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The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has told the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, to take solace in the fact that his late mother, Mama Lydia Yilwatda Goshwe, chose the right time to die.

Akpabio stated this on Saturday at the burial service of Mama Lydia in Jos, the Plateau State capital.

Mama Lydia, mother of the APC national chairman, died in August at the age of 83.

Her burial was attended by top government officials, political leaders, and dignitaries from across the country.

In his condolence message, Akpabio said the family should find comfort in the legacy Mama Lydia left behind and the impact she made in the lives of others.

He said, ‘To our dear Mama, goodbye from all of us. Goodbye from Nigeria. To our National Chairman, be consoled in the knowledge that your mother chose the right time to depart, a time when her legacy continues to speak through you and through all the lives she touched.’

The Senate President also used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for unifying and bringing together people from different faiths, regions and political divides.

Akpabio stated, ‘All former Governors of Plateau State are here today, irrespective of political party. The Governor of Plateau State, working closely with our National Chairman, has received you warmly, and the people of Plateau have shown tremendous affection and excitement at your visit.

‘As a politician, I observed the turnout from the airport to this venue; thousands of Plateau citizens lined the streets, waving and cheering. That alone speaks louder than any words: Mr President, you have touched the hearts of the people of the Plateau.

‘This service today is a powerful reflection of unity, faith, and leadership, and it shows that God has truly registered your presence.’

Men of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested one Bolaji Oluwasetire, a resident of the Osoro area in Ore, for allegedly assaulting a six-year-old girl in the Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, who disclosed this in a statement, said the suspect was caught in the act while forcing the minor to rub his genitals with her hands.

According to Ayanlade, the victim’s father, Kolawole Joseph, reported the incident to the Ore Police Division, after which the suspect was immediately apprehended.

He said, ‘Acting swiftly on the report, detectives from the Gender Desk Office, Ore Divisional Headquarters, were dispatched to the scene where the suspect was arrested and taken into custody for interrogation.’

The police spokesperson further explained that while in custody, the suspect reportedly began vomiting a greenish substance. Upon interrogation, he allegedly confessed to ingesting herbicide in a desperate attempt to evade justice for his shameful and criminal act.

Ayanlade said the suspect was promptly rushed to the General Hospital, Ore, where he is currently receiving medical treatment under police watch.

He assured that the minor is safe and that her family is receiving necessary support from relevant authorities, while investigations continue.

The spokesperson reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for sexual and gender-based violence, adding that the State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, has vowed that no offender will escape justice under his leadership.

The Command also urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to remain vigilant and to promptly report any suspected cases of abuse, stressing that Ondo State would never be a safe haven for sexual predators.

Ayanlade said, ‘Ondo State will never be a safe haven for sexual predators. Perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence will be hunted down, arrested, and decisively prosecuted. There will be no hiding place for offenders.’

Nollywood actress Laide Bakare has issued a public apology after disclosing that she was the one who first introduced her daughter, Similoluwa, to clubbing and alcohol at the age of 17.

In a recent interview, the actress admitted that she personally gave her daughter her first club experience and even her first alcoholic drink.

‘In fact, I’m the first person that will bring her to a club. That was her first club experience ever. And I like the fact that, in her memory, her very first alcoholic drink and clubbing was through me,’ Laide said.

Following the backlash that trailed her comment, Laide in a video shared online, apologised for the statement, describing it as a slip of tongue.

‘I didn’t know I said it. The video was sent to me where I said it but it was a slip of tongue. Such never happened. I didn’t introduce her to alcohol at all. I will never do that. The little girl (Similoluwa) felt bad as well. She doesn’t like to be put out there as a teenage girl abusing alcohol at a young age.

I am using the video to say sorry Simi, sorry parents that feel like I was wrong with that step. Please forgive me for the blunder,’ she said.

Tribune Online earlier reported that Laide Bakare, in a viral video, claimed she took her daughter to the club for the first time and allowed her to take alcohol even at age 17.

There was thunderous jubilation in Ekiti on Sunday following the approval of Governor Biodun Oyebanji to the immediate extension of the retirement age of teachers in the state from 60 years to 65 years and service years raised from 35 to 40 years.

