The National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the South-West Zone, Kamorudeen Ajisafe, has expressed confidence that the ongoing crisis within the party’s national leadership will not hinder its chances of success in the upcoming governorship election in Ondo State. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Ajisafe stated that the PDP candidate, Mr. Agboola Ajayi, has a strong likelihood of winning the election.

Ajisafe reassured party members and supporters that the leadership crisis would soon be resolved, emphasizing that Nigerians still retain significant confidence in the PDP. He noted that many voters in Ondo are disillusioned with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) due to what he described as its non-performance, which has contributed to the PDP’s growing support.

“Our chances are bright. Politicians are moving into our party from other political parties to demonstrate their desire to have the PDP back in power,” Ajisafe remarked. He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to maintain neutrality and ensure fair play during the electoral process.

Regarding the internal conflicts within the party, Ajisafe characterized the emergence of factional groups within the National Working Committee (NWC) as misunderstandings rather than a significant crisis. He stated that the party is making efforts to ensure that these issues do not affect their performance in the upcoming Ondo election, reiterating their optimism about securing victory.

The Delta State Government has reiterated its determination to enforce its Anti-Open Grazing Law as part of efforts to enhance food security in the state. Speaking in Asaba, the state capital, Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mr. Val Arenyeka, emphasized that open grazing poses significant challenges to agriculture and the safety of farmers.

Arenyeka stated, “We believe that open grazing is a crime,” and highlighted the need for a secure environment for farmers to thrive. He noted that ensuring peace is essential for agricultural development, asserting that “without peace, there can be no development.”

The commissioner outlined the government’s plan to create an enabling environment for establishing ranches, stating, “The first step in making our farms safe for farmers is to make sure that we enforce the law.” He assured the public that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is committed to upholding this law, which aims to address the challenges posed by open grazing.

Additionally, Arenyeka shared the government’s initiative to promote homestead farming, encouraging residents to grow their own produce, such as tomatoes, within their communities to reduce dependence on market purchases. He also mentioned that the state government is providing professional farmers with essential farm inputs and seedlings to improve agricultural practices.

Through these measures, the Delta State Government aims to combat food insecurity and support the agricultural sector, ensuring that farmers can operate safely and efficiently.

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has declared its commitment to ensuring a credible election in Ondo State on November 16. During the campaign flag-off for its governorship candidate, Olugbenga Edema, NNPP National Chairman Ajuji Ahmed emphasized that the people of Ondo would safeguard their votes, highlighting that Ondo is not comparable to states like Lagos or Edo in terms of electoral integrity.

Ahmed voiced concerns over the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), alleging that it is fueling crises within major opposition parties to maintain power ahead of the 2027 general elections. He stated, “The APC is doing everything it can in order to win the 2027 general election. Certainly, there is evidence everywhere that they are interfering in other parties.”

To combat the APC’s influence, Ahmed revealed that the NNPP and the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are considering forming an alliance. He called on opposition party leaders to unite and strengthen their structures, asserting, “It is left to the other political parties to maintain their integrity and ensure they remain one and viable opposition to the APC before and after the 2027 election.”

Ahmed further stated that the NNPP is open to coalition talks with other political parties to form a united front against the ruling party. He concluded by expressing confidence that the NNPP is well-positioned to secure victory in Ondo, advocating for a collaborative effort among opposition parties in preparation for the upcoming elections.

In a recent statement to newsmen in Abuja, political figure Okocha clarified the current political landscape in Rivers State, particularly regarding the 27 lawmakers who are engaged in a political struggle with Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Okocha emphasized that these lawmakers are not members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and addressed rumors surrounding their alleged defection.

“People say Wike has decamped to the APC. They also say that the 27 lawmakers currently fighting with Fubara have defected to the APC. I need to make this clear to everyone. Much as I wish to have them in my fold, none of them has agreed to join us,” Okocha stated, asserting that he is well-informed about the situation. He characterized the actions of the lawmakers as a “political gimmick” and mentioned his efforts to attract them to the APC, which have not yielded results.

