ARISE NEWS

TRAGIC DEATH : SOMTOCHUKWU CHRISTELLE MADUAGWU December 26, 1995 - September 29, 2025 It is with heavy hearts that the management and staff of the ARISE News Channel announce the passing of our beloved colleague, News Anchor, Reporter and Producer, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu. Sommie tragically passed away in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025 following an armed robbery incident in her residence in Katampe area of Abuja that is being investigated by the Nigeria Police. Sommie, 29, was not only a cherished member of the ARISE News family but also a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with our viewers. Beyond the airwaves, Sommie was a lawyer who was a professional and supportive colleague and a friend to many. We extend our deepest condolences to Sommie’s parents, siblings, extended family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time. Sommie’s voice is now silent but her spirit, passion and legacy will endure as part of our collective memory. We remain in shock and call for a speedy investigation, apprehension and prosecution of the culprits. Hadiza Usman-Ajayi For Management

Controversial Nigerian influencer Blessing Nkiruka Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, has been arraigned and remanded in custody over an alleged ₦36 million fraud case. According to the EFCC, she allegedly obtained the money from a woman under the false pretense of securing the lease of a luxury duplex in Lekki, Lagos. Blessing CEO pleaded not guilty to the charges. Her lawyer told the court that ₦24 million had already been refunded and requested more time to repay the outstanding balance. However, the court declined any private settlement arrangement, ordered that she be remanded pending the fulfillment of bail conditions, and adjourned the case until June 5, 2026. The development also comes amid a separate investigation tied to alleged fraudulent cancer fundraising claims. #ARISENEWS #BLESSINGCEO #NEWSDAYENTERTAINMENT

The World Bank has restricted Instagram comments after Nigerians reacted to a proposed $1.25 billion loan to Nigeria. ow.ly/w4sC106yvOz

Social media influencer Blessing CEO appeared before a Federal High Court in Lagos over alleged N36 million fraud charges. ow.ly/jigg106yvOv

Over ninety students receive treatment after suspected chemical odour spreads across schools in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. ow.ly/t2hH106yvMc

Nigeria’s inflation rises to 15.69 per cent in April 2026, NBS reports. ow.ly/H1G7106yvMb

Dangote Refinery has asked a Lagos court to cancel fuel import licences issued to marketers and NNPC. ow.ly/Ff6K106yvM9

Analyst says weak institutions, poor accountability, and systemic failures continue to fuel corruption across Nigeria’s public sector. ow.ly/3QzE106yvCw

Over 60% of Nigerians Need Orthodontic Care In Nigeria, there is one dentist for every 54,000 people. The number of orthodontists is even lower, with one orthodontist serving about 1 to 2 million people. More than 60% of people need orthodontic care. — CEO, Smile360 Dental Specialists, Dr Amy Shumbusho.

Sanwo-Olu urges stronger public-private collaboration during Eko Hotels' Legacy Summit, says tourism remains critical to Africa’s economic growth and youth development. ow.ly/WX4v106yvy0

Obafemi Awolowo University community mourns Emeritus Professor Segun Osoba following his death at his Ogun State residence. ow.ly/5ijz106yvvP

Federal High Court convicts Katsina housewife after DSS linked her to ammunition supply operation for bandits in Plateau State. ow.ly/KW5Y106yvvH

Kenya increases petrol and diesel prices sharply as Middle East tensions tighten global crude supply and raise energy costs. ow.ly/Czfm106yvvG

Morocco earmarks $2 billion to cushion households against rising energy costs and economic shocks linked to Middle East tensions. ow.ly/RFB7106yvtI

Gbajabiamila says Desmond Elliot’s alleged role in Obasa’s impeachment crisis nearly cost him his position as Tinubu’s chief of staff. ow.ly/Z2my106yvtE

Africa CDC confirms 246 Ebola cases and 65 deaths in eastern DR Congo, raising fears of regional spread. ow.ly/q1v0106yvtB

Japanese filmmaker Koji Fukada says AI-generated art risks bypassing creativity, reflection and human expression in the artistic process. ow.ly/6v0l106yvty

Five Italians, including university researchers and a professor, die during deep cave scuba dive in Maldives Vaavu Atoll. ow.ly/zmkj106yvtx

Pro-Orban media stronghold unravels after Hungary election defeat ends Viktor Orban’s 16-year rule. ow.ly/SsN5106yvtj

Chinese President Xi Jinping hosts Donald Trump at seat of China’s Communist leadership in Beijing as both leaders seek improved ties amid global tensions. ow.ly/TZhz106yvtg

World Bank Blocks Comments From Nigerians Amid Loan Backlash The World Bank has restricted comments on its Instagram page after thousands of Nigerians flooded the platform begging them to stop lending money to Nigeria. The protest erupted after reports that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is seeking a fresh $1.25 billion dollar loan for approval on June 26th. Watch What’s Trending With @OjyOkpe