The Governor also rewarded outstanding teachers in the state with cash gifts totalling N46 million, approved upward review of Science Teachers and Head of Department allowances, as well as immediate payment of 2019 leave bonus areas to further motivate the teachers.

The governor made these declarations on Sunday during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavalion, Ado Ekiti.

No fewer than 5,000 teachers attended the colourful event which was turned into a carnival as teachers across different cadres adorned in Ankara uniform sang and danced in appreciation of the Governor’s teacher-friendly policies.

Oyebanji, who thanked the teachers for their invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the state, described them as the foundation upon which the future of the state is built.

He affirmed that the gesture was part of his administration’s efforts to motivate teachers, recognize their immense contribution to the development of education, and enhance their welfare in line with the shared prosperity agenda of his administration.

While explaining that the extension of the retirement age was in fulfilment of his promise to reposition the education sector and retain competent and experienced hands in the teaching profession, the Governor said a committee would be set up to oversee the elongation of the service year and ensure that only the agile individuals enjoy the privilege.

Governor Oyebanji further assured the Teachers that his administration would continue to prioritize their welfare and continue to create an enabling environment for effective teaching and learning.

The Governor also informed the gathering that he will be seeking a re-election for a second term and solicited their continued support.

Oyebanji said, ‘ Let me respond to the request by the TUC Chairman, I have been told now that 2019 leave bonus was paid yesterday and you will start receiving the alert by tomorrow.

‘I have heard your yearnings with respect to the mandatory age for retirement and this has been approved as recommended but only for able and willing teachers.

‘ On the issue of science and head of departments’ allowances, I know that the Head of Service is doing the review of the allowances and I have instructed her to bring it by next week for approval.

‘My dear friends, this will be the only opportunity to meet in a group like this before the next governorship election. I therefore want to officially inform you that I will be seeking a re-election into the office of the Governor for a second term.

‘ I have been greatly encouraged by the overwhelming goodwill, enthusiasm and support that you have shown me. I want to assure you that, for you, it will always get better. I am resolutely committed to my pact with you and all Ekiti workers. I therefore solicit for your sustained support and prayers going forward.’

Earlier in her opening remarks, the Commissioner for Education, Dr Olabimpe Aderiye expressed her gratitude to the Governor for his efforts at repositioning the education sector and ensuring that the teachers’ welfare is taken care of.

The Commissioner highlighted various efforts of the Governor at improving the general well-being of teachers in the state to include, ‘ release of over N1.6 billion as running grant to schools in the last three years, payment of over N6.2 billion as UBEC counterpart fund to ensure renovations of schools in the state, payment of over N1.5 billion for WAEC in the last years of the Governors administration as well as prompt payment exam fees for students, placement, BECE and SS2 exams among others.’

In their separate goodwill messages, the National President of ASUSS, Comrade Sola Adigun, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), represented by Mr Lateef Adesiyan, and Ekiti State NUT Chairman, Comrade Adedeji Egbeyemi, all commended Governor Oyebanji for his continue demonstration of love and passion for teachers and the teaching profession in the state.

As part of renewed efforts to combat childhood diseases and safeguard future generations, Niger and Jigawa states have launched extensive Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination campaigns in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), World Health Organisation (WHO), GAVI, and other development partners.

In Niger State, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago officially endorsed the campaign, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving public health and ensuring that the MR vaccine is available in all healthcare facilities across the state. He emphasised the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, describing it as vital protection against measles and rubella.

Speaking at a media dialogue in Minna, the Incident Manager of the Niger State Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), Dr Fatima Ibrahim, said the MR vaccine marks a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s public health system. She noted that the country was at a pivotal moment as it prepared to incorporate the vaccine into its national immunisation schedule.

‘With the introduction of the Measles-Rubella vaccine, we now have an additional, powerful tool to combat these diseases and safeguard future generations,’ she said.

Dr Ibrahim explained that the MR vaccine is safe, government-funded, and free for all eligible children aged between nine months and fourteen years. She further highlighted the crucial role of the media in sensitising the public and ensuring wide acceptance of the vaccine.

