Headline
Fake Certificates: 10 Nigeria Entertainers Who Bagged Degrees From Togo, Benin Republic Varsities
Published
1 year agoon
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Editor
Following an exposé by undercover journalist, Umar Audu, revealing his detailed acquisition of a degree from a university in Cotonou, Benin Republic, and subsequent undetected deployment to Cross Rivers State for the NYSC programme, there has been a strong reaction among Nigerians.
The report, which has since gained prominence, led the federal government to promptly suspend the accreditation and evaluation of degree certificates from Benin Republic and Togo.
The government also announced intentions to extend this sanction to countries such as Uganda, Kenya, and Niger Republic.
The spokesperson for the Ministry of Education, Augustina Obilor-Duru said in a statement on Tuesday, January 2, that the report lent credence to suspicions that some Nigerians deploy nefarious means and unconscionable methods to get a degree.
He said: “This report lends credence to suspicions that some Nigerians deploy nefarious means and unconscionable methods to get a Degree with the end objective of getting graduate job opportunities for which they are not qualified.
“The Federal Ministry of Education vehemently decries such acts and with effect from 2nd January 2024 is suspending evaluation and accreditation of degree certificates from Benin and Togo Republics pending the outcome of an investigation that would involve the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria and the two countries, the ministries responsible for Education in the two countries as well the Department of State Security Services (DSS), and the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC).”
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Reacting to the decision of the federal government, Zubby Micheal applauded the development while commenting on an Instagram post, saying that many “mugus” have been parading doctorate titles.
On Channels Television’s “Politics Today”, the Education Minister, Tahir Mamman, who appeared as a guest on Wednesday, January 3, vowed to go after citizens utilising fake certificates obtained from foreign countries to secure employment in Nigeria.
Describing such individuals as “criminals” involved in a criminal chain, Mamman insisted they ought to be arrested and not empathised with.
He said: “They are criminals and you know there is no timeframe to criminality. We will trace them. As long as we can lay our hands on their institutions and they are right here with us, certainly, the security agencies will go after them because they are criminals.”
“We are not going to stop at just Benin and Togo. We are going to extend the dragnet to countries like Uganda, Kenya, and even Niger here where such institutions have been set up.
“We will not stop at the suspension of certificates from Togo and Benin Republic alone. We are going to extend the suspension to other countries where such institutions operate.”
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The development comes just after many entertainers got awarded degrees, including honourary doctorates from various universities in the Benin Republic.
Below is a list of entertainers including singers and actors who bagged degrees from the universities in the aforementioned countries.
Ayra Starr
Mavin star girl, Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe aka Ayra Start attended Les Cours Sonou University in Benin Republic and received a BA degree in International Relations and Political Science at age 18.
“I made sure I got into school early because my goal was to be a teenage pop star. So, I got into school early. So I got into the university. I schooled in Benin Republic. My course was three years old. I graduated at 18.
“I have a degree in International Relations and Political science. Though, I’m thinking of getting another one,” said the “Rush” crooner in an interview with “Nairobi News”, in Kenya.
Besides Ayra Starr, the others listed were awarded honorary doctorate degrees. They include:
Kafayat Shafau
2020 saw sensational dancer, Kafayat Oluwatoyin Shafau, also referred to as Kaffy, receive an Honourary Doctorate Degree for her remarkable role in the African dance industry from Escae Benin University in the Benin Republic.
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Taking to Instagram to share the good news, the mother of two wrote: “I’m humbled to be decorated this afternoon by Escae Benin University with an Honorary Doctorate in recognition as a “pioneer in the business of dance in Africa”. This award is not just for me but for an institution. That institution is the dance industry.”
Mike Ezuruonye
In June 2021, popular actor and filmmaker, Michael Ezuruonye, also received an Honourary Doctorate of Arts and Literature from ESTAM University, Seme Campus, located in the Republic of Benin.
He shared the news on his Instagram page, expressing excitement and gratitude to his fans while identifying himself as Dr. Michael Ezuruonye.
“It’s cause of you my fans, supporters and good people this happened. Dr Michael Ezuruonye loves you all.”
Martins Okey Justice
Along with Mike, singer J. Martins bagged an honourary doctorate from the same institution.
Posing with the actor, Jay Martins in a post via his Instagram page wrote: “Ladies and Gentlemen say hello to the new Doctorates in town my humble self & my brother @mikeezu from Estam University Benin Republic
“A very big Thank you to all my supportive fans it’s because of you that I have come this far and I do not take you guys for granted so when next you see me remember to add Dr Martins Okey Justice aka J.Martins
Have a beautiful weekend everyone”.
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Alexx Ekubo
In August of the same year, Alexx Ekubo received an honorary doctorate in Arts and Culture from Benin Republic’s Institut Supérieur de Communication et de Geston University.
