In the months following Cordelia's remains being properly identified and laid to rest finally, sixty years overdue Theodosia and Augustus continued working together, their professional partnership having deepened considerably throughout the emotionally significant investigation.

"I keep thinking about her," Theodosia admitted one evening, sitting together in her small restoration studio, the original scratched photograph now carefully preserved rather than discarded. "Sixty years erased entirely, and it took a damaged photograph finally surfacing to properly reveal her truth."

"You gave her back her story," Augustus said gently. "That matters considerably, even sixty years delayed."

Theodosia had restored the photograph as completely as possible, carefully reconstructing Cordelia's scratched-out face using period photographs and family resemblance from Marguerite's own features, finally returning dignity to an image that had been so deliberately, cruelly erased.

"It's beautiful," Marguerite said, visiting the studio to view the completed restoration. "Thank you for giving her back to us properly, after all this time."

As the investigation's aftermath settled into quiet resolution, Augustus found himself visiting Theodosia's studio with increasing regularity, ostensibly continuing their shared historical research, though both had begun recognizing genuine affection developing steadily beyond simple professional collaboration.

"I've enjoyed working alongside you these past several months," Augustus admitted one evening, lingering near her workbench with visible, gentle nervousness. "Rather more than strict professional necessity typically requires, if I'm honest."

Theodosia felt warmth spreading through her chest at his sincere admission. "I've felt the same way, actually."

"Then perhaps," Augustus said, gathering courage, "we might continue this properly. Dinner, perhaps? Beyond simply historical research."

Theodosia smiled warmly. "I'd like that very much."

Their relationship developed steadily over the following months, built genuinely on shared appreciation for uncovering meaningful, forgotten truths, alongside deepening personal affection. A year after Cordelia's case finally reached its devastating but proper conclusion, Augustus returned to Theodosia's studio one evening, a small, carefully wrapped box clearly prepared for weeks.

"I wanted to ask you here specifically," he said, gesturing to the space where their partnership had first, meaningfully begun. "It felt appropriate, given everything this particular place has meant to both of us."

Theodosia watched, breath catching, as he opened the box to reveal a delicate ring.

"Theodosia, will you marry me? Not because of Cordelia's case specifically, but because I've fallen genuinely, completely in love with your compassion, your dedication to truth, and your remarkable ability to restore not just faded photographs, but the dignity and stories of those history tried to erase."

"Yes," Theodosia said immediately, joyful tears spilling freely as she embraced him fully. "Completely, genuinely, without a single moment of hesitation."

As they embraced amid her restoration studio, Cordelia's finally-restored photograph watching gently from its place on the wall, Theodosia understood profoundly that sometimes the most meaningful work whether restoring faded images or properly investigating buried truth led not just toward justice for those long silenced, but also toward genuine, unexpected connection for those brave enough to properly seek and honor difficult truth.

THE END 📷💍💛✨

The Edo State Police Command has ordered a discreet investigation into a viral video showing an altercation between officers of the Edo State Traffic Management Agency (EDSTMA) and operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT).

A video showing some of the traffic wardens and IRT officers engaging in a heated argument and even pulling each other’s attire made the rounds on social media on Wednesday, September 9. The video also captured an IRT officer firing his rifle into the air during the confrontation.

In a statement released, the state Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the state Commissioner of Police, CP Patrick Daaor, has interviewed representatives of both parties and directed a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances that led to the incident.

CP Daaor also ordered that the conduct of the officer seen firing the rifle be subjected to appropriate disciplinary review.

The Police Command said it would not condone acts of indiscipline, unprofessional conduct or abuse of police powers by any of its personnel, stressing that any officer found culpable after investigation would be appropriately sanctioned in line with extant laws and regulations.

The Command also emphasised the importance of inter-agency collaboration and mutual respect between security and government agencies, noting that effective public safety requires agencies to work together professionally.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested and repatriated a suspected drug kingpin, Festus Ibewuike, alias Chidibest Ibewuike, who had been on the run for more than two years.

Ibewuike was arrested at the airport in Cotonou, Benin Republic, on Wednesday, September 2, following actionable intelligence and collaboration between the NDLEA and the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL).

He was subsequently handed over to NDLEA operatives deployed to Cotonou on Friday, September 4, before being conveyed to Nigeria to face prosecution over his alleged role in the trafficking syndicate.

The NDLEA disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, September 9, by its Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi.

According to the agency, Ibewuike was one of three suspects declared wanted and charged in absentia following the seizure of 49.70kg of heroin at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in February 2024.

The seizure was described as the single largest heroin consignment ever intercepted at the airport.

