BREAKING: Students Protest in Oyo, Rally Support for Dangote Refinery

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Some members of the National Association of Oduduwa Students, the Coalition of Yoruba Students, and the Yoruba Movement are currently staging a peaceful protest in solidarity with the Dangote Refinery, amid its ongoing faceoff with oil unions, PENGASSAN, NUPENG, and the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria. The protesters, who converged on Tuesday at Iwo Road Roundabout, end of Ibadan/Lagos expressway, Ibadan in Oyo State, were chanting different songs to show their solidarity. They are marching through major routes, waving placards with inscriptions such as, “Don’t Kill Dangote Refinery,” “#StopsabotagingfuelinNigwria“#EndPENGASSAN,” #EndDAPPMAN,” “#DangoteRefineryIsANationalAsset,” “#StopSabotage, among others.” Wearing matching shirts emblazoned with, “Don’t Kill Dangote Refinery,” the students said the protest is aimed at drawing government attention to what they describe as a “coordinated attempt by vested interests” to frustrate the operations of the refinery, Nigeria’s biggest industrial investment and Africa’s largest single-train refinery. The NAOS President, Olalere Adetunji, called on President Bola Tinubu and relevant government agencies to intervene urgently. “We want to use this period to appeal to the Federal Government to protect the refinery and ensure that labour and marketers’ actions do not derail Nigeria’s move toward fuel self-sufficiency.” Security operatives, including the police and Federal Road Safety Corps, are on ground to maintain order as the protest continues.

NUPENG Slams Oshiomhole Over Dangote Strike Comments

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The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers on Monday slammed former Nigeria Labour Congress President and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, over his comments on the ongoing industrial dispute between the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria and the management of Dangote Refinery. Oshiomhole, speaking on Arise TV on Friday, faulted the strike declared by PENGASSAN to protest the alleged sackings of over 800 workers at the refinery, describing it as “hasty and unfair to other workers.” “I think that in seeking to protect a particular set of workers, you do not then risk the jobs of several other workers. When you are pursuing a dispute, the tools you deploy must be such that they do not undermine other people’s jobs”, Oshiomhole said. But NUPENG, in a statement jointly signed on Monday by its President, Williams Akporeha, and General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale, condemned the former labour leader’s remarks as “a betrayal of the working class struggle” and “a complete distortion of Nigerian labour law.” “We witness with utter disappointment a former labour leader now transformed into a vocal advocate for corporate oppression, actively campaigning against the very rights he once championed. “His attempts to rationalise the victimisation of workers for exercising their fundamental rights of association and peaceful action are not only nauseating but represent a flagrant misrepresentation of Nigerian Labour Law and ILO standards”, the statement partly read. In the statement titled “Senator Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole’s Undistinguished Anti-Worker Vitriol,” NUPENG accused the senator of “historical revisionism and political amnesia.” They also faulted him for turning a blind eye to the mass sack of 800 engineers while choosing to criticise the strike action instead. “Section 31 of the Trade Unions Act, Cap T14, LFN 2004, legally recognises trade disputes, including industrial actions undertaken by workers in sympathy with another group. “PENGASSAN’s solidarity action with their members in Dangote Refinery is therefore a protected legal action. The principle that ‘an injury to one is an injury to all’ is the foundational ethic of trade unionism globally”, NUPENG stated. The union said Oshiomhole’s position was “a dangerous toxin designed to weaken the resolve of the working class and strengthen the class enemy,” likening him to “the Judas Iscariot of Nigerian trade unionism.” “Shockingly, this was a man who served several times in the Governing Council of ILO and in the Committee on Application of Standards that receives reports on violations of workers’ rights across the world. “It is unfortunate that Senator Adams Oshiomhole has, by his comments, demonstrated a monumental ignorance of trade unionism”, the union added. Declaring him as persona non grata within the oil and gas sector, NUPENG announced it would no longer participate in any labour event featuring the senator. “In conclusion, the leadership of NUPENG hereby declares Senator Adams Oshiomhole persona non grata within the ranks of Nigerian oil and gas workers,” the statement said. “Henceforth, we will not participate in or lend legitimacy to any event featuring Senator Oshiomhole. The NLC, TUC, and civil society organisations should take notice.” The union reaffirmed its solidarity with PENGASSAN and vowed to pursue justice for the affected workers using “every legal and industrial instrument available in compliance with Nigerian law and global labour standards.”

