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  NBC bans Eedris Abdulkareem’s protest song ‘Tell Your Papa’ from radio, TV The National Broadcasting Commission has barred Nigerian radio and television stations from airing the trending song “Tell Your Papa” by veteran rapper, Eedris Abdulkareem, citing its “objectionable nature.” In a memo dated April 9, 2025 and issued by the Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring, Susan Obi, the commission declared the track Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB) under Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. This section prohibits content deemed inappropriate, offensive, or in breach of public decency from being aired on Nigerian broadcast platforms. According to the NBC, while the song has gained momentum across social media platforms, its lyrical content fails to meet the standards of responsible broadcasting. Serving Happiness For 57 Years: The Story of Lagos' 75-Year-Old Ice Cream Seller0:00 / 0:00 THE LOUNGE: Mind-Reading or Effort, What Do Women Really Want? | Punch0:00 / 0:00 The st...

 A very puzzling mystery surrounds the bizarre death of a San Diego woman who went missing for 2 weeks. She was found inside of a storm drain miles from home.... only to unfortunately die just hours after rescue. 59-year-old Yafang Zhou was last seen near her Union Street home on March 25th. An extensive search ensued and police were able to narrow down a location near Poway on Beeler Canyon Road. While searching the area, police noticed some "belongings near a manhole cover and believed they heard a faint woman's voice". First responders then sent special listening equipment down the manhole and confirmed they were hearing faint moans and a female voice. This discovery was alarming for first responders.  Two first responders were sent down the manhole where they both began "army crawling" in opposite directions in an attempt to locate Yafang. They were eventually able to locate her and a very complicated rescue mission ensued. Ultimately, they were able to pull...

 Another child sadly lost his life after being fatally struck by a school bus. 6-year-old Mason Richards lost his life this morning due to injuries sustained after he was struck by a school bus in New Orleans. New Orleans PD is investigating the death although at this point they say they do not believe the bus driver was impaired. It appears that this was just a tragic accident.  According to reports, Mason was exiting a family members car and trying to catch the bus when he was struck and killed on Desire Street. A spokesperson for KIPP schools (where Mason attended) released a statement saying, "Our thoughts are with his family and our entire community during this incredibly difficult time".  Rest in peace, Mason. Our thoughts are with everyone involved.

 Court Jails Internet Fraudster One Year  in Lagos   Justice O.A. Okunuga of the Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja has convicted and sentenced one Adebambo Fawas Olamilekan to one year imprisonment for internet fraud.   Olamilekan was arraigned on April 3, 2025 by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Awolowo Office, Ikoyi, Lagos, on a two-count charge bordering on possession of documents  containing false pretence and cheating, contrary to Sections 320 and 323 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.    One of the counts reads: “That you, Adebambo Fawas Olamilekan, on or about 14th May, 2024 at Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, had in your possession documents, where you falsely represented yourself as a female, which were printed from your iPhone 13 pro, and which documents you knew or ought to have known contained false pretence and committed an offence contrary to 320 of t...

 SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES MARWA, PEDRO ON LASU'S DOCTORATE AWARDS   Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier-General Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd), and former Deputy Governor of the State, Otunba Olufemi Pedro, for the Honorary Doctorate degrees conferred on them by the Lagos State University (LASU).   Brigadier-General Marwa, a former Military Administrator of Lagos State, was awarded Doctor of Humane Letters (Infrastructure, Security and National Development) Honoris Causa, while Otunba Pedro, a member of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), received Doctor of Business (Banking, Entrepreneurship and National Development) Honoris Causa during LASU's 28th Convocation ceremony on Thursday.   Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, said the distinguished honourees are exemplary leader...

