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 Sudan's Burhan rules out return to pre-war status with RSF Sudan's Sovereign Council leader has said a return to the pre-war status with the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is not possible, Anadolu Agency reported. Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan made the statement in a televised speech published by the Sudanese state television on the 69th anniversary of the country's independence from the British occupation. He, however, voiced readiness "to engage in any genuine initiative that ends the war and ensures the safe return" of civilians to their homes. "The situation cannot return to how it was before April 15, 2023, nor can we accept the presence of these murderers, criminals, and their supporters among the Sudanese people again," al-Burhan said in reference to the RSF. Battle for power He added that the Sudanese people are subject to killing, starvation, displacement, and violations by the RSF militias. Nearly 25,000 people have been killed and over 10 million ...

 Guinea military leader says 2025 a 'crucial electoral year' Guinea's military chief said in a New Year's speech that 2025 will be "a crucial electoral year to complete the return to constitutional order", but gave no details, AFP reported. General Mamady Doumbouya led a military coup that overthrew civilian president Alpha Conde in September 2021. Under international pressure, the military initially pledged to hold a constitutional referendum and hand power to elected civilians by the end of 2024 - but neither has happened. The general said in his New Year's speech that "in the first quarter of 2025, I will sign a decree setting the date" of the constitutional referendum. "After the electoral code has been drawn up, during 2025, we will all work together to continue to lay the foundations for the general elections," he said. Guinea's main opposition parties and civil society organisations have called for demonstrations in Conakry o...

 Anambra Governor's Wife Pays Special Homage To New Year Babies.  More photos below. 

  Anambra Govt Makes More Arrests, Parades Three For Burning Tires On Tarred Roads On New Year Eve. By OCHA Brigade Media Despite countless warnings by the Anambra State government against burning of tires on tarred roads, the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra, OCHA Brigade has arrested three more suspects for violating the warning on court road by CPS, Awka. The Managing Director of the Brigade, Comrade Celestine Anere during the late hours of yesterday, December 31, 2024 and this morning, led the taskforce team to the area where the arrests were made.  Comrade Anere explained that damaging public property in the name of festivities amounts to costly celebration and pleaded with community leaders and stakeholders to take ownership of government properties in their vicinities by personally supervising public celebrations to ensure that tax payers money are not wasted by few minutes of excitement. The OCHA Brigade boss who explained that aside the fact that burning tyres rele...

 Genevieve Nnaji makes new post to celebrate the New Year, offers prayers to her fans Nollywood actress Genevieve Nnaji has made a post to mark the New Year Taking to her Instagram page to share photos of herself, Genevieve wished her fans a happy New Year as she hoped that they had the very best this year. Admonishing them to stay safe, she prayed that God bless them. “Happy New Year my love. Wishing you the very best 2025 has to offer. God bless you and stay safe”.

 Indiana school bus driver facing charges after transporting  children while intoxicated.  38-year-old Kayla Pier is accused of operating a school bus with 32 students aboard while she was visibly intoxicated on September 20th. The shocking incident came to light after students reported her erratic driving and behavior on that day. The school administration removed Pier from the bus and launched an investigation.  The LaPorte County Sheriff's Office took on the case after the school district shared the results of Pier's toxicology report with them. An arrest warrant was issued and Pier turned herself in on Friday, December 27th. She was released after posting bond. Kayla Pier is being charged with operating while intoxicated and neglect of a dependent..

 BE ON THE LOOKOUT: Wisconsin man wanted by authorities after 2 children and one adult were found deceased in a home.  This tragic saga began on Sunday when a Wisconsin child went missing and was last seen with 47-year-old Virgil Thew. The following day on Monday December 30th, another child was reported missing to New Lisbon Police Department. A few hours after receiving the report of the second missing child, officers were alerted to the report of a deceased adult and 2 deceased children in a home on West Bridge Street in New Lisbon. There has been no official confirmation that the deceased children are the children reported missing. However, Virgil Thew has been identified as a person of interest in the deaths. Thew is also wanted on parole violations and should be considered armed and dangerous!  Officials have stated that you should NOT approach him AT ALL; instead you need to call 911 immediately if you see him. Virgil Thew is 5'10" and 150 lbs.  He was last se...

