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Federal High Court in Lagos grants three Lagos State House of Assembly staff members bail

By
Imisioluwa Adeniran
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0

The Federal High Court in Lagos has granted bail to three Lagos State House of Assembly staff members accused of assaulting Department of State Services (DSS) officers during a confrontation on February 17, 2025. 

The defendants— Ibrahim Olanrewaju, Adetu Adekunle, and Fatimoh Adetola—were granted bail with a condition of 3 million Naira each and required to provide a Level 16 civil servant as surety.

The accused face charges including obstructing DSS officers from performing their duties at the Lagos Assembly and spreading false information online to incite unrest. They are also accused of using mobile devices to dis-seminate misleading content intended to disrupt public order.

The background to the confrontation lies in the ongoing political struggle at the Assembly, where former Speaker Muda-shiru Obasa was recently removed and replaced by his deputy, Mojisola Me-randa. Obasa, however, has refused to accept the change, declaring it unconstitutional and challenging it in court. The trial is set to commence on March 24, 2025.

INEC announces Notice of Polls for the Area Council elections in the FCT.

By
Imisioluwa Adeniran
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0
Inec
Inec

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC has announced the Notice of Polls for the Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory FCT, Abuja.

The elections are scheduled for February 21, 2026, and will commence at all polling units across the FCT.

In a statement released on Tuesday, INEC notified that only eligible voters with valid Permanent Voter Cards and whose names are listed on the voter register will be permitted to vote.

The commission also confirmed the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System – BVAS for the electoral process. INEC reiterated that voters must ensure that they possess PVCs to participate in the election which will cover the six Area Councils in the Federal Capital Territory.

Federal Government of Nigeria commits to Sustainable Economic Growth through Sustainable Policies

By
Imisioluwa Adeniran
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0

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has affirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to sustainable economic growth through resonating policies of sustainability.

Edun in a statement by the ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga, in Abuja stated that as Nigeria progresses on its path of economic growth and development, the Federal Government remains committed to implement initiatives with inclusive growth. He stressed that these efforts aim to improve the quality of life for all Nigerians.

This statement follows the recent report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS’) GDP data for the fourth quarter of 2024, with a growth of 3.84% year-on-year. This growth rate surpasses the 3.46% recorded in the same quarter of 2023 and the third quarter of 2024.

The Minister of Finance expressed his delight at the GDP data, highlighting the expansion of the services sector and the positive outcomes of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen food security through agricultural investments. He further emphasised that initiatives such as the direct benefit transfers scheme were vital in ensuring that economic growth translates into tangible improvements on the lives of Nigerians.

President Trump To Convene First Cabinet Meeting, with Musk in Attendance

By
Imisioluwa Adeniran
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0
TRUMP
TRUMP

President of the United States of America Donald Trump is set to hold his first Cabinet meeting since returning to office, with notable attendee billionaire Elon Musk, a key supporter and advisor, has been appointed to oversee the Department of Government Efficiency. 

Musk’s presence in Trump’s inner circle is not without controversy, but he is not the only polarising figure in the administration. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his vocal opposition to vaccines, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, who has drawn criticism for promoting conspiracy theories, and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host, will also be part of the meeting.

The confirmation process has not been entirely smooth, with some Republican lawmakers expressing concerns over specific appointments. Former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell was the only Republican senator to vote against Kennedy’s confirmation as Health Secretary, citing alarm from the medical community over his history of spreading vaccine misinformation. 

While most of Trump’s team is in place, a few nominees are still awaiting Senate approval.

Tax Reform: Give me a law that is workable – Tinubu tells Senate ….As Stakeholders throw weight behind proposed bills

By
NWN Editor
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0

Four months after forwarding to both Chambers of the National Assembly the tax reform bills for consideration and passage , President Bola Tinubu has told the Senate to give  him workable laws from the bills .

