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.

Nigerian Lives: Three People Share Ghost Stories That Still Haunt Them

Every week, Culture Custodian engages with Nigerians, inviting them to share their personal experiences. This time, three individuals recount their eerie encounters with the supernatural—experiences that convinced them ghosts and paranormal forces are real.

Julie’s Story: Footsteps on the Ceiling

As a child, Julie often had sleepovers with her friend Gina. One night, she decided to visit Gina’s house in Maitama. After a fun-filled day, they fell asleep, but Julie woke up to the sound of footsteps. Expecting Gina’s parents, she was startled when the noise came from above the ceiling—despite them being on the top floor. Turning on the light, she saw footprints on the ceiling, as if someone had walked upside down. Gina, surprisingly unfazed, revealed that her father once mentioned the house was haunted 30 years ago, though they had prayed about it. Julie never spent the night there again and struggled with a fear of sleeping alone for a long time.

Shola’s Story: The Classroom Phantom

As an architecture student, Shola often stayed late in class working on technical drawing assignments. One evening, while finishing his work during Night Prep, he heard someone chuckling behind him. Assuming it was younger students playing pranks, he ignored it until he saw a figure peeking into the room. Frustrated, he stepped outside to confront the prankster but saw someone dart into the neighboring classroom. When he followed, he heard voices inside, yet the room was empty. Terrified, he ran out, and his friends only believed him when they later had a similar encounter. It seemed as though something had mimicked their voices.

Samira’s Story: A Face from the Grave

Samira’s seemingly normal evening turned into a nightmare while walking home with her boyfriend in Kaduna. She suddenly spotted a familiar face—a young man from her neighborhood who had died three years earlier in a tragic electrocution accident. Certain it was him, she told her boyfriend, who decided to approach the man to prove her wrong. When he tapped him on the shoulder and pointed towards Samira, the figure turned, made eye contact, and instantly vanished. Overcome with fear, she ran for her life. Though she had always dismissed ghost stories, this experience changed her beliefs forever.

These accounts are based on real-life events, with names changed to protect the identities of those involved.

Grace Okogwu — Childhood Fears and Folktales: Madame Koi-Koi and Other Spine-Chilling Legends

By Grace Okogwu

“No one fears ghosts more than those who don’t believe in them.” — Chinese Proverb

Growing up is never easy, but childhood in Nigeria comes with its own set of unique challenges. Beyond the discipline of strict parents, eerie folklore and unsettling myths filled our young minds with fear, leaving lasting impressions that some still carry into adulthood.

From dark, shadowy giants to the infamous Madame Koi-Koi—a restless spirit searching for her lost shoe—these stories were told so vividly that they became impossible to ignore. Even now, some people remain convinced that these supernatural beings exist.

Most of these tales spread through boarding schools, day schools, and family gatherings, passed down across generations. While details varied by region, certain legends remained consistent across communities.

Famous Nigerian Folklore

Madame Koi-Koi (The Phantom in Heels)

One of the most feared figures among schoolchildren, Madame Koi-Koi was said to haunt boarding schools. The story described her as a ghostly woman who had lost one of her high-heeled shoes and could be heard roaming hallways at night, the eerie “koi-koi” sound of her footsteps striking fear in students. Some versions even claimed she kidnapped or punished those who encountered her.

Ef’oru Foloru

This spirit was believed to appear at night, disturbing students who stayed up late studying. It served as a chilling reminder that the nighttime belonged to forces beyond human control.

Bush Baby

A common myth in boarding schools, the Bush Baby was rumored to be a half-human, half-animal creature that cried like a human infant to lure unsuspecting victims. Some stories suggested it would sneak into dormitories to braid young girls’ hair against their will. Even today, some claim to have heard its haunting cries at night.

Willi-Willi

Feared among children, Willi-Willi was a ghostly masquerade figure in Nigerian folklore, known for its unpredictable and malevolent nature.

Childhood Myths We Once Believed

The Nigerian Tooth Fairy

Unlike the Western tradition of placing a lost tooth under a pillow, Nigerian children were told to throw their fallen teeth onto rooftops. This, we believed, would ensure a new tooth grew in its place.