 Virginia neonatal ward is completely shut down after a mystery abuser breaks bones on 7 separate premature babies in their care. Henrico Doctor's Hospital in Richmond, Virginia has shut down their neonatal intensive care unit out of an abundance of caution. The ward is temporarily shut down as authorities and hospital administrators scramble to identify the sick individual accused of breaking bones on 7 premature babies. This horrifying situation came to light in August of 2023 when Dominique and Tori Hackey welcomed twin boys into the world. During the twins subsequent stay in the neonatal ward, Dominique noticed his son's left leg was not moving and it was also discolored. After informing the staff of the potential injury, the child was examined and determined to have a serious fracture in his leg. The hospital chalked it up to "an accident" and said it may have been from a staff member "maybe giving an injection too hard." However, the parents were not c...

 Rivers: Two men arrested for duping Canada-based Nigerian of N140m Two men identified as Michael Onyedikachi and Akachukwu Benedict have been arrested by the police in Rivers for duping a Canada-based Nigerian woman, Sandra Austin, of N140m through a fake housing project. Onyedikachi who initiated the scam described by the police as elaborate had opened a Facebook account with name Engineer Desmond Chibuike Okechukwu to kick off the scam. While disclosing details of the scam, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, Rivers Police Command spokesperson revealed that the suspects manipulated Austin after she accepted a Facebook friend request from an account bearing the name ‘Engineer Desmond Chibuike Okechukwu’ in 2022. “The individual behind the account claimed to be a construction engineer with an impressive portfolio of luxurious homes allegedly built for clients. “The fraudster shared images of high-end properties in Ajah, Lagos, which he claimed to have constructed. “Sandra expressed interest in ...

 DHQ: Over 10,000 terrorists killed, 7,063 hostages rescued in 2024 The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says troops deployed across the country killed 10,937 terrorists, arrested 12,538 suspects, and rescued 7,063 hostages in 2024. Speaking with journalists on Tuesday in Abuja, Edward Buba, director of Defence Media Operations, said the military also recorded 16,171 surrendered combatants and their families during the year. He said the troops recovered 8,815 weapons and 228,004 rounds of ammunition while denying oil thieves an estimated N68.4 billion. He added that the breakdown of the recovered arms includes 4,332 AK47 rifles, 1,244 locally fabricated guns, 838 dane guns, and 259 pump-action guns, among others. In the north-east, he said troops of Operation Hadin Kai killed 3,151 terrorists, arrested 2,503 suspects, and rescued 1,605 kidnap victims. “Troops also recovered 1,802 AK47 rifles, 446 fabricated rifles, 438 dane guns, and 42,439 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo in the Northeast,...

 Nigeria has requested for Simon Ekpa’s extradition, says CDS Should the Government of Finland accede to Federal Government’s request, pro-Biafra agitator Simon Ekpa would be extradited to Nigeria. Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa confirmed yesterday that the requirements for the extradition of the separatist have been forwarded to Finland Government. Gen. Musa, who spoke on national television programme monitored in Lagos yesterday, said: “Well, I’m sure he (Ekpa) is cooling off somewhere. “Legal action is going to be taken accordingly. I don’t want to say much about that but I’m happy he has been arrested. “The Federal Government has actually forwarded most of the requirements to the Finnish Government. So, I’m sure the right thing will be done.” The CDS also said the sit-at-home propagated by Ekpa and his allies in the Southeast is wearing off because of the clearance operations by the military. In November 2024, Finland authorities arrested Ekpa alongside fou...

