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Post-Election Violence Anticipated In U.S As Washington State Activates National Guard

Governor Jay Inslee of Washington State has placed members of the National Guard on standby in preparation for potential election-related unrest.

This precautionary measure was announced in a statement from his office on Friday.

Earlier in the week, a ballot drop box for early voting was set ablaze in Vancouver, Washington, using incendiary devices, resulting in the destruction of hundreds of ballots.

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A similar incident was reported in Portland, Oregon, around the same time.

Inslee’s decision to activate the National Guard comes in response to these incidents and recent warnings from the U.S Department of Homeland Security regarding threats to election infrastructure.

The National Guard, which operates under both state and federal authority, is often deployed during emergencies, including natural disasters.

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In this instance, the Guard will remain on standby for four days, starting Monday and concluding just after midnight on Thursday.

While Election Day is set for Tuesday, a significant number of early votes have already been cast, with tens of millions participating.

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BREAKING: Labour Party Loses Out As ZLP, YPP Wins Abia LG Election

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The Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) has won 15 out of the 17 Local Government Areas in Abia State during Saturday’s council election.

The Young Progressives Party (YPP) won the remaining two LGAs.

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Results were announced by Prof. George Chima, Chairman of the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission, at the commission’s headquarters in Umuahia on Saturday.

He stated, “We have fulfilled the duty we were inaugurated on September 5 to carry out. It wasn’t an easy task, but we went above and beyond to raise awareness about the election across the state.”

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Chima highlighted the election’s significance, noting, “In recent times, this commission has not conducted an election with over 12 political parties participating. This, in itself, is a milestone for the commission.” He confirmed that the election was held across all 17 LGAs and described it as “free, fair, and credible.”

He added, “We have been able to complete a task that could typically take six to twelve months within a span of two months.” Chima congratulated both the winners and the opposition, stressing the importance of maintaining peace in Abia: “In any election, there are winners and losers, but the most important thing is that Abia remains peaceful. I urge everyone to uphold this peace.”

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The chairman also expressed gratitude to security agencies for their support and commended political parties for “playing by the rules.”

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LG Chairman Who Succeeded Late Predecessor Dies In Office

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Hon. Oladotun Olakanle, the Chairman of Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos State, has died at the age of 54.

Known affectionately as Tant’olorun, Olakanle’s passing comes four years after his predecessor, Babatunde Oke, died while in office in August 2020.

Late Olakanle

Olakanle, who served as Vice Chairman before assuming the top position, was sworn in by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu after being elected for a three-year term in 2021.

He was among the 57 chairmen inaugurated by Sanwo-Olu following a successful election for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Reports indicate that Olakanle passed away on Saturday after a brief illness.

Governor Sanwo-Olu Mourns

In a condolence message, Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed his deep sorrow over Olakanle’s death, describing it as a significant loss to the Onigbongbo LCDA, the APC, and the state of Lagos.

He characterized Olakanle as a dedicated party member and committed public servant with a profound understanding of local governance.

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“On behalf of my family and the government of Lagos State, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the residents of Onigbongbo LCDA on the passing of Hon. Oladotun Olakanle. His death is a personal loss to me and a painful blow to both his council and Lagos State,” Sanwo-Olu stated.

The governor lauded Olakanle for his dedication to the community, noting his impactful contributions during his tenure.

“He was a loyal politician and an invaluable asset to the APC, and his absence will be felt throughout the political landscape, particularly in Onigbongbo LCDA,” he added.

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Sanwo-Olu also highlighted Olakanle’s commitment to the progress of his council and praised his administration’s achievements over the past four years.

He concluded with a prayer for Olakanle’s soul to rest in peace and for comfort for his family and the community.

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Abia LG Poll: Gov Otti Lauds Peaceful Exercise, Expresses Satisfaction With Conduct

Dr. Alex Otti, the Governor of Abia State, participated in today’s Local Government elections, casting his vote at Polling Unit 17, Ward 5 in Isiala Ngwa South, alongside his wife, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, around 12:45 p.m.

