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 STATEHOUSE STATEMENT PRESIDENT TINUBU'S TRIBUTE TO THE LATE EVANGELIST DR UMA UKPAI With a heavy heart, I mourn the passing of one of God's generals, Dr Uma Ukpai. Reverend Ukpai was not just another preacher; he was an anointed crusader of the faith, filled with fire and ice for the gospel and restoring humanity to discipline, love, and good neighbourliness.   Dr Ukpai, who died at age 80, was an international evangelist, leader of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, and founder of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).   Born in the small town of Asaga, Ohafia, in Abia State, Evangelist Ukpai went through his paces, enduring challenges while passing through school. But God had his purpose well defined. He obeyed the divine call and impacted generations with his ministry.   He was one of the leaders in the Lord's army who brought the fervour of revival sweeping across Nigeria and parts of Africa in the 1980s. He was a firebrand.   I recall his Greate...

  INEC Accredits 121 Observers for Anambra Governorship Election The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has accredited a total of 121 domestic and international observer groups to monitor the upcoming Anambra State governorship election. According to INEC, the accreditation covers both local and foreign organisations committed to ensuring transparency, credibility, and fairness during the electoral process. The Commission emphasized that the presence of these observers will help strengthen public confidence in the election, as they are expected to assess the conduct of the poll and provide objective reports on their findings.

Plane crashes onto Massachusetts highway, killing 2 and injuring 1 bystander A small plane crashed on a major highway in southeastern Massachusetts early Monday during heavy rain and strong winds, killing both people on board and injuring one person on the ground, authorities said. Videos captured by passing drivers showed smoke rising above Interstate 195 from scattered burning debris. The highway was closed in both directions near the crash site in Dartmouth, roughly 50 miles south of Boston, according to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. State police said there were no known survivors on the plane, which may have been attempting to land at New Bedford Regional Airport. Officials noted that the pilot did not appear to have submitted a flight plan or passenger information. A National Transportation Safety Board spokesperson confirmed an investigation is underway, reporting that the aircraft, a Socata TBM-700, had departed from New Bedford. Authorities have not released i...

 Dozens rescued in Alaska as typhoon remnants strike, East Coast faces flooding from nor’easter More than 30 people have been rescued and three remain missing in western Alaska after the remnants of Typhoon Halong brought hurricane-force winds and flooding capable of sweeping away entire homes in coastal communities, officials said. Rescue teams were deployed to the remote villages of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, where some residents were reported missing, said Jeremy Zidek, spokesperson for the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. “We have received reports that people’s homes have floated away and that people were potentially in those homes,” Zidek said. In Kwigillingok, at least 18 residents were rescued, with three still unaccounted for, while 16 were rescued in Kipnuk amid reports of additional missing people. Search efforts were expected to continue overnight as conditions allowed. Nearly 600 people in Kipnuk were sheltering at a school, while roughly 300 ...

 MTV to close multiple music channels in Europe  MTV is set to close several of its music-focused channels across the U.K. and other international markets by the end of the year, though American channels will remain unaffected. Five European channels — MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV, and MTV Live — will stop broadcasting after Dec. 31. The main MTV HD channel in the U.K. will continue to air, focusing primarily on reality TV shows such as “Geordie Shore” and “Naked Dating UK.” Since its U.S. debut in 1981, MTV has shifted away from 24/7 music videos toward reality programming. In the U.K., the flagship MTV channel, launched in 1987, stopped airing music videos entirely in 2011, reflecting broader trends as music content moved to streaming platforms and social media. The closing channels had been known for genre-specific programming and decade-themed video blocks. The shutdown signals another step in MTV’s retreat from traditional televised music, following moves like pa...

 14-year-old shot and killed by stray bullets while gaming at home Du’wan Morgan, a 14-year-old high school freshman with a love for nature and fishing, was killed Wednesday evening while playing video games in his bedroom, struck by stray bullets fired outside his home. Known for his quiet demeanor and big dreams, Du’wan had just begun ninth grade and was described by family as smart, kind, and outdoorsy. The shooting occurred around 6 p.m. on Hobkirk Drive in the Glasgow Village neighborhood of unincorporated north St. Louis County. Police say two groups of teenagers had been arguing outside when gunfire erupted. Du’wan, who was inside his home with his mother and two brothers, was an unintended target. He died at the scene; no one else was physically harmed, though the emotional toll on his family has been profound. Family members remember Du’wan as a bright, sweet young man. “He was a beautiful, nice kid,” said his aunt, Erica Davis. “He had a bright future ahead of him.” His m...

