The Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has voiced strong support for the election of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the All Progressive Congress (APC) candidate in the upcoming November 16 election in Ondo State.

In a goodwill message read on his behalf by House of Representatives member Ifeoluwa Ehindero, who represents the Akoko Northeast/Northwest Federal Constituency, Tunji-Ojo praised Aiyedatiwa’s leadership and his strategic approach to the 2025 budget, which is aimed at addressing the critical needs of the people of Ondo State.

Aiyedatiwa was campaigning in Akoko Northwest as part of his statewide election efforts. Ehindero conveyed the minister’s commendations to the residents, expressing gratitude for their enduring loyalty and support for the APC.

“The Hon. Minister of Interior acknowledges your steadfast support and commitment to the ideals of our party,” Ehindero stated. “Together, we are all striving towards a unified, prosperous Ondo State under the able leadership of Gov. Aiyedatiwa, and the minister stands firmly with you as we approach this important election.”

Ehindero emphasized that Governor Aiyedatiwa has demonstrated a commitment to listening to the people and taking action. “His commitment to creating an inclusive budget that addresses the developmental needs of all regions in the state is a testament to his dedication to our communities,” he added.

He urged the people of Akoko Northwest to come out in full support on election day to keep the vision for a better Ondo State alive. “The unity among our leaders, stakeholders, and every member of the APC in this area is truly inspiring. Together, we are making a powerful statement for the continued progress of Akoko Northwest.”

During his address to the people in Oke Agbe, Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his commitment to inclusive governance, emphasizing that the 2025 budget will prioritize infrastructure, security, and agriculture to tackle the pressing needs across Ondo State

Botswana, known for its diamond wealth, held elections on October 30, 2024, amid growing concerns about high unemployment and an economic downturn. Voters turned out to decide whether to extend the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP)‘s nearly six-decade reign, granting President Mokgweetsi Masisi a second term.

Key Election Details

• Voter Turnout: Over one million registered voters queued for several hours at polling stations, highlighting the civic engagement in this southern African nation, which prides itself on being the region’s oldest democracy.
• Voices of Change: Many voters, like Lone Kobe, expressed frustration with the current system. Kobe, who arrived at her voting venue more than three hours early, noted the disparity in wealth distribution, stating, “We are just spectators, like we are watching a movie.”

Economic Context

• Diamond Dependency: Botswana’s economy, heavily reliant on diamond mining since its independence in 1966, has faced challenges. Recent downturns in diamond sales have contributed to rising unemployment, which now stands at 27 percent, particularly affecting younger people.
• Wealth Inequality: According to a 2022 World Bank report, Botswana is among the most unequal countries globally, with the richest 10 percent holding three-fifths of the nation’s financial assets.

Political Landscape

• Corruption Allegations: Masisi’s administration has encountered accusations of corruption, nepotism, and mismanagement, further complicating the BDP’s position ahead of the elections.
• Previous Election Results: Masisi won his first term in 2019 with about 52 percent of the vote. Analysts speculate that the BDP may struggle to maintain its majority in this election, with results expected to be announced late Thursday.

As Botswana navigates its economic challenges and the political landscape, the outcomes of this election may significantly influence the country’s direction and governance in the coming years.

Mr. Abdulrahman Lekki, the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Scholarship Board, has passed away. The announcement was made via a statement from the office of the Lagos State Head of Service on October 30, 2024.

Details of the Announcement

• Time of Death: Mr. Lekki died in the early hours of the day after a brief illness.
• Official Statement: The statement expressed submission to the will of Almighty Allah, offering condolences and wishing peace upon his soul.
• Funeral Arrangements: Details regarding the funeral arrangements are expected to be announced later.

Community Reaction

The passing of Mr. Lekki has likely left a significant impact on the educational community in Lagos State, where his role in the Scholarship Board was crucial for supporting students and facilitating educational opportunities. Tributes and condolences from colleagues, friends, and beneficiaries of the scholarship programs are expected as the community mourns his loss.

