The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday rejected a request by former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, to retrieve his international passport, citing the absence of a signature on the medical report submitted with the application.
While ruling on the matter during the resumed hearing of the money laundering case brought against Bello by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Justice Emeka Nwite held that, contrary to the prosecution’s claim, the application did not amount to an abuse of court process.
Bello had sought the release of his passport to enable him to travel to the United Kingdom for medical treatment.
The judge noted that the defence counsel had argued that Bello had been managing hypertension for over 15 years.
Lead counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, had presented Exhibits A and B—medical documents that outlined the applicant’s health condition—and submitted that sufficient evidence had been provided to warrant a favourable exercise of the court’s discretion.
Justice Nwite also noted the prosecution’s argument that the application constituted an abuse of process.
The prosecution urged the court to reject the motion, arguing that the reliefs sought were repetitive and that the application was procedurally defective because the defendant’s sureties had not been notified.
Addressing the surety issue, the judge clarified that the case before the court was Yahaya Bello v. Federal Republic of Nigeria, not Yahaya Bello v. the sureties.
He further agreed with the defence counsel’s submission that the sureties were not relevant to the present application and should not be part of the motion.
“The counsel to the complainant did not cite any section of the law that says sureties should be given notice or made a party in the motion on notice.
“The counsel did not cite any law, whether locally or internationally, to back his argument.
“On the abuse of process of court, it is the argument of the complainant that the instant application is incompetent and amounts to abuse of court process.
“It is not in dispute that the applicant is standing trial before this court and the FCT court, and it is not in dispute that the applicant was granted bail in this court on December 13, 2024 and at the FCT High Court on December 19, 2024.
“The FCT High Court, in its ruling, said that the applicant must seek the leave of the court. Hence, this instant application does not amount to an abuse of the court process.
“It is also the fact that this court and the FCT High Court are courts of coordinate jurisdiction,” Justice Nwite stated.
The court, however, ruled that Exhibit B—a medical report submitted by a doctor—was not signed and therefore held no legal standing.
It stressed that an unsigned document has no legal relevance and is effectively considered invalid.
In essence, the judge stated that Exhibit B lacks evidential value and cannot be used as a basis for any judicial decision.
“The defendant has failed to place sufficient material before this court for his passport to be released for him to travel. Consequently, this application is hereby refused,” Justice Nwite said.
The case was subsequently adjourned to October 7 and 10, as well as November 10 and 11, 2025, for the continuation of the trial.
Court rejects Yahaya Bello’s Travel Bid
Meta, X, LinkedIn Contest Italy’s Landmark Digital Tax Case
Major U.S. digital platforms Meta, X, and LinkedIn have filed formal objections against a unique tax claim from Italy, a legal standoff that may influence how digital services are taxed across Europe, according to insiders familiar with the matter.
This marks the first time Italian authorities have pushed a case this far without negotiating a settlement with global tech firms, leading instead to a formal court battle in the country’s tax system.
Insiders say the case has broader implications beyond monetary penalties, as it touches on the fundamental way social media companies provide access to their services in exchange for user data.
Italian tax officials argue that free sign-ups to Meta, X, and LinkedIn platforms constitute a commercial exchange — with personal information effectively traded for digital access — and should therefore be subject to value-added tax (VAT).
The situation is considered delicate given the ongoing trade friction between the European Union and the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.
Italian authorities are seeking a total of roughly €1.04 billion in unpaid VAT — €887.6 million from Meta, €12.5 million from X, and about €140 million from LinkedIn.
All three tech giants submitted their challenges after the July deadline for responding to the official notice passed. The notices had been issued earlier in March by Italy’s tax agency.
Tax experts say the legal strategy Italy is pursuing could have sweeping consequences across various industries — from retail to aviation and online publishing — where free access is commonly tied to users’ consent for data collection. If upheld, this approach could eventually be adopted throughout the EU, where VAT rules are unified.
