Church of Norway says sorry to LGBTQ+ people for ‘shame, great harm and pain’
Presiding bishop Olav Fykse Tveit says discrimination and harassment should ‘never have happened’
News from October 16, 2025
638 articles found
Technology
Ajadi kicks against proposed bill to move 2027 elections to 2026
A South-West stalwart of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi, has urged the National Assembly not to move the 2027 general elections to 2026, warning that such a move would disrupt adequate preparations by political parties, candidates, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). It would be recalled that the National Assembly recently proposed conducting Nigeria’s next presidential and governorship elections in November 2026 instead of the usual February/March 2027. The proposal, contained in the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2025, recommends that all election petitions be concluded before the May 29, 2027 handover date. It states that: “Elections into the office of the President and Governor of a State shall be held not later than 185 days before the expiration of the term of office of the last holder of the office.” Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, Hon. Adebayo Balogun had explained that the amendment seeks to “ensure that all manner of election litigations are dispensed with before the swearing-in of winners.” However, in a statement on Thursday, Ajadi condemned the proposed shift, describing it as unnecessary and counterproductive. He cautioned the National Assembly against putting undue pressure on INEC, political parties, and candidates by rushing the electoral process. Ajadi, who was the NNPP governorship candidate in Ogun State during the 2023 general elections, reminded lawmakers that elections are serious national exercises that require proper planning and sufficient timelines for all stakeholders. He argued that the justification for the proposed amendment — to conclude petitions before the handover date — “does not hold water.” According to him, it is the responsibility of the judiciary and petitioners to ensure timely resolution of electoral disputes, not to truncate the established electoral calendar. “Shifting the election to 2026 will further weaken political institutions and plunge the country into prolonged politicking at the expense of governance,” Ajadi warned. He stressed that elections should not be rushed, emphasizing that adequate preparation by INEC, parties, and candidates is vital to credible polls. “Election requires proper and adequate planning. Political parties need time and resources to recruit credible candidates, while candidates also need time to prepare. The National Assembly should instead appeal to the judiciary to give priority to election petitions and ensure they are concluded on time,” he stated. Ajadi further cautioned that moving the polls forward could cripple governance, disrupt ongoing reforms, and distract public officials from developmental duties. “We can not be in a perpetual election period. Governance is essential for national progress. The National Assembly should be cautious of the severe negative implications of bringing the 2027 elections forward to 2026,” he appealed. Source: Legit.ng
Technology
Read what Uma Ukpai did for lady's grandmother years ago
A lady who told her grandmother about Rev Uma Ukpai’s death shared her touching reactionShe also mentioned two touching things the late preacher did for her grandmother years agoWhat she said about Uma Ukpai caught people’s attention, as they took to the comments section to mourn the preacher A Nigerian lady, Blessing Okon, shared what her grandmother told her after hearing about Rev. Uma Ukpai’s death. Renowned Nigerian evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Rev Uma Ukpai, passed away at the age of 80. Dr Ukpai, known for his widespread crusades and peculiar way of preaching, was highly loved by his followers. Though he was confirmed to have died on October 6, his death was only made public on October 13, 2025. Following his demise, followers of Uma Ukpai's teaching and those who have had encounters with him used the opportunity to share their experience and shared how he greatly impacted them before he died. Lady shares grandmother’s testimony about Uma Ukpai On her Facebook post, Blessing Okon mourned Uma Ukpai and shared what happened when she told her grandmother about his death. She mentioned what her grandmother said after hearing about the popular preacher’s death. The lady also mentioned two things the late Uma Ukpai did for her grandmother when he was alive. Her Facebook post read: “So today I told my grandma that our Father Rev. Uma Ukpai is dead and she exclaimed "He has gone to be with the Lord" and she further added, when I was hopeless he was the one praying and feeding my children. Adieu Our Father and Priest!!!!” In the comment section, the lady added that the work of a man would always speak for him. “It's only a man's work that speaks not the