Topic · Baobab Pulse
Politics
Governance, elections, and policy across the continent.
Must Read🇬🇭GhanaWeb·1 hour ago
Ghana government mourns passing of Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II
The Government of Ghana has extended its condolences to the people of Dagbon following the death of the Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II. In a statement issued by the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on Monday, July 13, 2026, President John Dramani Mahama expressed sympathies to the Royal Family, the people of Dagbon, and Ghanaians. The late Yaa Naa was described as a traditional ruler whose leadership promoted peace and unity, playing a key role in bringing healing and reconciliation to the kingdom after years of conflict. The government highlighted his commitment to unity, stability, and the welfare of his people, which fostered development in Dagbon and strengthened the partnership between traditional authorities and the government. The statement paid tribute to his invaluable service to the nation, stating that his legacy of wisdom, leadership, and dedication to peace would continue to inspire future generations. News of the Yaa Naa's passing was announced on July 13, 2026.
1 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·2 hours ago
Experts call for audit of collapsed Gombe Assembly building, state government launches investigation
Built environment professionals are urging a thorough technical audit of the new Gombe State House of Assembly Complex construction site after a section of its cantilevered entrance canopy collapsed, resulting in one fatality and seven injuries. Experts from engineering and architecture, including Engr. Suleiman Abba of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and Engr. Musa Achindo of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, emphasized the need for an independent assessment to determine the cause and strengthen safety standards. Arc. Mustapha Adamu of the Nigerian Institute of Architects advocated for a multidisciplinary investigation. The Gombe State Government has initiated an immediate investigation, confirming eight workers were involved, with one death and seven injuries. Governor Muhammadu Yahaya expressed condolences and directed that all injured workers receive medical care at the government's expense. The Ministry of Works, Housing and Transportation, along with other agencies, has been instructed to commence safety and accountability procedures. The contractor and supervising consultant are required to submit an incident report within 24 hours, followed by preliminary and comprehensive technical reports. The government assured the public that the investigation's findings would guide future actions and reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing safety and quality standards in public infrastructure projects.
3 min read
Must Read🇲🇺Le Mauricien·2 hours ago
Financial Crimes Commission uncovers serious flaws in Mauritius' dangerous drug import control system
The Financial Crimes Commission FCC has identified significant vulnerabilities in Mauritius' system for controlling the import of dangerous drugs, warning that these weaknesses could be exploited by criminal networks. The FCC's report, a Financial Crimes Prevention Review, was initiated following allegations of questionable practices surrounding the import and monitoring of strictly controlled medications. The investigation specifically focused on pregabalin, marketed as Pregatas, Nervigen P, and Nervigen NP, which are classified as dangerous drugs due to their potential for abuse. The FCC concluded that the control system is undermined by poor governance, insufficient oversight, and an over-reliance on manual procedures within the Ministry of Health's pharmacology department. Additional issues include inadequate management of import quotas, ineffective monitoring mechanisms, poor traceability, and documentation management that fails to meet transparency and security standards. These dysfunctions, according to the Commission, create opportunities for quota manipulation, irregular authorizations, collusion among stakeholders, document falsification, corruption, bribery, and the diversion of dangerous drugs into illicit channels. The report also highlights that these failures could facilitate the financing of drug trafficking activities. The absence of secure IT systems further compromises authorities' ability to effectively track sensitive products, limiting control, audit, an
2 min read
🇿🇦The Citizen·2 hours ago
Ramaphosa mourns former Qatari Amir Sheikh Hamad, praises visionary legacy
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed South Africa’s condolences following the death of former Qatari Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away on Sunday, 12 July 2026, at 74 years old. Ramaphosa described Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader whose "legacy of peace, prosperity and global influence continues to inspire the world." He extended sympathies to Qatar's Royal Family, government, and people, highlighting South Africa's close friendship with Qatar. Ramaphosa noted that Qatar, under Sheikh Hamad's leadership, became a model of peace, development, prosperity, and global influence. Sheikh Hamad's 18-year rule saw Qatar transform from an economy reliant on oil to the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, with one of the highest per capita incomes, achieved through strategic investment in productive assets, financial institutions, infrastructure, and human capital.
