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News from October 31, 2025

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Christian Veep J.D. Vance Labeled 'Secretly Gay' by Podcaster in Vicious Rant
Technology

Christian Veep J.D. Vance Labeled 'Secretly Gay' by Podcaster in Vicious Rant

JD Vance has been labeled "secretly gay" and "a failed drag queen" by a podcaster in a new vicious rant, RadarOnline.com can reveal. Jennifer Welch, a former Bravo star, made the jaw-dropping claims about the Vice President on the I've Had It podcast alongside Pod Save America host Tommy Vietor.J.D. Vance 'Wasn't Fabulous Enough' to Be a Drag Queen, Jennifer Welch SaysWelch claimed: "And then you get to JD Vance, who is a failed drag queen. He is a failed drag queen. He wanted to be a drag queen. He couldn't do it. He wasn't fabulous enough. He goes off to Peter Thiel's gay boot camp in Silicon Valley and he comes out like a sociopathic queer-eyed freak show. You know, he'd be so much cooler if he'd just come out." She noted she believes there are Republicans who support Christian policies in order to make up for being "secretly gay." Welch continued: "I have this whole theory, Tommy, that in the MAGA movement, there's a group of DL demon queens. "And I think that a lot of them are mad that they can't come out and feel pride. And so they browbeat everybody all day long, and then they get on Grindr at night, and then they go do gay stuff and they wake up. "But I think they think like the Mike Johnson of it all, he's such a nut evangelical. I think he thinks, 'Okay, I can't stop doing gay stuff, but if I make America Christian nationalists, then I'm going to curry favor with God.' "I grew up in a red state around all these evangelicals, and they think s--- like this."Tommy Vietor Says 'So Many People' Are 'Repressing Something and Then Acting Out'Vietor replied: "You're so right about the repressed. There's so many people who are repressing something and then acting out in a way that is evil and cruel towards the part of themselves that they hate. You just see that over and over and over again." "I've had it with getting beaten by the biggest f---ing losers on the planet," Vietor said earlier in the podcast, referring to right-wing figures. "I'm so tired of these losers beating us, and there being this perception that MAGA is cool and that that is the ascended part of the culture, and it is just wrong, and it's driving me crazy, and we can't let it happen anymore." Welch admitted: "I couldn't agree more. I mean, I always say to pubs, I'm like, we cannot lose our democracy to these f---ing dorks."J.D. Vance Recalls Thinking He Was GayIn his book Hillbilly Elegy, Vance wrote about thinking he was gay when he was young. He admitted: "I'll never forget the time I convinced myself that I was gay. I was eight or nine, maybe younger, and I stumbled upon a broadcast by some fire-and-brimstone preacher. The man spoke about the evils of homosexuals, how they had infiltrated our society, and how they were all destined for hell absent some serious repenting. "At the time, the only thing I knew about gay men was that they preferred men to women. This described me perfectly: I disliked girls, and my best friend in the world was my buddy Bill. Oh no, I'm going to hell." When he brought up the topic to his grandmother, known as Mamaw, she replied: "Don't be a f------ idiot, how would you know that you're gay?" He then said she shockingly asked him: "JD, do you want to suck d---s?"JD Vance's Grandmother Told Him He Was 'Not Gay'He described himself as being "flabbergasted" over the remarks and told her: "Of course not." He recalled his grandmother telling him: "Then you're not gay. And even if you did want to suck d---s, that would be okay. God would still love you." He noted the conversation showed him "gay people, though unfamiliar, threatened nothing about Mamaw's being. There were more important things for a Christian to worry about." In his political career, Vance has frequently opposed LGBTQ rights, including opposing the Respect for Marriage Act, a bill to protect same-sex marriage.

Matt Richards
Sanae Takaichi fever hits Japan: PM’s favorite bag sells out in hours - here's the brand she uses
Technology

Sanae Takaichi fever hits Japan: PM’s favorite bag sells out in hours - here's the brand she uses

