close
Women Times

News

NewsSport

Five Iranian Women Footballers Granted Asylum in Australia, Says Donald Trump

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

In a development amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, five members of Iran’s national women’s football team have reportedly been granted asylum in Australia, according to statements from US President Donald Trump.

The players, part of the Iranian squad competing in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup hosted in Australia, left their team hotel and sought protection following their elimination from the tournament. Sources indicate the athletes are now in a safe house under Australian Federal Police protection, fearing severe repercussions upon return to Iran.

The incident gained international attention after several players remained silent during Iran’s national anthem before a match, an act interpreted as protest amid heightened tensions from the US-Israel war with Iran. Iranian state media labeled the team “wartime traitors,” raising alarms over potential persecution, arbitrary detention, or worse if they returned home.

President Trump weighed in forcefully on Truth Social, initially warning that Australia would be making “a terrible humanitarian mistake” by forcing the players back, where they “will most likely be killed.” He urged Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to grant asylum, offering: “The US will take them if you won’t.”

In a follow-up post, Trump announced he had spoken with Albanese, stating the Australian leader was “on it” and that “five have already been taken care of, and the rest are on their way.” Trump praised the handling of the “delicate situation.”

The five players reportedly include Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Ghanbari, Zahra Sarbali, Atefeh Ramazanzadeh, and Mona Hamoudi, with some linked to support from figures like Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s last shah, who confirmed their alignment with opposition movements.

Australia’s government has remained cautious, with officials citing privacy reasons for not commenting on individual cases. Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Matt Thistlethwaite emphasized no “preferential treatment” or “special circumstances” apply, though human rights groups and Iranian-Australian communities have urged protection for those at risk.

Protests erupted outside the team’s accommodations, with supporters chanting “save our girls” and surrounding buses in calls for the players to stay.

While details of the asylum grants remain unconfirmed by official Australian channels, Trump’s announcements have amplified global scrutiny on the players’ fate.

read more
News

Families of Detained Military Officers Appeal to President Tinubu for Access and Open Trial Amid Alleged Coup Plot

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Wives and family members of Nigerian military officers detained over an alleged coup plot against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration staged a public appeal and protest in Abuja on Friday, calling for immediate access to their husbands and an open, fair trial.

The families, supported by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and lawyer Deji Adeyanju, addressed the media and directly pleaded with President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu to intervene. They described the emotional toll of the prolonged detention, which has exceeded 160 days in some cases, with no formal charges filed or family contact permitted.

Speaking on behalf of the group, the wives expressed deep anxiety over their husbands’ well-being and urged the authorities to either release the officers or bring them before a court of law in accordance with due process. They emphasized the presumption of innocence, stating that their husbands should not be treated as guilty until proven otherwise in an open trial.

“We appeal to Mr. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a father and grandfather, and to Her Excellency the First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, a mother, grandmother, and revered pastor, to please look upon our situation with compassion, wisdom, courage, and justice,” one family representative said during the briefing.

The protest featured placards and emotional pleas, highlighting concerns that the detainees have been held incommunicado, raising questions about transparency and adherence to constitutional rights.

The alleged coup plot surfaced late last year, with reports indicating that 16 military officers were initially arrested in October for “acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.” Subsequent investigations by security agencies reportedly identified around 40 suspects, including senior officers from various branches of the armed forces, as well as some civilians linked to reconnaissance, funding, and propaganda efforts related to the conspiracy.

Military authorities have stated that some of the officers will face proceedings before a military judicial panel, though no public trial has commenced as of now.

No immediate response has been issued from the Presidency or the military high command regarding the families’ demands. The situation continues to draw attention to broader issues of military discipline, human rights, and governance in Nigeria.

read more
News

Iyabo Obasanjo Declares Independence in 2027 Ogun Governorship Bid: “I Don’t Need My Father’s Support”

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Senator Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has firmly stated that she does not require her father’s political backing as she pursues the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket for Ogun State in the 2027 elections.