man.” Reactions trail lady’s post about Uma Ukpai People who saw the lady's post took to the comment section to react to what she wrote, as they also mourned the popular preacher. Legit.ng compiled some of the reactions. Chimdindu Udemba said: "Rest on daddy." Inemesit Ekpenyong said: "Good bye PAPA rest in the Lord." Promisezion Okon said: "may ur soul rest in peace." Eboumbou Moses said: "Rest on our father till we meet at the resurrection morning. God night Gods general." Another Nigerian lady shared her encounter with Rev. Uma Ukpai 15 years ago and how it affected her in 2010. She also mentioned why she thanked God after hearing of the preacher’s death, as she shared why it was a bit personal to her. The lady also shared how she would continue to honour his ministry till his wife passes. Pastor shares revelation about Uma Ukpai Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a pastor shared the profound revelation he had about Rev. Uma Ukpai hours before his death was announced. He mentioned where he saw the late preacher in his revelation and also opened up about their relationship before the preacher's death. Many who saw the post mourned the preacher in the comments and reacted to the pastor's revelation. Proofreading by Funmilayo Aremu, copy editor at Legit.ng. Source: Legit.ng
Technology
See the oldest pastors keeping faith alive in Nigeria
Apostle O. N. Godwin, 96, remains Nigeria’s oldest active preacher, leading Christ Ascension Church after over seven decades in ministryPastors Elijah Abina, William Kumuyi, and Enoch Adeboye continue to guide millions globally, proving age is no barrier to divine serviceArchbishop Margaret Benson-Idahosa and Bishop David Oyedepo stand among those carrying Nigeria’s Pentecostal legacy into a new generation Nigeria’s Christian community continues to draw strength and inspiration from a generation of veteran preachers whose ministries have spanned decades and shaped the country’s religious landscape. These spiritual leaders, many of whom are in their 70s, 80s, and 90s, remain steadfast in their calling, preaching and mentoring even in advanced age. Their enduring service has defined an era of unwavering devotion and resilience in ministry. Nigeria’s veteran pastors still active in ministry Leading the list is Apostle O. N. Godwin, 96, founder of Christ Ascension Church Nigeria. Born in 1929 in Enugu state, Godwin began his ministry over seventy years ago and still leads services and evangelistic missions. His longevity and zeal make him Nigeria’s oldest active preacher. Pastor Elijah Oludele Abina, 90, continues to serve as general overseer of The Gospel Faith Mission International (GOFAMINT), a position he has held since 1988. A founding figure of the Pentecostal movement in Nigeria, Abina has spent over six decades building churches and nurturing Christian leadership across the world. At 84, Pastor William Kumuyi of Deeper Life Bible Church remains one of the most respected holiness preachers. A former university lecturer, Kumuyi’s ministry has grown from a small Lagos Bible study group into a global network. His consistency in preaching and teaching continues to attract multitudes. Pastor Enoch Adeboye, 83, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has led one of the world’s fastest-growing Pentecostal ministries for 44 years. Under his leadership, RCCG now has a presence in more than 190 countries. Adeboye still conducts major conventions and Holy Ghost gatherings attended by millions. Archbishop Margaret Benson-Idahosa, 82, stands out as Africa’s first female Pentecostal archbishop. Her leadership of the Church of God Mission International and Benson Idahosa University continues to influence both ministry and education. Others who remain active include Bishop Mike Okonkwo, 80, of TREM; Evangelist Isaac Omolehin, 74, of Word Assembly; Pastor Lazarus Muoka, 73, of The Lord’s Chosen; Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, 73, of KICC; and Bishop David Oyedepo, 71, of Winners’ Chapel. Adeboye of RCCG mentions how, where he will die Earlier, Legit.ng reported that general overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, had disclosed that he believes his death will occur on a Sunday after attending church service, dancing in worship, and eating his favourite meal of pounded yam. The revered cleric shared this vision while ministering at the Old Auditorium during the evening session of Day 4 of the church’s 73rd Annual Convention. Nigerian Evangelist Uma Okpai Is dead Earlier, Legit.ng reported that renowned Nigerian evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, had passed away at the age of 80. His family announced his death in a heartfelt statement shared via his official Instagram page on Monday, October 6. Source: Legit.ng
Catalonia’s Socialist president: tackling inequality can blunt separatist and far-right voices
In an interview, Salvador Illa tells of ‘pragmatic approach’ as he seeks to persuade voters about benefits of coexistence with Madrid
Technology
