Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is reportedly in a coma, and his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been named as his successor, according to Israeli news outlet Ynet News, citing Iran International. Mojtaba Khamenei, the 85-year-old leader’s second son, was allegedly selected as successor during a confidential meeting of the Assembly of Experts on September 26. The meeting, convened at Khamenei’s request, was reportedly marked by intense pressure to reach a unanimous decision, with claims that Khamenei and his representatives issued threats to ensure the outcome. Over the past two years, Mojtaba Khamenei has reportedly gained significant influence within Iran’s political structure. While he is rarely seen in public, he is known for his involvement in suppressing the 2009 post-election protests. In 2021, he was granted the title of ayatollah, fulfilling a constitutional requirement to assume the role of Supreme Leader. The report suggests that the decision to appoint Mojtaba as successor was kept secret to avoid public unrest, with the Assembly of Experts reportedly warned against leaking any details. Iran International stated that the assembly took extreme measures to maintain secrecy, fearing protests if the decision became public. Sources indicate that Khamenei plans to transfer power to his son while still alive, ensuring a smoother transition and minimizing potential opposition. Earlier on Saturday, rumors circulated that Khamenei had fallen into a coma. This followed an October report by The New York Times, which described the Supreme Leader as “seriously ill.” However, Iranian authorities have not confirmed or denied these claims. These reports emerge amid growing internal and external pressures on the Iranian regime, highlighting efforts to maintain control during challenging times. READ ALSO: Canada now permits international students to work up to 24 hours a week
Canada has updated its regulations to allow eligible international students to work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic terms, an increase from the previous limit of 20 hours. This change aims to provide students with more opportunities to gain practical work experience while still prioritizing their academic commitments. Marc Miller, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, explained that the increased work hours strike a balance between offering valuable employment opportunities and ensuring that students remain focused on their studies. “This adjustment will offer students greater flexibility to manage their time and gain hands-on experience,” Miller said. In October 2022, Miller highlighted the importance of work experience for international students, noting, “With Canada’s economy growing faster than new workers can be hired, it’s essential to explore all options to ensure we have the skilled workforce needed for growth. Immigration will play a key role in addressing our labour shortages. By enabling international students to work more while studying, we can help meet critical needs in various sectors, while providing students with the opportunity to gain valuable Canadian work experience and contribute to Canada’s recovery and long-term prosperity.” Key Changes to the International Student Program Under the new rules, international students in Canada are now permitted to work full-time during academic breaks, such as the summer and winter holidays. These breaks provide students with the chance to boost their earnings without interfering with their studies, helping them achieve greater financial stability while continuing their education. The updated regulations aim to help students balance work and study more effectively. By raising the weekly work limit to 24 hours, Canada is offering more employment opportunities while still ensuring that academic commitments are the priority, promoting a manageable study schedule. Additionally, designated educational institutions are now required to submit biannual reports to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), confirming students’ enrollment and academic progress. This ensures students are meeting the conditions of their study permits, supporting the integrity of Canada’s International Student Program. A new rule also requires international students to seek approval before transferring to a different Designated Learning Institution (DLI). If students wish to change institutions, they must apply for a new study permit to ensure compliance with permit conditions and maintain academic standards across Canada’s educational institutions. In Quebec, international students can work off-campus without needing a separate work permit, provided they meet certain criteria. To qualify for the new work opportunities, students must be enrolled full-time in a post-secondary, vocational, or professional training program, or a vocational program at the secondary level. The program must last at least six months and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate. READ ALSO: Dangote looks to borrow money to expand its refinery.
