August 2025 | Page 9 of 31

Israeli military targets Yemen’s Sanaa after Houthi attacks

Israeli Military Strikes Yemen’s Capital Sanaa Following Houthi Missile Attacks

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Sanaa, Yemen – The Israeli military has carried out air raids on Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, in what it says is retaliation for recent missile and drone attacks launched by the Houthi movement. The strikes mark a significant escalation in the widening regional fallout from Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza. According to Israeli and Yemeni sources, the air strikes early Sunday targeted multiple sites, including an oil facility, a power plant, and what Israel described as a “military complex” housing a presidential palace. The Houthi-affiliated Al Masirah TV confirmed the attacks and reported at least two fatalities and 35 injuries. Video footage verified by Al Jazeera showed plumes of fire and thick smoke rising over the Yemeni capital shortly after the strikes. “The attacks were carried out in response to repeated assaults by the Houthi terrorist regime against the State of Israel and its citizens, including the launch of surface-to-surface missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles,” said the Israeli military in a statement. On Friday, the Houthis claimed responsibility for launching missiles toward Israel, describing their operations as part of a broader effort to pressure Israel to end its military campaign and blockade in Gaza. A Houthi military official told Al Masirah that Yemen’s air defenses had “neutralised most of the Israeli enemy aircraft participating in the aggression and forced them to withdraw.” Houthi Defiance Despite the Israeli air raids, Houthi leaders have vowed to continue their military support for the Palestinian cause. “The Israeli aggression against Yemen will not discourage us from continuing our support for Gaza, no matter the sacrifices,” said Houthi official Mohammed al-Bukhaiti. “The issue is settled for us: either eternity in heaven or eternity in hell.” The air strikes on Sanaa mark the first publicly acknowledged Israeli attacks on Yemen since the escalation of hostilities in Gaza began. Regional analysts warn that the expanding theatre of conflict — from Lebanon and Syria to now Yemen — increases the risk of a broader Middle East war. Tensions have been mounting across the region as Israeli military operations in Gaza, which have drawn widespread international condemnation, continue into their 11th month. Protests, diplomatic backlash, and armed responses from non-state actors have intensified, raising fears of a prolonged and destabilising conflict.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Rules Out Igbo Presidential Bid in 2027 Backs Tinubu for Re-Election

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Abakaliki, Nigeria – August 24, 2025 – The apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has declared that no individual of Igbo descent will contest the presidency in the 2027 general elections against incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The group said it is aligning its political strategy toward securing the Nigerian presidency for the Southeast region in 2035. In a statement issued over the weekend and signed by the Deputy President General of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo faction, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and the National Spokesman, Chief Thompson Ohia, the group revealed that the decision followed a high-level meeting with Southeast political stakeholders, including members of the Imeobi and Nzukoumunna caucuses. The group said it had resolved to support President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, describing it as a strategic move to foster national stability and build alliances necessary for a successful Southeast presidential ambition in 2035. “Following extensive consultations and dialogues, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in collaboration with Southeast political leaders, has reached a unanimous and resolute conclusion that no Igbo candidate will contest the 2027 presidency against the incumbent,” the statement read. The organization emphasized that its long-term political calculations rest on a post-Tinubu transition, positing that the most practical path to an Igbo presidency lies within the All Progressives Congress (APC), especially if the party’s zoning arrangement is adjusted in 2035. Among a lineup of respected Igbo political figures, Ohanaeze identified the current Minister of Works and former Governor of Ebonyi State, Senator David Umahi, as the most viable and prepared candidate to lead Nigeria in 2035. “While the Southeast is blessed with numerous capable leaders — including Peter Obi, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Pius Anyim, Governor Hope Uzodinma, Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Rochas Okorocha, and others — Senator David Umahi stands out due to his proven track record, administrative competence, and experience at both state and federal levels,” the group noted. Ohanaeze projected that the Igbo bloc will overwhelmingly support Tinubu in 2027, estimating up to 95% backing from the region. “We hereby affirm our unwavering support for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. This endorsement is a calculated political strategy designed to ensure cooperation and national unity while positioning the Southeast for a successful presidential bid in 2035,” the statement added. The group further stated that it anticipates the North will take its turn in 2031 after Tinubu’s expected second term, thereby making 2035 the next viable window for the Southeast to produce Nigeria’s first president of Igbo extraction. “Our collective ambition to achieve the Igbo presidency in 2035 hinges on sustained political engagement, trust-building, and strategic alliances across Nigeria’s diverse regions,” Ohanaeze concluded. The statement has already sparked debate across the political landscape, with analysts pointing to its implications for Southeast unity, national power dynamics, and the future of opposition politics in the region.

