The Chairman of the House Minority Caucus Ad-hoc Committee, Afam Ogene, has attributed the alterations discovered in the officially gazetted version of Nigeria’s newly enacted tax law to what he described as executive rascality. Ogene made this position known on Friday while responding to questions during an interview on Arise Television, which was monitored by LMSINT MEDIA. According to the lawmaker, the inconsistencies identified in the new tax legislation can largely be traced to the overzealous conduct of certain officials within the executive arm of government. He suggested that such actions may have resulted in unauthorized modifications that deviated from what was lawfully approved by the National Assembly. He explained that within parliamentary procedure, committees are typically granted seven to fourteen days to submit a comprehensive report once they are constituted. In situations where the allotted timeframe proves insufficient, the committee is expected to present an interim report to the authority that established it, clearly stating the reasons additional time is required to complete a more detailed investigation. Ogene stated that the committee he chairs was instructed to conclude its work within seven days, which prompted an initial assessment rather than a full investigative conclusion. As a result, the committee’s immediate task was to confirm whether the reported discrepancies truly existed. “So far, what we have done is to establish that these issues are real,” he noted, adding that further efforts are necessary to determine who was responsible for the alterations, whether acting as individuals or on behalf of corporate interests. The legislator emphasized that the nature of the discrepancies strongly points to excessive enthusiasm on the part of some executive officials. He summarized this conduct as executive rascality, noting that there is often a mistaken belief within the executive branch that bills initiated by them should be returned unchanged after legislative consideration. While he avoided using the phrase “rubber stamp,” Ogene stressed that the National Assembly is not designed to merely approve executive submissions without scrutiny. He remarked that legislative work does not operate on a “garbage in, garbage out” basis, underscoring the importance of the 360 lawmakers who collectively serve to review, debate, and refine proposed legislation. He further outlined the established lawmaking process, which includes a first reading, second reading, public hearings, and deliberations by the Committee of the Whole. This is followed by harmonization between the House of Representatives and the Senate. Once this process is concluded, the Clerk of the National Assembly is responsible for preparing a clean and accurate copy of the bill. This final version is then transmitted to the President, with the expectation that it faithfully reflects what was duly passed by the National Assembly. Ogene maintained that any deviation from this process undermines legislative integrity and raises serious concerns about accountability within the executive arm.
Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has officially withdrawn his membership from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), attributing his decision to prolonged internal conflicts and unresolved legal battles that he said have eroded the party’s unity across the country. The development was made public on Friday through a statement released by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, confirming that the resignation followed extensive consultations and reflection. According to the statement, Governor Yusuf formally communicated his decision through a resignation letter addressed to the Chairman of the NNPP in Diso–Chiranchi Ward, located in Gwale Local Government Area of Kano State. The resignation takes effect from January 25, 2026. In the letter, the governor expressed deep appreciation to the NNPP leadership and members while formally announcing his departure from the party. “I write with a deep sense of gratitude to formally notify the leadership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) of my decision to resign my membership of the party,” the letter stated. Governor Yusuf acknowledged the role the NNPP played in his political journey, particularly since 2022, noting that the party provided the platform that enabled his emergence and service as governor. “I remain sincerely appreciative of the opportunity given to me by the party, its leadership, and members across Kano State to be part of its political journey since 2022,” he noted. However, the governor explained that his decision was influenced by persistent leadership crises, factional disputes, and multiple court cases that have continued to destabilize the party at both the state and national levels. He pointed out that many of the disagreements remain unresolved and are currently subject to judicial proceedings, further weakening internal cohesion. “In recent times, the party has been confronted with persistent internal challenges arising from leadership disagreements and ongoing legal processes, many of which are presently before the courts for judicial determination,” Yusuf stated. According to him, these unresolved issues have resulted in widespread dissatisfaction among party members and significantly weakened the party’s organizational structure. “The growing disenfranchisement among party members has created deep divisions within the party structure, resulting in cracks that appear increasingly irreconcilable,” the letter added. Governor Yusuf emphasized that his resignation was reached after careful consideration and was guided solely by the collective interest of Kano State residents, rather than personal or political grievances. “After careful reflection, and without prejudice to the party’s capacity to resolve its internal challenges, I have come to the conclusion that my resignation is in the best interest of the people of Kano State,” he said, stressing that the decision was taken “in good faith, without any ill will.” The governor’s exit from the NNPP was not an isolated development. It was accompanied by the resignation of 21 members of the Kano State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives, as well as all 44 local government chairmen across the state, further underscoring the scale of the political shift. The resignation letter was formally acknowledged by the Secretary of the NNPP Diso–Chiranchi Ward, Hon. Kabiru Zubairu, who commended Governor Yusuf’s performance while accepting the decision. “I wish to concur with His Excellency on the lingering crisis in our party. Though we are trying our best to contain it, we have no option than to accept the resignation of one of the most performing governors produced by the NNPP,” Zubairu said. He praised Governor Yusuf’s achievements in key sectors such as infrastructure development, urban renewal, healthcare delivery, education, and economic empowerment, as Kano’s political environment continues to experience notable realignments ahead of future political contests.
