Teni Schools Peller, Dangote Slashes Prices, and Natasha’s Suspension Sparks Outrage

Mercy Chinwo vs. VeryDarkMan: Defamation Lawsuit and Arrest Warrant Issued

A legal battle has erupted between Nigerian gospel artist Mercy Chinwo and social media commentator Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). The controversy began when VDM accused Chinwo of withholding $345,000 in earnings from performances without fulfilling contractual obligations to her former record label, led by Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu (Eezee Tee).

In response, Chinwo filed a ₦1.1 billion defamation lawsuit against VDM at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, seeking to protect her reputation. Her legal team, led by Pelumi Olajengbesi, presented emails and receipts as evidence to refute the allegations, arguing that the claims were baseless and damaging to her image.

Beyond the civil lawsuit, Chinwo also pursued criminal defamation charges against VDM. The Chief Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, had initially summoned him to appear on March 5, 2025. However, after he failed to show up, Magistrate Emmanuel Iyana issued an arrest warrant on March 13, 2025, directing law enforcement agencies to ensure his court appearance.

VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, attempted to appeal for the cancellation of the arrest warrant, assuring the court that his client would attend the next hearing. However, the magistrate rejected the request, emphasizing the need to uphold due process.

Dangote Refinery Cuts Fuel Prices Again, Intensifying Market Competition

In a strategic move to strengthen its market position, Dangote Petroleum Refinery has reduced its petrol loading cost from ₦825 to ₦815 per litre as of Thursday, March 13, 2025. This marks the third price reduction by the 650,000 barrels-per-day refinery in 2025, following earlier cuts on February 1 and February 26.

This latest reduction has intensified the ongoing price competition in Nigeria's downstream oil sector, prompting private depot owners to reconsider their pricing strategies to remain competitive. As a result, petrol prices in Lagos have dropped to ₦860 per litre, reflecting a shift toward true market-driven pricing for the first time.

The growing price war between Dangote Refinery and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has continued to push petrol prices downward, offering relief to Nigerian consumers grappling with high fuel costs.

Industry analysts predict that this competitive pricing could further drive pump prices down to approximately ₦800 per litre, potentially easing the financial burden on consumers. This development highlights the evolving market dynamics in Nigeria's oil sector, particularly following the removal of government fuel subsidies, which has encouraged oil marketers to compete based on supply and demand.

Senators Deny Signing Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension

The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has sparked controversy, as 13 out of 32 committee members claim they did not sign the report recommending her suspension.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6, 2025, for alleged misconduct, shortly after accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment—an allegation he has denied. The Senate Committee on Ethics cited violations of conduct as grounds for the suspension, but several senators, including Seriake Dickson, argue that due process was not followed.

Despite their objections, the Senate upheld her suspension. In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan has taken her case to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), calling the suspension unlawful and politically motivated.

This controversy raises concerns about transparency and fairness in parliamentary proceedings, adding another layer of political tension to Nigeria’s legislative landscape.

Popular TikToker Peller Gets Schooled by Teni

Nigerian singer Teni recently set the record straight during a live conversation with popular TikToker Peller after he made remarks about women and childbirth.

The Exchange

The discussion started when Peller questioned why Teni had not yet married or had children, suggesting that after the age of 40 to 45, it becomes difficult or even impossible for women to conceive. His comments did not sit well with Teni, who wasted no time in correcting his outdated views.

Teni’s Fiery Response

Teni firmly challenged Peller’s claims, questioning his level of education and understanding of modern science.

"Are you educated at all? Are you in tune with science? Do you know about freezing your eggs? You sound like an illiterate, and I need to educate you," she said.

She went on to emphasize that having children is not just about biology but also about emotional and financial readiness.

"You don’t just open your mouth and talk about women’s issues like that. There’s something called timing. Having children isn’t just about giving birth when you’re not ready."

The singer stressed that motherhood is more than just affording a nanny—children require love, care, and attention.

"You should have kids when you’re truly ready so you can spend time with them. It’s not just about money or getting a nanny. Children need love and care. When I’m ready, I will have kids. So don’t worry about 40- and 45-year-old women—there’s something called science."

She further educated Peller on modern medical advancements, highlighting that women now have more control over their reproductive choices.

"Women can freeze their eggs; they can do IVF. Go and read about it. You don’t just open your mouth and say rubbish. Be educated and learn about women. You were born by a woman, so don’t just talk anyhow."

Peller’s Reaction

Peller appeared stunned by Teni’s response, pausing for a moment before asking if she had intended to insult him. His expression suggested he was caught off guard by the singer’s strong stance.

While the conversation did not escalate into an argument, Teni’s firm schooling of Peller served as an important lesson on women’s reproductive health and the advancements that give them more control over their choices.

The incident has since sparked discussions online, with many praising Teni for standing her ground and shutting down outdated narratives about women and childbirth.