The incident at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel in Bangkok involving the deaths of six tourists from Vietnam has sparked significant concern and swift action from Thai authorities. Despite initial reports of the tourists renting separate rooms, their bodies were found together in one room without signs of a struggle. Thai police chief Thiti Saengsawang has stated that the deaths were not a result of suicide but were caused by someone else.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has intervened, emphasizing the importance of a thorough investigation to swiftly clarify the circumstances surrounding the deaths. This urgency stems from the government’s desire to prevent any negative impact on Thailand’s tourism industry, which is vital to the country’s economy. Thailand expects to host 35 million foreign visitors this year, with tourism contributing significantly to the economy through billions in revenue.

In response to past incidents affecting tourists, including a shooting in 2023, the government has implemented measures to enhance security and build trust among visitors. These efforts include increasing security in tourist areas and offering extended visa validity or visa exemptions to attract more tourists.

The situation remains under investigation, with authorities working to determine the cause of the tourists’ deaths and reassure both local residents and international visitors about safety in Thailand’s popular tourist destinations.

Senator Barau Jibrin, Deputy President of the Senate, has initiated the distribution of 69 trucks of fertiliser, totaling 41,400 bags, to farmers across all 44 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Kano State. This distribution effort, which began in Danbatta and Makoda LGAs of Kano North Senatorial District, aims to support local farmers, enhance agricultural productivity, and address food insecurity in the state.

Prof. Muhammad Ibn Abdallahi, Chief of Staff to Senator Barau, emphasized the importance of using the fertiliser judiciously to maximize agricultural output. He highlighted that this initiative is part of Senator Barau’s comprehensive support for agriculture and various sectors within Kano State.

The distribution of fertiliser is part of Senator Barau’s ongoing efforts to cater to the needs of his constituents and promote agricultural development. The gesture has received appreciation from local leaders and beneficiaries, who expressed gratitude for the support which they believe has safeguarded their farms and livelihoods.

The initiative underscores the commitment to bolstering agricultural practices and ensuring sustainable food production across Kano State, ultimately contributing to the economic empowerment of local farmers.

The Police Command in Akwa Ibom State has confirmed the abduction of a naval rating and seven others from the Classic Point Hotel in Ibaka Local Government Area. The victims were taken by unknown abductors while they were at the hotel for relaxation on Monday.

Police Public Relations Officer ASP Timfon John confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) during an interview in Eket. She mentioned that the Commissioner of Police, CP Waheed Ayilara, promptly led a team of security personnel to the community upon receiving the report.

John assured the public that measures were being taken, including strategic approaches by the police, to restore normalcy and locate the abducted victims. She noted that the abductors had taken the victims to an undisclosed location.

On the other hand, Sub.-Lt. Nasiru Omar, Base Information Officer, expressed that he had not yet received official information regarding the abduction, stating that official protocols prevented him from commenting further until official confirmation was received.

The incident underscores ongoing security challenges in the region, prompting swift response and heightened security measures by authorities to address the situation.

The Abuja Division of the Federal High Court has upheld Asue Ighodalo as the rightful governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, confirming his nomination during the party’s primaries held on February 22, 2024, in Benin City. Justice James Omotosho made this significant ruling in case CS/469/24 on Wednesday, July 17.

The court dismissed objections raised by Philip Shaibu, Ighodalo’s political rival, who had contested the validity of Ighodalo’s candidacy. This decision overturned a previous ruling by Justice Inyang Ekwo, who nullified the primary election citing violations of the Electoral Act 2022 and PDP Guidelines.

Justice Omotosho emphasized that the suit challenging Ighodalo’s candidacy was filed outside the 14-day window stipulated by Section 285(9) of the Constitution for pre-election matters. Additionally, allegations of forgery related to voter’s cards were not substantiated by the plaintiffs.

Asue Ighodalo, a prominent business lawyer from Lagos, secured victory in the PDP primaries with 577 votes, defeating Philip Shaibu and 10 other contenders. With this legal validation, Ighodalo is poised as a leading candidate for the gubernatorial election scheduled for September 2024 in Edo State.