Japan’s first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, has unexpectedly turned a classic leather tote into a global sensation. Her elegant accessory, which is a symbol of craftsmanship and quiet luxury, has sparked a shopping frenzy and shone new light on a historic Japanese brand.ALSO READ: What does 67 mean, who made the 67 meme and why is it so popular? How did the PM's handbag spark a nationwide frenzy? Japan’s first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, has unintentionally set off a style revolution with her handbag. The elegant “Grace Delight Tote,” made by Hamano Inc., a 145-year-old luxury leather brand from Nagano, has become one of the most sought-after accessories in Japan, as per a report. Social media users quickly identified the bag she often carries while entering the prime minister’s residence. Priced at $895, the bag has turned a quiet Nagano-based manufacturer into a global talking point.Live EventsFounded 145 years ago, Hamano Inc. has a long-standing reputation for crafting luxury handbags, even favored by Japan’s imperial family. The “Grace Delight Tote” is designed to “balance elegance with practicality,” according to the company’s website. Despite being made entirely of leather, it weighs just 700 grams (1.5 pounds), offering both sophistication and functionality. 🇯🇵 Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is so popular with Japanese women that even the bag she carries is now sold out everywhere.Her popularity continues to surge with younger women especially. pic.twitter.com/ZmbLarq1GC— 鈴森はるか 『haruka suzumori』 🇯🇵 (@harukaawake) October 30, 2025 Hamano confirmed on its website that it is receiving “an overwhelming number of orders” and apologized for delays in shipping and responses, noting deliveries are pushed back until the end of April.ALSO READ: What is the 6-7 Halloween costume and is it spooky enough? Can it be made at home? What makes the Hamano tote so special? Beyond its refined design, the Hamano brand carries deep cultural significance. The company’s leather products have long been favored by members of Japan’s imperial family, representing Japanese craftsmanship at its finest. The sudden surge in demand underscores how a single fashion choice can transform a brand’s fortunes. Female politicians often opt for established global labels, but Takaichi’s local pick has become a defining moment for Japanese luxury.ALSO READ: Disturbing new details unearthed in investigation related to the case of teen Celeste Rivas found in D4vd's Tesla Experts say the bag’s popularity reflects its broad appeal. “It’s a solid, dependable choice for women in managerial positions,” said Kaori Nakano, a luxury and culture specialist and visiting professor at Aoyama Gakuin University in Tokyo. “It’s relatively affordable compared to overseas brands of similar quality.” What message is Sanae Takaichi sending with her fashion? Takaichi’s choices seem deliberate, she’s known for wearing designs by Jun Ashida, another renowned Japanese designer. Nakano believes her style carries a patriotic undertone. “By prominently wearing Japanese designer clothes and carrying a bag made in Japan, she’s making a statement of her patriotism and support for Japanese industry,” Nakano said. “It’s already working.” At 64, Takaichi has drawn comparisons to Margaret Thatcher, her political idol, who famously carried structured handbags by British label Launer. Yet Takaichi’s individuality stands out, her fondness for heavy metal music, cars, and motorbikes contrasts sharply with her polished public image, as per a report. While it remains unclear which age groups are imitating her choice, one thing is certain, the “Grace Delight Tote” has become more than a fashion statement. It’s a symbol of Japan’s craftsmanship, national pride, and the growing global curiosity about homegrown luxury.FAQsWhat bag is Japan’s PM Sanae Takaichi carrying?She carries the “Grace Delight Tote” by Hamano Inc., a 145-year-old Japanese leather goods brand.Why has the Hamano tote gone viral?After Takaichi was seen carrying it, the $895 leather tote sparked massive online attention and a flood of orders.Add as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now! (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) Read More News onSanae Takaichi favorite bagSanae TakaichiGrace Delight ToteHamano Inc.Japanese luxury handbagsJapanese craftsmanship“Grace Delight Tote" made by Hamano Inc.politics and fashion (Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)Read More News onSanae Takaichi favorite bagSanae TakaichiGrace Delight ToteHamano Inc.Japanese luxury handbagsJapanese craftsmanship“Grace Delight Tote" made by Hamano Inc.politics and fashion(Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless Explore More Stories123

Hamano Inc
How We Battle To Guard Reps Mace – Sergeant At Arms
Technology

How We Battle To Guard Reps Mace – Sergeant At Arms

A sergeant at arms and mace bearer in the House of Representatives, Mr Aku Jethro on Friday revealed how coordinated intelligence networking helped them guard against possible snatching of the House of Representatives’ mace while he served as its bearer. Jethro, who had committed about 33 years to service of the National Assembly, bearing the mace of the House of Representatives for the better part of the period told journalists on the sidelines of a send forth party by his colleagues in his honour, that it was not easy but with the understanding and support of his colleagues, they sailed through even the most turbulent times. “It’s just an intelligence network. We are able, I would say, staff that are working closely with me or that worked closely with me during that time had an intelligence network you know, we sized the chamber if there are feelers that something is about to happen, we mobilize, and we strategize. “The politicians too will know that yes, these people are not taking things for granted even though, even though sometimes there is pressure. “But notwithstanding, we’re equal to the task in the House of Representatives. “We are always ready to protect the mace and we’ve been protecting it all this while. “Even though there are pressures, I tend to admit, severally, that through our collaborative effort within the staff in the chamber, sergeant at armed staff, we always overcome all these things. It’s just collaboration and intelligence”, he said. He said his decades of experience in the parliament has shown that, the politicians may be doing their best but much was still required. “We have three arms of government, and they’re supposed to check each other. They are doing their best, but then, we still expect that they should do more than what they are doing,” he said. He added, “I’ll greatly miss you, but I can never forget you. I know I’m leaving you in capable hands.” A member of the House of Representatives from Plateau State, Hon. Daniel Asama, in his tribute commended Jethro for his qualities and dedication, saying he was presented with an award plaque of honour for his “Meritorious Service.” According to Asama, the retiree was a person dedicated to his role with all seriousness. “Jethro doesn’t talk to anybody when he’s carrying the mace until he’s is done before he will greet anybody. I have worked in the Plateau State House of Assembly before, so I know what the mace means, ” he said.