This is as various stakeholders in the polity , threw their weights behind the hitherto  contentious bills at the public hearing conducted by the Senate Committee on Finance in Abuja on Monday just as the Arewa Think Tank led by the convener , Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu , debunked insinuation that the Northern part of the country , was against the proposed laws .

President Tinubu’s request for workable laws from the bills which are  (i) The Nigeria Tax Bill 2024 , (ii) Nigerian Tax Administration Bill 2024, is ( iii) Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill 2024 and ( iv) Joint Revenue Board Bill 2024 , was disclosed by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance , Senator Sani Musa ( Niger East ) in his remarks at the public hearing .

” I met President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ( GCFR) two days ago on the tax reform bills and he told me that Mr Chairman , Senate Committee on Finance , go and do the needful .

” Give me a law that is workable from the tax reform bills I forwarded to the Senate and the House of Representatives in October last year .

” That request by Mr President came at a very auspicious  time of  this public hearing  on the tax reform bills which are not meant to add burden to any section of the country or give undue advantage to any section as well “, he said .

It would be recalled  that strident oppositions against the bills were raised by various groups last year which made it difficult for the House of Representatives to pass it for second reading last year while the Senate managed to do so on the 28th of November last .

However at the public hearing declared opened by the  President of the Senate , Senator Godswill Akpabio , all oppositions against the bills melted out as stakeholders one after the other , throwing their weights behind the proposed laws .

First to make submission , was the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun who the proposed laws are not aimed at taxing poverty but prosperity .

” The tax reform bills , as repeatedly explained at different fora since their introduction last year , are for modernization of our archaic tax laws towards effecting efficiency, equity and economic growth ” , he said .

Making similar submission , the Group Chief Executive Officer ( GCEO ) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited ( NNPCL) , Mele Kyari , said the entire oil and gas industry  is well disposed to the reform .

” The proposed tax reform bills to us in NNPCL , are very necessary enhancement of growth of the economy through a more efficient and effective tax collection mechanism .

” As the largest tax payer in Nigeria , NNPCL has studied the reform bills , and found the proposals to be reasonable and necessary”, he said .

Toeing a similar line in his own presentation , the Chairman of Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission ( RMAFC), Mohammed Shehu made a U – turn from earlier stance on the bills , by supporting them 100% .

He said : ” RMAFC is in support of the proposed tax reform but wants adjustments in the in the area of Value Added Tax ( VAT) distribution to sub-nationals .

” We hope that the proposed reform will address the issue of endless revenue remittance  reconciliation with NNPCL and others “.

The Chairman of Fiscal Responsibility Commission , Victor Muruako also supported the proposed reform bills by declaring that they are in tandem with the spirit and letters of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007.

In their separate presentations , the convener of Arewa Think Thank ,  Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu and representative of President of Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria , Professor Mohammed Bello Dogarawa , debunked the insinuation that the North was against the reform bills .

Specifically , the Convener of Arewa Think Tank said ” It is not true that the North is against the tax reform bills . We have seen the benefits and sensitized our people in the North on them “.

Earlier in his remarks before declaring the public hearing open , the President of the Senate said : ” The challenge before us transcends the simple act of passing new laws; it is about constructing a tax system that inspires confidence, promotes development, and fuels national growth. We cannot afford to be fragmented in our approach to revenue generation. Instead, we must come together—Federal, State, and Local Governments, alongside the private sector and civil society—to create a tax system that truly works for all”

Other Critical stakeholders like the Executive  Chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Service ( FIRS) , Mr Zacch Adedeji , the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria , Yemi Cardoso ,the Comptroller – Generals of Nigeria Customs Service and Nigeria Immigration Service , will remark at the session on Tuesday .

Sen Kalu Says Tinubu will Win second Term, declares IBB’s account of June 12 incomplete

By
NWN Editor
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0

Chairman of the South-East Development Commission ( SEDC ),Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will complete his two terms in office considering the level of successes he recorded in bold economic, social and political policies.