The drugs were concealed in cartons of metal-cutting machines at the Import Shed of the airport’s cargo terminal during a 12-day operation conducted by operatives of the NDLEA’s MMIA Strategic Command.

The operation led to the arrest of several members of the alleged syndicate, including Ibewuike’s wife, Confidence Ndidiamaka Ibewuike, who the agency said routinely received drug-laden parcels marked with the code “ND” on behalf of her husband.

The NDLEA also froze 107 bank accounts and secured the forfeiture of properties allegedly linked to the cartel.

The agency said Ibewuike had relocated to Mozambique, where he allegedly operated a hotel business as a cover, while travelling between Mozambique and Nigeria through neighbouring Benin Republic in an attempt to evade arrest.

During preliminary interviews following his repatriation, the 52-year-old suspect reportedly confirmed his identity and disclosed that he had changed his name from Chidibest Ibewuike to Festus Ibewuike.

Part 3: The Curator Who Cataloged a Killer's Confession

Over the following weeks, Ines and Callan continued working together, finalizing the case's official documentation while properly closing out remaining details of Bertram Nash's extensive, disturbing estate.

"I keep thinking about all those years I spent cataloging his collection," Ines admitted one evening, sitting together in her office surrounded by countless boxes of Bertram's acquisitions. "Wondering how many other secrets might still be hidden throughout his belongings."

"Have you found anything else concerning?" Callan asked, genuine curiosity evident.

"Nothing quite this dramatic," Ines said, "though I confess, I've been reviewing everything considerably more carefully since this discovery. It's rather unsettling, realizing someone capable of such violence lived seemingly ordinarily for decades afterward, collecting art, engaging with the community, apparently untroubled by what he'd actually done."

Callan nodded grimly. "Unfortunately, that's not uncommon. Many perpetrators successfully compartmentalize their crimes, living seemingly normal lives afterward despite horrific actions."

They continued working together closely over the following months, their professional partnership deepening steadily into genuine friendship, then something considerably warmer neither had initially anticipated.

"I've enjoyed working with you," Callan admitted one evening, lingering in her office longer than strictly necessary for case-related business. "More than simple professional collaboration typically warrants, if I'm honest."

Ines felt warmth spreading through her chest at his admission. "I've felt the same way, actually. Though I confess, given the rather dark circumstances that originally brought us together, it feels somewhat unusual admitting genuine happiness alongside everything else we've uncovered."

"I understand that hesitation," Callan said gently. "Though I don't believe finding genuine connection, even amid difficult circumstances, diminishes the gravity of what we've properly resolved for Marisol's family. Sometimes light emerges precisely from confronting darkness together."

Ines considered his words carefully, recognizing genuine wisdom beneath his gentle reassurance. "Perhaps you're right. I think I'd like to explore that connection properly, Callan, rather than simply dismissing it because of how we initially met."

Their relationship developed steadily over the following months, built on the profound trust and mutual respect forged through their difficult, meaningful shared investigation. Marisol's case, while devastating in its ultimate resolution, had inadvertently created space for genuine, unexpected healing not just for her grieving family, finally granted proper closure, but also for two people who'd found unexpected connection through confronting difficult truth together.

"Adelina invited us both to a small memorial service," Callan mentioned one afternoon, months after the case's official resolution. "She wants to properly thank us, apparently, for finally bringing her daughter home."

"I'd like to attend," Ines said sincerely. "It feels important, somehow, properly honoring Marisol's memory alongside her family."

to be continued... 🖼️💫

Part 2: The Cartographer Who Drew Doors Between Worlds

Emeric stood frozen at the threshold, torn between old caution and inexplicable curiosity. "I don't fully understand how this magic works, if I'm honest. My family has always been rather careful about using it, precisely because outcomes like this unpredictable, uncontrolled are exactly what my grandmother always warned against."

"Perhaps unpredictable isn't inherently dangerous," Wren offered, rising from her garden work to study him properly. "Perhaps it simply means the magic responded to something neither of us consciously anticipated."

"Such as?" Emeric asked, curious despite himself.

Wren considered the question thoughtfully. "Grief, certainly, initially drove your drawing. But grief and loneliness aren't entirely dissimilar, are they? Perhaps your magic recognized something in me—someone equally isolated, if for entirely different reasons—and decided that connection mattered more than simply granting your original, grief-driven request."

Emeric studied her, cautious curiosity building steadily despite years of careful family tradition warning against exactly this kind of unpredictable magical outcome. "May I ask what's caused your own loneliness? If you're comfortable sharing, that is."

Wren's expression grew slightly more guarded, though she answered honestly regardless. "My family's estate is rather isolated, tucked away from the nearest village by considerable distance. I've spent years managing the property largely alone, since my parents passed several years back. I love the solitude, mostly, though I confess certain evenings prove considerably more difficult than others."