In recent interviews, the 59-year-old former senator and one-time Ogun State Commissioner for Health emphasized that her decision to run is a personal one, driven by grassroots calls and her track record of service rather than familial influence.

“I don’t think at this age I should be consulting them for everything in my career move,” she said in a Channels Television interview. “What I have said is that my father, I know, and my mother will vote for me; that’s all that I can ask of them. Even if I don’t ask, they will vote for me; that I can guarantee.”

She dismissed suggestions that her father’s stature or connections played a role in her ambition, describing her move to the APC as an independent journey. “My father is just another Nigerian who will vote for me. He has not presented any platform for me and has not influenced my decision in any way,” she told journalists at the APC national secretariat in Abuja earlier this week.

Iyabo Obasanjo, who represented Ogun Central in the Senate and has been out of active politics for over a decade, formally declared her governorship interest under the APC platform in late February 2026. She defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the ruling party, citing alignment with many of her former associates now in the APC and a desire to build on her past contributions in health and community development.

The aspirant positioned herself as a formidable contender, citing her experience and goodwill from previous roles. She pledged to focus on inclusive development, women empowerment, infrastructure renewal, and quality education if elected. Noting that Ogun State has never had a female governor, she called on women and youths to support her bid, aiming to make history as the state’s first elected female chief executive.

While expressing confidence in securing the APC ticket and winning the general election, Iyabo Obasanjo stressed self-reliance in funding and mobilization. She has also addressed zoning dynamics in the state, supporting calls for Ogun West to produce the next governor while asserting her readiness based on service history.

Her campaign has generated significant momentum, with social media and news outlets amplifying her statements on independence from her father’s influence. As the 2027 race heats up, observers note that her entry adds a prominent voice to the APC’s internal contest, potentially reshaping the political landscape in Ogun State.

 

read more
News

𝗢𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶 𝗧𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗯𝘂 𝘂𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹𝘀 𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆, 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗱𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on women to actively mentor young girls, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, while emphasizing the importance of teaching modesty and decent dressing.

Speaking at an interfaith event in Abuja on March 6, 2026, which brought together Muslim and Christian women for an Iftar and Lent breaking-of-fast gathering, the First Lady urged women to intentionally guide the younger generation in moral and cultural values. She highlighted the need to go beyond academic support, encouraging scholarships, good virtues, and proper conduct.

“Teach them how to be good women, teach them how to dress well,” she said, expressing concern over current trends among young people. “Teach them how to cover up because being naked is not beauty. Beauty comes from within.”

She stressed that true beauty is not defined by revealing clothing and that modesty aligns with Nigerian cultural values, rejecting what she described as excessive exposure influenced by foreign trends. In her remarks, she also noted the role of personal responsibility, adding a prayer that “God will help men crucify their eyes” to complement efforts toward decent dressing.

The comments, captured in a widely circulated video clip from the event  have kick started discussions across social media and news platforms about youth mentorship, cultural identity, and fashion choices in Nigeria.

This is not the first time the First Lady has addressed modest dressing; similar themes appeared in her public statements in previous years, including calls to preserve cultural norms against provocative attire.

The interfaith event focuses on unity across religious lines, with the First Lady using the occasion to advocate for collective responsibility in nurturing future generations.

read more
News

Russia Evacuates Over 100 Women and Children from Tehran Embassy Amid Escalating Middle East Conflict

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene, March 5, 2026 

The Russian Embassy in Tehran has confirmed the evacuation of more than 100 women and children, family members of its staff — to Russia earlier this week, as U.S. and Israeli military strikes continue to intensify across Iran and heighten regional tensions.

In a statement posted on its official Telegram channel, the embassy announced that the operation took place between March 3 and 4. The group, totaling over 100 individuals including dozens of children, was safely transported out of the country. Earlier embassy messages specified that 45 children were among those evacuated, with the total figure reaching 117 Russian citizens in some reports.