Okocha insisted that for any member to defect, they must go to their wards, register, and obtain their membership cards, which he claims none of the lawmakers have done.

Regarding Governor Nyesom Wike, Okocha was firm in his declaration that Wike will not leave the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). “Wike will never leave the PDP. He has always said that PDP made him what he is. He has always said that he would remain there. He is an ardent believer in PDP. He is not likely to leave that group,” Okocha affirmed.

However, he did acknowledge that Wike is affiliated with the Renewed Hope Agenda, indicating a continued political involvement despite his loyalty to the PDP.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has launched the Performance Management System (PMS) aimed at improving staff efficiency and ensuring effective management of the nation’s finances. The event took place in Abuja and aligns with the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025 (FCSSIP 25), introduced by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to advance civil service reforms.

According to Mr. Mohammed Manga, the Director of Information and Public Relations, the PMS is designed to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in managing public funds to support Nigeria’s development priorities. Minister Edun emphasized the importance of implementing the system to achieve national development goals, stating, “The public service plays a vital role in realizing government policies, and an effective PMS is key to boosting productivity.”

To further institutionalize this initiative, Edun declared every Thursday as “Performance Management System Day,” dedicated to PMS activities within the Ministry of Finance. He encouraged the ministry’s staff to embrace a culture of excellence, efficiency, and productivity to serve the nation at the highest level, aiming to make Nigeria proud.

In her remarks, Mrs. Lydia Shehu Jafiya, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, highlighted the PMS’s significance in aligning the ministry’s objectives with broader civil service reforms. She noted, “The Performance Management System will help us track progress, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions,” marking the launch as a key milestone in the ministry’s pursuit of excellence.

The Delta State Police Command has issued a warning to Point of Sale (POS) operators, advising them to refrain from engaging in transactions exceeding N500,000. SP Edafe Bright, the police spokesman, emphasized that such large transactions could lead to legal troubles.

In a video shared on the official X page of the police spokesman, he addressed a POS operator, stressing that anyone wishing to conduct a transaction above N500,000 should go to the bank instead. He stated, “Wherever you are as a POS operator, if you’re receiving too much money, that is unreasonably high. Understand that there is an element of crime involved because these transactions should be done at the bank.”

SP Edafe recounted a specific incident involving a POS operator who received a staggering N4 million in her account, money that was reportedly ransom paid for a kidnapping victim. The operator’s profit from this transaction was a mere N40,000. He warned, “My message to POS operators: transactions above N500,000 can get you into trouble. Don’t be a tool for kidnappers to collect ransom. It will be traced back to you.”

In the video, the unnamed POS operator explained how she became involved. She had been doing smaller transactions with a customer named Timothy Ogheneochuko when he suddenly transferred N4 million into her account. After receiving the funds, she transferred N1.2 million to Ogheneochuko’s account as instructed.

Ogheneochuko admitted that this was his first time transferring such a large amount and mentioned that he had previously engaged in “local fraud,” but was unaware of the gravity of the situation.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially scheduled the governorship election in Anambra State for Saturday, November 8, 2025. INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, announced this during the fourth regular consultative meeting with political parties in Abuja on Thursday.

Yakubu explained that this announcement is in accordance with Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates that the Commission must issue election notices no later than 360 days before the election date. He noted that the last governorship election in Anambra took place on November 6, 2021, making the next election due next year.

To comply with the 360-day requirement, the formal notice for the upcoming election will be published on November 13, 2024. The timeline for party primaries is set from March 20 to April 10, 2025. The candidate nomination portal will open at 9:00 AM on April 18, 2025, and close at 6:00 PM on May 12, 2025. The final list of candidates will be published on June 9, 2025, with public campaigning allowed from June 11, 2025, until midnight on November 6, 2025.

Voting will take place in all 5,720 polling units across Anambra State on November 8, 2025. INEC plans to provide additional details about other electoral activities, including voter registration, transfers, and the replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), soon.

