Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh Assassinated in Iran

Hamas’s top political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, has been assassinated in Iran. According to a statement from the Palestinian group, Haniyeh, who lived in exile, was killed following a “treacherous Zionist” attack on his residence.

The assassination has been condemned as a “cowardly act that will not go unpunished,” according to senior Hamas official Moussa Abu Marzouk, as reported by Hamas-run Al-Aqsa TV.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed Haniyeh’s death, which occurred just hours after he attended the swearing-in ceremony of Iran’s new president, Masoud Pezeshkian.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani stated, “Haniyeh’s martyrdom in Tehran will strengthen the deep and unbreakable bond between Tehran, Palestine, and the resistance.”

This incident marks the second high-profile assassination attributed to Israel within a few hours. A previous strike in Beirut killed a senior Hezbollah commander, increasing concerns of escalating tensions and potential full-scale conflict in the region.

While Israel did not immediately comment on Haniyeh’s assassination, Israel’s Minister of Heritage, Amichay Eliyahu, praised the act, claiming it “makes the world a little better.” In a post on X, Eliyahu said, “No mercy for these mortals.”

Legendary Singer Onyeka Onwenu Passes Away After Performance in Lagos

Tragedy struck on Tuesday night as Nigeria’s legendary singer and songwriter, Onyeka Onwenu, passed away shortly after performing at a birthday party in Lagos. The music icon, affectionately known as the ‘Elegant Stallion,’ reportedly collapsed at a private function and was later pronounced dead at Reddington Hospital in Victoria Island, Lagos. Sources close to the family confirmed the shocking news to The Guardian.

Onwenu was attending the birthday celebration of Mrs. Stella Okoli, founder of Emzor Pharmaceuticals when she took to the stage to perform.

Eyewitnesses said she returned to her seat after her performance and suddenly slumped. Emergency services were immediately called, and she was rushed to the hospital, where she was later declared dead. The exact cause of death is yet to be confirmed.

A source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, “It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu had just performed at the birthday of Mrs. Stella Okoli of Emzor Pharmaceuticals this night, and after performing, she slumped. She was taken to Reddington Hospital but couldn’t make it.”

Onyeka Onwenu, born on May 31, 1952, had a career that spanned over four decades. She was not only a renowned singer and songwriter but also an actress, journalist, and politician. Onwenu’s music, which blended genres such as highlife, reggae, and pop, often addressed social and political issues.

Some of her most popular songs include “One Love,” “Iyogogo,” and “Ekwe.”

Kamala Harris Challenges Trump as White House Race Intensifies

US Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris smiles as she takes the podium to speak at a campaign rally in Atlanta, Georgia, on July 30, 2024. (Photo by Elijah Nouvelage / AFP)

In her most vigorous campaign rally to date, Kamala Harris launched a sharp critique of Donald Trump on Tuesday, asserting that the dynamics of the presidential race are shifting in her favor and challenging the Republican candidate to a face-to-face debate.

Vice President Harris’s visit to Atlanta, Georgia, signals a renewed Democratic focus on the swing state, which seemed out of reach under President Joe Biden before his unexpected withdrawal from the 2024 race.

The presumptive Democratic nominee aims to expand the party’s battleground map and attract young Black voters, delivering a resolute 20-minute speech to about 10,000 supporters in a packed arena and promising that Americans “are not going back” to Trump’s “failed policies.”

“Now, the baton is in our hands,” Harris declared to enthusiastic applause. “We have a fight in front of us… And we are the underdogs in this race.”

Following Biden’s July 21 exit from the race, Harris’s presidential bid has gained momentum, with much of the party rallying behind her and her campaign raising an impressive $200 million.

“The momentum in this race is shifting, and there are signs that Donald Trump is feeling it,” she said.

Trump recently announced he would break with political tradition and not debate Harris, while also attacking her with insults, calling her “crazy” and a “bum.”

“Well Donald, I do hope you’ll reconsider meeting me on the debate stage, because as the saying goes, if you’ve got something to say, say it to my face,” Harris responded, to loud cheers from the crowd.

Harris also highlighted her experience as a former prosecutor and California attorney general, claiming she knows “Donald Trump’s type” and is ready to confront him.

