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Lagos police launch investigation as jeweller  accuses its officers of harassment The Lagos State Police Command said it has commenced an investigation into a viral video of a jeweller accusing some policemen in the Festac area of the state of harassing him.  The command disclosed this in an X post on Saturday. The video, which circulated on X on Saturday morning, shows the businessman engaged in a struggle with some policemen. Later in the video, the businessman could be seen with a bloody face after allegedly sustaining a cut beside his right eye during the struggle with the police officers,  The jeweller later explained that the policemen from the Festac Division had stopped him for a routine search. He said the officers accused him of peddling drugs after finding a scale on him. “I went to deliver a necklace to someone when police officers stopped and searched me in Festac, Lagos. They found nothing on me but saw the scale I use to measure gold and accused me of using...

 FIFA president Gianni Infantino abandons plan to sell World Cup profits to private equity after backlash FIFA President Gianni Infantino has abandoned a controversial proposal to sell a stake in the organization’s World Cup-related profits to private investors after facing strong opposition from soccer officials around the world. Infantino announced Saturday that the plan would not move forward, saying the proposal had created divisions that no longer aligned with FIFA’s goal of uniting and improving the sport. The plan called for the creation of a $20 billion company that would oversee FIFA’s commercial operations, including revenue from the men’s and women’s World Cups and Club World Cups. The proposed venture would have included private investors, including a New York-based investment firm founded by Joshua Kushner, the younger brother of Jared Kushner. The proposal drew criticism from soccer organizations across multiple regions. European soccer leaders said their nations woul...

 Spain installs border barrier after deadly migrant surge into Ceuta leaves 67 dead     Spain is installing a 500-meter-long containment barrier along the maritime border between its North African territory of Ceuta and Morocco after tens of thousands of migrants crossed the frontier earlier this week in a mass breach. The death toll from the incident has risen to 67, with victims including people who drowned and others who died during a chaotic rush to cross a breakwater barrier, according to Spanish officials. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez criticized calls from some European leaders to suspend Spain from the European Union’s Schengen free-travel zone, saying such reactions were based on misinformation, political motives or prejudice. He called for a coordinated European response to border security challenges. Spanish authorities said most of the migrants who entered Ceuta have already returned to Morocco. Some exhausted migrants who reached the city’s Taraja...

Kidnapped Benue Seminarian Escapes From Abductors The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo has confirmed that seminarian Kelvin Ochai, who was abducted by gunmen in Asa III, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State on July 29, has safely escaped from his captors. According to the Diocese, Ochai escaped on the evening of Friday, July 31, and made his way to Aliade in Gwer East LGA, where he was reunited with his family unharmed. In a statement, the Diocese attributed his safe return to divine intervention and the prayers of Christians and other well-wishers. The Bishop of Otukpo Diocese also expressed appreciation to priests, faithful, security personnel, and everyone who supported efforts during the seminarian's captivity.

 DELTA STATE POLICE COMMAND PRESS RELEASE DELTA STATE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE SEEKS TRADITIONAL AND STAKEHOLDERS SUPPORT FOR COMMUNITY POLICING DURING FAMILIARISATION VISIT TO AGBOR AREA COMMAND The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, psc, acipm, mnips, has continued his familiarisation tour of Area Commands with a visit to Agbor Area Command, where he paid a courtesy call on the Obi of Owa Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor II, CON. The visit, he said, aligns with the Inspector-General of Police's directive on grassroots policing and strengthening community partnership as a strategy for enhancing security. Speaking at the palace, the CP appreciated the monarch for his fatherly support and counsel to the Police, noting that traditional institutions remain critical partners in effective policing. He observed that the palace commands the confidence of the people and can significantly support intelligence gathering and crime prevention. He ther...

 Johns Hopkins researcher released after ICE detention at Baltimore airport over visa dispute A Johns Hopkins University researcher has been released after being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers at Baltimore/Washington International Airport earlier this week, according to her attorney. Fatima Ameaka, a Cameroonian national and employee at Johns Hopkins’ Bloomberg School of Public Health, was taken into custody by ICE agents Tuesday. The Department of Homeland Security said she was detained after overstaying a visa that expired in June 2024. Officials said Ameaka would remain in custody during removal proceedings, while documents show she had a valid work authorization permit through 2029 and a pending asylum application. Johns Hopkins expressed concern over her detention and said Ameaka, who holds a doctorate in pharmacy, is a valued member of the university community. The school said it was working to support her and ensure she had access to legal assistanc...

