Mojisola Meranda has stepped down as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. She announced her resignation during a special plenary session on Monday afternoon by reading out her resignation letter:
“This is a notice of resignation as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly,” Meranda declared.
Meranda took office on January 13, 2025, succeeding former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who is reportedly set for reinstatement. Despite her short tenure, lawmakers praised her leadership skills and her ability to maintain a positive atmosphere in the Assembly.
In addition to Meranda, all principal officers appointed alongside her also resigned.
The Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Nojeed Fatai, has officially resigned from his position. Similarly, the Chief Whip, Sanni Okanlawon, has also stepped down. This wave of resignations comes as several other principal officers are also leaving their posts.
Lawmakers have commended Speaker Mojisola Meranda for her willingness to align with the directives of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Meranda, who has held the Speaker position for 49 days, may also resign soon, as speculated by members of the House.
In an emotional address, lawmaker Temitope Adewale praised Meranda’s leadership, saying, “The entire chamber is in tears. You have restored the spirit of friendship, comradeship, and loyalty to this House. We have seen the sense of belonging and the understanding that the party is supreme.”
Adewale further encouraged his colleagues, stating, “To my dear colleagues, this is not the end; this is Asiwaju’s House. Let’s not lose hope—things will change for the better.”
Another lawmaker expressed similar sentiments, acknowledging the influence of party directives: “You did very well, but as we know, we are politicians, and our party is supreme. We’re proud party members, and our party has spoken. I thank the deputy speaker and everyone else who may be affected. We are here to obey the party without shame. Madam Speaker, I pray for you—may God Almighty be with you.”
The unfolding events reflect a significant shift in the Lagos State House of Assembly, heavily influenced by party loyalty and directives.
The Lagos assembly speakership crisis is not ending anytime soon, as a heavy security presence was seen at the complex ahead of Monday, 3rd of March, plenary session.
Journalists were denied entry into the Assembly premises, fueling speculation about a major shake-up in the House.
Some journalists gave account of their experience as they arrived the complex.
“You’re not allowed to enter,” a policeman at the entrance bluntly declared when questioned about the restriction. When pressed further, he doubled down: “That’s the instruction. You cannot enter.”
Outside the complex, a growing number of journalists remained stranded as security tightened.
On ground were joint team of police officers, personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and operatives of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Security Corps, who cordoned off both the interior and exterior of the assembly.
Is Obasa Now back?
Amid the heightened security, unconfirmed reports suggest that Speaker Mojisola Meranda may step down, paving the way for the return of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
Obasa, who was ousted on January 13, 2025, by over 30 of the 40 lawmakers in the House, made a stunning reappearance at the Assembly last Thursday, 27th of February, bboldly asserting that he remains the rightful Speaker.
With the plenary scheduled for 1 p.m., all eyes are on the Assembly as Lagos braces for what could be a seismic shift in the state’s legislative leadership.
Nairobi, Kenya - February 6, 2014: Ripe fruits stacked at a local fruit and vegetable market on February 6, 2014. Nairobi, Kenya. The market is frequently visited by locals and tourists.
The season of Lent is approaching for Christians, a time of reflection and preparation for Easter. It’s a period marked by fasting and prayer, culminating in Ash Wednesday.
But Muslims have kicked off Ramadan, a month of fasting and spiritual renewal. Both faiths share a common thread of introspection and spiritual discipline during these times.
Both Ash Wednesday and Ramadan are periods of spiritual reflection and self-denial. Ash Wednesday, for Christians, marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and repentance leading up to Easter.
During Lent, Christians often abstain from certain foods or activities, focusing on prayer and charitable works. Ramadan, for Muslims, is a month of fasting from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations. It is a time for introspection, prayer, and increased acts of charity.
Despite these known facts, the Nigerian market often times experiences a unique change. While some goods will likely face price increases due to seasonal scarcity, others may defy the trend and remain stable, driven by factors yet to be fully understood. This unexpected stability could lead to a surge in demand, prompting some sellers to stock up on these popular items.
However, a few opportunistic traders also capitalize on the increased demand by inflating prices, citing the added expense of acquiring goods during the peak season.
Food Items That May Be Expensive This Season
Foodstuffs: With the increased demand for specific foods for breaking the fast (iftar) during Ramadan and the traditional Lenten meals during Ash Wednesday, prices of staple foods like rice, beans, and flour rise. Presently these foods are expensive which makes it a challenging moment for fasting.
Protein source: The price of meats (cow and goat), eggs, fish and chicken often rise, as people seek protein sources during fasting
Beverages: During Ramadan, the demand for drinks like juices, water, and special Ramadan drinks increases, leading to potential price fluctuations.