The Nollywood act took to Instagram to share a picture in a ceremonial graduation gown with the caption: “Introducing, Dr Alexx Ekubo. Thanks to the governing council of the Institut Supérieur de Communication et de Geston (ISCG UNIVERSITY) for conferring on me a Doctorate (Honorary) Degree in Arts & Culture”.
Peter Okoye
In June 2022, Peter Okoye aka Mr P, one-half of the well-known singing duo Psquare, received an honorary doctorate from the Escae-Benin University in the Benin Republic.
He was conferred Doctor of Arts by the school which he described as a “distinguished educational institution.”
Via his Instagram page, he shared the news, stating: “Dear Team P! It’s a great honor to be decorated by a distinguished educational institution, Who have recognised my contribution to Dance and Music as well as my support for the youth in the entertainment industry.”
IK Ogbonna
Popular Nigerian actor, Ikechukwu Mitchel Ogbonna aka IK, received an honorary degree in June 2022.
A Doctorate (Honorary) Degree of Arts in Leadership and Development was granted to IK by the Institut Superieur De Technologies Et De Management, Togo.
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Ireti Doyle
Ireti Doyle, who starred in Wedding Party, was included in the 2022 academic honour roll.
The Benin Republic’s Institut Superieur de Communication et de Gestion University awarded the seasoned actress an honorary doctorate in August.
The actress acknowledged that although she did have a “healthy expectation of receiving accolades,” an academic honour was not what she had in mind.
Bob Manuel Udokwu
Another famous Nigerian actor, Bob Manuel, received an honorary doctorate from the same Cotonou-based University.
The Institut Superieur de Communication et de Gestion University awarded the former Guinness Ultimate Search games master a Doctorate Degree in Arts and Culture.
Ireti Doyle disclosed the news as she shared photos from the ceremony on her Instagram page.
Pete Edochie
Veteran actor and seasoned movie star, Pete Edochie received a double honourary doctorate from the International School of Technology and Management (ISTM) University, Togo in September 2023.
The 76-year-old movie stalwart bagged a Doctorate in Literature, a Doctorate in Arts, and a lifetime achievement at the Togo-based varsity.
Source: Ruebenabati.com.ng
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Headline
Iran-Israel War: ‘A Fire No One Can Control’, UN Warns
Published
5 hours agoon
June 21, 2025By
Editor
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the ongoing violent conflict between Iran and Israel is “a fire no one can control” and risks spiralling out of control.
Guterres also warned that the world stood on the edge of catastrophe as Israel’s military campaign inside Iran intensified and strikes on nuclear facilities threatened to trigger a catastrophe.
The regional fallout is expanding, with missiles from Yemen’s Houthi forces targeting Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory, while armed groups in Iraq are reportedly mobilising.
In an address to the UN Security Council on Friday, Guterres made an urgent plea for de-escalation, calling the spiralling confrontation a defining moment for the future of global security.
READ ALSO: Trouble Looms As Trump Gives Iran Two Weeks To Avoid US Airstrikes
“We are not drifting toward crisis, we are racing toward it,” he said adding,“This is a moment that could shape the fate of nations”.
“The expansion of this conflict could ignite a fire no one can control,” he stressed, warning of widespread panic and destruction.
The Secretary-General’s remarks came amid a mounting civilian toll in both Israel and Iran, and as several nuclear sites in Iran have come under direct military assault.
Over 100 targets have reportedly been struck across Iran, including military and nuclear infrastructure such as the Natanz and Isfahan nuclear facilities and the Khondab heavy water reactor.
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Iranian officials reported over 224 civilian deaths, with some estimates twice as high and more than 2,500 have been reportedly injured.
Major cities like Tehran have seen mass displacements, fuel shortages and widespread panic.
Iran has responded with its own barrage of missile strikes on Israel, hitting cities such as Tel Aviv, Haifa and Beersheba.
Critical civilian sites, including the Soroka Medical Center and the Weizmann research institute, have been damaged.
No fewer than 24 Israelis were confirmed dead, with more than 900 injured.
Guterres urged both parties to give diplomacy a chance.
He reiterated the need for full Iranian cooperation with the UN nuclear energy watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency
Headline
US Visa Adjudication Sparks Concerns Over Diplomatic Relations
Published
5 hours agoon
June 21, 2025By
Editor
The US Department of State has responded to questions regarding a proposed expansion of the travel ban to 36 countries, including 25 in Africa, following intense global debates and concerns, with many questioning its potential impact on diplomatic relations, travels, and economies.
According to the spokesperson for the Department of State, Ms Bruce, the proposal aims to protect US national security and public safety by ensuring that foreign travelers do not pose a threat to the country, saying ,
As laid out in Trump’s Executive Order 14161, ‘Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and other National Security and Public Safety Threats’, the visa adjudication process has got to ensure that US-bound foreign travellers do not pose a threat to the national security and public safety of the United States.