Swallowing Fruit Seeds

Many children were warned that swallowing a fruit seed—whether from an orange, guava, or watermelon—would result in the plant growing on their heads. The fear of walking around with a tree sprouting from one’s scalp was enough to make kids spit out seeds immediately.

Transformation into Animals or Objects

Children were often warned against picking up items from the roadside, as it was believed this could turn them into tortoises, yams, or even Naira notes. Nollywood movies and even reported news stories reinforced these fears, making them seem all too real.

Outgrowing These Childhood Fears

Although we may laugh at these myths now, childhood fears have a way of shaping us well into adulthood. Many of the anxieties we experience today stem from the fears we encountered as children—just in different forms. However, over time, we learn to distinguish between real threats and the imaginative tales that once kept us up at night.

While Madame Koi-Koi and the Bush Baby may no longer haunt our dreams, the memories of these childhood stories remain, serving as nostalgic reminders of the fears that once ruled our imaginations.

10 Spine-Chilling Paranormal Experiences Shared by Nigerians

Many people believe in the supernatural, while others dismiss it as mere superstition. However, countless individuals claim to have encountered unexplainable phenomena. Here are ten eerie true-life accounts from real Nigerians—whether you believe them or not is up to you.

1. ZaynabTyty’s Encounter at Oshodi

At 13, Zaynab was on her way to a lesson when she witnessed something terrifying—a man walking on his head. She screamed, but by the time others looked, the man had vanished. While most dismissed her story, an older woman believed her. The unsettling experience has left her avoiding Oshodi Market to this day.

2. Lekan’s Night Visitor

Lekan recalls waking up to see a strange dwarf with a reddish-yellow face visiting his room at night. Disturbed by these recurring appearances, he told his mother, who advised him to sleep in her room. That night, he woke up screaming about a snake, though he had no memory of it. To this day, he remains terrified of snakes.

3. Joey’s Haunted Basketball Court

As a student at Federal Government College, Okigwe, Joey once heard the sounds of a basketball game—grunts, bouncing balls—early in the morning. But when he and his friends approached, the court was empty.

4. Nana’s Terrifying Market Scene

While heading to Computer Village in 2012, Nana witnessed a man touching a boy’s head during an argument. Suddenly, the boy collapsed and started scrubbing his mouth against the ground, bleeding profusely. As bystanders rushed to help, the man casually walked away.

5. Ayomide’s Shape-Shifting Woman

One cold, windy night, Ayomide woke up to shut her window. From her room, she saw a ragged woman carrying a calabash, rubbing something onto an unfinished building. As she turned around, the woman transformed into a dog.

6. Tayo’s Father and the Ghostly Girl

In the 1970s, Tayo’s father and a friend met a beautiful woman at a bar in Ibadan. She complained of the cold, so his friend lent her his jacket. The next day, they visited the address she gave them. An old woman answered and, after confirming who they were looking for, led them to the backyard—where they found a grave with the girl’s name on it. His friend’s jacket was neatly folded on the grave. Shortly after, he fell seriously ill and developed strange boils all over his body.

7. Hawwa’s Grandmother and the Bottomless Oil Can

Hawwa’s grandmother once sold palm oil in precolonial Nigeria. One day, a mysterious customer brought a tiny can to buy oil. Without realizing it, she kept pouring—filling an entire liter into the small container. Suddenly, she heard her own mother’s voice warning her to run. When she looked up, the customer had vanished. She never sold palm oil again.

8. Chidu’s Encounter with an Unsettling Woman

As a student at Federal Government Girls College, Umuahia, Chidu and her friends once saw an eerie old woman near the abandoned carpentry shed of a former school worker. The woman asked for help carrying her load—but before she could say more, the students ran for their lives.

9. Tope’s Bewitched Teacher

At Mayflower School, a notoriously strict teacher once flogged a student. Soon after, he began acting strangely—wandering the school, picking up trash, and refusing to stop. Another teacher intervened, using what some believe was a counter-charm. When the spell broke, the teacher had no memory of why his hands were full of garbage.

