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“I Won’t Run Away From Vampires”- Nyesom Wike Declares On PDP Factions

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  Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Governor of Rivers State, has declared that he won’t run away from what he termed as “vampires” within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This declaration comes amidst a deepening crisis that has split the party into factions, with Wike at the centre of the storm. According to reports from Punch Newspapers, the PDP is currently embroiled in a fierce power struggle that has led to the emergence of two distinct factions within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). The crisis has its roots in the ongoing conflict between Wike and the current Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. Wike’s faction, led by the party’s acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, has taken controversial steps that have angered other party members. These actions include securing approval for contentious PDP Congresses in Rivers State and postponing a crucial National Executive Committee meeting. In response to criticism from other PDP governors, Wike issued a stark warning on August 31, threatening to disrupt activities in their states if they continued to interfere in Rivers State matters. This threat was met with strong condemnation from the PDP Governors’ Forum, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed. The situation escalated further when Wike’s faction suspended two key party officials – the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, and the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Governor of Rivers State, has declared that he won’t run away from what he termed as “vampires” within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This declaration comes amidst a deepening crisis that has split the party into factions, with Wike at the centre of the storm. According to reports from Punch Newspapers, the PDP is currently embroiled in a fierce power struggle that has led to the emergence of two distinct factions within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). The crisis has its roots in the ongoing conflict between Wike and the current Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. Wike’s faction, led by the party’s acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, has taken controversial steps that have angered other party members. These actions include securing approval for contentious PDP Congresses in Rivers State and postponing a crucial National Executive Committee meeting. In response to criticism from other PDP governors, Wike issued a stark warning on August 31, threatening to disrupt activities in their states if they continued to interfere in Rivers State matters. This threat was met with strong condemnation from the PDP Governors’ Forum, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed. The situation escalated further when Wike’s faction suspended two key party officials – the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, and the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade.

Keep Ruling Party In Check In The Interest Of Democracy, Makinde Charges Journalists

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  Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde on Thursday charged media practitioners in the country to be alive to their responsibilities as watchdog of the society by keeping watch on the ruling party to prevent it from using its power to stifle democracy by crippling opposition. Governor Makinde gave the charge in his address at the opening ceremony of a 3-day retreat organised by the Press Corps of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) headquarters, held at House 11 Hotel, Jericho, Ibadan. “In Oyo State, we have a feedback system that enables the citizens to ask questions on all our activities. The platforms are regularly monitored and concerns are addressed as much as possible. Sometimes we tweak our decisions based on the feedback we get. We have emplaced a system of ensuring transparency in our operations as much as possible. “My administration established the Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA), which has the mandate to investigate cases of corruption and mismanagement of public funds. ” We also established the Project Monitoring Agency, which is saddled with the responsibility of ensuring that the state gets value for its money. All of these are targeted at ensuring that as much as it is practicable, we run a transparent administration. Earlier In his welcome address, the Chairman of the PDP Press Corps, Samuel Ogidan noted that the tasks before journalists in the evolving political environment have never been more crucial and challenging than now.” Ogidan described Governor Makinde as a media-friendly governor who understands the role of free and responsible journalism in strengthening democracy, fostering transparency and empowering citizens. According to him, as journalists covering politics, we serve as watchdogs of democracy. Our responsibility is immense, and so are the pressures and obstacles we face. The fast pace of political events, the complexity of governance, and the shifting nature of public opinion demand that we stay sharp, informed, and adaptable. “This retreat provides the much-needed pause from our daily grind, giving us the space to reflect on our craft, sharpen our skills, and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of journalism in Nigeria. “We all know that investigative journalism remains a cornerstone of political reporting. It is our responsibility to dig deeper and uncover the truth that is often buried beneath layers of bureaucracy and deception. “However, the resources and time needed for thorough investigations are often scarce. “During this retreat, we will focus on sharpening our skills in investigative reporting, learning new techniques, and how best to utilize available tools. We will delve into methods of fact checking stories, authenticating sources, and data to ensure that we remain the trusted voice our audiences rely on for political analysis and updates. “It is also important to note that social media has revolutionized how news is shared and consumed. While it provides an opportunity for us to reach wider audiences quickly, it also presents new challenges. During this retreat, we will explore how to use social media platforms responsibly to break news, amplify reports, and engage with readers while maintaining professional standards. “Our goal is that each of us leave here better equipped to navigate the challenges of journalism and continue upholding the values of integrity. accuracy, and objectivity in our reports. He urged participants to take advantage of the retreat for frank discussions that will open networking opportunities ahead. “This retreat is for our growth, our reflection, and our empowerment” he said In their goodwill messages, Assistant Director, Publicity of the PDP Press Corp, Richard Ihediwa and Mrs Gloria Thomas of the Voice of Nigeria, both lauded the initiative promising to make best use of the opportunity of the retreat to acquire new skills and develop better capacity for the task ahead.

