The body of the late Dr. Joseph Wayas, former president of the Senate, will be interred on November 30, 2024, marking three years since his passing on November 30, 2021. This announcement was made during a press conference by Dr. Dorn-Cklaimz Enamhe, Secretary of the Central Planning Committee for the burial, in Calabar.

Wayas, who died at the age of 80 in a London hospital, was repatriated to Nigeria on July 10, 2024, after spending over two years in a UK morgue. Born in 1941 in Obanliku, he served as president of the Senate from 1979 to 1983 during Nigeria’s Second Republic.

Enamhe expressed gratitude to Governor Bassey Otu and others involved in repatriating Wayas’ body, emphasizing the commitment to ensuring that no elder statesman from Cross River who passes away abroad remains in a foreign land. He noted that the governor assured that all such leaders would be brought back to their ancestral homes for burial.

The committee faced challenges in confirming the authenticity of Wayas’ remains, which required collaboration with various authorities in Nigeria and the Nigerian High Commission in the UK. Enamhe stated that Wayas’ family, including his wife and children, assessed the body and confirmed it was indeed their father. Delays in burial were due to disagreements among family members, which have since been resolved.

The funeral service will take place at the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar before proceeding to Wayas’ hometown in Bassang, Obanliku Local Government Area. The committee expressed appreciation for media support in keeping the public informed about the situation regarding Wayas’ burial.

A man named Chima Eseni has reportedly killed his wife, Ugo Chima, during a violent altercation in Abakaliki, the capital of Ebonyi State. The incident occurred along Ogbaga Road, Kpirikpiri, and involved a dispute that escalated to fatal consequences.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the couple had been experiencing ongoing irreconcilable issues, culminating in a midnight fight. During the confrontation, Eseni allegedly struck his wife, causing her to collapse. Neighbors and sympathizers rushed to assist and took Ugo to the hospital; however, she was pronounced dead upon arrival.

In an effort to intervene, a neighboring policeman attempted to separate the couple during the fight. According to reports, Eseni, in a fit of anger, attacked the officer, inflicting serious injuries.

The suspect has been arrested by the police, with the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu, confirming the arrest. He stated that Eseni would face charges in court following the investigation into the incident. The case has drawn attention from the community, with neighbors expressing shock and concern over the tragic turn of events.

The National Economic Council (NEC) has recommended that President Bola Tinubu immediately withdraw the Tax Reforms Bill from the National Assembly to allow for broader consultations and consensus building among Nigerians. This decision was disclosed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde during a briefing with State House correspondents after the 144th NEC meeting, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Governor Makinde emphasized the need for sufficient alignment on the proposed reforms, stating, “NEC noted the need for sufficient alignment on the proposed reforms and recommended the withdrawal of the tax reform bill.” He highlighted that this decision is intended for the benefit of the entire country and underscored the importance of further discussions regarding the bill.

This recommendation comes in light of recent endorsements by President Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council for new policy initiatives aimed at streamlining Nigeria’s tax administration processes. The Federal Government has indicated that the new laws are designed to enhance efficiency and eliminate redundancies in the nation’s tax operations. These reforms have been developed following a review of existing tax laws since August 2023, with the National Assembly currently considering four executive bills related to these tax reform efforts.

The NEC’s recommendation follows the rejection of the reform bill by the Northern Governors, who convened on October 28, 2024, under the Northern Governors’ Forum. They expressed concerns over the new derivation-based model for Value-Added Tax distribution outlined in the tax reform bills, asserting that the proposal undermines the interests of the North and other sub-national entities. Governor Muhammed Yahaya of Gombe State, the chairman of the forum, reiterated this position in their communiqué.

Following the tragic death of 36-year-old Manchester United fan Benjamin Ndyamuhaki, who was allegedly killed during an altercation with an Arsenal supporter, Rev. Michael Asiimwe of Rwesasi Church is urging football fans to exercise caution and self-control while watching matches.

