The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention said the Republic of Rwanda has confirmed 27 cases of Marburg Virus Disease and nine deaths as of September 30, 2024.

The Africa CDC made this known in a press statement on Tuesday.

The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Rwanda declared a Marburg virus disease outbreak on September 27, 2024.

The centre said, “As of September 30, 27 confirmed cases and nine deaths have been reported; most of the cases are health care workers. Over 297 contacts have been registered and are under follow-up.

“The Ministry of Health is working tirelessly in collaboration with relevant partners to contain the deadly virus through enhanced preventive measures in all health facilities. Contact tracing is underway, and cases have been isolated for treatment. The Ministry of Health further urged Rwandans to remain vigilant and strengthen preventive measures by ensuring hygiene, washing hands with soap, sanitizing hands, and taking necessary precautionary measures when in contact with other individuals.”

MVD is a severe and often fatal zoonotic haemorrhagic illness caused by the Marburg virus. The virus is usually transmitted to humans from fruit bats. Human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with an infected person’s body fluids or with equipment and materials contaminated with infectious blood or tissues.

“There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for MVD, so supportive therapy should be initiated immediately for any individuals presenting with the disease. The same infection prevention and control protocols used for other viral haemorrhagic fevers, such as Ebola, should be followed to prevent transmission,” it noted.

On September 29th, the Africa CDC dispatched a team of experts to aid in response efforts in Rwanda.

“Africa CDC is also collaborating with the Ministry of Health and neighbouring countries of Burundi, Uganda, Tanzania, and DR Congo to assist in addressing the cross-border aspects of the outbreak and to provide guidance on regional surveillance strategies to contain the outbreak.

“The Minister of Health of Rwanda, Sabin Nsanzimana, will join the Africa CDC Press Briefing on Thursday, October 3, alongside the Director General of Africa CDC, Dr. Jean Kaseya, to discuss Rwanda’s efforts in curbing the Marburg virus,” it added.

Africa CDC is a continental autonomous public health agency of the African Union that supports member states in efforts to strengthen health systems and improve surveillance, emergency response, and prevention and control of diseases.

National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, on Tuesday held a solidarity march in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, to mark the nation’s 64th Independence Day anniversary.

NANS President, Comrade Lucky Emonefe, who addressed journalists during the exercise, called on the Federal Government to beef up security in all campuses across the country.

Emonefe noted that while the country has recorded some progress since its independence, there’s still much to be done.

He also thanked the President Bola Tinubu-led government for the ongoing student loan scheme and the provision of CNG buses to ease transportation.

“These events are meant to express pride in our country, express gratitude to God for our survival despite all challenges and celebrate the milestones we have achieved.

“It is also a statement that we Nigerian students will not join forces with negative people who have evil intentions against this country”, he added.

He emphasized that true patriotism involves supporting leaders to succeed in their different positions while expressing reservations over specific actions or policies.

Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has confirmed a report that a boat conveying no fewer than 300 passengers capsized on River Niger upstream, Jebba Dam, at Gbajibo community in Mokwa Local Government Area.

It stated that so far about 150 travellers have been rescued, while efforts are on to rescue the remaining persons.

The incident occurred last night, October 1, 2024, about 8:30 pm.

The agency in a statement signed by its Director General, Abdullahi Baba Arah said the boat was sailing from Mundi community with a population of almost 300 passengers.

He explained that the travellers were mostly women and children for the Maulid celebration at Gbajibo.

The DG disclosed that currently, NSEMA is directing and monitoring search and rescue operations in collaboration with the State Ministry of Transport, Mokwa Local Government Emergency Committee, brave local divers, and other community volunteers.

“However, thanks to the prompt response from the community volunteers; over 150 persons have been rescued alive so far.

“The search and rescue operation is still ongoing to locate more survivors, and the general public will be provided with the update,” the agency added.

Two teenagers are in hospital following a suspected acid attack outside a school in west London, with one of the victims suffering potentially life-changing injuries.