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Africa’s wealthiest individual, Nigerian tycoon Aliko Dangote, is in negotiations to secure billions of dollars in additional funding to expand operations at his $20 billion oil refinery located near Lagos. The refinery, one of the continent’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, aims to transform Nigeria’s energy sector and reduce the nation’s dependence on imported petroleum products. According to Financial Times reports, Dangote is in discussions with a mix of commercial lenders, development banks, oil traders, and other key industry players to raise the funds necessary for ensuring a consistent crude oil supply to the refinery, which has the capacity to process 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) once fully operational. Dangote Industries has already sourced crude from international suppliers in the U.S. and Brazil, and is exploring partnerships with African countries like Libya and Angola to meet the refinery’s growing demand. The refinery began production earlier this year and is already processing 420,000 bpd, with Dangote aiming to reach full capacity by mid-2025, despite setbacks in meeting earlier targets. In September, the refinery began producing jet fuel and naphtha, followed by petrol in October, fuelling hopes that Nigeria could finally end its long-standing reliance on fuel imports. However, Dangote’s efforts to secure a stable flow of crude have been complicated by challenges with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), the state-owned oil corporation that was supposed to supply a significant portion of the crude required. In recent discussions, Dangote sought guarantees from President Bola Tinubu and NNPC CEO Mele Kyari for a steady supply of 365,000 bpd of crude, which would be paid for in Nigeria’s depreciating currency, the naira. In December, the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), a pan-African development bank that is already invested in the refinery, led a financing round to help get the project off the ground. As production increases, Dangote now faces the challenge of securing additional funds to cover both crude procurement and the refinery’s operating expenses, which could amount to about $2 billion every 90 days for a minimum supply of 300,000 bpd. Several financiers have expressed concerns over the naira’s significant devaluation, which has made financing and crude imports more expensive. Some analysts are skeptical that the refinery will achieve profitability under these financial pressures. One source told the Financial Times, “The refinery was built over budget, and the naira, which will be a major source of revenue, has devalued massively.” Additionally, NNPC’s stake in the refinery has been reduced to 7.2% after it failed to meet the payment schedule for a deal valued at $2.7 billion. NNPC made an initial payment of $1 billion in 2021 but has not been able to cover the remaining $1.76 billion, which was supposed to be paid in crude supplies. This situation has raised doubts about NNPC’s ability to meet Dangote’s needs, especially given the significant crude quantities it has already committed to in forward contracts. Despite these challenges, Dangote remains determined to use the refinery to meet Nigeria’s entire daily demand for petrol, which he estimates at 30 to 35 million liters. Once fully operational, the refinery could dramatically reduce Nigeria’s need for imported fuel, which costs the government billions annually. A report by Knightsbridge Strategic Group (KSG), a geopolitical intelligence firm, suggests that Dangote’s refinery could eventually help lower fuel costs in Nigeria and increase competition in the European fuel market. Once the refinery reaches full capacity, Nigeria could become a major exporter of refined oil products, providing an alternative to European nations seeking to reduce their reliance on Russian oil. However, KSG cautions that persistent crude shortages and the weak naira could delay the refinery’s progress towards full capacity. The report warns that if NNPC continues to delay its crude supply, the refinery will face financial strain due to its massive debt commitments. It projects that the refinery may not reach full capacity until at least mid-2025, which would prolong Nigeria’s dependence on expensive foreign crude imports, further straining the nation’s economy. KSG also highlights the political implications of Nigeria’s refinery challenges. The government’s inability to resolve fuel supply issues could fuel rising inflation, higher fuel prices, and social unrest. The removal of fuel subsidies earlier this year has already led to protests, and ongoing issues with Dangote’s refinery could intensify public dissatisfaction. READ ALSO: 13 more trafficking girls were saved from Ghana.
