In a recent statement, President Donald J. Trump announced that Elon Musk, collaborating with Vivek Ramaswamy, will head the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (D.O.G.E.). This initiative aims to reduce government bureaucracy, cut unnecessary regulations, and restructure federal agencies to streamline operations. Musk emphasized that these changes will significantly impact the system by addressing widespread government inefficiency.Trump likened this plan to a modern “Manhattan Project,” a bold and transformative effort that has been long sought after by Republican leaders. The D.O.G.E. will function by integrating external expertise and working closely with the White House and the Office of Management and Budget to create substantial reforms. The goal is to foster a more entrepreneurial style of governance. The president expressed confidence in Musk and Ramaswamy’s ability to enhance efficiency and reduce government spending, which currently totals $6.5 trillion annually. Their mission is to cut waste and make the government more responsive to citizens. The project is set to be completed by July 4, 2026, marking a significant milestone aligned with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Trump expressed optimism that this initiative will succeed in making the U.S. government more effective and accountable to the American people. READ ALSO: Nigerians Encourage Goodluck Jonathan to Consider 2027 Presidential Run After Trump’s Comeback
Edo State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, has announced an indefinite suspension of all state revenue collections, especially in motor parks and other designated areas, until further notice. The governor has instructed the State Commissioner of Police to arrest anyone caught violating this order. In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo stated that the revenue collection process would be reviewed in the near future, and new directives would be issued accordingly. “The collection of state revenues is suspended indefinitely. Anyone found collecting revenue on behalf of the State Government will be arrested,” the statement said. It further emphasized, “The Commissioner of Police is ordered to apprehend anyone who disobeys this directive and collects revenue on behalf of the State Government.” READ ALSO: The statement concluded by assuring that the governor would soon address the concerns raised and provide new instructions. Until then, no one is authorized to collect revenue on behalf of the state.
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Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has raised concerns about a possible conspiracy involving oil cabals in Nigeria and some International Oil Companies (IOCs) aimed at preventing the operation of private refineries, including the newly constructed Dangote Refinery. During the November 2024 Abuja Special Holy Ghost Service, themed ‘Total Restoration,’ Adeboye alleged that certain oil marketers were intentionally working to ensure Nigerians continue to suffer by preventing the local production of refined oil. He pointed out the irony that Nigeria, despite having four refineries into which substantial investments have been made, still imports refined petroleum, while the Dangote Refinery has the potential to address this issue. The pastor emphasized that the refinery, built by a Nigerian entrepreneur who is not personally connected to him, could solve the nation’s refining challenges, but some people want to obstruct its operations to continue importing petroleum. Adeboye called for prayers for the country’s total restoration, stressing that ordinary Nigerians are the ones bearing the brunt of the crisis, with the prices of essential goods skyrocketing and becoming increasingly unaffordable. READ ASLO: What we discovered in power sector will make you cry – Olukoyede, EFCC In related developments, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) announced that it had entered into an arrangement with Dangote Refinery, allowing its members to directly purchase petroleum products from the refinery. However, IPMAN’s president, Abubakar Shettima, also indicated that the association had expressed concerns about the pricing strategy of Dangote Refinery, which they felt was higher than that of other suppliers, making it difficult for independent marketers to sell the products at competitive prices.