The incident occurred on Monday afternoon near Westminster Academy, where a corrosive substance was thrown at students and a staff member.

Police confirmed that a 14-year-old girl has been hospitalized with injuries that “may potentially be life-changing.” A 16-year-old boy, also injured in the attack, is being treated in hospital, although his injuries are not considered life-threatening.

A third victim, a 27-year-old woman, has since been discharged from the hospital after suffering non-life-changing injuries.

In a statement, London police said, “Tests of the substance are ongoing. At this stage officers believe it to be acidic.” Authorities are conducting “urgent enquiries” to identify and arrest those responsible for the attack.

Numera Anwar, the principal of Westminster Academy, expressed concern for the victims and the community, describing the event as a “distressing incident” involving what appeared to be an “acid-like corrosive substance.”

She confirmed that the attack happened outside the school building as students and staff were leaving for the day.

“The school was closed Tuesday to allow for a thorough investigation and to ensure the school can resume normally from tomorrow with all safety measures in place,” Anwar added.

The attack is part of a worrying trend in the UK, where the use of corrosive substances in assaults spiked in recent years before seeing a resurgence in 2022.

London, in particular, has witnessed a rise in teenage violence, including knife crime and shootings. In July, a 15-year-old boy was found fatally shot in a park near the scene of Monday’s incident.

Westminster City Council leader Adam Hug described the attack as “truly shocking” and vowed to work with police to support the affected school and community.

Two police officers who responded to the scene were also taken to the hospital as a precaution after feeling unwell, though their conditions were not serious.

Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States of America, celebrated his 100th birthday on Tuesday, becoming the first US president to reach the century mark.

Carter, who began hospice care at his home more than 19 months ago, continues to defy expectations with his resilience and longevity.

Carter marked the milestone at the home he and his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, built in the 1960s in his hometown of Plains, Georgia.

The celebration included a private lunch with around 20 members of his extended family, according to reports from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

In a tribute video posted on social media, President Joe Biden praised Carter as a “beloved friend” and “one of the most influential statesmen” in American history.

“Your hopeful vision of our country, your commitment to a better world, and your unwavering belief in the power of human goodness continue to be a guiding light for all of us,” Biden said.

The White House also honored Carter’s centenary with a special display on the lawn, reading “Happy Birthday President Carter.” First Lady Jill Biden’s office organized the tribute.

Carter, a Democrat, served as president from 1977 to 1981. His time in office included significant achievements such as brokering the 1978 Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, establishing formal diplomatic relations with China, and returning control of the Panama Canal to Panama.

However, his administration faced major challenges, including the Iran hostage crisis and an energy crisis that contributed to his 1980 election loss to Ronald Reagan.

Following his presidency, Carter remained active on the global stage, founding The Carter Center in 1982, which focused on human rights, democracy, and health initiatives.

His post-presidency work earned him a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

Ken Page, a celebrated voice actor and Broadway star, has passed away at the age of 70, as confirmed by his representative, Lance Kirkland. Page died peacefully in his sleep at his home in St. Louis on Monday, September 30.

Kirkland shared with TMZ that Ken was found sitting in his chair, having “passed away very peacefully.” He described Ken as “a beautiful, talented man who was larger than life,” adding that he was “loved and adored by so many and will be missed so much.”

The heartbreaking news was initially shared by Page’s friend, Dorian Hannaway, on Facebook, who expressed her sorrow by stating that Ken had “passed onto the next show,” which left her with a “broken heart.”

Tributes began pouring in from friends and colleagues, including actress Shari Belafonte, who remembered Ken as “one of the sweetest, most talented guys on the planet.”

Ken Page was widely known for his iconic role as the villainous Oogie Boogie in Tim Burton’s beloved animated musical, “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” which has become a seasonal favorite during both Halloween and Christmas.

His illustrious career extended beyond voice acting; he appeared in notable television shows such as “Family Matters” and films like “All Dogs Go to Heaven.” His Broadway legacy is equally significant, with memorable performances including the Lion in the original 1975 production of “The Wiz,” Nicely-Nicely Johnson in the 1976 revival of “Guys and Dolls,” and Old Deuteronomy in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Cats” in 1982.

