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Cross River APC Suspends Chairman Alphonsus Eba

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The Cross River State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Thursday suspended its chairman, Alphonsus Ogar Eba, following a decisive vote of no confidence by members of the State Executive Committee (SEC) amid ongoing internal disputes.

Eba’s removal was backed by 30 of the 32 SEC members, after months of allegations including financial mismanagement, authoritarian leadership, and the prolonged closure of the party secretariat.

In the aftermath of his suspension, the SEC immediately appointed Deputy Chairman Ntufam Ekum Ekok Ojogu as Acting Chairman, pending formal ratification by the APC National Secretariat.

Party officials described the decision as essential to stop the worsening crisis within the state chapter.

Chief Kelvin Njong, APC Chairman in Boki and spokesperson for the 18 chapter chairmen, stated that the impeachment followed extensive consultations and formal petitions submitted to the national leadership.

Upon assuming office, Ojogu pledged to reopen the party secretariat, reconcile aggrieved members, and ensure transparency in administration. He expressed gratitude to stakeholders for respecting due process and reaffirmed the chapter’s support for Governor Bassey Edet Otu.

“All grievances must be set aside so we can rebuild. All entitlements owed will be addressed. My doors and phone lines are open 24/7. It is time to sheath our swords,” Ojogu stated.

He also praised ward leaders, polling unit coordinators, and volunteers for maintaining party activities at the grassroots during the crisis and promised to work closely with Governor Otu to strengthen the “People First” agenda.

Following the inauguration, SEC members and chapter chairmen held a closed-door meeting to outline restructuring plans and prepare a formal report for submission to the APC National Secretariat.

Smart Strategies For Businesses During The Festive Rush

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It’s that time of year again, the festive rush! Shoppers are excited, demand spikes, and businesses are either smiling to the bank or struggling to keep up. This season is unique because the whole world slows down to celebrate, rest and enjoy, which creates a surge in activities across industries.

To truly maximize this demand, businesses must avoid planning in December. Instead, they should prepare ahead: organize finances, stock up early and map out how to meet the inevitable increase in customer needs while maintaining quality.

And when it comes to satisfying customers during this peak period, problem-solving is everything. Whatever service you offer must address a seasonal need, sell in a way that solves your customer’s pain points and prioritizes quality. Offer multiple solutions, create easier pathways for customers and work with knowledgeable consultants who understand the dynamics of the festive market.

Lagos Tenancy Bill: What It Means For Landlords, Tenants & Agents

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The Lagos Tenancy Bill is a landmark proposal that could redefine how landlords, tenants and agents relate across the state. It touches on key areas like rent payments, eviction rules, agency fees and dispute resolution, making it essential for anyone who rents or owns property.

It also raises important questions on how much rent can be collected upfront, what happens when a landlord increases rent suddenly like a 60% jump without notice and whether the bill places stronger maintenance obligations on landlords.

At the end of the day, understanding how rent will be structured, what rights and responsibilities each party carries and how agents will be regulated will help Lagos residents move through the rental market more confidently.

Leeds United 3–1 Chelsea: Elland Road Revival For The Whites

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Leeds United delivered a statement performance on 3 December 2025 at Elland Road, defeating Chelsea 3–1, a result that not only ended a four-match losing streak but also lifted the club out of the relegation zone.

From the outset, Leeds imposed themselves on the match. In just the 6th minute, a corner delivered by Anton Stach found defender Jaka Bijol, who rose unmarked to power a header past Robert Sánchez and give Leeds the lead.

As the first half progressed, Leeds continued to press, and just before halftime, Japanese midfielder Ao Tanaka unleashed a fierce 20-yard strike into the bottom corner — doubling the lead and giving the home side a significant advantage at the break.

Chelsea, sluggish in the first half, made changes at halftime in search of a response. Early in the second half, substitute Pedro Neto met a low cross and converted to pull one back for the Blues.

