New Coalition emerges ahead of 2027 elections

A new political movement, the New Direction for Nigeria Movement (NEDMO), has emerged with a bold promise to fight corruption and restore credibility to Nigeria’s political system

The group says it is committed to ending decades of bad leadership, injustice, and rigged elections that have hindered the nation’s progress.

The convener, Comrade Mark Adebayo, made this known during a press conference held in Abuja.

He explained that the movement was formed out of frustration with what he described as a ‘broken political system’ that no longer reflects the will of the people.

‘We are tired of leaders who manipulate elections and ignore the suffering of Nigerians,’ Adebayo declared.

‘The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must be reformed. We can no longer tolerate an electoral body that betrays the trust of citizens and suffocates democracy.’

According to Adebayo, NEDMO’s mission is to build a new Nigeria founded on integrity, justice, and transparency. The group plans to mobilize Nigerians from all walks of life youths, professionals, and grassroots communities to reclaim the political space from corrupt politicians.

NEDMO is demanding a total overhaul of INEC, stronger electoral laws, and the selection of leaders who are honest, competent, and patriotic.

Adebayo emphasized that real change will only come when Nigerians unite behind a shared vision of progress and accountability.

The movement has already established a presence in over 600 local government areas and is working to expand to every part of the country before the 2027 general elections.

NEDMO leaders believe that their growing network of volunteers and supporters could make it a major force in shaping Nigeria’s future.

Adebayo called on citizens to join the movement and take responsibility for building a nation that works for everyone.

‘Nigeria belongs to all of us,’ he said. ‘If we don’t act now, the same corrupt system will continue to rob future generations of hope.’

As the country looks ahead to another election cycle, many Nigerians are watching closely to see if NEDMO can deliver on its promise.

For now, the coalition’s emergence has reignited public debate about the need for credible leadership and genuine reform in Africa’s largest democracy.

CBN reforms to stabilise economy, restore investor confidence – Cardoso

Mr Olayemi Cardoso, the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria has said the reforms being carried out by the bank are aimed at stabilising the economy, restoring confidence and bringing inflation down to single digits in the medium term.

Cardoso said this while taking questions during a fireside chat at his inaugural lecture series at the Lagos Business School (LBS).

The lecture had the theme ‘Next Generation Leadership in Monetary Policy and Nation Building’ and marked the launch of the CBN Governor’s Lecture Series.

The lecture had in attendance students from various tertiary institutions, members of academia, bankers and industry experts.

Cardoso explained the challenges of stabilising the nation’s economy and how hard work and credibility had helped CBN to redirect the nation’s economy on a positive growth path.

He explained ongoing reforms and achievements in the last two years geared toward stabilising the economy and restoring investor confidence.

‘The idea is to ensure that in the medium term we achieve single-digit inflation,’ he said.

He said interest rates and the foreign exchange market were areas of concern for everyone, adding that, at one point in time, the foreign exchange market had multiple challenges.

He explained the crisis of access to foreign exchange when he assumed office two years ago and efforts through necessary and stringent reforms that restored sanity, transparency and credibility.

He said credibility is at the heart of any central bank to win people’s trust and investor confidence, while listing some benefits of the reforms, including the ability of citizens to use Naira debit cards abroad.

Cardoso said when he promised to clear verifiable FX backlog estimated at over seven billion dollars, the feat was a daunting task which credibility, transparency and resilience helped him to achieve.

He said promises must be kept for people to keep trusting the nation’s economy, adding that people invest where there is integrity, credibility and trust, and that transparency and credibility restored sanity and attracted foreign investors.

Cardoso said during his tenure the apex bank began publishing financial statements, a practice that had been suspended for several years.

‘For years, the financial statements of the Central Bank had not been published. We have gone ahead to publish it. It’s on our website,’ he said.

He also explained how CBN used technology to eliminate sharp practices, citing adoption of a new electronic matching system, which made market activities open and transparent.

According to him, beyond macroeconomic stability, vision building involves creating opportunities for young people, in particular areas like financial inclusion and support for small and medium-scale businesses.

Cardoso said he was not seeking to praise himself but urged Nigerians to read positive comments of various local and international rating agencies about the efforts of the bank under his leadership.

