PDP Leaders Trade Blame as Party Crisis Deepens After 2023 Election Defeat

At a tense conference in Abuja, top leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clashed over the lingering internal crisis that has troubled the party since its controversial presidential primary. The division within the PDP, Nigeria’s main opposition party, is widely seen as contributing to its defeat in the 2023 general election by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

During the event, titled “Fix PDP to Fix Nigeria,” Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, a member of the House of Representatives, blamed Nyesom Wike, current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former governor of Rivers State, for the ongoing party crisis. Ugochinyere also criticized the PDP’s Acting National Chairman, Amb. Umar Damagum, for his role in the party’s struggles, questioning why he remains in his position.

“Before we can fix Nigeria, we must fix our own leadership problems,” Ugochinyere said. He accused Wike of abandoning the PDP and working for the APC, further straining the party’s unity.

However, Ibrahim Abdullahi, the PDP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, directed the blame at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Abdullahi claimed Atiku’s actions had deepened the party’s fractures, including his failure to address the threats posed by the G5 governors before the election.

The public exchange of accusations reflects the deepening divisions within the PDP, raising questions about its ability to resolve internal conflicts and rebuild for future elections.

Naira Slumps Against Dollar in Parallel Market as Nigeria and Brazil Push for Direct Flights

Naira Falls Further in Black Market

As of October 8, 2024, the Naira has weakened against the US dollar in the parallel market. According to sources at Bureau De Change (BDC) in Lagos, traders buy dollars at N1670 and sell at N1680. This depreciation highlights the ongoing volatility of the Naira. However, it’s important to note that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not officially recognize the parallel market and advises people to use formal banking channels for foreign exchange.

Here are the updated rates for the black market:

  • Buying Rate: N1670
  • Selling Rate: N1680

Meanwhile, the CBN’s official rate for the US dollar stands slightly lower:

  • Buying Rate: N1628
  • Selling Rate: N1629

Please remember that exchange rates can vary depending on location and transaction volume.

Nigeria and Brazil Strengthen Aviation Ties With Direct Flights

In other developments, Nigeria and Brazil are gearing up to launch direct flights as part of the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA). Following the directive from President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, met with the Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, Carlos Garcete, to accelerate the implementation of the 2018 agreement.

This collaboration, which aims to enhance economic cooperation and aviation connectivity, builds on discussions held between President Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva earlier this year.

The new direct flight routes could operate four to five times a week, promising to bolster trade and cultural exchanges between the two nations. However, Ambassador Garcete highlighted that the completion of the Open Skies Agreement is crucial for seamless flight operations.

These efforts mark a significant step in Nigeria’s global aviation strategy.

Youths Pass Vote Of Confidence On Sanwo-Olu Over Groundbreaking Developments

Youth Bureau has passed a vote of confidence on Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu for accelerating development in education, environment, Infrastructure, and transportation in the state since assuming office.

Governor Sanwo-Olu is also receiving commendations for empowering initiatives and the planned return of the monthly sanitation programme in the state.

Youth Bureau’s Advisory Chairman, Razak Olokoba gave the remarks following a periodic governance review under Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday in Abuja.

In his assessment, Olokoba described the governor as a trailblazer and leader whose legacies is impacting the country as a whole. Adding that Sanwo-Olu has set a high standard with the level of transformation going on in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

He noted that the World Bank’s recent commendation of Sanwo-Olu for the significant transformation witnessed in the state over the past five years was a clear testament that the governor is doing exceptionally well. At the same time, highlighting Sanwo-Olu’s exploits in the education sector, environmental protection, youth employment, and entrepreneurship, amongst others.
12“When a global financial institution like the World Bank is singling out a governor for praise that says a lot, and I can confirm without a doubt that Gov. Sanwo-Olu has performed in enhancing the quality of life for residents and his commitment to upgrading infrastructure to boost socio-economic development is second to none.

“Lagos State Government under his leadership is transforming the transportation landscape of Lagos, which has become a model for a modern city. The administration’s delivery of intra-city rail infrastructure and investment in waterways have greatly enhanced the state’s economic prospects.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving education was a central promise of his campaign and today has been actualized through the EKOEXCEL program, designed to address the learning crisis in Lagos public primary schools.

