57 arrested over bloody clash between Israeli soccer fans, pro-Palestinian followers

At least 57 arrests have been made in Amsterdam following two days of clashes between supporters of Israeli soccer club Maccabi Tel Aviv and pro-Palestinian demonstrators, according to the local Dutch authorities in Amsterdam on Friday.

The police said several people were injured during the unrest and 57 arrests made.

Supporters of the Israeli football club removed a Palestinian flag from a house in the centre of Amsterdam on Wednesday and clashed with pro-Palestinian demonstrators.

Clashes also broke out Thursday night when a Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv took place.

A joint statement by Amsterdam mayor, the police and the public prosecutor said on Friday that the police had to intervene several times to protect Israeli supporters and escort them to hotels.

The local authorities are in contact with the Israeli embassy and the Jewish community in Amsterdam, who are very concerned about the situation, according to Dutch media reports.

Australian plane makes emergency landing after engine failure sparks runway fire

A passenger plane departing from Sydney, Australia, experienced engine failure on Friday, causing the aircraft to circle before making a safe emergency landing, Qantas reported on X.

Simultaneously, a grass fire ignited along one side of the runway, according to a statement from Sydney Airport.

It is unclear whether the two incidents were related. The fire has since been contained, though some flight delays are expected.

Qantas did not disclose the number of passengers on board the twin-engine Boeing 737-800, which was bound for Brisbane, when the engine reportedly failed with a loud bang. No injuries were reported.

“We understand this would have been a distressing experience for customers, and we will be contacting all customers this afternoon to provide support,” stated Qantas Chief Pilot, Captain Richard Tobiano. “We will also be conducting an investigation into the cause of the engine issue.”

Police to deploy over 22,000 officers for Ondo governor poll

With just a week to the Ondo State governorship election, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has assured residents of a violence-free poll, stating that the police force will be fully prepared to prevent any breach of peace.

Egbetokun announced that 22,239 officers would be deployed to maintain security across the state before, during, and after the November 16 election.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission in Akure on Thursday, Egbetokun, represented by Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 17, Abiodun Asabi, stressed that the police would collaborate with other security agencies to ensure a smooth electoral process.

“The success of a significant exercise like this election hinges on peace, order, and security. Any disruption can derail the integrity of the process. All stakeholders must approach this election with security-conscious methods, knowing that fair and orderly conduct will reduce security threats and enhance the election’s credibility,” he said.

The police, in conjunction with supporting security bodies, will work as a unified team to counter threats, providing watertight security at polling units and other public spaces within the state.

Egbetokun added, “Our responsibility is to protect voters, electoral officials, materials, and the general public. This will involve both covert and overt operations by the security agencies designated for election duties.”

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, also addressed the gathering, reaffirming INEC’s commitment to delivering a free, fair, and credible election. He urged political parties to ensure their supporters avoid disruptive conduct.

“I encourage political parties to issue only INEC-approved accreditation tags, now enhanced with QR codes for easier verification. The practice of allowing multiple agents for one party, which often leads to impersonation and conflict at polling sites, must stop,” Yakubu stated.

Representatives from political parties, including the APC, PDP, LP, ZLP, YPP, and others, were present at the meeting and appealed to INEC and security agencies to adhere strictly to the rules to ensure the poll’s integrity.

APC candidate and state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, underscored the importance of peace, urging candidates to prioritise unity over rivalry.

“Elections come and go, but Ondo State remains. It is our collective responsibility to maintain the peace we currently enjoy,” Aiyedatiwa said.

He further called on his fellow candidates to focus on the long-term prosperity of Ondo, saying, “Let us see beyond the immediate contest and safeguard the peace and stability of our state. I appreciate everyone committed to ensuring a peaceful environment for all.”

Repair works responsible for Thursday’s national grid collapse — TCN

The Transmission Company of Nigeria has stated that the ongoing repair works in the power sector were responsible for Thursday’s grid collapse.

TCN spokesperson, Ndidi Mbah, disclosed this in a statement.

