FG Unveils Identity of Woman Threatening Mass Killing of Nigerians in Canada

The Federal Government has disclosed the identity of a woman who made viral threats of mass violence against Nigerians in Canada. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), identified her as Amaka Patience Sunnberger.

The woman, who appeared in a video circulated on social media, threatened to poison Nigerians residing in Canada. Speaking primarily in Pidgin English, she claimed to live in Ontario and openly challenged anyone to report her to Canadian authorities. The threats were reportedly made during a virtual meeting on TikTok, where she vowed to target Yoruba and Benin individuals due to perceived animosity towards Igbos.

In the video, Sunnberger said, “Record me very well; it’s time to start poisoning the Yoruba and the Benin. Put poison for all una food for work. Put poison for una water, make una dey kpai one by one,” and further stated, “I want make Ndi Igbo get that heart of wickedness. Una too dey quiet.”

Following the public release of her identity, Dabiri-Erewa confirmed that Sunnberger has deleted her TikTok account. However, a group of Nigerians in Canada are actively reporting her to the appropriate authorities in Canada. Dabiri-Erewa urged vigilance and thanked those who helped bring the issue to light.

Breaking: Bode George Urges Atiku to Wait Until 2031 for Presidential Bid

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, has advised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to refrain from contesting the 2027 presidential election, suggesting instead that he wait until 2031.

In a statement on Wednesday, George argued that it is not the North’s turn to produce a president according to the constitutions of both Nigeria and the PDP, which emphasize rotational leadership. He urged Atiku to follow the example of U.S. President Joe Biden by stepping down and allowing younger candidates to take the lead.

George emphasized that while he has nothing personal against Atiku, the reality of Nigeria’s political landscape means the former Vice President should consider waiting until 2031 if he wishes to run for the presidency again. He also highlighted the need for the PDP to nominate a southern candidate to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.

George noted that by 2027, Atiku will be 81 years old and should consider stepping aside to allow the younger generation to take charge, similar to what Biden did in the U.S. He also underscored the importance of respecting the PDP’s constitution, which mandates zoning and rotation to ensure fairness and equity.

Refuting claims of tribalism, George asserted his commitment to a united Nigeria and reiterated his stance on maintaining the principles of zoning and rotation within the PDP, which have been in place since the party’s inception in 1998. He called on all party members to uphold these principles as the party prepares for the 2027 elections.

Breaking: FG and ASUU Begin Crucial Talks to Avert Nationwide University Strike

A pivotal meeting between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is currently underway in Abuja. The discussions are aimed at preventing a potential nationwide strike in Nigeria’s public universities.

Held at the Conference Hall of the Federal Ministry of Education, the meeting follows ASUU’s recent threat to embark on industrial action, citing the government’s failure to meet its demands. The union’s grievances include issues related to funding, staff welfare, and the implementation of previous agreements.

ASUU President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, has voiced the union’s frustration over the unmet commitments. The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, had earlier expressed the government’s readiness to engage with ASUU to find a resolution.

The meeting, which includes top officials from the Federal Ministry of Education and former ASUU leaders, comes after a previously scheduled meeting was postponed without explanation. The outcome of today’s discussions is expected to be crucial in determining whether public universities will face another strike, as both parties are under significant pressure to reach an agreement that ensures the continuity of academic activities across the country.

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Released from Custody, Awaits Court Decision on Investigation

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has been released by French authorities after being detained over allegations that the messaging platform he founded was being used for illegal activities. Durov is now awaiting a court appearance, where a judge will decide whether he will be formally investigated as part of an ongoing probe into organized crime associated with the app.

According to a statement from the Paris prosecutor’s office, as reported by the Associated Press, “An investigating judge has ended Pavel Durov’s police custody and will have him brought to court for a first appearance and a possible indictment.”

The 39-year-old Russian-born billionaire was arrested on Saturday, August 24, at Le Bourget Airport in France after arriving from Azerbaijan on a private jet. His detention was part of an investigation launched by France’s National Anti-Fraud Office on July 8, focusing on alleged criminal activities facilitated through Telegram. The investigation covers a range of accusations, including drug trafficking, fraud, money laundering, distribution of child sexual abuse material, aiding criminal transactions, and non-cooperation with law enforcement.

