Hello and welcome! In today’s trending news stories;
1. Lagos State Governor Sanwo-Olu is facing criticism for approving substantial expenditures, including N7.5 million for fragrance replacement in his office and N3 billion for rechargeable fans in the deputy governor’s office. Other contracts involve a bulletproof SUV, chickens, water supply restoration, and church renovation. Critics argue that these expenses reflect government insensitivity to people’s economic struggles. Calls for a review and accountability have been raised, emphasizing the need for judicious use of public funds.
2. The Court of Appeal in Abuja has removed Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, ruling that he was not validly sponsored by the PDP due to the party’s non-compliance with a court order for a valid congress. The APC candidate, Nentawe Goshwe, contested Mutfwang’s victory, citing invalid nomination and Electoral Act non-compliance. The court ordered Mutfwang’s Certificate of Return retrieval and issuance to Goshwe. Additionally, it affirmed the removal of PDP lawmaker Rimvjat Nanbol, declaring Labour Party’s Daniel Listic the winner, based on the tribunal’s jurisdiction over party internal affairs and the PDP’s disobedience of a court order.
3. Armed men, allegedly police officers, and suspected political thugs, reportedly attacked the residence of Edison Ehie, the factional Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The attack followed a crisis within the legislature, with Ehie declaring himself Speaker amid suspensions by 24 lawmakers. The details of the invasion remain unclear, but it is suggested to be an assassination attempt, thwarted by Ehie’s security. The statement, allegedly from a legislative correspondent, accuses a police tactical unit head and others, warning them of accountability for any harm to the Speaker. The statement promises to release CCTV footage for confirmation and threatens public demonstrations if there is a breakdown of law and order in Rivers State.
4. Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, has passed away peacefully at 96 in her home in Plains, Georgia. She had been married to the 39th U.S. President, Jimmy Carter, for 77 years. Survived by four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren, her son Chip Carter highlighted her impact on mental health and caregiving resources, stating that she will be missed.
5. A report on Nigeria’s 2023 wet season crop production by AFEX indicates that staple food prices, including rice, maize, and soya beans, are expected to rise due to decreased production levels. The surge in the price of paddy rice is attributed to factors like flooding and international market dynamics. The report forecasted a 32 percent increase in the price of paddy rice for the 2023/2024 season, starting at around NGN400,000 per metric ton in the fourth quarter.
6. Spain won their final Euro 2024 qualifying match against Georgia 3-1, securing the top spot in Group A with 21 points. However, the victory was marred by a knee injury to midfielder Gavi, leaving the coach, Luis de la Fuente, deeply saddened. Gavi, a 19-year-old Barcelona player, left the field in tears during the first half. Despite goals from Robin Le Normand and Ferran Torres, the match was overshadowed by Gavi’s injury, described by the coach as the most bitter victory of his career.
7. Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua has been crowned the winner of the 2023 Miss Universe pageant held in El Salvador’s capital, San Salvador. The judging panel included notable figures such as model Halima Aden and “Queer Eye” star Carson Kressley. The pageant featured 84 contestants, with Palacios choosing 18th-century British philosopher Mary Wollstonecraft as someone she would spend a day with. Her win marks the first time a Nicaraguan woman has been crowned Miss Universe.