According to her, the national grid experienced a disturbance at approximately 11:29 am on Thursday, caused by a sudden rise in frequency from 50.33Hz to 51.44Hz.

“Recovery efforts began immediately, and the Abuja Axis was restored within 28 minutes. Recovery is still ongoing,” she said, even though many residents reported they had yet to receive power supply since the first grid collapse on Tuesday.

“The frequency spike was caused by issues encountered at one of TCN’s substations, which had to be shut down to prevent further complications. In addition, we are actively engaged in significant repair works on several critical transmission lines and substations.

“This includes the 330kV transmission lines along the Shiroro–Mando axis, major upgrades at the Jebba Transmission Substation, and the restoration of the second Ugwuaji–Apir 330kV transmission line.

“Furthermore, following the submission of the investigative report on the causes of previous grid collapses, we have begun addressing the identified weaknesses in the transmission system.

“Efforts are being made to close the gaps highlighted in the report and to enhance the overall stability and resilience of the grid. These efforts include both technical upgrades and strategic interventions based on the committee’s recommendations,” Mbah added.

However, she noted that while the repairs and improvements are underway, some degree of instability in the system is likely to persist until all major works are completed.

“We acknowledge the impact of these disruptions and ask for the understanding and patience of the public during this challenging period.

“TCN remains committed to improving the reliability of electricity supply, recognising the vital role that stable power plays in Nigeria’s socio-economic development.

“We assure the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the grid’s long-term stability, in line with the recommendations of the investigative committee, while also addressing infrastructure damage, such as vandalised transmission lines,” she said.

Equatorial Guinea sacks anti-graft agency boss linked to s*x t*pes

Equatorial Guinea’s President, Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, has reportedly appointed Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo as the new Director General of the National Agency for Financial Investigation.

He replaced Baltasar Ebang Engonga following a shocking s*x scandal involving public officials.

This was disclosed in a news report on Thursday by a media outlet based in Equatorial Guinea, Ahora EG.

Also, according to another local news platform, Real Equatorial Guinea, the President fired Engonga for “irregularities committed in the exercise of his functions, as well as inappropriate family and social conduct for the performance of public functions, as stated in Decree number 118/2024, dated November 4.”

The leadership change follows Engonga’s arrest amid allegations that he recorded over 400 explicit videos involving the wives of prominent figures in Equatorial Guinea.

The discovery of the videos reportedly occurred during an impromptu search by ANIF officials investigating financial irregularities tied to Engonga, a well-known economist.

“Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo holds a law degree from the National University of Equatorial Guinea (UNGE). He has previously held various positions, including Magistrate Judge of the Institution of Malabo, Director General of Contract Studies and State Markets at the Ministry of Finance and Budgets, Secretary General of the Ministry of Finance, Economy and Planning, and Secretary General of Mines, Industry and Energy,” Ahora EG reports.

Authorities uncovered over 400 s*x tapes involving Engonga and several women, including the wives of high-profile figures such as ministers, police officials, and even the sister of the President.

The tapes, which were allegedly filmed with the women’s consent, were discovered during a raid on Engonga’s office and later leaked online, causing public outrage.

This prompted the government to introduce strict measures, including suspending officials involved in similar misconduct and installing surveillance cameras in government offices to prevent further ethical violations.

Oyo NLC hails Makinde for approving N80,000 minimum wage

The Nigeria Labour Congress, Oyo State chapter, has applauded Governor Seyi Makinde’s decision to approve a new minimum wage of N80,000 for state workers, describing it as a progressive move for the welfare of the workforce.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, confirmed that the approval followed recommendations from a technical committee appointed by the government.

Speaking to journalists in Ibadan, NLC Chairman Kayode Martins commended the governor’s gesture, noting that this increase demonstrates Makinde’s commitment to the welfare of workers.

“The governor has once again proven himself as a listening leader and a true trailblazer. This is the first time state workers will be earning more than their counterparts at the federal level.

“The approved minimum wage is a significant morale booster, and workers are committed to reciprocating by enhancing productivity,” Martins said.