The Abia-North Lawmaker stated this on Tuesday while fielding questions from the Senate Journalists, who ambushed him at the lobby of the National Assembly.

Among other responses, the former Senate Chief Whip faulted narrative of the annulled June 12, 1993 Presidential election given by the former military president Ibrahim Babangida in his autobiography, ‘A Journey in Service describing IBB’S account as incomplete.

According to the former Abia Governor Babangida failed to mention the names of the Principal Actors that led to the annulment of the election widely adjudged as the freest, fairest, and most credible poll in the history of the country, that Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, popularly known as MKO Abiola, was the winner.

Giving more reasons why believed that President Tinubu will win a second term in office in 2027, Kalu pointed out that the ruling Party the All Progressives Congress ( APC ) remains firm in its decision to cede its 2027 Presidential Ticket to Tinubu in line with the zoning arrangement to maintain a North-South power balance.

Additionally Kalu mentioned the economic reform Policies of the President which he said iis already delivering positive economic results.

Using the Manufacturing sector as an example Kalu stated that the cost of production had reduced to 18.5 percent from 23 percent which it was last year.

He said; ” The good news is that we shall win again and President Tinubu will return.

“To be honest with you Asiwaju will win, many Presidents in Nigeria who have not done very well—I won’t call any names and they won their second term. We are appealing to Nigerians to support us.

“We are not going to ruffle ourselves with the APC convention. We have only one Presidential candidate which is Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“In line with democratic ethics we are not looking for any other person or candidate but the problem of Nigeria is that you people don’t like to consolidate gains of reforms.

Asking Nigerians to exercise more patience with the administration, Kalu said the stability in the exchange rate is also another indication that the President’s reforms are yielding positive results.

“It might be very difficult today, very hard and people are complaining but the reform is trickling down, somebody just told me this morning that the Dollar is 1490, so the reform is working but we should be patient.

“I am a manufacturer and I can tell you that Manufacturing costs have gone up, last year it was 23 percent but early this year it has gone down to about 18.5 percent. You can confirm from the The Lagos Chamber Of Commerce And Industry (LCCCI) what I am giving you is the real fact.

“I believe that there is hope in these reforms. It is difficult everywhere in the world but the most important thing is that initially they were done in a hurry now the President is taking time with his economic team and you can see that the President is making wilder consultations.

Speaking on a recent Book released by former Military president Ibrahim Babangida, Kalu stressed that he anticipates a second edition as IBB’S account of June 12 failed to capture the entire events that led the annulment of the 1993 Presidential elections.

Though Kalu appreciated the President for admitting that Moshood Abiola was the true winner of the election, he however said that the former Military president ought to have mentioned the names of those behind the annulment including the courageous role played by the then National Electoral Commission (NEC), Humphrey Nwosu.

He said; “Ibrahim Babangida is my Master and everybody knows and I am going to visit him very soon and discuss with him.

“I am waiting for the second edition. The first edition did not reveal all the realities of what happened, especially when it concerns Humprey Nwosu and INEC.

Babangida should tell us , not only Abacha, he should mention names of those who stopped him from declaring Abiola as the winner.

“I was there and I know what happened, he published a second edition and mentioned their names and Nigerians will know what really happened.

Kalu also thanked Babangida for erasing the false narrative that the Igbo Tribe orchestrated the 1966 coup events that led to the military mutiny that ousted the then civilian administration led by Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa.

“Because people are thinking that Babangida lied but I am very grateful the coup they called Igbo coup has been clarified , although I don’t need Babangida to tell me that the Coup was not executed by the Igbos , that is why I am a true Nigerian.

“That coup was a Nigerian coup planned and executed by the Military and some people failed to do their job and their Igbos are bearing the brunt and that is not fair to the Igbos.

Following the confession of Ibrahim Babangida, Kalu appealed to President Tinubu to accord the Late Presidential Candidate Moshood Abiola full Presidential honours.