Is JAMB compulsory for university admissions in 2025? FG clarifies
The Federal Ministry of Education firmly debunked claims that JAMB is no longer required for tertiary admissions in NigeriaMinister Maruf Tunji Alausa reaffirmed JAMB’s statutory role and warned against misinformation circulating in the mediaThe Ministry urged students, parents, and institutions to rely solely on official sources for accurate admission updates The Federal Ministry of Education has issued a strong rebuttal to a misleading publication circulating across newspapers and online platforms, which falsely claimed that the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is no longer required for admission into tertiary institutions in Nigeria. In a formal statement released by the Ministry, the minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa CON, categorically dismissed the report as “false, baseless, and did not originate from the Federal Ministry of Education.” He clarified that at no point did the ministry issue or authorise any statement suggesting that JAMB is no longer mandatory for admission into higher education institutions. JAMB remains legally empowered for tertiary admissions Dr. Alausa reaffirmed that JAMB remains the statutory and legally empowered body responsible for conducting entrance examinations and coordinating admissions into all tertiary institutions in Nigeria. He stressed that the established admission processes through JAMB remain fully operational and urged the public to disregard any contrary information in its entirety. “The Federal Ministry of Education completely dissociates itself from the false publication,” the Minister stated, urging prospective students, parents, and tertiary institutions to rely solely on official communication channels of the Ministry and JAMB for accurate and verified information regarding admission policies and education-related matters. Ministry reiterates commitment to transparency, merit The minister further emphasised the ministry's unwavering collaboration with JAMB and other relevant agencies to uphold transparency, fairness, and credibility in Nigeria’s tertiary education admission system. He noted that the ministry remains committed to protecting the integrity of the admission process and ensuring that merit and due process guide all admissions into higher institutions. See the statement below: Media urged to verify educational information In light of the misinformation, the Ministry cautioned media houses, bloggers, and online platforms to verify information from official sources before publication. It warned that the spread of unverified claims could cause unnecessary confusion within the education sector. The ministry reiterated that there has been no change in JAMB’s role, which remains central and indispensable in Nigeria’s tertiary education framework. Any publication or online post claiming otherwise, it said, is entirely false and should be treated as such. Mathematics no longer compulsory for Arts students Legit.ng earlier reported that the Federal Ministry of Education announced on Tuesday that senior secondary school students specialising in arts and humanities will no longer be required to present a credit pass in mathematics in their Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) as a condition for admission into universities and polytechnics. The revised guidelines, which apply to examinations conducted by the West African Examination Council (WAEC) and the National Examination Council (NECO), marked a significant departure from the longstanding requirement that all admission seekers, regardless of discipline, must obtain five credit passes including mathematics and English language. Proofreading by Funmilayo Aremu, copy editor at Legit.ng. Source: Legit.ng
Technology
Broncos' rising star may have just given the New York Giants some perfect bulletin board material with his comments about QB Jaxson Dart
The Denver Broncos are coming off back-to-back wins that both looked very different. In the win over the Philadelphia Eagles, the offense came alive in the fourth quarter with quarterback Bo Nix putting on his Superman cape and having one of his best performances of his young career. As for the New York Jets game, it was all defense, which brought down quarterback Justin Fields nine times and made his life miserable all day . One of the players who made life difficult for Fields was none other than rising star Jonathon Cooper. Cooper is turning heads with his comments about New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart ahead of this week's game. In fact, he may have just given the team some perfect bulletin board material heading into the matchup. "He's a young guy," Cooper said. "He's feeling himself a little bit. He's out there running around. He's got the chain on. He's dancing. I feel like everybody needs something, you know. We've went against QBs who have ran around in the pocket and have tried to do stuff with their legs, ain't nothing we haven't seen."