Martins urged members of the government’s negotiation team to reflect similar generosity in ensuring a fair consequential adjustment, so all employees benefit from the governor’s “milk of human kindness.”

He also acknowledged the resilience of workers in the state, who have remained united and patient throughout the minimum wage review process.

The NLC leader assured the Makinde-led administration of the continued support and collaboration of labour unions in driving initiatives that benefit Oyo workers and foster their well-being.

Australian government to ban social media access for under 16 children

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday submitted a proposal to ban children younger than 16 years from using social media.

Mr Albanese and Communications Minister Michelle Rowland pledged to legislate a minimum age limit of 16 years for social media access.

The prime minister had previously announced an intention to introduce legislation to parliament for the age limit before the end of 2024 but had not committed to a specific cut-off age.

He said the legislation would take responsibility for enforcing the minimum age limit on social media platforms.

“Social media is doing harm to our kids, and I’m calling time on it,” Mr Albanese told reporters in Canberra.

“It’s something of enormous concern, and we know the social harm that can be caused, and we know the consequences here.”

Under the government’s plan, online platforms that fail to restrict access to children will face penalties.

Neither users under 16 who manage to access social media nor their parents or guardians will be penalised.

The ban will come into effect 12 months after the legislation passes parliament and will be enforced by the office of the government’s Safety Commissioner.

“This is world-leading legislation, and we want to make sure we’ve got it right.

” We think there will be some, of course, exclusions and exemptions as well for this to make sure that there aren’t unintended consequences, but we think this is absolutely the right thing,” Mr Albanese said.

Mr Albanese said he would discuss the proposal with state and territory leaders at a special meeting on Friday.

The federal budget for 2024–25 included funding to trial potential age-assurance technology options.

Mr Albanese and Mr Rowland said the results of the trial would inform how the new age limit is imposed.

The federal opposition coalition earlier in 2024 announced it would support a minimum age limit of 16.

With the support of the Coalition, Mr Albanese’s governing Labour Party would have the requisite votes to pass the legislation through both houses of parliament.

Two sand miners rescued after boat capsizes in Calabar

The Calabar area office of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has rescued two sand miners whose boat capsized in transit.

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Bola Oyebamiji, managing director of NIWA, said this in a statement on Thursday in Lagos.

Mr Oyebamiji noted that NIWA, while on routine water patrol at about 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 4, received a distress call about sand miners who were overtaken by rough tidal waves along the Calabar channel.

“The patrol team, on receipt of the call, immediately swung into action and was able to promptly rescue the two young men who were almost drowned and were gasping for breath at the point of the incident.

“Though their sand boat with the contents was completely submerged, the victims aged between 23 and 25 were resuscitated and handed over to their families,” he said.

FRSC warns against reckless driving as one dies in Lagos-Ibadan expressway crash

A fatal accident involving multiple vehicles on the Kara Bridge section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has claimed one life, according to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

The FRSC Lagos State sector command, led by corps commander Kehinde Hamzat, confirmed this in a statement on Thursday in Lagos.

Mr Hamzat said the crash involved a White Volvo Truck (Reg. No. FKJ 484 YA), a White Toyota Hummer Bus (Reg. No. BWR 372 XC), a Benz bus (Reg. No. GNL 630 XC), and an unregistered Black Boxer motorcycle.

According to Mr Hamzat, the incident tragically highlights the catastrophic consequences of reckless driving.

“The crash was reported to the FRSC at 3:33 a.m., with response teams arriving on the scene by 3:38 a.m. Preliminary investigations suggest that speeding, wrongful overtaking, and loss of control were the primary causes of the collision.

“Upon arrival, FRSC personnel, in collaboration with the police and Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), worked to secure the area and manage the flow of traffic.

“A good samaritan assisted in transporting the injured victim to the hospital while the deceased was respectfully handled,” he said.

The FRSC Lagos state commander deeply mourned this tragic loss and urged all road users to remain vigilant.