Earlier, while delivering his keynote, he insisted that the CBN is building an institution that can be trusted, while urging the youths to embrace credibility.

Cardoso said the inaugural lecture initiative was aimed at deepening public understanding and strengthening the transmission of monetary policy.

The governor said the country’s most important asset is its next generation, which forms the largest demographic comprising more youths who must be groomed to drive the nation’s future development and growth.

He said when he assumed office as governor in 2023, Nigeria’s economy faced formidable headwinds with high inflation rates, depleted external reserves, low investor confidence, and nearly every macroeconomic indicator under pressure.

Cardoso said he tackled inflation with tightening policy aggressively, raising rates by more than 800 basis points and strengthening liquidity management.

He explained other reforms including strengthening reserves, now standing above 42 billion dollars, and new channels for diaspora remittances and investments.

‘On financial inclusion, we expanded mobile and agency banking to underserved communities, raising access from 56 per cent in 2020 to over 64 per cent in 2025, and commenced the recapitalisation of banks to ensure a stronger, more resilient financial system,’ he said.

He said the nation’s inflation, which peaked at almost 35 per cent, moderated to about 20 per cent, adding that real GDP expanded by 4.2 per cent in the second quarter, signaling a re-emergence of growth momentum.

The apex bank boss also explained the future of digital payments, credit, savings, investment and others being redefined by fintech and digital platforms.

Prof. Olayinka David-West, Dean, Lagos Business School (LBS), Pan-Atlantic University, delivering a welcome address, explained the role of the institution since inception in 1991.

She praised the partnership with the CBN governor to foster thought leadership, policy engagement, and in-depth discourse between town and gown.

”Hate is not an option”- Tinubu’s emotional message at APC chairman’s mother’s funeral

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday urged Nigerians to shun hate and embrace unity across religious lines, declaring that ‘hate is not an option for us.’

Speaking at the funeral service of the mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, in Plateau State, the President used his own family as an example of peaceful coexistence, stressing that love and understanding can bridge any divide.

‘I inherited Islam from my parents and haven’t changed, but my wife is a pastor. She prays for me, and there’s no conflict. I have never tried to convince her to convert,’ Tinubu said.

The President continued by emphasizing the need for mutual respect among people of different faiths, insisting that Nigerians are all accountable to one divine authority.

‘I believe in the freedom of religion. We are praying to the same God. We are answerable to the same Almighty God. We will account to Him,’ he added.

Tinubu said faith should never be a reason for division or hostility, adding that Nigeria’s diversity will only become a strength when tolerance and respect prevail.

‘Our differences are not meant to divide us but to strengthen us. Hate is not an option,’ he stressed.

He concluded by praying for the soul of the departed to rest in peace and for God to comfort the bereaved family.

Osun: Adeleke orders probe of alleged killings by Amotekun operatives

Osun governor, Ademola Adeleke, has ordered investigation into alleged killing of three people by operatives of Amotekun Corps in Akinlalu community, Ife North Local Government Area of the state.

The spokesperson for the Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed who announced this in a statement on Saturday also revealed that Adeleke had sent a top level government delegation to the community.

According to the statement, Adeleke expressed deep shock at the deaths of some individuals from the town after receiving a preliminary report from his Special Adviser on Security Matters on the incident.

‘After receiving the preliminary report, further briefings were presented to the Deputy Governor by the security team with a State Security council meeting now scheduled for Monday to further deliberate on the issue and other emerging security threat in the state.

‘Adeleke has vowed to dig into the root of the fatal encounter between the people of the town and the Amotekun security service, directing that a high powered delegation of government and service chiefs will visit the affected town after the scheduled state security council meeting on Monday.

‘Those expected on the delegation includes the Special Adviser on Security Matters to the state governor, the Commissioner for Information, the Commissioner for political affairs, the Commissioner for Transportation, the Attorney General of the State, the Special Adviser on Legal Matters to the governor and service chiefs of the various security agencies.

‘I am a rule of law Governor. This matter is being investigated and any infraction will be dealt with within the context of the law. I have ordered a security council meeting on this incident and others such as fears of spill over from Kwara banditry attacks.

