Hot SOURCE News

Insecurity: Engage America through diplomacy – Peter Obi to Nigerian govt

The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerian government to engage American government through diplomatic means to contain the wave of insecurity in the country. Obi, in a post on his verified X handle on Tuesday was reacting to the abduction of Dr Tochukwu Mbanugo, a Consultant Neurosurgeon at the Nnamdi Azikiwe
Insecurity: Engage America through diplomacy – Peter Obi to Nigerian govt

The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerian government to engage American government through diplomatic means to contain the wave of insecurity in the country.

Obi, in a post on his verified X handle on Tuesday was reacting to the abduction of Dr Tochukwu Mbanugo, a Consultant Neurosurgeon at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra State.

He described the abduction as not just an attack on one man, but the already fragile healthcare system, and on the hope of millions of Nigerians who depend on the spelfless service of the few remaining specialists.

“While still urging our government to engage the American government – through diplomatic means and otherwise – in helping us contain the rising wave of insecurity ravaging our nation, which has sadly made Nigeria one of the most insecure places in the world, I wish once again to draw attention to areas that require our immediate and collective action.

“The kidnapping of Dr Tochukwu Mbanugo, a Consultant Neurosurgeon at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, shortly after an intensive day of saving lives in the operating theatre, including the successful removal of a complex brain tumour, is deeply worrisome.

“In a country of over 200 million people, we have fewer than 150 neurosurgeons, meaning there is approximately one brain surgeon for every 1.9 million Nigerians – where the World Health Organisation, WHO, recommends at least one neurosurgeon per 100,000 people.

“This enormous gap highlights the sacrifices and pressure our doctors face daily, and the severe consequences of insecurity, which continues to drive many of them away.

“We must ensure the safe and immediate release of Dr Tochukwu, and I urge the security agencies to act swiftly. No nation can develop when its brightest minds live in fear. We must protect all, especially those who dedicate their lives to saving ours,” he said.

Insecurity: Engage America through diplomacy – Peter Obi to Nigerian govt

Hot Source
Hot News
12 views

Court Threatens to Foreclose Nnamdi Kanu’s Defence in Terrorism Trial

A Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday threatened to foreclose the defence of the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, should he fail to open his defence in his ongoing terrorism trial.

Justice James Omotosho issued the warning after Kanu, for the fourth consecutive time, failed to enter his defence following the closure of the prosecution’s case and the court’s earlier dismissal of his no-case submission.

The judge stated that if Kanu fails to open his defence on November 5, he would be deemed to have waived his right to do so.

The court had earlier adjourned on October 27 for the defendant to either file his final written address or open his defence. However, at the resumed hearing on Tuesday, Kanu, who has since dismissed his legal team and is representing himself, told the court he had not filed the required written address.

Instead, he said he filed a motion and a supporting affidavit, insisting he would not enter any defence because he believes there is “no valid charge known to any extant law” pending against him.

Kanu also demanded his immediate release, declaring that he would not return to detention as, according to him, there was no valid case justifying his continued trial.

Prosecuting counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), faulted the fresh court filings by Kanu, arguing that they were not properly filed and urging the court not to indulge the defendant any further. He described Kanu’s actions as an attempt to waste the court’s time, and asked that the court deem the new documents as his final written address, adopt them, and fix a date for judgment.

In his ruling, Justice Omotosho held that Kanu’s documents were properly filed and would be considered at the time of judgment. He, however, noted that since Kanu is not a lawyer, he should be given another opportunity to consult legal counsel and obtain necessary guidance.

The court subsequently adjourned the matter till November 5, warning that failure by the defendant to enter his defence on that date would result in the forfeiture of his right to do so.

A Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday threatened to foreclose the defence of the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, should he fail

Ekiti Gov, Oyebanji appoints 10 new permanent secretaries

The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji has appointed ten new Permanent Secretaries, in a bid to strengthen the leadership of the State Civil service and reposition it for greater service delivery. The appointment of the Permanent Secretaries, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, follows their success in the highly
Ekiti Gov, Oyebanji appoints 10 new permanent secretaries

The appointment of the Permanent Secretaries, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, follows their success in the highly competitive examination and selection process.

The newly appointed Permanent Secretaries are:

1. Engr. (Dr) S.O. Ibijola

2. Mr. Olaonipekun Eweje

3. Dr. Sunday Omoya

4. Mr. Morakinyo Oluwatoyin Akilo

5. Mr. Adelusi Adebanji Lateef

6. Pharm. Ejimokun Bunmi Peter

7. Mr. Olufemi Babaseinde Adediran

8. Mr. Ayoola Clement I.

9. Mr. Bayode Ogunmola Lawrence

10. Engr. Toyin Mercy Ojelabi-Pedro

The swearing-in of the newly appointed Permanent Secretaries has been slated for Thursday, 6th November, 2025 at the Conference Hall, Governor’s Office, Ado-Ekiti, by 2.00pm.

