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What Elon Musk’s “America Party” Is All About Amid Rift With Trump?

By
Ohiomoje Margaret
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For centuries, the United States political landscape has been dominated by two major parties: the Democrats and the Republicans. While smaller parties like the Libertarians and the Greens have made attempts to disrupt the duopoly, they’ve struggled to gain lasting traction on the national stage.

The Republican Party, currently in control of the executive branch under President Donald Trump, has recently seen internal tension as figures like Elon Musk challenge its direction and priorities.

What Is Elon Musk’s America Party About?

Elon Musk, billionaire entrepreneur and former government official, announced the formation of a new political force, the America Party. His aim, as he described in a public post, is to “give you back your freedom.” The announcement comes just days after President Trump signed a controversial tax-and-spending bill into law, one Musk claims will drive the country toward bankruptcy.

With the slogan of restoring individual liberties and reducing what he calls “government waste,” the America Party appears to be anchored in fiscal conservatism, innovation-driven policy, and a sharp rejection of traditional political structures. It’s a populist push, but from the perspective of someone deeply embedded in both technological progress and capital markets.

Who Is Musk Bringing Into The America Party?

While Musk hasn’t released a full roster of names backing the party, early indicators suggest he is rallying a blend of private-sector elites, technocrats, and former government reformers. His call for a new movement was supported by a strong response on his platform, X, where followers voted 2 to 1 in favor of creating a third party.

Several former allies from his time heading the Department of Government Efficiency may join the effort, alongside investors, tech innovators, and policy critics opposed to heavy federal spending. However, his announcement has already raised alarm among investors, with some requesting clarification on how his political ambitions may impact his leadership roles in his companies.

What Are Musk’s Chances With The America Party?

Musk’s entry into politics beyond advisory and funding roles is unprecedented and risky. On one hand, he commands massive influence through his companies, social media reach, and personal wealth. His ability to self-finance a political movement gives him advantages many other independent challengers lack.

However, the road to building a competitive political party in the U.S. is steep. Structural barriers, like ballot access laws, donor networks tied to the two major parties, and the winner-takes-all voting system, make it difficult for third parties to succeed at the national level. Moreover, Musk’s friction with Trump could fracture the conservative base, potentially weakening the Republican grip on upcoming congressional elections.

Still, with a growing number of Americans expressing disillusionment with traditional party politics, Musk’s America Party may find momentum among voters craving disruption. Time will tell if it gains real traction or simply makes a splash before fading out.

Three Key Olubadan of Ibadan Who Died Early During Their Reign

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Ibadan was thrown into mourning on July 7, 2025, following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, at the age of 90. His death came just five days before the first anniversary of his official coronation on July 12, 2024.

Though his reign was short-lived, Oba Olakulehin left a mark as a respected elder, seasoned traditionalist, and a figure of unity among the Ibadan people. His demise draws attention not only for its timing but for echoing a historical pattern, three Olubadans in recent history have ascended the throne only to pass away within a short time.

How the Olubadan Is Chosen

The process of selecting the Olubadan is one of the most unique and well-structured traditional successions in Nigeria. It is governed not by hereditary primogeniture, but by a clearly defined and rotational system of seniority among two chieftaincy lines:

  • Egbe Agba (Civil line)
  • Balogun (Military line)

Each line has 23 and 22 chieftaincy ranks, respectively. Ascension to the throne follows a sequential promotion through these ranks. When a reigning Olubadan passes away, the most senior chief from either line becomes the next Olubadan. The two lines alternate based on which one produced the last monarch.

This system is celebrated for reducing conflict over succession, as the next Olubadan is usually already known well in advance. However, it also often results in elderly monarchs ascending the throne, leading to shorter reigns due to age-related health challenges.

Three Olubadans Who Died Early

a) Oba (Dr.) Moshood Lekan Balogun – 42nd Olubadan

Oba Balogun was installed as the 42nd Olubadan on March 11, 2022, following the death of Oba Saliu Adetunji. His reign lasted two years and three days, ending with his death on March 14, 2024, at the age of 81. Before becoming Olubadan, Oba Balogun was a prominent politician, serving as a Senator representing Oyo Central Senatorial District between 1999 and 2003.