‘I sent my condolences to the victims of this unfortunate incident. I urge the good people of Akinlalu to keep calm as our government acts on the matter. I feel their pains but investigations are ongoing’, the governor was quoted as saying.

The Governor also commiserated with all those who lost loved ones in the tragic incident and prayed to God almighty to comfort them.

Amotekun Corps Shot three dead in Akinpelu – Group

Recall that a group, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, had on Thursday accused operatives of Amotekun Corps of killing three members of the same family and injuring several others in Akinlalu community

The group also alleged that the Osun State Amotekun commander attempted to cover up the murder by presenting the victims as armed bandits, despite evidence that they were innocent civilians were attacked inside their compound.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Convener, Olusola Badero, through its Home Director, Princess Balogun, the group said the victims who were not caught with any weapons or incriminating items were shot at close range, and left to die in their compound.

‘Shockingly, the Amotekun operatives later returned, opened fire on those who came to rescue the injured, and carried away the corpses, while labeling them as bandits. This is not only barbaric but also a complete betrayal of public trust.’

‘We are a people of peace and law-abiding citizens. But we cannot continue to fold our arms and watch our people killed like animals by those empowered to defend them. Governor Adeleke must demonstrate leadership by bringing the killers to justice and suspending the commander who orchestrated a false narrative to shield his men from accountability,’ the union said.

It also accused Adeleke of indifference, saying that since the killings occurred, he had not ordered any investigation or arrest.

The group vowed vow to pursue legal actions both locally and internationally if justice is not served.

It gave the Governor seven-day ultimatum to investigate the incident and bring the culprits to justice.

‘We will not allow this case to be buried. We will mobilise our people in Yorubaland and in the diaspora to ensure that the truth prevails and that the victims do not die in vain. If Governor Adeleke refuses to act, history will remember him as a leader who failed to protect his people,’ the Yoruba Union added.

Clampdown Begins: 250 commercial vehicles caught for overloading in FCT

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) FCT Command says it apprehended more than 250 commercial vehicles in just two days for overloading, as it begins full enforcement of safety regulations in the territory.

The FCT Sector Commander, Corps Commander Felix Theman, disclosed this in a statement signed by the Command’s Public Education Officer, Mrs Helen Ntaji, on Saturday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the enforcement, which started on Oct. 2, specifically targeted the practice of carrying two passengers in the front seat of taxis.

Theman said that the two-day figure demonstrated the scale of violations in the FCT, in spite months of sustained engagement and education to transport unions.

He explained that his top priority since assumption of office had been restoring passenger dignity and safety, noting that enforcement was the most civil way to ensure compliance.

According to him, overloading makes the use of seatbelts impossible, weakens vehicle suspension and tyres and limits driver control in emergencies.

Theman added that the command’s operation was being carried out in collaboration with mobile magistrate courts to ensure immediate prosecution of offenders.

He said that full activation of mobile courts across the FCT would begin on Oct. 6 to intensify the enforcement.

The commander also warned drivers operating vehicles below minimum safety standards to upgrade them or risk outright impoundment.

He hinted that transport unions had pledged full support for the initiative and urged passengers to cooperate to protect their rights to safe and dignified transportation.

BBNaija Season 10: Why Imisi will win the $150,000 star prize

Imisi’s fans can’t get enough of her. She has continued to serve content, back-to-back, in Biggie’s house. This is the stuff of winners. This is how winners are made, not born. This is how stars are hewn from stone and immortalised.

Welcome to Opeyemi Ayanwale, the 23-year-old, Lagos-born, Ebute-Meta-bred BBNaija Season 10 housemate, better known as Imisi. If her performance, vibes, and content-whether acted or real, staged or spontaneous-are anything to go by, she is undoubtedly the winner of this year’s BBNaija Season 10 reality show.

At the end of the day, when all the chips are down, when the dust has settled, and all eyes are clear, she will cart away the $150,000 star prize.

Still, the question on everyone’s lips is: Who is this Imisi who, as she rightly told a fellow housemate, is a ‘nemesis’? Who is this Yoruba girl from Ebute-Meta who often finds it difficult to express herself in English and prefers speaking her mother tongue, Yoruba-a trait that earned her Biggie’s big stick and a temporary punishment of silence? Who is this girl that many find hard to figure out?