 Court Dissolves 6-Year Marriage Over Domestic Abuse in Kaduna A Customary Court in Kaduna has officially dissolved a six-year-old marriage between 37-year-old businesswoman, Hannah, and her husband, Caleb Williams, over allegations of domestic violence and threats to life. Presiding Judge Dauda John ruled on Thursday that the union had broken down irretrievably, stating that no one should remain in a toxic marriage. “The marriage is hereby dissolved effective April 10,” he declared. The court granted custody of the couple’s five-year-old son to Hannah and ordered her to refund the N50,000 dowry paid by the respondent. Hannah had told the court she endured years of emotional and physical abuse, especially after the loss of their second child three years ago. She said her husband frequently beat her and threatened her life, leaving her in constant fear. “I’m living in fear, not a marriage. My mental health and my child’s well-being matter,” she said, pleading for the dissolution. Ca...

 Rivers Administrator to employ 10,000 graduates In a significant development for employment opportunities in Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas CFR, the Sole Administrator of the state, has given the green light for the recruitment of 10,000 individuals into the Rivers State civil service. The decision, announced today, April 10, 2025, opens doors for both graduates and non-graduates who meet the necessary qualifications. The recruitment initiative aims to bolster the state's workforce and provide job opportunities to thousands of residents. According to an official statement from Prof Ibibia Lucky Worika, Secretary to the State Government, the application process will commence shortly. Aspiring candidates will be able to submit their applications through a dedicated online portal, which is set to open at midnight on Sunday, April 13, 2025. The portal is expected to streamline the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and efficient selection of eligible appl...

 Ahly of Egypt books semifinal spot at African Women’s Volleyball Championship Egyptian powerhouse Ahly SC has become the first team to advance to the semifinals of the 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Inter-Club Championship, currently underway in Abuja, Nigeria. The nine-time champions secured a hard-fought 3-1 win over Kenya Prisons in a thrilling quarterfinal clash, taking the sets 25-12, 25-20, 22-25, 27-25. Ahly came out strong, dominating the first two sets with confident, clinical play. Kenya Prisons mounted a comeback in the third, narrowly edging out their Egyptian rivals 25-22. The fourth set was a nail-biter, featuring intense rallies and tactical play from both sides, but Ahly held firm to clinch the set and the match at 27-25. With this victory, Ahly advances to the semifinals, where they will face the winner of the quarterfinal between Litto of Cameroon and Carthage of Tunisia. Ahly’s commanding performance further cements their reputation as one of the tournament’s f...

 ANAMBRA POLICE PARTNERS MINISTRY OF TOURISM TO HOST RESTAURANT AND BAR OWNERS TO ENHANCE SECURITY ON CLUB ROAD AWKA AND OTHER TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN THE STATE The Commissioner of Police Anambra State, *CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc MNIPS PhD* on Thursday, April 10, 2025, partnered with the Anambra State Ministry of Tourism to host the Anambra State Restaurant and Bar Owners Association at the Police Command Headquarters in Awka. The meeting focused on implementing enhanced security and safety measures to safeguard businesses, employees and customers, particularly on Club Road, Awka and other key entertainment and tourist attractions in the State.   During his address, *CP Orutugu* disclosed that security assessments revealed that some bars and lounges were being used as meeting points by criminal elements. He urged business owners to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by maintaining vigilance and promptly reporting suspicious activities. The CP assured the public of increas...

 PRESS BRIEFING BY THE FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER ON RECENT POLICE OPERATIONS AND ACHIEVEMENTS IN KADUNA STATE IN LINE WITH THE IGP’S VISION FOR A SAFER NIGERIA POLICE RESCUE 17 KIDNAPPED VICTIMS, RECOVER 21 FABRICATED AK-47 RIFLES, NEUTRALIZE 3 ARMED ROBBERS Gentlemen of the Press, In line with the operational directives and strategic vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, geared towards tackling violent crimes, dismantling criminal networks, and enhancing public safety across the country, the Nigeria Police Force has recorded significant breakthroughs in recent operations conducted in Kaduna State. On 9th April 2025, in a remarkable feat of inter-agency collaboration and strategic intelligence deployment, operatives of the Kaduna State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, in conjunction with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), successfully rescued 17 victims who had been abducted on 3rd March 2025 from Sarkin Pawa...