Kalu urged Tinubu to swear in Abiol as the duly elected President of the June 12 , 1993 Presidential election in Postmortem and including the inclusion of his Presidential portrait among other Past Presidents of the Country.

According to Kalu through such the Abiola family will be healed and compensated from the electoral tragedy which befell them and the nation.

“Abiola won the election and there is no doubt about that , I want them to put Abiola’s picture where other former President’s pictures are placed. I will appeal to President Tinubu to swear him in Postmortem.

“I am thankful to President Buhari who gave him the National Award but he should be sworn in Postmortem so the family will be healed and given the rights they give to former President’s.

Kalu urged Nigerians to protect the Nation’s democracy, he also paid solidarity to the Nigerian Army for the sacrifices while calling for investment in the Agricultural sector as well as the elimination of Terrorists occupying the Nation’s land areas.

Kalu discouraged the disbursements of cash grants to individuals to solve the economic challenges;

“The Nigerian democracy has come to stay and I am very grateful to the Nigerian Army and their sacrifices. Some of them are being killed in the battlefield trying to safeguard our Nation.

“We must go back to Agriculture to make progress. We must retrieve our lands occupied by bandits and other Terrorists. Dashing of money should stop. We should put those money to Agriculture and other productive ventures, Kalu said.

When asked for his opinion of the face off between Senator Natasha Akpoti and the Senate President Godswill Akpabio over sitting arrangement, Kalu declined to comment saying that the incident was a matter that will be settled within the Senate Chambers as it would be an error to discuss such matter in public.

T-Plan Raises Alarm Over Rising Drug Addiction Among Youths and Housewives

By
NWN Editor
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0

A growing crisis of drug addiction among Nigerian youths and housewives has prompted T-Plan National Palliative (T-Plan) to take urgent action. The organisation has expressed deep concern over the rising number of individuals affected by substance abuse across the country.

Dr Aminu Aminu Bizi, National Project Coordinator for Financial Inclusion, Media, and Palliative, shared shocking revelations in Abuja, stating that even drug dealers confirm the widespread issue. According to him, young people and housewives are increasingly falling victim to drug addiction, with many families unaware of the problem in their own homes.

In response, T-Plan is launching a Drug Rehabilitation Committee, which will operate at both the zonal and state levels. Dr Bizi stressed the need for urgent intervention to reduce the number of young people being manipulated by politicians while under the influence of drugs.

“We must ensure that our youths are no longer used as political pawns while under the influence of drugs. It is a battle we can win together,” he stated.

Rather than criminalising addiction, Dr Bizi called for a compassionate and rehabilitative approach.

“We do not see drug addicts as enemies. Instead, we must embrace them and provide the necessary support to help them recover,” he said.

He warned that drug abuse is a key driver of violent crime, with many offenders committing shocking acts under the influence of narcotics.

“People kill for as little as 5,000 naira to sustain their drug habits. This is a failure of society – politicians, families, and all of us included,” he lamented.

Dr Bizi also highlighted the alarming increase in drug use among women and young girls, stressing that parental vigilance is crucial.

“Many housewives and daughters are struggling with drug addiction. Parents often go to work without realising the crisis happening within their own homes,” he warned.

T-Plan is urging religious leaders, educators, and civil society organisations to join forces in the fight against drug abuse.

“This is not just about the government. It is about all of us coming together. We need Nigerians from all walks of life to support this initiative. Schools, universities, and communities must work hand in hand to tackle this growing problem,” he urged.

He further linkd drug addiction to the nation’s insecurity, pointing out that many criminals operate under the influence of substances.

“No politician can feel safe in their hometowns anymore because unemployed, drug-addicted youths pose a real security threat,” he added.

As the issue worsens, T-Plan is committed to driving solutions focused on rehabilitation, awareness, and collective action to create a safer, healthier society.