Kindly Share:
The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has opened up on the reason behind his decision to return to the classroom to pursue a degree in law. Speaking with journalists on Friday shortly after attending his lectures, the Emir explained that studying law later in life is not unusual, noting that many individuals often choose the discipline after retirement or at a mature stage in their careers. According to him, law plays a central role in nearly every aspect of human existence and societal structure. “There is practically nothing anyone can do without the law,” he said. “The law determines how we use the road, how we manage our families, and how marriage is regulated. It governs contracts, land matters, property ownership, inheritance, and succession.” The Emir emphasized that law is not just an academic field but a foundational pillar for social order and stability. He explained that understanding legal principles is essential for maintaining balance within society. He further noted that the absence of law and order creates a dangerous environment where power is abused. “When law and order collapse, the strong simply do what they want, while the weak are left to endure the consequences. Law exists as a protective shield. It is the guardian that preserves decency and ensures a stable and organized society,” he stated. Reflecting on his academic journey, Emir Sanusi described the classroom as a familiar and comfortable environment for him. He shared that this was not his first return to undergraduate studies. “The classroom has always been my natural place,” he said. “I was explaining to the students that the first time I reached level 200 was in 1978. The second time was in 1992. Now, this is the third bachelor’s degree I am pursuing.” He concluded by revealing that studying law had long been a personal ambition. “Law is a course I have always wanted to study,” the Emir added.
Kindly Share:
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is presently holding a private, closed-door meeting with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The engagement comes shortly after the revered traditional ruler concluded a high-level discussion with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, also in Abuja, on Thursday. According to available information, the earlier meeting between the Olubadan and the SGF centered on critical ecological challenges currently affecting various parts of Ibadan city. These environmental concerns have remained a major issue within the ancient city, prompting engagements with top federal officials. Following that discussion, the monarch proceeded to the Presidential Villa for the ongoing audience with President Tinubu. The meeting is being held behind closed doors, with no official briefing released at the time this report was filed. As of now, specific details regarding the agenda, deliberations, or outcomes of the Olubadan’s meeting with the President have not been made public. Authorities are yet to disclose whether the discussion builds directly on the ecological matters earlier raised or addresses other related concerns. Further updates are expected once official information becomes available.
