Senate President Godswill Akpabio has made a major change in the leadership of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been removed as the Chair of the committee, and a new replacement has been named immediately.

Although no official explanation was given at the time of the announcement, the development has sparked conversations in political circles. Senator Natasha, known for her passion in representing diaspora-related matters, has not yet reacted publicly.

Amid rising tensions and fears of targeted attacks, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly named three possible successors, excluding his son, in preparation for a worst-case scenario during the ongoing conflict with Israel.

According to a Saturday report by The New York Times, the 86-year-old leader, who is said to be operating from a secure underground bunker, privately selected three senior clerics to take over leadership if he is killed. The decision follows a wave of high-profile assassinations allegedly carried out by Israeli forces, which has heightened concerns at the highest levels of Iran’s leadership.

Crucially, Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba—who has long been rumored to be his heir apparent—was not included among the chosen candidates. This marks a significant departure from previous speculation suggesting a dynastic transition was in the works. The Jerusalem Post also confirmed the report, adding that Khamenei has made additional contingency plans by appointing replacements within Iran’s military hierarchy in anticipation of further Israeli attacks.

Traditionally, Iran’s Supreme Leader is selected by the Assembly of Experts, a powerful clerical body of 88 members. However, Khamenei’s move suggests he may be attempting to influence the succession process in advance, seeking to ensure ideological continuity and maintain regime stability amid external threats.

Experts believe the choice of three clerics rather than a single successor points to internal disagreements and the urgent need for contingency planning as the situation escalates. While the identities of the chosen individuals remain undisclosed, sources say they are trusted hardliners closely aligned with Khamenei’s vision.

Regional Impact and Rising Concerns

The reported development comes at a volatile time in the Middle East, with recent Israeli strikes targeting senior Iranian and Hezbollah figures. Analysts warn that any sign of instability in Iran’s leadership could further destabilize the region.

“This is not just theoretical succession planning — it’s being done under the very real threat of attack,” a regional intelligence source told The New York Times. “The regime clearly views the risk of a leadership vacuum as imminent.”

Khamenei’s decision underscores the high level of concern within Tehran’s leadership circle as it braces for potential escalations and prepares for scenarios that were once considered unlikely.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has suggested a constitutional amendment to allow state governors a third term in office — a move he believes could help tackle the persistent issue of abandoned projects across Nigeria.

Governor Diri made the call during a stop in Nembe Local Government Area, part of his ongoing ‘Thank-You Tour’ across the state. Addressing a large crowd at King Koko Square in Nembe, the governor said limited time in office often prevents administrations from completing critical infrastructure projects.

“It is not proper to start a project and leave it for another government to finish,” he said. “Some of your requests can be fulfilled, but time is no longer on our side. That’s why I believe the National Assembly should consider revisiting the constitution to give governors a third term.”

He encouraged community members to reach out to their federal representatives — including Hon. Marie Ebikake, Hon. Fred Agbedi, Hon. Oforji Oboku, and Senator Benson Agadaga — to push for such an amendment.

Diri highlighted the ongoing development of a 60-megawatt independent power plant as a major step toward addressing electricity challenges in the state. He announced that twin gas-powered turbines, procured by the state government, would soon be delivered and installed at the Elebele site, which is nearing completion.

According to him, once operational, the power plant will supply electricity to key areas such as Yenagoa, Nembe, Ogbia, Kolokuma/Opokuma, Sagbama, and parts of Ekeremor, helping to reduce the state’s dependence on the national grid.

The governor also addressed the community’s call for the construction of the Igbeta–Ewoama–Okoroba road. He admitted that time was a constraint but expressed willingness to partner with federal bodies like the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the South-South Development Commission to make it happen.

Governor Diri thanked the people of Nembe for their warm reception and overwhelming support in the 2023 governorship election, which saw him and his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, re-elected.

“We promised to come back and say thank you if re-elected. This visit is to fulfill that promise,” he said.

Several dignitaries praised the governor’s efforts during the visit, including former Deputy Governor Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), Attorney-General Biriyai Dambo (SAN), Nembe Council Chairman Chief David Alagoa, and PDP chieftain Chief Blessing Izagara, who all commended the progress made on the Nembe–Brass road project.

Governor Diri also paid a courtesy visit to the Amanyanabo of Nembe Kingdom, King Edmund Daukoru (Mingi XIII), who expressed gratitude for the governor’s commitment to development. The monarch lauded Diri for returning to thank the people after the election, a gesture he described as rare among politicians.

“You’ve proved doubters wrong. You kept your word, and the blessings of this throne will remain with you,” the king said.

The governor’s entourage included several lawmakers, top government officials, and traditional leaders.