Fruits: fresh fruit like watermelon, mangos, oranges and dried fruit like dates are in high demand this period, leading to increase in it prices particularly when it’s not their season.
Transportation: With increased travel to religious gatherings, mosques, or churches, the demand for transportation services, like taxis or public transport, may likely increase, leading to a hike in fares.
Clothing: Many people choose to wear new clothes for special religious occasions during Ramadan and Easter, increasing demand and potentially leading to higher prices.
Gifts: The tradition of exchanging gifts during Ramadan and Easter can contribute to higher prices for items like sweets, toys, perfume, calendars, prayer mat, or special gifts.
Event Services: Events like Ramadan lectures, Iftar gatherings, Homes and Eid celebrations create demand for catering, decorations, and entertainment services, leading to potential price increases.
Accomodations : During Ramadan, many Muslims travel to meet family and friends to perform Umrah (minor pilgrimage), leading to higher airfare and accommodation costs.
Energy Costs: With increased use of electricity and appliances during Ramadan (for evening prayers and gatherings) and during Easter celebrations, energy costs may increase.
It’s important to note that price fluctuations during these periods can vary depending on location, local market conditions, and individual consumer choices.
For centuries, fasting has been a common practice, often rooted in religious traditions and cultural rituals. However, in recent years, fasting has gained mainstream popularity for its supposed health benefits, from weight loss to increased lifespan. But is fasting truly beneficial, or is it just another health trend?
Types of Fasting
Before exploring its benefits, it’s important to understand the different types of fasting:
Intermittent Fasting (IF): Cycling between periods of eating and fasting (e.g., 16:8, 5:2, OMAD – One Meal A Day).
Water Fasting: Consuming only water for a set period (usually 24 hours or more).
Religious Fasting: Observed in faiths like Islam (Ramadan), Christianity (Lent), and Judaism (Yom Kippur).
Extended Fasting: Lasting beyond 24 hours, sometimes up to several days.
Scientific Benefits of Fasting
Research has shown that fasting can offer several health advantages:
Weight Loss & Metabolism Boost Fasting naturally reduces calorie intake and enhances fat-burning by increasing metabolic flexibility. It also triggers the production of norepinephrine, which helps in fat breakdown and energy use.
Cellular Repair & Autophagy During fasting, the body enters a process called autophagy, where it removes damaged cells and regenerates new ones. This has been linked to reduced inflammation, lower risks of chronic diseases, and anti-aging effects.
Improved Insulin Sensitivity Studies suggest that fasting can reduce insulin resistance, helping to lower blood sugar levels and decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Brain Health & Longevity Fasting stimulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports cognitive function and may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Heart Health Benefits Fasting can lead to lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol levels, and decreased inflammation—key factors in preventing heart disease.
Potential Risks & Downsides
While fasting can be beneficial, it is not without its drawbacks:
Nutrient Deficiencies & Muscle Loss: Extended fasting without proper nutrition can lead to deficiencies and muscle depletion.
Fatigue, Headaches & Dizziness: These are common side effects, especially for beginners adjusting to fasting.
Risk for Certain Individuals: People with diabetes, eating disorders, or those who are pregnant should approach fasting cautiously or avoid it altogether.
Unhealthy Eating Patterns: Some individuals may overeat after fasting, leading to binge cycles that counteract the benefits.
Who Should Fast & Who Should Avoid It?
Best candidates for fasting: Healthy adults looking for weight management, improved metabolic health, and better cognitive function.
Who should avoid fasting: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with a history of eating disorders, diabetics, and those on certain medications.
Is Fasting Really Beneficial?
The answer is yes—with conditions. Fasting can offer significant health benefits when done correctly, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. While some may thrive on fasting, others may struggle with its effects. The key is to listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional before embarking on any fasting regimen.
Ultimately, fasting is a tool—not a magic bullet. When paired with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, it can be a valuable addition to overall well-being.
Founder of Loveworld, Rev. Dr. Chris Oyakhilome, has asserted that expelling the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) from a country would lead to financial prosperity. He made this claim during Christ Embassy’s Day 3 prayer and fasting program for February 2025.
In his address, Oyakhilome criticized USAID’s financial operations, alleging that the organization does not provide genuine aid but instead exploits developing nations.
“If they meant financial aid, it’s only stolen money. It’s what they stole from you already. They don’t bring any money from the US, they don’t give you any money from the United States. It’s what they stole from you already,” he stated.
