AFCON 2025 Final Referee Dropped From World Cup Officiating Squad

The omission of Jean-Jacques Ndala from Africa’s officiating list for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has created fresh debate across the football community.
Ndala, who was at the centre of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Final 2025, did not make the shortlist released by FIFA for the tournament set to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico between June 11 and July 19, 2026.

FIFA named seven centre referees, ten assistant referees and two VAR officials from Africa for the global competition. However, Ndala’s absence has raised eyebrows, coming just months after he officiated one of the most controversial finals in recent AFCON history.

The final, played in Morocco, ended in confusion after tensions boiled over on the pitch. Players from Senegal staged a protest, briefly walking off during the match, which had to be paused before it eventually resumed. Senegal had initially secured a 1–0 victory, but the result was later overturned following a decision by Confederation of African Football, handing Morocco the win.

Beyond Ndala, other notable referees left out of the World Cup list include Issa Sy and Boubou Traoré.

Meanwhile, the selected African officials were drawn from countries such as Algeria, Egypt, Gabon, Morocco, Mauritania, South Africa, Cameroon, Angola and Somalia, with Egypt having the highest number of representatives”
GWG

Don’t truncate Democracy through judicial manipulation, NBA warns courts, lawyers

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has cautioned judges and legal practitioners against actions that may truncate democracy in Nigeria.

The Association particularly frowned at the meddling in the internal affairs of political parties by courts and lawyers.

The warning was contained in a statement released on Friday and signed by the President of the NBA, Nazi Adam Osigwe.

Below is the full text of the statement:

OUR LAWS AND DEMOCRACY MUST BE PROTECTED AT ALL TIMES

The Nigerian Bar Association has closely monitored recent political and legal developments as the nation gradually approaches the 2027 General Elections. These developments, particularly those arising from the interpretation and potential application of provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, raise serious constitutional, democratic, and rule-of-law concerns that require immediate intervention.

We particularly deprecate the disturbing involvement by lawyers and courts in the internal affairs of political parties despite the clear provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026, which stipulates in Section 83 of the Act that “No court in Nigeria shall entertain jurisdiction over any suit or matter pertaining to the internal affairs of a political party.”

Not only are courts denied jurisdiction to entertain any matter pertaining to the internal affairs of a political party, but they are also precluded from granting any interim or interlocutory injunction even where any action has been brought in violation of the Act. The section further provides that “Where such an action is brought in negation of this provision, no interim or interlocutory injunction shall be entertained by the Court, but the Court shall suspend its ruling and deliver it at the stage of final judgment and shall give accelerated hearing to the matter”.

What we now see are situations where actions are not only instituted in Courts by lawyers in clear violation of the Act, but Courts purportedly grant interim and/or interlocutory injunctions in clear contempt of statutory provisions of the law. This does not augur well for our democracy. Democracy will not thrive in a situation where lawyers and courts take actions and decisions that not only negate our laws but also do violence to them. This emerging trend of subverting the clear letters of the Electoral Act and dragging courts into the internal affairs of political parties through disingenuous litigation, forum shopping, and malafide applications designed to secure undemocratic political advantage, bodes no good for our democracy. Such practices, if not immediately curbed, would directly contradict the clear intendment of the Electoral Act and risk transforming the judicial processes into avenues for political score-settling or electoral manipulation.

We must reiterate that these provisions were clearly designed to curb abuse of court processes and discourage forum shopping in political disputes. This is therefore why the NBA is concerned that the abuse, misapplication, or selective deployment of these provisions may create opportunities for manipulation capable of undermining democratic competition and shrinking the political space.

Members of the Bar are reminded that they are Ministers in the Temple of Justice and not political agents seeking judicial endorsement of partisan objectives. The filing of actions intended to draw courts into internal political party disputes, particularly where jurisdiction is expressly excluded, constitutes an abuse of court process and a violation of professional responsibility.

