News
Donald Trump Declares Victory In US Election
In a stunning turn of events, Donald Trump has proclaimed victory in the recent United States presidential election, captivating a crowd of jubilant supporters in Florida. This declaration is not just a pivotal moment in American politics but also carries implications that resonate globally, including across the African continent.
Trump, addressing his enthusiastic audience, stated, “America has given us an unprecedented and powerful mandate.” His words ignited cheers and applause, a testament to his enduring support base. The scene was vibrant, with supporters waving flags and chanting his name, reminiscent of the passionate political rallies seen in various countries, including those in Africa where leaders often rally their bases in similar fashion.
In a significant development, Trump successfully secured crucial battleground states such as Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia. These victories have left his opponent, Kamala Harris, with a narrow and challenging path to claim victory. The stakes were undeniably high, and the competition fierce, highlighting the intense political climate that characterizes both American and many African electoral processes.
Just prior to Trump’s speech, Fox News announced that he had won the election, a projection that shifted the narrative dramatically. Other major US networks were slower to confirm this outcome, but the momentum was already building, reminiscent of how media coverage can shape perceptions of electoral outcomes in various countries, including those in Africa where media influence is profound.
For Trump, a return to the White House represents an extraordinary comeback after his defeat by Joe Biden in 2020. Many had speculated that his political career was over, yet his ability to galvanize a dedicated base and appeal to a wide range of voters has proven to be a formidable force. This resilience is a narrative familiar in African politics, where leaders often experience political comebacks after periods of adversity.
Conversely, Kamala Harris, who had positioned herself as a candidate of progress and change, opted not to address her supporters on this day of disappointment. Many of her backers had left her watch party visibly disheartened, reflecting the contrasting emotions between the two political factions. This scenario mirrors electoral outcomes in African nations, where the reactions of supporters can range from jubilation to despair in the wake of election results.
In a broader political context, Republicans are projected to have regained control of the Senate. This shift could significantly impact the legislative agenda in the United States, similar to how changes in parliamentary control can affect governance in African nations. The implications of such political dynamics extend beyond borders, influencing international relations and economic partnerships.
The 2024 election cycle has been marked by intense campaigning and heightened voter engagement. Millions of Americans participated in the electoral process, reflecting a diverse array of perspectives and priorities. Issues such as the economy, healthcare, and social justice have dominated discussions, paralleling themes that resonate in many African political debates, where voters often prioritize similar concerns.
As Trump celebrated his victory, he emphasized themes of patriotism and American strength, which struck a chord with his supporters. His rallying cry to “make America great again” has become emblematic of his political brand and resonates with many who seek national pride and economic opportunity. This narrative of national rejuvenation is not unfamiliar in Africa, where various leaders have similarly inspired their followers with visions of progress and development.
In contrast, Harris’s campaign focused on inclusivity and addressing systemic inequalities, a message that aims to resonate with marginalized communities. However, the election results indicate that her vision may not have reached as many voters as anticipated, a reality that many political analysts in Africa recognize as a common challenge in mobilizing support across diverse demographics.
The global community, including African nations, is closely monitoring the developments in the United States. The outcome of this election could have significant implications for international relations, especially as issues of trade, security, and climate change become increasingly pressing on the global agenda. The leadership of the United States will play a crucial role in shaping responses to these challenges, influencing policies that affect countries worldwide.
Following the election, discussions surrounding voter engagement and turnout are expected to dominate the discourse. Analysts will delve into the demographics of the electorate, the motivations behind their choices, and potential shifts in political alignment. Understanding these trends is vital for political parties, not only in the United States but also in African nations, as they prepare for future elections and strategize on connecting with voters.
As the political landscape evolves, the focus will inevitably shift to the transition period and its implications for the American public. Many are eager to see how Trump will navigate the challenges ahead, particularly in a politically divided environment. The potential for bipartisan cooperation, or the lack thereof, will be a key factor in determining the success of his administration.
Donald Trump’s declaration of victory marks a significant moment in American political history that resonates broadly, including in Africa. With a strong mandate from his supporters, he embarks on a new chapter that many thought he might not reclaim. As the world observes closely, the unfolding narrative promises to be as contentious and transformative as the election itself, with implications that will extend well beyond the shores of the United States. The journey ahead will be closely watched, as it holds lessons and reflections for political dynamics both in the US and across the African continent.
The Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has alleged that Nigerian security officials are planning to arrest her upon her return to Nigeria.
Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan, who’s still in the US, claimed the move is linked to her participation in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting in New York on 11 March, where she raised concerns about her suspension from the Senate and sexual harassment allegations against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
She disclosed this to PREMIUM TIMES in a telephone interview on Sunday.
She said, “I’m aware there are plans underway to have me arrested as soon as I arrive Abuja.”
IPOB Lawyer Demands Probe By Security Operatives
Onitsha-based trader had been hospitalised following the
reported looting of her medicine store by officials of the National Agency for Foods and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
The looting as contained in a viral footage, has attracted wild condemnation.
Consequently, a lawyer and human rights activist, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has demanded an investigation by security into the act perpetrated by NAFDAC officials.
