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Canada Overwhelms Nigeria in Record-Breaking Performance at FIBA U-19 Women’s World Cup ‎

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Canada’s U-19 women’s basketball team delivered a historic performance at the 2025 FIBA U-19 Women’s World Cup, dismantling Nigeria’s Junior D’Tigress 113-42 in a commanding Group B victory on Sunday, July 13. The game, held in Brno, saw Canada shatter the tournament’s record for most three-pointers in a single game, sinking an astonishing 20 shots from beyond the arc.

‎Canada’s offensive onslaught was led by sharpshooter Agot Makeer, who went 5-for-7 from three-point range, finishing with 18 points. The team’s depth was on full display, with eight different players contributing to the three-point barrage. Mila Holloway orchestrated the offense with nine assists, showcasing Canada’s ball movement and tactical discipline. Jasmine Bascoe also chipped in with 10 points, going 4-for-9 from the field in 19 minutes of play.The Canadians set the tone early, racing to a 23-5 lead in the first quarter and extending their advantage to 62-16 by halftime.

‎Nigeria struggled against Canada’s defense and relentless shooting, with the third quarter being the closest at 23-16. Canada sealed the rout in the fourth, outscoring Nigeria 28-10 to secure their second straight group stage win after an 88-49 victory over Portugal.

‎For Nigeria, the loss was a stark contrast to their thrilling 93-88 upset over China in the tournament opener, where Power Forward Nora Ezike led with 25 points. Against Canada, Wandoo Hembam paced the Junior D’Tigress with 13 points, four rebounds, and three assists, while Jessica Ajayi and Idubamo Beggi added 7 and 6 points, respectively.

‎The defeat drops Nigeria to a 1-1 record in Group B, putting pressure on their final group match against Portugal on Tuesday, July 15.Canada’s dominant performance underscores their status as a tournament favorite, blending offensive firepower with defensive tenacity. For Nigeria, the focus shifts to regrouping and leveraging their resilience to secure a spot in the knockout rounds.

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‎Super Falcons Edge Botswana 1-0 to Reach WAFCON 2024 Quarter-Finals

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By Prosper Mene 

Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured their spot in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Botswana on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.

A late goal by Chinwendu Ihezuo in the 88th minute clinched the victory, making Nigeria the first team to advance to the knockout stages in Morocco.Facing a stubborn Botswana defense, the Super Falcons dominated possession but struggled to break through until substitute Halimatu Ayinde set up Ihezuo for the decisive strike. Coach Justin Madugu praised his team’s patience, saying, “Botswana made it tough, but we stayed focused and got the job done.” The win follows Nigeria’s 3-0 rout of Tunisia in their Group B opener, where Ihezuo, Asisat Oshoala, and Rinsola Babajide scored.

‎Botswana, in their second WAFCON appearance, battled hard despite a 1-0 loss to Algeria in their first match. Coach Gaolethoo Nkutlwe’s Mares, with key players Lone Gaofetoge and Nandi Mahlasela back from suspension, leaned on forward Refilwe Tholakele but couldn’t find a way past Nigeria’s defense, led by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. Botswana now faces a tough path to the knockout rounds.

‎Social media buzzed with praise for Ihezuo’s late heroics and Nigeria’s resilience, with fans on hailing the team’s resilience. The Super Falcons previously beat Botswana 2-0 in the 2022 WAFCON group stage, and this victory keeps their perfect record against the Mares intact.

‎With two clean sheets and six points, Nigeria’s next Group B match against Algeria on July 13 is a chance to solidify their dominance. Fans can watch live on DSTV, SuperSport, SABC Sport, AfroSport, and CAF’s YouTube channel. As the Super Falcons chase a 10th WAFCON title, this win signals their intent to reclaim the crown last won in 2018.

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‎French Court Overturns Libel Convictions in Brigitte Macron Transgender Rumors Case

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By Prosper Mene 

‎A French appeal court on Thursday overturned the libel convictions of two women, Amandine Roy and Natacha Rey, who were accused of defaming French First Lady Brigitte Macron by falsely claiming she was transgender. The ruling has caused debate over free speech and the spread of disinformation targeting public figures.