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The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), in partnership with key stakeholders, has successfully repatriated 13 more trafficked Nigerian girls from Ghana, bringing the total number of rescued victims to 163 over the past five months. This rescue mission was the result of a collaborative effort between the Ghanaian Anti-Human Trafficking Police, the Rescue Live Foundation International, NIDO Ghana, and NiDCOM. NiDCOM’s Chairman/CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, expressed her gratitude to the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, for their steadfast support in facilitating the safe return of the victims. She also praised the pivotal contributions of Chief Callistus Elozieuwa, Board Chairman of Rescue Live Foundation International and NIDO Ghana, as well as the Ghanaian Anti-Human Trafficking Police for their efforts in apprehending the traffickers. Dabiri-Erewa reiterated NiDCOM’s dedication to protecting the rights of Nigerians abroad, as outlined in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes combating human trafficking. According to NiDCOM’s Head of Media and Public Relations, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the rescued victims, aged between 19 and 30, are from Ebonyi, Benue, Kaduna, and Rivers states. They had been lured to Ghana under false promises of employment, only to be exploited and coerced into secrecy. A NiDCOM representative, Akinboye Akinsola, who accompanied the girls back to Nigeria, mentioned that the victims reached out for help after learning about previous rescue operations. Upon their return, the girls were handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for rehabilitation and further support. READ ALSO: The United State election and Donald Trump’s comeback
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The election of Mr. Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States has been a shocking turn of events, both for American Democrats and much of the world. This outcome is particularly jarring because it resulted in the victory of a leader burdened by significant criminal and moral controversies. Prior to the election, Trump was facing multiple criminal charges, including conspiracy to defraud the government, voter disenfranchisement, and obstruction of official proceedings, along with other serious allegations. While Americans have the right to choose their leader, it was hoped that they would consider the global impact of their choice, given the moral challenges that could impede the U.S.’s leadership role on the world stage. Despite the heated rhetoric and controversies leading up to the November 5 election, Donald Trump emerged victorious, defeating Democratic candidate and Vice President Kamala Harris. This marked his return to the presidency after previously serving as the 45th president. Tensions had been high in the lead-up to the election, with issues like immigration, the evolving “woke” culture, and the state of traditional American society taking center stage. Notably, Trump survived two assassination attempts before the vote, which further amplified the high stakes surrounding the election. The significance of the U.S. presidential election extends beyond American borders due to the country’s central role in global affairs. After the end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union, the U.S. emerged as the dominant superpower, despite a shift towards a multipolar world order. The U.S. dollar remains the world’s primary currency, and the country’s trade and security policies have a profound impact globally. As such, the character and actions of U.S. presidential candidates are of great interest to people around the world. Trump, who had been mired in legal controversies, impeachment proceedings, and accusations of inciting insurrection against American democracy on January 6, 2021, presented himself as a staunch pro-Israel, conservative leader. His views on issues such as LGBT rights, abortion, and the regeneration of Christian values resonated with traditionalist Americans. As The Economist noted, Trump made bold and controversial promises, including deporting millions of illegal immigrants and using the military to crack down on left-wing activists within the Democratic Party. On the other hand, Kamala Harris, Trump’s opponent, was seen as more polished and diplomatic, with a clear grasp of her proposed policies. However, her stances on issues like abortion, LGBT rights, and drug legalization alienated some voters, while others criticized the Biden administration’s foreign policy record. The Economist highlighted that many Americans viewed the Democratic Party’s criticisms of Trump as hypocritical, especially given their perception of the misuse of the justice system against him. They also felt that Biden’s foreign policy failures were more severe than anything seen during Trump’s first term. Ultimately, Trump won the election, and Harris conceded, emphasizing the importance of accepting the outcome in a democracy. She reminded Americans that the peaceful transfer of power is a fundamental principle of American democracy, one that distinguishes it from authoritarian regimes. However, we believe that Trump’s election, given his moral and criminal baggage, signals a decline in American democracy. The world has little to learn from such a leader, especially when it comes to moral leadership, which plays a crucial role in fostering global peace and the prosperity of great nations. While Trump may now be more politically astute than he was in 2017, concerns remain about his ability to follow through on his pledges. On the economic front, policies like higher tariffs and tax cuts may exacerbate inflation, especially with the expected mass deportation of illegal immigrants. These developments could lead to a labor supply shock, further inflating prices. On the global stage, Trump’s foreign policy will be closely watched. Under his leadership, the U.S. avoided major military conflicts, but questions remain about how he will handle ongoing crises, such as the situation in Gaza, the expansion of NATO, and the Russian-Ukrainian war. Another key issue is his stance on Taiwan and the U.S.-China trade war, particularly whether he will maintain Biden’s support for Taiwan or intensify the tariff war with China. Furthermore, there is concern about whether Trump will continue to treat the Global South with the same disregard as he did during his first term. While The Economist offers some retrospective solace, noting that Trump’s first presidency wasn’t the disaster many Democrats predicted, the reality is that there were still significant issues under his administration, from the economy to foreign policy. Though Trump did not succeed in overturning the 2020 election results, his time in office was marked by significant controversies. Nevertheless, there is hope that the U.S. system of checks and balances—through the judiciary, legislature, and other institutions—will provide necessary oversight. As time will tell how Trump’s second presidency unfolds, there are valuable lessons for countries, particularly in Africa. In nations like Nigeria, electoral processes often suffer from apathy, vote-buying, and other forms of corruption. In contrast, American democracy underscores the sanctity of the vote, where the results are accepted by all sides for the good of the nation, not personal gain. National interest consistently outweighs self-interest, a principle that many African democracies could learn from as they seek to strengthen their own electoral processes. READ ALSO: Nigerian consumers are at a breaking point due to the unaffordable cost of living.