“As we talk, the program has uplifted pupils from low-income families to performance levels comparable to their peers in upper-middle-income countries. In over five years, EKOEXCEL has dramatically reduced learning poverty, transforming the educational landscape of Lagos State.
“Lagos government under Sanwo-Olu also aligned with the urgency for actions to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce carbon footprints. The signing of two waste conversion initiatives secured significant foreign investments.
The idea of returning to monthly clean-up exercises in Lagos state is a cheery development and shows that the Lagos state governor is a listening leader.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu also came up with a novel idea which has the potential to transform the fortunes of the youths. The initiative tagged, ‘EMPOWER LAGOS’ was part of economic efforts to curb youth unemployment and empower artisans, indicating that residents have the chance to learn technical and vocational skills that open the door to employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
I can confirm to you that millions of Lagosians are benefitting from this programme, jobs have been created in millions since the initiative took off, “He stated.

Infrastructure: Group Lauds Sanwo-Olu For Transforming Lagos

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been commended for raising the bar in governance and giant strides in infrastructure, education, empower initiatives as well as the planned return of the monthly sanitation program in the state.

Convener, Transparency Initiative Project Yemen Ngutor, gave the remarks following a periodic review of governance under Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday in Abuja.

In his assessment, Ngutor described the governor as a trailblazer and leader whose legacies is impacting the country as a whole. Adding Mr Sanwo-Olu has set a high standard with the level of transformation going on in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

He noted that the World Bank’s recent commendation of Sanwo-Olu for the significant transformation witnessed in the state over the past five years was a clear testament that the governor is doing exceptionally well. While highlighting Sanwo-Olu’s exploits in the education sector, environmental protection, youth employment and entrepreneurship, amongst others.

“When a global financial institution like the World Bank is singling out a governor for praise that says a lot, and I can confirm without a doubt that Gov. Sanwo-Olu has performed in enhancing the quality of life for residents and his commitment to upgrading infrastructure to boost socio-economic development is second to none.

“Lagos State Government under his leadership is transforming the transportation landscape of Lagos, which has become a model for a modern city. The administration’s delivery of intra-city rail infrastructure and investment in waterways, which have greatly enhanced the state’s economic prospects.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving education was a central promise of his campaign and today has been actualised through the EKOEXCEL program, designed to address the learning crisis in Lagos public primary schools.

“As we talk, the programme has uplifted pupils from low-income families to performance levels comparable to their peers in upper-middle-income countries. In over five years, EKOEXCEL has dramatically reduced learning poverty, transforming the educational landscape of Lagos State.

“Lagos government under Sanwo-Olu also aligned with the urgency for actions to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce carbon footprints. The signing of two waste conversion initiatives secured significant foreign investments.
The idea of returning to monthly clean-up exercises in Lagos state is a cheery development and shows that the Lagos state governor is a listening leader.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu also came up with a novel idea which has the potential to transform the fortunes of the youths. The initiative tagged, ‘EMPOWER LAGOS’ was part of economic efforts to curb youth unemployment and empower artisans, indicating that residents have the chance to learn technical and vocational skills that open the door to employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
I can confirm to you that millions of Lagosians are benefitting from this programme, jobs have been created in millions since the initiative took off, “He stated.

Infrastructural Devt: Women Group Brands Gov Sanwo-Olu ‘Trailblazer’

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been commended for raising the bar in governance and giant strides in infrastructure, education, empower initiatives as well as the planned return of the monthly sanitation programme in the state.

Executive Director, Women Democratic Foundation Awakulu Galadima gave the remarks following a periodic review of governance under Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday in Abuja.

In her assessment, Galadima described the governor as a trailblazer and leader whose legacies is impacting the country as a whole. Adding that Sanwo-Olu has set a high standard with the level of transformation going on in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

He noted that the World Bank’s recent commendation of Sanwo-Olu for the significant transformation witnessed in the state over the past five years was a clear testament that the governor is doing exceptionally well. At the same time, highlighting Sanwo-Olu’s exploits in the education sector, environmental protection, youth employment, and entrepreneurship, amongst others.

“When a global financial institution like the World Bank is singling out a governor for praise that says a lot, and I can confirm without a doubt that Gov. Sanwo-Olu has performed in enhancing the quality of life for residents and his commitment to upgrading infrastructure to boost socio-economic development is second to none.

“Lagos State Government under his leadership is transforming the transportation landscape of Lagos, which has become a model for a modern city. The administration’s delivery of intra-city rail infrastructure and investment in waterways, which have greatly enhanced the state’s economic prospects.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving education was a central promise of his campaign and today has been actualized through the EKOEXCEL program, designed to address the learning crisis in Lagos public primary schools.

