#EndBadGovernance Protesters Accuse DSS of Intimidation Despite Court Ruling

Protesters involved in the #EndBadGovernance movement have accused the Department of State Services (DSS) of continued harassment, despite a Federal High Court ruling in Kaduna ordering their release. Activists revealed that after their release, the DSS summoned them to sign agreements restricting their movement and prohibiting public discussion of their detention experience.

The protesters, who were arrested during nationwide protests against corruption and insecurity, were discharged of all charges on October 17, 2024. However, they claim the DSS continues to pressure them, limiting their freedoms. Some activists have reported ongoing health issues and trauma following their detention.

The DSS had reportedly detained 39 individuals during the protests, releasing them gradually over 75 days.

PDP Governors Deny Involvement in Lawsuit to Force NEC Meeting

The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF) has strongly denied reports claiming its Chairman, Governor Bala Mohammed, or his associates filed a lawsuit in Gusau, Zamfara State, to compel the party to hold its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting as scheduled.

In a statement issued by Dr. Emmanuel Agbo, Director General of the PDP-GF, the forum refuted the allegations, branding the report as “false and malicious.” The statement emphasized that neither the Bauchi Governor nor any proxy acting on his behalf was connected to the lawsuit.

The PDP-GF urged the public to disregard the claims, which were described as an attempt to tarnish Governor Mohammed’s image. The forum also reiterated its call for party members to withdraw ongoing court cases to promote internal reconciliation.

This comes as a Federal High Court in Abuja recently ruled that PDP’s Acting National Chairman, Amb. Umar Damagum, cannot be removed from office until December 2025, following a separate case brought by party members in Yobe State.

Matawalle Briefs Tinubu on Military Successes in Sokoto During Operational Tour

Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has updated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the results of his recent operational tour in Sokoto State. During the briefing, Matawalle commended the Nigerian Military for its professionalism and success in addressing insecurity in the region, crediting the Armed Forces for their critical role in maintaining national security.

Matawalle praised President Tinubu’s commitment to providing resources to bolster military efforts and highlighted key achievements, including the elimination of notorious bandit leaders like Halilu Buzu Sububu. He also urged local communities to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces.

President Tinubu expressed his satisfaction with the military’s progress and their dedication to combating insecurity in the North-West.

Benue PDP Holds Expanded Caucus Meeting

By Michael Inyaregh

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Benue State chapter held her stakeholders’ meeting on sunday, at the party’s state secretariat, located at No. 1 Ochagu Lawani Street, New GRA, Makurdi.

The meeting was well-attended by party members from all three senatorial districts of the state.

The newly inaugurated members of the State Working Committee were introduced to the party leader, Senator Dr. Gabriel Torwua Suswam, who welcomed them with enthusiasm.

State Chairman Hon. Christian Adaba Abah, speaking on behalf of the party’s leadership, assured members of his total commitment to the development, growth and unity of the party. He emphasized that the party is ready to accommodate all members but will not tolerate saboteurs working for other parties for personal gains. He urged transactional members to be cautious, stating that the party is watching their actions.

In his keynote address, Senator Suswam acknowledged the efforts of Senator Orker Jev, Senator Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, David Mark, Hon. Terngu Tsegba, Chile Igbawua, and others at both the state and national levels. He expressed concern over the complicity of Damagun, his secretary, and the national organizing secretary, which he believes are a threat to the party’s stability.

Senator Suswam instilled hope in party members, asserting that the sham created by Ortom in the acclaimed congresses would not stand. He noted that during the last BOT meeting, Damagun insisted on retaining his position despite the call for his resignation by the majority. Suswam pointed out that the PDP governors also believe Damagun should step down. He questioned how the opinions of four individuals could outweigh those of nine, affirming that the NEC meeting scheduled for October 24 must hold and the rule of law must take precedence.

He further emphasized that leadership is about the party whether he leads or another candidate outside Wike’s camp is chosen, he supports the decision.

Regarding the recent theft at the party secretariat, Suswam stated that law enforcement agencies are handling the matter and the thieves must return the stolen property. He reiterated the party’s objectives, insisting that the PDP will not yield to anything that undermines its goals. He added that any individual or group wishing to break away from the party is free to do so, but criminal activities such as stealing from him will not be tolerated.

In response, Elders Udugh Nyitse, Cletus Upaa and Sir John Ngbede who spoke on behalf of zones A B &C declared their unwavering commitment to the PDP. They affirmed that they have never left the party since our present democratic journey from 1999 and have no intention of doing so in the near future.They cautioned transactional politicians to stay clear of the PDP as the party is undergoes a rebuilding process, stating that they are not prepared to accommodate them.

Other speakers included former local government council chairmen, led by Hon. Agber Terseer; former Benue State House of Assembly members, led by Hon. Hyicent Nyakuma; former House of Representatives members, led by Hon. Benjamin Mzondu; and former PDP state chairmen, led by Hon. Mike Iduma. They condemned the actions of party saboteurs, asserting that the Benue PDP is not interested in dealing with cash and carry politicians. They noted that recent consultations regarding defections could ultimately benefit the party.

PDP members in the State Assembly stated that they only recognize the party’s secretariat at No. 1 Ochagu Lawani Street, affirming their commitment to the party’s leadership and direction.

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.