Home Blog Page 63

Bandit Leader Kachalla Threatens Fresh Attacks On Katsina Communities

Enyosa Favour
-
0
Bandit Leader Kachalla Threatens Fresh Attacks On Katsina Communities

A notorious bandit leader, Muhammadu Kachalla, has reportedly issued fresh threats against communities in Matazuand Musawa Local Government Areas of Katsina State, warning of renewed attacks if the government fails to release two of his associates and return cattle allegedly seized during recent military operations.

The threats were contained in a viral audio recording believed to feature a conversation between Kachalla and an individual identified as “Comrade.” In the recording, the bandit leader allegedly vowed to escalate violence across the affected communities if his demands are ignored.

Kachalla accused security operatives of destroying homes and killing his cattle during military offensives, claiming the actions had undermined any prospects for peace.

“You have not seen anything yet,”

he allegedly said, adding that he would move from one village to another, killing residents and setting homes ablaze unless his associates were released and his cattle returned.

He also claimed that the military’s recent rescue of kidnapped victims from his camp without negotiations was intended as a display of force rather than a genuine security operation.

According to Kachalla, he had demanded the release of two of his men, but authorities ignored the request.

The bandit leader further alleged that he had already identified several prominent individuals for future abductions, insisting that his group remained more powerful than government forces.

“The people in the communities gave information that led the government to where General Rabe’s wife was being held. Our informants also tell us what is happening in those communities,”

he reportedly said.

Kachalla also boasted that security personnel could not effectively confront his fighters inside the forests, claiming troops only patrol major roads.

“If they enter the bush, we could plant improvised explosive devices on the roads,”

he allegedly threatened.

He further warned that farming activities in the affected communities would become impossible if his demands were not met.

“If my cattle are not returned and my boys are not released, nobody will farm in those communities,”

he said.

Referring to the death of the late retired General Rabe Abubakar, Kachalla claimed he allowed the deceased’s body to be released for burial as an act of goodwill.

“If not because I wanted peace, I would not have released his corpse for burial. I did that to show I am a man of peace,”

he allegedly stated.

When informed that the Katsina State Government was not directly responsible for the recent military operations, Kachalla reportedly dismissed the explanation, arguing that the offensive had done little to weaken his group but had instead increased the suffering of local residents.

He also threatened to order his fighters to kill about 200 people if security operations continued instead of addressing his demands.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the Katsina State Government nor security agencies had issued an official response to the contents of the viral audio recording.

Federal Workers Forum Demands ₦300,000 Minimum Wage, Confirms Protest

Enyosa Favour
-
0
Federal Workers Forum Demands ₦300,000 Minimum Wage, Confirms Protest

The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has renewed its call for an increase in Nigeria’s national minimum wage from ₦70,000 to ₦300,000, insisting that its planned nationwide protest over economic hardship and insecurity will go ahead as scheduled.

The group said comments by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, acknowledging that federal workers are poorly paid, have validated its long-held position that civil servants are underpaid and struggling under worsening economic conditions.

In a statement jointly signed by the Forum’s National Coordinator, Andrew Emelieze, and General Secretary, Ayo Ogundele, the organisation urged the Federal Government to move beyond public acknowledgements and take immediate steps to improve workers’ welfare.

According to the Forum, recognising the challenges faced by workers without introducing an urgent salary review amounts to insensitivity and empty political promises.

“Our outcry has been justified. The Federal Government has openly agreed with our position that federal workers are poorly paid, exploited and dehumanised. The recent statement by the Chief of Staff says it all.

“However, what is surprising is the government’s continued insensitivity to the suffering of federal workers despite repeated calls by the Federal Workers Forum,” the statement read.

The Forum also criticised the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress, accusing both labour centres of failing to put enough pressure on the government to secure a living wage for Nigerian workers.

Questioning the government’s next steps, the Forum stated:

“It is not enough to admit guilt and go to sleep. The question is: what exactly is the government doing immediately to ensure justice for federal workers and pensioners?”

The workers’ group further alleged that the Federal Government has not fully implemented the ₦70,000 minimum wage, claiming that several outstanding benefits remain unpaid. These include wage award balances dating back to June 2024, promotion arrears, the 40 per cent peculiar allowance, and other staff entitlements.

