New Daily Prime Match Prediction Challenge: Predict and Win ₦10,000!
Football lovers, the excitement is building as Manchester City faces off against Liverpool in one of the most anticipated Premier League clashes of the season! Scheduled for 23rd February 2025 at 17:30 GMT, this showdown promises high stakes, tactical brilliance, and heart-pounding drama. And here’s your chance to be part of the action! With the New Daily Prime Match Prediction Challenge, you can win ₦10,000 by predicting the outcome of this thrilling encounter. Manchester City vs Liverpool: A Rivalry Reborn The rivalry between Manchester City and Liverpool is legendary, but this time, the stage is set for a new twist. Liverpool, now under the leadership of their new coach Arne Slot, are enjoying a stellar season and currently sit comfortably in 1st position with 61 points. On the other hand, Manchester City, a team known for their dominance in recent years, find themselves in 4th place with 44 points. Pep Guardiola and his team will be looking to make a statement and revive their title hopes with a win over the league leaders. What Makes This Match Special? This isn’t just another match; it’s a battle between two contrasting teams and styles: For Liverpool, this is an opportunity to cement their dominance and extend their lead at the top. For City, it’s a must-win match to stay in the title race and restore their pride. Join the Match Prediction Challenge and Win ₦10,000 Think you have what it takes to predict this thrilling encounter? Here’s your chance to win ₦10,000! How to Participate Important: What’s at Stake? This match is more than just a Premier League game: The answers lie ahead, and your predictions could make all the difference! Time to Show Your Football Knowledge The New Daily Prime Match Prediction Challenge isn’t just about luck – it’s about strategy, analysis, and your understanding of the beautiful game. Don’t miss this chance to showcase your football expertise and win ₦10,000! Submit your predictions now and tune in for what promises to be a blockbuster match. Stay connected to New Daily Prime for updates, results, and more exciting opportunities to win!
Over 12,000 Insurgents surrender since DRR programme launch – DHQ
The Defence Headquarters has revealed that over 12,000 ex-insurgents along with their families has surrendered to the De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration (DRR) programme since its launched. The 12-months programme is conducted under the Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC) initiative. 789 former insurgents are currently enrolled into the programme. The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, disclosed this at the OPSC Stakeholders Meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday. Represented by the Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Sayo Olatunde, Musa stated that the military is preparing to reintegrate 381 ex-Boko Haram fighters back into society. Read Also: Boko Haram: FG must investigate Perry’s claim on terrorism funding – Ali Ndume Commander of the OPSC, Brigadier General Ali, explained that the programme is a multi-agency humanitarian initiative, which operates under existing laws and aligns with international humanitarian and human rights regulations. Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force has disclosed that it has paid N20.84 billion in insurance benefits to the families of 7,171 officers who lost their lives in the line of duty between 2020 and 2025. The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, made this announcement while presenting cheques to the next-of-kin of deceased officers. According to Egbetokun, the police force had earlier disbursed N17.8 billion to 6,465 beneficiaries in eight phases. An additional N2.99 billion has now been paid to 706 more beneficiaries, covering policy years from 2020 to 2024. This ninth phase brings the total amount paid to N20.84 billion, ensuring financial support for the families of fallen officers.
