Six weeks after the death of his wife, Gov. Umo Eno was conferred with a doctorate degree in Political Science by the University of Uyo this afternoon, making him the first sitting governor in the country to attain such qualification while in office. Congratulations to the governor. It must be a moment of mixed emotions for him and his family as this is coming exactly two weeks to his wife’s funeral events. It should also be an inspiring occasion for Akwa Ibom youths and I urge them to learn a few lessons here, chief among which is that no matter your situation in life, you can achieve whatever you set your mind to. I know this for a fact and it is what I tell my children every day.

 The second lesson is that education is a very important tool that helps you fulfill your potentials in life. Dr. Umo Eno said this much in his speech at the convocation ceremony in Uyo this afternoon. In recognition of the importance of education, the governor said, he is sustaining the compulsory free education which his predecessors have implemented since 1999. In addition, he’s improved on the value of scholarship and bursary awards to various categories of students and is revamping primary schools to enhance learning environment. But despite these, a lot of our children are still hawking in the streets during school hours, instead of being in school. Last month, I talked with a young boy of about 10 years old, who was hawking groundnut around. He said he dropped from school because his guardian did not buy him exercise books. His father is dead, his mother sent him to live with a guardian who has now turned him into a hawker; and so, his teacher asked him to withdraw till he gets his exercise books. There are so many cases family situations stopping our children from going to school. The government should address the nagging problem of school dropouts.  

I understand that our primary schools, especially those that are located in the villages, require more teachers. The government should set in motion a rigorous recruitment process to bring in brilliant, qualified and dedicated teachers into our primary and secondary schools. The last recruitment exercise happened over five years ago. We should also emphasize vocational training and rehabilitate the dilapidated vocational schools in the state. In terms of WAEC performance, our state has been around the 17th position consistently for many years. I am sure we can improve on that if our teachers are more dedicated and motivated. Alumni associations should launch motivational programs to encourage our students. The governor should also pay attention to the needs of the state-owned university, AKSU.

Indeed, education is a very important tool and we need to make the necessary investments to make it work for everybody.

As Americans head to the polls to elect their next president, the world is reminded of the far-reaching implications of this election outcome. From the Russo-Ukraine war to conflicts in the Middle East and the geopolitics of Africa and Asia, the election outcome will shape events far beyond the shores of the US.

With most polls suggesting razor-thin margins between Trump and Harris, this election is turning out to be one of the most closely contested elections in American history. Undecided or hesitant voters have become critical in breaking the tie between closely matched support bases on both sides come 5th November 2024. The race to the White House is driven by an intense war of words, where rhetorical framing is the key weapon being deployed by both sides to shape opinions and influence voting decisions. Here are my thoughts on how Trump and Harris employ rhetorical framing to tip the scale in this neck-to-neck race for the White House.  

Issue salience and selection

Both candidates assign prominence to issues they believe resonate with their audiences. Kamala Harris emphasises the significance of economic support for the middle class and working families, framing her vision for reform as an “opportunity economy” that serves ordinary Americans. She also focuses on themes of unity and inclusivity, pledging "to be a president for all Americans,” and stating that regardless of differences, Americans “all have the same dreams and aspirations.” Additionally, Harris’ campaign rhetoric always essentialises her commitment to protecting reproductive rights, and the need to “chart a course for the future and not go backward to the past.”

On the other hand, Trump prioritises illegal immigration, crime, and economic decline, rhetorically framing the situation as one of severe crises. He often employs emotive rhetoric to project fear of “criminal immigrants” stressing that "millions of people pouring into our country from prisons and jails, from mental institutions and insane asylums” are taking jobs meant for Americans. By framing immigration and crime as national crises, Trump aims to rile up his base and discontented voters against the political establishment.  

Identity and Personal Framing

Both Trump and Harris rely heavily on identity framing to connect with voters.  Kamala Harris often frames herself as an advocate for middle-class and working families. Referencing her childhood during her live debate with Trump, she said, “I was raised as a middle-class kid. And I am actually the only person on this stage who has a plan that is about lifting up the middle class and working people of America.”