New Telegraph,Philip Nyam
Bonnie Blue Fires Back! OnlyFans Star Demands 'Respect' From Interviewer After Being Called a Derogatory Adult Slur
Technology

Bonnie Blue Fires Back! OnlyFans Star Demands 'Respect' From Interviewer After Being Called a Derogatory Adult Slur

Controversial OnlyFans star Bonnie Blue may be loud and "proud" about being an adult entertainer, but she had enough when the slur "w----" was hurled at her, RadarOnline.com can reveal. Blue, 26, shared another "day in the life" video in which she took on five men in one day, only to sit down for an interview where she received hostile comments.'She's Going to Hell'The adult content creator — Tia Billinger — is currently on her "Barely Legal" tour through the U.K., stopping at colleges and universities to bed as many young male students as possible. During her video posted on Thursday, October 30, Blue joined one apparent student for a taped sit-down, where she explained how she wanted to learn "double penetration." "Why does everything have to be so distusting with you," the offended young man fired back. He also claimed to be 17 years old and was upset she would say that to a minor. When Blue went to give him a commemorative tour T-shirt and face mask after licking them, the interviewer began yelling about the gang-bang queen. "This is disgusting, she's going to hell," he proclaimed. Blue then bent down next to his pal, who was dressed in a protective hazmat suit, to take a photo while making a licking motion as the interviewer erupted in anger. "Nope, please don’t do that. Be normal. I’m trying to get a thumbnail photo. Why do you have to be a w----? We’re not filming," he angrily shouted, to which she calmly responded, "You can talk to me with respect." "But look what you're doing, you expect respect doing this?" the interviewer fired back. Blue finally had enough of this shoddy treatment, telling him, "That’s fine," and walked out.Making the Most of ItThe day-in-the-life video continued, showing Blue out to dinner that night, where she appeared to have shaken off the insults. She mentioned how she "wished she was hungry" because she had "five guys earlier" in the day, but seemingly made a reference to the openly hostile interviewer and his two friends, who were dressed in hazardous material suits to make it appear that she was disease-ridden. "Not the five guys you're thinking of, actually," Blue slyly noted.'Very Disrespectful'Fans in the comments of her TikTok and Instagram posts shared their support for the raunchy content creator. “She's such a ragebaiter and I’m kinda here for it,” one person wrote about how Blue is completely unapologetic about her sex work. "Who are the weird guys?" a second person asked, while a third told Blue, "These guys are very disrespectful, WTF." “WE SUPPORT BONNIE BLUE,” fourth fan gushed, while a fifth declared, "Would love to spend a day with you."Not a VictimBlue addressed her status as a world-class rage baiter in a recent 60 Minutes Australia profile. "You've only got a matter of seconds before someone scrolls off. So, you have to word it in the harshest way possible to get people to sit and listen," she explained about her hardcore marketing tactics. "It'll be like, I want the most barely legal students I can find. I want to drain them, and I want to take their virginity. It'll be something like that, and then everyone is so infuriated." Blue made it clear that none of the men she is banging on her van tour, which started in Scotland and is making its way down the UK, is a victim in any way. "No 18-year-old or anyone I've ever slept with has ever come forward and said, 'I didn't know it was being filmed. Oh, she bribed me. Oh, she forced me into it.' Because that is not the case," the provocative online star shared. "And it's never ever going to be the case. They're 18. It's consensual. I love it. They love it. It's as simple as that." Blue added with pride.

Beth Shilliday
Find out more as stock market reverses 4 days of losses as investors gain N285bn
Technology