Secondary School Certificate Enough for Political Office – Shehu Sani

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Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has said that all a politician needs to contest elections or secure a political appointment in the country is a secondary school certificate. Sani made the comment on Monday following an investigative report by Premium Times, which revealed that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, disowned the Bachelor of Science degree certificate in the possession of the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Uche Nnaji, saying the politician did not complete his studies at the institution and was never issued a certificate. Citing court documents filed before Justice Hauwa Yilwa of the Federal High Court in Abuja, the report claimed that Nnaji also admitted that UNN never issued him a degree certificate. It said the minister instituted a suit against the Minister of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC), the University of Nigeria, its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Simon Ortuanya, the Registrar, a former Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Oguejiofor Ujam, and the university’s Senate. The court granted three of Nnaji’s prayers, including an order compelling the university and its officials to release his academic transcript, but declined to issue an injunction against the defendants. The case was, however, adjourned to October 6 for further hearing. Reacting to the development in a post via his X handle on Monday, Sani cautioned political office seekers against making false claims about their academic qualifications. He wrote, “All you need to contest elections or for political appointment is a secondary school certificate. There is no way in the realm of politics one can claim any unearned qualifications without his or her political opponents digging into the matter. Some troubles are unnecessarily self-inflicted.”

FIFA U-20 World Cup: Nigeria Draw Colombia 1-1, Advances to Knockout Round

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Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have advanced to the Round of 16 at the ongoing 24th FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, following a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Colombia in the early hours of Monday. At the Estadio Fiscal de Talca, the seven-time African champions delivered a spirited performance, with goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt making crucial saves in the 23rd and 26th minutes to keep the scores level during a tense opening period. Despite Colombia’s early pressure, the Nigerians were the more enterprising side, with Tahir Maigana, Kparobo Arierhi, and Suleman Sani constantly troubling the South American defence and striking the upright on several occasions. Colombia broke the deadlock in the 51st minute through Kener Gonzalez, who converted from Neyser Villareal’s assist. Undeterred, the Flying Eagles piled on relentless pressure, and defender Odinaka Okoro came close with a header in the 76th minute. Nigeria’s persistence paid off in the 86th minute when captain Daniel Bameyi calmly slotted home from the penalty spot after a Colombian defender handled Maigana’s goal-bound effort. The Nigerians nearly clinched a late winner, but Arierhi’s shot in the 89th minute was blocked inside the area. The result means Nigeria will now face Argentina at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martinez Pradanos in Santiago on Wednesday a repeat of the quarter-final clash from the last U20 World Cup hosted by Argentina, where the Flying Eagles triumphed 2–0 in San Juan. Elsewhere, Colombia will meet South Africa, while Norway takes on Paraguay in other Round of 16 fixtures.

JUST IN: Imisi Emerges Winner of Big Brother Naija Season 10

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Imisi Ayanwale on Sunday emerged as the winner of Big Brother Naija Season 10, taking home N80 million in cash as part of the N150 million grand prize, after an exciting finale that wrapped up months of drama, laughter, and unforgettable moments. She won with 42.8% of the votes, followed by Dede with 15.94%, Koyin with 15.23%, Sultana with 7.94%, Kola with 5.48%, Jason Jae with 4.84%, Mensan with 3.54%, Isabella with 3.07%, and Kaybobo with 1.72%. The humorous and outspoken housemate, who enjoyed massive support from her loyal fanbase known as “Ijoba 606,” beat strong contenders including Dede, who finished as first runner-up, as well as Koyin, Kola, Isabella, and Kaybobo. Known for her witty remarks and playful personality, Imisi became a fan favourite for her comic timing, authenticity, and ability to lighten tense moments in the house. Her humour, coupled with her resilience during tough tasks, made her one of the most relatable contestants this season. This comes after Koyin was shockingly evicted, and Dede and Imisi were instructed to leave the house for the stage. According to the tradition of the show, the lights were turned off in the house after their exit, an emotional moment for fans who had followed the housemates’ journey for weeks. This edition of Big Brother Naija has been one of the most engaging yet, featuring unexpected twists, emotional evictions, and viral highlights that dominated social conversations for weeks. With her win, Imisi joins the ranks of previous champions like Mercy Eke, Laycon, Whitemoney, Phyna, Ilebaye, among others. All remembered for their unique imprint on the Big Brother legacy.