He further argued that USAID’s involvement has harmed national economies and political landscapes, claiming that the agency manipulates local politics to weaken leaders who prioritize national interests.
“If you drove away USAID from your country, you’d be suddenly richer. Yeah, it’s all exploitation. It destroyed your currency, it destroyed your economy. They creep into the politics of the day and try to destroy the politicians. That’s what they do. They don’t care about you,” he added.
Oyakhilome also alleged that USAID brands patriotic politicians as enemies and actively seeks to undermine them. “They hate politicians that love their country. Once you love your country, you are an enemy. They brand you as an enemy. And they plan your demise. That’s what they do. So the right thing to do is tell them to quit,” he concluded.
His comments come amid increasing scrutiny of USAID’s activities worldwide. In recent months, the U.S. President ordered an investigation into USAID, leading to revelations of misappropriated funds being diverted to non-governmental special interest programs.
In 2024, Premium Times reported USAID’s financial involvement in the promotion of genetically modified organisms (GMO) in Nigeria, revealing that funds were channeled to the National Biosafety Management Agency between 2016 and 2019. Additionally, a viral video on social media showed a U.S. lawmaker allegedly linking the organization to terrorism financing in Nigeria. This prompted Nigeria’s 10th National Assembly to direct intelligence agencies to investigate USAID’s operations in the country.
Oyakhilome’s remarks have sparked widespread debate, with some supporting his stance on foreign influence in developing nations, while others argue that foreign aid remains crucial for economic development. The controversy surrounding USAID’s role in Nigeria and other countries continues to unfold.
Manchester City began the match with intensity, taking the lead in the 12th minute. Erling Haaland met a low cross from Jeremy Doku with a first-time side-footed finish into the bottom corner, having been left unmarked in the box. Savinho had a chance to double City’s advantage soon after, but his shot from a Doku cross was poorly timed and bounced over the goal.
Tottenham’s First Half Struggles
It took Tottenham until the 45th minute to test City’s goalkeeper Ederson. Kevin Danso’s header was tipped over the bar by Ederson, denying Spurs their first meaningful attempt on goal. City quickly countered, but Matheus Nunes failed to find Omar Marmoush at the back post, leaving the Egyptian unmarked but with no opportunity to score.
City’s Decline in the Second Half After dominating the first half, City struggled in the second half. Ederson was forced into action, saving Wilson Odobert’s deflected shot. Spurs ramped up the pressure, with Mathys Tel and Pape Sarr missing key chances, including Sarr slicing wide from a dangerous cut-back.
Substitutes Shift Momentum for Spurs The introduction of Dejan Kulusevski and Son Heung-min – both surprisingly left out of the starting lineup by manager Ange Postecoglou – saw Tottenham gain momentum. Son almost equalized, but Ederson made a critical save after a fast Spurs break. Guardiola acknowledged the game’s shift in the second half, noting that City’s inability to close the first half left them vulnerable.
Haaland’s Return and Disallowed Goal Erling Haaland made his return to the City lineup after missing the previous games against Real Madrid and Liverpool. Haaland thought he had secured a second goal in stoppage time, bundling past two defenders. However, referee Jarred Gillett ruled that Haaland had handled the ball, with a VAR check confirming the decision.
Late Missed Chance for Spurs Spurs had one final chance to equalize, but Pape Sarr headed over from a corner, and the match ended with City holding on for a narrow victory.
City’s Improved Performances Manchester City has shown signs of improvement in recent weeks. The team looked more like their usual self in the first half, with a good understanding of when to attack and when to slow the play down. The midfield saw an interesting adjustment, with February signing Nico Gonzalez playing a more advanced role alongside Mateo Kovacic, while Nunes tucked in from right-back. This setup seemed to be the most effective solution to Rodri’s absence this season. City’s left side, with Doku, Gonzalez, and Josko Gvardiol, was particularly potent, although their finishing touch was often lacking.
Defensive Solidity and Key Saves Although City faded in the second half, their defense held strong. Ruben Dias and Abdukodir Khusanov were impressive at the back, and Ederson made critical saves to deny Spurs. Despite the second-half pressure from Tottenham, City avoided a collapse, a common issue in their recent matches.
Tottenham’s Missed Opportunities Spurs had a strong second-half performance but were unable to convert their chances into goals. Danso had a couple of headers saved by Ederson, and Son was unlucky to be denied by a sharp save from City’s keeper. Postecoglou expressed frustration, acknowledging that Spurs had dominated the second half but missed crucial opportunities to score. He noted that turnovers in the first half had allowed City to establish a rhythm.