He noted that road safety remained a collective responsibility and reminded all drivers to observe speed limits, refrain from reckless overtaking, and ensure safe driving practices.

“This heartbreaking incident underscores the need for heightened awareness and caution on the roads.

“The FRSC is dedicated to making roads safer for all, but we need cooperation and collaboration from every road user to prevent future tragedies. Let’s all work together to protect lives and properties,” he said.

‘Obviously not outcome we hoped for,’ Obama reacts to Trump’s election win

Former U.S. President Barack Obama has congratulated Republican Donald Trump on his victory in the presidential election, saying the win was unexpected.

“We want to congratulate President Trump and Senator Vance on their victory,” Mr Obama said in a joint statement with his wife, Michelle. “This is obviously not the outcome we had hoped for, given our profound disagreements with the Republican ticket on a whole host of issues.”

“But living in a democracy is about recognising that our point of view won’t always win out and being willing to accept the peaceful transfer of power,” the Obamas added.

In the final stretch of campaigning, Mr Obama came out strongly for Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris, asserting she would stand up for the people.

Mocking his Republican successor, Mr Trump, Mr Obama highlighted his privileged background and financial failures.

The United States has been “through a lot” over recent years, “from a historic pandemic and price hikes resulting from the pandemic to rapid change and the feeling a lot of folks have that, no matter how hard they work, treading water is the best they can do,” the former Democratic president wrote.

Mr Obama said the situations have made headwinds for democratic incumbents globally “and last night showed that America is not immune.”

“But progress requires us to extend good faith and grace even to people with whom we deeply disagree.

“That’s how we’ve come this far, and it’s how we’ll keep building a country that is more fair and more just, more equal and more free,” he said.

God spared my life to save America- Donald Trump

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has expressed delight over his imminent victory in the 2024 election, saying God spared his life after his assassination attempt to save America.

Mr Trump, who addressed supporters on Wednesday, reflected on his rally encounters, saying, “God saved his life for a reason”.

“The reason was to save our country and restore America to greatness. Now, we’re going to fulfil that mission together”, CNN quoted the president-elect.

Mr Trump escaped several assassination attempts in the past, including during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania in July.

In his address, he insisted his survival was for a mission to lead the country into greatness.

“The task before us will not be easy, but I will bring every ounce of energy, spirit, and fight that I have in my soul to the job that you’ve entrusted to me”, he added.

Mr Trump was announced as the winner of the keenly contested presidential elections in the United States, having secured more votes than his closest rival Kamala Harris.

South Africa closes border with Mozambique as post-election protests spread

South Africa on Wednesday temporarily closed its main border crossing with Mozambique over protests against the disputed election in Mozambique continued to escalate.

According to human rights groups, at least 18 people have been killed in the protests, as opposition supporters demonstrate against what they described as a fraudulent election win by Frelimo, the party that has ruled Mozambique since 1975.

Security forces have responded with tear gas and live ammunition while the government restricted internet access and threatened to deploy the army.

South Africa has closed the Lebombo port of entry in its Mpumalanga province after receiving reports of vehicles being torched on the Mozambican side, the authority said in an emailed statement to Reuters.

“Due to these security incidents and in the interest of public safety, the port has been temporarily closed until further notice,” it said, adding that seven Mozambican officials had requested refuge in South Africa for safety and protection.

A reporter for South Africa’s public broadcaster SABC posted a video on X showing a long line of trucks which he said stretched for kilometres waiting to cross the border.

The latest protests in Mozambique are part of a week of demonstrations called by presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane, who came second in official results for the Oct. 9 election but claims to have won.

The electoral commission declined to comment on allegations of fraud and Frelimo has not replied to requests for comment.

The protests are set to culminate in a march on the capital Maputo on Thursday. Mozambique’s Defence Minister Cristovao Chume said on Tuesday the military was ready to intervene and warned against attempts to grab power.

The Mozambican Centre for Democracy and Human Rights said that 24 people had been killed due to police violence.