Libyan Airport: A Young Man Come to Give Us WiFi and He Was Arrested – Super Eagles Media Officer

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  The Super Eagles, Nigeria’s national football team, recently faced a challenging and uncomfortable experience at a Libyan airport while en route to an important match. In an interview with TVC News on Tuesday, the team’s media officer, Promise Efoghe, detailed their distressing ordeal with Libyan authorities, which left the players stranded for over 13 hours without proper treatment. Upon their arrival, the team found their bags left unattended, adding to their frustrations. Efoghe reported that the airport environment was far from accommodating, with individuals smoking indoors despite it being designated as a no-smoking area. In an effort to lift spirits, Kelechi, one of the players, took it upon himself to act as a DJ, playing music to help pass the time. Initially, the team engaged in dancing and camaraderie, but as the hours dragged on, the atmosphere shifted from one of enjoyment to frustration and fatigue. The situation worsened when the team discovered there was no available WiFi, leaving them cut off from communication. A glimmer of hope arose when a young local man offered them WiFi access, but his good deed was abruptly interrupted when authorities arrested him. The treatment of the Super Eagles drew criticism even from some local Libyans, with one expressing shame over the incident and labeling it “very bad.” In an attempt to cope with their predicament, the team resorted to playing games and finding distractions while they awaited the resolution of their situation. However, the prolonged wait left a significant impact on the players, many of whom felt traumatized by the experience. Despite the challenges faced at the airport, the Super Eagles remain focused on their upcoming match, hoping that the difficulties encountered will not hinder their performance on the field. The incident has sparked discussions about the treatment of visiting teams and the need for improved hospitality in international sporting events.

BREAKING: State Governor Approves N85,000 As Minimum Wage

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  The governor of Lagos state, Babajide Sanwoolu has approved N85,000 as minimum wage for civil servants in the state. This is in line with the federal government’s approval of N70,000 as minimum wage in Nigeria. Governor Sanwoolu made this announcement on Channels TV this night in an interview session. Details later… (PUNCH)

OONI @ 50: Palace Unveils Programme Of Events

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  The Ile-Oodua Palace of The Ooni Of Ife, Ile-Ife has on Tuesday unveiled the final programme of the events celebrating and commemorating the 50th birthday anniversary of the Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, The Ooni Of Ife. This second phase of the Ooni’s 50th birthday anniversary programme is contained in a statement signed by the Director of Media & Public Affairs to the Ooni, on behalf of the palace and the planning committee. According to the statement, the second phase and final activities will kickstart on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, with a charity support programme organised by the Birthday Planning Committee at the Solid Rock Orphanage Home, Ibadan Road, Ile-Ife by 1pm. Thursday, October 17th, 2024, will witness the birthday grand finale when His Imperial Majesty will be host top dignitaries including fellow traditional rulers, guests, family members and other personalities at the Ojaja Arena, Ife Grand Resort, Ile-Ife by 2pm. The birthday activities will be rounded off with a Special Jumu’ah Prayer at the Ife Central Mosque Enuwa, Ile-Ife by 1pm. on Friday, October 18, 2024 as well as a Thanksgiving Service, at the St. paul’s Anglican Church, Aiyegbaju, Ile-Ife by 10am. on Sunday, October 20, 2024. It will be recalled the 50th birthday anniversary of the Ooni had started a week ago with special traditional prayers (IWURE) offered by a league of over 30 traditional chief priests led by the Araba Agbaye and Obadio of Ife at the Ooni’s palace, this was followed by commissioning of The 2..7 kilometer road, equipped with solar-powered streetlights which Ooni Ogunwusi named after the Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi TINUBU and donated to the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Also same day, a standard hostel complex OJAJA HOSTEL constructed by the Ooni was unveiled by the visiting wife of the President who was also double honoured by the Ooni with a Pavilion named Oluremi Tinubu Pavilion within the hostel complex on Thursday, October 10, 2024. There have been series of activities of the first phase of the Ooni’s 50th birthday anniversary including the Maiden Convocation ceremonies of OJAJA University, Eyenkorin, Kwara state attended by top government functionaries including Governor Hope Uzodima of Imo state, eminent academic scholars, captains of industries and top Nigerian traditional rulers including Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar of Sokoto, Emir Zulu Gambari of Ilorin, Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Laoye, Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole and a host of others where Ooni Ogunwusi as Chancellor and proprietor of the university called for a holistic review of education policies to meet up with contemporary challenges of Nigeria.