The NBA will take firm steps to deter such conduct. Lawyers who deliberately file actions aimed at procuring judicial interference in intra-party affairs, or who seek ex parte or interlocutory orders in clear violation of statutory provisions, risk facing disciplinary proceedings. We will not hesitate to present petitions before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) against any Legal Practitioner found to be engaging in such conduct. This will be pursued decisively to serve as a deterrent and to preserve the sanctity of the judicial process.

The Nigerian judiciary must stay vigilant and resist being drawn into political theatrics. Courts should firmly decline invitations, no matter how artfully crafted, to intervene in matters the law explicitly bars them from. When statutes limit judicial meddling in party affairs, judges must show restraint, adhere to the law, and focus on cases properly before them.

We call on the National Judicial Council to make regulations that will sanction any judge who knowingly assumes jurisdiction in matters clearly barred by law, grants orders in respect of intra-party disputes in violation of statutory provisions, or lends the authority of the court to partisan political maneuvering. The NBA will not shy away from drawing the NJC’s attention to the actions of any judicial officer found to have acted in a manner inconsistent with the judicial oath, constitutional responsibilities, and the preservation of public confidence in the courts. The NBA will not hesitate to activate its constitutional responsibility to protect the integrity of the justice system.

The NBA calls on the Independent National Electoral Commission to exercise its expanded supervisory powers with utmost neutrality, independence, and fidelity to democratic values. The Commission must not, under any circumstances, be perceived as a participant in political engineering or as an institution whose regulatory authority is deployed in a manner that weakens political pluralism.

The Chairman of INEC, being a distinguished Professor of Law and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, is uniquely positioned to appreciate the constitutional implications of these developments. The NBA expects that the Commission, under his leadership, will ensure that its actions reflect independence, fairness, and strict adherence to democratic norms. The Bar is closely watching the conduct of the Commission and expects that its regulatory role will strengthen, not diminish, confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.

The Bar will deploy all lawful mechanisms, engagement, advisory opinions, strategic litigation, and disciplinary processes, to ensure that lawyers do not weaponize the legal process so that the judiciary is not misused. Lawyers must remain officers of the court, not architects of procedural manipulation. Nigeria’s democracy must not be weakened by legal maneuvering, institutional capture, or the misuse of judicial authority. The courts must remain arbiters of justice, not instruments of political advantage. Electoral institutions must remain neutral umpires, not participants in political contests.

The electoral institutions must operate within the bounds of constitutional democracy.

MAZI AFAM OSIGWE, SAN
PRESIDENT NBA.

Sunrisereporters.

AFCON 2025 Final Referee dropped from World Cup officiating squad

AFCON 2025 Final Referee, Jean-Jacques Ndala will not officiate in the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Beyond Ndala, other notable referees left out of the World Cup list include Issa Sy and Boubou Traoré.

Governor Idris, Emir of Zuru eulogise Late Kebbi Speaker

Comrade Governor, Nasir Idris of Kebbi State and the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi Mika’ilu Sami Gomo lll were totally on the same page about the late Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Muhammadu Usman Ankwe’s dedication to the service of God and humanity during his lifetime.

The occasion was a condolence visit to the family of the Late Speaker by Comrade Governor Nasir Idris, accompanied by the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi Mika’ilu Sami Gomo lll at the deceased residence in Zuru, shortly after the late speaker was laid to rest, on Thursday.

Comrade Nasir Idris disclosed that the sacrifices and contributions made by the late speaker to the successes achieved by his administration were unmeasurable.

“His loyalty to the government was total, his commitment to the implementation of the government’s developmental programmes especially economic empowerment related programmes for the people were uncommon”

He further revealed that that the state government had done done whatever is humanly possible to save his life, including sponsorship for his medical treatment at Saudi Arabia, London, India, and eventually Egypt, where he finally answered Allah’s call.

