Destkelamedia

The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Yushau Dogara Ahmed, has cautioned corps members to avoid sharing orientation camp activities on social media.  During his address to the Batch B Stream I corps members at the NYSC permanent orientation camp in Ede, Osun State, on Friday, General Ahmed emphasized the seriousness of this rule. He noted that violating this directive could lead to severe consequences, including being decamped from the orientation camp. "It is an offence to carry out activities of the camp and post them on social media. The penalty is that such corps members will be decamped," Ahmed stated. He further urged the corps members to respect the opinions, cultures, values, and norms of the communities where they are deployed. In addition, General Ahmed advised against seeking redeployment or relocation, encouraging corps members to remain at their initial postings and make a positive impact in their assigned communities.

  In a significant political development, Rishi Sunak has announced his resignation as the leader of the Conservative Party after a major electoral setback to the Labour Party. This announcement was made during a speech at Downing Street, closely monitored by SaharaReporters on Friday morning. The United Kingdom's outgoing Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, addressed the nation in the wake of his party's poor performance in the recently concluded nationwide elections held on Thursday.  In his resignation speech, Sunak expressed his deep regret over the election results. "I would surely be seeing the Majesty to offer my resignation as prime minister. To the country, I would like to say first and foremost, I am sorry," he stated.  Sunak acknowledged the clear message sent by the electorate demanding a change in the government. "I have given this job my all. But you have sent a clear signal that the government of the United Kingdom must change and yours is the only judgem

Kier Starmer  Peter Obi In a historic turn of events, Keir Starmer, the Labour Party candidate in the United Kingdom, emerged victorious in Thursday's general election, ending a 14-year tenure of Conservative governance under Rishi Sunak. The win marks a significant shift in British politics, ushering in new leadership with hopes for transformative change. Peter Obi, Nigeria’s Labour Party Presidential candidate, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Starmer through a tweet today. He lauded Starmer's success and emphasized the importance of fulfilling electoral promises to ensure a positive impact on all UK residents. "I sincerely congratulate @Keir_Starmer, and the Labour Party UK on the landslide victory they recorded in Thursday’s election. May the victory translate to a better and new chapter for all the UK residents as you remain committed to your electoral promises," Obi wrote. He also expressed optimism that Starmer's leadership would foster stronger re

  Sir Keir Starmer is set to become Labour's first prime minister in 14 years after a sweeping victory in the general election, marking the end of over a decade of Conservative rule. Labour secured the 326 seats needed for a majority in the House of Commons, effectively ending the Conservative era. Outgoing Prime Minister Rishi Sunak conceded defeat, acknowledging Labour's triumph and congratulating Sir Keir Starmer. Addressing an elated crowd of supporters, Starmer declared, "We did it. You campaigned for it, you fought for it, you voted for it, and now it has arrived. Change begins now." He spoke of the "sunlight of hope" returning to the UK, symbolizing a fresh start and renewed optimism after 14 years. With over 575 of the 650 seats declared, Labour is projected to form the next government with a substantial majority of at least 100 seats. Exit polls suggest Labour could win 410 seats, more than doubling their previous count and securing a majority of 17

   On Thursday, President Tinubu unveiled a series of comprehensive measures aimed at stabilizing the economy, boosting job creation, and enhancing economic security. These initiatives, part of the Economic Stabilization Programme, will work in tandem with the National Construction and Household Support Programme recently presented to the National Economic Council. During the inauguration of the Presidential Economic Coordination Council (PECC), the President outlined the following key measures:  1. Energy Security The Energy Security Initiative focuses on improving the power, oil, and gas sectors with specific targets to: - Increase on-grid electricity supply from approximately 4.5 gigawatts to 6 gigawatts within six months. - Boost oil production to 2 million barrels per day over the next 12 months. - Eliminate barriers to investment in the sector to enhance competitiveness.  2. Agriculture and Food Security To strengthen agriculture and food security, the plan aims to: - Raise stapl