Ken’s passing marks a significant loss in the entertainment industry, occurring on the same day that another Broadway luminary, Gavin Creel, succumbed to a battle with sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.

In an electrifying episode of WWE’s Monday Night Raw, fans were treated to a wild spectacle during the main event featuring superstars Braun Strowman and Bronson Reed in a Last Man Standing match. The jaw-dropping showdown culminated in a dramatic moment when the entire wrestling ring collapsed under the combined weight of the competitors.

The chaos unfolded as Reed, weighing 330 pounds, and Strowman, tipping the scales at 385 pounds, ascended to the top rope. Once in position, the duo brought a staggering 715 pounds crashing down onto the mat, leading to a catastrophic collapse that left both men laid out in the wreckage.

RAW commentator Joe Tessitore exclaimed, “The ropes are gone! The ring has gone down, and both men are laid out!” He added, “What is there left to destroy now?”

While the ringside crew likely braced for the daunting cleanup ahead, fans took to social media to express their excitement, with one fan declaring, “YESSS WE ALL WANTED THIS!” The crowd’s enthusiasm echoed the high stakes and adrenaline that have come to define WWE events.

The action didn’t end there; just as Reed appeared poised to secure the win, Seth Rollins made a shocking return after nearly two months away from the ring. In a dramatic twist, Rollins delivered a curb stomp on Reed, allowing Strowman to claim victory in the mayhem.

The match not only lived up to the hype but also left WWE officials with the challenge of rebuilding a new ring before next week’s show.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two women for kidnapping and selling a 5-year-old-boy.

The suspects, Blessing Elijah Sylvester,35, from Ikot Enua in Ibesikpo Asutan, and 50 year-old Ofonime Etim Essien from Ikot Abiyan in Nsit Atai, sold the child at N600,000.

The State Police Commissioner, CP Joseph Eribo, disclosed this on Monday, September 30, 2024, in Uyo while parading the suspects and other criminals arrested for various crimes.

“There is also a case of child stealing where children are taken from this state and sold outside for various amounts including a child sold for N400,000 and another sold for N600,000. We have two women and other suspects with us,” the CP stated.

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has pardoned a total of 117 convicts serving jail terms in the various correctional facilities in the state.

The decision was announced in a statement on Monday to journalists in Akure by the governor’s spokesman, Ebenezer Adeniyan.

According to the statement, a total of 19 inmates among the beneficiaries will be released while those sentenced to death sentences will be commuted to prison terms.

The statement explained that several inmates would have their sentences reduced to paved opportunities for reintegration into society.

The governor noted that the initiative followed recommendations from the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, giving room for rehabilitation and second chances within the justice system.

It stressed that the governor signed the release orders on September 27, 2024, with the changes set to take effect on October 1, 2024, coinciding with the nation’s 64th Independence celebrations.

The state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Olukayode Ajulo, who announced the decision in the statement, explained that the governor’s actions were in line with section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

Mr Ajulo, who is also the Chairman of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, said the council meticulously assessed each application, ensuring that its recommendations adhered to established guidelines and took into account a range of considerations.

He stated, “The council’s deliberations were informed by insights from correctional authorities, legal experts, and distinguished community members, focusing on factors such as the nature of the offenses, length of incarceration, age, health, and behaviour of the inmates. The compassionate gesture underscores Governor Aiyedatiwa’s unwavering commitment to decongest correctional facilities in Ondo State and is a vital component of ongoing Justice Sector Reforms. The approval for these releases not only represents a step towards mercy but also reaffirms the belief in the potential for change and redemption within every individual.’’

Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda has said it is mandatory for intending couples in the state to undergo sickle cell screening to check the spread of the ailment.

Mr Radda said this on Monday in a speech at the inauguration of a Sickle Cell Centre and launch of the monthly distribution of free drugs to sickle cell patients at the General Hospital, Katsina.