The case originated from a December 2021 YouTube video in which Roy, a 53-year-old self-proclaimed spiritual medium, interviewed Rey, a 49-year-old self-described independent journalist. During the four-hour broadcast, Rey alleged that Brigitte Macron, 72, was born a man named Jean-Michel Trogneux, accusing her of hiding her identity in a “state lie.” The video gained traction online, particularly among far-right groups and conspiracy theorists, and spread to the United States, where figures like Candace Owens amplified the claims.The rumors, which surfaced before France’s 2022 presidential election, falsely suggested Brigitte Macron underwent gender reassignment and included personal details about her brother, Jean-Michel Trogneux. In September 2024, a lower court in Lisieux, Normandy, convicted Roy and Rey of libel, ordering them to pay €8,000 ($8,400) in damages to Brigitte Macron and €5,000 ($5,500) to her brother, along with fines of €1,700 each (Rey’s fine was later reduced to €400).

‎The Paris Appeals Court, however, reversed the convictions, ruling that Roy and Rey acted in “good faith” when making the claims, including a related false accusation of “grooming a minor.” The court offered no detailed reasoning, but the decision frees the women from paying damages or fines. Brigitte Macron’s legal team expressed disappointment, stating the First Lady was “devastated” and plans to appeal to France’s Cassation Court, the nation’s highest judicial authority.The ruling has divided opinions. Supporters of Roy and Rey, some hailed it as a win for free speech, with one post claiming Rey plans to sue Brigitte Macron for “fraud” related to the trial.

‎The appeals court’s decision is intertwined between free speech and protecting public figures from false narratives, leaving the First Lady’s legal battle far from resolved.

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‎Nigerian Family Celebrates Third-Generation Lawyer in Heartwarming Viral Video

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By Prosper Mene 

‎A Nigerian family is filled with pride as they welcome a third-generation lawyer into their lineage, a feat captured in a viral video that has warmed hearts across social media. The video, showcased a newly called-to-bar lawyer alongside her mother and grandmother, both accomplished legal professionals. It has sparked widespread admiration for the family’s legacy in the legal profession.The footage, shared widely on platforms like X, features the young lawyer, dressed in traditional legal regalia, celebrating her call to the Nigerian Bar. 

‎Standing proudly beside her are her mother and grandmother, who have also made their mark in the legal field, with the grandmother notably serving as a judge.

‎The trio’s shared achievement shows a rare and inspiring three-generation commitment to justice and legal excellence.

‎Social media users flooded the comments with congratulations, with many praising the family’s dedication and the grandmother’s foundational role in paving the way. One commenter noted, “This is so beautiful! Grandma being a judge and now her granddaughter following in her footsteps, truly a legacy to celebrate.” Others expressed hopes for the young lawyer’s success, with one user advising, “Don’t settle for less; aim for the stars and keep God first.”The video, originally posted by @dammiedammie35

‎ on X and reposted by outlets like MobilePunch and Linda Ikeji’s blog, has resonated deeply, amassing thousands of views and shares. It not only celebrates the family’s achievement but also underscores the power of generational excellence and perseverance in Nigeria’s legal landscape.

‎As the young lawyer steps into her new role, her family’s story serves as an inspiration to many, proving that hard work, discipline, and a strong foundation can create a lasting legacy.

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Senate Appoints Senator Aniekan Bassey as New Chairman of Diaspora and NGOs Committee

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The Nigerian Senate has announced a notable change in its committee leadership, appointing Senator Aniekan Bassey as the new Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations. The decision was made public by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during Thursday’s plenary session in Abuja.

‎Senator Bassey, representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District and a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), replaces Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has been removed from the role. Akpoti-Uduaghan, a first-time senator from Kogi Central representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was previously reassigned to the Diaspora and NGOs Committee in February 2025 after being removed as Chair of the Senate Committee on Local Content.

