The political climate in Nigeria has often been shaped by power struggles, aspirations, and the belief in political entitlements. A recurring feature in the country’s politics is the emergence of individuals who consider public office as their birthright, believing that their time has come due to their family’s legacy, personal ambition, or political networks. The rise of the phrase “Emilokan,” famously coined by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which translates to “It’s my turn” in Yoruba, marked a crucial point in Nigerian political history. However, this phrase, while marking a milestone in Tinubu’s quest for the presidency, has evolved into a broader conversation about political entitlement, especially with the increasing discussions about his son, Sheyi Tinubu, and his ambitions to become the governor of Lagos State in the 2027 gubernatorial election.

While “Emilokan” symbolized Tinubu’s claim to the presidency, “Sheyi-Lokan” is now gaining traction as the battle for Lagos governorship inches closer. Sheyi Tinubu, son of the current president, is being touted by some as the anointed successor to govern Lagos State. This development raises serious concerns about political entitlement, the consolidation of power within one family, and the disregard for democratic principles in the selection of leaders.

In the lead-up to the 2023 presidential election, Bola Tinubu’s slogan, “Emilokan,” was more than just a campaign catchphrase. It encapsulated the belief that after decades of political maneuvering, loyalty to party structures, and his strategic positioning, it was his turn to lead the country. The slogan gained traction among his supporters, and while it helped secure his election, it also struck a chord with critics who viewed it as a reflection of political entitlement, a belief that power should pass to an individual not based on merit or popular demand, but based on a perceived right or seniority.

This sense of entitlement embedded in the slogan reflected a broader issue in Nigerian politics: the culture of dynastic rule and the perception that political office is a reward for loyalty, time served, or lineage, rather than a mandate earned through service to the people. While “Emilokan” may have appealed to a certain section of the electorate, it raised questions about whether Nigeria’s political system was evolving into one where leadership was determined not by public consensus but by political calculations and familial connections.

Fast forward to 2027, and the political scene in Lagos is once again being overshadowed by the notion of entitlement, albeit this time, it may likely come under the banner of “Sheyi-Lokan.” This slogan, which translates to “It’s Sheyi’s turn,” is gaining momentum as the son of Bola Tinubu, Sheyi Tinubu, is increasingly being positioned as the next governor of Lagos State. Much like his father, Sheyi is expected to be thrust into the spotlight and emerge as the chosen candidate, with his path to the governorship seemingly preordained.

This development has sparked a new wave of debate about political entitlement in Nigeria. The concept of “Sheyi-Lokan” is troubling not only because it mirrors the “Emilokan” phenomenon, but also because it brings with it the dangerous implication that leadership in Lagos State, one of Nigeria’s most influential regions, could potentially become another family legacy. The narrative is that Sheyi Tinubu, as the son of the president and a prominent figure within the political machine that controls Lagos, is automatically entitled to lead the state, irrespective of his qualifications, vision for the future, or the needs of the people.

The potential rise of Sheyi Tinubu as Lagos State’s next governor highlights a more systemic issue in Nigerian politics: the dominance of political dynasties. For decades, Nigerian politics has been characterized by the dominance of a few families and individuals, whose political fortunes are often passed down from one generation to the next. This trend has led to a situation where positions of power are seen as family inheritances, rather than opportunities for new leadership and innovation.

The emergence of Sheyi Tinubu as the likely candidate for Lagos State governor would be another step in consolidating political power within the Tinubu family. This is not an isolated case, there are several other examples in Nigerian politics where familial ties have been central to the rise of political figures. What makes the Tinubu case more concerning is the fact that the family is already entrenched at the highest levels of government, with Bola Tinubu serving as president, and the looming prospect of his son continuing the family’s political legacy in Lagos.

The focus on family loyalty and seniority rather than merit or popular choice undermines the principles of democracy. Political office should not be a birthright or an entitlement, but a position earned through public service, accountability, and a clear vision for the future. The idea that Sheyi Tinubu, as the son of the president, should be automatically considered for the governorship is a troubling sign of the growing undemocratic tendencies within Nigeria’s political system.