1 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·4 hours ago
Presidency criticizes Oyo Governor Makinde's call for UN probe into abduction
The Nigerian Presidency has criticized Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde's demand for a United Nations-led investigation into the abduction of 39 pupils and six teachers in Oyo State, labeling it unnecessary and politically motivated. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, stated that the governor's request suggests a lack of confidence in Nigeria's security institutions, despite explanations already provided by the military and other security agencies regarding the rescue operation. Onanuga questioned the basis for Makinde's demand, arguing that security agencies would not deliberately subject Nigerians to prolonged captivity, especially given that some security personnel lost their lives during the rescue. He accused Makinde, a presidential aspirant, of allowing political considerations to influence his call for an international probe. Governor Makinde, however, maintained that the call for international scrutiny was aimed at ensuring accountability and reinforcing public confidence, not discrediting Nigerian institutions. He emphasized that Nigerians deserve a full and transparent account of the incident. The rescued victims, including the Principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esienle, Mrs. Rachael Alamu, recounted their ordeal, including the killing of a mathematics teacher by the abductors. The General Officer Commanding 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, detailed the complex rescue operation, which inv
12 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·5 hours ago
Vice-Chancellor searches intensify at Nigerian universities
The search for new Vice-Chancellors is intensifying at the University of Ibadan, Lagos State University LASU, the University of Jos, and Abia State University, Uturu. Selection boards are being formed, but the process is already marked by politicking and controversy over eligibility criteria in some institutions. LASU opened applications for its 10th Vice-Chancellor as Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello's tenure concludes. The university faced criticism regarding the required years of professorial experience for applicants, with some academics faulting the advertisement for not specifying at least 10 years. LASU Registrar, Mr Emmanuel Fanu, stated that no law mandates a specific number of years, and "several years" is open to interpretation. The search for the 14th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan began in April, with the incumbent, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, completing his tenure on November 1, 2026. At Abia State University, a search team has been inaugurated, and candidates must be professors of at least five years' standing. The current Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ndukwe J. Okeudo, will complete his two-year tenure on October 31, 2026. The University of Jos has also begun the process to appoint a successor to Prof. Tanko Ishaya, whose tenure expires on December 1, 2026. Applicants for the University of Jos position must have at least 15 years of uninterrupted teaching and research experience, with 10 years as a distinguished Professor. The National Universities Commission st
4 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·5 hours ago
Federal Government suspends WAEC, NECO fee hike after public outcry
The Federal Government has suspended the proposed increase in registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination and the National Examinations Council Senior School Certificate Examination. The Ministry of Education announced the withdrawal of the June 18, 2026, letter that communicated the fee adjustment, stating that broader consultations with stakeholders will precede any final decision. This move follows widespread criticism from students, parents, education stakeholders, and civil society groups, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the National Association of Nigerian Students. The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, directed the suspension, emphasizing the government's commitment to transparent and inclusive policymaking. The ministry acknowledged public concerns, noting that the proposed review, from N27,000 to N50,000, was driven by rising operational costs for conducting credible examinations. However, the government aims to ensure that policies affecting millions of students are carefully considered and socially responsive. The fresh review process will involve extensive consultations with examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors, parents' associations, and organized labor. The ministry reaffirmed that student welfare, equitable access to quality education, and responsible policymaking are central to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, presidential
7 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·5 hours ago
Federal Government develops coordinated reintegration framework for former terrorists
The Federal Government has created Standard Operating Procedures SOPs for its Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration DDR program to enhance Nigeria's response to terrorism and violent extremism. Maj Gen Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre NCTC, announced this at a validation workshop in Abuja, covering federal implementation and pilot states Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara. The SOPs aim to translate the National DDR Framework's objectives into practical guidance, ensuring transparency, accountability, and coordination. Developed through extensive consultations, they clarify institutional mandates, strengthen inter-agency coordination, standardize operational processes, and ensure DDR programs adhere to human rights and the rule of law. Laka emphasized that DDR is a critical non-kinetic strategy, complementing military operations to achieve sustainable peace by providing pathways for individuals to abandon violence and reintegrate. Regional consultations showed support for a nationally coordinated, locally owned, and human rights-based DDR framework. Amb Abimbola Wońosikou, NCTC Director of Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism, noted the SOPs provide a coordinated national response to various security threats. She highlighted the need for an integrated approach to standardize existing rehabilitation initiatives. State DDR committees have been established in Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara, comprising diverse stakeholders. Wońosiko
4 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·5 hours ago
Nigerian floods: Agencies warn of worse to come as governments fail to act on predictions
Despite consistent warnings and projections from relevant agencies, Nigerian governments have largely ignored the threat of devastating floods, leading to recurring deaths, destruction, and misery. In early July 2026, torrential rains caused widespread devastation in Lagos and Ogun states, submerging homes, disrupting electricity, and shattering food supply chains. The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, Umar Mohammed, warned that this is just the beginning of the rainy season, with worse floods expected around August-September. The agency's 2026 Annual Flood Outlook indicated that 30,707 communities are at risk across 34 states, with 4.2 million hectares of farmland, 4,792 health facilities, and 10,684 schools located in flood-prone areas. The National Emergency Management Agency's After-Action Review showed that 2024 was Nigeria's most devastating flood year, claiming over 1,237 lives and displacing 1.24 million people, while coordinated action in 2025 significantly reduced the tragedy. The article criticizes governments and citizens for their indifference, highlighting the gap between prediction and implementation, and regulation and compliance. It suggests emulating Ghana's decisive actions against illegal structures obstructing waterways and calls for concerted commitment to climate change adaptation, comprehensive flood-control strategies, and effective waste management. The Lagos State Government, as a low-lying coa
11 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
Air Force and drones unable to penetrate forest canopy in Oyo rescue operation, says Army commander
Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, General Officer Commanding, 2 Division, Nigerian Army, stated that Nigerian Air Force and drone teams could not penetrate the thick canopy of the Old Oyo National Park during the rescue operation for 44 abducted pupils and teachers. This failure of aerial surveillance necessitated a ground assault, which resulted in the deaths of an officer and a soldier. The victims had been held captive for 56 days after gunmen attacked three schools on May 15. Due to the challenges, Major General Nnebeife took full command of the operation, integrating various security agencies including the Office of the National Security Adviser, the National Counter-Terrorism Unit, and the Defence Headquarters Special Forces. The Nigerian Police, DSS, and an Air Force Tactical Operations Group also participated. An initial attempt with hunters and local vigilantes also failed, with some hunters losing their lives. The rescue of the 44 individuals occurred on July 10, without the military yielding to the kidnappers' demands, which included the release of a detained Boko Haram commander. The final phase involved blocking the kidnappers' main logistics route through Ashamu, leading to an unconditional release of the captives. Eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and handed over to the DSS, and several others were neutralized. Lieutenant Felix Isaac, who led troops in the operation, was killed on July 10 and buried with military honors.
11 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
Federal Government expands cancer treatment funding and boosts local drug production
The Federal Government has increased financial support for cancer patients through health funds and insurance, while also investing in local research, drug production, and clinical trials to improve access to affordable cancer care. This was announced by Prof Usman Malami, Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, at the Best of American Society of Clinical Oncology Africa 2026 conference in Abuja. Initiatives include the Catastrophic Health Fund under the National Health Insurance Authority, which subsidizes cancer prevention, diagnosis, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, and the National Cancer Health Fund managed by NICRAT for indigent patients. The Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain aims to accelerate local production of cancer medicines to reduce reliance on imports. Dr. Lolade Adewale, Special Adviser on Research and Innovation to the Minister of State for Health, noted that Nigeria has begun three immunotherapy clinical studies, making advanced cancer medicines like Nivolumab and Keytruda available free of charge through trials. Dr. Miriam Mutebi, Immediate Past President of AORTIC, highlighted Africa's low contribution to global cancer research despite its significant disease burden, urging increased domestic investment. Dr. Julie Gralow, Chief Medical Officer of ASCO, emphasized the need to adapt global scientific advances to African settings and address affordability. Dr. Abiola Ibraheem, AORTIC Vice-Pre
11 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
Atiku and ADC defend primaries as court voids Mark-led congresses
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has upheld an order preventing the Independent National Electoral Commission from recognizing or participating in congresses conducted by committees appointed by the Senator David Mark-led caretaker leadership of the African Democratic Congress. This decision has introduced uncertainty into the party's internal affairs ahead of the 2027 general election. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the ADC maintain that the ruling does not affect candidates who emerged from its direct primaries. The appellate court affirmed an April 29 judgment that barred the caretaker leadership from interfering with the tenure and functions of the party’s elected state executive committees. Justice Okon Abang, in the majority judgment, stated that the authority to conduct state congresses rests with elected state executive committees, not the caretaker national leadership. The ADC plans to appeal the decision at the Supreme Court, asserting the validity of its direct primaries and candidates for the 2027 elections. Justice Abba Mohammed, the presiding Justice, dissented, arguing the dispute was an internal party affair and non-justiciable. However, the majority held that the matter involved constitutional questions warranting judicial intervention to prevent anarchy and ensure democracy. The court also ruled that congresses and the national convention conducted by the Mark-led caretaker committee were nullities and awarded N10m costs against the ADC. Atiku Abubakar
14 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
Dangote Refinery transitions to dollar-denominated petrol sales, ending naira payments
Dangote Petroleum Refinery has set new ex-depot prices for Premium Motor Spirit petrol at $0.779 per litre, marking a shift to dollar-denominated transactions for refined products. This change, effective Monday, July 13, 2026, also updates prices for Automotive Gas Oil diesel to $1.087 per litre and Aviation Turbine Kerosene to $0.942 per litre. Coastal deliveries of petrol are now fixed at $1,044.62 per metric tonne. The refinery informed petroleum marketers and customers that all previous naira-denominated Proforma Invoices and Deal Recaps are invalid. This move aims to align product sales with the currency used for crude oil procurement, as the refinery increasingly receives dollar-denominated crude supplies from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited. The transition is expected to impact petroleum marketers and influence fuel pricing in Nigeria's deregulated downstream sector, with the eventual retail pump price depending on the naira-to-dollar exchange rate, logistics, and other costs. The new pricing structure does not apply to Liquefied Petroleum Gas transactions.
3 min read
🇬🇭GhanaWeb·6 hours ago
NPP Communications Team member Miracle Aboagye granted GH¢50 million bail in alleged money laundering case
Miracle Aboagye, a member of the NPP Communications Team, has been granted bail after his arrest by the Economic and Organised Crime Office EOCO in connection with an alleged money laundering scheme. He was reportedly arrested at the Accra International Airport on July 12, 2026, over corruption-related allegations. Aboagye is accused of misappropriating, misapplying, diverting, and stealing public funds totaling GH¢55 million. According to a report and video sighted on July 13, 2026, he was granted bail in the amount of GH¢50 million with three sureties, two of whom must be justified. His lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, indicated that meeting the bail conditions that night would be challenging.
1 min read
Breaking🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·7 hours ago
US to strike Iran hard, reimpose Hormuz blockade, and levy transit fees
US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the United States would strike Iran "hard" and reimpose a blockade on Iranian ports. This declaration followed a third consecutive night of US military attacks. US Central Command CENTCOM confirmed strikes began at 2045 GMT, aiming to impose costs on Iranian forces and degrade their ability to attack civilians and shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The blockade was set to begin at 2000 GMT on Tuesday, causing oil prices to rise over nine percent. Trump also stated on Truth Social that the US would become "THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT" and charge a 20 percent fee on all cargo passing through, while ensuring "fair and open use of the strait" for other countries. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded on X, mocking Trump's proposed toll but suggesting Tehran could charge a lower fee as a "fair guardian." The US has historically opposed Iran's desire to charge tolls in the strait, citing international law. These developments occurred as both sides exchanged attacks on a scale not seen since an April ceasefire. The US military reported hitting dozens of targets, while Iran's Revolutionary Guards announced strikes on Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, and Oman. Trump also threatened to destroy Pickaxe Mountain, a suspected undeclared enrichment facility in Iran. Despite declaring the ceasefire over, Trump mentioned ongoing negotiations for a permanent settlement. Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei stated the June
3 min read
Must Read
🇿🇦The Citizen·7 hours ago
MK party appoints Zandile Gumede as KwaZulu-Natal deputy convener amidst corruption charges
The uMkhonto weSizwe MK party has announced the appointment of former eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede as its new member and deputy convener for KwaZulu-Natal. This announcement was made during a briefing on Monday, 13 July, where party spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu welcomed Gumede, highlighting her political experience in the region and South Africa. Gumede, who was previously a member of the ANC, joins the MK party while facing a corruption case. She and 21 co-accused are charged with multiple offenses related to an irregular Durban Solid Waste tender exceeding R300 million. The charges include conspiracy to commit corruption, corruption, fraud, money laundering, racketeering, and contraventions of the Municipal Finance Management Act and Municipal Systems Act. During the briefing, the MK party also called for the dismissal of suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu and condemned the Legal Practice Council's application to have former public protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane struck from the roll of advocates. Additionally, Mahlangu addressed claims that the party was experiencing financial difficulties, refuting a Sunday World article that reported the closure of provincial offices due to unpaid rent, and labeling the journalist a "propagandist running an anti-MK campaign."
2 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·7 hours ago
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke calls for visa ban on APC chieftains, party refutes claims
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has advocated for economic sanctions and a visa ban against certain All Progressives Congress APC chieftains in the state. This demand follows the alleged political killing of an Accord party member in Ijebu-Jesa, with the governor's spokesperson stating that five Accord members have been killed and 15 wounded by suspected APC thugs since the start of the 2026 political campaigns. Governor Adeleke urged security agencies to pursue suspects and their sponsors, citing the public statements and actions of top Osun APC leaders as justification for his call. He emphasized the need for deterrents against political violence and advocated for similar sanctions against security chiefs who aid such activities, stating that elections should not involve bloodshed and that those endangering lives for political gain must face consequences. These remarks were made to a British team led by Senior Political Advisor Wale Adebajo, who assured the governor of the British government's support for a peaceful and transparent electoral process and their engagement with stakeholders for the August 15th polls. In response, the Osun APC, through its spokesperson Kola Olabisi, accused Governor Adeleke of misinforming the British delegation and dismissed his allegations. The APC spokesperson questioned the basis for indicting their chieftains and suggested that the governor was frustrating police efforts by harboring political hoodlums. Olabisi also claimed that 30 APC
3 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·8 hours ago
Senegalese Football Federation president's comments on team doctor spark international controversy
Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation FSF, has ignited widespread controversy following his public statements regarding the national team's doctor, Dr. Fédior. During a press conference reviewing the 2026 World Cup, Fall claimed he "late discovered" that Dr. Fédior was a gynecologist and that "the players were not convinced." These remarks have drawn significant attention from international media and social networks, extending beyond internal Senegalese football discussions. Fall's comments have raised questions about the choice of the team doctor and the FSF's operational procedures. Dr. Fédior, a well-known figure in Senegalese football medicine, has had his competence publicly challenged despite having stated in 2018 that he had extensive experience in sports medicine, beginning with US Gorée in 1986, alongside his gynecology specialization. The controversy has led to inquiries about why Dr. Fédior remained part of the medical staff if his profile was deemed unsuitable for a World Cup, and why his specialization is now being highlighted as a reason for Senegal's performance. Furthermore, Fall's public attribution of the team's difficulties to a member of its medical staff has exposed the FSF's recruitment, validation, and monitoring processes for national delegation officials.
2 min read
Must Read
🇹🇳Business News·8 hours ago
Hamma Hammami and other opposition figures targeted with death threats in viral video, legal action initiated
A highly violent video circulating on social media features an individual issuing insults, calls for execution, and threats of murder and hanging against several political figures and lawyers, including Hamma Hammami, the Secretary-General of the Workers' Party. Hammami has decided to file a complaint with the justice system. The three-minute video, widely shared, shows a man identified as a supporter of the President of the Republic, making repeated calls for Hammami's "execution" and stating his willingness to kill him. The threats extend to other named individuals, including Samir Dilou, Mohamed Abbou, Ezzeddine Hazgui, and Rached Ghannouchi. The video's author expresses a desire to gather them, "tie them together," and place chains around their necks, while also urging authorities to prevent some of these individuals from leaving the country. The video also contains continuous insults, labeling the targeted individuals as "traitors," "mercenaries," and "dogs," and claims they are acting against the President of the Republic. The author attributes statements to Hamma Hammami calling for a "new revolution" starting July 25, which are presented in the video as justification for the calls to violence. The article highlights the public nature of these explicit death threats and the question it raises about the normalization of political violence on social media, especially when such content is openly accessible and features specific acts of violence.
2 min read
Must Read🇧🇫Lefaso.net·9 hours ago
Burkinabe diplomats return to Ouagadougou after closure of Paris embassy
Burkina Faso's diplomatic and consular staff from the embassy and consulate general in France have officially returned to Ouagadougou following the closure of the Burkinabe diplomatic mission in Paris. The return of the twelve diplomats and consular agents on July 13, 2026, was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which categorically denied rumors circulating on social media that some diplomats had sought asylum from French authorities. The staff, including former Chargé d'affaires Jean Marie Bakouan, were received by Minister of Foreign Affairs Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré and Minister Delegate Bêbgnasgnan Stella Eldine Kabré/Kaboré. During the ceremony, Bakouan officially handed over the national flag and the embassy keys to the Burkinabe head of diplomacy, symbolizing the effective closure of the embassy in the French Republic. This action solidifies the sovereign decision by Burkinabe authorities to end diplomatic relations with France, a decision announced on June 26, 2026. Minister Traoré stated that the diplomats' return is a crucial step in the process of severing diplomatic ties, noting that administrative aspects are ongoing. Bakouan described their return as "in all dignity," emphasizing that all necessary arrangements were made to inform and reassure other partners, including international organizations in France and other states covered by the Paris embassy. He firmly refuted claims of asylum requests, stating, "We returned proud, tired but not unhappy." F
3 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·9 hours ago
Oyo State government takes responsibility for rescued Oriire teachers and pupils
Oyo State Governor, 'Seyi Makinde, announced that the state government has taken over the welfare and responsibility of the recently rescued Oriire teachers and pupils. This commitment was made after the military formally handed over the victims to the Oyo State Government in Ibadan, following 56 days in captivity. Governor Makinde stated that the government will provide immediate medical, psychological, and logistical support to the victims and their families, working directly with the affected Baptist school. He thanked President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of Nigeria's security agencies for their intervention and coordination in the rescue operation. The Governor assured that the state would ensure no disruption to the teachers' careers or the pupils' education, and that medical observation would continue for 24 to 48 hours before their discharge. Parents will be granted access once the victims are medically stable. Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, the General Officer Commanding, noted that directives from President Tinubu and Governor Makinde strengthened the resolve of troops during the pursuit of the abductors. One of the rescued teachers, Mrs. Rachael Alamu, recounted the harrowing experience, including moving through forests at night and witnessing the killing of mathematics teacher Mr. Michael Oyedokun by the kidnappers to intimidate security agencies. Armed bandits had abducted 39 pupils and six teachers on May 15, 2026, from three schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esie
5 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·10 hours ago
Houthis retaliate against Saudi Arabia after Sanaa airport attack, escalating Yemen conflict
Yemen's Houthi rebels launched strikes against Saudi Arabia on Monday, accusing the kingdom of attacking Sanaa's airport, which the Houthis control. This action reignites the conflict after years of relative calm. The internationally recognized Yemeni government, supported by Riyadh, claimed responsibility for the airport attack, stating it aimed to prevent an Iranian plane carrying a Houthi delegation from landing. The delegation was returning from Tehran after attending the funeral of former supreme leader Ali Khamenei. The Yemeni Ministry of Defense stated that "the Houthi terrorist militias supported by the Iranian regime" insisted on allowing an Iranian plane to violate Yemeni airspace, leading to the targeting of the airport runway. Houthi media reported the plane ultimately landed in Hodeidah, a rebel-controlled coastal city. Iran condemned the attack as a violation of Yemen's sovereignty. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree accused Riyadh of the attack and vowed retaliation. Shortly after, the Saudi-led coalition announced it intercepted ballistic missiles fired by the Houthis in southern Saudi Arabia. Andreas Krieg, a security expert at King's College London, suggested Saudi involvement in the airport attack is more likely given the age and condition of Yemeni fighter jets. The Yemeni government had earlier accused the rebels of preventing an International Committee of the Red Cross ICRC plane from leaving Sanaa airport and detaining its crew, though an ICRC spo
3 min read
Breaking🇸🇳SeneNews·10 hours ago
US military launches first marine drone attack on Iranian port
The United States military announced it launched unidirectional attack marine drones against the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas, marking the first combat use of these vessels. On Sunday, three Corsair marine drones, which are unmanned surface vessels, targeted a "submarine and ship maintenance facility" in the southern port of Bandar Abbas, according to the US Central Command Centcom on X. Centcom stated that these strikes "degraded Iran's ability to continue attacking commercial vessels." The command also shared a video on X showing the marine drones hitting the maritime facilities, causing two docks to explode. Last month, the US military used a Corsair drone, first deployed to the Middle East in March, to rescue two airmen after their helicopter crashed in the Near East. The Corsair, designed by Texas-based Saronic Technologies, is a 24-foot diesel-powered "autonomous surface vessel" that can be launched at sea, allowing larger ships to deploy and retrieve it without returning to port.
1 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·10 hours ago
US and Iran escalate hostilities in the Middle East, UN Secretary-General expresses deep concern
Hostilities between the United States and Iran have intensified with reciprocal strikes. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the escalating military tensions in the region, highlighting the dangers of a large-scale confrontation. The US announced it bombed "dozens of targets," while Tehran claimed to have struck bases used by the US in Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait. The US military also reported launching unidirectional attack drones against the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas, targeting a submarine and ship maintenance facility. Despite renewed hostilities, 14 vessels, half of which were commercial, transited the Strait of Hormuz. Former US President Donald Trump stated the US is reinstating a naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz and plans to impose a 20% tax on maritime freight passing through the strait to cover security costs. Iran warned it would not allow the US to interfere in the management of the Strait of Hormuz, with armed forces spokesman Ebrahim Zolfaghari stating any cooperation with Washington by Gulf countries would be considered an "act of war." The Yemeni government ordered the closure of the country's airports after striking Sanaa airport, held by pro-Iranian Houthi rebels, to prevent an Iranian plane from landing. The UK government announced a law designating Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a national security threat. Iran's state television reported "warning shots" against two ships attempting to illegally cross
8 min read