According to the Forum, the current salary adjustment only added ₦40,000 to workers’ earnings under the new wage structure, describing the increase as grossly inadequate given Nigeria’s current economic realities.

As part of its demands, the Forum called for an immediate salary review, proposing a ₦300,000 minimum wage and a ₦1.5 million maximum salary for directors on Grade Level 17. It also asked the Federal Government to backdate the wage adjustment by at least one year to compensate workers for what it described as prolonged injustice.

The Forum maintained that its planned nationwide protest will proceed on Monday, June 29, urging federal workers across the country to wear black clothing and gather peacefully at federal secretariats to demonstrate against insecurity and the rising cost of living.

Reaffirming its position, the group declared:

“We are going ahead with our planned national protest against insecurity and hardship. Federal workers are tired of false hope. We are not slaves; we are citizens, and we demand justice. Federal workers will definitely protest. There is no going back.”

Airport Disruptions Loom As NiMet Workers Plan Nationwide Protest

Enyosa Favour
-
0
Airport Disruptions Loom As NiMet Workers Plan Nationwide Protest

Airport operations across Nigeria could experience significant disruptions from Wednesday as workers of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) prepare to embark on a nationwide protest over the alleged non-remittance of statutory revenue by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).

The planned industrial action was announced by the NiMet Unions Joint Action Committee, which accused NAMA of failing to remit NiMet’s statutory 10 percent share of en-route and overflight charges.

In a notice issued to members, the unions directed staff to begin a peaceful nationwide protest from 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday at all NiMet offices across the country.

The notice, jointly signed by the secretaries of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE), the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals (ANAP), and the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies (SSASCGOC), alleged that NAMA ignored a directive issued by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

According to the unions, the minister had instructed NAMA to remit the outstanding funds to NiMet within 48 hours, but the agency allegedly failed to comply.

“You may recall that the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development intervened to proffer a lasting solution due to the persistent failure of Nigeria Airspace Management Agency to remit 10 per cent of en-route and overflight charges to NiMet. Even after the minister’s intervention directing NAMA to pay NiMet within 48 hours, NAMA management did not honour the directive,” the notice stated.

The unions further claimed that the failure to release the funds has negatively affected NiMet’s operations and the welfare of its employees.

“This deliberate act from NAMA has paralysed operational activities within the aerodrome and staff welfare,” the notice added.

The decision to proceed with the protest followed a Joint Union Congress meeting held on June 15, where members resolved to escalate the dispute if the outstanding payments were not made within one week.

According to the unions, one of the resolutions reached at the meeting was to officially notify the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development that NAMA had failed to comply with his directive.

They maintained that workers had exhausted all avenues for dialogue and would go ahead with the planned nationwide demonstration if the outstanding remittances remained unpaid.

Although the unions described the action as peaceful, the protest could have a major impact on flight operations across Nigeria, as NiMet provides weather forecasts and meteorological information that are critical for aircraft dispatch, take-off, and landing.

The workers also confirmed that copies of the protest notice had been sent to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet.

Efforts to obtain NAMA’s response were unsuccessful, as the agency’s spokesperson, Abdullahi Musa, did not respond to calls or text messages before this report was filed.

Atiku Alleges Plot To Stop ADC From Participating In 2027 Elections

Enyosa Favour
-
0
Atiku Alleges Plot To Stop ADC From Participating In 2027 Elections

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has alleged that there is a coordinated plan by unnamed individuals within the ruling establishment to prevent the ADC from taking part in the 2027 general elections.

The former vice president warned that any attempt to stop the opposition party from contesting would constitute a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic process.

In a statement issued on Monday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku claimed he had received credible intelligence indicating that political and legal strategies were being put in place to block the ADC from appearing on the 2027 ballot.

According to him, the alleged plan forms part of a broader effort to weaken opposition parties and deny Nigerians the opportunity to freely choose their preferred leaders.

“We are fully aware of their plots. While they seek to sow confusion within the opposition, we know their real target is the ADC because it represents the most credible alternative,” Atiku stated.

He challenged the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to compete at the polls instead of allegedly attempting to determine which political parties should participate in the elections.