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The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, highlighted the severe level of corruption in Nigeria’s power sector, describing it as disheartening enough to move people to tears. He stated, “Currently, we are facing challenges with electricity. If you were to see some of the investigations we are conducting in the power sector, you would be deeply moved.” Olukoyede explained that contractors assigned to supply electricity equipment often use substandard materials. For example, instead of utilizing the specified 9.0 gauge equipment, they opt for a 5.0 gauge, leading to frequent malfunctions, system burnouts, and power failures. This issue, he noted, contributes significantly to the country’s persistent power problems. These remarks were made during an oversight visit by the House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja. Olukoyede emphasized the need for collaboration between the EFCC and lawmakers to effectively tackle financial crimes. He expressed particular concern over corrupt practices in the power sector, which have hindered national infrastructure development. Highlighting specific examples, Olukoyede revealed that some contractors intentionally cut corners by supplying substandard materials, exacerbating power outages and infrastructure breakdowns. This, he said, is one among many instances where corruption has impeded the nation’s progress. Additionally, Olukoyede outlined the EFCC’s new strategic focus on asset tracing and recovery, crediting this shift for the commission’s successes over the past year. He remarked, “For every 10 Naira we recover, it’s possible that 30 or 40 Naira has been stolen. If we recover about 440 billion Naira and several billion dollars annually, the total sum stolen is staggering.” To counteract these losses, Olukoyede stressed the importance of preventive measures, noting, “To recover 10 Naira, the cost might be between 4 to 5 Naira. However, to prevent the theft of 10 Naira, the cost is less than 1 Naira, according to our research and experience. Prevention is, therefore, the most cost-effective strategy against corruption.” READ ALSO: EFCC invitation: I have nothing to hide —Okowa Former Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has affirmed he has nothing to conceal about his eight-year administration following an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).Okowa stated that the commotion surrounding his…. He also highlighted the need for better resources and improved staff welfare to bolster the EFCC’s efforts. In response, Ginger Onwusibe, Chairman of the House Committee on Financial Crimes, pledged the committee’s commitment to supporting the EFCC through legislative measures and increased budget allocations. Onwusibe called on the EFCC to enhance its operational capacity and strengthen partnerships with other agencies and development partners to improve accountability and effectiveness in the fight against corruption.
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Super Eagles and Maccabi Haifa midfielder, Ugochukwu John Ogu, has openly supported Victor Osimhen’s decision to refuse a pay cut in his potential move to Chelsea.Osimhen had been linked with a transfer from Napoli throughout the summer, but no deal was secured as European clubs did not meet his €130 million release clause. In the final hours of the transfer window, Chelsea and Al Ahli were reportedly negotiating with Osimhen to finalize a transfer, but the move ultimately did not happen.After the transfer window closed, Osimhen was omitted from Napoli’s Serie A squad list, and his number 9 jersey was given to new signing Romelu Lukaku. This has sparked considerable debate, especially regarding Osimhen’s limited playing opportunities until the January transfer window.John Ogu took to his X account to show support for Osimhen and criticize those who suggested that the striker should have accepted a pay cut to join Chelsea. READ ALSO: Nigerians Encourage Goodluck Jonathan to Consider 2027 Presidential Run After Trump’s Comeback
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Following Donald Trump’s recent win in the U.S. presidential election, some Nigerians are urging former President Goodluck Jonathan to consider running again in the 2027 elections. Trump’s return to the White House, after losing his 2020 re-election bid, was marked by a significant victory over incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris. This political comeback has sparked conversations among Nigerians, with some suggesting that Jonathan, who lost the 2015 presidential election, could make a similar move. On Sunday, Jonathan congratulated Trump on social media, describing the victory as “impressive” and indicative of the American people’s trust in his leadership. Posting on his X account, Jonathan wrote: “Dear President Trump, I extend my warmest congratulations on your election as the 47th President of the United States. Your impressive victory reflects the American people’s confidence in your leadership and vision for the future. I am hopeful that your presidency will help realize the American dream.” READ ALSO: EFCC invitation: I have nothing to hide —OkowaFormer Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has affirmed he has nothing to conceal about his eight-year administration following an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).Okowa stated that the commotion surrounding his….
