Hello and welcome! In today’s trending news stories;
1. Paradigm Initiative has uncovered a major data breach involving the illegal sale of Nigerians’ personal data by the website AnyVerify.com.ng. In a publication titled “Major Data Breach: Sensitive Government Data of Nigerian Citizens Available Online for Just 100 Naira,” the organization highlighted the violation of privacy rights and its risks to individuals and the economy. AnyVerify.com.ng offers verification services for data such as National Identity Number (NIN), Bank Verification Number (BVN), driver’s licenses, passports, and more, selling this information for just 100 Naira per request. Paradigm Initiative, through its legal partner Vindich Legal, has served pre-action notices to several government agencies, including NIMC, NDPC, NIS, FIRS, CBN, INEC, FRSC, and the AGF. This incident follows a similar case reported in March by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism, which exposed the website XpressVerify for selling personal data of Nigerians for as little as 200 Naira. Currently, The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) is under increased scrutiny following data leaks involving the sale of National Identification Number (NIN) information on unauthorized websites. Despite NIMC’s assertion that its database remains secure, concerns have risen. NIMC has issued warnings and is working with security operatives to apprehend these illegal vendors.
2. Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Limited, operators of Shoprite Mall, announced the closure of its Wuse, Abuja branch effective June 30, 2024. CEO Dr. Folakemi Fadahunsi cited the decision as a result of the challenging business climate and the store’s financial performance. Vendors were informed that their services would no longer be needed and financial records would be reviewed within 60 days to address any outstanding payments. This closure reflects a broader trend of business shutdowns in Nigeria due to economic difficulties. Notable companies like GSK, Procter & Gamble, Sanofi, and Kimberly-Clark have exited the country, impacted by factors such as weak foreign exchange, high power costs, and reduced consumer purchasing power amid rising inflation and a depreciating naira.
3. On Monday, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) introduced measures to enhance naira liquidity and boost diaspora remittances. Eligible International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs) can now access naira liquidity through the CBN window, facilitating smoother remittance settlements. Transactions before noon will be settled the same day, with pricing aligned to NAFEX rates. Participants must submit daily regulatory returns. This initiative, involving IMTOs, Authorized Dealer Banks, and the CBN, is effective immediately and aims to improve remittance efficiency and market reliability. In May 2024, the CBN approved in principle 14 IMTOs to increase foreign-currency remittance inflows, promoting competition and financial inclusion.
4. Floodwaters submerged Trademore Estate in Lugbe, Abuja, following heavy rainfall on Monday morning, displacing thousands and destroying properties. Reports indicated that two individuals were swept away by the flood, though the FCT Emergency Department later denied any fatalities. The estate, located on Airport Road, has experienced recurrent flooding during the rainy season. Despite promises from the FCT Administration to address the issue, and plans to demolish structures on waterways, residents opposed the demolitions due to ongoing mortgage payments. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had forecasted thundery and rainy conditions for the area. The FCT Emergency Department stated that affected houses were among 116 marked for demolition in 2023, but legal actions from residents prevented the removal. The department urged residents to relocate from marked buildings and called for necessary infrastructure improvements to prevent future floods
5. Luke Shaw’s injury issues have made left-back a concern for England going into Euro 2024. Phil Foden’s struggles on that flank have increased Gareth Southgate’s problems. England’s final Group C game against Slovenia, initially seen as straightforward, now appears challenging due to Slovenia’s strength on the right side. Kieran Trippier is expected to fill in at left-back, with support from Declan Rice needed to maintain midfield balance. Slovenia, having lost just two of their last 23 matches, showcased their right-side strength in a 1-1 draw with Serbia, where right-back Zan Karnicnik scored. Slovenia focuses 41% of its attacks down the right, where Karnicnik and Petar Stojanovic form a strong partnership. England has faced 42% of attacks down their left side in recent matches, indicating a potential vulnerability. Slovenia’s counter-attacking speed, combined with their solid defensive shape and the quality of goalkeeper Jan Oblak, poses a significant threat. Southgate’s team needs to address this to enter the knockouts with momentum and confidence
6. Taiwo Awoniyi, Super Eagles striker, shared an emotional moment with his twin sister Kehinde during her traditional marriage in Ilorin, Kwara State. In a touching scene captured in a viral video, Taiwo was called to pray for Kehinde, leading to an emotional embrace where both siblings shed tears. Guests joined in by spraying money as the ceremony continued amidst heartfelt emotions
7. Controversial Nollywood actor and pastor, Yul Edochie, has revealed an alleged plot to kill his second wife, Judy Austin, and harm their two children. This follows a series of events since Judy welcomed their son, Star Munachimso, in November 2021. Yul publicly introduced Judy as his second wife in April 2022, which led to a fallout with his first wife, May, who was unaware of the marriage and subsequently filed for divorce in August 2023. Over the years, Yul has faced significant backlash and mockery on social media, alongside Judy, for their relationship and public life. Recently, Yul claimed that a group on WhatsApp and other social media platforms has been harassing and threatening his fans, family, and business associates, even posting his home address and making threats against Judy and their children. In response, Yul has reported the matter to the police and offered a one million naira reward for information leading to the arrest of those responsible. In his plea for assistance, Yul urged anyone receiving threatening messages to record and forward them to him for police action. However, Actress Sarah Martins has criticized Yul and Judy, alleging that the one million naira bounty might be related to an unfinished business deal where she paid Judy for an influencing campaign that was never completed. Sarah emphasized the need for Yul to address his debts and urged the bullies to stop their threats.
