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Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has pledged to deport over 750,000 illegal migrants if her party returns to power, unveiling a bold, US-style ‘Removals Force’ as the centrepiece of her new Borders Plan.

The proposed unit, inspired by Donald Trump’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), would be tasked with hunting down and deporting undocumented migrants in record numbers. The move, described by party insiders as ‘Britain’s toughest border policy yet’, marks a dramatic turn in Badenoch’s strategy as she arrives in Manchester for a make-or-break Conservative Party conference.

The seven-point Borders Plan, announced Saturday night, comes after Badenoch confirmed that a future Tory government would withdraw the UK from both the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (ECAT).

According to her team, leaving both treaties would ‘remove legal blockades’ that have long prevented deportations and enable the government to act decisively.

‘We must tackle the scourge of illegal immigration into Britain and secure our borders,’ Badenoch said. ‘That is why the Conservatives are setting out a serious and comprehensive new plan to end this crisis.’

Under her plan, the new Removals Force will replace the Home Office’s immigration enforcement teams, with funding doubled from £800 million to £1.6 billion. Its mandate: increase deportations from 34,000 to 150,000 a year – reaching 750,000 by the end of a parliamentary term.

The Tories say the initiative will be financed by shutting down costly asylum hotels and cutting into the £4.76 billion annual asylum budget.

Other highlights of the Borders Plan include:

A total ban on asylum claims for illegal entrants.

An end to legal aid and judicial reviews in immigration cases.

Deportation of all foreign criminals within a week.

New return deals with foreign governments to fast-track removals.

Visa restrictions and aid cuts for countries that refuse to take back their nationals.

Party strategists argue that banning asylum for illegal entrants would send ‘a clear message’ that no one who arrives unlawfully can ever gain protection in the UK a deterrent effect similar to that seen under President Trump’s hardline border policies.

Still, critics have slammed the proposal as political desperation.

Nick Thomas-Symonds, Minister for EU Relations, dismissed Badenoch’s announcement as ‘an isolationist fantasy.’

‘Nigel Farage and Kemi Badenoch offer the same fake fix – withdraw from the ECHR and pretend the problem disappears,’ he said. ‘It’s the lazy politics of those out of ideas and out of their depth.’

However, Tory insiders insist the plan is ‘serious and deliverable.’ One source said:

‘We’ve spent our time in opposition forensically analysing every element of our immigration system. This isn’t about slogans – it’s about real reform.’

With Reform UK currently leading the Conservatives two-to-one in the polls, Badenoch’s hardline turn on immigration appears aimed at reclaiming her party’s right-wing base and perhaps, reviving her dwindling political momentum.

The Lagos waterfront came alive on Saturday as First Bank of Nigeria transformed Victoria Island into a dazzling hub of energy, glamour and fun to mark the official kick-off of the E1 Lagos Grand Prix, Africa’s first-ever all-electric powerboat race.

The atmosphere was filled with excitement as sleek, futuristic powerboats sliced through the Atlantic waves, blending high-speed sport with the unmistakable Lagos flair for celebration. Crowds gathered early, drawn by the buzz of a global event meeting Nigerian vibrance and, of course, First Bank’s signature touch of class.

E1’s debut on African waters marked a historic milestone. Lagos, known for its dynamism and cultural heartbeat, proved to be the perfect stage for the international offshore racing series. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, E1 CEO and co-founder Rodi Basso, and First Bank’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Olusegun Alebiosu, were among the prominent figures who graced the event, alongside international sporting icons and investors.

Among the biggest crowd-pullers was Didier Drogba, the Ivorian football legend and former Chelsea striker, now co-owner of Team Drogba Global Africa, who thrilled fans with his trademark charisma. The combination of sports, innovation and star power set the tone for an unforgettable Lagos weekend.

At the fan zone, it was a carnival of sights and sounds. Hundreds of Lagosians gathered to witness the water spectacle, with plenty to eat, drink and dance to. The First Bank experience booths bustled with activity as music filled the air, vendors sold local delicacies, and small-scale entrepreneurs made brisk sales.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s arrival at the fan zone sent a ripple of excitement through the crowd as he mingled with fans, shaking hands and sharing cheerful waves. At the First Bank pavilion, staff attended to enthusiastic visitors eager to open accounts and learn more about the bank’s lifestyle offerings.

