The Nigerian Army has announced the arrest of 35 suspected oil thieves involved in illegal refining and pipeline siphoning activities across four Niger Delta states: Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers. The operations, conducted between October 21 and October 27, are part of ongoing efforts to combat oil theft and illegal bunkering in the region.

Lt.-Col. Danjuma Danjuma, spokesman for the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division in Port Harcourt, detailed the operations in a statement. Troops successfully destroyed 58 illegal artisanal refineries and seized approximately 11,200 litres of stolen crude oil along with 355,000 litres of adulterated diesel during the raids.

In Rivers State, the troops dismantled 22 illegal refineries and confiscated significant amounts of illegally refined products, including 131,500 litres of diesel and 10,300 litres of condensates, alongside two wooden boats. Six suspects were apprehended across various local government areas, including Akuku-Toru, Ahoada East, Degema, and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, as well as the Obiofo Oil Field, Odagwa, and Imo River.

In Akwa Ibom, the army reported the dismantling of 34 illegal refining sites and the arrest of 27 suspects, leading to the seizure of 215,000 litres of adulterated diesel, 19 wooden boats, nine vehicles, and 20 nylon bags used for storing petroleum products.

Operations in Delta State resulted in the arrest of two suspected oil thieves and the confiscation of 1,200 litres of crude oil, as well as various boats and vehicles in the Warri South and Ethiope West local government areas.

In Bayelsa, troops destroyed two illegal refining sites and seized 8,500 litres of diesel and 10,000 litres of stolen crude oil, along with seven wooden boats and three additional vandals arrested during raids in Ekeremor, Nembe, Southern Ijaw, and Yenagoa local government areas.

The army’s efforts are aimed at reducing oil theft, which significantly impacts Nigeria’s economy and the security situation in the Niger Delta region.

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed the recovery of a fourth body following the ditching incident involving a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registration 5N BQG, operated by East Wind Aviation. This development occurred as part of ongoing search and recovery efforts after the helicopter went down.

According to NSIB, at approximately 4:00 PM, a floating body was retrieved from the water by a Fast Rescue Craft (FRC) and subsequently escorted by the Cameroonian Navy to NUIMS Antan for safe transit through their territorial waters.

Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB, stated that by 6:44 PM, field operations confirmed the identity of the body based on a T-shirt description provided earlier.

“By 6:50 PM, East Wind Aviation was contacted to arrange for an air ambulance to transport the body the following morning, with the company actively coordinating these efforts. By 7:05 PM, Antan Security informed the Port Harcourt Marine Police to prepare for receiving the body from the air ambulance,” Oladeji added.

The NSIB is working closely with a joint search, rescue, and recovery team, alongside various supporting agencies, to ensure a thorough recovery process and to gather critical evidence to assist with the ongoing investigation into the incident.

A new coalition named Save Democracy Mega Alliance 2027 (SDMA’27) has launched an initiative aimed at amending Nigeria’s Constitution to remove the President’s authority over the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and state governors’ power over State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs). This move is intended to curtail executive influence in the electoral and judicial systems by transferring appointment powers to an independent body.

During a press briefing in Abuja, spokesperson Comrade Tony Akeni Le Moin announced that the coalition would formally launch its campaign across all states, culminating in a “boot camp” finale in Abuja. The coalition’s primary focus lies in two key constitutional amendments: removing the appointment powers from the President and governors concerning INEC, SIEC, and judiciary heads, and transferring these responsibilities to a body comprised of non-partisan, integrity-vetted individuals.

The coalition has received endorsements from prominent leaders and pro-democracy groups across the nation, including political economist Professor Pat Utomi. Utomi hailed the movement as a significant milestone for Nigeria’s democracy since 1999, referencing the Justice Uwais Electoral Reform report, which similarly recommended reforms to insulate INEC and the judiciary from executive influence. He asserted that such reforms are crucial for fostering fair elections and improving governance.

SDMA’27’s Three-Point Plan:

1. Mobilizing National Consensus: The coalition plans to engage political, religious, and civil society networks to create a unified demand for constitutional reform.
2. Building Momentum for a National Conference: SDMA’27 aims to convene a National Conference to formally propose the desired amendments.
3. Lobbying Legislative Bodies: The coalition intends to lobby both the National and State Assemblies to eliminate executive influence over INEC and the judiciary.

In its call to action, SDMA’27 warned that without these reforms, the 2027 elections are likely to witness a repetition of past electoral manipulations. They invoked the words of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. regarding the necessity of organized resistance, urging Nigerians to prepare for what they term a “national emergency” to restore the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy.