“As we talk, the programme has uplifted pupils from low-income families to performance levels comparable to their peers in upper-middle-income countries. In over five years, EKOEXCEL has dramatically reduced learning poverty, transforming the educational landscape of Lagos State.

“Lagos government under Sanwo-Olu also aligned with the urgency for actions to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce carbon footprints. The signing of two waste conversion initiatives secured significant foreign investments.
The idea of returning to monthly clean-up exercises in Lagos state is a cheery development and shows that the Lagos state governor is a listening leader.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu also came up with a novel idea which has the potential to transform the fortunes of the youths. The initiative tagged, ‘EMPOWER LAGOS’ was part of economic efforts to curb youth unemployment and empower artisans, indicating that residents have the chance to learn technical and vocational skills that open the door to employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
I can confirm to you that millions of Lagosians are benefitting from this programme, jobs have been created in millions since the initiative took off, “She stated.

CSO Joins World Bank, Hails Sanwo-Olu’s Groundbreaking Achievements In Lagos

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been commended for raising the bar in governance and giant strides in infrastructure, education, empower initiatives as well as the planned return of the monthly sanitation programme in the state.

A civil society group, Pan African Society for Social and Economic Change gave the remarks following a periodic review of governance under Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday in Abuja.

In his assessment, the Executive Director of the group, Basah Mohammed described the governor as a trailblazer and leader whose legacies is impacting the country as a whole. Additionally, Sanwo-Olu has set a high standard with the level of transformation going on in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

He noted that the World Bank’s recent commendation of Sanwo-Olu for significant transformation witnessed in the state over the past five years was a clear testament that the governor is doing exceptionally well. At the same time, highlighting Sanwo-Olu’s exploits in the education sector, environmental protection, youth employment, and entrepreneurship, amongst others.

“When a global financial institution like the World Bank is singling out a governor for praise that says a lot, and I can confirm without a doubt that Gov. Sanwo-Olu has performed in enhancing the quality of life for residents and his commitment to upgrading infrastructure to boost socio-economic development is second to none.

“Lagos State Government under his leadership is transforming the transportation landscape of Lagos, which has become a model for a modern city. The administration’s delivery of intra-city rail infrastructure and investment in waterways have greatly enhanced the state’s economic prospects.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving education was a central promise of his campaign and today has been actualized through the EKOEXCEL program, designed to address the learning crisis in Lagos public primary schools.

“As we talk, the programme has uplifted pupils from low-income families to performance levels comparable to their peers in upper-middle-income countries. In over five years, EKOEXCEL has dramatically reduced learning poverty, transforming the educational landscape of Lagos State.

“Lagos government under Sanwo-Olu also aligned with the urgency for actions to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce carbon footprints. The signing of two waste conversion initiatives secured significant foreign investments.
The idea of returning to monthly clean-up exercise in Lagos state is a cheery development and shows that the Lagos state governor is a listening leader.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu also came up with a novel idea which has the potential to transform the fortunes of the youths. The initiative tagged, ‘EMPOWER LAGOS’ was part of economic efforts to curb youth unemployment and empower artisans, indicating that residents have the chance to learn technical and vocational skills that open the door to employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
I can confirm to you that millions of Lagosians are benefitting from this programme, jobs are created in millions since the initiative took off, “He stated.

Group Commends Sanwo-Olu’s Rapid Transformation Of Lagos

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been commended for raising the bar in governance and giant strides in infrastructure, education, empower initiatives as well as the planned return of monthly sanitation programme in the state.

The Convener of Campaign for Dignity in Governance, Razaq Olokoba gave the remarks following a periodic governance review under Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday in Lagos.
In his assessment, Olokoba described the governor as a trailblazer and leader whose legacies are impacting the country. Additionally that Sanwo-Olu has set a high standard with the level of transformation going on in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

He noted that the World Bank’s recent commendation of Sanwo-Olu for the significant transformation witnessed in the state over the past five years was a clear testament that the governor is doing exceptionally well. At the same time, highlighting Sanwo-Olu’s exploits in the education sector, environmental protection, youth employment, and entrepreneurship, amongst others.

