2025 | Page 30 of 263 | Trendbrio.com

INEC Partners with Kebbi State Ministry of Information to Boost Voter Registration Awareness

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Kebbi State is seeking greater collaboration with the State Ministry of Information to enhance public awareness and participation in the ongoing voter registration exercise. Resident Electoral Commissioner, Abubakar Sarkin Pawa Dambo, made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Yakubu Ahmed, in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday. Dambo emphasized that INEC had commenced a continuous voter registration process, beginning with the online phase. He noted that individuals who have lost or damaged their voter cards, changed residential locations, or relocated to another state can now update their information online, as their previous records are already in the commission’s system. In response, Commissioner Yakubu Ahmed reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting INEC’s efforts. He stated that the Ministry has a duty to work in tandem with the electoral body to ensure widespread awareness and participation in the exercise. Ahmed further revealed that the Kebbi State Governor has directed all Commissioners to return to their local government areas to mobilize communities for the voter registration campaign. In line with this directive, both state-owned and private broadcast media have been instructed—through their General Managers—to allocate airtime for INEC’s public enlightenment initiatives. The collaboration is expected to significantly boost voter registration turnout ahead of upcoming electoral exercises.

Abuja–Kaduna Train Derails Near Asham, Passengers Evacuated Safely

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago01 mins

A passenger train traveling from Abuja to Kaduna derailed on Tuesday morning, prompting panic among commuters as several coaches went off the track near Asham along the rail corridor. The train, which departed the Nigerian capital at approximately 9:45 AM, encountered the derailment en route, forcing passengers to evacuate in a hurry. Eyewitnesses report scenes of confusion as travelers scrambled to safety from the affected coaches. As of the time of filing this report, no casualties have been confirmed. The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. The cause of the derailment remains unknown, but authorities are expected to launch a formal investigation into the incident. This is a developing story.

Everton 2-0 Brighton: Jack Grealish stars at Hill Dickinson Stadium as Toffees win in new stadium opener

Everton 2-0 Brighton: Grealish Stars as Toffees Celebrate New Era at Hill Dickinson Stadium

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago05 mins

Jack Grealish delivered a statement performance on his home debut for Everton, assisting both goals in a 2-0 victory over Brighton as the Toffees marked their first Premier League match at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in style. Goals from Iliman Ndiaye and James Garner, combined with a late penalty save from Jordan Pickford, ensured a perfect start to life at their new riverside home and got David Moyes’ side off the mark for the new campaign. Grealish the Architect After a disappointing loss to Leeds on the opening weekend, Everton bounced back emphatically — thanks in large part to summer signing Jack Grealish, who registered two assists and was named Player of the Match. Grealish’s first moment of magic came in the 24th minute, weaving past his marker before delivering a precise low cross that Ndiaye converted with confidence. It was Ndiaye’s second landmark goal in as many matches, having scored the final goal at Goodison Park. In the 52nd minute, Grealish played a key role again, setting up James Garner, who rifled home a thunderous strike from 20 yards to double the lead. “It was positive for the manager as well,” Moyes said post-match. “Jack gave us something different — composure, creativity, and ball retention. He carried the ball really well and was decisive in the final third.” Brighton Waste Chances, Welbeck Misses Penalty Brighton had their opportunities — and plenty of them. Kaoru Mitoma struck the crossbar early on, while Danny Welbeck missed from close range and later squandered a chance to bring his side back into the game from the penalty spot. Matt O’Riley also saw an effort saved after intercepting a poor back-pass from James Tarkowski, and Jan Paul van Hecke struck the post in a chaotic first half for the visitors. The penalty — awarded after Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was penalised for handball — was poorly taken by Welbeck, with Pickford guessing correctly and saving comfortably. Special Day at the Hill Dickinson Stadium The occasion was about more than just three points. With fans exploring Everton Way and posing with commemorative granite stones, the stadium — framed by stone walls and dockside views — offered a sense of history and hope. Architect Dan Meis had called for the new home to become “a bear pit”. Judging by the atmosphere, it’s well on its way. “The crowd gave us everything today,” said Moyes. “To have that backing from the first whistle in a new home — it means a lot.” Player Ratings Everton: Pickford (7), O’Brien (6), Tarkowski (5), Keane (6), Garner (7), Gueye (6), Iroegbunam (7), Dewsbury-Hall (6), Ndiaye (7), Grealish (8), Barry (6).Subs: Beto (6), Alcaraz (6), McNeil (5), Armstrong (N/A). Brighton: Verbruggen (5), Wieffer (6), Van Hecke (6), Dunk (6), De Cuyper (5), Baleba (5), Ayari (6), O’Riley (6), Minteh (7), Mitoma (7), Welbeck (5).Subs: Hinshelwood (6), Kadioglu (6), Gomez (6), Gruda (N/A).