On Wednesday, the Federal High Court in Abuja adjourned further proceedings in the money laundering case involving former Kogi State Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello until January 21, 2015.

Key Developments in the Case

1. Adjournment for Ruling: The trial judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, postponed the trial to allow time to consider an application from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The application seeks permission to proceed with the trial in the absence of the defendant.
2. Prosecution’s Readiness: Mr. Kemi Pinheiro, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), representing the EFCC, informed the court that the agency was prepared to continue the trial despite Bello’s non-appearance. He indicated that all attempts to have the former governor voluntarily appear for the arraignment on 19 counts of money laundering had failed.
3. Application for Plea in Absentia: The prosecution requested the court to formally enter a plea of not guilty on behalf of Yahaya Bello, asserting that this would align with Section 276 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015. Pinheiro argued that the defendant had effectively waived his right to be present for the plea hearing.
4. Witnesses Present: The prosecution indicated that two witnesses were present and ready to testify, further demonstrating the EFCC’s readiness to advance the trial.

Implications of the Case

The outcome of this case could have significant ramifications for former Governor Bello, especially regarding the legality of trying a defendant in absentia. The court’s decision on the prosecution’s application will set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, particularly in terms of the defendants’ rights and procedural compliance.

Conclusion

As the Federal High Court prepares to rule on the EFCC’s application, the trial’s adjournment reflects the complexities involved in high-profile corruption cases in Nigeria. The proceedings are closely monitored as they highlight ongoing efforts by anti-corruption agencies to address financial crimes in the country.

The daughter of the late President of the Customary Court of Appeal in Abuja, Justice Moses Bello, has raised serious allegations regarding attempts to obstruct the execution of her father’s will. In a petition addressed to the Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Justice Hussein Baba Yusuf, Ann Eniyamire accused the will executor and some court officials of colluding to undermine proceedings related to her father’s estate.

Key Developments in the Case

• Background of the Dispute: Justice Bello’s daughter alleges that the executor of the will, Rev. Father Ezekiel Awolumate, alongside other officials, is attempting to sell off her father’s properties, despite an interim injunction issued by the High Court. The ruling, delivered by Justice M. A. Madugu on October 14, prohibited the sale or leasing of the disputed properties and mandated that they be marked with red paint and a “Not For Sale / Lis Pendens” sign.
• Contempt Charges: In her recent legal actions, Eniyamire has sought to hold the executor in contempt of court, claiming that he breached the existing orders by attempting to sell properties, including one located at No. 41 Panam Street, Maitama, Abuja. The contempt charges also include the Executive Director of Asset Management at NELMCO, Mr. Joseph Asuku Bello.
• Allegations of Court Manipulation: In her petition to the Chief Judge, Eniyamire expressed concerns about a purported plot to withdraw her case file and reassign it to another judge, which she described as an “administrative coup d’état.” She urged the Chief Judge to ensure that his office is not used to obstruct justice and to uphold the principles of fair hearing.

Legal Representation and Call for Fairness

Eniyamire is represented by a legal team led by Yahuza Mahraz, who articulated their concerns regarding the potential manipulation of judicial proceedings. The petition emphasizes that any re-assignment of a case should follow proper legal protocols and not be conducted through administrative means, which could undermine the integrity of the judicial system.

The ongoing legal battle illustrates the complexities surrounding estate management and the execution of wills in Nigeria, particularly in cases involving high-profile individuals. As the situation unfolds, it raises important questions about judicial integrity, the responsibilities of court officials, and the protections available to individuals seeking justice in similar circumstances. Eniyamire’s case will likely continue to draw public and legal scrutiny as it progresses through the courts.

