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French President Emmanuel Macron has addressed the recent arrest of Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, which occurred on French territory. Macron clarified that this action is part of a broader judicial investigation and emphasized that it is devoid of any political motivations. In his response, President Macron took to X (formerly Twitter) to counter what he described as misleading narratives circulating about France’s stance on this matter. “I have observed numerous inaccuracies regarding France’s position following Pavel Durov’s arrest,” Macron stated. “France is unwavering in its commitment to upholding freedom of expression, communication, and innovation. Our dedication to these principles remains steadfast.” Macron further elaborated that in a nation governed by the rule of law, freedoms are protected within a structured legal framework, both in digital spaces and in everyday life. “It is essential for the judiciary, acting with complete independence, to enforce the law,” he added. “The arrest of Pavel Durov is part of an ongoing judicial process and should not be misconstrued as a political maneuver. It is the responsibility of the judicial authorities to make determinations regarding this case.” This statement from Macron has generated significant global interest and commentary, with notable figures like Elon Musk weighing in. Musk, known for his influential voice in the tech world, responded to Macron’s clarification by calling for greater transparency. “It would be beneficial for the global public to receive more details about the reasons behind Pavel Durov’s arrest,” Musk tweeted, reflecting widespread curiosity and concern over the situation. In the wake of Durov’s arrest, the Russian embassy in France has been actively seeking access to the detained individual but has faced obstacles. The embassy issued a statement accusing French authorities of hindering their attempts to engage with Durov. This diplomatic friction underscores the international dimension of the incident and the complex interplay between legal processes and global relations. The arrest has thus sparked a broad discussion on the intersection of law, politics, and personal freedoms, highlighting the tension between national judicial actions and international perceptions. As the situation develops, it will continue to draw scrutiny from both the public and international leaders.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, has sounded the alarm on Nigeria’s economic trajectory. In a recent address to the Nigerian Bar Association, she highlighted a concerning trend: the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate has been steadily declining since 2014, indicating a deterioration in the average Nigerian’s standard of living. The contrast between the pre-2014 era and the subsequent period is stark. Prior to 2014, Nigeria experienced a decade of robust economic growth, averaging 3.8% annually. This growth rate comfortably outpaced the nation’s population growth, resulting in a tangible improvement in the lives of its citizens. “We have had episodes of reforms and faster economic growth that were not merely a function of the price of oil. But we have been unable to consolidate and build on them, and millions of our compatriots have paid the price in terms of diminished job prospects and human well-being. “For example, in the decade between 2000 and 2014, we had an average GDP growth rate of 3.8%, well above our population growth rate of 2.6% per annum, meaning that people were on average truly improving their standard of living. “During the following decade, average annual GDP per capita has been negative around minus 0.9%, meaning people were worse off because we were not able to sustain prior positive growth momentum,” Okonjo-Iweala added. Nigeria’s declining GDP growth rate has significant implications for its worsening poverty rate and increasing population. Rising Poverty: When GDP growth slows or becomes negative, it typically leads to a decrease in job opportunities, reduced income levels, and increased economic hardship. This can push more people below the poverty line, exacerbating existing inequalities. Strained Social Services: A weakened economy can limit the government’s ability to provide essential social services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. This can further marginalize vulnerable populations and contribute to a cycle of poverty. Increased Inequality: Declining GDP growth can disproportionately affect low-income and marginalized communities. This can lead to a widening gap between the rich and poor, contributing to social unrest and instability. Population Pressure: Nigeria’s rapidly growing population puts additional strain on its resources. When economic growth is sluggish, it becomes more difficult to meet the needs of a growing population, leading to increased poverty and unemployment. Okonjo-Iweala attributed this downturn to the government’s inability to sustain the positive growth momentum achieved by previous administrations. She emphasized that the challenges faced by the Nigerian Bar Association, and indeed by the nation as a whole, are deeply intertwined with the country’s economic struggles. To address these challenges and foster sustainable development, Okonjo-Iweala called for a consistent approach to economic policy, regardless of political affiliations. She argued that the country must prioritize long-term economic stability and growth over short-term gains.