Despite the brevity of his reign, he was admired for his scholarly background and firm grasp of Ibadan traditional politics. He was known for promoting unity among the Ibadan Obas-in-Council and for championing infrastructural development in the city.

b) Oba Owolabi Olakulehin – 43rd Olubadan

Born in 1935, Oba Olakulehin had a distinguished career in the Nigerian Army and was a prominent figure in Ibadan chieftaincy affairs for over four decades. He was installed as Olubadan on July 12, 2024, but passed away on July 7, 2025, just shy of one full year on the throne. His reign was notable for preserving the peaceful succession tradition of the city, and he maintained cordial relations with both traditional authorities and the Oyo State Government.

Oba Olakulehin’s brief time as Olubadan reignited public conversation about the age of incoming monarchs and the sustainability of the current succession structure.

c) Oba Yesufu Oloyede Asanike – 36th Olubadan

Oba Asanike, a well-loved and energetic monarch, was installed as the 36th Olubadan in 1983. His reign was promising but tragically brief, he passed away in 1984, serving for only about one year. He was deeply respected for his charismatic leadership and vision for Ibadan’s cultural revival.

Asanike’s untimely death stunned the city and sparked public calls for possible modifications in the chieftaincy promotion system to allow younger successors who could serve longer terms.

What It Means for Ibadan

The pattern of elderly Olubadans ascending the throne and ruling briefly brings both cultural and structural implications for Ibadan:

Traditional Stability: The strength of the Ibadan succession system lies in its clarity and absence of major succession disputes. However, frequent transitions can interrupt long-term development agendas or ceremonial continuity.

Age Factor: With most Olubadans ascending in their 80s or even 90s, health concerns often limit their reigns. This has prompted discussions on possibly modernizing the succession structure to accommodate more youthful leadership while respecting tradition.

Cultural Continuity vs. Reform: While many cherish the slow, seniority-based ascension for its orderliness, others argue it’s time to revisit the model to ensure younger, more agile leadership emerges without breaking historical precedent.

The Likely House the Stool Is Going To

Given that Oba Owolabi Olakulehin came from the Balogun line, tradition dictates that the next Olubadan will emerge from the Egbe Agba (Civil) line.

As of July 2025, the most senior chief in that line is High Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan and former Governor of Oyo State. Ladoja, aged 79, has served in the chieftaincy line for decades and is widely regarded as the next in line. His potential ascension would continue the tradition of peaceful and undisputed successions that Ibadan has maintained for over a century.

However, the final decision rests with the Olubadan-in-Council, which will make an official declaration, after which the Oyo State Government will issue a formal letter of approval and present the staff of office.

Legacy & Reflection

The repeated pattern of early demise among Olubadans presents an opportunity for Ibadan’s cultural stakeholders to reflect on the balance between tradition and modern reality. While the current succession system guarantees order and respect for seniority, it also raises questions about sustainability, longevity, and leadership impact.

As the city prepares for yet another coronation in a short span, voices within and outside the traditional institution may push for inclusive discussions about succession reform, whether by adjusting the age at which promotions occur or creating avenues for earlier leadership opportunities without compromising the dignity of tradition.

For now, Ibadan prepares to bid farewell to another revered monarch and welcome the next, hoping, this time, for a longer and more impactful reign.

Catastrophic Flooding In Texas Leaves 80 Dead

By
Ohiomoje Margaret
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What began as a regular holiday weekend turned into a nightmare for residents and campers in central Texas. On Thursday night, July 3, torrential rains began to fall across the Guadalupe River region in Kerr County. By early Friday morning, what should have been a peaceful riverside experience was shattered by the sudden and violent rise of the Guadalupe River.

Within just 45 minutes, the water surged from three feet to nearly 30 feet near Comfort, Texas. That morning, entire communities, summer camps, and families found themselves trapped or swept away by floodwaters that gave little warning.

