Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has hit back at the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, urging him to “stop grabbing people’s land” and distributing it to his allies. Adeyanju’s comments came after a war of words between the two, sparked by the demolition of a community by the FCT Joint Task Force, which left thousands of Abuja residents homeless. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Friday, Adeyanju responded to Wike’s previous remark, where the minister had referred to him as “a jobless man” for leading protests against the demolitions. Adeyanju defended his actions, saying his only “crime” was speaking out against Wike’s actions, adding that the minister appears to have a deep disdain for constructive criticism. He vowed to continue criticizing Wike whenever he engages in unlawful or harmful behavior, particularly regarding his policies in the FCT, which Adeyanju accused of favoring wealthy cronies while displacing poor residents. Adeyanju further criticized Wike for admitting that he was giving land seized from poor communities to his friends, arguing that such behavior exposes the corruption in Nigeria’s leadership. Adeyanju also recalled his past interactions with Wike, dismissing claims that he had begged the former Rivers State governor to support his bid for a leadership role in the PDP. He clarified that while he did meet with Wike and other party leaders when he was still active in politics, he had resigned from politics eight years ago, and had faced harassment, imprisonment, and physical attacks since then. Despite their disagreements, Adeyanju revealed that Wike had previously expressed support for his political ambitions, contrary to Wike’s recent claims. He also pointed out that his consultation with party leaders wasn’t about begging, but rather about garnering support for his candidacy. Addressing Wike’s accusations, Adeyanju explained that his opposition to Wike’s policies, such as the controversial inclusion of figures like Ali Modu-Sheriff and Jimmy Agbaje in the PDP, led to Wike turning against him. He described Wike’s personal attacks as “selfish” and “vindictive.” Adeyanju also criticized Wike for his authoritarian attitude and his penchant for turning public spaces into properties for his personal gain. On the issue of his profession, Adeyanju proudly noted that his law firm employs over 25 people, dismissing Wike’s claim that he was “jobless.” He contrasted his career success with Wike’s, accusing the minister of using his position to loot public resources rather than contribute meaningfully to society. He further condemned Wike’s actions, including land grabs in the FCT, converting public parks into private residences, and his reluctance to tolerate any form of opposition. “I have never been a public official or political appointee,” Adeyanju emphasized, proudly identifying as a lawyer and businessman. He criticized Wike for having no “second address,” implying that his entire identity revolves around his public office and the corruption associated with it. Adeyanju concluded that Wike has a “god complex” and doesn’t tolerate being challenged, even though Adeyanju claims to have proof of all his accusations. READ ALSO: Price of Locally Produced Rice Expected to Surge by 55% in 2025
The cost of locally grown paddy rice is projected to rise by about 55% during the 2024/2025 season, further intensifying the already high cost of living, according to a new report. The Afex Wet Season Crop Production 2024 report, obtained by Nairametrics, reveals a consistent upward trend in rice prices. It notes that during the 2023/2024 season, rice prices surged by 78%, with the average price reaching N630,000 per metric ton. This sharp increase was attributed to supply shortages and growing demand, which outstripped available stock. The report also predicts another price hike of approximately 55% for the upcoming season. This increase is largely driven by the high starting price of around N750,000 per metric ton for the 2024/2025 season, which reflects ongoing supply constraints. By the third quarter of 2025, the price of paddy rice is expected to rise further, reaching between N1,100,000 and N1,300,000 per metric ton. Several factors are contributing to this price surge, including: These factors combined have pushed up the cost of rice in 2024. While the federal government has imposed restrictions on rice imports, some Nigerians believe these measures may help bring down food prices. However, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) shows that food inflation in Nigeria has risen to 39.16% year-on-year. In response, the government has waived import duties on certain food items, including wheat, maize, brown rice, and beans, to help control food costs. Nigeria’s rice production reached around five million metric tonnes in 2023, but this still covers only about 60% of the country’s consumption needs. The shortfall has led to illegal rice imports, further driving up market prices. Despite significant government investments, including the N1.1 trillion Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, rice prices have risen sharply between 2016 and 2023. READ ALSO; Inibehe Effiong Calls for Adeboye’s Retirement Over ‘God Saved Naira’ Statement
