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Gabon Suspends Facebook, TikTok Over ‘Hate’,  ‘Conflict-Inducing Content’

Authorities in Gabon have suspended access to major social media platforms, including Facebook and TikTok, citing concerns over content capable of fueling division and unrest.

The decision was announced by the country’s media regulator, the High Authority for Communication, which ordered the immediate suspension of social media services until further notice.

Spokesman Jean-Claude Mendome said the move was prompted by the circulation of “inappropriate, defamatory, hateful and insulting content” online.

According to him, such posts threaten human dignity, social cohesion, national security, and the stability of state institutions.

He also pointed to the spread of misinformation, cyberbullying and unauthorised disclosure of personal data as factors that could inflame tensions and undermine democratic progress.

The regulator stressed that freedom of expression and criticism remain constitutionally protected rights in Gabon, despite the temporary restrictions.

The development comes amid growing social pressures facing President Brice Oligui Nguema, who has encountered labour unrest less than a year after his election.

Teachers began strike action in December over salaries and working conditions, with similar protests spreading to sectors including healthcare, higher education and public broadcasting.

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FCT Poll: PDP Chairmanship Candidate Withdraws For APC Rival After Wike’s Intervention

The chairmanship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party for the Bwari Area Council election, Julius Adamu, has stepped down from the race in support of the All Progressives Congress candidate, Joshua Musa, in a development that has stirred political reactions across the Federal Capital Territory.

The withdrawal was announced on Wednesday in Bwari during a gathering attended by supporters and political stakeholders, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

A video circulating online captured Adamu declaring his decision to exit the contest and urging his supporters to rally behind Musa in the forthcoming election.

Wike, addressing the gathering, confirmed that discussions had been held and an agreement reached for Adamu to stand down.

Adamu described the move as the outcome of extensive consultations, noting that political unity and cooperation were more important than rivalry.

He appealed to party loyalists and residents to support Musa’s candidacy in the interest of Bwari’s development.

The February 21, 2026 Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections will see voters elect chairmen and councillors across the six councils — Abuja Municipal, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Abaji and Kwali.

The exercise is being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission after months of campaigning that began in September 2025.

The Bwari race has attracted strong attention from both major parties, with control of the council considered strategically important.

Musa’s candidacy had earlier been affirmed by the Supreme Court of Nigeria following legal disputes and appeals.

Wike’s role in the development underscores his growing influence in FCT politics since assuming office in 2023.

Though still a member of the PDP, the former Rivers State governor has frequently supported initiatives and candidates associated with the ruling APC, drawing criticism from some members of his party who accuse him of anti-party activities and political realignment.

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JUST IN: Tinubu Signs Electoral Act Amendment Bill Into Law

President Bola Tinubu has signed the Electoral Act, 2022 (Repeal and Re-Enactment) Bill 2026 into law following its passage by the National Assembly of Nigeria after months of deliberation and intense debate.

The legislation, which comes ahead of the 2027 general elections, has stirred controversy over provisions relating to the transmission of election results, particularly the balance between electronic and manual methods.

The Senate of Nigeria passed the bill after a heated session that saw lawmakers clash over Clause 60.

Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe demanded a division on the clause, questioning provisions that allow manual transmission if electronic transmission fails.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio initially suggested the demand had been withdrawn, a position challenged by opposition lawmakers.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin argued it would be out of order to revisit an issue already ruled upon, triggering further tension on the floor.

The disagreement escalated into a brief face-off involving Senator Sunday Karimi, while Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele maintained that earlier decisions had been nullified through a motion for rescission, making Abaribe’s demand valid.

A division was eventually conducted, with 55 senators voting to retain the proviso allowing manual transmission in the event of network failure, while 15 opposed it.

At the House of Representatives of Nigeria, lawmakers also disagreed over a motion to rescind an earlier amendment supporting compulsory real-time electronic transmission of results.

The motion, moved by Francis Waive, was put to a voice vote by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.

Although dissenting voices appeared louder, the Speaker ruled in favour of the motion, prompting protests from lawmakers and forcing the chamber into a closed-door session.

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Enugu Police Confirms Death Of 11 In Awhum Tree-Fall Tragedy, Issues Safety Advisory

The Enugu State Police Command has confirmed the death of eleven persons following a tragic tree-fall incident in Awhum Community, located in Udi Local Government Area.