“Our message to the APC and the hooded men plotting in dark chambers is simple: you may conspire, but you will not succeed. If the APC is truly confident in its popularity, why is it so terrified of the ADC?” he queried.

Although he expressed hope that the alleged plot would not materialise, Atiku argued that recent political developments have made such concerns difficult to ignore.

He alleged a recurring pattern in which institutions expected to remain neutral are drawn into partisan political contests, while what he described as frivolous lawsuits, administrative actions and political pressure are deployed against opposition figures.

“The pattern has become all too familiar. First, institutions that ought to be neutral are drawn into partisan contests. Then, frivolous litigations suddenly gain unusual momentum. Administrative powers are selectively deployed. Political pressure is mounted behind closed doors. Before long, democracy itself becomes the casualty,” he said.

The former vice president also accused the APC-led administration of focusing more on political battles than governance despite Nigeria’s current economic and security challenges.

“The obsession with silencing the opposition has become so consuming that governance itself has taken a back seat. At a time when Nigerians are battling hunger, inflation, unemployment, insecurity, and collapsing purchasing power, those entrusted with public office appear preoccupied with political survival rather than national survival,” the statement added.

Atiku maintained that the growing popularity of the ADC should be challenged through democratic competition rather than institutional interference, insisting that elections should ultimately be decided by voters.

“The proper response to a popular political movement is not suppression. It is to present superior ideas before the electorate. Democracies are won at the ballot box, not in back rooms, not through manipulated court processes, and certainly not through the abuse of state institutions,” he stated.

He further warned that excluding the ADC from the 2027 elections would amount to one of the greatest threats to Nigeria’s constitutional democracy since the country’s return to civilian rule in 1999.

The former vice president also called on the judiciary to resist political influence while urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, civil society organisations and the international community to remain vigilant against any action capable of undermining the credibility of the electoral process.

“No administration has the constitutional authority to determine which political party Nigerians are permitted to vote for. Sovereignty belongs to the people—not to those who temporarily wield power. The ballot is sacred, and every attempt to tamper with it is an attack on the Republic itself,” he said.

Atiku insisted that intimidation, judicial manipulation and political engineering would not diminish public support for the ADC.

“The desire for change cannot be outlawed. Hope cannot be deregistered. Democracy cannot be subverted by administrative fiat. The will of the Nigerian people will prevail over every conspiracy,” he declared.

His statement comes amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election, with Atiku and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi adopting the ADC as the platform for a coalition seeking to challenge the APC.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the Presidency, the APC nor INEC had responded to Atiku’s allegations.

ISWAP Commanders Clash As Failed Mission Leaves Fighters Dead

Enyosa Favour
-
0
ISWAP Commanders Clash As Failed Mission Leaves Fighters Dead

Fresh internal fighting has reportedly broken out within the ranks of the Islamic State West Africa Province, with commanders and fighters allegedly engaging in deadly clashes following disagreements over a failed operation.

According to reports, one of the confrontations took place in the Timbuktu Triangle area of Borno State, where a dispute between senior field commanders over the planning and execution of an operation escalated into an armed confrontation.

The exchange of gunfire reportedly left several ISWAP fighters dead, further exposing growing divisions within the insurgent group.

Counter-insurgency experts monitoring developments in the Lake Chad region attributed the reported infighting to the sustained military offensive being carried out by the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Nigerian Air Force.

According to the analysts, the coordinated air and ground operations have significantly weakened ISWAP’s operational capacity and placed the group under mounting pressure.

The experts further explained that the continued military campaign has depleted the insurgents’ resources, increased desperation among their fighters, and created confusion within the group’s leadership, factors they believe have contributed to the latest internal clashes.

South Africa Knocked Out As Eustaquio Sends Canada Into Last-16

Emenike Agu
-
0
South Africa Knocked Out As Eustaquio Sends Canada Into Last-16

Canada outlasted South Africa in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Stephen Eustaquio’s superb strike proving the difference between the two teams.