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has reinstated Chief Jonathan Zamuna as the paramount ruler of Piriga in the Lere local government area, a position he was removed from by the previous administration. This decision underscores the significant role traditional institutions play in ensuring stability within the state and across Nigeria. Chief Zamuna's removal on May 22, 2023, by then-Governor Nasir El-Rufai, occurred just before the end of El-Rufai's second term. In a recent session with the State Council of Chiefs on July 4, Governor Sani emphasized the importance of reinstating Zamuna and highlighted the essential roles of traditional rulers in governance and community security. "The Traditional Institution has remained a stabilizing force in our communities and in the state as a whole," Governor Sani remarked. He noted the resilience of these institutions amid modernity and stressed that governments at all levels benefit from respecting and collaborating with tradit

  In a passionate appeal to safeguard democratic integrity, the Concerned Kogi Citizens Forum, along with a supportive contingent, convened at the National Assembly. Their mission was clear: they urged Senators and Representatives to enforce the compulsory use of the Bi-Modal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The protestors began their march at Unity Fountain in Maitama, proceeding through the Federal Ministry of Justice and culminating at the National Assembly. Their key grievance centered on the alleged circumvention of BVAS technology in recent national elections, specifically pointing to the Kogi State Governorship Election held on November 11, 2023. In a formal protest letter titled “LETTER OF PROTEST AGAINST BVAS FRAUD,” the group highlighted their deep concerns. They felt betrayed by INEC officials who allegedly compromised the integrity of the election process, despite assurances that BVAS would curb overvoting. The prote

  President Bola Tinubu announced on Thursday that his administration plans to inject N2 trillion into the Nigerian economy over the next six months. This announcement came during the inauguration of the Presidential Economic Coordination Council (PECC), a body comprising representatives from various sectors of society and the economy. At the inauguration, President Tinubu presented the findings of his review of the accelerated stabilization and advancement plan, aimed at bolstering the nation's economic stability. Following the event, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, outlined the key sectors earmarked for the emergency funding, including Health, Agriculture, Energy/Power, and general business support. Edun explained, “The President has inaugurated the Presidential Economic Coordination Council, which includes members of the President’s Economic Management Team, leaders of the National Assembly, the chairman of the Nigerian Governors Foru

  In a significant development, the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers in Rivers State remain dismissed, with their seats declared vacant. The Appeal Court has not addressed the legality of their decampment or the vacancy of their seats. Instead, the court confirmed that the Federal High Court holds the jurisdiction to determine the legality of their defection. The Appeal Court's decision upheld the Federal High Court's authority over the matter, thus ruling against the Rivers High Court's proceedings. Consequently, the status of the 27 lawmakers' seats remains unchanged, pending further legal deliberations. The actions of the House, led by former Speaker Edison Ehi, which resulted in the declaration of these seats as vacant, continue to be valid and are currently under litigation. Until a definitive ruling is made by the Federal High Court, the seats will remain unoccupied. In addition, the terms of the local government chairmen, whose tenures have expired, cannot be extended and h

   Rebecca Joynes, a former teacher, has been sentenced to six-and-a-half years in prison after engaging in sexual activities with two schoolboys, resulting in a pregnancy by one of them. Joynes, 30, was convicted on multiple counts of sexual activity with minors at Manchester Crown Court. The court heard that Joynes began grooming the boys, identified only as Boy A and Boy B, from the age of 15 by exchanging messages on social media. Initially flattered by the attention from the teenagers, Joynes, who had just ended a long-term relationship, crossed professional boundaries. Joynes used various methods to manipulate the boys. For instance, she turned giving Boy A her phone number into a math problem. This seemingly playful interaction led to further contact via Snapchat, where flirtatious messages were exchanged. Joynes then met Boy A in secret, eventually taking him to the Trafford Centre and buying him an expensive Gucci belt. The pair later had sex at her flat. Boy B, who fathered J

In a significant legal development, the Court of Appeal has reversed the decision to remove Martin Amaewhule and 24 other members from their positions in the Rivers State House of Assembly. This ruling reinstates their status as assembly members, counteracting a previous judgement that had led to their dismissal. The recent judgement invalidates an earlier injunction granted by the Rivers State High Court, which had declared the leadership of the Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly as null and void. The Appeal Court's decision effectively nullifies the order issued by Justice C.N. Wali, restoring the officials to their legislative roles. This reversal marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing political dynamics within the Rivers State legislature, reaffirming the positions of those aligned with Wike's administration.