‎The announcement follows a six-month suspension imposed on Akpoti-Uduaghan in March 2025, coming from allegations of misconduct related to confrontations during the committee reshuffle process. Although a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered her reinstatement in late June, the Senate has now moved to replace her with Senator Bassey, a former Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and a known ally of the Senate leadership.“The new chairman is Distinguished Senator Aniekan Bassey, and it will take effect from today,” Akpabio stated during the plenary. He also hinted at a wider reshuffling of committee positions, noting that a review of vice chairmanships would be conducted in the coming week to ensure a more equitable distribution of roles. “Every senator should either be a chairman or a vice chairman so we balance the situation,” Akpabio added.

‎The Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations is tasked with overseeing diaspora networks, facilitating dialogue with governments and local authorities, promoting the exchange of ideas between Nigerians at home and abroad, and providing guidance on home remittances. With Senator Bassey now at the in charge, the committee is expected to continue its critical work in strengthening ties with Nigeria’s diaspora community and supporting the activities of non-governmental organisations.

‎No official reason was provided for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s removal. The move has sparked speculation within legislative circles, particularly given Akpoti-Uduaghan’s prior removal from the Local Content Committee and her recent suspension.

‎Senator Bassey is expected to assume his new responsibilities immediately, bringing his experience as a seasoned lawmaker to the role. The Senate has directed its Committee on Legislative Compliance to monitor the implementation of this resolution and report back within two months.This latest reshuffle shows ongoing efforts by the Senate leadership to reorganize its committee structure.

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‎”380 Pregnant Women, 2,536 Children Displaced in Yelewata Attack” ‎

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By Prosper Mene 

‎A recent attack on Yelewata community in Benue State’s Guma Local Government Area has left 5,294 people displaced, including 380 pregnant women and 2,536 children. The affected individuals are currently taking shelter at a temporary IDP camp in Makurdi’s Ultra-Modern International Market, underscoring the dire humanitarian situation caused by the violence.

‎ ‎The attack, which occurred on June 13, 2025, saw suspected armed herdsmen storm Yelewata, killing over 150 people, including women, children, and five security personnel, while setting homes ablaze. Survivors described a night of terror, with gunmen opening fire on sleeping villagers, leaving many traumatized and dozens still missing. The violence, attributed to ongoing farmer-herder conflicts, has displaced over 2,336 households, forcing them to seek safety in the overcrowded camp.

‎ ‎Camp manager Robert Nyom, in a briefing in Makurdi, detailed the camp’s demographics, noting 233 elderly women and 181 elderly men among the displaced. The camp has become a critical hub for humanitarian aid, with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) providing over 30,000 liters of water daily and vaccinating over 1,000 children aged 0-59 months against polio. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has supported 10 safe deliveries and provided antenatal care to over 368 pregnant women, though the needs remain immense.

‎ ‎Despite government and humanitarian efforts, challenges persist. BSEMA has reported that 15 women have given birth in the camp, with 122 others still pregnant as of late June. However, survivors have resisted calls from traditional rulers and the Benue State government to return to Yelewata, citing ongoing insecurity. On July 8, IDPs protested at the camp, arguing that their community remains unsafe and uninhabitable, especially after the June attack claimed over 200 lives, including eight members of one family.

‎ ‎The Benue State government has promised to ensure safety before facilitating returns, but tensions remain high. Allegations of aid diversion and the arrest of 50 individuals posing as IDPs have further complicated relief efforts. Local leaders and survivors, including Joseph Kwagh, who lost eight family members, have called for stronger security measures and federal intervention to address the root causes of the violence, which some describe as ethnic cleansing.

‎ ‎UNICEF has emphasized the need for mental health support for traumatized IDPs, with over 200 receiving daily medical attention. Community leaders and organizations like Club De Pals have urged authorities to bring perpetrators to justice and address the systemic issues fueling the farmer-herder conflict. As the crisis lingers, the people of Yelewata remain in limbo, seeking safety and justice in the face of unimaginable loss.

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Fire Ravages Nollywood Star Iyabo Ojo’s Lagos Office, No Lives Lost

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‎By Prosper Mene

‎A devastating fire razed through the Lagos office of renowned Nollywood actress and entrepreneur Iyabo Ojo on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, causing major damage to the property and destroying valuable items. The fire, which erupted around 7 p.m., left parts of the office in ruins, with smoke-stained walls, charred furniture, and scattered debris, as seen in a video shared by the actress on her Instagram page.