 GENERAL HOSPITAL SOMOLU GETS NEW MEDICAL DIRECTOR  The General Hospital Somolu now has a new Medical Director/Chief Executive Officer in the person of Dr. Adesina Olumuyiwa Simeon Ayodele, BDS, FMCDS, FICD. Dr Adesina, who assumed duties at the healthcare facility on the 20th of July, 2026, took over from Dr Mustapha Adebola Quadri following his meritorious retirement from the Lagos State Public Service on July 20, 2026, upon attaining the statutory age of 60 years. The new MD/CEO is a distinguished Consultant, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with over 24 years of progressive experience in clinical practice, healthcare administration, medical education, and health systems leadership. He holds a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree and has been a registered member of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria since 2001.  Following rigorous postgraduate specialist training in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, he earned multiple fellowships that attest to his expertise in t...

 LAGOS SIGNS FIVE-YEAR BLOOD SCREENING CONCESSION TO DEEPEN SAFE BLOOD SUPPLY … Partners Private Concessionaires, Roche Products Ltd, To Standardise Blood Screening Across Public Hospitals … HC Urges Voluntary Blood Donation As State Targets Zero Transfusion-Related Infections Lagos State Government on Tuesday, 28th July, 2026 signed a five-year Blood Screening and Certification Concession Agreement with approved concessionaires, marking a major milestone in its drive to strengthen blood safety, standardise screening processes and guarantee the availability of safe blood for patients across the state.  The agreement, signed at the Conference Room of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Alausa-Ikeja, is expected to improve quality assurance, accountability and technology-driven blood screening services in public health facilities. Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, described blood as a "liquid organ" whose transfusion demands ...

 Jaden Smith praised for wearing 'normal' outfit at 'Spider-Man' premiere with his half-brother Jaden Smith’s latest red‑carpet appearance at the Spider‑Man: Brand New Day premiere in Los Angeles drew attention not only because he was joined by his older half‑brother Trey, but also because of his strikingly polished look.  Known for bold, unconventional fashion statements, Jaden surprised fans by embracing a more classic double‑denim style: a crisp jacket and jeans paired with a white shirt, black tie, and leather shoes.  The understated ensemble sparked praise online, with many calling it a refreshing departure from his more experimental outfits. The positive reaction contrasted with some of Jaden’s past headline‑making choices, such as wearing a $4,600 castle headpiece, carrying his own cut dreadlocks at the 2017 Met Gala, or donning a Batman suit to Kim Kardashian and Kanye West’s wedding.  While those moments cemented his reputation as a risk‑taker, fans seemed d...

  Linda Blair says inspection of animal rescue property found paperwork issues after authorities execute warrant Linda Blair has responded after California authorities searched her Southern California property as part of an investigation into a reported kennel operation. In an Instagram post shared on Friday, July 31, the actress said she and the animals on the property were safe following what she described as a surprise visit. "Turns out we just have some paperwork to do and some diagrams," Blair wrote, adding that she is planning to relocate so she can expand her educational work and assist more animals. The inspection was carried out under a warrant as part of a joint operation involving the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control and the Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning. According to county officials, the inspection was conducted to assess buildings and structures linked to a reported kennel operation housing more than 100 dogs. Authori...

 Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi shares recovery update after hysterectomy following cervical cancer diagnosis Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi has shared details of her recovery after undergoing a hysterectomy six months after revealing her cervical cancer diagnosis. The Jersey Shore star, 38, documented her hospital experience in an Instagram video on Saturday, Aug. 1, showing moments before and after the surgery, which involved removing her uterus, cervix and other affected areas. Polizzi said she received support from her husband Jionni LaValle and their three children before leaving for the hospital with her parents. In clips shared online, she showed herself preparing for the procedure and later walking to the operating room. Following the surgery, she spoke about the recovery process and admitted she found the first days difficult. She explained that doctors removed her uterus, cervix and fallopian tubes while keeping her ovaries to avoid entering early menopause. “The first couple of days i...

  Woman c-ut her father's heart out during brutal murder A woman allegedly stabbed her father to death before removing his heart and placing it on his abdomen, according to police. Online jail records from the Porter County Sheriff’s Office show Serena Desiree Dolnics, 32, was booked into jail early Monday morning on a murder charge. Serena Dolnics, 32, was found covered in blood when police busted into the northwestern Indiana home where she allegedly butchered her 69-year-old father, Gregory Dolnics, who was found dead on the floor. Gregory Dolnics was found next to blood-spattered furniture with slash wounds to the head, face, back of the neck, and hands, and his heart, which had been carved out, was lying on his stomach, according to charging documents obtained by NWI. Police found the daughter in the house with slice wounds on her hands that she blamed on gardening tools. She told police that she and her dad “get along really well, but have small tiffs here and there and that ...