The truth is, Imisi stole the hearts of her fans and arguably won the reality show the very first day she stepped into Biggie’s house. That singular act of removing her wig as she entered the house got everyone’s attention. ‘This is a star to watch,’ they all seemed to be saying.

Throughout the 10 weeks she spent in the house, she never disappointed. She consistently delivered content to her numerous fans across the African continent.

This year’s competition is undeniably stiff, with equally talented housemates like Faith (who has since been disqualified), Koyin, Jason Jae, Sultana, and Dede, to mention a few. But the truth remains: Imisi stands head and shoulders above them all.

No matter how hard her competitors’ fans try to stop her from clinching the prize, it will amount to nothing. Imisi’s weapon of mass destruction-her intercontinental ballistic charisma-knows no borders. Her appeal cuts across the entire African continent.

There’s something uncanny about her-something that makes her fans burst into laughter whenever she speaks, acts, or makes facial expressions. These are the traits that endear her to them. And in return, they simply can’t get enough of her.

At the moment, her fans are anxious. They are waiting with bated breath for the D-Day, now just a few hours away. They are praying that she doesn’t make a mistake or slip up-a fate that has previously befallen fan favourites in earlier seasons.

Other housemates who are strong contenders this season, as mentioned earlier, include Koyin, Jason Jae, Sultana, and Dede. These, alongside Imisi, make up the top five. But at the end of the day, it is ‘victoria e certa’-a certain victory-for the girl with the red dot on her forehead, her signature look.

Viral videos: Lagos Police probes officers’ misconduct

Police said they have initiated investigations investigations into viral videos showing officers of Lagos Command tear-gassing students in Alakuko and an accident in Ikorodu injuring two people.

The command confirmed the probe in a statement posted on its X handle @LagosPoliceNG on Friday.

According to the post, Lagos Commissioner of Police, Mr Olohundare Jimoh has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), to conduct a thorough investigation into both incidents.

Jimoh condemned the unprofessional conduct seen in the Alakuko video, stressing that misuse of power and overzealousness by officers would not be tolerated.

He urged representatives of the victims in the Ikorodu accident to come forward with information to establish the facts and ensure justice.

The command assured the public that due process would be followed and any officer found culpable would face disciplinary action.

The Lagos police Command also reaffirmed their commitment to accountability and professionalism, urging residents to remain calm as investigations progress. (NAN)

Taraba youths urge Gov Kefas to join APC for state’s future

The Concerned Taraba Youth Group has advised Gov. Agbu Kefas of Taraba to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the better future of Taraba.

Mr Shadrach Gani, Leader of the group gave the advice on Saturday, while briefing newsmen in Jalingo.

He stressed the need for the state to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Tinubu administration. He noted that the state lacked the capacity to turn around infrastructural development that could create jobs and attract modern amenities.

According to him, Taraba must not be left behind in Nigeria’s development journey.

‘Today, Taraba stands at a defining moment. As young people, we carry the weight of tomorrow on our shoulders, and our greatest desire is to see our state prosper with opportunities, jobs, and modern amenities.

‘Gov. Kefas has already inspired us with bold reforms in education, healthcare, and empowerment. His energy and commitment have rekindled confidence among young people.

‘But the truth remains that many of the challenges holding our state back are beyond what Taraba alone can solve hence the state beeds strong federal support.

‘Critical projects that could transform our economy and create jobs for our youth have been abandoned for too long.

‘The Ibi Bridge, a gateway for trade and commerce. The collapsed Namnai Bridge, which has cut off communities and opportunities.

‘Federal highways in worsening condition, especially the Jalingo-Lau-Karim Lamido road and the River Benue crossing.

‘The massive Wukari-Jalingo-Zing Road project, running into hundreds of billions of naira, far beyond the state’s purse.

‘The Mambilla Hydro Power Project, a dream that can power industries and households across Nigeria.

‘These are not luxury projects; they are lifelines for Taraba’s growth. Without federal partnership, they will remain unfulfilled promises.

‘If Governor Kefas joins the APC, Taraba will gain direct access to federal projects, resources, and opportunities that our people, especially the youth desperately need,’ he said.

