June 2025 | Page 3 of 37

Trump Doubles Down on Iran Nuclear Claims Amid Doubts Over Strike Effectiveness

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

U.S. President Donald Trump has once again asserted that recent American and Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities significantly crippled Tehran’s capabilities, despite growing skepticism from intelligence sources and the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog. Speaking on Fox News Sunday Morning Futures with Maria Bartiromo, Trump insisted that Iran was “weeks away” from acquiring nuclear weapons before the U.S. and Israel launched strikes beginning June 13, targeting key facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. He claimed the sites were “obliterated,” and that the operation had “set Iran’s nuclear ambitions back by decades.” However, this narrative clashes with multiple intelligence reports and assessments from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which found no conclusive evidence that the facilities were permanently disabled. IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi stated that Iran could resume uranium enrichment “within months,” raising doubts about the long-term impact of the strikes. An IAEA report last month indicated that Iran had stockpiled over 400kg of uranium enriched to 60% purity—close to weapons-grade—enough to produce multiple nuclear weapons if enriched further. Meanwhile, Tehran maintains that its nuclear programme is strictly for civilian use. Trump dismissed media reports contradicting his version of events as “fake news,” claiming the bomb strikes penetrated the heavily fortified Fordow site with ease. “The bomb went through it like butter,” he said. He also denied reports that Iran had evacuated its enriched uranium from the facility ahead of the attack. On the geopolitical front, Trump revealed that U.S. trade negotiations with Canada were paused over a controversial digital tax. He also confirmed that he had found a group of “very wealthy people” to acquire TikTok, promising to reveal the buyer in two weeks after extending the app’s ban for another 90 days. Trump’s continued defiance on the Iran issue comes as Washington attempts to balance military posturing with diplomatic efforts in the aftermath of the recent 12-day conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the U.S.

Al-Quds Brigades Claim Attacks on Israeli Forces in Khan Younis

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago01 mins

The Al-Quds Brigades, the military wing of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), have claimed responsibility for a series of attacks targeting Israeli forces in southern Gaza. In a statement released on Saturday, the group said its fighters destroyed an Israeli military vehicle using a barrel bomb in the Abasan al-Kabira area, located east of Khan Younis. The Brigades also reported launching coordinated mortar attacks on Israeli troops and vehicles in multiple positions across southern Khan Younis, in joint operations with the Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas. The attacks come amid ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza, with both sides trading fire in what has become an intensifying and prolonged conflict in the region.

Presidency Debunks Rumours, Confirms George Akume Remains SGF

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

The Presidency has firmly denied reports suggesting that Senator George Akume has been removed from his role as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), describing such claims as false and misleading. In a statement issued on Saturday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, the Presidency affirmed that Senator Akume remains in office and continues to carry out his official duties. “There has been no change in the status of His Excellency, Senator George Akume, as Secretary to the Government of the Federation,” the statement read. The clarification follows widespread speculation on social media alleging a shake-up in the federal cabinet. The Presidency, however, attributed the rumours to “mischief makers” and advised the public to disregard the reports. President Tinubu, who is currently in Saint Lucia, has not made any new appointments, the statement added. The government urged Nigerians to verify information from credible sources before sharing, warning against the spread of fake news capable of inciting unnecessary tension.

