This morning, Muhammed Yaseen had the honor of attending the Calgary Stampede Parade, a genuine celebration of our western heritage and community spirit. The atmosphere was vibrant, and it was a moment of pride to participate in this iconic event that highlights the finest aspects of Alberta. The Calgary Stampede is truly the greatest outdoor show on Earth, and Muhammed Yaseen feels fortunate to have been involved in it. Here's to another remarkable year of cowboy culture and community pride! #Stampede2025 #yyc #abpoli #ableg #CalgaryParade

Bitter leaf, also known as "Vernonia amygdalina," is a leafy vegetable commonly found in Africa and is used in various traditional dishes due to its distinct bitter taste and nutritional benefits. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as calcium, iron, and fiber. The plant has also been used in folk medicine for various ailments, including fever, malaria, and stomachaches.

Here is a simple recipe for bitter leaf soup, a popular dish in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria:

**Ingredients:**

- 1 bunch of fresh bitter leaves (about 2 cups once washed and chopped)
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of palm oil or vegetable oil
- 1 pound of beef or goat meat, cut into small pieces
- 1 pound of smoked fish or dry fish, cleaned and deboned
- 1 pound of crayfish (optional)
- 2 stock cubes
- 1 cup of ground crayfish (optional)
- 1/2 cup of ground bitter kola nuts (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of ground dried pepper or chili powder (adjust to your taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon of grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon of grated garlic
- 2 cups of water or beef broth
- 1 cup of dried bitter leaves (if fresh leaves are not available)
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes, blended

**Instructions:**

1. Wash the fresh bitter leaves thoroughly and remove the tough stems. Chop the leaves into small pieces. If using dried leaves, soak them in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the chopped fresh or soaked dried bitter leaves to the pot and stir-fry for about 5 minutes until they become soft. If using dried leaves, add them at the end of the frying process.
4. Add the beef or goat meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Add the blended tomatoes, ground ginger, and garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the stock cubes, ground crayfish (if using), and ground bitter kola nuts (if using). Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Pour in the water or beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour or until the meat is tender.
8. Add the smoked fish or dry fish and cook for 10-15 minutes more.
9. Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
10. If you'd like a thicker soup, you can blend some of the cooked bitter leaves with a little water and add it back into the pot.
11. Serve hot with a side of your choice, such as fufu, rice, or boiled yams.

**Note:** The bitterness of the leaves can be reduced by blanching them in hot water before using them in the recipe. You can also add a pinch of potash (akanwu) to the soup to reduce the bitterness. However, this is optional and depends on your personal preference.

**Cooking Time:** 1 hour 20 minutes (including prep and cooking)
**Serves:** 4-6 people

Enjoy your homemade bitter leaf soup!

In 2025, Ekiti State in Nigeria has unfortunately become a hotbed for several unlawful activities. Below is a list of some of the major issues plaguing the region:

1. Cybercrime: The prevalence of internet fraud, including phishing schemes and identity theft, has significantly increased. Cybercriminals often target vulnerable individuals and businesses, exploiting advanced technology to carry out their operations. The state government is struggling to keep up with the sophistication of these crimes and provide effective law enforcement.

2. Kidnapping: There has been a surge in the number of kidnappings for ransom, particularly of wealthy individuals, government officials, and foreign nationals. Gangs operate with impunity, taking advantage of poorly secured roads and remote areas. The fear of abduction has led to a decline in tourism and investment in the state.

3. Cultism: Cult-related activities are rampant in tertiary institutions and some communities. These groups engage in violent clashes, ritual killings, and the intimidation of local residents, contributing to an atmosphere of insecurity.

4. Armed Robbery: Well-organized gangs frequently target banks, ATMs, and high-traffic areas for armed robberies. The use of sophisticated weapons and tactics has made these incidents increasingly violent and difficult to prevent.

5. Human Trafficking: Ekiti State has become a transit point for human trafficking networks operating between Nigeria and neighboring countries. Women and children are often the most vulnerable, with many being promised jobs or educational opportunities abroad only to end up in forced labor or sex trafficking rings.

6. Drug Trafficking: The state is used as a hub for the distribution of narcotics, particularly to the Southwestern part of the country. This has led to an increase in drug-related crimes, including addiction and violent turf wars among rival groups.

7. Land Grabbing: Illegal occupation of land and property theft are common, often involving powerful individuals and syndicates who use force or forged documents to displace legitimate owners. This has led to numerous disputes and cases of mob justice.

8. Corruption: High levels of corruption within government and law enforcement agencies have allowed some criminal activities to thrive. Bribery and extortion are prevalent, undermining public trust and the effectiveness of state institutions.

9. Political Violence: As the state prepares for the 2026 gubernatorial election, there have been reports of politically motivated assaults, arson, and intimidation. The political climate is increasingly tense, with fears of widespread election rigging and post-election violence.

10. Environmental Degradation: Illegal mining and logging activities have led to significant environmental damage. These unregulated practices often result in conflicts with local communities who depend on the land for their livelihoods.