10. Osagie’s Vanishing Arm

In 2004 at Challenge Bus-Stop, Ilorin, Osagie witnessed a disturbing incident. A young man rudely elbowed an elderly man while trying to enter a taxi. When confronted, the young man arrogantly threatened to slap the old man. The elder dared him to try. As the man raised his hand, his entire arm vanished, leaving only his palm attached to his shoulder. Osagie ran for over a kilometer in shock.

These eerie tales, whether real or exaggerated, offer a glimpse into the mysterious and often chilling side of Nigerian folklore and urban legends.

Exploring Nigeria’s Haunted Sites: Chilling Legends and Ghostly Encounters

Are you ready to uncover the eerie side of Nigeria? Journey with us as we explore some of the country’s most haunted locations, where chilling legends and ghostly tales have been passed down for generations. From deserted mansions to bustling marketplaces, these places are rumored to be inhabited by restless spirits. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, the stories behind these haunted sites are sure to intrigue you.

Tarkwa Bay

Tarkwa Bay Beach in Lagos is a popular tourist spot known for its scenic beauty and calm waters. However, local folklore tells a more chilling tale—one of a young girl who drowned there years ago. According to legend, she was playing by the shore when a strong current pulled her under, despite desperate rescue attempts.

Since her tragic passing, visitors have reported sightings of a ghostly girl in a white dress, seen crying or screaming along the shoreline. Some claim to feel an eerie presence, even in broad daylight, while others report unexplained sounds and objects moving on their own. While skeptics dismiss these accounts as mere superstition, many locals avoid Tarkwa Bay at night, believing the spirit lingers as a cautionary reminder of the ocean’s dangers.

The Presidential Hotel, Port Harcourt

A symbol of luxury in Port Harcourt, the Presidential Hotel is renowned for its comfort and rich history. However, it is also rumored to be haunted. Built in the 1980s, the hotel quickly became a hotspot for business travelers and tourists. Yet, over the years, unsettling stories began to emerge.

Guests have reported hearing eerie noises, feeling sudden chills, and even witnessing ghostly figures in the hallways. Some believe the hotel was constructed over an old cemetery, leading to speculation that spirits from the past still roam its premises.

In 2018, a devastating fire broke out, claiming four lives. Though officially attributed to an electrical fault, some believe it was the work of vengeful spirits. Despite these haunting rumors, the hotel remains operational and continues to attract visitors—many of whom remain wary of its ghostly past.

Ogbomoso Girls School

Established in the early 1900s, Ogbomoso Girls School in Oyo State is one of Nigeria’s oldest all-girls institutions. Yet, beyond its academic legacy lies a darker reputation—it is considered one of the country’s most haunted sites.

During the Nigerian Civil War, the school served as a makeshift hospital, and many soldiers and civilians lost their lives there. Additionally, rumors persist of tragic student deaths, including suicides, further fueling the belief in paranormal activity.

One of the most infamous tales is that of the “Headless Teacher”—a strict educator allegedly beheaded by students in the school garden. According to legend, her ghost still roams the premises, searching for her lost head.

The dormitories are said to be particularly eerie, with reports of ghostly apparitions, unexplained footsteps, and even physical encounters with unseen entities. While some dismiss these stories as student-generated myths, many who have spent nights there insist something supernatural lingers within the school’s walls.

The Ogunpa River

Flowing through Ibadan, the Ogunpa River is steeped in eerie folklore. Many believe the spirits of enslaved people, who perished there, still haunt its waters, seeking justice for past injustices.

The river is also said to be home to mystical water spirits, capable of luring unsuspecting individuals to their doom. Local residents often warn against swimming in the river or venturing near it after dark, fearing the spirits are most active at night.

Despite the warnings, some continue to visit the river, either out of curiosity or for spiritual rituals. Reports of disappearances near the water only add to the belief that the Ogunpa River remains a place of supernatural activity.

Final Thoughts

Nigeria’s rich history and cultural heritage include a wealth of ghost stories and haunted locations. Whether it’s the spectral presence at Tarkwa Bay, the eerie happenings at the Presidential Hotel, the ghostly legends of Ogbomoso Girls School, or the restless spirits of the Ogunpa River, these tales continue to captivate and unsettle those who hear them.

For believers and skeptics alike, these stories offer a fascinating glimpse into the supernatural folklore that shapes Nigeria’s diverse traditions.