Find out more as stock market reverses 4 days of losses as investors gain N285bn

The stock market ended the week and month on a positive note after four straight days of losses, as investors gainedJulius Berger Nigeria, Transnational Corporation, and Access Holdings' performance helped lift the market performanceCornerstone Insurance, Guaranty Trust Holding Company, and Access Holdings were among the most actively traded equities Legit.ng journalist Dave Ibemere has over a decade of business journalism experience with in-depth knowledge of the Nigerian economy, stocks, and general market trends. The Nigerian equities market ended the week on a positive note after four consecutive days of losses. Data shows that the benchmark NGX All-Share Index (ASI) rose by 0.29% on Friday, October 31, the last trading day for the month, to close at 154,126.45 points, compared to 153,676.66 points in the previous session. At the end of trading, Investors gained N285.48 billion as market capitalisation increased to N97.83 trillion, while the year-to-date (YTD) return improved to 49.74%. Market performance summary NGX All-Share Index: 154,126.45 points (+0.29%)Market capitalisation: N97.83 trillion (+N285.48 billion)YTD return: 49.74% Volume and value traded The total volume of transactions surged by 553.57 % to 5.20 billion shares, valued at N45.16 billion, across 30,598 deals. Cornerstone Insurance dominated trading, contributing 89.99% of total market volume, followed by Guaranty Trust Holding Company and Access Holdings, which accounted for 1.28% and 0.90%, respectively. By value, Cornerstone Insurance accounted for 49.01% of total trades, trailed by Guaranty Trust Holding Company and Aradel Holdings. Top gainers: The Federal Government of Nigeria Sovereign Sukuk 2027 Series 3 Bond rose from N78.00 to N94.93, representing a 21.71% increase.Julius Berger Nigeria Plc gained 10.00%, rising from N138.00 to N151.80.Learn Africa Plc advanced by 10.00%, from N5.90 to N6.49.Cornerstone Insurance Plc appreciated by 9.82%, moving from N5.60 to N6.15.ASO Savings and Loans Plc climbed 9.57%, from N0.94 to N1.03. Top losers: McNichols declined by 10.00%, falling from N3.30 to N2.97Eterna Plc also dropped 10.00%, from N40.00 to N36.00.Deap Capital Management and Trust Plc lost 10.00%, sliding from N1.90 to N1.71.Sunu Assurances Nigeria Plc shed 9.98%, decreasing from N5.01 to N4.51.Legend Interiors Plc fell 9.93%, from N5.84 to N5.26. Most active stocks: Cornerstone Insurance: 4.68 billion shares worth N22.13 billionGuaranty Trust Holding Company: 66.44 million shares worth N5.94 billionAccess Holdings: 46.60 million shares worth N1.11 billionOando Plc: 32.10 million shares worth N1.57 billionUniversal Insurance: 27.52 million shares worth N31.95 million CBN MPC members speak on naira Earlier, Legit.ng reported that members of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) projected that the naira’s stability would persist in the medium term. Bala Moh’d Bello, an MPC member, said speculative activities had declined significantly, fostering transparency and market-based price discovery. He added that Nigeria’s external reserves, which stood at $40.11 billion in mid-July, were sufficient to cover about 9.5 months of imports. Source: Legit.ng

Bayo Olupohunda,Dave Ibemere
As Civil Society Is Silenced, Corruption and Inequality Rise
Technology