The increasing discussion surrounding Sheyi Tinubu’s candidacy for Lagos State governor represents a deeper issue: a governance crisis in the making. If political offices are passed on based on familial ties, rather than the popular will of the people, it signals a retreat from democratic ideals. The people of Lagos, and indeed all Nigerians, should be given the power to elect their leaders based on merit, competence, and the ability to address the pressing challenges facing the state or nation.

Political entitlement, whether under the guise of “Emilokan” or “Sheyi-Lokan”, shifts the focus of governance from the needs of the people to the interests of the political elite. When political power is consolidated in the hands of a few, the quality of leadership diminishes. This concentration of power stifles innovation, accountability, and the possibility of true democratic change. Instead of vibrant political competition, Nigerians are left with a political environment where choices are made based on loyalty and family lineage, rather than the best candidate for the job.

Lagos, one of Nigeria’s most populous and economically influential states, deserves a leadership that reflects the needs of its diverse population. It should be a state where anyone, regardless of their family background, can aspire to lead based on their abilities and vision for the future. The political landscape should not be one where power is inherited or automatically granted to the offspring of current political leaders. Instead, it should be a system that encourages free and fair elections, where candidates are chosen based on their merit, competence, and the ability to address the issues that matter most to the people.

In fact, there should be need for a shift in political culture. The rise of Sheyi Tinubu as the next potential governor of Lagos is a clear reflection of the political entitlement that has plagued Nigerian politics for years. For Nigeria to move forward, there must be a shift in political culture, a move away from dynastic politics and entitlement-based leadership to a system that is truly democratic, where leaders are chosen based on their qualifications and their commitment to serving the people.

A democracy thrives when its leaders are accountable to the electorate, and when positions of power are earned through transparent, competitive processes. Nigeria must move away from the dangerous notion that political office is a family heirloom and instead focus on nurturing a system where leadership is earned, not inherited. This shift is essential if Nigeria is to fully realize the promises of democracy, equity, and good governance.

Without a doubt, the political trajectory that seems to be shaping up for Sheyi Tinubu is a stark reminder of the dangers of political entitlement. Whether it is “Emilokan” or “Sheyi-Lokan,” both slogans reflect a political culture that prioritizes familial legacy over the democratic values that should guide leadership selection. It is time for Nigerians to demand a political system where leadership is truly earned and where the best candidates rise to the top, not because of who they are related to, but because of what they can offer to the people. Only then can Nigeria’s democracy flourish and reach its full potential.

For decades, the notion of consumer protection in Nigeria has largely been confined to government agencies and statutory bodies like the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC). Many Nigerians assumed that holding businesses accountable and protecting consumer rights were solely the purview of government regulators. However, the landscape of consumer advocacy is undergoing a transformation, and at the center of this change is a determined individual: VeryDarkMan. Through relentless efforts and a robust presence on social media, VeryDarkMan is challenging this erroneous belief and empowering ordinary Nigerians to take ownership of their consumer rights.

VeryDarkMan, whose real name is Martins Vincent Otse, is no ordinary advocate. Armed with an unwavering passion for justice and a keen understanding of the challenges consumers face in Nigeria, he has risen to prominence as a bold and relentless voice for the downtrodden. Before his emergence, consumer advocacy in Nigeria was often seen as bureaucratic and ineffective. Many Nigerians had resigned themselves to poor services, substandard products, and unresponsive companies, believing there was no recourse for their grievances.

Through his activism, VeryDarkMan has proven that consumer protection does not have to rely solely on government intervention. By using social media as his primary tool, he has redefined what it means to fight for consumers. His viral videos, in which he exposes exploitative business practices and seeks justice for affected customers, have captured the attention of millions. He is not just an advocate; he is a movement, inspiring others to stand up for their rights.

VeryDarkMan’s impact can be measured by the numerous cases he has taken up on behalf of ordinary Nigerians. One of his most notable efforts was his campaign against a prominent real estate company accused of defaulting on agreements with several clients. Many of the victims, who had invested their life savings into the company, thought they had no chance of reclaiming their money. However, VeryDarkMan amplified their voices, exposing the company’s alleged malpractice and pushing for resolutions.

