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Warner Bros. blasts ByteDance for AI Videos of Superman, Batman and ‘Game of Thrones’

Warner Bros. has joined a parade of studios in blasting ByteDance for “blatant infringement” on its new AI video service, accusing the Chinese company of facilitating user-generated knockoffs of its iconic characters.

The studio’s legal counsel fired off a letter on Tuesday to John Rogovin, the general counsel of ByteDance who happens to have previously worked as general counsel at Warner Bros. The letter takes note of Rogovin’s prior service in defense of the copyrights of Superman and Batman.

“These characters are the lifeblood of the company,” wrote Wayne Smith, the executive VP of legal at Warner Bros. Studios. “ByteDance is now engaged in blatant infringement of the very same properties you spent many years protecting.”

Warner Bros. demanded that ByteDance cease training on its characters and implement guardrails to prevent further infringement.

ByteDance, the owner of TikTok, released Seedance 2.0 last week, announcing it represents a “substantial leap in generation quality” over the prior versions. Within days, social media sites were flooded with cinematic-looking clips of Tom Cruise fighting Brad Pitt, Batman fighting Spider-Man, Superman fighting Thanos, and other permutations.

Users also posted “alternate endings” to films and TV shows, including one of the HBO series “Game of Thrones.”

The Motion Picture Association and SAG-AFTRA quickly denounced the new platform, while Disney and Paramount sent cease and desist letters last week. On Monday, ByteDance pledged to implement additional safeguards “as we work to prevent the unauthorised use of intellectual property and likeness by users.”

That promise did not satisfy Warner Bros., which said in its letter that the focus on users is misplaced.

“[T]he users are not the ones at the root cause of the infringement,” Smith wrote. “They are merely building on the foundation of infringement already laid by ByteDance as Seedance comes pre-loaded with Warner Bros. Discovery’s copyrighted characters. That was a deliberate design choice by ByteDance.”

The letter cites posts on X, formerly Twitter, that include Seedance videos of characters from “The Matrix,” “The Lord of the Rings,” “Harry Potter,” “Rick and Morty,” and “Game of Thrones.” It also cites fight scenes involving Batman, Catwoman, and Superman.

Warner Bros. acknowledges that ByteDance appears to be taking steps to block text prompts involving its characters.

“While this is a promising indication that we may resolve this dispute business to business, it nonetheless begs the question why guardrails that can so quickly and easily be implemented were not present upon Seedance’s release,” the letter states. (Variety)

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Poly lecturers hail Tinubu for Ekiti road expansion

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics, Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti Chapter, has lauded the Federal Government for the expansion of Ado-Ijan-Ikare Road in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, which is the road leading to the institution.

The lecturers, in a statement by the ASUP-FPA Chairman, Caleb Adeosun, and the Publicity Secretary, Oyewale Oyelola, made available in Ado Ekiti on Thursday, also appreciated the efforts of the senators, Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central), Yemi Adaramodu (South) and Cyril Fasuyi (North), “for facilitating the expansion of the major access road to the polytechnic, which havre been in a deplorable state for many years”.

“ASUP-FPA appreciates the efforts of the three senators representing Ekiti State at the National Assembly who amplified our concerns over the deplorable state of the polytechnic road.

“Particularly, we appreciate the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who invited union leaders to a meeting at his constituency office in March 2024 and gave the polytechnic community assurance after we staged a protest over the deplorable state of Ado–Ijan-Ikare Road,” the lecturers stated.

They, however, urged the senators “to continue to perform their oversight functions and ensure the delivery of quality work by the contractor handling the project”.

The union, while appreciating the senators representing the state for the ongoing expansion work, said, “We know their efforts led to the development and steady progress on the road.

“Our union does not only agitate or criticise. As a progressive-minded union, we also applaud the government when we deem it fit”, the lecturers stated.

The union also praised Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for the construction of the Ring Road linking the Ado Ekiti – Ijan Road to Afao – Iworoko – Ado Ekiti Road.

They said, “The Ring Road is a great relief to staff members of the polytechnic because it has reduced traffic on the institution’s road and travel time.

“The union also appreciated the Founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, for “consistently using his resources to carry out palliative rehabilitation on the Ado – Ijan – Ikare Road over the years”.

Recall that recently, contractors began rehabilitation work on the Ado – Ijan axis of the Ado – Ijan – Ikare Road, a federal road linking Ekiti State with states including Ondo and Kogi, which has been in deplorable condition over the years.