“In this campaign, I will proudly put my record against his any day of the week,” she said.

With just 98 days before the election, Harris is under pressure to announce her vice presidential pick. When asked on Tuesday, she said she had not yet made a decision.

Former President Barack Obama has endorsed Harris, and the search for her running mate is nearing its conclusion. Harris’s team announced plans to campaign next week in key battleground states including Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada.

As the White House race heats up, Harris unveiled her first television ad since replacing Biden, while Trump’s campaign released an ad attacking her on immigration.

Harris dismissed Trump’s attacks, emphasizing that while the Biden administration worked on critical border legislation with conservatives, Trump sabotaged it for political gain.

“Donald Trump does not care about border security,” she said. “He only cares about himself.”

Harris outlined her key economic goals, such as expanding affordable health care and addressing rising consumer costs. She also criticized Trump’s “extreme abortion bans,” referencing restrictive laws enacted in several states since the Supreme Court, with three Trump-nominated justices, removed constitutional protections for abortion.

Harris declared Georgia essential to winning the White House. In response, Trump and his running mate J.D. Vance announced a rally in Atlanta on Saturday.

“Kamala Harris and her complicit cronies have made the great people of Georgia pay a hefty price for their woke policies,” the Trump campaign stated.

Harris inherited a challenging electoral map from Biden, initially focusing on Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania. Now, Democrats are reconsidering their chances in other states like Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada, which they narrowly won in 2020.

Trump’s running mate, J.D. Vance, labeled Harris as “dangerously liberal” during a rally in Henderson, Nevada, while Trump campaigns in Pennsylvania on Wednesday.

Adding star power for younger voters, hip-hop artist Megan Thee Stallion performed before Harris took the stage in Atlanta.

Global Conflicts and Economic Challenges Demand Resilience, Not Protests – Governor Otu

Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Edet Otu, has urged Nigerians to refrain from protesting, attributing the current hardships to the Palestine-Israel and Russia-Ukraine conflicts, alongside the global recession.

Governor Otu emphasized that the government is actively working to mitigate the effects of these challenges. He acknowledged the constitutional right to protest but encouraged dialogue and peace, warning against a repeat of the Endsars protests.

In a statement on his X handle, Governor Otu called for unity and support from Nigerians to overcome the current economic difficulties.

“Unfortunately, this administration took office amid a rising recession, necessitating extreme measures to counter its impact. The high expectations from the electorate, media-induced anxiety, and political intolerance have exacerbated the situation. The global recession, combined with the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing international conflicts, has driven inflation worldwide, affecting Nigeria and our state as well,” Otu stated.

The governor highlighted various social support measures implemented by his administration to alleviate the hardships faced by Cross River State residents. He assured that all palliatives would be distributed without delay or withholding.

“Under my leadership, we have responded with responsibility, kindness, and compassion, providing immediate relief and long-term support. I have ensured the prompt distribution of palliative items to our state. No package meant for Cross Riverians will be delayed or denied,” he added.

Governor Otu stressed the importance of peaceful protests while cautioning against the potential consequences of unrest. He urged citizens to focus on recovery and resilience.

“While peaceful protests are a constitutional right, we must learn from the Endsars experience. Let us channel our patriotic goodwill into recovery efforts. Many nations have faced economic calamities; let us not bury our heads in the sand but rise to the challenge. We must rebuild and march towards success, demonstrating our love for our country by working together to achieve a brighter future.”

Governor Otu concluded with a call for unity and determination, emphasizing the need to honor the efforts of past heroes and secure a prosperous future for the next generation.

Nasarawa Lawmaker, Hon Sa’ad distributes relief materials worth millions of naira to victims of communal attack in his constituency

“… sets to install 2,000 solar street lights as Ohimege Opanda calls on
state govt to intensify more efforts towards restoring peace in katakpa and other affected communities…”

Member representing Umaisha/Ugya Constituency at the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Hon. Ibrahim Abdullahi Sa’ad has distributed relief materials worth millions of naira to victims of attack in his constituency.

Hon. Sa’ad made the distribution at the palace of Ohimege Opanda, HRH Alhaji Usman Abdullahi in Umaisha, Toto LGA today Sunday.

The items includes 200 bags of rice, beans and garri, 50 bags of Millet and guinea corn, 30 cartons of maggi cubes, 30 bags of salt, 30 jerican of vegetable oil, blankets and wrappers 200 each, 30 rubber buckets, 150 mattresses and 1000 yards of shadda clothing among others.

While presenting the items to His Royal Highness, the Ohimege Opanda, Alhaji Usman Abdullahi, Hon. Sa’ad commended Gov. Abdullahi Sule for providing him with the relief materials to share to the communities that have been devastated by the attack in his constituency.

” The gesture is part of the state government effort to support the people of the affected communities with food and other relief materials to reduce their pains and hardship as a result of the attack from our enemies.

” Government is worried over the incident which claimed lives and many properties destroyed” he said.

The lawmaker called for a military base in Katakpa community for lasting peace in the area.

“To have a lasting peace in the affected areas, there is the need for the government to have a military base in Katakpa that will provide security of lives and properties.

“And restore hope and confidence in the minds of the people.

“As we can not continue to be killed like rats in our own home. Our people deserve to be protected by the government through the Security agencies,” he said.

The lawmaker appreciated the leadership of the assembly under Speaker Danladi Jatau for supporting the people of Umaisha/Ugya constituency to overcome the security challenges bedeviling the area.

He also thanked Ohimege Opanda for his tireless efforts in ensuring the return of peace to the affected areas and assured of the State Assembly’s collaboration with the Executive towards achieving lasting peace and return of the displaced people to their ancestral homes.

He described Ohimege Opanda as a man of justice, peace and unity who has been working hard to see that his people co-exist peacefully with one another irrespective of their differences.

He informed the Royal Father that Gov. Sule has approved the construction of two kilometer road in Umaisha which is going to commence any moment.

Hon Sa’ad disclosed that he has purchased fifty (50) solar street lights to be installed in Umaisha in the next two days and the cost for each of the light is Three Hundred Thousand Naira.

” The total cost is Fifteen Million Naira and I have the target of buying Two Thousand solar street lights and install in communities across the six electoral wards in my constituency,” he said.

He promised to bring more development to his constituency and called on his people to remain calm and be law abiding for the overall development of the area.

On his part, the Ohimege Opanda, HRH, Alhaji Usman Abdullahi appreciated the lawmaker for his unwavering concerned and love for his people, especially at this trying moment where a lot of people were displaced from their homes and many were Killed and houses destroyed.

” Katakpa was destroyed by our enemies. Houses were burnt, many were injured and killed. The situation is terrible. God is with us, we are going to defeat our enemies.

” I pray that God should bless you, give you more opportunity to continue supporting our people.

The first class traditional ruler used the occasion to advise the people living in the flood prone areas to leave to safer areas.

He said that government has taken measure to support people living in the riverine areas to relocate before the heavy downfall.

Responding, Aliyu Saidu, Habiba Dubagari and Jibrin Mustapha Aliyu are victims of the attacked in Katakpa, who are taking refuge in Umaisha said their homes are destroyed and many people were killed during the attack.

They said that they have lost everything during the attack and called on the government to assist to rebuild their houses and restore peace so that they can return home.

They appreciated Hon. Sa’ad for coming to their aid by providing them with relief materials and prayed God to bless him abundantly.

They pledged their loyalty and support to enable the lawmaker succeed.

AGHAN Chairman Urges Collaboration and Data Transparency for Aviation Sector Growth

At the 28th annual conference of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) held in Lagos, Mr. Olaniyi Adigun, Chairman of the Aviation Ground Handling Association of Nigeria (AGHAN), emphasized the critical need for collaboration and accurate data to drive growth in Nigeria’s aviation industry.

Adigun, speaking on the conference theme “Aviation Survivability Amidst a Challenging Macro-Economic Environment,” highlighted the sector’s struggles and the necessity of emulating the collaborative approaches seen in the financial sector. He lamented that, unlike the financial industry, which has thrived through partnerships and consolidation, aviation in Nigeria continues to operate in isolation.

With the naira depreciating against the dollar, Adigun stressed that no single organization or airline can succeed alone. He warned that without stronger partnerships, businesses within the industry are at risk of collapse. He advocated for an economic summit to address these challenges, suggesting that the industry must open up to investors and adopt more collaborative practices.

Adigun also criticized the sector’s fragmented approach to data collection. He pointed out that inconsistent and unreliable data from various agencies hinder effective planning and decision-making. He urged government agencies, particularly the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), to follow the example of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) by providing credible and comprehensive data to support business planning and investment.

He concluded by stressing the importance of accurate data for the aviation industry, likening it to the banking sector where forecasts and growth trends are well-documented. According to Adigun, a lack of reliable data hampers business operations and strategic planning in aviation.

The conference featured discussions from numerous aviation experts, all calling for government action and industry reforms to address these pressing issues.

West Ham Set to Make £39m Bid for Lens Striker Elye Wahi

West Ham United is preparing to submit a significant bid for highly sought-after striker Elye Wahi. The Hammers, having already made three summer signings, are now targeting further reinforcements to bolster their squad.

Manager Julen Lopetegui is particularly focused on acquiring a central defender and has been linked with a move for AC Milan’s Fikayo Tomori, formerly of Chelsea. Additionally, West Ham is keen to strengthen their attacking options and has identified Wahi as a prime target.

According to French media outlet L’Equipe, West Ham is set to make a bid for the 21-year-old Lens forward, who was previously close to joining Arsenal last summer. Wahi, valued at approximately £39m by Lens, has scored 31 goals over the past two seasons and is emerging as one of the top strikers in Ligue 1.

Leicester City is also vying for Wahi’s signature, with a bid already prepared. The young striker, who recently celebrated his 21st birthday, has made a strong impression in France with his goal-scoring prowess and had a brief but notable appearance in the Champions League last season.

If West Ham succeeds in signing Wahi, it could significantly enhance their chances of securing a top-seven finish and potentially returning to European competition.

University Scholar Urges Immediate Reforms in Nigerian Language and Culture

Professor Ushie Advocates for Shift from Postcolonial to Neocolonial Studies

Professor Joseph Ushie, the 103rd inaugural lecturer at the University of Uyo, has called for sweeping reforms in Nigeria’s approach to language and cultural heritage in response to the pressures of globalization.

In his lecture titled “How Really Post Colonial are ‘Post Colonial’ Studies in Nigeria,” Ushie, a renowned scholar in General Stylistics and Literary Criticism, proposed a critical reevaluation of the current academic framework. He argued that the term “postcolonial” inadequately captures Nigeria’s ongoing issues with colonial legacies, advocating instead for a focus on “neocolonial” studies to better reflect the nation’s persistent economic dependence and cultural challenges.

Professor Ushie, who also serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Arts, emphasized the need to protect and promote Nigeria’s linguistic and cultural diversity. He acknowledged the impracticality of immediately replacing English with indigenous languages due to the country’s multilingual nature. Instead, he recommended revising the national language policy to designate specific functional areas for indigenous languages while maintaining English for official and international communication.

He highlighted the imminent threat of language extinction, as predicted by UNESCO, and praised existing efforts by the Ogori League of Professors and the Nigerian Languages Project. Ushie urged further development of indigenous languages through research, documentation, and government support for translation projects.

In addition to language preservation, Ushie called for a cultural policy that supports the study of onomastics—the study of names—and promotes the use of culturally significant names. He also suggested that universities create separate departments for specific indigenous languages to facilitate in-depth research into Africa’s oral heritage.

Addressing the impact of military rule on Nigeria’s intellectual community, Ushie urged for the rehabilitation of university lecturers to address the brain drain phenomenon. He lauded the Federal Government’s efforts to honor Nigerian creative writers but called on state governments to do more.

Ushie also warned of a potential socio-economic crisis if current hardships are not addressed and advocated for the adoption of non-violent mass mobilization strategies. He encouraged the youth to focus on improving conditions at home rather than seeking opportunities abroad.

On educational reforms, Ushie stressed the importance of history as a compulsory subject and called for a balanced approach to education that values the arts and humanities alongside sciences and technology. He emphasized the need for stronger connections between Africa and its diaspora to foster development and idea exchange.