As at the time of this report, NAFDAC is said to be preparing its response to the allegation.
While describing the heart-wrenching testimony of the devastated trader as both troubling and unacceptable, he said the woman is currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital after suffering severe shock from the traumatic incident.
Ejiofor, also a lawyer to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), in a statement said it is not just an economic assault but a direct attack on her dignity and well-being.
He said, “I am deeply saddened by the viral video showing a female trader alleging that her shop was looted by officials of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). This alarming footage exposes a grave injustice that demands urgent action.
“Recently, I strongly condemned the indiscriminate closure of shops under the guise of combating counterfeit drugs. While the fight against fake pharmaceuticals is crucial, it must be carried out through lawful and ethical means that do not jeopardize the livelihoods of innocent traders. Unfortunately, our worst fears have now materialized.
“In my previous public statement, I urged security agencies and NAFDAC to investigate their personnel implicated in these allegations. However, despite the gravity of the situation, no action has been taken.
“This latest evidence – captured on video – clearly exposes officials entrusted with regulatory enforcement, allegedly engaging in outright looting, betraying public trust.
“The heart-wrenching testimony of this devastated trader is both troubling and unacceptable. Disturbingly, information available to us confirms that this innocent woman is currently receiving medical care at an undisclosed hospital after suffering severe shock from this traumatic incident. This is not just an economic assault but a direct attack on her dignity and well-being.
‘I, therefore, call upon the relevant security agencies to conduct a swift, transparent, and comprehensive investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible for this reprehensible act.
“NAFDAC must urgently assess and provide commensurate reparations for this devastating loss, ensuring that justice is not only served but also felt by the victims. Justice delayed is justice denied. Immediate disciplinary and legal measures must be enforced to restore public confidence in our institutions.
“Such misconduct has no place in a society striving for justice, peace, and economic stability. The livelihoods of hardworking citizens must be protected, and those who abuse their positions of trust must face the full weight of the law. If we fail to act decisively, we risk enabling a culture of impunity that will only deepen public distrust in our institutions.”
BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF
The quest to upgrade , promote and advance Secondary Education by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike through technological advancement is undaunted, not minding some drawbacks brought about by the operators before his assumption of duty.
Under his special arrangements and Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that is attracting massive infrastructure development, provision of equipment and manpower to the FCT secondary schools by discouraging the manual , local and outdated infrastructures, hence embarked by Wike led administration through massive construction, renovation and reconstruction of schools across the FCT with modest high tech equipment, including the provision of mobile clinics and portable water for students consumption, the desire to place them in line with the global standards with the attainment and provision of ICT equipment in line with the modest policies became germane.
Without mincing words , he announced the massive reorganisation, reactivation and rehabilitation of all facets of Secondary Education in the nation’s city , to bridge both the dearth of learning , equipment among many others lacking in the FCT, including the inculcation of Information and Communication Technology ICT facilities.
Aside the provision of secondary schools education to FCT residents , 36 states indigenes residents in the FCT including the adjoining states of Kogi , Niger, Nasssarawa, Kaduna and Plateau state took advantage of the proximity to move their wards into benefiting from the secondary education curricula in the FCT.
Since Secondary Schools Education is now inculcated into Basic Education in line with the new policy thrust of the federal government, the need to rejig it cannot be overstressed, therefore desiring Urgent and adequate attention through manpower reorientation, equipment rejigging ,provision and monitoring.
The Nyesom Wike led FCT administration as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed confronted by tackling the issue of Information and Communication Technology ICT, that will bring in tandem programs of the secondary schools , exposed the pupils and teachers , streamline it to compete favourably with both local and international programs.
Having tackled the gradual reconstruction, rehabilitation and replacement of major equipment including manpower and technical know how , he embarked on the provision of ICT equipment and facilities in all secondary schools in FCT with initial supplies of 850 computer tablets and 45 laptops distributed across 20 public senior secondary schools across six area councils of Bwari , Gwagwalada , Kuje, Abuja Municipal Council AMAC, Kwali and Abaji area councils with each school taken initial possession from the maiden distribution of Information and Communication Technology ICT facilities of 42 computer tablets for students and two laptops for ICT teachers and instructors.
According to the FCT Minister, the new policy thrust on provision of ICT facilities debuted in the 20 public schools will gradually trickle down to all the public schools across the FCT before the end of the first term of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu first term to boost not only information and communication technology ICT, not only in secondary schools, but across educational institutions in the FCT.
According to him, these resources will boost digital literacy, improve teaching methodologies, and ensure that students are equipped for the technology-driven world, it will also contribute positively to academic performance in FCT schools as training for optimal use will commence immediately .
Accordingly , these resources provided by the Minister , Nyesom Ezenwo Wike will boost digital literacy, improve teaching methodologies, and ensure that students are equipped for the technology-driven world.
The facilities if used effectively and efficiently will contribute positively to academic performance in FCT schools as training for optimal use will commence immediately, in line with the vision and mission of the Wike led FCT administration.
Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.