 EFCC Arraigns Two Suspected Fraudsters for Impersonating Kano Oil Mogul The Kano Zonal Directorate of the  Economic and Financial Crimes Commission , EFCC, has arraigned the duo of Sulaiman Inuwa Zakiru and Aliyu Ahmed before Honourable Justice Amina Adamu Aliyu of the Kano State High Court on a two-count charge bordering on conspiracy and obtaining money under false pretenses.   The defendants allegedly conspired to impersonate Alhaji A.A. Rano, a prominent oil mogul and owner of A.A. Rano Oil and Gas Limited and defrauded their victims  the sum of  N12,000,000 (Twelve Million Naira) for payment for an oil allocation purportedly issued by A.A. Rano Oil and Gas. The principal suspect, Sulaiman Inuwa Zakiru allegedly defrauded the petitioner  by claiming that A. A. Rano would contact him after paying the oil merchant a courtesy visit.   Subsequently, someone purporting to be A.A Rano called the petitioner and offered him petroleum products in  the...

 Mbah Urges Nursing Students to Remain in Enugu to Curb Brain Drain Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has urged nursing students to remain in the state after graduation, citing the government’s heavy investment in healthcare and education. Speaking at the maiden matriculation of the upgraded College of Nursing, where 240 students were admitted, Mbah—represented by SSG Prof. Chidiebere Onyia—warned against the “japa syndrome,” stressing the need to retain talent. The college, now a Higher National Diploma-awarding institution, offers students multiple certifications including RN, RM, OND, and HND. Officials praised the state’s healthcare reforms, including infrastructure upgrades, increased admissions, and 260 new primary health centres.

  APC Shuts National Secretariat to Mourn Slain Director The All Progressives Congress (APC) has closed its national secretariat in Abuja, known as “Buhari House,” following the death of its Director of Administration, Hon. AbdulRauf Adekunle Adeniji. Adeniji, who was abducted weeks ago, was reportedly killed last month, though the kidnappers continued ransom negotiations while concealing his death. In an internal memo titled “Secretariat Closure for the Mourning of the Director of Administration”, the party directed staff to observe the period for reflection and prayers for the late official and his family. The secretariat will remain closed to all activities until Monday, April 14, 2025.

 Court Strikes Out Nnamdi Kanu’s N50bn Suit Against FG Over Rendition A Federal High Court in Abuja has struck out a N50 billion rights violation suit filed by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), against the Federal Government. Justice Inyang Ekwo dismissed the case on Thursday for lack of diligent prosecution after neither Kanu nor the government was represented in court. The judge noted repeated adjournments due to absence of Kanu’s legal team. Kanu had sought compensation over his alleged abduction from Kenya and forced return to Nigeria, arguing it violated international and local extradition laws. He also asked for his release from DSS custody and a halt to further prosecution. The Federal Government opposed the suit, citing a similar case already filed in Umuahia, calling it an abuse of court process.

 BAUCHI STATE POLICE COMMAND PRESS RELEASE    10 APRIL 2025 The editors.                                   CRIME BULLETIN CP PLEDGES NOT TO LEAVE ANY STONE UNTORN ORDER DISCREET  INVESTIGATION INTO MOB ACTION AND JUNGLE JUSTICE METED ON PETER IN LUSHI The Bauchi State Police Command Commissioner, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, Psc(+)Mni, has mandated a comprehensive investigation into the egregious act of jungle justice inflicted upon an individual named Peter on April 9, 2025, at about 2330 hrs.This incident involved a mob assault on two persons accused of dog theft. The victim, Dokagk Danladi, aged 38, was reportedly attacked by a group of youths in a secluded area behind Lushi as a result of the allegations. Dokagk sustained severe injuries, including machete wounds to his head, and has since been evacuated to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi for...

 Italy’s Prada to buy rival Versace for 1.25 bn euros Italian fashion house Prada announced Thursday that it had reached a deal with US group Capri Holdings to buy Versace for 1.25 billion euros ($1.39 billion). The acquisition will create a luxury group with revenues of over six billion euros that could better compete with industry giants such as the French conglomerates LVMH and Kering amid a slowdown in the sector worldwide. “We are delighted to welcome Versace to the Prada Group and to build a new chapter for a brand with which we share a strong commitment to creativity, craftmanship and heritage,” Prada group chairman and executive director Patrizio Bertelli said in a statement. In 2018, Capri paid €1.83 billion (then $2.1 billion) to acquire Versace, which was previously owned 80 percent by the Versace family and 20 percent by the US investment fund BlackRock. Amid declining sales, it put the Milan-based label up for sale, and began exclusive negotiations with Prada at the en...