Human Rights Watch researcher Zenaida Machado told Reuters that she had confirmed 18 deaths so far but believed there had been more.

The interior minister defended the police response, saying the protests were violent, adding that security forces were compelled to restore public order, which resulted in deaths.

Police seize dogs involved in security guard’s death in Lagos

The Lagos State Command has confirmed that it confiscated the three dogs that allegedly killed a security guard, whose identity is yet unknown, in Pinnock Estate, Ilasan, Lekki area of the state.

The police also confirmed the arrest of the owner of the fierce-looking dogs, Salisu Mustapha.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, made this known in a statement released on Wednesday.

According to him, the dogs are in their custody and are receiving better treatment to avoid infringing on animal rights.

“Following the unfortunate mauling of a security guard to death by three dogs in Pinnock Estate, Ilasan, Lekki, on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, the Lagos State Police Command has arrested the owner of the dogs, Salisu Mustapha, and confiscated the dogs pending the outcome of discreet investigations that have since commenced.

“The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olanrewaju Ishola, psc+, mnips, assures residents of the estate and the entire people of Lagos State that the ongoing investigations will be brought to a conclusive end, and justice will be served as appropriate,” the statement added.

Clarifying the issue of dog rights infringement on X, Hundeyin said, “They are receiving the best treatment. We do not condone cruelty to animals.

“These were the dogs after they arrived at the Command headquarters before our K-9 unit came to take them into better custody,” he stressed.
He also challenged user #Arojinle, who claimed that the dogs didn’t kill the man, saying, “Well, I do not want to post gory pictures of the bloodied bite marks and tears on the victim’s body from head to toe.
“In any case, the investigation is ongoing.”

In a viral video shared on X (formerly Twitter) by a user with the handle @itzbasito, the security guard, who is yet to be identified, was seen lying dead as the Boerboel dogs approached his lifeless body.

The user stated that the dog owner unknowingly allowed the dogs to roam freely, leading to the attack that claimed the life of the estate guard on Monday night.

Tinubu congratulates US President-elect Trump

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday extended his congratulations to Donald Trump on his re-election as the 47th President of the United States of America.

Tinubu expressed his eagerness to strengthen the ties between Nigeria and the United States amid the complex challenges and opportunities of the contemporary world.

His congratulatory message was conveyed through a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday.

The statement was titled ‘President Tinubu Congratulates President-elect Trump.’

Tinubu said, “Together, we can foster economic cooperation, promote peace, and address global challenges that affect our citizens.”

According to him, Trump’s victory reflects the trust and confidence the American people have placed in his leadership.

Therefore, he congratulated the US electorate on their commitment to democracy.

“President Tinubu believes that, given President Trump’s experience as the 45th President of the United States from 2017 to 2021, his return to the White House as the 47th President will usher in an era of earnest, beneficial, and reciprocal economic and development partnerships between Africa and the United States,” Onanuga noted.

Tinubu also acknowledged the United States’ influence, power, and position in determining the trend and course of global events, trusting that President Trump will bring the world closer to peace and prosperity.

President Tinubu postpones FEC meeting over Lagbaja’s death

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday rescheduled the Federal Executive Council meeting to a yet-to-be-announced date.

“Initially scheduled for today, the council meeting was postponed in honour of Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, who passed away on Tuesday night,” Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced on Wednesday.

The statement was titled, ‘Lagbaja: President Tinubu Postpones Federal Executive Council Meeting.’

After announcing the postponement at the Council Chamber, Vice President Kashim Shettima led other council members in observing a minute’s silence in honour of the late Army Chief.

Shettima also announced that ministers would proceed to Tinubu’s official residence to pay him a condolence visit, saying, “Let’s do so as a family; this is the proper thing to do.”

“The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, will convene all of you at the residence,” he added.

Earlier on Wednesday, President Tinubu expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Lagbaja family and the Nigerian Armed Forces.

He wished Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honoured his significant contributions to the nation.

Lagbaja served as the Chief of Army Staff from 19 June 2023 until his death on 5 November 2024.