Throughout her campaign, Harris consistently amplifies her experience as a prosecutor and her capacity to unify America in contrast to Trump’s leadership. She said: “Americans see in each other a neighbour…they don't want a leader who is constantly trying to have Americans point their fingers at each other.”

On the other hand, Donald Trump positions himself as a strong leader fighting against the political establishment to protect American borders and restore its greatness on the global stage. During his debate against Harris, he touted his strong relationship with world leaders to underscore his influence on the global stage. Trump boasted, “He (Hungarian Prime Minister, Viktor Orban) said the most respected, most feared person is Donald Trump. We had no problems when Trump was president… China was afraid of him. North Korea was afraid of him.” Trump often refers to his political opponents as ‘weak.’ By framing himself as a strong leader, Trump seeks to amplify the contrast between his image and the characterisation of weak leadership he ascribed to Harris on fundamental issues like immigration, crime, and the economy.

Oppositional Framing

Trump and Harris regularly employ oppositional framing to diminish the credibility of the opponent. Harris frames Trump as a failed, divisive, and self-serving leader unfit to lead America. For example, she stressed that ”Trump will not talk about people’s needs, dreams, and desires” and that America deserves a leader who “puts them first” positioning herself as such a leader. She also consistently frames Trump as dangerous to American democracy, referencing the January 6^th Capitol riots as Trump’s attempt to upend the will of the American people. Furthermore, she refers to Trump as a liar, warning their debate audience from the start of the debate to expect “a bunch of lies” from Trump, in a pre-emptive tactic to undermine his credibility. In the last few weeks leading to the election, Harris’ campaign has ramped up rhetoric that frames Trump both as a fascist and mentally unstable.  

Trump’s framing of Harris is equally pejorative, often using rhetoric that positions her as weak and incompetent on the economy, crime, immigration, and foreign policy. He also characterises Harris as unintelligent, mentally unfit, a radical leftist, and a Marxist, who would confiscate guns, stop fracking, and allow “transgender operations on illegal aliens.” By framing Harris this way, Trump reinforces the portrayal of Harris as a radical leftist who has lost touch with American values.  

Rhetorical Appeals

Both Trump and Harris often employ a range of emotional, logical, and credibility-based appeals. Harris uses vivid imagery to emphasise concerns about women impacted by restrictions on reproductive rights. She rhetorically painted an image of "pregnant women...bleeding out in a car in the parking lot” to connect with the emotions and struggles of American women and underscore her commitment to their plights. She also uses fear rhetoric to describe a potential Trump presidency for the second time.

Trump, on the other hand, employs fear and a sense of urgency to drive emotional appeal. He frequently uses hyperbole and repetition to amplify issues and frame them as major crises. For example,  he often claims that “millions of criminals, and terrorists are pouring into America and destroying the country." By invoking fear and a sense of urgency, he seeks to play on people’s anxieties about national security.   

In terms of logical appeal, Harris’ rhetoric regularly seeks to drive persuasion by presenting logical arguments. She cited Goldman Sachs’ endorsement of her economic plan to suggest that her policies are supported by independent expert evaluation. She also employed logical appeal to discredit Trump’s economic plan, arguing that reputable entities like Goldman Sachs’,  Wharton School, and 16 Nobel Laureates all declared that Trump’s plan would worsen the US economy.

Trump, in contrast, appeals to logic whenever he declares that he “created one of the greatest economies in the history of America” and that he would do it even better again if given a second chance.

Applying credibility-based appeal, Harris often emphasises her credentials as a prosecutor to demonstrate her capacity to fight crime and maintain the rule of law. Similarly, Trump appeals to credibility by consistently highlighting his achievements as a strong leader on the global stage, touting his ability to negotiate and stop what he alleged to be a rip-off from China, Europe, and NATO.  

Conclusion

Overall, this US election looks set to be decided by swing or undecided voters, the majority of whom will not conduct granular scrutiny of each candidate’s policies. Instead, they will respond to key soundbites and rhetorical framing that collectively shape their view of both candidates and consequently, their voting decision. While some argue that campaign rhetoric has limited influence on core voter bases, the rhetorical framing of arguments and counter-arguments that resonate with swing voters will ultimately tilt the scales towards Democrats or Republicans.

