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A medical helicopter crashed onto a busy highway in Sacramento, California, United States (US), on Monday, leaving three people critically injured.

The aircraft had just transported a patient to a hospital and was returning to base when it began losing altitude before crashing onto Highway 50. One of the victims was trapped under the helicopter following the impact.

A small crew from the local fire department and several bystanders on the highway worked together to lift the aircraft off the trapped woman, allowing her to be rescued and taken to an ambulance.

No motorists were injured in the incident, which Sacramento Fire Department Captain Justin Sylvia described as ‘mind-blowing’ considering the helicopter went down in the middle of the road, blocking both eastbound lanes.

He explained, ‘People reported that they basically saw the helicopter kind of going down quickly. So all the traffic slowed down.’

The pilot, nurse, and paramedic on board were all hospitalised after the crash, while the cause of the incident remains under investigation.

REACH Air Medical, the company that owns the helicopter, stated in a press release that it is ‘keeping all those impacted in our thoughts and prayers.’

The company added, ‘We are in the process of determining the details of this situation, as well as the condition of the REACH crew involved, who were all taken to area hospitals.’

Sacramento city councillor Lisa Kaplan, who was on a police ride-along responding to the crash, said plumes of white smoke were rising from the wreckage.

She commented, ‘It’s really sombering and sobering. I am up flying with sheriff pilots that do this day in and day out. And it really makes you grateful for every day and grateful for our officers and our medical pilots.’

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, on resumption from the 10-week annual recess, swore in three newly elected lawmakers.

They are Hon. Omosede Igbinedion (Edo), Hon. Felix Bagudu (Kaduna State), and Hon. Mukhtar Rabiu (Jigawa).

Administering the oath of office to the new members, the Clerk of the House ushered the three APC lawmakers into the Green Chamber under the Speaker’s supervision.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Hon. Omosede Igbinedion of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the recent by-election held in Ovia Federal Constituency, Edo State, after polling a total of 77,053 votes to emerge victorious.

The seat in the National Assembly became vacant in September 2024 after Dennis Idahosa, who represented Ovia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, emerged as Deputy Governor.

Hon. Felix Bagudu replaced the late Labour Party member, Hon. Ekene Adams, for the Chikun-Kajuru Federal Constituency, Kaduna State, after polling a total of 34,580 votes to secure victory.

The third new member, Hon. Mukhtar Rabiu, representing Garki/Babura Federal Constituency, Jigawa State, polled 38,449 votes to emerge victorious in the by-election.

Former Deputy Governor of Osun State and former National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Iyiola Omisore, on Tuesday declared his intention to contest the 2026 governorship election in Osun State under the platform of the APC.

Speaking after his declaration at the party secretariat in Osogbo, Senator Omisore said, ‘If we go to the primaries today, I’ll win more than 90 per cent. By God’s grace, I shall emerge and deliver the APC government by next year, August.’

‘My declaration is to show the preparedness of core APC members in the state, to show how ready we are to ensure that I become the party candidate by God’s grace in December, and to further strengthen the belief of the people in the coming APC government in Osun State.’

‘APC’s chance in 2026 is 100 per cent. These are volunteers from the nooks and crannies of the state. This is just within the party and not the public – this is internal politics, preparing us for the forthcoming primaries in December.’

‘This is also to show the strength of the rescue mission to ensure that we get the party ticket by God’s grace and win the governorship election.’

‘I am optimistic. You know, if we go to the primaries today, I’ll win more than 90 per cent. By God’s grace, I shall emerge and deliver the APC government by next year, August.’

‘People are expecting mature governance, educational improvement, agricultural advancement, rural capital development, structural adjustment of the state, capital development, impartial policies, among others.’

‘Most importantly, a very serious government – governance is not a dancing matter; it’s a serious business and must be taken seriously by serious people.’

‘Going forward, I am expecting the people of Osun State to vote for the APC en masse come August 8, 2026,’ he concluded.

In his own remarks at the event, Hon. Ajibola Famurewa, a former member of the Federal House of Representatives representing Atakunmosa East/Atakunmosa West/Ijesa constituency of Osun State in the 8th National Assembly, said, ‘The people here today are members of the APC from all the wards across the state. These are the people who asked Omisore to come out and vie for the ticket of the party. We are sure that with their support, Omisore will emerge as the party’s candidate.’