"I understand that particular loneliness more than you might expect," Emeric admitted. "My work as a cartographer keeps me rather isolated too, especially since losing Elowen. She was genuinely my closest connection to the outside world, beyond simply professional collaboration."

They studied each other across the strange, impossible threshold, something unspoken but increasingly undeniable growing steadily between them despite the bizarre circumstances of their meeting.

"Would it be terribly forward," Wren asked carefully, "to invite you through properly? Rather than simply conversing across this unusual doorway?"

Emeric hesitated only briefly before stepping through completely, the doorway's shimmering edges settling calmly once he'd fully crossed the threshold. "Thank you," he said, genuinely moved by her open, welcoming invitation. "I confess, I hadn't expected tonight's grief to lead toward anything resembling genuine connection."

"Neither had I," Wren admitted, smiling warmly. "Though I find myself rather grateful for whatever inexplicable magic decided otherwise."

They spent the following hours talking easily, comfortable warmth building steadily between two people who'd both been carrying quiet loneliness far longer than either had properly acknowledged, even to themselves.

"I should probably return home eventually," Emeric said reluctantly, glancing back toward the still-shimmering doorway. "Though I confess, I'm rather hesitant to close this particular connection so soon after discovering it."

"Then don't," Wren said simply. "Return again, whenever you'd like. I find myself genuinely hoping this isn't simply a single, strange encounter."

to be continued... 🚪💛

The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, on Friday, 21st August, 2026, handed over recovered illicit drugs and substances, alongside arrested suspects, to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), FCT Command.

Speaking during the handover, the CP stated that while nothing precludes the Command from investigating and prosecuting drug-related offences, the Command considers it necessary to maintain strong synergy and collaboration with sister security and law enforcement agencies within the FCT, particularly the NDLEA, whose statutory mandate includes the investigation and prosecution of drug-related offences.

Receiving the items and suspects on behalf of the NDLEA FCT Strategic Command, the Public Relations Officer, ACN Samuel Orji, expressed appreciation to the Commissioner of Police for extending an arm of inter-agency synergy through the handover. He assured that the suspects would be subjected to proper investigation and prosecuted in accordance with extant laws.

The FCT Police Command reiterateD its commitment to strengthening collaboration with sister security agencies and relevant stakeholders in the collective effort to safeguard the Federal Capital Territory. Members of the public are equally encouraged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons and activities to the nearest Police Station or through the Command’s emergency lines: 0803 200 3913, 0806 158 1938.

The Nigeria Police Force, through operatives of the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, has arrested and repatriated Mahadijiria Abdoulaye, a Chadian national wanted by authorities in N’Djamena in connection with the m#rder of Nazik Mahamat Saleh, who was tortured and k!lled on 3rd May, 2026.

An international warrant of arrest was issued by the Court of Appeal, N’Djamena, on 22nd June, 2026, for Abdoulaye and her accomplice, Fatime Senoussi Mouktar, in connection with the case.

Confirming the arrest and repatriation, the spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force, CSP Ani Iniedu, says Abdoulaye, who is also linked to narcotics trafficking activities in Chad, fled to Nigeria following the incident and was subsequently traced and arrested by operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja on 5th August, 2026, at Railway Quarters, Nasarawa Local Government Area, Kano State, following coordinated intelligence operations.

‘’On 14th August, 2026, the suspect was successfully repatriated to N’Djamena, Chad, through Lomé, Togo, under established bilateral Police cooperation arrangements. The operation was conducted by INTERPOL NCB Abuja in close collaboration with INTERPOL NCB N’Djamena to facilitate her return to Chad to face the judicial process.’’

Commending the successful operation, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commended the operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja for their professionalism, diligence and effective coordination with their Chadian counterparts, noting that the successful arrest and repatriation reflects the Force’s commitment to ensuring that fugitives do not evade justice by crossing international borders.

A 30-year-old school security guard attached to Radiant Glory Academy, Umuichichi, Aba, Abia State, Chidiebere Kalu has been sentenced to one year imprisonment for s3xually abusing a 10-year-old female pupil.

The judgment was delivered on August 5, 2026 by the Family Court sitting at the Magistrate Court, Aba.

The case arose from reported incidents involving the child within the school environment and was pursued through the criminal justice system following a report by the child’s family.

The court convicted Kalu on two counts of indecent assault and instilling fear in a minor.

He was sentenced to one year imprisonment without the option of a fine on the first count, and one year imprisonment with an option of a N200,000 fine on the second count, with both sentences ordered to run concurrently.