Ndyamuhaki’s death occurred on October 27, after a reported conflict at a video room in Kyobugombe Trading Center. The altercation was reportedly triggered by Ndyamuhaki celebrating Liverpool’s late equalizer in their 2-2 draw with Arsenal, which provoked Arsenal supporter Onan Byampangi, who allegedly fatally struck him with a stick. Ndyamuhaki succumbed to his injuries the following day in the hospital.

During Ndyamuhaki’s funeral on October 30, Rev. Asiimwe delivered a poignant message about self-restraint and anger management. He confessed to his struggles with anger, advising fans to avoid crowded viewing centers if they cannot control their emotions. “If you know you can’t control your anger, stay away. Find ways to cope instead of resorting to violence,” he emphasized.

The cleric’s call for calm resonated with the community, many of whom expressed shock and grief over the incident. Mr. Dan Kasaku, chairman of the Rukiga Taxi Drivers Association, remembered Ndyamuhaki as a “humble, trustworthy, and hardworking” individual, saying, “We have truly lost a good man.”

Kabale District Police Commander Joseph Bakaleke reported that efforts are underway to apprehend Byampangi, who is currently at large. Community leaders, including Bonny Tumuranze, Kigezi Regional Coordinator of the Alliance for National Transition (ANT), condemned the violence and pledged to collaborate with law enforcement to ensure justice is served.

The Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, revealed that the current administration inherited over 2,000 incomplete road projects worth trillions of Naira. Speaking during a Federal Ministry of Works Town Hall meeting in Akure, Umahi emphasized that his ministry is unafraid to make difficult decisions, including terminating contracts with 10 errant companies.

Umahi highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to Nigeria, stating that the president has initiated several legacy projects aimed at lasting beyond the current administration. He also mentioned that both the federal and state governments are dedicated to restoring the Aiyetoro community, which is facing challenges from sea incursion.

The minister discussed the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway, which will span seven states and is expected to create new business opportunities. He assured attendees that the design for the Ondo State section of the road would be completed by November, with a commitment to ensure all federal high roads are motorable by Christmas.

“We have terminated over 10 contracts with major companies and are prepared to terminate more. You can’t dictate to us; we will determine what we want. Our records are open,” Umahi stated.

He reiterated the government’s plans for the Aiyetoro project, confirming that it would commence after the upcoming elections.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State praised Tinubu for consistently prioritizing the state in terms of legacy projects and reiterated that the current initiative is not politically motivated. He expressed gratitude for the economic support and other ongoing projects across the country

At least 15 individuals have reportedly lost their lives in a renewed attack by armed herdsmen in Anyiin, located in the Logo Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State. The violent incident also resulted in several injuries and many residents being declared missing by their families.

This attack follows a similar incident in Ayilamo town, which occurred approximately three weeks earlier and resulted in numerous fatalities.

Chief Joseph Anawa, a community leader, confirmed that the latest attack took place on Wednesday around 6:30 PM. He expressed grave concern as residents began to flee the area in fear of additional assaults.

“The militia herdsmen unleashed terror on Anyiin town in an operation that started at about 6:32 PM, leaving over 15 people dead and some with various degrees of injuries while others are missing,” Anawa stated.

Among those killed was Mr. Orihundu Ati, a retired primary school supervisor, along with the son of the Kindred Head of Mbawuave and the son of Tordoo Suswam, a former Chief of Staff to a previous Logo LG Chairman. Anawa also mentioned the death of the son of Mr. Uyange Chembe, a younger brother to the late District Head of Ukemberagya, Zaki John Chembe.

He detailed that the attackers, numbering over 200 and heavily armed with weapons such as AK-47 rifles, conducted a coordinated operation that lasted approximately three hours. The attackers caught the community by surprise, surrounding the town and firing sporadically into the air. As residents fled for safety, many fell into the carefully planned ambush set by the assailants.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning to withdraw its members from all duties if a recent Federal High Court ruling preventing the Central Bank of Nigeria from disbursing funds to Rivers State negatively impacts its members’ well-being. This position was established during an emergency meeting held in Port Harcourt on Thursday, which was attended by various labor leaders.