The drugs distributed by the state government included sickle cell anemia and malaria drugs.

The programme was organised through the governor’s wife’s pet project, Safe Space Humanitarian Initiative in collaboration with the state ministry of health.

According to the governor, the state government provided a legislation that prohibits marriage without the couple undergoing a series of tests, including the sickle cell screening.

He said that the law was intended to ensure that marriage between persons with the same AS genotype was prevented in the interest of all.

Mr Radda further said that if such marriage was allowed to take place, both the couples, their children, parents, government and the public would be at the receiving end.

He, therefore, urged parents to ensure that their children were subjected to screening before marriage to ensure that they were not all of the AS genotype to reduce the rising number of sickle cell patients.

“If couples undergo sickle cell screening, the danger of having children with such sickness can be prevented. In most cases, when carriers are married, at the end, the children will always be suffering from one sickness or the other, making life difficult for them.

“And in such situations, the government, parents and other family members will also be testing the pains those children are undergoing in one way or the other. Therefore, it should be avoided, and Almighty Allah will continue to protect us,” the governor said.

While appealing to the beneficiaries to make effective use of the drugs, he commended his wife, Fatima, for such an initiative, saying that it would go a long way to reducing the hardship faced by the patients.

A man killed three people and wounded 15 in a knife attack at a supermarket in the Chinese megacity of Shanghai, police said Tuesday.

The suspected attacker, a 37-year-old man surnamed Lin, was arrested at the supermarket shortly after the incident on Monday night, local police said in a statement.

Police said the man went on the rampage in anger caused by a “personal financial dispute”.

Eighteen wounded people were taken to hospital for treatment, where three died, they added.

The other 15 did not sustain life-threatening wounds.

Violent knife crime is not uncommon in China, where firearms are strictly controlled, with a number of similar attacks at schools in recent years.

A Japanese schoolboy in September was stabbed in the southern city of Shenzhen and died of his injuries, prompting outrage from Tokyo.

And in May, a man killed eight people and wounded one more with a knife in the city of Xiaogan in central Hubei province.

Imo State Police command has arrested three people suspected to be involved in abduction of children with the intention of selling them for criminal gains.

The operation that led to their apprehension was carried out by the detectives of the State Criminal Investigation Department in Owerri.

In a press release issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Henry Okoye disclosed that the detectives through intelligent gathering swung into action that led to the smashing of the syndicate that specialized in child trafficking between Imo – Abia axis.

“The syndicate involved in the abduction of children from unsuspecting parents. The operation led to the rescue of three children, who were abducted on July 4, 2024, in Ndinwegbu Umuoma, Onicha, Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA.

“The suspects arrested include: Ifeoma Anyanwu, age, 41 from Oloko Ikwuano LGA, Abia State, Chibuzor Lucky, age 42, from Umuezeala Umuerim, Ubakala, Umuahia, Abia State, 24 years Charity Kalu from Okono, Ohiafia LGA, Abia State and 56 years Isidore Ozioma from Umuhu Onicha, Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA, Imo State.

“Investigations revealed that the suspects lured the children into their tricycle while they were playing outside, subsequently transporting them to a hidden location in Aba where they were sold for 1,000,000 Nair,” he said.

The police spokesperson further stated that the suspects were currently undergoing a thorough investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, as they continue efforts to locate additional missing children.

The Indigenous People of Biafra, on Monday, announced it had banned the celebration of Nigeria’s Independence Day across the South-East region.

The pro-Biafran group, however, asked residents of the region and the Diaspora to go about their normal business, reminding them that the ban on such celebrations is still in force.

In 2023, IPOB said it would not allow Nigeria’s Independence Day celebration in the South-East.

In a statement on Monday, IPOB Spokesman, Emma Powerful, said its Directorate of State urges Ndigbo to comply with the warning, adding that there shall be no flying of Nigerian flags in South-East on Tuesday.

