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Raila Odinga, Former Kenyan Prime Minister, Dies at 80 in India

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Raila Odinga, the former Prime Minister of Kenya and a stalwart of the nation’s opposition politics, has died at the age of 80. He passed away on the morning of October 15, 2025, from cardiac arrest while receiving treatment at an Ayurvedic hospital in Kochi, Kerala, India.

The cardiac arrest occurred during a morning walk on the hospital campus, and despite resuscitation efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after 9am local time.

His death was confirmed by his family, including his brother, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, who described the loss as profound. The family issued a statement asking the public to respect their privacy during this period of mourning.

Raila Odinga served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 and was one of the country’s most influential political figures.

He played a pivotal role in Kenya’s democratic reforms, particularly during the 1990s when he championed multiparty democracy, and remained a defining voice in opposition politics for decades.

Odinga had traveled to India in recent weeks for medical treatment after health concerns had made headlines earlier this month.

His family and party had previously dismissed circulating rumors about his condition, describing him as being in stable health.

The news of his passing has sent shockwaves across Kenya and beyond. Leaders, citizens, and organizations have expressed condolences, recognizing his enduring contributions to Kenya’s political landscape.

Raila Odinga’s political party, Azimio la Umoja, which he led, has been instrumental in shaping opposition politics, addressing issues such as the rising cost of living and governance reforms.

His death comes as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections, raising questions about the future leadership of the opposition and the potential power shifts in Kenyan politics.

Odinga’s career was marked by both triumphs and controversies. He first assumed the role of Prime Minister in 2008 following a disputed presidential election and a subsequent power-sharing agreement with then-President Mwai Kibaki.

Despite multiple unsuccessful presidential bids, including in 2007 and 2013, he remained a symbol of democratic struggle and a voice for marginalized communities.

In 2018, Odinga made headlines for the historic “handshake” with President Uhuru Kenyatta, leading to the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), a program aimed at fostering national unity and addressing electoral and resource distribution challenges.

While often criticized for his confrontational style, Odinga’s resilience and ability to unite diverse communities earned him the affectionate title of “the people’s president” among supporters.

Raila Odinga is survived by his wife, Ida Odinga, and their children. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.

His death marks the end of an era in Kenyan politics, leaving a legacy that will continue to influence the nation’s democratic and social landscape for years to come.

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Okpebholo directs Edo cabinet members to wear Tinubu-branded outfits

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Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has directed members of his cabinet to openly show their support for President Bola Tinubu by wearing branded outfits bearing the president’s insignia.

The governor gave the directive on Tuesday while swearing in newly appointed commissioners and inaugurating commissions and boards of agencies in Benin.

Okpebholo, who attributed his electoral victory to Tinubu’s support, said loyalty to the president must reflect even in appearance.

He said, “This could not have happened if we did not have a responsible president. We have done many elections here, and the major problem we have had is that the president is not with us, but today we say thank you.

“I will not forgive any commissioner that is not wearing this cap. In our exco meetings, if you are not wearing a suit and you are coming to the meeting without this Asiwaju cap, you will go back.”

The governor urged the commissioners to see their appointments as a call to serve the people rather than an opportunity for self-enrichment.

He also said he would not tolerate corruption in the government, adding that their appointment is not for self-enrichment.

The governor said, “You have been carefully screened and confirmed by the State House of Assembly purely on merit. Your nominations did not come as a reward or patronage, but as a call to serve the people of Edo State.”

He stressed that his administration’s focus is on “practical governance,” not propaganda, and that their performance would be measured by tangible results across the state.

He added, “While I congratulate you on your deserved elevation, I want to warn that your appointment is not for personal enrichment. You are not here for money-making, but for service, for sacrifice, and for a better life for Edo people.”

“I hereby call on you to brace up for action, as your success will be measured by your impact in bringing about better services and opportunities to our people.

“May I remind you that this administration has zero tolerance for corruption and you’re expected to display discipline, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose.

“Most importantly, I expect loyalty to the people of Edo State. You must always remember that History will judge us for our actions and not our intentions.”

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), was among the dignitaries present at the event.

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PICTORIAL: Nigeria takes over G-24 leadership, promises global economic reforms

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Nigeria has assumed the chairmanship of the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four.

The federal government has pledged to amplify the voices of developing nations and drive inclusive global economic reforms when it formally takes office on November 1, 2025.

This was disclosed in a series of posts by the Central Bank of Nigeria on its official X handle on Wednesday.

The G-24 which was formed in 1971, brings together developing nations to forge common positions on global monetary policy and development financing, ensuring their collective voice is heard in international economic decision-making.

The Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Olayemi Cardoso and others at the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four annual meeting. Photo: CBN
The Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Olayemi Cardoso and others at the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four annual meeting. Photo: CBN

The CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, on behalf of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening the voice of the G-24 as a catalyst for inclusive dialogue and reform.

Cardoso stated, “Our focus will be on sustaining momentum in areas that matter most to our members. We look forward to working with members to advance our shared mission of inclusive growth, equity, and global stability.

The Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Olayemi Cardoso at the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four annual meeting. Photo: CBN
The Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Olayemi Cardoso at the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four annual meeting. Photo: CBN

“We are determined to ensure that the G-24 continues to be a formidable platform for representing the common interests of emerging and developing economies.”

Recall, in 2024, the federal government called for increased investments and trading partnerships from member countries of the G-24.

Edun had highlighted Nigeria’s strong potential to attract foreign investment across key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and oil and gas.

He further pointed out that Nigeria possesses one of the largest expanses of arable land in the world, second only to Brazil, underscoring the nation’s potential to shift from being a food importer to a leading global food exporter.

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TCN commences 10-day maintenance on Gombe transmission substation

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Residents and business operators in Gombe State are expected to face up to ten days of irregular electricity supply as the Transmission Company of Nigeria begins maintenance work on its major transmission substation in the state.

The exercise, which TCN described as a routine preventive maintenance operation, aims to enhance power stability and improve the overall efficiency of the transmission network in the North-East region.

According to the company, the work will involve shutting down specific feeders and replacing critical control and protection panels — a process that may temporarily affect electricity supply in some parts of Gombe State.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by its spokesperson, Ndidi Mbah, TCN announced that the maintenance will run from October 14 to 24, 2025, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily, at the Gombe 132/33kV Transmission Substation.

“The planned maintenance will enable our engineers to carry out replacement of protection and control panels on the Shongo 33kV Feeder 8,” the company stated.

TCN, however, clarified that the Jos Electricity Distribution Company would continue to receive bulk power during the exercise.

“To minimise inconvenience, load from the Shongo 33kV feeder will be transferred to the Darazo 33kV feeder, while that of Mallam Sidi will be moved to the Doma 33kV feeder,” the statement added.

The company assured residents that every measure had been put in place to reduce the impact of the exercise on power supply, stressing that the maintenance is crucial for preventing system failures and ensuring long-term service reliability.

Mbah added, “Preventive maintenance remains a key part of our operations. We appeal for public understanding and cooperation as we work to improve the quality and stability of electricity supply in Gombe and its environs.”

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