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AU Adopts Landmark Resolution Declaring Slavery, Colonialism Crimes Against Africans, Names November 30 Day Of Tribute

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AU Adopts Landmark Resolution Declaring Slavery, Colonialism Crimes Against Africans, Names November 30 Day Of Tribute

Leaders of the African Union have adopted a historic resolution formally declaring slavery, deportation and colonialism as genocide and crimes against Africans, in a major step aimed at addressing centuries of historical injustice suffered by the continent and its diaspora.

The resolution was adopted at a two-day African Union summit held in Addis Ababa, where heads of state and government met to deliberate on key political, economic and social issues affecting the continent.

The decision represents one of the strongest collective positions ever taken by African leaders on the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade, colonial rule and apartheid, and reflects growing calls within Africa for historical accountability, justice and global recognition of past atrocities.

Speaking after the adoption of the resolution, AU Chairman Mahmoud Ali Youssouf described the move as a defining moment for the continent.

“The conference recognises colonisation as a crime against humanity. That’s very important,” Youssouf said, stressing that the declaration was long overdue.

He noted that the resolution was not merely symbolic but part of a broader effort to confront the lasting political, economic and social consequences of slavery and colonial domination, which continue to shape development challenges across Africa.

In a related remark, the AU chairman also expressed solidarity with Palestine, calling for an end to what he described as the extermination of the Palestinian people, a statement that aligns with the African Union’s longstanding support for oppressed peoples globally.

As part of the landmark decision, AU member states agreed to designate November 30 as the “African Day of Tribute to African Martyrs and Victims of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, Colonization, and Apartheid.” The commemorative day is intended to honour millions of Africans who suffered, were displaced or lost their lives under these systems, while reinforcing collective memory and historical consciousness across generations.

African leaders said the annual observance would also serve as a platform for education, reflection and advocacy, particularly among young Africans, on the structural roots of inequality and underdevelopment linked to historical exploitation.

The resolution further mandates the African Union to keep the issue under active review and to work collectively toward securing broader international recognition of slavery and colonialism as crimes against Africans. This includes engagement with global institutions and international partners to acknowledge the declaration and its implications.

For Nigeria and other African countries, the AU’s position is expected to strengthen continental calls for restorative justice, reparative conversations and renewed dialogue on the global responsibility to address historical wrongs.

Observers say the decision underscores the African Union’s determination to reclaim historical narratives, assert Africa’s moral and political voice on the world stage, and ensure that the memory of slavery and colonialism remains central to the continent’s pursuit of dignity, justice and development.

Umahi Praises Tinubu, Predicts 90% South-East Support For President In 2027

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Umahi Praises Tinubu, Predicts 90% South-East Support For President In 2027

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has said long-standing concerns about marginalisation in Nigeria’s South-East have been addressed under President Bola Tinubu, expressing confidence that the region will deliver overwhelming support for the President in the 2027 general election.

Umahi made the remarks on Saturday while inspecting ongoing construction work at the Alaoji axis of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, one of several major federal road projects currently underway in the South-East.

According to the minister, the South-East geopolitical zone is yet to reach its turn to produce Nigeria’s president, urging political leaders and residents of the region to adopt what he described as a strategic and realistic approach to national power rotation.

“All the marginalisation we complain about has been addressed by the President. Unless we are not being truthful to ourselves, there is no more marginalisation in the South-East,” Umahi said.

He noted that Tinubu’s decision to appoint a minister of works from the South-East for the first time in Nigeria’s history demonstrated goodwill and confidence in the zone.

“Giving the Ministry of Works to the South-East is no mean feat. You can see the results and the intention of the President. You can see the goodwill of the President,” he added.

Umahi pointed to the scale of ongoing infrastructure development across the region, particularly the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, stressing that every section of the project is currently active.

“It’s time for payback. You all know the scale of work from Port Harcourt down to Enugu. Every section of this project is ongoing towards completion. Never in Nigeria’s history have we benefited as much,” he said.

The minister contrasted the current situation with his time as a former deputy governor and two-term governor, noting that no federal road project was executed in his state during that period.

“Today, we can boast of numerous ongoing projects. We can boast of projects worth trillions of naira in the South-East, just like in other regions,” Umahi stated.

He further described many of the ongoing projects in the zone as among the “biggest legacy projects” of the Tinubu administration, citing improved representation of the South-East in key national appointments, including service chiefs and strategic positions in government.

Calling on political leaders and voters in the region to rally behind the President, Umahi said sentiments should not override strategic political calculations.

“We should not be guided by sentiments or non-strategic moves. We should tell our brother, Peter Obi, that it is not yet our turn,” he said.

Umahi also assured the construction company handling the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway project of the federal government’s commitment to prompt funding, noting that the projects are expected to be completed ahead of President Tinubu’s planned tour of projects in the South-East and South-South regions in May.

Presidency Accuses El-Rufai Of Using ‘Thallium’ Letter To Stir Political Tension, Deflect ₦432bn Allegations

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Presidency Accuses El-Rufai Of Using ‘Thallium’ Letter To Stir Political Tension, Deflect ₦432bn Allegations

The Presidency on Sunday accused former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, of deliberately spreading misinformation to stir political tension and divert public attention from alleged ₦432 billion corruption allegations linked to his administration in Kaduna State.

The reaction followed a letter written by El-Rufai to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, in which the former governor sought clarification over an alleged procurement of Thallium Sulphate from Poland.

Responding in a post on his verified X handle, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, dismissed El-Rufai’s claims as false and fear-mongering, insisting that there was no procurement or importation of Thallium Sulphate into Nigeria through the Office of the National Security Adviser.

Ajayi further alleged that El-Rufai had already received a response from the NSA’s office but deliberately chose not to make it public.

“El-Rufai certainly got a reply to his letter from the NSA’s office, and he should be honourable enough to release it just as he mischievously released his own letter,” Ajayi stated.

According to the Presidency, El-Rufai’s actions were motivated by a dual agenda: to destabilise the political environment through deliberate misinformation and to deflect attention from corruption allegations he is currently facing in Kaduna State.

“The truth is: Mallam El-Rufai has two clear intentions behind his recent actions and tantrums. One, to create political tension in the country and damage the government through deliberate misinformation. Two, to divert attention from his domestic problems in Kaduna State, where he is facing massive corruption allegations,” Ajayi said.

The Presidency argued that the former governor was attempting to “nationalise his personal problems,” adding that Nigerians would be unlikely to sympathise with him in the face of the allegations.

It also questioned El-Rufai’s political standing in Kaduna State, noting that he had allegedly lost the support of key stakeholders despite serving two terms as governor.

The statement referenced a petition by the Kaduna State House of Assembly to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, noting that all 28 members of the Assembly reportedly endorsed calls for a probe into the ₦432 billion allegations.

It added that the anti-graft agencies had reportedly invited the former governor for questioning.

Urging El-Rufai to address the allegations directly, the Presidency said he should focus on responding to the investigations rather than engaging in what it described as political theatrics.

Senate Approves Electronic Transmission of Polling Unit Results, Retains Form EC8A as Backup

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Senate Approves Electronic Transmission of Polling Unit Results, Retains Form EC8A as Backup

The Senate on Tuesday approved electronic transmission of election results from polling units, marking a significant shift in its earlier position amid sustained public pressure and nationwide debate over electoral reforms.

The decision followed the adoption of an amended Clause 60(3) of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, which allows presiding officers to electronically transmit polling unit results after Form EC8A has been duly completed and signed.

The new position came after a motion moved by the Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Monguno, seeking to rescind the chamber’s earlier decision that effectively limited electronic transmission by retaining provisions of the Electoral Act 2023.

Under the amended clause, electronic transmission of results is now recognised as the primary method, provided the technology is available and functional. However, where electronic transmission fails or becomes impossible due to technical challenges, the signed Form EC8A will serve as the legally valid backup and primary source of the results.

The amendment represents a compromise position, balancing demands for mandatory electronic transmission with concerns about network coverage, infrastructure gaps and potential technical failures in some parts of the country.

Debate accompanied the passage of the clause on the Senate floor. Senate Minority Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, initially called for a division to determine lawmakers’ positions individually, but later withdrew the request, allowing the chamber to proceed with a voice vote.

The approval comes amid intense scrutiny of the National Assembly’s handling of electoral reforms, particularly ahead of the 2027 general election. Civil society groups, opposition parties and election observers have consistently pushed for electronic transmission as a safeguard against manipulation of results and to strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.

With the Senate’s adoption of the amended Clause 60(3), attention now shifts to the harmonisation process with the House of Representatives and the eventual transmission of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill to the President for assent.

Senate Sets Up 12-Member Committee To Harmonise Electoral Act Amendment Bill

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Senate Sets Up 12-Member Committee To Harmonise Electoral Act Amendment Bill

The Senate on Tuesday constituted a 12-member conference committee to harmonise differences between its version of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill and that passed by the House of Representatives, as controversy continues over proposed changes to Nigeria’s electoral framework.

The decision was taken during an emergency plenary session and announced by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, amid sustained public pressure over provisions relating to the electronic transmission of election results.

Akpabio said the committee’s membership was expanded from nine to 12 following consultations with Senate leadership, underscoring the sensitivity and urgency of the assignment.

“After consultation with the leadership, we have moved the number from nine to 12. I will now read out the names of the conference committee members from the Senate,” he said.

The members of the Senate conference committee are:

  • Senator Simon Bako Lalong — Chairman
  • Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno
  • Senator Adamu Aliero
  • Senator Orji Uzor Kalu
  • Senator Abba Moro
  • Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong
  • Senator Aminu Iya Abbas
  • Senator Tokunbo Abiru
  • Senator Niyi Adegbonmire (SAN)
  • Senator Jibrin Isah
  • Senator Ipalibo Banigo
  • Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi

Akpabio urged the committee to commence work immediately and conclude its assignment within days.

“When you meet, you should recognise that this is a matter of urgency. I believe that if you are able to conclude within the next few days or one week, the President should be able to sign the amended Electoral Bill into law within the month of February,” he said, before formally inaugurating the committee.

The emergency sitting was convened against the backdrop of widespread backlash over amendments to the Electoral Act, particularly Clause 60(3), which governs the transmission of election results.

The Senate had removed the requirement for real-time electronic transmission, retaining the provision in the 2022 Electoral Act that empowers the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to determine the mode of results transmission.

The decision triggered protests across Abuja, including the Occupy National Assembly demonstration, with civil society groups, opposition parties and political figures demanding mandatory real-time electronic transmission to strengthen electoral transparency ahead of the 2027 general election.

During Tuesday’s session, fresh disagreements emerged among lawmakers. Akpabio supported a proposal recognising electronic transmission as the primary mode of results transfer, while allowing manual submission using Form EC8A only in cases of technical failure.

The proposal sparked debate on the Senate floor, with Senate Minority Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, initially calling for a division vote before later withdrawing the request.

In response to public criticism, Akpabio reiterated that the Senate had not rejected electronic transmission of results, insisting that the removal of the phrase “real time” was to avoid legal complications arising from network failures and to give INEC operational flexibility.

Former Senate President, David Mark, also weighed in on the debate, urging lawmakers to allow INEC to decide the most appropriate method of transmitting election results.

While critics argue that the current amendment weakens electoral transparency, several senators maintain that the chamber overwhelmingly supports electronic transmission, stressing that the dispute centres on wording rather than the principle itself.

The outcome of the Senate–House conference committee is expected to determine the final shape of the Electoral Act amendments and could prove decisive for Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of future polls.

Amaechi, Son Join Protest Over E-Transmission Of Election Results, Says APC Is Afraid

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Amaechi, Son Join Protest Over E-Transmission Of Election Results, Says APC Is Afraid

Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, on Tuesday joined protesters in Abuja opposing the Senate’s decision to reject mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results, declaring that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is “afraid” of transparent elections.

Amaechi attended the protest alongside his son, a medical doctor, as demonstrations against the Electoral Act Amendment Bill continued for a second day near the National Assembly complex.

The protest, which began on Monday, was triggered by the Senate’s refusal to amend the Electoral Act to make real-time electronic transmission of results from polling units compulsory.

Speaking to journalists at the protest ground, Amaechi explained that he brought his son along in case the demonstration turned violent and people sustained injuries.

“I brought my son because if there is trouble and people are injured, at least there is a doctor here,” he said.

He added that leaders should not send others to the streets while staying away themselves.

“When people protest, leaders should be at the front with their families. That is the only way to show you truly believe in the cause,” Amaechi said.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) also threw its weight behind the protest, calling on Nigerians and opposition parties to take to the streets in defence of credible elections.

Amaechi accused the APC of resisting electronic transmission of results out of fear of losing future elections.

“I believe all opposition parties should be here — PDP, ADC, everybody. This is about stopping one party from manipulating the system,” he said.

“What are they afraid of? They say they have 31 governors. They say people are defecting to them every day. Tinubu is not Jonathan. If you are confident you are popular, you should not fear electronic transmission of results,” he added.

He argued that transparent elections are the only true measure of performance for any government.

“The only way a good politician knows he has done well is when the people vote freely and their votes count,” Amaechi said.

The former governor insisted that while Senate President Godswill Akpabio and President Bola Tinubu might choose to ignore public outcry, opposition parties and civil society groups would continue to resist what he described as an attempt to weaken Nigeria’s electoral process.

Meanwhile, security operatives barricaded major roads leading to the National Assembly on Tuesday ahead of an emergency Senate plenary session convened to address the controversy surrounding the Electoral Act amendments.

The protest is being led by human rights activist Aisha Yusuf, alongside several civil society organisations, with demonstrators insisting they will sustain pressure until lawmakers reverse their position on real-time electronic transmission of election results.

Senate Holds Emergency Session As Electoral Act Debate Persists

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Senate Holds Emergency Session As Electoral Act Debate Persists

The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday convened an emergency plenary session amid sustained public backlash and growing political tension over contentious provisions in the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026, particularly clauses dealing with the electronic transmission of election results.

The extraordinary sitting followed widespread debate, protests and criticism that erupted after the Senate last week passed the Electoral Act 2022 (Repeal and Re-enactment) Amendment Bill 2026 through a third reading.

In a notice issued on Sunday by the Clerk of the Senate, Emmanuel Odo, lawmakers were formally summoned to reconvene at noon on Tuesday at the Senate Chamber, Abuja, on the directive of Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

“I am directed by His Excellency, the President of the Senate, Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, to inform all Distinguished Senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that an Emergency Sitting of the Senate has been scheduled to hold as follows: Date: Tuesday, 10th February, 2026. Time: 12:00 noon. Venue: Senate Chamber,” the notice read.

Although the official communication did not state the specific agenda for the emergency sitting, the timing coincided with mounting public anger over the Senate’s refusal to make real-time electronic transmission of election results mandatory.

Clause 60 Sparks National Debate

At the heart of the controversy is Clause 60, Subsection 3, of the amended bill, which addresses how election results are transmitted from polling units.

The Senate rejected a proposed amendment that sought to compel presiding officers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to electronically transmit polling unit results to the INEC Result Viewing (IREV) portal in real time after result forms had been signed and stamped.

Instead, lawmakers retained the wording already contained in the 2022 Electoral Act, which provides that “the presiding officer shall transfer the results, including the total number of accredited voters and the results of the ballot, in a manner as prescribed by the Commission.”

Critics argue that the retained provision gives INEC excessive discretion and could weaken transparency, while supporters insist it allows flexibility in areas with poor network coverage and security challenges.

The Senate also declined proposals seeking tougher sanctions for vote-buying, rejecting a suggested 10-year ban on offenders and retaining existing penalties, which include fines and jail terms.

Protests Rock National Assembly

Public discontent spilled onto the streets of Abuja on Monday as civil society organisations, youth groups and opposition political parties staged a protest under the banner “Occupy National Assembly.”

Protesters converged on the National Assembly complex to oppose the Senate’s stance on electronic transmission of results, demanding that real-time upload of polling unit results be clearly mandated by law ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Security was tightened around the National Assembly, with personnel drawn from the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps barricading the main entrance.

Some protesters told ADBN TV that the demonstration was peaceful and limited to the gate of the complex, adding that they had no intention of forcing their way into the premises. The protesters marched from the Federal Secretariat to the National Assembly, chanting slogans in support of electoral transparency.

Former Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi, who is now a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), joined the protest.

Obi said lawmakers must act decisively to prevent a repeat of the technical failures recorded during the 2023 general elections, insisting that real-time electronic transmission of results is critical to restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.

Akpabio Defends Senate Position

Responding to the backlash, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said the Red Chamber did not reject electronic transmission of election results, but only removed the phrase “real time” from the provision.

Speaking at a book launch over the weekend, Akpabio explained that the decision was informed by concerns over network failures and the potential legal consequences that could arise if results were delayed due to technical challenges.

“All we said during the discussion was that we should remove the word ‘real-time’ because if you say real-time, then there is a network or grid failure, and the network is not working. When you go to court, somebody will say it ought to have been real-time. That was all we said,” he stated.

According to him, the amendment was intended to give INEC the operational flexibility to determine the most effective method of result transmission, taking into account Nigeria’s uneven digital infrastructure and security realities.

Divergent Political Reactions

Former Senate President, David Mark, also weighed in on the controversy, urging the National Assembly to allow INEC the discretion to decide whether or not to transmit election results electronically.

Mark argued that imposing rigid provisions could create avoidable legal disputes and operational difficulties during elections.

However, some senators have maintained that there was broad consensus in favour of electronic transmission within the Senate.

The Senator representing Anambra Central, Victor Umeh, said more than 85 per cent of senators supported electronic transmission of results and that the issue was never fundamentally in dispute.

“Over 85 per cent of senators agreed to electronic transmission. It was common ground. Even the ad hoc committee of the Senate agreed to it,” Umeh said.

He clarified that the only modification agreed during the Senate’s executive session was the removal of the words “in real time,” citing concerns over network availability in parts of the country.

“Transmission itself was never in dispute. It was only ‘real time’ that was expunged because of network issues,” he said.

Umeh also alleged that confusion arose during plenary when a motion was reportedly introduced to substitute the word “transmission” with “transfer” without proper debate.

“There was no debate on it. If debate had been allowed, it would have taken us back to the executive session where the matter had already been thoroughly discussed and resolved,” he added.

What Next?

The emergency Senate sitting is expected to shape the next phase of legislative action on the Electoral Act amendments, including possible harmonisation efforts with the House of Representatives and engagement with public concerns.

Political analysts say the outcome of the current controversy could have far-reaching implications for electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly on transparency, technology use and public trust in Nigeria’s democratic process.

King Expresses Concern As Police Consider Epstein-Linked Allegations Against Prince Andrew

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King Expresses Concern As Police Consider Epstein-Linked Allegations Against Prince Andrew

Britain’s King Charles III has made his first public intervention on the latest revelations emerging from the Jeffrey Epstein files, signalling that Buckingham Palace is prepared to cooperate fully with the police over allegations linked to his brother, Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.

In a statement issued by a palace spokesperson, the monarch said he was deeply troubled by the continuing disclosures surrounding Prince Andrew’s conduct and stressed that the royal household would support law enforcement if formally approached.

“The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s conduct,” the spokesperson said.

“While the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police we stand ready to support them as you would expect.”

The statement came as Thames Valley Police confirmed it was assessing whether there were sufficient grounds to investigate a complaint filed by the anti-monarchy pressure group, Republic. The group has reported Prince Andrew for suspected misconduct in public office and an alleged breach of official secrets.

The complaint followed the release of a fresh batch of documents linked to the late financier and convicted sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein. Emails contained in the documents allegedly show Prince Andrew forwarding reports of official overseas visits and sensitive investment information to Epstein while he was serving as the UK’s trade envoy.

According to details in the files, the former prince is said to have passed on reports relating to official visits to Singapore, Hong Kong and Vietnam shortly after receiving them from his then special adviser, Amit Patel. One email trail reportedly shows that on November 30, 2010, he forwarded official visit reports to Epstein just five minutes after receiving them.

Another set of documents indicates that on December 24, 2010, Prince Andrew allegedly shared confidential investment information linked to Afghanistan. Under official government guidance, trade envoys are required to preserve strict confidentiality over commercially and politically sensitive material.

Buckingham Palace emphasised that the King and Queen’s focus remains firmly on victims of abuse.

“Their Majesties’ thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse,” the palace said.

The controversy spilled into public view earlier in the week when King Charles was confronted during a visit to Clitheroe. As the monarch greeted members of the public, a heckler shouted, “How long have you known about Andrew?” drawing boos from the surrounding crowd.

The latest palace intervention followed a similar statement issued by a spokesperson for the Prince and Princess of Wales, who said they were “deeply concerned” by the new Epstein-related revelations. The statement added that their “thoughts remain focused on the victims” ahead of Prince William’s forthcoming official visit to Saudi Arabia.

Since the release of more than three million Epstein-related documents, pressure has intensified on Prince Andrew, with reports alleging that a second woman was sent to the United Kingdom by Epstein for a sexual encounter with him. Some of the documents are also said to include photographs showing Andrew in compromising situations.

The disclosures have also caused renewed embarrassment for Andrew’s former wife, Sarah Ferguson, whose name reportedly appeared in emails appealing to Epstein for financial assistance and support.

In late January 2026, Prince Andrew was moved earlier than expected from Royal Lodge in Windsor to King Charles’s private Sandringham estate. The relocation followed mounting pressure on the royal household to further distance the monarchy from the disgraced royal.

Previously, in October 2025, Andrew was stripped of his remaining royal titles as both a prince and a duke, following an earlier wave of Epstein-related disclosures.

Prince Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Palace officials have repeatedly stressed that being named in the Epstein files does not, in itself, amount to proof of criminal conduct.

However, the latest developments have renewed scrutiny of the monarchy’s handling of the scandal, with legal, political and public pressure continuing to build as British police weigh whether to open a formal investigation.

Trump Threatens To Block Opening Of US–Canada Gordie Howe Bridge Amid Trade Dispute

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Trump Threatens To Block Opening Of US–Canada Gordie Howe Bridge Amid Trade Dispute

United States President Donald Trump has warned that he may block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge linking the US and Canada, escalating tensions with Ottawa over compensation claims and broader trade disagreements.

Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform, said the bridge would not be allowed to open unless Canada treats the United States with what he described as “fairness and respect” and ensures Washington is “fully compensated” for what he claimed the US has given to its northern neighbour.

The Gordie Howe International Bridge connects Windsor in Ontario, Canada, with Detroit, Michigan, across the Detroit River and is regarded as one of North America’s most strategic trade corridors. The bridge is expected to open to traffic in early 2026, subject to final testing and regulatory approvals.

Construction of the project began in 2018 after more than a decade of political disagreements and legal battles. According to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, the bridge cost an estimated 6.4 billion Canadian dollars.

Trump disputed the ownership structure of the project, arguing that Canada effectively owns both sides of the bridge. While the project is funded by the Canadian government and overseen by the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority — a body wholly owned by Canada — the bridge is to be publicly owned by Canada and the US state of Michigan.

“The United States should own at least one half of this asset,” Trump said, insisting that negotiations on the matter would begin immediately, although he did not clarify how such talks would be conducted.

It remains unclear how the US president could legally prevent the bridge from opening. As of the time of filing this report, the bridge authority, the office of Ontario Premier Doug Ford and the mayor’s office in Detroit had not issued official responses.

Trump also linked his threat to wider trade disputes with Canada, criticising tariffs imposed by Ottawa on US dairy products. He further attacked a recent trade agreement between Canada and China, warning that it would severely damage Canada’s economy.

In remarks that drew global attention, Trump claimed China would eliminate ice hockey in Canada and permanently end the Stanley Cup — comments widely interpreted as rhetorical rather than literal.

The Gordie Howe bridge has long been a contentious issue, particularly for the owners of the nearby Ambassador Bridge, a privately owned crossing between Detroit and Canada. During Trump’s first term, the Moroun family, owners of the Ambassador Bridge, lobbied him to halt construction of the new bridge, arguing that it threatened their toll revenues.

Despite the earlier controversy, Trump and then Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had previously issued a joint statement describing the Gordie Howe International Bridge as a “vital economic link” between the two countries.

The latest comments, however, signal a renewed strain in US–Canada relations, with potential implications for cross-border trade flows that affect global supply chains, including those linked to Africa and emerging markets such as Nigeria.

CJN Says Nigeria’s Power Sector Undergoing Major Transformation, Expanding Role Of Courts

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CJN Says Nigeria’s Power Sector Undergoing Major Transformation, Expanding Role Of Courts

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has said Nigeria’s electricity sector is undergoing a major transformation driven by constitutional amendments, legislative reforms and evolving regulatory structures, with far-reaching implications for the judiciary.

Justice Kekere-Ekun, who is also Chairman of the Board of Governors of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), spoke on Monday at the opening ceremony of the Seminar on Legal Issues in the Regulation of the Electricity Sector for Judges, organised by the NJI in collaboration with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) in Abuja.

She said the seminar was convened at a critical moment in the evolution of Nigeria’s electricity market, characterised by far-reaching regulatory reforms, increased private sector participation, rapid technological developments and growing demand for judicial clarity in the interpretation and application of electricity laws.

According to the CJN, recent legislative and policy changes have significantly expanded the complexity of legal questions now coming before Nigerian courts.

“The Nigerian electricity sector, as we are all aware, is undergoing profound transformation. This transformation is being driven by legislative reforms, policy innovations, increased private sector participation, and the progressive decentralisation of regulatory authority to state-level institutions,” she said.

“These developments have significantly expanded the complexity of legal questions brought before our courts, making judicial familiarity with sector-specific regulations and practices not merely desirable, but indispensable.”

Justice Kekere-Ekun stressed that the judiciary bears a critical responsibility to interpret statutes, review regulatory decisions and resolve disputes in a manner that promotes legal certainty, economic efficiency and public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system.

She noted that the constitutional empowerment of states to enact their own electricity laws and establish state-level regulatory authorities has introduced new layers of legal complexity, particularly in relation to jurisdictional boundaries between federal and subnational governments.

“Increasingly, our courts are called upon to determine the scope of federal and state authority, reconcile competing regulatory frameworks, and ensure fidelity to the principle of legality. In this context, judicial clarity, consistency, and sound reasoning are imperative,” she stated.

The CJN added that capacity-building initiatives such as the seminar were essential to equipping judges with the analytical tools and sector-specific knowledge required to adjudicate electricity-related disputes with confidence and precision.

Justice Kekere-Ekun also underscored the importance of judicial oversight in matters of safety, reliability and quality of service in the power sector, warning that failures by electricity providers could result in economic disruption, personal injury and loss of life.

“Issues such as ultra vires action, legitimate expectation, procedural fairness, and the judicial review of delegated legislation are central to the adjudication of electricity-related disputes,” she said.

“Judicial vigilance is essential to ensure that regulatory agencies act within the limits of their lawful authority, striking an appropriate balance between efficient sector management and the protection of constitutional rights and equitable outcomes.”

Speaking at the event, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, said ongoing electricity sector reforms hold significant promise for attracting investment and strengthening Nigeria’s power market.

He described the seminar as timely, coming in the wake of constitutional and legislative reforms that have fundamentally reshaped the regulatory landscape of the electricity sector.

Fagbemi noted that the Electricity Act has empowered states to make laws for the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity within areas covered by their respective state electricity grids.

According to him, the development has laid the foundation for a decentralised, responsive and investment-friendly electricity governance framework, replacing outdated legislation.

“The Act establishes a comprehensive architecture for decentralisation of regulatory authority, the creation of state electricity markets and regulators, and a clear demarcation of federal and subnational responsibilities across the electricity value chain,” he said.

“It further strengthens consumer protection, promotes healthy competition and enhances regulatory certainty throughout the sector.”

He emphasised the federal government’s commitment to electricity sector reform, adding that collaboration with states, regulators and other stakeholders would continue to ensure improved power supply across the country.

In his welcome address, NERC Chairman, Dr Musiliu Oseni, outlined gains recorded under ongoing reforms, including the creation of the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to enhance transparency in grid management and boost investor confidence.

Oseni disclosed that one major outcome of the restructuring was the successful test synchronisation of Nigeria’s power grid with other West African countries through the West African Power Pool (WAPP), with full synchronisation expected.

He also said the free distribution of prepaid meters to unmetered electricity customers had fully commenced, in line with a directive of President Bola Tinubu, while oversight of the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) project had been intensified to address recurring grid collapses.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Power, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, said the National Assembly remains committed to strengthening the electricity sector through sustained legislative reforms and oversight.