Dr Toju Ogbe is a Strategic Communications consultant and an academic whose research focuses on rhetorical leadership.  

Programme: CITY TALKS WITH REUBEN ABATI

Time: 12:00pm

Guest: Dr Idowu Oyebanjo
(Energy Expert)

Topic: Incessant National Power Grid Collapse

Date: 9th Novemeber, 2024

Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 928 7714 1732
Passcode: 600206

Hon. Dabiri, Your Cultural Point is Well Taken, But Hon. Kemi’s Global Criticism of Nigeria Reflects the Nation’s Persistent Corruption, Human Rights Violations, Police Brutality, and Leadership Impunity — Not a Rejection of Culture and Heritage

In a recent statement, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chair of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), extended a diplomatic gesture toward Kemi Badenoch, the newly appointed Leader of the UK Conservative Party, hoping to bridge cultural ties by emphasizing her Nigerian heritage. Dabiri-Erewa’s outreach, which sought to congratulate Badenoch on her ascent to this prominent role, was undeniably rooted in a desire to maintain connections with Nigerians in the diaspora. Yet, it is important to understand that Kemi’s silence in response to this outreach does not signify a rejection of her heritage, but rather speaks to a much deeper frustration with the state of her homeland, Nigeria—a frustration that cannot be ignored by any well-meaning Nigerian, whether in the diaspora or at home.

Kemi Badenoch’s relationship with Nigeria is complex, rooted in both pride and disillusionment. Born in Wimbledon, London, to Nigerian parents, Badenoch spent significant portions of her formative years in Nigeria, the United States, and the UK. Her youth in Nigeria was marred by the harsh realities of political instability, economic mismanagement, and the slow decay of basic services that the nation’s citizens continue to suffer from today. These experiences forged her political beliefs and a deep-seated desire to see her home country achieve the prosperity and justice that should accompany its vast resources. But despite Nigeria’s bountiful natural wealth and the billions of dollars funneled in from international donors, the country has remained stagnated by pervasive corruption, human rights violations, police brutality, and a justice system that is more a tool of the powerful than an institution for fairness.

It is this disillusionment with Nigeria’s political and social systems, not a rejection of Nigerian culture, that likely informs Kemi’s decision to remain silent. As an influential British politician, Kemi Badenoch’s voice carries weight, not only within the UK but also internationally. Her career in British politics, spanning high-profile roles in the Conservative Party, highlights her ability to navigate complex political landscapes, from her technical background in IT to her rise through ministerial positions. Despite her ascent in British politics, it is Nigeria’s failure to realize its potential, largely due to the misconduct of its leaders, that draws her harshest criticism.

Badenoch’s silence in response to Dabiri-Erewa’s outreach should be viewed not as a personal affront to her Nigerian identity, but as a symbolic protest—a muted cry in response to the disheartening and increasingly inescapable reality that Nigeria’s leaders remain mired in corruption and impunity. While Dabiri-Erewa’s outreach is rooted in cultural pride, the reality is that Kemi, much like many Nigerians in the diaspora, has watched as Nigeria’s government continues to betray its people. The frustration and pain caused by these ongoing failures are not abstract—they are visceral and real.

Nigeria’s leaders, who are blessed with unimaginable wealth, both from the country’s vast oil reserves and foreign aid contributions, continue to perpetuate the suffering of the Nigerian people. The immense sums of money that pour into Nigeria from international partners, including Britain, are regularly siphoned off by corrupt officials, leaving Nigeria’s infrastructure in a state of disrepair. Basic human rights, like access to healthcare, clean water, and electricity, remain largely inaccessible to the majority of the population. Even more troubling, Nigerian leaders, such as former President Buhari and current President Tinubu, routinely travel to the UK for extended stays, often receiving healthcare treatment unavailable in their own country, while Nigerians at home die due to the absence of basic medical services. This hypocrisy—the wealth of the leaders against the suffering of the citizens—is what pains Kemi. She sees how her country is being drained by a system of governance that protects the rich and powerful, leaving the vulnerable to suffer.

