Richard Akinnola criticizes Nyesom Wike for his perceived narcissism and opportunism, highlighting Wike's pattern of turning against his political benefactors. Wike's recent actions, including his support for President Tinubu, are seen as self-serving, with a history of repudiating his own statements and allegiances. The article suggests that Wike's political career is marked by betrayals and a lack of loyalty, despite his achievements as Governor.

Outgoing President of Senegal, Macky Sall, congratulated opposition leader Bassirou Diomaye Faye on his victory in the presidential election, with almost all other candidates, including former Prime Minister Ahmadou Ba, conceding defeat. Unofficial estimates suggest Faye won approximately 57% of the vote. The National Electoral Commission is compiling the official tally, and the final figures are expected to be announced by the Appeal Court of Dakar, with validation by the Constitutional Council. Sall is set to hand over power to Faye, Senegal's youngest President, on April 2nd. Faye's victory is seen as a triumph for democracy in Senegal and the ECOWAS region, which has seen a rise in military rule. Faye, a former tax collector, faces the immediate task of reconciling a politically tense nation and has promised to tackle corruption and address the needs of the youthful population.

Nigeria is experiencing a significant decline in moral values, influenced by westernization, globalization, and local factors such as collapsed family systems and ineffective governmental institutions. The article highlights historical and recent corruption scandals, emphasizing the lack of accountability and moral responsibility among public officials. It calls for morally grounded leadership and a focus on rebuilding society based on meritocracy, fairness, and selflessness. The text underscores the need for strong moral guardrails like the Judiciary, ICPC, EFCC, and the Code of Conduct Bureau to uphold ethical standards in public life.

Tension is rising in Gaambe-Tiev, Logo Local Government area of Benue State, after a Peugeot commercial wagon with seven passengers, including former PDP Organising Secretary Job Tiza, went missing. The vehicle was ambushed by hoodlums at Mbavuur on the Ugba-Anyiin road. While one passenger, Ormough, was released after three days, the whereabouts of the others remain unknown. The incident has caused confusion and concern among residents. In a separate but similar incident, Ukum Local Government Chairman Gideon Haanongu and his entourage were kidnapped. The police have not yet provided information on either case.

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) intercepted a large consignment of Canadian Loud, a strong synthetic strain of cannabis, in Lagos Island. The drugs, weighing 111.2 kilograms, were being transported by Taofeek Yusuf in an unregistered vehicle. This operation followed the arrest of Godwin ThankGod at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, who was attempting to smuggle codeine-based syrup and rohypnol to Milan, Italy. Both arrests were based on credible intelligence, highlighting NDLEA's effective law enforcement efforts.

Bandits in Abuja kidnapped Alhaji Mansoor Al-Kadriyar and his six children, resulting in the death of one child, Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar, a 400-level student at Ahmadu Bello University. The kidnappers demanded a ransom, initially set at N60 million, which was later increased to N100 million. The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with the hashtag #Najeebahandhersisters trending. Efforts to raise funds for the victims' release are ongoing, and the Nigeria Police Force is actively working on the case.

Alhaji Isa Husseini, a respected journalist and former Marketing Director at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), passed away on January 7, 2024, at the age of 72. Paul Ejime, a colleague, pays tribute to Isa, recalling their first meeting during Margaret Thatcher's visit to Nigeria in 1988 and their professional collaboration. Isa is remembered for his professionalism, warm personality, and significant contributions to journalism. He is survived by his widow, seven children, and grandchildren, and has been laid to rest in Kaduna State.

Sierra Leone's political landscape is marred by deep-rooted ethnic divisions and political intolerance, with former President Ernest Bai Koroma and current President Julius Maada Bio at the center of escalating tensions. The recent election results, which saw Bio re-elected, have been contested by the opposition, leading to accusations of election rigging and a subsequent treason charge against Koroma. ECOWAS has intervened, but its efforts have been met with resistance and political maneuvering. The situation underscores the need for national cohesion, good governance, and the protection of citizens' rights to prevent further conflict and instability.

