Renowned Evangelist Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai Passes Away At 80

Renowned Nigerian evangelist and spiritual leader Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, has died at the age of 80. His family confirmed on Monday that he passed away on October 6, 2025, describing his death as a “glorious transition” from a life dedicated to God’s service to eternal rest. Ukpai, widely respected as a spiritual general and a pioneer of faith in Nigeria, devoted over six decades to evangelism, biblical teaching, and prophetic ministry. His work impacted millions of people in Nigeria and across the world, shaping spiritual growth and inspiring generations of believers. “He was a faithful soldier of the cross who dedicated his life to spreading the gospel with passion and integrity. His teachings, prophetic insights, and mentorship have left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire believers for years to come,” his family said. Known for his vibrant evangelistic campaigns, transformative teachings, and dedication to equipping both clergy and lay leaders, Ukpai was also celebrated as a devoted husband, loving father, and mentor to countless individuals who sought guidance from him. The family expressed gratitude for his life and ministry, noting that while they mourn his passing, they rejoice that he “finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise.” Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course. Over his sixty-year ministry, Ukpai established a lasting spiritual and social legacy through churches, educational programs, and humanitarian initiatives that continue to benefit communities worldwide. His life, his family said, reflected the biblical truth: “To live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21).  

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Dino Melaye Slams Tinubu Over Presidential Pardons, Alleges 70 Were Drug Convicts

Former Senator Dino Melaye has criticized President Bola Tinubu over his recent presidential clemency, claiming that a large number of those pardoned were convicted for drug-related crimes. In a post on X on Sunday, Melaye alleged that about 70 of the 175 individuals granted clemency were drug offenders, calling the move “unprecedented in history.” He argued that no other government had ever issued such a wide-scale pardon to convicted drug criminals. “Pardon granted to 70 drug lords by President Tinubu is unprecedented in history. Checks show it has never happened anywhere in the world. My advice to the President is to scrap the NDLEA, as his action has rendered the agency’s efforts meaningless since its inception,” Melaye wrote. Among the 175 individuals granted clemency were notable figures such as the late environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, nationalist Herbert Macaulay, Major General Mamman Vatsa, and Maryam Sanda, who had been sentenced to death for murdering her husband.  

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Akpabio Says Hunger Among His People Drove Him Into Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria – President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, has revealed that hunger and poverty among his people motivated him to join politics, with the goal of transforming their living conditions and changing public perception of Akwa Ibom indigenes. Akpabio made the statement during a youth-focused programme titled “Uncommon Evening with Akpabio”, organized by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Wing in Abuja on October 10. Addressing a large audience of Nigerian youths, Akpabio recounted how the socio-economic conditions of his people once pushed many into menial jobs across the country, where they were often employed as security guards and domestic workers—popularly referred to as Ekaete or Akpan. The Senate President said this experience spurred his passion for leadership and inspired his political journey aimed at rewriting the narrative of Akwa Ibom State. “My people were known mainly as security men and housemaids. That reality pained me deeply, and I resolved to change it through leadership and development,” Akpabio said. He highlighted the remarkable transformation of Akwa Ibom State during his tenure as governor from 2007 to 2015, noting achievements in infrastructure, human capital development, and tourism, which have turned the state into a “tourist haven with a thriving economy.” Akpabio also referenced a viral video by media personality Daddy Freeze, where a young man testified to receiving $85,000 from him years ago—a gesture that reportedly changed the man’s life. Encouraging Nigerian youths not to lose faith in the country, Akpabio urged them to remain resilient and committed to building a better nation. Currently serving as the 15th President of the Nigerian Senate, Akpabio previously held office as a two-term governor (2007–2015), Senator (2015), and Minister (2019) before his election to lead the upper legislative chamber in 2023.

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Evans Re-Arraigned In Lagos Over Alleged Murder Of Two Police Officers

Convicted billionaire kidnapper Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, popularly known as Evans, was re-arraigned on Monday before the Lagos High Court in Ikeja over the alleged murder of two police officers. Evans appeared alongside his co-defendant, Joseph Emeka, facing a five-count charge including murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit kidnapping. Both defendants pleaded not guilty when the charges were read before Justice A.O. Ogala. Evans, infamous for his high-profile kidnapping operations, is currently facing five separate criminal cases involving kidnapping and murder, with two prior convictions already recorded against him. The re-arraignment comes shortly after President Bola Tinubu granted clemency to several convicted criminals nationwide.  