   In a significant legal development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has nullified the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary election that selected Asue Ighodalo as the party’s governorship candidate for the upcoming election in Edo State. The ruling was delivered by Justice Inyang Ekwo on Thursday, citing non-compliance with the Electoral Act, 2022, party guidelines, and the PDP constitution. The lawsuit was initiated by three aggrieved ad-hoc delegates, representing 378 other delegates, who challenged their exclusion from participating in the primaries held on February 22. The plaintiffs, Kelvin Mohammed, Gabriel Okoduwa, and Ederaho Osagie, argued that their exclusion violated legal provisions and party regulations. Their suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/165/2024, sought to compel the PDP to include the delegates, whose names were listed in “Exhibits BID 8A to 8L,” in the primary election process. Justice Ekwo's judgment underscored that the evidence presented by the plaintiffs succes

Nigeria's recent decision to sign the Samoa Agreement has sparked widespread debate and condemnation from various quarters within the country. The agreement, inked on June 28, 2024, in Brussels, has raised concerns among religious leaders, activists, and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) across Nigeria. Named after the Pacific Island where it was first signed in November 2023, the Samoa Agreement aims to foster economic cooperation between the European Union (EU) and 79 African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) countries. However, it has drawn significant backlash due to alleged clauses promoting LGBT rights and other sensitive issues that conflict with Nigerian cultural and religious values. The signing, confirmed by Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, during an EU-hosted event in Abuja on July 1, has been vehemently opposed by voices like Sonnie Ekwowusi, a Lagos-based lawyer and Chairman of the Human and Constitutional Rights Committee of the Afr

This headline focuses on the tariff revision for premium customers (Band A) by electricity distribution companies, highlighting their commitment to enhancing service quality without specifying the exact tariff amount. Electricity consumers in Nigeria are set to experience a slight increase in tariffs as four major distribution companies (DisCos) have adjusted rates for premium customers. Effective July 1, 2024, the tariff for Band A customers has been raised from N206.80 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to N209.5 kWh. Kaduna DisCo, Port Harcourt DisCo, Ikeja Electric, and Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) Plc each issued separate statements confirming the tariff adjustment. They clarified that while Band A tariffs have been revised upwards, rates for Bands B, C, D, and E remain unchanged. According to Kaduna DisCo, customers on Band A feeders will continue to receive between 20 to 24 hours of electricity daily, in line with the service-based tariff regime. Similarly, Port Harcourt D

An official of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) tragically took his own life at his residence in Abuja, Nigeria's capital. The deceased, a member of the EFCC’s Course 5, was praised for his dedication, efficiency, and modesty. According to an EFCC source, “The deceased was a diligent and efficient operative, known for his unassuming nature. His death has come as a shock to everyone at the EFCC.” The EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, confirmed that an investigation is underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding the suicide. “An investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the suicide,” Oyewale stated. He further mentioned that the investigation would explore potential factors such as mental health issues and family challenges that might have contributed to the operative’s depression and decision to end his life. The EFCC has withheld the name of the deceased pending the conclusion of the investigation.

  The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a warning to Nigerians, particularly the youth, about engaging with a "shadowy group" orchestrating a protest against the Commission. In a statement released on Wednesday and signed by Dele Oyewale, the EFCC's Head of Media and Publicity, the Commission highlighted concerns over a group actively promoting dissent on social media and recruiting young Nigerians to participate in actions against the EFCC. According to Oyewale, this movement, driven by opponents of the EFCC's anti-cybercrime efforts, is urging youths to join a protest. He advised against such involvement, emphasizing the EFCC's commitment to maintaining law and order. "The Commission, while respecting citizens' right to protest, is disturbed by evidence suggesting that corrupt individuals under investigation or prosecution are behind this protest. Their goal appears to be to incite a national uprising, potentially jeopardizing t

   U.S. President Joe Biden is reportedly considering withdrawing from the 2024 presidential race following a widely criticized debate performance against former President Donald Trump. This development has sparked intense discussions among political analysts and Democratic allies. According to sources, Biden has expressed doubts about continuing his campaign, acknowledging that another poor performance could drastically change his standing. Despite these concerns, Biden's latest fundraising email to supporters reiterated his intent to run, stating, "I’m running." Several Democratic governors, including those from New York, Minnesota, and Maryland, voiced their support for Biden after meeting him at the White House. Maryland Governor Wes Moore mentioned that they had an honest discussion about the feedback Biden received, reinforcing their commitment to stand by him. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz affirmed his belief in Biden’s capability to lead. Despite the criticism, Bide