Another instance of his advocacy involved a telecom provider whose services were causing significant distress to customers due to overbilling and poor network quality. Through a series of investigations and public engagements, VeryDarkMan rallied affected users to file collective complaints. His efforts eventually forced the company to address the issues, proving that even powerful corporations are not beyond accountability.

His work extends beyond exposing corporate malpractice. VeryDarkMan also educates consumers on their rights, teaching them how to document grievances, file complaints, and seek redress through legal and regulatory channels. His emphasis on knowledge and empowerment ensures that his advocacy has a lasting impact, creating a generation of informed and proactive consumers.

Before VeryDarkMan, the average Nigerian consumer had little faith in the possibility of justice. Today, there is a growing awareness that consumer protection is not just the government’s responsibility. His work has highlighted the importance of collective action and personal responsibility. By demonstrating that one person’s determination can lead to systemic change, VeryDarkMan has inspired a new wave of citizen-led advocacy.

Moreover, his work underscores the power of social media in the fight for justice. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter have become his battlegrounds, and he wields them masterfully. By sharing stories, mobilizing public opinion, and calling out errant businesses, he has turned social media into a tool for accountability.

While VeryDarkMan has proven that individuals can effect change, it is crucial to recognize that his work would be more impactful with robust institutional support. The Nigerian government has a responsibility to protect advocates like him, ensuring that they can continue their work without fear of harassment or intimidation. Activists often face significant risks, from threats to their safety to attempts at legal suppression. It is imperative that the government strengthens its legal frameworks to protect advocates and whistleblowers who are fighting for the public good.

On the flip side, the masses also have a role to play. Advocacy thrives on collective action, and VeryDarkMan’s success stories are a testament to the power of unity. By supporting his efforts, sharing his campaigns, and joining in the fight for accountability, citizens can amplify his impact. Encouraging such individuals is not just about cheering them on; it is about actively participating in the change they are driving.

VeryDarkMan’s approach offers valuable lessons for consumer advocacy in Nigeria. First, his focus on storytelling has been particularly effective. By personalizing the struggles of affected consumers, he creates narratives that resonate with a broad audience. His ability to combine emotion with facts ensures that his campaigns are both compelling and credible.

Second, his use of digital platforms shows how technology can bridge the gap between consumers and advocates. In a country where many people lack access to traditional legal or regulatory channels, social media serves as an accessible and democratic space for justice.

Finally, his relentless drive reminds us that change often begins with one person’s courage. By stepping up to fill a gap in the system, VeryDarkMan has shown that anyone can make a difference, no matter how daunting the odds.

As VeryDarkMan continues to redefine the consumer protection landscape, the importance of supporting his work cannot be overstated. Advocacy is a demanding and often thankless endeavor, requiring immense personal and financial sacrifice. While his work has garnered significant attention, it is essential that he receives sustained encouragement from the public.

The government, too, must recognize the value of his contributions and work to create an environment where consumer advocates can thrive. By fostering collaboration between independent advocates like VeryDarkMan and regulatory bodies like the FCCPC, Nigeria can build a more robust and inclusive consumer protection framework.

VeryDarkMan’s work is a beacon of hope in a system where consumer rights have long been neglected. He has not only exposed the flaws in Nigeria’s consumer protection mechanisms but also demonstrated the power of individual and collective action. By challenging the erroneous belief that consumer protection is solely the responsibility of the government, he has empowered Nigerians to take ownership of their rights.

As he continues his advocacy, it is incumbent upon all of us, government officials, businesses, and citizens alike, to support his efforts. Advocacy is not a one-man show; it is a collective journey toward a fairer and more just society. In VeryDarkMan, Nigeria has found a champion for consumer rights. Now, it is up to us to ensure that his voice remains loud and his impact enduring.