The statement read in part, “The Directorate of State of IPOB wishes to remind Biafrans at home and in the diaspora that the ban on the celebration of Nigeria’s annual October 1 Independence Day by Biafrans is still in force.

“As a Biafran, you are to avoid any Nigeria Independence Day celebration globally. IPOB calls on Biafrans globally to go about their normal business because we are not part of Nigeria and have nothing to do with their British flag independence of 1960.

“We are aware that some prominent Igbo men and women played pivotal roles in securing the flag independence that Nigeria celebrates annually on October 1, however, such independence has taken more blood of Ndigbo to maintain than any other ethnic group in Nigeria.

“Biafrans have decided to reject the bloody flag independence of Nigeria and work for the restoration of a true united and prosperous Independent State of Biafra.

“Therefore, every Biafran should reject this Nigerian forced unity as we look forward to celebrating Biafra independence soon.

“Ndigbo must adhere to this clarion call to stop every activity concerning Nigeria’s independence tomorrow. There shall be no flying of Nigerian flags in Biafra territory.”

The group is directing residents to go about their businesses or use that day for family quality time and rest at home for those who may choose not to go for their work and business.

“IPOB is not joking with the restoration of Biafra freedom and sovereignty. Do not make yourself an enemy of the struggle by participating in Nigerian flag independence celebrations tomorrow.

“Parents and guardians must not allow their children to go for any Nigerian independence activities tomorrow. We are monitoring everywhere in Biafraland. As an Igbo parent, do not allow your children to be sacrificed for a country that considers them less of a human,” the statement added.

In 2021, IPOB banned the Nigerian flag in the South-East zone of the country and also declared October 1 a sit-at-home day.

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons has successfully rescued 19 underage children trafficked from Kebbi State to Calabar, Cross River State.

While receiving the rescued children from NAPTIP in his office on Monday, the state governor, Nasir Idris, expressed pride and gratitude for the rescue operation, crediting the success to the collaboration between NAPTIP, the Kebbi State government, and other partner agencies.

Idris reaffirmed the state’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children and ensuring a safe environment for their growth and development.

The governor noted that the children had been trafficked under the guise of receiving an education, emphasising Kebbi State’s determination to combat human trafficking and exploitation.

He commended the tireless efforts of all agencies involved in the operation and reiterated his administration’s support for initiatives that safeguard children’s rights and well-being.

Expressing deep sorrow and anger over the children’s ordeal, Governor Idris described the situation as “barbaric.”
Some of the rescued children revealed that they had been subjected to forced labour, physical and sexual exploitation, as well as psychological trauma.

In his address, the governor urged parents to closely monitor their children’s movements and reassured the public that the government would continue prioritising the protection of children’s rights in the state.

He also promised the rescued children that his administration would provide the necessary care and support to help them recover from their traumatic experiences.

Idris also issued a stern warning to child traffickers, stating that the state would not tolerate such evil.

He vowed to ensure that those who seek to exploit and harm children are brought to justice.

The state Commander of NAPTIP, Misbahu Kaura, shared the details of the rescue, explaining that traffickers had been transporting the children from Zamfara State to Calabar.

“A tip-off allowed NAPTIP to intercept the latest group of children, leading to their rescue,” he stated.

Kaura also revealed that some of the children had been sexually abused, and three suspects were arrested in connection with the case.

He assured the public that the suspects would face prosecution.

Anthony Joshua has been handed a 28-day ban from boxing, following his brutal defeat by Daniel Dubois last week.

The British fighter was knocked out in the fifth round in front of 96,000 fans at Wembley by Dubois.

This win saw the 27-year-old retain his IBF heavyweight title.

During the course of the bout, Dubois knocked Joshua down four times.

As per protocol, Joshua is now banned from stepping into the ring for 28 days, with the British Boxing Board of Control enforcing the rule.

The Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports has stipulated that it’s standard procedure for fighters to be issued medical suspensions after suffering KO and TKO defeats.

As the Nigerians get set for the Independence Anniversary celebration, as well the planned October 1st nationwide protest against hardship, the Kano State Police Command has warned residents against taking to the streets in any guise.