South Africa 0-1 Canada

Canada goals: Stephen Eustaquio (90+2)

At a glance

  • Moise Bombito has header cleared off line for Canada
  • Stephen Eustaquio scores Canada winner in second minute of additional time, with superb low strike
  • Canada will face winner of Morocco v the Netherlands in last 16

Stephen Eustaquio scored a dramatic winner in the second minute of injury time as co-hosts Canada defeated South Africa to move into the last 16 of the World Cup for the first time.

In a scrappy game short of clear-cut chances, and with extra time looming, Eustaquio provided a rare moment of quality with a superb low strike from the edge of the penalty area to give Canada the victory.

Canada had lost all six of their World Cup matches before this tournament, but this victory continued a superb competition for them.

They defeated Qatar 6-0 on 18 June for their first success in a finals and this was another special moment for Jesse Marsch’s side as they became the first nation through to the last 16, where they will play either the Netherlands or Morocco in Houston on Saturday, 4 July.

In a team huddle immediately after the final whistle, Marsch could be heard telling his players “you are Canadian heroes. The future of the sport in this country is huge because of you”.

South Africa had finished second in Group A, but produced a disappointing performance in Los Angeles, with only one shot on target and they looked happy to settle for extra time, before the decisive moment.

Canada’s Moise Bombito’s header was cleared off the line by South Africa’s Aubrey Modiba, before Marsch’s side thought they should have had a penalty after a challenge from Khuliso Mudau on Richie Laryea.

Marsch was incensed at the decision and tried to talk the officials at half-time, only to be stopped by Bombito.

Only some superb defending from Mbekezeli Mbokazi denied Jonathan David a goal with a vital block, with Canada having further chances following the introduction of Bayern Munich full-back Alphonso Davies, with Jonathan David and Promise David both coming close.

But Canada, who had seven shots on target, got the victory they deserved late on to progress and eliminate South Africa.

Analysis: Canadian delight in the United States

Canada had played all three Group B matches in their home country, but the 2-1 loss to Switzerland in their final match saw them finish second, and have to travel to the United States.

Despite losing home advantage, Canada delighted their fans with a historic victory.

At full-time, former Leeds boss Marsch was quick to highlight the significance of this win to the country.

He said: “Guys. Think about the two years we’ve been together. Think about how we talked about sticking to the plan, sticking to who we want to be, playing aggressive, accessing the quality, you guys showing your character.

“You guys are Canadian heroes. Canadian heroes. Canadian heroes for the future children of this country, who play this sport. This sport has a big future because of you guys. 

“You should be so proud of who you are. You should be so proud of this game. You went after it, moment after moment. You are Canadian heroes.”

Canada will have to be at their best to go any further in the tournament as they will face either Morocco, seventh in the latest Fifa World Rankings, or the Netherlands, one place below them in eighth.

But a massive boost for Marsch’s side came with the return of Davies, who had missed the group matches because of a hamstring injury sustained in Bayern’s Champions League semi-final against Paris St-Germain in May.

Davies made an instant impact and his quality instantly shone through, although it was left for Eustaquio to become their match winner.

Player of the match

Number: 7 S. Eustaquio

Average rating 7.1

Number: 1 R. Williams

Average Rating: 5.83

Number: 14 M. Mbokazi

Average Rating: 5.80

Number: 6 A. Modiba

Average Rating: 5.76

Number: 13 Y. Sithole

Average Rating: 5.73

Number: 21 I. Okon

Average Rating: 5.53

Number: 20 K. Mudau

Average Rating: 5.46

Number: 4 T. Mokoena

Average Rating: 5.42

Number: 17 E. Makgopa

Average Rating: 5.22

Number: 12 T. Maseko

Average Rating: 5.20

Number: 10 R. Mofokeng

Average Rating: 5.20

Number: 5 T. Mbatha

Average Rating: 5.14

Number: 7 O. Appollis

Average Rating: 5.09

Number: 8 T. Moremi

Average Rating: 4.91

Number: 15 I. Rayners

Average Rating: 4.60

World Cup 2026: Qualified And Eliminated Teams

Emenike Agu
-
0
World Cup 2026: Qualified And Eliminated Teams

Find out which teams have booked their place in the Round of 32 and who they will face, plus who has been eliminated at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Qualified for the Round of 32

Mexico

The co-hosts had the honour of getting the tournament under way, and were also the first side to secure progress after victories over South Africa and Korea Republic ensured they would top Group A. El Tri will now meet Ecuador in the Round of 32 in Mexico City on 30 June.