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Nigeria is currently experiencing one of its most difficult economic periods, and for the average consumer, life is becoming increasingly unbearable. With inflation soaring to record levels, the naira’s value plummeting, fuel subsidies removed, and prices skyrocketing across the board, many Nigerians are finding it nearly impossible to survive. The purchasing power of ordinary Nigerians has been severely eroded, forcing families to make agonizing decisions. Millions are struggling to meet even their most basic needs. Mr. Amos Ifeduba, in an interview with Daily Independent, remarked, “The economic situation in Nigeria has reached a point where it is no longer just about struggling to make ends meet, it is about mere survival.” Backing up Ifeduba’s comments, recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveals that inflation surged to a staggering 26.7% in September 2024, up from 20.77% in the same month the previous year. This inflation spike is largely driven by the skyrocketing prices of food and essential goods. Food inflation alone has shot up by 31.5%, making it increasingly difficult for the average Nigerian to afford basic meals. Staple items such as rice, beans, and cooking oil, once accessible to most families, have now become luxury items. The price of rice has jumped from ₦30,000 per 50kg bag to over ₦50,000 in just a year. Similarly, cooking oil prices have surged by 70%, and beans and other key ingredients have become out of reach for millions. The inflation crisis is further worsened by the removal of fuel subsidies. Fuel prices have risen to ₦1,071 per liter, leading to a chain reaction that has driven up transportation costs, which in turn, has inflated the prices of almost everything, from food to clothing to healthcare. The high cost of transport is preventing many Nigerians from commuting to work or school regularly, limiting their economic opportunities and further deepening their struggles. With the newly approved minimum wage of ₦70,000, many Nigerians still earn far below this threshold. The reality is that for the majority of workers, making ends meet has become an increasingly difficult challenge. In major cities like Lagos and Abuja, the cost of living has outpaced wage growth by a wide margin, and the gap between income and expenses is widening. A recent World Bank survey revealed that more than 60% of Nigerians are now living below the poverty line. The situation is dire: a typical household now spends a significant portion of its income on food, leaving little room for essentials such as education, healthcare, and housing. For many, food now accounts for 80% or more of their monthly expenses, forcing them to cut back on even the most basic needs. The frustration of consumers is palpable. During a recent market survey in Ogba, Lagos, trader Iya Wale expressed her frustration: “Everything don dear, no be small. Dem talk say rice, ewa, and agbado go cheap if we vote for them, but today, we nor fit buy them for market. How person go chop when everything cost like this? Dem no dey feel us for government.” In Ogun State, Mr. Kenneth Ndimele, a civil servant, shared his despair: “I can’t even explain how things have changed. My salary is still the same, but food prices have doubled. My children’s school fees are overdue, and I’m borrowing money to survive. With the high cost of transport, I’m not sure how long I can keep up with this life.” Similarly, Kemi Arokola, a single mother in Surulere, Lagos, said: “I used to stock rice worth ₦30,000, but now I have to spend ₦50,000 because the price of a 50kg bag has gone up to ₦90,000 or more. How am I supposed to feed my kids? They’re skipping meals, and every day I worry about where the next meal will come from. It breaks my heart to see them suffer.” The pressure on consumers is relentless, and it’s not just the poorest Nigerians who are feeling the heat. The middle class, once considered stable, is also being squeezed out of the economy. A report from the African Development Bank (AfDB) reveals that over 70% of middle-class Nigerians have had to cut back on discretionary spending, even on critical areas like healthcare and education. Many are dipping into their savings, or worse, accumulating debt just to survive. The situation has become so dire that many middle-class families are now facing tough choices they never imagined they’d have to make. Economist Mr. Ben Nnamdi commented: “What we’re seeing now is an economy that is fundamentally unsustainable for the average Nigerian consumer. The rise in inflation, the devaluation of the naira, and stagnant wages are eroding the quality of life for millions. Even those once considered financially stable are feeling the pinch.” In response to the crisis, the government has introduced measures such as cash transfers to vulnerable households. However, these interventions are widely seen as insufficient. The ₦8,000 cash transfer, meant to help the poorest Nigerians, is hardly enough to offset the increasing cost of living. For a family spending upwards of ₦20,000 a week on food alone, ₦8,000 is barely a drop in the ocean. Consumer rights advocate Mrs. Yetunde Akinyemi criticized the government’s approach: “While the cash transfers are well-intentioned, they fail to address the underlying issues that are causing the economic