Kindly Share:
The legal contest surrounding the suspension of the senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has taken a new turn as Senate President Godswill Akpabio has again approached the Supreme Court for judicial intervention. Documents obtained on Thursday reveal that Akpabio has submitted an application before the apex court seeking to regularise and uphold his appeal against earlier judgments delivered by lower courts in relation to the suspension dispute. In the filing, Akpabio is named as the appellant, while the respondents include Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, Senator Neda Imasuen. The controversy traces back to a Senate plenary session in February 2025, during which Akpoti-Uduaghan raised matters of privilege and alleged that certain procedural rules were violated during proceedings. Following the session, the issues she raised were referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions. After deliberations, the committee recommended her suspension from legislative duties, a decision that sparked widespread legal and constitutional debate. Unhappy with the outcome, the Kogi Central lawmaker approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, arguing that her suspension violated her right to fair hearing and failed to comply with provisions of the Senate Standing Orders. In its ruling delivered on July 4, 2025, the Federal High Court ruled against the suspension, declaring it excessive, unconstitutional, and inconsistent with established legal principles governing legislative discipline. After subsequent proceedings at the Court of Appeal, Akpabio escalated the matter to the Supreme Court, where he is requesting an extension of time to seek leave to appeal on grounds involving mixed law and fact. He is also asking the court to formally recognise his Notice of Appeal and Brief of Argument as validly filed. In his arguments before the apex court, the Senate President maintained that the Senate acted within its constitutional authority as provided under Section 60 of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers the National Assembly to regulate its internal procedures. He further argued that the Senate President is not legally compelled to rule immediately on every issue of privilege raised during plenary sessions, insisting that the Senate lawfully activated its disciplinary mechanisms in this instance. On her part, Akpoti-Uduaghan has consistently held that her suspension was illegal, asserting that it was imposed without granting her a fair hearing and that the Senate failed to adhere to its own procedural rules. It was confirmed on Thursday that legal representatives of the Kogi senator have been duly served with all Supreme Court documents related to the appeal. The case also encompasses a related contempt proceeding, which arose from a social media post made by Akpoti-Uduaghan while the substantive suit was still before the court. In that matter, the Federal High Court imposed a fine and ordered a public apology, a ruling she has also challenged on appeal. Legal analysts observing the case believe the Supreme Court’s eventual judgment may offer important clarification on the limits of legislative disciplinary powers and the extent to which courts can intervene in internal parliamentary matters. This development comes barely two weeks after Akpabio publicly announced his decision to withdraw several pending court actions against perceived adversaries, adding another layer of complexity to the unfolding legal drama. Despite the ongoing litigation, Akpoti-Uduaghan officially resumed legislative duties on September 23, 2025, after completing a six-month suspension and regaining access to her office at the National Assembly. Her office had remained sealed from March 6, 2025, following the suspension imposed over alleged misconduct linked to a protest against the reassignment of her seating position by Akpabio on February 20. Although the suspension period expired in September, her return was delayed due to persistent legal disputes and resistance from Senate leadership. After the July 4 court ruling, she formally notified the Senate of her intention to resume duties, but the request was initially declined.
Kindly Share:
The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has openly opposed any plan aimed at removing Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s running mate ahead of the 2027 general election. The group described such a move as a serious political error that could weaken the party’s chances. This position was made public in a statement released on Thursday in Abuja by the forum’s chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, following growing reports that certain individuals within the ruling party were lobbying for Shettima’s replacement on the 2027 ticket. Concerns intensified after Vice President Shettima’s photograph was noticeably missing from a large banner displayed during the APC North-East zonal public hearing on proposed amendments to the party’s constitution, held in Maiduguri. The banner carried images of President Tinubu, five APC governors from the region, and the party’s National Legal Adviser, but excluded the vice president. That omission sparked renewed conversations about Shettima’s political future and the sustainability of the APC’s Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket ahead of the next election cycle. Following the incident, reports emerged that some party stakeholders were advocating for the selection of a Christian running mate, particularly from the North-Central zone. Some pressure groups from the region reportedly argued that choosing a Christian vice-presidential candidate would balance religious representation and appeal to minority voters. However, the North-Central APC Forum firmly rejected this reasoning. According to the forum, removing Shettima would be damaging to the party and could seriously endanger President Tinubu’s re-election prospects in 2027. The group stressed that the North-Central region is not lobbying for the vice-presidential slot, explaining that its long-term political focus is on contesting the presidency in 2031, after Tinubu’s tenure. The forum also warned against allowing religious sentiment to dominate strategic political decisions. It argued that, at present, the North lacks a Christian candidate with the necessary grassroots strength, nationwide influence, and political structure capable of complementing Tinubu’s electoral base as effectively as Shettima. In its view, abandoning a ticket that previously delivered victory would only create openings for opposition parties to exploit in the 2027 race. “There is a clear risk in tampering with a winning formula,” the forum stated. “We completely reject all calls or plans to remove Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate in the next election.” The statement further urged President Tinubu and APC leadership to disregard such demands, warning that yielding to them would amount to a costly political misjudgment. The forum accused those pushing for Shettima’s removal of acting against the interests of both the party and the president, suggesting their actions were designed to undermine Tinubu’s chances of securing a second term. “Anyone making such a request does not genuinely want President Bola Tinubu re-elected,” the forum asserted, adding that political experience clearly shows the danger of such a move. Analyzing voting patterns across the North, the group argued that Tinubu would not gain additional electoral support by changing his running mate. Instead, it warned that removing Shettima on religious grounds could trigger voter backlash and result in significant losses for the APC in the region. The forum also pointed out that if an opposition coalition supported by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) fields Peter Obi as its presidential candidate in 2027, changing the vice-presidential slot would not alter voting behavior among many northern minorities. According to the forum, such voters would likely support Obi regardless of Tinubu’s choice of running mate. Based on this assessment, the forum advised President Tinubu to retain Shettima and maintain the current ticket in order to strengthen his chances in the next general election. It further argued that many of those calling for a replacement did not support Tinubu during the 2023 election and would remain unwilling to vote for him in 2027, even if their demands were met. “If you review the 2023 election results carefully,” the forum noted, “you will see that most of these communities voted for Peter Obi of the Labour Party.” The group concluded that even if Obi contests again in 2027 under the ADC platform, there is no assurance that these voters would switch allegiance to Tinubu, regardless of who becomes his running mate.