USA

Hot on the heels of their neighbours, Mauricio Pochettino’s side were the next team to qualify- delighting fans in Los Angeles and Seattle with comfortable successes against Paraguay and Australia in Group D. Paraguay’s victory over Türkiye later the same day confirmed Mauricio Pochettino’s side as group winners, and set them up with a Round of 32 meeting against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the San Francisco Bay Area on 1 July.

Germany

Julian Nagelsmann’s side became first European team to progresssecuring their place in the knockout phase for the first time since 2014 after back-to-back victories over Curaçao and Côte d’Ivoire in their first two Group E matches. Curaçao’s shock draw with Ecuador in their second Group E match confirmed Germany would win the group, to set up a meeting with Paraguay in Boston on 29 June.

Argentina

Inspired by record-breaking captain Lionel Messi, Argentina ensured progress after just two games thanks to a 3-0 victory over Algeria and a 2-0 success against Austria, with all the goals scored by their talisman. Jordan’s defeat to Algeria later the same day means the holders were confirmed as Group J winners and now go on to meet Cabo Verde in the Round of 32 in Miami on 3 July.

France

The 2018 winners and 2022 finalists booked their ticket out of Group I with a game to spare thanks to the goals of Kylian Mbappe, as the prolific forward scored twice in each of the victories over Senegal and Iraq. Success against Norway in their final fixture set up a Round of 32 meeting with Sweden in New York New Jersey on 30 June.

Norway

Having waited 28 years for a World Cup return, Stale Solbakken’s side made short work of qualifying from Group I as they overcame Iraq and Senegal, inspired by the goals of Erling Haaland. Having finished second behind France, they now meet Group E runners-up Côte d’Ivoire in Dallas on 30 June.

Colombia

Back-to-back victories in their opening game against Uzbekistan and Congo DR gave Nestor Lorenzo’s men safe passage to the Round of 32, before a draw with Portugal ensured they topped Group K, setting up a game against Ghana in Kansas on 3 July.

Switzerland

Murat Yakin guided his side to seven points from their three Group B games, with victory over Canada in their final fixture setting up a Round of 32 date with Algeria in Vancouver on 2 July.

Canada

The co-hosts will have to leave home soil for the first time this tournament having finished as runners-up in Group B, and they now meet the Group A runners-up South Africa in Los Angeles on 28 June.

Brazil

The five-times winners claimed top spot in Group C with a 3-0 success against Scotland, and will now meet Group F runners-up Japan in Houston on 29 June.

Morocco

The Atlas Lions confirmed they would finish as runners-up in Group C with a 4-2 victory over Haiti and now meet Group F winners the Netherlands in Monterrey on 29 June.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

The European outfit were confirmed as one of the best third-placed qualifiers hours after their 3-1 success against ensured they would finish on four points in Group B, setting up a Round of 32 meeting with co-hosts USA at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium on 1 July.

South Africa

Bafana Bafana booked their place in the knockout phase of the World Cup for the first time in their history, recovering from an opening day defeat to Mexico to draw with Czechia and then defeat Korea Republic to spark scenes of jubilation in Monterrey and beyond. A meeting with co-hosts Canada kicks off the Round of 32 in Los Angeles on Sunday, 28 June.

Côte d’Ivoire

The African side booked a meeting with Group I runners -up Norway in the Round of 32 in Dallas on 30 June, having secured second place in Group E with victories over Ecuador and Curaçao.

Ecuador

The South American side saved their best for last in Group E with a 2-1 win against Germany ensuring they finished third with four points, having previously lost to Côte d’Ivoire and being held to a goalless draw by Curaçao. Their next challenge is a meeting with co-hosts Mexico on 30 June.

Netherlands

Ronald Koeman’s side topped Group F after victories over Sweden and Tunisia following an opening draw with Japan. They move on to face Morocco in the Round of 32 at Monterrey Stadium on 29 June.

Japan

The AFC outfit have a challenging encounter with Group C winners Brazil next on the agenda in Houston on 29 June, having in second place in the Group after draws with Netherlands and Sweden, and a victory over Tunisia.