ADC Denounces Fake Resignation Letter Affirms Hon. Nafiu Bala’s Leadership

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Abuja, Nigeria – August 24, 2025 – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed as fake a resignation letter purportedly signed by its Acting National Chairman, Hon. Nafiu Bala, describing it as a fraudulent document fabricated by political actors seeking to destabilise the party. In an official statement released on Sunday by Dr. Christopher Okechukwu, Director of Media and Public Affairs in the Office of the National Chairman, the party stated that the document, dated May 18, 2025, was neither authored nor signed by Hon. Bala and lacks the official insignia of the ADC. Okechukwu clarified that Hon. Nafiu Bala remains the constitutionally recognized Acting National Chairman of the ADC and has not at any time resigned from his position. He accused a faction of disgruntled political elements, led by former National Chairman Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, of orchestrating a scheme to take over the party through “undemocratic means.” “The African Democratic Congress, under the legitimate and constitutionally recognized Acting National Chairman, Hon. Nafiu Bala, categorically denies the existence of any authentic resignation letter. This is a desperate and malicious attempt by Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu and his collaborators to hijack the party’s leadership through illegitimate means,” the statement read. The party emphasised that the circulated document is fraudulent, lacking the necessary party letterhead, emblems, or signatures that would validate its authenticity. According to Okechukwu, those behind the fake letter have also attempted to submit unauthorised documents to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as part of a broader plan to impose unelected leadership on the party. “This coordinated effort to destabilise the ADC includes submitting falsified documents to INEC in violation of our constitution. The party’s leadership transition process is clearly outlined and requires any aspirant to be a registered and financially up-to-date member for at least one year,” he added. The ADC urged INEC to reject all unauthorised communications not sanctioned by the current leadership and to continue recognising Hon. Nafiu Bala as the legitimate Acting National Chairman. The party further called on its members and the general public to disregard false claims about any change in leadership and remain alert to misinformation campaigns aimed at sowing discord within its ranks. “We call on law enforcement agencies to investigate this attempt to undermine our internal democracy and national political stability,” the statement concluded. “The ADC under Hon. Nafiu Bala remains committed to promoting democratic values and strengthening Nigeria’s democratic future.”

Ruben Amorim: Manchester United will be different this season and I’m excited

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago06 mins

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim believes fans can expect a transformed team this season, powered by a dynamic new £200m attack and a renewed sense of belief at Old Trafford Ahead of United’s Premier League clash against Fulham on Super Sunday, live on Sky Sports from 4pm, Amorim sat down with Sky Sports News to share his thoughts on the club’s evolution, his approach to criticism, and why this year feels completely different A new-look attack: Sesko, Cunha, Mbeumo After a difficult 2024/25 season in which United scored just 44 goals, only three teams scored fewer, United splashed nearly £200m this summer on forwards Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo Amorim is already impressed “I felt Sesko was even better than what I was thinking,” he said, “He’s football-obsessed, and I believe he’s going to be our striker for many, many years” With Cunha and Mbeumo both offering versatility across the frontline and behind the striker, Amorim is confident this trio will provide the spark United lacked last season The spirit is different After finishing a disappointing 15th last term, Amorim admitted there were moments he entered matches with anxiety, This season, he says, the feeling is gone “Last year, sometimes I was worried going into games, but now I’m excited, it is completely different,” Amorim said “We suffered together so much last season, and that can bond people, The spirit is really good” He added that the arrival of new players, combined with the re-opening of the club’s training ground and a fresh internal culture, has revitalised the mood in the dressing room “The guys feel more free, They weren’t here during the very difficult moments, so they see something different” Responding to pressure: you have to be like a monk Amorim has already had to face scrutiny after goalkeeper Altay Bayindir made a costly error in the season opener against Arsenal, leading to a 1-0 defeat Rather than dwell on mistakes, Amorim is trying to shield his players from the intense media spotlight “The only way to protect myself and my players is to tell them not to see anything, You have to be like a monk,” he said “Altay made one mistake, but last year he had very good performances, I try to tell that to the players and battle the narrative” The long-term plan: in three years, win the title While some fans are hoping for immediate success, Amorim is more measured in his expectations “We are not in a moment where we can say we’re fighting for the league,” he admitted “But success is winning titles, and we want to do that, Not necessarily this season, but in three years we want to win the Premier League” For now, his focus is on small steps, game-by-game preparation, entertaining football, and consistent performances “We want to dominate games, score goals, and not bore our fans, If we tick those boxes, we will be better” Super Sunday test vs Fulham United’s new-look side heads to Craven Cottage on Sunday looking to bounce back from the narrow defeat to Arsenal and kick-start their Premier League campaign With Sesko, Cunha, and Mbeumo leading the line, Amorim believes this season could be the beginning of something special “I’m really happy, not just with Sesko, but with Cunha, Diego Leon, and Mbeumo, We know we have the players, and now we’re building the base” Watch Fulham vs Manchester United

