NewsRoundUp 040525

 

GLOBAL

Singapore: The ruling People's Action Party (PAP) won a landslide victory in the general election, securing 87 of 97 parliamentary seats. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong received a strong mandate to navigate economic challenges, particularly in response to looming U.S. tariffs. Wong, who succeeded Lee Hsien Loong last year, emphasized stability and economic resilience in his campaign.

Israel: The Israeli military has called up tens of thousands of reservists ahead of an expanded Gaza offensive. Reports indicate that reservists are being mobilized to replace active-duty soldiers in Israel and the occupied West Bank, allowing for redeployment to Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has criticized Qatar, a key mediator in ceasefire negotiations, accusing it of playing "both sides".

Vietnam: The country has lodged a formal protest against China over an alleged airspace violation near disputed islands in the South China Sea. The incident involved a Chinese helicopter and coast guard vessels, prompting Japan to also issue a diplomatic protest. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions in the region.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russia and Ukraine are clashing over competing ceasefire proposals. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Russia’s 72-hour unilateral ceasefire, instead calling for a 30-day truce. Meanwhile, Russia launched airstrikes on Kyiv, further escalating hostilities.

United States: Former President Donald Trump is facing backlash after posting an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the Pope. The image, shared on Truth Social and later reposted by the White House, has drawn criticism from Catholic leaders, who accuse Trump of mockery. The controversy comes just days before the papal conclave to elect a successor to Pope Francis.

Australia: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has won re-election, securing a second three-year term. His centre-left Labor Party expanded its majority in the House of Representatives, marking a historic victory. Opposition leader Peter Dutton conceded defeat, acknowledging the Coalition’s worst performance in over a decade.

Myanmar: The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen as military attacks persist, leaving millions in urgent need of aid. Despite a devastating earthquake in March, the Myanmar military has launched over 240 attacks, including 171 airstrikes, exacerbating the suffering of displaced civilians.

Sudan: Humanitarian organizations warn of imminent collapse due to widespread hunger, displacement, and insecurity. Over 24.6 million people face acute food insecurity, with 638,000 experiencing catastrophic hunger. The conflict has led to mass displacement, with 8.6 million internally displaced and nearly 4 million forced to flee across borders.

Press Freedom: A global report warns that press freedom is at a critical low, with increasing pressures on journalists worldwide. Economic instability, media ownership concentration, and government restrictions have contributed to the decline. The United States has seen a sharp drop in press freedom rankings, with local journalism struggling to survive.

 

NIGERIA

Politics: Some opposition governors who were previously considering joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are now reconsidering their move. This shift comes after intense political negotiations and efforts by opposition parties to prevent further defections. The APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, had earlier revealed that more governors were expected to join the party, but recent developments suggest that some may be staying put.

Corruption Scandal: The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has uncovered a $3 billion refinery fraud, with N80 billion found in the bank accounts of a recently sacked managing director. The EFCC has arrested several former refinery executives over alleged mismanagement of funds meant for rehabilitation projects at the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries. Investigations are ongoing, and more arrests are expected.

Presidency: Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized President Bola Tinubu, urging him to caution his son, Seyi Tinubu, over allegations of assault and bribery involving the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) president. Atiku condemned the alleged attempt to influence student leadership through coercion and financial incentives, calling for an independent investigation into the matter.

Security: The Nigerian government has stated that it will not bow to domestic or foreign pressure regarding insecurity challenges. President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equipping the armed forces with advanced weaponry and intelligence to combat terrorism and instability. He assured troops that their welfare would be prioritized.

Labour & Economy: Labour unions continue to push for an increase in the minimum wage, citing economic hardship. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has demanded full enforcement of the N70,000 national minimum wage, arguing that inflation has rendered it ineffective. Some states and private employers have yet to implement the wage increase, exacerbating workers' struggles.

Sports: The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has paid a condolence visit to the family of late football legend Christian Chukwu, who passed away on April 12 at the age of 74. The NFF has pledged full participation in his burial arrangements, recognizing his contributions to Nigerian football.

Business: Abuja has introduced CNG-powered taxis, reducing fares by 40% to ease transportation costs. The initiative, led by the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI), aims to cushion the impact of fuel subsidy removal and promote cleaner energy alternatives.

Entertainment: Veteran Fuji musician Ayinla Kollington has declared himself the undisputed king of Fuji music, dismissing claims that Wasiu Ayinde (K1 De Ultimate) holds the title. Kollington stated that K1 may hold a traditional title among Ijebu royalty, but not in the Fuji music industry.