As Civil Society Is Silenced, Corruption and Inequality Rise

by Busani Bafana (bulawayo & bangkok)Friday, October 31, 2025Inter Press Service BULAWAYO & BANGKOK, October 31 (IPS) - From the streets of Bangkok to power corridors in Washington, the civil society space for dissent is fast shrinking. Authoritarian regimes are silencing opposition but indirectly fueling corruption and widening inequality, according to a leading global civil society alliance. The warning is from Mandeep Tiwana, Secretary General of CIVICUS Global Alliance, who points to a troubling trend: civil society is increasingly considered a threat to those in power. That is a sobering assessment from CIVICUS, which reports that a wave of repression by authoritarian regimes is directly fueling corruption and exploding inequality. “The quality of democracy on hand around the world is very poor at the moment,” Tiwana tells IPS in an exclusive interview. “That is why civil society organizations are seen as a threat by authoritative leaders and the negative impact of attacking civil society means there is a rise in corruption, there is less inclusion, there is less transparency in public life and more inequality in society.” His comments come ahead of the 16th International Civil Society Week (ICSW) from 1–5 November 2025 convened by CIVICUS and the Asia Democracy Network. The ICSW will bring together more than 1,300 delegates comprising activists, civil society groups, academics, and human rights advocates to empower citizen action and build powerful alliances. ICSW pays tribute to activists, movements, and civil society achieving significant progress, defending civic freedoms, and showing remarkable resilience despite the many challenges. The ICSW takes place against a bleak backdrop. According to the CIVICUS Monitor, a research partnership between CIVICUS and over 20 organizations tracking civic freedoms, civil society is under attack in 116 of 198 countries and territories. The fundamental freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly face significant deterrents worldwide. “It is becoming increasingly dangerous to be a civil society activist and to be the leader of a civil society organization,” Tiwana tells IPS. “Many organizations have been defunded because governments don’t like what they do to ensure transparency or because they speak out against some very powerful people. It is a challenging environment for civil society.” Research by CIVICUS categorizes civic freedom in five dimensions: open, narrowed, obstructed, repressed, and closed. Alarmingly, over 70 percent of the world’s population now lives in countries rated in the two worst categories: ‘repressed’ and ‘closed.’ “This marks a regression in democratic values, rights, and accountability,” Tiwana noted, adding that even in the remaining 30% of nations, restrictions on civic freedoms remain. Repression Tools in Tow The ICSW, being held under the theme ‘Celebrating citizen action: reimagining democracy, rights, and inclusion for today’s world,’ convenes against this backdrop. Multifaceted tools are used by governments to stifle dissent. Governments are introducing laws to block civil society organizations from receiving international funding while simultaneously restricting domestic resources. Besides, laws have also been enacted in some countries to restrict the independence of civil society organizations that scrutinize governments and promote transparency. For civil society activists, the consequences are sobering. “If you speak truth to power, uncover high-level corruption and try to seek transformative change in society, whether it’s on gender equality or inclusion of minorities you can be subjected to severe forms of persecution,” Tiwana explained. “This includes stigmatization, intimidation, imprisonment for long periods, physical attacks, and death.” Multilateralism Tumbles, Unilateralism Rises Tiwana said there is an increasing breakdown in multilateralism and respect for international laws from which civil society draws its rights. This erosion of civic space is reflected in the breakdown of the international system. Tiwana identified a surge in unilateralism and a disregard for the international laws that have historically safeguarded the rights of civil society. “If you look at what’s happening around the world, whether with regard to conflicts in Palestine, in the Congo, in Sudan, in Myanmar, in Ukraine, in Cameroon, and elsewhere, governments are not respecting international norms,” he observed, remarking that authoritarian regimes were abusing the sovereignty of other countries, ignoring the Geneva conventions, and legalizing attacks on civilians, torturing and persecuting civilians. This collapse of multilateralism has enabled a form of transactional diplomacy, where narrowly defined national interests trump human rights. Powerful states now collude to manipulate public policy, enhancing their wealth and power. When civil society attempts to expose these corrupt relationships, it becomes a target. “They are colluding to game public policy to suit their interests and to enhance their wealth. The offshoot of this is that civil society is attacked when it tries to expose these corrupt relationships,” said Tiwana, expressing concern about the rise in state capture by oligarchs who now own vast swathes of the media and technology landscapes. Citing countries like China and Rwanda, which, while they have different ways of functioning, Tiwana said both are powerful authoritarian states engaging in transactional diplomacy and are opposed to the civil society’s power to hold them to account. The election of Donald Trump as US President in 2025 has shattered the foundation of the US as a democracy, Tiwana noted. The country no longer supports democratic values internationally and is at home with attacks on the media and defunding of civil society. The action by the US has negative impacts, as some leaders around the world are taking their cue from Trump in muzzling civil society and media freedoms, he said, pointing to how the US has created common cause with authoritarian governments in El Salvador, Israel, Argentina, and Hungary. The fight Goes On Despite facing repression and threats, civil society continues to resist authoritarian regimes. From massive street protests against corruption in Nepal, and Guatemala to pro-democracy movements that have removed governments in Bangladesh and Madagascar, “People need to have courage to stand up for what they believe and to speak out when their neighbors are persecuted,” Tiwana told IPS. “People still need to continue to speak the truth and come out in the streets in peaceful protest against the injustice that is happening. They should not lose hope.” On the curtailing of civil society participation in climate change negotiations, Tiwana said the upcoming COP30 in Brazil offered hope. The host government believes in democratic values and including civil society at the table. “Past COPs have been held in petro states—Azerbaijan, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt—which are all authoritarian states where civil society has been attacked, crushed, and persecuted,” he said. “We are hopeful that there will be greater inclusion of voices and the commitments that will be made to reduce emissions will be ambitious but the question is really going to be after the COP and if those commitments will be from governments that really don’t care about civil society demands or about the well-being of their people.” Young people, Tiwana said, have shown the way. Movements like Fridays for Future and the Black Lives Matter have demonstrated the power of solidarity and unified action. But, given the massive protests, has this resistance led to change of a similar scale? “Unfortunately, we are seeing a rise in military dictatorships around the world,” Tiwana admitted, attributing this to a fraying appetite by the international community to uphold human rights and democratic values. “Conflict, environmental degradation, extreme wealth accumulation, and high-level corruption are interlinked because it’s people who want to possess more than they need.” Tiwana illustrated what he means by global priorities. “We have USD 2.7 trillion in military spending year-on-year nowadays, whereas 700 million people go to bed hungry every night.” “As civil society, we are trying to expose these corrupt relationships that exist. So the fight for equality, the struggle to create better, more peaceful, more just societies—something CIVICUS supports very much—are some of the conversations that we will be looking to have at the International Civil Society Week.” IPS UN Bureau Report © Inter Press Service (20251031105953) — All Rights Reserved. Original source: Inter Press Service

Busani Bafana,Global Issues
NNPP bleeds as 650 members join APC, declare support for Tinubu
Technology