The Command’s spokesperson, Chief Superintendent Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, told newsmen while parading some arrested criminals on Monday that the Police will not allow a repeat the violence witnessed in the state during the recent EndBadGovernance protests.

“On the forthcoming Independence Day celebration on 1 October 2024,
the Police Command has concluded all necessary arrangements to provide
adequate security during and after the event period.

“I therefore urge all Kano State residents to cooperate with the Police as well as other security agencies and participate in the Independence Day celebration responsibly, adhering to all safety guidelines and respecting the rights of others.

“In the same vein, security deployments have been concluded at strategic locations within the state to forestall any likely security threats on the alleged planned 1st October nationwide protest. We have to appreciate the fact that all forms of crimes are reducing drastically,” Kiyawa said.

In a related development, the Police spokesman noted that in line with the directives the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on community-oriented and intelligence-led policing, the Command embarked on robust community engagements, intelligence-led
operations and round-the-clock visibility patrols in Kano State to respond rapidly to emergencies, distress calls and prevent crimes.

Kiyawa noted that the decision has yielded positive results as the Command has made significant strides in combating crime and ensuring public safety.

Organizers of the October 1 nationwide protest against hardship in Nigeria have insisted that they would proceed with the ‘showdown’.

This comes amid the kicks by the Federal Government and warning by the Nigeria Police Force.

Former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, AAC, Omoyele Sowore, gave the update in a viral post on his X on Monday.

Sowore, who is one of the key organizers of the planned protest, wrote “NO GOING BACK! #FearlessInOctober.”

Also in an interview session shared on his handle, Sowore noted that “Between the last protest on August 1, just two months ago and now, petrol prices risen by almost N300 per litre. The naira has further devalued, and prices have increased in the market. Floods are devastating our cities. Bandits have taken over and killed off entire communities.”

While given the nature of the protest, Sowore detailed that the peaceful protest will be held at the Eagles Square in Abuja.

Similarly, the protest organizers in Lagos state said they plan to commence their march by 7:30 am at Ikeja Under Bridge.

Bandits have k!lled a respected Islamic cleric, Malam Aminu in Katsina State after ransom payment.

According to a journalist, Bakatsine Dan Katsina, the cleric was abducted from his residence in Dugun-mu’azu town in Sabuwa Local Government Area of the state weeks ago.

The cleric, who served as the Na’ibi (Deputy Imam) of the main Juma’at mosque in the town, was reportedly b3aten to d3ath by his captors, despite the fulfilment of their ransom demands.

According to residents, the bandits initially demanded money, which the family promptly provided. Afterwards, they requested mobile phones and those too were given.

However, despite fulfilling these demands his family received the tragic news on Sunday, September 29, 2024, that he had been k!lled in captivity.

One resident expressed the community’s shock and sorrow.

“Malam Aminu was a man of integrity, known for his dedication to the mosque and his tireless prayers for the safety and well-being of our town. It is heartbreaking that his life was taken in such a cruel manner, especially when he had done nothing but pray for protection from the violence plaguing our community,” the resident said.

The cleric’s murder has sparked outrage among locals, many of whom believe his life was cut short due to his role in leading prayers against the growing wave of terrorism in the region.

“It seems his only crime was his commitment to praying for peace and protection. His murder is not just an attack on him but an attack on our community and our faith,” another resident said.

A Palestinian militant group said on Monday that three of its leaders were killed in an Israeli strike on Beirut, the first attack within city limits as Israel escalated hostilities against Iran’s allies in the region.

The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) said the three leaders were killed in a strike that targeted Beirut’s Kola district.

The strike hit the upper floor of an apartment building in the Kola district of Lebanon’s capital, Reuters witnesses said.

There was no immediate comment from Israel’s military.

Israel’s increasing frequency of attacks against the Hezbollah militia in Lebanon and the Houthi militia in Yemen have prompted fears that Middle East fighting could spin out of control and draw in Iran and the United States, Israel’s main ally.