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his Special Assistant on Media, Bashar Abubakar, where he alleged that the opposition party had resorted to recycling ‘outdated propaganda materials’ in an attempt to create a false impression of past performance.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

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has criticised the former President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, over his recent comments on the dispute between the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and the management of Dangote Refinery.

Speaking last Friday on Arise TV, Senator Oshiomhole faulted the industrial action embarked upon by PENGASSAN in protest against the Dangote Refinery, which led to a nationwide shutdown of oil facilities. He described the move as ‘hasty’ and ‘unfair to other workers.’

Oshiomhole noted that while unions have the right to defend workers, they must do so in ways that do not worsen the country’s economic situation.

‘I think that in seeking to protect a particular set of workers, you do not then risk the jobs of several other workers. When you are pursuing a dispute, the tools you deploy must be such that they do not undermine other people’s jobs,’ he said.

However, in a statement signed by Comrades Williams Akporeha and Afolabi Olawale, NUPENG President and General Secretary respectively, the union expressed disappointment over Senator Oshiomhole’s remarks, describing them as a betrayal of labour principles and a distortion of established laws.

‘We witness with utter disappointment a former labour leader now transformed into a vocal advocate for corporate oppression, actively campaigning against the very rights he once championed. His attempts to rationalise the victimisation of workers for exercising their fundamental rights of association and peaceful action are not only nauseating but represent a flagrant misrepresentation of Nigerian Labour Law and International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions,’ the statement read.

In the statement titled ‘Senator Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole’s Undistinguished Anti-Worker Vitriol,’ NUPENG accused Oshiomhole of betraying the cause of Nigerian workers by ignoring the sack of over 800 employees while faulting PENGASSAN’s strike method.

‘Adams Oshiomhole’s criticism of PENGASSAN’s strike is an act of profound historical revisionism and political amnesia.

Section 31 of the Trade Unions Act, Cap T14, LFN 2004, legally recognises trade disputes, including industrial actions undertaken in sympathy with other workers.

PENGASSAN’s solidarity action with its members at Dangote Refinery is therefore a protected legal action.

The principle that ‘an injury to one is an injury to all’ is the foundational ethic of trade unionism globally,’ NUPENG stated.

The union further described Oshiomhole’s stance as hypocritical, noting that he once led similar strikes as NLC President.

‘Shockingly, this was a man who served several times on the Governing Council of the ILO and in the Committee on Application of Standards that reviews violations of workers’ rights globally. It is unfortunate that Senator Oshiomhole, by his comments, has demonstrated monumental ignorance of trade unionism,’ it added.

NUPENG declared that it would no longer participate in any labour-related event where Senator Oshiomhole is present, describing him as persona non grata among oil and gas workers.

‘The leadership of NUPENG hereby declares Senator Adams Oshiomhole persona non grata within the ranks of Nigerian oil and gas workers for his undistinguished denunciation of PENGASSAN’s strike against the unjustifiable sack of 800 engineers.

Henceforth, we will not participate in or lend legitimacy to any event featuring Senator Oshiomhole. The NLC, TUC, and all conscionable civil society organisations should kindly take notice,’ the statement said.

The union concluded by describing Oshiomhole’s position as ‘a dangerous toxin designed to weaken the working class,’ adding that his comments amount to a ‘monumental betrayal.’

‘The undistinguished position of Adams Oshiomhole on the PENGASSAN strike qualifies him as the Judas Iscariot of Nigerian trade unionism. What a monumental betrayal of the cause of the working class! We advise Senator Oshiomhole to retire from commenting on labour matters, as he has irretrievably lost the moral right and legitimacy before Nigerian workers, especially those in the oil and gas sector,’ NUPENG stated.

The Kano State Executive Council has approved a total of N45.6 billion for the execution of key developmental projects across various sectors, including education, infrastructure, health, environment, and youth development.

Making this known in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, said the approvals were made during the 32nd meeting of the State Executive Council, presided over by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving critical public services and enhancing the welfare of Kano residents.