11. Farmers-Herders Clashes: Ongoing disputes between farmers and herders have escalated into violent clashes over grazing rights and land use, resulting in loss of lives, livelihoods, and property. The situation is exacerbated by the scarcity of arable land and water resources.

12. Ritual Killings: Some individuals and groups are involved in the gruesome practice of killing people for body parts, which are believed to be used in traditional medicine and spiritual rituals. These crimes often go unreported due to fear and superstition.

13. Sexual and Gender-Based Violence: Cases of rape, assault, and other forms of gender-based violence are on the rise. Weak enforcement of laws and societal norms that often favor perpetrators contribute to the underreporting and impunity surrounding these crimes.

14. Cyber Bullying and Online Harassment: With increased internet usage, cases of cyber bullying and harassment have become more common, particularly against women and children. The lack of comprehensive cybercrime laws and their effective enforcement remains a significant challenge.

15. Organized Protests: While some protests are peaceful, others have turned into riots and destruction of property due to the high unemployment rate and dissatisfaction with government policies.

To combat these issues, the government of Ekiti State, in collaboration with the federal government and international partners, is working on

Oyo State in Nigeria has recently experienced several unlawful activities. Below is a list of some reported incidents:

1. **Kidnapping**: There have been several cases of kidnapping for ransom in various parts of Oyo State, including the abduction of students, travelers, and local residents. This has led to increased security measures and concerns for public safety.

2. **Armed Robbery**: Incidents of armed robbery have occurred in both urban and rural areas, with thieves targeting individuals, businesses, and vehicles, often resulting in injury or loss of property.

3. **Cultism**: The presence of cult groups is a persistent issue in Oyo State, particularly around tertiary institutions. These groups have been known to engage in violent clashes and other criminal activities.

4. **Fraud and Cybercrime**: With the rise of technology, fraud and cybercrime are on the increase in Oyo State. This includes internet scams, identity theft, and financial fraud.

5. **Land Grabbing**: Disputes over land ownership and the illicit acquisition of land through force or fraudulent means have led to several violent confrontations between individuals and communities.

6. **Human Trafficking**: Oyo State is a source, transit, and destination point for human trafficking. Victims are often lured with false job opportunities and then exploited for labor or sexual purposes.

7. **Political Thuggery**: Violence and intimidation during political campaigns and elections are common, with thugs often hired to disrupt the electoral process or harass opposition members.

8. **Fulani Herdsmen Crisis**: Clashes between local farmers and nomadic herdsmen over grazing rights have resulted in loss of lives, destruction of crops, and displacement of communities.

9. **Vandalism of Public Infrastructure**: Theft and destruction of public property such as electricity and telecommunication cables, as well as oil pipelines, have been reported, leading to disruptions in essential services.

10. **Protest Turned Violent**: Peaceful protests have occasionally turned violent, resulting in property damage and clashes with security forces.

11. **Ritual Killings**: There have been reports of people being killed for ritual purposes, often with body parts removed for use in traditional ceremonies.

12. **Cultural Shrine Desecration**: Some religious fanatics have been involved in the destruction of traditional shrines, which has led to tension and clashes between communities.

13. **Chieftaincy Disputes**: Conflicts over traditional leadership positions can lead to unrest and sometimes violent confrontations within communities.

14. **Police Brutality and Extrajudicial Killings**: There have been allegations of excessive use of force by the police, including extrajudicial killings, which have sparked public outcry and calls for reform.

15. **Illegal Mining**: Unauthorized mining activities have been reported, often leading to environmental degradation and conflict with local communities.

16. **Corruption**: Corruption remains a significant problem in Oyo State, affecting various sectors including public service delivery, education, and healthcare.

17. **Drug Trafficking**: The state serves as a transit point for drug traffickers moving narcotics within Nigeria and to other West African countries.

18. **Prostitution and Human Trafficking Rings**: There have been discoveries of prostitution rings and human trafficking operations, particularly around major cities and transport hubs.

19. **Fraudulent Religious Activities**: Some individuals or groups have taken advantage of the religious nature of the populace to commit fraud and other scams under the guise of religious practices.

20. **Criminal Gangs**: The activities of various criminal gangs, including armed robbers and kidnappers, continue to pose a threat to security in the state.

These incidents highlight the need for effective law enforcement and community involvement in crime prevention efforts. The state government, in collaboration with security agencies, is working to address these issues and ensure the safety of residents and visitors to Oyo State.

The presidential candidate representing the African Democratic Party (ADC) in the 2023 election, Dumebi Kachikwu, has responded to the endorsement of the party by the opposition coalition headed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and others.

During a meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, the coalition members declared the ADC as the platform to contest against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming 2027 general elections. Additionally, the group appointed former Senate President David Mark as the interim national chairman of the ADC, while former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola was designated as the party's interim national secretary.



In response to this development, Kachikwu stated in a statement that he is observing the coalition's announced takeover of the ADC leadership with a sense of amusement.

