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PDP Rep Member Resigns From Party

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Hon. Oluwole Oke, who represents Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has formally exited the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Oke, who also chairs the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the announcement in a resignation letter dated April 16.

Addressed to the chairman of Ward 7 in Obokun Local Government, the letter revealed that the decision to leave the party was made following consultations with his constituents, associates, and loved ones.

The lawmaker’s departure from the PDP is effective immediately.

In the letter, obtained by DAILY GAZETTE on Wednesday in Osogbo, Oke stated:
“I wish to formally notify you that I am resigning my Membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with immediate effect.
This was concluded after consultation and engagement with my political associates, family and friends.
It is my wish that you accept my resignation in good faith.”

Although Oke did not disclose his next political destination, his resignation comes amid reports of a deepening rift between him and the party leadership in the state.

Tensions within the PDP in his federal constituency have recently resulted in visible factional divisions.

Oke is currently serving his fifth term in the House of Representatives.

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Colleges Of Education Authorized To Award NCE, Degree Certificates – Education Minister

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The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to the dual mandate policy that empowers Colleges of Education (COEs) to award both bachelor’s degrees and the National Certificate in Education (NCE).

Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday during a follow-up to the last Biannual Stakeholders’ Meeting, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, encouraged stakeholders in the education sector to fully embrace the policy.

He emphasized that the new approach would not only boost enrolment but also improve the quality of teacher training while eliminating the pressure to convert COEs into universities.

“With this dual mandate, there is no need for conversion to university status. You should be the ones pushing for implementation, not the other way around. It’s a matter of your survival,” Alausa stated.

He underscored the importance of reforming Colleges of Education to keep pace with modern demands, especially in the areas of technology and skills development.

“The way we taught 30 or 50 years ago is no longer relevant. Education and teaching methods are evolving. You must start thinking about how to use technology in the classroom,” the minister said.

Highlighting the role of technological innovation in modern education, Alausa called on educators to integrate educational technology (edtech) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their teaching practices. He warned that institutions that fail to adapt may face extinction.

“The government has secured the future of Colleges of Education. It is now up to you to sustain them. Failure to embrace this mandate could lead to extinction,” he warned.

He further announced that the implementation of the dual mandate would begin with the new academic session in September and urged institutions to begin preparations.

Responding to the minister’s address, the President of the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), Mr. Smart Olugbeko, acknowledged the initiative, stating that while the dual mandate holds promise, its success would depend on how well existing challenges are addressed.

He expressed hope that the government would work collaboratively with relevant stakeholders to ensure a seamless transition and improved quality of teacher education.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the dual mandate policy was signed into law in 2023 after years of deliberation and recommendations from various educational committees.

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Just In: EU Imposes €700m Fine On Apple, Meta Over Competition, Privacy Violations

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The European Union has imposed a combined fine of €700 million on US tech giants Apple and Meta for breaching the bloc’s stringent digital competition laws, potentially heightening tensions with US President Donald Trump.

The European Commission on Wednesday levied a €500 million fine on Apple, citing its anti-competitive practice of preventing developers from directing users outside the App Store for cheaper deals.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, was fined €200 million for its controversial “pay or consent” data policy, which the Commission ruled violated user privacy rights under EU rules.

These penalties are the first major enforcement actions under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which came into force last year to level the playing field for smaller competitors and regulate dominant online platforms.

The Commission warned that further penalties could follow if the companies fail to comply within 60 days, including potential “periodic penalty payments.”

This tough stance by Brussels comes amid ongoing trade tensions with President Trump, who has accused the EU of unfairly targeting American firms through what he calls “non-tariff barriers.”

Trump has previously imposed 25% tariffs on EU exports like steel, aluminum, and cars — and negotiations are ongoing to lift those duties.

Commissioner Teresa Ribera, speaking on the fines, emphasized, “these actions send a strong and clear message. The Commission has taken firm but balanced enforcement action.”

Apple swiftly announced it would appeal the decision.

In a statement, the company argued “today’s announcements are yet another example of the European Commission unfairly targeting Apple in a series of decisions that are bad for the privacy and security of our users, bad for products, and force us to give away our technology for free.”

Meta echoed similar sentiments.

