The Ghostly Origins of Lagos’s Abandoned Skyscraper

In the bustling metropolis of Lagos, Nigeria, amidst its vibrant streets and towering structures, stands an enigmatic edifice known as the “Ghost Building.” This abandoned skyscraper, with its incomplete facade and haunting backstory, has become a focal point for urban explorers and paranormal enthusiasts alike.​

The Genesis of the Ghost Building

Located along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, the building’s official name is the National Provident Fund building, now referred to as the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) on Essume Street, Iyana Era. Construction commenced in the early 1980s with the vision of establishing a headquarters for the federal government. However, with the relocation of the capital to Abuja and shifting governmental priorities, the project was abruptly halted, leaving the structure in a state of perpetual incompletion. ​

Descent into Abandonment

Over the decades, the Ghost Building has fallen prey to neglect and decay. Once intended to symbolize progress, it now stands as a monument to unrealized ambition. The edifice has become a haven for miscreants, with reports of criminal activities tarnishing its already dilapidated reputation. Its hollowed interiors echo tales of a project that never reached fruition, serving as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in large-scale urban developments. ​

The Haunting Legend

Beyond its physical decay, the Ghost Building is enveloped in local legends and eerie tales. Residents recount stories of ghostly apparitions and unsettling noises emanating from the structure, especially during the quiet hours of the night. These accounts have fueled the building’s reputation as a haunted site, attracting both curious visitors and paranormal investigators.​

A Symbol of Lagos’s Complex Urban Landscape

The Ghost Building stands as a testament to Lagos’s intricate urban narrative—a city where rapid development intersects with unforeseen challenges. It embodies the aspirations, setbacks, and mysteries that define Lagos’s ever-evolving skyline.​

The Zangbeto: Guardians of the Night in Lagos

In the heart of Lagos, Nigeria, a captivating tradition persists—one that blends spirituality, community, and vigilantism. This is the world of the Zangbeto, the traditional night watchmen of the Ogu (Egun) people. Rooted deeply in the cultural fabric of Lagos, the Zangbeto serve as both protectors and performers, embodying a rich heritage that continues to intrigue residents and visitors alike.​

Origins and Significance

The term “Zangbeto” translates to “Men of the Night” in the Gun language, reflecting their primary role as nocturnal guardians. Originating from the Ogu (Egun) communities of Benin, Togo, and Nigeria, the Zangbeto are more than just night watchmen; they are esteemed spiritual figures believed to embody ancestral spirits. Their primary duties include maintaining law and order, protecting the community from malevolent forces, and deterring criminal activities through their vigilant patrols. ​

The Enigmatic Masquerade

Central to the Zangbeto tradition is their distinctive masquerade—a mesmerizing display that combines dance, spirituality, and community engagement. Dancers don’t elaborate costumes made from layers of hay, raffia, or other threadlike materials, often dyed in vibrant colors. These costumes are not mere attire but are believed to house the spirits of ancestors, granting the wearers supernatural abilities during their performances. The masquerades are known for their dynamic spinning movements, creating optical illusions of expanding and contracting sizes, captivating audiences with their seeming otherworldly presence. ​

Roles and Responsibilities

Beyond their ceremonial functions, the Zangbeto play a crucial role in community policing. They patrol the streets at night, deterring criminal activities and ensuring the safety of residents. Their presence is both a deterrent to wrongdoers and a source of reassurance for the community, blending traditional beliefs with practical security measures. The Zangbeto are also instrumental in conflict resolution, using their perceived spiritual authority to mediate disputes and uphold communal harmony. ​

Cultural Celebrations

The influence of the Zangbeto extends beyond daily patrols; they are celebrated figures in various cultural festivals. One notable event is the Ajido Zangbeto Festival held in Badagry, Lagos. This festival showcases vibrant performances, traditional dances, and communal gatherings, attracting visitors from all over to witness the rich cultural heritage of the Ogu people. The festival serves as both a celebration of tradition and a reaffirmation of community bonds. ​