Fulham 1-1 Manchester United: Bruno Fernandes Misses Penalty Before Emile Smith Rowe Cancels Out Controversial Opener

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Bruno Fernandes missed a crucial first-half penalty as Manchester United were held to a 1-1 draw at Fulham, with Emile Smith Rowe’s second-half equaliser cancelling out a contentious own goal that initially put the visitors ahead. United, under early pressure after a season-opening defeat to Arsenal, looked set to claim their first Premier League win of the season after Rodrigo Muniz inadvertently turned the ball into his own net just before the hour mark. But the goal sparked controversy, with United defender Leny Yoro appearing to push Fulham centre-back Calvin Bassey in the back as he rose for the header that deflected in off Muniz. “He is lucky to get away with that,” said Sky Sports’ Gary Neville on co-commentary, while Bassey told the broadcaster: “When the ref looks back on it, he will be disappointed.” Penalty Miss Adds to United’s Frustrations The drama had begun earlier in the first half when referee Chris Kavanagh, following a VAR review by Darren England, awarded United a penalty after Calvin Bassey was penalised for fouling Mason Mount at a corner. However, in the same phase of play, Luke Shaw was also seen bundling over Muniz — an incident that went unpunished. As Fernandes stepped up to take the spot kick, he was inadvertently bumped by Kavanagh, disrupting his preparation. The United captain proceeded to blaze the penalty over the bar, aiming for the top left corner. “It upset me because the referee didn’t apologise,” Fernandes said post-match. “That’s what triggered me in that moment, but that’s not an excuse for missing the penalty.” Smith Rowe Salvages Point for Fulham Fulham grew into the game after falling behind and were rewarded for their persistence when Emile Smith Rowe, recently signed from Arsenal, coolly slotted home an equaliser in the 76th minute after a flowing move down the left flank. The result leaves Manchester United winless in their opening two Premier League fixtures, with pressure beginning to mount on new head coach Ruben Amorim. Match Stats What’s Next?