The Rivers State Police Command has apprehended three female officers—Inspector Sarah Anendei, Inspector Caroline Promise, and Inspector Christiana Jatau—for allegedly extorting motorists in Port Harcourt. Their arrests occurred under the Rumuokoro flyover in the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, where they reportedly operated an unauthorized checkpoint.

Details of the Incident

According to reports, these officers had been involved in illegal activities for some time. The arrests were confirmed by Grace Iringe-Koko, the Police Public Relations Officer and Superintendent of Police, who stated that the command had been monitoring their actions following multiple complaints from the public.

During the operation on October 29, 2024, a team from the Commissioner of Police’s Monitoring Unit observed the officers engaging in corrupt practices against innocent motorists. Notably, two of the arrested officers were not in uniform at the time of their arrest, which violates police regulations.

Evidence and Investigation

The officers were caught on video during the incident, which served as evidence of their misconduct. Upon investigation at the scene, operatives discovered cash that had been extorted from motorists in their possession. Iringe-Koko emphasized the police command’s commitment to upholding ethical standards and maintaining public trust by swiftly addressing corrupt practices within the force.

Conclusion

The Rivers State Police Command’s prompt action in arresting these officers highlights ongoing efforts to combat corruption within the police force. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and ethical conduct in law enforcement, aiming to restore public confidence in the police’s role in ensuring safety and justice.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has recently increased the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, to ₦1,025 per litre in Lagos, up from ₦998. In Abuja, the price rose to ₦1,060 from ₦1,030. This marks the third increase in just two months, reflecting a troubling trend in fuel pricing amidst fluctuating crude oil prices.

Context of the Price Increase

The latest adjustment coincides with a drop in the price of Nigeria’s Bonny Light crude, which has fallen from $75 per barrel to $72, indicating an 8.2% shortfall against the budget reference price of $77.96 per barrel for 2024. Following this announcement, filling stations in Lagos quickly adjusted their prices, with motorists flocking to outlets that had not yet raised their prices.

The NNPCL had previously increased petrol prices earlier in the month due to the deregulation of petrol pricing by the Federal Government, which allows for adjustments based on market forces. Currently, the naira is trading at ₦1,664/$, which has further pressured petrol pricing.

Industry Reactions

Industry sources indicated that the recent price hike is a result of market dynamics, with deregulation allowing prices to fluctuate based on supply and demand. The CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprises (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yusuf, acknowledged the difficult times Nigerians are facing and called for government interventions to alleviate their burdens.

A major oil marketer commented on the potential for future price reductions, stating that as crude oil prices decrease, consumers could see a corresponding drop in petrol prices. There are also calls for the government to reduce operational costs and offer incentives to small and medium-sized enterprises, which have been adversely affected by the recent price surges.

Civil Society Response

The Joint Action Front (JAF) and the Movement for a Socialist Alternative (MSA) have condemned the price increase, labeling it an attack on the working masses amid a broader neoliberal agenda. They urged Nigerian workers to revolt against the continuous hikes and to demand policies that prioritize the welfare of the populace over corporate profits.

Independent Marketers’ Actions

Independent marketers are also expected to follow suit, with reports of some already selling petrol at prices as high as ₦1,150 to ₦1,200 per litre, reflecting their practice of aligning with NNPCL pricing.

Conclusion

The recent petrol price increase highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Nigerians as they navigate rising living costs and economic instability. While the NNPCL and industry leaders suggest potential for future price adjustments, the immediate financial strain on households continues to grow, calling for urgent government intervention and support for the populace.

The Peace in the South-East Project (PISE-P), initiated by Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, was launched amidst great expectations for enhanced security and peace in a region plagued by persistent insecurity. The initiative garnered significant support from both Igbo and non-Igbo residents who were hopeful for effective solutions to the ongoing crises.

Kalu and his team framed PISE-P as a proactive approach to negotiating peace and security in the troubled South-East, and the program was inaugurated with much fanfare, featuring prominent figures such as Vice-President Kashim Shettima, distinguished traditional rulers, and notable leaders from the Igbo community. This high-profile launch instilled a sense of optimism among the residents.