The chairman of the Action People’s Party (APP) in Rivers State, Hon. Sunny Wokekoro, says the party will field candidates in the October 5 local government election in the state. The state chairman also expressed the readiness of the party to win the 23 chairmanship seats and the 310 councillorship seats in the state. Speaking when he, alongside the national legal adviser of the party, Barr Henry Odili, and the state legal adviser, Barr Henry Ekine, received, in a courtesy visit, the simplified Rivers daughters in his office on Monday, Hon. Wokekoro said the party is open to receiving defectors from other parties. He said, “We have to prove to the governor and to all those we are inviting to join our party that we are formidably enough and a veritable platform for them to contest the election. And how are we going to do that? We are going to start with the local government election. We have 319 wards, and we will now produce 319 councillors.” “We intend, by the special grace of God, to sweep you out. We are not leaving any. We have 23 local government council chairperson positions to contest, and by the special grace of God, we are going to clear these 23 of them. When that is done, we are going to make this party, the APP, a national party. We are going to wrestle power and position from those parties that do not take the dream and the aspirations of Nigerians for granted,” he said. Speaking further, Hon. Wokekoro said the APP has become a threat to the bigger party, explaining that the attack on the state secretariat by detractors made the party popular. The APP chairman also promised to always defend the interests of the party, noting that he intends to take the party to greater heights.  He said: “If anybody is making the mistake of thinking that what they did here is a discouragement to any of us, the person should go and have his or her head re-examined because we are more, we are more emboldened, we are more determined, and we are more encouraged to do what we are doing. Rivers State must be rescued, irrespective of the political parties to which we all belong.” Rivers State must be rescued. This narrative in River State, introduced by people who do not even understand why they have to introduce it, was introduced by people that River State has been so kind and wonderful to. River State has blessed them beyond their imaginations, and they want to introduce this kind of thing to pay back the River State people. Also speaking, the national legal adviser of the party, Barr Henry Odili, enjoined the people to join hands and move the party forward. Barr Odili assured on behalf of the national working committee of the party that the Action Peoples Party has come to stay in Rivers State and is ready to sweep all electable offices in the coming council elections in the state. Earlier, the coordinator of the group, Helen Nyeche, promised to support the party chairman as he led the party to success.  Also, the chairman received, in a courtesy visit, the Supreme Council for SIM, led by its chairman, General Smith. Highlights of activity at the secretariat were the kick-off of the “APP with Jesus” weekly prayer meeting and the dedication of the secretariat by Pastor David Dakoru.

The Rivers State Ethnic Youth Leaders Council (RSEYLC), the state’s leading indigenous youth organization, along with various affiliated youth groups, have strongly condemned recent calls for the removal of Mr. Dango Matthew. Mr. Matthew currently serves as the Special Adviser on Youth to the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). In a statement, the youth organizations have labeled the individuals behind these calls as “faceless, unscrupulous, and disgruntled elements with ulterior motives.” “Our attention has been drawn to the unwarranted call by some faceless, unscrupulous, and disgruntled individuals for the sack of Mr. Dango Matthew, the Special Adviser (S.A.) on youth, to the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). “The efforts and determination of these demented, frustrated, and hunger-driven ” Oliver Twist” individuals who have pretentiously come under the guise of the Niger Delta Stakeholders with the aim to deceive the general public have been spotted and are therefore condemned by every well-meaning individual.” They expressed their unwavering support for Mr. Matthew’s leadership and denounced the baseless attempts to tarnish his reputation. “Dango is a friendly and very humble person, level-headed, and always apt in discharging his duties and responsibilities fervently. As a result, the attention of the general public and all relevant authorities is therefore drawn to discountenance and disregard the characters of Charles Omusuku and his likes in their unwarranted call for the sack of Dango, as this is not emanating from the true Niger Delta Stakeholders. “This call is known to be coming from the enemies of our region, to spoil and smear the good work and efforts of the current NDDC Board. “We are calling on Charles Omusuku and his cohorts to desist forthwith, in this malicious adventure and should go and look for a proper means of livelihood and engagements, other than threatening the lives of individuals, private and public establishments, for his or their daily survival.” The youth leaders urged the public to disregard these “malicious fabrications” and commended Mr. Matthew’s dedication to serving the interests of the Niger Delta’s youth. They believe Mr. Matthew’s leadership is crucial for ensuring the effective implementation of youth development programs within the Niger Delta region.