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Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has called for Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), to retire following his recent controversial remarks. Effiong criticized Adeboye’s claim that God intervened to prevent the naira’s exchange rate from rising to N10,000 to $1, describing it as absurd. Effiong argued that prayers have no influence on the exchange rate, which is instead determined by a country’s economic policies, monetary strategies, and productivity. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Effiong wrote: “Pastor Adeboye should retire and step down. His statements about the state of the nation are offensive to reasonable people. It’s important to know when to exit, and Adeboye’s continued support of this inept and oppressive government is a disservice to Christianity.” He continued, “Many Nigerians have stopped attending church because of the hypocrisy and complicity of religious leaders like Adeboye. President Tinubu has spent billions on fuel subsidies despite his previous promises, and his government has done nothing to address the widespread corruption in the oil sector. We are not all easily deceived.” Effiong further criticized Adeboye’s assertion that his prayers were responsible for preventing further devaluation of the naira. He emphasized that exchange rates are influenced by tangible economic factors, not prayer. “Adeboye has been praying for Nigeria and its leaders for years, yet things remain unchanged. Either his prayers are ineffective, or God is not answering him,” Effiong said. He concluded by pointing out that some of the most corrupt politicians in Nigeria are followers of Adeboye. “He needs to take a good look at himself in the mirror,” Effiong added. READ ALSO: Without divine intervention, the exchange rate would have skyrocketed to #10,000 for $1 – Pastor E. A Adebole
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The prospect of a boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul has been one of the most talked-about topics in the combat sports world. Both fighters, coming from vastly different backgrounds, have sparked debate and excitement about what such a matchup could look like. But with so much speculation swirling around this potential fight, many fans are wondering: When is Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul? How can I watch it? Who will win? And more importantly, how many rounds will the fight last? In this post, we answer all these burning questions and break down what fans can expect from this much-anticipated event. When Is Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul? As of now, Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul has not been officially scheduled. The matchup has been a topic of discussion for months, with both fighters teasing the possibility of facing each other in the ring. Jake Paul, known for his brash personality and growing boxing career, has repeatedly called out Tyson, while the former heavyweight champion has expressed interest in getting back into the ring. Tyson, who retired in 2005 and has since made occasional returns for exhibition matches, has hinted at the idea of fighting Paul. However, no official date has been announced for this fight. The possibility of the bout happening is certainly exciting, but at this point, it’s still uncertain. Keep an eye on the news, as an official announcement could drop at any time, especially with Tyson’s continued interest in boxing for the right financial opportunity. How to Watch Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul? When Tyson vs Paul eventually happens, it’s likely to be available for streaming or pay-per-view (PPV), given both fighters’ marketability and massive fan followings. The fight would most likely be distributed through a major PPV platform, as both Tyson and Jake Paul know how to generate revenue from their high-profile personalities. To watch the fight, you will probably need to purchase a PPV package through a major sports or streaming provider. Given Jake Paul’s history of streaming his fights through platforms like Showtime or Triller, there’s a good chance the Tyson-Paul showdown could follow the same model. PPV events typically allow fans from around the world to watch the fight live, whether they’re attending the event in person or tuning in remotely. The exact details will likely be released closer to the event’s official announcement, but stay tuned to platforms like Showtime, Triller, or even DAZN (if they’re involved in the promotion) for official information on how to purchase tickets or stream the fight. Where to Watch Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul? Once the fight is officially scheduled, the next question is: Where can I watch Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul? The location of the fight will depend on where the promoters decide to host it, and this could vary. Given Tyson’s long history of fighting in Las Vegas — the mecca of boxing — it’s highly likely that the fight will take place in the United States, possibly in a Las Vegas arena, or another major venue known for hosting high-profile fights. For fans who can’t attend in person, the fight will likely be available for live-streaming or on-demand viewing via one of the major PPV distributors. Previous Jake Paul fights have been streamed on Showtime PPV and Triller, so it’s safe to assume that one of these platforms will be the go-to for watching this event as well. Once an official date and venue are set, the best way to watch will be to secure a PPV package or check for any live stream links through the event’s official promotional channels. Who Won Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul? As of now, the Tyson vs Paul fight has not taken place, so the answer to this question is still up in the air. Both fighters bring different skill sets to the table, with Tyson being a boxing legend known for his explosive power, and Jake Paul building a career in boxing with a controversial, trash-talking persona. If the fight does take place, there will undoubtedly be a lot