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Former Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has affirmed he has nothing to conceal about his eight-year administration following an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).Okowa stated that the commotion surrounding his visit to the EFCC’s office was a calculated move by unnamed political figures in Delta State ahead of the 2027 elections. According to a statement by Olisa Ifeajika, Chief Press Secretary to the former governor, many decisions taken by Okowa during his tenure are already driving economic progress in the state.He explained that his visit to the EFCC’s office in Port Harcourt after returning from vacation was meant to show transparency regarding his time as governor.Okowa dismissed the claim of misappropriating N1.3 trillion, emphasizing that it was implausible to embezzle such an amount during his two terms in office.Okowa, who was also the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 election, criticized some media outlets for sensational and distorted reporting, with few exceptions.Part of the statement read: “It must be stated that the EFCC has not established any case against Dr. Okowa. As is standard practice, the former governor was invited to address some petitions filed by certain dissatisfied parties.“Upon his return from vacation, Dr. Okowa, with a clear conscience, reported to the EFCC office in Port Harcourt as requested. The petitions alleged he misused state funds to gain an 80 percent stake in Premium Trust Bank and used public resources to build housing estates and hotels in Asaba and Abuja. However, Dr. Okowa refuted these claims, stating that the Abuja estate is owned by a known public figure, while the Asaba estate is shared with other residents who own their homes.“ He added that the hotels in Asaba are owned by individuals known to the public and the EFCC, while he holds no financial interest in Premium Trust Bank. These facts can be verified with the Corporate Affairs Commission and through the Freedom of Information Act.Okowa highlighted that the state’s audited financial reports during his tenure showed total revenue of N2.65 trillion, with N628.5 billion spent on salaries, N141.22 billion on pensions and related benefits, and N489.83 billion on overhead and consolidated revenue charges, among other expenditures. The statement also detailed his achievements, including the construction of over 2,000 kilometers of roads and 1,400 kilometers of drains, the establishment of three new universities, six technical colleges, and successful youth entrepreneurship programs that empowered thousands of youths to become entrepreneurs.The statement noted that Delta State was recognized as the best in Human Capital Development in a 2017 peer review by the National Competitiveness Council of Nigeria, and that peace and security were maintained during Okowa’s administration.Addressing the allegation that the state’s investment in the first Floating Liquefied Natural Gas project with UTM, a private company, was a sham, Okowa described the claim as baseless, pointing out that the Delta State Executive Council and House of Assembly approved the N42.05 billion equity purchase. READ ALSO: GeneralTroops Arrest 12 Suspected Kidnappers In Taraba This investment has since appreciated to N190.85 billion, showcasing the administration’s foresight.Okowa reiterated that he governed with transparency, fiscal responsibility, and effective resource management, evidenced by multiple World Bank awards for fiscal transparency, public expenditure efficiency, and debt sustainability.
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Troops from the Nigerian Army have detained 12 alleged kidnappers in Takum Local Government Area, Taraba State.The suspects were reportedly captured following a distress call from residents of Chachanji village about the abduction of two people by around 10 armed men on motorcycles on November 7. In a statement, Captain Olubodunde Oni, spokesperson for the 6 Brigade, noted that 14 motorcycles, two bags of Indian hemp, and a locally made pistol were recovered during the operation.“When the troops engaged with the armed group, their superior firepower forced the kidnappers to retreat further into the bush, leaving behind a locally made pistol and two bags of Indian hemp,” he stated.“ The thorough search and efforts by the troops disrupted the kidnappers’ activities and prevented further crimes.”The statement also mentioned that in a follow-up operation on November 9, the troops seized 14 motorcycles at a local drinking spot in Mbhakyir village, near Agu Centre.In another development, the Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, has approved a new minimum wage of N70,000 for state workers, effective from November 2024. READ ALSO: Saudi Crown Prince Pledges Support for Nigeria’s Economic Reforms in Meeting with President Tinubu This announcement was made in a statement on Tuesday by the state’s Head of Service, Paul Maigida.“I am pleased to inform you that His Excellency, the Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has sanctioned the implementation of a N70,000 new minimum wage for workers in Taraba State, starting from November 2024,” the statement read.Maigida emphasized that this measure aligns with the administration’s dedication to addressing the needs and aspirations of the workforce.