The framework of PISE-P is built upon eight pillars:

1. Education
2. Agriculture
3. Commerce/Industry
4. Infrastructural Development
5. Culture and Tourism
6. Sports/Entertainment
7. Governance/Leadership
8. Reconciliation/Rehabilitation/Reintegration

Kalu emphasized that the operational plan for the project aims to tackle socio-economic challenges while fostering security and peace-building efforts. This includes stakeholder engagement, strategic implementation, resource management, monitoring and evaluation, and communication strategies spearheaded by experts to ensure alignment with sustainable development goals.

Moreover, plans were made for a town hall meeting involving lawmakers from the five South-East states—Abia, Anambra, Imo, Ebonyi, and Enugu—to discuss strategic lawmaking and conflict resolution.

However, ten months after its launch, the situation in the South-East has deteriorated rather than improved. The initial enthusiasm surrounding PISE-P has diminished, and many community members are now unaware of the project’s objectives or how to engage with its framework to address their pressing issues. This disconnect raises concerns about the effectiveness of the initiative and the need for renewed efforts to engage the community actively.

To rekindle hope and effectiveness in PISE-P, it is essential for Kalu and his team to increase awareness about the project, ensure transparent communication about its goals and progress, and involve community members in the dialogue. Empowering residents with the knowledge and tools to leverage PISE-P could be key to addressing the challenges facing the South-East and ultimately restoring faith in the initiative.

Residents of Amaokai community recently staged a peaceful protest to highlight the deteriorating condition of their roads, specifically calling for the connection of the newly constructed road, attracted by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, to the Afia Orie-Amaokai Ugwueke road. While they expressed their gratitude for the new road, they emphasized that linking it to the dilapidated 300-meter stretch of the existing road is essential for improving accessibility and easing the struggles of local residents.

During the protest, participants displayed placards with messages such as “We need solid and quality road construction in Amaokai community,” “Afia Orie-Amaokai Ugwueke road needs quick intervention,” and “Flood has collapsed Amaokai bridge.” The community leaders praised Senator Kalu for his dedication to improving infrastructure in the area and appealed for his support in connecting the two roads.

Mr. Sunday Obiokpara, Vice-President of the Amaokai Ugwueke Development Union (AUDU), spoke on behalf of the protesters, stating, “We are not rejecting the new one-kilometer road he attracted, but since Senator Orji Uzor Kalu is the one who attracted the first road leading from Afia Orie to Amaokai Ugwueke, we are pleading with him to link the two roads because only this will benefit the community.”

Obiokpara further clarified that while the new road is appreciated, it is crucial to prioritize the rehabilitation of the existing road that connects the two areas. “Instead of starting this road rehabilitation from here, we urge you to begin from the 300 meters that were previously completed but have since fallen into disrepair.”

The community’s concerns underscore the importance of integrated road networks in enhancing accessibility and facilitating economic activities. The media aide to Senator Kalu, Mr. Maduka Okoro, responded to the protest, promising to reach out to the contractor handling the project for further discussions.

The collective voice of the Amaokai community reflects a commitment to collaboration with their representatives to ensure that infrastructure development meets the actual needs of the residents.

In a dramatic turn of events, community leaders in the Enu-Agu autonomous community of Akpugo, located in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, have vocally rejected the newly elected Igwe, Chief Sylvester Nnaji. They claim his election did not adhere to due process and allege he was imposed upon the community without proper consultation.

These leaders are demanding that the Enugu State Government conduct fresh elections to ensure that a credible and widely accepted traditional ruler emerges. The discontent extends to the community’s President-General, Ikenna Ogbodo, who the leaders have labeled “self-acclaimed” and not duly elected. Together, they describe both Nnaji and Ogbodo as impostors unfit to lead the community.