The region, known for its natural beauty and dotted with youth camps like Camp Mystic and Camp La Junta, has a long history of flash floods. Experts had already classified it as one of the most dangerous areas in the United States for this type of disaster due to its terrain and the river’s limestone bed, which prevents proper water absorption. Yet despite this history, there was no comprehensive flood warning system in place. The flood followed a severe drought, creating conditions that worsened the intensity and speed of the disaster.

Number of Casualties

As of Sunday evening, the death toll from the flood had risen to over 80, including at least 28 children. In Kerr County alone, 68 people were confirmed dead. Authorities have stated that more than 40 individuals remain missing, many of them campers and staff at Camp Mystic. This includes young girls and counselors who were spending their summer at the riverside camp when the waters overwhelmed the area. Search efforts are still ongoing, with more bodies being recovered daily.

Rescue teams are working around the clock to find the missing. Camp Mystic, in particular, remains at the heart of this tragedy, with children still unaccounted for days after the flooding began.

Reactions from the Survivors

For many who survived, the escape was nothing short of miraculous. People clung to trees, floated on mattresses, and climbed into attics as the water filled their homes and camps. Nine-year-old campers were forced to wade through darkness and fast-moving waters in a desperate bid to survive. Some floated out of windows. Others found themselves trapped on rooftops, praying for help.

Ricky Gonzalez and his friends, staying in a rented Airbnb, inflated floaties and air mattresses and prepared to escape through the attic as the water climbed to the second story. Gonzalez, who couldn’t swim, made a last FaceTime call to his sister, fearing it could be his final goodbye.

At Camp La Junta, children woke up to screaming and lightning, not understanding what was happening as the cabins filled with water. “We didn’t know what was going on around us,” said one camper. “It was dark and we couldn’t see past the trees. All we knew was we had to keep things from getting wet.”

Some survivors had narrow escapes. Maria and Felipe Tapia’s house filled with water in just 10 minutes. They swam out and sought higher ground with a neighbor. “We got out just in time,” Felipe said. “I felt like I was swimming under a river.”

In a separate incident, a woman clung to a tree for over 30 minutes before she was rescued by a swift water team. Carl Jeter, a local resident, heard her screams and refused to leave her alone. “It’s a true miracle,” he said. “That’s not something you survive.”

What the American Government Is Doing About It

In response to the devastation, President Donald Trump declared a major disaster in Kerr County. This federal action unlocks funding through FEMA for emergency shelter, home repairs, and recovery efforts. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has expanded the state disaster declaration to cover surrounding counties and deployed more than 500 emergency personnel to aid in search and rescue missions.

Resources include 14 helicopters, 12 drones, over 150 vehicles, 37 rescue boats, and multiple search teams. As of now, over 850 people have been rescued across the flood zones. The Texas Game Wardens alone airlifted more than 300 people from trees and rooftops.

Despite these efforts, communication remains a challenge. Power outages and limited cell service have slowed coordination and made it harder for families to locate loved ones.

Governor Abbott also declared a statewide day of prayer for the victims and families affected by the disaster. As search teams continue to comb through wreckage, Texas and the nation remain united in grief and determination to find every missing person.

This catastrophic flooding has torn through the heart of Texas, leaving destruction, sorrow, and unanswered questions in its wake. For survivors, the memories will last a lifetime. For many families, the wait continues as they cling to hope that their loved ones will be found. And for all of Texas, the call for stronger preparedness, better warning systems, and faster emergency response grows louder.