 Eminem’s daughter Alaina Scott is expecting first child Eminem is set to become a grandfather again as his eldest daughter, Alaina Scott, 32, announced she is expecting her first child with husband Matt Moeller. Alaina shared the news on social media Sunday, writing about the joy and gratitude she feels for the growing life inside her. “For months, I've carried a tiny heartbeat inside me, one that has already changed mine in every possible way… I've never felt more grateful for this gift and to grow our family, something we've wanted for so long,” she said. She also added, “Baby M, we can't wait to meet you, little one.” The couple, who married in 2023, posted a photo holding a baby onesie in a field alongside the announcement. Alaina was adopted by Eminem as a child and is the daughter of Dawn Scott, the twin sister of the rapper’s ex, Kim Scott. Eminem has been a father figure to her since birth. This will be his second grandchild; his daughter Hailie Jade Scott, 29,...

 Pakistan, Afghanistan border remains closed for second day following deadly clashes Border crossings between Pakistan and Afghanistan remained closed for a second day on Monday after deadly clashes over the weekend heightened tensions and left hundreds of people stranded, officials said. The fighting erupted Saturday night when Afghan forces targeted several Pakistani military posts. Afghanistan claimed it killed 58 Pakistani soldiers in retaliation for repeated alleged violations of its territory and airspace. Pakistan, however, reported 23 soldiers killed and said its forces had eliminated more than 200 “Taliban and affiliated terrorists” during counterattacks along the border. Saudi Arabia and other foreign governments called for restraint, and a ceasefire appeared to hold by Sunday. Authorities reported no new exchanges of fire along the 2,611-kilometer (1,622-mile) Durand Line, which Afghanistan has never officially recognized. It remained unclear when the border would reopen...

 Madagascar’s president has left the country after Gen Z protests, officials say Madagascar’s president has fled the African nation, the head of the opposition and other officials said on Monday, the second time that young protesters have toppled a government in weeks of worldwide Gen Z unrest. Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko, leader of the opposition in parliament, told Reuters that President Andry Rajoelina left Madagascar on Sunday after units of the army defected and joined the protesters. “We called the staff of the presidency, and they confirmed that he left the country,” Randrianasoloniaiko said, adding that Rajoelina’s current whereabouts were unknown. The president’s office, which had earlier said Rajoelina would address the nation at 7 p.m. local time on Monday, did not reply to requests for comment. 'President left on French military plane' A military source told Reuters that Rajoelina flew out of the country on a French military aircraft on Sunday. French radio RFI said ...

 Seychelles President Ramkalawan pledges 'dignified' transfer of power after election defeat President Wavel Ramkalawan has pledged to ensure an “orderly and dignified” transfer of power to Seychelles’ president-elect, Patrick Herminie, following the conclusion of the 2025 presidential run-off elections, TRT Afrika reported. Ramkalawan and Herminie met informally at State House on Monday to discuss the transition process and exchange views on key national issues, including security, economic stability, and the importance of maintaining peace during the handover. In a joint commitment, both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to safeguarding Seychelles’ unity, peace, and democratic tradition as the island nation enters a new political chapter. Herminie, leader of the opposition, was declared winner of Saturday’s presidential run-off by the country’s electoral commission, becoming Seychelles’ sixth president. ‘Maintaining legacy’ Ramkalawan congratulated his successor, expressing...

 FG orders VCs to enforce ‘no work, no pay’ policy against striking lecturers participating in strike. The Federal Government has directed vice-chancellors of Nigerian universities to implement the “no work, no pay” policy on members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) participating in the ongoing nationwide strike. The directive was contained in a circular dated October 13, 2025, and signed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa.  Copies of the circular were sent to key government officials, including the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the Permanent Secretary of Education, Pro-Chancellors of federal universities, the Director-General of the Budget Office, the Accountant-General of the Federation, and the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC). In the circular, the ministry expressed disappointment over the continued industrial action by ASUU, despite repeated appeals for dialogue. It warned that the government wo...