hardship. Inflation, fuel prices, and the depreciation of the naira are the real problems, and until these are tackled, the situation will only worsen.” While the government has promised reforms to tackle these challenges, many remain skeptical about the feasibility and effectiveness of these promises. The scale of the crisis demands immediate, large-scale action to relieve suffering. The economic struggles faced by Nigerian consumers are not merely about rising prices—they reflect a deeper systemic failure to provide for the country’s people. Experts argue that comprehensive economic reforms are urgently needed to address inflation, stabilize the naira, and create sustainable sources of income for households. Without these reforms, the pain for consumers will only intensify, and Nigeria risks facing
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Justice Ayokunle Faji of the Federal High Court in Lagos has mandated a swift trial for four bloggers accused of defamation and cyberstalking against the management of Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) and its Group CEO, Mr. Segun Agbaje. The defendants, identified as Precious Eze, Olawale Rotimi, Rowland Olonishuwa, and Seun Odunlami, face 10 revised charges for allegedly disseminating false information about GTCO through various social media outlets. During the court session held on November 13th and 14th, Justice Faji denied the defendants’ bail requests, stressing the gravity of the allegations, which carry potential sentences of up to 14 years in prison. The judge pointed out that Precious Eze had a record of similar misconduct and was on bail for a related case when the current alleged offence took place. This fact raised concerns about his likelihood of reoffending if granted bail. Justice Faji also noted that such activities could have destabilizing consequences for the banking sector, especially as some of the charges pertain to cross-border online activities. READ ALSO: Obasanjo: Nigeria is a failed state due to Baba-go-slow, Emilokan
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light (1 Peter 2:9). Peter’s beautiful words help us to further understand Christianity. In Christianity, we’ve been born into God’s marvellous light, His wonderful light. The word “marvellous” means wondrous. Most translations interpret this as if we’re being brought out of literal darkness into light. But that’s not the full picture. When it says He brought us out of darkness, the term “darkness” actually means obscurity. He called you out of obscurity. He’s not referring to being called out of the kingdom of darkness in a general sense, but rather being brought out of obscurity—out of being unknown, unrecognized, unnoticed, where nobody knows or cares about you. He brought you out of obscurity into limelight, His wondrous or wonderful light. Why does He call it wonderful light? It will take several scriptures to fully explain this, but I want you to understand that this is the light of Jesus Christ. In Luke 1:79, Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist spoke about the message of salvation that would be brought forth, saying that this message would illuminate those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death: “To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” They were sitting in darkness, sitting in obscurity, but Christ would be their light. This means His wonderful light does two things: it illuminates you and then makes you luminous. You become lambent and resplendent. Yours is the kind of light that both illuminates and transforms into a light source itself. The light is so strong, so dazzling that it turns its subjects into lights. That’s why it’s described as His marvellous light, His wondrous light. You’ve been brought into this light, and now you are lambent. Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, thank you for bringing me into your marvellous light. I’m no longer hidden, unknown, or obscure; I’m a city set on a hill, lambent with unquenchable intensity. My life is a testament to your transformative power as I continue to grow and glow in your wondrous light, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY:Matthew 5:14-16Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Isaiah 60:1Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. Ephesians 5:8For ye were sometimes darkness, but now [are ye] light in the Lord: walk as children of light: 2 Corinthians 4:6 NIVFor God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ. READ ALSO: Rhapsody Of Realities 17 November 2024. DISPLAYING HIS EXCELLENCE AND PERFECTION. But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may proclaim the virtues of the one who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9 NET). I am enjoying God’s boundless grace; it is at work in me continuously. No matter what happens to those in the world, I stand firm in faith, and I enjoy my glorious life now. I bask in the provisions of Christ for my life, health, and all that concern me. There are no impossibilities with me. All things are possible with me. I am flourishing and bearing all-around fruits. I have significant attainments and supernatural productivity. I experience increase of every size. I have mighty harvest of blessings and miracles. My ground is producing new seeds and my seeds produce in rapid succession. There is abundance