Kindly Share:
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has expressed profound grief and outrage following a deadly assault on a mining settlement in the Kuru community of Jos South Local Government Area, where seven individuals were brutally killed by suspected terrorists. The violent incident reportedly took place late Wednesday night, leaving multiple others with injuries. This was disclosed in an official statement released on Thursday by the Governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere. Governor Mutfwang described the attack as cruel, unjustified, and deeply distressing, particularly coming at a period when his administration has intensified initiatives aimed at restoring peace and stability across Plateau State. According to the statement, the governor strongly denounced what he described as coordinated attacks carried out in Kuru, Gyel, and Buhum communities located within Chugwi Village of the Vwang District. He reiterated that his government remains unwavering in its responsibility to protect lives and property in all parts of the state. The governor mourned the loss of innocent citizens and emphasized that such acts of violence would not weaken the government’s determination to confront terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities threatening public safety. Governor Mutfwang praised the commitment and perseverance of security agencies operating within Plateau State and urged them to further strengthen intelligence-driven operations to ensure those responsible are swiftly identified, apprehended, and brought to justice. He also instructed security operatives to deepen collaboration with local communities to enable early detection and neutralisation of potential threats, while assuring families affected by the attack of the government’s full support and solidarity. In addition, the governor called on officers of Operation Rainbow to reinforce intelligence collection and early-warning systems to allow for faster and more effective security interventions. Governor Mutfwang reassured residents of Plateau State of his continued dedication to their safety, welfare, and overall well-being. Confirming the incident, the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Artisanal Mining, Emmanuel Solomon, told The PUNCH that seven miners lost their lives during the attack in Kuru. Solomon described the event as deeply unfortunate, noting that it forms part of a troubling pattern of repeated attacks targeting miners within the Jos South council area. He recalled that only days earlier, armed assailants attacked three individuals in another Gyel community. While one person managed to escape, two others were killed during the ambush as they made their way to a mining site. Solomon further revealed that about two weeks before the Kuru incident, another group of miners was attacked, resulting in two deaths and one injury. The injured individual is currently receiving medical care at Lome Hospital. Speaking with visible grief, Solomon disclosed that one of the deceased victims was his younger brother, lamenting that innocent people continue to lose their lives to senseless violence across the state. He stressed that the worsening situation demands immediate action and assured that the Plateau State Government would investigate the matter thoroughly to ensure miners receive adequate security protection moving forward. Attempts to obtain official reactions from security agencies were unsuccessful. The Jos South Area Commander of the Nigerian Forest Security Service, Pam Gyang Pwajok, said he was not immediately aware of the incident but promised to make inquiries. Similarly, the spokesperson for the Plateau State Police Command, Alabo Alfred, could not be reached as his mobile phone was switched off. This latest attack underscores a growing trend of violent assaults on mining communities in Plateau State, intensifying concerns over the safety of artisanal miners and highlighting the urgent need for stronger security measures across Jos South and surrounding areas.