The incident, which occurred on Tuesday at about 8:45 pm, involved a large tree that collapsed at the Awhum village market square onto two vehicles conveying passengers, killing eleven occupants.

This was disclosed in a statement made available to DAILY GAZETTE by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Daniel Ndukwe, on Wednesday.

According to the statement, operatives attached to the 9th Mile Division swiftly mobilized to the scene after receiving distress reports.

Working with local residents, the officers rescued four victims trapped in the wreckage and secured the area.

The injured were rushed to hospital, while the eleven others were later confirmed dead by attending doctors.

Their remains have since been deposited in a mortuary for further procedures.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the vehicles had departed from Old Park, Enugu and were heading to different villages within the Awhum/Okpatu axis when they briefly stopped to drop off passengers.

At that moment, a large tree—reportedly weakened by heavy rainfall, strong winds, and internal decay—suddenly collapsed on them.

The Commissioner of Police expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and the entire Awhum community over what he described as a painful and unfortunate loss.

He also issued a public safety advisory, urging community leaders and residents across the state to regularly inspect and maintain large or aging trees around markets, motor parks, schools, and residential areas, particularly during the rainy season, to avert similar tragedies in the future.

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Enugu Police Confirms Death Of 11 In Awhum Tree-Fall Tragedy, Issues Safety Advisory

 

The Enugu State Police Command has confirmed the death of eleven persons following a tragic tree-fall incident in Awhum Community, located in Udi Local Government Area.

The incident, which occurred on Tuesday at about 8:45 pm involved a large tree that collapsed at the Awhum village market square onto two vehicles conveying passengers, killing eleven occupants.

This was disclosed in a statement made available to DAILY GAZETTE by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Daniel Ndukwe, on Wednesday.

According to the statement, operatives attached to the 9th Mile Division swiftly mobilized to the scene after receiving distress reports.

Working with local residents, the officers rescued four victims trapped in the wreckage and secured the area.

The injured were rushed to hospital, while the eleven others were later confirmed dead by attending doctors.

Their remains have since been deposited in a mortuary for further procedures.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the vehicles had departed from Old Park, Enugu and were heading to different villages within the Awhum/Okpatu axis when they briefly stopped to drop off passengers.

At that moment, a large tree—reportedly weakened by heavy rainfall, strong winds, and internal decay—suddenly collapsed on them.

The Commissioner of Police expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and the entire Awhum community over what he described as a painful and unfortunate loss.

He also issued a public safety advisory, urging community leaders and residents across the state to regularly inspect and maintain large or aging trees around markets, motor parks, schools, and residential areas, particularly during the rainy season, to avert similar tragedies in the future.

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Enugu’s 300-Bed International Hospital: A Dream Promise Of Healthcare Transformation

By Dr Jeff Ejiofor

According to Publius Vergilius Maro, a classical Roman poet, the greatest wealth is health. Intrinsically, health is not merely wealth, it is the foundation upon which every dream is built, every ambition is pursued, and every prosperity is sustained.

A healthy people create a wealthy nation, for when the body is strong and the mind is sound, possibilities become limitless.

The people of Enugu State are standing at the threshold of history. Rising boldly against the skyline is a symbol of hope, progress, and transformation, the 300-bed Enugu International Hospital.

This landmark project is not just another public facility but a declaration that Enugu is ready to redefine healthcare delivery in Nigeria and across West Africa.

Under the visionary leadership of Gov Peter Mbah, the health sector in Enugu State is undergoing a deliberate and strategic revolution.

The rapid progress recorded on this project speaks volumes about a government that understands urgency, quality, and long-term impact. What we are witnessing is not incremental improvement but a bold leap into the future.

This 300-bed ultra-modern hospital is being designed to deliver specialized and advanced medical services with cutting-edge technology and futuristic interior infrastructure.

It is positioned to become a referral hub not only for residents of Enugu State but for patients across the South-East, Nigeria, and beyond. For decades, many families have endured the emotional and financial strain of travelling abroad for specialized treatments. With the completion of this facility, that narrative is set to change.

Enugu is preparing to offer medical services that will rival international standards and, in doing so, position itself as a destination for medical tourism in the near future.