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has called on state governments in the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones to collaborate in addressing security challenges affecting their regions. This appeal came during a two-day conference themed “The Media as Partners in Regional Development,” held in Owerri, Imo State.

In a communiqué signed by NGE President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the guild emphasized the need for editors to refrain from disseminating information from self-serving groups that promote insecurity and violence within the zones.

The conference, organized in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Imo State government, brought together 54 editors and media executives from the two regions. Participants stressed the importance of active media engagement to foster regional development, advocating for investigative and development journalism and constructive dialogue to rebuild unity in the zones.

Key points from the conference included:

• Media Innovation: The guild urged the media to embrace continuous innovation and position themselves at the forefront of digital transformation rather than resisting it.
• Governor Synergy: It called on governors in the regions to restore the synergy, cohesion, and unity that previously supported critical infrastructure development.
• Children’s Welfare: The NGE emphasized the importance of prioritizing children’s welfare in reporting, holding states accountable that have not domesticated the Child Rights Act. They urged adherence to UNICEF protocols in reporting on children’s issues and condemned superstitions like witchcraft beliefs that stigmatize children in some areas.

The conference also highlighted the lack of data available to development agencies in the South-East and South-South zones. Editors and media executives resolved to focus on generating necessary data to attract developmental partners and address the pressing challenges faced by these regions.

During the 2024 New Yam Festival held at Edem Ani Ogwugwu Ancient Kingdom in Nsukka, Igwe Asadu urged President Bola Tinubu to pursue a political solution regarding the case of Nnamdi Kanu, expressing hope that Kanu’s release could contribute to stabilizing the region.

The monarch emphasized the significance of the festival as a time for thanksgiving, celebrating bountiful harvests, peace, and security. Asadu, a former Chairman of the South East Traditional Rulers’ Council, extended his gratitude to Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah for his support of local farmers, which included providing fertilizers and establishing a smart school in the community.

“Iwa Ji is a key traditional practice that sustains our culture and reminds us of the importance of agriculture, particularly yam farming, as a staple food and a symbol of prosperity,” Asadu stated, encouraging citizens to invest in farming for economic stability.

Enugu State’s Commissioner for Agriculture, Patrick Uburu, reiterated the government’s support for the New Yam Festival, noting its role in promoting cultural heritage and enhancing agricultural productivity. He highlighted the government’s efforts to identify and support genuine farmers to ensure food security.

Chief Chidi Ezema, the Chairman of the occasion, characterized the festival as a celebration of life, culture, and community achievements, marking the second year of the festival’s revival under Igwe Asadu’s leadership. Ozo Chukwuemeka Ejum, the Planning Committee Chairman, commended Igwe Asadu for his dedication to preserving the culture and traditions of Edem Ani Ogwugwu.

The event featured vibrant cultural displays, including masquerades, traditional yam barns, and various performances that celebrated the rich Igbo heritage.

The Niger Delta Development Force (NDDF), a militant group operating in the Niger Delta region, has issued a stern warning to President Bola Tinubu regarding alleged plans by Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike. The NDDF claims that Wike intends to leverage Abuja courts to block revenue allocations destined for the 23 Local Government Councils (LGAs) in Rivers State.

In statements made from Port Harcourt, NDDF spokesperson Justin Alabraba cautioned that any court ruling that restricts these funds could provoke a severe backlash, potentially reigniting hostilities in the region, which historically have resulted in extensive damage to crucial oil installations that are vital to Nigeria’s economy.

Alabraba warned that should an Abuja court deny Rivers LGAs their rightful allocations, the NDDF would respond by shutting down major oil pipelines, stating, “Nyesom Wike cannot be using Tinubu’s powers to cause problems in Rivers State without any consequences.” He emphasized that such actions could lead to broader destabilization across the Niger Delta, as Rivers State is considered the region’s headquarters.

The group expressed its strong disapproval of any judicial decisions perceived as interference in local governance, urging judicial authorities to carefully consider the serious implications of their rulings. Reports indicate that Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja, a judge allegedly associated with Wike, is expected to deliver a ruling on Monday that could halt statutory allocations to Rivers LGAs. Justice Abdulmalik has previously denied any bias in this matter.

The NDDF remains adamant that any attempts to restrict the funds allocated to Rivers LGAs will not be tolerated, accusing Wike of misusing federal power to disrupt the governance of Rivers State under Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Luong Cuong on his election as President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Cuong, 67, a veteran military officer with over 40 years of service and a member of the Politburo since 2021, was elected through a historic parliamentary vote.