Buhari Never Mediated Boko Haram, Garba Shehu Replies Jonathan

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A former Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Garba Shehu, has dismissed claims by ex-President Goodluck Jonathan that his principal was once nominated by Boko Haram to mediate peace talks with the Federal Government. Shehu refuted the claim in a statement titled ‘Boko Haram did not nominate Buhari as their mediator’ on Friday. Shehu’s rebuttal came hours after Jonathan’s remarks at the public presentation of Scars, a book by former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor (retd.), where the former president said Boko Haram insurgents once named Buhari as their preferred negotiator. Jonathan stated, “One of the committees we set up then, the Boko Haram nominated Buhari to lead their team to negotiate with the government. “So I was feeling that, oh, if they nominated Buhari to represent them and have a discussion with the government committee, then when Buhari took over, it could have been an easy way to negotiate with them and they would have handed over their guns. But it was still there till today.” In response, Shehu insisted Jonathan was “making a false start” ahead of a possible 2027 presidential bid. He stated, “Muhammed Yusuf or Abubakar Shekau, the deceased leaders of the Boko Haram terrorist group, never nominated Muhammadu Buhari for any such role. “In fact, Shekau routinely denounced and threatened Buhari, and their ideologies were in direct opposition,” he said, recalling that Buhari narrowly survived a 2014 Boko Haram bomb attack in Kaduna which left his aides injured. Shehu explained that the controversy stemmed from a 2012 press conference in Maiduguri by a faction led by Abu Mohammed Ibn Abdulaziz, who listed Buhari and several northern leaders as possible mediators. “Abdulaziz was roundly condemned by the leaders of Boko Haram, who claimed that he had ‘no mandate of their leader, Imam Abubakar Shekau,’” he clarified. At the time, Buhari himself denied knowledge of the claim. Shehu quoted then-CPC National Secretary, Buba Galadima, as saying, “As at 10pm yesterday when I spoke with him, he said he has not even heard about it… since nobody has contacted him as a person, he would not speak to the press.” The matter was already a political flashpoint in the run-up to the 2015 elections. Rotimi Fashekun, the late CPC publicity secretary, had accused Jonathan’s PDP government of exploiting the rumour. “Without any scintilla of equivocation, General Muhammadu Buhari has never been directly or remotely connected with any insurrection or insurgency against the Nigerian nation and her people,” he said, describing Buhari as “the quintessential patriot that continues to magnetise the very best across the ethno-religious boundaries within the Nigerian nation-space.” Fashekun also alleged that the PDP bore responsibility for insecurity, claiming there were three variants of Boko Haram, the original sect, a criminal faction, and “the most lethal of all, the Political Boko Haram, which this PDP-led Federal Government represents.” Shehu added, “To be president in 2027, Goodluck Jonathan should look for another story to tell Nigerians… To win in 2027, Dr. Jonathan should look for a better story to tell Nigerians.”

I Kept My Eyes on Jesus, Toluwani Odukoya Opens Up on Broken Marriage

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  The Associate Senior Pastor of The Fountain of Life Church, Toluwani Odukoya, has revealed how her separation from her husband, alongside a series of personal tragedies, shaped her faith and calling in ministry. Speaking during an interview with Truthtable, a video shared on her personal YouTube Channel, on Thursday, Odukoya disclosed that she was separated as a result of circumstances beyond her control. She said, “I’ll say I’m separated. Most of you don’t know I’m separated and that’s actually defined or has shaped my life. It was circumstances beyond my control. Describing her marriage, the 40-year-old likened the end of her marriage to “a death,” noting that between 2021 and 2023 she also endured the deaths of her stepmother, her father’s twin sister, and her father, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya. Speaking further about her dissolved marriage,she stressed that separation does not always mean the people involved are bad. “My ex-husband is a great man… but if God doesn’t ordain you guys to be together and you force-fit yourselves, the likelihood of staying together is very low,” she explained. Despite the heartbreak, Odukoya said she embraced her pastoral calling, even when she felt unworthy. “When the call came, I told God, ‘You know all the baggage I’m trying to navigate. But if you call me to serve, then maybe you’ve put something in me.’ I just decided to keep my eyes on Jesus.” She acknowledged the crucial role her family played in supporting her during those turbulent years, saying her siblings and late father stood firmly by her. “My dad fought for me. My family encouraged me. That embrace added to my self-esteem and self-worth,” she noted. The Senior Pastor of Fountain of Life Church, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya died on Monday, August 7, in the United States of America and his son Jimmy Odukoya, has since succeeded his father as the senior pastor of the church serving alongside his sister.