This is why, despite her Nigerian roots, Kemi Badenoch has voiced her concerns about the state of her country and its leadership with blunt honesty. In her recent statements, Badenoch emphasized that while colonialism had a significant and lasting impact on Nigeria’s development, the time for using that as an excuse has passed. She agrees that the colonial legacy left a deep imprint on the Nigerian political system, but she firmly believes that contemporary Nigerian leaders must take responsibility for addressing the systemic issues that continue to plague the nation. In Badenoch’s eyes, it is not enough to simply point to the past—it is essential that Nigeria’s current leadership stop exploiting these historical grievances as a shield to justify their own failures. The responsibility for reform and development now lies squarely with the country’s leaders.

It is vital to note that Kemi’s silence in response to Dabiri-Erewa’s outreach is not an expression of hatred toward Nigeria or her Nigerian heritage. Instead, it can be interpreted as a deep and emotional response to the relentless corruption and impunity within Nigeria’s political structures. Kemi understands that the power of her voice can make a difference, and while she remains silent in this instance, her position on Nigeria’s political leadership has been crystal clear. She speaks out because she believes that the Nigerian people deserve better than the perpetual cycle of corruption, police brutality, and political impunity that continues to characterize the nation.

What should be understood from this interaction is that while NiDCOM’s efforts to connect Nigerians in the diaspora with their heritage are admirable, they should not overshadow the larger issues at play. Dabiri-Erewa’s approach, while well-meaning, is only part of the equation. The reality is that for many Nigerians abroad, including Kemi, the struggle goes beyond cultural identity—it is about Nigeria’s leadership and its failure to deliver on its promises to the people. A cultural connection, while important, cannot supersede the urgent need for governance that respects the rule of law, protects human rights, and prioritizes the needs of the people.

Moreover, it is crucial to acknowledge that while Kemi’s silence might be interpreted as cold or unresponsive, it speaks volumes. It reflects not only her sorrow over Nigeria’s continued degradation but also her frustration with the global complacency toward these issues. As a Nigerian-British leader, she carries the weight of both worlds—the cultural pride of her heritage and the moral responsibility of witnessing Nigeria’s ongoing struggle. In choosing to remain silent, she may be crying inside—tears shed for the countless Nigerians suffering at the hands of their own leaders, while their elected representatives live lives of luxury abroad.

While the outreach from NiDCOM should be appreciated, we must also recognize the deeper truths behind Kemi’s silence. She knows that no amount of cultural celebration can erase the systemic failures that continue to afflict Nigeria. Dabiri-Erewa’s efforts to congratulate Kemi on her political rise are laudable, but they must be tempered with an understanding of the larger political context—one that is shaped by deep-seated corruption, human rights abuses, and the suffering of Nigeria’s most vulnerable.

In the future, we hope that Kemi Badenoch will feel moved to acknowledge the congratulatory messages from NiDCOM, not only as a gesture of gratitude but also as a recognition of the potential for future collaboration and constructive dialogue. Her response, however, should never be seen as an obligation, but rather as a reflection of her own journey—a journey that is simultaneously one of pride in her Nigerian heritage and frustration with Nigeria’s ongoing failure to meet the needs of its people.

Let us hope that in time, Nigeria’s leaders will heed the calls for reform and accountability, embracing the responsibility to create a society where the basic needs of every citizen are met. And let us also hope that, in the future, Kemi Badenoch will see her silence give way to a more constructive dialogue—one that acknowledges the cultural ties that bind us, while also demanding the ethical leadership required to move Nigeria forward. She is a leader who has shown that change is possible, but that it requires honesty, accountability, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about the past, the present, and the future.

Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi, born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, is an American-based police and prison scientist, forensic psychologist, public policy psychologist, and legal psychologist. He’s a government advisor on forensic-clinical psychological services in the USA and the founder of the Dr. John Egbeazien Oshodi Foundation for Psychological Health. With a significant role in introducing forensic psychology to Nigeria through N.U.C. and Nasarawa State University, he’s also a former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Psychological Association. He’s taught at esteemed institutions like Florida Memorial University, Florida International University, Nova Southeastern University, and more, and is currently an online faculty member at ISCOM University,  Weldios University and Walden University.

