The crisis in Rivers State stems from a power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), over control of the state’s political machinery. Wike, who was instrumental in Fubara’s rise to power, is accused by Fubara’s camp of making excessive demands that constrained the governor’s ability to govern effectively. Meanwhile, Wike’s supporters claim that Fubara has distanced himself from Wike and his faction, creating tension within the state’s ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In August 2024, Wike’s group regained control of the PDP’s state executive council, which Fubara’s faction boycotted. While Fubara remains in the PDP, he directed his loyalists to align with the Action People’s Party (APP) ahead of the October 5 local government elections. A contentious court ruling by an Abuja High Court, presided over by Justice Peter Lifu, instructed police and other agencies not to provide security for the election, aligning with Wike’s group’s decision to boycott the polls. However, a Rivers State High Court ruling countered this, and Governor Fubara proceeded with the election.

Despite the lack of police protection, the local government election took place, with the APP candidates, loyal to Fubara, winning 22 of the 23 seats. Following the election, the state experienced violence, with reports of five fatalities and four local government headquarters being set on fire by armed thugs. The police, which had initially sealed off the local government secretariats, only withdrew hours before the newly elected officials were to assume office. The situation escalated until President Bola Tinubu intervened, ordering the police to restore order.

The role of the police and the judiciary in this crisis has drawn criticism, with many questioning why the police failed to maintain law and order during such a politically volatile period. Critics argue that the conflicting court orders, especially one barring the police from doing their constitutional duty, exacerbated the crisis. There have been calls for Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun and the judiciary, particularly Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to address these lapses and prevent such failures in the future.

The Bayelsa State Executive Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has reversed its earlier suspension of key party figures, including the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, following an extended party meeting. The meeting, which involved state executives, members of the state Assembly, and local government chairpersons, was convened to address the ongoing crisis that arose from the suspension of prominent stakeholders in Southern Ijaw, Ekeremor, Sagbama, and Yenagoa local government areas. Among the notable figures initially suspended were Senator Lokpobiri and Chief David Lyon, the APC’s former governorship candidate in the 2019 election.

In a communiqué issued on Tuesday, October 15, at a press conference in Yenagoa, the state capital, the APC explained that the decision to suspend the ratification of the chieftains’ suspensions came after an appeal from the minority caucus of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly. The communiqué, signed by the State Chairman, Chief Dennis Otiotio-Odoni, and the Acting State Secretary, Owutuamo Tamaranpreye, stated that further consultations with party stakeholders would be undertaken before any final decision is made.

The communiqué also condemned the alleged actions of the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Power, Mr. Kharin Kumoku, accusing him of leading thugs in an attempt to burn down the APC State Secretariat. The party called on Governor Douye Diri to caution the commissioner and urged the Commissioner of Police, CP Francis A. Idu, and the Bayelsa State DSS Director to investigate the incident.

The APC Bayelsa chapter reaffirmed its commitment to democratic principles and peaceful conflict resolution, calling on all members and stakeholders to remain focused on the party’s collective goals.

Dr. Isaacson Bababode Adelani is a passionate cancer researcher whose transformative contributions have reshaped the field of cancer biology. His groundbreaking work, multidisciplinary collaborations, and unwavering commitment to reducing cancer mortality have profoundly impacted how scientists address the complex nature of cancer.

Driven by a long-term goal of significantly reducing cancer’s detrimental effects, Dr. Adelani began his notable journey in cancer research during his Ph.D. program at Covenant University, Nigeria. His early focus was understanding the mechanisms behind non-communicable diseases like cancer. He believes that unraveling the intricate links between biological and environmental factors is essential for discovering effective treatments.

One of Dr. Adelani’s most groundbreaking achievements is his exploration of the role of vitamin D as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant in preventing liver cancer progression. His research highlighted how vitamin D regulates liver oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, offering new avenues for clinical applications in modern cancer treatment. His work showed that even in areas with ample sun exposure, vitamin D deficiency remains a significant concern, especially for cancer patients, prompting questions about the vitamin’s role in cancer development.

In his own words, “The knowledge of high cancer mortality rates in the black population and the association with low vitamin D levels instigated my curiosity.” His published findings revealed how vitamin D availability impacts liver cancer progression and emphasized the need for deeper research into the vitamin’s pathways.

Currently, Dr. Adelani is a Postdoctoral Fellow at Johns Hopkins University, where he is investigating new pathways in prostate cancer progression. This research holds promise for global breakthroughs that could significantly curb prostate cancer mortality and lead to novel treatments. His work is foundational to advancing precision medicine, which tailors treatments based on genetic profiles, offering a more patient-focused approach to improving cancer outcomes.