Kindly Share:
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has initiated a legal case against the Joint Unions Action Committee of the Federal Capital Territory Administration following the ongoing indefinite strike embarked upon by FCTA workers. The matter is scheduled to be heard on Monday at the National Industrial Court in Abuja. Employees of both the Federal Capital Territory Administration and the Federal Capital Development Authority began the indefinite industrial action on Monday after a seven-day ultimatum issued to management elapsed without resolution. The strike has significantly disrupted official activities across major government offices within Abuja. As a result of the industrial action, operations at the FCTA Secretariat were completely halted. Security operatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, alongside officers of the Nigeria Police Force, were deployed to the secretariat to prevent access to the premises and maintain order. Although the management of the FCTA maintained that the majority of the workers’ grievances had already been addressed, the Joint Unions Action Committee dismissed the claim. The union leadership insisted that the critical demands presented to the authorities remained unresolved, thereby justifying the continuation of the strike. Court documents obtained on Thursday revealed that the lawsuit was filed at the Abuja Division of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria. The case, marked with suit number NICN/ABJ/17/2026, is being handled by Justice E. D. Subilim. In the suit, the claimants are the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and the FCTA, while the defendants are the President of the Joint Unions Action Committee, Rifkatu Iortyer, and the Secretary-General, Abdullahi Saleh, both sued in their representative capacities. The court filings indicate that the minister and the FCTA are seeking an order to restrain the unions and their representatives from carrying out activities such as picketing, obstruction, lockouts, or any other actions targeted at the claimants, departmental leadership, and political appointees. The unions were accused of obstructing roads, sealing offices, and interfering with the effective administration of the Federal Capital Territory. At the hearing of the application, legal representatives for the claimants were present in court, while the defendants were not in attendance. The minister and the FCTA were represented by a team of senior legal practitioners, including Ogwu Onoja (SAN), M. A. Ebute (SAN), George Ibrahim (SAN), K. O. Mustapha, and Esther Audu. After examining the affidavits and written arguments presented before the court, Justice Subilim ruled that the applicants had shown sufficient justification for the reliefs sought. The court consequently granted permission for substituted service of court documents on the defendants. In a ruling delivered on January 21, the court authorised that the court processes be served through publication in Leadership Newspaper or any other national daily newspaper. The judge also ordered that the documents be pasted at the office of the Joint Unions Action Committee located within the FCTA Secretariat at No. 1 Kapital Street, Area 11, Garki, Abuja. The court further declared that the adopted method of service would be regarded as valid and legally binding. Justice Subilim stated that after listening to submissions from the applicants’ counsel and reviewing the reliefs requested alongside the supporting affidavits and written addresses, the court was satisfied that a case had been established. He therefore granted leave for the originating and subsequent court processes to be served through substituted means and adjourned the matter to January 26, 2026, for a motion on notice. Despite the legal proceedings, the Joint Unions Action Committee has affirmed that the strike will continue. In a statement released on Thursday and signed by the union’s Publicity Secretary, Holina Adejoh, the leadership praised workers for adhering to the directive to remain away from their duty posts. The statement expressed appreciation to members for their compliance and reaffirmed that the industrial action would persist until all demands were addressed. The union also acknowledged awareness of the court case, informing workers that the Minister of the FCTA had instituted legal proceedings against the union leadership.