Recent research highlights a surprising and delicious way to improve heart health: cocoa. Traditionally associated with indulgence, cocoa, particularly in dark chocolate, has been shown to significantly reduce cholesterol and blood pressure levels, while also positively impacting blood sugar.  The Study and Its Findings A comprehensive meta-analysis published in the journal *Nutrients* examined 31 randomized controlled trials to understand cocoa's effects on cardiovascular health. The analysis included 1,986 participants, who were divided into groups based on their cocoa consumption. One group of 1,110 participants consumed cocoa extract or dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a minimum of four weeks. The control group of 876 participants consumed a placebo or chocolate with less than 70% cocoa content, such as white or milk chocolate. Health Improvements The majority of participants had pre-existing health conditions such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and

  In a significant move, Nigeria is set to impose a 7.5% value-added tax (VAT) on cryptocurrency transactions, tapping into its burgeoning digital asset market valued at $56.7 billion. This tax will be effective from July 8, 2024, as KuCoin, a major cryptocurrency platform, starts charging the VAT on transaction fees to comply with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) regulations. Nigeria boasts one of the largest peer-to-peer (P2P) cryptocurrency markets globally. According to Chainalysis, a blockchain analytics platform, the country's crypto transactions amounted to $56.7 billion between July 2022 and June 2023, reflecting a 9% year-over-year growth. This surge underscores the increasing involvement of Nigerians in the crypto space, as highlighted by Emomotimi Agama, the director-general of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). In a recent communication to its Nigerian users, KuCoin announced the forthcoming VAT implementation. The platform clarified that the tax wou

  A relentless 10-hour downpour wreaked havoc in Lagos and Ogun states, halting business activities, flooding homes, and collapsing a two-storey building in Lagos' Mushin area. The flood-induced chaos caused significant traffic disruptions and left thousands of residents stranded, including schoolchildren who couldn't attend classes. The rainfall, starting at midnight and continuing until noon, severely affected areas like Berger, Ikeja, Ogba, and several others. Flooding submerged roads and homes, making major routes impassable in both states. Rescue operations saved seven individuals from the collapsed building in Mushin, attributed to the severe weather. The Lagos State Emergency Management Authority (LASEMA) urged residents to avoid non-essential travel due to widespread flash floods. Schools in severely impacted areas like White Sand Estate in Lagos suspended exams and advised students to stay home. Residents lamented the recurring flooding issues, blaming poor drainage sy

   Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South Senatorial District, has disclosed that Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has agreed to comply with the conditions set by the Nigerian government for his release. This development emerged following a recent meeting between South-East Senators and the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN). During the closed-door meeting, which included approximately 15 federal lawmakers led by Senator Abaribe, discussions centered around securing Kanu's release from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). Senator Abaribe expressed optimism that the Attorney-General would advocate for Kanu's release, emphasizing that his prolonged detention has exacerbated insecurity and unrest in the South-East region. Senator Abaribe revealed that he had met with Kanu at the DSS headquarters, where Kanu demonstrated his willingness to adhere to any conditions

  An Osun State High Court in Ede has sentenced five men to death by hanging for the abduction and murder of a Fulani herdsman, Ibrahim Adamu. Despite a ransom of N3 million being paid for his release, Adamu was brutally killed by his captors. The convicts—identified as Ibrahim Issa, Lateef Bello, Abdul Ramon Soliu, Bello Ibrahim, and Abudu Mumini Jolaanobi Saheed—abducted Adamu from his residence in Owode-Ede on April 17, 2018. They took him to an isolated location where the heinous act was committed. The accused first appeared in court on October 28, 2021, facing charges of conspiracy, kidnapping, and murder. Despite their plea of not guilty, the evidence presented was overwhelmingly against them. During the trial, lead prosecuting counsel Moses Faremi from the Ministry of Justice provided a detailed account of the events leading to Adamu's abduction and subsequent murder. Investigating Police Officer Ganiyu Taofeek testified that Adamu recognized one of his abductors while in ca