The economic implications of this project are profound. First, it creates employment opportunities across multiple sectors, from construction and engineering to healthcare professionals, administrative staff, maintenance teams, and medical specialists.

Beyond direct employment, it stimulates the local economy: hospitality businesses, transportation services, pharmaceutical suppliers, medical equipment vendors, and countless small enterprises will benefit from increased activity around the hospital.

Furthermore, medical tourism will attract patients and their families from other states and countries, bringing revenue into Enugu.

Instead of capital flight through foreign medical trips, funds will circulate within the state, strengthening its internally generated revenue and expanding opportunities for investment.

This is how visionary infrastructure transforms not just sectors, but entire economies.

Socially, the impact will be even more powerful. Access to quality healthcare is one of the strongest pillars of human dignity.

When citizens can receive advanced treatment close to home, it reduces mortality rates, eases emotional stress on families, and improves life expectancy.

It restores confidence in public institutions and reassures families that their government prioritizes their well-being.

This project also sends a powerful message to young professionals in the medical field that Enugu is ready for excellence.

It will attract highly skilled doctors, surgeons, researchers, and healthcare innovators who seek an environment equipped for world-class practice.

In time, this hospital can become a centre for training, research, and innovation, placing Enugu firmly on the global health map.

The speed and seriousness with which this project is advancing demonstrate purposeful governance. Leadership is ultimately measured by legacy, by the structures and systems that outlive administrations.

The Enugu International Hospital stands as one of those legacy-defining projects that will serve generations unborn.

Certainly, as Enugu State moves steadily toward becoming a regional healthcare powerhouse, it is imperative that Ndi Enugu rally behind this vision.

Transformational development requires collective belief, patience, and support. Constructive engagement, unity of purpose, and maximum cooperation will ensure that this monumental vision is fully realized and sustained.

In conclusion, Gov Peter Mbah’s bold healthcare agenda is not merely about erecting buildings; it is about building a healthier, stronger, and more prosperous Enugu State.

If given continued support, this vision can elevate the state to unprecedented heights of development.

The future of medical care in Enugu is no longer a distant dream. It is unfolding before our eyes. Let us embrace it, support it, and together take Enugu State to the next level of abundant health.

Indeed, Tomorrow is Here

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Anambra Assembly Begins Process To Recall Lawmaker Suspended Over Social Media Post

Honourable Udemezue,

The Anambra State House of Assembly has initiated steps to recall a suspended member representing Ayamelum Constituency, Bernard Udemezue, following months of disciplinary action linked to a social media post.

The lawmaker was first suspended in August 2025 after the Assembly accused him of sharing content it described as damaging and unbecoming of a legislator.

Udemezue had alleged online that his constituency was being marginalised in the allocation of constituency allowances.

After reviewing a report by its Committee on Ethics and Privileges, the House imposed an initial three-month suspension for what it termed “unparliamentary conduct.”

The suspension was later extended by another three months when he failed to comply with the Assembly’s directives.

The extended suspension, which began on November 26, 2025, is expected to expire on February 26, 2026.

During plenary on Tuesday, the Speaker, Somtochukwu Udeze, directed the Committee on Rules, Ethics and Privileges, chaired by the Majority Leader, Ikenna Ofodeme, to urgently review the suspension as part of moves toward his recall.

According to the Speaker, the committee is to reassess the matter in line with the House’s earlier resolutions and determine the level of compliance by the suspended lawmaker before submitting its recommendations.

The Assembly subsequently adjourned plenary to February 19, 2026, when the committee is expected to report back on the review.

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Terror Attacks Force Thousands From Niger Communities Into Benin Republic, Over 3.7 Million Nigerians Displaced

Thousands of terrified residents from Borgu and Agwara local councils in Niger State have fled across the border into the Benin Republic, following renewed attacks by terrorists, worsening Nigeria’s growing security and humanitarian crisis, which has already displaced more than 3.7 million citizens internally.

The latest strike occurred barely 24 hours after Niger and Kwara State Governors, Mohammed Umaru Bago and Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, met in Minna to assess security in border towns.

Eyewitnesses reported that over 200 terrorists, riding about 70 motorcycles, stormed the Konkoso community for the second time in one week, setting more houses ablaze before moving to Segbana, a border village between Benin Republic and Nigeria in Kebbi State.