Kindly Share:
No fewer than eleven Nigerian nationals have been taken into custody by Thai immigration officials and police operatives following the exposure of a suspected international romance fraud operation in Thailand. The arrests took place after authorities uncovered a 13-member syndicate believed to be operating from the Muang Thong Thani area. The operation was reportedly uncovered earlier in the week and made public by a local media platform, Thailand News, on Thursday. According to the report, the investigation was triggered by a formal complaint lodged by a Thai woman in 2025. She alleged that she had been financially deceived by an individual she met through social media while they were engaged in an online romantic relationship. The victim explained that the suspect had contacted her using Facebook and Line, presenting himself as a Chinese engineer. Over time, the individual reportedly built emotional trust and convinced her that he was involved in a construction project but was temporarily unable to access his funds. Based on this narrative, the suspect persuaded the woman to send money to assist with the supposed project. The report stated that she eventually transferred more than two million baht into accounts later identified as mule accounts. Investigators disclosed that financial tracking led them to the Thai nationals who controlled the receiving accounts. These individuals were subsequently charged, which allowed law enforcement to trace the transactions back to an organised criminal network. Further findings revealed that the group operated from a condominium located in Nonthaburi. Members of the syndicate reportedly carried out assigned roles, including online romance engagement, account recruitment, and cash withdrawal operations. Following intelligence gathered during the investigation, the Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, Pol Lt Gen Phanumas Boonyaluck, authorised a coordinated enforcement operation. During the raid, officers reportedly caught the suspects actively conducting live romance scams using computers and mobile devices. Authorities arrested all thirteen individuals found at the location, comprising eleven Nigerians and two nationals from Côte d’Ivoire. Reports indicated that some of the suspects attempted to escape the scene without footwear but were apprehended by security operatives. Immigration checks revealed that eight of the suspects had overstayed their visas, while five Nigerian nationals admitted to entering Thailand illegally through the Laos border. As a result, all suspects are facing charges related to visa overstay and unlawful entry. Law enforcement agents also confiscated thirty-four electronic devices, including laptops and mobile phones. These devices allegedly contained digital evidence showing coordinated romance scams, where suspects impersonated wealthy European and Asian individuals to deceive both Thai and foreign women. Investigators further established connections between the arrested suspects and the original Nong Khai complaint. Evidence also suggested that proceeds from the alleged scams were transferred to Nigeria using cryptocurrency channels. Thai authorities have confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with efforts focused on dismantling the broader criminal network and identifying additional individuals linked to the operation. The arrests occurred barely a week after another Nigerian national was apprehended in Thailand over alleged drug-related offences. Earlier reports by LMSINT MEDIA stated that a Nigerian resident in Thailand, identified as Ukoma Jefta Nuzbech, was arrested after allegedly absconding from an ongoing trial connected to a drug distribution case in the Koh Pha Ngan area.
Kindly Share:
The United States has formally completed its exit from the World Health Organisation (WHO), according to an announcement released by the White House on Thursday. The decision was linked to concerns over how the global health body handled the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside what US officials described as a long-standing failure to implement critical institutional reforms. In an official statement, the White House explained that both the US Department of Health and Human Services and the US Department of State supported the move. The withdrawal was attributed to what the administration described as WHO’s poor management of the COVID-19 crisis, which originated in Wuhan, China, as well as the organisation’s inability to demonstrate political independence from certain member states. The statement specifically accused WHO of mishandling the early stages of the pandemic, failing to introduce urgent reforms, and allowing inappropriate political influence to shape its actions and decisions. According to US officials, these factors collectively undermined trust in the organisation’s leadership and operational neutrality. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio, confirmed that while the withdrawal has been finalised, the United States will maintain limited coordination with WHO strictly for the purpose of completing the disengagement process. The withdrawal process officially began on January 20, 2025, when President Donald Trump publicly declared the administration’s intention to pull the United States out of the organisation. Following that announcement, the US gradually reduced its involvement over the course of the year. During this period, the United States halted its financial contributions to WHO, withdrew American personnel working within the organisation, and reassigned activities previously conducted through WHO to direct partnerships with other countries and international bodies. These actions marked a steady reduction in US participation before the final withdrawal was completed. The White House further criticised WHO for what it described as delays in declaring both a global public health emergency and a pandemic during the early spread of COVID-19. According to the statement, these delays cost the international community valuable time, allowing the virus to spread more widely before coordinated global responses were implemented. US officials also accused WHO leadership of publicly supporting and praising China’s handling of the outbreak, despite evidence suggesting early underreporting, suppression of information, and delays in confirming human-to-human transmission of the virus. Additionally, the statement claimed that WHO underestimated the risks associated with asymptomatic transmission and failed to promptly recognise and communicate the airborne nature of the virus. These shortcomings, the White House argued, weakened global containment efforts at a critical stage of the pandemic. Beyond pandemic response issues, WHO was also criticised for failing to introduce reforms following COVID-19. The White House highlighted concerns over the organisation’s report on the possible origins of the virus, which dismissed the theory that COVID-19 may have been created in a laboratory. According to the US statement, this conclusion was reached despite China’s refusal to release genetic sequences from individuals infected early in the outbreak and a lack of transparency regarding the activities and biosafety standards of laboratories in Wuhan. LMSINT MEDIA also reported that WHO disclosed the United States had not paid its membership dues for both 2024 and 2025. These unpaid contributions reportedly total approximately $260 million. WHO indicated that while the issue would be discussed during its executive board meeting scheduled for February, the organisation had no mechanism to block the US withdrawal. Reacting to the development, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus expressed disappointment over the decision. He stated that the withdrawal represented a loss not only for the United States but also for the broader international community. According to him, the issue extended beyond funding and centred on cooperation, unity, and global solidarity in addressing public health challenges. Despite the exit, the White House reaffirmed that the United States intends to continue playing a leadership role in global health. The administration said it will pursue this through direct collaboration with other nations, private sector partners, non-governmental organisations, and faith-based institutions. The US emphasised that its future global health efforts will focus on emergency preparedness and response, biosecurity coordination, and advancing health innovation both domestically and internationally.
