January 2025 Africa News Archive — Key Stories and Updates

January brought fast-moving stories across the continent. This archive highlights two major pieces we published: the criminal case against popular sangoma and TV personality Gogo Maweni in South Africa, and a dramatic leadership change at the Lagos State House of Assembly where Mojisola Meranda became the first female speaker after Mudashiru Obasa's impeachment. Read short summaries below and find what to watch next in each story.

Gogo Maweni: court appearance and assault charges

Gogo Maweni was arrested at her Johannesburg home and appeared in court on charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Our report summarizes the allegations, the arrest circumstances, and other incidents tied to investigations. The case includes claims from former associates and ongoing probes into her traditional practices.

What to watch: the next court dates, whether prosecutors add charges, and statements from both police and Maweni’s legal team. If you follow high-profile legal cases in South Africa, expect more witness statements and possibly bail conditions that restrict public appearances. We’ll track official court filings and credible local reporting to keep the timeline accurate.

Why this matters: Maweni’s profile on TV and within spiritual circles means the case draws public attention and influences cultural conversations about traditional healers and accountability. The outcome could affect public trust and how media covers similar figures going forward.

Lagos Assembly: Impeachment and a historic new speaker

In Lagos, the House of Assembly moved quickly: Mudashiru Obasa was impeached amid misconduct allegations, and Mojisola Meranda was elected as the first female speaker. Our coverage explains the votes, the accusations that led to impeachment, and immediate reactions inside and outside the assembly.

What to watch: how Meranda sets the legislative agenda, whether the impeachment sparks legal challenges, and how party alliances shift. Changes in leadership can affect local bills, budget approval, and oversight of state projects. Expect stakeholders—political parties, civil society, and business groups—to react publicly and test the new speaker’s priorities.

Why this matters: Lagos is Nigeria’s economic centre, and leadership changes there ripple across policy and investment decisions. A new speaker also signals broader shifts in political representation and could open space for more women in Lagos politics.

Want quick updates? We’ll post follow-ups as both stories develop, with verified sources and clear timelines. Bookmark this archive page for January 2025 and check back for court reports, parliamentary records, and reactions from local communities and officials.

How we cover these stories: we rely on court documents, statements from police and assembly records, and reporting from local journalists on the ground. We avoid speculation and update when official records change. If you want deeper context, look for our follow-up pieces that explain legal steps, timelines for appeals, and the policy consequences of assembly leadership shifts. You can also sign up for our newsletter or follow Africa Daily Spectrum on social channels to get alerts when new developments break.

Expect verified updates within 24 to 48 hours and send credible tips anytime.