   Putin's allies reportedly turn on him and now dismantling his power in Russia Russian President Vladimir Putin is facing increasing pressure from members of Russia's political and business elite, with some insiders claiming growing dissatisfaction over the Kremlin's handling of the war in Ukraine and the country's economic challenges. According to a report by The Sun, several influential figures have publicly questioned the direction of the Russian government in recent weeks, an unusual development in a political system where criticism of the Kremlin is rare. Among them is German Gref, the head of Russia's largest bank and a former senior government official, who reportedly called for an end to the war in Ukraine, arguing that the prolonged conflict has damaged Russia's economy. The report also highlighted comments by Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko, who appealed for economic support from Western countries and reportedly called for an end to what he de...

 ‎ACTDA Urges Proper Housing Planning to Prevent Slums and Build a Livable Awka ‎By Sylvia Tochukwu-Ngige ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎A house without a plan becomes a slum. A city without planning becomes chaos. That is the core message from the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority, ACTDA, as Anambra’s population grows. For ACTDA, housing planning is not just about putting up structures. It is about creating safe, affordable, and dignified communities with roads, water, electricity, drainage, schools, hospitals, markets, and security built in from the start. When developers plan first, they avoid the cost of fixing problems later.   ‎ ‎ ‎ACTDA is the government agency in charge of planning, developing, and regulating the Awka Capital Territory. It covers 23 town from 6 local government areas, including: Adazi-Nnukwu, Agulu, Nri, Amansea, Mgbakwu, Isuaniocha, Urum, Awka, Amawbia, Mbaukwu, Isiagu, Nibo, Nise, Okpuno, Umuawulu, Nawgu, Ukpo, Abagana, Enugwu-Agidi, Enugwu-Ukwu, Nimo, and N...

 Zimbabwe to Stop Exporting Raw Minerals, President Says “Under my leadership and administration, [...] narrative is changing. I urge stakeholders and partners to decisively and boldly transition to this new reality," Emmerson Mnangagwa was quoted by state news outlet as saying. Starting in January 2027, Zimbabwe will export only lithium sulphate, he noted, Sputnik reported. “The world economic dynamics are changing fast, and all sectors of the economy must constantly evolve in our national interest,” the president emphasized.

Veteran Journalist/ Former WNTV Staff, Lekan Alabi Dies at 76 A veteran journalist, former staff of the Western Nigeria Television (WNTV), and former Press Secretary to successive Oyo State Governors, Oloye Lekan Alabi, has died at the age of 76. Oloye Lekan Alabi died on Saturday morning in Lagos after a distinguished career spanning journalism, public communication and public service.  His death was announced in a statement by the Media Aide to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Adeola Oloko. A respected broadcaster and public relations practitioner, Alabi was among the pioneering professionals who served at the former Western Nigeria Television (WNTV), where he made significant contributions to broadcast journalism before serving as Press Secretary to successive governors of Oyo State. The late Alabi also held the traditional title of Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland, playing a prominent role in promoting the cultural heritage, history and traditions of Ibadanland, as well as contributing ...

  Atiku Fires Back at Obasanjo, Says He Stood by Ex-President in Prison and After Release Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has responded to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s recent criticism, insisting he stood by the former military ruler during his incarceration and after his release from prison, and declaring that history cannot be rewritten. Obasanjo had on Friday described his decision to pick Atiku as his running mate in the 1999 presidential election as the biggest mistake of his presidency. He made the remark in Lagos during a fireside conversation with entertainer and activist Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, at the public presentation of Charly Boy’s foundation and memoir, *999: A Memoir in Tribute to Late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa*. In a statement issued on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described Obasanjo’s comments as “another failed attempt to rewrite history.” The former vice-president defende...

 Prince William and Kate Middleton bring George, Charlotte and Louis to Commonwealth Games for first Scotland public outing Prince William and Kate Middleton brought their three children to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, marking the siblings’ first official public appearance in Scotland. The Prince and Princess of Wales, both 44, attended the sporting event on Saturday, Aug. 1, during their summer break with Prince George, 13, Princess Charlotte, 11, and Prince Louis, 8. While in Scotland, where William and Kate are known as the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay, the family spent time with Team Wales athletes and their families. The couple also visited SportsAid, an organisation that supports young athletes. Kate has served as patron of the organisation since 2013. The Commonwealth Games, held every four years, brings together athletes from across the Commonwealth of Nations. The Wales children are usually kept away from regular public appearances but occasionally join their pa...

