Hello and welcome! In today’s trending news stories;
1. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed condolences to the Governor of Ekiti State and its people following Monday’s attacks that resulted in the killing of two traditional rulers and the abduction of six school pupils and teachers. Governor Oyebanji, conveying the president’s message during his visit to affected communities, assured the people that the perpetrators would face severe consequences. The governor held an emergency meeting with security heads and emphasized collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure justice. Community leaders suspected an assassination in one case and urged the governor to ensure justice. The governor’s prompt response was appreciated, and he pledged to take responsibility for the education of the late monarch’s children. Governor Oyebanji also scheduled a meeting with all traditional rulers for Wednesday.
2. Presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has called for President Bola Tinubu’s resignation, criticizing him for a private visit to Paris amid increasing insecurity in Nigeria. Atiku condemned Tinubu’s actions, stating that the nation is facing a severe security crisis. He highlighted recent tragic incidents, including the murder of a nursing mother and grandmother for failing to pay ransom. Atiku urged Tinubu to step aside, emphasizing the need for continuous leadership to address the pervasive insecurity and economic challenges in the country.
3. In the trial of former Minister of State for Finance, Bashir Yuguda, an EFCC officer testified that N4.6 billion was diverted for organizing prayers for Nigeria. The investigation revealed that Dalhatu Investment Limited, owned by co-defendant Attahiru Bafarawa, received the funds without proper documentation. The money, received between 2014 and 2015, was allegedly intended for prayers due to prevailing insecurity. Senator Abdallah Wali and others received funds for election campaigns and hajj seats. Some of the money allocated for security equipment was reportedly used to buy vehicles distributed to PDP local government chairmen in Sokoto.
4. Capital market operators caution that companies with foreign liabilities or heavy reliance on imported inputs may see a decline in 2023 dividend payouts due to pressure on profit margins and the recent fall of the naira. Companies with substantial net foreign assets or those reliant on local inputs and products with elastic demand may fare better. The naira’s record low is attributed to factors like rising demand for dollars and declining foreign reserves. Import-dependent companies may struggle with increased production costs, potentially leading to inflation and affecting profit margins. Sectoral vulnerabilities are apparent, with Consumer Goods and Industrial Sector companies facing challenges in pricing and potential sales declines. Adjustments are needed to navigate the turbulent foreign exchange landscape effectively.
5. South Africa stunned Morocco with a 2-0 victory in the Africa Cup of Nations, securing their spot in the quarter-finals. Evidence Makgopa and Teboho Mokoena scored for South Africa in the second half. Morocco, considered favorites, had Sofyan Amrabat sent off and missed a penalty. South Africa will face Cape Verde in the quarter-finals. In another match, Mali beat Burkina Faso 2-1, with goals from Edmond Tapsoba (own goal) and Lassine Sinayoko. Burkina Faso’s Bertrand Traoré scored a penalty, but Mali held on to win. Mali will now face Ivory Coast in the quarter-finals.
6. Taiwo Awoniyi made a comeback from injury, scoring Nottingham Forest’s only goal in their 2-1 home loss to Arsenal in the Premier League. Awoniyi had been sidelined since November 2023 due to an injury sustained in a World Cup qualifier against Lesotho. The striker, who previously scored against Arsenal last season, came off the bench in the second half and netted in the 89th minute. Despite Awoniyi’s goal, Arsenal secured the victory with goals from Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka, bringing them to 46 points in the league, just two points behind leaders Liverpool. In another game, Elijah Adebayo scored a hat-trick, and Chiedozie Ogbene also scored as Luton Town beat Brighton 4-0 in the Premier League.
7. The drug test results for three Super Eagles players at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations—Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and William Troost-Ekong—have returned negative. The players, who played a key role in Nigeria’s 2-0 victory against Cameroon, are set to be available for the quarterfinal clash against Angola. The match carries significance beyond potential cash rewards, as it provides a chance for redemption against Angola, which thwarted Nigeria’s bid for the 2006 FIFA World Cup. The Super Eagles focused on immediate success, aim to secure their path to AFCON glory. The quarterfinal match is scheduled for Friday, February 2, at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan.