Looking Ahead for Spurs Postecoglou was pleased with his team’s second-half response and noted the positive impact of bringing on Son, Kulusevski, and Djed Spence, all of whom had been benched due to the team’s heavy schedule. With players like Micky van de Ven, Dominic Solanke, and Cristian Romero expected to return from injury soon, Spurs still have reasons for optimism as they aim to finish the season strongly.
The hall was filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and the hum of camaraderie. Former heads of state, political elites, and wealthy donors gathered in Abuja to celebrate the launch of General Ibrahim Babangida’s book.
Over ₦17.5 billion was raised in a single afternoon, a staggering sum that could have transformed the lives of millions of Nigerians. Yet, as the champagne flowed and praises were heaped upon the former military ruler, one question lingered in the air, unspoken but heavy: What about June 12?
June 12, 1993, was supposed to be Nigeria’s finest hour—a day when democracy triumphed, and the voice of the people echoed loud and clear. Moshood Abiola, a man of the people, won the freest and fairest election in Nigeria’s history.
But that victory was stolen, not by the people, but by one man: Ibrahim Babangida. His annulment of the election was not just a political decision; it was a betrayal of the nation’s trust, a dagger plunged into the heart of Nigeria’s democracy.
The consequences of that annulment are still felt today. It birthed a cycle of political instability, military coups, and a culture of impunity that has plagued Nigeria for decades. The hopes of millions were dashed, and the country was plunged into darkness. Abiola himself paid the ultimate price, dying in detention while fighting for the mandate freely given to him by the people.
Yet, here was IBB, surrounded by the very elites who once vilified him, now showering him with praise and donations. The irony was not lost on those who remember. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his speech, pointedly remarked that Babangida had a golden opportunity to make history by inaugurating Abiola but chose instead to annul the election. That single act, Tinubu noted, was the genesis of Nigeria’s current predicament.
But where is the justice for June 12? Where is the accountability for the lives lost, the dreams shattered, and the democracy derailed? The annulment was not just a political misstep; it was an act of treason against the Nigerian people. Babangida’s book may attempt to rewrite history, but the truth remains: he robbed Nigeria of its destiny.
The ₦17.5 billion raised at the book launch could have been used to rebuild schools, provide healthcare, or empower the less privileged. Instead, it was lavished on a man who has yet to atone for his sins. The elite may have forgiven him, but the Nigerian people have not.
Is time to right the wrongs of the past? Should Babangida be held accountable for the annulment of June 12? and should the law must take its course, not out of vengeance, but out of a commitment to justice and the rule of law? These are million dollar questions begging for answers but those who gathered to celebrate him must also reflect on their complicity in perpetuating a system that rewards impunity and silences the voices of the oppressed.
LN247 spoke with Omoyele Sowore a human rights activist who witnessed the crackdown on civil society at the time.
“We shouldn’t be calling for justice, we should be applying justice at this time, calling for justice means we haven’t decided whether justice should happen or not, we should be working at this time, people should be facing trial, we should be preparing them to face trial for the humongous monumental crime against the Nigerian people which is unarguably treason committed in 1993 by former dictator Babaginda and his friends some of them are civilian some of them are in the military.
Some have died and some are still alive but the ones that are still alive led by Babaginda should be cooling their feet behind bars by now, this type of crime does not have limitation in terms of when somebody can be punished for it, it can happen at any time he should have been behind bars since the completion of the annulment of the election but they planned it so carefully and he has said it so many times that when they were going to hand over power you had played some of the clips or footages of when he was in his disheveled military uniform where he was saying that there were electoral malpractices.
but I think for the first time in the history of the country he didn’t just take responsibility, he confessed to having annul a free and fair election and that point makes it more sense for him to be arrested”.
June 12 was more than an election; it was a promise of what Nigeria could be. That promise was stolen, but it is not too late to reclaim it. Justice for June 12 is not just about holding one man accountable; it is about restoring the faith of the Nigerian people in their democracy. It is about ensuring that such a betrayal never happens again.
As the elites toast to IBB’s legacy, let us remember the legacy he denied Nigeria. Let us remember Abiola, the people’s president, Kudirat who was assasinated and the countless others who suffered because of one man’s actions and ambition. The injustice of the June 12 elections anullment calls for a reckoning with the past to build a better future.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the “Notice of Polls” for the upcoming Area Council Elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
The elections are scheduled to take place on February 21, 2026, starting at 8:30 am, with polling units across the FCT serving as voting locations.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, INEC emphasized that only eligible voters with valid Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and names listed on the register of voters will be permitted to cast their votes.