Governor Idris reiterated that he has lost a confidant, trustworthy, and supportive Lieutenant very hard to come by. He prayed for God’s forgiveness and bountiful rewards for the deceased services to humanity and assured the family of sustained adequate support to underscores the government’s acknowledgement and appreciation for the ” late elder stateman’s patriotic and selfless services to the people during his lifetime ”

Responding on behalf of the family and indeed the people of Zuru emirate, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi described the late speaker as a humble, focused, and generous leader whose relentless humanitarian services touched the lives of the people, particularly the vulnerable and the community at large.

The Emir stated that with the support of the late speaker, the people of Zuru emirate have visibly benefited from Governor Nasir Idris’s administration in the critical sectors of development specifically roads, ultra-modern educational institutions, health care delivery and economic empowerment programmes.

” Let me express the appreciation of the people of Zuru emirate for the transformation of the emirate and assure the Governor of our resolution to pay back at the appropriate time”

Court sentences 11 Boko Haram members to up to 60 years imprisonment

The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced 11 members of the extremist group Boko Haram to prison terms ranging from 40 to 60 years for terrorism-related offences.

Delivering judgment, Justice Obiora Egwuatu held that the convictions were based on the defendants’ confessional statements and guilty pleas in open court. He ruled that the law permits courts to convict without requiring further proof once an accused person admits guilt.

The convicts Musa Mustapha, Ali Mohammed, Babagana Ali, Abacha Abba, Ali Abbagana Umar, Kadi Agwala, Yahaya Umara, Alhaji Ari, Goni Mustapha, Ali Modu, and Alhaji Fannaya were found guilty of offences including membership in a proscribed organisation and providing logistical support to terrorist activities.

The court ordered that their sentences run concurrently from the date of arrest. It also directed that the convicts undergo rehabilitation and de-radicalisation programmes after serving their jail terms.

Among those convicted: Alhaji Fannaya received 20 years imprisonment on each of four counts after pleading guilty to multiple charges.

Abacha Abba was sentenced to 20 years on each of three counts, including transporting weapons and undergoing terrorist training.

Ali Babagana Umar and Kadi Agwala were each handed 20-year sentences on two counts related to aiding the group.

In a separate case, Justice Peter Lifu sentenced Ali Kolo to nine years imprisonment for failing to report terrorist activities, despite acknowledging that he had been shot by insurgents while attempting to alert authorities.

The court ruled that although Kolo failed in his legal duty to report, his circumstances were beyond his control. Since he had already spent over a decade in detention, the judge ordered his immediate release.

Similarly, Ibrahim Buba, a bricklayer from Borno State, was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for withholding information about terrorist activities. He admitted knowing members of the group but fleeing the state instead of reporting them to authorities.

The prosecution, led by government counsel David Kaswe, relied on provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, which mandates citizens to disclose information about terrorist operations to security agencies.

The rulings underscore the judiciary’s continued enforcement of anti-terrorism laws, while also highlighting considerations of fairness and circumstance in sentencing.

Starnews

How David Mark, Aregbesola hijacked ADC – Abejide

A member of the House of Representatives representing Yagba Federal Constituency in Kogi State, Leke Abejide, has faulted the process through which the David Mark-led leadership emerged in the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

He claimed that some prominent politicians have hijacked the ADC amid the party’s deepening leadership crisis.

The lawmaker made the allegation on Thursday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today.

When asked to clarify the identities of the “hijackers,” he said, “Former Senate President David Mark, former Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, and the rest.”

He pointed out that proper consultation with existing party members was not carried out before the Mark leadership emerged.

“If you want to come to a party, and it is not a fresh one, you should know that some people are there. Why don’t you meet with them first and discuss?” he said.

Asked whether he had ever held meetings with key figures reportedly involved in the coalition, including Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, and Peter Obi, Abejide responded, “No, I have never met with them. None of them has ever met me.”

The lawmaker also dismissed suggestions that he was sidelined because he was perceived as a “sellout,” stating, “I am not a sellout. It is not because they didn’t consult me; let us do things according to the law. This party cannot be destroyed.”

Citing the ADC constitution, Abejide argued that the appointments of Mark and others violated established rules.

He maintained that those who assumed leadership positions had not fulfilled these requirements at the time.

