NEWS
Obasanjo Debunks Death Rumours, Slams Peddlers Of False News
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has dismissed widespread rumours of his death circulating on social media, reaffirming that he is very much alive.
Speaking during the inauguration of the Old Garage/Oke Fia-Lameco Dual carriageway in Osogbo, Osun State, Obasanjo expressed his disbelief at the false reports.
“I heard the rumour that I was dead. I saw it on social media. I quickly told my children and my relations that it was not true and that I was alive. Those who want me dead, that is their wish but God still keeps me alive,” he said.
The former president also sent a stern warning to those spreading such falsehoods, stating, “Those who want me dead won’t escape tragedy themselves.” He criticised the misuse of technology, adding, “This kind of rumour is not only disturbing but shows the extent to which some people misuse technology. It is unacceptable.”
The event was part of a series of activities commemorating Governor Ademola Adeleke’s second anniversary in office. Governor Adeleke highlighted the government’s achievements, including over 120 kilometers of constructed roads and major infrastructural projects, all funded without loans.
“For the second half of our government, I reassure all sons and daughters of Osun State that the government under my leadership will complete all ongoing projects. We will continue to address the infra and social needs of our people,” Adeleke stated.
The occasion not only underscored the state’s commitment to development but also provided a platform for Obasanjo to reaffirm his vitality and dedication to public service.
NEWS
Tinubu Appoints Abiola’s Son As SSA On Linguistics, Foreign Matters
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Jamiu Abiola as the Senior Special Assistant on Linguistics and Foreign Matters.
The appointment, effective from November 14, 2024, was announced in a statement by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
Jamiu Abiola, a son of the late Chief Moshood Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the annulled 1993 presidential election, previously served as the Special Assistant on Special Duties in the Office of the Vice-President.
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His new role will see him working closely with the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The statement highlighted that Abiola’s appointment aligns with the provisions of the Certain Political and Judicial Office Holders (Salaries and Allowances, etc) Act 2008, as amended.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Jamiu Abiola as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Linguistics and Foreign Matters. The appointment takes effect from 14th November, 2024,” the statement read.
President Tinubu urged Abiola to leverage his wealth of experience in his new role, particularly in enhancing Nigeria’s foreign relations.
NEWS
President Tinubu Arrives In Paris For High-Level Talks With Macron
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu landed in Paris on Wednesday evening for a three-day state visit aimed at strengthening ties between Nigeria and France.
He arrived at Orly Airport at 5:10 PM local time, following an invitation from French President Emmanuel Macron.
The visit will focus on bolstering political, economic, and cultural partnerships, with key areas of discussion including agriculture, security, education, health, youth development, innovation, and energy transition.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga revealed that Tinubu, accompanied by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, will be formally received on Thursday at the historic Les Invalides and the Élysée Palace by President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron.
The reception will include ceremonial events and bilateral talks.
“Both leaders will participate in political and diplomatic meetings highlighting shared values on finance, solid minerals, trade and investments, and communication,” Onanuga said.
One significant agenda item is the France-Nigeria Business Council session, which aims to boost private-sector involvement in economic development.
Discussions will also explore youth-centered exchange programs focusing on automation, entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership.
International News
FBI Investigates Threats Against Trump’s Incoming Administration
Members of President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming administration have been targeted by a series of threats, including bomb alerts and hoax emergency calls, the transition team revealed on Wednesday.
Karoline Leavitt, a spokeswoman for Trump’s team, confirmed the incidents, describing them as “violent, un-American threats” against the nominees and their families.
“Last night and this morning, several of President Trump’s Cabinet nominees and administration appointees were targeted in threats to their lives and those who live with them,” she said.
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The incidents include bomb threats and “swatting,” a hoax tactic where false emergency reports prompt an urgent police response to an unsuspecting person’s residence.
One of the confirmed targets was Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, nominated to serve as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik disclosed that her New York home was targeted in a bomb threat while she, her husband, and their young son were traveling home for Thanksgiving.
“We were alerted to the threat while driving back from Washington,” she said in a statement.
The FBI is now investigating the threats, which it says are part of a broader pattern. “We are aware of numerous bomb threats and swatting incidents,” the agency stated. “We take all potential threats seriously.”
These developments come as Trump prepares to assume office in January, building a cabinet largely composed of loyal allies.
The president-elect’s team has faced criticism over the experience levels of some appointees, as well as heightened tensions over Trump’s return to power.
The threats also follow a dramatic assassination attempt on Trump in July, during which he was wounded in the ear.
Despite legal battles related to efforts to overturn the 2020 election, Trump remains on track to resume leadership in a polarized political climate.