In a public statement, Meta said it had worked “fully with the authorities on our obligations under EU and local law” but emphasized that it “strongly disagrees with the idea that providing access to online platforms to users should be subject to VAT.”
LinkedIn responded that it had “nothing to share at this time.” X has not issued any comment.
Rome Plans EU-Level Guidance
Whether this dispute proceeds to a full trial remains unclear, especially given the lengthy process in Italy’s judicial system — often stretching over a decade and involving multiple court stages.
Authorities are now preparing to consult the European Commission for guidance. Specific legal questions will first be drawn up by Italy’s tax agency and sent through the Economy Ministry to the EU VAT Committee, which meets twice yearly.
Rome intends to submit the questions by early November, aiming to receive feedback ahead of the committee’s next session in spring 2026.
Officials from Italy’s Economy Ministry and its tax agency have declined to comment on the issue.
While the VAT Committee’s guidance is not legally binding, a negative opinion could lead Italy to reconsider the case and potentially terminate an ongoing criminal probe into the companies involved.
This case joins a growing list of tensions between European governments and large American tech firms.
One recent report also noted that an EU inquiry into platform X — regarding alleged violations of online transparency laws — has been temporarily put on hold as broader trade negotiations with the U.S. continue.
Victor Osimhen Set for Permanent Galatasaray Move As Marcus Rashford Joins Barcelona On Loan
After weeks of negotiations, Turkish giants Galatasaray have finalized a deal with Antonio Conte’s Napoli for the permanent signing of Victor Osimhen, following his sensational loan spell last season. The Nigerian international, who netted 37 goals in 41 appearances during the 2024–25 campaign, will officially rejoin Galatasaray after rejecting a massive €160 million contract offer from Saudi Arabia.
According to Turkish journalist Hakan Gündoğar, the 26-year-old forward is scheduled to arrive in Istanbul on Tuesday, where he will be presented to fans with what’s expected to be a “historic welcome.” Multiple top-tier transfer reporters have confirmed the deal, which includes an initial €40 million payment to Napoli, followed by a further €35 million next year. Additionally, Napoli have secured a 10% sell-on clause, and a restriction has been placed preventing Galatasaray from selling Osimhen to an Italian club for the next two years.
Osimhen is set to sign a four-year contract in Istanbul, earning an impressive €18 million annually, as reported by Italian journalist Nicolo Schira.
Despite receiving interest from Premier League clubs such as Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Newcastle United, none were able to meet Osimhen’s wage expectations. The striker, determined to remain in Europe, ultimately opted for a return to Galatasaray over a lucrative move to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League.
Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford has arrived in Barcelona ahead of completing a season-long loan move from Manchester United. The 27-year-old England international will undergo his medical this week and, if all goes according to plan, will be unveiled before Barça’s pre-season tour of Asia kicks off on Thursday.
The agreement between both clubs includes an option to make the deal permanent next summer, with a reported fixed fee of €30 million ($34.9m). With Nico Williams opting to renew his deal at Athletic Club and Liverpool rejecting an approach for Luis Díaz, Rashford emerged as a cost-effective solution to fill the left-wing position for new head coach Hansi Flick.
Sources close to the club indicate Rashford has taken a significant pay cut to facilitate the move, though Barcelona have declined to comment on specific contract details. The deal marks a fresh start for Rashford, who has struggled for form and game time at United.
After falling out of favor with manager Ruben Amorim, Rashford had been training away from United’s first team for the past two weeks. He has not featured for the club since a Europa League clash against Viktoria Plzen last December and was notably excluded from the squad that defeated Manchester City 2-1 in the Premier League.
Although he spent six months on loan at Aston Villa, a permanent move there failed to materialize despite a pre-agreed fee of £40 million ($53.6m). Rashford had been eyeing a switch to Barcelona since January and now joins an attacking unit that includes Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres, and Dani Olmo, hoping to rejuvenate his career at the Camp Nou.
NASS Standoff: Senate Takes Firm Stance On Natasha’s Return
The Senate has cautioned the suspended senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, against attempting to forcibly return to her legislative duties on Tuesday.