Enugu Air Launches Starts Operations on July 7

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

‎Enugu State celebrated a historic milestone today with the official launch of Enugu Air, a state-backed airline, at Akanu Ibiam International Airport.
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‎The airline, a cornerstone of Governor Peter Mbah’s economic vision, aims to position Enugu as a regional aviation hub, following the successful model of Akwa Ibom’s Ibom Air.
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‎Equipped with two Embraer E170 jets, Enugu Air commenced operations with flights connecting Enugu to Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, with plans to expand to additional domestic and regional destinations soon.
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‎At the launch ceremony, Governor Mbah described Enugu Air as a transformative project for the state’s economy.
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‎“This airline is more than just flights; it’s about creating jobs, boosting tourism, and making Enugu a gateway to the southeast,” he stated.
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‎The initiative is expected to generate hundreds of jobs, including roles for pilots, cabin crew, and ground staff, with a focus on employing Enugu indigenes trained through state-sponsored programs. The airline has partnered with local and international aviation experts to ensure high safety and service standards.
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‎Enugu Air’s debut comes amid challenges in Nigeria’s aviation sector, including rising fuel costs and limited fleet capacity. By focusing on regional routes, the airline aims to ease pressure on major hubs like Lagos and Abuja while offering competitive fares.
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‎The state’s investment in upgrading Akanu Ibiam International Airport supports this ambition, enhancing its capacity to handle increased traffic.
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‎Local residents are enthusiastic about the launch. “Enugu Air will make travel easier and put our state on the map,” said Chidi Eze, a local entrepreneur.
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‎However, analysts caution that the airline must navigate operational and regulatory challenges to succeed. Enugu Air’s management is confident, emphasizing efficiency and plans for partnerships with international carriers to enable seamless connections.
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‎As Enugu Air takes flight, it carries the potential to reshape Nigeria’s aviation landscape and inspire other states to invest in similar ventures, cementing Enugu’s role as a commercial and cultural hub in the southeast.
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Multichoice Nigeria Fined N766.2M For Data Privacy Violations

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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0

‎The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has imposed a hefty fine of N766,242,500 on Multichoice Nigeria, the parent company of DStv and GOtv, for violating the Nigeria Data Protection Act.
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‎As Nigeria’s official data protection authority, the NDPC is a public body that processes personal data in line with its legal mandate, relying on lawful bases such as consent, legal obligation, and contractual necessity.
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‎This was revealed in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the Commission’s Head of Legal, Enforcement, and Regulations, Mr. Babatunde Bamigboye.
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‎Bamigboye stated that the penalty followed an investigation initiated in the second quarter of 2024 over alleged breaches of subscribers’ privacy rights and the unlawful international transfer of Nigerians’ personal data.
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‎“NDPC found, among other things, that MultiChoice violated the data privacy rights of its subscribers and individuals associated with them who are not necessarily subscribers.
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‎“The commission also discovered that MultiChoice engaged in the illegal cross-border transfer of personal data belonging to Nigerian data subjects.
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‎“The depth of data processing by Multichoice is patently intrusive, unfair, unnecessary, and disproportionate.
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‎“This is a grave affront to the fundamental right to privacy as enshrined in section 37 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Bamigboye said.
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‎He stated that Nigeria has the right to safeguard its citizens and uphold data sovereignty under both international and domestic laws, given their significant impact on the rule of law, national security, and economic development.
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‎Bamigboye further explained that during the investigation, following the NDPA’s standard remediation process, the commission instructed MultiChoice to implement suitable corrective actions.
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‎“However, the commission found the measures undertaken by Multichoice in this regard unsatisfactory.
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‎“For want of cooperation, the commission has directed Multichoice to pay N766,242,500 for violating the Nigeria Data Protection Act,” he added.
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‎The NDPC’s National Commissioner, Vincent Olatunji, was also cited as ordering a thorough investigation of all platforms through which MultiChoice gathers personal data of Nigerian citizens for potential non-compliance.
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‎He emphasized that any entity handling personal data in breach of the NDPA is subject to penalties under the law.
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‎As Nigeria’s Data Protection Authority, the NDPC operates as a public institution that processes data in line with its mandate, relying on established lawful grounds such as consent, legal obligation, and contractual necessity.
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FG Expresses Concern Over Carter Bridge’s Condition