But Leeds refused to panic. In the 72nd minute, a defensive lapse by Chelsea allowed Dominic Calvert-Lewin to tap home from close range and restore the two-goal cushion. That goal proved decisive.

When the final whistle blew, it was clear: Leeds had produced one of their best performances this season. The tactical switch to a back three, resilient defending and rapid, efficient attacking paid off.

What This Result Means

  • For Leeds: The win lifts them out of the relegation zone, a critical boost in morale and confidence, especially under pressure after a string of defeats.
  • For Chelsea: The defeat is a serious blow to their aspirations; sloppy defending, lack of control, and failure to seize possession cost them dearly. The result adds to mounting questions about consistency and defensive stability under manager Enzo Maresca.

As Leeds’ boss Daniel Farke put it: “It’s for nights like this that we were so desperate to bring the club back to the top level. Elland Road tonight was back to its best.”

Other Premier League Results on 3 December 2025

The 3–1 Leeds–Chelsea game wasn’t the only drama of the night. Other notable results included:

  • Arsenal eased to a 2–0 win at home over Brentford, re-establishing a five-point lead at the top of the table.
  • Aston Villa edged out a wild 4–3 victory away at Brighton & Hove Albion in a thrilling contest, underlining the unpredictable nature of this season’s mid-table.

Together, the results made it a night of shifting dynamics — punishing losses for top-side aspirants, and lifelines for struggling teams fighting relegation.

Looking Ahead: What Comes Next

For Leeds, this surge could mark a turning point. With confidence back and momentum restored, the next few fixtures — including a looming challenge against Liverpool — will test whether this win was a one-off or the start of a revival.

For Chelsea, the task is urgent: defensive solidity and tactical discipline must return quickly if they are to salvage any realistic pursuit of top-four or title ambitions. The flaws exposed tonight under Maresca’s side are too glaring to ignore.

Activist Decries Alleged Persecution Of Christians In Borno, Accuses CAN Leaders Of Complicity

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Human rights activist and Director-General of the Centre for Justice and Rights, Rev. Musa Dikwa, has raised fresh concerns over what he describes as the persistent persecution of Christians in Borno State. He also accused the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state of hypocrisy and “selling out” their members.

In a statement made available to journalists, Rev. Dikwa alleged that five Christians are currently being detained at a correctional facility in Borno State, awaiting trial over what he called “concocted allegations” of kidnapping and human trafficking involving one Aisha Kabiru. According to him, the prosecution team handling the matter consists of government lawyers, a situation he believes calls for concern.

Rev. Dikwa criticised Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, accusing him of presenting a false image of religious harmony despite the ongoing case.

“This same governor ordered Muslims and Christians to pray for the state and convened an inter-faith meeting to deceive the public into believing he values Christian lives. Sadly, CAN leaders attended this meeting. Who exactly is fooling who?” he said.

He expressed deep disappointment with the Christian leadership in Borno, accusing them of prioritising personal gain over the welfare of their members.

“Christian leaders in Borno State have sold out. They met with the governor and rubbished themselves because of selfishness and greed. Christians across Nigeria are disappointed,” he said.

Rev. Dikwa listed the detained Christians as:

  1. Binta Mamman
  2. Lami Samuel Dawa
  3. Esther Simon
  4. Yusuf Anuwa
  5. Amos Suleiman

He alleged that while extremist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP have attacked Christian communities for years, the situation is worsened by what he described as the “compromised posture” of the state CAN leadership.

He specifically criticised Borno CAN Chairman, Bishop John Bakeni, accusing him of downplaying the challenges faced by Christians in the state. Dikwa also dismissed claims that 45 churches were reconstructed under the Zulum administration.

According to him, any church renovations carried out in Borno were done during the tenure of former governor Kashim Shettima, allegedly under pressure from the international community, not under Governor Zulum.

“Zulum did not reconstruct a single church. Unfortunately, CAN leaders have been compromised, which is why the governor continues to ridicule them,” he alleged.