‎Ojo, popularly known as the Queen Mother, confirmed the incident in an emotional post, expressing gratitude that no lives were lost. “This just happened today, the 8th of July 2025, around 7pm. My office building caught fire,” she wrote. “Thank you to the Nigerian Fire Service and my staff for salvaging what was left. Thankfully, no lives were lost. The devil tested us today, but God said no. With God on my side, we will bounce back bigger and better.”

‎The swift response of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, alongside Ojo’s staff, was instrumental in containing the blaze and preventing further destruction. Footage from the scene showed a fire truck on-site, with water on the ground, indicating firefighting efforts persisted despite rainy conditions.

‎The cause of the fire remains undisclosed, though Ojo’s daughter, Priscilla Ojo-Mkambala, alleged it was a targeted attack linked to a threat letter the family received weeks earlier during her wedding celebrations in Tanzania. In an Instagram story, Priscilla revealed that a handwritten letter, delivered to her mother’s office on May 24, 2025, threatened Ojo’s life and aimed to disrupt her daughter’s wedding. “Sadly, this letter was clearly a threat to her life and an attempt to ruin JP2025,” Priscilla wrote, adding that the family is reviewing CCTV footage to identify the culprit and has bolstered security measures.

‎The incident follows a high-profile year for Ojo, marked by her daughter Priscilla’s wedding to Tanzanian music star Juma Jux, celebrated in both Nigeria and Tanzania.

‎Fans and celebrities have flooded Ojo’s social media with messages of support, praising her resilience. A prophecy by Bright the Seer, which surfaced online after the incident, had previously warned Ojo to pray against emergencies, fueling speculation among fans about the fire’s origins.

‎Despite the setback, Ojo remains defiant, vowing to rebuild. “The news is so sad, but the devil is a liar,” wrote one supporter on X, signaling the sentiment of many. As investigations continue, the actress’s optimism and the outpouring of solidarity from fans signal her determination to overcome this tragedy.

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Veteran Nollywood Actress Bukky Wright Eyes Remarriage at 58.

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Veteran Nollywood actress Bukky Wright, , has expressed her desire to remarry at 58, revealing in a heartfelt interview with BBC Yoruba that she remains open to finding love again if it aligns with “God’s plan.” The announcement, made public on July 8, 2025, has garnered widespread reactions among fans and colleagues across social media platforms.

‎Speaking candidly, Wright shared that her recent pilgrimage to Mecca earlier this year was partly motivated by her hope to find the right partner. “I still love to get married again if I find the right person,” she said, emphasizing her faith-driven optimism about her romantic future.The actress, known for her roles in Yoruba and English-language Nollywood films, has experienced multiple marriages, totalling five past unions. Despite these challenges, Wright remains undeterred, expressing a longing to build a new life with a compatible partner. “I desire to find love again and remarry,” she told BBC Yoruba, highlighting her hopes for a fulfilling future.

‎Her openness has resonated widely, with fans and they praised her resilience and vulnerability.

‎Posts across social media platforms shows admiration for her courage, with one user noting, “Bukky Wright’s honesty about wanting love again at 58 is inspiring!” Others have sparked discussions about societal expectations for women and remarriage, echoing the actress’s influence beyond the screen.

‎Wright’s career and personal journey continue to captivate audiences, and her latest revelation has only deepened her connection with fans. Whether or not she finds her “right partner,” Bukky Wright’s candid declaration has already ignited a broader conversation about love, faith, and second chances in Nigeria’s entertainment sphere.

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Senator Kingibe says Labour Party Too Fractured to Win 2027 Elections, Backs ADC Coalition ‎ ‎

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has delivered a brutal assessment of the Labour Party (LP), declaring it too fractured and broken to secure victory in the 2027 general elections. In a candid interview on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm on Tuesday, the senator cited deep internal divisions and ongoing leadership struggles as key reasons for the party’s inability to serve as a viable electoral platform.“There are two factions of the Labour Party right now.

We are trying to put it together, but in its present state, I do not see it as a vehicle that can win any election. It’s been very fractured and broken,” Kingibe stated, revealing the party’s internal crisis.

