Hello and welcome! In today’s trending news stories;
1. Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York to represent Nigeria at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Stanley Nkwocha, his spokesman, confirmed his arrival at John F. Kennedy International Airport on Monday. Shettima was welcomed by several officials, including Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, Communications Minister Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, and NITDA Director General Kashifu Inuwa. President Tinubu had opted not to attend the UNGA, delegating Shettima to lead Nigeria’s representation, deliver the national statement, and participate in critical meetings.
2. On the morning of September 23, 2024, the Israeli military launched around 150 airstrikes across Lebanon, with a rocket hitting near Byblos. One civilian was killed, and 17 people were wounded in attacks targeting Hezbollah sites in eastern and southern Lebanon. Israeli preemptive strikes led to widespread evacuations, with text alerts sent to residents of south Lebanon and Beirut. Lebanon’s information minister urged people not to overreact to these warnings. The Israeli military indicated it would take necessary actions to ensure the safe return of northern Israeli residents. The conflict, which has deepened over decades, is causing heightened anxiety, especially in Beirut, as fears of a full-scale war intensify.
3. On September 21, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the winner of Edo State’s governorship election. Okpebholo secured 291,667 votes, defeating Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with 247,274 votes and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP) with 22,763 votes. Okpebholo, backed by key political figures like Adams Oshiomhole and his running mate Dennis Idahosa, won 10 out of 18 local governments, cementing the APC’s return to power. His victory followed protests from PDP supporters over alleged irregularities. Observers noted instances of vote-buying during the election.
4. The Imo State Police Command has initiated an investigation into a viral video showing officers violently arresting 32-year-old Prince Amaechi, who was carrying a child at the time. The incident occurred on September 16, 2024, during an arrest over alleged drug trafficking. Amaechi’s wife recorded the confrontation and sought help. The command condemned the officers’ actions as unprofessional, and the four Anti-Narcotics Unit officers involved—Sergeant Patrick Nwangbo, Corporals Godswill Okechukwu, Justice Nnorom, and Goodluck Iwuagwu—are under interrogation. The case has been transferred to the IGP X-Squad for further investigation, and the officers will face an orderly room trial. The police urged the public to remain calm and promised transparency.
5. Florence Otedola, also known as DJ Cuppy, made history as the first British Nigerian to host an opening session at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). She led the “Summit of the Future – Youth Actions Day,” bringing youthful energy to the event. During her keynote, DJ Cuppy emphasized the importance of youth leadership and her passion for quality education, aligning with her foundation’s mission to support African students. She also playfully hinted at aspirations to become Nigeria’s first female president, which sparked excitement, with UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed jokingly responding, “After me.” Cuppy later performed at the closing session, leaving a lasting impression.