of speculation and betting going on about who would win. Tyson, despite being well past his prime, still has the experience and knockout power to pose a serious threat. Jake Paul, on the other hand, has proven himself as a competent boxer against non-professional opponents, but facing a true champion like Tyson would be a whole different ballgame. Fans and analysts are already debating whether Tyson’s experience would outweigh Jake’s youth, conditioning, and unpredictable fighting style. In any case, if the fight does happen, fans will be eagerly watching to see who comes out on top. How Many Rounds Is Tyson vs Paul? The number of rounds in a Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight would depend on several factors, including the type of bout and whether it’s an exhibition or a professional match. Given Tyson’s age (58) and his previous exhibition bouts, it’s likely that the fight would be scheduled for fewer rounds than a standard professional match. For comparison, Tyson’s exhibition match against Roy Jones Jr. in 2020 consisted of eight two-minute rounds, which is typical for non-professional fights and legends’ exhibitions. It’s likely that a fight with Jake Paul would follow a similar structure, perhaps lasting six to eight rounds — but this would be confirmed closer to the official announcement. The decision on the number of rounds would ultimately depend on the preferences of both fighters, the promoters, and the regulations of the state where the fight is held. But fans can likely expect the fight to be shorter than a traditional championship match, especially given Tyson’s age and the nature of his recent boxing return. Conclusion: What’s Next for Tyson vs Paul? As the fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul is still only a speculative idea, fans will have to wait for the official confirmation of this matchup. If it does come to fruition, it promises to be one of the most talked-about boxing
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The world of combat sports has seen its fair share of unexpected matchups, but the possibility of a showdown between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson has undoubtedly sparked the most buzz in recent times. Two names from entirely different boxing worlds — one a YouTube star turned professional boxer and the other a legendary heavyweight champion — the question is: Could this fight actually happen? And if it did, who would come out on top? In this article, we’re diving into why this fight has captured the imagination of fans, the pros and cons of such a matchup, and whether it would be a thrilling spectacle or a marketing stunt. Buckle up, because the world of Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson is a ride you won’t want to miss. The Rise of Jake Paul: From YouTube to Boxing Ring Jake Paul’s journey into boxing has been unconventional, to say the least. The 27-year-old social media influencer and YouTube star started making waves in the boxing world in 2020 after winning his first professional fight against fellow YouTuber AnEsonGib. But it didn’t stop there. Jake quickly built up a 6-0 record, defeating former NBA star Nate Robinson, MMA fighters Ben Askren and Tyron Woodley, and most recently, UFC legend Anderson Silva. While many critics argue that Jake Paul has been cherry-picking opponents who are past their prime or outside of the boxing world, there’s no denying his success in building a massive following around his boxing career. He’s created a persona that thrives on drama, trash-talking, and viral moments — the perfect recipe for pay-per-view success. Jake’s bold claim that he could beat elite boxers has drawn the attention of many, including some of the sport’s biggest names. And that’s where Mike Tyson comes in. The Iconic Mike Tyson: From Heavyweight Champion to Boxing Legend Mike Tyson, now 58 years old, is one of the most iconic figures in boxing history. Known for his ferocious punching power and intimidating presence, Tyson became the youngest heavyweight champion in history at just 20 years old. His reign in the 1980s was nothing short of dominant, as he became a global sensation, known for both his skills in the ring and his controversial behavior outside of it. After a tumultuous career filled with ups and downs — including a prison sentence, financial ruin, and a string of high-profile losses — Tyson has made a comeback in recent years. In 2020, he returned to the ring for an exhibition match against Roy Jones Jr., a fight that was widely viewed as a nostalgic clash of two former champions, but also a reminder that Tyson still has the spark. Tyson has been vocal about returning to competitive boxing, though he insists he’s not looking to fight the young, rising stars of the sport. However, in the world of combat sports, anything can happen — especially when there’s money on the table. Why Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson Could Be the Perfect Showdown There’s no question that a fight between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson would generate headlines. But why are fans so intrigued by this particular matchup? Let’s break down a few key reasons: Could Jake Paul Actually Beat Mike Tyson? While it’s fun to imagine the drama and spectacle surrounding Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson, there are serious questions about the fight’s competitiveness. Tyson, despite being well past his prime, still possesses incredible knockout power and the kind of experience that can’t be learned overnight. Jake, for all his athleticism, has yet to face a true professional boxer who has the skills and pedigree that Tyson does. Jake’s boxing career has been built on