Beyond his work in the lab, Dr. Adelani also focuses on environmental carcinogens, such as Bisphenol-A (BPA) and Aflatoxin. His comprehensive review of BPA exposure, particularly in Africa, underscored the need for regulatory reforms to mitigate the environmental impact of these chemicals, calling for immediate action to protect populations from excessive exposure.

A dedicated advocate for addressing cancer disparities, Dr. Adelani actively promotes cancer care in low- and middle-income countries, emphasizing prevention, early detection, and equitable treatment access. His leadership in these areas ensures that advancements in cancer research reach underserved communities worldwide. Additionally, he is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of cancer researchers, ensuring that his legacy of innovation and advocacy continues to shape the future of cancer research.

Over 2,000 residents of Ifako Ijaiye benefited from a food subsidy market sponsored by the local government chairman, Prince Usman Akanbi Hamzat, in partnership with Inspire Food Market. The market, held over the weekend, featured traders selling essential food items at 50% less than local market prices. For instance, a paint bucket of rice and beans was sold for N3,800 and N6,500, respectively, while a crate of eggs and a kilo of chicken were offered at N3,000 and N2,500. Other available items included vegetable oil, red oil, garri, fresh pepper, onions, and tomatoes.

Prince Usman Akanbi Hamzat, Executive Chairman of Ifako Ijaiye Local Government, explained that the initiative aims to ease the economic burden on residents. “The local government is the closest to the grassroots. We need to always stay connected to our people,” he stated, emphasizing that both state and local governments are committed to alleviating poverty through initiatives like the food subsidy market.

In addition to providing discounted food, the local government is also empowering traders with financial grants. “We assess traders’ stocks—those valued below N20,000—and support them with N50,000,” Hamzat explained, adding that the initiative takes place regularly across various markets.

Furthermore, over 10,000 youths have been trained in skills like photography and tailoring through a six-month program, which includes a three-month internship and transportation stipends.

Abiola Adebajo, convener of Inspire Lagos Food Market, highlighted the importance of this initiative in addressing economic challenges, noting that rising food inflation has left many people struggling to feed themselves. “The government is doing its best, but we are here to help the people by collaborating with the government,” she said.

A serving minister recently claimed that the crisis in the country is being fueled by those seeking to share power with the President. In my view, there’s nothing wrong with power sharing. It is only in countries like ours where losing an election is seen as a grave offense.

While it’s wrong for the opposition to try to destabilize the nation due to their exclusion from government, there is no harm in accommodating them. A coalition government is neither inferior nor illegitimate. Power sharing is crucial for democracy, as it reduces the risk of conflict among social groups and fosters accountability. It’s essential to prevent violent conflicts, avoid the tyranny of the majority, and ensure political stability.

Democracy and power sharing are closely linked, especially in a diverse society like ours. Nigeria’s unity remains an aspiration, and if power sharing can help achieve progress and harmony, we should embrace it. A monopoly of power by any group, tribe, or party breeds envy, hatred, disunity, and jealousy, regardless of how that party attained power.

Countries adopt coalition governments to foster inclusivity. In Nigeria’s First Republic, it was termed an “alliance,” and in the Second Republic, it was called an “accord.”

During his inaugural address on May 29, President Bola Tinubu stated:
“Today, fate and destiny join together to place the torch of human progress in our very hands. We dare not let it slip.”
His words underscored the need for governance that fosters compassion, brotherhood, and peace, with a promise to consult and dialogue without dictating.

Starting January 2025, Nigeria’s wealthiest citizens will be subjected to a Personal Income Tax (PIT) rate of 25%, as announced by Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, during the ongoing #NES30 conference in Abuja.

Speaking at a session titled “Fiscal and Monetary Policy Reforms: Removing Barriers to Private Sector Investment,” Oyedele highlighted that the proposed tax bills, currently before the National Assembly, aim to reduce the tax burden on low-income earners while increasing taxes on higher earners. These reforms are designed to create a more equitable tax system, with the new law slated for implementation in January 2025.

“For those earning 1.5 million naira or more per month, the tax rate will rise incrementally, reaching 25% for the highest earners,” Oyedele explained, while lower-income individuals would be exempt from paying personal income tax entirely. He also discussed the significance of these reforms for businesses, noting that corporate income tax will be reduced from 30% to 25%.

In addition, Oyedele emphasized the need to simplify Nigeria’s complex tax system, which currently includes around 60 official taxes and over 200 unofficial taxes. He stated that any policy negatively affecting citizens’ lives should be revised to better serve the people.