 

Wahala for Who No Get Boo: Navigating Valentine’s Day in Nigeria

By
OLORImetsuda
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0

Valentine’s Day: a day of roses, chocolates, and romantic dinners—or so it seems if you’re coupled up. But what about the singles navigating through the sea of red hearts and public displays of affection? Fear not, fellow singles in Nigeria, for Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be a day of gloom and self-pity. In fact, with the right mindset and a dash of humor, you can not only survive but thrive during this love-struck season.

Embrace Your Freedom

First things first, remember that being single on Valentine’s Day has its perks. You have the freedom to treat yourself without the pressure of impressing someone else. Whether it’s indulging in your favorite meal, binge-watching your beloved TV series, or simply pampering yourself with a spa day, take full advantage of the opportunity to cherish your own company.

Celebrate Friendship

In Nigeria, Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romantic love—it’s also about celebrating friendships. Plan a gathering with your single friends for a fun-filled day or night out. Organize a potluck dinner, go for a movie marathon, or hit the town for some dancing. Surrounding yourself with friends who uplift and support you can turn Valentine’s Day into a memorable occasion filled with laughter and camaraderie.

Find Humor in the Situation

Let’s face it, the exaggerated displays of love on Valentine’s Day can be amusing if you look at them with the right perspective. Share funny anecdotes with your friends about past Valentine’s Day mishaps or quirky encounters. From dodging overzealous street vendors selling heart-shaped balloons to witnessing awkward public proposals, there’s no shortage of humorous situations to lighten the mood.

Treat Yourself (You Deserve It!)

Who says you can’t spoil yourself just because you’re single? Treat yourself to something special—a new outfit, a fancy dessert, or that gadget you’ve been eyeing for months. Use Valentine’s Day as a reason to practice self-love and appreciate all the wonderful qualities that make you unique.

Volunteer or Give Back

Valentine’s Day can also be an opportunity to spread love beyond romantic relationships. Consider volunteering at a local charity or organization, where you can make a positive impact in your community. Whether it’s spending time with children at an orphanage or helping out at a shelter, sharing your time and kindness can bring immense fulfillment and joy.

Remember: It’s Just One Day

Above all, remember that Valentine’s Day is just one day out of the year. The hype and commercialization surrounding it can make it seem like a big deal, but it’s ultimately a day like any other. Focus on the relationships and activities that bring you genuine happiness throughout the year, rather than fixating on a single day.

So, there you have it—tips and tricks to not only survive but enjoy Valentine’s Day as a single person in Nigeria. Embrace your independence, cherish your friendships, find humor in the quirks of the day, and treat yourself like the royalty you are. Whether you spend the day solo or surrounded by friends, make it a day to celebrate love in all its forms. After all, as they say in Nigeria, “Wahala for who no get boo!”

at’s what your brand is about.

WCAA Kicks Off Cancer Advocacy in Nigeria, Pledges to Empower Women

By
NWN Editor
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0

The African Women Cancer Awareness Association (AWCAA) has officially commenced operations in Nigeria, reaffirming its commitment to empowering women through cancer education, early detection, and access to life-saving treatment.

In a statement released on Friday in Abuja, the organisation revealed that preparations for its official launch on February 13, 2025, began on World Cancer Day, underscoring its dedication to tackling cancer-related challenges in Nigeria.

AWCAA’s founder, Ify Nwabukwu, reiterated the organisation’s mission to reduce cancer mortality rates across the country. She stressed the importance of collaboration with existing organisations and government agencies to promote early detection and improve access to quality treatment.

“AWCAA is actively advocating for a reduction in cancer mortality rates in Nigeria by ensuring more women receive early diagnoses, access to care, and the support they need.

Beyond treatment, we are committed to breaking the stigma associated with cancer. As a survivor, I understand the urgency of this mission,” Nwabukwu stated.

The official AWCAA Nigeria launch will begin with a women-focused wellness event in Lagos, supported by BellaNaija and LoStudio, before the main event in Abuja on February 13, 2025. During the Abuja launch, AWCAA will unveil key initiatives aimed at reducing cancer-related deaths and providing holistic support for women battling the disease.