For many, the E1 Lagos GP was more than a sporting event, it was a celebration of Lagos itself.

‘It honestly surpassed my expectations,’ said Latoya Johnson, one of the thrilled spectators.

‘I never imagined Nigeria could host something this world-class. I’m proud of Lagos, and proud of Nigeria,’ she added.

Some of the fans at the event

She applauded First Bank for sponsoring the event, saying, ‘My parents banked with First Bank, and I grew up knowing it as the reliable one. So, I wasn’t surprised they’re leading something this big; they’ve always been part of Nigeria’s proudest moments.’

For First Bank, the E1 Lagos GP is more than sponsorship, it’s an extension of the ‘FirstBank DecemberIssaVybe’ tradition that has become synonymous with premium entertainment and festive fun.

Since 2018, the bank’s Vybe series has redefined Lagos’ entertainment calendar, offering customers access to concerts, comedy shows, and cultural festivals, all with that signature First Bank flair. Last December’s Reckless Musicomedy Festival featuring Kenny Blaq, DJ Neptune, and MC Monica was still fresh in memory when the bank decided to bring the party forward to October.

With the E1 Lagos GP, First Bank has once again proven that it’s not just about banking, it’s about lifestyle, innovation, and creating shared experiences that unite people. The event also reinforces the bank’s commitment to sustainability, tourism, and economic empowerment, highlighting Lagos as a global destination for leisure and culture.

As the sun set over the Lagos skyline, the waterfront sparkled a symbol of energy, pride, and endless possibility. With the E1 Lagos GP finale set for Sunday, October 5, one thing is certain: Lagosians are riding the wave of excitement, and First Bank is steering the fun.

Team Brazil on Sunday emerged as the winners of the E1 Lagos GP, clinching their first win of the series. Powerboat pilot Timmy Hansen and Leva Millere-Hagin delivered the goods at the E1 Lagos GP, leading Team Brazil through the group races, race-off and to the final.

The E1 Lagos GP has First Bank as the major sponsor.

Team Brazil, which got 38 points for their win, taking their tally up to 89 points, beat Team Blue Rising to second place, while Team Drogba finished third.

Notably, Team Rafa and Team Brady, both consistent front-runners in the championship standings, missed out on the podium this time.

The E1 Lagos GP is an all-electric powerboat race designed to combine cutting-edge technology, environmental sustainability, and high-speed entertainment on water. It features teams competing in high-performance electric boats, with international participants and spectators attending the event.

Lagos State is the first African city to host the prestigious E1 Racing Championship. The revolutionary electric powerboat competition was held on Saturday, October 4, and Sunday, October 5, at the Victoria Island area of Lagos.

Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu flanked by the Managing Director/CEO of First Bank, Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu (left); President and Chairman of Board of Directors, Afreximbank, Prof. Benedict Obiorah (right) and others during the grand finale of the E1 Lagos GP championship in Victoria Island, on Sunday, 5 October 2025.

Speaking to journalists during the final of the competition on Sunday, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described the first-of-its-kind event in Africa as a demonstration of innovation and progress.

He said the event showcased Lagos’ creativity, resilience and commitment to clean energy and sustainable solutions.

‘Hosting the E1 Grand Prix is not just about sport. It is about innovation, environmental responsibility, and putting Lagos on the global map for future-focused development,’ Governor Sanwo-Olu said.

At least three Indian states have banned a cough syrup after it was linked to the deaths of nine children under the age of five.

Health officials said the children, from the states of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, died after consuming Coldrif Cough Syrup, which laboratory tests later found to be contaminated with a toxic substance.

India’s Health Ministry confirmed on Saturday that the syrup contained diethylene glycol (DEG)-a chemical commonly used in industrial products such as antifreeze and solvents. Even in small amounts, DEG can cause severe poisoning and death.

‘The samples were found to contain diethylene glycol beyond the permissible limit,’ the ministry said in a statement.

