🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Abia State secures convictions in child defilement cases, sentencing two men to 40 years imprisonment
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Abia State Government has announced the conviction of two individuals in separate child defilement cases, resulting in sentences of 30 and 10 years imprisonment. This development was highlighted by Commissioner for Information Okey Kanu as a significant achievement in the state's efforts against sexual and gender-based violence. One 35-year-old man from Akwa Ibom State received a 10-year sentence for defiling a five-year-old girl, while another 32-year-old man was sentenced to 30 years for defiling a 13-year-old girl. Kanu stated that these convictions demonstrate the administration's zero-tolerance policy towards sexual offenses and serve as a deterrent. The Nchedo Sexual Assault Referral Centre at the General Hospital, Aba, was credited for its role in these cases, providing medical, psychosocial, and referral services to survivors. The center is currently handling new cases, including one involving a 60-year-old woman and another five-year-old child. Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Ngozi Felix, noted that one of the convicts was apprehended in Nasarawa State and brought back to Abia for prosecution. Felix praised the collaboration among various ministries and the Nigeria Police Force for the swift prosecution, and commended Abia State Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, for his support. Governor Alex Otti's administration is committed to protecting vulnerable residents and ensuring justice for survivors of sexual violence.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
The Nigeria Football Federation has issued a warning to Nigeria Premier Football League clubs, urging full compliance with club licensing regulations for the upcoming 2026/27 season. The NFF, with the backing of the National Sports Commission, plans strict enforcement of these rules. This warning follows a communiqué from the NFF Executive Committee meeting in Asaba, Delta State, where the NSC's commitment to supporting the licensing framework was welcomed. These measures are part of broader reforms in the domestic league, which include a proposed N2.5bn prize pool for the 2026/27 NPFL season and an increase in the minimum player salary from N150,000 to N2m. NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade, stated that these reforms aim to professionalize the league, making it more competitive and attractive to players, thereby preventing them from seeking opportunities in other countries. The NPFL board has tentatively scheduled the 2026/27 season to commence between August 27 and 29, concluding on May 28, 2027, with the President Federation Cup fixtures also integrated into the structured domestic football calendar.
Portuguese top-flight club SC Braga has completed the signing of 18-year-old Nigerian defender Adebisi Olamikun from Nigeria Premier Football League side Inter Lagos. Inter Lagos confirmed the transfer, noting Olamikun's reputation as one of the country's brightest young defenders. Reports indicate the left-footed centre-back has signed a long-term contract in a deal valued at approximately €50,000. Olamikun has already arrived in Portugal and will begin his development with Braga’s youth team, aiming to progress to the senior squad. His move follows an impressive period at Inter Lagos, where his composed displays and defensive qualities made him a standout young talent in the NPFL. This transfer highlights Inter Lagos' growing success in nurturing players for European football. According to Transfermarkt, Olamikun is the eighth Nigerian to join Braga, following in the footsteps of players like former Super Eagles defender Elderson Echiejile.
World record holder Tobi Amusan has qualified for the 2026 Wanda Diamond League Final in the women’s 100m hurdles. She accumulated 28 points from five Diamond League meetings, securing her spot in the season-ending championship scheduled for September 4 and 5 in Brussels, Belgium. Amusan is currently second in the Diamond League standings with 28 points, behind American Masai Russell who leads with 32 points. Both athletes have upcoming races in London, Lausanne, Silesia, and Zurich before the final. Russell holds the fastest time this year at 12.14s, while Amusan's season's best is 12.28s, achieved three times. Amusan will aim for her fourth Diamond League title in Brussels, having won three consecutive crowns from 2021 to 2023. She also holds the world record in the event, set at 12.12s four years ago.