
Labour Party’s ‘Obidient Directorate’ Plan Sparks Controversy in Nigeria
Nigeria’s Labour Party (LP) has faced intense backlash over its recent decision to establish an ‘Obidient Directorate’, a new department aimed at promoting the party’s ideology and values. The move, announced last week, has been met with widespread criticism from various quarters, including party members, political analysts, and civil society organizations. Detractors argue that the directorate’s name, “Obidient”, is a clear reference to the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and smacks of personality cultism. They fear that the directorate will be used to suppress dissenting voices within the party and perpetuate Obi’s influence over the LP. Some party members have also expressed concerns that the directorate will lead to the marginalization of other stakeholders and create a culture of sycophancy within the party. “This is a clear attempt to turn the party into a one- man show,” said a prominent LP member, who wished to remain anonymous. “We didn’t join the party to worship an individual, but to work towards a better Nigeria.”
Political analysts have also weighed in on the controversy, warning that the directorate could undermine the party’s democratic values and pave the way for authoritarianism. “This is a dangerous precedent, and the LP must reconsider this decision to avoid damaging its reputation,” said Dr. Adeolu Oyekan, a political scientist at the University of Lagos.
Despite the backlash, the LP has defended its decision, stating that the directorate will promote the party’s values of transparency, account- ability, and good governance. However, the controversy highlights the ongoing struggles within the LP to balance individual ambitions with the need for collective leadership and democratic values. As Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve, the LP’s handling of this crisis will be closely watched by its sup- porters and detractors alike.
News
Air India Crash Investigation Takes New Turn as Cockpit Voice Recorder Recovered

Investigators probing the deadly Air India crash that killed at least 270 people have recovered the cockpit voice recorder (CVR), a crucial step in determining the cause of the accident.
The CVR, along with the flight data recorder (FDR), forms the “black box” of the plane, which is designed to survive crashes and provide vital information for air crash investigations.
The London-bound Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed soon after taking off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport last week, killing most of the 242 passengers and crew members on board.
The investigation is being led by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), with assistance from teams from the US and the UK, including the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The recovery of the CVR and FDR is a significant development in the investigation, as these devices capture crucial data and audio from the cockpit, including pilot conversations, alarms, and ambient sounds.
The analysis of these recorders will help experts reconstruct the flight’s final moments and determine the cause of the incident.
A high-level committee set up by the Indian government to examine the reasons behind the crash is expected to hold its first meeting soon.
The committee will submit a preliminary report within three months and propose new standard operating procedures (SOPs) to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the investigation continues, families of the victims are still grappling with the trauma and pain of their loss.
The process of identifying the victims has been slow and painstaking, with many bodies badly burned in the crash.
Over 90 victims have been identified through DNA matching, and 47 of the identified bodies have been sent to their families.
The former chief minister of Gujarat, Vijay Rupani, was among the identified victims. His funeral will be held with full state honors in Rajkot city.
The investigation into the Air India crash is ongoing, and officials are working to determine the cause of the accident and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Features
Oil Prices Climb as Iran-Israel Conflict Escalates

Oil prices surged on Tuesday as the conflict between Iran and Israel continued to intensify, with no end in sight.
Brent crude futures rose $2.11, or 2.88%, to $75.35 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude gained $1.43, or 1.99%, to $73.20.
The conflict has raised concerns about potential disruptions to oil flows, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for oil shipments.
Although there have been no significant disruptions to oil infrastructure and flows so far, the market remains cautious.
Iran partially suspended gas production at the South Pars field, which it shares with Qatar, after an Israeli strike caused a fire.
Israel also targeted the Shahran oil depot in Iran, further escalating tensions.
Phil Flynn, senior analyst with the Price Futures Group, said the conflict is likely to have a lasting impact on oil markets, similar to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
However, Saxo Bank analyst Ole Hansen believes the risk of disruption to oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz is low, given the potential economic consequences for Iran.
Despite the conflict, oil supplies remain ample, with the International Energy Agency revising its world oil demand estimate downwards and increasing its supply estimate.
Investors are also focused on central bank interest rate decisions, with the U.S. Federal Open Market Committee set to discuss rates later on Tuesday.
Diaspora
Diaspora Watch – Vol. 50

Unlocking Global Connections: Celebrating 50 Editions of Diaspora Watch
The 50th edition of Diaspora Watch is here, packed with stories that transcend borders and inspire action. With its 50th edition, Diaspora Watch continues to deliver insightful analysis, breaking news, and thought-provoking features.
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Africa’s oil industry is getting a significant boost from artificial intelligence, transforming operations and efficiency. Meanwhile, Caribbean trade ministers are gathering to address economic concerns amid global turmoil, echoing sentiments similar to those expressed by Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who recently met with the US Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, to discuss the implications of the 10% tariff imposed by the Donald Trump administration on Ghanaian exports.
In the US, tensions are escalating between California Governor Gavin Newsom and President Trump, with Newsom accusing Trump of “brazen abuse of power”. International relations are also under scrutiny as the US slams Zambia with a $50 million aid cut over corruption, while Chad suspends US visas in response to Trump’s travel ban.
The United Nations Assembly has adopted a strategic plan to advance adequate housing for all globally, highlighting ongoing efforts to address pressing social issues.
On the economic front, Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s billionaire alliance has reportedly imploded. In sports, Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola expressed his emotional response to the Gaza war, stating it “hurts my whole body”.
We also bring you updates on Air India Flight 171’s unfortunate crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, and the ongoing nuclear obligations debate with Iran, including the IAEA’s declaration that Iran is in breach of its nuclear obligations. Additionally, Peter Obi slams Tinubu’s two-year rule, saying democracy is in decline.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve with the 50th edition of Diaspora Watch, where we explore the complex dynamics shaping our world and provide insights into the stories that matter.
Stay connected with the world around you – read Diaspora Watch today!
Celebrating African excellence and spotlighting pressing global issues.
#DiasporaWatch #AfricaInFocus #GlobalNews #CulturalVoices #AfricanPerspective
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