The group of aggrieved leaders includes prominent figures such as Mr. Anni Nneji, Stephen Sunday, National Chairman of Enugu Village, Chief Festus Chukwuemeka Chukwuma, PG of Ugwuafor, Chief Felix Ikechukwu Edeh, National Chairman of Offiaigweshi Village, and Chief Michael Edeh, a former traditional Prime Minister of Ugwuafor.

Their protest has led them to the Enugu State House of Assembly, the Ministry of Chieftaincy Affairs, and the Government House in Enugu, as they assert that addressing these grievances is essential for restoring peace in the community.

In a public statement, the group distanced themselves from what they termed “fabricated and unveiling lies” propagated by Nnaji and Ogbodo, particularly allegations regarding Chief John Edeh, a Labour Party chieftain and former candidate for the Nkanu East/West Federal Constituency. They asserted that claims questioning Edeh’s origins in the community are false, emphasizing that he was born and raised in Enu-Agu and has contributed significantly to its development.

The community leaders are also urging the state government to establish a panel of inquiry to investigate alleged communal discrimination against specific families, who they claim have been unjustly labeled as “slaves.” They argue that these families constitute 98% of the community’s population.

The unfolding situation in Enu-Agu reflects deeper issues of governance, representation, and community relations, underscoring the need for transparency and adherence to democratic processes in local leadership.

The recent arson attack on the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Study Centre in Ezeoke Nsu, Ehime Mbano Local Council Area of Imo State, has sent shockwaves through the community. The destruction, reportedly carried out by suspected hoodlums, has left the facility—a product of significant investment and effort from local residents—in ruins.

This federal institution was strategically established in a region that had previously seen little governmental presence. The estimated damage exceeds ₦4 billion, impacting crucial facilities including a new regional JAMB Centre, a state-of-the-art auditorium, and advanced science laboratories designed for skills acquisition. These vital resources have now been reduced to rubble.

The motives behind this tragic event appear rooted in misinformation and incitement, with speculation surrounding individuals driven by hatred, jealousy, and ignorance. A community leader described the incident as “willful destruction” and a “gross act of arson,” indicating that those responsible acted out of a misguided sense of purpose.

Efforts to enhance the study centre included collaborations with private sector operators and government agencies to train local youth and equip them for future opportunities. Ironically, it was these very youths who were misled into believing the centre was an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp, resulting in its destruction.

Senator Frank Ibezim, one of the project’s facilitators, and his family are among those who have suffered immense losses, having seen their life’s work and property consumed in the chaos spurred by erroneous branding of the institution.

As the community reflects on this devastation, pressing questions arise: What do the people of Ndigbo stand to gain from turning against themselves? What is achieved through the destruction of public property? How long will it take to recover and replace what has been lost at the NOUN centre? Why must progressive initiatives be sabotaged?

The implications of this incident are profound, not only for the Ezeoke Nsu community but for the Ndigbo at large. The loss of such educational and developmental resources represents a significant setback, calling for introspection and unity among the people to prevent further self-inflicted harm.

Governor Dr. Peter Mbah of Enugu State has officially launched the construction of the 44.8 km Amah-Eke–Oghe-Iwolo-Olo-Umulokpa Road. This major infrastructure initiative will connect the Udi, Ezeagu, and Uzo-Uwani Local Government Areas (LGAs), including a spur from Akama Oghe to Aguobuowa, aiming to enhance the state’s economic corridors and improve connectivity.

At the groundbreaking ceremony held in Eke, Udi LGA, on Tuesday, Governor Mbah emphasized that this event symbolizes the many road projects awarded in the Enugu West Senatorial District. He noted that the new road will facilitate seamless travel between Adani and Nsukka, thus further integrating the region.

Articulating his vision, Mbah stated, “What I see when I do this flag-off or when I go for commissioning is a $30 billion economy. I am also seeing the eradication of poverty, enhanced human welfare, and capital development. These are essentially what good roads do for you beyond ease of movement and reduction in travel time.”