A Living Tradition

The Zangbeto tradition exemplifies the fusion of spirituality, cultural expression, and communal responsibility. In Lagos, they stand as a testament to the city’s rich cultural tapestry, offering a glimpse into practices that have endured through centuries. For residents, the Zangbeto are not just performers or night watchmen; they are custodians of tradition, embodying the values and beliefs that have shaped the community’s identity. For visitors, witnessing a Zangbeto performance is an invitation to engage with a living tradition that continues to thrive amidst the modern rhythms of Lagos life.​

To gain a deeper understanding of the Zangbeto and their cultural significance, you might find this video insightful:

The Enigmatic Amala Seller of Lagos: A Tale of Mystery and Disappearance

In the bustling streets of Lagos, Nigeria, amidst the vibrant food culture, a chilling tale has emerged—a story that blurs the lines between the living and the supernatural. It’s the story of a ghostly woman who, along with her apprentices, vanished without a trace, leaving behind only questions and whispers.​

The Mysterious Vendor

In early 2022, a woman and her three companions opened an amala joint on Alaja-Megida Road in the Ayobo-Ipaja area of Lagos. Amala, a beloved Nigerian dish made from yam flour, is a staple in many households and eateries across the country. The new eatery quickly gained popularity among locals, drawing customers with the promise of delicious meals.

Strange Occurrences

Over time, patrons and neighbors began to notice unusual behaviors exhibited by the vendors. They became reclusive, avoiding interactions and speaking in an unfamiliar language. Even more perplexing was their living arrangement—they resided within the confines of their shop, which lacked windows and proper ventilation. Despite the oppressive heat, they remained indoors, further fueling suspicions about their true nature.​

The Disappearance

On December 31, 2022, the family was last seen operating their business late into the night. A neighbor reported that their generator was still running past 1 AM. However, by the morning of January 1, 2023, the shop was found locked, and the vendors were nowhere to be found. Strangely, their personal belongings, including a large serving table, were left behind, suggesting a hasty departure. No one witnessed them leaving, and there were no signs of forced entry or exit.​

Neighbor’s Account

A neighbor, who had lived in the same compound for over a year, shared his observations:

“I noticed a change in their character. They stopped talking to us. They told my wife to stop greeting them. They even told children who come to the house to stop greeting them.” ​

This account adds weight to the growing suspicions about the vendors’ true identity and intentions.​

Theories and Speculations

The sudden and unexplained disappearance led to various theories among the community:​

• Supernatural Beliefs: Some locals believe the vendors were spirits or ghosts, citing their reclusive behavior and sudden vanishing as evidence.​
• Criminal Activity: Others speculate that the disappearance was orchestrated, possibly due to debts or disputes, leading to their abrupt exit.​
• Cultural Significance: The use of an unfamiliar language and the family’s insistence on living within the shop have led some to believe they were practitioners of a particular cultural or religious group, possibly engaging in rituals unknown to the wider community.​

Lingering Questions

Despite various speculations, the true story behind the ghostly amala sellers remains a mystery. The shop has remained closed since their disappearance, and no credible information has surfaced regarding their whereabouts or identities. This incident serves as a reminder of the many untold stories lurking in the corners of urban life, waiting to be uncovered.​

Unveiling the Haunting of Ombasi: Lagos’s Forgotten Town

Deep within the heart of Lagos, Nigeria, lies Ombasi—a town shrouded in mystery and whispered legends. Once a thriving community, Ombasi now stands abandoned, its silence echoing tales of betrayal, greed, and a lingering curse. This is the story of Ombasi’s rise, its tragic fall, and the restless spirit that continues to haunt its desolate streets.​

The Rise of Ombasi

Ombasi, also known as Agbala, was once a vibrant town nestled away from the bustling city life of Lagos. Its inhabitants lived simple yet content lives, cherishing close-knit bonds and embracing their rich cultural heritage. The town flourished as a center of trade and prosperity, drawing visitors from far and wide.​

The Shadow of Betrayal

The prosperity of Ombasi was marred by a series of tragic events rooted in betrayal and greed. Amina, an investigative journalist, delved into the town’s history to uncover the dark secrets that led to its downfall. She discovered that the town’s leaders, in their quest for power, betrayed their own people, leading to a series of unexplained deaths and misfortune.​