Alex Agwanwo, the Chairman of the NLC in Rivers State, expressed the council’s condemnation of the court’s decision, stating that the ruling overlooked the interests of the state’s populace and was detrimental to development. He criticized the judgment as lacking compassion and human consideration, emphasizing that it would significantly harm workers and citizens alike.

Agwanwo remarked, “The judgment lacks a human face. The judge did not take the citizens and workers of Rivers State into consideration before giving the judgment. Everybody knows what taking allocation away from a state will look like. It will put the state into suffering. It will disrupt governance in a state because governance will not take place without funds.”

He further stressed that the ruling would hinder governance and affect ongoing projects in the state, asserting that effective governance relies heavily on available allocations. The NLC is prepared to take action to protect its members and ensure their interests are prioritized amid the legal controversy.

The National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has advised the newly elected Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebhulo, to prioritize governance over probing his predecessor, Governor Godwin Obaseki. Ganduje offered this counsel during Okpebhulo’s formal thank-you visit to the National Working Committee (NWC) on Thursday.

Ganduje emphasized, “The ideals of democracy were upheld, the election was executed, and we are on the winning side. You should not focus on the previous administration. Look forward, don’t look back, and don’t waste your time fighting the person you took over from. There is no need. A progressive government does not have time for that. Focus on the manifesto you painstakingly produced. Follow it to the letter with the socio-economic development of the people, build bridges, and establish good relationships with the stakeholders.”

He encouraged Okpebhulo to embrace his role as an action governor, stating, “During the campaigns, you were an action candidate, and now you are an action governor. We believe it. We believe you will succeed and make the people of our winning state proud.”

Ganduje assured Okpebhulo of the party’s support, stressing the importance of maintaining functional and habitable party offices at all levels. He also announced the establishment of a progressive institute, the intellectual wing of the party, designed to train personnel, especially at the local government level, and to help formulate a political agenda that meets the demands of the Nigerian people.

In his remarks, Okpebhulo expressed gratitude to Ganduje for his dedication to the party’s success, acknowledging the challenges faced during the election campaign. He stated, “It wasn’t an easy one. I know how many times the chairman called me. He would say, ‘How are you prepared? I want to be in Edo five days before the election.’ Yes, he came to the state. He was there, and everybody knew he came, and his impact was great.”

Okpebhulo also thanked President Bola Tinubu for his support in securing victory in Edo State, highlighting the peaceful atmosphere on election day. He celebrated the election results, declaring, “For me, the victory is something we in Edo State rejoice about because a new dawn has come to the Edo people. A new dawn has risen.”

He concluded by thanking the National Working Committee for their efforts and prayed for their continued prosperity and longevity.

The Federal Government has issued an apology following the recent collapse of the national grid, which resulted in power outages lasting several days across 17 states. During a courtesy visit to Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State, Minister of Power Chief Adebayo Adelabu described the situation as “very unfortunate.”

Adelabu emphasized that the government is actively working to overhaul the national grid to reduce the frequency of disturbances and improve overall power supply throughout the country. He noted that the national grid, which is over 50 years old, is plagued by weak, obsolete, and dilapidated components, including aging lines, substations, and transformers.

The minister explained that many towers in the system are falling due to weather and climate change, necessitating continuous maintenance. “This grid requires a lot of money to maintain. So, what we have now, we will continue to manage it and prevent frequent disturbances until we are able to overhaul this infrastructure 100 percent,” he stated.

Adelabu outlined the government’s plans to revamp the entire grid structure, highlighting various programs aimed at replacing old infrastructure. Among these initiatives is the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), known as the Siemens project, which is currently underway.

He also mentioned the Transmission Company of Nigeria’s (TCN) expansion program, supported by the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB). Adelabu confirmed that the pilot phase of the Siemens project has recently been concluded, involving the importation of 10 power transformers and 10 mobile substations.

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, clarified on Thursday that President Bola Tinubu is not discriminating against the North or any specific region. During a working visit to Kano State, where he met with Governor Abba Yusuf, the Minister addressed concerns about recent power outages in the northern region.