Take it Back, Others Call Off Protest in Northern Central States

Three groups, Take It Back (North Central), Middle Belt Economic Forum, and Renewed Hope Prosperity Ambassadors have called off the planned protest in the Northern states, including Abuja.

The groups cited concerns about the potential for destabilization and harm to their communities as the reason for their decision.

The groups which made this known at a joint press conference on Tuesday in Abuja said the decision was made after a careful appraisal of the situation and a fruitful interaction with the Minister of Water Resources, Prof Joseph Utsev.

In his address, Dr. Amodu Ben also commended the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume and other critical stakeholders in the North Central for their efforts in maintaining peace and order in the region.

“We have come to this decision not out of fear or intimidation, but out of a deep understanding of the current political climate and the potential consequences of our actions,” said Dr. Amodu Ben.

Ben said they also took into account the developmental programs being driven by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s development agenda.

The groups recognized the right to protest as an inherent and fundamental aspect of citizenship but emphasized the need for peaceful and constructive dialogue to avoid catastrophic consequences.

Ben observed instances where peaceful protests have rapidly escalated into violent confrontations, resulting in widespread destruction, loss of life, and immense human suffering.

They, however, urged citizens to redirect their energies towards constructive dialogue and engagement with the government.

“Let us join forces to build a brighter future for the Middle Belt region, one that is founded upon the principles of peace, prosperity, and cooperation,” Dr. Ben said.

“We would like to seize this opportunity to express our heartfelt commendation to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and other critical stakeholders in the North Central,” he said.

“Their tireless efforts in maintaining peace and order in the region have not gone unnoticed, and their dedication to the well-being of our nation is truly commendable.

“These exceptional individuals have demonstrated a remarkable commitment to prioritizing the interests of our nation above personal agendas, exemplifying a profound understanding of the intrinsic value of peaceful coexistence and the preciousness of human life, which is a cherished asset to families, states, and our country as a whole.

“We also extend our unreserved and heartfelt commendation to President Tinubu for his indefatigable efforts in constructing the nation of our collective aspirations. Notwithstanding the formidable challenges, he remains steadfast in his endeavors, tirelessly striving to alleviate the burdens of our citizens and enhance their overall well-being.

“We acknowledge and appreciate the President’s diligent efforts to improve the lives of citizens, and we must unite in our support and collaboration with him to achieve our shared objectives. The President’s development agenda, as exemplified by the initiatives of the Ministry of Water Resources, serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the nation’s progress and advancement.

“Let us join forces to build a brighter future for the Middle Belt region, one that is founded upon the principles of peace, prosperity, and cooperation, and where the collective efforts of our citizens can flourish, yielding a harmonious and thriving society for generations to come.”

Massive Landslides in Southern India Claim Over 100 Lives

Severe landslides triggered by heavy rainfall in Kerala, India, have resulted in over 100 deaths, numerous injuries, and many people trapped under debris. The landslides struck several hillside villages in Wayanad district, including Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha.

Rescue operations are ongoing but have been hindered by adverse weather conditions. Health Minister Veena George reported significant infrastructure damage, including collapsed roads and a bridge that was swept away, complicating access to affected areas.

By Tuesday afternoon, authorities had confirmed at least 93 fatalities, with local reports estimating the toll at 107. Around 116 people have been hospitalized with injuries. Relief efforts are being supported by helicopters and the Indian Army, which is working to build a temporary bridge.

With continued heavy rainfall expected, authorities have shut schools in affected regions. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) noted that Wayanad received up to 28 cm (11 inches) of rain in the past 24 hours, exacerbating the situation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and announced financial aid for the victims’ families and those injured. He assured continued support from the central government to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi called for increased compensation for the victims and highlighted the rising frequency of landslides. He urged the government to map landslide-prone areas and implement mitigation measures.

Recent studies indicate that climate change, driven by the burning of fossil fuels, is causing more erratic rainfall patterns, contributing to the increased frequency of landslides and floods. Roxy Mathew Koll, a climate scientist, emphasized the need to address both climate change and rapid construction in vulnerable areas to reduce the impact of such natural disasters.