Police Confirm Death Of 90 Persons After Petrol Tanker Explosion In Jigawa, Set For Mass Burial

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  90 people were confirmed dead, following a petrol tanker explosion in Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa state. Mr Shi’isu Adam, the Police Spokesperson in Jigawa, confirmed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday. Speaking in an interview on Wednesday, Mr. Adam also said that 50 other persons had been hospitalized for varying degrees of injury due to the explosion “At about 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday in Majia Town, Taura local government area of Jigawa, the tanker driver lost control near Khadija University and exploded. “The driver left Kano and was heading to Nguru in Yobe when the accident happened,” Mr Adam said. The spokesperson said majority of the victims died because they surrounded the accident scene. “We are worried that despite police warning for people to steer clear from scenes of accidents involving fuel tankers, they still engage in such acts. ”People gathered around the accident scene, that is the reason for the mass casualty,” he said. The spokesperson said that a mass burial of the victims would be held by 9 a.m. on Wednesday. He added that the injured were receiving medical attention at the Ringim General Hospital.  

Edo Residents Allegedly Run For Their Life Over Incessant Broad Daylight Robbery After Removal Of Vigilantes

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  Some Edo State Residents have cried out over the rise of insecurity especially robbery cases across the Benin metropolises According to report, the residents appealed to the Nigerian police to wake up to their responsibility of protecting lives and properties. Recall that there has been disagreement between Philip Shiabu, and Godwin Obaseki’s position to return the suspended Edo State Security Network after the September 21 governorship election. Philip Shiabu accused the governor of taking actions that would cause chaos in the state by the time he leaves office on November 12. Shaibu stated this while speaking to journalists after a closed-door meeting with the Commissioner of Police, Nemo Edwin-Iwo. The governor had, after the State Security Council meeting said that since the election was over, the vigilante would be brought back for the anticipated rise in accidents and criminal activities during the ’ember’ months, among other reasons. But Shaibu told journalists, “I have to come to see the Commissioner of Police to explain to him that the Edo vigilante cannot resume work. The Edo vigilante that we have as constituted today is to cause mayhem to political opponents. “What I expect the police to be doing now is to recover the arms and ammunition in the hands of these vigilantes. As we speak, the Nigerian police are doing well. Some of the personnel that came during the election and their equipment are still around for post-election security issues, so why is the governor in a hurry to bring vigilantes back?” Kindly note that this is a developing story, we will update you on more details

2024 World Food Day: Makinde Speaks On Moves To Boost Food Security In Oyo

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  Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has declared that his government will not relent in its effort to boost food security and safe functioning of the food supply chain in the state. He maintained that the government has taken several steps to promote agriculture and ensure food security in the state, including providing support to thousands of smallholder farmers and farmers’ associations. The governor stated this on Wednesday, October 16, at an event organised in commemoration of the 2024 World Food Day, held at the Parliament Building, Oyo State House of Assembly, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan. Governor Makinde, who spoke through the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, was quoted by his Special Adviser (Media), Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, to have promised that his administration would continue to create an enabling environment for agricultural businesses to thrive, thereby increasing food security and safe functioning of the food supply chain. He added that the government would also continue to support research-driven agricultural businesses for the promotion of economic development and growth in the sector. The governor equally called on all stakeholders in the agriculture and food sector to complement the efforts of the government in promoting sustainable agriculture, reducing food waste and ensuring equitable access to nutritious food, in order to achieve a better and more sustainable food future in Oyo State. Noting the importance of the fundamental human right to food, the governor pledged more support to farmers across the state, saying that he would ensure that the theme for this year’s World Food Day, “right to food for a better life and better future,” becomes a reality. The governor explained that the theme serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to address issues of food insecurity and malnutrition. He urged all stakeholders in the agribusiness and food production and supply sector to adopt climate-resilient practices and innovative technologies to invest in sustainable agri-food systems. Presenting his paper on the theme for the year, a research professor from the Institute of Agriculture, Research and Training (IAR&T), Professor Samuel Olakojo, said that access to food is a necessity for every individual, stressing that its availability in abundance is the main right for survival. He charged the government to form and implement policies against climate change, insecurity, and make friendlier agricultural policies to include road infrastructure, credit facilities, periodic monitoring of farmers and curbing wastage of perishable farm produce. In his remarks, the Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development and member representing Ibarapa North/Central state constituency, Honourable Peter Ojedokun, urged all farmers in the state to intensify efforts in producing quality farm produce for consumers. He maintained that doing so would subdue poverty, hunger and promote healthy diets in the state. Earlier in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Christianah Abioye, said the World Food Day presented another opportunity to appreciate Governor Makinde’s support to farmers in the state. She noted that the governor’s support has helped to ensure food sufficiency and also to find sustainable solutions to the problems of food security and poverty. The event had in attendance representatives of farmers’ associations from the 33 local government areas of Oyo State, the leadership of the farmers’ association in the state and the Baale Agbe-in-council, among others.