Ekiti Gov, Oyebanji appoints 10 new permanent secretaries

Hot Source
Africa
11 views

Arusha residents assured of peace, essential services

Arusha Regional Commissioner Amos Makalla has assured residents and visitors, including tourists, that the region is calm and safe, with essential services continuing without interruption.Read More

Hot Source
Africa
12 views

Tanzania counting economic losses in the wake of chaos

Tanzania’s economy, which had been projected to grow by six percent this year, was ground to an unexpected halt during the past few days following widespread unrest after the November 29 general election.Read More

Hot Source
Hot News
12 views

Oke-Ogun PDP Leaders Pass Vote of Confidence in Makinde’s Leadership

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

Prominent leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) drawn from the 10 local government areas of Oke Ogun Zone in Oyo State led by the Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, have reaffirmed that the party remained united, strong and loyal to Governor Seyi Makinde.

This is just as the leaders comprising former, current political office holders and representatives from the three federal constituencies in the zone such as Hon. Shina Peller, passed a vote of confidence in the leadership of Governor Makinde.

At the meeting, the PDP leaders lauded the governor’s efforts in developing Oke Ogun in particular and Oyo State in general, stating that party members and residents of the zone must reciprocate the governor’s good gesture in the 2027 general election.

The leaders described as a blessing the recent defection of a prominent member of the party, Senator Hosea Agboola, assuring them that his defection could pave the way for renewed focus and strength within the PDP.

The deputy governor, who lauded the massive turnout at the meeting, which he attributed to the party’s unity and confidence in the leadership of Governor Makinde, called on PDP members in the zone to bring in more people into the party.

While assuring them that those who left the fold would return as the party’s strength will continue to grow, he enjoined party members not to be disturbed by recent defections while expressing confidence that the party will be victorious in all contests in the 2027 general election.

While speaking with journalists, Hon. Peller, articulated the importance of holding such a meeting to assess the mood and unity across the local governments, stating that it underscored a significant shift in political dynamics as the era where someone will tell people what to do has come to an end.

The Ayedero of Yorubaland, who also emphasised the need for genuine leadership, echoing sentiments of the need for new systems and approaches within the party, reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to PDP course and Governor Makinde’s leadership, describing him as a visionary leader.

Hon. Ademola Adejumobi, who read the six-point communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, reiterated the paramount need for unity among party members, stating that the party aims to create a robust framework that can weather political storms and emerge stronger.

The communique read in part: “His Excellency, Engineer Sey Makinde’s role in the socio-economic upgrade in Oke Ogun zone is hereby acknowledged and applauded.

“To this end, the Zone hereby re-affirms its commitment and loyalty to him. The meeting notes with pride and appreciation, the developmental strides recorded in Oke-Ogun Zone through His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde.”

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan Prominent leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) drawn from the 10 local government areas of Oke Ogun Zone in Oyo State led by the Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo

Trump’s designation of Nigeria as CPC, overdue moment of truth – SKCLA

Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association, SKCLA, says the recent designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Concern” by U.S President, Donald Trump is a welcome development and a long-overdue moment of truth. A statement issued by the SKCLA chairman, Apostle Emmanuel Nuhu Kure, lamented that for far too long, Christians in the North have been
Trump’s designation of Nigeria as CPC, overdue moment of truth – SKCLA

A statement issued by the SKCLA chairman, Apostle Emmanuel Nuhu Kure, lamented that for far too long, Christians in the North have been abandoned by the very nation that should protect them.

He noted that successive governments, northern Muslim leaders, and even some Christian leaders and governors have paid lip service to peace, human rights, and unity, saying that the systematic rewriting of the history of northern minorities continues, with their lands seized, quotas stolen, traditional institutions debased, and political representation denied.

He said, “At last, someone, somewhere, has taken notice of the plight of Christians in Northern Nigeria, a plight our own government has consistently failed to acknowledge, let alone address.

“In many northern cities and institutions of learning such as Bayero and Sokoto Universities and in several other northern establishments, churches are not permitted to be built (while mosques abound), thereby encouraging jihadist ideologies that are hostile to the Christian faith.

“This is not so in the South, which is raising the question if we have a separate government from the south. What tradition or otherwise permits one sector to be enslave by the other at this modern time? These are the realities of the North that the Trump question is raising that the government must answer,” Kure explained.

The chairman stated that the sponsorship and protection of jihadists, forced marriages that destroy Christian homes, and denial of equal opportunities are all part of this sustained pattern of persecution.

He said that the Federal Government must no longer deny these realities but must set up a credible, independent inquiry led by courageous and impartial Nigerians who will be saddled with the responsibility of investigating these allegations.

Kure lamented, “The killings in Benue and Plateau States, where there is no evidence of theft or criminality, reveal a scorched-earth campaign targeted at persecuted Christian communities. The persistent killing of pastors in Southern Kaduna, the neglect of dangerous roads, and the half-hearted measures in Borno all prove that there is knowledge of the truth, but no political will to confront it.”

He noted that it is high time that Churches in Nigeria began to speak out by calling on the government to rise to the occasion of providing a level playing field for all religions to practice freely, stressing that the church is not speaking enough and the government is not properly adviced in spite of the many Christians in government.