In recent times, social media platforms have become both the judge and jury of society’s moral compass. From trending hashtags to viral scandals, nothing escapes the unforgiving glare of the internet. Unfortunately, in this rapidly evolving digital age, we are witnessing a troubling shift where certain behaviors that should be condemned outright are instead celebrated, often by those who are perceived as influencers or “yeyebrities.”

A recent case in point is the scandal involving Baltasar Ebang Engonga, a man from Equatorial Guinea whose alleged sexual misconduct went viral. For the uninitiated, Engonga was exposed as a sexual pervert whose actions were nothing short of reprehensible. However, rather than being castigated and condemned for his Babylonic behavior, some Nigerian celebrities, who easily pass for “Yeyebrities” and some social media influencers have shockingly taken a different route: they appear to be romanticizing his exploits, turning a blind eye to the moral depravity of his actions.

Baltasar Ebang Engonga, who is no doubt a prominent figure in Equatorial Guinea and the Director General of its National Financial Investigation Agency, recently became embroiled in a scandal involving over 400 explicit videos. These videos, reportedly discovered during a corruption investigation, featured Engonga engaging in sexual acts with multiple women, including high-profile figures such as relatives of senior officials and wives of government personnel. The encounters were allegedly recorded with consent, but the scandal drew significant backlash, especially as some tapes were filmed in official spaces like his office. This controversy not only tarnished his professional reputation but also sparked outrage over the misuse of public office for personal indulgence.

It is indeed alarming that in the wake of this scandal, instead of condemning such despicable behavior, there has been a disturbing trend of celebrating it as some kind of “sexual prowess.” On various social media platforms, there are posts that glorify Engonga’s actions, with some even going as far as to suggest that he is a “ladies’ man” or that his conduct reflects a certain level of masculinity.

But what exactly is being celebrated here? This trend is symptomatic of a much larger problem: the erosion of values in our society. When deviant behavior is applauded, it sends a message that morality no longer holds a place in the collective conscience of our communities. It creates a culture where the lines between right and wrong are blurred, leaving the younger generation confused about what is acceptable and what is not.

The influence of celebrities in today’s digital world cannot be overstated. Many young people look up to these figures as role models, emulating their actions and adopting their beliefs. However, when celebrities, particularly those with significant social media followings, choose to glorify reprehensible actions, they wield their influence irresponsibly.

These “yeyebrities” are often quick to jump on the latest trend for likes, comments, and shares, without considering the consequences of their words and actions. In their bid to remain relevant, they have lost sight of the moral responsibility that comes with their influence. Instead of using their platforms to condemn vices and promote virtues, they contribute to the spread of a morally bankrupt culture that normalizes sexual perversion.

It is indeed a worrying phenomenon when people with a significant following choose to ignore the immorality of the acts themselves and instead focus on praising the offender’s so-called “prowess.” By doing so, they not only trivialize the pain of the victims but also encourage others to see such behavior as something to aspire to.

Lost in the sensationalism and eulogizing of Engonga’s actions are the real victims, the women and individuals who have suffered due to his actions. These victims are often silenced or forgotten in the rush to sensationalize the story for social media clout. In a society where victims are already hesitant to speak up due to stigma and fear of not being believed, this kind of behavior by influencers only worsens the situation.

By focusing on the perpetrator and glorifying his actions, we are effectively telling victims that their pain is insignificant. This not only discourages them from coming forward but also emboldens others to engage in similar acts, knowing that they too might be celebrated rather than condemned.

As a society, we have a collective responsibility to set boundaries and standards for acceptable behavior. We cannot afford to be passive in the face of growing moral decadence. If we choose to remain silent or worse, join in the chorus of those celebrating perversion, we are complicit in the erosion of our values.

There is nothing to admire or emulate in the actions of someone like Engonga, as sexual misconduct and perversion are not demonstrations of masculinity or strength; they are signs of weakness and moral bankruptcy. It takes no strength to prey on the vulnerable; it takes no honor to exploit others for personal gratification. What should be celebrated are acts of kindness, respect, and mutual consent in all relationships.