Establishments including Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti, ABUAD, Ekiti Knowledge Zone and Ekiti Cargo International Airport are situated along the Ado – Ijan axis of the federal road. (Punch)

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EPL: Arsenal blow two-goal lead as 20th place Wolves rally 2-2 late draw

Arsenal saw a two-goal lead slip away in a dramatic 2‑2 draw at Molineux Stadium after dominating much of the match.

Bukayo Saka opened the scoring early — ending a personal 15‑game goal drought — and Piero Hincapié doubled Arsenal’s lead, but Wolves fought back through a superb Hugo Bueno strike and a late own goal resulting from a mix‑up in the Arsenal defence to level the score.

The result means Arsenal drop crucial points in the title race and hand Manchester City a possible lifeline for the Premier League lead.

The night also brought a worry for Arsenal fans, as Saka had to be substituted due to a hip injury after his early goal — adding to fitness concerns during this pivotal part of the season.

The end of the game saw heated moments, including post‑match tensions between players from both sides.

Wolves, bottom of the league, will be buoyed by the fightback and the draw against the league leaders.

PUNCH Online reports that the Gunners will play Tottenham on Sunday, February 22, 2026 in a North London derby.

As obtained in a post-match report on the Arsenal website, four players have scored their first-ever Premier League goal against us this season, three of whom have done so for Wolves: Tolu Arokodare in December, and both Hugo Bueno and Tom Edozie tonight (also Brian Brobbey for Sunderland in November).

Edozie was the seventh player to score on his Premier League debut against the side starting the day top of the table, and first since Antony for Manchester United against Arsenal in September 2022.

This was the first time in Premier League history that a side starting the day bottom of the table avoided defeat to the side starting the day top despite trailing by 2+ goals.

Wolves avoided defeat in a Premier League home game in which they trailed by 2+ goals for the first time since beating Manchester City 3-2 in December 2019, ending a 31-game losing run on home soil from two down.

Bukayo Saka scored his first goal in all competitions since December against Brentford – ending a run of 15 appearances for Arsenal without scoring, his longest goal drought for the club. (Punch)

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Kogi CP deploys enhanced patrols for Ramadan, Lent security

The Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Police Command, CP Naziru Kankarofi, has deployed enhanced patrols to places of worship and other public spaces.

This is as he called on all residents to support ongoing efforts aimed at maintaining peace, security and public order throughout the state during the Ramadan and Lent period.

This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday in Lokoja by the public relations officer, ASP Saliu Afusat.

The statement reads, “The Commissioner of Police assures the public that the Command has put in place comprehensive security measures across the State, including enhanced visibility patrols, strategic deployments to places of worship and other public spaces, as well as intelligence-led operations to prevent crime and respond swiftly to any security concerns.”

In Christianity, Lent is a solemn 40-day season marked by fasting, self-denial, and repentance, inspired by the period Jesus Christ spent in the wilderness preparing for His crucifixion.

In Islam, Ramadan is a holy month devoted to fasting, increased prayers, and deep spiritual reflection, observed as one of the five pillars of Islam and a time that emphasises complete submission to God.

He reiterates that the Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and ensuring that all residents go about their lawful activities without fear.

Kankarofi urges residents to remain vigilant and security conscious, particularly during early morning and late evening activities.

He advises members of the public to promptly report suspicious persons or movements to the nearest Police Station or through the Command’s emergency numbers: 0703 832 9084, 0815 219 9999.

He further cautions against reckless driving, unlawful gatherings, and any conduct capable of disturbing public peace and order.

The CP also calls on parents, guardians, religious leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups and community stakeholders to use the period to promote peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and respect for the rule of law.

He emphasised that security is a shared responsibility and encourages sustained cooperation with the Police and other security agencies through timely and credible information sharing.

“The Commissioner reassures the good people of Kogi State that under his leadership, the Command will continue to uphold professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights while strengthening strategies to address emerging security challenges.

He appreciates the continued support of the Government and people of Kogi State and urges all residents to remain law-abiding to ensure a peaceful and secure Ramadan period for everyone.” The PPRO added. (Punch)

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Wike hails Tinubu for signing Electoral Act Amendment Bill promptly

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has hailed President Bola Tinubu for the prompt signing of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026 into law.

Wike, in a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Mr Lere Olayinka, in Abuja on Wednesday, described the development as “apt.”