 TROOPS OF OPERATION UDOKA DISMANTLE CRIMINAL SYNDICATE, RECOVER STOLEN WEAPONS Troops of 34 Artillery Brigade, operating under Operation UDOKA through the ongoing Operation EASTERN SANITY II, have recorded a significant operational success with the arrest of key members of a notorious criminal syndicate responsible for the ambush of troops on 4 May 2026. Unfortunately, the ambush claimed the life of one soldier and left another wounded. Following the attack, troops launched a series of intelligence-led raids aimed at apprehending the perpetrators and recovering weapons stolen during the incident. These sustained operations resulted in the arrest of the suspects.   Acting on actionable intelligence, in the early hours of 31 July 2026, troops in collaboration with 181 Battalion operating under 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, conducted a coordinated raid at Opaebe and Oleh in Delta State, which led to the arrest of the suspects popularly known as Chiboy, Marathon, and Onowu, who...

 South Africa Denies Rejecting Ayra Starr's Visa, Demands Proof of Application In the wake of swirling rumors regarding the alleged visa denial of Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr, the South African government has stepped forward to clear the air. Official representatives state there is absolutely no record of a visa application let alone a rejection for the 'Rush' singer or her touring entourage. No Record of Application, Says Consul-General Addressing the controversy, South Africa’s Consul-General to Nigeria, Prof. Bobby Moroe, clarified the country's immigration stance. According to Moroe, authorities have cross-referenced their databases and found zero evidence of any visa requests tied to the singer’s scheduled February 2024 performances in Johannesburg and Cape Town. In a bid to resolve the matter transparently, the Consul-General urged those spreading the allegations to provide concrete details. "The immigration said they were not aware of the applica...

 Governor Uba Sani Attends Kaduna Forest Guards Graduation As Special Guest of Honour Governor Uba Sani attended the graduation ceremony of the newly trained Kaduna State Forest Guards at the DSS Development Centre, Afaka, where he served as the Special Guest of Honour. As part of ongoing efforts to consolidate the improving security situation in Kaduna State, the state government, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Department of State Services (DSS), has successfully trained over 1,000 forest guards. The recruits underwent intensive training coordinated by ONSA to enhance surveillance and security across forests and rural communities that have been vulnerable to criminal activities. Fully armed and operating under ONSA's rules of engagement, the forest guards will complement the efforts of conventional security agencies. The officers will be deployed to strategic flashpoints across several local government areas, including Birnin Gwari...

 Two Policemen Killed After Alleged Drunk Soldier Rams Vehicle Into Them In Kaduna Two police inspectors have died after a Toyota Hilux allegedly driven by a drunk Nigerian soldier struck them at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Junction in Kaduna State. The incident occurred on Thursday in the Kawo Division area of Kaduna metropolis. The victims, identified as Inspector Tanko Musa and Inspector Ajubi Onah, were attached to the Kawo Police Division. According to a source, the officers were crossing the road when the speeding Hilux rammed into them, killing them instantly. A video from the scene reportedly showed the bodies of the officers lying on the road as bystanders gathered around.

 U.S. Attorney moves to dismiss vandalism charge against former Olympian David Hearn U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., Jeanine Pirro has filed a motion to dismiss the vandalism case against former Olympic canoeist David Hearn, citing new findings about damage at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Court documents filed on Friday, July 31, state that the damage was caused by flaws in the pool's installation rather than Hearn's actions. Hearn, 67, was arrested on June 19 after reaching into the recently renovated Reflecting Pool during a 52-mile bike ride. He later said he had stopped to examine a detached piece of liner before he was arrested. According to the filing, the Department of the Interior initially provided incomplete information, and further review showed the damage resulted from a faulty installation, not vandalism. The motion states that the pool's sealant began peeling soon after construction was completed and attributes the issue to problems during install...

 NIGERIA POLICE FORCE CELEBRATES  POLICE ATHLETE EZEKIEL NATHANIEL'S COMMONWEALTH 400M HURDLES GOLD, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO INSTITUTIONAL SPORTS AND PERSONNEL WELFARE The Nigeria Police Force expresses profound pride and delight over the historic gold medal victory of corporal Ezekiel Nathaniel, at the ongoing Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. Nathaniel delivered a commanding performance on Friday night, dominating the men's 400 metres hurdles final to cross the finish line in 48.47 seconds and claim the Commonwealth crown. His victory represents a remarkable progression from his sixth-place finish at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, underscoring the grit, tactical discipline and relentless determination characteristic of personnel of the Nigeria Police Force. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Riliwan Disu, psc (+), NPM commends corporal Nathaniel for flying both the national and Force flags high on the international stage, noting that his performance serves...