The warning was issued in a statement on Sunday by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Yemi Adaramodu.
Adaramodu maintained that there is no lawful court directive ordering her immediate reinstatement and affirmed that the Senate remains firmly committed to upholding due process and the rule of law.
He said, “The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria wishes to reaffirm, for the third time, that there is no subsisting court order mandating the Senate to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan before the expiration of her suspension.”
The clarification came in response to media reports quoting the embattled lawmaker as saying she intended to resume her seat in the Senate on Tuesday, allegedly relying on a judgment delivered by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
However, Adaramodu stated that the Senate had already released two public statements following the court’s decision and the issuance of the Certified True Copy of the enrolled order, both of which emphasized that the court did not issue any definitive or binding directive compelling the Senate to reinstate her.
“Rather, the honourable court gave a non-binding advisory urging the Senate to consider amending its standing orders and reviewing the suspension, which it opined might be excessive.
“The court, however, explicitly held that the Senate did not breach any law or constitutional provision in imposing the disciplinary measure based on the senator’s misconduct during plenary,” he said.
The Senate also pointed out that the same court found Akpoti-Uduaghan in contempt and imposed sanctions, including a N5 million fine payable to the Federal Government, along with an order to publish an apology in two national newspapers and on her Facebook page, a directive she has reportedly failed to comply with.
“It is, therefore, surprising and legally untenable that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, while on appeal and having filed a motion for stay against the valid and binding orders made against her, is attempting to act upon an imaginary order of recall that does not exist,” the Senate spokesman added.
He cautioned that any attempt by the suspended lawmaker to forcibly enter the Senate next Tuesday under a false premise would be premature, disruptive, and a violation of legislative protocol.
“The Senate will, at the appropriate time, consider the advisory opinion of the court on both amending the standing orders of the Senate, her recall, and communicate the same thereof to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.
“Until then, she is respectfully advised to stay away from the Senate chambers and allow due process to run its full course,” the statement concluded.
D’Tigress Focused On Defending AfroBasket Title
Head Coach of Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, Rena Wakama, has reaffirmed her team’s commitment to defending their AfroBasket title, while also setting sights on greater accomplishments at the global level, particularly the Olympics.
Speaking during an open training session held in Abuja on Sunday, ahead of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship set to take place in Ivory Coast from July 26, Wakama emphasized the importance of unity and focus as the tournament approaches.
Wakama, appointed in June 2023, led D’Tigress to a historic fourth consecutive AfroBasket title in Rwanda, becoming the first female coach to achieve such a feat. She later guided the team to the quarterfinals at the 2024 Paris Olympics a milestone in Nigerian women’s basketball history.
“We have a core group that’s been with me for some time now,” Wakama said. The key right now is connecting and staying focused. We know every team will be coming for us. It’s expected. That’s why we must be solid and tightly knit to overcome any challenge.
She outlined the team’s primary objectives, saying, Our short-term goal is to win the AfroBasket championship. Long-term, our eyes are firmly set on the Olympics. We aim to get on the podium and secure a medal that’s the ultimate vision.
Beyond competition, Wakama expressed her passion for inspiring the next generation of Nigerian female athletes. She also called for more support from fans and stakeholders across the country.
“Outside of what happens on the court, we want to continue promoting and uplifting women’s basketball in Nigeria. We need support from everyone. It’s wonderful to have people come out and support us today, but we need even more of that,” she said.
“After these players are gone, who’s the next generation we’re inspiring? We need more people encouraging young girls to play basketball.”
Wakama emphasized that the team is approaching the championship with excitement, not pressure, and promised that D’Tigress would give everything they’ve got on the court.
“There’s no pressure just excitement,” she added. “Any team I coach will always give their all. If we win, that’s great. If we fall short, that’s okay, as long as we give it everything we have. That’s what matters most to me.”
Team captain Amy Okonkwo also shared her excitement about the upcoming competition, expressing optimism about the team’s readiness and chemistry.
