In response to the accusations made by the recently ousted Adamawa North Senator, Elisha Abbo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has firmly distanced himself from any involvement in Abbo's removal by the Court of Appeal. Abpabio expressed his disbelief regarding Abbo's claims, asserting that he has no motive to engage in any form of witch-hunt against the ousted legislator.

After the Appeal Court's decision resulted in Abbo's removal, he openly accused Akpabio of orchestrating the legal action against him. Abbo went further to suggest that this was part of a broader plan targeting four additional senators who opposed the emergence of Akpabio as the Senate President, with Senator Orji Uzor Kalu being pointed out as Akpabio's purported next target.

In response to these allegations, Akpabio's stance remains clear. His Media Aide, Eseme Eyiboh, expressed the Senate President's viewpoint, stating that it is unfortunate for Abbo to make such claims, describing it as an attempt to find a scapegoat. Eyiboh further emphasized that the Court of Appeal's decisions are based on the provisions of the Electoral Act and the evidence presented by petitioners, with no room for any form of political vendetta or witch-hunting by the Senate President. This situation highlights the tensions and disputes within the political landscape and the need for clarity regarding the legal processes that led to Abbo's removal from office.

Nigeria's headline inflation witnessed a notable increase, surging by 0.90% to reach 26.72% in September, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in its latest Consumer Price Index released on Monday. This uptick in inflation represents a rise from the August 2023 figure, which stood at 25.80%.

In a year-on-year comparison, the headline inflation rate for September 2023 was significantly elevated, marking a 5.94 percentage point increase from the rate recorded in September 2022, which stood at 20.77%. This reveals a substantial escalation in the headline inflation rate when comparing September 2023 to the same month in the preceding year, highlighting the challenges of rising prices.

Additionally, when considering a month-on-month perspective, the headline inflation rate for September 2023 amounted to 2.10%, reflecting a notable decrease of 1.08% from the rate recorded in August 2023, which was 3.18%. This signifies that in September 2023, the rate of price increase, on average, was lower than what was observed in the preceding month, August 2023. 

These inflation figures offer valuable insights into the economic landscape, reflecting the changes in the cost of living and the challenges of price stability faced by Nigeria, potentially affecting various aspects of the economy and the lives of its citizens.

In the wake of his removal from the position of Adamawa North Senator, Elisha Abbo has come forward with allegations suggesting that Senate President Godswill Akpabio played a role in influencing the recent Appeal Court decision that resulted in his ousting. Abbo, in response to the court's ruling, has asserted that not only himself but four other senators who opposed the ascent of Akpabio to the Senate Presidency are being systematically targeted for expulsion from the Senate through judicial means.

Abbo made these allegations during a recent interview with reporters in Abuja. While he did not specify the identities of the four other senators, he did single out Senator Orji Uzor Kalu from the APC representing Abia North as the next individual in line to face potential removal from the Senate. According to Abbo, the motives behind these actions appear to be their collective resistance to the emergence of Akpabio as the President of the 10th Senate.

In expressing his concerns about the court's judgment, Abbo described it as unconventional and emphasized the vital role of the judiciary as the last resort for the common man. This development stems from the Court of Appeal's recent decision, which nullified Abbo's election under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The court's ruling upheld Amos Yohanna, who contested as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as the duly elected legislator for the senatorial district. This situation has ignited significant discussions and concerns regarding the political landscape and the role of the judiciary in Nigeria's political affairs.

In Otukpo, Benue State, the Area Police Command has intervened to rescue a suspected kidnapper who was apprehended by local youths and vigilantes in Oglewu District, Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.

Reports indicate that the youths and vigilantes from Oglewu successfully apprehended a man who openly confessed to being involved in kidnapping activities around the Okwungaga Hill area. The man further agreed to lead the youths to his hideout.

However, before any further action could be taken, the police intervened and took the suspected kidnapper into custody while the local crowd was still in the process of questioning him.

In response to the police action, the local youths have initiated a protest in the area, demanding that the police release the apprehended suspect to them. As a form of demonstration, they have obstructed the Otukpo-Enugu Highway in Otukpo and are resolute in their demand for the release of the accused kidnapper, presumably for the purpose of administering vigilante-style justice.

