Nigeria Provides 24-Hour Electricity to Togo and Benin Despite Domestic Power Issues

Despite facing persistent power grid failures, Nigeria continues to supply uninterrupted 24-hour electricity to neighboring countries Togo and Benin, according to the Managing Director and CEO of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Sule Abdulaziz. During an interview on Channels TV, Abdulaziz confirmed that Nigeria also provides electricity to Niger, with all three countries paying for the service.

Addressing why many Nigerians still experience inconsistent power supply, Abdulaziz clarified that not all citizens are affected. He explained that Nigeria operates a tiered electricity distribution system, with Band A customers receiving 20-24 hours of power daily, while other bands receive less.

Abdulaziz expressed optimism about future improvements, stating that the new Minister of Power is focused on addressing root causes of the power crisis, with the goal of achieving consistent electricity supply nationwide within the next five years.

The TCN chief also discussed the causes of grid collapses, noting that these failures are not solely the fault of the transmission company but can arise from issues in generation or distribution as well. He highlighted the outdated infrastructure in the country’s power system, with much of the equipment being over 50 years old.

Abdulaziz also defended the affordability of electricity in Nigeria, arguing that it remains cheaper than in many other African nations, such as Burkina Faso and Senegal. He urged the public to understand the distinction between TCN and the now-defunct National Electric Power Authority (NEPA), explaining that TCN is only responsible for transmission, not generation or distribution.

China Issues First-Ever Guidelines to Combat Obesity

China’s National Health Commission has introduced its inaugural guidelines to standardize the diagnosis and treatment of obesity, responding to the increasing rates of overweight and obese individuals in the country.

The guidelines highlight that obesity, recognized as an independent disease, is also a leading cause of multiple chronic conditions. It has become a significant public health concern in China, now ranked as the sixth leading risk factor for death and disability.

The guidelines provide comprehensive instructions on clinical nutrition, medication, surgical treatments, and behavioral and psychological interventions. They also address exercise programs for obesity management, ensuring both the safety and quality of healthcare while safeguarding patient rights, said Zhang Zhongtao, head of the drafting committee.

Experts stress that most obesity cases stem from unhealthy lifestyles, and the ultimate solution is maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise to manage weight effectively.

President Tinubu’s Top Bodyguard Fasasi Replaced Amid DSS Restructuring

Details have emerged regarding the removal of President Bola Tinubu’s Chief Security Officer (CSO), Adegboyega Fasasi. Fasasi was replaced by Rasheed Atanda Lawal, a deputy director of the Department of State Services (DSS), as part of a broader restructuring led by DSS Director-General Tosin Adeola Ajayi. Reports suggest Fasasi’s removal was prompted by alleged favoritism, rapid promotions, and complaints of arrogance. His departure signals continued efforts to restore integrity within the DSS, with more personnel changes expected.

Suspended Jigawa Commissioner to Be Arraigned in Kano Court Over Alleged Misconduct

The suspended Jigawa State Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr. Auwal Sankara, is scheduled to appear in a Kano court today following accusations of being caught with a married woman in an uncompleted building. Hisbah operatives apprehended him, but Sankara has strongly denied the allegations, calling them a plot to tarnish his political career.

In response, Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has set up a five-member committee to investigate the matter. The committee is expected to submit its findings within two weeks.

Internal Struggles Deepen in PDP as Acting Chairman Delays Crucial NEC Meeting

Tensions are escalating within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, faces pressure from party stakeholders to hold the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for October 24, 2024. Despite the constitutional requirement to hold NEC meetings quarterly, Damagum has delayed convening the gathering, prompting concerns among members that this may violate party rules. Internal divisions, particularly over the party’s leadership and chairmanship, have exacerbated the situation, leading to further discord among PDP governors and the National Working Committee (NWC).

Some members suggest Damagum is hesitant to step down from his position, though the chairmanship is expected to revert to the North Central region. The situation has created divisions within the NWC, with some pushing for the NEC meeting to proceed in order to restore party unity.

Woman Alleges Kaduna Governor’s Convoy Killed Her Brother

A woman named Fatimah has accused the convoy of Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, of killing her younger brother during a visit to Kawo on Saturday. In a video shared by Muhammad Kabir on X, Fatimah expressed her grief, stating that her brother was innocent and did not deserve to be shot.

Reports suggest that the governor’s security personnel fired shots and tear gas during the incident, which allegedly led to the boy’s death. The incident has sparked outrage, with accusations of excessive force being used by the governor’s convoy.

Nigerian Army Refutes Reports of Chief of Army Staff Lagbaja’s Death

The Nigerian Army has debunked circulating reports that claimed the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has passed away. Rumors suggested that Lagbaja had died in an undisclosed overseas hospital following a battle with stage three cancer.

In response, the Nigerian Army, through its official X handle, labeled the report as fake news. The Army assured the public that there is no leadership crisis, explaining that Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), is acting on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff during his official leave.

Earlier concerns had emerged about the general’s absence, leading to speculations about his health and rumors of military officers competing for his position. However, the Army emphasized that proper protocols remain in place, with no disruption in operations or officer promotions.

Concerns Grow Over Prolonged Absence of Army Chief Lagbaja, Last Seen in September

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has not been publicly seen since September 13, prompting concerns about his health. Appointed by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023, his extended absence has fueled speculation.

Reports suggest that Lagbaja was flown abroad for medical treatment, though the Nigerian Army has not confirmed the nature of his condition. In his absence, Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim has stepped in to fulfill his duties.

Lagbaja’s absence was notably felt during major military events, including the October 1 Independence Day celebrations and a recent media chat, where subordinates represented him.

Police Disperse #EndSARS Memorial Protest with Tear Gas, Arrest Two in Lagos

Operatives of the Nigerian Police Force reportedly fired shots and tear gas on Sunday to disperse protesters gathered at the Lekki Tollgate in Lagos State. The demonstrators had assembled to mark the fourth anniversary of the tragic #EndSARS protests against police brutality in October 2020.

Eyewitnesses reported that the peaceful procession was disrupted when police officers began firing into the air and deploying tear gas to forcefully disperse the crowd. Several protesters fled, and at least two individuals were arrested during the incident.

A source confirmed the arrests to SaharaReporters, but the identities of those detained remain unknown at this time. The police have yet to issue an official statement regarding the use of force at the memorial gathering.

The Lekki Tollgate holds significant importance as the site of the October 20, 2020 shooting, when security forces allegedly opened fire on unarmed protesters. The nationwide #EndSARS movement aimed to end police harassment, extortion, and brutality, particularly by the now-disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

Despite the establishment of judicial panels to review the demands of the #EndSARS protesters, many activists have expressed frustration that the panels’ recommendations have not been fully implemented, almost four years later.

Vice President Shettima to Lead Nigeria’s Delegation at CHOGM 2024 in Samoa

Vice President Kashim Shettima has been appointed by President Bola Tinubu to represent Nigeria at the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa, from October 21 to 26. The event, themed “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth,” will gather leaders from 56 member nations, including King Charles, to discuss global issues. Shettima will also participate in sessions aimed at boosting Nigeria’s investment prospects and empowering the Commonwealth’s youth. Additionally, the election of the next Commonwealth Secretary-General will be a key focus, with Nigeria playing a significant role.