One might wonder how we arrived at a point where the lines between decency and depravity are so blurred. Social media plays a significant role in this, as it has become a platform where anything can be sensationalized for the sake of clicks and engagement. The need for instant fame and recognition has driven many people to say or do anything, no matter how morally repugnant.

Additionally, the rise of influencer culture has led to the unfortunate reality where people who lack depth, substance, or any meaningful achievements are placed on pedestals simply because they are popular. When these individuals are the ones shaping the narrative, it is no surprise that our societal values are in decline.

To reverse this disturbing trend, we must return to the basics of what it means to be a society governed by principles and values. First, celebrities and social media influencers must realize the immense power they wield and use it responsibly. They should be at the forefront of condemning immoral acts, not glorifying them.

Second, as a society, we need to encourage critical thinking among young people. They should not take everything they see on social media at face value. Parents, educators, and community leaders have a role to play in teaching young people the difference between right and wrong, and the importance of integrity and moral character.

In fact, it is crucial that we hold individuals accountable for their actions. This includes not only those who commit heinous acts but also those who use their influence to normalize or trivialize such behavior. The celebration of sexual perversion and misconduct must be called out for what it is: a dangerous trend that has no place in a civilized society.

The time has come for us to draw a line in the sand. We must reject the idea that sexual perversion is something to be celebrated. There is no virtue in vice, and there is nothing admirable about behavior that harms others. It is high time that we stop glorifying those who engage in such acts and instead celebrate those who uphold values that contribute to the betterment of society.

The world is watching, and the internet never forgets. If we continue down this path of celebrating depravity, we risk creating a future where moral bankruptcy becomes the norm. Let us choose instead to be champions of decency, respect, and integrity. It may not be the popular choice, but it is certainly the right one.

The outgoing Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki has alleged that the All Progressives Congress, APC, is borrowing between N2 billion and N5 billion to finance the inauguration of the new governor.

Obaseki, who disclosed this at the inauguration of 10-man caretaker committee members of the State’s PDP in Benin City on Friday, however, lamented that the outgoing government was not carried along nor invited for the inauguration.

DAILY POST reports that Senator Monday Okpebholo, the candidate of the APC, who defeated the PDP candidate, Asue Ighodalo in the September 21, 2024 governorship election in the State would be sworn-in on Tuesday, November 12, 2024.

He alleged that the incoming government has started spending the sum of almost N27 billion set aside for the payment for projects and other obligations by his administration.

“In this holiday period, they will want to spend as much money as possible to confuse the people. They are going to struggle to change their perception.

“We have almost N27 billion to pay for projects and obligations, but they have started blowing it, and they have gone to borrow money for the inauguration which is going to cost them N2 to N5 billion. That is the money they will first take from the treasury.

“They are doing an inauguration and the governor is not even invited. It is like they are starting a brand new government and a brand new state”, he said.
Speaking further, Obaseki assured the people that he would not be far away from the party as he would never leave the party but would remain to give advice.

He also assured the party’s chieftains and faithful that the party would reclaim its stolen mandate.

“We will get our stolen mandate back, for the sake of Nigeria because if we allow the APC to go with our stolen mandate, it will mark the end of democracy in Nigeria.

“This fight is not for our candidate but for the people of Nigeria and our nation’s democracy”, he added.

Also speaking, Asue Ighodalo, the party’s candidate at the September 21, 2024 governorship election, however, charged the party to be ready for a tough battle and the journey to reclaim the stolen mandate.

“We expect them to reply to our petition next week. We also have five days to reply to their petition.

“This will take us to about the 19th of November, 2024. We will then start what is called the pre-hearing before the major hearing which may start by the end of November.

“Our lawyers are working and are ready to reply to their petition. Times are hard and we are in difficult times, we should stand firm and be strong as we navigate the journey to reclaim our stolen mandate”, he stated.

Meanwhile, the State chapter of APC, had in a statement issued recently alleged that out of the N24.6 billion deposited into the Edo State Government’s account recently, a staggering N14 billion was siphoned by the outgoing government within one week.