taking on opponents from other combat sports or those who are no longer at their peak. His victory over Anderson Silva, a legendary UFC fighter, was impressive, but Tyson’s level of experience and natural ability would pose a far greater challenge. That said, Jake’s youth and determination cannot be dismissed. He’s shown that he’s a quick learner, and his growing skill set has led some to believe he could hold his own against someone like Tyson — if not win the fight outright. But even the most optimistic Jake Paul fan would admit that Tyson is a massive step up in competition. Is This Fight Likely to Happen? While both Jake Paul and Mike Tyson have publicly flirted with the idea of fighting each other, there are still a number of hurdles to overcome. Tyson’s age, physical condition, and desire to stay in the ring are all factors that would need to be carefully considered. Jake, for his part, would need to prove he’s ready for a real challenge against a fighter of Tyson’s caliber. That said, in the world of money-making matchups, it’s always possible. If both men agree to terms that make sense financially and logistically, don’t be surprised if we see this spectacle unfold in the near future. Conclusion: The Battle of Personalities, Generations, and Legacies Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson is a clash of worlds — one that has the potential to be a game-changing event for boxing. Whether or not the fight happens remains to be seen, but the idea alone has captivated fans and critics alike. In the end, it’s not just about boxing skills; it’s about creating a show that draws eyeballs and gets people talking. And with both Paul and Tyson involved, that’s practically guaranteed. So, will we see Jake Paul and Mike Tyson face off in the ring? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure — if it does happen, the world will be watching. READ ALSO: Why is it Called the Beaver Moon? The Fascinating Origins of the November Full Moon
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The full moon that occurs each November is traditionally known as the Beaver Moon, and its name carries both historical and natural significance. If you’ve ever wondered why this full moon has such a unique name, you’re not alone. The term “Beaver Moon” comes from ancient traditions and reflects a blend of nature, agriculture, and the way people once lived in harmony with the cycles of the Earth. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the history and meaning behind the Beaver Moon, uncovering how it came to be named and what it signifies. The Origins of the Beaver Moon Name The name “Beaver Moon” is rooted in Native American and colonial-era farming traditions. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, which has been tracking the names of the full moons for centuries, the Beaver Moon falls during the time of year when beavers are preparing for winter. In particular, it corresponds with the period when beavers are actively building their dams and lodges to secure themselves for the cold months ahead. Before the advent of modern heating, trapping beavers for their pelts was a significant part of life in North America. The fur of beavers was highly prized for making warm clothing, especially in the harsh winter months. As a result, the full moon of November became associated with the time when trappers would set their beaver traps, as this was considered the best time to catch the animals before they entered their winter dens. Thus, the term “Beaver Moon” came to symbolize a time to harvest the animals that would ensure people were ready for the winter cold, as well as a time to witness the natural world preparing for its seasonal shift. A Time of Transition The Beaver Moon is also a time of transition in the natural world. November marks the deepening of autumn as the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop. Animals are preparing for hibernation or migration, and the landscapes are shifting toward winter. For those living in rural areas, this was traditionally the time to finish any final preparations for the long winter. Farmers would ensure that their crops were harvested, supplies were stocked, and animals were cared for in preparation for the harsher months. The full moon in November was a reminder that the cycle of life continued, even as the earth grew quieter and more dormant. Other Names for the November Full Moon While the Beaver Moon is the most widely known name for November’s full moon, other cultures and traditions have given it different names based on their unique relationship to the natural world: The Beaver Moon and the Moon Cycle The Beaver Moon follows October’s Hunter’s Moon and precedes December’s Cold Moon, which marks the official start of winter. The full moon cycle has always played an important role in how humans track time and navigate agricultural cycles, helping people plan their activities around the changing seasons. November’s Beaver Moon is unique in that it’s one of the last full moons before the longest night of the year, the Winter Solstice, which typically occurs around December 21st. Because the Beaver Moon falls so close to the onset of winter, it can be seen as a symbolic transition from the busy harvest season to the quiet, reflective time of the year. The Beaver Moon and Modern Significance While the practical significance of the Beaver Moon may not hold the same weight in modern times, its cultural and natural significance remains strong. Today, the Beaver Moon is an opportunity to reflect on the cyclical nature of life and the interconnectedness of all things in nature. It’s a time to honor the transitions between seasons and acknowledge how we, too, must prepare