In a statement released by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised Cuong for his commitment to establishing Vietnam as a “trusted partner and responsible member of the international community.”

Tinubu emphasized the long-standing and friendly relations between Nigeria and Vietnam, particularly in trade and cultural exchange, which are rooted in mutual goals for peace and development. He assured Cuong of Nigeria’s dedication to enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including trade, agriculture, food production, education, and cultural and technological exchanges.

The Nigerian President expressed his hope that Cuong’s leadership would lead to success in serving the interests of the Vietnamese people and contributing positively to the broader international community.

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has condemned the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and stakeholders in the electricity sector for a five-day power outage affecting northern states. In a statement by National Coordinator Comrade Jamilu Charanchi, the coalition highlighted the dire consequences of the outage, including reports of patient fatalities in hospitals due to the failure of essential medical equipment like oxygen machines.

Charanchi described the situation as “alarming and unacceptable,” emphasizing that millions have been left without electricity, which has disrupted businesses and exacerbated the region’s economic difficulties. The outage was attributed to vandalism on the Shiroro power line, coupled with faults on a parallel line, severely crippling power transmission to the North. The coalition also pointed out that the Jos line, the only alternative source of electricity, frequently trips, worsening the crisis.

Criticizing the Transmission Rehabilitation and Expansion Programme (TREP), which has a budget allocation of $1.661 billion but has struggled to resolve infrastructure issues, Charanchi highlighted mismanagement of an additional $500 million intended for the Eastern Backbone project. This mismanagement has stalled critical infrastructure developments that could benefit areas like Sokoto, Katsina, and Kaura Namoda.

The CNG raised concerns about the significant power allocation disparity, noting that northern regions are underserved compared to southern regions. With only two 330kV lines, northern Distribution Companies (DisCos) receive a small fraction of the power supplied to other areas, while Lagos benefits from eight power lines. Charanchi stated that this imbalance hampers northern growth and reflects systemic neglect in national infrastructure planning.

Call for Urgent Action

The coalition called on the Federal Government, TCN, northern governors, and lawmakers to take immediate action to restore power and address the infrastructural imbalances in power distribution across the country. The statement underscored the necessity for northern representation in power development projects, highlighting the region’s substantial contribution to Nigeria’s power generation.

“The CNG calls for increased investment in Northern Nigeria’s power infrastructure, particularly in distribution,” the statement read. It urged northern leaders to unite and advocate for equitable investment in power plants in the region, emphasizing the long-standing underrepresentation of the North in national energy development plans. The coalition warned that neglecting the electricity needs of the region would result in further deterioration of essential services, economic hardship, and long-term developmental setbacks for northern Nigeria.

President Masoud Pezeshkian stated on Sunday that Iran does not seek war with Israel but is prepared to deliver “an appropriate response” to recent air strikes on Iranian military sites.

During a cabinet meeting, Pezeshkian emphasized Iran’s commitment to defending its national rights and indicated that the country would respond to what he described as the “aggression of the Zionist regime.” This statement follows Israeli air strikes on military sites in Iran, which were in retaliation for an October 1 attack on Israel linked to Iranian-backed militant groups.

Pezeshkian attributed the escalating regional tensions to Israel’s actions and the support it receives from the United States, which Iran does not recognize. He cautioned that continued aggression from Israel could lead to further tensions in the region.

Additionally, he criticized the U.S. for failing to uphold its promise to end hostilities in exchange for Iran’s restraint. Iran has called for an end to the ongoing Gaza conflict, which was ignited by an attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7 last year. The country also supports various armed groups in the region, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, which has been engaged in significant conflict with Israeli forces recently.

Ebonyi State Governor, Right Honourable Francis Nwifuru, has announced a new minimum wage of ₦75,000 for civil servants in the state. The update was shared by the Governor following a Holy Mass at the Government House Chapel in Abakaliki on Sunday.

Governor Nwifuru explained that the wage adjustment is a thoughtful response to Nigeria’s current economic conditions and their impact on the workforce. Under the new policy, employees at grade level 2 will receive a minimum wage of ₦75,000, while workers at grade level 3 and above will see an across-the-board increment of ₦40,000. This revised wage structure is set to take effect on Monday, October 28, 2024.