Reacting to the judgement, the Vivacious Development Initiative (VIDI), in collaboration with the Child Protection Network (CPN), Abia State Chapter, described the conviction as a major victory for child protection and justice.

Here are 10 successful mindsets to have today💡

1. Progress > Perfection

Done is better than perfect. Take the first small step instead of waiting for the "right" moment.

2. Ownership Mindset

Stop asking "why is this happening to me?" Start asking "what can I do about it?" You control your response.

3. Long-Term Thinking

Ask: "Will this matter in 1 year?" Skip short-term comforts that **** long-term goals.

4. Curiosity Over Ego

Successful people say "I don't know, teach me." Be willing to learn from anyone — even people younger than you.

5. Solution-Oriented

For every problem, find 2 possible solutions. Complainers get stuck. Builders move.

6. Abundance, Not Scarcity

There's enough success, money, and opportunity to go around. Jealousy blocks you. Collaboration grows you.

7. Discipline > Motivation

Motivation fades by 3pm. Systems and habits keep you going on days you don’t feel like it.

8. Failure = Data

Every "no" and mistake is feedback, not identity. Successful people fail faster and adjust quicker.

9. Energy Management

Protect your sleep, food, and peace. You can’t think clearly or create when you’re burned out.

10. Gratitude + Action

Be grateful for what you have, but don’t get comfortable. Appreciate today while building for tomorrow.

Quick combo for today:

Pick 1 hard thing + do it with discipline + learn something from it + be grateful after.

Which 2 of these do you most need today? We can turn them into actual actions so they don’t just stay as ideas 🤍🪖📌

#progress #success #mindset #goviral #fyp

The Nigerian Army says the 44 pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo state on May 15 were released unconditionally by the terrorists on Friday, July 10.

In a statement released, the Army said the rescue operation was led by the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, *Major General CR Nnebeife*, in collaboration with special units from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) specifically the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC),the Defence Headquarters with Special Forces elements from the Nigerian Army, Navy the Air Force and the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other security agencies.

The Army said the operations, which lasted for more than a month, focused on identifying the terrorist kingpins that masterminded the kidnapping, bursting and dismantling their networks and logistics links, including their informants and hideouts located within the Old Oyo National Park Forest, Oyo State.

The military said multiple arrests were made within Oyo State and in other locations across some states in the Country.

‘’These arrests completely disorganized the group, exerted overwhelming pressure on them and ultimately led the terrorist group to *unconditionally release* the pupils and teachers. Further operations are to be conducted. It suffices to note that the operations were carefully planned and executed to avoid collateral damages and to equally ensure that the innocent children and teachers were safely rescued. However, there were some casualties on the part of the security forces.'' the statement read

The statement concluded by saying pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical attention in an undisclosed hospital and will be handed over to the Oyo State Government in due course so as to be reunited with their families.

Just six months after the inauguration of the Board of Trustees (BoT) for the University of Benin Trust Development Fund (UNIBENTDF), they have began delivering palpably on their mandate. Their first task of officially launching its ambitious yet timely ₦100 billion target has been actualised as part of the UNIBENTDF's BoT marking a significant milestone in the institution's drive towards financial sustainability and global competitiveness.

This landmark, first of its kind fundraising ceremony took place on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at the Akin Deko Auditorium, Ugbowo Main Campus of UNIBEN in Benin City. The event attracted an impressive gathering of government officials, captains of industry, distinguished alumni, traditional rulers, development partners, corporate organisations, members of the university community, staff, students and friends of the institution, all united in support of the university's vision for sustainable development.

Chairing the occasion was His Excellency, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, CON, former Governor of Lagos State, former two-time Minister of Works, and a distinguished alumnus of the University of Benin. In his keynote remarks, Fashola who stated how everyone that passes through the institution has a unique experience and with each their "UNIBEN Story", described the initiative as a defining moment in the history of the university, stressing that alumni have a responsibility to preserve and strengthen the institution that shaped their lives. He encouraged graduates of the university across the world to invest in the future of their alma mater, noting that sustainable universities are built through the collective commitment of their alumni and other stakeholders.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Edoba Bright Omoregie, SAN, said the UNIBENTDF represents a bold response to the financial realities facing public universities in Nigeria. According to him, government subventions alone can no longer meet the growing demands of quality teaching, research, innovation and infrastructure development. He explained that the university established the fund, which was a first of its kind in Nigeria to create a permanent source of support for strategic projects that will benefit future generations.

Professor Omoregie disclosed that the university has over 350,000 alumni worldwide and expressed confidence that broad participation from alumni, corporate organisations and development partners would make the ₦100 billion target achievable. He noted that if 250,000 alumni each contribute ₦100,000, the university would realise ₦25 billion towards the target.

