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CUPP states that Nigeria is now a place where citizens are engaged in a battle and striving for rice.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has expressed deep concern over the recent tragic incidents in which 63 individuals lost their lives in desperate scrambles for rice across various states in Nigeria, including the South East, South West, and North Central regions. These unfortunate events serve as a sobering reminder of the distressing contradictions facing the nation.

Reports indicate that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command recovered approximately ten bodies following one of these shocking episodes, alongside numerous hospitalizations. In Anambra State, a stampede during a rice distribution event resulted in the deaths of at least 22 individuals from the Okija community. Additionally, an earlier occurrence at a carnival in Ibadan claimed over 35 lives, primarily affecting children.

In a statement signed by Chief Peter Ameh, the national secretary of CUPP, the coalition lamented the stark juxtaposition of Nigeria’s abundant agricultural potential against the harsh reality where citizens are compelled to fight for basic sustenance. “A country blessed with 39.6 million hectares of arable land… is home to citizens who die in desperation, struggling for a bag of rice,” the statement emphasized.

CUPP’s reaction underscores a critical indictment of governance in Nigeria, characterized by systemic incompetence and corruption. The coalition argues that such dire situations highlight a fundamental failure to utilize the nation’s vast resources to meet the essential needs of its populace. The struggle for a staple food item like rice indicates a severe inadequacy within the agricultural sector—a sector that holds the promise of transforming Nigeria into a breadbasket not just for its own citizens, but for the entire West African region.

This harrowing series of events calls for urgent reflection and action to reform agricultural policies and address the underlying issues of governance. Until such changes are made, the tragic loss of life in the quest for food will remain a poignant testament to the urgent need for systemic reform in Nigeria.

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Senate Confirms Sani Muhammad Ndanusa as Ambassador.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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The Nigerian Senate has confirmed the appointment of Engineer Sani Muhammad Ndanusa as a non-career ambassador and high commissioner.

The confirmation followed the consideration and adoption of the report submitted by the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, chaired by Senator Sani Abubakar, representing Niger North. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had nominated Ndanusa for the diplomatic position, after which he appeared before the committee for screening.

Presenting the committee’s recommendations during plenary on Tuesday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced Ndanusa’s confirmation after lawmakers unanimously endorsed the nomination through a voice vote.

Akpabio congratulated the nominee and expressed confidence that Ndanusa would draw on his professional experience to advance Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives and strengthen the nation’s relations with other countries.

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Ogun Police Rescue 11 Ghanaian Nationals in Sagamu Visa Scam.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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The Ogun State Police Command has rescued 11 Ghanaian nationals allegedly held hostage in Sagamu after being lured to Nigeria with promises of Canadian and Spanish visas.

The victims—seven males and four females—were rescued during an intelligence-led operation conducted by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit. According to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the operation followed intelligence received on October 19, 2026, concerning a suspected hideout.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the victims were allegedly deceived by a fellow Ghanaian national who promised to facilitate their travel abroad. Each victim reportedly paid GH₵40,000 before being brought to Nigeria and detained against their will.

The victims are currently receiving care and support, while detectives work to identify and arrest other members of the alleged criminal network.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for its prompt response and professionalism. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and combating transnational crime, stating that Ogun State would not become a safe haven for criminals.

The police urged members of the public to verify overseas travel and visa arrangements before making payments and to report suspicious activities to the authorities.

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Federal Government Confirms Ebola Case in the FCT.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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The Federal Government has confirmed one laboratory-diagnosed case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The case was confirmed on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, after a woman who recently arrived in Nigeria on an international flight from Uganda was admitted to a private hospital in the FCT. She had received treatment at the facility for several days before being isolated. She is currently receiving medical care.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, stated that contact tracing had commenced. So far, 44 close contacts have been identified, including healthcare workers, patients, caregivers and travel contacts.

The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and FCT health authorities, is taking measures to contain the infection and prevent further transmission.

Authorities have urged Nigerians to remain calm and vigilant, practise regular hand hygiene, and report suspected exposure or symptoms to public health officials. The NCDC toll-free call centre is available 24 hours a day on 6232 for information and suspected case reporting.

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