 DSS Alerts Public Over Activities Of Dismissed Officer, Victor Godwin The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a public warning concerning the activities of Victor Onyedikachi Godwin, a former officer dismissed from the Service. In a statement released on Monday, the DSS disclosed that Godwin has been impersonating the Service and defrauding unsuspecting members of the public by falsely claiming to represent the agency. “The public is hereby advised to avoid any dealings with Mr. Godwin, as he no longer has any connection with the Service,” the statement read. The DSS urged individuals with complaints, enquiries, or relevant information to reach out directly through 09088373515 or via email at dsspr@dss.gov.ng. The Service reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding national security and ensuring that impostors are held accountable for their actions.

 Sabon Gari House Of Reps Member, Hon. Sadiq Ango Abdullahi Resigns From PDP, Cites Internal Crisis The member representing Sabon Gari Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Sadiq Ango Abdullahi, has formally announced his resignation from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), citing persistent internal conflicts and factionalisation within the party. In a letter addressed to the PDP Ward Chairman of Hanwa Ward, Sabon Gari Local Government Area, Kaduna State, and dated October 13, 2025, Hon. Abdullahi stated that prolonged crises within the party had made it increasingly difficult for him to effectively represent his constituents. “The persistent internal conflicts and factionalisation within the PDP, which have culminated in a prolonged party crisis, are adversely affecting my ability to effectively represent my constituency and perform my duties optimally,” he wrote. The lawmaker explained that his decision followed extensive consultations with key stakeholders...

 UPDATED: EFCC Arraigns Man, Firm for Alleged N215m Theft in Lagos The Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday, October 13, 2025, arraigned one Ugoh Christogonus Onyewuchi and his company, C-PAC Integrated Service Nigeria, ) before Justice Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos,  for alleged N215,800,000 (Two Hundred and Fifteen Million Eight Hundred Thousand Naira) before Justice Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos. They were arraigned on  a two-count charge bordering on retention of proceeds of criminal conduct and stealing to the tune of N215, 800, 000. Count one reads: “ That you, Ugoh Christogonus Onyewuchi and C-PAC Integrated Service Nigeria, sometime in 2025 at Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, retained the control of the sum of N215, 800, 000 (Two Hundred and Fifteen Million Eight Hundred  Thousand Naira), mon...

 In the 2 months since registration began, over 7.4 million Nigerians have pre-registered online for their INEC PVCs. List of states from highest to lowest based on their registration numbers: 1. BORNO: 783,546 2. OSUN: 632,751 3. LAGOS: 590,341 4. KEBBI: 557,778 5. OGUN: 489,282 6. KADUNA: 471,375 7. KANO: 388,354 8. KOGI: 341,277 9. YOBE: 279,970 10. JIGAWA: 257,981 11. ZAMFARA: 256,025 12. FCT: 228,020 13. OYO: 218,724 14. KATSINA: 174,244 15. SOKOTO: 170,116 16. NASARAWA: 161,918 17. BAUCHI: 159,044 18. DELTA: 144,710 19. KWARA: 131,867 20. CROSS RIVER: 112,372 21. EKITI: 107,876 22. NIGER: 102,524 23. GOMBE: 96,545 24. PLATEAU: 84,770 25. IMO: 70,069 26. RIVERS: 67,845 27. ADAMAWA: 58,398 28. AKWA IBOM: 57,954 29. TARABA: 57,001 30. BENUE: 49,262 31. BAYELSA: 47,041 32. ENUGU: 19,966 33. ONDO: 17,121 34. EBONYI: 12,489 35. EDO: 11,166 36. ABIA: 6,038 Total: 7,415,760

Trump hails ‘new era for the Middle East’ in address to Knesset  President Donald Trump delivered a historic address to Israel’s Knesset on the same day that 20 living hostages were released under a ceasefire agreement he helped broker, calling it “the historic dawn of a new Middle East.” In a speech that lasted more than an hour, Trump described the deal as marking the end of a “painful nightmare” for both Israelis and Palestinians, crediting his administration’s diplomacy for achieving what he called “the beginning of lasting peace.” The hostages taken by Hamas during the Oct. 7, 2023, attack were returned to Israel as part of the agreement, while Palestinian prisoners were released under the first phase of the truce designed to bring an end to the years-long conflict. Trump declared that “this long and difficult war has now ended,” urging both sides to build on what he called a hard-won peace. Turning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump said Israel “has won all i...