Chief Adeoluwa Adeshola Michael to Receive Two Prestigious Egba Chieftaincy Titles

It is with immense joy and pride that we announce the conferment of two prestigious chieftaincy titles on Chief Adeoluwa Michael Adeshola (popularly known as Billionaire), the Group Chief Executive Officer of Arzikin Noma Nigeria Limited, by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo III, The Alake of Egbaland, in commemoration of the monarch’s 20th Coronation Anniversary.

On Saturday, 26th October, 2025, Chief Adeoluwa Michael Adeshola will be formally conferred with the title of Fiwagbayi of Ijaye-Kurunmi Egba.

The celebrations will then reach their height on Friday, 15th November, 2025, when His Imperial Majesty will bestow upon him the distinguished title of Aare Akinfimitotolu of Egbaland, during the grand anniversary event at Ake Palace, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

As Group CEO of Arzikin Noma Nigeria Limited, Chief Adeshola has carved a strong reputation as a visionary leader and an innovative entrepreneur. Under his stewardship, the company has expanded its footprints in agribusiness, fostering partnerships across Africa to promote food security, sustainable farming, and job creation. Most recently, Arzikin Noma entered into strategic collaborations with international agribusiness partners to scale production, empower thousands of smallholder farmers, and introduce cutting-edge processing technologies into Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.

His numerous achievements in business and philanthropy are a testament to his resilience, ingenuity, and passion for excellence. These honors by the Alake are a recognition of his contributions not only to industry but also to community development, culture, and the enduring legacy of Egbaland.

We warmly invite family, friends, associates, and well-wishers to join us in celebrating these historic moments.

The event is to take place at the Ake Palace, Abeokuta, Ogun State on the 26th of October, 2025. Aare Akinfimitotolu Title and 20th Anniversary of The Alake: 15th November, 2025. Come and rejoice with us as we honor tradition, celebrate leadership, and pay tribute to the rich heritage of Egbaland.

He has performed excellently – Aiyedatiwa urges Ekiti people to re-elect OyebanjI

Ondo governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has urged people of Ekiti to re-elect Biodun Oyebanji, his Ekiti counterpart, for a second term in office.

He said this will ensure continuity of what he described as Oyebanji’s ‘people-oriented policies and programmes’ that have transformed Ekiti state in the last three years.

Aiyedatiwa , who described Oyebanji as a dependable leader, said a second term would avail the governor the opportunity to deepen the people-oriented programmes that had touched lives across the state.

The Ondo State Governor made the appeal on Friday during the funeral ceremony of Chief Mathew Okunola, father of Justice Oyebisi Omoleye of the Court of Appeal, held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ikole Ekiti.

Aiyedatiwa also urged Ekiti people within and outside the state to intensify prayers for the progress and development of the state under Oyebanji till 2030.

‘Please continue to support Oyebanji because he has performed excellently and if given another chance, he will do more.

‘This our work is a big one and we cannot do it alone, that is why I am requesting for all your support.

‘The things we are doing are not what can happen within one month, it will take a while, every one wants it to get to them immediately and it is not possible. Just be patient with us,’ Ayedatiwa said.

While commiserating with Justice Omoleye and her family on the death of their patriarch, the governor described the deceased as a highly respected community leader.

He prayed for repose of the soul of the deceased, and urged the family to uphold his legacy of integrity and service.

‘The deceased did well and that is why we see everybody here today.

‘Those of us alive at this time, let us do well in whatever position we occupy, let us put in our best just as my brother Oyebanji, is putting in his best and am also trying my best in my state,’ the governor said.

Earlier, Oyebanji described the deceased as a trail blazer and an achiever in several fronts.

He said the late Okunola would be remembered for his dedication to community development and positive influence on the Ikole traditional Council, Church, and society at large, where he served with distinction in different capacities.

Oyebanji, while commiserating with family of the deceased, urged them to take solace in the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled life that impacted on the lives of many.

In his homily, the Vicar in charge of St Silas Anglican Church, Omuo Ekiti, Ven. Ajao Mathew, described the late Okunola as a true lover of God and His work.

He said that Okunola lived his life in the service of the Church and humanity.

The burial ceremony was attended by dignitaries from across the country.