Dele Odule debunks death rumour, confirms health
Veteran Nigerian actor Dele Odule has firmly dismissed false reports of his death and alleged arrest, calling them baseless, irresponsible, and deeply frustrating. In a video posted on Instagram, the Nollywood star expressed deep frustration over the spreading of baseless claims, calling out those responsible for fabricating such stories. Slams fake news on social media Odule directly addressed a blogger who falsely announced his death by posting his picture with the caption “RIP.” He condemned the act, calling it insensitive and malicious. “There’s nothing wrong with me. I am very much alive,” Odule stated. “I don’t understand why anyone would wish me dead. This is barbaric, uncalled for, and unfair.” The actor emphasized that spreading false information about someone’s death can cause unnecessary panic and distress. He urged people to be more responsible with the information they share online. Denies arrest allegations Odule also responded to another damaging rumour that accused him of child molestation and falsely claimed he had been arrested. The report included an image of him in handcuffs, further fueling the speculation. Visibly angered by the accusation, Odule questioned the intent behind such falsehoods. “For what? What is your problem? Are you alright? Don’t try to bring me down,” he said. He went on to express his faith, stating that those who spread falsehoods against him were fighting a bigger force. “If you come at me, you’re coming at God because you are not fighting me but God,” he declared. Expresses gratitude to supporters Despite the negativity, Odule took a moment to appreciate his loyal fans and well-wishers. He acknowledged their unwavering support and concern for his well-being. “I love you to bits. Thank you for always being there and for your concern about my well-being. I really appreciate it. God bless you,” he said warmly. The veteran actor urged his supporters to ignore the false reports and continue spreading positivity. He reassured them that he remains strong, healthy, and focused on his career. Calls for responsible journalism The Nollywood icon also called on media outlets and content creators to verify the information before publishing. He warned against using people’s names and images for engagement without considering the consequences. Misinformation has become a growing problem, especially on social media. Many celebrities have been victims of fake death reports, which often cause distress among their families and fans. Odule’s case is just one of many examples of how easily false news can spread. He stressed that the public should always fact-check information before believing or sharing it. Fans and colleagues show support Following his video statement, several fans and colleagues in the entertainment industry flooded his comment section with messages of support. Many condemned the spread of false news and reassured Odule of their solidarity. “People need to stop doing this. It’s wickedness,” one user commented. “Baba, we love you! Long life and good health,” another fan wrote. Other Nollywood actors also voiced their support, urging bloggers to stop using sensational falsehoods to gain attention. Fake news in Nollywood The Nigerian entertainment industry has witnessed several incidents where celebrities have been falsely reported dead. Social media has made it easy for misinformation to spread, often causing unnecessary panic. Veteran actors like Pete Edochie, Olu Jacobs, and Joke Silva have also had to publicly deny similar rumours in the past. Despite repeated calls for responsible journalism, such incidents continue to occur. Final words Dele Odule remains undeterred by the false reports. Instead, he is focused on his craft and engaging with his true supporters. He urged his fans to remain positive and ignore the negativity. With his strong stance against misinformation, the actor hopes to create awareness about the dangers of fake news. He encourages people to verify information before accepting it as the truth. For now, Dele Odule is alive, well, and still very much active in Nollywood. Read Also: Losing my son was my saddest moment – Dele Odule
Gaza launches emergency polio vaccination to protect 591,000 children
Health officials in the Gaza Strip are launching an emergency polio vaccination campaign from February 22 to 26, 2025, to protect children from the virus. The campaign will provide the novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2) to over 591,000 children under the age of 10, following the recent detection of poliovirus in wastewater samples. This information was shared today on World Health Organisation (WHO) website. The presence of poliovirus in the environment poses a serious risk to children, especially in Gaza’s overcrowded shelters and areas with damaged water, sanitation, and hygiene systems. With extensive population movement following the current ceasefire, health experts warn that the virus could spread further if immunity gaps are not addressed. Previous vaccination rounds in September and October 2024 successfully reached over 95% of the target population. However, in some areas, including Jabalia, Beit Lahiya, and Beit Hanoun, about 7,000 children missed their doses due to restricted access during the conflict. Read Also: UNICEF, Edo govt partner on polio vaccine sensitization The recent ceasefire is expected to improve access and allow health workers to reach previously missed children. There have been no new confirmed polio cases since a 10-month-old child was paralyzed in August 2024. However, environmental samples from Deir al Balah and Khan Younis, collected in December 2024 and January 2025, confirm that the virus is still circulating. The detected strain is genetically linked to the poliovirus found in Gaza in July 2024, prompting health authorities to take urgent action. The campaign is being led by the Palestinian Ministry of Health with support from the WHO, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), and other partners. Health experts emphasize that polio vaccines are safe, and there is no limit to how many times a child can be vaccinated. Every dose enhances protection, making it especially vital during an outbreak. An additional vaccination round is planned for April 2025 to further boost immunity levels. WHO, UNICEF, and other global health organizations have expressed support for the recent ceasefire and continue to advocate for lasting peace to safeguard the health and well-being of all children in Gaza.