Rev. Dikwa called for transparency, accountability, and stronger advocacy from Christian leaders in the state, insisting that the plight of persecuted Christians should never be politicised.

AFCON 2025: Chelle Names 54-man Super Eagles provisional Squad

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Nigeria’s head coach Éric Sékou Chelle has cast a wide net as he prepares for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, unveiling a 54-player provisional Super Eagles list that mixes established stars, returning veterans, and domestic standouts. The move signals fierce competition for places ahead of the tournament in Morocco.

Among the notable returns on the list are forward Victor Boniface and former Leicester City striker Kelechi Iheanacho, both of whom were named after recent absences from some national call-ups. Goalkeeper Francis Uzoho also makes the preliminary list, bolstering the options between the posts. The selection has been published by the Nigeria Football Federation and circulated widely by national media.

Chelle’s list retains the big names that Nigerians expect to see at a major tournament. Sources covering the release say the squad includes established internationals such as Victor Osimhen and Wilfred Ndidi alongside younger prospects and several players drawn from the Nigeria Professional Football League — an indication of Chelle’s intent to balance experience with fresh energy.

The provisional list also carries a few disappointments: fast-rising defender Benjamin Fredrick is reported to be out with a knee injury and will miss the tournament selection process, according to media outlets tracking the announcement. Teams will monitor the fitness of other players in the days ahead as Chelle and his backroom staff finalise preparations.

AFCON 2025 in Morocco is scheduled to run from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026. The 54-player list is purely provisional — a preliminary step required so coaching teams can evaluate options during training camps and warm-up fixtures before submitting a final squad for the tournament.

Chelle will now begin the task of trimming the roster. Media reports say the list is expected to be reduced in stages ahead of the competition, with intense scrutiny on form, fitness and tactical fit as the coach chooses the final group that will travel to Morocco. The naming of a large provisional squad gives Chelle flexibility but also raises the stakes for players hoping to secure one of the limited places in the final matchday squad.

Search For Long-missing Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 To Resume

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Officials have announced that efforts to locate the long-lost aircraft will restart on 30 December, marking the first major renewed attempt in more than ten years.

The search for the wreckage of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 will resume on 30 December, over a decade after the aircraft with 239 people on board vanished, Malaysian authorities have said.
This renewed operation, intended to last 55 days, originally commenced in March but was put on hold soon after due to severe weather.

This fresh search, which will run for 55 days, had begun in March but was suspended shortly after because of poor weather conditions.
The transport ministry stated that the new progress highlights a determination to offer long-awaited closure to families who have endured years of uncertainty.

“The latest development underscores the [Malaysia’s] commitment to providing closure to the families affected by this tragedy,” the transport ministry said Wednesday, according to local media.
The flight, a Boeing 777 en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing in 2014, disappeared in circumstances that led to the most extensive aviation recovery effort ever mounted.

Flight MH370, a Boeing 777, disappeared in 2014 while travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing and sparked the largest search in aviation history.
The ongoing mission is being conducted by the exploration company under an agreement guaranteeing payment only if the missing aircraft is located.

Exploration firm Ocean Infinity is leading the current search under a “no find, no fee” arrangement. It will receive $70m (£56m) if the wreckage is found, Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook earlier said.
Earlier searches included a massive international deployment of ships and aircraft, and a later investigation by the same company was halted after several months.

Previous attempts include a multinational search involving 60 ships and 50 aircraft from 26 countries, which ended in 2017, and a 2018 effort by Ocean Infinity ended after three months.
Less than an hour after departure on 8 March 2014, the plane ceased communication with controllers, and tracking data indicated a significant change in course.

Flight MH370 lost contact with air traffic control less than an hour after take-off on 8 March 2014, and radar showed it had deviated from its original flight path.
To this day, the disappearance remains one of the most perplexing events in modern aviation, leaving families searching for answers and closure.

It remains one of the greatest aviation mysteries, which continues to haunt the families of those on board. Over the years, many had called for a new search, noting their struggle to find closure.
The tragedy has also fueled numerous speculative theories, ranging from deliberate action by the pilot to the possibility of an unlawful takeover.