He highlighted the transformative potential of the new roads, which will create a travel circle that can be traversed in under one hour, thereby facilitating economic activities throughout the region.

Assuring the public of the project’s timely completion, Mbah called for continued support for his administration. He said, “When we award contracts, we are quite focused on timeline and cost. So, in three months, we are back here to cut the ribbon and commission this road.” He stressed that his administration would hold the contractor accountable for adhering to the timeline, with zero tolerance for delays.

Additionally, Arc. Uchenna Nwatu, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Projects Development and Implementation, provided further insights, assuring that measures would be put in place to prevent erosion, thereby ensuring the road’s durability and functionality.

In closing, Governor Mbah encouraged the community to support both his government and the contractor during the construction phase, emphasizing a commitment to action over rhetoric.

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has officially launched the construction of the 44.8 km Amah-Eke–Oghe-Iwolo-Olo-Umulokpa Road. This significant infrastructure project will traverse the Udi, Ezeagu, and Uzo-Uwani Local Government Areas (LGAs) and includes a spur from Akama Oghe to Aguobuowa. The initiative aims to enhance the economic corridors of the state and improve connectivity.

During the groundbreaking ceremony held at Eke in Udi LGA on Tuesday, Governor Mbah emphasized that this event is symbolic of the numerous road projects awarded in the Enugu West Senatorial District. He pointed out that the new road will facilitate seamless travel from Adani to Nsukka, further integrating the region.

Mbah articulated a vision beyond just the construction of asphalt roads, stating, “What I see when I do this flag-off or when I go for commissioning is a $30 billion economy. I am also seeing the eradication of poverty, enhanced human welfare, and capital development. These are essentially what good roads do for you beyond ease of movement and reduction in travel time.”

He highlighted the transformative impact of the roads, indicating that they would create a travel circle that can be traversed in less than one hour, facilitating economic activities throughout the region.

The governor assured the public of the timely completion of the project, urging continued support for his administration. “When we award contracts, we are quite focused on timeline and cost. So, in three months, we are back here to cut the ribbon and commission this road,” he stated. Mbah reiterated that his administration would hold the contractor accountable, emphasizing that there would be no tolerance for delays.

Additionally, Arc. Uchenna Nwatu, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Projects Development and Implementation, provided further details, stating that adequate measures would be implemented to prevent erosion, ensuring the road’s durability and functionality.

Governor Mbah concluded by encouraging the community to support both his government and the contractor during the construction phase, reinforcing a commitment to action over rhetoric.

Power supply in West Africa is set to see significant improvements due to a collaboration between GE Vernova and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). GE Vernova announced the deployment of its GridOS orchestration software at the newly completed Information and Coordination Centre (ICC) in Abomey-Calavi, Benin. This center will play a crucial role in transforming the region’s energy landscape through the West African Power Pool (WAPP) initiative.

The ICC will act as the centralized command center for the interconnected power grids of 14 ECOWAS member countries, including Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo. This establishment represents a significant milestone toward creating a unified power market, which aims to deliver more reliable, sustainable, and affordable energy across West Africa.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA) Africa Energy Outlook 2022, Africa’s GDP is projected to grow by an average of 4.6% annually between 2022 and 2040, leading to a 2.8% annual increase in energy demand and a doubling of electricity consumption by 2040. The ICC, powered by the West Africa Power Pool, is positioned to bridge the gap between rising energy needs and reliable supply by expanding power capacity and enhancing forecasting capabilities.

Equipped with state-of-the-art electric grid management technologies, the ICC utilizes various components of GE Vernova’s GridOS software. Key features include:

• Energy Management System (EMS): Designed for efficient dispatching.
• Wide Area Monitoring System (WAMS): Focused on maintaining grid stability.
• Advanced Market Management System: Facilitates power trading among ECOWAS nations.