The evacuation was facilitated with assistance from Iranian and Azerbaijani partners, and the group crossed into Azerbaijan before being flown back to Russia. Russian officials expressed gratitude to Tehran and Baku for their cooperation in ensuring the safe passage amid the ongoing crisis.

Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko, quoted by state-run TASS news agency, emphasized that the measure was precautionary and limited in scope. “Core staff remains at the embassy,” he stated, confirming that diplomatic operations in Tehran continue uninterrupted despite the regional volatility.

The move comes against the backdrop of recent U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iranian targets, including strikes that have reportedly affected civilian areas and prompted widespread concern for expatriate safety. Russia has been actively facilitating departures for its nationals in Iran, offering options via neighboring borders such as Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Turkmenistan since late February.

This partial evacuation of non-essential family members shows growing caution among foreign missions in Iran as the conflict shows no signs of abating. No full embassy closure or broader staff withdrawal has been announced, and Russian authorities have stressed that essential diplomatic functions will persist.

The evacuation exercise underscores the spillover risks of the escalating Middle East crisis, which has disrupted air travel, prompted mass evacuations of foreign nationals, and raised alarms over humanitarian impacts in the region.

Russian officials have advised citizens in Iran to seek safer areas or leave the country where possible, while maintaining close coordination with local authorities for further support if needed.

read more
News

Pop Icon Britney Spears Arrested on Suspicion of DUI in California

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Grammy-winning singer Britney Spears was arrested late Wednesday night on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI), according to multiple reports and law enforcement records.

The 44-year-old pop superstar was pulled over by the California Highway Patrol around 9:30 p.m. local time in Ventura County, approximately 50 miles northwest of Los Angeles. Authorities observed her driving erratically, including speeding and swerving in and out of lanes, prompting the stop. Reports indicate that a 911 dispatch captured details of her vehicle moving unpredictably before the arrest.

Spears was taken into custody, with her BMW sedan impounded. She was booked into the Ventura County jail around 3:00 a.m. Thursday morning under suspicion of violating California’s vehicle code prohibiting driving under the combined influence of alcohol and drugs. Some sources report her blood alcohol content was measured at 0.06%—below the state’s legal limit of 0.08% for drivers over 21—but officers can still pursue DUI charges based on observed impairment.

Following booking, Spears was released just after 6:00 a.m. Thursday via a “cite and release” process, common in misdemeanor DUI cases. She has been scheduled to appear in court on May 4, 2026.

A representative for Spears described the incident as “completely inexcusable,” stating that the singer plans to “take the right steps and comply with the law.” Additional reports suggest her inner circle is advocating for treatment options rather than harsher penalties, and an unknown substance was allegedly found in her vehicle during the arrest.

This marks a notable legal encounter for Spears, who has faced past challenges including a 2007 misdemeanor hit-and-run charge which was later dismissed. The arrest has drawn widespread media attention, with outlets like TMZ, People, Variety, The New York Times, and USA Today confirming details through sheriff’s office records and law enforcement sources.

No further official statement from Spears or her team has been released as of Thursday evening. The case remains under investigation, and authorities have not publicly detailed all circumstances surrounding the stop.

read more
News

𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗜𝗧 𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

The Nigerian Women in IT (NIWIIT) has launched a new national initiative aimed at empowering female students in tertiary institutions across the country by providing targeted training and mentorship in technology fields.

The program aims to bridge the persistent gender gap in Nigeria’s tech sector, where women remain underrepresented despite growing opportunities in digital innovation, software development, AI, and related areas. By focusing on female undergraduates and other tertiary students, NIWIIT intends to equip participants with practical skills, professional guidance, and networking opportunities to build confidence and propel them toward successful careers in IT.

According to details from the launch, the initiative will include hands-on workshops, mentorship from experienced women in tech, and resources tailored to address common barriers such as limited access to training, societal stereotypes, and lack of role models. This move aligns with broader efforts in Nigeria to promote gender inclusion in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), as seen in complementary programs by organizations like the Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC) and various girls-in-tech initiatives.