Similarly, the Chief of UNICEF Kaduna Field Office, Dr Gerida Birukila, represented by UNICEF Health Specialist, Dr Ahmed Tsofo, called on journalists to use their platforms to promote accurate information about the campaign. According to Dr Birukila, ‘your voice can break down myths and misinformation. Your platforms can build trust in public health, and you can make vaccination not just a medical necessity but a parental duty and a community value proudly upheld.’

She urged the media to help mobilise parents, caregivers, and communities to view immunisation days not as routine, but as ‘moments of protection and demonstration of care,’ while countering misinformation with factual and relatable messages.

In Jigawa State, preparations have also reached an advanced stage for the commencement of a similar vaccination drive targeting over 3.1 million children. The State Immunization Officer, Dr Shehu Ibrahim, disclosed during a media dialogue in Dutse that ‘a total of 3,186,521 children is targeted to be immunize during the exercise.’

He explained that the campaign, scheduled to run from 6th to 15th October across 288 wards in 27 local government areas, would cover children aged nine months to fourteen years. A total of 1,580 vaccination teams, each consisting of 11 members, have been mobilised for the programme.

Dr Ibrahim added that the exercise, organised by the Jigawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency (PHCDA) in collaboration with UNICEF, would also include routine immunisation and polio vaccination. He revealed that ‘3,186,521 children targeted for Measles-Rubella whom were from 9 months to 14 years while in polio vaccination 1,517,319 children between 0-59 months as beneficiaries. 5,121 qualified health workers will work for the success of the program.’

Also speaking, the State Coordinator of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr Kabiru Mustapha, said the media engagement was aimed at reducing child morbidity and mortality rates linked to preventable diseases. He urged journalists to support the campaign by encouraging parents to present their children for vaccination.

Dr Mustapha maintained that with collective effort and public participation, the state could record zero cases of measles and rubella infections, assuring full institutional support for the success of the campaign.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, on Sunday, congratulated Nigerian teachers as they joined their counterparts across the globe to celebrate World Teachers’ Day.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 1994 designated October 5 as World Teachers’ Day to recognise and celebrate teachers.

Speaker Tajudeen, in a congratulatory message issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Leke Olatunji Baiyewu, commended Nigerian teachers for their unquantifiable role in shaping the lives and careers of young people in society.

He stated that teachers and academics deserve public and private support to efficiently carry out their educational role in the lives of young Nigerians.

The Speaker, who was also a teacher before joining politics, described teachers as ‘co-parents and experts in nurturing and moulding young people into educated, civilised, productive, and patriotic citizens’ of any country.

While noting that teachers are critical stakeholders in the polity, the Speaker called for training, retraining, and better welfare, especially for the academic staff of educational institutions.

Speaker Tajudeen reiterated the commitment of the 10th House to using legislative instruments to enhance access to quality and affordable education for all Nigerians.

The Speaker wished Nigerians happy celebrations.

After a shocking eviction from the Big Brother Naija Season 10 house, ex-housemates Rooboy, Mide, Sabrina and Zita were asked to pick who they think will emerge winner and claim the N120 million grand prize on Sunday.

Responding in an interview with Tribune Online, Rooboy, known for his energetic and main character personality of the house, gave a split prediction, saying: ‘Koyin, but for in-time, Imisi.’ His response sounded like he was rooting for both housemates.

Mide was more direct, stating: ‘I think Imisi stands a chance of winning.’

Sabrina, who exited the house in week 3 due to health reasons, mentioned her bestie and considered Imisi as a strong contender for the big prize.

‘Kola my bestie for sure, and I’m also rooting for Imisi,’ Sabrina told Tribune Online.

Zita, who was a two-time Head of House in Biggie’s house, placed her bet on Imisi while also sending best wishes to others.

She said, ‘I think Imisi will win. She has her chill moments. Goodluck to Dede and Kola.’

When asked if they had thought about Imisi winning while still in the house, both Sabrina and Zita replied in affirmative. Zita further explained that Imisi brought the drama.

‘She was interesting, she brought the drama, and she’s a cool person, why not?,’ Zita added.

Tribune Online reports ahead of the final day (Sunday), Faith was disqualified on Thursday by Big Brother over physical violence with Sultana in the house.