Rape case cost me $20m in lost income – Jay-Z
…Claims it was timed to embarrass daughter Blue Ivy at ‘Mufasa’ premiere The lawsuit accusing Jay-Z and Sean “Diddy” Combs of repeatedly raping a minor in 2000 after the MTV VMAs was dismissed on Valentine’s Day, but the bitter relationship between the Jay-Z and attorney Tony Buzbee rages on. Filed four days before the Buzbee-represented Jane Doe “voluntarily dismissed with prejudice” her claims, Jay-Z (aka Shawn Carter) made a declaration in the docket of Los Angeles Superior Court ripping the Texas-based attorney. Rejecting Buzbee’s attempt to have the Roc Nation boss’ defamation and extortion suit essentially gutted, Jay-Z’s February 10 filing says the “career-ending” accusations of assaulting a 13-year-old girl unsurprisingly damaged his business and his family — the former to the tune of $20 million a year. While not mentioning the NFL, with which Roc Nation has a recently renewed Super Bowl Halftime Show deal, Jay-Z’s declaration makes clear that even if the Roger Goodell-run league was standing by him, others were much less inclined to do so: “Mr. Buzbee’s actions undermined my relationship, and my company Roc Nation’s relationship, with other businesses in the sports and entertainment space,” the filing states. “We have agreements to produce entertainment programs for certain sporting events. After Mr. Buzbee filed the lawsuit, the media reported that other businesses could end their deals with Roc Nation, and forced one to speak out and address whether these false allegations would end our business relationship. “Immediately after Mr. Buzbee went public with his false accusations, my company Roc Nation also lost other contracts in the sports and entertainment space that would have generated revenues of approximately $20 million per year.” The rape of the then-teen Jane Doe is alleged to have occurred on the night of September 7, 2000 during one of Diddy’s drug-fueled parties after that year’s MTV VMAs. A graphic October 20, 2024 lawsuit from Buzbee first only named Combs, but made distinct reference to accomplices cited as male “Celebrity A” and a female “Celebrity B.” Jay-Z was named as “Celebrity A” in a December 8 refiling by Buzbee, which followed separate November 18 suit from a Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan-represented anonymous “celebrity and public figure who resides in Los Angeles” (later revealed to be Jay-Z) that went after the Texas lawyer for extortion. After a flurry of filings, including several unsuccessful attempts at dismissal, one problematic NBC News sit-down featuring the now middle-aged Jane Doe and other media duels, the whole matter was pulled on February 14 by the plaintiff with no explanation by Buzbee. On the other hand, Jay-Z said in a statement posted that day on Roc Nation’s X feed: “I would not wish this experience on anyone. The trauma that my wife, my children, loved ones and I have endured can never be dismissed.” (From left) Jay-Z, Beyoncé and Blue Ivy Carter at the Los Angeles premiere of Disney’s ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ In fact, on February 10, the multi-Grammy winner also got specific about what he viewed as a hit on him timing-wise when he was publicly named December 8. “I was harshly criticized by others for accompanying my daughter to the premiere of her movie a day after Mr. Buzbee filed the Jane Doe lawsuit against me,” Jay-Z said of the full-tilt December 9 Los Angeles premiere of the Barry Jenkins-directed Mufasa: The Lion King that he attended with daughter Blue Ivy and his wife Beyoncé. “Media outlets reported that Disney was hesitant over my attendance at the premiere because of the accusations. I feel that Mr. Buzbee purposely filed this lawsuit on the eve of my daughter’s premiere to put me in the position of having to choose between supporting my daughter or hiding to avoid the negative press coverage. “Buzbee’s assertion that there is nothing ‘extreme and outrageous’ about his false public claims that Mr. Carter is a serial child rapist is erroneous and appalling,” states an accompanying 22-page opposition to defendant’s motion to strike. Despite all the citations of threats, alleged multiple victims, strong-arming by Buzbee for “something of substance” from Jay-Z for his clients, and the hip-hop icon’s attendance at big NFL games and the Grammys in recent weeks, this could all be DOA now, though a February 25 hearing in downtown L.A. remains on the books. Deadline reached out to lawyers for both Jay-Z and Jane Doe for comment and clarification on the state of affairs, but the filing of judicial notice Tuesday in LASC may provide a clue. In that paperwork, Jay-Z lawyer Robert