Chairman of the UNIBENTDF BoT, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu Esq, described the initiative as more than a fundraising exercise. According to him, it is a declaration of confidence in the future of the University of Benin and a commitment to building an institution that will compete with the best universities in the world. He assured donors that the fund would be managed with transparency, accountability and integrity while delivering projects that will have lasting impact on the university community.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, CON, represented by Prof. Joe Ahaneku former Vice-Chancellor of the National University of Science and Technology, Abuja at the event, commended the University of Benin for embracing an innovative funding model that aligns with the Federal Government's vision for sustainable financing of tertiary education. He urged alumni, philanthropists, private organisations and development partners to support the initiative, describing every contribution as an investment in the future of Nigeria.

Also present was the Minister of Regional Development, Hon. Engr. Abubakar Momoh, FNSE, a distinguished alumnus of the University of Benin, who called for stronger collaboration between government, alumni and the private sector to secure the future of higher education. The Minister had in his entourage, leadership of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) inclusive of the Chairman, Chief Chiedu Ebie, Dr Samuel Ogbuku the Managing Director and other Directors. Their promise of a 650-room hostel and upgrading of the internal roads within the campuses is remarkable.

His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo the Governor of Edo State and Chief Host of this history making event, reaffirmed the state's commitment to supporting educational institutions that promotes excellence, innovation and human capital development. In the Governor's address delivered by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Yakubu Oshiorenua Musa, he made it clear that his value for education was unparalleled, a phenomenon exemplified by his swift increase of subventions to both Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma and the Edo State University, Iyamho. Just like Governor Samuel Ogbemudia who founded the University of Benin whose legacy we build on now, Edo State will always champion education. He commended the visionary work and determination of the UNIBENTDF BoT.

Other distinguished guests included representatives of Access Holdings Plc led by a celebrated alumnus, renowned banker and philanthropist, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, FCIB who was the Chief Launcher, represented by Mr. David Aluko, Director, Government and Federal Capital Relations, Coronation Group have pledged a project that will make UNIBEN the envy of other institutions across the country.

The presence of members of the University's Governing Council led by the Chairman, Professor Shuaib Umaru, members of the Senate, captains of industry, traditional rulers, distinguished alumni, development partners and friends of the university reflected the broad national support for the University's vision of becoming a financially sustainable and globally competitive institution.

The ₦100 billion will finance transformational projects across the university, including modern student hostels, research laboratories, innovation and entrepreneurship hubs, digital infrastructure, a world-class library, sports and recreational facilities, transportation systems, conference facilities, agricultural research projects and other income-generating ventures that will improve learning while strengthening the university's long-term financial sustainability.

The event also witnessed strong commitments from alumni, corporate organisations and development partners through cash donations and multi-project support, further demonstrating widespread confidence in the leadership and future of the UNIBENTDF.

Leading the alumni community was the President Worldwide of the University of Benin Alumni Association, Barr. Emmanuel Oriazuwa, who doubles as a member of the BoT. Other members of the UBAA Executive Committee, Chairmen of Branches, Distinguished Alumni and members of the association were present. Present also were leaders of the diaspora branches of the association; Professor Tony Agbonasevbaefe, President of the University of Benin Alumni Association of the United Kingdom (UBAAUK) and Engr. Osasere Favour Osifo, President of the University of Benin Alumni Association North America (UBAANA).

Other UNIBENTDF BoT members present were; Mr. Alexander Imuetinyan Eronmwon (former President of UBAANA), Dr. (Mrs) Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor (former President of UBAAUK and pioneer Director General, Edo State Diaspora Agency), Kingsley Jesuorobo Esq. from Canada who leads the audit committee of the UNIBENTDF and the secretary of the UNIBENTDF BoT, Chief Richard Oma Ahonaruogho, SAN were also on hand at this historic event.

The successful launch stands as a remarkable achievement for the University of Benin. Within only six months of the inauguration of the UNIBENTDF BoT, the university has transformed an ambitious vision into reality, setting a new benchmark for sustainable and impactful university funding in Nigeria. The initiative is expected to strengthen infrastructure, enhance research and innovation, improve student welfare, expand partnerships and position the University of Benin among Africa's leading centres of excellence for teaching, learning and research.

The UNIBENTDF BoT jointly expressed certainty that the 4th of July 2026 event remains a catalyst for more to come. The race is a marathon and not a sprint, a journey in accontability and transparency where the goal is to ensure that the children of the common man can get educated as we build future generations together.

https://trustfund.uniben.edu

#UNIBENTDF

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