“We’re excited to play against top competition from other countries. It feels great to be back together. The energy in the squad is really positive, and we’ve got some new faces in the mix,” Okonkwo said.
She reaffirmed the team’s ambition to win, noting that while confidence is high, success will require dedication and teamwork.
We’re preparing to win,she stated. We’re putting in hard work on both ends defense and offense and focusing on building strong team chemistry ahead of the tournament.”
“I have full confidence in this team. But at the end of the day, anything can happen. We need to go in with confidence, work together, and earn it on the court.”
Venus Williams Embraces Return To Tennis With Renewed Joy And Perspective
Former world number one Venus Williams is set to make her comeback at the Washington Open on Monday, approaching the game with a renewed sense of joy and determination after a challenging year marked by health issues and time away from the court.
The 45-year-old seven-time Grand Slam champion, who previously declined wildcard entries into the tournament in the U.S. capital, said she now feels ready for the opportunity.
“Most of the time, I don’t accept wildcards,” Williams said with a smile on Sunday. “But this time, I had been hitting the ball well. And of course, I love the game and hard courts they’re my favourite surface, where I feel most comfortable. So all of those things came together.”
Rather than chasing results, Williams is prioritizing the experience itself.
“My personal goal is to have fun and stay present in the moment, without putting too much pressure on myself,” she said. “Right now, I don’t define success in a traditional way. For me, it’s about believing in myself and staying committed to the process especially after time away. That’s not easy, but it’s what I’m focused on.”
Williams, who has won Wimbledon five times and the U.S. Open twice in singles, also boasts 14 Grand Slam doubles titles alongside her sister Serena. She last competed at the Miami Open in March 2024 and hasn’t recorded a match win since defeating Veronika Kudermetova in the first round of the Cincinnati Open in August 2023.
On Monday, she will face fellow American Peyton Stearns in the opening round of the WTA 500 event.
Reflecting on her future in the sport, Williams chose to keep her plans private.
“I think I know what I want to do, but I don’t always feel the need to talk about it,” she said. “Right now, I’m just here, focused on the present. Who knows what’s ahead? Maybe there’s more to come. Like I said, I tend to hold my cards close.”
Williams also shared her experience with a major health scare—undergoing surgery last year to remove fibroids, which are non-cancerous but painful growths in the uterus.
“My health journey was very frightening,” she revealed. “A year ago, I was preparing for surgery. Playing tennis—or even participating in the U.S. Open—was out of the question. I was simply focused on healing.”
Despite the setbacks, Williams remains committed to her trademark playing style.
“I’m still the same player,” she said. “I’m a big hitter—that’s my identity. So it’s about swinging big, but also making sure the ball lands in the court. That’s my main goal right now.”
Nigerian Doctors Set To Launch Nationwide Strike Starting Thursday
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has threatened to suspend medical services nationwide if the Federal Government does not meet its demands before the 21-day ultimatum expires on Wednesday, July 23.
NMA President, Professor Bala Audu, delivered the warning in an exclusive interview on Sunday, asserting that the association is fully ready to take firm action if the situation demands it. He stressed that the demands are crucial for preserving the nation’s healthcare system and safeguarding the well-being of medical professionals.
The ultimatum, issued on July 2, was a response to a contentious circular from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), which outlined revised allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal service. The NMA condemned the circular as a violation of existing agreements and called for its immediate withdrawal, along with other conditions.
“We have made our position clear,” Prof Audu said. “The ultimatum ends on July 23, and if the Federal Government does not address our demands, we may have no choice but to proceed with a strike.”
He stated that the circular’s provisions were unilaterally imposed and compromised both the earnings and overall welfare of doctors.
“We have rejected that circular outright,” he said. “We expect that any new directive affecting our members should be the outcome of mutual consultation, not something imposed.”
Prof Audu disclosed that the NMA had engaged in talks with senior government officials, including the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate; the Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako; and other key stakeholders. He noted that although the discussions were constructive, subsequent meetings were put on hold following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari last week.