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Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman, has expressed his backing for Nigeria’s economic reform agenda during a meeting with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu in Riyadh. The leaders met during the Arab-Islamic Summit to explore potential areas of cooperation, including oil and gas, agriculture, infrastructure, and the establishment of a Saudi-Nigeria Business Council, as reported by Leadership.ng on Tuesday. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga noted that President Tinubu proposed a $5 billion bilateral trade agreement with Saudi Arabia aimed at enhancing economic relations. This proposal follows the Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company’s (SALIC) $1.24 billion investment in 2022, which secured a 35.43% stake in Olam Agri, a key Nigerian agricultural company. Talks are ongoing for SALIC to further increase its investment, with aspirations to position Olam as a leading global agro-allied company.Crown Prince Mohammed lauded President Tinubu’s reform efforts, drawing similarities with his own initiatives to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s stability and progress since becoming Prime Minister. He pledged unwavering support for Nigeria’s economic plans and committed to deepening the collaborative areas outlined in their discussion.The Crown Prince was joined by high-ranking officials, including Prince Abdullah bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Minister of National Guard, and Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Defence, highlighting the strong interest in enhancing Saudi-Nigerian relations. READ ALSO: Femi Falana Criticizes President Tinubu for Charging Peaceful Protesters with Treason and Terrorism This partnership seeks to harness the strengths of both nations to drive economic growth, bolster food security, and support sustainable development, marking a major step forward in bilateral ties.
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Elon Musk has reportedly been spending “almost every day” with Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, participating in discussions with global leaders and offering input on important cabinet selections, according to Kaitlan Collins of CNN. Collins notes that while Musk is not expected to take any official government role due to the complexities related to his companies, sources indicate that his influence remains significant. One source even mentioned that Musk’s impact is strong enough from an outside perspective, making a formal role unnecessary.During a victory speech, Trump praised Elon Musk, calling him a “super genius.” Tech journalist Kara Swisher shared with CNN that Trump’s inner circle has expressed surprise, saying, “I’ve had Trump insiders reach out to me, saying, ‘Wow, this is unusual.’” Swisher added, “ Musk tends to insert himself into situations; it’s part of his nature, which is why he’s there like an unexpected guest who doesn’t leave.”In some photos with the Trump family, Musk appears alongside his child, X AE A-12. In one particular image taken on a golf course, the child can be seen making a playful expression, with Musk captioning it: “Lil X is being such a troll.” READ ALSO: Public Reactions: Divided Opinions and Heightened Emotions. Trump
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Nigerian human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has openly criticized the administration led by President Bola Tinubu for permitting the Nigerian police to bring charges of treason and terrorism against peaceful protesters, some of whom are minors.These charges were filed following protests that erupted over the significant economic difficulties affecting Nigerians, which many attribute to the government’s adherence to neoliberal policies advocated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. The policies have been seen as contributing to rising living costs and a decline in the standard of living.Falana, a well-known advocate for civil and human rights with decades of experience, pointed out the irony of President Tinubu’s current stance. He reminded the public that Tinubu himself was once a victim of state repression and had to flee Nigeria during the era of General Sani Abacha’s military rule to avoid a death sentence from an oppressive dictatorship. Today, under President Tinubu’s administration, we see a similar pattern of suppression. Peaceful demonstrators, including children, are being charged with treason simply for expressing their dissatisfaction with the economic hardships that have intensified due to policies influenced by the IMF and the World Bank,” Falana noted.The protests that led to these severe charges occurred in August 2024, when discontent over the surging cost of living and other economic challenges sparked demonstrations across the nation. REAF ALSO: Public Reactions: Divided Opinions and Heightened Emotions. Trump These protests highlighted the deep frustration felt by many Nigerians over economic policies that they believe have worsened their situation. The government’s response, which included arresting and charging protesters with serious offenses like treason and terrorism, has drawn widespread criticism, raising concerns about the state of civil rights and freedom of expression in the country.Falana’s remarks underline the paradox of President Tinubu’s leadership, given his past experience as a political dissident under military rule. This context sheds light on the current administration’s handling of dissent, echoing historical patterns of repression and challenging the narrative of democratic progress.