“As at the time they sat on their seats, they had not registered in their wards. They were not members of the ADC as at the time they took over,” he said.

“What they ought to have done is to allow them to come in, then write to INEC, give 21 days’ notice for a national convention, and amend the constitution properly… By then, nobody can go to court. But that was not the case; they immediately took over that day as if the election were tomorrow,” he stated.

Newspotng

8 killed in fresh Plateau attack by Fulani terror group as troops intensify clearance operations, kill 13 terrorists in in Wase, Kanam LGAs

Suspected Fulani Bandits have killed eight residents in Mbwelle Village, Kwatas District of Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau, in the latest wave of tit for tat attacks in the state.

The incident occurred at about 10:30 p.m. on April 9, according to security sources.

The victims were identified as Habila Istifanus (38), Hassan Istifanus (31), Iliya Mangut (70), Sunday Gideon (31), Innocent Banabas (20), Lucky Titus (38), Wisdom Lucky (15), and Bwehsun Hassan (25).

Joint security forces responded to the distress call but did not establish contact with the attackers, who fled before their arrival.

A security source attributed the delayed response to the distance of about 15 kilometres between the troops’ base and the community, as well as difficult terrain.

All casualties, including the injured, were evacuated to Bokkos Cottage Hospital, while troops have launched pursuit operations to apprehend the fleeing militia.

Earlier on April 9, troops under Operation Wutan Daji recorded a major operational success in Wase and Kanam LGAs, neutralising 13 suspected terrorists during an offensive along identified corridors in Daba and Seri villages.

The troops had established blocking positions between Dutsen Zaki and Odare Forest, where they intercepted armed elements moving on motorcycles.

Recovered items included two motorcycles, five 25-litre jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), one AK-47 rifle, and a magazine loaded with three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

Military sources said several fleeing terrorists escaped with gunshot wounds, while clearance operations remain ongoing.

In a separate operation on the same day, troops of 33 Artillery Brigade, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), conducted clearance operations in Daji Madam Forest, targeting camps at Dogo Ruwa and Bogwas.

The operation, supported by troops of a Combat Support Infantry Battalion and Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), led to the rescue of 21 kidnapped victims and the destruction of multiple bandits’ enclaves, including one linked to a notorious leader identified as Auta Kachalla.

Items recovered included one G3 rifle, four magazines, three generating sets, and a solar panel.

Despite these gains, security incidents have persisted across Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Jos South, and surrounding areas.

On April 8, troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) foiled an attack on commuters along the Razat–Kafi Abu road in Barkin Ladi LGA, where one civilian was killed and two others injured.

Later the same day, troops repelled a militia attack along the same axis and conducted a cordon-and-search operation in Suma Suga Takwok, recovering two AK-47 rifles, two magazines, and five rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.

In Riyom LGA, one civilian was killed in an ambush along the Dagbam bridge axis on the GOL–HOSS–Bwei road, while two others escaped unhurt. Troops also foiled an attack on Jol community on April 7, forcing the assailants to retreat without casualties.

Similarly, troops rescued one victim and recovered ammunition following an earlier attack in Dum village, Bachi District, where another victim was found dead.

Security operatives also intercepted 16 stray cattle grazing on farmland in Tahoss community, an incident linked to recurring disputes between farmers and herders.

The pattern of violence reflects a sustained cycle of reprisals between farming communities and pastoral groups.

On April 5, a Fulani herder, identified as Abubakar Hababe (40), was found dead in Riyom LGA in what sources described as a reprisal attack. The killing by suspected Berom Militia was reportedly linked to earlier incidents, including the attack on an illegal mining site in Gyel village where three miners were killed.

Other incidents include the discovery of the body of a 30-year-old herder, Shafiyu, in Jos South LGA, and the killing of a Fulani boy, Abdullahi Mohammed, in Mangu LGA.

Tensions were escalated since March 28, after the assassination of a Fulani leader, Alhaji Bilyaminu Julde, the Ardo of Gindiri in Barkin Ladi LGA.