She said that the Department of State assesses countries’ security capabilities, information sharing, and identity management practices to determine whether they can be trusted to provide reliable information for visa adjudication.
Countries that fail to meet certain security standards may face travel restrictions or entry bans. The goal is to ensure that US-bound foreign travelers do not pose a threat to national security and public safety, Bruce explained.
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When asked about a deadline for countries to come up with an action plan, the spokesperson clarified that there is no immediate deadline, stating that countries will have a considerable amount of time to rectify any issues affecting the nature of the US trust in how they issue visas.
However, the proposed travel ban has sparked concerns about its potential impact on diplomatic relations and travels between the US and affected countries.
The African Union has expressed opposition to the ban, emphasising the need for balanced and evidence-based decision-making.
GLOBAL REACTIONS
Caribbean Leaders
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica expressed frustration over the lack of transparency surrounding the ban, emphasizing that his government is prepared to address any concerns raised by US officials.
Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, and other Caribbean nations have issued diplomatic notes to the US State Department, requesting official confirmation about their status on the list and clarification on how the policy will be enforced.
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AFRICAN NATIONS
Some countries, like Chad, have already retaliated against previous travel bans by suspending visas for US citizens.
Regional leaders are concerned about the potential economic and diplomatic fallout, particularly for tourism-dependent economies.
US IMMIGRATION ADVOCATES
Critics argue that the ban disproportionately targets African and Caribbean nations, labeling it xenophobic and discriminatory. They warn that the expanded scope could face court challenges, particularly from those with existing US ties.
ECONOMIC CONCERNS
Tourism Impact
The Caribbean is one of the most tourism-dependent regions in the world, and any major restriction will have devastating economic consequences, according to a regional economist based in Bridgetown, Barbados.
CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT PROGRAMS
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The US has raised concerns about the security risks associated with these programs, which allow foreign nationals to acquire second citizenships in exchange for financial investments. Antigua and Barbuda’s government has defended its screening process, stating that all applications are rigorously vetted by recognized international agencies.
DIPLOMATIC FALLOUT
Strained Relations
The proposed ban has also raised concerns about strained diplomatic ties, especially for countries reliant on American tourism or investment
DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS
Caribbean officials are mobilising for diplomatic action, with the 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM) convening high-level talks with US officials to press for more transparency on the proposed travel ban.
(VANGUARD)
Headline
Trouble Looms As Trump Gives Iran Two Weeks To Avoid US Airstrikes
Published
16 hours agoon
June 21, 2025By
Editor
President Donald Trump said Friday that Iran had a “maximum” of two weeks to avoid possible US air strikes, indicating he could make a decision before the fortnight deadline he set a day earlier.
Trump added that he was not inclined to stop Israel attacking Iran because it was “winning,” and was dismissive of European efforts to mediate an end to the conflict.
“I’m giving them a period of time, and I would say two weeks would be the maximum,” Trump told reporters when asked if he could decide to strike Iran before that.
He added that the aim was to “see whether or not people come to their senses.”
READ ALSO: Over 650 Die In Iran After First Week Of Israeli Strikes
Trump had said in a statement on Thursday that he would “make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks” because there was a “substantial chance of negotiations” with Iran.
Those comments had been widely seen as opening a two-week window for negotiations to end the war between Israel and Iran, with the European powers rushing to talks with Tehran.
But his latest remarks indicated Trump could still make his decision before that if he feels that there has been no progress towards dismantling Iran’s nuclear program.
Trump meanwhile dismissed talks that European powers Britain, France, Germany and the EU had with Iran’s foreign minister in Geneva on Friday.
READ ALSO: Iran, Israel Need ‘To Fight It Out’ To Reach Deal – Trump
Europe ‘didn’t help’
“They didn’t help,” he said as he arrived in Morristown, New Jersey, ahead of a fundraising dinner at his nearby golf club.
“Iran doesn’t want to speak to Europe. They want to speak to us. Europe is not going to be able to help in this.”
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said after the talks in Geneva that Tehran would not resume negotiations with the United States until Israel stopped its attacks.
But Trump was reluctant.
“It’s very hard to make that request right now,” Trump said.
READ ALSO: UK Joins Other Nations In Pulling Embassy Staff From Iran
“If somebody’s winning, it’s a little bit harder to do than if somebody’s losing, but we’re ready, willing and able, and we’ve been speaking to Iran, and we’ll see what happens.”
Trump meanwhile doubled down on his claims that Iran is weeks away from being able to produce a nuclear bomb, despite divisions in his own administration about the intelligence behind his assessment.
Tulsi Gabbard, Trump’s director of national intelligence, said in a report in March that Iran was not close to having enough enriched uranium for a nuclear weapon.
“She’s wrong,” Trump said of Gabbard, a longtime opponent of US foreign intervention whom Trump tapped to coordinate the sprawling US spy community.
Iran says its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes.
AFP
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