According to him ‘ the largest share of the funds, N32.5 billion, was allocated to the Works and Infrastructure sector, underscoring the government’s focus on road construction, drainage systems, urban renewal, and public facility upgrades.’

He also disclosed that among the

‘major projects approved in this category are the reconstruction of Guda Abdullahi Road, Justice Dahiru Mustapha Road, and other link roads within Farm Centre, Tarauni Local Government Area, valued at more than N7.5 billion.’

Other key projects include the installation of solar-powered streetlights at 55 locations in Kano metropolis (N8.3 billion) and the construction of a rehabilitation centre at Dorayi Psychiatric Hospital (N2.3 billion)he said

He added that ‘ The Council also approved N7.7 billion for projects in the education sector, as part of ongoing efforts to revitalise schools across the state’

These include the rehabilitation of Government Technical College, Kano; Government Day Science College, Kano; GSS Rimi in Sumaila; and the School for Arabic Studies, Kano Municipal,he added

In addition, funds were approved for boarding school feeding suppliers (N1.7 billion), the renovation and furnishing of classrooms across all 44 local governments (N1.89 billion), and the rehabilitation of Audu Bako College of Agriculture, Thomas Dambatta (N546 million).

The health sector received an allocation of N802 million, covering the procurement of medical equipment for Imam Wali General Hospital, the upgrading of Unguwar Dabai Primary Health Centre in Gwale to a secondary facility, and the installation of quality control equipment at the state’s Drugs and Medical Consumables Supply Agency.

Other approvals include N290.9 million for environmental and water projects such as the construction of 12 solar-powered boreholes and community fumigation exercises; N910 million for land and urban planning; and N796 million for internal security and neighbourhood watch operations.

In the area of youth and sports development, the government earmarked N430 million, which will fund the installation of solar streetlights at Sani Abacha Stadium and the sponsorship of athletes and officials to the 9th National Youth Games in Asaba.

The Religious Affairs Ministry will receive N1.006 billion to conduct the state’s mass wedding program, while N1.1 billion was set aside under the Water Resources Ministry for diesel and energy costs at key water supply installations.

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has withdrawn the registration certificate earlier issued to the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) on October 28, 2020, over a prolonged leadership crisis spanning eighteen years.

Mrs Omolara Esan, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, announced this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.

Esan, in the statement, informed the general public, particularly all youth stakeholders, member organisations, and affiliates of the NYCN, that the Ministry of Youth Development had received an official communication from the CAC dated October 6, 2025, notifying it of the withdrawal of the registration certificate earlier issued to the National Youth Council of Nigeria on October 28, 2020.

‘According to the CAC’s correspondence, this action was taken pursuant to the powers conferred on the Commission under Sections 8(1)(c) and 8(1)(d) of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), 2020, following a comprehensive investigation into the affairs of the Council, which has faced a prolonged leadership crisis spanning over eighteen (18) years,’ the statement added.

Upon a detailed review of the Council’s records and governance practices, the Corporate Affairs Commission found serial violations of both the NYCN Constitution and the provisions of CAMA 2020, particularly Sections 833 and 834. The Commission has consequently de-recognised all existing claims to leadership, trusteeship, and management within the organisation.

In line with its statutory powers, the Corporate Affairs Commission has constituted an Interim Management Committee (IMC) to oversee and manage the affairs of the Council for a period of one year, effective October 6, 2025.

Part of the statement read: ‘As the supervisory authority over the National Youth Council of Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, being a law-abiding institution, takes due cognizance of this development and acknowledges the legal authority of the Corporate Affairs Commission under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020.

‘The Ministry therefore urges all stakeholders, youth organizations, and partners of the Council to take due note of this development and to cooperate fully with the Interim Management Committee in the ongoing restructuring process. This exercise is aimed at restoring unity, legitimacy, and institutional integrity to the NYCN, in line with its founding ideals.

‘The Federal Ministry of Youth Development remains firmly committed to ensuring a stable, credible, and inclusive youth governance framework that upholds accountability, transparency, and aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,’ it stated.