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The public response to an imprisoned president-elect, especially someone as polarizing as Donald Trump, would likely be deeply divided. His supporters would celebrate the win as a triumph over what they perceive as political persecution and evidence of his enduring popularity. To them, the election outcome would symbolize a broader victory against what they see as corruption or bias within the judicial and political systems. This faction might view his legal battles as further validation of his outsider status and rally around him more fiercely, framing his win as a people’s mandate overriding legal hurdles.Conversely, many Americans would likely see the election of an incarcerated president as a crisis for democracy and the rule of law. Concerns would arise about how someone behind bars could effectively govern the country or represent the nation on the world stage. Critics would question the implications for U.S. values, governance stability, and trust in institutions. Public protests and advocacy for legal reforms could intensify, driven by a sense that the political system has reached an unprecedented and potentially destabilizing point.Political Reactions: Partisan Clash and Institutional StrainThe political response would be equally polarized, revealing deep-seated divisions within the government. Among Republicans, especially those loyal to Trump, there would likely be a narrative of vindication and defiance. GOP leaders could frame the outcome as proof of public support, insisting on efforts to facilitate the president-elect’s transition to power. This might include legislative pushes to secure Trump’s ability to exercise presidential powers, even from a constrained position.Democrats and Trump’s opponents, however, would respond with alarm and strong opposition. The idea of a president leading the country while imprisoned would likely prompt calls for immediate investigations, legal challenges, or efforts to delay or invalidate the transition. READ ALSO: Nationwide Protests Break Out in the US Over Trump’s Re-Election. The Democratic Party, along with some independent voices, might argue for constitutional measures to prevent an imprisoned individual from assuming the presidency, setting the stage for legal battles and potential reforms.Such a scenario would place immense strain on the government’s institutions. Questions about the enforcement of checks and balances, the limits of executive power, and how to handle presidential incapacitation would dominate the political discourse. The implications for national governance, international relations, and public trust in democratic norms would be profound, potentially prompting emergency congressional hearings and debates on constitutional amendments.In short, an imprisoned president-elect would bring U.S. public and political spheres into uncharted territory, sparking intense and potentially divisive debates over the direction of the nation’s democracy and the true resilience of its legal and political frameworks.
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The Yobe State Police Command has achieved notable progress in reducing crime in Damaturu, addressing incidents of shoplifting, theft, trespassing, and burglaries affecting both public and private properties. Under the directive of Commissioner of Police, CP Garba Ahmed, a surveillance operation was conducted, resulting in the arrest of six members of a suspected criminal group.On November 10, 2024, at approximately 2:00 PM, the police received an urgent report from Malam Musa Alhaji Audu of the Nayi-Nawa ward in Damaturu. He reported that suspected thieves had stolen six tricycle tires and five windshields from tricycles parked nearby at about 5:40 AM the previous day.DSP Dungus Abdulkarim, the Police Public Relations Officer, released a statement to the Daily Independent in Damaturu, outlining the incident.He noted that officers from the ‘A’ Divisional Police Station promptly acted on the report, leading to the arrest of six suspects: Abubakar Ahmed, 19, of Hausary Ward; Hassan Musa, 19, of State Low Cost; Shayibu Adamu, 24, of Tashan Kurma; Ahmes Ismail, 22, of Nayinawa Ward; Babagana Lawan, 25, of Forestry, Bindigari Ward; and Gambo Daiyyabu, 52, also of Nayinawa Ward.Items recovered from the suspects included 13 tricycle tires, 6 windshields, 4 crates of empty Coca-Cola bottles, 2 bicycles, and 1 toolbox. READ ALSO: Hafsat Gold’s in-laws from Niger Republic abusing naira notes in wedding video: EFCC The suspects admitted to their involvement in the crime and are cooperating with ongoing investigations.CP Garba Ahmed praised the residents of Yobe for their dedication to maintaining safety and encouraged them to continue reporting suspicious activities and providing reliable information to local police stations.