Technology
Plus-size lady explains how her physique led her to dump Christianity
A Nigerian lady who left Christianity opened up about how her physique contributed to her decisionEvery Sunday, she said that she struggled to find clothes for church that would not be seen as provocativeHer story mirrored the challenges of a plus-size Nigerian lady, with respect to their religion and workplaceCHECK OUT: How to Start Earning with Copywriting in Just 7 Days – Even if You’re a Complete BeginnerA plus-size lady, named Rose, has said she stopped going to church because of the problems her physique caused her.In a TikTok video, she explained how her physique became one of the reasons she had to turn her back on Christianity.Plus-size lady says she dumped Christianity because of her physique. Photo Credit: @roosalie_a Source: TikTokHow plus-size lady's physique affected her religionAccording to Rose, church clothes didn't fit her because of her physique. Every Sunday, she struggled to select a church outfit that would not be termed provocative.ATTENTION: Protect Yourself From Fake News — Learn How In Our Free Short Course. Get a Certificate!This made her wear outfits that greatly discomforted her chest area. In her words:"One of the reasons I stopped being a Christian. Call it flimsy, call it whatever you like. But one of the reasons that made me stop going to church is because church clothes don't fit me. Church clothes don't fit me. Read alsoSarah Martins allegedly assaulted by uniformed men during charity work on streets of Lagos, video trends"As a bus'ty girl, I always struggled every single Sunday to find clothes that weren't provocative. Because every time I tried to, most of the time I tried to fit in and tried to look decent..."Even for her day job, her physique made her wear uncomfortable clothes for work, just so she could cover up her figure."And that's like one of the problems I'm having also as a 9 to 5 worker. Because most corporate outfits that would look dapper on other people would look, I don't know how to describe it, but the clothes are always ill-fitting. "And how I know that they are ill-fitting is that me, the wearer of the outfit, finds it very, very uncomfortable. Finds wearing the outfit very, very uncomfortable. Like on the outside you might think, oh, this is it, but me I know that this clothes is ill-fitting..."She continued to struggle every Sunday with her outfit choice until she decided to stop going to church entirely."So every time it was time to go to church, I always struggled between deciding to look like a slu't or choosing discomfort, which is wearing ill-fitting clothes and trying to cover up. Read alsoWe Shared A Helmet And A Dream — His Crash Broke Us, Our Promise Brought Him Back"Because most outfits, okay, because most outfits don't even cover me up half the time, especially in my size. I'm a size 14. And most outfits in size 14 don't even cover me up half the time..."A plus-size lady says she stopped going to church due to outfit problems. Photo Credit: @roosalie_a Source: TikTokWatch her video below:Lady's reason for quitting church draws reactionsLegit.ng has compiled some reactions to the lady's explanation below:Mattyboy4real said:"You did well by sharing your perspective. However, there are very decent clothes you could put on and very comfortable. On being a Christian, it's your choice. You were possibly a Chrisitian (religion) by birth and practising cultural Christianity, hence going to church (church girl) not because of a personal relationship you have with Christ but because you were brought up that way. You need to have a relationship with Christ, that's being Christian (Christ like). You need to reflect the virtues of Christ..."Teekeys🎹 said:"There’s nothing as such as “church clothes” just cover skin as much as possible and you re good."greatfejiro said:"All these ones never know Wetin Dey do them...... but this new trend of awakening when dem Dey awake make we see where e go end."Read alsoHis Parents Forbade Her; One Wrong Number and His Defiance Changed EverythingSmilesfitness said:"It is not your fault, you're just have an amazingly good physique."Mr T said:"Wear gowns it will look good on u, clothes should not stop you from going to church dear, don't allow clothes to stop from going to church."jaed said:"Church does not have clothes, is just for you to dress in your best and go to church. Dress the way you will be address. I am 💯 percent sure, you can't dress to work with the same reason for stop going to church. I just watched some of your videos and pictures but the dressing i saw is okay for church service. However, is a choice and agency. You are very mature and educated enough to know what's good and bad."In a related story, Legit.ng reported that a lady had disclosed what God showed her about her pastor that made her stop attending his church.Read alsoNigerian woman boldly preaches gospel on train in UK, video elicits mixed reactionsPastor's daughter who quit ChristianityMeanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a pastor's wife who dumped Christianity had shared what she discovered that informed her decision.The young lady, raised in a very strict Christian home, stated that the challenges associated with such an upbringing were rigid thinking and a lack of emotional intelligence that accompanies religious fundamentalism. She said it was terrifying and difficult for her when she began questioning the Christian beliefs she had grown up with. ATTENTION: Help Shape the Future of Legit.ng — Leave Feedback and Win Copywriting Course Access. Proofreading by Funmilayo Aremu, copy editor at Legit.ng. Source: Legit.ng