“The minister appreciated our concerns and addressed the issues raised. A follow-up meeting was planned for last week, but due to the former president’s death, it was postponed. We now expect another meeting with the NSIWC, Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Health before the deadline,” he said.
As the deadline draws near, Prof Audu stressed that the association can no longer tolerate further delays.
“We expect that after the funeral ceremonies, government stakeholders will reconvene with us, hopefully by Monday. Otherwise, the 21-day ultimatum still stands. If the government fails to prioritise this matter, a strike may be inevitable.”
In a related development, the Katsina State chapter of the NMA has firmly rejected the contentious circular issued by the NSIWC.
In a communiqué released after its State Executive Council meeting on Saturday, the branch voiced “grave disappointment” and offered an “unequivocal condemnation” of the circular. It also called for the immediate reversal of the directive and the full implementation of the NMA’s demands.
The statement, signed by the Katsina NMA Chairman, Dr Muhammadu Sani, and Secretary, Dr Yahya Salisu, cautioned that inaction could result in disruptions to healthcare services.
“NMA Katsina State branch hereby rejects the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission’s (NSIWC) circular (SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646) dated 27th June, 2025 on review of allowances for medical/dental officers in the federal public service and demands urgent government withdrawal action and fulfillment of all the demands,” the communique read.
Liverpool Agree £69m Deal For Eintracht Frankfurt Striker Hugo Ekitike
Liverpool have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike in a deal initially worth £69 million ($92 million), according to reports on Monday.
The Premier League champions turned their attention to Ekitike after failing to secure a move for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, who remains untouchable with a valuation of around £150 million.
Both Newcastle and Manchester United were also tracking the highly rated French forward, but Liverpool appear to have won the race for one of Europe’s most exciting young attacking talents.
The deal includes potential add-ons worth an additional £10 million, which could raise the total fee to £79 million.
Upon finalizing the move, the 23-year-old is expected to join Arne Slot’s squad for their ongoing pre-season tour of Asia.
Ekitike enjoyed an impressive campaign last season, scoring 22 goals in 48 appearances for Frankfurt after making a move from Paris Saint-Germain. He was left out of the squad for Saturday’s friendly against FSV Frankfurt, with Eintracht head coach Dino Toppmöller acknowledging his likely departure, calling it “a bitter loss.”
Liverpool are looking to reshape their attacking options following the tragic death of Diogo Jota in a car accident in Spain. In addition, Uruguayan striker Darwin Núñez is reportedly available for transfer, while Colombian winger Luis Díaz has attracted interest from Bayern Munich who have already had a bid rejected.
Ekitike’s arrival will mark Liverpool’s latest major signing in a busy summer window, having already spent £116 million to bring in German playmaker Florian Wirtz. The Reds have also added full-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez from Bayer Leverkusen and Bournemouth respectively, as well as Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia.
Palestine Action Co-Founder Challenges UK Ban In Court
The woman behind a pro-Palestinian activist group appeared in court on Monday to contest the UK government’s move to blacklist the organization under terrorism legislation, a decision her legal team described as having “the hallmarks of an authoritarian and blatant abuse of power”.
Huda Ammori, who co-founded Palestine Action in 2020, is asking the High Court in London to allow a full legal challenge against the ban, which was imposed on claims that the group carried out or took part in terrorist activities.
Earlier this month, the court turned down Ammori’s request to suspend the ban. After a final appeal failed, the proscription became effective just after midnight on July 5. The ban makes involvement with the group a criminal offense, punishable by up to 14 years in prison.
According to her lawyer Raza Husain, the case marks the first time a direct action organisation has been designated as a terrorist group, arguing that this move breaks from “the honourable history of civil disobedience on conscientious grounds in our country”.
Since the ban, several individuals have been arrested for displaying signs seen to support the group. Ammori’s legal team also claims that police have increased their surveillance of individuals showing solidarity with Palestinians.