Additionally, the ICC integrates GE Vernova’s GridOS forecasting solution to maximize the value of Variable Renewable Energy (VRE) in the electricity market through advanced forecasting and ramping tools. This integration allows engineers to access near real-time data on energy flow within the WAPP interconnected network, enabling effective monitoring, analysis, and optimization of power distribution.

Mahesh Sudhakaran, General Manager for GE Vernova’s Grid Software business, expressed pride in partnering with WAPP, emphasizing the importance of modern software capabilities to automate grid operations and increase energy transaction rates across the region. GE Vernova has a track record of working with national electric utilities and regional power pools in Africa, contributing to the continent’s energy transition with initiatives like the recently inaugurated Coordination Control Center in the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP).

This partnership marks a critical step forward for West Africa, aligning with the region’s goals for energy sustainability and enhanced grid resilience.

US President Joe Biden faced criticism on Tuesday after he appeared to refer to supporters of Republican Donald Trump as “garbage” during a video call with the nonprofit VotoLatino.

Biden’s comments came in response to controversy stemming from remarks made by one of Trump’s speakers at a New York rally, who described Puerto Rico as a “floating island of garbage.” In the call, Biden stated, “The only garbage I see floating out there is his supporters,” while condemning Trump’s rhetoric as “unconscionable” and “un-American.”

In response to the backlash, the White House clarified that Biden was referencing the rhetoric from the rally, not the supporters themselves. Andrew Bates, a White House spokesperson, stated, “The President referred to the hateful rhetoric at the Madison Square Garden rally as ‘garbage.’”

The remarks quickly became a focal point for Trump’s campaign, with Trump himself labeling Biden’s comments as “terrible” during a rally in Pennsylvania. He drew parallels to Hillary Clinton‘s infamous 2016 comment about “deplorables,” saying, “Garbage, I think is worse, right?”

Trump’s running mate, J.D. Vance, also criticized Biden, calling the comments “disgusting.” He argued that Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were effectively attacking a significant portion of the country.

The original comments made at the Trump rally by comedian Tony Hinchcliffe about Puerto Rico and further disparaging remarks regarding African Americans and Hispanic immigrants have also come under fire. While residents of Puerto Rico, a US territory, cannot vote in federal elections, nearly six million Puerto Ricans in the diaspora within the United States are eligible voters, highlighting the potential impact of such statements in the upcoming election.

As the election approaches, Biden’s comments and the subsequent fallout reflect the heightened tensions and divisions in American politics, especially as Harris is engaged in a tightly contested race against Trump for the White House.

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has emphasized the urgent need for Nigeria to prioritize agricultural development as a means to reshape its economic future. Speaking at the inauguration of the Edo Agricultural Hub on Tuesday in Benin, Obaseki described the initiative as a crucial part of efforts to drive economic growth, ensure food security, and promote sustainable development within the state.

Over the past eight years, Obaseki’s administration has concentrated on establishing a strong foundation for a progressive and prosperous Edo, with the goal of positioning the state among Africa’s leading sub-nationals.

“I appreciate former Governor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion; our achievements are partly due to continuing his successful policies,” Obaseki stated. He highlighted the administration’s success in de-risking agriculture, supporting farmers, and prioritizing investments in the sector to enhance agricultural productivity.

Obaseki underscored that agriculture is not only the backbone of Edo but also a significant contributor to Nigeria’s GDP. He stressed its importance, particularly in ensuring food security amid rising food costs that have left many Nigerians struggling to afford basic meals.

“To achieve self-sufficiency, Nigeria must prioritize local food production instead of relying on imported food, which undermines national food security,” he said. The governor expressed concern over the nation’s annual expenditure of over $500 million on imported dairy products, asserting that Nigeria possesses the potential to develop its own dairy industry with effective leadership.

Governor Obaseki’s remarks reflect a broader vision for transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape and enhancing the nation’s economic resilience through local food production.