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

‎The Federal Government is currently exploring rehabilitation options for the deteriorating Carter Bridge in Lagos, following growing concerns about several engineering defects.
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‎Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, revealed this after conducting an on-site inspection of the bridge in Lagos alongside engineers from his ministry.
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‎The bridge functions as a critical connection between Lagos Island and the Mainland.
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‎Expressing alarm at the condition of the carriageway, the minister described the bridge as hazardous and in dire need of immediate intervention.
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‎He said the Federal Government is considering a proposal to either replace the bridge with a cable-stayed design—estimated at N320 billion and regarded as more durable and cost-efficient—or undertake full-scale repairs projected to cost N380 billion.
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‎Umahi noted that while Julius Berger had completed 80 percent of the repairs above water, further assessments uncovered extensive damage below the surface, including corroded support piles and dislodged caps, which have significantly weakened the bridge—similar to the issues that prompted restrictions on truck traffic on the Third Mainland Bridge.
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‎He also revealed that only two companies have submitted bids for the ongoing bridge rehabilitation efforts in Lagos: BuildWell for the Third Mainland Bridge and Julius Berger for the Carter Bridge.
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‎The minister stated that the government is currently assessing both proposals and will present its recommendations to the President for final approval.
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‎He explained that the ministry is closely reviewing Julius Berger’s submission and will forward its conclusions to President Bola Tinubu once the evaluation is complete.
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‎Emphasising that similar structural issues were identified during assessments in 2012 and 2019, the minister argued that constructing a new bridge could provide a lifespan of over 100 years while costing less than the proposed repair works.
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‎He also praised the new management of Julius Berger for its collaborative approach in addressing project challenges, noting that this has significantly improved the ministry’s working relationship with the company.
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‎“The collaborative approach of Julius Berger’s new management is commendable, and it is important for all stakeholders to be aligned on any project. This is kudos to the managing director, who has proven to be a humble professional, eager to build fresh relationships with fellow stakeholders,” Umahi said.
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‎The minister commended Julius Berger’s new leadership for fostering a spirit of collaboration, adding that, “Julius Berger quoted for the project, I think, N27 billion or thereabout, but after much negotiation and discussion, we now arrived at N17 billion.”
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‎Umahi referred to the company as a “born-again Berger,” crediting the progress in negotiations to the transparency and willingness of its new managing director.
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‎Recognising the severity of the underwater damage to the Carter Bridge, the company’s Regional Technical Manager for Region West, Thomas Christl, stated that work began on the bridge in 2024.
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‎He noted that initial efforts focused on repairing handrails and pile caps above the waterline, but the existing contract does not include the complete restoration required.
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‎“After our investigations, we suggested that a full replacement might be better. A new bridge will last up to 100 years, and international investors are ready to help finance it,” Christl added.

Senate Expects Judgment Copy While Natasha Prepares For Return

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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1

‎Suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has announced her intention to resume her duties in the Senate on Tuesday, following a Federal High Court ruling that nullified her suspension and ordered her immediate return.
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‎However, the Senate has stated that it will not take any formal action until it receives and examines the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment delivered on July 4, 2025.
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‎In a statement on Sunday, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Yemi Adaramodu, explained that while the Senate’s legal team was present in court, the full judgment was not read aloud during the proceedings.
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‎He further revealed that the Senate has submitted a formal request to obtain the CTC for proper legal review and interpretation.
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‎He emphasized that since none of the parties involved in the case had been served the enrolled court order, any attempt at enforcement would be legally premature.
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‎The Senate reiterated its dedication to upholding the rule of law and constitutional principles, calling on citizens to stay calm and allow the legal process to take its course.
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‎Despite the suspension, the senator announced plans to return to her legislative duties on Tuesday.
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‎She made this known in a video posted on social media, which began gaining traction on Sunday.
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‎She expressed gratitude to her supporters for their unwavering backing.
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‎“I thank you for your support. I am glad we are victorious today. We shall resume in the Senate on Tuesday by the grace of God,” she said.
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‎Justice Binta Nyako, in her ruling, declared the suspension unconstitutional and directed that Akpoti-Uduaghan be reinstated without delay.
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‎However, the court also found the senator in contempt over a Facebook post characterized as a satirical apology to Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
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‎According to the court, the post breached an interim order issued on March 4, 2025, which prohibited all parties from making public or social media statements about the pending case concerning her suspension.
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‎Justice Nyako ordered Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to pay a N5 million fine for the Facebook post, which was found to have violated the court’s directive.
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‎The senator had been suspended by the Senate in March following a contentious and chaotic plenary session triggered by disputes over seating arrangements in the chamber.
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‎The controversy escalated days later when she publicly accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment during a live television interview.
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‎In her judgment, Justice Nyako stated that the senator’s prolonged suspension was not only procedurally improper but also denied the constituents of Kogi Central their constitutional right to representation.
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‎Meanwhile, the Kogi Renaissance Group has cautioned Akpoti-Uduaghan against taking any unlawful actions or attempting to force her way into the Senate chamber in light of her legal dispute with the Senate.
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‎The group emphasized that although the Federal High Court ruled in her favour by ordering her reinstatement, it also imposed a N5 million fine and demanded a formal apology for contempt, a situation they said required restraint rather than aggression.
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‎In a strongly worded statement signed by its spokesperson, Segun Faniyi, the group voiced concern over reports suggesting that Akpoti-Uduaghan intended to “storm” the Senate in protest.
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‎The group cautioned that such an action would heighten tensions, disregard the court’s decision, and erode the credibility of Nigeria’s legislative body.
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‎It urged the embattled senator to avoid any steps that might be seen as bypassing the rule of law.
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‎The group also acknowledged that its earlier backing of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan—including the engagement of media influencers to sway public sentiment—was based on limited and incomplete facts.
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‎“The court’s detailed judgment has provided clarity, and we now recognise the need for restraint and adherence to due process,” Faniyi stated.
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‎The group offered a wholehearted apology to the Senate and Senate President Akpabio, describing its earlier actions as misguided “the suspended senator’s previous conduct.”
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Nigeria Cricket Federation Distributes Over 300 Starter Kits