27 Years of Trauma: MKO Abiola’s Son Speaks on Family’s Struggles, Calls on Tinubu to Settle Outstanding Debts

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago04 mins

As Nigeria marked the 32nd anniversary of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, Olalekan Abiola, son of the late Chief MKO Abiola, has described the experience of the family over the years as “27 years of trauma,” following the tragic losses of both parents and unfulfilled promises by successive governments. Speaking at the family residence in Ikeja, Lagos during the Democracy Day commemoration, Olalekan recalled the harrowing impact of the annulment and his parents’ deaths. “Losing my mother to assassination while my father was in military detention made it even more painful,” he said. “We were expecting her to visit us in the U.S. just days before she was shot.” He said despite being educated and able to fend for themselves, the family has faced setbacks due to the alleged hijacking of MKO’s businesses by his eldest son, Kola Abiola, whom he accused of failing to unite all the children of the late politician. Olalekan also lamented the Nigerian government’s failure to settle huge debts owed to his father’s companies for contracts carried out through the Ministries of Communications, Education, and Defence. According to him, Presidents Obasanjo, Jonathan, and Buhari all made unfulfilled promises to audit and repay the debts. He called on President Bola Tinubu to fulfill those obligations, noting Tinubu’s longstanding relationship with MKO and his June 12 legacy. “Now that Tinubu is president, we hope he will do the needful. It’s time to pay what is owed,” he said. On the legacy of his father, Olalekan called for full recognition, including placing MKO Abiola’s portrait in Aso Rock alongside other former Nigerian leaders. He also demanded that all presidential entitlements due to MKO be paid to the family. “Chief Shonekan and even military rulers like Babangida and Abacha have their portraits in the Villa. MKO was elected by Nigerians in the freest election ever held — he deserves that honour,” he insisted. Reflecting on MKO’s personal life, Olalekan described his father as a devout Muslim, philanthropist, and nation-builder. “He lived by the values of charity, humility, and service. Even 27 years after his death, Nigerians still remember him.” He also emphasized the lessons of the June 12 struggle for Nigeria’s democracy, highlighting the need for equity in the country’s leadership. “No region should dominate another. The next presidency should go to the South-East. It’s their turn,” he said. Olalekan concluded by urging the government to ensure MKO’s will is implemented and his legacy protected under Nigerian law.

Kwara United Wins President Federation Cup

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago01 mins

Kwara United FC has emerged as the champions of the 2025 President Federation Cup clinching a historic victory that ends their long wait for the prestigious Nigerian domestic trophy. The Ilorin-based club defeated El-Kanemi Warriors 1-0 in a tightly contested final match at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos. The lone goal came in the second half, securing Kwara United’s first-ever Federation Cup title and guaranteeing them a spot in the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup

INEC Acknowledges Application to Register All Democratic Alliance (ADA) as Political Party

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially acknowledged the receipt of an application by the promoters of the proposed All Democratic Alliance (ADA) seeking registration as a political party in Nigeria. In a letter dated June 27, 2025, signed by the Commission’s Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, INEC confirmed that the application—submitted by ADA’s Protem National Chairman on June 19, 2025—is currently under review. “The Commission is processing your application in line with the provision of Part 1, clause 2(ii) of our Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties, 2022,” the letter stated. While the letter did not indicate approval or denial, the formal acknowledgment and assurance of “highest regards” suggests the process is underway. If successfully registered, ADA would become one of the latest entrants into Nigeria’s expanding political landscape, potentially joining efforts to challenge the dominance of the APC and PDP in the run-up to the 2027 general elections. According to LEADERSHIP, INEC disclosed earlier this week that it has received a total of 110 applications from groups seeking registration as political parties, a signal of rising political mobilization ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Kwara United, Rivers Angels Win 2025 President Federation Cup

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago04 mins

Cup holders Rivers Angels made it 10th title accomplished as they edged Nasarawa Amazons on penalties, while Kwara United won their first-ever national trophy at the grand finale of this year’s President Federation Cup in Lagos on Saturday. The women’s final showcased a compelling match-up between the reigning champions, Rivers Angels and arch-rivals Nasarawa Amazons. Amazons began aggressively and notched the first goal in the 8th minute through former junior international Shola Shobowale. The Jewels of Rivers responded by increasing their offensive efforts so as to restore parity. However, in the 20th minute, Shobowale netted her second goal of the match, extending the Amazons’ lead to 2-0 at half time. Despite the apparent control maintained by the Amazons in the second period, Rivers Angels mounted a significant comeback effort. In the 57th minute, former Nigeria U17 team captain Taiwo Ajibade, scored to reduce the deficit. Shortly after, the Jewels found parity through a well-taken goal. In the ensuing penalty shootout, the Angles prevailed 4-2 to successfully defend their crown and collect the trophy for the 10th time. Goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi, who won the best goalkeeper award, converted her team’s final kick for victory. In the men’s final, Kwara United stood firm against ‘giant-killers’ Abakaliki FC from Ebonyi State and eventually prevailed 4-3 after penalty shootout following a scoreless situation after regulation time. The Afonja Warriors came close to scoring in the 31st minute, advancing from midfield and executing strong play that brought them close to the Rice Boys’ goal. However, their attempt struck the woodwork, keeping the scoreline at 0-0 as both teams looked for the breakthrough. In the second half, Kwara United pushed hard to break the deadlock, with Wasiu Alalade nodding a goal in the 57th minute, which was ruled offside by Referee Joseph Ogabor. In the penalty shootout, Kwara United were triumphant in a 4-3 win. AWARDS WOMEN’S COMPETITION Winner: Rivers Angels (N25million) Runner-Up: Nasarawa Amazons (N10million) MVP: Shola Shobowale (Nasarawa Amazons FC) Top Scorer: Abasi Ofon Uwa (Ibom Angels FC) Best Goalkeeper: Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels FC) MEN’S COMPETITION Winner: Kwara United FC (N50million) Runner-Up: Abakaliki FC (N20million) MVP: Victor Okoye (Kwara United FC) Top Scorer: Mercelle Akinocho (Beyond Limits FC) Best Goalkeeper: Suraj Aiyeleso (Kwara United FC)