Sweden

Graham Potter’s men are assured of progress as one of the best eight third-placed sides after drawing with Japan in their final group game, having cruised to victory over Tunisia and then suffering a heavy defeat to Netherlands. France will be their next opponents in New York New Jersey on 30 June.

Australia

The Socceroos ensured they would feature in the knockout phase after finishing second in Group D thanks to three points against Türkiye and a draw with Paraguay. They now face Group G runners-up Egypt in Dallas on 3 July.

Spain

The 2010 winners finished top of Group H after an opening round draw with Cabo Verde was followed by victories against Saudi Arabia and Uruguay. They will meet Group J runners-up Austria in the Round of 32 in Los Angeles on 2 July.

Cabo Verde

The tournament debutants have captured hearts around the globe and emerged unbeaten form Group H as runners-up following draws with Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. Their next task is a clash with holders Argentina in Miami on 3 July.

Paraguay

The South American national finished third in Group D behind USA and Australia and were confirmed as one the the best third-placed qualifiers 24 hours later. Their reward is a meeting with Germany in Boston on 29 June.

Belgium

Despite a slow start to the tournament which saw them draw with Egypt and IR Iran, Belgium found their form in their final fixture to overcome New Zealand and set up a date with Senegal in the Round of 32 in Seattle on 1 July.

Egypt

Although their qualification had been confirmed before kick-off, a dramatic final day in Group G saw The Pharaohs take second place in the table as they drew 1-1 with IR Iran. They will now take on Group D runners-up Australia in Dallas on 3 July.Senegal

The Lions of Teranga gave themselves every chance of securing a best third-place berth after ending their Group I campaign with a 5-0 victory over Iraq and their progress was confirmed a few hours later following the conclusion of the Group G fixtures. Belgium are their next opponents in Seattle on 1 July.

England

Thomas Tuchel’s side topped Group L with victories over Croatia and Panama sandwiching a draw against Ghana. The Three Lions move on to Atlanta, where they meet Congo DR on 1 July.

Croatia

The 2018 finalists and 2022 semi-finalists emerged from Group L in second place after bouncing back from an opening defeat by England to overcome Panama and Ghana. They now meet Group K runners-up Portugal in the Round of 32 in Toronto on 2 July

Ghana

The Black Stars qualified from Group L as one of the eight third -placed sides and will now meet Group K winners Colombia at Kansas City Stadium on 3 July

Portugal 

Portugal booked their place in the Round of 32 before kicking a ball in their final group match.Having already reached four points, and thanks to results in Group H having shifted the qualifying threshold, that was enough to guarantee progression. After drawing 0-0 with Colombia to finish as runners-up, they now meet Croatia in Toronto on 2 July

Congo DR

The CAF outfit secured their third place the Round of 32 as one of the Best third-placed sides, finishing behind Colombia and Portugal in Group K. Their next challenge is a clash with England in Atlanta on 1 JulyAustria

A dramatic final day encounter with Algeria saw Austria secure second place in Group J thanks to a 3-3 draw clinched with the very last kick of the game. They now move on to face Spain in Los Angeles on 2 July

Algeria

The Desert Foxes were seconds away from snatching victory over Austria, but had to settle for going through as the last of the eight best third-placed sides. Switzerland now await on 2 July in Vancouver.

Eliminated teams

Haiti

Back-to-back defeats at the hands of Scotland and Brazil saw Haiti’s tournament come to an early conclusion.

Tunisia

The Eagles of Carthage endured a World Cup to forget, going down 5-1 to Sweden and 4-0 to Japan to crash out after two matches

Türkiye

After qualifying via the UEFA play-offs, Türkiye suffered a surprise early elimination with setbacks against Australia and Paraguay in Group D.

Jordan

Jamal Sellami’s side were another to exit the tournament after two games, following defeats at the hands of Austria and Algeria in Group J.

Panama

The Concacaf nation suffered narrow defeats against Ghana and Croatia, ensuring they would finish in last place in Group L prior to their loss to England.Qatar

The 2022 hosts finished in fourth place in Group B following a draw with Switzerland and defeats at the hands of Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Czechia

The European side were consigned to last place in Group A with just one point to their name following defeats by Korea Republic and Mexico either side of a draw with South Africa.