“The detailed timetable and schedule of activities for the 2025 Anambra State governorship election will be uploaded to our website and social media platforms before the end of this meeting. Hard copies will also be made available shortly,” Yakubu added.

Regarding the upcoming Ondo State governorship election, Yakubu reported that INEC has completed 10 out of the 13 activities outlined in the election timetable. The remaining activities include the publication of the Notice of Poll, the final day of campaigning, and Election Day. He reassured participants that copies of the timetable would be included in their folders for reference.

Former Minister of Transport, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, has highlighted the significant potential of the wagon assembly plant located in Kajola, Ogun State, to create jobs, facilitate knowledge transfer, and enhance rail transport in Nigeria. He made these remarks during the inaugural transport summit organized by the Transportation Correspondents Association of Nigeria in Lagos on Thursday.

Amaechi explained that the plant was established to enable Nigeria to produce its own wagons and rolling stocks, which are crucial for railway development. He emphasized the unique advantages that Nigeria gained from its rail projects, stating, “There are so many things we had in the rail project that most other countries did not get.”

He referenced the commissioning of the Prof. Yemi Osinbajo Train Station in Kajola in 2023, which features a wagon rolling stock. According to Amaechi, the Kajola Locomotive and Wagon Rolling Stock facility was not initially part of the Lagos-Ibadan Rail Project. However, he insisted on its construction as a means of gaining expertise in wagon and rolling stock manufacturing.

“I told the Chinese that I was going to give them a contract to supply Nigeria with 200 rolling stocks. I, however, told them that I would not approve the contract if they did not build a wagon assembly plant in Nigeria. The agreement was signed,” he noted.

Amaechi expressed that this initiative aims not only to create employment opportunities but also to alleviate pressure on foreign exchange reserves. He also mentioned his advocacy for the establishment of a Transportation University by a Chinese contractor, which was successfully completed.

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North, has expressed that President Bola Tinubu is fully aware of the suffering and hardships faced by Nigerians. During an interview on Channels TV’s “Politics Today,” Kalu emphasized that the president is committed to ensuring that Nigerians reap the benefits of democracy.

He dismissed claims that President Tinubu is disconnected from the struggles of the populace, stating, “The President is aware Nigerians are hungry. He knows Nigerians are suffering.” Kalu highlighted that Tinubu is a “street person” who actively engages with the community, even stating that the president sometimes travels around the Federal Capital Territory in his car at night.

Senator Kalu also addressed his relationship with President Tinubu, clarifying that he has no issues with the president. He recalled his decision to forgo his ambition for the Senate President position at Tinubu’s request. However, he noted that he voted for Senator Abdulaziz Yari, the former governor of Zamfara, instead of the preferred candidate, Godswill Akpabio, who ultimately won the position.

The commencement of operations at the Dangote Refinery has resulted in a remarkable 100% increase in the net worth of Aliko Dangote, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. This surge in wealth comes as the refinery, located in the Lekki Free Trade Zone in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, begins full operations.

The Dangote Refinery is recognized as the world’s largest single-train oil refinery and one of the most advanced facilities globally, capable of processing a diverse range of crude oil types. Bloomberg highlighted that the refinery has the potential to significantly transform Nigeria’s economy by achieving self-sufficiency in fuel production.

As a result of the refinery’s launch, Dangote’s net worth has soared to approximately $27.8 billion, reflecting the economic impact and strategic importance of this major industrial project for Nigeria.

Iyom Bianca Ojukwu, widow of the late Biafran leader and former Nigerian Ambassador to Spain, has addressed the ongoing insecurity in Southeast Nigeria. Speaking at the annual convention of the American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) in Charlotte, North Carolina, she highlighted how criminal elements are exploiting the region’s separatist agitation to perpetrate violence.

Bianca pointed out that while insecurity is a national issue, it has worsened in the Southeast due to killings and kidnappings, which have resulted in armed herdsmen and other invaders seizing community farmlands. She stressed that these criminal activities are undermining agricultural, economic, and social activities in Igbo communities.