The Curse of Adaku

Central to Ombasi’s haunting is the tale of Adaku, a young woman whose life was sacrificed in a ritual gone wrong. Her spirit, filled with anger and sorrow, became the town’s malevolent guardian, cursing Ombasi to eternal unrest. Amina’s investigation led her to the decaying Obiago mansion, where Adaku’s spirit was believed to reside. There, she encountered the ethereal form of Adaku, whose tragic story unfolded—a tale of love, betrayal, and a thirst for vengeance.​

Breaking the Curse

Determined to bring peace to the tormented souls of Ombasi, Amina sought the guidance of local spiritualists and delved into ancient rituals. Through empathy and compassion, she confronted Adaku’s spirit, acknowledging the injustices of the past. By exposing the truth and seeking forgiveness, Amina aimed to lift the curse that had bound Ombasi in perpetual darkness.

The Lingering Presence

Despite efforts to break the curse, Ombasi remains a place of eerie silence, with reports of unexplained phenomena persisting. Visitors and locals alike speak of whispering voices, chilling winds, and fleeting shadows that hint at the town’s tragic past. The story of Ombasi serves as a haunting reminder of the consequences of betrayal and the restless nature of unresolved grievances.​

Man Installs Camera to Uncover Wife’s Shower Routine With Dog – What He Discovers Changes Everything

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An Unexpected Bond

At first, their dog’s bond with his wife seemed harmless — even sweet. But soon, strange behavior emerged. David Knock noticed something odd: every time his wife, Katie, went into the bathroom, their dog followed her. And not just to the door — into the shower. Perplexed and slightly concerned, David decided to uncover the truth.

So, one day, after hearing the bathroom door click shut, he opened the security camera app on his phone. What he saw would forever change the course of their marriage.

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It Started With a Simple Request

When Katie first asked for a dog, David didn’t hesitate. The couple had just moved into a new home in Atlanta, Georgia, and with David working long hours as an accountant, Katie often found herself home alone. A pet seemed like the perfect companion.

Meet Bailey – The Loyal Aussie Shepherd

Enter Bailey, a playful and intelligent Australian Shepherd puppy. Just a year old, Bailey quickly became more than just a pet — he became Katie’s shadow. Their connection was immediate and intense, and soon, Katie couldn’t go anywhere without him, not even to the shower.

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A Growing Concern

At first, David found the bond between Katie and Bailey adorable. But it soon became… unsettling. Why did she never leave the house without the dog? Why did she take him into the bathroom? Was it just attachment, or was something deeper going on?

David’s curiosity — and concern — grew. Was he being irrational, or was something off?

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Driven by Love and Doubt

David had always been the supportive husband. His demanding job meant long hours, but he wanted nothing more than to provide Katie with the life she dreamed of. He loved coming home to her smile. But lately, he felt something shift. It wasn’t jealousy—was it?

One day, he made a decision. If he wanted peace of mind, he needed to see the truth with his own eyes.

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What He Saw Left Him Speechless

When David tapped into the live feed from their home’s security system, his heart raced. He braced himself. What he saw was not at all what he expected—and it completely redefined everything he thought about his wife and their dog.

Naira Exchange Rate Today: Naira Falls to N1,600/$ in Official Market

The Nigerian naira on Thursday, April 3, 2025, depreciated to N1,600 per US dollar in the official Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM), marking its lowest point in over three months.

According to data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the official exchange rate rose from N1,569/$ to N1,600/$, indicating a N31 loss in the naira’s value within 24 hours.

The parallel market exchange rate also saw a decline, with the naira falling to N1,565 per dollar from N1,555/$ the previous day.

This latest dip widens the gap between the official and black market rates to N35, compared to just N14 earlier in the week.

Key Highlights:

• Official CBN rate: N1,600/$ (from N1,569/$)
• Black market rate: N1,565/$ (from N1,555/$)
• Rate gap: N35 per dollar

What This Means for Nigerians

The continued depreciation of the naira is expected to further impact import costs, inflation, and purchasing power. Individuals and businesses depending on foreign exchange may face higher expenses.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Naira to Dollar exchange rate and other important financial news in Nigeria.