In moments of uncertainty, indecision can feel like the safest option. Yet, history and faith teach us that the refusal to act is often the most dangerous choice. The story of the four lepers in 2 Kings 7 provides a profound lesson on the necessity of taking bold steps, even in dire circumstances. Their courageous decision not only altered their destiny but also saved an entire city. Their story is a timeless call to action for anyone feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life’s challenges.

The narrative unfolds in Samaria, a city besieged by the Arameans. Starvation gripped the inhabitants, reducing them to desperate measures. It was a period of unimaginable hardship where hope seemed a distant memory. Outside the city walls sat four lepers, ostracized because of their disease. Their plight was even more precarious, they could neither seek refuge within the city nor rely on any assistance from others.

The lepers found themselves at a crossroads, grappling with a stark reality. They could remain where they were and die of starvation, enter the city and perish with the people, or venture into the Aramean camp, risking death but potentially finding sustenance. Their reasoning was simple yet profound: “Why sit we here until we die?”

This pivotal question sparked an extraordinary decision that reshaped their fate and that of Samaria.

Without a doubt, there are poignant lessons to learn from the lepers’ decisive action. First is to recognize the need for change.  The first step toward decisive action is acknowledging that staying in the same situation is no longer viable. The lepers’ clarity about their predicament is striking. They did not sugarcoat their reality. They faced the brutal truth: inaction guaranteed their demise.

In our lives, the failure to confront uncomfortable truths often leads to stagnation. Whether it is an unfulfilling job, a toxic relationship, or a personal habit hindering growth, the inability to recognize the urgency of change can trap us in cycles of despair.

Take a moment to reflect: Are you “sitting” in a situation where action is long overdue? The courage to admit that change is necessary is the foundation of transformation.

Lesson 2 is the need to embrace the uncertainty of action. Thus, the lepers chose the only option that held even a glimmer of hope, venturing into the enemy’s camp. They knew the risks: the Arameans could kill them. But they also understood that staying put guaranteed their demise. Their decision exemplifies a crucial principle: sometimes, the possibility of success lies on the other side of uncertainty.

Life often presents us with choices that feel like a leap into the unknown. Starting a new business, pursuing a passion, or leaving a familiar but unproductive environment can be daunting. Yet, as the lepers demonstrated, the willingness to take risks can lead to breakthroughs we never imagined.

When faced with uncertainty, ask yourself: What is the cost of doing nothing?

Lesson 3 is that small steps can lead to big miracles. As the lepers made their way to the Aramean camp, they had no guarantees of survival. Yet, their simple act of moving forward set the stage for a divine intervention. God amplified the sound of their footsteps, causing the Aramean army to flee in terror, leaving behind abundant supplies.

This miraculous outcome underscores an important truth: our small steps of faith often activate forces beyond our control. Taking action, no matter how small, creates momentum. The lepers’ journey was not dramatic; it was a slow, deliberate walk toward what they believed was their only chance. But that humble effort was enough.

In your journey, don’t underestimate the power of small, consistent actions. A single step in the right direction can open doors you never knew existed.

In a similar vein, lesson 4 is that your courage can impact others. The lepers could have hoarded the food and treasures they discovered. Instead, they returned to the city to share the good news, saving countless lives. Their story reminds us that our decisions can have a ripple effect, influencing not only our own lives but also the lives of others.

This is a powerful motivator for taking action. Whether it is pursuing a dream, standing up for what is right, or addressing a societal issue, your courage can inspire and uplift those around you. The lepers did not set out to be heroes; they simply acted on their instincts for survival. Yet, their choice brought salvation to an entire city.

Consider how your actions today might positively affect others. What gifts, talents, or opportunities do you have that could benefit those around you?

Still in a similar vein, lesson 5 is that faith and action go hand in hand. The lepers’ story is a testament to the interplay between faith and action. While they took a practical step toward survival, it was God who orchestrated the miraculous outcome. This balance is crucial. Faith without action is wishful thinking, while action without faith can lead to burnout and frustration.

As the Bible teaches in James 2:26, “Faith without works is dead.” The lepers’ faith was demonstrated through their decision to move forward despite uncertainty. Similarly, we are called to act in faith, trusting that God will meet us where our efforts end.