The syrup, produced by Sresan Pharma at a facility in Tamil Nadu, has now been pulled off the shelves in several states.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said his government had banned the sale of the cough syrup and other products made by the same company.

‘The sale of this syrup has been banned throughout Madhya Pradesh. Other products from the same manufacturer are also being withdrawn,’ he said.

Authorities in Tamil Nadu and Kerala have also banned the product, according to local media reports.

Indian-made cough syrups have faced global scrutiny in recent years after similar incidents abroad. In 2022, more than 70 children in The Gambia died after consuming contaminated cough syrup believed to have been produced in India.

Community leaders in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, have joined forces to demand that the 2026 governorship seat be given to an indigene of Osogbo.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed August 8, 2026, for the governorship election.

Despite Osogbo’s strong influence in Osun politics since the state was created 34 years ago, no one from the town has ever become governor.

Speaking on a radio programme, High Chief Jimoh Ibrahim, the Baale of Gbodofon and Chairman of the Council of Baales in Osogbo, said the town is now united in its call to produce the next governor.

He praised the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, for setting up the Osogbo Action Committee and the Osogbo Elders Council, which helped to end divisions among Osogbo leaders.

He said, ‘All Baales in Osogbo now speak with one voice. We fully support the Elders Council and are determined to ensure that Osogbo produces the next governor.’

Also speaking, Prince Adeleke Oduola Ibiloye, Chairman of the Osogbo Elders Council, said Osogbo has supported other parts of the state in past elections and now deserves their support in return.

‘We have always stood by others. Now it is Osogbo’s turn. We are ready to make it happen,’ he said.

With many prominent Osogbo indigenes preparing to contest under the APC, PDP, and ADC, the leaders expressed confidence that 2026 will finally mark the first time an Osogbo-born candidate becomes governor.

The Big Brother Naija Season 10 grand finale has reached its peak, and after an emotional night of evictions, only five housemates remain in the race for the ultimate prize.

The evening began with tension as Jason Jae was announced as the first evictee of the finale. Once the ever-composed ‘main character’ of the house, Jason’s journey came full circle – from being Head of House in the opening week to holding the title again in his final days. His calm charm, arena prowess, and effortless confidence made him one of the standout personalities of the season.

Next to exit was King Mensan, the self-styled ‘Pressure King.’ Known for his emotional depth, infectious energy, and bold sense of style, Mensan left the house to a wave of love from fans who celebrated his expressive and heartfelt run in Biggie’s house.

Isabella followed shortly after – bubbly, bold, and strategic. Her final kiss to the house summed up a story that was more than just romance; it was a masterclass in presence. From her witty comebacks to her headline moments, Isabella became one of the show’s most talked-about housemates.

Rounding up the night’s exits was Kaybobo, the chef, flirt, and content machine. Whether in the kitchen or at the center of the house’s drama, Kaybobo served consistency and charisma in equal measure, cooking through chaos while keeping his charm intact.

Now, the spotlight shines on the final five – Koyin, Joanna, Dede, Kola, and Imisi – who will battle it out for the Big Brother Naija Season 10 crown.

Acting Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at First Bank of Nigeria, Olayinka Ijabiyi, has explained the bank’s motivation for sponsoring the E1 Lagos Grand Prix.

He described the event as a perfect blend of First Bank’s innovation, sustainability, and excitement, values that align with the bank’s 131-year legacy.

Speaking in an interview at the conclusion of the E1 Lagos GP held on Victoria Island, Lagos, Ijabiyi said the bank’s decision to sponsor Africa’s first-ever all-electric powerboat race stemmed from its heritage of constant reinvention and leadership in promoting progress across sectors.

‘Innovation, sustainability, excitement, speed, we are a heritage bank that has been around for 131 years, and for every one of those years, we have constantly renewed ourselves,’ he said.

‘When this (E1) opportunity presented itself, who else could bring the first GP to Nigeria but First Bank? We presented Lagos and Nigeria to the world, and it has been such an exciting experience,’ he added.

Ijabiyi added that the event showcased Lagos’ potential for hosting world-class sports, tourism, and lifestyle experiences.