Youths Beat Ondo Monarch, Wife, Son During Festival

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  Crisis erupted in Idogun community, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, on Friday as some irate youths allegedly beat up the town’s monarch, Oba Moses Bakare, his wife, and his son, identified as Victor. The incident, which occurred during the annual New Yam festival, left the monarch injured while his wife was reportedly beaten and stripped half-naked by the angry youths. Though the cause of the attack could not be immediately ascertained, a resident of the town, who pleaded anonymity for fear of reprisal, said some residents had long been at loggerheads with the monarch. The source stated, “The angry youths really assaulted the monarch and his wife and son. We don’t know what caused it but we know that some youths in the community don’t like the Oba; we don’t know why. “If not the swift intervention of security operatives, the matter would have degenerated to a full-blown crisis in the town.” Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, said an investigation had commenced. “The case is under investigation and we are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that justice is served,” the PPRO stated.   Punch

Indonesia Suspends TikTok License Over Failure to Share Data

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Indonesia’s government has suspended the operating licence of video-sharing app TikTok because the platform refused to share data about recent anti-government protests, the ministry of communication and digital affairs said on Friday. Indonesia has the second biggest audience on TikTok, owned by China’s Bytedance, with more than 100 million users. The ministry said it had “temporarily suspended” the app’s operating licence for failing to provide adequate data on its live feature’s activities during anti-government protests in August. “This step is a form of the government’s firmness after TikTok only provided partial data,” Alexander Sabar, director general of digital space supervision, said in the statement. The government asked TikTok for traffic and other data related to “the alleged monetisation” of live activities from accounts suspected of online gambling. The ministry said TikTok was given until September 23 to submit data but failed to do so. TikTok said it respects the laws of the markets it operates in. A spokesperson said in a statement TikTok was working closely with the ministry “… while remaining committed to safeguarding user privacy and ensuring that our platform provides a safe and responsible experience for the community in Indonesia”. The platform’s live feature was still available on Friday evening. TikTok has faced a series of challenges in operating in Indonesia. The video-sharing app temporarily suspended its live feature in August because of violent protests after the death of a man hit by a police vehicle. On Monday, Indonesia’s antitrust agency fined TikTok $900,000 for failing to notify regulators in time about its acquisition of e-commerce platform Tokopedia. Its ecommerce feature was also suspended by the government in 2023 after it moved to help small businesses. It then bought a 75 percent stake in Tokopedia, Indonesia’s largest ecommerce platform, bringing together their shopping arms. AFP

Man City’ll Not See ‘best’ Rodri Until Next Season – Guardiola

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Pep Guardiola believes Manchester City will have to wait until next season to see the best of Rodri again as the Spanish midfielder slowly finds his feet after knee surgery. The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner missed last weekend’s 5-1 win over Burnley due to pain in the knee — 12 months after he suffered anterior cruciate ligament damage. The 29-year-old made his return in May but has suffered a series of minor setbacks. “Rodri is an outstanding player, everyone knows it,” said Guardiola on Friday. “Maybe he struggled to understand it’s not about six months or 12, the World Cup will be the best Rodri, and next season will be the best Rodri. This year is how to handle it. “One year he has been out. The body changes, the rhythm changes, it’s a question of time; if he’s healthy, he will be back.” To cover Rodri’s absence, City splashed out £50 million ($67 million) on Nico Gonzalez in January, but he has struggled to match the levels of his compatriot. The former Barcelona midfielder replaced Rodri for the final 30 minutes of Wednesday’s 2-2 Champions League draw at Monaco and conceded a late penalty that cost City victory. “He’s learning and improving. We need him”, said Guardiola, referring to Gonzalez. “Rodri can’t sustain the rhythm for games for 90 minutes. He made an incredible effort in the week with Manchester United, Napoli, and especially Arsenal. “I try to protect my players. Sometimes I want the best players there, but I have to protect the players.” Despite dropping two points in Monaco, a draw extended City’s unbeaten run to six games in all competitions. City suffered their first trophyless campaign for eight years last season, and Guardiola is encouraged by the progress he sees after refreshing his squad with several younger players. “The happiest feeling is how we have improved. I love that feeling. And the feeling that I think we can do better,” he said. “That is the feeling that I like as a manager. The feeling we are creating again — the tempo, the pace. “Everything is a little bit more fluid and consistent. But we can do better, and I love that.” City, who sit five points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, travel to Brentford on Sunday.   AFP

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