What areas of your life require both faith and action? How can you combine trust in God with practical steps toward your goals?

The question, “Why sit we here until we die?” resonates across centuries as a challenge to overcome complacency and fear. It speaks to anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of what to do next. Whether in your personal life, career, or spiritual journey, the story of the four lepers offers timeless wisdom:

Acknowledge your reality. Don’t shy away from the truth of your situation, Take a risk, and embrace the uncertainty of action, knowing it is often the path to growth. Start small, even the smallest steps can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Think beyond yourself, your courage could inspire and benefit others and always trust God as combining faith with action allow divine intervention to work through your efforts.

The story of the four lepers is not just a tale of survival; it is a call to action. Their courage and faith transformed their lives and saved their city. It challenges us to examine our own situations and ask: “Are we waiting passively for circumstances to change, or are we willing to take decisive action?”

As you navigate the challenges in your life, remember their question: “Why sit we here until we die?” Let it inspire you to rise, move forward, and trust that the steps you take today can lead to a brighter, more fulfilling tomorrow.

The presidency has shared details of what President Bola Tinubu and his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, would be doing on a three-day official visit to Paris, France.

Naija News reports Tinubu, accompanied by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, arrived in Paris on Wednesday evening for a three-day State Visit to fortify Nigeria-France relations.

Following the arrival, the Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement on Wednesday, narrated that during the visit, the Nigerian leader will attend a distinguished reception at the Palais de l’Élysée.

Also, President Tinubu, during the visit, will address initiatives to boost youth exchange programs and enhance skills, engage in strategic political and diplomatic discussions, while both leaders will attend a session hosted by the France-Nigeria Business Council, coordinating private sector involvement in economic development.

The presidential aide also highlighted that the French First Lady, and Nigeria’s First Lady will discuss empowering women, children, and vulnerable populations.

Before departure, President Tinubu and his wife will attend a state dinner put together by their hosts.

The full statement reads: “President Bola Tinubu, accompanied by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, arrived in Paris on Wednesday evening for a three-day State Visit to fortify Nigeria-France relations.

“Touching down at Orly Airport around 5:10 p.m., President Tinubu was welcomed with full military honours by the French Republican Guard, marking a ceremonial start to his visit.

“The official engagements will begin on Thursday at the historic Les Invalides, where French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron will warmly receive President Tinubu. The visit will continue with a distinguished reception at the Palais de l’Élysée, honouring the Nigerian leader.

“The visit aims to enhance bilateral ties, focusing on key areas such as agriculture, security, education, health, youth engagement, innovation, and energy transition. It promises substantial benefits for Nigeria.

“In collaboration with President Macron, President Tinubu will address initiatives to boost youth exchange programs and enhance skills in automation, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

“The visit includes strategic political and diplomatic discussions on shared values concerning finance, solid minerals, trade and investment, and communication.

“Additionally, both leaders will attend a session hosted by the France-Nigeria Business Council, coordinating private sector involvement in economic development.

“Brigitte Macron and Nigeria’s First Lady will discuss empowering women, children, and vulnerable populations through Nigeria’s First Lady’s Renewed Hope Initiative.

“President Tinubu and his wife will attend a state dinner hosted by the French President before their departure.”

[NaijaNews]

The federal government has spent about N8.8 billion to repair and put power transmission towers vandalised across the country into functional use.

The disclosure was made by the managing director and chief executive officer of the Transition Company of Nigeria (TCN), Suleiman Ahmed Abdulaziz, at the Quarterly Power Sector Working Group meeting in Abuja.

Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, also disclosed that the federal government was working in collaboration with the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB) to make electricity available to 50 million Nigerians by the year 2030.

Abdulaziz, who was represented by the executive director, Transmission Service Provider (TSP) of TCN, Olugbenga Emmanuel Ajiboye, said that between January 13, 2024 and now, 128 transmission towers were destroyed either by vandals or bandits, across the country.