NNPP bleeds as 650 members join APC, declare support for Tinubu

About 650 NNPP members defect to APC across Dala, Fagge, and Ungoggo LGAs in Kano StateHadejia-Jama’are River Basin boss Rabiu Bichi welcomes defectors, promises fairness and equal party rightsDefectors cite President Tinubu’s visible achievements and Renewed Hope Agenda as key motivation About 650 members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) have dumped their party for the All Progressives Congress (APC) across Gobirawa Ward in Dala, Fagge, and Ungoggo local government areas of Kano State. The mass defection, which took place on Thursday, was received by the Managing Director of the Hadejia-Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, Rabiu Bichi. Punch reported that Bichi described the development as another sign of the growing confidence in the leadership of President Bola Tinubu and the APC’s message of fairness, inclusiveness, and national renewal. He said the Renewed Hope Agenda had continued to impact communities positively through education, agriculture, and empowerment programmes. Bichi welcomes defectors, reassures fair treatment The APC chieftain said his agency was already working with the Bank of Agriculture to provide soft loans to farmers to improve food production and promote food security. He urged the defectors to participate actively in party activities and assured them that they would enjoy the same rights and privileges as long-standing members. Bichi also highlighted several of the Tinubu administration’s initiatives, including the student loan scheme, agricultural reforms, and women and youth empowerment projects. According to him, such programmes have shown that the APC remains committed to inclusive governance and sustainable development. Defectors cite Tinubu’s achievements as motivation Speaking on behalf of the new entrants, Ahmad Gobirawa said they were convinced by the achievements of President Tinubu’s government in less than two years. He said the administration’s visible progress in key sectors convinced them that the APC offered a stronger platform for development and representation. Gobirawa expressed confidence that their move would help consolidate APC’s presence in Kano and further expand its grassroots reach ahead of future elections. Over 1,000 northern groups declare support for Tinubu Earlier, Legit.ng reported that more than 1,000 organisations under the Northern Progressives Coalition (NPC) have declared their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s re-election bid in 2027. The coalition, comprising civil society groups, youth alliances, women networks, traditional leaders, and political stakeholders from all 19 northern states, converged in Abuja to announce the endorsement. They described the current administration as the most dependable Nigeria has seen in its post-independence history. Group lauds Tinubu's commitment to north NPC Convener, Usman Abdullahi, said the Tinubu-Shettima government has brought renewed direction to Northern Nigeria through deliberate policies, inclusion in federal appointments, and massive investments in health, education, infrastructure, and agriculture. He pointed to a number of strategic reforms, including the allocation of key ministries to Northern technocrats, the establishment of solar-powered learning centers, the expansion of Almajiri education, and the commissioning of a state-of-the-art oncology centre in Katsina. Ex-Buhari minister declares war on Tinubu Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the former minister of Sports and Youth Development, Solomon Dalung, had declared that the 2027 general elections would not just be another electoral cycle but a full-blown confrontation between the Nigerian people and the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Presidency reacts Speaking during a recent interview on News Central, Dalung voiced strong dissatisfaction with the state of the nation, blaming the Tinubu-led government for deepening the hardship faced by ordinary citizens. Source: Legit.ng

Bayo Olupohunda,Ibrahim Sofiyullaha
Profits dip at ExxonMobil, Chevron on lower crude prices
Technology

Profits dip at ExxonMobil, Chevron on lower crude prices

US oil giants ExxonMobil and Chevron reported lower earnings Friday as the decline in oil prices offset the lift from higher production. ExxonMobil reported that third-quarter profits had dipped 12.3 percent to $7.5 billion year-on-year, while Chevron reported a 21.1 percent drop in profits to $3.5 billion during the same period. Both companies have invested heavily in the Permian Basin, a shale-rich area in Texas and New Mexico, while also pursuing projects in international hotspots. The results showed the impact on earnings from crude oil prices in the $60-$70 per-barrel range, down about $10 from the 2024 period. Crude prices have been challenged in recent months by a cloudy outlook on demand owing to economic uncertainty. But geopolitical issues -- most recently over US sanctions on Russian crude -- have helped keep oil prices from dropping more significantly. ExxonMobil pointed to major new exploration and production projects that came online in Brazil and Guyana, its fourth and largest so far in the latter. The company touted its proficiency at "mega-projects" of more than $5 billion in capital spending. Total volumes were 4.8 million barrels of oil equivalent per day, up 4.1 percent from the year-ago level. "We've now started up eight of our 10 key 2025 projects, with the remaining two on track," said Chief Executive Darren Woods. "No one else in our industry is executing at this scale, with this level of innovation, or delivering this kind of value." Woods said the company was optimistic about moving ahead with a liquefied natural gas project in Mozambique, where NGOs have loudly criticized a plan by French petroleum giant TotalEnergies to resume work. Woods said ExxonMobil was "moving ahead" with the Mozambique project, having hosted the president of the country in Houston this week. "It was a really productive session," Woods told analysts, while not directly giving a timeframe for a final investment decision. Chevron defends Venezuela operations Chevron, which is also a big player in the Permian Basin, reported production of about 4.1 million barrels of oil-equivalent per day, up about 21 percent from the year-ago level following the completion of a $53 billion acquisition of US company Hess. Chevron CEO Mike Wirth defended the company's continued operations in Venezuela, where it has lobbied US officials to maintain a license to keep pumping oil despite intensifying tensions between the Trump administration and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Wirth told CNBC that the company's presence in Venezuela has been "constructive" for both the United States and Venezuela, noting that the South American country's heavy crude is sought after by US refiners. "We believe that regional trade and foreign investment is a vehicle for countries to work together," said Wirth, adding that the company's intelligence and security staff were monitoring the situation. Washington began a campaign of strikes targeting alleged drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific in early September that has killed at least 62 people and destroyed 14 boats and a semi-submersible. Trump said on Friday that he was not considering strikes on Venezuela. Shares of ExxonMobil added 0.2 percent, while Chevron rose 3.4 percent. Source: AFP

