Leadership Crisis: Obaseki’s Struggles To Reassure A Fractured PDP Camp Before Crucial Election
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Panic Grips Obaseki's PDP Camp Ahead of September 21 Governorship Election
With the September 21 state governorship election fast approaching, anxiety within the camp of incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki is intensifying. Reports of growing panic within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faction supporting Obaseki are spreading, and it has emerged that key figures in his inner circle have unsuccessfully attempted to meet with the governor to address their concerns.
A reliable source, who is part of the governor’s inner caucus, expressed dismay at the current situation just weeks before the election. The source, speaking on condition of anonymity due to fear of repercussions, admitted to reconsidering his support for both Obaseki and Asuen Ighodalo, the governor’s chosen successor and the PDP’s candidate.
Reflecting on their failed attempts to discuss the issue with Obaseki, the source stated, "I’m completely fed up with what’s going on. Not only is the party hemorrhaging support, but His Excellency (Obaseki) is not doing anything to improve the situation. We can’t even get access to him."
He continued, "Despite everything we’ve heard and seen, several of us have tried to meet with His Excellency to clarify things, provide reassurance, and restore some confidence as we head into this crucial election. But so far, our efforts have been completely rebuffed. I may have to reconsider my position and my support for the PDP-Obaseki camp, and I will make my decision public within the next two weeks after consulting with my supporters."
The source added that his supporters in Edo South have been asking questions that he cannot answer without risking his credibility. "I can’t deceive them; it would cost me my hard-earned respect and support. Let’s wait and see. By the next two weeks, I’ll make my position clear."
Further investigations revealed that the sentiment among the dwindling number of PDP loyalists in Obaseki’s camp is similar, with many expressing deep concern about the numerous challenges facing the party.
"I’m not comfortable with the situation right now. Not many are willing to speak out, but it’s very worrisome," said another party leader.
What Bargain Hunters Are Doing This Year For Back-to-School Shopping
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Good things may come to those who wait, at least that's what a lot of back-to-school shoppers think this year.
More families and students are waiting till the last minute to purchase their school supplies and necessities as they hunt for deals, a recent survey found.
On average, consumers had completed 51% of their back-to-school shopping by early August, compared with 53% at the same time last year, showed recent data from National Retail Federation (NRF).
It's not uncommon for shoppers to pick up their last items a week or two before school starts—48% of college shoppers and 50% of K-12 shoppers surveyed expected to do that—while only 10% of those surveyed said they had finished their back-to-school shopping at the time they were asked in August by NRF.
Families with children in grades K-12 expect to spend an average of $874.68 on clothing, shoes, school supplies and electronics, according to an early July NRF survey. College shoppers anticipated spending an average of $1,364.75. These averages are the second-highest figures in the history of the NRF survey, which dates back to 2007.
The NRF also found that 45% of consumers were waiting to finish their shopping because they were holding out for better deals.
Even though inflation has begun to trend lower, prices in stores haven't come down, making shoppers more conscious about affordability when they’re buying school supplies. Almost half of those surveyed by the NRF in August said their purchase decisions were driven by coupons, sales, or promotions.
"As the kids head back to school, we think it’s likely that consumers will be looking for 'value' as they update their wardrobes," wrote Bank of America (BofA) analysts in a commentary Sunday.
Even before back-to-school shopping started for this year, many consumers were searching for bigger bang for their buck, a trend that was evident from the earnings calls of some big discount retailers such as Walmart (WMT), Target (TGT), and TJ Maxx and Marshalls parent TJX Cos. (TJX).
"[C]onsumers are increasingly trading down to value apparel as they balance the rising costs of necessities and increased spending on experiences. This is especially true for Gen Z and Millennials, with the market share for value apparel up nearly four percentage points year-over-year (YoY) and up over ten percent since July 2019, more than twice the rate of growth for higher-income customers," the BofA analysts wrote.
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Borno State’s Commissioner For Finance Found D3ad In His Room
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The Commissioner for Finance in Borno State, Ahmed Ali Ahmed has been found d3ad in his room.
According to Daily Trust, the commissioner’s d3ad body was found after his door was forcefully opened in the morning of Monday, August 26, 2024.
The deceased was discovered d3afpd after he failed to emerge at his usual morning time, prompting concerns. “Oga is no more, he d+ed early this morning,” the source told newsmen.
Borno State Government has announced the passing of Ahmed Ali Ahmed, the State Commissioner of Finance. This marks the second loss of a cabinet member for Governor Babagana Zulum within a year.
This Is Unacceptable, Potentially H+rmf¥l, And Troubling. We Cønd3mn It — Minister Of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, Sl+ms A Lady For Allegedly Using Her Mother’s Condition For Social Media Cont
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Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, has sl+mmed a lady for allegedly using her mother’s condition for social media content.
