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Court Sentences Man to Death for Murder of NYSC Member in Nasarawa

Court Sentences Man to Death for Murder of NYSC Member in Nasarawa

Fola Badmus02 mins

The High Court sitting in Lafia, Nasarawa State, has sentenced Oluwatimileyin Ajayi to death by hanging for the murder of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Salome Eleojo Adaidu. Delivering judgment on the case, Justice Simon Aboki found the 32-year-old defendant guilty of culpable homicide, contrary to Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria. Ajayi, a gospel singer, was convicted of killing and dismembering the 24-year-old corps member, whom he identified as his girlfriend. Ajayi was arrested on Sunday, January 12, 2025, in possession of the victim’s severed head while allegedly attempting to dispose of it. The incident occurred in the Papalana area of New Karshi, Karu Local Government Area, where the victim had reportedly visited him. During police interrogation, the convict confessed to the crime, claiming it was triggered by suspicions of infidelity. He admitted to killing the victim but denied that the act was premeditated. The court, however, held that the evidence presented proved beyond reasonable doubt that Ajayi committed the offence. He has been sentenced to death by hanging.

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Why Trump’s U.S. Airstrikes in Somalia Have Surged Despite America First Pledges

Fola Badmus03 mins

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Despite campaign promises to end America’s “forever wars,” President Donald Trump has sharply escalated U.S. military activity in Somalia since beginning his second term, with airstrikes more than doubling in 2025 compared to the previous year. According to data from the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), at least 43 airstrikes have been carried out in Somalia this year—targeting both ISIL (ISIS) affiliates in Puntland and al-Shabab militants across southern regions. The figure represents a significant increase from 2024 and reflects a renewed military focus on the Horn of Africa. Trump’s first overseas military action this year came on February 1, just 10 days into office, when he announced airstrikes against what he described as “ISIS killers hiding in caves.” Since then, U.S. involvement in global conflict zones has expanded dramatically—from support for Israel in Gaza and Lebanon, to strikes in Yemen and attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities. Analysts say the Somalia escalation is partly driven by intelligence assessments that IS-Somalia is becoming a growing threat, functioning as a regional financial and operational hub for global ISIL-linked networks. Concurrently, al-Shabab, an al-Qaeda affiliate, has made worrying territorial and strategic gains in recent months, prompting fears of a resurgence. While AFRICOM insists that these operations are conducted in partnership with Somalia’s federal government, human rights groups and security analysts warn that continued reliance on airstrikes risks inflaming anti-American sentiment and undermining long-term stability efforts in the fragile country. Critics argue that Trump’s sharp increase in drone strikes contrasts with his “America First” stance and raises questions about the sustainability of using force over diplomacy and development. “Airstrikes may disrupt militants temporarily, but they don’t build trust, reform institutions, or foster peace,” says Hawa Ahmed, a conflict analyst based in Nairobi. “Somalia needs long-term investment in governance, security reform, and economic development—not just bombs from above.” As the strikes continue and civilian casualties remain a concern, observers warn that the U.S. risks repeating the cycles of intervention that have defined its troubled legacy in Somalia for decades.Tools

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Kenyans Mark Protest Anniversary with Mass Marches Amid Police Crackdown, Anger at Ruto

Fola Badmus03 mins

Thousands of Kenyans took to the streets on Wednesday to commemorate the first anniversary of last year’s deadly anti-government protests, with demonstrators voicing continued outrage over police brutality and President William Ruto’s economic policies. The protests, largely led by youth groups and rights activists, mark one year since the June 25, 2024, storming of Parliament during nationwide unrest triggered by tax hikes and worsening economic hardship. Rights groups say at least 60 people were killed by security forces during last year’s demonstrations. Despite fears of violence and intimidation, including attacks by state-backed gangs and heavy police presence, many demonstrators marched peacefully through cities such as Nairobi and Mombasa. Protesters carried Kenyan flags, white roses, and placards bearing the faces of those killed in last year’s protests, chanting slogans like “Ruto must go.” In Nairobi, some clashes broke out as demonstrators hurled stones and police responded with tear gas. Security forces barricaded key government buildings and blocked major roads, while many schools and businesses shut down for fear of violence. Calls to “occupy State House” — a reference to President Ruto’s official residence — circulated online, though protest leaders had appealed for nonviolence. Anger has been further inflamed by the recent death of a teacher in police custody and the use of armed motorbike-riding gangs known as “goons” to disperse peaceful protest groups last week. Observers say the growing discontent reflects deeper frustrations among Kenya’s youth, who face mounting economic pressure, high unemployment, and a widening trust gap with state institutions.