  ‘I am obsessed with Jamaican culture’ Sultry Nigerian singer, Chidozie Ugochinyere aka Fave, has revealed that there’s an unknown side of her which is very obsessed with Jamaican culture. Fave, whose collaboration with Davido on the hit song, ‘Kante,’ has further increased her fame worldwide, made this known in a recent interview. In her words, “I’m aware I don’t have that many songs out there, so people have this certain idea of me:  “Fave is this sultry singer.” But there’s also a side of me that is very attached to dancehall; very obsessed with Jamaican culture. Everything is so raw, so real. I always unintentionally or subconsciously find myself creating things that have that foundation of Jamaica or dancehall or reggaeton.” The 24-year-old singer further said though she began her career singing sombre music as a result of her musical influences, she doesn’t love to stay in one genre of music. “I do not love to stay in one genre of music. I really love to explore. As I s...

 Nothing wrong with military-like honour for Seyi Tinubu – Balami An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Comrade Isaac Balami, has reacted to concerns by former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar over the use of military-like guard in honour of the son of the President, Seyi Tinubu. Abubakar had called for an investigation to ascertain the actual reason behind the honour accorded Seyi Tinubu.  But reacting while addressing the media on Monday, Balami a former National Deputy Campaign Manager for Obi/Datti, said the dust raised over the matter was unnecessary, saying it is a normal practice across the world.  He said that the media handler of Atiku Abubakar may not have consulted him or failed to do due diligence before rushing to the media, insisting that the former Vice President was known for picking up petty issues.  He further clarified that the group that paid homage to Seyi Tinubu were Cadet Network comprising individuals who have volunteered to be mentored ...

 #GreaterLagosCountdown2025: ‘It’s pride, arrogance,’ funseekers slam Burna Boy for storming out of stage Nigerian singer Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has faced backlash following his unexpected departure from the stage during his performance at the #GreaterLagosCountdown2025 on Tuesday. In a video that went viral on Wednesday, a fan was seen jumping on stage to approach Burna Boy during the much-anticipated event in Lagos. Security personnel swiftly intervened, throwing the fan off the stage, while the artist briefly paused his performance. Moments later, Burna Boy was seen leaving the stage without any prior announcement or explanation, leaving fans shocked and disappointed. The abrupt exit has, however, sparked a wave of criticism on social media, with many expressing their dismay. While some fans accused Burna Boy of unprofessionalism, others attributed his action to arrogance. A user on X, bra MaL, who tweets as #ibrahimmalcolm, attributed the singer’s actions t...

 2025: Anxiety as Nigerians to pay 40 per cent more for calls, data There is anxiety over a possible 40 percent telecommunications service tariff hike in Nigeria this New Year. This comes as telecommunications subscribers in Nigeria, under the aegis of the National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS), rejected the proposed telecoms tariff hike. The subscribers said it would be insensitive for the Nigerian government to approve a telecoms tariff hike amid the existing economic hardship. In recent days, there has been widespread speculation of a 40 percent telecoms hike. Accordingly, this means that all telecom services offered by operators such as MTN, Glo, Airtel, and others would increase by 40 percent. For instance, a data bundle priced at N1000 would rise to N1,400 in the new tariff regime expected to kick off in 2025. Meanwhile, official sources in the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) refuted the tariff hike claims. This comes at a time when telecom operators,...

 NSA Ribadu pledges more efforts to end terrorism, insecurity in 2025 The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has reassured  of the government’s renewed focus on combating terrorism, violent extremism and other security threats. He said the threats would be tackled through enhanced collaboration, innovative strategies, and proactive measures.  The NSA, in a statement, on Wednesday , January 1, by the National Coordinator National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in the Office of the National Security Adviser, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Garba Laka, acknowledged the resilience of the citizens in the face of security challenges and emphasizes the critical role of our collective effort in ensuring peace and stability.  Ribadu attributed the successes achieved in 2024 to the exceptional leadership of President Bola Tinubu, whose political will, he said had extensively sustained security efforts across the country. He said the President’s “strategic guidance, exemplary...

