![Rev. Fr. Anthony Odiong, a US-based Nigerian Louisiana Catholic priest, was arrested in Florida on Tuesday for possessing child pornography, according to law authorities. The suspect is reportedly accused of many other cases of sexual assault. The Waco, Texas, Police Department announced in a Facebook post on Tuesday that officers detained Father Anthony Odiong in Ave Maria, Florida, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service. Waco police announced in March that they had received "credible information" about a sexual assault allegedly committed by Odiong in Texas in 2012. “During the subsequent investigation, a case of possession of child pornography was uncovered,” the police said. The priest was apprehended in Florida by the Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force. The Waco Police Department said that he will be extradited to Texas. Odiong had previously served in the Archdiocese of New Orleans before being removed as priest in December of last year due to controversy over homilies in which he claimed, among other things, that the Catholic Church was being taken over by "the gays." At the time, the priest was also accused of abusive behaviour; a Louisiana lady claimed in U.S. bankruptcy court that Odiong had committed both financial and sexual abuse against her. Prior to joining the New Orleans Archdiocese, Odiong served in at least two Texas parishes. On Tuesday, Waco police stated that during their sexual assault investigation, "the presence of other survivors was revealed." “Multiple women have come forward to tell similar experiences as the sexual assault survivor who reported the initial allegation,” the police department said. “Survivors’ experiences ranged from sexual assault and indecent assault, more commonly recognised as groping, and financial abuse, with some survivors experiencing every element of Anthony Odiong’s manipulation.” The police said they “believe there may be more survivors, and we wish to speak with anyone who [has] had similar encounters” with the priest. The Archdiocese of New Orleans issued a brief news release on Tuesday noting Odiong's arrest in Florida. The archdiocese “encourages anyone with any information to contact law enforcement,” the release said.](https://chronicle.ng/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ezgif-6-4730550ede-300x200.jpg "Odiong: US-based Nigerian Catholic priest convicted over sexual assault")
It’s Christmas, and you’re still wondering where to go or what to do for fun without spending too much. Between the rush, last-minute plans, and tight budgets, deciding how to enjoy the day can feel overwhelming.
Here is a list of simple and affordable places where you can soak in the festive mood, have a great time, and still stay within your budget.
Amusement parks
Amusement parks are one of the easiest and most affordable ways to enjoy Christmas, especially for families and groups of friends. With a relatively low entry fee, visitors can enjoy multiple activities such as rides, games, and live music in one location.
During the festive season, many parks enhance the experience with Christmas decorations, themed attractions, and occasional discounts, making the outing feel special without significantly increasing costs. The lively atmosphere makes them a great alternative to expensive concerts or luxury hangouts.
To stay within your budget, consider bringing homemade snacks and drinks where allowed. Popular options across Nigeria include Apapa Amusement Park in Lagos, Magic Land in Abuja, and Oakland Amusement Park in Enugu, among others.
Choose a park close to you, go with loved ones, and turn Christmas into a fun and memorable experience.
Picnic parks and gardens
If you prefer a calmer and more affordable way to spend Christmas, picnic parks and green spaces are a perfect option. These parks usually charge minimal entry fees and allow visitors to bring their own food, drinks, and games.
Families and friends can pack homemade meals, spread out mats, play board games, or simply relax under shaded trees while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Picnic parks are ideal for small group hangouts, couples, families, or even solo outings for anyone looking to unwind away from crowded venues.
With a little planning, a picnic outing can easily become one of the most budget-friendly and memorable ways to enjoy Christmas.
Popular options include Ndubuisi Kanu Park and Johnson Jakande Tinubu (JJT) Park in Lagos, as well as Millennium Park in Abuja.
Beaches
For a budget-friendly and fun Christmas outing, beaches are a great option, offering both affordability and accessibility.
Many local beaches have minimal entry fees, and the open space gives you the freedom to control your spending while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
By packing your own snacks and drinks, you can soak up the sun, play beach games, or simply relax by the water without overspending. Beaches are perfect for families, friends, or small groups looking for a relaxed, fun, and memorable Christmas experience.
Museums and cultural centers
If you enjoy combining learning with leisure, museums and cultural centers provide an affordable way to spend Christmas.
Many Nigerian museums have low entry fees and may feature special exhibits or festive activities during the holiday season. Visitors can explore art, history, and culture, making it a fun and enriching experience for families, friends, or even solo outings.
Some venues also offer guided tours, workshops, or Christmas-themed events that won’t stretch your budget. Popular options include the National Museum in Lagos, Nike Art Gallery in Lekki, and the National Museum in Abuja.
Local and religious events
Across Lagos and other parts of Nigeria, communities, charities, and religious centers often host Christmas carnivals, street fairs, and festive funfairs. These events are usually free or low-cost and feature music, performances, food, and cultural displays.
Joining community celebrations lets you enjoy the festive spirit without breaking the bank. Many of these events are close to home, which also reduces transportation costs, making them a perfect choice for budget-friendly Christmas fun.
![Rev. Fr. Anthony Odiong, a US-based Nigerian Louisiana Catholic priest, was arrested in Florida on Tuesday for possessing child pornography, according to law authorities. The suspect is reportedly accused of many other cases of sexual assault. The Waco, Texas, Police Department announced in a Facebook post on Tuesday that officers detained Father Anthony Odiong in Ave Maria, Florida, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service. Waco police announced in March that they had received "credible information" about a sexual assault allegedly committed by Odiong in Texas in 2012. “During the subsequent investigation, a case of possession of child pornography was uncovered,” the police said. The priest was apprehended in Florida by the Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force. The Waco Police Department said that he will be extradited to Texas. Odiong had previously served in the Archdiocese of New Orleans before being removed as priest in December of last year due to controversy over homilies in which he claimed, among other things, that the Catholic Church was being taken over by "the gays." At the time, the priest was also accused of abusive behaviour; a Louisiana lady claimed in U.S. bankruptcy court that Odiong had committed both financial and sexual abuse against her. Prior to joining the New Orleans Archdiocese, Odiong served in at least two Texas parishes. On Tuesday, Waco police stated that during their sexual assault investigation, "the presence of other survivors was revealed." “Multiple women have come forward to tell similar experiences as the sexual assault survivor who reported the initial allegation,” the police department said. “Survivors’ experiences ranged from sexual assault and indecent assault, more commonly recognised as groping, and financial abuse, with some survivors experiencing every element of Anthony Odiong’s manipulation.” The police said they “believe there may be more survivors, and we wish to speak with anyone who [has] had similar encounters” with the priest. The Archdiocese of New Orleans issued a brief news release on Tuesday noting Odiong's arrest in Florida. The archdiocese “encourages anyone with any information to contact law enforcement,” the release said.](https://chronicle.ng/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ezgif-6-4730550ede-450x300.jpg "Odiong: US-based Nigerian Catholic priest convicted over sexual assault")