The commission also confirmed the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) for the elections. Voters are reminded to have their PVCs in order to participate.
The elections will cover all six Area Councils in the Federal Capital Territory.
The notice reads: “This is to inform the general public that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will conduct elections in the six Area Councils of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as follows; Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026 Time: 8:30 am Venue: All Polling Units in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“Note that eligible voters shall vote at polling units where they are registered. Only persons whose names appear on the register of voters and have valid Permanent Voter Cards would be allowed to vote.
“The Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) shall be used. No PVC, no voting.”
Jose Mourinho, a manager known for his fiery and often provocative statements, is once again at the center of a storm following allegations of racism. The controversy erupted after Mourinho’s recent comments about a young Turkish player during a Fenerbahce-Galatasaray derby on February 24, 2025. His remarks, which referenced “monkeys” in relation to Galatasaray’s bench reaction, have drawn sharp criticism and sparked accusations of racism.
The incident has prompted Galatasaray to announce their intention to pursue legal action. This latest episode places Mourinho alongside several other high-profile coaches who have faced similar accusations of discriminatory behavior, leading to investigations and in some cases, dismissals. This has contributed to the ongoing conversation about race, power, and prejudice in football. Here are five notable instances:
Gérard Houllier ( Liverpool)
Emile Heskey the former Liverpool and England striker, was racially targeted by the Liverpool coach, Gérard Houllier in 2002. The incident occurred when Houllier allegedly made a comment about Heskey’s appearance that was racially insensitive. Heskey, who is Black, recalled that Houllier used the term “big, black and strong” to describe him in a way that was seen as derogatory and racially stereotypical.
The comment was reported to have been said in a private meeting or conversation, and although it was not explicitly made in a public setting, it nonetheless raised significant concern about the racial dynamics within the club at the time.
The incident created an atmosphere of tension, but it was one of the many challenges Heskey faced during his career, particularly in terms of dealing with racial prejudices and stereotypes in football.
Heskey later spoke about this event in interviews, shedding light on his experience with racism within the sport.
Kevin MacDonald (Aston Villa)
In December 2018, Aston Villa suspended coach Kevin MacDonald following allegations of bullying from former players.He was accused of bullying after comments he allegedly made during a team training session. He was accused of making disparaging remarks to young players, including an incident where he reportedly mocked a player’s ability and belittled them in front of others.
These remarks were said to have created an intimidating and uncomfortable atmosphere for the players involved. MacDonald later defended his actions, claiming that his comments were made in a constructive manner, but the accusations sparked concern about the impact of such behavior on players’ mental well-being. The club initiated an internal investigation, and MacDonald was later dismissed in August 2019.
Gennaro Gattuso (AC Milan)
He served as the head coach of AC Milan from 2017 to 2019, faced accusations of discrimination in 2018 regarding his treatment of certain players. The controversy primarily stemmed from claims made by the Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessié who was a key figure under Gattuso’s management.
In 2018, Kessié was reportedly upset after being left out of a match due to tactical reasons, and Gattuso’s response to the situation was considered dismissive by some. There were rumors circulating that Gattuso had displayed a bias against Kessié, possibly influenced by the player’s African heritage, although there was no direct evidence of racism.
Furthermore, Gattuso’s handling of Kessié’s behavior, especially during a few public spats, raised questions. Gattuso was known for his fiery temperament and often clashed with players who didn’t meet his high standards. However, it’s important to note that accusations of discrimination or racism were not formally proven, and Gattuso himself denied any ill intentions toward Kessié or any other players based on their ethnicity.
While these incidents created a certain amount of media attention and debate, the accusations against Gattuso did not lead to any official charges or widespread condemnation of discriminatory behavior. Nonetheless, the situation added to the larger conversation about race and discrimination in football, particularly concerning how players from diverse backgrounds might sometimes be treated differently.
John Yems (Crawley Town)
In April 2022, he was suspended following credible allegations of racial slurs and racially segregated changing rooms. He was accused of using discriminatory language and behavior towards players. The Football Association (FA) conducted an investigation, and in January 2023, Yems was found guilty of 12 charges of racial discrimination, resulting in an 18-month ban from all football-related activities. This ban was later extended to January 2026 after an FA appeal.
Jose Mourinho (Fenerbahce)
In his latest controversy, Mourinho made comments about the Turkish people and their behavior during a February 2025 match against Galatasaray, which led to accusations of racism. His remarks about Galatasaray’s bench behavior were described as derogatory and sparked a backlash, with the Turkish club promising to take legal action.
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