This tense situation has led to the lighting of bonfires in the vicinity, and vehicular traffic on the busy highway has been disrupted due to the ongoing protest and demand by the local youths.

The Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources has initiated a demolition operation targeting illegal structures situated along the perimeter fence of Lagos State Model College, Meiran. The announcement of this action came from Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment, through an official statement on Monday.

The operation is being carried out by the Monitoring Enforcement and Compliance Department of the State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources. Wahab conveyed the intent behind this effort, stating, "Demolition of all illegal structures along the perimeter fence of Lagos State Model College, Meiran, Agbado, Oke-Odo LCDA, and environs today by the Monitoring Enforcement and Compliance Department of Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources."

This measure is aimed at addressing the issue of unauthorized structures in the vicinity of the school and ensuring compliance with regulations governing land use and property development in Lagos State.

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has taken decisive action to address the presence of expired and substandard goods in Bauchi State, where products worth N7 million were destroyed. The SON Zonal Director for the Northeast Zone, Adamu Abba, led the effort to eliminate these items, underlining the organization's commitment to ensuring that only quality goods are available to consumers.

This coordinated operation was conducted in partnership with the Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency, with the utmost consideration for environmental sustainability in the disposal process. The primary goal was to safeguard the lives and property of citizens while protecting the environment.

The range of products destroyed encompassed various categories, including beverages, cosmetics, mayonnaise, peak milk, and agrochemicals, among others. Abba emphasized that the battle against substandard products is a collective responsibility, calling on the public to report any suspicious substandard products they encounter in the market to the SON office.

The Zonal Director praised the cooperation of traders and artisans associations, noting their proactive role in reporting expired products to the organization for appropriate action. Murtala Sa’ad, the state coordinator of SON, credited the success of the operation to the commitment and expertise demonstrated by SON personnel through their regular market surveys, which led to the discovery and seizure of expired, substandard, and unbranded products from various shops in Bauchi.

Sa’ad issued a stern warning to traders involved in unethical practices, emphasizing that the organization would relentlessly pursue offenders and ensure they face the full legal consequences of their actions. He also advised the public to always check for product expiry dates before using them to protect their health and well-being.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a series of appointments to bolster the operations of the Office of the President within the Media and Publicity Directorate. The appointments, which aim to enhance various aspects of the President's administration, were disclosed in a statement signed by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity.

The newly appointed individuals and their respective roles are as follows:

1. Mr. Fela Durotoye - Senior Special Assistant to the President for National Values & Social Justice.

2. Mr. Fredrick Nwabufo - Senior Special Assistant to the President for Public Engagement.

3. Mrs. Linda Nwabuwa Akhigbe - Senior Special Assistant to the President for Strategic Communications.

4. Mr. Aliyu Audu - Special Assistant to the President for Public Affairs.

5. Mr. Francis Adah Abah - Personal Assistant to the President for Special Duties.

Additionally, the President has granted approval for the secondment of Mrs. Linda Nwabuwa Akhigbe, who will serve as the Communications Adviser to the President of the ECOWAS Commission.

The statement emphasizes the President's expectation that all newly appointed individuals serving in the Media and Publicity Directorate uphold the highest standards of decorum and decency in their interactions with the public. Their collective mission is to advance the President's determined efforts to rejuvenate hope among Nigerians through a restructured economy and a unified society that addresses the diverse needs of all citizens.

Furthermore, the appointments align with Nigeria's federal character principle and underscore the importance of merit in the selection process, reflecting the President's commitment to equity and competence in his administration.

In a solemn verdict, Justice Ibironke Harrison of a Lagos High Court has handed down a death sentence by hanging to a police officer named Darambi Vandi. This severe judgment stems from the tragic shooting of Lagos-based lawyer Mrs. Omobolanle Raheem on Christmas Day, December 25, 2022, at Ajah Roundabout along the Lekki-Expressway in Lagos State.

The defendant, Darambi Vandi, faced prosecution led by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo. The prosecution's case relied on the testimony of 11 witnesses, which included eight police officers. Additionally, two eyewitnesses and a pathologist were among the prosecution witnesses who provided crucial evidence in the case.

The court's decision to sentence Darambi Vandi to death underscores the gravity of the offense and serves as a reminder of the consequences of such actions. It reflects the commitment of the justice system to uphold the law and ensure accountability in cases of violence and wrongdoing.