Kindly Share:
Samsung is re‑imagining its voice assistant experience by launching a significantly enhanced AI‑powered Bixby assistant that delivers smarter, more natural interactions and improved on‑device intelligence. The retooled Bixby, now part of the upcoming One UI 8.5 update, is designed to make voice‑driven commands more intuitive and capable while reducing the effort required to control everyday tasks on Galaxy devices. Conversational AI with Real‑Time Web Knowledge One of the most noticeable changes in the reinvented assistant is its ability to understand natural language and context more effectively. Instead of limited command‑based interactions, Samsung’s new Bixby can engage in conversational back‑and‑forth, making requests feel more fluent and human‑like. It can generate responses using up‑to‑date information thanks to integration with powerful AI search systems that tap into real‑time web data to provide timely answers across various topics. This upgrade means users will no longer be restricted to rigid voice commands; instead, Bixby can interpret broader requests and provide context‑aware results — such as finding recent news, planning itineraries, or offering insights that draw from current web content — all without leaving the device experience. Smarter On‑Device Intelligence and Offline Functionality Samsung also focused on bolstering on‑device intelligence with the enhanced Bixby. Previously, voice assistants often required consistent internet connectivity to perform intelligence tasks. However, the upgraded system allows the assistant to perform essential actions such as setting timers, adjusting system settings, taking screenshots, and activating features entirely offline. This brings faster responsiveness and improved privacy since tasks can be handled internally without sending data to remote servers. The integration of expanded language recognition and improved processing also means Bixby supports a wider range of languages, enabling richer and more accurate voice dictation and understanding for users in different linguistic settings. Personalized Voice Features and Better Context Understanding In addition to enhanced intelligence, Samsung is introducing new personalization options for Bixby. Users can customize how Bixby answers calls with typed voice responses, and in some regions, even generate a custom voice that mimics their natural tone. These enhancements aim to make Bixby feel more personal and adaptable to each individual’s preferences and communication style. This contextual awareness extends to everyday device behavior. For example, a user can begin an activity in one app — such as tracking a workout in Samsung Health — and then ask Bixby to play matching music or take actions aligned with what they’re doing, reflecting a deeper ability to link intentions across tasks. Availability and Rollout The new Bixby experience is being introduced initially through the One UI 8.5 beta program and is expected to roll out widely with the stable update beginning in early 2026. This rollout will first target the latest Galaxy flagship series — including the Samsung Galaxy S26 — before expanding to a broader range of compatible Samsung devices via software updates. Samsung’s commitment to giving Bixby a fresh lease on life signals its push to make built‑in intelligence a core pillar of user interaction, aiming to stand out in a crowded voice assistant landscape dominated by competitors like Apple Siri, Google Assistant, and emerging systems such as Gemini — all while enhancing the overall ecosystem of mobile AI features that users enjoy today.