N1m Up For Grabs As Oyo Govt Supports Inaugural Pool Champions League

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  Oyo State Government has thrown its weight behind the maiden edition of Pool Champions League, just as the winner of the tournament will be going home with a one million naira cash prize. While speaking as special guest at a press conference held at the Ibadan Recreation Club, Sabo Area, Ibadan on Tuesday, The Chairman, Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, Prince Adebowale Falana declared the state government’s support for the inaugural Pool Champions League scheduled to commence on October 30. Prince Adebowale said, “There is need to engage our youths in sports, especially in other sports aside football. “The focus should not only based on football, as the agency we are doing a lot in helping out youths to discover their talents, we’ve been supporting them with skills acquisition programmes, digital technology innovations, in entertainment and creative industry and we are still ready to do more. “Our doors are open to various stakeholders for partnership on programs that will open our youths to new ideas and an ideal ways of earning money.” Falana said. He urged the youths in the country to come out in great numbers to showcase their talents at the Pool Champions League tournament. Falana therefore pledged the agency’s moral and financial support to make the league a memorable one. The Convener of the maiden Oyo State Pool Champions League, Mr Oluwatosin Odita in his remarks, said the grand prize of one million Naira will be at stake for competitors. Noting that the five-day tournament would feature players from many parts of the country jostling for the grand prize, stressing that the tournament will hold from Oct. 30 to Nov. 3 and feature 32 players. Oluwatosin promised that the five day sporting activities will be an hitch-free tournament. He said “The best 16 players would move from the opening round to the quarter-finals, before advancing to the semi-finals and final. “There are games each day of the week, from the preliminaries, quarter-finals and semi-finals, while all matches of the tournament will hold at the Black Nile Lounge in Bodija every day. “Then, the final will be at the Billionaires Section of Ibadan Recreation club,” he said. Odita said the real essence of the tournament was to have a community of players first and also identify them as pool players. He said the new talents would be merged with players from Lagos and then the sport’s umbrella body would partner with international bodies to export the players. “The tournament will create an academy for the younger ones and catch them young to master the technicality of the game. “Plans are ongoing to enroll the players on a coaching course in the UK governing body for pool annually. “The certificate can enable the players become coaches anywhere in the world in the future, thereby giving back to the people by training them,” Odita said. “The tournament’s overall winner will get N1 million and a trophy while the first runners-up will receive N500,000 and the second runners-up N300,000. This will go with the presentation of certificates and consolation prizes to all the participants of the tournament” Oluwatosin said. Chairman of Ibadan Recreation Club’s Billiards and Snooker Section, Mr Mbim Okutiyang, said the section was giving Nigerians the opportunity to play with standard tables recognised globally in snooker and pool. Mbim noted that the tournament would serve as an opportunity for people to know what IRC is all about and what it offers.

NNPCL Reduces Fuel Price

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  NNPCL, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has agreed to sell Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) to members of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) at a rate of N995 per litre. This agreement follows the intervention of the Department of State Services (DSS) in the ongoing dispute between the two parties. Hammed Fashola, the National Vice President of IPMAN, confirmed the resolution, stating that the DSS’s involvement helped address numerous challenges faced by the marketers. “We really appreciate their intervention. They are doing their job. Their efforts brokered peace and understanding between the parties, and everyone agreed to work together,” Fashola stated. When asked about the pricing, he explained, “For now, tentatively, I think they are offering us N995 per litre.” This price point means that IPMAN members will be less likely to sell petrol at significantly higher rates than major marketers. However, Fashola cautioned that geographical distance could still lead to price variations. “Our members currently sell at around N1,200, depending on their location. With the N995 price, there should be a slight reduction, but transportation costs from Lagos to distant locations will still play a role,” he noted. Fashola emphasized that the association aims to establish a more uniform pricing structure by factoring in transportation and operational costs. Addressing the issue of fuel queues at filling stations, Fashola attributed the long lines to price disparities rather than a genuine shortage of petrol. “The queues are caused by the difference in prices. If there wasn’t much variation, you would find filling stations operating normally,” he explained. In addition, IPMAN plans to meet with Dangote Refinery this week to explore direct purchase options. Fashola expressed optimism about taking advantage of the government’s directive that allows marketers to buy petrol directly from local refineries. “While we are keen to engage with Dangote, we will also consider NNPC for our purchases, as it all comes down to which option provides the best price,” he stated. Recall that IPMAN raised concerns that NNPCL was charging independent marketers N1,010 per litre in Lagos, despite acquiring the product from Dangote Refinery at N898 per litre. This led to demands for refunds from NNPC for earlier petrol supply payments. As these developments unfold, both IPMAN and NNPCL are hopeful that the new agreement will foster a more stable and equitable pricing environment in Nigeria’s oil sector.  

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