of harvest everywhere for me because protocols are broken for my sake. I possess and eat the good of the land because I have a goodly heritage. The wisdom of God is at work in me causing me to bring forth good things from within. I have an excellent mind. I bring forth creative ideas, results and innovations. My mind is blessed of God. I’m extravagantly rich. I dwell in peace with safety and prosperity. My peace and prosperity are unending. I yield my thoughts and mental processes to Your Word and Spirit, choosing to focus on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. I maintain an excellent mind that is creative, innovative, and free from negativity. My thoughts and actions reflect the excellence of my divine nature. This is my season for exaltation. That favour of God that brings promotion now rests upon me. I have been given great power, prosperity, and control. I am rightly positioned for all the Lord has planned for me this year. God is happy to do me good. He delights in my prosperity, my promotion, and exaltation. I am wondrously and marvelously helped of God. I’m born of God’s Word and His Spirit; therefore, supernatural health and strength are mine always. My body is the temple of the Holy Ghost; the Spirit of God vitalizes every fiber of my being. I live triumphantly, far above the devil and the negative systems of this world! The life of God in me destroys sickness, disease, and infirmity completely. Divine life oozes out of me continually affecting everything around me, in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen. Speak in tongues.
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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticized Nigeria’s current leadership, claiming that the country has become a “failed state” due to the policies of his successors, former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Bola Tinubu. He argued that their leadership has led Nigeria into a state of chaos, insecurity, and underdevelopment. Obasanjo made these remarks during a speech at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum at Yale University in the United States. The forum, which honors the late Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe, hosted Obasanjo’s keynote address titled “Leadership Failure and State Capture in Nigeria,” which was delivered via a pre-recorded video. Although Obasanjo did not directly name the two leaders, he referenced their popular nicknames: “Baba-go-slow” for Buhari and “Emilokan” for Tinubu, both of which have been used by their critics. According to Obasanjo, the situation in Nigeria is dire, marked by widespread corruption and immorality that has worsened the country’s instability, youth unrest, and underdevelopment. He emphasized that the “failed state” status of Nigeria is evident in the consequences of pervasive corruption, incompetence, and injustice. Obasanjo also criticized the Nigerian judiciary, claiming it has been compromised by politicians as part of a larger “state capture.” He argued that the judiciary, once respected internationally, has now become a tool for political manipulation. He pointed out that politicians often encourage their rivals to “go to court” after rigging elections, knowing that they can rely on a compromised judicial system. Obasanjo likened this situation to a cancerous growth that needs to be excised from Nigeria. In addition, Obasanjo spoke about how the political elite continues to exploit the nation’s resources for personal gain. He criticized the practice of acquiring national assets at below-market prices and allocating resources to local, regional, and international interests. He also mentioned the continued control of some states by former governors, such as one who, despite leaving office 25 years ago, still holds significant influence in his state. Obasanjo and Tinubu have a long history of political rivalry, which began during Obasanjo’s presidency when Tinubu was the governor of Lagos State. Their political animosity continued, with Obasanjo’s party failing to unseat Tinubu in the 2003 elections. The only time they aligned politically was in 2015 when they worked together to oppose the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan. Finally, Obasanjo condemned Nigerian politicians for exploiting the country’s widespread poverty and hunger, using “stomach infrastructure” tactics—distributing food and gifts to the poor in exchange for votes. He noted that such practices, funded by looted public funds, take advantage of vulnerable citizens rather than offering real solutions to their long-term problems. In summary, Obasanjo painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s political landscape, accusing its leaders of corruption, state capture, and neglect of the country’s development needs. READ ALSO:
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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called for the dismissal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, and all other commission officials, as part of necessary reforms to Nigeria’s electoral system. Obasanjo made this statement in a paper he presented at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum at Yale University in the United States. The annual forum honors the late Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe. Obasanjo’s address, titled “Leadership Failure and State Capture in Nigeria,” was delivered via a pre-recorded video at the event. In his speech, Obasanjo described the 2023 general elections as a “travesty” and emphasized that reforming the electoral process must be a top priority for Nigeria. He called for shorter tenures for INEC officials and a more thorough vetting process to ensure that only impartial and credible individuals are appointed to the commission. “We must ensure that the INEC Chairperson and their staff undergo a rigorous vetting process. This exercise should result in the appointment of non-partisan individuals with impeccable reputations,” Obasanjo said. He also advocated for appointing credible leadership at all levels—federal, state, local government, and municipal—with short terms of office to reduce political influence and corruption, and to restore public trust in the electoral system. Obasanjo further stated that the INEC Chairperson must be “above board,” and not only independent but also incorruptible. He accused the commission of failing to properly utilize key technological tools, such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Election Result Viewing Portal (IReV), during the 2023 presidential election, despite previous promises from Yakubu. “These technologies were touted as innovations that would enhance the accuracy and transparency of election results, eliminate the possibility of election rigging, and increase public trust. However, INEC deliberately failed to use them, leading to widespread irregularities,” Obasanjo argued. He likened the failure to “inviting the fox into the henhouse.” INEC came under heavy criticism after the 2023 elections, particularly over the malfunctioning of the IReV platform during the presidential election, which INEC attributed to a technical glitch. This platform was central to post-election legal challenges, though the cases were dismissed by the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal and the Supreme Court. Obasanjo also supported Labour Party candidate Peter Obi during the 2023 election and had previously called for the cancellation of certain results due to concerns over their credibility and transparency. His calls, especially during the results collation process, were widely criticized. INEC has also faced criticism for its handling of the Edo State off-cycle governorship election and concerns over the appointment of politically affiliated individuals to leadership roles within the commission. Recent appointments by President Bola Tinubu included several individuals with strong ties to his ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), raising questions about the commission’s impartiality. While Obasanjo made strong arguments for electoral reform, it is worth noting that his own record in overseeing elections during his presidency has been criticized. The 2003 and 2007 elections under his leadership were widely condemned as some of the worst in Nigeria’s history. The 2007 election, won by Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, was acknowledged by Yar’Adua himself as flawed, leading to subsequent calls for reform, which continued under his successor, Goodluck Jonathan. Yakubu, who was appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015 and reappointed in 2020, is expected to complete his tenure next year. In a separate remark, Cajetan Iheka, head of the Yale Africa Initiative, discussed the continued relevance of the questions raised by Chinua Achebe in his book The Trouble with Nigeria. Iheka emphasized the need for intellectuals to move beyond asking questions and start providing solutions, calling for a frank, respectful discussion about leadership and political power in Africa, in the spirit of Achebe’s own leadership and dignity. The spokesperson for INEC, Sam Olumekun, was contacted for a response to Obasanjo’s call but did not respond to calls or text messages. READ ALSO:
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Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Ayedatiwa, has been officially declared the winner of the state’s governorship election held on Saturday. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced his victory after he secured a win in all 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state. Ayedatiwa, who had already won in 17 LGAs, clinched the final victory in Ese Odo LGA, which was the last result presented on Sunday at the State Collation Centre in Akure. The State Returning Officer, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, confirmed Ayedatiwa’s triumph after he amassed a total of 366,781 votes, defeating Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 117,845 votes. In his final declaration of the results, Professor Akinwumi stated, “I, Professor Olayemi Durotimi Akinwumi, hereby certify that I am the Returning Officer for the 2024 Ondo State governorship election held on the 16th of November, 2024. Ayedatiwa Lucky Orimisan of the APC, having satisfied the requirements of the law, is hereby declared the winner and governor-elect.” The total valid votes in the election stood at 497,077, with 11,886 rejected votes and 508,963 total votes cast. Ayedatiwa had secured victory in 15 LGAs before the final results from Ilaje, Ese Odo, and Odigbo were announced. The collation process, led by Professor Akinwumi, began at 12:10 am on Sunday