The article highlights the thriving business of currency hawkers in Nigeria amid a severe naira scarcity, causing significant hardship for bank customers. It details the operations of these hawkers, including their connections with corrupt bank officials, and the exorbitant fees they charge for new notes. The Central Bank of Nigeria and the government face criticism for failing to ensure adequate cash circulation, while the Nigeria Labour Congress calls for immediate solutions to alleviate the suffering of the masses. The article also touches on the legal implications of currency hawking and the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians in accessing cash.

Former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Godwin Emefiele refutes allegations of fraud in a report by private investigator Jim Obazee, appointed by President Bola Tinubu. Emefiele labels the claims as false, misleading, and satanic, asserting that there was presidential approval for the Naira redesign, contrary to the report's claims. He denies knowledge of a $6.23 million withdrawal or the opening of 593 foreign accounts linked to him. Emefiele has instructed his lawyers to initiate legal action to clear his name.

Four former ministers from President Muhammadu Buhari's administration are under investigation by the EFCC for alleged involvement in over N187 billion fraud. Contractor James Okwete has been arrested and is providing information that implicates former Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouk and other officials. The N37.1 billion in question was transferred to various accounts linked to Okwete, who allegedly used it to purchase luxury items and properties. The EFCC is also probing three other ministers for graft estimated at N150 billion. In 2020, the ICPC discovered N2.67 billion meant for a school feeding program in private accounts.

Over seventy-six people were killed in coordinated attacks on Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau State. The attacks, which occurred on Saturday and continued into Christmas Eve, involved assailants burning houses, looting farm produce, and destroying properties. Governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned the attacks and called for swift action and community vigilance. Security agencies have been directed to apprehend the perpetrators, but the police and Operation Safe Haven have yet to comment as rescue operations continue.

Mathew Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, delivered a Christmas message urging President Bola Tinubu to address Nigeria's pressing issues, emphasizing that neither history nor God would forgive failure. Kukah highlighted the need for unity, nation-building, and ending the instrumentalization of religious, ethnic, or regional identities. He criticized palliatives as insufficient for Nigeria's deep structural problems and called for strategies to achieve reconciliation and dismantle corruption. Kukah also stressed the importance of restoring hope and credibility through effective governance and addressing the root causes of Nigeria's challenges.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited for not disclosing details of Nigeria's daily oil production, exportation, and revenue since the removal of petrol subsidy in May 2023. SERAP seeks orders of mandamus to compel NNPC to reveal this information, arguing it is a legal responsibility and in the public interest. The failure to disclose is seen as a violation of Nigerian law and international commitments. The suit emphasizes the importance of transparency for public confidence and combating corruption in the oil sector. No hearing date has been set.

Globacom, a total telecommunications solutions provider, awarded five of its high net worth customers with business class return tickets from Lagos to Paris and London as part of its Festival of Joy promo. The event, which also celebrated a Lagos-based engineer as the first house winner, was attended by notable figures including Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Cecilia Bolaji Dada, and Nollywood actors Osas Ighodaro and Tobi Bakre. The winners expressed their gratitude, and Globacom was praised for its customer relationship and for conforming to all promo regulations as confirmed by Mr. Arinze Ezeani of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission.

The digital age has brought numerous benefits but also exacerbated conflicts and societal issues. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the recent Israel-Hamas violence highlight the persistent global strife. Africa faces severe challenges, including violent conflicts and socio-economic hardships, often overlooked by the international community. The article criticizes the collapse of family values and the moral compass of humanity, urging a return to fundamental human values like forgiveness and compassion. It calls for reflection on virtues to heal individual and societal brokenness.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is approaching its 50th anniversary amidst challenges such as bad governance, poverty, and corruption, which have been exacerbated by global political shifts and threats like terrorism and cyber warfare. The organization suffers from a leadership deficit and a lack of institutional capacity, with a small staff unable to fully utilize resources or implement strategic programs. Recent changes to the Commission's structure and controversial recruitment practices have sparked criticism from NGOs like the Civil Society Network Against Corruption, which threatens legal action. Analysts and sources agree that ECOWAS must adhere to standard recruitment practices to maintain fairness and efficiency. The organization must revitalize its workforce with competent professionals to effectively tackle emerging challenges and fulfill its strategic objectives of peace, security, integration, and sustainable development.

