Lifestyle
The Tragic Death of Semira Adamu: A Global Wake-Up Call on Deportation Practices (PHOTOS)
On September 22, 1998, Semira Precious Adamu, a 20-year-old Nigerian asylum seeker, died in Brussels, Belgium, during a forced deportation operation. Seeking refuge from a forced marriage and persecution, Semira had arrived in Belgium in early 1998. After her asylum application was rejected multiple times, she was subjected to six deportation attempts—the final one proving fatal.
During the last attempt, while aboard a flight bound for Togo, Semira resisted being deported. Belgian police officers used extreme force to restrain her, holding her face down with a cushion for nearly 20 minutes. Her hands and feet were cuffed. Video evidence later revealed the officers laughing during the act. Semira stopped breathing during the restraint and died later that evening at St. Luc Hospital in Brussels.
Her death sparked massive public outcry in Belgium and beyond. Protesters gathered in thousands, demanding accountability. The incident triggered a high-level investigation, led to the resignation of the Belgian Interior Minister at the time, and forced Belgium to reassess its deportation policies. Today, Semira Adamu’s name is remembered as a symbol of injustice and a cautionary tale about the dangers of inhumane immigration enforcement.
📸 Image: Undated file photo of Semira Adamu, released after her death.
Date of Death: September 22, 1998.
Source: APTN FILES / AFP via Getty Images
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In this deeply emotional video, a young Nigerian boy shares his heart-wrenching experience of racial and cultural discrimination in a foreign school.
His only wish? To come back home to Nigeria where he feels he belongs.
But the harsh reality hits hard — the state of things back home is not encouraging. From insecurity to poor infrastructure, his dream of returning feels more like a painful trap than a comforting escape.
This video captures the raw truth many Nigerians in the diaspora silently endure. It’s a cry for acceptance, identity, and the longing for a better Nigeria that can welcome its own with pride.
💬 Share your thoughts in the comments. Can Nigeria ever truly become home again?
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Historic Declaration: Oba Sen. Abdulrasheed Ladoja Crowned as 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland | Full Council Pronouncement
In a momentous and culturally significant event, the Olubadan-in-Council officially pronounces His Imperial Majesty, Oba Senator Abdulrasheed Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
This video captures the traditional pronouncement ceremony, a sacred rite deeply rooted in the rich heritage of the ancient Yoruba kingdom. Witness history as Ibadan land ushers in a new era under the leadership of a revered statesman, respected elder, and true son of the soil.
📍 Location: Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
👑 Title: Olubadan of Ibadanland – The Paramount Ruler of the Ibadan People
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Oba Akenzua II, born on 7 January 1899, was a respected traditional ruler and modernizer who served as the 37th Oba of Benin from 1933 until his passing on 11 June 1978. His reign marked a critical period of transition in the Benin Kingdom, blending deep-rooted tradition with the evolving dynamics of colonial and postcolonial Nigeria.
Early Life and Ascension
Born Godfrey Edokparige Akenzua, he was the son of Oba Eweka II and succeeded his father upon his death in 1933.
His title, Ọmọ n’Ọba n’Ẹdo Uku Akpolokpolo, which translates to “King of Kings of Edo, the Mighty Thinker”, reflected the grandeur and intellectual depth associated with his leadership.
Reign and Achievements
Preservation of Culture: Oba Akenzua II was instrumental in preserving Benin’s cultural heritage, especially the famed Benin bronzes. He actively campaigned for the return of looted royal artifacts taken during the 1897 British punitive expedition.
Modernization: While rooted in tradition, he encouraged education, healthcare, and infrastructural development in Benin and beyond, maintaining strong ties with both colonial authorities and later Nigerian leaders.
He served as a member of the Western House of Chiefs, using his position to advocate for his people’s welfare and cultural pride.
Legacy
Oba Akenzua II’s reign lasted 45 years, one of the longest in Benin history, marked by stability, cultural revival, and national recognition.
Upon his death in 1978, he was succeeded by his son, Oba Erediauwa, formerly Prince Solomon Akenzua.
Today, he is remembered as a visionary monarch, guardian of heritage, and father of modern Benin royal diplomacy.
Oba Akenzua II’s impact continues to resonate, particularly in ongoing discussions about the repatriation of Benin artifacts from European museums.
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