‎While reaffirming her membership in the LP, Kingibe revealed her alignment with a newly formed opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the upcoming FCT local government elections. “The Labour Party would have been the platform, but it is broken. The ADC has credible candidates, and that’s the platform we’ll be using to send a strong message,” she said, expressing optimism about the opposition’s prospects in the FCT.

‎Kingibe’s comment, sums up the growing tensions within the LP, which gained significant traction in the 2023 elections due to the “Obedient” movement led by presidential candidate Peter Obi. However, the party has since struggled to transition from a protest movement to a cohesive political institution, with factionalism undermining its momentum.

‎The senator also took aim at FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, accusing him of being out of touch with residents’ needs and treating them with “disregard and contempt.” She argued that Wike’s infrastructure projects fail to address critical issues like insecurity and unpaid salaries at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA). Kingibe contrasted Wike’s tenure with that of former FCT Minister Nasir el-Rufai, whom she praised for being more responsive to residents’ needs.

‎Dismissing Wike’s claim that she would not return to the Senate in 2027, Kingibe expressed confidence in her political strength, stating, “I know for certain that when I decide to run, it’s a shoo-in.” She emphasized that FCT residents are increasingly frustrated with Wike’s leadership, predicting that the upcoming area council elections will serve as a referendum on his influence.

‎Kingibe’s public embrace of the ADC-led coalition, which includes opposition figures like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and others, shows a broader shift in Nigeria’s opposition landscape as disillusioned LP members seek alternative platforms to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

‎Whether the ADC can capitalize on this shift remains to be seen, but the senator’s bold stance remains a fresh debate about the future of Nigeria’s political opposition.

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‎SERAP Urges Senate President Akpabio to Reinstate Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Comply with Court Order

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to immediately reinstate Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, following a Federal High Court ruling that nullified her six-month suspension from the National Assembly. tis was .add public in a statement released via the body’s official X account on Tuesday.

‎ SERAP condemned the suspension as a “grave violation” of the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights obligations, urging the Senate to uphold the rule of law by complying with the court’s directive.

‎ ‎The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Binta Nyako, ruled on Friday, July 4, 2025, that the Senate’s suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was “excessive, unconstitutional, and a violation of her constituents’ rights.” The court ordered her immediate reinstatement, dismissing arguments by Akpabio’s legal team that the matter was an internal Senate affair beyond judicial oversight. The ruling emphasized that the suspension, imposed in March 2025 for alleged gross misconduct, lacked proportionality and deprived Kogi Central of representation.

‎ ‎SERAP’s statement demanded that Akpabio ensure a “smooth return” for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Senate “today or any other day of her choosing,” while restoring all her legislative rights, entitlements, and privileges. The organization stressed that the Senate must set an example by obeying judicial decisions to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and legal system. “The Senate leadership must immediately obey court order, reinstate Mrs. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and fully restore all her legislative rights,” SERAP declared.

‎ ‎The controversy surrounding Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension started from a dispute with Senate President Akpabio, including allegations of sexual harassment she made against him in a petition and a subsequent live television interview. The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions recommended her suspension, citing violations of Senate rules and false claims against Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.

‎Her suspension included the withdrawal of her salary, security details, and access to the National Assembly premises.

‎ ‎Despite the court’s ruling, the Senate has delayed action, stating it awaits the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment before reinstating the senator. Senate Spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu also noted that Akpoti-Uduaghan must comply with court conditions, including a ₦5 million fine and a formal apology for contempt, after she published a satirical apology to Akpabio on her Facebook page on April 7, 2025, violating a court gag order.

‎ ‎Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), announced her intention to resume legislative duties on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, prompting heightened tensions as the Senate braces for a potential showdown.

‎SERAP’s call speaks broader sentiments from advocacy groups like Citizens Advocacy for Social and Economic Rights (CASER), which affirmed the court’s authority to compel the Senate to act under Section 6 of the Nigerian Constitution. As the standoff continues, Nigerians are watching closely to see whether the Senate will comply with the court’s order or escalate the matter further, testing Nigeria’s commitment to judicial independence and democratic principles.

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