Makinde Declares Oyo PDP Free of 'Vagabonds'
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has declared that individuals he described as “vagabonds” who previously wielded influence within the Peoples Democratic Party have been expelled. Speaking on Tuesday during the unveiling of the Oyo State PDP secretariat in Ibadan, the state capital, Makinde stated that the party is now free of internal disruption. “In 2015, PDP lost power at the federal level. Otherwise, those vagabonds would never have been able to take hold of PDP,” Makinde said. “Finally, the government has no interest in PDP lawyer states and no interest in PDP nationally,” he said.
Source:Punch
February 03, 2026 13:59 UTC
Emefiele: Redesigned naira printed locally under Buhari’s directive, EFCC witness tells court
ALSO READ: Buhari granted Emefiele approval to redesign Naira locally — EFCC investigatorThe offences allegedly committed by him, according to EFCC, were against Section 123 of the Penal Code, Cap 89 Laws of the Federation, 1990 and punishable under the same law. Emere that CBN raised bills of settlement to Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company (NSPMC) for the production of the redesigned notes. Asked to confirm to the court if the Naira notes were produced by NSPMC, the prosecution witness answered in the affirmative, saying that, “The Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company produced the redesigned notes. He added that the investigation revealed that Buhari eventually launched the redesigned notes, but could not remember if the former president raised any complaints against the redesigned notes. He then told the court that the EFCC investigation team came up with an investigative report after its assignment.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 13:57 UTC
China bans hidden door handles on electric vehicles over safety concerns
China has banned hidden door handles on electric vehicles (EVs), making it the first country to prohibit the designs popularized by Tesla. The ban followed safety concerns that arose from several fatal incidents involving EVs. The move follows deadly crashes in China involving Xiaomi EVs, where power failures were suspected to have prevented doors from being opened. Global safety regulators have also taken note: in November, the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened a probe into Tesla’s electric-powered door handles after reports they suddenly stopped working, leaving children trapped. Although the measures apply only to vehicles sold in China, the country’s role in the global car industry means the ban is expected to influence EV designs worldwide.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 13:57 UTC
Cross River magistrates issue strike ultimatum over welfare, security concerns
Magistrates in Cross River State have announced plans to resume an indefinite strike from Monday, February 9, 2026, over the state government’s failure to address outstanding welfare and security-related demands. The decision was reached at a General Congress of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria (MAN), Cross River State Chapter, held on Friday, January 30, 2026. “In view of the foregoing, the Magistrates Association of Nigeria, Cross River State Chapter, has resolved to resume the suspended indefinite strike action after the expiration of seven days,” the communiqué said. Copies of the communiqué were also sent to key judicial, security, and government authorities, including the Chief Judge of Cross River State, the Attorney-General, the Secretary to the State Government, the Commissioner of Police, and the Nigerian Bar Association. The association expressed hope that the state government would act promptly to avert the planned industrial action and ensure the uninterrupted operation of the justice system in Cross River State.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 13:38 UTC
Snakebite: Anti-venom fully stocked, readily available in Abuja hospitals — FCTA
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has assured residents of the nation’s capital, Abuja, that antivenom is fully stocked and readily accessible across all FCTA-owned hospitals and public health centres. ALSO READ: Snakebite: Provide free anti-venom drugs to prevent more deaths, Pharmacists beg FGFasawe in the statement which she personally signed, disclosed that, “different forms and types of anti-snake venom are widely available across FCTA-owned hospitals and public health facilities. “Snakebites remain a largely preventable public health emergency. As a rule, all snakebites must be treated as venomous until proven otherwise.”The FCTA Secretary also used the opportunity to issue a step-by-step advisory on what residents must do immediately after a snakebite. “For emergencies, residents should contact FCT Emergency Medical System and Ambulance Services Numbers – 090157892931, 090157892932.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 13:17 UTC
BREAKING: Senate confirms Joseph Oyewole as Supreme Court Justice
The Senate has just confirmed the nomination of Joseph Olubunmi Kayode Oyewole as a Justice of the Supreme Court. The action of the Senate followed the recommendation of its Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters. President Bola Tinubu had forwarded the name of the nominee last week. ALSO READ: NJC recommends Justice Kayode Oyewole for Supreme Court, 35 others for judicial appointments
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 13:01 UTC
NECO releases 2025 SSCE external results Tuesday
The National Examinations Council will release the results of the 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (External) on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. This information was shared in an internal circular signed by the Council’s Acting Director of Information and Public Relations on Tuesday. According to the circular, the results will be officially announced by the Registrar and Chief Executive of NECO, Professor Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, at 10:45 a.m.ALSOO READ: WEAC/NECO 2026 timetable: Early preparation guide for candidates“Result of the 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) External will be released on 3rd February 2026 by the Registrar/Chief Executive, Professor Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, at 10:45 am. “In view of the above, staff are enjoined to assemble at the Conference Hall at 10:30 am to witness the event,” the notice read.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 13:00 UTC
Iran’s president says Tehran is ready for ‘fair’ talks with the US
Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, said on Tuesday that Tehran is ready to pursue “fair” talks with the United States, instructing his foreign minister to engage in negotiations as reports emerged that senior officials from both countries may meet in Istanbul later this week over Iran’s nuclear programme. Pezeshkian said he had directed Iran’s foreign ministry to move forward if conditions allow, stressing the need for talks without pressure. Multiple reports say Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, and US envoy Steve Witkoff could meet on Friday in Istanbul, alongside representatives from several Arab and Muslim countries, to discuss a potential nuclear deal. Satellite imagery released last week showed repair work at Iran’s Isfahan and Natanz nuclear sites after the June strikes. Saudi and Israeli officials met US defence officials last week to discuss possible scenarios, while Iran has warned it would respond to any US attack.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 12:59 UTC
Kenya warns against cash bouquets, citing damage to banknotes
Kenya’s central bank has warned people against using banknotes to make floral-like bouquets and decorations, saying the practice could damage currency and carry criminal penalties. The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) issued the notice on Monday after cash bouquets became a popular trend in the country, often ordered ahead of Valentine’s Day and promoted by celebrities and online influencers. It added that creators of cash bouquets could face up to seven years in jail if arrested. Alinur Mohamed wrote on X, “The public notice from the Central Bank of Kenya has saved men ahead of this year’s Valentine’s Day. Back to basics, bouquet of flowers it is.”Another Kenyan said the decision offers “a much-needed relief for those who found such cash bouquets overly expensive and wasteful.”(BBC News)
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 12:59 UTC
Labour unions, FCTA reach agreement, suspend strike
After days of industrial action, the organised labour and the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have finally reached a consensus, bringing relief to workers and residents of the FCT. According to a circular jointly issued by the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), all complaints presented by JUAC members were taken one after the other and fully addressed. Labour leaders urged all affiliates to comply strictly with the directive in the interest of industrial peace and harmony. The circular was jointly signed on behalf of the unions and workers by tge Secretary General, TUC, Comrade NA Toro, and the Ag. General Secretary, NLC Comrade Benson Upah.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 12:59 UTC
ICE arrests Brazilian influencer who supported US immigration enforcement
Eustáquio da Silva Pena Júnior, a Brazilian influencer, has been arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in New Jersey. The rightwing influencer, who has hundreds of thousands of followers on TikTok and Instagram, had recently posted videos backing Trump’s immigration policies. ICE arrests Brazilian influencer Júnior Pena as Trump’s immigration push continues to affect the United States’ estimated 2 million Brazilian residents. Trump’s immigration enforcement has led to a sharp rise in deportations of Brazilians, with 2,785 deported last year, up from 1,640 in 2024. The magazine reported that some Brazilian migrants, particularly in cities such as Boston, were avoiding speaking Portuguese in public and altering their appearance to blend in.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 12:59 UTC
Drugs war: Marwa calls for national response for alternative development
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig- Gen Mohamed Marwa (rtd), has called for a strong national response and sustained support for the alternative development programme recently initiated by the Agency to curb illicit cannabis cultivation, uplift rural communities and strengthen national security. The successful take off of the pilot scheme in Ilu Abo, Ifon, and Eleyewo in Ondo state last week clearly demonstrates that alternative development works when communities are engaged, supported, and empowered. “They have openly stated that this programme has renewed their hope in Nigeria and restored their confidence in government. The NDLEA boss said the dire reality of illicit cannabis cultivation and use in Nigeria made the Agency to look beyond law enforcement and consider a United Nations endorsed alternative to solving the cannabis conundrum. “Field assessments focusing on high-risk areas in the South West reveal that nearly 8,900 hectares of land are under cannabis cultivation, often hidden deep within forests and remote regions.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 12:59 UTC
Afghanistan issues more than 85,000 work permits to boost labour market
Afghanistan’s Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs has issued more than 85,000 work permits over the past year in a bid to revive the country’s labour market. According to a report by TOLO News on Tuesday, the permits were granted to both Afghan citizens and foreign nationals, reflecting the government’s broader strategy to strengthen the workforce amid persistent economic challenges. In addition, around 20,000 people received vocational training in various skills during the same period, the report said. In recent years, the authorities have stepped up efforts to improve employment opportunities by expanding training programmes and enhancing access to the labour market, with the aim of supporting long-term economic stability.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 12:59 UTC
Top 10 African stock markets by number of listed companies
African stock markets have expanded in recent years, driven by reforms, improved regulation and growing interest in domestic capital formation. Below are the top 10 African stock markets ranked by the number of listed firms. Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) – South AfricaAlthough it ranks behind Egypt and Nigeria by number of companies, the JSE is Africa’s most influential stock market. Casablanca Stock Exchange – MoroccoMorocco’s bourse is one of North Africa’s more stable markets, featuring a moderate number of listed companies and increasing participation from institutional investors. Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) – GhanaThe Ghana Stock Exchange remains relatively small, with few new listings in recent years, reflecting the challenges faced by smaller African capital markets.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 11:36 UTC
54% of Nigerian minors buy alcohol themselves — NAFDAC
“The availability and easy access to alcohol have been identified as a contributory factor to the increasing alcohol consumption among minors,” she said. Beyond the quantitative survey, the NAFDAC boss said qualitative data were gathered through focus group discussions and key informant interviews. On drinking patterns, the NAFDAC chief said the survey showed that 54 per cent of respondents were occasional drinkers, while 24 per cent drank alcohol daily and 11 per cent consumed alcohol at least once a week. “Further analysis revealed that 63.2 per cent of minors and 54.0 per cent of the underaged drink alcohol occasionally. “Access to alcohol by children can be limited if pack sizes that can be easily concealed are not available.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
February 03, 2026 11:27 UTC