ECOWAS faces reputational damage due to its inadequate response to military dictatorships and political crises in its member states. The organization, once praised for conflict resolution in West Africa, is now criticized for leadership failures and ignoring regional protocols. Recent political tensions in Guinea Bissau and Sierra Leone, along with questionable actions by leaders in Senegal, highlight the challenges. ECOWAS's effectiveness is questioned as member states under military rule form alliances, potentially undermining the organization's unity and objectives. The article calls for ECOWAS and its leaders to return to the principles of good governance and democratic practices to address the region's political instability.

Professor Antonia Okoosi-Simbine, Director-General of Nigeria’s Social and Economic Research (NISER), advocates for greater youth involvement in governance to optimize Nigeria's large youth population. Speaking at the Western Delta State University, she highlighted the multifaceted challenges faced by Nigerian youths, including limited access to quality education, unemployment, and political marginalization. She also discussed the pros and cons of the 'Japa syndrome,' where young Nigerians emigrate for better opportunities. Simbine encouraged graduates to engage in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programs and emphasized the importance of continuous personal development. The event also saw the conferment of degrees and honorary awards to notable figures.

An ECOWAS delegation met with Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio to discuss the attempted military coup. The delegation delivered a message from ECOWAS Chairman and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu. President Bio and Minister Hernor Bah reported arrests and a manhunt for the attackers. Sierra Leone lifted the curfew imposed after the incident, which followed controversial June presidential elections. Meanwhile, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger formed the Alliance of Sahel States for mutual defense, despite being suspended from ECOWAS and facing sanctions. The ECOWAS Parliament has called for sanctions on Niger to be lifted, and Niger terminated an EU agreement on curbing illegal migration.

An ECOWAS solidarity and fact-finding mission met with Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio to discuss the attempted military coup. ECOWAS, led by Omar Alieu Toure and accompanied by Nigerian officials, expressed concern over the armed attacks. President Bio appreciated the solidarity visit and reiterated his commitment to democracy. The nationwide curfew has been lifted following the shootout. Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, suspended from ECOWAS, formed a mutual defence pact. ECOWAS faces challenges in restoring constitutional order in member states under military rule, and the ECOWAS Parliament has called for sanctions on Niger to be lifted due to severe impacts.

Sierra Leone's government imposed a nationwide curfew following an attempted coup at the Wilberforce Barracks in Freetown. The attackers were repelled without reported casualties. This incident follows a controversial presidential election where President Julius Maada Bio was re-elected, a result rejected by opponent Samura Kamara and his party. Observers have criticized the election's transparency, and efforts are underway to prevent a slide back into instability after the country's civil war.

Enugu State in Nigeria is set to commission the Goodwill Medical Centre (GMC), a multimillion Naira healthcare project aimed at serving the poor and low-income groups. The project, funded by the TY Danjuma Foundation, is a response to the weak healthcare systems in Africa and Nigeria's high poverty rates. The GMC will offer free services to the poor, while the rich and middle class will be charged standard fees. The centre is equipped with various health facilities and will also provide free eye screenings and treatments for pupils. The GMC is part of a larger effort by the TY Danjuma Foundation, which has funded over 200 pro-poor projects across Nigeria. The project is supported by the Enugu State Government and the local community, and it aligns with the community-directed health intervention strategy championed by Prof. Uche Amazigo.

Opposition leader Joseph Boakai is leading against incumbent President George Weah in Liberia's presidential run-off vote with 86.71% of the results released by the National Elections Commission. Boakai has 50.58% of the votes, while Weah has 49.42%, with a margin of 16,221 votes from 5,107 out of 5,890 voting places covered. This marks the fourth electoral contest between the two, with Weah having defeated Boakai in their first race in 2017. Weah's potential defeat is attributed to his administration's poor performance and corruption allegations.