Joel Kaplan, Meta’s Chief Global Affairs Officer and a known ally of Trump, criticized the EU for what he described as economic protectionism
“this isn’t just about a fine; the Commission forcing us to change our business model effectively imposes a multi-billion-dollar tariff on Meta while requiring us to offer an inferior service.”

Despite the fines, Apple received a partial reprieve as the EU closed a separate investigation after the company made it easier for users to choose default browsers and delete pre-installed apps — aligning with DMA requirements.

Meta’s fine stems from its “pay-for-privacy” model launched in November 2023.

Under this system, users must either agree to data tracking or pay for an ad-free version of Facebook and Instagram.

However, the EU concluded that Meta failed to offer a sufficiently equivalent, less-personalized alternative — thereby violating users’ rights to freely consent to data sharing.

A revised version of the system was submitted by Meta and is currently under EU review.

The fines, although smaller than previous penalties like Apple’s €1.8 billion fine under older rules, mark a bold assertion of EU authority in the digital space and set the stage for more clashes with Washington as Trump’s administration pushes back against European regulations targeting Big Tech.

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Police Begin Investigation Into Death Of Governor’s Aide, Arrest Deceased’s Husband

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Dailygazettenig
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The Delta State Police Command has launched a comprehensive investigation into the death of Chief Shimite Love, the Special Adviser on Trade and Export to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who passed away under unclear circumstances on Easter Monday in Asaba.

Confirming the development, the command’s Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, said that an autopsy was underway to determine whether the cause of death was natural or otherwise.

He also disclosed that the deceased’s husband, who initially reported her death to authorities, had been placed in protective custody.

“He is not under arrest,” Edafe clarified.

“He contacted us himself, informing us of her death and raising concerns over threats from her family. For his safety, we placed him in protective custody while investigations continue.”

Sources within the command revealed that following the husband’s initial report, members of the deceased’s family lodged a formal complaint, alleging foul play and expressing suspicion about his possible involvement.

In response to the tragedy, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori expressed deep sorrow over the passing of his aide.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described Chief Love as “an intelligent, charismatic leader who served the state with distinction.”

“She was an exceptional professional, and her demise is a great loss to Delta State,” the governor added, extending condolences to her family and the Ebu community in Oshimili North Local Government Area.

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Woman Impersonating VIO, Defrauding Job Seekers Nabbed

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Dailygazettenig
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The Adamawa State Police Command has arrested a woman identified as Face Samuel for impersonating a Vehicle Inspection Officer (V.I.O) and engaging in employment-related fraud.

According to a statement issued in Yola on Wednesday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Suleiman Nguroje, the suspect, who resides along Army Barracks Road in Yola-North Local Government Area, was apprehended by operatives of the State Intelligence Department (SID) following credible intelligence.

Nguroje stated that Samuel had repeatedly posed as a V.I.O officer, deceiving victims into believing she could help them secure employment with the State Ministry of Transportation.

“The suspect on several occasions impersonated as a V.I.O officer and defrauded four persons of the sum of ₦350,000 under the pretense of securing employment for them with the State Ministry of transportation,” Nguroje explained.

He further noted that the suspect had admitted to the crime during interrogation.

“The suspect has confessed to committing the crime, while also revealing that the V.I.O’s uniform used in the fraudulent act was given to her by a yet to be identified person,” he added.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Dankombo Morris, called on citizens to remain vigilant and report individuals engaged in fraudulent activities to law enforcement agencies.

“We urge members of the public to report people of such character to security agencies,” Morris was quoted as saying.

He also assured that the police would carry out a thorough investigation to identify additional victims and collaborators linked to the fraudulent operation.

“Diligent investigation to uncover other possible victims and collaborators involved in the crime would be carried out,” the commissioner assured.

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Plateau Killings: Self-Defence Only Way Out – NBA Backs Danjuma

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Dailygazettenig
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Amid relentless attacks in Plateau State by suspected Fulani militia, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) branches across the state have made a bold call for community-led self-defence, arguing that the government alone cannot ensure citizens’ safety.

Speaking during a press briefing at the NUJ State Secretariat in Jos, representatives from the four Plateau NBA branches—Jos, Pankshin, Bukuru, and Shendam—declared the old mantra of “Enough is enough” outdated.

“This is Enough and let us Stand up and take Action,” they stated.

Leah Hassan, Chairperson of the Jos NBA and spokesperson for the group, expressed deep concern over the continued bloodshed, particularly in Bokkos and Bassa local councils.