and continued with results from the first 13 LGAs, all of which Ayedatiwa won, including Idanre LGA, the hometown of PDP’s deputy governorship candidate, Mr. Festus Akingbaso. In that LGA, the APC won with 14,157 votes, compared to PDP’s 5,897. There were allegations from the PDP about irregularities in Ofosun Oniseri, where they claimed voting was disrupted by hoodlums and ballot snatching occurred at the Alade unit. The PDP called for the exclusion of results from that area. However, after the initial announcement, the collation resumed at 5 am, and the results of the final five LGAs were presented. In Okitipupa LGA, the APC secured 26,811 votes to the PDP’s 10,233, while in Akure North LGA, the APC won with 14,451 votes compared to 5,787 for the PDP. When the collation resumed at noon, the final results from Odigbo, Ilaje, and Ese Odo LGAs were announced, all of which went in favor of the APC. Before the final declaration, all party agents, including those from the PDP, signed the result sheet and received copies of the final tally. READ ALSO:
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President Bola Tinubu has presented the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON), Nigeria’s second-highest national honour, to India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Abuja. This ceremony took place during ongoing discussions between Nigeria and India at the Presidential Villa. The GCON is a prestigious award, ranking just below the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), which is typically reserved for Nigeria’s presidents. Prime Minister Modi arrived in Abuja on Saturday evening for a visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. President Tinubu expressed that the agreement reached during the visit would promote “mutual respect and a shared mission” between the two nations. Modi’s visit marks the first by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in nearly 20 years. On Sunday morning, President Tinubu formally welcomed Modi to Aso Rock, where the Indian national anthem was played in his honour, followed by a ceremonial parade by the Brigade of Guards. The Nigerian national anthem was then sung, and Prime Minister Modi inspected the parade. READ ALSO: Appeal Court Sacks MC Oluomo As NURTW President
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The Court of Appeal in Abuja has officially removed Musiliu Akinsanya, also known as MC Oluomo, from his position as the President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). This decision was made by a three-judge panel, headed by Justice Hamma Barka, who upheld the ruling made earlier by the National Industrial Court on March 11, 2024. The industrial court had recognized Tajudeen Baruwa as the legitimate president of the union, a decision that has now been confirmed by the appellate court. The case began when several individuals, including Najeem Yasin, Tajudeen Agbede, and others who claimed to be the rightful leaders of the NURTW, appealed the industrial court’s decision. They contested the recognition of Baruwa as the union’s president, arguing that the election was invalid. However, in a ruling delivered on November 8, 2024, the Court of Appeal dismissed their appeal, affirming Baruwa’s leadership. In its judgment, the appellate court described the appeal as “devoid of merit” and ruled to uphold the earlier decision made by the National Industrial Court. Justice Barka, speaking on behalf of the panel, also imposed a cost of N100,000 on the appellants, to be paid to the respondents. This marks a significant legal setback for MC Oluomo and his supporters, as the court’s decision effectively nullifies his election as president of the union. MC Oluomo’s election, which took place on November 9, 2024, at the NURTW’s zonal secretariat in Osun State, had been a controversial one. He was the only candidate standing for the position, and the election was held under contentious circumstances. Despite the lack of opposition, Akinsanya was sworn in as president on November 11, with Agbede and Akeem Adeosun also taking up their respective roles as Vice President for the South-West and trustee. However, with the appellate court’s ruling, these appointments are now invalid, and Baruwa is officially recognized as the legitimate president of the NURTW. This ruling brings to an end the legal dispute that had been simmering within the union for some time, with various factions vying for control. The judgment reinforces the authority of the National Industrial Court’s earlier decision, further consolidating Baruwa’s position as the legitimate leader of the NURTW. The decision of the Court of Appeal marks a crucial moment in the ongoing battle for leadership within the union, with significant implications for its future governance. In conclusion, the Court of Appeal’s ruling is a major victory for Tajudeen Baruwa and his supporters, while it represents a significant defeat for MC Oluomo, who had held the presidency of the NURTW for some time. The outcome also underscores the importance of judicial intervention in resolving leadership disputes within organizations, particularly those as influential as the NURTW. The case sets a precedent for how similar disputes will be handled in the future, ensuring that union leadership remains in the hands of those recognized by the courts. READ ALSO:
