Iran arrests over 3,600 individuals on war-related charges, human rights group reports
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Iranian authorities have arrested more than 3,600 people on charges related to the US-Israeli war, according to Norway-based Iran Human Rights IHR. The arrests, which began on February 28, include cases reported even after a ceasefire started on April 8. Charges range from sharing videos with overseas media outlets to possessing Starlink internet terminals. IHR states that the actual number of arrests is likely much higher due to internet restrictions. Allegations against detainees include espionage, communication with foreign intelligence services, transmitting images of sensitive locations to foreign media, and attempting to establish operational cells. Some individuals were also arrested for using and distributing Starlink satellite internet to bypass blackouts, and for alleged cooperation with pro-monarchist groups. Among those arrested are over 100 civil society activists, including prize-winning rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh, who was detained on April 2. Sotoudeh's daughter, Mehraveh Khandan, reported that her mother, held by the intelligence ministry, was not allowed to disclose her location. Fellow rights activist and 2023 Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi remains imprisoned, having been arrested in December before the war and protests.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadPresident Bola Tinubu has approved a minor reshuffle of the Federal Executive Council, removing Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, and Ahmed Dangiwa, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, from their cabinet positions. Taiwo Oyedele has been appointed as the new Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, and Dr. Muttaqha Darma as Minister-designate for Housing and Urban Development. The changes, announced by George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, are aimed at improving coordination and strengthening delivery across key economic sectors under the Renewed Hope Agenda. Outgoing ministers are directed to complete handover processes by Thursday, April 23, 2026. President Tinubu expressed appreciation for their service and noted that cabinet reinvigoration would be continuous, acting within his constitutional powers.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission FCCPC and the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency LASCOPA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding MoU to enhance consumer protection across Nigeria. Tunji Bello, the Executive Vice Chairman of the FCCPC, stated that this partnership is crucial for bringing consumer protection closer to the populace, as many disputes are local and require rapid intervention at the state level. He emphasized that consumer protection has evolved beyond a narrow regulatory function, now encompassing various aspects of modern life, including transportation, food, healthcare, and digital services. Bello highlighted that a centralized approach from Abuja is no longer sufficient due to market complexity and the increasing volume of complaints. The agreement aims to improve consumer welfare and promote fair business practices through institutional cooperation, information sharing, joint consumer education, and coordinated action. Afolabi Solebo, the General Manager of LASCOPA, noted that the agreement is long overdue and will provide the state agency with federal backing, which is essential for tackling exploitation and unfair trade practices. Bello urged other states to establish or strengthen their consumer protection frameworks to build a coordinated system that boosts confidence in Nigeria's markets.
Cryptocurrency entrepreneur Linus Ifejirika, known as Blord, announced his affiliation with the "Revolution Team" following his release from Kuje Prison in Abuja. This declaration was made in a video shared by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore. Blord stated he had no prior personal contact with Sowore but credited him for intervening in his case, which led to his bail hearing being moved forward. Blord, who was on his way to Anambra, personally thanked Sowore, stating he was given a beret and is now part of the "revolution team." The "Revolution Team" is associated with the #RevolutionNow movement, which advocates against corruption, insecurity, and governance failures. Blord's release followed his arraignment at the Federal High Court in Abuja on charges of impersonation and forgery, linked to the alleged use of activist Martins Vincent Otse's image. This dispute originated in October 2025 when Blord advertised an "iPhone XR converted to an iPhone 17 Pro Max." He had also faced other allegations in 2024 concerning cryptocurrency fraud and regulatory breaches.
The Independent National Electoral Commissioner in Osun State has assured residents of a peaceful, credible, and transparent governorship election on August 15. The new Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, gave this assurance while addressing protesters at the commission’s office in Osogbo. The protest, involving market women and a civil society group, was against the transfer of the former REC, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, with allegations of possible election manipulation. Mrs. Babalola, represented by Mr. Niyi Fayanju, Head of Legal Department, and Mr. Rufus Ariyo, Head of Voters’ Education and Publicity, assured protesters that their votes would count and that the commission has made arrangements for a credible, free, fair, and conclusive election. She acknowledged the residents' fears, promising to uphold the commission's integrity and clarified that staff transfers are a commission prerogative, with the former REC's transfer being in line with civil service rules. Protesters, including artisans Mrs. Sadiat Amsat, Ms. Temitope Abass, and Mrs. Mary Adewale, urged the new REC not to compromise the process or favor any political party. Mr. Musa Abdulsalam, Osun Chairman of the Coalition of Concerned Nigerian Citizens, coordinated the protest and submitted a petition to INEC officials.