In addition to the wage announcement, Governor Nwifuru appointed two key leaders to support major state industries: Dr. Obinna Ezenkwa will now lead the Umuoghara Pulverization Plant, and Barrister Uchenna Otuh will head the Ezzamgbo Pipe Production Factory. The Governor emphasized the appointees’ specialized expertise and urged stakeholders to support the new General Managers in their roles to advance these industries for the economic benefit of Ebonyi State

The Archdeacon of Oyi Anglican Church and Vicar of St. James’ Parish in Awkuzu, Anambra State, Venerable David Arinze Ajaefobi, has been kidnapped by unidentified individuals. Reports indicate that the cleric was abducted at the entrance gate of the church.

According to a statement from the church, no contact has yet been established with the abductors, raising concerns about the cleric’s safety.

When reached for comment, the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that the police had not received any report regarding the incident. The situation highlights ongoing security challenges in the region, prompting calls for increased measures to protect individuals from such acts of violence.

Students arriving at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), particularly those coming from outside Lagos, faced significant challenges over the weekend, finding the private hostel facilities they had paid for completely inaccessible. Many students, some traveling from as far as Calabar, were left stranded after paying up to N500,000 for a year’s accommodation.

One frustrated freshman shared his experience, noting the urgent need to find alternative lodging upon arrival due to the difficulties accessing the hostels. The crisis comes on the heels of a sharp increase in housing fees, which have jumped from N43,000 to N80,000 for main-campus accommodations. Medical students at the Idi Araba campus now face annual fees of N100,000, reflecting the year-round residency requirements.

Prof. Musa Obalola, UNILAG’s Dean of Student Affairs, confirmed the situation, explaining that only private hostels are currently affected. He noted that university-managed hostels are undergoing renovations and will not be allocated until all facilities are ready. To mitigate overcrowding, classes will temporarily be conducted online.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly opposed the recent fee hikes, with Senate President Akinteye Afeez Babatunde disputing claims that students agreed to the increased rates. He labeled the fee hikes a financial burden on students and announced plans for a National Congress on UNILAG’s campus to unite student opposition. NANS has warned that if their demands are not addressed, they are prepared to shut down the university indefinitely.

The association also criticized the university’s suggestion that dissatisfied students seek off-campus housing, describing it as insensitive to students already grappling with financial difficulties. NANS emphasized that rising education costs threaten accessibility and underscored the need for a strong, unified response if their concerns remain unaddressed.

With the US presidential election just days away, polls indicate that Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are statistically tied, making this one of the closest elections in US history. As both candidates intensify their campaigns in battleground states, the stakes extend beyond American borders, particularly affecting the African continent.

The upcoming election represents a clash of worldviews and ideologies that will shape global engagement. The outcome could have serious implications for various aspects of international relations, economic policies, and humanitarian efforts in Africa.

Interestingly, despite Kamala Harris’s status as an African-American candidate and the historical ties between the Democratic Party and pro-Africa policies, many Nigerians express a preference for Donald Trump. This shift in sentiment can be attributed to several factors:

1. Disappointment in Past US Policies: Many Nigerians are still disillusioned by the perceived influence of former President Barack Obama during the 2015 Nigerian presidential election. While Obama did not explicitly endorse any candidate, critics claim his administration favored Muhammadu Buhari over Goodluck Jonathan, particularly due to the latter’s association with corruption. This perceived bias led many, especially from the southeastern region of Nigeria, to abandon support for the Democratic Party in favor of the Republicans, despite the lack of significant electoral impact.
2. Alignment with Christian Values: The Republican Party’s advocacy for traditional Christian values resonates deeply with many Nigerians, a nation characterized by strong religious beliefs. With over 90% of the population engaging in regular prayer, many view the Republican stance on family and marriage as aligned with their conservative outlook. Conversely, the Democratic Party is often seen as promoting an agenda that conflicts with these values, particularly regarding LGBTQ rights, further driving conservative Nigerians toward the Republican platform.
3. Admiration for Strong Leadership: Trump’s image as a decisive and authoritative leader appeals to some Nigerians, mirroring a preference for strongman leadership that is often prevalent in African political culture. Many citizens respect leaders who exhibit control and assertiveness, qualities that Trump is perceived to possess.

However, the question remains: Is Trump truly beneficial for Africa? While some may admire his leadership style, his policies often prioritize America’s interests, and his administration has been criticized for a lack of consistent engagement with Africa. Issues such as trade agreements, climate change, and health aid may be deprioritized under a Trump presidency, potentially impacting development efforts across the continent.

In conclusion, while the upcoming US presidential election holds significant implications for Africa, the complex dynamics of preference for either candidate among Nigerians highlight the multifaceted nature of international relations. The election results will undoubtedly shape the future of US-Africa relations, and regardless of the victor, African nations must remain proactive in pursuing their interests on the global stage.