“The police outposts in the areas were last week burnt by terrorists, resulting in operatives fleeing the communities, while the terrorists have now set up base in Konkoso town,” a villager said. Residents of Konkoso reportedly fled in thousands to Segbana, seeking safety.

A villager, who spoke on condition of anonymity, added: “Over 200 terrorists returned to Konkoso communities on Tuesday morning with about 70 motorcycles, and burnt down the remaining houses that were not set ablaze during their first operation last week.”

The Senate has condemned the killings of 56 Nigerians and the abduction of women and children in Konkoso village, describing the attacks as brutal and unacceptable.

During an emergency sitting, Senator Sani Musa, who moved the motion, explained that affected communities share borders with strategic forests, which terrorists exploit for cross-border movement and coordinated criminal operations.

He urged an overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture, including improved intelligence coordination, unified operational command, deployment of surveillance technology, and stronger community policing.

Meanwhile, the United Nations has confirmed that over 3.7 million Nigerians are internally displaced, with insecurity spreading beyond the Northeast into Northwest regions.

Mohamed Malick Fall emphasised that displacement affects livelihoods, education, and stability, calling for durable solutions focused on recovery, reintegration, and resilience.

Addressing the spike in terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crimes, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun met with former police chiefs, led by Aliyu Attah, to tap into their experience, build institutional memory, and boost public confidence in the force.

The IGP stressed that misinformation campaigns would not deter the police from reducing crime and addressing emerging threats.

This wave of attacks highlights the urgent need for coordinated national responses to secure communities, protect lives, and mitigate the growing humanitarian crisis.

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Group Urges Russia To Probe Alleged Forced Recruitment Of Nigerians Into Military Service

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has called on the Embassy of Russia in Nigeria to address allegations that some Nigerians were coerced into military service under misleading employment arrangements.

In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, the organisation said the Russian authorities owe Nigerians and the international community a clear explanation regarding the circumstances surrounding the claims.

The call follows reports that some Nigerian nationals who travelled to Russia in search of job opportunities were allegedly misled into signing documents that led to their deployment to military facilities.

One of the affected individuals, identified as Mr. Balogun, reportedly travelled on a tourist visa in pursuit of engineering work but was instead taken to a military base shortly after arrival.

“The day we were signing the contract, I didn’t understand the language. They didn’t allow us to use our phones to translate, so we signed our contracts. I told them already about my job. Maybe they were going to put me in my field. I didn’t know they would use me,” Balogun stated.

Hamzat described the alleged development as a serious breach of human rights and international norms, warning that it raises significant diplomatic and legal concerns.

The group also urged the Nigerian government to strengthen safeguards for citizens seeking employment abroad, noting that economic migration should not expose Nigerians to exploitation or involuntary involvement in armed conflicts.

PeacePro added that the situation requires urgent diplomatic engagement, a transparent investigation, and stronger protection mechanisms to prevent further harm to Nigerians overseas.

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Tinubu Appoints Uba Sani Renewed Hope Ambassador, Deputy DG For Party Mobilisation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed the Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, as Renewed Hope Ambassador and Deputy Director-General for party outreach, engagement and mobilisation, with immediate effect.

The appointment is expected to place the Kaduna governor at the centre of grassroots engagement and strategic mobilisation efforts of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) across the country.

According to the President, the decision was informed by Sani’s leadership credentials and organisational strength, which are considered vital to strengthening the party’s communication framework and expanding its mobilisation structures nationwide.

In his new role, Sani will work closely with the leadership of the Renewed Hope Ambassador programme, the Director-General, and the party hierarchy, including the APC National Chairman, to drive inclusive engagement and coordinated political outreach.

The assignment is also aimed at reinforcing the party’s grassroots presence, promoting policy awareness, and consolidating public confidence in the administration’s programmes and achievements.

Tinubu noted that the Renewed Hope Ambassador structure is designed to deepen public understanding of government initiatives, highlight milestones, and strengthen national acceptance of the party ahead of future electoral contests.

He added that early planning and structured mobilisation would be critical to the party’s success, expressing confidence that Sani would provide strategic direction in galvanising support and expanding the Renewed Hope message at community, state and national levels.

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