Niger State Pension Board has disclosed that it has spent ?5 billion out of the ?9.1 billion budgeted for pension payments between January and August 2025.

The Permanent Secretary of the Board, Malam Habib Abdulkadir, made this known during the presentation of the Board’s proposed 2026 budget to the Niger State Planning Commission at the Women Multipurpose Hall, Old Secretariat, Minna.

Abdulkadir stated that pension payments were up to date, except for retirees who were still undergoing biometric capture.

He added that the number of retirees continues to grow monthly, requiring constant review and estimates.

He also noted that deaths among pensioners were minimal, attributing this to the ongoing ‘I Am Alive’ verification exercise, which helps identify deceased beneficiaries.

Following the presentation, the screening committee of the Planning Commission raised several observations, including inconsistencies in the staff lists from state and local governments, as well as the non-submission of monthly expenditure records from January to August.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Niger State Planning Commission, Hajiya Aishatu Tani Usman, explained that the exercise was part of the annual budget preparation process for ministries, departments, and agencies. She said all requirements must be met before the final budget presentation.

Usman commended the Pension Board for its presentation and directed it to submit its record of achievements for the outgoing year, 2025.

The session was attended by officials from the Bureau of Statistics, the Office of the Head of Service, and the State Planning Commission.

The Concerned Taraba Youth Group has appealed to Governor Agbu Kefas to align politically with President Bola Tinubu by joining the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying such a move would help attract more federal projects to the state.

Speaking at a press conference in Jalingo on Saturday, the group said the governor’s alignment with the federal government could help revive key infrastructure and accelerate the completion of projects such as the Mambilla Hydro Power Project.

The group’s spokesperson, Comrade Shedrack Iremiya Gani, expressed concern over what he described as the neglect and abandonment of several federal projects in Taraba, blaming it on the state’s lack of political alignment with the ruling party.

He said, ‘Considering the continued deterioration and the abandoned state of federal projects in Taraba, we wish to appeal to Governor Agbu Kefas to align with President Bola Tinubu to attract federal presence in the state.

‘We want the governor to make history by living the PDP and align with Tinubu in the APC. We believe that these steps will attract positive development like the actualization of the long anticipated Mambilla Hydro power project, the Zing Jalingo Wukari road and many others, as currently happening in APC states.

‘We believe that if Taraba become an APC state, President Tinubu will Construct the Jalingo- Gembu, Takum – Lau and Wukari – Karim Lamido roads, create empowerment schemes and job opportunities for youths in the state. Our desire is to see Taraba prosper in all aspects of development.

‘We know that governor Agbu Kefas has tried by reforming the education, healthcare, and empowerment sectors, which the commitment have rekindled confidence among youths, we however wish to appeal for his alliance with the president in the APC to make Taraba state great.

‘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, as well as the worsening situation of the Federal highways.

‘Nigeria today is being driven by the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and we do not want Taraba to be left out of the Tinubu’s transformational drive. For us as a state to attract federal attention, our Governor need to work side by side with the president.

‘If Governor Kefas joins the All Progressives Congress (APC), Taraba will gain direct access to federal projects, resources, and opportunities that our citizens desired for.

Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State, has granted amnesty to students who have overstayed in the university.

The disclosure was made by the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Carol Arinze-Umobi, on Friday, 3rd October 2025, during the 238th meeting of the Senate held at the Faculty of Social Sciences auditorium.

Prof. Arinze-Umobi stated that the retinue of appeal letters from overstayed students necessitated the move, which she deemed fit to present on the floor of the Senate for approval. The Acting Vice-Chancellor informed that the period for the amnesty covers two academic sessions – the 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 sessions – while admonishing the concerned students to fully utilise the opportunity to address their academic challenges.

Prof. Arinze-Umobi also said the university had carried out several academic activities and achieved notable milestones under her watch in recent months. Among these is the selection of UNIZIK as one of the three universities in each of the six geopolitical zones for the sponsorship of postgraduate students via the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).

The Professor of Law further disclosed that fourteen panels comprising forty-two members recently visited the university for resource verification towards the establishment of twenty-three new academic programmes.

The Acting Vice-Chancellor also commended members of the UNIZIK community for ensuring peace and stability on campus.