On Sunday, Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State inaugurated the newly elected chairmen of the state’s 44 local government areas, who emerged victorious in Saturday’s local elections. Among the appointees was Sa’adatu Salisu, the sole female candidate representing the Tudun Wada Local Government Area.

At the swearing-in ceremony held at the Kano State Government House, Governor Yusuf highlighted the importance of the elections, linking them to a recent Supreme Court ruling that affirmed the financial autonomy of all 774 local governments in Nigeria. He urged the newly elected leaders to commence their duties promptly, emphasizing the need for effective and responsible governance while reminding them of the accountability they owe to their constituents.

“As you may all know, in July of this year, the Supreme Court delivered a landmark judgment affirming the financial autonomy of all 774 local government councils in the country. In line with this, our administration quickly activated the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC) to conduct the local government elections,” the Governor stated.

He assured that the state government is committed to fair representation, mentioning that they had previously retained local government councils from the opposition without denying them their entitlements. Governor Yusuf called on the new officials to lead with integrity and a sense of divine responsibility, reminding them of their ultimate accountability for their actions.

The oath of office was administered by the Kano State Attorney General, Bar. Haruna Isa Dederi, at the African House chamber of the government house. Additionally, the KANSIEC Chairman, Prof. Sani Lawal Malumfashi, presented certificates of return to the newly elected officials, officially recognizing them as the legitimate leaders of their respective local governments

The Presidency has encouraged Nigerian youths to abandon the belief that “school is a scam” and instead tap into education-focused initiatives introduced by President Bola Tinubu to empower young people and build future leaders. Ms. Rinsola Abiola, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, made this appeal during the inaugural “Next Generation Engagement” held at Kano’s Coronation Hall.

The “Next Generation Project,” organized by the SSA’s office in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA), promotes civic education and youth leadership. Addressing senior secondary students, Ms. Abiola emphasized that President Tinubu’s administration, recognizing education as essential for a prosperous future, has launched initiatives such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). This interest-free loan scheme supports tertiary students unable to afford tuition.

“Education unlocks a prosperous future,” she stated, “and an educated person approaches life and work more efficiently, regardless of the job.” She added that the “Renewed Hope” administration is committed to ensuring students have access to essential resources for their education, dismantling any notion that formal schooling is unnecessary.

Ms. Abiola also urged students to embrace civic duties, promote democracy, and responsibly use the internet to access learning and opportunities. The event included sessions on substance abuse awareness by the NDLEA and mentorship from figures such as Dr. Kabir Sufi, a public servant, Khalifa Mustapha, an entrepreneur, and Bahijjah Shehu Bawa, a beauty brand founder.

Following the Kano launch, the Next Generation Project will expand to Adamawa, Niger, Cross River, Abia, and Ogun states, further advocating for education and responsible citizenship.

Candidates of the Chevron Graduate Aptitude Test have called on Chevron Nigeria Limited to reschedule their test after experiencing technical issues during the exam conducted virtually on October 26, 2024. The test, outsourced to Dragnet, an online IT service provider, reportedly faced significant disruptions, with candidates unable to proceed due to system shutdowns and unresponsiveness lasting over two hours.

Participants in Nigeria, as well as other parts of Africa and diaspora locations like Canada and the United States, faced accessibility challenges. Many reported being unable to enter the test platform despite completing pre-test requirements, and attempts to reach Dragnet’s customer service went unanswered.

The candidates appealed for a thorough investigation into Dragnet’s system issues and suggested Chevron consider a physical exam option for those in rural areas, ensuring equal opportunity and access. They further expressed concern that without corrective measures, the current system may not provide a fair and accurate assessment for all participants.

The Enugu State Police Command has completed its investigation into the tragic shooting of Chikezie Okezie Nwamba, a renowned Ogene musician known as Igbo-Jah, allegedly by police officer Inspector Ozonwanji Joseph. The incident, which took place on October 25, 2024, has led to Inspector Joseph undergoing an orderly room trial in line with Nigeria Police Force disciplinary procedures due to accusations of reckless conduct resulting in Nwamba’s death.

In response to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, ordered the reassignment of SP Ekeleme Chidobe, Officer in Charge of the Tactical Squad, to enable a thorough review of the unit’s practices. A statement by police spokesperson Daniel Ndukwe highlighted the Commissioner’s commitment to justice for Nwamba and to upholding police professionalism. The Commissioner also appealed to the public for their support in ensuring a fair and comprehensive conclusion to the case.