Joseph Aworeni, Curator and Site Manager of the National Museum in Osogbo and Osun-Osogbo Grove, has warned devotees and residents of Osun State not to drink from the Osun River due to contamination caused by illegal mining activities in the state. Aworeni issued this advisory during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday, highlighting the pollution resulting from these unauthorized mining operations.

The Osun-Osogbo Grove, where the river is located, is a centuries-old sacred forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005, recognized for its global cultural significance. The upcoming Osun-Osogbo festival, scheduled to take place from July 22 to August 9, has brought increased attention to the state of the river.

Aworeni explained that while the color of the river might be affected by rain, the main concern remains the contamination from illegal mining. Despite the pollution, devotees maintain their spiritual beliefs that the water becomes safe once the spiritual calabash approaches the river. However, recent analyses confirm that the water is unsafe for drinking.

Efforts to inform the public about the contamination have been made, but devotees and worshippers cannot be prevented from exercising their religious practices. Preparations for the annual festival are ongoing, with traditional custodians and government agencies working together to ensure a successful event. This year’s festival aims to feature a Guinness World Record attempt for the longest cultural performance, lasting 10 hours.

Aworeni also mentioned that sponsorship is being sought for the festival, with a committee led by the Ataoja of Osogbo focusing on critical areas, including securing new sponsors for the 2024 celebrations.

A Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday nullified the impeachment of Phillip Shaibu as the Deputy Governor of Edo State. Justice James Omotosho ruled that the impeachment proceedings by the Edo State House of Assembly were not conducted in accordance with due process and that the allegations against Shaibu did not constitute gross misconduct and were therefore untenable in law.

As a result, Justice Omotosho ordered Shaibu’s reinstatement to office and directed the Inspector-General of Police to provide the necessary security to enable Shaibu to resume his duties until the end of his tenure. Additionally, the court set aside the appointment of another deputy governor to replace Shaibu.

Phillip Shaibu, who was present in court, was visibly emotional and shed tears of joy upon hearing the judge’s decision.

The girl was sexually assaulted while trying to recover her phone which was stolen by some suspected criminals.

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) says it will follow to the end and ensure justice for the 17-year-old girl allegedly defiled by a police officer at Ogudu Police Station.

As the October Local Government election in Akwa Ibom State nears, tension is rising in the Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area. The opposition All Progressive Congress (APC) has made a strategic move by zoning the chairmanship position to Ikot Ekpene Urban Clan. This decision was announced during a significant meeting held at Chief Sunny Ibanga’s residence in Utu Ikot Ekpenyong, attended by key party figures, including Chief Sunny Ibanga, Pastor Sunny Ibuot, Special Assistant to the Senate President on Protocol Kufre Okure, the Chapter Chairman, Ward Chairmen, and various chairmanship and councillorship aspirants. Councillorship aspirants also obtained their nomination forms at this meeting.

This strategic zoning has raised concerns within the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which is dealing with unresolved zoning disputes. The minority Amanyam people, with a voting strength of 29,000, are advocating for the chairmanship to be zoned in their favor, arguing that the Urban Clan held the last chairmanship. On the other hand, the Urban Clan, with a voting strength of 62,000, is pushing for inclusivity, pointing out that the Amanyam people already hold the House of Assembly seat and commissionership.

Political analysts are closely monitoring this development, viewing the APC’s decision as a potential game-changer. If the PDP does not resolve its internal zoning issues, the APC might capitalize on this situation by aligning with the majority Urban Clan, potentially securing a victory in the upcoming election.

During a plenary session on Wednesday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio read a letter titled “Complaints Against the Unbecoming Utterances of Sen. Ali Ndume,” sent by Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The letter announced the replacement of Sen. Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South (APC-Borno), as the Chief Whip of the Senate. He was replaced by Sen. Mohammed Monguno, who represents Borno North (APC-Borno).