The statement acknowledged and commended the Kaduna State Government’s early steps toward reform and peaceful coexistence, and prayed that the baby steps grow into a model of fairness and justice for the entire North.

As a nation, he said Nigerians must face themselves in the mirror, believing that only external forces, like Trump’s bold stance can make them confront their reflection, since they appear incapable of doing so themselves.

In spite of his many contradictions, he noted that Trump has become, perhaps, a hand of divine correction, compelling nations to look inward, stressing that Britain, too, must share in this reflection, as it bears part of the foundational errors that have kept Nigeria divided.

“Whether one calls it “external interference” in a so-called sovereign nation or not, something must challenge the recklessness of African leaders who continually mortgage the future of their people. Africa still has a chance to rise and that rebirth must begin with Nigeria,” he explained.

He added, “Our leaders must act, whether our plundering politicians are ready or not, time is running out. The moment of reckoning is now.”

Trump’s designation of Nigeria as CPC, overdue moment of truth – SKCLA

‘We Want To Win It’ — Chelle Speaks On Super Eagles Target Ahead AFCON 2025

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle says his team want to conquer the rest of the continent at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The West Africans made it to the final of the last edition of Africa’s biggest football competition but fell 2-1 to hosts Cote d’Ivoire. Chelle On AFCON Target Nigeria will head […] The post ‘We Want To Win It’ — Chelle Speaks On Super Eagles Target Ahead AFCON 2025 appeared first on…

Drama in Senate as Akpabio, Barau differ on Trump’s threat

There was a mild drama on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday, as the President of the Red Chamber, Senator Godswill Akpabio and his Deputy, Senator Jibrin Barau differed on American President Donald Trump’s threat of military action against terrorists in Nigeria over alleged Christian genocide in some parts of the country. Akpabio, who
Drama in Senate as Akpabio, Barau differ on Trump’s threat

Akpabio, who was making reference to a report by a social media platform, RANT HQ, alleging that he rebuffed Trump on Nigeria’s classification as a Country of Particular Concern, CPC, at the end of plenary, said he never attacked the American President, and that he could only convey the collective resolution of the Senate on the matter.

The platform had quoted the Senate President as saying, “The killing is taking place in Nigeria not in the USA, Trump should focus on US. Nigerians are not complaining about the killings, we are fully satisfied with the condition of Nigeria.”

“Who am I to answer Trump,” Akpabio said, Barau quickly responded by saying “I’m not scared of Trump. I will say my mind. I’m a Nigerian. Nigeria is a sovereign nation. I’m a parliamentarian.”

Barau went further: “I’m the Deputy Senate President, I can speak. I’m not scared of Trump. Don’t be scared of Trump. You can say your mind about Trump. We are a sovereign nation.”

Akpabio immediately directed the Clerk of the Senate, Emmanuel Odo to delete the position of Barau from the day’s proceedings, pointing out that it doesn’t represents the views of the upper legislative chamber.

The divergence of opinion between the duo on Trump’s threat and tirade against Nigeria came to the fore when Akpabio was debunking the quotes credited to him by Rant HQ, over the killings in Nigeria, describing it as a “malicious and completely fabricated post.”

“Somebody will sit in the comfort of his room and produce a report and fake pictures of 2023 when the Senate President with Senators visited Port Harcourt on a very different thing and say, oh, Senate President answers President Trump, who am I to answer President Trump?

“That the Senate President said that Nigerians are not complaining, that we like the way we are living. That Nigerians are not complaining.

“I’ve petitioned the police. I’ve also petitioned the DSS. It is the presidency that will answer President Trump. And all Nigerians are doing their best in that direction. But who is that person that will go and ascribe a comment to the Senate President when he was never met?

“So I believe the Cybercrimes Unit of the Police, the DSS and others, should find that character out, because it is meant to cause friction. It is meant to cause friction and put the Nigerian Senate in disrepute.

“Social media should not break Nigeria,” Akpabio stressed.

He, however, said that the Senate would respond when the direction of the executive is known.

Drama in Senate as Akpabio, Barau differ on Trump’s threat

Senate launches probe into rising train derailments

The Senate has set up a special committee to investigate the growing cases of train derailments across the country, following last Saturday’s incident on the Warri–Itakpe rail line in Delta State. The ad-hoc committee, led by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, will look into the state of rail infrastructure, the quality of materials used in rail projects,
Senate launches probe into rising train derailments

The ad-hoc committee, led by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, will look into the state of rail infrastructure, the quality of materials used in rail projects, and the loans obtained from China for railway development. The panel is expected to submit its report within six weeks.

The decision followed a motion raised by Senator Ede Dafinone from Delta North, who drew attention to the derailment of two coaches on the Warri–Itakpe line, just days after train services resumed. He warned that the recurring incidents could shake public confidence in Nigeria’s railway system.

In its resolution, the Senate directed the committee to hold a public hearing to enable experts and stakeholders to share insights on the issue.

Senate launches probe into rising train derailments