 Families of freed hostages celebrate as relatives of the dead express anger over delays Families of the living hostages freed by Hamas after more than two years in captivity are expressing relief and gratitude as their loved ones return to Israel. Seven hostages — Eitan Mor, Gali Berman, Ziv Berman, Matan Angrest, Omri Miran, Alon Ohel, and Guy Gilboa-Dalal — were the first to be returned under the Gaza ceasefire agreement. Omri Miran’s family released a statement on Monday after his handover to Israeli troops, saying, “After more than 700 long, painful, and agonizing days, Omri will finally receive from Roni and Alma a healing embrace.” The statement praised Israel’s security forces and IDF soldiers while calling the return a moment of national, not just personal, significance. “We remain committed to the struggle — until the last hostage returns, and until the complete recovery of our beloved country,” the family said. Eitan Mor’s family also shared their joy, saying, “This is t...

Nobel economics prize awarded to three for research on innovation and economic growth Joel Mokyr, Philippe Aghion, and Peter Howitt were awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences on Monday for their groundbreaking research on how innovation drives economic growth and the process of replacing older technologies with new ones, known as “creative destruction.” The three laureates bring different but complementary perspectives to the field. Mokyr, an economic historian at Northwestern University, analyzed long-term trends using historical sources. Aghion, of the Collège de France and the London School of Economics, and Howitt, a Canadian-born economist at Brown University, applied mathematical models to explain the dynamics of creative destruction. Mokyr, 79, said he was shocked by the honor, joking that he felt more likely to be elected Pope than to win the Nobel Prize in economics. Aghion, 69, called the recognition “breathtaking” and said he planned to invest the prize money...

Hamas releases all 20 surviving hostages in Gaza peace deal Hamas released all 20 surviving Israeli hostages on Monday morning as part of a Gaza peace deal brokered by the Trump administration. Most of the hostages were civilians who had been held in captivity in Gaza for more than two years, and their freedom marks a major milestone in efforts to end the conflict. The release began shortly before President Trump arrived in Israel on a Middle East trip aimed at advancing the peace plan. Under the agreement, Hamas was required to free all 20 hostages by noon local time. The first group of seven was handed over to the Red Cross around 8 a.m., which then transferred them to Israeli forces inside Gaza. The remaining 13 hostages were released two hours later, after video calls were arranged so families could communicate with their loved ones prior to their return. The hostages were taken to a military base outside Gaza to reunite with family members, then transported to Israeli hospitals fo...

 President TInubu Applauds Gov. Ododo on Sound Governance Principles President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo , as a pride of the accountancy profession, commending his professionalism, integrity, and application of sound financial principles in governance. A statement by special adviser to governor on media, Ismail Isah, indicates that President gave the commendation when he received a delegation from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) at the State House, Abuja, shortly after the 55th Annual Accountants’ Conference. The delegation, led by ICAN President Mallam Haruna Nma Yahaya, and IFAC President Mr. Jean Bouquot, visited the President to reaffirm the profession’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and national development. In his remarks, President Tinubu applauded members of the accounting profession for their pivotal role in driving econo...

 More than 150 unvaccinated South Carolina students quarantined after measles exposure At least 153 students from two schools in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, have been placed under a 21-day quarantine following confirmed measles exposures, according to state health officials. The students, all unvaccinated, attended Global Academy of South Carolina and Fairforest Elementary School, where the latest cases have contributed to an expanding outbreak that has now reached eight confirmed infections. In total, South Carolina has reported 11 measles cases so far this year, marking one of the highest figures the state has seen in decades. Across the U.S., measles cases have surged, with at least 1,563 infections reported this year—the largest number since 1992. Federal health data show 44 outbreaks have been recorded nationwide in 2025, a sharp increase from 16 last year. The spike coincides with a decline in MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccination rates among children. Before ...

    2 hostages once thought to be alive are missing from new list released by Hamas  Two hostages whose statuses remained uncertain, Bipin Joshi and Tamir Nimrodi, were not included on the list of 20 living captives Hamas said it plans to release as part of Monday’s exchange with Israel. Neither Hamas nor Israeli authorities have made public statements confirming whether the two men are alive or deceased. Their omission adds to the growing anguish surrounding the remaining hostages, nearly two years after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that killed about 1,200 people in Israel and saw 251 others kidnapped. Since then, most hostages have been freed through a series of negotiated exchanges, but dozens remain unaccounted for. Of the 48 hostages confirmed to still be in Gaza at the time of the most recent ceasefire agreement, Israeli officials have verified that 26 are dead and 20 are believed to be alive, leaving two — Joshi and Nimrodi — with unknown fates. Joshi, a 22-ye...