 How doctors advised I remove my womb after 3 miscarriages — Actress Dayo Amusa Popular Nollywood actress Dayo Amusa has opened up about the emotional and physical challenges she faced before finally becoming a mother. Recall Amusa welcomed her daughter, Oluwafirewamiri, in the United States on November 18, 2024. In a series of Instagram posts on Tuesday, Amusa recounted her journey, marked by three miscarriages, personal setbacks, and a 2015 diagnosis of uterine myomatosis—a condition that nearly robbed her of the chance to conceive. She disclosed that following her diagnosis, some medical professionals advised her to undergo a hysterectomy due to recurring complications and excruciating menstrual pain. Refusing to relinquish her dream of motherhood, Amusa explored alternative treatments and eventually traveled to the United Kingdom, where she underwent surgery to remove the tumors. In her post, she stated, “I never thought I would get to this moment but GOD knew. For as long as I...

 NLC insists on withdrawal of tax reform bills The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has insisted that the Federal Government withdraw the controversial tax bills from the National Assembly. NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero stated this in his New Year message to Nigerian workers titled “In 2025, hope is in our collective resolve’’. He said the union’s position on the matter was necessary to promote a dialogue among all the key stakeholders along. He said the issue would dominate discussion on its national dialogue in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, later this month. According to the NLC president, the platform would promote partnership “in co-creating a new national tax that would enjoy wider acceptance and fulfill its purpose of propelling national development which is the main objective of the government”. He said given the economic realities imposed by recent government policies, NLC shall engage the government for a wage review to safeguard workers’ welfare. He urged the federal gover...

 AJ visits President Tinubu in Lagos President Bola Tinubu received an autographed glove from former World Heavyweight Champion, Anthony Joshua, when he visited the President at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos. January 1, 2025. One more photo below

 Magistrate criticises driver over 'immature' burnout tribute with daughter in car. A magistrate has described the actions of a young driver caught hooning near the scene of a crash that killed his friend as "immature" and "stupid". Dylan Sharpe, 22, pleaded guilty yesterday to reckless driving over the November burnout in Perth's south, carried out with his 11-month-old baby in the car. Sharpe pledged to "move forward" for his family, after previously saying he didn't regret the vehicular tribute to 22-year-old Jady Turner, who was killed in a high-speed crash the day before the burnout. Yesterday, Sharpe's lawyer told the court the young father was "heartbroken" at the danger he put his child in, saying he made a "poor decision". He pleaded guilty to one count of reckless driving and two counts of having no authority to drive over the incident on Thomas Road in Oakford. Magistrate Steven Malley told Sharpe to ...

 Boy charged after allegedly brandishing tomahawk at Mandurah Forum. A 15-year-old boy has been charged after allegedly chasing another juvenile through the Mandurah Forum while armed with a tomahawk. The accused was allegedly involved in an altercation with a group of youths around 3.30pm on December 26. He then allegedly armed himself with the axe and chased one of the teenagers. The boy then left the area and was later arrested by police on December 27. He has since been charged with being armed in a way that may cause fear. The accused is due to appear in the Perth Children's Court on January 10. "Proactive patrols of major shopping centres in the Mandurah district continue to be conducted by local police, including the utilisation of new scanning legislation for edged weapons," a WA Police spokesperson said. "To date more than 100 scans have been conducted in the Mandurah area throughout designated zones." 

 Perth couple drown trying to save daughter at popular WA beach.  A husband and wife have made the ultimate sacrifice, drowning while trying to save their daughter in rough waters at a holiday hotspot in southern Western Australia. A third person who tried in vain to save Perth couple Dr Mohamed Swapan and his wife, Sabrina Ahmed, was recovering in hospital last night. The loving family of four's Christmas holiday with friends turned deadly at Conspicuous Beach, near Walpole, yesterday afternoon. Authorities were called to the area, about 200 kilometres south-east of Margaret River, when three people got caught in a rip about 2:40pm (5:40pm AEDT). "Those girls. Oh, my God, you know. I feel, you know, sorry," friend and colleague Ruhul Salim said. Swapan, 44, and Ahmed, 40 traded their lives to save their youngest daughter, who got into trouble in the water. A third man, 42, jumped in to save his friends. He survived but the parents couldn't be revived.  "All thre...