A vibrant assembly of Renewed Hope Family members from across the local governments of Rivers State gathered in significant numbers at the Port Harcourt Polo Club. A sea of banners proudly displaying their unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu, the event was a vivid demonstration of their collective commitment. Darling Amadi, the Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Rivers State, speaking, solicited support and patience from everyone as regards the on-going economic challenges in the state and nation at large. Amadi continued that while the current situation is tough, the current administration has only been 14 months in office and needs more time to fix the economic challenges that have been happening since the past administrations. Hon. Eric Wibani further commented, “We are here under the auspices of the Renewed Hope Family as Rivers people in solidarity with the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We are here in solidarity with the Nigerian Senate and with the Minister of the FCT. “What we have come to do is to appeal to Rivers people and Nigerians for more patience. We know that there are challenges as a country, but we have a firm belief that what we are experiencing is only for a while. I am sure that at the end of the day, when the policy adjustments of this administration will have taken shape and begin to yield results, we will all be happy.” Wibani concluded that Nigeria remains on the path to progress. Leading the rally was Tony Okocha. Okocha, who was at the helm in orchestrating this show of solidarity, rallied local residents to voice their backing for President Tinubu and underscore their unity behind his leadership. We are matching for Mr. President. This is Tinubu’s family in Rivers State, and Tinubu’s family in Rivers State is under the leadership of His Excellency, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike. We represent 001. He is very much aware that his family in Rivers State is out here today to show support to the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. “We believe that Rome was not built in a day. If you want to make an omelet, you must break an egg.  Many of the programs that Mr. President is doing today are futuristic. The event marks a pivotal moment in reinforcing political alliances and rallying community support for the president’s agenda. Dr. Gift Worlu, former Commissioner of Housing in Rivers State, noted that there is a need to give support to the president as he is taking Nigeria on the right path. In his words: “Before now, Nigeria was moving in the wrong direction with a lot of speed. What President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has come to do is redirect Nigeria to the right path. Unfortunately, just as we experienced, Nigeria is not moving with enough speed. But I want to assure you, in a couple of months, Nigeria will gather momentum; we will have regained our strength. And being on the right path, I can assure you that Nigeria will be that great nation that we all want. “The Tinubu that I know, like Jesus Christ, is ready to put down his life for Nigeria. I want to tell you that history will judge President Tinubu right. The decisions that he is taking today are decisions that true leaders take. All the other pretenders before him who did not have the will to make these decisions are the ones that put Nigeria where it is today.” Worlu also spoke of the achievements of Barr. Nyesom Wike, describing him as a man that rewards labour. Overall, all the speakers advocate for patience from the public as the current administration navigates economic difficulties.

In a significant development that could reshape the political landscape of Rivers State, a High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has nullified the dissolution of the Emeka Beke-led executive of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The court presided over by Justice Sika Aprioku, declared the actions of the APC National Working Committee (NWC) in removing the elected state executive as unlawful and unconstitutional. Reacting to the court ruling, Hon. Tony Okocha, in a press briefing, described the ruling as unjust, noting that the decision of the party ought to have been supreme in the eyes of the court. “It is not a surprise to us that the judge took that voyage. From what I know about the judiciary when a case of bias is raised against a trial judge before a matter commences, the judge must recuse himself from the matter. “In this case, the judge failed to hide his bias even after he was accused. “There are some people who were part of the plot, and they all agreed that the judgment that should be delivered must embarrass the party at the national level. “The National Working Committee of the APC had previously removed Emeka Beke for anti-party activities. In their wisdom, the party decided to lay off an exco that had been proven to be against the party.” Justice Aprioku’s ruling underscored the autonomy of state chapters of the APC, asserting that the NWC lacks the authority to dissolve an elected state executive committee before the expiration of its tenure. The court’s decision is likely to have far-reaching implications for the party’s internal dynamics and its electoral prospects in the state. Further highlighting his angst, Okocha noted that while the Supreme Court had repeatedly stated that the political party’s decision was supreme, Justice Aprioku still nullified the party’s decisions despite several assertions by his lawyers. Okocha reiterated his stance on Justice Aprioku’s biased judgment, stating that he was bribed. “Our senior advocate was able to raise the issue with the Supreme Court, but because the judge had already been paid, he decided to go the other way. This matter will go to the Supreme Court. “He made attempts at me to bring money, but I said no. I want to assure you, gentlemen of the press, and also our teeming supporters, that we are aware of the hand of the monkey inside the soup. But can they psychologize us into docility? The answer is, no. We are wiser than they think.” The reinstatement of the Beke-led executive marks a major victory for the faction loyal to the embattled chairman. It also sets a precedent for other state chapters facing similar leadership crises, potentially emboldening them to challenge the overreach of the party’s national leadership. The political landscape in Rivers State is expected to witness further developments as the implications of this ruling unfold.