During the 2024 conference, which gathered military personnel, veterans, and community leaders to discuss pressing issues facing the Igbo homeland, Bianca called on the five Southeast state governors to work together to tackle insecurity. She emphasized the need for the Igbo diaspora to uphold their values and heritage while remaining vigilant about developments back home.

Bianca also reiterated her calls for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, suggesting that his freedom could positively influence the security landscape in the Southeast. She expressed concern that opportunistic criminals have gained an upper hand over security forces, exacerbating the challenges faced by the region

Israel confirmed on Thursday the elimination of Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas chief responsible for the October 7 attack, describing his death as a significant blow to the Palestinian group with which it has been in conflict for over a year. The Israeli military stated that Sinwar was killed in an operation in the southern Gaza Strip on Wednesday, following a year-long pursuit.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remarked, “Today evil has suffered a heavy blow,” noting that while the war is not yet over, Sinwar’s death marks an important step in diminishing Hamas’s influence. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz labeled Sinwar a “mass murderer” accountable for the atrocities committed during the October 7 attack, and President Isaac Herzog commended the killing of the leader known for orchestrating “heinous acts of terrorism.”

Sinwar, who had risen through the ranks of Hamas to become its leader in Gaza and subsequently its overall head, had been a primary target since the outbreak of the Gaza war. His death follows a series of high-profile assassinations of Iran-backed militant commanders and Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah, further indicating Hamas’s weakened position in the ongoing conflict.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the Anambra governorship election for November 8, 2025. This announcement was made by INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, during a regular consultative meeting with political parties in Abuja on Thursday.

Yakubu explained that this decision aligns with Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates the commission to issue an election notice at least 360 days prior to the election date. He noted that the previous governorship election in Anambra State occurred on November 6, 2021, making the upcoming election due next year.

“In compliance with the mandatory requirement of 360 days, the formal notice for the election will be published on November 13, 2024,” Yakubu stated. He outlined the timeline for the election process:

• Party Primaries: March 20, 2025, to April 10, 2025
• Candidate Nomination Portal: Opens at 9 a.m. on April 18, 2025, and closes at 6 p.m. on May 12, 2025
• Final List of Candidates: To be published on June 9, 2025
• Campaign Period: Starts on June 11, 2025, and ends at midnight on November 6, 2025
• Voting: Conducted in all 5,720 polling units across the state on November 8, 2025

Yakubu also indicated that INEC would provide further details in the coming weeks regarding additional electoral activities, including the registration of new voters, voter transfers, and the replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Senators from the nineteen northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, operating under the Northern Senators Forum (NSF), have lauded the dedication of former Head of State, General Dr. Yakubu Gowon, to Nigeria’s unity and progress, noting the significant impact he has had on the nation’s history.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of the NSF, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua (APC, Katsina Central), the Forum congratulated General Gowon on his 90th birthday. They acknowledged his pivotal role in steering Nigeria into a new era following the civil war, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to peace and stability.

“General Gowon’s leadership has left an indelible mark on our nation, and his legacy continues to inspire us,” the statement read. The NSF highlighted several of General Gowon’s notable achievements, including the creation of states in 1967, which replaced the regional arrangement, and the establishment of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to promote unity and national integration among Nigerian youths.

Yar’adua expressed that “General Gowon’s wisdom and experience remain a beacon of hope for our country,” and offered prayers for his continued good health and guidance in Nigeria’s progress. The Northern Senators Forum wished General Gowon many more years filled with health, happiness, and ongoing service to Nigeria.

Contrary to the claims made in a viral video, no staff members of the Nigerian Red Cross were beheaded by Boko Haram insurgents in Ngoshe, Gwoza local government area, Borno State.

According to a source from the organization, the video gave a misleading impression, but none of their personnel were harmed. The source clarified that Boko Haram militants often refer to various groups, including the military or other organizations, as the “Red Cross.”

The Nigerian Red Cross has chosen not to escalate the issue by releasing an official statement.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has reinforced the importance of adhering strictly to traffic regulations, particularly emphasizing the ban on commercial motorcycles (okadas) from highways and restricted routes.

In a statement signed by Mr. Taofiq Adebayo, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA, the agency’s General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed concern over the safety risks posed by non-compliance. He highlighted that failure to follow these regulations endangers both motorcycle riders and other road users.

The statement followed a tragic incident in which a motorcycle rider, defying traffic rules by traveling against traffic on Carter Bridge, died in a collision with a fast-moving vehicle. The rider, coming from Ebute Ero, collided head-on with the vehicle as it ascended the bridge from Ilubirin, resulting in the motorcyclist’s immediate death. The vehicle driver fled the scene.

LASTMA personnel, along with officers from the Central Police Station at Adeniji Adele, promptly responded to the incident, recovering the rider’s body and handing the motorcycle over to authorities for further investigation.

Bakare-Oki extended his condolences to the deceased’s family and reassured the public that LASTMA remains committed to promoting safety on Lagos roads. He emphasized that the agency is intensifying efforts to prevent further incidents of this nature.

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) are both derived from natural gas and offer cleaner alternatives to conventional fossil fuels. However, they differ in several important ways, including how they are produced, stored, and used. Here are six key differences between CNG and LNG:

1. Form and Storage:
   • CNG is stored as a gas under high pressure, about 3,600 psi, in strong, durable tanks.
   • LNG is cooled to extremely low temperatures (-162°C or -260°F) to convert it into a liquid, stored in insulated tanks at much lower pressure.
2. Energy Density:
   • CNG contains less energy in a given volume, requiring more storage space compared to LNG.
   • LNG has a higher energy density due to its liquid state, making it more suitable for long-distance transport and heavy-duty use.
3. Uses:
   • CNG is commonly used for local vehicles such as city buses, taxis, and cars, offering easy refueling options in urban settings.
   • LNG is better suited for long-distance transport and is used in heavy trucks and ships, as it can store more energy in less space.
4. Refueling and Infrastructure:
   • CNG refueling stations are more prevalent in cities, using compressors to quickly fill vehicles.
   • LNG refueling requires specialized equipment to handle the extremely low temperatures, making the infrastructure more complex and less widespread.
5. Environmental and Safety Aspects:
   • CNG, if it leaks, disperses quickly into the air, reducing the risk of ground contamination, but the high pressure poses explosion risks if mishandled.
   • LNG is safer during transport since it evaporates into gas if spilled. However, if it warms up too much, it can revert to a gaseous state and create explosion risks in enclosed areas.
6. Suitability:
   • CNG is preferred for local, shorter trips due to easier storage and refueling infrastructure.
   • LNG is ideal for long trips and large-scale transportation, such as shipping and trucking, thanks to its higher energy capacity.

Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right fuel for various transportation and energy needs. Both CNG and LNG offer distinct advantages depending on the context of their use.

As the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, marked his 50th birthday in a lavish celebration, political officeholders and traditional rulers gathered in Ile-Ife to honor His Imperial Majesty. Among the notable attendees, former Lagos State Governor and Minister of Works, Babatunde Fashola, SAN, commissioned the Ojaja Cinema at the Ojaja Arena, while Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke led the cake-cutting ceremony.

Media icons such as former Vanguard Managing Director Gbenga Adefaye and Bisi Olatilo, alongside Chief Tunde Pinke of MicCom Golf, also graced the event.

Speaking at the palace, Fashola praised the Ooni as a symbol of pride for the Yoruba race, highlighting his commitment to uniting Oduduwa descendants globally. “Kabiyesi, your nine years on the Oduduwa throne have brought glory to the Yoruba people. We are proud of you and appreciate your dedication to preserving our cultural heritage.”

Governor Ademola Adeleke, in his remarks, commended the Ooni for his passion for peace and youth development, calling him a monarch whose contributions to Nigeria’s progress are unmatched.

At the cinema’s inauguration, the Ooni revealed his broader vision of building one of the largest film and talent discovery cities in Ile-Ife, in partnership with institutions like Ojaja University in Kwara State, fostering a productive town-gown relationship.