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NATO Commits to 5% Defence Spending Target Backed by Trump Amid Internal Division

Fola Badmus03 mins

NATO member states have agreed to a significant increase in defence spending, pledging to allocate up to 5 percent of their national GDP to military and security-related sectors by 2035 — a major shift largely aligned with the long-standing demands of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The agreement, reached at a summit in The Hague on Wednesday, was described in the summit communique as a “quantum leap” in the bloc’s collective security strategy. The document outlined that member countries would annually invest 5 percent of GDP on core defence requirements and broader security-related expenditures, with a review scheduled for 2029 — notably, after the next U.S. presidential election. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called the development “transformational,” although some alliance members expressed concerns about their ability to meet the target. Spain, Belgium, and Slovakia were among those that acknowledged the ambitious goal may be difficult to achieve due to economic constraints. Former President Trump, who had previously criticized NATO members for not meeting existing defence commitments, welcomed the decision. Speaking at the summit, he said, “They said, ‘You did it, sir. You did it.’ Well, I don’t know if I did it, but I think I did.” The renewed commitment is seen by analysts as an effort to shore up the alliance’s deterrence against Russia and prepare for the possibility of reduced U.S. military engagement depending on the outcome of the 2024 presidential election. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also signaled strong support, announcing that the United Kingdom expects to reach 4.1 percent defence and security spending by 2027. While the pledge underscores NATO’s unity in principle, the stark differences in economic capabilities among member states suggest that meeting the 5 percent benchmark will likely become a key issue of debate in the coming years.

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El-Sayed Retains Title as Amr Clinches First Continental Gold of African Fencing Championships

Fola Badmus02 mins

Defending champion Mohamed El-Sayed successfully retained his title in the Men’s Individual Épée event at the 23rd African Fencing Championships, while compatriot Sara Amr celebrated her maiden continental triumph in the Women’s Individual Foil on Wednesday, June 25, at Charterhouse Lagos. World No. 1 El-Sayed edged fellow Egyptian Mahmoud Had Mohsen in a tightly contested final, winning 11–10 to become the first gold medallist of the tournament. El-Sayed cruised through the early rounds with dominant performances, but faced a stern test in the semifinals, where he narrowly defeated his brother, Mahmoud El-Sayed, 15–14 in a thrilling bout. In the women’s foil category, second seed Sara Amr captured her first African title with a commanding 15–8 victory over Côte d’Ivoire’s Isabel Esteban in the final. Amr had earlier overcome her compatriot and 2024 bronze medallist, Noha Hany, 15–13 in the semifinals. Esteban, who caused a major upset by defeating top seed Malak Hamza of Egypt 15–8 in the other semifinal, settled for silver after falling short against Amr in the final. Speaking after her victory, a jubilant Amr said she remained composed throughout the competition despite facing tough opponents. “I focused on staying calm and managing each match one at a time. It wasn’t easy, but I’m proud of how I handled the pressure,” she said.

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PDP Leadership Crisis Deepens as 11 NWC Members Reject Reinstatement of Senator Anyanwu

PDP Leadership Crisis Deepens as 11 NWC Members Reject Reinstatement of Senator Anyanwu