After a week-long operation, troops of Operation Safe Haven and the III Division of the Nigerian Army in Rukuba, near Jos, captured seven suspects and recovered various arms and ammunition in the Fann District of Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State. Maj. Aliyu Danja, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, detailed the operation, noting that it took place between July 10 and June 16.

The operation began with an attack on a tactical team at a gunrunners’ hideout in Sangasa community, resulting in the death of Assistant Superintendent of Immigration, Christopher Agwom. In response, troops conducted a follow-up operation across Ratas, Ratoso, and Sangasa communities.

Recovered weapons included:
– 6 AK-47 rifles
– 16 locally fabricated AK-47 rifles
– 15 Dane guns
– 5 AK-47 magazines
– 1 AK-47 drum magazine (75-round capacity)
– 250 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special)
– 2 cartridges
– 7 motorcycles

Maj. Danja also declared four individuals wanted by security agencies: Timothy Dung (Timaya), Sam P, Dachun Job, and Yakubu Ishaku. He assured citizens that the efforts to eliminate criminal activities in the area would continue, honoring the sacrifice of the slain officer, who was buried in his hometown of Risek, Jos East local government area, on Tuesday.

The Police Command in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has announced a ban on the procession of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shi’ite, to mark the 2024 Islamic calendar day of Ashura in Abuja. This decision was conveyed through a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, on Tuesday in Abuja.

The ban was justified on grounds of intelligence indicating that members of the IMN were planning a procession. The police cited past incidents where such gatherings led to disturbances, anarchy, and chaos in the territory.

SP Josephine Adeh emphasized that any individual associated with the proscribed organization or intending to participate in protests or processions should desist from doing so. The command vowed to employ all legal means necessary to prevent and neutralize any violations of the ban, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining law and order and safeguarding public safety.

The statement underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to manage public security and prevent potential disruptions during sensitive periods like religious observances.

Dr. Allen Onyema, the Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace Limited, recently addressed the importance of national unity and solidarity among Nigerians during a lecture titled “Leading by Example: Instilling Trust and Confidence in Subordinates” at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji. He emphasized the need for Nigerians to prioritize nationalism over ethnic and religious divisions for the country’s progress.

Onyema highlighted the significant role of the Nigerian military in maintaining national unity and security, urging citizens to appreciate their sacrifices. He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential, describing it as a nation of strength and diversity with 378 ethnic nationalities contributing positively to its development.

The Air Peace CEO cautioned against allowing external stigma to define Nigeria, emphasizing the country’s rich human and natural resources. He called for unity among Nigerians, emphasizing that embracing diversity would pave the way for a prosperous future.

Onyema’s lecture was well-received by course participants at AFCSC, with the Commandant, AVM Hassan Alhaji, acknowledging the importance of such engagements in fostering national unity and preparing military personnel to serve the nation effectively.

Former President Donald Trump made a dramatic return to the political spotlight at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, following a failed assassination attempt. Trump, sporting a bandaged right ear from the incident, was greeted with hero-like adulation as he entered the Fiserv Forum arena. This marked his first public appearance since the attempt on his life.

During the convention, Trump secured the formal nomination as the Republican presidential candidate for the 2024 election. In a surprising move, he announced Senator J.D. Vance as his running mate. Vance, a 39-year-old former critic of Trump who has since become a staunch supporter, was introduced to the cheering crowd, signaling a significant endorsement of Trump’s America First agenda.

Vance, known for his alignment with populist sentiments and conservative views, particularly on issues like immigration and abortion, represents a new wave of leadership within the Republican Party. Despite his relative lack of experience in national politics, Vance’s nomination underscores Trump’s strategy to appeal to a broad base of conservative voters ahead of the election.

Trump’s return to the forefront of Republican politics comes amidst a challenging landscape for President Joe Biden and the Democratic Party, with concerns over Biden’s health and declining poll numbers. As Trump prepares to deliver his acceptance speech later in the convention, his candidacy continues to shape the dynamics of the upcoming presidential race in 2024.