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EX-IMMIGRATION BOSS DAVID PARRADANG FOUND DEAD IN ABUJA HOTEL ROOM

Contrary to information making the rounds that the former Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), David Shikfu Parradang, was kidnapped and killed by his abductors, the FCT Police Command has clarified the circumstances surrounding his death. Police Public Relations Officer, FCT Police Command, SP Josephine Adeh, stated that Parradang arrived at Joy House Hotel, Area 3 Junction, on March 3, 2025, and checked into a room. Adeh explained that Parradang directed the hotel room attendant to escort a female guest to his room, and the lady left the hotel premises around 4:00 pm. Parradang did not exit his room after the lady left, and his body was discovered by a friend, a military officer, around 4:00 am the next day. Josephine Adeh noted that the Durumi Police Station was notified, and officers arrived at the scene to secure the area, take photographs, and collect evidence. The body has been transferred to the National Hospital for necessary procedures, and hotel staff are cooperating with police investigations. Adeh stated that efforts are being made to arrest the lady who visited Parradang’s room. Adeh urged the public and media outlets to refrain from spreading unverified information, including claims of kidnapping, that may incite fear or panic. “The FCT Police Command is committed to conducting a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding Mr. Parradang’s death,” Adeh said. Josephine Adeh appreciated the public’s cooperation and understanding as the police work to ensure justice is served. Parradang had a distinguished career in the Nigerian Immigration Service, serving for over 30 years in various capacities across different states. He rose to become Comptroller-General, a position he held with dedication until his retirement. Parradang was a respected policy expert and a graduate of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS). He was awarded the prestigious national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in recognition of his contributions to national service.

DOLLY PARTON’S HUSBAND CARL THOMAS DEAN PASSES AWAY AT 82

Singer Dolly Parton’s husband, Carl Thomas Dean, passed away on March 3, 2025, at the age of 82, just shy of their 60th wedding anniversary. Parton shared the news on her social media channels, stating that Dean will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with only immediate family in attendance. Parton and Dean were married in May 1966, after meeting outside a laundromat in Nashville in 1964. Parton recalled the encounter in an interview with The New York Times, saying, “I’d come to Nashville with dirty clothes.” Dean admitted that he knew he would marry Parton one day, and they dated for two years before tying the knot. Throughout their marriage, Dean remained a private person, attending only one public event with Parton. Parton respected his desire for privacy, saying in an episode of What Would Dolly Do? Radio on Apple Music 1, “He’s very honest. We have such a great relationship. I know not to ask him if I don’t want an honest answer.” Famous for hit songs, “Jolene”, “Coat of Many Colors” amongst many, Parton’s dedication to her husband was one of the reasons she stopped touring. “My husband and I are getting older—he’s a little older than I am—and I kind of need to be with him,” she said. In a statement, Parton said, “Carl and I spent many wonderful years together. Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.” The family has requested privacy as they grieve.

PIONEER BROADCASTER CHIEF MRS ANIKE AGBAJE-WILLIAMS PASSES ON AT 88

Chief Mrs Anike Agbaje-Williams, a trailblazing broadcaster who made history as the first face to appear on television in Nigeria and Black Africa, has passed away at the age of 88. According to a statement signed by a member of her family, Mrs Banji Sokoya, Agbaje-Williams died peacefully in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Born on October 23, 1937, Agbaje-Williams was a pioneer in Nigerian broadcasting, making history by being the first face to appear on the Western Nigerian Television (WNTV) station on its test transmission night and official opening night on October 31, 1959. She was also the first voice to be heard on Africa’s First Commercial Radio Station, WNBS, earning her the title of “Double-First.” The family statement recalled Agbaje-Williams’ glorious career, which spanned several decades until her retirement in July 1986 as a respected producer and director of programs. “Her death is a moment of great sadness for the entire family, and her loss will be greatly felt by all those who knew her,” the statement said. The family described Agbaje-Williams as a “great icon and a much-loved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.” They appreciated the thoughts and prayers of fans and mentees, saying, “She inspired lots of fans and mentees through the years, and the family appreciates your thoughts and prayers.” The statement concluded, “She will remain in our hearts forever. During the coming period of mourning, the family would appreciate the space and privacy to mourn her at this difficult time. May her soul rest in perfect peace.” Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced later.

FORMER PRESIDENT OBASANJO’S ADC, MAJOR GENERAL CHRIS JEMITOLA DIES AFTER COLLAPSING AT IBB GOLF CLUB

Major General Chris Jemitola (rtd), a former Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, has passed away after collapsing at the IBB Golf Club on Thursday morning. Sources close to his family confirmed that he was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead upon arrival. Jemitola had a distinguished military career, serving as Obasanjo’s ADC from 2003 to 2007 while still a colonel. He held several important positions, including Director of Defence Information and Nigeria’s Defence Attaché in Brazil. In 2014, he was promoted to Major General and later became the Chief of Policy and Plans (COPP) in the Nigerian Army before his retirement. After leaving the military, Jemitola transitioned into the private sector, joining Pinnacle Communications Limited in 2019 as a Senior Advisor for Military Communications. His family has not yet released an official statement regarding his passing. Jemitola’s death comes barely two months after the death of the former ADC to former President Goodluck Jonathan.