Fola Badmus03 mins

The internal crisis plaguing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) escalated on Wednesday as 11 members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) publicly rejected the reinstatement of Senator Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary. Earlier in the day, Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Ambassador Umar Damagum, announced Anyanwu’s return to office, describing it as a “painful decision.” He also declared the postponement of the 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting initially slated for June 30, 2025, replacing it with a caucus meeting. However, in a swift and coordinated response, 11 senior NWC members issued a joint statement rejecting both decisions. According to them, Damagum acted beyond his authority, as only the NEC has the constitutional power to determine such matters. “The pronouncements by the Acting National Chairman have no foundation,” the statement read. “No organ of the party, including the NWC, has the authority to override NEC resolutions.” The signatories include top party figures such as Deputy National Chairman (South), Amb. Taofeek Arapaja; Acting National Secretary, Hon. Setonji Koshoedo; National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba; and National Treasurer, Hon. Ahmed Yayari Mohammed, among others. The NWC members emphasized that the 99th NEC meeting had explicitly referred Anyanwu’s case to the upcoming 100th NEC meeting. They affirmed that the June 30 meeting remains on schedule and binding on all party organs and members. They also accused Damagum of undermining the party’s constitution, stating: “The NEC is the highest decision-making body of the party after the National Convention. Any attempt to vary its resolution is unconstitutional and therefore null and void.” The controversy comes after a meeting between party leaders and INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, raising speculation about the political motivations behind Damagum’s announcement. As tensions grow within Nigeria’s main opposition party, stakeholders and observers are watching closely to see whether the crisis will derail plans ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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Former Kwara Governor and Ex-Communications Minister, Cornelius Adebayo, Dies at 84

Fola Badmus02 mins

Cornelius Adebayo, a former Governor of Kwara State and ex-Minister of Communications, has passed away at the age of 84. The elder statesman died in the early hours of Wednesday, marking the end of a long and distinguished career in public service. Born on February 24, 1941, in Igbaja, now within Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Adebayo was a respected figure in Nigeria’s political landscape. He entered national politics in 1979 as a Senator under the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) and was elected Governor of Kwara State in 1983, although his tenure was cut short by the military coup that year. He later served as Minister of Communications during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s civilian administration, where he contributed to the modernization of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector. Reacting to the news, the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, expressed deep sorrow, describing Adebayo as “an administrator par excellence.” The Emir highlighted the former governor’s contributions to the state’s development and his legacy of integrity and service. A condolence message issued by the Emir’s Press Secretary, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, extended sympathies to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the people of Kwara, Adebayo’s family, and political associates. The Emir offered prayers for the peaceful repose of Adebayo’s soul and for strength and comfort for his family during this difficult time.

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Senate Confirms Cross River Indigene as RSIEC Chair Amid Heated Debate on Federal Character and Political Neutrality

Fola Badmus04 mins

A heated debate erupted in the Nigerian Senate on Wednesday over the confirmation of nominees to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), with lawmakers clashing over the appointment of Michael Odey, a Cross River State native, as chairman. The controversy emerged during deliberations on the report of the Senate ad-hoc committee on the emergency rule in Rivers State. Lawmakers raised concerns over ethics, constitutional interpretation, federal character principles, and political impartiality in a state currently under emergency governance. Despite stiff opposition from senators across party lines, the Senate confirmed Odey’s appointment along with six others: Lezaasi Torbira, Arthur Nwafor, Godfrey Mbudiogha, Joyce Akaniwor, Olive Bruce, and Chidi Halliday. The nominations, earlier submitted by President Bola Tinubu, were screened by an 18-member ad-hoc committee chaired by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central). During plenary, Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) led the dissent, questioning why a non-indigene was chosen to head a sensitive state electoral body. “There is no logical reason why a Rivers man cannot chair this Electoral Commission,” he argued. Supporting him, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) called for moral responsibility beyond constitutional legality, warning against undermining local trust. “We are supposed to be guided not just by the Constitution, but also by conscience,” he said. Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) raised concerns over political optics, especially given that the Rivers State administrator is also from Cross River. “We are looking at ethics. Six members are from Rivers—why not the chairman too?” he asked. In defense, Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North) insisted that constitutional provisions take precedence over regional sentiments. “Any Nigerian can be appointed anywhere. We swore to uphold the Constitution,” he maintained. Senate Leader Bamidele emphasized that the appointment complied with constitutional eligibility requirements, stressing Odey’s educational qualifications and neutrality. “Rather than grandstand, if we disagree with the court, we should legislate,” he said. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin echoed this sentiment, citing similar appointments in other states. “The Head of Service in Abia is from Edo, and nobody complained because it came from a Labour Party governor. But now that it’s APC, it’s an issue,” he said. The Senate ultimately dissolved into the Committee of the Whole and adopted the report, confirming all seven RSIEC nominees despite lingering divisions over federal character and political balance.

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