s reputation in global military circles but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for young women aspiring to careers in aviation and defense.
The Nigerian Air Force has expressed deep pride in her achievement, emphasizing that her performance reflects the service’s commitment to nurturing exceptional talent capable of competing and excelling internationally.
In what has been described as one of the most significant security breakthroughs in recent Lagos history, operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested the state’s most wanted criminal, Wasiu Akinwande, popularly known as Olori Eso, a 44-year-old notorious hired killer and cult kingpin.
The suspect, who has been on the police radar for over a decade, was captured in a covert operation code-named “Silence, Speed and Surprise” by the Command’s Tactical Squad. He was apprehended at his hideout in the Agbado area of Ogun State following several failed attempts in the past.
Akinwande has long been a symbol of terror in the Mushin area of Lagos and surrounding communities. He is accused of masterminding numerous high-profile killings, kidnappings, cult-related murders, and armed robberies dating back to 2009. According to the police, his brutal operations have instilled widespread fear and caused untold trauma for many families in the state.
Following his arrest, police operatives raided his residence in Mushin where a shocking cache of weapons and incriminating materials were uncovered. Items recovered include:
Two (2) AK-47 rifles
One (1) K2 assault rifle
One (1) Red Ryder rifle
Three (3) pump action rifles
Two (2) locally made single-barrel pistols
Five (5) magazines
Fifty-seven (57) live cartridges
Seventy (70) rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition
Twenty-seven (27) rounds of 9mm ammunition
One (1) expended 5.56mm ammunition
One (1) dagger
Three (3) walkie-talkies
Nine (9) international passports belonging to various individuals
Four families have already come forward to identify Akinwande as the perpetrator of the gruesome killings of their loved ones, lending credence to police claims of his extensive and violent criminal history.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, while addressing the press, praised the bravery and coordination of the officers involved in the operation. He described the arrest as “a turning point in the fight against violent crime in Lagos State.”
“The arrest of this dreaded cult leader and the seizure of these weapons sends a clear message—Lagos will not be a safe haven for criminals,” CP Jimoh said. “We are committed to restoring peace and protecting lives. Justice will be served.”
He also revealed that the Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), has been tasked to head a special investigative team to widen the probe and apprehend other accomplices linked to Akinwande’s gang.
The police have assured residents that Akinwande is in custody under tight security and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The Lagos Police Command has urged the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting security efforts by reporting suspicious activities promptly.
The Command reiterated its commitment to making Lagos a safer city for all, stating that the fight against crime will remain relentless and uncompromising.
The Labubu doll, created by Chinese company Pop Mart, has become a global sensation—earning $1.6 billion in just one day and sparking spiritual controversy online. While many see it as a simple toy, others believe it carries “demonic energy,” with videos and stories circulating about its strange presence.
Despite this, the doll continues to sell out in places like the U.S. and Nigeria, where buyers are paying over ₦260,000 per piece.
In Nigeria, the growing interest raises deeper questions: Why are people so eager to own something rumored to carry dark energy? Is it curiosity, status, or just trend-chasing? In a country where spirituality and culture are deeply rooted, it’s surprising how the Labubu trend thrives. For some, it’s just hype—but for others, it may reflect how capitalism and pop culture are slowly reshaping traditional fears.
Power dynamics in the entertainment industry often shape everything from casting calls to career longevity, making it a high-stakes environment where influence can be misused.
While many actors and creatives thrive under fair leadership, others find themselves navigating a minefield of exploitation, manipulation, and gatekeeping. One of the darkest manifestations of this imbalance is workplace harassment a systemic issue that continues to be exposed as more industry insiders come forward with their stories.
One such case involves actor Derek Dixon, who has filed a $260 million lawsuit against Hollywood mogul Tyler Perry, accusing him of sexual harassment, assault, and professional retaliation. Dixon, who played Dale in more than 100 episodes of Perry’s hit series The Oval, claims the harassment began shortly after meeting Perry at a party in 2019.
The lawsuit alleges that Perry abused his position of power and escalated the harassment over time, including an incident in 2020 where Dixon says he was physically grabbed and subjected to sexual remarks. Perry’s legal team has strongly denied the claims, calling them “fabricated.” Still, the case reignites crucial conversations around consent, influence, and the urgent need for safer, more transparent workplaces in the entertainment world.
The Edo State government, on Wednesday, June 12, 2025, said that it has activated an emergency public health response, deploying all necessary resources and expertise to arrest the spread of diphtheria and safeguard the health of residents.