Liberia's President George Weah conceded electoral victory to his rival, Joseph Boakai, demonstrating good sportsmanship. Weah congratulated Boakai after preliminary results showed a narrow win for Boakai. The National Elections Commission, praised for its professionalism, is yet to announce the official results. Weah emphasized unity and healing post-election divisions. The peaceful transfer of power in Liberia contrasts with the political instability in other West African nations. ECOWAS and the African Union played significant roles in supporting the electoral process. The article highlights the challenges faced by Weah's administration and the importance of good governance in the region.

With 86.71% of the results from Liberia’s Presidential run-off vote released, opposition leader Joseph Boakai is leading sitting President George Weah by a narrow margin of 50.58% to 49.42%. Boakai, representing the Unity Party, has polled 712,741 votes against Weah's 696,520 votes from the ruling Congress for Democratic Change. The National Elections Commission has covered 5,107 out of 5,890 voting places, indicating a 16,221-vote lead for Boakai. This marks the fourth electoral contest between the two, with Weah previously defeating Boakai in 2017. Weah's potential defeat is attributed to his administration's poor performance and corruption allegations.

The resurgence of military coups and the deconsolidation of Western-style democracy in Africa have prompted calls for governance systems that reflect the continent's socio-cultural and ethnic diversities. Benin's Foreign Minister Olusegun Adjadi Bakari argues that multiparty democracy is failing Africa and suggests political frameworks that consider local conditions. Despite Benin's commitment to regional cooperation and political reforms, President Patrice Talon faces criticism for authoritarian practices and political repression. The article emphasizes the need for visionary leadership and effective governance institutions to address Africa's challenges.

Liberia's 2.4 million registered voters are set to participate in a run-off vote between President George Weah and former Vice President Joseph Boakai after an inconclusive first round. Weah led the first round with 43.83% of the vote, closely followed by Boakai's 43.44%. The run-off is expected to be competitive, with less than 8,000 votes separating the candidates in the first round. The political environment remains peaceful despite isolated violent incidents. This election is the first post-war presidential election without the United Nations Mission's presence. The Weah administration faces criticism for high youth unemployment, inflation, economic hardship, and alleged corruption. The removal of a rice subsidy led to protests last December. The run-off is seen as a referendum on Weah's administration, with some analysts expecting the pendulum to swing in Boakai's favor.

Sierra Leone has imposed a nationwide curfew following an attempted break-in at the Wilberforce Barracks in Freetown. The incident, which involved sporadic gunfire, is the second of its kind since the controversial presidential and legislative elections in June. President Julius Maada Bio was re-elected, but the results were contested by his opponent Samura Kamara and the All People’s Congress, citing irregularities. Civil society and international observers criticized the transparency of the electoral process. Efforts are ongoing to mitigate political tensions and maintain stability in the country.

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, has strongly denied allegations of his involvement in the illegal withdrawal of $6.3 million from the Central Bank of Nigeria. He described the accusations as malicious fabrications aimed at tarnishing his reputation. Mustapha called for a thorough investigation to uncover the source of the allegations and clear his name. The report also implicated former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele and suggested the funds were intended for foreign election observers.

Tensions between ECOWAS and the Niger junta appear to be easing as diplomatic efforts, led by retired General Abdulsalami Abubakar, show promise. The junta, led by Brig.-Gen. Abdourahamane, has been reluctant to negotiate, accusing ECOWAS of bad faith. ECOWAS has rejected the junta's three-year political transition plan, and President Tinubu is consulting with other heads of state on the next steps. The African Union has suspended Niger, and the possibility of military intervention by ECOWAS is growing unpopular due to potential humanitarian consequences. Burkina Faso and Mali support the Niger junta, while Western countries, including the U.S. and France, have evacuated most of their civilians. ECOWAS aims to prioritize the interests of its citizens amid complex international dynamics.