M. Schwartz did note the February 14 dismissal in NYC and stressed, “given that Mr. Buzbee filed the dismissal four days after Mr. Carter filed his opposition to the anti-SLAPP Motion (on February 10), Mr. Carter could not have made the dismissal a part of his opposition.” The attorney added: “The voluntary dismissal with prejudice is relevant to Mr. Carter’s opposition to Defendants’ pending Special Motion to Strike (‘anti-SLAPP Motion’), which attacks the legal and factual bases of Mr. Carter’s claims for extortion, defamation, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. “The gravamen of Mr. Carter’s claims is that Mr. Buzbee failed to properly investigate Jane Doe’s claims before Mr. Buzbee publicly accused Mr. Carter of rape and threatened to refer him to law enforcement authorities, and then demanded that Mr. Carter pay his client ‘something of substance’ to buy her silence and avoid a ‘public spectacle’ and litigation.” Schwartz goes on to make another point in today’s filing: “The factfinder in this case can reasonably infer from the voluntary dismissal that Buzbee’s public statements that Mr. Carter had raped Jane Doe were false, making them defamatory.” Perhaps this is about to become a West Coast war now. As for Combs, who still faces dozens of assault and abuse civil suits from Buzbee-represented plaintiffs and others, he remains behind bars at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center where he has been since his September 16 arrest. Failing on multiple occasions to get released on $50 million bail and
Trump slams Zelenskyy, calls him ‘modestly successful comedian’, ‘dictator’
·US President Donald Trump, who is negotiating with Russia on ending the war in Ukraine slammed his Ukrainian counterpart for going into a war that couldn’t be won, in a social media post. Calling him a dictator, Trump wrote, ‘Zelenskyy better move fast or he is not going to have a country left.’ President Donald Trump on Wednesday called Volodymyr Zelenskyy a modestly successful comedian and ‘dictator’ after the Ukrainian president said that United States President was influenced by Russian disinformation. The remark came even as Trump administration is reaching out to Russia to pushing for a peace deal. Earlier in the day, reacting to Trump’s comment at Mar-a-Lago that Zelenskyy’s rating stood at 4 per cent, the Ukrainian president alleged that Trump is living in a Russian “disinformation space”. “We have seen this disinformation. We understand that it is coming from Russia. Trump lives in this disinformation space,” said Zelenskyy during a news conference in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. Meanwhile, Trump has also responded to Zelenskyy’s remark and called him a dictator without elections. “Think of it, a modestly successful comedian, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, talked the United States of America into spending $350 Billion Dollars, to go into a War that couldn’t be won, that never had to start, but a War that he, without the U.S. and “TRUMP,” will never be able to settle,” said Trump in a post on X. He added that the United States has spent $200 billion Dollars more than Europe, and Europe’s money is guaranteed, while the United States will get nothing back. “Why didn’t Sleepy Joe Biden demand equalization, in that this war is far more important to Europe than it is to us -We have a big, beautiful Ocean as separation. On top of this, Zelenskyy admits that half of the money we sent him is “MISSING.” He refuses to have Elections, is very low in Ukrainian Polls, and the only thing he was good at was playing Biden “like a fiddle,” said Trump. “Dictator without elections” Calling the Ukrainian president a dictator without elections, Trump said, “Zelenskyy better move fast or he is not going to have a country left. In the meantime, we are successfully negotiating an end to the war with Russia, something all admit only “TRUMP,” and the Trump Administration can do.” “Europe failed to bring peace” The US President also claimed that Biden never tried, Europe has failed to bring peace, and Zelenskyy probably wants to keep the “gravy train” going. “I love Ukraine, but Zelenskyy has done a terrible job, his country is shattered, and MILLIONS have unnecessarily died – And so it continues…..” On Tuesday, Trump suggested that Kyiv was to blame for the war, which enters its fourth year next week, as talks between top American and Russian diplomats in Saudi Arabia sidelined Ukraine and its European supporters. “Would like to meet Trump” Russian President Vladimir Putin said he would like to meet with President Donald Trump. Putin also hailed the talks between senior Russian and US officials in Riyadh.