The state government on June 9 deployed 70 doses of anti-diphtheria vaccines to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, where two people died last week of the disease. In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, the state government said it is fully aware of the outbreak in certain parts of the state.
According to the statement, hospitals across the state have been placed on high alert and instructed to intensify case detection, prompt isolation, and proper clinical management of suspected cases in accordance with national and international guidelines.
The statement reads, “Government wishes to inform the general public that it is fully aware of the recent outbreak of Diphtheria reported in certain parts of the State.
“In response, the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo has activated an emergency public health response, deploying all necessary resources and expertise to arrest the situation and safeguard the health of residents.
“Governor Okpebholo, demonstrating decisive leadership, is personally coordinating surveillance and monitoring efforts, working closely with the state Ministry of Health and other critical stakeholders to ensure a swift and effective containment of the disease. “Key interventions currently underway include the procurement of life-saving vaccines to drive an immediate and statewide vaccination campaign targeting vulnerable populations, especially children.
“The government is also ramping up public awareness campaigns through multiple platforms, radio, television, community outreach, and social media, to educate citizens on the symptoms of diphtheria, preventive measures, and the importance of early treatment.
“Hospitals across the State have been placed on high alert and instructed to intensify case detection, prompt isolation, and proper clinical management of suspected cases in accordance with national and international guidelines.”
The statement also noted that medical personnel were being briefed and equipped to respond appropriately, while the state’s disease surveillance network is being expanded to trace and monitor potential contacts swiftly.
The statement added, “The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, has been at the forefront of the state’s medical response, working tirelessly with the emergency health task force to mitigate the spread of the disease and provide real-time updates to the public.
“Also, school owners and proprietors are actively collaborating with the government to implement early warning systems, enforce hygiene standards, and carry out health screenings where necessary to protect schoolchildren, who are among the most vulnerable.
“In addition, Governor Okpebholo has convened a multi-sectoral emergency meeting with representatives from the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control, World Health Organisation, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and community development groups to harmonise efforts and strengthen the response framework.
“The government assures the public that there is no cause for panic. The situation is under control, and all necessary protocols are being enforced to prevent further spread. Edo State has a strong track record in managing public health emergencies, and this instance is no exception.”
The governor urged citizens to remain calm but vigilant, advising residents to report any symptoms such as sore throat, fever, swollen glands in the neck, or difficulty in breathing to the nearest healthcare facility.
What Is Diphtheria?
Diphtheria is an infectious disease caused by the “Corynebacterium diphtheriae” bacterium. It primarily affects the respiratory system, causing a sore throat, fever, and swollen glands in the neck. The bacterium produces a toxin that damages tissues in the body and spreads through the bloodstream, affecting vital organs like the heart and kidneys.
How Does Diphtheria Spread
Diphtheria spreads mainly through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through direct contact with infected sores or contaminated items, such as towels or eating utensils. The bacteria can infect the throat or skin, and in some cases, it may spread through close personal contact or shared contaminated objects.
Symptoms of Diphtheria
The symptoms of diphtheria typically appear 2 to 5 days after exposure and may include:
Sore throat: Often severe, accompanied by difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
Fever: Mild to moderate.
Swelling of the neck: Characteristic “bull neck” appearance due to swollen lymph nodes.
Weakness and fatigue: General feeling of being unwell and weak.
Thick, grayish membrane in the throat: A thick coating in the throat or nose, which can make breathing and swallowing difficult.
Hoarseness or loss of voice: Caused by swelling and infection in the throat.
Difficulty breathing: In severe cases, the membrane can obstruct the airway, leading to breathing difficulties.
Preventive Measures
To prevent the spread of diphtheria, several measures should be followed:
Good hygiene practices: Regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and disinfecting contaminated objects and surfaces.
Isolation of infected individuals: Those diagnosed with diphtheria should remain isolated until they are no longer contagious.
Prompt treatment: Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms appear. Early treatment with antibiotics (such as penicillin or erythromycin) and diphtheria antitoxin can help reduce the severity of the illness and prevent further spread.
Diphtheria is a preventable but potentially deadly disease that continues to pose a threat in Nigeria due to low immunization rates.
Respected businessman, philanthropist, and political leader, late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, even in death a year on, continues to stir conversations.
His recently unveiled Will has raised debates about inheritance, personal freedom, and the lasting influence of legal documents.
Until his death on July 25, 2024, Chief Iwuanyanwu stood as a well-known figure in Nigeria’s business and political space.
After the passing of his first wife, Lady Eudora Nnenna Ozinyereaku Iwuanyanwu, in 2011, he married a much younger woman, Frances Chinonyerem Enwerem, in 2013. Their union produced a son.