We condemn the dist¥rbing Video report of a woman’s m£ntal illness being exploited by her daughter for personal gain and social media content. This is unacceptable, potentially homful, and troubling.
We strongly c%ndemn expl@iting vulnerable individuals, especially those struggling with m£ntal health issues. M£ntal illness demands compassion, understanding, and support – not ridic¥le or expl%itation.
The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs urgently request information about the mother’s identity and condition to ensure proper care and protection. A reward is offered for prompt location assistance.
Appropriate actions must be taken to address this situation. We call on everyone to respect the dignity and humanity of those facing mital health issues and report similar instances immediately. Let’s work together to prevent exploitation and support those who need it most.”
Uber Faces $324M Dutch Fine For Transfer Of Driver Data To US
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The Dutch privacy watchdog said it has fined Uber Technologies (UBER) 290 million euros ($324 million) for allegedly transferring the personal data of European taxi drivers to the U.S. without adequate safeguards.
The Dutch Data Protection Authority, or DPA, said the ride-hailing giant breached the European Union (EU)'s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) by sending "sensitive information of drivers from Europe and retained it on servers in the US."
The fine reportedly is a record for Uber, which is appealing the second of two other penalties from the Dutch regulator.
The fine stemmed from complaints from 170 French Uber drivers, but the Dutch regulator issued the fine because Uber's European headquarters is in the Netherlands.
In a statement to , Uber said it will appeal, calling the Dutch decision "flawed" and "completely unjustified."
The Dutch DPA said among sensitive information Uber had collected and kept on its U.S. servers were "account details and taxi licences, but also location data, photos, payment details, identity documents, and in some cases even criminal and medical data of drivers."
The regulator added that "Uber has ended the violation."
Uber shares slipped less than 1% to $73.80 soon after the opening bell Monday. They are up about 20% this year.
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Isaac Vakpa: Unveiling The Enthusiast In Urban And Regional Planning
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Isaac Vakpa is a dynamic and inquisitive individual with a passion for urban and regional planning. His enthusiasm for designing and developing sustainable communities has led him to explore various aspects of the field. Here are some facts to know about Isaac Vakpa's inquisitive nature in urban and regional planning:
_Questioning the Status Quo_:
Isaac Vakpa is not satisfied with the conventional approaches to urban planning. He constantly questions the status quo, seeking innovative solutions to address the complexities of urbanization.
_Exploring New Ideas_:
Vakpa is always on the lookout for new ideas and perspectives in urban planning. He engages with professionals from diverse backgrounds, attends conferences, and reads industry publications to stay updated on the latest trends and best practices.
_Investigating Community Needs_:
Isaac Vakpa believes that community needs should be at the forefront of urban planning. He conducts extensive research to understand the requirements of local communities, ensuring that his plans are people-centered and effective.
_Analyzing Data and Trends_:
Vakpa is meticulous in his analysis of data and trends in urban planning. He uses this information to inform his decisions and develop evidence-based plans that address the challenges of urbanization.
_Fostering Collaboration_:
Isaac Vakpa recognizes the importance of collaboration in urban planning. He works closely with stakeholders, including policymakers, community leaders, and other professionals, to ensure that his plans are comprehensive and effective.
_Pursuing Continuous Learning_:
Vakpa's passion for urban planning drives him to pursue continuous learning. He seeks out training opportunities, workshops, and certification programs to enhance his skills and stay updated on industry developments.
_Applying Innovative Technologies_:
Isaac Vakpa is fascinated by the potential of innovative technologies in urban planning. He explores the application of tools like GIS, urban modeling, and data analytics to create more efficient and sustainable urban environments.
_Addressing Social and Environmental Issues_:
Vakpa's plans prioritize social and environmental sustainability. He seeks to address issues like inequality, climate change, and resource depletion, ensuring that his designs promote a better quality of life for all.
In conclusion, Isaac Vakpa's inquisitive nature has made him a valuable asset in the field of urban and regional planning. His enthusiasm for exploring new ideas, investigating community needs, and analyzing data has led to the development of innovative and effective plans that prioritize sustainability and community well-being.
_Recommendations_
1. _Stay Curious_: Continuously question the status quo and seek new ideas and perspectives in urban planning.
2. _Invest in Research_: Conduct extensive research to understand community needs and analyze data and trends.
3. _Collaborate with Stakeholders_: Work closely with policymakers, community leaders, and other professionals to ensure comprehensive and effective plans.
4. _Pursue Continuous Learning_: Enhance your skills and stay updated on industry developments through training opportunities, workshops, and certification programs.
5. _Apply Innovative Technologies_: Explore the application of innovative technologies like GIS, urban modeling, and data analytics to create more efficient and sustainable urban environments.