He asserted that the coalition is engaging with the previous leadership of the party, which was led by Ralph Nwosu. He further noted that the tenure of the Nwosu-led executive of the ADC concluded on August 21, 2022.

Nairiametrics

GTBank has lost a debt case amounting to N970 million against MKO Abiola's son, RCN Networks.

GTCO Plc has reached a 52-week high as its stock price increases to N38.5 per share.
GTBank

The Court of Appeal in Lagos has overturned a 2014 ruling by the Federal High Court, which had supported Guaranty Trust Bank Plc's claims for an outstanding debt of N970 million against RCN Networks Ltd and Agboola Abiola, who is reported to be one of the sons of the late MKO Abiola.

Justice Paul Bassi of the Appeal Court annulled the judgment of the trial court, which was related to a supposed contractual agreement made between the involved parties through the Deed of Tripartite Legal Mortgage dated August 15, 2012, concerning Abiola's property.

A Deed of Tripartite Legal Mortgage is a legal agreement involving three parties: a borrower, a bank, and a third party.

A 68-year-old British woman, Easton Taylor, and a 67-year-old woman from New Zealand, Alison Taylor, were killed by an elephant while on safari in Zambia's South Luangwa National Park.

The incident occurred when the elephant, which was with its calf, charged at the group of tourists despite guides firing shots to deter it. Both women were trampled to death. The British Foreign Office is providing support to the family of the British victim and liaising with Zambian authorities. The park is known for its wildlife conservation efforts, and authorities have previously advised tourists to be cautious around wild animals, especially when they have young ones. This is not the first such incident in the country, with two American tourists also killed in separate elephant attacks last year.

BBC News

Shanon Stubbs expresses pride in being Albertan and is continually inspired by the Calgary Stampede, which celebrates our rich western heritage and lifestyle.

Alberta draws individuals from across the nation and the globe, characterized by their entrepreneurial spirit, optimistic outlook, willingness to take risks, creativity, and determination. Alberta is at the forefront of energy innovation and technology in Canada, boasting the largest investments in alternative and renewable energy development, surpassing all other provinces combined. The oil and gas sector is vital for human existence, both locally and globally, and Albertans excel in this field. It is not a declining industry; rather, young Canadians should explore promising careers in energy and artificial intelligence in Alberta, which is pioneering advancements in various energy sectors, including hydrogen, small modular reactor (SMR) deployment in traditional energy development, and data centers.

Visitors should not miss the Museum of Making, set against the stunning backdrop of Cochrane and Ghost Lake.

Premier Eby expressed that the government has been making significant efforts to enhance opportunities for family doctors to receive their training in British Columbia.


We have expanded the number of residency positions at UBC's family medicine program and are in the process of establishing a new medical school at SFU, which is scheduled to commence classes next year. Last Friday, Cailey and Eby enjoyed a lively visit with the new residency students from across the province during their orientation at UBC.

Premier Eby David

Elon Musk's proposal to start the "America Party" if Congress passes the $3.3 trillion spending bill has sparked both interest and skepticism. While the creation of a third major political party in the U.S. is widely considered a daunting task, Musk's unique combination of wealth, influence, and public appeal could potentially disrupt the traditional two-party system.

The success of such an endeavor would hinge on various factors, including his ability to garner widespread support, navigate the complexities of the U.S. political landscape, and maintain a consistent presence in the public eye.

The American electoral system is designed to favor a two-party system due to its "winner-takes-all" approach in the Electoral College and the challenges faced by third parties in gaining ballot access, media attention, and funding. However, Musk's vast resources, technological savvy, and established fan base could provide him with an advantage in overcoming these obstacles.

Ross Perot's Independent candidacy in the 1990s, which secured 19% of the popular vote, is often cited as a rare example of a third-party candidate making a significant impact. However, Perot's success did not lead to a lasting third-party presence, and his Reform Party ultimately faded away.

Trump's flirtation with a third-party run in 2000 also ended with his decision to remain within the Republican Party. While his subsequent political career has been tumultuous and controversial, it underscores the difficulty of establishing a new political force outside the existing party structures.

For Musk to create a viable third party, he would need to:

1. Build a strong, organized base of supporters who are willing to donate time, money, and resources to the cause.
2. Develop a clear and appealing platform that resonates with a broad cross-section of the American electorate.
3. Secure ballot access in all 50 states, a process that requires significant legal and administrative work.
4. Compete with the deep-pocketed fundraising capabilities of the Democrats and Republicans.
5. Navigate the complex web of political alliances and opposition that would arise.
6. Attract high-quality candidates to run under his party's banner.

While 81,000 signatures in Texas might seem like a small step, it is a tangible sign that there is interest in his potential political venture. However, translating this initial curiosity into sustained momentum and electoral success would be a monumental challenge.

Musk's reputation as a disruptor and his ability to draw media attention could work in his favor. If he can maintain public interest and present a coherent vision for his party, the America Party might have a chance to make waves in future elections. However, the odds remain long due to the entrenched nature of the two-party system and the sheer scale of the endeavor.