Bayo Olupohunda
Ayra Starr dresses as Rema for Halloween, videos and pictures leave many talking
Technology

Ayra Starr dresses as Rema for Halloween, videos and pictures leave many talking

Mavin star Ayra Starr has shared pictures and videos showing how she celebrated this year's HalloweenThe Sabi Girl recreated her label mate Rema's attire and also replicated his mannerisms in videos that have gone viralAyra Starr's Halloween post has also gained attention as Nigerian netizens have shared diverse opinions about her outfit Nigerian singer and songwriter Ayra Starr, whose real name is Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, has caused a stir on social media with how she celebrated this year's Halloween. Ayra Starr, on Friday, October 31, took to her social media pages to share pictures and videos of her dressed up as label mate and international singer Divine Ikubor, aka Rema. The Sabi Girl captioned her post with a message that read, "Happy Halloweennnn." She also shared side-by-side snaps that showed her transformation into Rema. A picture captured her striking an identical pose with her arms folded and head slightly tilted, mirroring Rema's look. She also shared a video of her imitating Rema's mannerisms. Ayra Starr's Halloween post comes following the release of her recent collaboration with Rema titled Who's That Girl. Legit.ng also reported that Ayra Starr spoke on stepping into a new phase of her career The Sabi Girl crooner, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise from Mavin Records’ breakout star to Grammy-nominated global diva, shared that she has reached a point in her life where she no longer feels pressured by industry expectations. The videos and pictures Ayra Starr shared as she celebrates Halloween are below: Comments as Ayra Starr replicates Rema's attire The uncanny resemblance between Rema and Ayra Starr has since gained attention on social media as netizens have shared their opinions. Legit.ng captured some of the reactions; read them below: DrexEv said: "Make Rema dress as Ayra Starr make we beat nonsense comot him body." MMAFIAXCO said: "For a moment, I thought the person behind her might have been Rema dressed as Arya for Halloween. AceGod said: "Which day Rema wear cloth wey dey show us dry chest with small brests, chest be like wetin them add two akara." automatedKrazy said: "Now rema will go and do his own, miniskirt & bra." Life_of_VIKTOR wrote: "This relationship wey she dey force, very soon rema go tell her the truth." shy_zguyy said: "Make Rema dress like Ayra Starr too, no cheating." nastydeo1 commented: "Mare rema con dress like her The kind backlash e go recieve from Twitter NG ehh." lexmelvis12 said: "Wahala, Rema no fit dress like ayra Starr, the gay vibes go much." FrenzyJames1 commented: "All this is fun and play until we hear "Rema dresses up as Ayra Starr for Halloween" TVMag_NG wrote: "This girl really like am but Lil Wayne had this dressing not Rema. Even Rema na Weezy him copy." Ayra Starr carpets online troll Legit.ng reported that Ayra Starr found herself in the middle of online controversy after an American woman accused her of being satanic. Ayra had posted playful photos on her X handle, joking about not knowing how to act now while fans laughed along and dropped compliments, one American lady claimed that Ayra’s confidence was linked to “dancing with the devil.” Source: Legit.ng

Bayo Olupohunda,Olumide Alake
Polack Post: Caribbean – Spending Not Standing
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Polack Post: Caribbean – Spending Not Standing