LAGOS ASSEMBLY: DSS recovers guns, ammunition from Obasa’s CSO office
The unsavoury political impasse ongoing sat the Lagos House of Assembly appears to be getting uglier with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) allegedly uncovering a large cache of arms and ammunition from an office space in the Assembly complex allegedly being used by one Baruwa Idris Okeowo. Baruwa, a retired serviceman is the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the impeached former Speaker of the House, Mudashiru Obasa. The House of Assembly has been embroiled in a leadership tussle following the removal of Obasa as the Speaker of the Assembly. He was on January 13, 2025, removed by a majority of lawmakers over alleged misconduct, abuse of office, and financial misappropriations. Obasa was replaced by former Deputy Speaker, Mojisola Meranda. Upon his return, Obasa insisted that due process was not followed and maintained that he was still the legitimate Speaker. Earlier on Monday, the leadership tussle took a new twist with heavy security presence at the premises during a plenary session. Security vans and personnel were spotted in and outside the premises of the Assembly complex in the Alausa Area of the commercial city. There was a mild drama when some of the security agents tried to gain access to the Assembly chambers. These delayed the plenary for some hours. It was, however, discovered it was the Assembly leadership who requested DSS operatives to boost security ahead of February 18 plenary, citing potential security threats from Obasa’s planned resumption as Speaker. While the lawmakers passed a vote of confidence in Meranda, sources told journalists that men of the secret police after the plenary discovered a cache of pump action rifles and ammunition in an office used by Obasa’s CSO in the Assembly complex. “The DSS invited to the complex by the leadership during their routine sweeping exercise, discovered a stack of new arms, including pump action numbering about 47, and live cartridges neatly kept somewhere within the Speaker’s office space. The particular space was used by Baruwa Idris Okeowo, his CSO before the impeachment saga,” a source said. “They then took inventory of the arms and also took them into custody.” However, a source close to the ousted Speaker described the discovery by the DSS operatives as “jokes taken too far.” The source added that Obasa is yet to be invited by the secret police over the incident. “He is yet to be invited by any security agencies, isn’t it funny? Same office they brought prayer warriors to, same office she (Meranda) and other members had several meetings, so how come guns and arms were just discovered in same office. It’s nothing but a form of blackmailing, that’s what they have been doing before.”
World’s 1st self-confessed gay imam shot dead in South Africa
A man hailed as the world’s first imam to say he was gay was shot dead in South Africa on Wednesday, local police said, in what rights groups fear could be a hate crime. Eastern Cape provincial police said in a statement it was investigating the death of Muhsin Hendricks, 58, in Bethelsdorp stating that the motive behind the killing was unclear. The statement said that at around 10 a.m. Wednesday, “Hendricks and a driver was inside a gold-colored VW TRoc in Haley Place, Extension 24, Bethelsdorp when a silver-colored Hilux double cab stopped in front and blocked them from driving off.” It added that: “Two unknown suspects with covered faces got out of the vehicle and started firing multiple shots at the vehicle. Thereafter they fled the scene, and the driver noticed that Hendricks who was seated at the back of the vehicle was shot and killed.” A video, captured by a security camera, purporting to show the shooting incident has been shared widely on social media. CNN has not independently verified the video, and police said they could not confirm the video as an investigation is underway. Shootings are common in South Africa where murder rates – already among the highest in the world – are at a 20-year high. Fears of hate crime Hendricks was the “first imam in the world to come out as gay” in 1996, according to a statement from the advocacy group the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA World) on Wednesday. “The ILGA World family is in deep shock at the news of the murder of Muhsin Hendricks, and calls on authorities to thoroughly investigate what we fear may be a hate crime,” Julia Ehrt, executive director at ILGA World, said in the statement. South Africa’s Department of Justice and Constitutional Development said it was “saddened” by Hendrick’s murder and pledged to “track and monitor that justice is dispensed” if his death is indeed confirmed as a hate crime. Hendricks founded the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation in Cape Town, where he served as executive director. The human rights organization provides support to “Queer Muslims helping them to reconcile Islam with their Sexual orientation and Gender Identity,” according to the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation’s website. The Muslim Judicial Council of South Africa (MJC) “unequivocally” condemned the “shocking killing.”“It has been alleged that the killing may have been motivated by hatred towards Muhsin Hendricks due to his views on same-sex relationships. ”While the MJC has consistently maintained that Muhsin’s position is incompatible with Islamic teachings, we unequivocally condemn his murder and any acts of violence targeting members of the LGBTQ community or any other community,” the MJC said. The imam was the subject of the 2022 documentary “The Radical” which followed Hendricks establishing a mosque for LGBTQ+ Muslims in Cape Town, South Africa, amid death threats. “The need to be authentic was greater than the fear to die,” Hendricks says in the film.