 NERC fines eight DisCos N628m over crazy billing The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has fined Abuja, Eko, Enugu, Ikeja, Jos, Kaduna, Kano, and Yola Electricity Distribution Companies the sum of N628.03 million for non-compliance with the capping of estimated billing for unmetered customers. The commission conveyed the sanction in a release on Thursday. It explained that the action was a sequel to a review of billing practices between July and September 2024, which revealed that the affected DisCos failed to adhere to monthly energy caps issued by NERC. The fines represent five per cent of the gross overbilling during the period under review, it said. Besides, NERC also mandated the affected DisCos to provide credit adjustments to all overbilled customers by May 15, 2025, coinciding with the end of the April billing cycle. It emphasised its commitment to consumer protection and regulatory compliance within Nigeria’s electricity industry, reiterating its stance ag...

 Osimhen Eyes Record Transfer as Galatasaray Prepare €70m Bid Galatasaray are set to make a blockbuster move for Victor Osimhen, preparing a €70 million offer to secure the striker on a permanent deal. Osimhen, who joined the Turkish club on loan from Napoli after a failed transfer to Chelsea, has been in sensational form—netting 28 goals in 32 appearances and becoming a fan favourite as Galatasaray chase both the league title and domestic cup. Determined to keep him beyond the current season, Galatasaray face stiff competition from European giants including Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, and clubs in Saudi Arabia. According to Spanish outlet AS, via Cumhuriyet, the Turkish champions are ready to offer Napoli €70 million and propose a three-year deal for Osimhen, reportedly worth €15 million per season, excluding performance bonuses—putting the package on par with top Premier League offers.

 Rivers: Tinubu, AGF Absent as Court Adjourns Suit Challenging Ibas’ Appointment President Bola Tinubu and Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, were absent on Thursday at the Federal High Court in Abuja during the hearing of a suit challenging the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd.) as Sole Administrator of Rivers State. Their absence led Justice James Omotosho to adjourn the case to June 11, with an order for fresh hearing notices to be served on all defendants. The suit, filed by Abuja lawyer Johnmary Jideobi, seeks to void Ibas’ appointment, arguing that it is unconstitutional for the President to suspend elected governors or appoint sole administrators. Tinubu, the AGF, and all 36 state Attorneys-General are listed as defendants. Jideobi contends that the Constitution only permits the removal of a governor under specific sections and not through presidential directive, warning that unchecked executive interference could erode democratic gove...

 FG to Launch Free E-Visa, Digital Landing Cards on May 1 The Federal Government will officially introduce a free e-visa system and digital landing/exit cards starting May 1, aimed at improving national security and easing entry into Nigeria. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the initiative on Wednesday during a meeting with Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo in Abuja. Keyamo explained that the new system would allow visa applicants to complete the entire process online, including uploading documents, without visiting any physical office. Travelers will also be required to fill out landing and exit cards digitally before arrival. He emphasized the inter-ministerial collaboration behind the project, noting that the Nigerian Immigration Service, NCAA, and FAAN will play key roles. Tunji-Ojo confirmed that the digital visa and landing cards would take effect from May 1, stressing that the e-visa would be free and designed to streamline travel w...

 YORUBA TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA, LAGOS CHAPTER, CELEBRATES OUTGOING TG/PS, MRS. ANIKE ADEKANYE The Yoruba Teachers' Association of Nigeria (Ẹgbẹ Akomọlẹdẹ àti Àṣà Yorùbá), Lagos State Chapter, held a colourful ceremony to celebrate the outgoing Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary (TG/PS) of Education District II, Mrs. Anike Adekanye.  The event,which took place at the Immaculate Heart Comprehensive High School Hall, Maryland, was attended by dignitaries, cultural performers, educators, and students including the Lagos State Chairman of the Yoruba Teachers' Association, Prince Aderemi Adeyemi, along with members of the Elders-in-Council, led by Asiwaju Olasunkanmi Tella.  Prince Adeyemi delivered heartfelt tributes to Mrs. Adekanye for her years of meritorious service, describing her as a great influencer who opened doors for the development of the Association. "She has served with dignity, purpose, and grace. Her legacy will continue to guide and promote the Yor...