He lamented that when the vandals were apprehended and handed over to police for prosecution, they were bailed out of detention and they would return and continue with the vandalism.

“As I talk to you today, 128 of our towers have been destroyed by either vandals or bandits. Till date, we have spent about N8.8 billion, by our estimation, to put them back to full and functional use. It is so sad that each time the vandals were caught and taken to police for prosecution, police would arrest them for theft, instead of vandalism and they would be bailed. If they are charged for vandalism, they cannot be bailed, but this is where we are. So many of them have been arrested, but each time they will be bailed because police often incident their cases as that of theft.

“When the Shiroro-Mando-Kaduna towers were destroyed, we had to get the full military escorts for our contractors to get the transmission lines and towers restored and in some cases, they would tell us that we could only work for two hours on some days. In some instances, they would even tell us that it was not safe to move there. How do we get out of this? How can we deliver electricity to Nigerians under these terrible circumstances? These are part of the challenges we are facing in the power sector,” Abdulaziz said.

For his part, the Power minister, who was represented by his chief technical adviser, Adedayo Olowoniyi, said the Nigerian government was working with the Word Bank and the AfDB to get 50 million Nigerians to have access to electricity by the year 2030.

Hello said the Power Ministry was collaborating with its Finance counterpart to get the process achieved.

“The mission 300 has been driven by the World Bank and the African Development Bank and it is a project that will provide electricity to 300 million Africans and Nigeria will benefit 50 millions from this. Nigeria has a large population that is without electricity and this is a great opportunity for us to be part of this process. The Compact document will be signed by our President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Tanzania in January, 2025. We worked extensively with the World Bank, the AfDB and the Ministry of Finance to develop the document with all the countries that will be participating in it.

“The most important thing is that we have to drive the process by ourselves through the private and public sector participation. We will do it through the solar form system, mini and micro grid, grid extension and connection,” the minister said.

He continued: “The reality is that it is not actually feasible, based on the resources we have, to extend the grid to all Nigerians, one, from the funding point of view and secondly, it may not be commercially viable to begin to talk of grid extension to those parts that are not viable, but that does not mean that we should not deliver electricity to them, which is their right and as part of the dividends of democracy. But we will start with the home solar system in those areas where the grid may not work.”

[Leadership]

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Nanfwang Gunat, has sounded a note of caution to legislators across the country against passing a vote of confidence on the embattled National Chairman of the party, Abdullahi Ganduje.

Gunat said he was cautioning both former and serving, whether in the state houses of assembly, house of representatives or senate.

Gunat who was a member of Support Groups Coordination (North Central) for the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), stressed that such endorsement would amount to betraying the North Central region which has been pushing to reclaim the chairmanship seat after the resignation of Abdullahi Adamu, who is from the North Central.

Speaking with journalists on Wednesday in Jos the Plateau State Capital, the Chieftain revealed that rumours making the rounds are that Ganduje is planning to organise both former and serving legislators across the country to get their support for the chairmanship seat to remain in the North-West where he is from, and that they should also endorse him for the position.

According to him, “that position has been constitutionally agreed by the party to be for the North Central which has contributed greatly towards the progress of APC, but Ganduje is trying everything possible to twist that fact.

“But the North Central region, wouldn’t concede that position to another region within the party structure”, he maintained.

The party chieftain disputed the credit given to Ganduje on the victory of the APC in the Edo and Ondo governorship election, saying that the people voted for the party because of their belief and trust in the party and not because of Ganduje who could not deliver his home state of Kano to the APC.

“I wish to call on President Bola Tinubu and leaders of our party to immediately convene a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting to address this issue of the Chairmanship position accordingly so that it doesn’t tear the party apart”, he admonished.

Gunat pointed out that convening the meeting to address that vital issue is key to the party’s unity and success towards the 2027 election because the North Central region is already feeling marginalized and relegated to the background.

[DailyPost]

Actress and filmmaker, Mary Njoku, has raised concerns about the increasing trend of young women opting for Botox injections.