In a significant victory for civil society and protesters, a Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed an application seeking to halt the ongoing #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests. The application, filed by a group of individuals including Danladi Goje, Buky Abayomi, and Adiza Abbo, sought to enjoin several organizations and individuals involved in the protests from continuing their activities. The plaintiffs argued that the protests posed a threat to their lives, liberty, and property, citing the violence and destruction that occurred during the 2020 #EndSARS protests. The named defendants in the suit included prominent civil society organizations, activist groups, and individuals such as Omoyele Sowore. The plaintiffs alleged that these entities were responsible for organizing and mobilizing the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests, and that their actions were likely to lead to similar levels of unrest and chaos as witnessed in 2020. However, Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court dismissed the application, finding that the plaintiffs had failed to provide sufficient evidence to support their claims. The judge noted that the recent protests had concluded and there was no imminent threat of renewed demonstrations. Furthermore, the court criticized the plaintiffs for rushing the application without providing adequate supporting documentation. The decision to deny the injunction is a crucial affirmation of the right to protest, a cornerstone of democratic governance. It underscores the importance of allowing citizens to express their grievances and hold their leaders accountable without fear of reprisal. While the protests have highlighted deep-seated issues in Nigerian society, they have also served as a platform for dialogue and reform.  It is important to note that the court’s decision does not address the underlying grievances that sparked the protests. The legal battle surrounding the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests is far from over. The plaintiffs have indicated their intention to appeal the court’s decision, suggesting that the issue may continue to be litigated for some time.

The gruesome murder of eight people, including a driver, on the Takum-Wukari road in Taraba State has once again cast a dark shadow over Nigeria. The incident, which occurred on Monday morning, is a stark reminder of the pervasive insecurity that has gripped the country, leaving communities living in fear and uncertainty. Eyewitness accounts paint a harrowing picture of the attack. Armed bandits, believed to be operating from a forest in neighboring Benue State, ambushed the vehicle carrying the unsuspecting victims. The assailants, armed with AK-47 rifles, opened fire indiscriminately, killing all occupants on the spot. Notably, the perpetrators did not steal any belongings from the victims, suggesting a motive beyond mere robbery. This incident is far from isolated. The Takum-Wukari road has become synonymous with danger, with a history of attacks on travelers. The porous nature of the border between Taraba and Benue states has made it a haven for criminal elements, who exploit the region’s vulnerabilities to carry out their nefarious activities.  The attack has ignited widespread condemnation and calls for urgent action. Residents of Takum and surrounding communities have expressed their frustration and anger over the government’s perceived inability to curb the violence. Many have questioned the effectiveness of security measures in the area, accusing authorities of negligence and incompetence. The Chairman of Takum Local Government Area, John Ali, confirmed the incident and assured the public that security agencies had been deployed to the scene. However, the frequency of such attacks raises doubts about the capacity of security forces to effectively contain the situation. Beyond the immediate tragedy, this incident underscores deeper systemic issues. The porous borders, lack of intelligence gathering, and inadequate equipment are among the factors contributing to the proliferation of armed groups in the region. The government must address these underlying problems to prevent a recurrence of such horrific events. The psychological toll of these attacks cannot be overstated. Survivors, families of the victims, and entire communities are left traumatized. The fear of violence has disrupted livelihoods, hindered economic activities, and eroded the fabric of social cohesion. As Nigeria grapples with multiple security challenges, including insurgency in the northeast, banditry in the northwest, and kidnapping for ransom in various parts of the country, the situation in the north-central region, where this attack occurred, demands urgent attention. The government must develop a comprehensive security strategy that addresses the specific threats in each region, while also strengthening intelligence gathering and cooperation among security agencies. Furthermore, there is a need for community engagement in security efforts. Local communities must be empowered to play an active role in preventing and combating crime. This can be achieved through community policing initiatives, early warning systems, and the establishment of effective communication channels between citizens and security agencies.