No plan by 27 members to defect – Lagos Assembly
The Lagos State House of Assembly has dismissed rumours making rounds that 27 members are planning to defect to the Labour Party as untrue and a figment of imagination of its purveyors. In a statement issued to newsmen on Wednesday, the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Strategy and Security, Ogundipe Stephen, countered this claim, describing the news as false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public. The Chairman said the report was not only offensive but also inaccurate and outright falsehood with no other purpose but to sow discord and confusion within the Assembly and among the good people of Lagos State. He said the speakership crisis is purely an internal matter and actions were carried out in tandem with the law. Ogundipe, therefore, assured party leaders and members of the public that they remain committed to the party. The Chairman also called on all media partners to uphold the ethics of journalism by verifying facts before publication and refraining from spreading unverified reports. “The Lagos State House of Assembly wishes to categorically debunk the malicious and unfounded publication alleging that twenty-seven members of the Assembly are planning to defect from the ruling party to the opposition Labour Party (LP). This publication is entirely false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public. “We find this report not only offensive but also riddled with inaccuracies and outright falsehoods that serve no purpose other than to sow discord and confusion within the Assembly and among the good people of Lagos State. “The recent developments in the House, including the removal of the erstwhile Speaker, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, and the election of Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker, are purely internal matters. These actions were carried out in accordance with the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as Amended. “These events in no way suggest any intention by members to leave the party. We emphasise, without any ambiguity, that no member of the Assembly is contemplating defection. “We were elected under the Leadership of the Ruling Party. The ruling party remains united and focused on delivering its mandate to the people of Lagos State. The falsehood being spread originates from agents of destabilisation who seek to create unnecessary tension and division within the Assembly. “To our party leaders and supporters across the state, we assure you that all members remain committed to the party. “Furthermore, we reaffirm that any internal disagreements within the House will be resolved amicably through peaceful and democratic mechanisms. There is no crisis that warrants any member considering defection. “We also call on all media partners to uphold the ethics of journalism by verifying facts before publication and refraining from spreading unverified reports that could mislead the public,” he said.
Osun LG Crisis: Adeleke accuses IGP of lawlessness
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has accused the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, of enforcing illegality in the state’s local government administration. Adeleke made the allegation during a meeting with British diplomats led by the UK’s Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter. The governor condemned what he described as the IGP’s collusion with the All Progressives Congress (APC) to impose a “non-existent” court order, warning that such actions threaten democracy in Nigeria. He lamented the role of security forces in allegedly aiding violations of democratic processes rather than upholding the rule of law. READ ALSO: Osun LG crisis: Police vow to prosecute perpetrators “You are in my state at a critical juncture in our political life. We face an existential threat to our democracy from those who should be its protectors,” Adeleke told the diplomats. “Despite my directive for political actors to refrain from escalating tensions, the opposition, with police support, broke into local government secretariats to enforce illegality.” Reaffirming his commitment to a peaceful and fair election scheduled for Saturday, Adeleke stated that Osun citizens are prepared to exercise their democratic rights. He urged the international community to take note of the alleged democratic infractions, calling for security agencies to remain neutral and uphold the rule of law. Beyond the political crisis, Adeleke highlighted his administration’s progress in various sectors. He cited a 40% reduction in infrastructure deficit, a similar cut in state debt, improved workers’ welfare, and the enrollment of pensioners in the state health insurance scheme. He also emphasised efforts to enhance the ease of doing business, streamline taxation, and fast-track the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy within 45 days. READ ALSO: Osun LG crisis: Adeleke asks residents to stay away from secretariats Responding to Adeleke’s concerns, Deputy High Commissioner Baxter underscored the UK’s commitment to democratic values, urging all political actors to prioritize peace and lawful resolution of disputes. “Nigeria is a key partner to the UK, and we encourage all stakeholders to uphold democratic values, ensure peaceful governance, and respect legal institutions,” Baxter stated. “It is vital that law enforcement remains neutral and that political disputes are resolved through lawful channels.” Baxter was accompanied by Katherine Fernandes, Second Secretary (Political), and Wale Adebajo, Senior Political Adviser. The meeting comes amid heightened political tensions in Osun as the state prepares for local government elections, with concerns over security agencies’ roles in the unfolding events.