In response to these allegations, Telegram has reiterated its commitment to complying with European Union laws, including the Digital Services Act, stating, “It is absurd to claim that a platform or its owner are responsible for abuse of that platform.”

Under French law, Durov was held in custody for up to 96 hours, the maximum period allowed before charges must be filed.

Darwin Nunez Hit with Five-Game Ban After Copa America Incident”

Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez has been handed a five-game ban following his involvement in an altercation with spectators after Uruguay’s defeat by Colombia in the Copa America semi-final. In addition to the ban, which will prevent him from participating in five international matches starting in September, Nunez has also been fined £15,145.

The incident has led to penalties for four other players as well. Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur received a four-game ban, while Napoli defender Mathias Olivera, Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo, and Atletico Madrid defender Jose Maria Gimenez each received three-game bans.

These sanctions were issued by South America’s football governing body, Conmebol, following an investigation into the altercation, which took place in an area of the stadium where many family members of the Uruguay players were seated.

Commenting on the incident, Gimenez stated, “There was no police and we had to defend our families. This is the fault of two or three people who had a few too many drinks and don’t know how to drink.”

Uruguay is expected to feel the impact of these bans as they gear up for their World Cup qualifying matches in September and October. Their next match is scheduled against Paraguay on September 6th in Montevideo.

Police Used to Undermine Labour Party, Claims LP Chieftain Ajaero

Former Labour Party Ebonyi South Senatorial Candidate, Linus Okorie, has accused the Nigerian Police of being used to disrupt the Labour Party (LP) and intimidate its leaders. Okorie, a former member of the House of Representatives for Ohaozara, Onicha, and Ivo Constituency in Ebonyi State, stated that the recent police invitation of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, is part of a broader effort to prevent the NLC from intervening in the ongoing Labour Party crisis.

In a statement released in Abakaliki on Tuesday, Okorie expressed concern that Nigeria is increasingly being transformed into a police state under the current federal government. He argued that the blurred lines between law enforcement and political power are leading to the misuse of police forces to suppress dissent.

Okorie cited instances of police brutality during recent national hunger protests, which reportedly resulted in several fatalities. Amnesty International and other organizations have raised alarms about these incidents, accusing the police of using excessive force against unarmed protesters. Among those voicing concerns are Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, the 2023 Presidential Candidates of the PDP and LP, respectively.

The NLC, which has been under pressure since the nationwide protests in August 2024, had earlier convened a stakeholders meeting in April to address the Labour Party’s leadership crisis. However, Okorie claims that coordinated efforts, including police intervention, have been made to undermine these efforts and frustrate the formation of a stronger LP.

Okorie also highlighted a series of recent events, including a police raid on the NLC national secretariat in Abuja and the arrest of security guards, which he believes were aimed at intimidating the NLC and its leadership. The latest development, a police summons for Joe Ajaero on charges including criminal conspiracy and treasonable felony, is viewed by Okorie as a tactic to further pressure the NLC.

He questioned the fairness of the police’s actions and whether citizens’ rights to a fair hearing, as guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution, are still respected by the country’s security agencies.

Chelsea and PSG Continue Pursuit of Victor Osimhen as Transfer Deadline Looms

As the summer transfer window nears its close, the future of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen remains one of the most captivating stories yet to be resolved. Renowned transfer experts David Ornstein and Fabrizio Romano have reported that Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are still actively pursuing the Napoli forward.

Despite expectations that Osimhen might have moved earlier in the summer, he remains at the center of intense speculation. In addition to Chelsea and PSG, other major European clubs, including Arsenal, have also shown interest in the 25-year-old striker. While some Saudi Arabian clubs have made inquiries, Osimhen appears disinclined to consider a move to the Middle East at this time.

During a recent discussion on the Sky Sports Back Pages Podcast, David Ornstein highlighted the potential for a dramatic transfer involving Osimhen on deadline day. He noted Chelsea’s continued interest and the possibility of a late push from PSG, given Osimhen’s status as a top-tier striker.