 LASRAB BEGINS DIGITIZATION OF RECORDS TO SAFEGUARD CULTURAL HERITAGE The Director-General of the Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau (LASRAB), Ms. Toyin Ogunlana has revealed that the ongoing comprehensive digitization of the Agency’s records is a strategic effort to preserve and enhance access to the rich historical and governmental heritage of Lagos State. Speaking during an interview in her office on Monday, Ms. Ogunlana emphasised that the initiative is a forward-thinking move designed to safeguard the State’s cultural memory and historical legacy. Describing digitization as “the way to go” in today’s digital age, she noted that digital storage ensures the safety and longevity of historical documents, making vital information readily accessible to researchers, students, government institutions, and the general public. “This project is about preserving our past for the benefit of future generations,” she said. “We are not only protecting these records from deterioration or ...

 LASG TO PUBLISH NAMES OF LAND USE CHARGE DEFAULTERS  In a bid to enhance transparency, drive compliance, and boost infrastructure funding, the Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Finance, will begin publishing the names of individuals and organizations that have defaulted in the payment of the Land Use Charge (LUC). According to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mr. Tajudeen Mahmud, the action is in line with the provisions of the Land Use Charge Law of 2020 and follows the government’s concerted efforts to serve property owners with the annual LUC bills.  He noted that many property owners have fulfilled their obligations promptly, while a significant number have continued to neglect payment despite repeated notices. Mahmud said that the publication of defaulters’ names which is set to commence in April 2025, precedes further enforcement actions, including the receivership process, as permitted by law. “The Land Use Charge is a crucial source of ...

 "NEW MUSEUM, E-LIBRARY WILL BOOST CULTURE, EDUCATION, COMMERCE” - EPE LG BOSS The Chairman of Epe Local Government, Princess Surah Animashaun has disclosed that the ongoing construction of an ultra-modern museum and e-library embarked on by her will transform Epe into a centre of cultural heritage and educational excellence. Speaking on the vision behind the two landmark projects, Princess Animashaun emphasised her administration’s dedication to preserving the cultural identity of Epe while simultaneously expanding access to knowledge and learning. “This initiative reflects our unwavering resolve to elevate Epe’s status as a safe, attractive, and business-friendly environment,” she said. “Once completed, this state-of-the-art facility will become a dynamic space for cultural education, digital learning, and civic interaction.” The project, which is already taking shape within the council area, is designed to offer cutting-edge amenities such as interactive museum exhibits, a digi...

 EFCC  Arrests  37 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Port Harcourt   Operatives of the Port Harcourt’s  Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC have arrested Thirty Seven (37) suspected internet fraudsters.   They were arrested in Port Harcourt,  Rivers State on Tuesday April 8, 2025 in an operation code named "operation eagle sweep".     They were arrested for alleged internet fraud after the Commission received credible intelligence on their activities in various hideouts within the State.   Items recovered from them include different brands and models of exotic vehicles, smart phones, smart wrist watches, international passports, Automated Teller Machine, ATM cards of different banks and laptops containing incriminating materials and documents.   The matter will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.

 Federal High Court Orders Rivers State Administrator to Justify Sole Administrator Appointments The Federal High Court in Port Harcourt has summoned the Rivers State Administrator to appear before it and explain why an interim injunction should not be issued to block the appointment of Sole Administrators for the state’s 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs).  The directive was issued by Honourable Justice Adamu Turaki Mohammed on Monday, April 7, 2025, in response to an ex-parte motion filed by the Pilex Centre for Civic Education Initiative and its Coordinator, Courage Nsirimovu. The applicants are seeking to halt the Rivers State Administrator and his agents from moving forward with the appointments, arguing that such a move threatens democratic processes in the state. In his ruling, Justice Mohammed stressed the importance of fairness, ordering that the respondent be formally notified and given the opportunity to “show cause” why the requested injunction should not be granted....