Basketball Africa League Season Five Was ‘Bitterwsweet’ Says Odaudu

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago06 mins

Just over two weeks after their quarter-final exit at the Basketball Africa League (BAL) Season five, Head Coach of Nigerian champions Rivers Hoopers, Ogoh Odaudu has shed some light about what went wrong during the team’s outing in Pretoria, South Africa. Having recorded a 4-2 win-loss ratio from the Kalahari Conference phase, the six-time Nigerian Basketball League champions entered the BAL Season five Playoffs in Pretoria, South Africa, as the fourth ranked team and full of optimism to better their achievements from previous appearances. However, consecutive losses to Tunisian outfit US Monastir in a seeding game (89-81), and Rwanda’s APR in the quarter-finals (104-73) meant the KingsMen exited the tournament earlier than expected. Speaking for the first time since their BAL Season five journey, Odaudu reflected on the team’s experience through the tournament, describing it as “bittersweet”. “BAL Season five was both good and bad. It was fantastic when we went to Morocco, we did everything right; Won the games we were supposed to and came second in the conference. However, in Pretoria, things fell apart. Some players fell sick, the chemistry we thought we had, we just didn’t show up. So it was kind of bittersweet at the same time. But in all, we give God all the glory.” he said. For the first time since its inaugural edition, the BAL Playoffs moved from Kigali’s BK Arena to the SunBet Arena in Pretoria. Having played at both venues, the seasoned basketball tactician commended the facility and atmosphere at the Season five Playoffs. “It doesn’t matter where you play the playoffs, whether it’s in Pretoria or in Kigali, it’s the same thing. It’s still basketball. The crowd in Pretoria was really energetic. I think they were both similar as regards their support for basketball, so it was good. And then the facilities were also top-notch,” he added. Rivers Hoopers made history by becoming the first (and only) Nigerian team to score a podium finish at Africa’s club basketball showpiece, when they finished third during BAL Season four, but fell short of matching that feat a year later. While dismissing any notion that the team was perhaps not up for the challenge in Pretoria, Odaudu shed some light on what went wrong for the KingsMen. “What went wrong? It was just one of those days. We just didn’t have a good final and I don’t think it’s anything unusual. There are teams who are bigger, who have been older and who have been there more times than us, who were sent packing the next day too.” he stated. He further explained that key members of the team had caught a bug just before the team’s quarter-final meeting with Rwanda’s APR, which limited their overall performance. “The actual fact was that most of the team fell sick in Pretoria. We were just barely managing with what we had. We were all ready for the BAL. We all arrived on time, we all practiced hard, but then the virus or something that started within the team was a major contributing factor [to our early exit],” he stressed. The veteran Nigerian coach however pointed out that his side will look to make the most of their BAL Season five experience in order to return to the podium at Africa’s premier club basketball tournament. “Like I said, we didn’t have a good [showing at the] playoffs this year but we are hoping to bounce back and learn from all the mistakes that we did [in Pretoria].”