Following his voting, Governor Otti expressed his satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the election, stating that reports indicated a largely peaceful process across the state’s 4,062 polling units.

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He acknowledged minor disturbances in Ohafia and Obingwa Local Government Areas, which security forces quickly addressed.

Emphasizing the importance of effective local governance, Otti urged voters to prioritize selecting credible candidates who can drive progress, irrespective of their political affiliations.

He stated, “To continue enjoying the benefits of democracy and good governance, it’s essential to focus on candidates’ integrity rather than their party.”

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3 Days to Go: Harris, Trump Campaign In Key Battleground States

With just three days remaining until Election Day, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are intensifying their efforts to reach voters in critical battleground states.

Both candidates are campaigning in North Carolina today, with Harris also scheduled to visit Georgia, while Trump has a rally planned in Virginia.

Recent state polling indicates a tight race in traditionally Democratic strongholds, showing Harris with a slight advantage in Michigan and Wisconsin, and a dead heat in Pennsylvania.

Overall, the candidates remain closely matched in national polling.

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#EndBadGovernance: Fainting In Court Was Stagged By Minor Protesters – Police

The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has characterized the fainting of several minor suspects at the Federal High Court in Abuja as “deliberate and scripted.”

The minors were arraigned on Friday for their alleged involvement in the August 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests.

A total of 75 suspects, aged between 12 and 15, faced multiple charges, including terrorism and attempts to overthrow the government.

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These minors were reportedly arrested on August 3 and have been in detention since then.

The police’s statement, issued by Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumiyowa Adejobi on behalf of Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, responded to public outcry following the fainting incident.

During the court proceedings, six minors collapsed, which drew significant media attention. The NPF claimed this was a planned effort to attract negative publicity.

“The unexpected incident saw six of the suspects suddenly rush out and faint, drawing media attention in a deliberate and scripted manner,” the statement read.

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The NPF reiterated that the suspects were charged with serious offenses, including terrorism and treason, related to the protests, which involved allegations of public property destruction and threats to national security.

The police emphasized their adherence to legal standards during the detention and arraignment processes.

The statement also noted that medical assistance was provided promptly to the fainted suspects, asserting the police’s commitment to the welfare of those in their custody.

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The NPF emphasized that while they uphold justice, they also respect the rights of young individuals, acknowledging that individuals of criminal responsibility may face legal consequences regardless of their age.

Justice Obiora Egwuatu later granted bail to 67 of the minors, with each required to secure bail for N10 million.

Those under 15 years must present a civil servant as surety.

The minors face ten counts of treason and conspiracy, which violate Section 96 and are punishable under Section 97 of the Penal Code Act.

The court proceedings revealed that some of the minors appeared malnourished, with four needing urgent medical assistance during the hearing.

The arrested individuals were taken into custody in various locations, including Abuja, Kaduna, Gombe, Jos, Katsina, and Kano, facing serious accusations of treason among other charges.

The extensive list of suspects includes various ages, highlighting the involvement of many young individuals in the protests.

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The NPF has called for the public to remain unbiased in their views regarding the case, as they strive for a transparent legal process while aligning with best practices and upholding human rights.

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#EndBadGovernance: Arraignment Of Minors Shocking – Kwankwaso

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Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Governor of Kano State and presidential candidate for the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has voiced his discontent regarding the bail conditions imposed on minors arrested during the #EndBadGovernance protests.

Kwankwaso described the arraignment of 67 minors by the Nigeria Police Force in Abuja as highly unusual, stating that it violates fundamental human rights and undermines the dignity of these young individuals.

In a statement on his X account, he highlighted the alarming malnourishment of the minors and their urgent need for medical care.

“I am shocked by the arraignment of 67 minors for alleged participation in the End Bad Governance protests. These children, who are obviously malnourished and in need of medical attention, have faced a cruel experience when they should be in school,” he said.

Kwankwaso criticized the stringent bail conditions, which require exorbitant sums for release, noting it is absurd to demand 10 million Naira from a teenager and a similar amount from a civil servant.

 

He referenced the Child’s Rights Act of 2003, which safeguards children from physical, mental, and emotional harm, asserting that the government should prioritize the protection of vulnerable populations.