Curaçao

Despite finishing fourth in Group E, the tournament debutants generated global headlines and goodwill, with Eloy Room’s display in the 0-0 draw with Ecuador particularly memorable.

Iraq

Having been placed into the challenging Group I alongside France, Norway and Senegal, the Lions of Mesopotamia suffered three defeats to fall at the first hurdle.

Uruguay

Marcelo Bielsa’s team suffered a shock early exit from the tournament with only two points to their name, having drawn with Saudi Arabia and Cabo Verde and then losing to Spain.

Saudi Arabia

The AFC nation finished last in Group H with two points to show for their efforts having lost to Spain in between draws with Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.

New Zealand

The sole OFC representatives at the World Cup exited at the group phase after finishing in fourth place in Group G behind Belgium, Egypt and IR Iran.

Scotland

A first World Cup in 28 years for Scotland once again ended at the first hurdle as they finished third behind Brazil and Morocco in Group C, but were not ranked as one of the best third-placed sides.

Uzbekistan

Making their first-ever World Cup appearance, the White Wolves were unable to emerge from a challenging group which featured Colombia, Portugal and Congo DR.

Korea Republic

One of the surprise early departures from the tournament, the AFC heavyweights finished third in Group A behind Mexico and South Africa but did not do enough to progress as one of the eight third-placed teams. 

IR Iran

Team Melli finished third in Group G with an unbeaten record after three draws, but it was not enough to secure a place among the best eight third-place finishers.

Court Sets Aside Judgment Recognising NDC As Political Party

Enyosa Favour
-
0
Court Sets Aside Judgment Recognising NDC As Political Party

A Federal High Court sitting in Lokoja has nullified its earlier judgment that recognised the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a registered political party, ordering that the matter be heard afresh with all interested parties included in the proceedings.

Justice Isah Dashen ruled that the previous judgment could not stand because the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which claims ownership of the logo being used by the NDC, was not joined as a party in the original suit.

Speaking to journalists after the ruling, counsel to the PMP, C.S. Ekeocha, explained that the party approached the court after discovering that the NDC’s registration was based on a logo it had previously submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) before the legal action began.

According to Ekeocha, the court directed that all parties be returned to the positions they occupied before the judgment delivered on December 10, 2025. The court also ordered the claimants to include all necessary parties in the case so that every issue surrounding the dispute can be properly determined.

He stated that the ruling effectively invalidates all actions taken by INEC based on the earlier judgment, including the recognition of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, the issuance of its certificate of registration, its inclusion in the commission’s official records, and any appearance of the party on ballot papers.

However, Ekeocha clarified that the court did not determine the substantive dispute over the NDC’s registration. According to him, the latest decision simply sets aside the previous judgment to allow every affected party the opportunity to present its case before the court.

With the ruling, the legal battle over the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress will now return to the Federal High Court, where the matter will be heard afresh with all relevant parties participating in the proceedings.

Thousands Flee South Africa Ahead Of Anti-Immigrant Protests

Enyosa Favour
-
0
Thousands Flee South Africa Ahead Of Anti-Immigrant Protests

Thousands of undocumented migrants are trying to leave South Africa before nationwide anti-immigrant protests scheduled for June 30, amid growing fears that the demonstrations could turn violent.

In Durban, thousands of Malawian nationals queued at a temporary processing centre hoping to secure transport home, while hundreds of Zimbabweans spent nights sleeping outside their country’s consulate in Cape Town as they waited for buses.

Many migrants said they were leaving because they feared becoming targets of violence.

“We are scared because you never know what people are planning to do to you. It’s not right to wait and see what will happen,” said 37-year-old Ebrahim Moosa, who was waiting with his wife and other families, including mothers carrying babies, to return to Malawi.

South Africa has witnessed a wave of xenophobic protests and, in some cases, deadly attacks in recent weeks, forcing many foreign nationals to flee their homes or leave affected communities.

Anti-immigrant groups have given undocumented migrants until June 30 to leave the country, while several cities are preparing for possible unrest despite repeated government appeals for citizens not to take immigration enforcement into their own hands.