‘It’s been amazing to see this kind of magic happen here in Lagos-the crowd, the energy, the fun. This sport is a great sport, and First Bank is super glad and delighted to have been the sponsor of this event.’

On the bank’s broader involvement in sports, Ijabiyi noted that First Bank has a long-standing tradition of supporting athletics across generations.

‘We’ve been in the sporting space for decades, over 60 years supporting basketball, football, and other traditional sports. We have a female basketball team and a male football team in the Nigerian leagues,’ hhe explained.

‘But we’re also evolving, going electric, going sustainable. That’s why E1 made perfect sense. It’s not just sport, it’s clean, green innovation,’ he added.

He emphasised that First Bank’s commitment to sustainability guided its involvement in the E1 race, noting that the event produced zero emissions.

‘This race is a net-zero emitter. We’re very strong on sustaining the environment and supporting a cleaner, greener future,’ he said.

Looking ahead, Ijabiyi said First Bank plans to continue its support for lifestyle and entertainment events as the festive season approaches.

‘December is the vibe. We’re in the Ember months, and this is just a taste of what’s to come-fun, fashion, food, and lots of lifestyle events. It’s going to be amazing,’ he stated.

The Lagos State Safety Commission has sealed several chemical factories and shops in the Ojota area for breaching safety and environmental regulations.

The enforcement exercise, conducted in the early hours of Thursday, was carried out in line with the Lagos State Safety Commission Law of 2011.

Officials of the Commission, led by the Director-General, Mr. Lanre Mojola, said the facilities were shut after operators repeatedly ignored safety directives and failed to implement agreed measures despite warnings and a grace period.

He explained that prior to the closure, the Commission had inspected the factories and held several meetings with the executives of the chemical dealers.

During these engagements, Mojola said a letter of undertaking was signed on 9 May 2025, in which the operators agreed to conduct a comprehensive safety audit of the market, organise workshops on hazard identification and risk evaluation, provide serviced and accessible fire extinguishers, maintain an updated chemical inventory with expiry dates, ensure the consistent use of personal protective equipment, install proper safety signage and chemical labels, and develop a disaster management and business continuity plan.

According to Mojola, the chemical dealers failed to act on the agreement even after the ultimatum expired, leaving the Commission with no alternative but to seal the facilities to protect lives and property.

He stated that the affected premises would remain closed until full compliance is achieved, adding that the Commission would not compromise its enforcement duties.

Mojola urged manufacturers and business operators across Lagos to adopt proactive safety measures and ensure their workplaces meet the required safety standards.

In recent years, the Lagos State Safety Commission has intensified its surveillance and enforcement drive across factories, markets, and other high-risk facilities.

The initiative, Mojola noted, is part of the state government’s broader commitment to promoting public safety and preventing industrial disasters.

Puerto Rican rapper and producer, Bad Bunny, has reacted to the backlash he received over him being announced as the headliner for 2026 Super Bowl.

The rapper, while performing on SNL, joked about the reactions and backlash he got, stating that he is happy about the announcement.

Bad Bunny also added that the achievements of Latinos is something that cannot be erased or taken away. he also jokingly advised people to familiarise themselves with the language.

‘I think everybody’s happy about it – even Fox News. More than just my achievement, it’s everyone’s achievement, proving that no one can ever erase or take away (Latinos’) mark and our contribution to this country,’ he said.

Ike Turner Jr., the son of legendary musicians Tina Turner and Ike Turner, has died at the age of 67.

According to reports by TMZ, Ike Jr. passed away on Saturday at a Los Angeles hospital from kidney failure. Family sources revealed that he had battled severe heart problems for years and had recently suffered a stroke in early September.

Born in 1958 to Ike Turner Sr. and Lorraine Taylor, Ike Jr. was adopted by Tina Turner during her marriage to Ike Sr. and grew up surrounded by the couple’s whirlwind music career.

Following his parents’ split, Ike Jr. briefly worked as Tina’s sound engineer before moving away from the spotlight.

He was one of four children tied to Tina and Ike’s storied union – a family that defined an era of rhythm and blues music.

Ike Turner Sr. died in 2007, while the ‘Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,’ Tina Turner, passed away in 2023.

Ike Turner Jr. was 67.