Tensions between ECOWAS and the Niger junta appear to be easing as diplomatic efforts, led by retired General Abdulsalami Abubakar, show promise. The junta, led by Brig.-Gen. Abdourahamane, has been reluctant to negotiate, accusing ECOWAS of bad faith due to sanctions and threats of force. ECOWAS has rejected the junta's proposed three-year political transition. The African Union has suspended Niger, and the potential for military intervention by ECOWAS is growing unpopular due to humanitarian concerns. Burkina Faso and Mali support the Niger junta, while Western countries, particularly France and the U.S., have evacuated civilians and are assessing the situation.

Outgoing President Macky Sall congratulated opposition leader Bassirou Diomaye Faye on his victory in Senegal's presidential election, with other candidates also conceding defeat. Unofficial estimates suggest Faye received about 57% of the vote. The National Electoral Commission is still compiling the official tally, with final figures expected soon. Faye, who turned 44 on election day, will become Senegal's youngest president on April 2nd. His immediate tasks include reconciling the country and addressing corruption and youth needs. The election marks a significant moment for Senegalese democracy, especially after recent political tensions and protests.

Okechukwu Ibeanu, a political science professor and election management expert, urges West African Election Management Bodies (EMBs) to prioritize post-election lessons to enhance electoral quality and democracy. Speaking at a symposium in Abidjan, he emphasized the need for democratic reforms over mere legal changes, highlighting the importance of trust, infrastructure, and timely funding in elections. Ibeanu also called for mechanisms to ensure compliance with laws and empower citizens. The symposium also saw the election of Mohamed Kenewui Konneh as President of the ECONEC Steering Committee, succeeding Ibrahime Coulibaly-Kuibiert.

Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, discusses the perceived political motivations behind the demolition of Igbo properties in Lagos, the historical and ongoing marginalization of the Igbo community in Nigeria, and the need for restructuring the country to ensure fair treatment of all ethnic groups. He highlights the significant contributions of the Igbo in developing Lagos and Abuja and criticizes the current unitary government system. Iwuanyanwu also addresses the detention of Eze Nwajiaku and the establishment of a Peace and Reconciliation Committee to address these issues.

The article discusses the legal and political controversy surrounding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's academic credentials from Chicago State University. It highlights the efforts of Atiku Abubakar to challenge Tinubu's legitimacy, citing potential identity theft and discrepancies in Tinubu's academic records. The article also explores the implications of this controversy for Nigeria's democracy and international reputation, emphasizing the role of the Supreme Court of Nigeria in potentially admitting new evidence. The narrative portrays Atiku Abubakar as a defender of democracy and questions the integrity of Tinubu's presidency.

The article discusses the severe poverty in Yorubaland, Nigeria, attributing it to the misrule and economic policies of the current political class, particularly the APC and Bola Tinubu. It highlights the visible and extreme poverty affecting the region, criticizing the lack of political will and intellectual capacity to address the economic issues. The text warns of worsening poverty in the future and the potential for social unrest if the situation is not addressed. It also criticizes the federal government's continued use of ruinous economic policies and the political class's preference for maintaining the status quo to keep the populace dependent and politically powerless.

Okechukwu Ibeanu, a political science professor, urges West African Election Management Bodies (EMBs) to prioritize post-election lessons to enhance electoral quality and democracy. Speaking at a symposium preceding the 9th Biennial General Assembly of ECONEC in Abidjan, he emphasized the need for democratic reforms over mere legal changes. Highlighting persistent threats to democracy, he called for mechanisms to ensure compliance with laws and empower citizens. Ibeanu identified ten key post-election lessons, stressing the importance of trust, infrastructure, and timely funding. He also recommended annual ECONEC colloquiums for knowledge sharing. The assembly elected Mohamed Kenewui Konneh as the new ECONEC President, succeeding Ibrahime Coulibaly-Kuibiert.