Also speaking at the event, Dr Nnesochi Offor, a member of AWCAA, highlighted the critical role of prevention, early detection, and healthy lifestyle choices in the fight against cancer.

“Cancer doesn’t always have a single known cause, but research has linked it to unhealthy lifestyle choices, including diets high in carcinogenic substances,” Dr Offor explained.

With AWCAA now expanding its reach into Nigeria, the organisation aims to drive awareness, support, and systemic change, ensuring more women receive timely interventions and comperhensive care.

Bodies recovered from Potomac River after plane, helicopter collision

By
NWN Editor
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0

Rescue teams combed the icy waters of Washington’s Potomac River on Thursday in an urgent search for survivors after a mid-air collision between a passenger jet and a military helicopter led to both aircraft plunging into the river.

Despite an overnight operation that stretched nearly 12 hours, much of it in complete darkness, authorities had yet to confirm any survivors. “We’re going to be out there as long as it takes,” Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser told reporters.

Citing local sources, CBS News reported that at least 19 bodies had been recovered, while NBC put the toll at 30. Emergency vessels, equipped with powerful searchlights, continued scouring the crash site at dawn, while divers deployed from inflatables meticulously searched the wreckage-strewn waters.

The passenger jet, a Bombardier aircraft operated by an American Airlines subsidiary, was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. It was approaching Reagan National Airport around 9:00 p.m. (0200 GMT) following its departure from Wichita, Kansas, when it collided with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter.

The military aircraft, carrying three soldiers, was reportedly conducting a training flight. Both aircraft crashed into the Potomac River following the impact. Dramatic air traffic control recordings captured moments before the collision, with controllers repeatedly instructing the helicopter to ensure it had the passenger jet “in sight.” Just before the crash, they directed the helicopter to “pass behind” the plane.

“I just saw a fireball, and it was gone,” an air traffic controller was heard saying after losing communication with the helicopter. Witness Ari Schulman, who was driving nearby, described the horrifying scene. “Initially, I saw the plane, and it looked normal,” he told CNN. “Three seconds later, it banked sharply to the right

The underside was glowing bright yellow, and there was a stream of sparks beneath it. It looked like a Roman candle.” US Figure Skating confirmed that several athletes, coaches, and officials were aboard the ill-fated flight. Russian authorities also confirmed that Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, a married couple who won the 1994 world pairs figure skating title, were among the passengers.

In the wake of the disaster, American Airlines’ chief executive released a video statement expressing “deep sorrow,” while US Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas described the collision as “nothing short of a nightmare.” President Donald Trump, in an official statement, acknowledged being “fully briefed” on the tragedy.

However, he took to social media to criticise the handling of air traffic control instructions. “The aeroplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the aeroplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Why didn’t the helicopter go up or down, or turn? Why didn’t the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane? This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!”

Experts warned that survival chances in the frigid waters were slim. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recorded the Potomac’s temperature at 36 degrees Fahrenheit (2.2 degrees Celsius) on Wednesday.

According to the National Weather Service, exposure to such cold water can cause shock within the first minute, loss of muscle control within 10 minutes, and hypothermia within 20 to 30 minutes. In response to the disaster, the Federal Aviation Administration ordered a temporary grounding of all flights at Reagan National.

The incident has raised questions about how a passenger plane, equipped with modern collision-avoidance technology and monitored by air traffic controllers, could collide with a military helicopter in the heavily regulated airspace over the US capital.

Washington’s skies are typically crowded with commercial aircraft and helicopters transporting military personnel, government officials, and emergency responders. The tragedy also recalls the deadly January 1982 crash at the same airport, when Air Florida Flight 90, a Boeing 737, failed to gain altitude after take-off, struck the 14th Street Bridge, and crashed into the frozen Potomac River, killing 78 people. Rescue efforts continue as authorities work to recover the remaining bodies and investigate the cause of the fatal collision.

*(AFP contributed to this report.)

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