‘Governance is a serious business, and as a former deputy governor, he is the most experienced among other good aspirants of the party to fly the ticket and deliver.’

Kaduna State has been honoured with the Best Government Supporting Women and Their Families award at the 9th edition of the Voice of Women Conference and Awards (VOW 2025) held in Abuja.

The national recognition celebrates subnational governments and institutions demonstrating exceptional commitment to women’s empowerment through progressive policies and programmes.

Kaduna’s selection reflects its pioneering steps in institutionalising gender-responsive governance under the leadership of Governor Senator Uba Sani.

Among the landmark initiatives highlighted by the organisers were the approval of a Women Affirmative Procurement Policy, the implementation of Gender-Responsive Procurement, and the establishment of a Gender-Responsive Department at the Kaduna State Public Procurement Authority (KADPPA).

In addition, a Gender Desk was created within KADPPA to ensure the consistent enforcement of inclusivity standards across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

Delivering her goodwill remarks at the event, Dr Nita Byack George – a renowned administrator and advocate for women’s empowerment – commended Governor Uba Sani for his visionary leadership in mainstreaming gender inclusivity into governance.

‘As someone who has dedicated years to advocating for women’s health, empowerment, and leadership inclusion at both national and international levels, I am heartened to see the real impact of deliberate, gender-responsive governance,’ she said.

Dr George lauded Kaduna’s gender-focused reforms, noting that they serve as a model for other states across Nigeria.

‘These initiatives show that Kaduna is not just talking about inclusivity – it is institutionalising it. Governor Uba Sani’s administration is setting a model for others across Nigeria to emulate,’ she remarked.

The Voice of Women (VOW) Conference and Awards, a flagship national platform for advancing gender equity and social inclusion, drew participants from government, civil society, development partners, and the private sector.

Kaduna’s recognition reinforces its reputation as a progressive, people-centred state government that prioritises women’s empowerment, inclusive economic participation, and family welfare through deliberate policy action and institutional reform while setting a national benchmark in gender-responsive governance.

Former Governor of Sokoto State and leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, has accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of engaging in a ‘mischievous campaign of deceit’ aimed at misleading the public and discrediting the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu.

Wamakko made the accusation in a statement issued in Sokoto by his Special Assistant on Media, Bashar Abubakar, where he alleged that the opposition party had resorted to recycling ‘outdated propaganda materials’ in an attempt to create a false impression of past performance.

According to the statement, the PDP’s recent circulation of old video clips and reports from more than eight years ago was part of a desperate effort to ‘hoodwink unsuspecting citizens’ and undermine the progress recorded by the present administration.

‘The PDP has been parading old and irrelevant videos as new evidence of achievements, in a futile attempt to tarnish the image of Governor Ahmed Aliyu and the APC leadership in Sokoto State,’ Wamakko said.

He described the move as ‘a calculated attempt by a party that has lost relevance and direction,’ insisting that the people of Sokoto are witnessing tangible progress under Governor Aliyu’s leadership across infrastructure, education, health, and rural development.

Wamakko also faulted PDP claims that the previous administration under Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal had completed major projects initiated during his tenure, citing examples such as the Asari Water Scheme, Kalambaina and Gidan Salanke housing estates, and several educational institutions.

He explained that the Asari Water Scheme, which was designed by his administration to boost water supply to Sokoto metropolis, was abandoned by the succeeding PDP government, leaving only one out of 40 wells functional by the time Tambuwal left office.

‘Even the water schemes at Runjin Sambo and Gagi were left in poor condition, with only a few wells operational,’ Wamakko noted. ‘These facts expose the falsehoods being peddled in the recycled videos.’

The former governor further dismissed PDP claims regarding the completion of the Wurno College of Agriculture, School of Nursing in Tambuwal, and the College of Legal Studies in Wamakko, describing them as ‘blatant distortions of history.’

He also clarified that the three boarding schools at Shagari, Maruda, and Illela were fully completed by his administration, while a proposed expansion at Sanyinna was never approved by the Tambuwal government.