India casts doubt on Trump’s claims that it has agreed to stop buying Russian oil
The US president claimed Modi had assured him of deal, but Indian officials insist no such conversation took place
Politics
Ministers plan high-level visits to China despite espionage trial outcry
National security adviser, education secretary and science minister to visit before end of year as part of policy to reset relations
Maccabi Tel Aviv fans banned from game at Aston Villa in Europa League
Fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv will not be allowed to attend the Europa League match at Aston Villa on 6 November owing to safety concerns
Technology
Broncos starter sends disrespectful message about Giants QB Jaxson Dart ahead of New York's matchup with Denver
The Denver Broncos aren't worried about Jaxson Dart A significant reason for the Broncos' rapid turnaround has been their defensive dominance since last season. Already in 2025, they're second in total yards allowed with 254.2 yards per game. Additionally, they're one of the NFL's most efficient defenses, ranking third in EPA/pass and fourth in EPA/rush allowed.Their most impressive stat is the 30 sacks they've tallied this year, which leads the NFL. The next closest team is the Pittsburgh Steelers with 20.To say this game against the Broncos in Denver is a massive challenge for a young team is an understatement. However, the Giants may have added motivation from the way Cooper is speaking about New York's young quarterback phenom. When asked if he feels it's a double-edged sword facing a rookie QB because there's less tape on them, he completely belittled Dart."I would say no, not to that standpoint, just because once you played enough in this league and you've seen enough good quarterbacks," Cooper said to reporters. "We play one of the best quarterbacks twice a year, every single year. So once you go against that, you kind of get a feel of the game and you know what you need to do." Cooper also alluded to how they plan to rattle Dart by frequently pressuring him. "You got to make them feel uncomfortable in the pocket," stated Cooper. "Can't let them get that confidence and that ego going. Just got to take care of that."The Giants have plenty of motivation going into this game, considering the implications for the squad if they win. Ironically, last year, the Broncos' turnaround was sparked by a road victory over a stellar Tampa Bay Buccaneers team in Week 3. This week's game could potentially be the same.
Technology
Fantasy football Week 7: Five players set to smash projections
Ahead of Week 7 in the NFL, here are five players who could smash their fantasy football projections because of friendly matchups. Lions QB Jared Goff vs. Buccaneers PPR projection: 16.83 Goff isn't an elite fantasy quarterback because he rarely runs (16 yards rushing this season), but he won't need to to put up a big number against the Bucs. Tampa Bay, which is dealing with injuries in the secondary, has given up a combined 688 passing yards to quarterbacks Mac Jones of the 49ers and Sam Darnold of the Seahawks in its last two games. Goff will be airing it out in this matchup. Chargers RB Kimani Vidal vs. Colts PPR projection: 12.2 Without injured running backs Omarion Hampton and Najee Harris available, Vidal took over as RB1 for the Chargers. In his first start of the season, Vidal played 67 percent of snaps and put up 138 total yards and a touchdown (22.8 PPR points) against the Miami Dolphins. The Colts have been stingy against running backs this season, but Vidal's high usage and receiving skills make him a must-start in Week 7. Commanders RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt vs. Cowboys PPR projection: 15.8 Croskey-Merritt has finally taken over as the RB1 in Washington. The rookie running back played a season-high 66 percent of the team's offensive snaps and carried the ball 17 times against the Chicago Bears in Week 6. Now he gets to face a Cowboys defense that ranks 30th in the NFL in points allowed to running backs. Fire up JCM as a top-20 RB in Week 7. Rams WR Jordan Whittington vs. Jaguars PPR projection: 7.4 Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua suffered an ankle injury against the Baltimore Ravens and hasn't practiced this week, so we're not expecting to see him in Week 7. That opens the door for Whittington, who led all L.A. wide receivers in snap count (92 percent) and saw a season-high four targets last week. The Jaguars rank 26th in the NFL in points allowed to WRs, so Whittington is a decent flex play if Nacua can't go. Browns TE Harold Fannin Jr. vs. Dolphins PPR projection: 10.9