KwaZulu-Natal’s acting police commissioner, Phumelele Makoba, urged protesters to cooperate with law enforcement, saying authorities were preparing for large demonstrations. Police have announced a major security deployment, while President Cyril Ramaphosa said the country’s security forces were ready to maintain order.

The protest movement, March and March, has insisted it is not encouraging violence but said it would not accept responsibility for any incidents that occur during the demonstrations.

Xenophobic violence has repeatedly flared up in South Africa over the years, with some citizens blaming immigrants—most of whom come from neighbouring African countries—for crime, unemployment and pressure on public services.

President Ramaphosa has rejected those claims, warning against using foreigners as scapegoats and arguing that many of South Africa’s economic challenges stem from the long-term legacy of apartheid. Although the country has experienced years of weak economic growth and remains one of the world’s most unequal societies, it continues to attract migrants seeking work because it has Africa’s largest economy.

Among those forced to flee was Mozambican national Antonio Njive, who returned home earlier this month after his house was burned down during violence that killed five fellow Mozambicans.

“I left home without clothes. Everything was burned,” he said.

Mozambique has already repatriated hundreds of its citizens by bus, while Malawi and Zimbabwe have also organised transport home. However, officials say demand has overwhelmed available resources.

Outside Zimbabwe’s consulate in Cape Town, 30-year-old Amina Chiwoko said many people had been sleeping outdoors while waiting for buses.

“We are sleeping outside waiting for buses. Everyone just wants to go home,” she said.

Not everyone has the option of leaving. Many asylum seekers have nowhere safe to return to.

Leanne Sefu, a 25-year-old asylum seeker from the Democratic Republic of Congo who has lived in South Africa since she was three years old, said returning to her homeland was not possible because of the ongoing conflict there.

“The entire world knows that there’s a war in Congo, so me going back, it feels like going back to death,” she said.

After being attacked at the nail salon where she worked and forced from her home in Durban, she is now sleeping outside a Home Affairs office alongside dozens of other displaced migrants while hoping the government will provide emergency shelter.

“There’s no safety here,” she said.

Ghana To Buy 30% Of Large Mining Companies’ Gold Output From July 1

Enyosa Favour
-
0
Ghana To Buy 30% Of Large Mining Companies’ Gold Output From July 1

Ghana has reached a new agreement with large-scale mining companies to purchase 30 percent of their gold output beginning July 1, as the country moves to strengthen its foreign exchange reserves and expand local gold refining capacity.

The announcement was made by the government on Thursday as part of efforts to increase the nation’s gold holdings and reduce dependence on foreign currency inflows.

The initiative comes at a time when central banks around the world are increasing their gold reserves, with rising bullion prices making the precious metal a more attractive reserve asset.

As Africa’s largest gold producer, Ghana first introduced its gold purchase programme in 2022. Under the initial arrangement, mining companies agreed through the Ghana Chamber of Mines to supply 20 percent of their annual gold production to the Bank of Ghana.

According to data from the Bank of Ghana, the country’s gold reserves had risen to 19.2 metric tonnes by February.

In February this year, the government expanded the programme with a target of accumulating up to 157 metric tonnes of gold by 2028, equivalent to approximately 15 months of import cover.

To achieve this goal, authorities opened discussions with major mining companies, including Newmont, Gold Fields, and China’s Zijin Mining, to increase the volume of gold purchased by the state.

Under the new agreement, large-scale mining firms will sell 30 percent of their gold production to the state-owned Gold Board, popularly known as GoldBod, in dore form.

The government said purchases will be made at a discount of 0.55 percent of the Bank of Ghana’s reference rate, with payments made in Ghanaian cedis.

Officials explained that the agreement is also expected to support Ghana’s ambition of securing London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) accreditation for at least one domestic refinery by 2030.

Gold acquired through the programme will first be refined within Ghana before being transported to an LBMA-certified refinery for final melting and stamping, after which it will be added to the country’s central bank reserves.

GoldBod already purchases the entire output produced by Ghana’s artisanal gold mining sector.

The government believes that expanding its gold reserves will strengthen the country’s ability to withstand external economic shocks while also providing an additional source of foreign exchange through future international gold sales.

1...626364...2,666Page 63 of 2,666