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Prominent Activist Abiodun Aremu Killed In Suspected Hit-and-Run In Ogun State

Prominent Nigerian activist Abiodun Aremu was tragically killed on Sunday, October 12, 2025, after being struck by a vehicle in a suspected hit-and-run incident near his home in Ota, Ogun State. He was 65 years old. Aremu, Secretary of the Joint Action Front (JAF) and a leading figure in Nigeria’s labour movement, was reportedly crossing the road when the accident occurred. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where medical staff tried to resuscitate him, but he was later pronounced dead. The circumstances surrounding the incident have sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s labour and civil society communities, where Aremu was widely respected for his advocacy for workers’ rights and social justice. In the wake of his death, the Nigeria Labour Movement and Aremu’s family have agreed to postpone his burial to Thursday, October 23, 2025, to allow for proper mobilisation and a fitting farewell. The burial will take place at Number 30, Kabiru Fatoye Street, opposite Alaka Field, Ijako Sugar Bus Stop, Lagos–Abeokuta Expressway. Aremu’s passing is being mourned as a major loss to Nigeria’s activism and labour sectors, leaving a lasting void in the fight for social justice.  

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CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso To Lead Nigeria At 2025 World Bank And IMF Meetings

Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, will head Nigeria’s delegation to the 2025 World Bank and IMF Annual Meetings in Washington D.C., beginning October 13. Cardoso, who also serves as Nigeria’s alternate governor at the Bretton Woods institutions, will step in for Finance Minister Wale Edun, who is currently unavailable. The announcement was made in a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga on Sunday in Abuja. The delegation will also include Minister of State for Finance Doris Uzoka-Anite and other senior government officials. The World Bank’s Development Committee Plenary is scheduled for October 16, followed by the IMF’s International Monetary and Financial Committee meeting on October 17. The meetings will also feature regional briefings, press conferences, and policy forums covering global development, financial markets, and the world economy.  

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Wale Edun Recovering In Abuja, Presidency Denies Stroke And Replacement Reports

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, is recovering at his Abuja residence after falling ill, with the Presidency debunking claims that he suffered a stroke or had been flown abroad for treatment. Presidency sources told The PUNCH on Sunday that although the minister’s illness is somewhat serious, he remains under medical supervision in Nigeria and continues to recuperate at home. A senior official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, clarified that there is no plan by President Bola Tinubu to replace Edun. “Yes, he’s indisposed. He’s sick, which is a bit serious, but it’s not a stroke. As I’m talking to you, he’s in his house. He has not been flown anywhere. Of course, he might seek medical attention elsewhere if doctors say it’s necessary,” the source said. Another top official confirmed that Edun is being treated by Nigerian doctors, noting that any decision to seek further care abroad would depend on medical advice. “He’s being attended to by Nigerian doctors. They’re still monitoring him. If he needs medical care outside Nigeria, he will go. But he’s still at home. There are no plans to replace him,” the source stated. The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, also confirmed Edun’s condition, saying, “Yes, he’s indisposed. Wale Edun is about 69 years old. He suddenly fell ill. As we are talking, he is in Nigeria. He is recuperating. He’s around.” His comments followed reports by The Whistler alleging that President Tinubu was considering replacing the minister following news of his ill health. Earlier, the Presidency announced that Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, would lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 2024 World Bank and International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., on behalf of the minister. The meetings are scheduled to commence on Monday, October 14. Appointed on August 28, 2023, Edun has been a central figure in Tinubu’s economic reform drive, championing efforts to stabilise the naira, reduce inflation, and attract foreign investment. He previously served as Lagos State Commissioner for Finance under Tinubu’s administration between 1999 and 2004. As of the time of this report, the Ministry of Finance had yet to issue an official statement regarding his health.

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Tinubu Hails Son Seyi On 40th Birthday, Lauds His Courage And Dedication To Service

President Bola Tinubu has honored his son, Seyi Tinubu, as he marked his 40th birthday, describing him as a man who has turned life’s challenges into stepping stones and shown leadership from an early age. In a warm message on Saturday, Tinubu praised Seyi’s determination, creativity, and dedication to service, noting that his journey reflects focus, courage, and humility. “My dear son, today, as you turn forty, I thank Almighty God for your life and the man you have become. You have walked your path with focus, courage, and humility, and you have done so with a heart that seeks to build, serve, and uplift others.” The President commended Seyi’s entrepreneurial spirit and resilience, highlighting his ability to transform ideas into lasting ventures and setbacks into opportunities for growth. “From an early age, you have shown determination and a desire to create and lead. I have watched you turn ideas into institutions and challenges into opportunities. In business and in service, you have shown that true success is not measured by wealth or power but by the impact we make and the lives we touch.” Tinubu described 40 as a defining age that balances youthful drive with mature wisdom, commending Seyi for carrying the family name with pride and upholding the values of discipline, integrity, and hard work. “We are proud of the family you are building with Layal, your devotion as a husband and father, and your commitment to making a difference in your generation.” Concluding his message, the President prayed for continued divine guidance and blessings upon his son. “As you celebrate this milestone, remember that your strength lies in what you achieve and how you inspire others to believe in themselves. May God bless you with wisdom, good health, and peace. Happy 40th Birthday, my son. You have made us proud, and I know you will continue to make Nigeria proud.”  

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