 Anambra Community Elects New PG  ......As Commissioner Nwabunwanne Commends Them For Peaceful Exercise  By Regina Igwebuike  The Amawbia Community in Awka South LGA, Anambra State has elected a new President General (PG), marking a significant milestone in their community development.  The election took place on December 30 at Eziokpaligwe, Amawbia Town Square. Nze Chukwukadibia Odumodu emerged the new President General (PG), polling 371 votes to defeat two other contenders, Mr Patrick Muo, who had 302 votes and the third contestant, Rtd Air Commodore Ify Udoka Menuba, who polled 47 votes. Other elected positions are Hon. Emeka Nworah, Deputy PG; Mr Anayo Oyekwe, Treasurer-General; Engr. Nzube Menuba, Auditor 1; Chinedu Nonyelu, Auditor 2; Ginikanwa Orji, Auditor 3; and Chukwuma Uyanwune as Auditor 4. The election, which was keenly contested and supervised by officials from Anambra State Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs led by Com...

 More Residents Participate In Amawbia Walk For Life Exercise By Chuks Ugokwe/Regina Igwebuike The enthusiasm of Amawbia residents in physical fitness has continued to increase since the introduction of the Walk for Life exercise by Hon Chukwuma Okoye. The 5th edition of the exercise  kicked off from the  Central Primary School Amawbia through major internal roads in the community on December 31. According to the Sponsor, Rt. Hon Chukwuma Okoye, Deputy Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly and member representing Awka South II Constituency, the annual event is to enhance healthy living among the people, which aligns with the healthy living program of Anambra State Governor’s wife, Mrs. Nonye Soludo. He reemphasized the importance of exercise in human life, noting that a healthy body is a healthy mind, assuring to sustain  the initiative, explaining that part of the reason for embarking on the yearly exercise in not only for sports but unity of the town. Mr. Ebele ...

 OPERATION ZERO POTHOLES IN PROGRESS  - MAYOR ENSURES By Mokwugwo Ogochukwu/Nwegbo Ifeanyi/Achukwu-Jide Kelechi  In a significant move to enhance road safety in Onitsha North LGA, The Mayor, Hon. Nweze Tony Nwora, has ensured quality road repairs for a Traffic-Free Christmas and beyond.   Tony Nwora, is actively supervising the ongoing project themed "Operation Zero Potholes" in Onitsha North to enhance road safety and improve the quality of life for residents. This impactful project aims to repair all problematic potholes across the Council area using high-quality asphalt. The City Mayor is committed to ensuring that residents enjoy a smooth and traffic-free celebration and beyond. The Mayor's hands-on approach reflects his dedication to overseeing the work and ensuring that the team delivers exceptional results. Residents of Onitsha North can be rest assured that their welfare and the development of the community remain top priorities for him. The Operation Zero Po...

 Anambra State Government Commissions several facilities at Akwaeze Community High School  Chukwudi Nwauba/Azuka Nnabuife In a significant event, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has commissioned several facilities at Community High School, Akwaeze, Anaocha Local Government Area. "These included an administrative block, renovated classrooms, a kitchen, and a refectory. The structures were built and donated by Chief Ikenna Okafor, Chairman of the Ide Ezeani Nzekwubuo Foundation, as part of the 11th anniversary celebrations of the foundation. The event began with a holy Mass at St. Michael’s Parish, Akwaeze, officiated by the Catholic Bishop of Ekwulobia Diocese, Peter Cardinal Okpaleke. The occasion also featured a medical outreach, providing support to 179 individuals, including pupils, tertiary students, widows, and sickle cell groups, with cash donations ranging from ₦30,000 to ₦500,000. Dr. Esther Okafor contributed delivery kits for pregnant women in Akwaeze....