 Press Release  JIGAWA  SIGNS MoU WITH AGRIGHAR INDIA, AS GOV NAMADI URGES QUICK START IMPLEMENTATION  Governor Malam Umar Namadi has lauded the outcomes of the Agrighar Scoping Study conducted across ten local government areas in the state, which culminated in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the agribusiness firm.  He hailed the findings as instrumental in empowering rural communities through inclusive, women-led, and technology-driven agriculture. During the meeting with the Agrighar India team, led by Dr. Sowmini Sunkara on Saturday, the governor expressed his admiration for the thoroughness of the two-week scoping study.  "This study is a true reflection of our vision, and the dedication shown by your team has given us confidence that you are a partner in progress,” he stated. The Agrighar team visited key regions and value chains including rice, groundnut, cassava, hibiscus, dairy, and fisheries and engaged with local stakeholders to understan...

 NASS COLLATES OPINION ON ELECTORAL REFORMS  The National assembly joint committee on electoral matters is engaging stakeholders as it amends the electoral act to improve Nigerias election management, enhance transparency and strenghten political accountability. Some highlights of the proposed amendment include recognition of prisoner voting rights, early voting for those on essential duty,electronic transmission of results, setting up election tribunal, tougher sanctions for electoral offences, as well as mandatory audit of INEC. The amendment is also proposing an increase for campaign expenditure from the current  5 billion naira  to 10 billion naira for Presidential campaigns, from  1 to 3 billion naira for governorship campaigns, and from 30 to 60 million naira for  chairmanship campaigns.

 LASG HOSTS WAEC STATE COMMITTEE MEETING … As Exam Body Announces Preparation For 2026 Digital Transition, Computer-Based Examination The Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education recently hosted the West African Examination Council (WAEC) State Committee meeting at the Secretariat, Alausa-Ikeja. The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, who chaired the meeting, reiterated the synergy between the Lagos State Government and the Examination body while reviewing the composition of the State Committee to reflect what is obtainable in the Lagos State Education system, to include the six Tutor-Generals/Permanent Secretaries, Permanent Secretary, Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), replacing the Inspectorate Division with Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) and Parents Teachers Association (PTA) with the Parents Forum (PF). Alli-Balogun reaffirmed the State's zero tolerance for examination malpractice, insisting that all contraventi...

 PRESS STATEMENT SOLDIER COMMITS MURDER, KILLS SELF AT WAWA CANTONMENT The 22 Armourd Brigade, Nigerian Army (NA), is aware of the news in respect of its personnel, Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi, serving at 221 Battalion, Wawa Cantonment who is suspected to have killed his wife and committed suicide. The tragic incident which occurred on 11 October 2025 at Wawa Cantonment, Niger State, has caused a tensed atmosphere, leaving the barracks residents in shock as to the circumstances that could have led to such unfortunate incident.  Lance Corporal Femi and his wife were suddenly found dead in their apartment at Block 15, Room 24, Corporals and Below Quarters, Wawa Cantonment. Preliminary investigation revealed that the soldier was on duty within the Cantonment, and had sought permission from his superior to attend to personal needs and return to duty. This followed the discovery of the dead bodies lying in their apartment.  The remains of the deceased have been preserved, whi...

 Lagos High Court Re-Arraigns Convicted Kidnapper Evans for Murder of Police Officers The Lagos State Government on Monday re-arraigned notorious billionaire kidnapper Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, widely known as Evans, before the Lagos High Court in Ikeja. Evans, alongside his co-defendant Joseph Emeka, faces a five-count charge including murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit kidnapping. The case, presided over by Justice A. O. Ogala, centers on the alleged murder of two police officers. Both defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges during the court session. The trial has drawn significant attention due to Evans' high-profile criminal history, with further proceedings expected to unfold in the coming weeks.

  Clergyman, Uma Ukpai, dies at 80 Renowned international evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, has died. A statement signed by the family and titled “Glorious Transition,” says the revered clergyman passed on to glory on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. The family described him as “a faithful soldier of the cross” who dedicated over six decades of his life to fiery evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word, and prophetic demonstrations of the power of God. “With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the triumphant homegoing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who passed on to glory on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. A faithful soldier of the cross has been called to rest. “Dedicating over six decades of his life to fiery evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word, and prophetic demonstrations of the power of God, he impacted millions of lives and transformed destinies within Nigeria and across the globe. “He was a spiritual general known for e...