 A Tennessee veterinary worker replaced Fentanyl with salt water, leaving animals to suffer while she got high.  41-year-old Alison Klafehn is being charged with prescription drug fraud and theft from $1,000 to $2,500.  These charges come after Dr. Plummer, who is the Dean at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, called authorities to report Alison for stealing Fentanyl.  Authorities were able to confirm Dr. Plummer's accusations by viewing security footage. In the footage, authorities observed Alison accessing secured areas and taking Fentanyl . Alison would then replace the drugs she had stolen with sodium chloride.  Authorities estimate around 40 mL were stolen in their initial viewing, but they suspect that the amount will be much higher once their investigation is completed.  Alison admitted to the theft during an interview with authorities.  Alison Klafehn was arrested on July 27th by the University of Tennessee Police Depar...

2027: INEC Rejects Jonathan’s Presidential Election Nomination The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has rejected the nomination of former President Goodluck Jonathan for the 2027 election submitted by the Taminu Turaki faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. The PDP faction earlier announced the submission of Jonathan’s nomination together with the names of its governorship, National Assembly and state assembly candidates to INEC. According to the PDP faction, the submission was done manually following denial of access to INEC’s electronic nomination platform. However, the electoral body, through its Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Victoria Eta-Messi, dismissed the submission. Eta-Messi stated that nominations can only be processed through INEC’s designated online portal in line with electoral regulations. According to her, the commission does not recognise manual submission of candidates. “Submission is only done on a dedicated portal as stipulated by ...

 No good deed goes unpunished. Yesterday, a man who attempted to intervene when he saw a woman being robbed, lost his life for being a good guy.  This reprehensible incident occurred in Las Vegas on the evening of Thursday, July 30th. According to local authorities, when first responding to a report of gunfire in the area, officers with the LVPD discovered a vehicle that had crashed into a tree. When officers took a closer look, they realized there was a man inside of the vehicle who was suffering from a gunshot wound.  Further investigation revealed that the individual inside of the crashed vehicle had witnessed a woman struggling with a man. The man was attempting to steal flowers that the woman was selling on the side of the road way. When the individual from the car attempted to help the woman, the assailant turned his ire towards the Good Samaritan. The assailant drew a weapon and shot the man, ultimately causing him to crash his car into a tree. Witnesses on scene w...

  Mystery material hidden for 80 years found at Hiroshima atomic bomb site Scientists have identified a previously unknown metal alloy created during the atomic bomb explosion over Hiroshima in 1945. Researchers discovered the microscopic alloy inside tiny grains of radioactive fallout, known as "hiroshimaite," collected from beach sands in Hiroshima Bay nearly 80 years after the bombing. The team believes the alloy formed inside the nuclear fireball, where temperatures exceeded 7,000°C, instantly vaporising buildings, steel, glass and soil before the materials cooled within moments. Those extreme conditions produced a substance unlike any previously recorded by scientists. The newly discovered alloy consists of iron, chromium, nickel, manganese, molybdenum, silicon and aluminium — elements commonly found in stainless steel. However, researchers found that the atoms combined into a completely new crystal structure as the fireball cooled at an extraordinary rate. Scientists fr...

 U.S to make $20,000 visa deposit requirement for African visitors permanent The US State Department is making permanent a pilot program under which citizens from 50 countries, mainly in Africa, are required to post bonds to apply for a US visa, and it’s raising the cost as well, to as much as $20,000. A draft notice published Friday in the Federal Register says a nearly year-long review “provided sufficient data” to suggest the bond program effectively enforces compliance with visa conditions, and would be made permanent, AP reported. The notice is to be formally released on Monday, the day the program becomes permanent, and additional countries may be added to the list, which can be found here. The pilot program set the maximum bond amount at $15,000, with lower amounts of $5,000 and $10,000 based on a consular officer’s discretion. The final regulation raises the maximum to $20,000 and removes the $5,000 low-end payment. Business and tourist visas The program requires holders of...

 Ariana Grande's 'Petal' music video prompts online debate over her appearance Ariana Grande's new music video for "Petal" has prompted widespread discussion online, with many fans commenting on her appearance while others called for an end to speculation about her body. The video, released on Friday, features Grande portraying an actress at an audition. She wears a retro-inspired outfit with black leggings, an off-the-shoulder top, matching scarf, pearl earrings and her signature ponytail styled with tight curls. Sharing a clip from the video on social media, the Grammy winner wrote, "petal ꕤ 。˚ music video out now." Following its release, some social media users expressed concern about Grande's appearance, while others urged people not to speculate about her health. Several supporters argued that public discussion about her body was inappropriate, saying the focus should remain on her music rather than her appearance. Others defended the singer...