Tinubu also ordered flags to be flown at half-mast nationwide for seven days in honour of the late general.

World leaders praise Trump as he claims US election win

World leaders raced to praise Donald Trump as he claimed a stunning US election victory over Kamala Harris while financial markets also rose.

Here are the first reactions, with the presidential election result still to be confirmed:

– Israel –

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it a historic return for the former US leader and a new beginning in the US-Israel alliance.

“Congratulations on history’s greatest comeback! Your historic return to the White House offers a new beginning for America and a powerful recommitment to the great alliance between Israel and America. This is a huge victory!” said Netanyahu in a statement issued by his office.

– China –

As the results began to go Trump’s way, China said it hoped for “peaceful coexistence” with the United States.

“We will continue to approach and handle China-US relations based on the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told a regular briefing.

“We respect the choice of the American people.”

– France –

French President Emmanuel Macron congratulated “President Donald Trump”, saying he was ready to work with him “with respect and ambition” like “we managed to do for four years”.

In a post on X, Macron said that the relationship with Trump, who is leading the US presidential vote, would “take account of your convictions, and mine”, adding: “For more peace and prosperity.”

– Ukraine –

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated Donald Trump on his “impressive victory” and said he hoped his presidency would bring “just peace in Ukraine closer.”

“I appreciate President Trump’s commitment to the ‘peace through strength’ approach in global affairs. This is exactly the principle that can practically bring just peace in Ukraine closer,” Zelensky said in a statement on social media.

– NATO –

NATO chief Mark Rutte congratulated Trump and said his return to power would help keep the alliance “strong”.

“His leadership will again be key to keeping our Alliance strong. I look forward to working with him again to advance peace through strength through NATO,” Rutte said in a statement.

– India –

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Trump’s “election victory”.

“Heartiest congratulations my friend @realDonaldTrump on your historic election victory,” Modi wrote on social media platform X. “As you build on the successes of your previous term, I look forward to renewing our collaboration.”

– Financial markets –

The dollar surged, bitcoin hit a record high and European stocks rallied.

Trump has pledged to make the United States the “bitcoin and cryptocurrency capital of the world” and to put tech billionaire Elon Musk in charge of a wide-ranging audit of governmental waste.

“The markets are scrambling to figure out what happens next, but for the time being, the market is pricing in a higher growth and higher inflation outlook,” said Peter Esho, economist and founder at Esho Capital.

Governor Oyebanji appoints Ogunmoye as acting chief judge

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has appointed Justice Lekan Ogunmoye as the state’s acting chief judge.

This is contained in a statement signed by the governor’s media aide, Yinka Oyebode, on Tuesday in Ado-Ekiti.

Mr Oyebode said the appointment was in furtherance of the powers conferred on the governor by section 271 (4) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

According to him, the appointment of Mr Ogunmoye took effect on November 5.

He said the new justice replaced the former chief judge, John Adeyeye, who died on Monday, November 4 after a brief illness.

Born on November 6, 1963, Mr Ogunmoye was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1987 and was appointed a judge on April 1, 2010.

Mr Oyebanji wished the acting chief judge a successful tenure.

Two die, many injured in Imo bomb explosion

The Imo Police Command has confirmed that two persons died on Tuesday when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded at the International Market, Orlu.

The command’s public relations officer, ASP Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident in a statement in Owerri.

Mr Okoye disclosed that several other people sustained injuries from the explosion while scampering to safety.

He explained that the command had launched an investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident.

According to him, a preliminary investigation revealed that two hoodlums died from an IED.

“The two persons, who were incidentally the hoodlums, were killed in the process of setting up the IED.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, has deployed anti-bomb operatives to the scene,” the police spokesman added.

Mr Okoye urged residents of the area and the traders in the market not to panic.

He also urged the people to assist the police and other security agencies with relevant information on any suspicious activities by suspected hoodlums.

Boris Johnson shunned during live U.S. election coverage for promoting his book

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been “fired for banging on about his book” during a guest appearance on Channel 4’s coverage of the U.S. election, according to the programme’s co-host Krishnan Guru-Murthy.