By
Kwaghza Asema Cephas
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1

The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) has taken another major step in expanding the reach of cricket across the country by distributing over 300 starter kits to schools and communities within all six geopolitical zones. This effort falls under the NCF’s flagship grassroots programme, the 9ja Kids Cricket initiative, now in its second year.

Inspired by the International Cricket Council’s Criiio programme, the 9ja Kids Cricket initiative aims to introduce the sport to young Nigerians at the grassroots level. During Saturday’s official launch, the NCF unveiled six sets of cricket starter packs—comprising bats, balls, and stumps—with an additional eight sets expected to be rolled out before the end of the year.

The event also coincided with a high-level two-day summit attended by top cricket stakeholders from across Africa, aimed at accelerating the growth and popularity of the sport across the continent.

In attendance were the Chairman of ICC Associate Members, Usman Mubashshir, along with the presidents of the cricket federations of Kenya, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Uganda.

Speaking at the event, NCF President Uyi Akpata emphasized the importance of building from the grassroots to drive long-term performance across associate nations.

“One of our main focuses is high performance, and that begins at the grassroots. That’s the foundation of this initiative,” Akpata said. “With 9ja Kids Cricket, we’re committed to spreading the game nationwide. This is an annual commitment, and we believe that consistent efforts will lead us to success—not just in Nigeria or Africa, but globally.”

Usman Mubashshir echoed these sentiments, underscoring the value of unity in developing the sport.

“For cricket to grow, unity is essential. It’s not just a game for one department—it requires collaboration across all levels,” he said. “The effort I see from the Nigeria Cricket Federation is remarkable. It’s not an easy task. I’m truly humbled by the commitment of associate countries, and we will continue to support this growth wherever possible. Together, we move forward.”

The summit also featured strategic discussions on the upcoming ILT20 Africa tournament, set to take place in Rwanda in October 2025. Leaders reviewed current development frameworks and explored collaborative strategies to enhance youth engagement, improve infrastructure, and strengthen partnerships among African nations.

Nigerian Quarter-Miler Uko Blames AFN for Doping Ban, Cites Corruption

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

Nigerian quarter-miler Imaobong Nse Uko has publicly accused the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) of negligence and systemic corruption, which she says led to her recent two-year suspension by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).

Uko’s name appeared in the AIU’s June 2025 sanctions list, indicating a violation committed on June 5, 2024. While the AIU did not specify the exact nature of the infraction, it falls under non-analytical anti-doping violations, such as repeated whereabouts failures. The 21-year-old athlete has been declared ineligible until July 23, 2026, with all competitive results from the date of the violation annulled.