Bill Gates-Backed Company Unveils Animal-Free Butter Made from Carbon

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

Batavia, Illinois — In a revolutionary food-tech breakthrough, a company backed by billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates has developed a lab-made butter derived entirely from carbon dioxide and hydrogen—without using animals, plants, or oils. The company, Savor, based in Batavia, Illinois, has begun commercial production of the product, which is made using a proprietary thermochemical process. The result is a butter alternative that looks, tastes, and smells like traditional dairy butter but is entirely synthetic and carbon-based. Savor’s innovative approach utilizes captured carbon dioxide and hydrogen in a closed-loop system, reportedly producing zero greenhouse gas emissions while consuming minimal land and water resources—a stark contrast to traditional dairy production. “This is a fundamentally new category of food,” a spokesperson for Savor said. “We’re not imitating butter from cows or plants. We’re building it molecule by molecule using carbon from the air.” Currently, Savor’s butter is being distributed to select restaurants and bakeries, with plans for broader retail availability in the coming years. The development marks a significant milestone in the growing push for climate-friendly and sustainable food alternatives, a movement increasingly backed by venture capital and high-profile investors like Gates. With the global food industry under pressure to reduce emissions and resource use, Savor’s carbon-based butter could signal the beginning of a new era in food innovation—one where taste and sustainability are no longer at odds.

NDLEA Arrests Widow Faking Pregnancy to Traffic Cocaine

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Lagos, Nigeria – Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested a 50-year-old widow and fashion designer, Mrs. Ifeoma Henrietta Ezewuike, for attempting to traffic 1.3 kilograms of cocaine disguised as a pregnancy. Ezewuike, owner of Golden Star Creation on Ago Palace Way, Okota, Lagos, was intercepted at a bus terminal in Jibowu, Yaba, on Friday, August 22, while en route to deliver the illicit consignment to clients in Abuja. A follow-up search of her residence led to the recovery of 200 grams of a cutting agent commonly used in cocaine processing. During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to inheriting the drug trade from her late husband. The arrest is part of an intensified nationwide anti-drug operation by the NDLEA targeting trafficking networks, illegal plantations, and urban distribution cells. Nationwide Crackdown Yields Massive Seizures In Lagos, NDLEA operatives also seized 90 parcels of Loud cannabis, weighing 48.6kg, concealed in three cartons of imported kitchen sinks from the United States. In Abuja, two dispatch riders were apprehended in the Jabi area while distributing illicit substances within the Federal Capital Territory. In Kano, a significant haul of 452,070 opioid pills was recovered from the residence of a suspect who is currently on the run. Several others were arrested in possession of codeine syrup, tramadol, and pregabalin capsules. In Adamawa, a raid on the home of a known drug dealer led to the recovery of 354,480 tramadol pills and the seizure of two vehicles believed to be used for drug distribution. Major Cannabis Plantations Destroyed In coordinated operations across Delta, Ondo, Edo, and Taraba States — supported by military and civil defence personnel — NDLEA teams destroyed more than 75,000 kilograms of cannabis (skunk) cultivated on plantations spanning over 25 hectares. Marwa Commends Officers’ Efforts Chairman of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), lauded the agency’s operatives for their diligence and courage. He urged officers to sustain the agency’s balanced approach in the ongoing War Against Drug Abuse (WADA), which combines enforcement with prevention, rehabilitation, and public education. “The agency’s operations are yielding results, but the fight must continue on all fronts — from arrests to awareness,” Marwa said. The NDLEA reiterated its commitment to dismantling drug networks and safeguarding Nigerian communities from the scourge of illicit drug abuse and trafficking.

Tensions Rise Within ADC Coalition as Atiku, Obi Stall on Membership Ahead of 2027 Elections