Olisa Agbakoba, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has expressed his dismay over the spectacle of lawyers debating the President Bola Tinubu Chicago State University (CSU) matter on national television. In his statement, Agbakoba conveyed his disappointment with what he perceived as a cacophony of conflicting opinions and voices surrounding the controversy involving Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar regarding CSU records.

Agbakoba cautioned against the potentially harmful consequences of armchair lawyers participating in this discourse, noting that their involvement was dangerously escalating tensions within Nigeria. He urged individuals to refrain from sharing their opinions and views publicly and instead await a decision from the Supreme Court.

In his message posted on his social media platform, Agbakoba remarked, "The cacophony of discordant voices on Tinubu/Atiku over the certificate matter is completely out of hand. This utter nonsense from armchair lawyers is heating up Nigeria dangerously."

He called on the media to cease providing a platform for the adjudication of the CSU matter on television and in newspapers. Additionally, he urged the President of the Nigerian Bar Association to address lawyers who violate ethical rules by turning the media into a quasi-Court of Law.

Agbakoba's plea emphasized the importance of allowing the Supreme Court of Nigeria to render a judicial pronouncement, which would hold binding authority for all citizens. He underscored the necessity of putting an end to the public debates and controversies surrounding this matter to prevent further polarization and upheaval within the country.

Yekeni Nabena, the former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has responded to allegations made by Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2023 elections. Atiku had accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of forgery during a press conference held on October 5.

Nabena, in a statement issued on Friday, dismissed Atiku's allegations, stating that the focus on the Chicago State University certificate is a matter from the pre-election period that has already been put to rest. He urged Atiku to redirect his efforts towards preparing for another contest in 2027, rather than attempting to drag the nation backward.

Contrary to the media narrative created by Atiku and opposition parties, Nabena clarified, "The registrar of Chicago State University (CSU) Caleb Westberb never said President Tinubu forged the certificate he submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Nigeria." He cautioned the public to be vigilant against manipulative reports generated by opposition parties, intended to sow confusion and gain public sympathy.

Nabena emphasized that Nigeria is a sovereign state, and unless the highest court of the land rules otherwise, President Bola Tinubu's election remains legitimate, and he will continue to lead the nation.

Furthermore, Nabena drew attention to what he considered a contempt of court by Atiku, who has taken the matter to court. He urged the Nigerian justices and the Supreme Court to take note of this breach.

In conclusion, Nabena urged Atiku to focus on the future and prepare for the 2027 elections, as the country has moved forward and is experiencing responsible governance under the current administration. He stated, "Heating up the polity over pre-election matters will not make him President of Nigeria."

In a concerted effort to address the ongoing political standoff in Ondo State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken steps to halt the process of impeaching the state's deputy governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Instead, the party has initiated the formation of a reconciliation committee with the objective of resolving the discord between the governor and his deputy.

During the committee's inauguration, which took place on Friday, the APC's national chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, emphasized the importance of fostering a harmonious working relationship between the governor and his deputy. He expressed confidence in the committee's ability to achieve this vital goal, given its members' extensive experience in public service.

Ganduje stated, "As a political party, we are interested in ensuring peaceful coexistence and a productive working relationship between the governor of Ondo State and his deputy. To address this challenge, we believe it is essential to establish a reconciliation committee consisting of individuals with relevant experience and expertise in the matter at hand."

The Masari panel, led by former Kastina State governor Aminu Bello Masari, has been tasked with specific terms of reference, which include engaging with all parties involved in the dispute surrounding the Ondo State Deputy Governor's impeachment process. Their goal is to gather comprehensive facts and circumstances related to the ongoing issue and provide guidance to the party on the most amicable ways to handle the situation.

Furthermore, the committee is expected to make recommendations to the party regarding the resolution of these contentious matters and any other issues that may arise during the course of their assignment. They have been given a timeframe of one week from their inauguration to submit their recommendations.

In response to their selection, Masari expressed gratitude and assured that the committee's intervention would lead to an amicable resolution of the conflict between the governor and his deputy. The committee comprises notable members, including the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola, Sen Jack Tilley Gyado, Tanko Almakura, Martin Elechi, and Mohammed Abubakar, all of whom bring diverse experiences to the table for this crucial reconciliation effort.