The incident has also given rise to a host of conspiracy theories, including speculation that the pilot had deliberately brought the plane down or that it had been hijacked.
An inquiry concluded that the aircraft was likely intentionally steered off course, though investigators could not determine who was responsible or why.

An investigation in 2018 found that the plane’s controls were likely deliberately manipulated to take it off course, but drew no conclusions behind it.
Experts at the time stressed that only the discovery of the aircraft itself could provide definitive answers to the tragedy.

Investigators said at the time that “the answer can only be conclusive if the wreckage is found”.

What You Should Know About Nigeria’s Nominated Defence Minister, General Christopher Musa

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated retired General Christopher Gwabin Musa as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence, stepping into the role at a time of heightened insecurity marked by banditry, insurgency, and mass kidnappings.

The announcement was made on Tuesday, December 2, a day after the sudden resignation of former Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who stepped down citing health concerns.

The Senate is expected to screen Musa today, with expectations of a swift confirmation to ensure continuity and stability in the nation’s security leadership.

Musa’s return to public service comes barely a month after his retirement as the 18th Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), a position he held from June 2023 to October 2025. His nomination has drawn support from former senior military officers, many of whom describe him as a disciplined strategist capable of driving reforms, strengthening inter-agency coordination, and restoring public confidence in the defence sector.

Early Life

Born on December 25, 1967, in Sokoto, Musa hails from Zangon Kataf in Southern Kaduna. He completed his primary and secondary education in Sokoto, including Federal Government College, Sokoto, where his interest in national service began to take shape.

After a brief study period at the College of Advanced Studies, Zaria, he was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as part of the 38th Regular Combatant Course in 1986.
He graduated in 1991 with a Bachelor’s degree and was commissioned into the Infantry Corps as a Second Lieutenant, marking the start of a distinguished military career spanning more than three decades.

Career Path

In his early years, Musa focused on infantry operations, training, and staff duties. He steadily rose through the ranks, serving in key positions such as Commanding Officer of the 73 Battalion and General Staff Officer in charge of Training and Operations at the 81 Division.

His national prominence grew during the fight against Boko Haram.
From 2019 to 2021, he simultaneously commanded Sector 3 of Operation Lafiya Dole and Sector 3 of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), coordinating major multinational offensives across Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon.

He later became Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai in the Northeast, where he led critical anti-terrorism missions, boosted troop morale, and strengthened civil-military relations.
In 2022, he was appointed Commander of the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps, overseeing training, doctrine development, and operational readiness.

His Tenure as Chief of Defence Staff

Appointed Chief of Defence Staff on June 23, 2023, Musa led the Armed Forces with a focus on professionalism, joint operations, and a humanitarian-driven approach to security.

Under his leadership, operations against bandits in the Northwest intensified, and coordination between the military and civilian authorities improved.
He also pushed for reduced military involvement in political VIP escorts, arguing that frontline operations should be prioritized.

Although he retired in October 2025 during a broad military reshuffle, his swift nomination back into the nation’s security architecture highlights the administration’s confidence in his experience and leadership.

Awards and Recognition

General Musa has received several honours, including:

  • Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR)
  • Colin Powell Meritorious Award for Soldiering (2012)
  • Nigeria Service Awards – Lifetime Achievement Award (2023)
  • Grand Service Star and Field Command Medal of Honour

His Atyap community in Kaduna also conferred on him the chieftaincy title “Tswung Atyap” (Pillar of Atyap) in recognition of his contributions to peace and unity.

What His Nomination Means for Nigeria

With multiple security challenges stretching Nigeria’s defence capabilities, expectations surrounding Musa’s nomination are high. Analysts say his wealth of experience in counter-insurgency operations and troop management could inject renewed urgency into policy execution at the Ministry of Defence.

Former colleagues describe him as calm, thorough, and detribalized—qualities many believe Nigeria urgently needs in its security leadership.