Dr. Adetona Adedeji, the Acting Director of the Banking Supervision Department at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has emphasized the ongoing innovations in the global banking industry that aim to enhance the consumer experience. Speaking at the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES) in Abuja on Monday, Dr. Adedeji highlighted the significance of these developments, especially in e-channels, noting that the future lies in leveraging artificial intelligence (AI).

He emphasized that banking relies on trust and confidence, warning that any erosion of confidence in the financial system could lead to major issues. Adedeji also addressed the CBN’s efforts to reduce inflation in Nigeria, reassuring citizens that current policies are designed to phase out inflation gradually. He called for patience from Nigerians as the CBN continues to implement strategies to stabilize the economy.

In addition, Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, mentioned that the government is reducing the tax burden on businesses and creating policies that encourage exports. Oyedele also noted the importance of incentivizing global companies to invest in Nigeria, positioning the country as a favorable investment destination.

The Federal Ministry of Education has announced that the new curriculum for basic education will be implemented across schools starting in January 2025. This was revealed by Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, during a stakeholders’ meeting on Monday in Abuja.

Mamman stated that the curriculum for senior secondary education will also be introduced in September 2025. The new framework is designed to address learning challenges and improve employability by equipping students with 21st-century skills.

“We have worked with stakeholders to develop a skills framework that will inject skills right from the latter part of basic education to secondary education,” the minister said. The goal is for students to graduate with a minimum of two skills, ensuring they can lead productive lives.

The minister explained that the meeting was called to finalize the curriculum, set timelines for implementation, and organize support, monitoring, and evaluation. Over the next three months, teachers will be prepared with guides on how to use the new curriculum effectively.

When asked about the difference between the new curriculum and the previous 6:3:3:4 system, which also aimed to include skills, Mamman pointed out that the issue with the older system was a failure in implementation.

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has revealed plans for the redesign and reconstruction of its deteriorating barracks, aiming to create modern, habitable accommodations that reflect the dignity officers deserve. The announcement follows concerns over the poor state of police barracks nationwide, with many structures deemed unsafe.

In a statement titled “Clarifying the Reconstruction of Falomo Police Barracks and Combating Misinformation,” the NPF addressed misleading media reports regarding the Falomo Police Barracks in Lagos State. The force emphasized that the project, initiated by former Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Usman Baba Alkali, is being executed in collaboration with the Lagos State Government and private sector partners through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP).

Current IGP Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun reaffirmed the force’s commitment to improving officer housing, highlighted by the Nigeria Police Force Housing Summit held earlier this year. The summit aimed to create a sustainable plan for enhancing police welfare.

A nationwide review found that less than 25% of police personnel have access to adequate accommodations, with 90% of existing barracks in severe disrepair, posing risks to occupants. This urgent need for reconstruction, particularly at Falomo Barracks, aligns with international best practices to ensure officer safety and well-being.

The statement also dispelled reports of forced evictions at Falomo Barracks. Officers were given adequate notice, relocation assistance, and N2 million in compensation to secure alternative housing. They will also receive monthly rent allowances, and once the barracks are rebuilt, they will be allocated new housing units.

The NPF urged the public to ignore false narratives surrounding the project, stressing that its broader goal is to enhance police welfare, recognizing that dignified living conditions are crucial for effective service delivery.

Master Chinaemere Opara, a 15-year-old Senior Secondary School (SSS) student, has filed a lawsuit against the Federal Ministry of Education, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), and the National Universities Commission (NUC) over the introduction of a new admission policy that imposes a minimum age requirement for university admission in Nigeria.

Opara, represented by his guardian and father, Mr. Maxwell Opara, a lawyer, filed the suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday. The lawsuit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1512/2024 and dated September 30, challenges the constitutionality of the new admission policy.

In his suit, Opara argues that the policy, which restricts the age at which Nigerian citizens can gain admission to universities, is discriminatory and unconstitutional. He contends that it violates his right to freedom of expression under Section 42 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), as well as several articles of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

The student is seeking a court declaration that the policy infringes upon his right to peaceful assembly and association, as well as his right to equal access to public services, including the West African Examination Council (WAEC) and JAMB exams.

Opara has requested a perpetual injunction to restrain the respondents from enforcing the policy and an order to set aside the policy, which he believes interferes with his right to determine when he can enroll for university admissions exams.

The lawsuit has generated interest as it questions the fairness and legality of admission restrictions based on age in Nigeria’s education system.

