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Kenya President Declares Seven-Day National Mourning For Raila Odinga

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Kenya President Declares Seven-Day National Mourning For Raila Odinga

Kenyan President William Ruto has declared seven days of national mourning and announced a state funeral in honour of the late opposition leader, Raila Odinga, who died on Wednesday during a medical visit to India.

In a national address, President Ruto hailed Odinga as “Kenya’s foremost statesman and one of Africa’s greatest sons, a giant of democracy, a fearless freedom fighter, and a tireless warrior of good governance.”

The president also announced the suspension of all his public engagements over the next several days “as a mark of respect” for the late leader.

Odinga, who passed away at the age of 80, was a towering figure in Kenyan politics and a five-time presidential candidate whose influence spanned decades. He remained a central voice for democracy and reform across the continent.

BREAKING: Governor Diri Resigns From PDP

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BREAKING: Governor Diri Resigns From PDP

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has resigned his membership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

The announcement was made by his spokesman, Daniel Alabrah, who did not disclose the reason behind the resignation or whether the governor intends to join another political party such as the All Progressives Congress (APC) or the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Reports indicate that all PDP members in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, as well as Commissioners in the State Executive Council, have also resigned from the party.

Governor Diri is said to be meeting with state executive members, with the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, in attendance.

Earlier on Wednesday, Governor Diri and former President Goodluck Jonathan attended the commissioning of the Best Western Plus Hotel in Yenagoa.

A long-serving PDP member, Diri previously held several key positions, including Commissioner, Principal Secretary to former Governor Seriake Dickson, and Member of the House of Representatives in 2015. He was later elected Senator for Bayelsa Central in 2019 and became Governor of Bayelsa State in 2020, securing re-election under the PDP in 2023.

US Army War College Inducts Late Gen. Lagbaja Into International Hall Of Fame

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US Army War College Inducts Late Gen. Lagbaja Into International Hall Of Fame

The United States Army War College (USAWC) has posthumously inducted Nigeria’s 23rd Chief of Army Staff, Late Lieutenant-General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, into its prestigious International Hall of Fame.

The honour — one of the institution’s highest recognitions — was conferred during the opening ceremony of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Convention held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Centre in Washington DC.

Major-General Trevor Bredenkamp, Commandant of the USAWC, presented the award in recognition of General Lagbaja’s “sterling leadership, visionary service, and exceptional contributions to military professionalism and global peace.”

The induction marks a historic milestone, as General Lagbaja became the first Nigerian Army officer to be enshrined in the USAWC International Hall of Fame in the institution’s 124-year history.

Representing Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Olufemi Oluyede, at the ceremony was Major-General Adeleke Ayannuga, who received the honour alongside Maria Abiodun Lagbaja, the late General’s wife.

“This honour not only immortalises the late Lieutenant-General Lagbaja’s distinguished service but also reaffirms the Nigerian Army’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, and global peace,” Lieutenant-General Oluyede said.

He expressed pride in the recognition, describing it as a reflection of General Lagbaja’s enduring legacy and the Nigerian Army’s growing international stature.

Gov Buni Approves ₦5.8bn Gratuity Payment For Yobe Retirees

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Gov Buni Approves ₦5.8bn Gratuity Payment For Yobe Retirees

Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has approved the immediate release of ₦5.8 billion for the settlement of outstanding gratuity liabilities owed to retired public officers in the state.

According to a statement by the Commissioner of Finance, Mohammed Geidam, the governor also directed that gratuity payments be integrated into the state’s monthly financial schedule to prevent future backlogs.

“This significant milestone underscores the administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of its dedicated civil servants who have served the state meritoriously,” the statement read.

The commissioner explained that under the new arrangement, cleared gratuity payments will now be made monthly alongside regular pension disbursements, ensuring prompt and consistent payment of retirement benefits.

Geidam described the approval as a clear demonstration of Governor Buni’s compassionate leadership, noting that the move provides much-needed financial relief and restores dignity to Yobe’s retirees.

He added that the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Head of Service are collaborating to ensure transparent and seamless disbursement of the funds to all eligible beneficiaries.

“This bold financial step forms part of the Governor’s broader economic and social agenda to promote fiscal responsibility while prioritising the welfare of Yobe citizens, particularly those who have contributed immensely to the state’s development,” the statement concluded.

FCTA To Renovate Primary Health Centres, Boost Funding For Healthcare Delivery

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FCTA To Renovate Primary Health Centres, Boost Funding For Healthcare Delivery

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to increase funding and renovate primary health care centres across the territory as part of efforts to improve healthcare delivery.

The Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr Adedolape Fasawe, disclosed this in Abuja during the matriculation ceremony of the FCT School of Nursing.

Dr Fasawe, represented by the Director of Nursing Services, Health and Management Board, Mrs Grace Musa, said several call rooms in FCT hospitals are already undergoing renovation, while the administration has commenced payment of uniform allowances to nurses.

She added that the Secretariat is collaborating with stakeholders to ensure the passage of four health-related bills currently before the National Assembly to strengthen health infrastructure in the FCT.

The Pioneer Provost of the FCT School of Nursing, Dr Deborah Yusuf, called for more infrastructural development in the institution to enhance learning, research, and academic excellence.

Lawmaker representing Bwari/AMAC Federal Constituency, Hon. Joshua Obika, pledged to support initiatives aimed at improving both education and healthcare in the territory.

Also speaking, the Director of Nursing Services, Health Services and Environmental Secretariat, Mrs Ijeoma Jimi-Bada, urged nursing students to uphold the virtues of compassion, diligence, and sacrifice, which she described as the core values of the nursing profession.

Meanwhile, the Registrar of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Dr Alhasan Ndagi, warned against examination malpractice, stressing that strict monitoring measures had been introduced to maintain discipline and integrity.

Represented by the Head of Department, Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr Aliyu Adam, Dr Ndagi encouraged students to develop critical thinking and communication skills, embrace diversity, and adhere to professional ethics to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Kenya’s Ex-Prime Minister Raila Odinga Dies In India At 80

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Kenya’s Ex-Prime Minister Raila Odinga Dies In India At 80

Kenya’s veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, has died at the age of 80 while on a medical visit to India, authorities have confirmed.

According to Indian police, Odinga was walking with his sister, daughter, and personal doctor when he suddenly collapsed. He was immediately rushed to a nearby private hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead.

“An Indian police security officer and a Kenyan security officer were also with them at the time,” an Indian police source said. “He was provided emergency care but could not be revived.”

A spokesperson for the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre in Kerala confirmed that Odinga experienced breathing difficulties before collapsing. Despite CPR and continued medical efforts, he did not recover.

Odinga’s death marks a major turning point in Kenyan politics. A dominant figure for decades, he led the National Super Alliance (NASA) and contested the presidency five times in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022, often alleging electoral malpractice.

A pan-Africanist and pro-democracy advocate, Odinga spent years in detention and exile during the regime of President Daniel arap Moi. Despite coming from one of Kenya’s most influential political families, his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, was Kenya’s first vice president — Raila was widely regarded as a voice for reform and opposition unity.

Tributes have poured in from across Africa. Kenya’s former Chief Justice David Maraga described him as “a patriot, a pan-Africanist, and a democrat who made significant contributions to democracy in Kenya and Africa.”

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed also expressed condolences, writing, “Africa has lost a leading voice in peace, security, and development. May he rest in peace.”

Odinga’s passing leaves a leadership vacuum in Kenya’s opposition as the country prepares for its 2027 general elections, raising uncertainty about who can command his level of national and regional influence.

FCCPC Applauds CBN’s 48-Hour Refund Policy For Failed ATM And Electronic Transactions

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FCCPC Applauds CBN’s 48-Hour Refund Policy For Failed ATM And Electronic Transactions

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has commended the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for introducing draft guidelines that mandate banks to refund customers for failed Automated Teller Machine (ATM) and electronic transactions within 48 hours.

The FCCPC described the initiative as a major victory for Nigerian consumers, noting that it aligns with long-standing calls for stronger protection against failed or delayed transaction reversals.

The draft Guidelines on the Operations of Automated Teller Machines in Nigeria were released shortly after the FCCPC published its Consumer Complaints Data Report (March–August 2025), which showed that the banking and fintech sectors recorded the highest number of complaints nationwide over 3,000 cases in banking alone — with about ₦10 billion recovered for customers across 30 sectors.

Frequent complaints included failed transactions, unauthorised deductions, and delayed refunds issues the CBN’s new policy aims to address.

FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, lauded the CBN for taking a “timely and long-awaited corrective step” that would ease consumers’ frustrations.

“It is consistent with what the FCCPC has been advocating, given the number of complaints we receive about failed transactions,” Bello said. “We commend the CBN for this decisive move, which will ease the burden on consumers and rebuild trust in financial services.”

The Commission noted that the proposed guidelines are consistent with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, particularly provisions that mandate the elimination of unfair practices and the protection of consumer interests.

The FCCPC urged the swift adoption and enforcement of the policy, saying it would provide immediate relief to customers and enhance accountability in the banking sector.

To ensure compliance, the FCCPC said it will work with the CBN to establish a monitoring framework and redress mechanism for banks that fail to process refunds within the stipulated timeframe.

Consumers were also reminded to first report unresolved transaction issues to their banks or the CBN, and, if still unresolved, escalate complaints to the FCCPC through its complaint portal, email, or phone channels.

According to the FCCPC, closer regulatory collaboration will improve dispute resolution and strengthen consumer confidence in Nigeria’s growing digital financial ecosystem.

NCAA Warns Airlines: Ticket Refunds Must Be Completed Within 14 Days

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NCAA Warns Airlines: Ticket Refunds Must Be Completed Within 14 Days

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has cautioned domestic airlines against violating the official 14-day ticket refund policy, warning that misleading passengers with longer timelines is a breach of aviation regulations and unfair to consumers.

The warning was issued by Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, in a statement shared on X on Monday.

Achimugu said the agency received reports that some airlines were informing passengers that refunds could take up to four weeks, contrary to the provisions of Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023, which mandate completion within 14 days.

“Domestic airlines need to stop telling passengers that their refund process takes four weeks. The NCAA regulations are clear about the timeframe for ticket refunds — it is 14 days. Operators cannot create their own rules in this regard,” Achimugu stated.

He urged affected passengers to forward evidence of delayed refunds or communications from airlines to michael.achimugu@ncaa.gov.ng, ifueko.abdulmalik@ncaa.gov.ng, or cpd@ncaa.gov.ng for regulatory intervention.

The NCAA reiterated that any attempt by airlines to impose extended refund periods undermines regulatory authority and violates consumer protection standards established to ensure fairness in air travel operations.

Fans Commemorate Third Anniversary of BBNaija Star Rico Swavey’s Death

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Fans Commemorate Third Anniversary of BBNaija Star Rico Swavey’s Death

Three years after the tragic passing of Big Brother Naija star and singer Patrick Fakoya, popularly known as Rico Swavey, his fans and management have paid emotional tributes to his memory.

In a message posted on X on Monday, his management described Rico as “a beacon of love and creativity whose memory blooms like a garden of everlasting flowers.”

“On this 3rd anniversary, we remember not just your departure, but the life you lived and the love you gave. Keep resting, Rico,” the post read.

Rico Swavey, who gained fame during the 2018 Double Wahala edition of BBNaija, died on October 13, 2022, from injuries sustained in a car crash along the Lekki-Ajah Expressway in Lagos.

The accident sparked widespread grief across Nigeria, with his mother later recalling the emotional moment she watched her son pass away in her arms at a Lekki hospital.

An eyewitness and the Uber driver who accompanied him clarified that Rico was not intoxicated before the crash, countering early rumours surrounding the incident.

Earlier this year, Big Brother Naija Season 10 honoured Rico alongside late ex-housemates Francisca Owumi and Joseph Ada during a special tribute segment.

Rico Swavey, remembered for his gentle personality and artistic talent, remains one of the most beloved figures from the BBNaija franchise, with his legacy still celebrated by fans across the entertainment industry.

Kebbi Government Denies Reported Bandit Attack in Sakaba

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Kebbi Government Denies Reported Bandit Attack in Sakaba

The Kebbi State Government has dismissed reports of a bandit invasion in Maku-ku village, Sakaba Local Government Area, describing the claims as false and misleading.

The report, initially aired by a local FM radio station in Birnin Kebbi, alleged that several people were killed in an attack. However, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ahmed Idris, clarified in a statement on Monday that the incident actually occurred in Rijau, a community in Niger State, not in Kebbi.

“There was no such incident in Kebbi. The report is misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic,” Idris said.

He explained that a military base established in Sakaba had significantly bolstered security in the area, assuring residents that there was no cause for alarm.

The state government urged the public to disregard the false report and continue their normal activities, noting that security agencies remain fully supported to sustain peace and order across Kebbi State.

INEC Accredits 121 Observers for Anambra Governorship Election

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INEC Accredits 121 Observers for Anambra Governorship Election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has accredited 121 domestic and international organisations to observe the forthcoming Anambra State governorship election scheduled for November 8, 2025.

According to an announcement published by the commission on Monday, the list includes prominent foreign observers such as the British High Commission, the European Union, and the High Commission of Canada.

Among domestic observers are Yiaga Africa Initiative, The Electoral Hub, and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), all cleared to monitor the exercise.

INEC stated that the observers are expected to evaluate the transparency, credibility, and compliance of the election with democratic standards.

The electoral body also confirmed that 2.8 million registered voters are expected to participate in the off-cycle poll.

A total of 16 political parties met the submission deadline of May 12 and will field candidates in the election. INEC has released the final list of candidates and officially declared campaign activities open.

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