“As lawmakers, our mandate is to foster reforms through constitutional amendments, the enactment of the Electricity Act 2023 and the ongoing amendments to the Act,” Abaribe said.

He explained that the reforms are aimed at boosting electricity supply, integrating renewable energy, promoting competition and reducing disputes between federal, state and private sector actors.

“The Electricity Act 2023 consolidates and modernises the legal framework of the sector, including clear provisions for structured dispute resolution mechanisms in electricity-related matters,” he added.

Abaribe noted that emerging conflicts in Nigeria’s decentralised electricity market underscore the growing importance of judicial interpretation and regulatory clarity.

“You supply electricity, a subnational entity takes it and refuses to pay, claiming independence. These are the kinds of issues the judiciary will increasingly have to address,” he said.

He disclosed that the Senate is working on further amendments to the Electricity Act to address gaps such as tougher penalties for infrastructure vandalism and improved coordination between federal and state regulators.

Also speaking, the Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, represented by the Director of Distribution, Mustapha Baba Umara, said the judiciary plays a stabilising role in the electricity market by providing predictability and credibility to Nigeria’s legal and regulatory framework.

He added that strong judicial interpretation remains critical to sustaining investor confidence and ensuring the long-term success of power sector reforms.

Access Bank’s Bid To Acquire South Africa’s Bidvest Bank Collapses Over Regulatory Approval

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Access Bank’s Bid To Acquire South Africa’s Bidvest Bank Collapses Over Regulatory Approval

Access Bank Plc’s proposed acquisition of South Africa’s Bidvest Bank has collapsed following the failure to secure regulatory clearance from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), bringing an end to a deal that was expected to strengthen the Nigerian lender’s footprint in Southern Africa.

Sources familiar with the transaction said the agreement could not progress after Access Bank was unable to obtain the required approval from the CBN within the timeline stipulated in the sale and purchase agreement.

Although the transaction was domiciled outside Nigeria, regulatory consent from the CBN was mandatory because Access Bank operates as a Nigerian banking group under the apex bank’s supervision. As the primary regulator of the bank and its holding company, the CBN’s clearance formed a key condition precedent to the completion of the deal.

It was gathered that Access Bank had reached an advanced stage in the acquisition process and had effectively concluded commercial negotiations with the Bidvest Group. However, final consummation of the transaction remained subject to regulatory approvals, particularly from the Nigerian authorities.

Multiple sources indicated that the delay stemmed from the CBN’s strict adherence to regulatory processes under the leadership of Governor Olayemi Cardoso. According to insiders, the apex bank insisted on full compliance with all procedural and substantive requirements before granting approval.

“Governor Cardoso is known to be a stickler for process. He is not driven by commercial considerations but by strict regulatory compliance,” a source familiar with the matter said.

In the absence of the required approval, the transaction failed to meet the agreed conditions within the specified stop date, leading both parties to terminate the agreement in line with its contractual terms.

While it remains unclear whether the deal could be revived should the CBN eventually grant approval, sources suggest that the termination has effectively brought the transaction to an end, at least for now.

The collapse of the acquisition carries implications beyond its commercial value. Market observers had viewed the deal as a strategic move that could deepen economic and financial ties between Nigeria and South Africa, especially against the backdrop of previously strained relations between the two largest economies on the continent.

However, sources stressed that the failure of the transaction was not due to any regulatory challenges in South Africa, nor a lack of interest from either party. Rather, it was purely the result of regulatory constraints on the Nigerian side.

The Bidvest Group confirmed that the sale and purchase agreement contained customary conditions precedent, primarily centred on obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals. Despite months of engagement and efforts by both parties to secure the required clearances, those conditions were not fulfilled within the agreed timeframe.

Bidvest also maintained that its strategic rationale for reorganising its financial services division and divesting Bidvest Bank remains unchanged, even as the termination of the agreement brings to a close a deal that was expected to significantly expand Access Bank’s presence in the South African banking market.

The development underscores the increasing emphasis by Nigerian regulators on strict compliance and oversight, even in cross-border transactions, as well as the complex regulatory landscape facing African banks seeking to expand beyond their home markets.

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