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Tinubu on Wednesday signed the Act into law, which was passed by the National Assembly on Tuesday.

The amendment comes amid intense public debate over the electronic transmission of election results in real time.

The harmonised report of the bill, including the contentious Section 60(3), was passed by both chambers of the National Assembly.

Wike described Tinubu’s assent as a demonstration of his commitment to deepening the democratic process by making elections more credible.

According to him, the development has ended unnecessary protests over the Electoral Act.

“Democracy has always been a work in progress due to the evolving democratic process. However, we will keep getting better by always looking into the Electoral Act with a view to strengthening our democratic process.

“I, therefore, congratulate Mr President and the National Assembly members for playing their roles in this dispensation to make democracy stronger.

“Particularly, I commend the President for not keeping Nigerians waiting for more than 24 hours before signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill into law,” he said. (Punch)

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Gov Mbah participates in Holy Mass ushering Lenten season, urges unity

The Governor of Enugu State, Peter N Mbah on Wednesday morning joined the Christian faithful at the Government House Chapel, Enugu for the Holy Mass marking Ash Wednesday, ushering Christians into the sacred season of Lent. In his message posted on his X page @PNMbah, he wished the faithful spirit-filled Lenten season. He stressed:

“Ash Wednesday calls us to prayer, fasting, humility, and reflection — a reminder that we are from dust and to dust we shall return. It is a time to realign our hearts with love, service, and compassion.

“Significantly, this year’s Lent coincides with the beginning of Ramadan for our Muslim brothers and sisters, a powerful convergence that reminds us that while our paths of worship may differ, our shared values of faith, sacrifice, and devotion to God unite us.

“May this sacred season renew our commitment to unity, peace, and service to one another. I wish all Christians and Muslims a spiritually enriching Lenten and Ramadan season.

“As we begin this Lenten journey, may we find grace in the quiet moments, strength in sincere reflection, and renewal in the gentle spaces where God meets us most tenderly. May this season refine us, soften our hearts, and draw us closer to His purpose for our lives.

“May the ashes remind us not only of our frailty, but of the enduring mercy that renews us daily.

“Wishing all Christian faithful a meaningful and grace-filled Lent.” (PremiumTimes)

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Tinubu signs Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 into law

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday signed the Electoral Act 2026 (Amendment) Bill into law, setting the legal framework for the conduct of the 2027 general elections just days after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) unveiled the official election timetable.

The brief signing ceremony was held at the State House, Abuja, at about 5:00 p.m., with principal officers of the National Assembly and senior government officials in attendance.

The amendment bill was passed by both chambers of the National Assembly on Tuesday following weeks of legislative consideration and public engagement on key electoral reforms.

The new law is expected to introduce adjustments aimed at strengthening transparency, improving logistics and addressing operational gaps observed in previous election cycles.

The assent comes against the backdrop of heightened national debate over the electronic transmission of election results, which has remained one of the most contentious aspects of Nigeria’s electoral process.

Civil society organisations, opposition parties and pro-democracy groups have in recent weeks intensified advocacy for mandatory real-time electronic transmission of results from polling units directly to INEC’s central database.

Only last week, protesters gathered at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, urging lawmakers to enshrine live result transmission in the amended law.

The demonstrators argued that instantaneous electronic uploads would significantly curb manipulation during collation, enhance transparency and rebuild public trust in election outcomes.

However, the push has faced resistance from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and some electoral stakeholders who caution that Nigeria’s uneven telecommunications coverage could undermine full digital implementation.

They have instead canvassed a phased or hybrid system that would permit manual collation in areas where network infrastructure is unreliable or non-existent, while electronic transmission operates where technically feasible.

Observers say the signing of the amendment signals the administration’s intention to conclude electoral reforms well ahead of the 2027 polls, giving INEC sufficient time to align regulations, deploy technology and conduct voter education.

Political analysts also note that early legal clarity may reduce pre-election disputes and provide a clearer operational roadmap for political parties and candidates.

Further details of the specific provisions contained in the amended Act are expected to be released by the Presidency and the National Assembly in the coming days. (Guardian)

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33 feared dead in Plateau mine explosion

An explosion has reportedly killed 33 persons at a mining site in Kampani Zurak, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The state Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mrs Joyce Ramnap, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Jos, the state capital.

The commissioner, who commiserated with the families who lost their loved ones, said the injured were currently receiving treatment at hospitals.