for the shifts in our own lives—whether through self-care, planning, or simply taking a moment to reflect on the passing of time. In addition, stargazers and moon enthusiasts often look forward to the Beaver Moon because it is one of the most striking full moons of the year. Its bright, radiant light illuminates the night sky and provides a perfect opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the natural world, even as winter approaches. Conclusion The Beaver Moon is a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness between humans, nature, and the moon’s influence on our lives. Whether you’re a lover of history, a moon gazer, or simply someone who enjoys learning about the rhythms of nature, the Beaver Moon offers a rich story that ties us to our past while celebrating the eternal cycle of life. So, the next time you spot the full moon in November, remember to take a moment to appreciate its beauty—and the long history behind its name. Who knows, you might just catch a glimpse of a beaver preparing for winter—or perhaps just find a little more clarity in the light of this captivating moon. READ ALSO: Lawyer alleges ‘due process’ was not followed by FCT Minister in demolishing Abuja residents’ properties
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Public interest lawyer and activist Barrister Deji Adeyanju has accused Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), of bypassing due process in demolishing properties belonging to Abuja residents and revoking their land titles. Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Adeyanju criticized Wike’s approach, claiming that before any demolition, the Minister should have first sought approval from the Tribunal, waited for its ruling, and allowed the affected residents the right to appeal, as required by law. His comments come amid growing opposition from legal professionals and residents against the ongoing demolitions by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), which are targeting “illegal structures” in the Sabon-Lugbe South District and other areas, following Wike’s order on October 22, 2024. Activist Calls for Legal Due Process Adeyanju accused Wike’s administration of engaging in land grabs in the FCT, including repurposing public parks for residential developments. He argued that legal avenues should be fully explored before any demolition orders are carried out. “Due process must be followed. Wike should have gone to the tribunal and awaited its decision. If the people lost, they have the right to appeal in the High Court. None of these legal steps were followed,” Adeyanju stated. The activist also claimed that the FCTA had resorted to indiscriminate demolition using bulldozers, targeting several homes that were labeled as shanties. Adeyanju urged Wike to show compassion towards the poor residents whose homes were affected by the demolition. “If we don’t tolerate the poor, they’ll have no choice but to revolt,” he warned. “And when the poor can’t sleep, neither will the rich.” Background of the Demolitions The FCT Minister’s order for the demolitions came after a surprise inspection of the Sabon Lugbe area, where Wike identified what he described as “illegal structures.” During the visit, Wike was accompanied by senior security officials in the FCT. He reiterated that buildings without proper documentation from the FCTA would be demolished, labeling developers in the area as land grabbers. According to Wike, these structures had been built without approval from the FCTA’s Development Control Department, violating the land use laws of the FCT. In an official statement, the FCTA announced that the Minister had instructed the Director of the Development Control Department, Mukhtar Galadima, to coordinate with security agencies to demolish the illegal structures and recover the land. The statement also emphasized that security personnel would arrest anyone attempting to obstruct the demolition process. Earlier reports by Nairametrics revealed that the Home Builders Association of Nigeria had accused Wike of overseeing the demolition of properties worth over N200 billion in Sabon-Lugbe’s Weather-Field Estate, allegedly without a court order. READ ALSO Scores injured, vehicles destroyed as gas explodes in Katsina community
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A truck transporting gas cylinders exploded in the Magama community of Jibia Local Government Area in Katsina State on Friday, injuring many people and causing significant damage to nearby vehicles and buildings. According to sources, the explosion occurred at the ‘Walidan’ filling station, where products believed to have been smuggled from Niger Republic were stored. Aliyu Muhammad, a local resident, explained that the truck had been parked at the station for several days before the explosion. “Seven vehicles were destroyed, and two houses, including the one housing the filling station, were damaged,” Muhammad said, adding that numerous people were injured in the blast. The incident was confirmed by Katsina State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, who stated that the explosion occurred at around 8:45 AM on November 15, 2024. Police officers stationed at the Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters heard the loud blast and responded quickly, with the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and military personnel rushing to the scene. Upon arrival, the authorities found a truck loaded with gas cylinders engulfed in flames at the Tamal filling station along the Kagadama–Magamar Jibia road. The joint team acted swiftly to prevent further harm, extinguishing the fire and protecting lives and property. Aliyu reported that six vehicles were severely damaged in the fire, but fortunately, no fatalities were recorded. He added that the Katsina State Commissioner of Police, CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa, has ordered a full investigation to determine the cause of the explosion, with updates to be provided as the inquiry progresses. READ ALSO; Without divine intervention, the exchange rate would have skyrocketed to #10,000 for $1 – Pastor E. A Adebole