On her Instagram page, Njoku questioned why 21-year-olds are undergoing a cosmetic procedure typically used by women in their 40s and 50s to reduce wrinkles. 

She wondered about wrinkles women in their early 20s could possibly need to hide.

The actress urged young women to embrace their youth and natural beauty, reminding them that many people would give anything to relive their 20s and cherish the youthful glow that comes with it.

Njoku also addressed parents, encouraging them to instill in their daughters a love for their natural selves.

She stressed the importance of building self-esteem and promoting positive body image from a young age.

“Is having a lifeless face now the new trend?

Older people, those in their 40s and 50s use it to reduce wrinkles.

“But at 20s, what wrinkles could you possibly be trying to hide? Embrace your youth while you still can.

“If only they understood how much people would give to be in their 20s again. They’d cherish their youthful beauty even more. Let’s teach our daughters to embrace and celebrate their natural selves. Self-esteem is everything.”

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has pledged stricter immigration policies, warning the UK can no longer sustain current levels.

Badenoch admitted past Tory governments failed to curb migration effectively but vowed to address the issue “without fear.”

Proposing a hard annual cap on legal immigration without specifying a figure, Badenoch also insisted the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) would not hinder necessary actions.

“Immigration is at a pace too fast to maintain public services,” she said. “For decades, the political class has presided over mass migration… The system that replaced free movement is not working.”

Badenoch stressed the importance of integration, saying migrants must adopt British values.

“Without a shared national identity, our country will suffer,” she warned, criticising the strain on housing, healthcare, and wages caused by mass migration.

She pledged to review policies, treaties, and laws, emphasizing transparency and stricter visa limits.

New migration figures tomorrow are expected to show a decline, but Badenoch cautioned against complacency.

“We can no longer be naïve,” she said, hinting at reforms to prevent legal loopholes and misuse of the system.

Vanguard News

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed Edith Uduma, an inspector, for allegedly collecting a bribe from Abraham Uzuobo, a sergeant, to conceal a rape incident.

Uzuobo was accused of raping a 17-year-old female suspect in a room inside South-Ibie police station in Edo state.

The suspect was detained at the police station for allegedly receiving stolen property.

In October, a video showing Uzuobo hurriedly wearing his trousers while the female suspect was lying on a chair inside a room in the police station appeared on social media.

In the video, Uzuobo was challenging a female officer for recording the incident.

The female officer in the background of the video was later identified as Uduma.

Uduma was the charge room officer (CRO) on duty on the day the incident happened.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Muyiwa Adejobi, force spokesperson, said Uduma called her husband, Ibrahim Mohammed, a police inspector, instead of reporting the incident to the appropriate authorities.

Adejobi said Uduma and her husband demanded a N1 million bribe from Uzuobo to assist him in concealing the incident.

The force spokesperson said Uzuobo offered the couple N45,000.

“However, the sergeant offered only N45,000 in cash, which they collected at that instance, and after a few days, contacted the sergeant to request the same sum of N1,000,000, but the sergeant refused to comply,” Adejobi said.

“Dissatisfied by his refusal to follow through with the blackmail, they decided to report the erring officer to the DPO and also simultaneously share the video on social media.

“Everyone culpable in this case has been sanctioned appropriately, as there is no intention to impede justice.

“The erring sergeant has been dismissed and prosecuted and is currently in prison custody as the trial progresses.

“Inspector Edith Uduma was also dismissed for her role, while her complicit husband has been reduced to the rank of sergeant.

“However, it has come to the attention of the force that following her dismissal, Mrs. Edith has made numerous unfounded claims regarding her innocence and has sought to taint the reputation and integrity of the adjudicating authority, the inspector-general of police, in person and the entire police force.

“It is imperative to set the record straight and provide clear context regarding her actions and the decision to dismiss her from service.

“The dismissal of former police inspector Edith Uduma was not only justified but necessary, based on thorough investigations that presented irrefutable evidence of her failure to follow standard incident report protocol to immediately document the incident, attempt to conceal an offender for benefit, participation in extortion, and manipulating the justice process for personal gain.”

[TheCable]