He was told off for holding up his memoir and plugging it just minutes into the live programme titled “America Decides: U.S. Presidential Election.”

Channel 4 newsreader Guru-Murthy told Mr Johnson to “put it away” and “stop it, enough” as he twice referenced his new book and attempted to hold it up to viewers.

Mr Guru-Murthy described the former prime minister’s actions as “so cheap.”

Mr Johnson retorted: “There’s absolutely nothing you can do to stop me… I’m allowed to plug my book.”

Later during the panel discussion, Mr Johnson said he met with former U.S. president and Republican nominee Donald Trump after his attempted assassination in July.

“In case I failed to mention this, I am promoting my book Unleashed, and I had a talk with him about Ukraine,” he said.

When asked about following in Mr Trump’s footsteps regarding a political comeback if he were to win the presidential election, Mr Johnson said: “The answer is obviously contained in Unleashed, where you’ll find the full discussion of this subject.”

Co-host Emily Maitlis told him: “We are not all going to read your book, so just tell us, do you want to have a political comeback…. You can’t actually answer a single question.”

Mr Johnson responded: “By the way, Emily, I’ve answered all your questions all night. Currently I am blissfully engaged in promoting my book Unleashed, available in all good bookstores.”

Later in the programme, Mr Johnson was replaced on the Channel 4 panel by Michael Cohen – who served as a lawyer to Mr Trump.

Mr Guru-Murphy told viewers: “Boris Johnson has been fired for banging on about his book.”

It was not clear whether Mr Johnson’s exit from the programme had been planned or if he had departed early.

Mr Johnson, 60, has been promoting his new memoir titled “Unleashed” after it was released last month.

The 784-plooks backooks back on Mr Johnson’s time as prime minister – from 2019 to 2022 – including Brexit and the Covid pandemic.

Channel 4 newsreader Mr Guru-Murthy is at the helm of the channel’s first overnight U.S. election programme since 1992 alongside former “Newsnight” presenter Maitlis.

Political pundits, and a number of famous faces including Mr Johnson, joined the hosts in the Washington DC studio as the American public decides whether Democratic nominee Kamala Harris or Mr Trump becomes president.

Guests on the programme include Republican supporter and reality TV star Caitlyn Jenner, and Stormy Daniels, the woman at the centre of Mr Trump’s hush money trial following an affair between the two.

A representative for Channel 4 has been contacted for comment.

Josh Stein elected governor of North Carolina, defeats Mark Robinson

North Carolina’s Attorney General Josh Stein secured a significant win on Tuesday, defeating Republican Lt. Governor Mark Robinson to become the state’s next governor.

According to the Associated Press, Mr Stein received 775,821 votes (51.7 per cent) of the total vote, while Mr Robinson garnered 653,335 votes (43.6 per cent), with 25 per cent of the votes counted at the time of reporting.

Mr Stein’s victory ensures that Democrats will continue to hold the state’s top executive office, even as Republicans maintain control over the legislature and appeals courts.

A key factor in Mr Stein’s victory was his team’s use of television ads and social media to remind voters of Mr Robinson’s controversial past statements on abortion, women, and LGBTQ+ issues.

The remarks, viewed by many as inflammatory, were repeatedly highlighted to portray Mr Robinson as too extreme for a state that often swings politically between parties.

Mr Robinson, who had hoped to make history as North Carolina’s first Black governor, centred his campaign on appealing to religious conservatives, gun rights advocates, and those frustrated with the political establishment.

His sharp criticisms of abortion, his views on women’s roles, and his anti-LGBTQ+ statements might have drawn national attention and become a focal point in the race.

As Mr Stein prepares to take office, his administration is expected to prioritise expanding healthcare access, increasing teachers’ pay, and safeguarding voting rights issues he championed throughout his campaign.

With national attention on swing states like North Carolina, Stein’s leadership could have implications for the broader political landscape in the coming years.