Khamenei: Iran Will Resist US Demands for Obedience Amid Renewed Nuclear Talks

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Tehran, Iran – Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has declared that the Islamic Republic will not yield to what he described as United States demands for submission, vowing that the Iranian people will resist any such “insult.” Speaking at a religious ceremony in Tehran on Sunday, Khamenei accused Washington of seeking to subjugate Iran, even as the country prepares to re-enter negotiations with European powers over its nuclear programme. “They want Iran to be obedient to America. The Iranian nation will stand with all of its power against those who have such erroneous expectations,” Khamenei said, according to state media. His remarks come just days after Iran agreed with France, Britain, and Germany to resume nuclear talks. The European nations have warned that they may invoke the United Nations “snapback” sanctions mechanism if Iran fails to comply with previous agreements. Talks are expected to commence on Tuesday. A Defiant Tone Ahead of Talks While negotiations are being reinitiated, Khamenei signaled deep skepticism over direct engagement with the US. “People who ask us not to issue slogans against the US … to have direct negotiations with the US only see appearances. This issue is unsolvable,” he said. Tensions between Iran and the West remain high, especially following a 12-day conflict in June during which US and Israeli forces reportedly bombed several Iranian nuclear facilities. In response, Tehran suspended nuclear discussions with Washington. Call for Unity Against Foreign Pressure Khamenei warned that Western efforts to pressure Iran would include attempts to divide the country internally. “The way forward for the enemy is to create discord,” he said, accusing “agents of America and the Zionist regime” — referring to Israel — of seeking to sow division within Iran. He called on Iranians to remain united in the face of external threats. Background on Iran’s Nuclear Standoff Iran has consistently denied Western accusations that it seeks to develop nuclear weapons, insisting its nuclear programme is strictly for peaceful, civilian purposes. The renewed diplomatic efforts follow the collapse of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), a landmark deal under which Iran agreed to scale back its nuclear activities in return for international sanctions relief. The deal unraveled after the United States unilaterally withdrew from the agreement in 2018 under former President Donald Trump. While European nations have since attempted to salvage the deal, Tehran has ramped up its uranium enrichment activities, prompting concerns over proliferation and renewed calls for diplomatic resolution. As talks resume, Iran’s leadership appears intent on signaling strength and independence — rejecting what it sees as Western coercion while reiterating its commitment to national sovereignty.

Israeli military targets Yemen’s Sanaa after Houthi attacks

Israeli Military Strikes Yemen’s Capital Sanaa Following Houthi Missile Attacks

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Sanaa, Yemen – The Israeli military has carried out air raids on Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, in what it says is retaliation for recent missile and drone attacks launched by the Houthi movement. The strikes mark a significant escalation in the widening regional fallout from Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza. According to Israeli and Yemeni sources, the air strikes early Sunday targeted multiple sites, including an oil facility, a power plant, and what Israel described as a “military complex” housing a presidential palace. The Houthi-affiliated Al Masirah TV confirmed the attacks and reported at least two fatalities and 35 injuries. Video footage verified by Al Jazeera showed plumes of fire and thick smoke rising over the Yemeni capital shortly after the strikes. “The attacks were carried out in response to repeated assaults by the Houthi terrorist regime against the State of Israel and its citizens, including the launch of surface-to-surface missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles,” said the Israeli military in a statement. On Friday, the Houthis claimed responsibility for launching missiles toward Israel, describing their operations as part of a broader effort to pressure Israel to end its military campaign and blockade in Gaza. A Houthi military official told Al Masirah that Yemen’s air defenses had “neutralised most of the Israeli enemy aircraft participating in the aggression and forced them to withdraw.” Houthi Defiance Despite the Israeli air raids, Houthi leaders have vowed to continue their military support for the Palestinian cause. “The Israeli aggression against Yemen will not discourage us from continuing our support for Gaza, no matter the sacrifices,” said Houthi official Mohammed al-Bukhaiti. “The issue is settled for us: either eternity in heaven or eternity in hell.” The air strikes on Sanaa mark the first publicly acknowledged Israeli attacks on Yemen since the escalation of hostilities in Gaza began. Regional analysts warn that the expanding theatre of conflict — from Lebanon and Syria to now Yemen — increases the risk of a broader Middle East war. Tensions have been mounting across the region as Israeli military operations in Gaza, which have drawn widespread international condemnation, continue into their 11th month. Protests, diplomatic backlash, and armed responses from non-state actors have intensified, raising fears of a prolonged and destabilising conflict.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Rules Out Igbo Presidential Bid in 2027 Backs Tinubu for Re-Election