“It is utterly heart-wrenching that while Plateau has yet to recover from the horror and pain of previous attacks, our peace is once again shattered by another wave of senseless and barbaric killings,” she lamented.

“These acts of violence are a direct assault on our shared humanity, the rule of law and the fundamental right to life as enshrined in our Constitution,” Hassan added.

The NBA urged the Federal Government to provide vulnerable communities with tools and legal frameworks for self-defence, arguing that current security deployments are grossly inadequate.

Their statement emphasized the need for empowering citizens until lasting solutions to insecurity are found.

Meanwhile, in a show of solidarity and compassion, prominent Christian leaders gathered in Lagos for a benefit concert aimed at raising funds and awareness for victims of northern insurgency.

The concert, organized by the Foundation of Truth Assembly (FOTA) Church and held at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, drew a significant crowd.

The event featured performances by gospel stars including Mike Abdul, Kaestring, Abbey Ojomu, and Wisdom Chigozie, with songs focused on peace and national healing.

Some widows from the affected northern communities were also in attendance, sharing emotional stories of how they lost their husbands and now face the daunting task of raising children alone.

Pastor Yomi Kasali, Senior Pastor of FOTA and convener of the concert, stressed the need for empathy among Nigerian Christians.

“Christians in the North needed the empathy of their counterparts in the South to keep faith,” he said.

According to him, the body of Christ in Nigeria has suffered due to political polarisation following the 2015 elections—one of the factors that has contributed to deepening insecurity.

National NBA President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), also weighed in on the crisis, calling on the Federal Government to “rise up to its responsibility of safeguarding the life of every citizen.”

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Rivers Crisis: Tinubu Meets With Governor Fubara In London

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Dailygazettenig
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President Bola Tinubu has held a pivotal meeting in London with the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara.

The encounter was reportedly initiated by Fubara himself, who assumed office in May 2023.

Although the specifics of their discussion remain under wraps, insiders revealed it marked the first direct interaction between both men since Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18.

That move, executed under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, saw Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, ousted from office and Navy Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas appointed as sole administrator.

In his national broadcast on the day of the declaration, Tinubu justified the action, citing “months of intense political instability” that had “paralysed governance” and “threatened national stability.”

At the time of filing this report, DAILY GAZETTE could not confirm the full details of the London meeting, as several presidential aides contacted said they were not privy to the President’s latest overseas engagements.

Nevertheless, officials familiar with the matter disclosed that the President agreed to the meeting in a bid to calm the rising tensions in the oil-rich state.

According to one source, the two leaders discussed efforts at “restoring a functional government” in Rivers.

Though neither party has made public statements regarding the outcome, presidential aides, speaking anonymously, revealed that one of the key points of the meeting was “the possibility of Fubara returning to office before the end of his six-month suspension.”

President Tinubu, who had been away since April 2, first in Paris, then in London, returned to Abuja on Monday night, concluding an 18-day trip.

Meanwhile, political observers have noted the absence of Fubara’s estranged mentor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, from the talks.

Sources close to the matter say Wike was “reportedly uneasy” that such high-level deliberations occurred without his input.

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It’s Time For Africa To Produce Next Pope – Monarch Speaks As Nine Cardinals Emerge Front-Runners

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Dailygazettenig
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As the Catholic Church prepares for a historic transition following the death of Pope Francis, the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN), has joined the growing calls for the next pope to come from Africa.

In a statement on Tuesday, the prominent Delta State monarch emphasized the need for inclusivity and representation in the Church’s leadership.

“The time is ripe for Africa to produce the Pope,” he declared, noting that the continent has never had a representative ascend to the papacy in the Church’s nearly 2,000-year history.

The monarch highlighted a list of potential African candidates including Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana, Cardinal Robert Sarah of Guinea, and Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Besungu, he pointed out, is a current member of the late Pope Francis’s Council of Cardinals and President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM).

The cardinal had earlier, in January 2024, signed a letter opposing the Vatican’s controversial allowance for priests to perform non-liturgical blessings of same-sex unions.

The Asagba, a Knight of Saint John (KSJ) and Knight of Saint Gregory the Great (KSG), argued that Africa has become “the bedrock of Catholicism and by extension Christianity the world over” and that this growing significance must now be reflected at the highest levels of Church leadership.