“This is one we understand is going to go down on transfer deadline day, and it will be one of those dramatic stories about where Victor Osimhen ends up,” Ornstein remarked. “Chelsea retain an interest in him, but it’s about what form the deal may take. Who else? Maybe PSG had a strong interest in Osimhen before, so that could be lively. He’s a box office name, a big-time striker.”

Adding to the suspense, Fabrizio Romano disclosed that while PSG has not yet submitted an official bid to Napoli, they are expected to make a late offer before the deadline.

Victor Osimhen has been a key player for Napoli, scoring 76 goals and providing 18 assists in 133 appearances over the past three seasons. As the transfer window inches closer to its end, the striker’s next move remains uncertain, setting the stage for possible last-minute drama.

Governor Soludo Denies Plans to Borrow ₦245 Billion for 2024 Budget

Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, has refuted claims that his administration intends to borrow ₦245 billion to finance the 2024 budget. Speaking at the Governor’s Lodge during the celebration of the state’s 33rd anniversary, Soludo dismissed these reports as false, emphasizing that his government does not plan to borrow funds for the upcoming budget.

The governor explained that the state is currently running a budget deficit of ₦121 billion for 2024 but has not borrowed any funds to cover this shortfall. He clarified that his administration is focused on bankable projects and only considers borrowing for initiatives that have a high likelihood of generating sufficient returns to repay any debt incurred.

Soludo highlighted that while the Anambra State House of Assembly approved a ₦100 billion loan for a supplementary budget in 2022, the state has yet to utilize any of these funds. Similarly, despite a budget deficit of ₦90 billion in 2023, no borrowing took place.

He reiterated that borrowing is only an option for projects with strong potential for financial return, aligning with his administration’s stringent criteria for debt acquisition.

NSCDC Recovers and Returns Looted Kano Court Property

The Kano State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has successfully recovered and returned multi-million Naira equipment looted during the recent nationwide hunger protests. The recovered items, belonging to the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) and the Kano State High Court, were handed over to their respective owners at the NSCDC state command headquarters on Tuesday.

According to a statement from the command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ibrahim Abdullahi, the recovered items include two Cisco Switches valued at over N400 million, computer sets, air conditioners, executive chairs, doors and windows, a photocopy machine, and various law and judicial publications. These items were taken from the NCC’s Digital Industrial Park and the High Court situated within the Audu Bako Secretariat complex in Kano.

The recovery operation was carried out by NSCDC personnel shortly after the equipment was stolen by hoodlums during the protest in Kano.

Mr. Suleiman Chido, who received the items on behalf of the NCC Kano office, praised the NSCDC for their swift and effective action in recovering the stolen goods. He also expressed hope that the strong relationship and cooperation between the commission and the NSCDC would continue to thrive.

COAS Lagbaja Rejects Calls for Military Intervention, Emphasizes Commitment to Democracy

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, firmly reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to upholding democratic governance, dismissing any calls for military intervention. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the COAS Combined 2nd and 3rd Quarters Conference in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Tuesday, Lagbaja addressed the recent clamoring for a military takeover, primarily from younger Nigerians who never experienced Nigeria’s extensive military rule.

Lagbaja emphasized that the Army is unwilling to sacrifice the “new prestige” it has built over the past 25 years by disrupting the nation’s democratic process. He noted that the recent nationwide protests against hunger and poor governance served as an eye-opener, particularly highlighting the critical issue of food insecurity.

“The Nigerian Army will not allow itself to be used to undemocratically sail some interests to power,” Lagbaja stated. He stressed that the Army, having faced the brunt of public disapproval during past military regimes, is focused on maintaining its hard-earned reputation.

Lagbaja also announced that the Nigerian Army is revising its agricultural policy to boost food production and support the government’s efforts to address food insecurity. He mentioned that the Army currently provides security for farmers in critical regions, ensuring the continuation of food production.

Additionally, Lagbaja highlighted recent acquisitions aimed at enhancing the Army’s operational capabilities, including BELL UH-1 Huey helicopters and Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles. He also acknowledged the support from both national and sub-national governments, which has been instrumental in the Army’s recent advancements.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, who declared the conference open, praised the Army’s ongoing commitment to professionalism and pledged the state government’s support for the proposed establishment of an Army base in Akwa Ibom.