Former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose has stated that the ongoing feud between Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and Siminalayi Fubara, the governor of Rivers State, has escalated beyond reconciliation.

Context of the Feud

The conflict between Wike and Fubara centers around the control of Rivers State’s political structure, leading to a divided state assembly and multiple legal disputes. Fayose expressed concern over the situation, labeling it as “very unfortunate.”

In a recent interview on Channels TV, Fayose reflected on his earlier advice to Fubara to “avoid Wike’s trouble,” given shortly after Fubara’s electoral victory. He commented, “The crisis has crossed the Rubicon. The matter has gone too far. Even if you want to resolve it, how do you restore the trust? I believe it’s too late for reconciliation.”

Thoughts on Atiku Abubakar’s Presidential Ambition

Fayose also weighed in on Atiku Abubakar’s presidential ambitions, suggesting that the former vice president should consider stepping away from the political scene due to his age. He remarked, “I am sure, at this stage, with all due respect to him, he would rather want to step away from the politics of contesting elections again.”

Fayose further noted that by the time President Bola Ahmed Tinubu finishes his term, Atiku would likely be around 80 or 81 years old, questioning the appeal of another presidential run at that age. “We should leave the stage when the ovation is loudest. I respect him, and I think Nigerians are craving for a younger generation now more than ever before,” he concluded.

Anamekwe Nwabuoku, the former acting Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), has entered a plea bargain agreement with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) concerning the alleged N1.6 billion fraud.

During a resumed hearing on Monday, EFCC’s Counsel Ogechi Ujam informed Justice James Omotosho of a Federal High Court in Abuja about the developments in the case. Ujam stated that on the last adjourned date, Nwabuoku and his co-defendant, Felix Nweke, had submitted a proposal for settlement.

Proposal for Settlement

Ujam indicated that both parties had reached an agreement, which had been submitted to the EFCC’s Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, for approval. She requested a date to file the plea bargain agreement and amended charge in court.

Nwabuoku’s lawyer, Isidal Udenko, along with Nweke’s representative, Emeka Onyeaka, confirmed their clients’ decision to pursue a plea bargain.

Court Proceedings

Justice Omotosho subsequently adjourned the matter until December 2, 2024, for the adoption of the plea bargain agreement. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the EFCC has brought an 11-count money laundering charge against both defendants.

Nwabuoku, designated as the first defendant in the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/240/24, is accused of engaging in money laundering activities during his tenure as the Director of Finance and Accounts in the Ministry of Defence between 2019 and 2021. Nweke is identified as the second defendant in the case.

As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome of the plea bargain agreement will be closely monitored by stakeholders and the public alike.

A Lagos High Court in Ikeja has set December 10, 2024, as the date for judgment in a significant fundamental human rights enforcement suit. The case, filed by Mr. Steven Amos and his wife Doris, concerns the disappearance of their son, Kingsley Amos, who has been missing for 14 years.

Case Background

The lawsuit, marked ID/13107MFHR/22, names several respondents, including the Lagos State Government, the Attorney General of Lagos State, the Lagos State Ministry of Youths and Social Development, the Commissioner of Police for Lagos State, and the Inspector General of Police. The case highlights the alleged illegal arrest, detention, and possible death of Kingsley Amos, who disappeared after being taken into custody by Lagos State agents in 2010.

Details of the Disappearance

According to the plaintiffs, Kingsley, who was receiving treatment for mental illness, was taken during a raid conducted by Lagos State authorities in the Ojodu area. Following his detention, he was reportedly found at the Majidun Rehabilitation Centre, but on April 14, 2010, officials informed the family that he had been transferred to an undisclosed location. Since then, Kingsley has not been seen.

The Amos family, represented by attorney Eze Alala, claims that despite numerous inquiries, Lagos State officials have failed to provide any information regarding Kingsley’s whereabouts, resulting in significant psychological and emotional distress for his parents.

Claims and Compensation

In their suit, the plaintiffs seek several remedies, including:

• An order for the immediate release of Kingsley, either dead or alive.
• Compensation of N1 billion for his unlawful arrest, detention, and alleged torture.
• N50 million in exemplary damages.
• A public apology from the respondents, to be published in national newspapers.
• An additional N10 million to cover legal costs.

Ongoing Frustration

The Amos family has expressed deep frustration with the lack of transparency and accountability from the Lagos State Government and law enforcement agencies. They contend that the incident has caused them years of anguish and uncertainty regarding their son’s fate.

The court’s upcoming judgment will be closely watched, as it could have significant implications for human rights enforcement and accountability in similar cases within the region.