He said, “The late Pope Francis championed inclusivity in the Church and the time has come to practicalise it by giving Africa a chance.”

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the papal conclave, which will begin between 15 and 20 days after Pope Francis’s passing.

Cardinals under the age of 80 will gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect a new pontiff.

Among the top candidates are Jean-Marc Aveline (France), Peter Erdo (Hungary), Pietro Parolin and Matteo Zuppi (Italy), Marc Ouellet (Canada), Luis Tagle (Philippines), Mario Grech (Malta), and Joseph Tobin (United States), alongside the African contenders.

A two-thirds majority is required to elect the new pope.

As tradition dictates, black smoke from the Sistine Chapel signals a failed vote, while white smoke announces the election of a new pontiff.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died at age 88 on Easter Monday.

He was elected in 2013 following the resignation of Benedict XVI, making history as the first Latin American pope and the first Jesuit to hold the office.

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Procession With Pope Francis’ Coffin Begins Towards Saint Peter’s Basilica

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Dailygazettenig
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A solemn and deeply symbolic procession unfolded on Wednesday morning as the coffin of Pope Francis was carried from the Casa Santa Marta to Saint Peter’s Basilica, marking a key moment in the final farewell to the beloved pontiff.

To the mournful tolling of St. Peter’s bells, eight Swiss Guards dressed in ceremonial attire accompanied the wooden coffin, which was borne on the shoulders of pallbearers.

The coffin had remained open during the brief rites inside the chapel, where Francis had lived humbly until his death on Monday at the age of 88.

The procession drew tens of thousands of faithful and mourners, who packed St. Peter’s Square to witness the historic moment.

A long line of clergy in choir dress and cassocks walked in reverence behind the coffin, with many priests holding candles and groups of nuns joining in prayer.

Red-robed cardinals, dignitaries, and members of the Roman Curia added to the gravity of the scene, forming a ceremonial escort for the late pope.

The air was filled with silence, broken only by prayers and the distant chimes of the basilica’s bells.

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope and a global icon of humility and reform, passed away after suffering a stroke, slipping into a coma, and eventually succumbing to heart failure.

His funeral, scheduled for Saturday, is expected to be one of the largest gatherings of world leaders and religious figures in recent history, as the world prepares to bid farewell to a pontiff who reshaped the image of the Catholic Church in the 21st century.

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End Of The Road For Simon Ekpa As Finnish Court Orders His Extradition To Nigeria

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Dailygazettenig
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In a significant legal and diplomatic breakthrough, a Finnish court has approved the extradition of Simon Ekpa, a Finnish-Nigerian national and self-proclaimed leader of a separatist group, to Nigeria.

The ruling, delivered by the Päijät-Häme District Court in Lahti on April 18, 2025, paves the way for Ekpa’s transfer to Nigerian authorities on July 15, 2025.

Ekpa has drawn international attention for his role in stoking unrest in Nigeria’s southeast, where his group—commonly referred to as “Autopilot”—has been linked to a wave of violence, including enforced sit-at-home orders, kidnappings, and targeted killings.

Finnish investigators say his broadcasts from abroad helped incite several attacks on civilians and security personnel in Nigeria.

Although often described as a factional leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the organization has firmly distanced itself from Ekpa.

IPOB has consistently maintained that it operates as a non-violent movement and does not recognize any internal factions.

“Simon Ekpa is not part of IPOB. He leads a rogue group of armed criminals under a fake banner. Associating him with us is misinformation,” an IPOB spokesperson told reporters.

Ekpa was arrested in Lahti in November 2024, following a detailed investigation by Finnish security agencies.

Authorities in Finland charged him with incitement to violence and involvement in coordinated criminal activity from abroad.

Four other individuals were also detained in connection with aiding and financing his operations.

Nigerian officials have been pushing for Ekpa’s extradition since 2023, citing multiple charges including terrorism, conspiracy, and incitement.

According to a top official at Nigeria’s Ministry of Defence, “This is a clear signal that there will be consequences for destabilizing Nigeria, even from afar.”

The decision to extradite Ekpa marks a rare instance of Finland agreeing to hand over a citizen outside the European Union.

Officials said the process adhered to international legal frameworks, including the Rome Statute, which both Nigeria and Finland have ratified.

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