The UK’s interior minister, Yvette Cooper, maintains that acts involving violence or property destruction do not qualify as lawful protest. She cited incidents such as storming a military facility and damaging two aircraft as grounds for the government’s decision.
Palestine Action has stepped up actions against UK-based companies with ties to Israel, frequently disrupting their operations by vandalising property or blocking access. The group accuses the British authorities of enabling alleged war crimes committed by Israel during its military campaign in Gaza.
Israel, however, denies all allegations of misconduct in the war, which began after Hamas launched a surprise assault on Israel on October 7, 2023.
Bayelsa Seeks Creation Of 25 Additional Local Government Areas
Bayelsa State has appealed for the creation of 25 new local government areas, aiming to raise the total number of councils in the state from eight to 33.
This request was presented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Biriyai Dambo (SAN), during a public hearing conducted by the House of Representatives’ Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, held on Saturday at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Yenagoa.
The session, which included participants from Bayelsa, Delta, and Edo states, was part of the South-South Centre A zonal consultation for the constitutional amendment process.
Dambo justified Bayelsa’s proposal by stating that the existing eight local government areas are overburdened, with some overseeing more than 150 communities.
He maintained that Bayelsa possesses both the administrative capacity and financial resources to support the establishment of the proposed new local government councils.
According to a statement issued by Daniel Alabrah, Chief Press Secretary to the Bayelsa State Governor, the state also made compelling arguments for a comprehensive review of the local government structure, the enforcement of local government autonomy, and reforms to the exclusive and concurrent legislative lists.
Bayelsa also pushed for broad constitutional amendments, including electoral reforms aimed at strengthening the credibility of the Independent National Electoral Commission, as well as judicial reforms to enhance the efficiency of the justice system.
The state called for a restructured federation rooted in the principle of fiscal federalism. It recommended that federating units be granted full ownership and control of both onshore and offshore natural resources within their territories, with 60 per cent of the revenue retained and 40 per cent remitted to the Federal Government.
Regarding security, the state reaffirmed its backing for the establishment of state police, asserting that Nigeria is ready for decentralised policing consistent with the principles of true federalism.
“State police will strengthen the capacity of states to fight crime and provide adequate security,” the state asserted, adding that “the agitation for state police is in the spirit of true federalism.”
Earlier in his remarks, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, described the constitutional review as a timely initiative designed to align the nation’s legal framework with present-day realities and the aspirations of its citizens.
According to him, Bayelsa is committed to the emergence of a “truly federal system and structure that is genuinely just, equitable, responsive, and demonstrably dedicated to the holistic development of not just the state or the Niger Delta region but also the Nigerian federation.”
He stressed the importance of correcting “historical injustices related to the inequitable allocation of resources, alongside the glaring disparities in the creation and distribution of local government areas.”
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, was represented at the event by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, while Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, was represented by the Attorney General, Mr. Samson Osagie.
Both governors voiced their support for the constitutional review process, describing it as a vital opportunity to correct the shortcomings and close the gaps in the existing 1999 Constitution. They characterised the current Constitution as a “very controversial document” that requires urgent reform.
Presiding over the session, the Chairman of the South-South Centre A and Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, gave the assurance that all submissions would be carefully evaluated by the Constitution Review Committee before being presented to the House.
“The stakeholders’ engagement is aimed at having a more inclusive democratic governance,” Ihonvbere said.
The public hearing drew a large turnout, with notable attendees including the wife of the Bayelsa State Governor, Dr. Gloria Diri; the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo; and Bayelsa’s representatives in the House of Representatives—Fred Agbedi (Sagbama/Ekeremor), Marie Ebikake (Nembe/Brass), Dr. Mitema Obordor (Ogbia), and Rodney Ambaiowei (Southern Ijaw).
Also present were the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere; the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor; the Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass, King Alfred Diete-Spiff; the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Council of Traditional Rulers, King Bubaraye Dakolo; along with other traditional rulers from Bayelsa, Delta, and Edo states.