 Senate President Petitions Police Over Assassination Plot Allegations Senate President Godswill Akpabio has lodged a formal complaint with the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, accusing Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of making “criminally defamatory and inciting” statements. Akpabio claims that Akpoti-Uduaghan alleged he orchestrated a plot to have her assassinated, assertions he has branded as “heinous lies” aimed at tarnishing his reputation and inciting public unrest. The petition, dated April 3, was also sent to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN). It follows a public speech by Akpoti-Uduaghan on April 1 in Kogi State, where she accused Akpabio of collaborating with former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to stage her killing in a way that would implicate her own constituents. In his petition, Akpabio denounced the accusation as a “reckless and deliberate attempt” to endanger his life and security while stirring po...

 Peter Obi Demands Justice for 15-Year-Old Held Without Trial for Over Three Months Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s former presidential candidate, has called for justice in the case of 15-year-old Yusuf Alabi, who has been detained at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre for over three months without trial. Alabi, who captured national attention in 2023 after standing boldly in front of Obi’s convoy during a campaign rally in Lagos—an image that went viral as a symbol of youthful hope—remains in custody despite his first court appearance in March. In a statement posted on his official X handle Tuesday night, Obi voiced alarm over the teenager’s prolonged detention and urged authorities to adhere to the rule of law. “I was made aware of the predicament of a young boy named Quadri Yusuf Alabi, who has been detained for over three months without trial, appeared in court for the first time in March, and still remains held in custody,” Obi wrote. He revealed that he had enlisted human rights ...

  NIMC Warns Against Sharing NIN for Money, Announces Arrests in Anambra The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a stern warning to Nigerians against sharing their National Identification Numbers (NIN) with unauthorized individuals or organizations in exchange for money, labeling the practice illegal and punishable under multiple laws. The caution follows reports of residents in Anambra State being enticed into submitting their NINs for financial gain, prompting swift action from the Commission. In a statement released Wednesday by Dr. Kayode Adegoke, NIMC’s Head of Corporate Communications, the agency confirmed it had uncovered the illicit scheme and collaborated with security forces to apprehend the perpetrators. “Upon receiving information on the activities of unscrupulous individuals, NIMC, in conjunction with the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force, swiftly arrested the culprits behind the illegal collection of the NIN,” the statemen...

 ECOWAS Calls for Dialogue Amid Escalating Tensions Between Algeria and Mali The West African organization called on Mali and Algeria to resort to dialogue and use regional and continental mechanisms to resolve disputes, Sputnik reported. Diplomatic tensions between Mali and Algeria escalated after Algerian armed forces shot down a Malian drone near the border town of Tin Zaouatine in late March. Algeria stated that the drone violated its sovereignty. Bamako, for its part, denieed any incursion into its neighbor's airspace. The incident prompted a series of political reactions, including the recall of the ambassadors of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from Algiers, as well as the closure of airspace between Algeria and Mali. Algeria is not a member of ECOWAS, and Mali withdrew from it at the end of January.

 Sudan tells World Court UAE fuels Darfur genocide Sudan on Thursday told the International Court of Justice that the United Arab Emirates was violating the Genocide Convention by supporting paramilitary forces in Darfur and asked judges to issue emergency preventative orders, Reuters reported. Sudan's complaint to the Hague-based ICJ - known as the World Court - is in connection with intense ethnic-based attacks by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and allied Arab militias against the non-Arab Masalit tribe in 2023 in West Darfur, documented in detail by Reuters. The UAE has repeatedly dismissed the filing of the case as a political game. "The genocide against the Masalit is being carried out by the Rapid Support Force, believed to be Arab from Darfur, with the support and complicity of the United Arab Emirates," Sudan's acting justice minister Muawia Osman, told the United Nations' top court. Attacks against the Masalit were determined to be genocide by the ...