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago06 mins

With the 2027 general elections drawing closer, uncertainty looms within the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led opposition coalition as the much-anticipated membership of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Anambra State Governor Peter Obi remains unresolved, casting doubt on the coalition’s momentum and strategic direction. Multiple high-level sources within the coalition, who spoke to Sunday PUNCH on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the delay by Atiku, Obi, and other political heavyweights in formally joining the ADC has stalled the party’s growth and weakened its position as a unified alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Further complicating the party’s outlook are administrative and legal setbacks, including the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) delayed recognition of Senator David Mark as ADC National Chairman. Legal disputes and limited funding have also reportedly hampered operational activities across the country. Despite growing concerns, ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, insisted the coalition remains united and on course. “We are not disturbed over Atiku and Obi’s delayed membership. Nothing has changed; both of them are very much with the coalition,” he told Sunday PUNCH. “Anyone telling you otherwise is misinformed.” The coalition, unveiled in Abuja on March 20, was established to form a credible opposition front ahead of 2027. The initiative gained national attention following a July 1 meeting where Atiku, Obi, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and other key figures endorsed the ADC as the coalition’s political platform. The party is currently under the interim leadership of Senator David Mark and former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary. However, several insiders say the lack of formal membership from Atiku and Obi has discouraged other potential entrants and hampered the coalition’s credibility. “Members of the party, especially the National Working Committee, are seriously concerned,” a senior coalition official told Sunday PUNCH. “Atiku left the PDP over a month ago but has yet to officially join us. Obi also hasn’t made a move. Their absence is stalling the momentum and discouraging others from coming onboard.” The official added that while coalition leaders remain committed to challenging the APC in 2027, doubts persist over whether the current structure is strong enough to mount a serious challenge without firm commitments from major players. “If these figures had joined, the ADC would already have gathered significant momentum. Their presence would have brought resources, credibility, and mass followership. For now, things remain uncertain.” Another top coalition figure linked some of the party’s setbacks to political interference and unresolved legal issues. “INEC’s delay in recognising David Mark’s leadership and ongoing court cases—some believed to be government-sponsored—are slowing us down,” the source alleged. Despite the turbulence, he expressed confidence in the party’s long-term viability. “The ADC remains a formidable platform. Nigerians are gradually accepting it as a credible alternative to the APC. We believe Atiku and Obi will join fully in due time.” In response to enquiries, Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, affirmed the former Vice President’s commitment to the coalition and confirmed that steps toward formal registration with the ADC are underway. “Atiku is not contemplating leaving the coalition,” Ibe said. “The party is being established across the country, and registration is ongoing. His membership is a process, and it’s in motion. He remains committed to the coalition’s vision to rescue Nigeria.” Efforts to reach Peter Obi’s associate and Obidient Movement coordinator, Yunusa Tanko, for comment were unsuccessful as calls to his phone went unanswered. As the opposition navigates these internal hurdles, political analysts warn that time is running short for the coalition to solidify its base, unify its ranks, and present a cohesive challenge in 2027.

India Passes Landmark Law Banning Online Gambling Amid Mounting Losses

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago05 mins

New Delhi, India – India’s parliament has passed a landmark bill banning online gambling, following alarming government figures that estimate betting platforms have drained over $2.3 billion annually from nearly 450 million Indians. The new legislation, called the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, was passed by both houses of parliament late Thursday. It criminalises the offering, promotion, and financing of online gambling and fantasy money games, with violators facing up to five years in prison. The ban will impact platforms offering real-money card games, poker, and fantasy sports—most notably India’s wildly popular fantasy cricket apps. Uncertain Future for Cricket Sponsorships The move throws into question the future of major sponsorships, including Dream11, India’s largest fantasy sports platform, which became the lead sponsor of the national cricket team in July 2023, with its branding prominently featured on Team India jerseys. As of Friday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had made no formal announcement about Dream11’s sponsorship status. “If it’s not permissible, we’ll not do anything,” said BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia. “The BCCI will follow every policy of the country that is framed by the central government.” In response to the bill, Dream11 announced that all cash games and contests have been discontinued, though non-cash games remained accessible as the bill awaits formal ratification by the President. Curbing Addiction and Financial Harm A government statement described the bill as a response to the rise of “predatory gaming platforms”, which officials say exploit users with false promises of quick wealth, leading to addiction, financial distress, and even suicides. “This legislation is designed to curb addiction, financial ruin, and social distress caused by predatory gaming platforms,” the statement read. Government data also links the online gambling industry to fraud, money laundering, and terrorism financing. Exceptions for E-Sports and Education The bill excludes e-sports and educational games, which the government has pledged to promote under India’s digital economy strategy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the legislation, saying it would “encourage e-sports and online social games” while protecting society from “the harmful effects of online money games.” Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw clarified that the law makes a clear distinction between games of skill and chance: “It promotes constructive digital recreation and separates it from gambling, betting, and fantasy money games that exploit users.” Industry Pushback and Warnings India is home to one of the world’s largest online gaming markets. Industry groups had lobbied for regulation and taxation, warning that a blanket ban could push users to illegal offshore platforms. But supporters of the law argue that the social and economic costs are far too great to allow the industry to continue unchecked. The legislation marks a decisive shift in India’s digital policy, reinforcing the government’s commitment to safeguarding citizens while promoting responsible digital engagement.