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Pastor E. A. Adeboye, the revered General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), recently emphasized the importance of divine intervention in stabilizing Nigeria’s economy, particularly its exchange rate. In a heartfelt statement, he highlighted that without God’s intervention, the value of the naira could have experienced a drastic plunge, potentially reaching an alarming rate of ₦10,000 to $1. Pastor Adeboye pointed out that the economic challenges facing the nation are immense and have been worsened by global and local pressures, which include inflation, policy shifts, and economic mismanagement. Such challenges could lead to dire consequences if not managed carefully. He emphasized that while policymakers and economic experts play significant roles, the fate of the nation is also intertwined with divine favor. The pastor’s comments underscore the essential balance between practical efforts by the government and the power of collective faith and prayer. He urged citizens to continue to pray fervently for the country’s economic stability and to seek divine guidance to help steer the nation back on a path of growth and sustainability. This message served as a reminder to many that beyond the technicalities of economics, a nation’s progress is also shaped by its spiritual and moral fabric. According to Pastor Adeboye, maintaining faith, unity, and steadfast hope is crucial for overcoming obstacles and securing a prosperous future for Nigeria. READ ALSO: Edo Governor Okpebholo Freezes All State-Owned Bank Accounts: Here’s Why
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Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has taken a significant financial step by ordering the immediate freezing of all state-owned bank accounts held in commercial banks. This directive is to remain in effect until further notice. The announcement was made through a statement by Fred Itua, the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, which emphasized the need for immediate compliance from commercial banks and the leadership of various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).Governor Okpebholo underscored that non-compliance by any MDA or civil servant would result in strict penalties, showcasing his commitment to enforcing this directive. He specified that, under the new order, no funds are to be withdrawn from these accounts until further notice is provided.In a related move, Governor Okpebholo has changed the designation of the Ministry of Roads and Bridges back to its original title, the Ministry of Works. He criticized the previous administration for not delivering on road or bridge construction projects, arguing that maintaining the ministry’s name was unjustified given the absence of tangible infrastructure achievements.The Governor directed relevant agencies to implement the name change swiftly and signaled that more reviews of past administration policies and decisions are underway. He indicated that further measures would be taken to support Edo State’s progress and ensure more effective governance. READ ALSO: GeneralNJC Suspends Two Nigerian Judges Over Misconduct
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The National Judicial Council (NJC), led by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, has taken significant disciplinary action against several judges in response to various allegations of misconduct. During its 107th meeting held on November 13 and 14, 2024, the council made decisions that have sparked widespread attention.Among the notable actions, Justice G. C. Aguma of the High Court of Rivers State has been suspended from his judicial responsibilities for one year without pay. Following this suspension, he will be placed under a “Watch-List” for an additional two-year period. This stringent measure reflects the council’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the judiciary and ensuring that those in the judicial system maintain the highest ethical standards.In addition to Justice Aguma’s suspension, the NJC has also recommended that two other judges face compulsory retirement due to falsification of their ages. This move underscores the NJC’s zero-tolerance policy for any form of dishonesty or malpractice that could undermine public trust in the judicial system.The decision to suspend and recommend the retirement of these judicial officers followed thorough investigations into their conduct. The council’s actions demonstrate its dedication to fostering accountability and reinforcing a culture of transparency within the judiciary. By imposing these sanctions, the NJC aims to protect the reputation of the legal system and deter other judicial officers from engaging in similar acts of misconduct. These disciplinary actions highlight the NJC’s role as a regulatory body responsible for maintaining the credibility of the judiciary. The Chief Justice, Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, emphasized the importance of these measures to preserve public confidence and ensure that the legal system functions with integrity.The suspension and recommendations for compulsory retirement are part of broader efforts to reform the judiciary and address issues of ethical breaches. This approach is essential for promoting fairness, justice, and adherence to the rule of law, pillars that are foundational to a robust legal system.As these measures unfold, they signal the NJC’s resolve to hold judges accountable for their actions, reaffirming its mission to safeguard the judiciary’s independence while upholding high standards of conduct among judicial officers. The repercussions of this move are expected to resonate across the legal landscape, serving as both a cautionary tale and a step forward in reinforcing judicial discipline. READ ALSO: The Story Behind the Man on the ₦20 Note