Adelabu emphasized, “Mr. President Bola Tinubu, with his renewed hope agenda, does not intend to discriminate against any particular region. We all voted him into power, and we must all enjoy the dividends of democracy.”

He assured the public that the recent blackouts were neither intentional nor deliberate, acknowledging their significant impact on people’s livelihoods, businesses, and institutions. “This is not a situation we want to repeat, so all hands must be on deck to prevent future occurrences. If such events happen again, we should have alternative sources,” he stated.

The Minister also provided updates on the restoration efforts for vandalized facilities, stating, “Our teams are on the field to ensure that partial restoration becomes full restoration. Two lines from the Makurdi-Bauchi axis were vandalized; one is operational now, and I’ve been assured that by Sunday, the second line will be fixed for complete restoration.”

He further highlighted plans to address the main transmission line to the north, specifically the Shiroro-Mando-Kaduna line, which will take about 14 days to repair due to extensive damage. “This is not the first instance of vandalization, but this time the damage is significant, requiring heightened security for our workers.”

Adelabu stressed the collective responsibility of security agencies, state governments, and consumers to protect national assets. He called for increased awareness against vandalism to prevent similar blackouts in the future, underlining the impact on economic growth and stability.

The Gutenberg Prints Association of Nigeria (GUPPAN) has revealed that the country loses over N200 billion annually on the printing of books abroad.

During a media briefing in Abuja on Thursday, the Association’s President, Mr. Adekunle Adebambo, emphasized Nigeria’s potential to provide all the necessary printing services domestically, which could significantly contribute to the country’s industrialization and economic growth.

Adebambo urged the Federal Government and relevant authorities to enhance local production capacity and implement policies that would foster a stronger and more vibrant printing industry within Nigeria.

“Every year, Nigeria spends at least N200 billion on printing books abroad. Many school authorities require students in nursery, primary, and secondary schools to purchase books that are predominantly sourced from overseas,” he noted.

He suggested that if schools could partner with local printing sources to develop their capacities, it would help reduce the unemployment rate in the country.

Adebambo called on relevant stakeholders to address this issue, stating, “We cannot industrialize when we have opportunities that we are not utilizing.”

He also urged the Ministry of Education to collaborate with Nigerian universities to establish bachelor’s and postgraduate degree programs in printing technology and management.

These programs would allow professionals to enhance their education, drive innovation, uphold industry standards, and prepare a future-ready workforce.

Adebambo reiterated the importance of professionalism within the sector, asserting that it would help mitigate many of the leadership challenges faced in the industry.

Senator Dave Umahi, Nigeria’s Minister of Works, has emphasized the necessity for public accountability in the execution of road projects under the current administration. At a town hall meeting in Akure, he discussed the alignment of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway‘s 63-kilometer segment through Ondo State, urging stakeholders to hold him responsible for any shortcomings.

Key Points from Umahi’s Address

• Inherited Projects and Financial Challenges: Umahi disclosed that President Bola Tinubu‘s administration has inherited 20,604 unfinished road projects across Nigeria, valued at approximately N13 trillion as of May 29, 2023. He highlighted that contractors are owed about N1.6 trillion for these projects, with some spanning 20 years or more.
• Commitment to Completion: He pledged to accept full responsibility if these projects are not completed within 14 months. Umahi stressed the urgency of completing ongoing projects and noted that his ministry has already terminated over ten major contracts due to non-performance, indicating a readiness to terminate more if necessary.
• Focus on Financial Accountability: Umahi emphasized that contractors awaiting mobilization payments must not delay construction, asserting that financial documentation should precede any mobilization efforts.
• Lagos-Calabar Highway Project: Concerning the Ondo segment of the highway, Umahi announced that project design would be finalized by November, with construction expected to begin shortly thereafter. He framed road construction as an investment in Nigeria’s infrastructure.

Support from Local Leaders

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State commended President Tinubu for prioritizing legacy projects that would benefit the state’s economy. He assured Umahi of the state government’s full cooperation in the project.

Mr. Akin Alabi, Chairman of the House Committee on Works, underscored the importance of transparency and accountability in road project management, insisting that contractors should not receive payments unless they are actively on-site.