Nigerians are facing economic challenges, and former Governor Bafarawa emphasizes the need for President Tinubu to probe the previous administration led by Muhammadu Buhari to ensure accountability and address economic mismanagement. Bafarawa argues that failing to investigate Buhari's administration could politically harm Tinubu and suggests that recovering stolen funds could alleviate some economic issues. The text also touches on the judiciary's role, the conduct of the 2023 elections, and the importance of justice and transparency in governance. Additionally, it discusses the political dynamics within Nigeria, including the PDP's strategy for the 2027 elections and the need for local governments to receive their allocated funds to prevent poverty and insecurity.

Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), emphasized the importance of prayer and thanksgiving for the continued development and prosperity of the Niger Delta region during the NDDC's Annual Thanksgiving Service. He highlighted the need for unity and love among the staff to further the Commission's goals. The event also featured exhortations from pastors who praised the new Board and CEO for their commitment to making a positive impact in the region.

The Abia Police Command has successfully rescued four missing children allegedly stolen in Umuahia and arrested the primary suspect, Ifeoma Abonyi, in Asaba, Delta State. The children, belonging to three different parents, were rescued in two separate operations. Eight suspects are currently assisting with the investigation, while three others remain at large. The police are also investigating the status of six other children found with the suspects, potentially involving DNA tests. The investigation's results will be disclosed soon.

France's ambassador to Niger was expelled following a military coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, a French ally. The new junta accused the ambassador of failing to engage with the Foreign Ministry and demanded the withdrawal of French troops. President Macron's insistence on Bazoum as the legitimate leader and his derogatory remarks about African countries have fueled anti-French sentiment. The junta seeks to renegotiate economic contracts with France. Meanwhile, the US has resumed military drone flights from Niger, showing ambivalence towards the coup. The situation underscores the need for African nations to reassess their relationships with foreign powers and for ECOWAS to refine its conflict resolution strategies.

France and the United States, initially united in condemning the July 2023 military coup in Niger, now appear to be pursuing divergent agendas, complicating ECOWAS's efforts to restore constitutional order. The article highlights the exploitative history of foreign powers in Niger, the geopolitical struggle for influence in Africa, and the internal and external pressures on ECOWAS. Despite threats of military intervention, ECOWAS faces significant challenges, including lack of solid support from the U.S. and France, regional instability, and the adverse impact of sanctions on Niger's civilian population. The involvement of Russia and China further complicates the situation, making a UN-backed military intervention unlikely.

Nigeria's opposition parties are turning to the Supreme Court after a tribunal dismissed their petitions against President Bola Tinubu's election. The tribunal ruled that the opposition failed to prove election rigging or legal non-compliance. The opposition, including the People’s Democratic Party and Labour Party, expressed frustration and lack of confidence in the judiciary. The Tinubu administration, marking 100 days in office, faces criticism for economic policies like the removal of petrol subsidies and currency exchange rate changes, amid widespread poverty and unemployment. The Nigeria Labour Congress is leading a national strike against economic hardships.

Hilda Baci, Gloria Michael, and 98 other Africans have been honored with the '100 Africa Travel under 40 awards' for their exceptional contributions to the tourism and hospitality industries. Organized by Ikechi Uko of AKWAABA Africa Travel and Tourism Market, the awards ceremony in Lagos recognized young achievers under 40 from across Africa. Uko emphasized the importance of mentoring and training the next generation to sustain the industry's growth. Gloria Michael expressed her gratitude, highlighting her journey and the impact of her book 'Kumbukizi Kilimanjaro.' Other notable recipients included professionals from Botswana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Egypt, and Nigeria.

The recent coup in Niger has highlighted the complex geopolitical dynamics in West Africa, with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) showing willingness to negotiate a transition timetable with the Niger junta. External interests, particularly from France and the U.S., have complicated the situation due to their military bases and reliance on Niger's uranium resources. The coups in former French colonies have raised questions about Western influence and the efficacy of foreign military presence in Africa. The article suggests that the discontent towards France among citizens of these countries is significant, and there is a call for foreign powers to respect African sovereignty and recalibrate their policies towards a more equitable relationship.