‘In contrast, Governor Ahmed Aliyu has now awarded the renovation and extension of the Sanyinnawal boarding school, and the AGILE programme is complementing these efforts with new projects,’ Wamakko stated.

He therefore urged the people of Sokoto to remain vigilant and not to be deceived by ‘cheap blackmail and recycled lies,’ reaffirming the APC’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and service delivery under the current administration.

When contacted, the spokesman of the PDP, Hassan Sayinnawal, said his party is studying the allegations and will respond to the allegations at the appropriate time.

The University of Ibadan (UI) has said the opportunity for a special admission window for its Open, Distance, and e-Learning (ODeL) undergraduate programmes will close by midnight on Friday, October 10, 2025.

The institution urged all candidates currently undergoing screening or planning to apply directly to complete all requirements before the deadline.

A statement by the Director of UI DLC, Professor Babatunde Omobowale, said the UI-ODeL model provides a flexible pathway to a reputable University of Ibadan degree.

He stated that this provides an opportunity for qualified candidates whose placement is restricted by JAMB/UTME limits related to traditional classroom settings.

It also serves those who need flexible study arrangements due to work or personal reasons, or those seeking a reputable alternative pathway.

He said matriculation for the new intake will hold on Saturday, 30th of October, 2025, at the UI International Conference Centre (ICC), adding that the event is a compulsory, landmark ceremony that formally inducts new students into the prestigious University of Ibadan.

The matriculation will feature a special highlight: the Matriculation Lectures. These addresses will be delivered by the distinguished alumni who achieved a First-Class degree in Computer Science, Psychology and Political Science via the UI-ODeL mode.

‘Three First-Class graduates from the inaugural ODeL programme will share their expertise: Mr Olalekan Akolade Abass (Computer Science) will offer firsthand insights into mastering the flexible learning environment; he will be joined by Mr Akindubi Jelili Babatunde (Psychology), who will explore models for achieving academic excellence at UI; and finally, Mr. Okoye Mark (Political Science) will discuss the unique opportunities for UI-ODeL students and graduates.

‘The centre welcomes applicants with five relevant O’ Level credits in one sitting or six in two sittings to apply to programmes including: Sciences: Computer Science, Statistics; Social Sciences: Economics, Sociology, Psychology, Political Science; Humanities and Education: Philosophy and Public Affairs, Communication and Language Arts, English, Social Work, Educational Management, Guidance and Counselling, and Library and Information Studies.’

The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has congratulated the Founder of Freedom Apostolic Revival International Ministry and Ori Oke-Ogo, Asejire, Ibadan, Prophet Samuel Adebayo Ojo, popularly known as Baba Authority, on the occasion of the Church’s 20th Anniversary Celebration.

Delivering the Governor’s goodwill message at the event, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, who represented Governor Aiyedatiwa, described Prophet Ojo as ‘a vessel of divine purpose whose unwavering faith and prophetic ministry have inspired millions and strengthened the spiritual fabric of the nation.’

Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that Prophet Ojo’s consistency in spreading the gospel, mentoring young ministers, and promoting moral revival aligns with the values of discipline, faith, and service that are essential to nation-building. He emphasized that men of God like Baba Authority have played pivotal roles in shaping communities through prayers, guidance, and acts of compassion.

The Governor also used the occasion to urge religious leaders to continue fostering peace, unity, and moral rebirth among Nigerians, adding that the state government remains committed to building an environment where both spiritual and social development can thrive.

While commending the Freedom Apostolic Revival International Ministry for its 20 years of unbroken growth and service, Aiyedatiwa prayed for greater grace, wisdom, and strength for Prophet Ojo and his congregation to continue their divine assignment in the years ahead.

The anniversary celebration drew clerics, government officials, and dignitaries from across the country, all gathered to honor Prophet Ojo’s two decades of impactful ministry and enduring faith in the service of God and humanity.

Residents of Awotan Community along Apete-Akufo Road in Ibadan, Oyo State, were thrown into panic on Tuesday evening when a 27-year-old man, identified as Ukpene Michael, was brazenly shot to death by three suspected cult members belonging to Black Axe Confraternity, also known as Black Axe, in the full glare of passersby and commercial motorcyclists picking passengers by the roadside.

The incident occurred at about 5p.m. in front of the depot of one bottling company where the deceased was said to be working as a motor boy.