 Madagascar President Rajoelina to address nation on Monday evening Madagascan President Andry Rajoelina will address the nation on Monday evening, his office announced on Facebook, after officers supporting youth-led protests said they were in control of the African island's paramilitary gendarmerie. Rajoelina had warned on Sunday of an attempted power grab as soldiers increasingly aligned themselves with demonstrators in a movement that has shaken the country since protests began on September 25. His whereabouts remain unclear. On Monday, officers supporting youth protesters have taken control of the paramilitary gendarmerie in Madagascar in the presence of senior government officials, a Reuters witness said. 'EXCEPTIONAL SITUATION, EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES' The protests, initially over grassroots grievances, quickly spiralled into the most serious challenge to Rajoelina's rule since his re-election in 2023. General Nonos Mbina Mamelison took over as the head of the genda...

 Former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez arrested on felony assault charge Former NFL quarterback and Fox Sports commentator Mark Sanchez was released from an Indianapolis hospital on Sunday and immediately booked on a felony battery charge following an altercation with a 69-year-old truck driver last week, according to local authorities. The 38-year-old Sanchez was taken into custody at the Marion County Jail and faced three additional misdemeanor charges. While booking photos are typically held until Monday, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department released his image on Sunday, citing significant public interest. Sanchez has since been released from jail. The incident occurred in the early hours of Oct. 4 while Sanchez was in Indianapolis with his Fox Sports team to cover a game between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Police said Sanchez allegedly confronted truck driver Perry Tole at a hotel loading dock over parking. The dispute escalat...

 Penn State dismisses coach James Franklin after midseason collapse in disappointing campaign James Franklin has been dismissed as head coach at Penn State. The university made the decision on Sunday, less than a day after a 22-21 home loss to Northwestern effectively ended the Nittany Lions’ slim hopes of reaching the College Football Playoff. Terry Smith will take over as interim coach for the remainder of the season. Penn State (3-3, 0-3 Big Ten) began the year with national title aspirations, but those ambitions faded by early October following three consecutive losses, each more damaging than the last. The team’s slide began with an overtime home defeat to Oregon, followed by a road loss at previously winless UCLA. Saturday’s game at Beaver Stadium against Northwestern proved decisive, not only for the loss itself but also because quarterback Drew Allar suffered a season-ending injury. Franklin finishes his 11-plus seasons at Penn State with a 104-45 record, though the program...

 Coco Gauff beats Jessica Pegula to win Wuhan Open in all-American final Coco Gauff rallied to win four consecutive games, defeating Jessica Pegula 6-4, 7-5 to claim the Wuhan Open title on Sunday in an all-American final. The 21-year-old Gauff captured her second title of the year, adding to her French Open victory on clay, bringing her career total to 11 titles. Facing a 5-3 deficit in the second set, the third-ranked Gauff held serve and then broke sixth-ranked Pegula at love to even the score at 5-5. Pegula’s forehand volley went wide on Gauff’s first match point, and Gauff closed out the victory with a forehand winner on Pegula’s second serve. “Winning every match in straight sets, I don’t know if I’ve done that before on a title run,” Gauff said. “I felt really proud of what I accomplished this week, regardless of today’s result.” Pegula, 31, had advanced to the final by defeating top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka in the semifinals but was unable to maintain momentum against Gauff, ...

 Mali requires $10,000 visa bond from US nationals Mali will require a reciprocal visa bond on US nationals seeking business or tourist visas, its Foreign Ministry said. The news comes in the runup to October 23, when Washington is set to start implementing a pilot visa bond programme requiring Malian nationals applying for B-1/B-2 business or tourist visas to pay bonds of $5,000 or $10,000. “In application of reciprocity, Mali decided to establish an identical visa programme, imposing on American nationals the same conditions and requirements as those applied to Malian citizens,” the ministry said in a statement. The ministry decried the unilateral move by the US, saying it undermines the 2005 long-term multiple-entry visa agreement between the two countries. It cited the West African nation’s history of cooperation with the US against irregular immigration, emphasising respect for law and human dignity, and reaffirmed its commitment to fostering “fruitful” relations based on dial...

 PRESIDENT TINUBU FELICITATES WITH SON SEYI @ 40 President Bola Tinubu has congratulated his son Seyi as he clocks forty years.  In a statement personally signed, President Tinubu says, "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. 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. Forty is a special age. It bridges youthful drive and the more profound wisdom that life brings. You have carried your name with honour and have remained faithful to the values of discipline, integrity, and hard work. Our entire family is proud of y...