“When a global financial institution like the World Bank is singling out a governor for praise that says a lot, and I can confirm without a doubt that Gov. Sanwo-Olu has performed in enhancing the quality of life for residents and his commitment to upgrading infrastructure to boost socio-economic development is second to none.

“Lagos State Government under his leadership is transforming the transportation landscape of Lagos, which has become a model for a modern city. The administration’s delivery of intra-city rail infrastructure and investment in waterways have greatly enhanced the state’s economic prospects.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving education was a central promise of his campaign and today has been actualized through the EKOEXCEL program, designed to address the learning crisis in Lagos public primary schools.

“As we talk, the programme has uplifted pupils from low-income families to performance levels comparable to their peers in upper-middle-income countries. In over five years, EKOEXCEL has dramatically reduced learning poverty, transforming the educational landscape of Lagos State.
“Lagos government under Sanwo-Olu also aligned with the urgency for actions to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce carbon footprints. The signing of two waste conversion initiatives secured significant foreign investments.
The idea of returning to monthly clean-up exercises in Lagos state is a cheery development and shows that the Lagos state governor is a listening leader.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu also came up with a novel idea which has the potential to transform the fortunes of the youths. The initiative tagged, ‘EMPOWER LAGOS’ was part of economic efforts to curb youth unemployment and empower artisans, indicating that residents have the chance to learn technical and vocational skills that open the door to employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
I can confirm to you that millions of Lagosians are benefitting from this programme, jobs have been created in millions since the initiative took off, “He stated.

Rivers Crisis: Ihunwo Urges Tinubu to Sack Wike Over Election Disruptions

Chijioke Ihunwo, the newly elected Chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to dismiss Nyesom Wike from his position as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Ihunwo claims that Wike’s involvement in the recent unrest in Rivers State during the local government elections threatens democracy.

In an interview with ARISE NEWS on Tuesday, Ihunwo expressed his concerns, stating, “Wike is threatening democracy under the administration of Mr. President. He disrupted our state. While other states are peaceful, Rivers State is in turmoil. Wike cannot control Rivers State.”

Ihunwo argued that Wike does not deserve to be in President Tinubu’s cabinet and urged the president to take swift action. He emphasized that the violence in Rivers, particularly after the swearing-in of newly elected officials, has escalated due to Wike’s influence.

“We inspected the offices and saw the damage caused. Hoodlums attempted to invade and burn the council but were stopped by security forces. The unrest is laughable, and Wike is behind it,” Ihunwo claimed.

He further stated that Wike’s actions are a repeat of past behaviors, referencing similar incidents during the tenure of former Governor Rotimi Amaechi. Despite the crisis, Ihunwo reassured the public that local governance remains resilient and urged for peace in the state. He encouraged the youth being used in the unrest to stand down.

“What goes around comes around,” Ihunwo concluded, asserting that the people of Rivers will not allow Wike to dominate the state any longer.

Lagos State Assembly Defends Legal Authority in Chairman’s Suspension Controversy”

The Lagos State House of Assembly has firmly advised the suspended chairman of Alimosho Local Government Area, Jelili Sulaimon, and his lawyer, Dr. Abdul Mahmud, to prioritize legal principles over emotional responses regarding the recent suspension. This statement comes in light of Mahmud’s criticism of the Assembly’s unanimous decision to suspend Sulaimon during a plenary session on October 7, 2024, and the subsequent legal action he has initiated against the Assembly.

In a response signed by Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, the chairman of the Committee on Information, Strategy and Security, the Assembly emphasized the importance of understanding the legal framework governing local governments in Lagos State. The Assembly highlighted that the creation and governance of local governments must adhere to established laws, particularly referencing Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria.

The Assembly asserted its legal authority, noting that the Local Government Administration Law grants it the power to suspend officials after conducting investigations, requiring only a simple majority of votes from Assembly members. The Assembly stressed that the recent suspension was justified and adhered to the rules governing local government administration in Lagos State.

Iran Warns Israel of Retaliation Over Potential Attacks on Nuclear and Oil Infrastructure

Iran has issued a strong warning to Israel, cautioning against any attacks on its nuclear or oil facilities amid the ongoing conflict. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that any assault on Iran’s infrastructure would trigger a more severe response from Tehran.

The warning follows Israel’s consideration of countermeasures after Iran’s missile strike on October 1, the second in six months. Despite rising tensions, Araghchi emphasized that Iran does not seek war but remains prepared to respond forcefully to any hostile actions.