The party also alleged that without due process to fiscal responsibility, Governor Obaseki had sought and received approval for three supplementary budgets since January 2024.

It noted the most recent of the supplementary budgets was the N450 billion allocation passed on the eve of the September 21, 2024 gubernatorial election by the State House of Assembly.

“The outgoing administration’s pursuit of multiple supplementary budgets within such a short period raises suspicions about the actual purpose behind these massive allocations.

“The total amount squandered during his tenure has reportedly neared the staggering sum of 2 trillion Naira.

“This astronomical figure demands answers. Edo people have a right to know where these resources have gone and why their future has been mortgaged by an outgoing administration that appears determined to empty the state coffers before leaving office”, the statement stated.

The head of the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja’s family, Pa Tajudeen Lagbaja, has expressed regret obtaining Nigerian Defence Academic (NDA) form for the deceased.

Pa Tajudeen, the younger brother of the late COAS’s father, stated that he would not have bought the form had he known it would lead to his death.

Some family members also alleged that Lt. General Lagbaja may have been killed through diabolical means due to a land dispute in his hometown.

According to TheNation, In 2023 a dispute arose in Ilobu, the headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area in Osun State, when representatives of the Nigerian Army planned to establish a hospital in the community.

Pa Tajudeen told TheNation that he initially obtained the NDA form for the late Lieutenant General.

“Everyone who is born must die. We give glory to God. The year that I obtained NDA form for him, if I had known that he would die before me, I would not have done so. I regret obtaining the form for him. But it is destiny.

“The death that killed Taoreed Lagbaja ought to take me. I took him as one of my children. We are greatly bereaved, we are sad. He constructed a borehole in his father’s compound and other places in the community.

“We can never forget him, his death is so shocking to us. I have accepted the fate, all the promises he made to me have hit a brick wall. He always gave us hope in the family, despite the sorrow, I give thanks to God,” the family head said.

[DailyTrust]

Gov. Godwin Obaseki of Edo has dissolved his cabinet ahead of the Nov.12  swearing-in of Sen. Monday Okpebholo, of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the new governor of the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that Obaseki who came into office on November 12, 2016 is expected to end his eight years tenure on November 12, 2024.

Obaseki dissolved the cabinet shortly after a valedictory session held at the Government House on Friday in Benin.

The motion for the dissolution of the State Executive Council for 2020-2024 was moved by his deputy, Godwins Omobayo, and was seconded by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Osilama Okuofu.

At the valedictory session, the governor commended members of the council for helping him in driving the government’s vision of making Edo great again.

Obaseki also commended citizens of the state for supporting, praying and collaborating with his administration throughout his tenure.

Members of the cabinet  took turns to eulogise the governor and acknowledged his many achievements in various sectors.

They also commended the governor for the opportunity given to them to serve the people of the state in their various capacities.

The outgoing commissioners and Heads of Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) also took turns to present awards and gifts to honour the governor.

The valedictory session for the outgoing state executive council climaxed with a dinner in honour of the state governor.

(NAN)

Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, appointed US-born Yechiel Leiter, an official who previously served as chief of staff in the finance ministry, as the next Israeli ambassador to the United States.

“Yechiel Leiter is a highly capable diplomat, an eloquent speaker, and possesses a deep understanding of American culture and politics,” Netanyahu said in a statement on Friday.

Leiter’s appointment came three days after Donald Trump’s election to a second term as U.S. president, celebrated by many Israelis because of his strong support for Israel.

As well as serving in the finance ministry, Leiter held positions as deputy director general in the Education Ministry and acting chairman of the Israel Ports Company.

His son was killed last year in the Gaza war against Palestinian militant group Hamas while serving with the Israeli military.

Leiter’s appointment was also welcomed by Yisrael Ganz, the head of the Yesha Council, an umbrella organisation representing councils of Jewish settlements in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, a territory Palestinians want as part of a future state.

Ganz said Leiter, who lives in the Gush Etzion settlement area, was “a key partner in English-language advocacy for Judea and Samaria”, a name used by many Israelis for the West Bank, which Israel captured in the 1967 Middle East war.

AFP