ECOWAS sanctions on Niger following the coup have significant economic repercussions for Niger and its neighboring countries, impacting trade, livelihoods, and regional stability. The sanctions affect border towns, transit trade, and electricity imports, leading to increased prices and economic strain. Neighboring countries, including Benin and Nigeria, face economic challenges due to their trade dependencies with Niger. The situation raises questions about the effectiveness of regional governance and the balance between enforcing democratic norms and maintaining economic stability. The broader implications for regional trade agreements and external partnerships are also highlighted, emphasizing the need for a pragmatic approach to ensure socio-economic recovery and good governance.

Guinea's National Transitional Council (NTC), led by Dr. Dansa Kourouma, is playing a key role in the country's political transition following the coup by Col. Mamady Doumbouya, which ousted President Alpha Conde. The NTC is implementing a 10-element programme, with a 24-month timetable for constitutional restoration by January 2025, and has budgeted Euro 600 million for the transition. The transition charter prohibits transitional government members from participating in the subsequent administration. Challenges include potential funding issues and the risk of prolonging the process. The Steering Committee, including ECOWAS and other stakeholders, has reported that the transition is on track. Former President Conde is facing charges for corruption and human rights violations and is among individuals sanctioned by the U.S. Guinea is striving for economic independence from France and has been suspended from the African Growth and Opportunity Act by America. Observers are monitoring Guinea's progress and the situation in other army-ruled ECOWAS member states.

Dr Dansa Kourouma, President of Guinea’s National Transitional Council, attributed Africa's political instability to corrupt leaders and foreign exploitation of resources. Speaking at Chatham House, he emphasized the need for economic development and political stability, urging the African Union and ECOWAS to focus on economic rather than political integration. Kourouma outlined Guinea's transition program, aiming for a handover of power in 2025, and stressed the importance of a credible electoral process. He highlighted Guinea's progress under the military regime, including the release of political detainees and promotion of human rights. The NTC, which includes various societal representatives, plays a key legislative role during Guinea's absence of parliament.

The article by Prof Humammed Tawfiq Ladan discusses the negative impacts of fake news, cyber bullying, and hate speech on social media. It highlights how social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, Tiktok, and YouTube facilitate the spread of harmful content through their algorithms. The text outlines the definitions and consequences of fake news, cyber bullying, and hate speech, referencing legal frameworks such as the Cybercrimes Act 2015 and the Electoral Act 2022. It also explores various global regulatory approaches, including those by UNESCO, the Indian Government, the EU, the Australian High Court, the Japanese Government, and the USA Congress. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for collective security measures, digital literacy, and moral education to combat these issues effectively.

ECOWAS Commission President Dr Omar Touray stated in Abuja that there is no intention to declare war on Niger or to invade the country. He criticized the junta's 36-month transition plan to restore constitutional order as unacceptable. ECOWAS had previously given the junta a seven-day ultimatum to reinstate deposed President Mohamed Bazoum, threatening military action. The junta's reluctance to negotiate led to the activation of the ECOWAS Standby Force. However, after discussions with ECOWAS Special Envoy Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar, the junta expressed readiness for dialogue but announced a three-year transition plan, which ECOWAS rejected. Military intervention is unpopular due to the involvement of France and the U.S. and existing sanctions are impacting Niger's population with food scarcity and increased mortality in hospitals. ECOWAS Chairman and Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu met with Muslim scholars to encourage peaceful resolution, suggesting a transition program shorter than 24 months and Bazoum's release. West Africa is experiencing a resurgence of military coups attributed to governance failures.

Chelsea has relegated Romelu Lukaku to their U21 team despite a shortage of strikers and is desperate to sell him this summer. Lukaku has not spoken to manager Mauricio Pochettino since he took over from Frank Lampard. Lukaku has turned down offers from Saudi clubs, and there is no other concrete interest in him.

ECOWAS and UN delegations are engaging in critical negotiations with Niger's military junta to resolve the political crisis following the July 26 coup. Led by retired Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, the ECOWAS team met with junta leader Brg.-Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani and deposed President Mohamed Bazoum. The negotiations aim to prevent military intervention and restore constitutional order, amidst regional and international tensions involving countries like France, the U.S., Russia, and China. Sanctions imposed by ECOWAS are severely affecting Niger's population, prompting calls for humanitarian relief. The outcome of these diplomatic efforts remains uncertain.