Not satisfied with their target’s death, one of the suspects reportedly pulled out an axe and cut off Michael’s right wrist and went away with it, as they drove off in great speed.

Tribune Online gathered that two of the suspects who operated in a Lexus SUV hanged out their heads while driving away, pointing the gun into the air.

Information gathered revealed that the deceased was discussing with co-workers within the premises of the depot when he received a call, and people around the scene of incident had noticed the Lexus car parked without paying any attention to it.

One of the occupants reportedly came out, gluing his phone to his ears as he was making a call.

The sordid drama began when the deceased, who stepped outside the premises to see his caller was sighted by the suspected cult members.

Immediately, the caller snatched the phone from Michael as soon as he was seen coming while still conversing with his caller, and shot him at a close range, before his wrist was also severed from his arm with an axe.

Reports had it that the deceased allegedly belonged to Eiye Confraternity, Black Axe’s rival cult group.

Tribune Online gathered that the Eiye cult group the deceased allegedly belonged to had murdered an Aye cult member recently at Monatan area, and the Tuesday evening killing was in retaliation.

It was also learnt that the area was immediately deserted as people scampered into safety.

On receiving the information after the residents saw that the coast was clear, the Divisional Police Officer and detectives from Apete Division were seen at the scene from where they evacuated the remains of the deceased.

Later, the Anti-Cultism unit of the command was also spotted by our correspondent at the depot where the scene of the crime was shown to them.

When contacted, the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Adewale Osifeso, confirmed the incident.

He said that investigation has commenced while the deceased has been deposited in mortuary at State Hospital, Adeoyo, Ring Road in Ibadan.

Katherine Nathan is more than a writer and faith-based speaker; she’s a dynamic entrepreneur whose work continues to bridge creativity, spirituality, and business. As the founder of Plan Itt Ltd, a fast-rising solutions company, and Sunset Drinks, a lifestyle beverage brand, Katherine has proven her ability to build thriving ventures rooted in innovation and purpose.

Now, she is stepping further into the digital space with the launch of her YouTube channel, which features three powerful series: Faith Series, Letters to My Younger Self, and Becoming Series. Each one reflects her mission to uplift, educate, and empower audiences across Africa and beyond.

In this interview, Katherine shares insights into her journey, challenges, and vision for the future.

You wear many hats as a writer, faith-based speaker, and entrepreneur. How did your journey begin?

I’ve always been passionate about storytelling and communication. Writing gave me a way to express myself, but more importantly, to connect with others. Over time, I realized my words had the power to inspire, and that naturally evolved into faith-based speaking. As for entrepreneurship, I wanted to create solutions and products that not only serve people but also reflect my values. That’s how Plan Itt Ltd and Sunset Drinks were born, both came from a desire to bring creativity, excellence, and purpose into everyday life.

What inspired you to create your YouTube channel?

For me, I believe my voice belongs alongside the many others already out there, and YouTube is a powerful way to amplify that. As Christians, the onus is on us to step forward, to speak, to show up, and to consistently share the message of excellent living, Christian values, and high business standards. The channel is my way of being more present, more visible, and more intentional about reaching people where they are.

The channel features three distinct series. Can you tell us more about them?

Absolutely. The Faith Series is all about spiritual nourishment; practical, heartfelt insights that help people live with more intention and purpose. Letters to My Younger Self is reflective and personal; it’s about speaking to past versions of ourselves, healing, and encouraging resilience. Finally, Becoming Series is for those who are evolving and striving toward their goals. It’s about embracing the process of growth, not just the outcome.

Of the three series, which has been the most meaningful to you personally?

Letters to My Younger Self is very close to my heart. It forces me to be vulnerable, to look back at moments where I struggled, doubted myself, or felt small and then to reframe those experiences with wisdom and compassion. It’s healing for me, and I believe it’s healing for others too.

You’re a serial entrepreneur. What challenges have you faced in balancing business with your creative and spiritual work?

Balance is always the hardest part. There were times when I felt pulled in ten different directions. What I’ve learned is that clarity and boundaries are essential. I’ve also had to build a team and learn to delegate, that was a big shift for me. I no longer try to do it all; I focus on the things that only I can do and empower others to handle the rest.