Mr. Banji Okunomo, representing riverine communities, expressed gratitude for the road project’s inclusion in their area. He called for timely completion and promised local support to facilitate the construction.

Conclusion

Umahi’s appeal for accountability underscores the critical need for transparency in Nigeria’s infrastructure development. By prioritizing the timely completion of road projects and stressing contractor accountability, the current administration aims to bolster the nation’s road network and drive economic growth.

Senator Dave Umahi, Nigeria’s Minister of Works, has called for public accountability regarding the execution of road projects under the current administration. Speaking at a town hall meeting in Akure, he addressed the alignment of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway’s 63-kilometer segment through Ondo State, urging stakeholders to hold him responsible for any failures.

Key Points from Umahi’s Address

• Inherited Projects and Financial Challenges: Umahi revealed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration inherited 20,604 unfinished road projects across the nation, valued at approximately N13 trillion as of May 29, 2023. He noted that contractors are owed about N1.6 trillion for these projects, some of which have been ongoing for 20 years or more.
• Commitment to Completion: Umahi pledged that if these projects are not completed within 14 months, he would accept full responsibility. He emphasized the urgency of completing ongoing work and indicated that his ministry has already terminated over ten major contracts for non-performance, with the readiness to terminate more if necessary.
• Focus on Financial Accountability: He stressed that contractors awaiting mobilization payments must not delay construction, indicating that financial documentation should precede any mobilization efforts.
• Lagos-Calabar Highway Project: Regarding the Ondo segment of the highway, Umahi announced that project design would be finalized by November, with construction expected to begin shortly thereafter. He highlighted that the administration views road construction as an investment in the nation’s infrastructure.

Support from Local Leaders

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State praised President Tinubu for prioritizing legacy projects that would positively impact the state’s economy. He assured the minister of the state government’s full cooperation in the project.

Mr. Akin Alabi, Chairman of the House Committee on Works, emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in road project management. He insisted that contractors should not receive payments unless they are actively working on-site.

Additionally, Mr. Banji Okunomo, representing riverine communities, expressed gratitude for the inclusion of the road project in their area. He urged for timely completion and assured local support to facilitate the construction.

Conclusion

Umahi’s call for accountability highlights the pressing need for transparency in Nigeria’s infrastructure development. By focusing on the timely completion of road projects and emphasizing contractor accountability, the current administration aims to enhance the nation’s road network and stimulate economic growth.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has advised Senator Monday Okpebholo, the newly elected governor of Edo State, to prioritize governance over investigating his predecessor, Governor Godwin Obaseki.

Key Takeaways from Ganduje’s Advice

• Action-Oriented Governance: During a thank-you visit from Senator Okpebholo to the APC National Working Committee (NWC), Ganduje urged him to “hit the ground running” and focus on the socio-economic development of the state rather than dwelling on the past administration. He emphasized that a progressive government should not waste time on conflicts with previous leaders.
• Implementation of the Manifesto: Ganduje encouraged Okpebholo to adhere closely to the manifesto he presented during his campaign. He stated, “Think forward and be an action governor,” reiterating the belief that Okpebholo can make the people of Edo proud through effective governance.
• Party Support and Resources: The APC chairman assured Okpebholo of the party’s readiness to support his administration. He highlighted the establishment of a progressive institute, which will aid in training personnel, especially at the local government level. This institute aims to help align the party’s agenda with the needs of the Nigerian people.

Okpebholo’s Acknowledgments

In response, Okpebholo expressed gratitude to Ganduje for his efforts in securing victory for the party in Edo State, acknowledging the challenges faced during the election. He praised the peaceful conduct of the election, noting that there were no reported casualties on election day, which was a significant improvement compared to past elections.

Okpebholo emphasized that this victory represents a new dawn for the people of Edo State and expressed optimism about the future of his administration.

Conclusion

Ganduje’s guidance reflects a strategic approach to governance aimed at fostering stability and progress in Edo State. By focusing on actionable policies and collaboration within the party, Okpebholo aims to build a productive and inclusive administration that addresses the needs of the citizens.