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Abakaliki, Nigeria – August 24, 2025 – The apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has declared that no individual of Igbo descent will contest the presidency in the 2027 general elections against incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The group said it is aligning its political strategy toward securing the Nigerian presidency for the Southeast region in 2035. In a statement issued over the weekend and signed by the Deputy President General of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo faction, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and the National Spokesman, Chief Thompson Ohia, the group revealed that the decision followed a high-level meeting with Southeast political stakeholders, including members of the Imeobi and Nzukoumunna caucuses. The group said it had resolved to support President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, describing it as a strategic move to foster national stability and build alliances necessary for a successful Southeast presidential ambition in 2035. “Following extensive consultations and dialogues, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in collaboration with Southeast political leaders, has reached a unanimous and resolute conclusion that no Igbo candidate will contest the 2027 presidency against the incumbent,” the statement read. The organization emphasized that its long-term political calculations rest on a post-Tinubu transition, positing that the most practical path to an Igbo presidency lies within the All Progressives Congress (APC), especially if the party’s zoning arrangement is adjusted in 2035. Among a lineup of respected Igbo political figures, Ohanaeze identified the current Minister of Works and former Governor of Ebonyi State, Senator David Umahi, as the most viable and prepared candidate to lead Nigeria in 2035. “While the Southeast is blessed with numerous capable leaders — including Peter Obi, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Pius Anyim, Governor Hope Uzodinma, Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Rochas Okorocha, and others — Senator David Umahi stands out due to his proven track record, administrative competence, and experience at both state and federal levels,” the group noted. Ohanaeze projected that the Igbo bloc will overwhelmingly support Tinubu in 2027, estimating up to 95% backing from the region. “We hereby affirm our unwavering support for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. This endorsement is a calculated political strategy designed to ensure cooperation and national unity while positioning the Southeast for a successful presidential bid in 2035,” the statement added. The group further stated that it anticipates the North will take its turn in 2031 after Tinubu’s expected second term, thereby making 2035 the next viable window for the Southeast to produce Nigeria’s first president of Igbo extraction. “Our collective ambition to achieve the Igbo presidency in 2035 hinges on sustained political engagement, trust-building, and strategic alliances across Nigeria’s diverse regions,” Ohanaeze concluded. The statement has already sparked debate across the political landscape, with analysts pointing to its implications for Southeast unity, national power dynamics, and the future of opposition politics in the region.

ADC Denounces Fake Resignation Letter Affirms Hon. Nafiu Bala’s Leadership

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Abuja, Nigeria – August 24, 2025 – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed as fake a resignation letter purportedly signed by its Acting National Chairman, Hon. Nafiu Bala, describing it as a fraudulent document fabricated by political actors seeking to destabilise the party. In an official statement released on Sunday by Dr. Christopher Okechukwu, Director of Media and Public Affairs in the Office of the National Chairman, the party stated that the document, dated May 18, 2025, was neither authored nor signed by Hon. Bala and lacks the official insignia of the ADC. Okechukwu clarified that Hon. Nafiu Bala remains the constitutionally recognized Acting National Chairman of the ADC and has not at any time resigned from his position. He accused a faction of disgruntled political elements, led by former National Chairman Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, of orchestrating a scheme to take over the party through “undemocratic means.” “The African Democratic Congress, under the legitimate and constitutionally recognized Acting National Chairman, Hon. Nafiu Bala, categorically denies the existence of any authentic resignation letter. This is a desperate and malicious attempt by Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu and his collaborators to hijack the party’s leadership through illegitimate means,” the statement read. The party emphasised that the circulated document is fraudulent, lacking the necessary party letterhead, emblems, or signatures that would validate its authenticity. According to Okechukwu, those behind the fake letter have also attempted to submit unauthorised documents to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as part of a broader plan to impose unelected leadership on the party. “This coordinated effort to destabilise the ADC includes submitting falsified documents to INEC in violation of our constitution. The party’s leadership transition process is clearly outlined and requires any aspirant to be a registered and financially up-to-date member for at least one year,” he added. The ADC urged INEC to reject all unauthorised communications not sanctioned by the current leadership and to continue recognising Hon. Nafiu Bala as the legitimate Acting National Chairman. The party further called on its members and the general public to disregard false claims about any change in leadership and remain alert to misinformation campaigns aimed at sowing discord within its ranks. “We call on law enforcement agencies to investigate this attempt to undermine our internal democracy and national political stability,” the statement concluded. “The ADC under Hon. Nafiu Bala remains committed to promoting democratic values and strengthening Nigeria’s democratic future.”