Kindly Share:
Netflix has begun using artificial intelligence–powered tools to improve how subtitles are localized across different languages, aiming to make its content more accessible to a worldwide audience. The streaming platform says the new AI-driven approach is designed to speed up subtitle translation while maintaining clarity, cultural accuracy, and consistency across regions. As Netflix continues to expand its international catalog, subtitle quality has become increasingly important. Viewers from different countries rely on accurate translations to fully understand stories, emotions, and context. According to the company, traditional subtitle workflows often require extensive manual effort, which can slow down the release of content in multiple languages. The newly introduced AI tools are intended to support human translators by reducing repetitive tasks and accelerating turnaround times. Netflix explained that the technology assists in generating initial subtitle drafts, identifying linguistic patterns, and maintaining uniform terminology across episodes and seasons. By doing so, translators can focus more on refining tone, meaning, and cultural relevance rather than starting translations from scratch. This collaborative process between AI systems and language experts is expected to improve both efficiency and subtitle quality. The company also emphasized that human oversight remains central to the localization process. While AI helps automate portions of translation, final decisions and adjustments are still handled by professional linguists. Netflix noted that this balance ensures subtitles remain natural and accurate, avoiding errors that can arise from fully automated translation systems. Another key benefit of the AI-powered localization tools is faster global accessibility. With reduced translation timelines, Netflix can release shows and films in multiple regions more quickly, allowing international audiences to access new content closer to its original release date. This approach supports the platform’s broader goal of making entertainment available to viewers regardless of language barriers. Netflix stated that these tools are part of its ongoing investment in technology to enhance viewer experience. By improving subtitle localization, the company aims to strengthen engagement with non-English-speaking audiences and support the growing demand for international content. The initiative reflects Netflix’s strategy to combine innovation with human expertise to deliver consistent, high-quality viewing experiences worldwide.
Kindly Share:
The rapid growth of artificial intelligence has reignited long-standing concerns about how creative work is sourced, used, and rewarded in the digital economy. Pinterest’s chief executive has now weighed in on the debate, warning that the current approach to AI development risks repeating the mistakes of the early digital music era—often described as the “Napster phase.” According to the Pinterest CEO, artificial intelligence cannot continue operating in a way that extracts value from creators without offering clear and fair compensation in return. The comparison to Napster highlights a period when content circulated freely online while creators were largely excluded from the economic benefits. In the context of AI, this concern centers on how models are trained using massive volumes of creative material without transparent agreements or value exchange. Pinterest’s leadership argues that the long-term success of AI depends on building systems that respect creative ownership rather than undermining it. As AI tools increasingly influence content discovery, design, and inspiration, the company believes creators must remain central to the ecosystem rather than becoming invisible contributors. A Call for Responsible and Inclusive AI Development The company’s stance reflects a broader shift in the tech industry toward responsible AI practices. Rather than restricting innovation, Pinterest is advocating for a democratized model where creators, platforms, and technology developers all benefit. This approach promotes balance—ensuring that AI innovation does not come at the expense of those who generate original ideas and visual inspiration. Pinterest has positioned itself as a platform rooted in creativity, discovery, and user inspiration. From this perspective, respecting creators is not optional but essential. The CEO’s remarks underline the belief that ethical AI systems must be designed with fairness, accountability, and transparency at their core. Why the “Napster Phase” Comparison Matters The reference to Napster is symbolic rather than nostalgic. It serves as a warning about what happens when technology advances faster than the frameworks that protect creative labor. In the music industry, the lack of structure around digital distribution initially harmed artists before new models emerged to restore balance. In the AI space, Pinterest suggests that a similar turning point is approaching. Without clear rules for how creative data is used and how creators are rewarded, trust in AI systems could erode. Ending this “Napster phase” means establishing value exchange mechanisms that recognize the contributions of creators whose work fuels AI capabilities. Building AI That Works for Everyone Pinterest’s vision aligns with a future where AI enhances creativity instead of exploiting it. By supporting a more open yet responsible system, the company aims to ensure that creators remain empowered participants in the digital economy. This approach also signals to policymakers and technology leaders that sustainable AI development requires cooperation across industries. Platforms that rely on creative content must actively protect the interests of those who produce it, while still enabling innovation and accessibility. As AI continues to shape how content is created and discovered, the message from Pinterest is clear: progress must be paired with responsibility. A fair exchange of value is not just ethical—it is necessary for the long-term health of the creative and technological ecosystems.