Security reports also identified repeated destruction of farmlands and cattle rustling, further aggravating hostilities between communities.

Authorities said troops and other security agencies have intensified patrols, surveillance, and community engagements across affected LGAs to prevent further escalation.

“Operations are ongoing to dominate the general areas, dismantle criminal networks, and restore normalcy,” a security source said.

The developments illustrate the complexity of the security situation in Plateau, where counter-terrorism operations intersect with long-standing communal tensions, making sustained peace efforts increasingly challenging.

Security agencies have urged residents to remain calm, avoid reprisals, and provide credible information to support ongoing operations aimed at restoring lasting peace in the state. Globalupfront.

Abuja: 2 killed in farmers-herders clash in FCT community, residents flee

Residents of Kudu community near Takuro in Dafa Ward of Kwali Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have fled their homes following a clash between farmers and herders that left two persons dead and six others injured.

A member of the community, Ishaku Shuaibu, who confirmed the incident via telephone on Thursday, said it occurred around 8.43am on Tuesday.

He said the clash began after cows belonging to herders allegedly fed on mangoes in the community, which reportedly led to the sudden death of two of the animals.

According to him, the owner of the cows later accused the owner of the mango tree of poisoning the fruits.

Shuaibu said one of the herders invited villagers to the scene where the dead cows were found.

“On getting to the scene, one of the herders suddenly pulled out a cutlass and stabbed two villagers, killing one on the spot,” he said.

He added that another victim, who lost his right hand in the attack, was rushed to a hospital in Gwagwalada but later died while receiving treatment.

Shuaibu said the killings heightened tension in the community, with some youths allegedly attacking and burning herders’ settlements.

He noted that fear escalated following rumours of a reprisal attack, forcing many residents to flee to neighbouring communities.

“It was after some herders’ settlements were burnt that rumours spread that the herders were mobilising for a reprisal attack, prompting villagers to flee,” he said.

Displaced residents were said to have taken refuge in Ashara, Fogbe, Kuka and Wako communities.

Security operatives, including personnel of the DSS, police and the military, have been deployed to restore calm.

Reacting, the FCT Treasurer of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Abdullaziz Ibrahim, confirmed the incident but said details remained unclear.

“I was informed about the incident, but there are conflicting accounts. Some say the mangoes were poisoned, while others claim a pond where the cows drank water was contaminated. I cannot give clear details for now,” he said.

He, however, confirmed that security operatives had been deployed to restore normalcy.

Also speaking, the FCT MACBAN Chairman, Alhaji Wakili Madugu, said he had received reports of the incident but could not provide details.

A police source at the Gwagwalada command, who preferred anonymity, also confirmed the incident, stating that one person died instantly while another died in hospital.

The source added that operatives from the Kwali Division, alongside the army and DSS, had been deployed to contain the situation.

Efforts to get official confirmation from the FCT Police Command were unsuccessful, as the spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, did not respond to calls or text messages as of the time of filing this report.

@Daily Trust

Insecurity: Obi raises alarm over U.S. security advisory on Nigeria, laments killing of General Braimah, 17 soldiers in Borno

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential hopeful and 2023 election Presidential candidate of Labour Party, Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the decision by the United States (U.S.) to evacuate its embassy staff from Nigeria, saying it is “a troubling signal of worsening insecurity and declining global confidence in the country.”

Obi, who referenced the killing of Commander, 29 Brigade, Brigadier General Oseni Braimah and 17 soldiers in Borno State, said it is further evidence of the dangerous conditions facing both civilians and security personnel.

Reiterating that the primary responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property, Obi likened the current ruling political class in Nigeria to Nero, accusing leaders of being distracted by politics while the country grapples with deepening insecurity.

In a strongly worded statement posted on his social media platforms and titled – ‘U.S. Security Alarm on Nigeria: A Bad Omen,’ the former Governor of Anambra State said: “The recent directive by the United States to evacuate its embassy staff from Nigeria due to rising insecurity is deeply worrisome and should be treated as a national emergency, especially for a country already struggling to attract investors.