“The Plateau Government received with deep shock and profound sadness reports of a tragic explosion at a mining site in Kampani Zurak, reportedly owned by Solid Unit Nig. Ltd.

“Preliminary information has it that 33 persons were said to have been inside the mining tunnel at the time of the explosion.

“Others who sustained injuries are currently receiving treatment in nearby hospitals.

“Government is deeply concerned about the development and is working closely with relevant security agencies, emergency responders and health authorities to ensure that the situation is brought under control,” she said.

The commissioner, however, called on residents of the community to remain calm and law-abiding.

Earlier this month, in another local government, the Chairman of Bokkos LGA, Amalau Samuel Amalau, ordered the immediate suspension of all mining activities—both legal and illegal—across the council.

The measures followed a series of deadly assaults on local miners, which reportedly led to the killing of youths by gunmen suspected to be militias.

On January 22, PUNCH Online reported that gunmen attacked a mining site in the Kuru community, Jos South Local Government Area, killing seven people.

Similarly, on December 17, PUNCH reported a tragic incident in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, where 12 people were killed at night by suspected militia members. The incident reportedly occurred at a mining site in the Ratoso Fan community of the council area. (Punch)

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UK to issue eVisas to Nigerian travellers from February 25

Nigerian travellers to the United Kingdom will begin receiving electronic visas instead of physical visa stickers from February 25, 2026.

The announcement was made in a statement on Monday by the Senior Communications Officer at the British High Commission in Abuja, Onyinye Madu.

“From 25 February 2026, all Nigerian nationals applying for a UK Visit visa will receive an eVisa, rather than a vignette (sticker) in their passports,” the statement said.

Under the new system, the commission said successful applicants will access their visa electronically through a UK Visas and Immigration account, marking a shift toward a fully digital visa process.

It explained that the requirements for Nigerian applicants remain unchanged, saying “Travellers will continue to apply online, attend a Visa Application Centre to provide biometric information, and meet all existing eligibility criteria.”

The only change, it noted, is the format in which the visa is issued, saying that instead of a physical sticker, applicants will receive a secure digital record of their immigration status.

It added that Nigerians who already hold valid vignette stickers do not need to take any action, as their physical visas will remain valid until they expire or require replacement.

Highlighting the benefits of the transition, the commission stated, “The move to eVisas brings a number of benefits for Nigerian travellers. Passports will be returned more quickly, and travellers can manage their immigration status online at any time, from any location. The digital format offers stronger security as eVisas cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with.”

Also commenting on the development, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, Gill Lever, said the change would simplify the process for travellers.

“We are committed to making it easier for Nigerians to travel to the UK. This move to digital visas will streamline a key part of the visa process, making it more secure while reducing dependence on paper documents. We look forward to continuing to welcome Nigerian visitors, students and workers to the UK,” she said.

According to the statement, once a visa application is approved, applicants will be required to create a free UKVI account to access their eVisa. (Punch)

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Arsenal make Saka best-paid player with new deal

England winger Bukayo Saka has signed a new five-year contract with Arsenal until 2031.

Sources have told BBC Sport that the agreement will make Saka the club’s best-paid player on wages in excess of £300,000 a week.

Talks over a new deal have been ongoing for nearly a year, with Saka verbally agreeing to commit his future to the club in January.

Saka signed his previous deal, which was due to expire in 2027, in 2023 but his renewal means the 24-year-old has committed his peak years to the Gunners.

The news comes as a major boost for the Gunners, as they battle on four fronts to win silverware for the first time since 2020.

The agreement is the latest example of Arsenal tying down their key players to long-term contracts as they look to keep their title-chasing squad together.

William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly all signed new long-term contracts in the summer.

Saka has scored seven goals in 33 appearances for the Gunners this term.

He made his first-team debut as a 17-year-old in 2018 after coming through Arsenal’s academy and has gone on to make 217 Premier League appearances, scoring 57 goals.

Saka is 116 Premier League appearances behind Ray Parlour’s record 333 for the Gunners and will have been a professional at the club for 13 years when his new deal expires in 2031.

Saka has scored 14 goals in 48 appearances for England and is expected to be part of Thomas Tuchel’s squad for the World Cup which begins in June.

Arsenal are four points clear at the top of the Premier League and they will face Manchester City in the EFL Cup final in March.

The Gunners are also through to the the knockout stages of the Champions League, as well as the fifth round of the FA Cup. (BBC)