ECOWAS military chiefs concluded an emergency meeting in Accra, Ghana, agreeing on a deployment date for military intervention in Niger to restore constitutional order following the July 26 coup. While the exact date remains undisclosed, most ECOWAS member states have committed to the intervention. An ECOWAS delegation is set to engage in talks with Niger's junta leaders. The situation remains complex, with concerns about potential escalation and humanitarian conditions in Niger. The UN has urged for humanitarian corridors and exemptions from financial sanctions for aid services.

Niger's military junta has defied an ECOWAS deadline to reinstate ousted president Mohamed Bazoum and has closed the country's airspace, affecting international flights. Nigeria faces economic challenges due to an unreliable power grid causing hospital shutdowns. Former U.S. President Donald Trump's lawyers are contesting his latest indictment.

Military rulers in Mali and Burkina Faso have supported the coup in Niger, defying ECOWAS and the international community. ECOWAS leaders, after meeting in Abuja, imposed sanctions on Niger and gave the coup leaders a seven-day ultimatum to restore constitutional order. The African Union and Western nations condemned the coup, while Russia's Wagner Group supported it. Mali and Burkina Faso threatened war if ECOWAS intervenes militarily and criticized sanctions as illegal. The situation raises concerns about regional stability, humanitarian consequences, and the need for consistent defense of democracy. The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) condemned the Nigerian military for declaring their leader wanted, maintaining their non-violent approach to self-determination.

Coup leaders in Niger have cut diplomatic ties with France, Nigeria, Togo, and the US following a breakdown in negotiations with an ECOWAS delegation. The elected President Mohamed Bazoum is detained, and Nigeria has ceased electricity supply to Niger and imposed sanctions. Anti-Nigerian and Western protests occurred in Niamey, and President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria is seeking approval for military intervention. France and other Western countries are evacuating citizens from Niger. Experts warn of catastrophic consequences and regional instability.

Senegal's 7.4 million registered voters participated in the presidential election to replace outgoing President Macky Sall. The voting process was smooth across major cities, despite a protest in Ziguinchor over alleged voter busing from Guinea Bissau. The election, rescheduled from February 25 to March 24, featured 19 candidates. Karim Wade of the former ruling party PDS endorsed opposition candidate Bassirou Diomaye Faye, potentially influencing the election outcome. If no candidate secures over 50% of the vote, a run-off will be held.

Senegal's presidential race intensifies as the Senegalese Democratic Party endorses Bassirou Diomaye Faye after their candidate, Karim Wade, was disqualified due to dual citizenship. The Supreme Court also denied a request to postpone the election beyond March 24. The support from former President Abdoulaye Wade's party for Faye, who is also backed by popular opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, could lead to a victory in the first round. The election comes amid political uncertainty and tensions, with recent protests resulting in at least 20 deaths. Senegal's stability is in contrast to recent military coups in other ECOWAS member states, with some countries considering leaving the regional bloc.

Sierra Leone's political landscape is marred by deep-rooted ethnic divisions and political intolerance, with former President Ernest Bai Koroma and current President Julius Maada Bio at the center of escalating tensions. The recent disputed elections and subsequent legal actions against opposition figures have heightened the risk of conflict. ECOWAS, led by Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu, has intervened to mediate, but the situation remains volatile. The text criticizes the Sierra Leone government's handling of the crisis and calls for national cohesion, good governance, and adherence to democratic principles.

General TY Danjuma, a Nigerian philanthropist, has inaugurated the Goodwill Medical Centre in Enugu State, built by the TY Danjuma Foundation to aid the poor. The center, spearheaded by Prof. Uche Amazigo, aims to provide quality healthcare at low cost, with plans to enroll indigent individuals into the NHIA GIFSHIP. The foundation has invested over $42.2 million in various pro-poor projects across Nigeria. Government officials and community leaders praised Danjuma's contributions to national development and healthcare.