The Ondo State government has provided an update regarding the delay in the implementation of the N73,000 minimum wage for state workers, initially promised by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Key Points from the Announcement

• Commitment to the Minimum Wage: During this year’s Public Service Week celebrations in Akure, the Head of Service, Bayo Philip, reassured the public of the governor’s dedication to fulfilling this wage commitment. He emphasized that the minimum wage is not merely a political promise and will be sustained beyond the upcoming elections.
• Reasons for Delay: Philip explained that the delay is due to the ongoing preparation of the consequential adjustment table by a technical committee. This process is essential to ensure the wage’s sustainability without negatively impacting other critical government expenditures.
• Promotion and Recruitment Initiatives: In addition to the minimum wage update, Philip highlighted that all 5,949 eligible workers for promotion in 2024 have received their promotion letters. Preparations are also underway for the 2025 promotion cycle. Furthermore, letters of appointment will be issued to 2,000 newly recruited teachers statewide, and recruitment efforts are ongoing to address personnel shortages in the health sector caused by the “Japa” phenomenon.
• Financial Commitments: The administration remains committed to regular salary payments, pension provisions, and the gradual repayment of inherited gratuity arrears. Philip noted that the state has successfully paid the 2024 Leave Bonus to all workers and continues to prioritize timely salary and pension payments.

Public Service Week Activities

The Public Service Week will feature a variety of events, including a fitness walk, a Thanksgiving Service, and a Public Service Lecture scheduled for November 4. These activities aim to promote worker wellness and professional development, aligning with the state’s progressive administrative policies.

This update reflects the Ondo State government’s ongoing efforts to support its workforce while ensuring the sustainability of financial commitments amid various challenges.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, who is seeking re-election as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the upcoming gubernatorial election on November 16, has assured residents of fair and inclusive governance, irrespective of their religious backgrounds. This commitment follows a notable endorsement from the Muslim community during an event at the International Culture and Events Centre in Akure.

Key Highlights

• Muslim Community Support: The endorsement ceremony featured prominent figures from the Muslim community, including Alhaji Sheikh Ahmad Olagoke Aladesawe, Chief Imam of Owo and Chairman of the League of Imams and Alfas in Ondo State. He expressed unified support for Aiyedatiwa, offering prayers for a peaceful electoral process.
• Solidarity with National Leadership: Chief Jamiu Ekungba, Baba Adinni of Owo Kingdom, reaffirmed their commitment to support Aiyedatiwa just as they did for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the presidential election, emphasizing the community’s active participation in politics.
• Divinely Guided Leadership: The Grand Mufti of Ondo State, Alhaji Surajudeen Batuta, praised Aiyedatiwa’s leadership as divinely guided and predicted that the upcoming election would be among the most peaceful in the state’s history. He acknowledged the governor’s efforts in including Muslims in political appointments, expressing confidence in positive outcomes for the state.
• Support for Islamic Education: In a goodwill message, Oba Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, the Olubaka of Oka Land, commended the support from the Muslim community and advocated for increased recruitment of Arabic teachers and the establishment of government-funded schools to enhance Islamic education.
• Confidence in Victory: Sheikh Abdulhakeem Yayi Akorede, Chief Imam of Akure, stated that the endorsement gives Aiyedatiwa confidence in his electoral prospects, expressing that the community “stands solidly behind him.” He also called for greater Muslim representation in the administration.
• Empowerment Initiative: The event concluded with Aiyedatiwa receiving an award for excellence and launching an empowerment initiative aimed at providing equipment to promote economic self-sufficiency within the Muslim community.

Commitment to Inclusivity

In his response, Governor Aiyedatiwa thanked the Muslim community for their endorsement and reiterated his commitment to inclusivity as a cornerstone of his administration. He pledged that all residents of Ondo State, regardless of their faith, would be granted equal rights and opportunities, reinforcing the importance of unity and cooperation in governance.

As the election approaches, this show of solidarity from the Muslim community signals a significant endorsement for Aiyedatiwa, who aims to foster a government that represents and serves all constituents effectively.