Furthermore, he urged the Federal Government to redirect its focus toward pressing issues like banditry, kidnapping, Boko Haram, erratic electricity supply, and harsh economic policies, rather than incarcerating children.

 

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Voting Ongoing In Abia Local Government Elections

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Voters in Abia State are currently casting their ballots in today’s local government elections to elect chairpersons for the state’s 17 Local Government Areas and 184 councillorship positions.

DAILY GAZETTE correspondent monitoring the exercise reports that there is a high voter turnout at the polling units visited.

The Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC) held a stakeholders’ meeting on September 21, where representatives from 18 political parties discussed the electoral process.

DAILY GAZETTE recall that the All Progressives Congress (APC) had on September, announced its withdrawal from the elections.

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The Abia State Government imposed a restriction on movement starting at midnight on Friday, which will last until 4:00 PM today.

Okey Kanu, the state’s commissioner for Information, emphasized that only those engaged in essential services would be allowed to move freely, provided they present valid identification.

ABSIEC officials have urged voters to maintain peace and order during the voting period.

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Tinubu Rejects Advice To Withdraw Controversial Tax Reform Bills

 

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President Bola Tinubu has opposed the National Economic Council’s (NEC) recommendation to withdraw tax reform bills that have sparked significant controversy.

During the 144th NEC meeting led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the council advised pulling the bills, which have faced strong criticism, particularly from governors of the 19 northern states.

The governors, who convened in Kaduna, expressed their disapproval of the Nigeria Tax Reform Bill, claiming it conflicts with the interests of northern states.

They specifically objected to proposed changes in the distribution of Value Added Tax (VAT).

On September 3, Tinubu submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly while on vacation in London.

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These bills include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, aimed at establishing a comprehensive fiscal framework; the Tax Administration Bill, designed to clarify legal tax frameworks and minimize disputes; the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, which seeks to replace the Federal Inland Revenue Service; and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill, which would create a tax tribunal and ombudsman.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu acknowledged the NEC’s recommendation but emphasized the importance of allowing the legislative process to continue.

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He stated, “While I commend the NEC for their advice, I believe that the ongoing legislative process offers a valuable opportunity for input and necessary adjustments without withdrawing the bills.”

Tinubu expressed his openness to further consultations with stakeholders to address concerns about the bills as they progress through the National Assembly.

He noted that public hearings would provide additional avenues for input.

The President highlighted that the tax reform initiatives stem from extensive consultations conducted by the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy Reform, established in August 2023.

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The committee engaged various sectors, including trade associations, professional bodies, and state governors, to inform the proposed reforms.

According to Tinubu, the tax reform bills aim to modernize Nigeria’s tax administration, overhaul existing processes, and align them with global best practices, ultimately enhancing the business environment and economic productivity.

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Latest Polls Signal Positive Outlook For Harris

Veteran pollster, Nate Silver expressed optimism for Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign following the release of a recent Marist poll, just days before the election. Silver, founder of ABC’s 538, highlighted the significance of Harris’s leads in key “blue wall” states—Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin—that flipped back to President Biden after supporting Trump in 2016.

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On social media platform X, Silver remarked that the polling data indicates the race remains competitive.

He noted, “Reassuring polls for Harris in the sense that the race is likely to remain toss-up-ish,” while cautioning that the final NYT/Siena state polls could still shift the landscape.

The Marist poll shows Harris leading Trump by 3 points in Michigan and 2 points in both Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, a positive change from earlier September figures.

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In his Silver Bulletin on Substack, Silver suggested that Harris has a slight edge in these critical swing states, with his polling index indicating a national lead of 1.1 points over Trump.

Specifically, he found Harris ahead in Michigan by 1.2 points and Wisconsin by 0.8 points. “Let’s cut to the chase: So, who’s gonna win the election? Well, honestly, we don’t know,” he stated, acknowledging the unpredictability of the race.

As Election Day approaches, The Hill/Decision Desk HQ’s polling index reflects a tight national contest, with Harris at 48.2 percent and Trump at 47.9 percent.

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