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.

Iran reported that Israeli air strikes targeting its military sites on Saturday resulted in the deaths of two soldiers. This follows Israel’s statement that its warplanes conducted “precise strikes on military targets in Iran” in retaliation for a missile barrage.

What Happened

• The Israeli military confirmed the strikes aimed at missile manufacturing facilities and surface-to-air missile arrays, declaring the operation concluded and successful.
• Explosions were reported in Tehran around 2:15 AM, attributed to the activation of Iran’s air defense system.
• Iran’s air force acknowledged the strikes on military bases across Tehran, Khuzestan, and Ilam provinces, confirming limited damage and the deaths of two soldiers.
• Flights were briefly suspended but have since resumed.

Reason for the Attack

Israel cited ongoing attacks from Iran and its proxies as the reason for the strikes, particularly highlighting a missile attack on October 1. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized that the retaliation would be “deadly, precise, and surprising.”

Global Reaction

• The United States and Britain called for de-escalation following the Israeli strikes.
• White House National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett labeled the strikes as “an exercise of self-defense” and noted that the U.S. did not participate.
• British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged restraint from all parties involved.
• Saudi Arabia condemned Israel’s actions, warning against further escalation in the conflict.

This incident reflects the ongoing tensions in the region, particularly between Israel and Iran, amidst broader conflicts involving Iranian-backed groups in the Middle East.

On Friday, a devastating road accident on the Kaduna-Abuja expressway resulted in the deaths of thirteen individuals, as confirmed by the Kaduna Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

According to FRSC Sector Commander Kabir Nadabo, the incident occurred around 3 PM near Olam Farm when a Toyota Hiace van, carrying eleven passengers, collided with a Golf Salon car that had five occupants. The bodies of the deceased have been transported to St. Gerrard’s Hospital, while three survivors were rushed to AP Smart Hospital in Kakuri for medical attention.

Nadabo emphasized the importance of road safety, especially as the ember season approaches. He urged motorists to adhere to speed limits and basic safety guidelines to prevent such tragic incidents in the future. The FRSC remains committed to ensuring safe roads for all users.

On Thursday, the United States deployed a plane equipped with medical supplies to retrieve Tigran Gambaryan, an executive of Binance Holdings Limited, from Nigeria. This development follows the Nigerian Federal Government’s decision to withdraw money laundering charges against Gambaryan, reportedly due to his ill health and diplomatic interventions.

According to The New York Times, Gambaryan had been detained since February amid a government crackdown on Binance for alleged manipulation of the naira. Alongside him, the regional manager for Binance, Nadeem Anjarwalla, was also detained but managed to escape custody in March.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed gratitude towards the Nigerian government for releasing Gambaryan on medical grounds, stating, “This positive outcome demonstrates the strength of the U.S.-Nigeria partnership and highlights our shared commitment to working together to advance our common interests.” He emphasized the importance of close law enforcement cooperation between the two nations.

Jake Sullivan, the National Security Advisor at the White House, also commented on the situation, saying he was “pleased” to have facilitated Gambaryan’s release for humanitarian reasons. Sullivan stated, “I am pleased that American citizen and former U.S. law enforcement official Tigran Gambaryan has been released on humanitarian grounds by the Nigerian Government and is on his way back to the United States so that he can receive needed medical attention.”

Gambaryan’s return to the U.S. underscores the ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two countries and reflects their commitment to addressing mutual concerns.

The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of an 80-year-old woman, Mariam Salako, in a fire accident that occurred early Saturday morning at 28 Ifelodun Ago Ka area in Abeokuta.

SP Omolola Odutola, the command’s spokesperson, released a statement detailing the incident. A distress call was received around 1:00 AM regarding a building engulfed in flames in the Ago Ka area.

Odutola noted, “The Area Commander promptly led a team of police officers to the site while the fire service was called for assistance. The Ogun State Fire Service quickly responded and managed to bring the fire under control.”

Unfortunately, Mariam Salako was unable to escape the fire and lost her life. The police spokesperson added, “A man known as Baba Ali, whose age is not yet identified, was asleep during the fire and was rescued through the window by community members.”

The remains of the deceased have been deposited at the morgue, while the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Following the crash of a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter operated by Eastwind Aviation near Bonny Finima off the coast of Port Harcourt, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has announced the suspension of search operations due to diminishing daylight. The decision was made at 6:15 PM on October 25, 2024.

In a statement from Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB, it was confirmed that no debris, survivors, or bodies were recovered during that day’s search. However, divers were able to establish a secure diving perimeter at an expected location of the wreck.

The statement read: “In line with global best practices, we are providing an update on the ongoing search and recovery efforts following the October 24, 2024, ditching incident involving a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter operated by Eastwind Aviation. The incident occurred near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Port Harcourt. Rescue operations commenced shortly after, with teams continuing to work extensively to locate the helicopter and any signs of survivors.”

Search operations resumed on October 25 at 7:30 AM local time, with an expanded search area to locate any debris or signs of survivors. A team of NSIB Aviation Safety Investigators, along with representatives from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, arrived at the Nuim Antan facility to gather pertinent information through interviews with relevant staff. The investigative team concluded their interviews and departed by 3:24 PM.

Despite the efforts, as of the evening of October 25, no significant findings had been made. The divers successfully measured the perimeter depth at 40-50 meters, and additional diving equipment and resources will be deployed to assist in continuing the recovery efforts.

Captain Alex Badeh Jr., the Director General of the NSIB, expressed gratitude for the ongoing efforts of the rescue teams and their partners. He stated, “We acknowledge the tireless efforts of the amalgamated rescue teams and supporting partners. We will continue these operations with every resource necessary and appreciate the cooperation and patience of all stakeholders involved.”

The helicopter was reportedly en route from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the NUIMANTAN oil rig with eight individuals on board at the time of the incident.