How do you measure success?

For me, success is measured by impact. Of course, I want to see growth in my businesses and platforms, but the real question is: Am I changing lives? Are people walking away encouraged, more confident, more grounded? If the answer is yes, then I know I’m on the right path.

What’s next for you?

I’m really excited about expanding the YouTube platform and building a stronger community around it. Beyond that, I’m working on scaling both Plan Itt Ltd and Sunset Drinks to reach wider audiences. I also have plans to write more not just articles, but books in the near future. So, the future is full, but I’m ready. So follow me on my socials to stay connected @KatherineNathan_o.

What advice would you give to young people who want to blend faith, storytelling, and entrepreneurship?

First, start with your ‘why.’ If you don’t know your purpose, you’ll burn out quickly. Second, stay consistent even when growth feels slow. And finally, protect your authenticity, don’t compromise who you are just to fit in or go viral. The right people will always be drawn to your genuine voice.

Outside of work, how do you stay grounded?

My faith is my anchor, so prayer and reflection are non-negotiable for me. I also try to make time for family, journaling, and the little things; a walk, a good meal, laughter with friends. Those moments refill me.

Katherine Nathan’s story is one of courage, clarity, and creativity. From her thriving businesses to her growing digital presence, she continues to remind us that faith and ambition are not mutually exclusive, they can powerfully coexist. Through her words, her ventures, and her YouTube channel @KatherineNathan_o, she is helping others not just to work, but to truly become.

Athletic Bilbao has officially entered into a strategic partnership with Linebet for the 2025/26 season, granting Linebet the prestigious status of Official Regional Partner in Africa. This collaboration highlights not only Linebet’s ambition to strengthen its position in the global sports betting and entertainment industry but also its commitment to cooperating with clubs that value their traditions and unique cultural identities. For Linebet, the agreement is an important milestone in its long-term strategy to become a trustworthy and recognizable sports brand worldwide.

Athletic Club, known globally as Athletic Bilbao, has been a symbol of Spanish football since its foundation in 1898. The club has achieved multiple championship titles over its rich history and continues to compete at the very highest level of La Liga. Remarkably, Bilbao is one of just three Spanish clubs that have never been relegated from the top division, standing alongside Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. What makes the team even more distinctive is its unwavering dedication to the Basque philosophy, which emphasizes developing and nurturing local talent. This tradition has not only preserved the club’s cultural heritage but also earned it respect across Europe as a unique and authentic football institution.

For Linebet, choosing to partner with a team like Athletic Bilbao reflects the company’s vision of blending modern sports innovation with respect for heritage. The African market is currently one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing regions for sports engagement, offering significant opportunities for expansion. Through this partnership, Linebet will be able to reach new audiences, connect with passionate football fans, and create exclusive experiences designed especially for supporters of Athletic Club in Africa. These experiences will go far beyond standard sponsorship activations, aiming instead to strengthen the emotional bond between the fans and their beloved team.

African supporters of Athletic Bilbao can expect a wide range of unique initiatives, from special promotions and interactive campaigns to digital content and fan-centered programs. These activities will not only bring fans closer to the club but will also give them an opportunity to experience elements of Basque traditions and culture, which are central to the identity of Athletic Bilbao. In this way, the partnership is designed to be more than just a commercial collaboration – it will serve as a cultural bridge, connecting two continents through football.

At the same time, Linebet continues to demonstrate consistency in its sponsorship strategy by maintaining partnerships with other prominent figures and organizations in world football. Among its notable collaborations are the ongoing relationship with French club AS Monaco and the association with former French international and football legend Djibril Cissé. These partnerships underline Linebet’s ambition to combine traditional sporting values with innovative approaches to fan engagement, ultimately building a sense of unity among football enthusiasts worldwide.

The partnership between Athletic Bilbao and Linebet represents a new chapter in both organizations’ journeys. For Bilbao, it is an opportunity to expand its global presence while staying true to its cultural roots. For Linebet, it is a chance to strengthen its reputation as a dependable brand that respects tradition while embracing innovation. Together, they aim to create meaningful connections with fans, both in Africa and around the world, making the 2025/26 season one filled with new possibilities, excitement, and shared passion for the beautiful game.