The Senate has made a resolute commitment to promptly consider the forthcoming new minimum wage bill presented by the executive branch of government. Senator Diket Plang, who chairs the Senate Committee on Employment, Labour, and Productivity, conveyed this determination in an official statement.

Senator Plang assured the Nigerian populace of the 10th Senate's unwavering dedication, as well as that of the 10th National Assembly, to enhance the living standards of the country's workforce and address the prevailing high levels of poverty.

He expressed appreciation for the joint efforts of the federal government and organized labor in initiating the necessary processes to review the current minimum wage in Nigeria, as stipulated in the memorandum of understanding signed by the parties engaged in negotiations. Senator Plang emphasized the readiness of the Senate Committee on Employment, Labour, and Productivity, under his leadership, to expeditiously address the passage of a new Act as soon as the negotiation process concludes and such a bill is forwarded to the National Assembly for enactment.

While commending the federal government for its proactive measures in preventing a nationwide workers' strike last week, Senator Plang issued a warning to all parties involved not to backtrack on the agreements they have reached. He highlighted the relief felt by Nigerians and committee members alike that the potential industrial unrest was averted through the memorandum of understanding reached between the federal government, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Trade Union Congress (TUC). However, he stressed the importance of adhering to the terms of these agreements to maintain industrial harmony.

Furthermore, Senator Plang emphasized the committee's commitment to the principles of decent work as advocated by the International Labour Organization (ILO). The committee is determined to take legislative measures that support endeavors aimed at enhancing the working conditions of Nigerians, including the implementation of a living wage in line with the decent work agenda. This reaffirms the Senate's dedication to promoting equitable labor practices and improving the well-being of the nation's workforce.

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Idowu Owohunwa, provided a significant update on Friday regarding the ongoing investigation into the tragic demise of the late singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, famously known as Mohbad.

Commissioner Owohunwa revealed that the police have made significant progress in the case, having identified a total of 26 witnesses who may possess valuable information relevant to the investigation. This development signifies the diligent efforts being made to uncover the truth surrounding the circumstances of Mohbad's passing.

Furthermore, Commissioner Owohunwa disclosed that the investigative process has reached a point where five individuals, considered as suspects, have been subjected to interrogation. This signifies a crucial step forward in the quest to unravel the details surrounding the unfortunate incident.

The disclosure by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police underscores the commitment of law enforcement authorities in ensuring a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the tragic loss of the talented singer, Mohbad. It is indicative of their determination to bring clarity and justice to the situation.

British American Tobacco Nigeria (BAT Nigeria) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to talent development and its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) agenda with a significant announcement. Kikelomo Fisayo-Okusanya, previously the Area Head of 360 Activation & Marketing Operations, has been promoted to the role of Marketing Deployment Director for the West and Central Africa Cluster (WCA). This promotion also sees her becoming a vital part of BAT's West and Central Africa leadership team, marking her as the second woman to join this prestigious cluster.

Kikelomo boasts an impressive marketing career spanning over two decades, characterized by her expertise in navigating the dynamic marketing landscape. Her journey with BAT Nigeria began in 2003 as a Trade Marketing Representative, and over the years, she has honed her skills in Trade Marketing, Brands, and Activation across West and Central Africa. In 2016, she took on the role of Area Head for Activation and Shopper Marketing, and her career continued to ascend. By 2021, Kikelomo had reached the pinnacle of her career within the company, holding the position of Area Head for 360 Activation & Marketing Operations. In this capacity, she left an indelible mark by pioneering an immersive virtual reality market experience and orchestrating a significant transformation within the Marketing Skills and Development unit.

BAT, a global organization with a presence in over 180 markets, recognizes the pivotal importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). These elements are integral to attracting and retaining top-tier talent while ensuring the delivery of exceptional products and services to a diverse global consumer base. The appointment of a second female executive to the WCA leadership team underscores BAT's resolute commitment to achieving 40% female representation in senior leadership and 45% in management roles by 2025, thereby promoting inclusivity and gender equality at the management level.

Commenting on this appointment, Yarub Al-Bahrani, Managing Director, emphasized BAT Nigeria's dedication to "A Better Tomorrow ™" and cultivating an inclusive work environment that encourages diverse perspectives and ideas, which ultimately enhances decision-making and business outcomes. He expressed excitement about the valuable experience Kikelomo will bring to the leadership team.