“Nigeria currently ranks fourth in the Global Terrorism Index, yet insecurity continues to worsen – lives are being lost and communities remain under constant threat. There is a glaring absence of effective governance; instead, what prevails are schemes that undermine democratic processes, as though politics has taken precedence over the safety of citizens.

“The U.S. directive is a clear signal of declining confidence in our national security architecture. Disturbingly, reports indicate the loss of yet another Army Brigadier General to terrorists in Borno earlier today. A nation where people cannot live, work, worship, or travel safely cannot progress or attract investment. The primary duty of any government is the protection of lives and property, yet in this regard, we as leaders have fallen short over the years.

“Our failure continues to place immense strain on our troops, who make the ultimate sacrifices. Sadly, as Nigeria deteriorates, we as leaders, like Nero, remain preoccupied with politics, forgetting that without security, there is no nation to govern and no future to campaign for. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO.”

Evaluating Peter Obi’s mental and physical fortitude for the task ahead

By Ike Abonyi

How mentally and physically prepared are those vying for high offices in Nigeria? When you see President Bola Ahmed Tinubu unable to visit the countryside to see and feel the people he is ruling, it’s because he lacks the necessary mental and physical ability to do so, and no matter how much you may desire it, you cannot give what you don’t have. When a President of a country addresses crisis victims at an airport far from the scene, it shows no sign of empathy. And the truth is that he is lacking both mental and physical empathy needed for such an environment.

In the pursuit of high-office leadership, the intersection of intellectual rigour and physical stamina often determines the success of a mandate. Peter Obi is standing out because he has consistently projected a profile that emphasises these two pillars as the foundation for his readiness to address national challenges.

Mental readiness in leadership is defined by the ability to synthesise complex data into actionable policy. Obi’s approach is characterised by his habitual reliance on global comparative statistics suggesting a mind constantly auditing performance and seeking scalable solutions. His cognitive agility comes through extensive town halls and unscripted engagements. He always demonstrates an ability to navigate diverse subjects—from fiscal policy to internal security—without losing thematic consistency. His mental preparedness is also reflected in emotional intelligence; maintaining a measured, “issue-based” discourse even in highly polarised political environments.

The Logistics of presence by a leader cannot be underestimated and Obi understands that the “task ahead” for any transformative leader requires gruelling schedules and a presence that spans vast geographical and social landscapes. Like Peter Obi has copiously demonstrated endurance and vitality which makes his itinerary often involving back-to-back cross-country travels and long-form media sessions that serve as a practical demonstration of physical aerobic capacity and resilience. By opting for a lean, high-mobility lifestyle, he signals a rejection of sedentary governance, favouring a “boots-on-the-ground” style that demands constant physical activity. Physical readiness is rarely accidental; it is the byproduct of disciplined personal habits that ensure a leader remains alert and capable during periods of high-intensity crisis management.

As Obi has consistently shown, true preparedness for leadership is not found in mental or physical strength alone, but in their synchronicity. The task ahead involves any aspiring leader of a country of over 200 million people of diverse backgrounds in culture, religion, and development to have what it takes to break down complex national issues. This requires mental alertness and the execution of solutions across the federation which needs physical strength, and a combination of the two which entails sustaining the momentum of reform over years, not months.

Now that Nigeria is in its leadership recruitment process, these critical things are being overlooked. Physical and mental dead woods are on the stage occupying space and multiplying the confusion because for such people the real agenda is not service but corrupt acquisition of public resources for personal gain.

The narrative of Peter Obi’s preparation suggests a candidate who views leadership as an athletic and intellectual commitment. This dual-track preparedness is presented not just as a personal trait, but as a prerequisite for the heavy lifting required to navigate contemporary socio-economic complexities. These things set him out and explain why he cannot be extinguished no matter how they try. A New Nigeria is possible is not a political slogan but a divine declaration backed by practical disposition.