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On this day in history: The figure on the ₦20 note, Murtala Ramat Muhammed, hailed from Southern Nigeria. He was born in Kano to an Aviele father from a town near Auchi in present-day Edo State. Originally named Murtala Rufai Mohammed, he changed his middle name to Ramat (his mother’s name) when he assumed the role of Head of State in July 1975.Murtala Muhammed, who would have turned 86 this year, received military training at the Regular Officers Special Training School in Teshie, Ghana, where Emeka Ojukwu—whom he would later face in the civil war—was one of his instructors in military strategy and law.The dominance of the Fulani in the Nigerian political and military system was so influential that aligning with them was essential for career progression in these spheres. READ ALSO: Trump picks RFK Jr as health secretary and calls him ‘great mind
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President-elect Donald Trump revealed on Thursday that he plans to nominate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent anti-vaccine activist, to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Kennedy, known for his controversial views on vaccines, would oversee critical areas of public health, including drug safety, vaccine policies, food regulations, and medical research, as well as Medicare and Medicaid. In his announcement on Truth Social, Trump criticized the influence of industrial food companies and pharmaceutical giants, accusing them of spreading misinformation about public health. He praised Kennedy, claiming he would “end the Chronic Disease epidemic” and “Make America Great and Healthy Again!” Kennedy’s nomination has caused concern among public health officials. Dr. Mandy Cohen, the CDC director, expressed fears about regressing to a time when diseases could harm Americans due to low vaccine confidence. Trump also named Doug Collins, a former Georgia congressman, as his nominee for Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Additionally, he announced his choice of North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum for the Department of the Interior. Kennedy, from the famous Kennedy political family, briefly ran for president in 2023, first seeking the Democratic nomination and later running as an independent before endorsing Trump. In exchange for his support, Kennedy was promised a significant role in health policy during Trump’s second term. The two developed a close relationship, with Kennedy even agreeing to “reorganize” agencies like the CDC and FDA. While Kennedy is well-known for his anti-vaccine stance, he has also advocated for better food regulation, criticizing processed foods, herbicides like Roundup, and factory farming. However, his rejection of vaccines, which he has repeatedly claimed are unsafe and ineffective, raises concerns among health experts. Many studies have shown no connection between vaccines and autism, with vaccines being proven safe and effective. Trump’s first term included the launch of Operation Warp Speed to accelerate the production of COVID-19 vaccines, which were credited with saving lives. Despite this, Kennedy continues to push a narrative questioning vaccine safety. Kennedy’s views on food regulation and chronic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes, have gained some support on social media, especially from influencers and health advocates. But his approach could clash with Trump’s deregulatory policies, such as reducing meat industry inspections. Despite Kennedy’s controversial views, some Republican senators have voiced support, with Sen. Josh Hawley applauding the pick, while others, like Sen. Patty Murray, strongly oppose it. Some Democrats have expressed concern about the potential impact on public health, especially in light of recent measles outbreaks, while others, such as Colorado Governor Jared Polis, have expressed optimism, hoping Kennedy will challenge “big pharma” and promote personal choice regarding vaccines. Kennedy’s plans for HHS include tightening regulations on food additives and pharmaceutical companies, such as barring TV ads for prescription drugs. He has also voiced opposition to the FDA’s approval processes, including proposals to cut fees pharmaceutical companies pay to the agency. He has promised a crackdown on unproven therapies, including psychedelics and discredited COVID treatments, and plans to address the “revolving door” between the pharmaceutical industry and government agencies. Additionally, Kennedy has suggested firing 600 NIH employees involved in vaccine research and replacing them with new staff focused on chronic diseases. His nonprofit, Children’s Health Defense, is involved in an ongoing antitrust lawsuit against news organizations for allegedly suppressing misinformation. In his announcement, Trump also named Jay Clayton, former SEC chairman, as his nominee for U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York. READ ALSO: The health and lives of Americans may be significantly impacted by Trump’s most recent contentious Cabinet choice.