It's noteworthy that BAT is renowned as a Global Top Employer in Nigeria and West Africa, and it received recognition through awards such as the Diversity and Inclusion initiatives award and the prestigious overall winner of the 2022 HR Oscars award from the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria. These accolades reflect BAT's steadfast commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture.

In response to recent social media reports suggesting a rift between Governor Alex Otti and his Deputy, Ikechuckwu Emetu, Chukwudi Eke Mba, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Abia State's Deputy Governor, has vehemently dismissed these claims as baseless and malicious. Eke Mba, in a press release he personally issued, revealed that these allegations, which originated from a known content creator, are entirely fabricated with the sole purpose of tarnishing the harmonious relationship between Otti and his Deputy.

Eke Mba firmly denied the allegations that he himself is a member of the PDP (Peoples Democratic Party) and clarified that he is fully committed to his role as CPS and a dedicated member of the Labour Party (LP). He expressed deep concern over the proliferation of calls and messages he received regarding this unfounded story and urged both the people of Abia State and the wider public to disregard these reports, which seem to be aimed at sowing discord, negativity, and tension, all orchestrated by the online publisher, whom he identified as a PDP member.

In his press release, Eke Mba passionately stated, "I have been inundated with calls and text messages this evening over a deliberate false attempt to cause disaffection between the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, and his loyal Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Lekwachi Emetu, FNSE, proclaiming 'a cold war' between them." He also emphasized that the working relationship between Governor Alex Otti and Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu remains not only cordial but highly effective for the progress and development of Abia State.

Eke Mba assured the people of Abia State that the Governor and Deputy Governor are diligently and harmoniously working together to serve the state's interests and to foster its development. He reaffirmed his commitment as a proud member of the Labour Party and refuted any association with the PDP. He also reminded the public of his unambiguous dedication to ensuring the Labour Party's success at all levels during the 2023 elections.

To provide context, it's worth noting that earlier reports had surfaced, alleging that Governor Alex Otti had instructed Deputy Governor Ikechuckwu Emetu to dismiss Chukwudi Eke Mba, the Chief Press Secretary, on grounds of supposed PDP affiliation. Additionally, these reports claimed that certain responsibilities originally delegated to the Deputy Governor had been reassigned to another key appointee of the Governor.

The authenticity of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's claimed Diploma Certificate from Chicago State University (CSU) has become a contentious issue, particularly in light of its use for securing clearance to participate in the 2023 presidential election under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In the latest development, Mr. Carl Westberg, a top official of CSU and the university's Registrar, raised questions about the replacement copy of the Diploma certificate that Tinubu submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Westberg, speaking under oath, stated that this was the first time he had encountered the Diploma certificate copy in question during the legal proceedings.

The witness, who was subpoenaed to testify by the order of Judge Nancy Maldonado, supported the court's directive for the release of Tinubu's academic documents to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Atiku had contested the declaration of Tinubu as the winner of the February 25, 2023 presidential election, citing various grounds, including allegations of Tinubu submitting forged documents to INEC.

In pursuit of his claim, Atiku sought a US District Court order compelling CSU to release Tinubu's academic records for verification and authentication. Following the court's ruling, CSU was instructed to release these records and provide a deposition by an official of the institution.

In compliance with the court's order, Westberg testified on oath, asserting that the Diploma certificate used by Tinubu to secure eligibility for the presidential election was not a document issued by CSU. Notably, Westberg highlighted discrepancies, including the absence of a board of trustees at the institution in 1979, as opposed to the claim made on the certificate submitted by Tinubu.

Regarding the signatures on the certificate, Westberg acknowledged variations in signature, logo, and seal when comparing those from 1979 to the one Tinubu submitted to INEC. He specifically pointed out that the signature on the replacement certificate matched certificates issued in the 1990s, rather than those from 1979 as stated by the President.

A certified true copy of Westberg's deposition and cross-examination is anticipated to be provided to Atiku to further support his allegations of forgery against Tinubu. The case's final phase, seeking Tinubu's disqualification from the 2023 presidential election, is currently pending before the Supreme Court of Nigeria.