A fire broke out on a small section of the Lagos Blue Line track on Saturday, October 26, 2024, near the NEPA Station close to the Eko Bridge in the Apogbon area of Lagos State. Gboyega Akosile, spokesperson for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, confirmed the incident, reporting that it occurred around 4:12 p.m.

Akosile assured the public that there were no casualties and that no trains were in service at the time. A team of emergency responders promptly controlled the fire, restoring safety to the area. Residents and commuters have been advised to continue their activities as usual, with Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) expected to provide further updates on train operations.

Akosile’s statement read, “Lagosians in that axis can go about their business peacefully as the situation is under control.”

The Jigawa State Government has officially withdrawn from the Supreme Court case challenging the constitutionality of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Bello Abdulkadir-Fanini, announced the decision during a press conference in Dutse on Saturday, October 26.

Abdulkadir-Fanini confirmed that a notice of withdrawal was filed on October 24, stating, “The Jigawa State government has withdrawn from the case of Attorney-General of Kogi vs. Attorney-General of the Federation (SC/CV/178/2023).” However, he refrained from giving specific reasons for the decision, emphasizing that the choice was made “in the interest of the state.”

The Attorney-General explained that alternative paths to achieving the state’s goals could influence such a decision, suggesting that Jigawa may have pursued other methods to address its concerns. He highlighted the potential for amicable resolution outside the court, alluding to the value of alternative dispute resolution as a means to settle disputes.

At the Unveiling and Rebranding Nigeria Initiative (URNI) event in Abuja on October 26, Professor Attahiru Jega, former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), delivered an impassioned address on the critical need for patriotism in steering Nigeria away from a potential socio-political collapse. In his keynote speech, titled “Rise Up Patriots, Take Pride in Our Nation,” Jega expressed concerns over Nigeria’s current trajectory, urging citizens to become proactive participants in governance and national development.

Jega acknowledged Nigeria’s early post-independence achievements, referring to the country as “a beacon of hope for Africa and the black race.” However, he attributed the nation’s decline to poor leadership, particularly since the late 1970s. He stressed the need for “true patriotism,” distinct from “blind patriotism,” explaining that true patriots “love, support, and defend their country’s interests responsibly” rather than exploiting it for personal gain.

Although critical of the current state of Nigeria, Jega expressed optimism about the country’s future, affirming, “I do not believe Nigeria is a failed state, but it is failing.” He called on Nigerians to embrace civic duties at both local and national levels and to advocate for transparent and accountable governance. His message urged citizens not to remain passive but to contribute actively to shaping Nigeria into a resilient and unified nation

The Nigerian government has announced its commitment to bolstering local animation and children’s programming, aiming to foster national pride through culturally relevant content. At the launch of the Unveiling and Rebranding Nigeria Initiative (URNI) on October 26, Malam Lanre Issa Onilu, Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), outlined the project’s goals. Representing the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, Onilu emphasized the need for Nigerian children to see homegrown heroes in media rather than solely adopting foreign characters like Spider-Man and Iron Man.

Onilu mentioned recent discussions with animation industry stakeholders in Lagos, with plans to spotlight government investment in the local sector during an upcoming animation festival. This initiative aligns with the National Identity Project, approved by the Federal Executive Council, which aims to unify various sectors in Nigeria—including youth, academia, and civil society—under a cohesive blueprint for promoting national identity.

Contrary to speculation, Onilu clarified there are no plans to ban foreign cartoons but rather to introduce attractive Nigerian alternatives, gradually reducing the influence of foreign content. “It’s about creating our own heroes and stories,” he stated, encouraging the local animation industry to take center stage in this cultural shift.

A teacher at Obada Idi-Emi High School in Imeko Afon, Ogun State, is under investigation following the death of a student, Monday Ariyo, allegedly due to excessive punishment. The incident reportedly took place on October 15 and was publicized on social media by activist Adetoun Onajobi Lanre-Adeniyi.

According to Adetoun, Ariyo made a remark about a dustbin in class, which led to the teacher reporting him to the principal. As punishment, the student was allegedly flogged with 162 strokes, causing him to collapse. Adetoun claimed that Ariyo was delayed in receiving medical help, and he was pronounced dead upon reaching the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Abeokuta.

However, Ogun State Police spokesperson Omolola Odutola provided a different account, stating that Ariyo was asked to do 162 frog jumps and was given 24 strokes of the cane, not 162 as initially reported. The police have confirmed that an autopsy will be conducted as investigations continue, with the student’s body currently at the Ayetoro mortuary.

On Saturday, the Presidency condemned The Guardian’s October 25 lead article titled “Calls for military intervention: misery, harsh policies driving Nigerians to desperate choices.” Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, claimed the article promoted unrest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration and undermined responsible journalism.

Onanuga argued that The Guardian’s report used inflammatory language and imagery, such as military tanks, to insinuate regime change while superficially denouncing military intervention. He stated that the piece failed to showcase Nigeria’s positive economic developments, like a reduction in the revenue-to-debt service ratio and an increase in GDP growth.

The Presidency expressed concern that such narratives might incite disruption of the democratic process, especially amid current political and economic challenges. Emphasizing responsible reporting, Onanuga highlighted that Tinubu has consistently advocated for patience and unity, urging media outlets to support national stability and progress through balanced reporting.

The Nigerian Army Ordinance Corps (NAOC) held a farewell ceremony for five retired Major Generals at Abalti Barracks, Surulere, Lagos, marking their formal disengagement from active military service. The Reviewing Officer, Maj.-Gen. Omotomilola Akintade, addressed the gathering, reflecting on a career journey marked by dedication, resilience, and shared experiences among the officers.

Akintade expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and acknowledged the challenges the country faces, encouraging active personnel to remain professional, loyal, and dedicated to their duties. He thanked the Nigerian Army for their unwavering support, recognizing the sacrifices of their families and colleagues who made the ultimate sacrifice in service.

As the officers officially retired, the Corps Commander, Maj.-Gen. Jonathan Ugwuoke, was appreciated for organizing the memorable Pulling Out Ceremony. Akintade concluded by extending appreciation to all guests, affirming his confidence in the corps’ continued success and service to the nation.

The Defence Headquarters confirmed on Friday that a Naval personnel was shot dead by a colleague in Zamfara State during an undisclosed argument. Leading Seaman LS Akila reportedly opened fire with his service rifle early Friday morning in Dansadau, located in the Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Both personnel were serving in Team 3, which was formerly known as Operation Hadarin Daji and is now referred to as Operation Sheto Yanma. The altercation escalated, leading to LS Akila shooting his fellow service member.

Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, stated, “On 25 October 2024, at about 03:12 hours, naval personnel, LS Akila, deployed at FOB Dansadau for Operation Fansan Yamma, opened fire in questionable circumstances, resulting in the death of a fellow military colleague.”

Following the incident, LS Akila was arrested, disarmed, and detained. An investigation into the shooting has commenced, and the case will be escalated to a standing court martial designated to handle such misdemeanours among troops.

General Buba added that the administrative procedure for notifying the deceased’s family is currently underway, which is why the name of the victim has not been publicly released. He urged the media to exercise caution in reporting the incident to avoid further distress for the family of the deceased.

Former Senate leader, Senator Ali Ndume of the APC for Borno South, has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s recent de-dollarisation policy, describing it as “the right steps in the right direction.” Ndume believes that this policy will enhance the strength of the naira and facilitate transatlantic trade with nations that do not rely on the US dollar.

In a statement released to journalists in Abuja on Saturday, Ndume emphasized that if effectively implemented, the de-dollarisation initiative would relieve pressure on the naira, particularly benefiting Nigerian importers dealing with countries like China by allowing them to move away from dollar dependence.

“The policy will also assist the naira in appreciating significantly,” Ndume noted, praising the President for taking bold economic measures at a critical time.

Ndume further urged President Tinubu to convene a National Economic Conference, spearheaded by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, the National Economic Adviser, and respected Nigerian economists. He suggested that this summit should be led by eminent figures like Okonjo Iweala and Akinwumi Adesina to formulate home-grown solutions rather than relying on the often harsh prescriptions of the IMF and World Bank.

In addition to his economic recommendations, Ndume previously called on President Tinubu to employ military contractors to combat Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State, while commending efforts to enhance the Air Force’s capabilities through the acquisition of military planes and helicopters.

Ndume praised Tinubu’s recent cabinet reshuffle and the establishment of a Ministry of Regional Development, noting that while progress has been made, more action is necessary to ensure ministers are actively contributing to their roles. He highlighted the President’s commitment to reducing governance costs amid economic challenges as a commendable move.

An Abia State High Court in the Bende Judicial Division has confirmed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains bound by a previous order that prohibits it from holding State, Local Government, and Ward congresses in Abia State. This ruling comes just hours before the party’s rescheduled State Congress set for Saturday, October 26.

The court’s order, dated October 25, pertains to a suit marked HB/3/2024, filed by claimants Francis Etuzu, Chidindu Kalu Kalu, and Enyinnaya Ogbu. Justice C. U. Okoroafor presided over the case and has mandated that contempt proceedings be initiated against key PDP officials, including Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the National Secretary; Alwell Asiforo Okere, the Caretaker Committee Chairman for Abia; and Kenneth Madubuike, the Caretaker Committee Secretary.

The court has allowed the claimants to serve Forms 48, 49, and other relevant documents regarding the contempt proceedings to the defendants. This can be accomplished by delivering the documents to any adult present at the PDP Abia Secretariat or by posting them at the secretariat’s location. Additionally, service can be conducted electronically via the party’s personal WhatsApp numbers.

Furthermore, the court reminded all parties that the earlier ruling made on July 23, 2024, which barred the PDP from conducting its ward congress scheduled for July 27, continues to be in effect until the substantive matter is resolved. The court also prohibited any extension of the tenure of the Okere-led State Working Committee (SWC) of the party.

An Abia State High Court in the Bende Judicial Division has reiterated that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is still bound by a previous order that restrains it from conducting State, Local Government, and Ward congresses in Abia State. This confirmation comes just hours before the party’s rescheduled State Congress set for Saturday, October 26.

The court’s order, dated October 25, is in connection with a suit marked HB/3/2024, filed by claimants Francis Etuzu, Chidindu Kalu Kalu, and Enyinnaya Ogbu. Justice C. U. Okoroafor presided over the case and further ordered that contempt proceedings be initiated against key PDP officials, including Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the party’s National Secretary; Alwell Asiforo Okere, the Caretaker Committee Chairman for Abia; and Kenneth Madubuike, the Caretaker Committee Secretary.

The court specified that the claimants are permitted to serve Forms 48, 49, and other processes regarding the contempt proceedings to the aforementioned defendants. This can be done by delivering the documents to any adult present at the PDP Abia Secretariat or by pasting them at the secretariat’s location. Electronic means of service via the party’s personal WhatsApp numbers are also allowed.

The order also reminded all parties involved that the prior ruling made on July 23, 2024, barring the PDP from holding its ward congress on July 27, remains in effect until the substantive matter is resolved. The court had additionally prohibited the extension of the tenure of the Okere-led State Working Committee (SWC) of the party.

The US State Department announced on Friday the approval of a $2 billion arms sale package for Taiwan, which includes advanced surface-to-air missile systems and radar equipment, a move that could escalate tensions with Beijing. The package, pending Congressional approval, features several anti-aircraft systems, notably the NASAMS and 123 missiles, valued at approximately $1.16 billion. Additionally, radar systems worth $828 million will be included.

The equipment will be sourced from US Air Force supplies. Despite not officially recognizing Taiwan diplomatically, the United States remains its primary partner and main supplier of military aid, a stance that has drawn significant ire from Beijing. Chinese authorities have consistently urged Washington to cease its military support for Taiwan, which they assert is part of China.

Beijing has expressed persistent anger over international backing for Taipei and accused the US of interfering in its domestic affairs. The Chinese military maintains a near-daily presence around Taiwan with fighter jets, drones, and warships. The Chinese government has made it clear that it will not renounce the use of force to assert control over Taiwan and has amplified its rhetoric surrounding the idea of “unification” as “inevitable.”

Earlier this month, Taiwan recorded a staggering 153 Chinese aircraft in a single day, highlighting the escalating military tensions in the region. In response to the US’s military support for Taiwan, Beijing has sanctioned American defense companies, indicating a growing friction in US-China relations over Taiwan.

Israel’s top military spokesperson, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, confirmed on Saturday morning that the country has completed its “response” to Iran’s recent attacks. In a video message shared by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), he stated:

“I can now confirm that we have concluded the Israeli response to Iran’s attacks against Israel. We conducted targeted and precise strikes on military targets in Iran – thwarting immediate threats to the State of Israel. The Israel Defense Forces has fulfilled its mission.”

Hagari issued a stern warning, indicating that if Iran initiates “a new round of escalation,” Israel would be “obligated to respond.” He emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating:

“Our message is clear: All those who threaten the state of Israel and seek to drag the region into a wider escalation will pay a heavy price. We demonstrated today that we have both the capability and the resolve to act decisively, and we are prepared on offense and defense, to defend the state of Israel and the people of Israel.”

In response to the persistent failures of the national electricity grid, several state governments in the Southeast region of Nigeria are seeking alternative sources of electricity supply. The national grid has collapsed at least seven times between January and October 2024, raising serious concerns among electricity consumers and the broader public.

Impact of Grid Failures

According to a survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), consumers have expressed frustration over the frequent grid collapses and erratic power supply, despite paying higher tariffs for electricity services. Residents and businesses in Anambra, Ebonyi, and Enugu States, who have been moved to Band-A tariff categories without their consent, are particularly vocal about the lack of value they are receiving.

Mr. Chimezie Nwafor, a small-scale industrialist based in Enugu, shared his struggles to operate his factory at full capacity due to inadequate power supply. He lamented:

“It is now a regret that the Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) and the Federal Government regulatory body failed to live up to what they assured.”

Nwafor called on both the federal and state governments to take significant action toward ensuring a stable electricity supply, stating:

“It is doable, and other countries within Africa have attained this height. Every industrialist wants value for money, and we cannot get that if we pay so high a tariff and get disappointed.”

Concerns from Residents

Mr. Chuks Ani, a resident of the Uwani area, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that government policies often fail due to poor implementation. He argued that the priority for 24-hour uninterrupted power should be given to industrial and commercial areas rather than residential ones, as discussed in numerous stakeholder meetings.

The ongoing challenges with the national grid have pushed Southeast state governments to seek alternative energy solutions as consumers and businesses alike demand more reliable and affordable electricity. The situation underscores the urgent need for policy reforms and improvements in the power sector to meet the energy needs of the populace.

Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has issued a stark warning against potential election rigging as the November election approaches.

Accusations of Cheating

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Trump accused the Democratic Party of “cheating” during the 2020 presidential election, claiming that significant election irregularities occurred. He stated that he, along with a team of attorneys and legal scholars, is closely monitoring the integrity of the upcoming election.

Commitment to Scrutiny and Prosecution

Trump emphasized that the 2024 election would be subject to rigorous scrutiny. He vowed that if he wins, those he alleges cheated would face severe legal consequences, including long prison sentences. He stated:

“CEASE & DESIST: I, together with many Attorneys and Legal Scholars, am watching the Sanctity of the 2024 Presidential Election very closely because I know, better than most, the rampant Cheating and Skullduggery that has taken place by the Democrats in the 2020 Presidential Election. It was a Disgrace to our Nation!”

He further warned that this legal accountability would extend to a wide range of individuals involved in the electoral process, including lawyers, political operatives, donors, illegal voters, and corrupt election officials.

Call to Action

Trump’s message serves as both a warning and a rallying cry to his supporters, urging them to be vigilant against what he describes as “unscrupulous behavior.” He stated:

“Those involved in unscrupulous behavior will be sought out, caught, and prosecuted at levels, unfortunately, never seen before in our Country.”

Trump’s statements reflect his ongoing focus on election integrity, a key theme of his campaign. As the 2024 election draws near, his warnings about potential voter fraud and commitment to legal action against perceived wrongdoers continue to resonate within his base.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State has announced that the local government elections conducted by the State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC) on Saturday are illegal.

Statements from APC Chieftain

Rabi’u Bichi, a chieftain of the party, stated in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the party’s position is based on a court order issued by Justice Simon Amobede of the Federal High Court in Kano, which declared the elections null and void.

• Bichi emphasized that the ruling indicated KANSIEC’s leadership was partisan and biased in favor of the ruling New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the state.
• Since the judgment has not been appealed, Bichi asserted that any outcomes from the elections should be considered illegal.

Additionally, he referenced a recent Federal High Court ruling that annulled all NNPP chairmanship candidates for the elections, further supporting the APC’s claims regarding the election’s legality.

Call for Restraint

Bichi urged party members to remain calm and await the final outcomes of the legal actions being pursued by the APC to contest the conduct of the polls.

KANSIEC’s Response

In contrast, KANSIEC Chairman Prof. Sani Malumfashi insisted that the commission is operating within legal boundaries. He stated:

• “Every activity of the commission is procedural. We are not partisan.”
• He called on KANSIEC staff and ad hoc personnel to resist any bribery attempts and ensure that underage individuals do not participate in the voting process.
• Malumfashi reminded politicians that practices such as vote-buying and thuggery violate the state’s electoral guidelines and urged respect for a recent Kano High Court judgment that allowed the elections to proceed.

Conclusion

The situation underscores a tense political climate in Kano State, with the APC challenging the legitimacy of the local government elections while KANSIEC maintains its commitment to conducting fair elections.

Senators from the nineteen northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), under the Northern Senators Forum (NSF), have expressed serious concerns regarding severe power outages affecting Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states.

Key Concerns

• The senators attributed the outages to vandalism and disturbances in the national power grid, resulting in significant economic hardship for residents.
• They highlighted the impact on small businesses struggling to operate, hospitals facing increased costs, and the overall livelihoods of citizens being severely compromised.

Call to Action

In a statement from the NSF Chairman, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua (APC, Katsina Central), the Forum urged the Federal Government, led by President Bola Tinubu, to take immediate action to restore electricity to the affected areas.

Demands from the Northern Senators Forum

1. Expedited Repairs: The Forum called for the urgent repair of the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission lines to ensure a reliable power supply.
2. Enhanced Security: They urged the implementation of measures to prevent future vandalism and protect power infrastructure.
3. Support for Renewable Energy: The senators encouraged backing for KEDCO’s initiatives related to renewable energy and mini-grid solutions to provide sustainable power options.

While acknowledging progress made in power distribution under the current administration, the senators emphasized the need for urgent intervention to alleviate the suffering of their constituents and revitalize economic activities in the affected regions.