Women’s Cricket World Cup: Australia v Bangladesh – live
<strong>Over-by-over report</strong>: Updates from the 50-over match in Visakhapatnam as Australia solidify their finals spot. Join our writers
Gaza ceasefire live: Hamas accuses Israel of breaching ceasefire by ‘killing at least 24 people’ since Friday
Israeli military has previously accused some Palestinians of ignoring warning not to approach ceasefire positions and troops
Business
IMF chief reveals worries about private credit market keep her awake at night – business live
International Monetary Fund managing director Kristalina Georgieva urges more attention to the non-bank financial institutions, as the world may have “a foot out in the cold”
Artists outside London ‘underrepresented on Mercury prize shortlist’
Since 2010, only three winners have not been from London. Previous winners say broader representation is needed
Technology
Rwanda National Police recovers five stolen motorcycles
Rwanda National Police (RNP), on Tuesday, October 15, handed over five recovered motorcycles to the rightful owners, which had been stolen from different parts of the country. The RNP spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Boniface Rutikanga, said the recovered motorcycles had forged number plates. “These five motorcycles were stolen separately from different people in different locations. So far, we have recovered 16 stolen motorcycles since the beginning of this year. This is part of ongoing operations against motorcycle theft; to recover those that were reported stolen and break the theft rackets,” ACP Rutikanga said. Some of the suspected thieves have been arrested. “Many of the recovered motorcycles had their plates altered. These are the same motorcycles the same individuals use in other crimes and road traffic violations.” ACP Rutikanga urged individuals who have lost their motorcycles to visit the traffic offices in Kigali to check if they are among those recovered. Meanwhile, Police also returned other 45 motorcycles to owners after they were impounded from riders, who were found operating them without a driver’s license. The Police used the occasion to warn those who give their motorcycles to operators, who have no driver’s license, which contributes to traffic violations and financial losses when they are impounded or fined. (End)
Technology
Regatta needs serious reform to preserve Maltese heritage, says SEM CEO
Servizzi Ewropej Malta (SEM) CEO Rodrick Zerafa has called for urgent reform to preserve what he describes as a unique sporting heritage that continues to inspire growing enthusiasm, particularly in the Cottonera area. "It is time to take action because if we are going to continue to look at this sport only as an occasion that takes place at a public festival, then we are not really understanding the value it contains," he said in a Facebook post on Thursday. Zerafa raised concerns about the future direction of the sport, questioning whether the community truly wants to see the regatta succeed beyond its current status as a festival attraction The traditional regatta race is a hotly contested affair that happens on Freedom Day and Victory Day in the Grand Harbour, with teams eyeing the Regatta Shield. Over 200 oarsmen representing seven localities; Birżebbuġa, Bormla, Kalkara, Marsa, Marsamxett, Isla, and Birgu, compete in the event. The teams participate in 10 races under two different categories using typical traditional Maltese boats like the ‘frejgatini’, ‘kajjikki’ and ‘dgħajjes tal-pass and tal-midalji’. Speaking about his observations across Malta’s rowing community, Zerafa highlighted the unprecedented investments being made by clubs today, while noting the sacrifices made by rowers, committee members, and enthusiasts who dedicate their lives to the sport. Zerafa, who admits he is not an expert but is committed to defending Maltese traditions, acknowledged that mistakes have been made in the past. However, he emphasised that many want to make a positive difference to the sport's future. "Every day I talk to rowers, people on committees, and even enthusiasts who live for this sport. The sacrifice they make is one that few understand. The least we can do is help them to continue to enhance this heritage and to be more serious in the organisation," he explained. He has called for renewed discussions between the National Regatta Association and the authorities to chart a way forward, suggesting that a commercialisation model could be explored as part of the sport's development.
Technology
Barrister found to have used AI to prepare for hearing after citing ‘fictitious’ cases
Judge rules Chowdhury Rahman used ChatGPT-like software and then tried to hide it, wasting immigration tribunal’s time