By Peter Polack Peter Polack The rookie premier of one of the smallest and richest British possessions in the Caribbean recently declared that they are standing with Jamaica in the Melissa storm disaster. The Jamaicans have stoically borne the worst part in a day of turmoil and the last thing they need are platitudes from one of it’s nearest neighbors. Nor does it need the temporary use of helicopter and plane landing spaces. Jamaica urgently needs help in the form of funding and available resources from governments near and far. They have recently sent precious law enforcement resources to Haiti at great risk. They are a team player. This is an opportunity for the entire CARICOM membership and associates to display not only unity from the podium but that they are lions not mice. Sometime ago the declining British influence in the Caribbean was marked by a profusion of new republics and the declining influence of the Commonwealth. This was unaffected by recent Royalty visits trying to prop up a losing wicket. The people of Portland in Jamaica are still waiting for a promised $60 million tourist railway in 2016 to be financed by the UK Caribbean Infrastructure Fund, much less the $300 million to eight fake lucky Commonwealth countries. In 2017 the UK government was to set up a private sector Task Force to help long-term reconstruction in countries and territories hit by Caribbean hurricanes under the banner, UK leads the way to build back better after Hurricanes. Now is the time for the United Kingdom to truly put up or shut up. Help the Caribbean or leave the Caribbean, including their colonies. Not far behind is France, recently expelled from Africa, and in dire need not to repeat the same mistake. Thanks for the Alliance Francaise but we need 25,000 houses immediately, to the Marseillaise soundtrack. Then there is the vacillating European Union.The EU has made a number of large contributions to Jamaica’s development as a civil society, one of the most recent being a token grant of 30 million euros for digital transformation, climate change, human rights and citizen security to fulfill their agenda. The European Union needs to step up the plate. It is as bad in Jamaica as the Ukraine and the EU needs to fill the hole left by American non interest in the Caribbean but for targeted maritime assassinations. 25,000 Jamaicans are homeless. The time to help is when people are in need of assistance. They have 24,999 people standing beside each and every one of them. The airwaves are full of people standing but empty of those sending actual help. Act now or be silent in the future. Peter Polack is a former criminal lawyer from the Cayman Islands for several decades. His books are The Last Hot Battle of the Cold War: South Africa vs. Cuba in the Angolan Civil War (2013), Jamaica, The Land of Film (2017) and Guerrilla Warfare: Kings of Revolution (2019). He was a contributor to Encyclopedia of Warfare (2013). His latest book is a compendium of Russian espionage activities with almost five hundred Soviet spies expelled from nearly 100 countries worldwide 1940-88. His views are his own.

ieyenews
EXCLUSIVE: King Charles' Top Secret Funeral Plans Revealed... as 'No Expenses Will Be Spared' — And Prince William CAN'T Stop Estranged Brother Harry From Attending
Technology

EXCLUSIVE: King Charles' Top Secret Funeral Plans Revealed... as 'No Expenses Will Be Spared' — And Prince William CAN'T Stop Estranged Brother Harry From Attending

Cancer-stricken King Charles has a vision for his funeral, and it involves having son Prince Harry and his beloved Queen Camilla in attendance, RadarOnline.com can reveal. Despite Prince William's thoughts about his younger brother ever since he bailed on his duties to move to California with Meghan Markle, the future king is believed not to have any say in his dad's funeral plans.King Charles' Funeral Plans RevealedAccording to reports, Charles is battling pancreatic cancer and believes his time on this earth is winding down... despite what the palace wants the public to think. "The palace is desperately trying to downplay the seriousness of His Majesty's illness," an insider claimed. "But Charles knows it's the end, and so do his sons. William is formally making plans for his version of the future of the monarchy – with or without Charles’ blessing – and making his own decisions as king." Charles' faltering health is why the monarch was eager to reconcile with his youngest son, Harry, according to Insiders. In September, Harry flew back to the UK for an emotional encounter at Clarence House with his father, the first time they had seen each other in 19 months. And the king expects Harry to be at his funeral... an event he is said to want as big as his mother Queen Elizabeth's last rites in 2022.Will Charles' Disgraced Brother Be Allowed to Attend?According to the top-secret plans, Charles' send-off includes being honored at Westminster Abbey. The guest list is also expected to include hundreds of foreign royals and dignitaries, political and religious leaders, and several friends. "There will be no expenses spared,” another insider dished. "He hasn't been king for long, but he's been a loyal servant for over 70 years." While the 76-year-old wants Harry and Camilla to attend his funeral, the same can't be said for his brother, formerly known as Prince Andrew, and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, as the disgraced royals' connection to Jeffrey Epstein has led to their shattered reputation. "The only modus operandi of the monarchy is to distance themselves — and to exile him," royal expert Hilary A. Fordwich explained. "Historically, he’s always been protected by the British government, but Prince William is not going to be protecting him to the same degree – definitely not."Harry V. William ExposedAnd it doesn't look like William wants to help out his younger sibling, despite what his father's dying wishes are. Harry is said to want the possibility of a hybrid "half-in, half-out" arrangement, where he would fly back and forth between Los Angeles and the UK... he is reportedly even looking at homes with his wife, something William is not into, according to sources. "William is determined to block, or at the very least severely hamper, Harry's move to Windsor," the insider explained. They added: "He's the heir now, carrying the institution. From his perspective, re-admitting Harry in any official or semi-official capacity risks confusion and fresh controversy. He feels burned and doesn't want to reopen old wounds."It doesn't help that William was reportedly left speechless by his dad's decision to take steps to mend the relationship with Harry earlier this year, as a source noted he was "staggered that his father's allowing Harry back into the fold like this prodigal son figure." However, as Charles' health continues to deteriorate, look for William to step up more often. An insider previously explained: "They're quietly preparing William to step up – fast. The illusion of perfect health is collapsing. What we're seeing is the reality behind the crown – a monarch in decline."

Bryan Brunati
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