  On Thursday, July 4, the United Kingdom will see no fewer than 30 individuals of Nigerian heritage on the ballot. These candidates span a variety of political parties and are set to participate in what is anticipated to be one of the most diverse parliamentary elections in British history. The results of the election are expected by Friday. According to Democracy Club, a UK election data supplier, 20 of these candidates are representing major political parties, including the Labour Party, the Conservative Party, the Liberal Democrats, and Reform UK. The remaining candidates are either from smaller parties or are running as independents. This election is poised to be transformative, with more ethnic minorities, including Nigerians, vying for parliamentary seats. Candidates are presenting compelling manifestos to win over voters, aiming to make history with their potential victories. To be eligible to stand as a candidate in a UK Parliamentary General Election, one must be at least 18

French midfielder Paul Pogba has firmly stated that his career is far from over, despite facing a four-year doping ban. The 31-year-old, who has been out of action since August 2023, is awaiting a hearing date with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), where he hopes to see his suspension reduced to two years. Speaking to Sky Italia in Düsseldorf on Monday, where he attended France's 1-0 victory over Belgium in the Euro 2024 round of 16, Pogba emphasized his determination to return to professional football. "If you haven’t seen an interview of mine in which I say that I’m retiring, it means that it’s not like that, because I still feel like a footballer," Pogba asserted. "I want to fight this injustice. Pogba isn’t finished. Pogba is here and until you see me say that I’m finished, don’t worry. I have an incredible desire to come back." Despite his suspension, which prevents him from playing or training with Juventus, Pogba remains committed to maintaining h

  The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU) have given the federal government a deadline of Thursday, July 4, to address their outstanding salary arrears. Failure to meet this deadline will result in a fresh industrial action by the unions. In a statement issued after their 48th regular national executive committee meeting in Benin City, Edo State, SSANU highlighted ten critical issues that need urgent resolution. The statement, signed by SSANU's national president, Mohammed Ibrahim, emphasized the need for the payment of four months of withheld salary arrears, three months of arrears related to President Bola Tinubu's wage award, and the renegotiation of the 2009 agreements. The unions' demands include addressing the following: 1. Outstanding Salary Arrears: Payment of four months of withheld salaries and three months of President Tinubu's wage award arrears. 2. Renegotiation of 2009 Agreements:

  Amid a backdrop of political disagreements between Nyesom Wike and Senator Ireti Kingibe, a pressing issue has come to light: over 96 pupils at LEA Primary School in the Kigbe community of the Kwali Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Abuja are forced to sit on the bare floor during their lessons. This alarming situation was highlighted in a post shared on Tuesday by the civic tech platform, Monitng. The group is calling for immediate intervention from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Senator Ireti Kingibe. The post read: "Dear @GovWike & @IretiKingibe, Inside Abuja School Where Pupils Sit On Bare Floor. A local authority school located in LEA Primary School, Kigbe community, Kwali Area Council, FCT Abuja. Over 96 pupils sit on bare floors in their classrooms to learn." This call for action comes amid a heated exchange between Wike and Kingibe. Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, has publicly challenged Senator Ireti Kingibe, suggesting she will not be re-e

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common but serious condition that can lead to severe health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Managing high blood pressure is crucial for maintaining overall health, and one of the most effective ways to do this is through regular exercise. This article explores how incorporating physical activity into your daily routine can help control high blood pressure and improve your quality of life. Understanding High Blood Pressure High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. This can damage blood vessels and lead to health issues over time. Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers: systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart beats) and diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart is at rest). A reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher is considered high. How Regular Exercise Can help in Lowering Blood Pressure Regular physical activity strengthens the heart, enabl

  The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has officially declared a state of emergency concerning crude oil production. Mele Kyari, the CEO of NNPC, emphasized the gravity of the situation during his keynote speech at the 23rd edition of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition (NOG Energy Week) in Abuja. Addressing the pressing issues, Kyari stated, “We have decided to stop the debate. We have declared war on the challenges affecting our crude oil production.” This statement underscores the urgency and the proactive measures NNPC intends to implement to tackle the ongoing production challenges. Kyari highlighted that the NNPC is fully equipped to combat these issues. "War means war. We have the right tools. We know what to fight. We know what we have to do at the level of assets," he asserted. This declaration indicates that the company has developed a strategic plan and has mobilized the necessary resources to address the problems head-on. One of the