In a strongly worded statement shared via social media on Saturday evening, the 2021 World U20 triple gold medallist expressed deep frustration, stating her ban resulted from “a flawed system and a corrupt federation that failed to support me when I needed it most.”

Uko explained that her troubles began when she encountered persistent technical issues while trying to update her information on the AIU’s online whereabouts system mandatory for athletes under global drug-testing protocols.

Despite repeated attempts to seek help from AFN officials, Uko claims her appeals were ignored or met with indifference.

“I struggled with the online system required to report my whereabouts… despite reaching out repeatedly for assistance, I received endless excuses about network problems and was told to wait,” she wrote. “My messages were often left unanswered, and I felt completely abandoned.”

During her disciplinary hearing, Uko said she confronted federation representatives about their failure to provide support during the crucial reporting period. However, she claims they responded evasively and attempted to blame her for submitting the information incorrectly an allegation she firmly denies.

She named specific officials she contacted for help, including Mbachi Louis and a woman identified as Mrs. Onos. According to Uko, both initially ignored her messages, only for Mrs. Onos to later reach out without offering any meaningful support. She also mentioned that AFN Assistant Secretary Taldang had promised to assist but ultimately failed to do so.

“This situation has exposed the deep-rooted corruption and negligence within the federation that is supposed to protect our interests as athletes,” Uko added.

A rising star in Nigerian athletics, Uko shot to prominence by claiming gold in the 400m, women’s 4x400m relay, and mixed 4x400m relay at the 2021 World U20 Championships in Nairobi.

Reaffirming her innocence, she insisted that her suspension is a consequence of institutional failure not personal misconduct.

“I refuse to remain silent while they abuse their authority and jeopardize our careers,” she said. “It’s time for athletes to unite and demand accountability and transparency from those in power.”

Anisimova Halts Noskova’s Run to Reach Wimbledon Quarter-Finals

By
Kwaghza Asema Cephas
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3

Amanda Anisimova ended Linda Noskova’s hopes of completing a ‘Czech three-peat’ at Wimbledon on Sunday, delivering a high-quality performance to secure a hard-fought 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 victory and book her place in the quarter-finals.

With Czech players Marketa Vondrousova and Barbora Krejcikova having claimed the Wimbledon titles in the past two years, 30th seed Noskova was aiming to continue that remarkable streak. As the last Czech standing from the eight who started in the women’s draw, she carried her nation’s hopes into the second week.

But after a gripping two-hour contest on Court One, Anisimova, the 13th seed, proved too strong. The American recovered from a 3-1 deficit in the deciding set—overcoming a moment of visible frustration where one of her rackets bore the brunt of her emotions—to seal a determined comeback win.

“It was an incredibly tough match. Linda really pushed me out there,” said the 23-year-old, who returned to the tour after an eight-month break due to burnout. “At times, I wasn’t sure I’d make it to the finish line, but playing here for the first time was an amazing experience. I was getting so stressed—just trying to manage my nerves. My team kept telling me to believe in myself.”

“It’s an amazing feeling to be back in the quarter-finals. I’m so excited and proud of myself,” she added. Next up for Anisimova is a clash against Russia’s Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.

From the outset, it looked like Anisimova might enjoy a relatively smooth path through. She quickly imposed herself with powerful baseline hitting, breaking Noskova twice to wrap up the opening set with a blazing forehand winner.

Played under the Centre Court roof on a rainy day in London, the match initially struggled to capture the crowd’s full attention, as many fans had vacated their seats following British star Cameron Norrie’s epic 4.5-hour victory over Nicolas Jarry.

Those who stayed were treated to a thrilling turnaround. Noskova, who had never made it past the second round at Wimbledon before this week, settled into the match during the second set, breaking early for a 2-1 lead.

Although she failed to serve out the set at 5-4—squandering a set point with a net-cord-assisted mis-hit return winner from Anisimova—Noskova responded with composure. She broke again for 6-5 and held her nerve this time, sealing the set with a well-placed ace.

The momentum seemed to shift in Noskova’s favor early in the third as she took a 3-1 lead. But Anisimova, buoyed by constant encouragement from her team, clawed her way back to 3-3 and eventually closed out the match on her second match point with a confident backhand winner.

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