If confirmed, General Christopher Gwabin Musa will be one of the youngest Nigerians to head the Defence Ministry since the return to democracy, and potentially a pivotal figure in efforts to restore stability and protect vulnerable communities nationwide.

Death Toll From Indonesia Floods And Landslides Passes 700

Authorities announced that fatalities from severe flooding and landslides in Indonesia have surpassed 700, as emergency teams race to reach isolated communities and restore vital access routes.

The number of people killed by floods and landslides on Indonesia’s Sumatra island rose to 708 on Tuesday, the disaster agency said, as authorities rushed to repair infrastructure and deliver aid to cut-off areas.
Officials explained during a late-Tuesday briefing that the confirmed death toll had reached 708 since last week, noting that earlier online figures were higher but offering no explanation for the inconsistency.

The agency in a press conference late on Tuesday said 708 people had been killed since last week, a figure lower than the 753 reported on its website earlier in the day. It did not give a reason for the discrepancy.
Nearly 900 people have now lost their lives in devastating floods and landslides across Indonesia, events that come after a season of harsh and destructive weather across Southeast Asia, including multiple storms that hit neighbouring countries and exacerbated widespread flooding.

Close to 900 people have been killed in floods and landslides that have wreaked havoc in Indonesia, and , which follow months of adverse and deadly weather in Southeast Asia, including successive typhoons that struck the Philippines and Vietnam and added to frequent and prolonged flooding elsewhere.
Specialists and local authorities say large-scale clearing of forests on Sumatra has amplified the scale and deadliness of the disaster.

Environmental experts and local officials have said deforestation on Sumatra has led to a disproportionately deadly toll
The disaster agency reported that response teams are focusing on delivering supplies by land, sea, and air, reopening roads blocked by debris, and fixing critical infrastructure.

The Indonesian disaster agency said teams were prioritising distributing aid via land, sea and air, clearing blocked roads and repairing damaged infrastructure.
“We hope to accelerate the flow of logistical support,” spokesperson Abdul Muhari stated.

“We do hope that we can speed up the logistics distribution,” spokesperson Abdul Muhari said.

Nigeria Set To Start Producing Aircraft Components – Tinubu

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Nigeria is set to begin producing aircraft components as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s initiative to make the country the aviation hub for West and Central Africa.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, at the Nigerian International Airshow yesterday, Tinubu stated that revenue from the aviation industry could reach $2.56 billion by 2029.

He described the airshow as “a historic event that places Nigeria firmly on the global aviation map and also signifies the country’s entry into the league of nations hosting world-class aviation showcases such as Farnborough, Paris, and Dubai.”

Tinubu praised the steady growth of the sector, saying Nigeria’s aviation industry had progressed from “humble beginnings to global ambitions.”

He revealed that passenger traffic, which stood at 15.89 million in 2023, is projected to rise to 25.7 million by 2029, while annual industry revenue is expected to reach $2.58 billion.

He added that the Federal Government is vigorously upgrading aviation infrastructure, including a N712 billion renovation of the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos and ongoing enhancement works across six major airports and multiple runways.

He noted that Nigeria now holds the top position in Africa for adherence to international aviation standards, with its Cape Town Convention score improving from 49.5 percent to 75.5 percent.

“This achievement allows airlines to access low-cost aircraft financing and boosts investor confidence,” he said.

Tinubu further disclosed that Nigeria has concluded deals with Boeing and Cranfield University to establish advanced Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities in the country.

The move is aimed at reducing the $200 million spent annually on foreign aircraft maintenance.

“Aero Contractors and XEJet are leading this transformation with new hubs in Lagos and Abuja,” he added.

In his message in the Airshow’s inaugural magazine, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, called the event “historic” and a major step toward securing Nigeria’s place on the global aviation exhibition network.

“This Airshow is more than an event; it is a statement of intent. It is a bold declaration that Nigeria is ready to lead, innovate, and compete on the global stage,” Keyamo said.