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Senate Swears In Joseph Ikpea, Emmanuel Nwachukwu As New Senators

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Senate Swears In Joseph Ikpea, Emmanuel Nwachukwu As New Senators

The Senate on Wednesday sworn in Joseph Ikpea and Emmanuel Nwachukwu as newly elected lawmakers representing Edo Central and Anambra South senatorial districts, respectively.

The swearing-in ceremony was conducted during plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, with Clerk of the Senate Emmanuel Ojo administering the oaths of office and allegiance.

The new lawmakers emerged from recent by-elections held to fill vacancies created by the exit of Monday Okpebholo, who is now the Governor of Edo State, and the death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah in July 2024.

Before the ceremony, the Senate temporarily relaxed its standing rules to allow family members and dignitaries into the chamber.

Among the guests were former Delta State Governor James Ibori, former Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shuaibu, and several political leaders who witnessed the event.

Senate President Akpabio congratulated the new members and urged them to uphold the principles of diligence and integrity, reminding them to acquaint themselves with the Senate’s standing rules.

With their induction, the Senate now has a full complement of 109 members.

Reps Reject US Congress Bill Alleging Religious Killings In Nigeria

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Reps Reject US Congress Bill Alleging Religious Killings In Nigeria

The House of Representatives has condemned a bill introduced in the United States Congress that accuses Nigeria of tolerating religious killings and violations of religious freedom.

The lawmakers, during plenary on Tuesday, described the claims as false and misleading, insisting that Nigeria is not facing a religious crisis. They also called for immediate diplomatic engagement to counter the narrative and prevent the bill from advancing in the U.S. legislature.

The decision followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, which received unanimous support from members.

The U.S. resolution, introduced on March 11, 2025, seeks to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” for allegedly engaging in and tolerating systematic and egregious violations of religious freedom.

In response, the House directed relevant government agencies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to compile and transmit empirical evidence disproving the allegations.

Lawmakers maintained that Nigeria’s insecurity stems from criminal and terrorist activities, not religion, and stressed that portraying it otherwise could endanger national unity.

Two weeks earlier, the Federal Government had also rejected similar claims, with Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris describing them as “false, baseless, despicable, and divisive.”

He stated that while Nigeria, like many countries, faces terrorism and banditry, labeling the situation as a genocide against Christians “grossly misrepresents reality” and fuels extremist propaganda.

“The federal government strongly condemns and categorically refutes recent allegations suggesting that terrorists in Nigeria are engaged in a systematic genocide against Christians,” Idris said.

He added that extremists have attacked Nigerians of all faiths and emphasized that the military continues to make progress in dismantling terror networks across the country.

‘No Nigerian Is A Street Urchin,’ Obi Condemns Derogatory Remarks On Supporters

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‘No Nigerian Is A Street Urchin,’ Obi Condemns Derogatory Remarks On Supporters

The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned what he described as a disturbing trend of Nigerians looking down on their fellow citizens, following remarks that referred to some of his supporters as “street urchins” and “people of no value.”

In a statement on Tuesday, the former Anambra State Governor said such comments were degrading and revealed “a troubling mindset.”

“Lately, I have heard a few people say that those who follow Peter Obi are low-class Nigerians, and some have even gone as far as calling them ‘street urchins’ and people of no value. It is deeply unfortunate that in today’s Nigeria, citizens now look down on fellow citizens in such a degrading manner,” Obi said.

He emphasised that he has never looked down on anyone “except to lift them up,” stressing that his political mission has always been about identifying with ordinary Nigerians.

“My involvement in politics has never been about associating with the so-called high and mighty, but about standing with ordinary Nigerians whose voices have been silenced and whose resources have been stolen by the same ‘big names’ who now parade themselves with all sorts of titles and names,” he stated.

Obi criticised the growing tendency among some leaders to speak condescendingly about struggling citizens, saying every Nigerian has intrinsic worth.

“No Nigerian is of no value. No Nigerian is a street urchin. It speaks volumes about the state of our nation that everyday Nigerians, battered by poverty and hardship, are now referred to by their leaders as being of no value and as urchins,” he said.

He reaffirmed his commitment to championing the dignity and welfare of the common man, adding that every Nigerian deserves access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for a better life.

Texas National Guard Troops Deployed Near Chicago Amid Trump’s Immigration Crackdown

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Texas National Guard Troops Deployed Near Chicago Amid Trump’s Immigration Crackdown

Hundreds of Texas National Guard troops have arrived at an Army training facility outside Chicago to support President Donald Trump’s intensified immigration crackdown — a move that has sparked fierce backlash from Illinois officials and reignited debate over federal versus state authority.

Government sources confirmed that some of the troops could begin operations as early as Wednesday. Temporary housing trailers have been installed and fencing erected around the Army Reserve Training Center, located about 50 miles southwest of Chicago.

The deployment comes amid growing tension between the White House and several Democratic-controlled states over immigration enforcement. Chicago has seen a surge of protests outside US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) offices, with President Trump calling the city a “war zone” and defending the troop deployment as necessary “to quell violence and protect federal property.”

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker denounced the move as an “authoritarian march” by the administration. “We will use every lever at our disposal to stop this power grab,” he vowed, accusing Washington of overstepping its constitutional boundaries.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also condemned the deployment, describing it as “illegal, unconstitutional, and dangerous.” He accused the Trump administration of undermining state sovereignty by “sending National Guard personnel from Texas into Illinois without consent.”

In response, Illinois and the City of Chicago have jointly filed a lawsuit to block the federalization of Texas National Guard troops, arguing that the action violates state control provisions. While a federal judge has temporarily allowed the deployment to proceed, similar troop movements to Portland were halted last week.

The controversy escalated following an incident over the weekend in which US Border Patrol agents reportedly shot and injured a woman during a confrontation near immigration vehicles — an event that has fueled renewed protests and public outrage across Chicago.

Though National Guard troops are not authorized to make arrests or conduct searches, their deployment to major US cities has raised alarm over the potential use of military power for domestic law enforcement.

President Trump has hinted at invoking the Insurrection Act of 1807, which would permit the use of active-duty military personnel on American soil. When asked about the possibility, Trump told reporters, “If the governor can’t do the job, we’ll do the job.”

Gov Radda Partners With NSITF To Boost Workers’ Welfare

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Gov Radda Partners With NSITF To Boost Workers’ Welfare

The Governor of Katsina State, Dr. Umar Radda, has pledged his administration’s support for the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS) of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF).

Dr. Radda made the commitment during a courtesy visit to the Executive Management of the Fund at its corporate headquarters in Abuja on Monday.

He commended the Federal Government for appointing Samaila Abdu, an indigene of Katsina State, as the Executive Director of Administration at the Fund. The governor noted that part of his responsibility is to visit Katsina indigenes holding federal appointments to ensure they are effectively representing the state.

Speaking at the meeting, the Managing Director of NSITF, Oluwaseun Faleye, reiterated the Fund’s commitment to promoting a safer workplace and enhancing national productivity through workers’ welfare.

Faleye stressed that prioritizing employees’ welfare would significantly boost productivity and contribute to economic growth. He, however, expressed concern that many states and local governments remain non-compliant with the Employees’ Compensation Scheme, warning that this poses risks to both the workforce and national development.

He appealed to Governor Radda to ensure that Katsina State and its local governments comply fully with the ECS to safeguard workers and strengthen service delivery.

The event was attended by Executive Director of Administration, Samaila Abdu; Executive Director of Operations, Mrs. Mojisolaoluwa Alli-Macaulay; Executive Director of Finance and Investments, Mr. Ayodele Olufemi; and other board members of the Fund.

Stakeholders Push For Climate-Resilient, Sustainable Building Practices

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Stakeholders Push For Climate-Resilient, Sustainable Building Practices

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s building sector have urged stronger collaboration to align national climate goals with local actions that promote sustainable construction, reduce carbon emissions, and build resilient communities.

Speaking at the North-Central Regional Workshop on Sustainable Building Projects in Abuja, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, said achieving decarbonization in Nigeria’s built environment requires strategic partnerships across all sectors.

Represented by Dr. Japhet Musa, Dangiwa described the workshop as timely, noting that it would deepen efforts toward sustainable urban development nationwide.

“Urban development goes beyond erecting buildings or infrastructure. It entails deepening communities, strengthening ecosystems, and creating inclusive spaces where citizens can thrive,” he said.

The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to cutting greenhouse gas emissions and promoting climate resilience through sound policies and enforceable standards.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Richard Dauda, said the administration continues to work with private developers to provide housing across all social classes while ensuring compliance with the Abuja Master Plan and environmental regulations.

In his remarks, the President of the Green Building Council, Danjuma Waniko, stressed the importance of collaboration in advancing green building initiatives.

He called on stakeholders to strengthen partnerships that can transform policies and reforms into actionable, enforceable regulations within the construction sector.

‘No Sacred Cow’: NLC Slams Shettima’s Defence Of Dangote Refinery Over PENGASSAN Dispute

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‘No Sacred Cow’: NLC Slams Shettima’s Defence Of Dangote Refinery Over PENGASSAN Dispute

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has criticised Vice President Kashim Shettima for allegedly siding with the Dangote Refinery in its ongoing dispute with the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).

In a statement issued on Tuesday to mark the World Day for Decent Work, NLC President Joe Ajaero said Shettima’s remarks amounted to defending corporate interests over workers’ welfare.

“We will not surrender the rights of Nigerian workers on the altar of profit. We will mobilize, we will organize, and we will fight back. We insist that there are no sacred cows,” Ajaero declared.

He accused the Vice President of suggesting that the Dangote Group, being a “national asset,” should be exempt from obeying Nigeria’s labour laws — a stance the NLC described as “a national tragedy” and “an affront to the rule of law.”

The union said the Vice President’s position effectively placed corporate power above national sovereignty, warning that “no company, no matter how big, strategic, or well-connected, can operate outside the law.”

Ajaero reaffirmed the NLC’s solidarity with Nigerian workers and PENGASSAN, condemning alleged labour rights violations at the Dangote Refinery.

“Dangote has brazenly violated the rights of its workers to freedom of association and the right to join trade unions — rights guaranteed by the Constitution, the Trade Union Act, the Labour Act, and ILO conventions,” the statement said.

The NLC also criticised what it called the Federal Government’s “abdication of responsibility” in protecting workers’ rights, arguing that by supporting corporate excesses, it was promoting impunity and injustice.

“For the government to side with the oppressor against the oppressed is a declaration of a class war it can ill afford,” Ajaero warned.

The union called for stronger enforcement of labour laws, recognition of unions across workplaces, and an end to what it termed the “sacred cow syndrome.”

“The era of impunity must end. The government must demonstrate through decisive action that the law is no respecter of persons,” the NLC added.

The standoff between PENGASSAN and the Dangote Refinery follows unresolved disputes over workers’ rights and alleged unfair labour practices.

Ukraine, Russia Trade Deadly Strikes Leaving Five Dead

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Ukraine, Russia Trade Deadly Strikes Leaving Five Dead

Ukraine and Russia launched renewed cross-border attacks early Wednesday, leaving at least five people dead on both sides, officials said.

In Russia’s Belgorod region, a missile strike hit the village of Maslova Pristan, about 15 kilometres from the Ukrainian border, killing three people and injuring one, according to regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov.

Gladkov said the attack caused a partial collapse of a local “social facility,” believed to be a sports hall, adding that rescue teams were searching for possible victims trapped under the rubble.

Meanwhile, in Ukraine’s Kherson region, a Russian strike killed an elderly couple, regional governor Oleksandr Prokudin confirmed.

“As a result of the enemy strike, a 62-year-old woman and an elderly man, whose identity is currently being established, were fatally wounded,” Prokudin said.

Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia launched at least 183 drones into Ukrainian territory between late Tuesday and early Wednesday.

Moscow’s defence ministry claimed it had intercepted 53 Ukrainian drones overnight, most of them over Belgorod — a frequent target of cross-border attacks.

Both Kyiv and Moscow deny deliberately targeting civilians.

Ukraine has in recent months intensified retaliatory strikes on Russian oil and energy infrastructure, describing them as a legitimate response to Moscow’s continued bombardment of Ukrainian cities, which have repeatedly left millions without heat or electricity.

Atiku Demands Probe Into Tinubu, Ministers’ Certificates Amid Nnaji Scandal

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Atiku Demands Probe Into Tinubu, Ministers’ Certificates Amid Nnaji Scandal

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for an independent and transparent investigation into the academic and professional credentials of all members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), starting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Atiku’s demand follows the resignation of the former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, who stepped down on Tuesday amid allegations of forging his academic certificates. Nnaji, however, insisted that his resignation was not an admission of guilt.

Reacting in a post on his X handle on Wednesday, Atiku said the minister’s resignation had “once again brought to light the deep moral crisis at the heart of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.”

He accused President Tinubu of setting a precedent for deception in public service, claiming that controversies surrounding Tinubu’s identity, age, and educational background had persisted for decades.

“This episode is not isolated. It is a reflection of a pattern — a rot that begins from the very top,” Atiku wrote. “The man who occupies the office of President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has for decades been enmeshed in controversies surrounding his identity, age, and academic records.”

Atiku alleged that Tinubu’s own history of “forgery and perjury” had encouraged dishonesty among government officials.

“It is, therefore, unsurprising that his ministers and aides have taken after his example — falsifying documents, inflating records, and desecrating the moral foundation of our nation,” he said.

The former Vice President also criticized Tinubu for allowing Nnaji to resign rather than face dismissal and prosecution.

“Let the truth be told: Uche Nnaji should not have been allowed the courtesy of resignation. He should have been summarily dismissed and prosecuted for deceit and falsification,” Atiku said.

He further faulted the Department of State Services (DSS) for failing to detect the alleged forgery during Nnaji’s screening process, describing it as a “national disgrace.”

“What makes this even more embarrassing is that the same DSS, which screened out Mallam Nasir El-Rufai for alleged security concerns, is the very agency that cleared this same character, Uche Nnaji,” Atiku added.

He concluded by urging Nigerians to demand transparency and accountability from those in power, saying the country deserves leaders with integrity and verified credentials.

Interpol Arrests Nigerian In Argentina Over Global Romance Scam Network

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Interpol Arrests Nigerian In Argentina Over Global Romance Scam Network

Authorities in Argentina have arrested a Nigerian national, identified as Ikechukwu N., for allegedly masterminding a series of international romance scams that defrauded thousands of women across several countries.

The suspect was captured after being placed on the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) wanted list, marking Argentina’s first arrest of a fugitive under both a Red Notice and a Silver Notice.

According to a statement released by INTERPOL on Tuesday, Ikechukwu is accused of leading an international cybercrime network that specialized in online romance fraud and financial scams.

The operation was executed jointly by the Argentine Federal Police and the Airport Security Police, as part of Operation Jackal, an INTERPOL-led initiative targeting West African organized criminal groups.

“The suspect is accused of orchestrating multiple romance scams involving thousands of women, and leading an international cybercrime network,” INTERPOL stated.

The agency noted that the Silver Notice pilot project, launched in January 2025, is designed to help countries trace and recover criminal assets linked to transnational crime.

Ikechukwu’s arrest represents a major success for international law enforcement collaboration, supported by INTERPOL Brazil, IFCACC, and FIS.

Further investigations into the suspect’s network and financial operations are ongoing.

Gisele Pelicot To Face Man Who Denies Raping Her In Appeal Trial

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Gisele Pelicot To Face Man Who Denies Raping Her In Appeal Trial

Paris | October 8, 2025 — ADBN TV

French feminist icon Gisele Pelicot, 72, is set to confront in court the only man who continues to deny raping her in one of France’s most shocking mass rape cases.

Her ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, who drugged her with sedatives and invited dozens of strangers to abuse her over nearly a decade, admitted his crimes and is serving the maximum 20-year prison sentence handed down last year. Forty-nine other men convicted in the case also accepted their verdicts.

However, 44-year-old Husamettin Dogan maintains his innocence and has appealed his conviction, forcing Gisele back into court in Nîmes.

“She would have much preferred to stay where she is and focus on her new life and her future,” her lawyer, Antoine Camus, said. “But she needs to see this through to the end.”

Investigators uncovered 107 photos and 14 videos from the night Dogan visited the Pelicots’ home in 2019. Some of the footage, which reportedly shows Dogan raping the unconscious Gisele and attempting to force her into oral sex, will be presented to the court before her testimony.

Despite the evidence, Dogan insists he was “trapped” by Gisele’s husband. But Dominique Pelicot testified that Dogan was fully aware she had been sedated and willingly took part.

“I never forced anyone,” the former husband told the court, confirming that Dogan had asked him to position his wife to facilitate the assault.

Police investigator Jérémie Bosse-Platière dismissed Dogan’s claims, noting that the footage showed he remained at the scene for more than three hours.

“I have no doubt he was fully aware of the victim’s condition,” Bosse-Platière said.

The verdict is expected on Thursday.

French feminist icon Gisele Pelicot, 72, is set to confront in court the only man who continues to deny raping her in one of France’s most shocking mass rape cases.

Her ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, who drugged her with sedatives and invited dozens of strangers to abuse her over nearly a decade, admitted his crimes and is serving the maximum 20-year prison sentence handed down last year. Forty-nine other men convicted in the case also accepted their verdicts.

However, 44-year-old Husamettin Dogan maintains his innocence and has appealed his conviction, forcing Gisele back into court in Nîmes.

“She would have much preferred to stay where she is and focus on her new life and her future,” her lawyer, Antoine Camus, said. “But she needs to see this through to the end.”

Investigators uncovered 107 photos and 14 videos from the night Dogan visited the Pelicots’ home in 2019. Some of the footage, which reportedly shows Dogan raping the unconscious Gisele and attempting to force her into oral sex, will be presented to the court before her testimony.

Despite the evidence, Dogan insists he was “trapped” by Gisele’s husband. But Dominique Pelicot testified that Dogan was fully aware she had been sedated and willingly took part.

“I never forced anyone,” the former husband told the court, confirming that Dogan had asked him to position his wife to facilitate the assault.

Police investigator Jérémie Bosse-Platière dismissed Dogan’s claims, noting that the footage showed he remained at the scene for more than three hours.

“I have no doubt he was fully aware of the victim’s condition,” Bosse-Platière said.

The verdict is expected on Thursday.

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