When his Will was read on June 16, 2025, it revealed an equal distribution of his properties among his children and other family members. However, a surprising condition caught public attention. Frances, now 37, was granted ownership of prime properties including the famous “Legacy House” in Owerri, interests in real estate across Imo State, and Magil Furniture, a business once managed by his first wife. But, the document strictly stated that she must remain unmarried to retain these assets.
Choosing to marry again would mean losing all her inheritance.
This provision has raised many questions. When should someone prepare a Will? What does Nigerian law say about such conditions? And how powerful is a Will in shaping life?
When Do You Begin to Write a Will?
Many people assume that Wills are only for the elderly or the sick. This is a common mistake. Every adult who owns land, property, businesses, or investments should consider writing a Will early.
A Will helps prevent family disputes, protects the interests of dependents, and ensures that the writer’s wishes are respected. It can also include personal or moral instructions for the beneficiaries. Life is full of uncertainties, so it is wise to prepare a Will soon after acquiring valuable property, getting married, or starting a family.
A properly written Will brings peace of mind, knowing that the writer’s desires will be carried out as planned.
A Legal Perspective: What Does Nigerian Law Say About Wills and Conditional Bequests?
In Nigeria, the preparation and enforcement of Wills are guided by the Wills Act of 1837 (applicable in some states) and by local Wills Laws in others, such as the Wills Law of Lagos State, Cap W2, Laws of Lagos State, 2015.
A testator (the person making the Will) has the right to distribute their property freely and may attach conditions to any gift or bequest. This is known as a “Conditional Bequest.”
According to Section 3 of the Wills Act 1837, a person may give their property to whoever they wish and under any terms they choose, as long as the conditions are not illegal, impossible, or against public policy.
However, if a condition violates constitutional rights, such as the freedom to marry, the affected beneficiary has the right to contest the Will in court.
In general, Nigerian courts respect the freedom of individuals to dispose of their property as they see fit, unless the condition is proven to be unlawful or unjust.
How Powerful Is a Will in Shaping Life?
A Will is a powerful document that can control how wealth, property, and responsibilities are handled after the writer’s death. It determines who receives what, sets conditions for inheritance, and can direct the use of money for education, charity, or business.
The influence of a Will is felt long after the writer is gone. It can shape family decisions, impact personal relationships, and even affect future generations. Without a valid Will, property may be distributed according to state laws, which may not reflect the deceased person’s true wishes. This can lead to conflicts, confusion, and legal battles.
Therefore, a Will is not just a document of wealth transfer. It is a tool that preserves the writer’s voice and intentions, guiding the future actions of those left behind.
Can a Will be contested or appealed in Nigeria?
Yes, under Nigerian law, a Will can be contested in court by interested parties such as family members or dependents. Grounds for contesting a Will include lack of testamentary capacity (where the testator was mentally unfit when the Will was made), undue influence, fraud, forgery, or improper execution that does not comply with legal requirements such as those outlined in Section 4 of the Wills Act 1837.
If a Will is successfully contested, the court may declare it invalid either in whole or in part. In such situations, the deceased’s estate may be distributed based on a previously valid Will or according to the statutory rules of intestacy.
What happens if a Will is ignored or its instructions are disobeyed?
If executors or beneficiaries deliberately ignore or disobey the clear instructions of a valid Will, the court has the power to enforce compliance. Executors can be removed or replaced if they fail to perform their duties as directed. Beneficiaries who unlawfully interfere with the distribution of assets may face legal action, including being ordered to return misappropriated property and pay damages.
Relevant Nigerian cases on Will contest and enforcement
There are cases in Nigerian law that show how courts have handled disputes involving Wills. For example:
In Ilok v. Ilok (2013), the Court of Appeal upheld the validity of a contested Will after finding that the testator had acted of free will and with full mental capacity.
In Adebajo v. Adebajo (1973), the Supreme Court of Nigeria ruled that while a testator has the freedom to distribute property as they wish, conditions attached to such distribution must not violate public policy.
These cases highlight that while a Will carries strong legal weight, it is not above scrutiny. Courts have the authority to uphold or strike down parts of a Will if proven invalid, unfair, or unlawful.
The details of Chief Iwuanyanwu’s Will have brought the importance of early and clear estate planning to public attention.
Beyond the controversy of specific clauses, this event highlights a simple truth. Every property owner should prepare a valid Will, understand its legal strength, and realize that this document has the power to influence life long after death.
The key question for everyone remains. When will you write your Will, and what legacy will it leave behind?
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