NIWIIT’s efforts is timely as Nigeria’s tech ecosystem is expanding rapidly, yet female participation lags. Empowering young women early in their academic journeys is seen as key to fostering diversity, driving innovation, and contributing to national economic growth through a more inclusive digital workforce.

The organization has called on stakeholders, including educational institutions, tech companies, and government bodies, to support the program for wider impact. Female students interested in participating are encouraged to connect via NIWIIT’s official channels for application details and upcoming events.

This initiative shows a growing recognition that investing in women in technology not only advances equality but also strengthens Nigeria’s position in the global digital economy.

read more
News

𝗧𝗿𝘂𝗰𝗸 𝗿𝗮𝗺𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝗜𝗺𝗼, 𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

The tragic incident occurred on Monday, March 2, 2026, in the Iho community of Ikeduru Local Government Area, Imo State, Nigeria, where a truck loaded with chippings lost control and rammed into a residential bungalow, claiming the life of a mother of three, Mrs. Chioma Ogu.

According to eyewitness accounts and community sources, the driver is alleged to have dozed off at the wheel, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and crash directly into the family’s home. Mrs. Ogu was inside the building at the time of the impact and died from her injuries. Her husband, Mr. Ogu, sustained critical injuries and is currently receiving treatment in a hospital, where he is said to be battling for his life.

The incident has plunged the local community into deep mourning. Reports indicate that Mrs. Chioma Ogu had been preparing for her late mother’s burial, scheduled for the upcoming weekend, adding layers of sorrow to the family’s loss. The couple’s three children are now left without their mother, and the husband’s uncertain condition has compounded the family’s distress.

The accident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety in Nigeria, particularly involving heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks carrying heavy loads like chippings. Factors such as driver fatigue, potential brake failure and inadequate vehicle maintenance continue to contribute to such preventable tragedies.

Local authorities are yet to release official statement on any arrests or investigations into the driver or the truck’s condition, but the community has called for swift action to ensure justice and prevent similar occurrences.

Our thoughts are with the Ogu family, the three children now facing life without their mother, and the entire Iho community during this heartbreaking time.

read more
News

‎‘I’m a single woman raising two kids, not a single mum,’ says Annie Macaulay

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nollywood actress and reality TV star Annie Macaulay (formerly known as Annie Idibia) has publicly addressed the label of “single mum” following her separation from singer 2Baba (Tuface Idibia), clarifying that she identifies as a single woman raising two children rather than a single mother.

In a recent Instagram Story shared on Monday, March 2, 2026, Annie posted a straightforward message: “I’m not a single mum. I’m a single woman raising two kids.” The brief but pointed statement quickly gained traction across social media and Nigerian entertainment news outlets, sparking discussions about terminology, personal identity, and societal perceptions of women post-divorce.

The couple, who share two children, announced their separation in January 2025. The split drew widespread attention, especially as 2Baba later remarried politician Natasha Osawaru in the same year. Annie has since reclaimed her maiden name publicly and focused on resilience, describing 2025 as a year of “painful blessings” in earlier reflections.

Her latest post emphasizes empowerment and self-definition, rejecting what some see as a limiting or stigmatizing label. She appears to highlight her role as an independent woman thriving while parenting, rather than being defined primarily by marital or maternal status alone.

The statement has divided opinions online, with supporters praising her for reframing the narrative around single parenthood and critics arguing the distinction is semantic. Regardless, Annie’s words underscore her ongoing journey of personal growth and strength amid public scrutiny.

As a prominent figure in Nollywood and a mother of two, Annie Macaulay continues to inspire many with her candid approach to life’s challenges.

read more
News

Court Jails Ondo Baby Factory Operators 14 Years After 11-Year Trial

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

A Federal High Court in Akure has sentenced a couple to 14 years’ imprisonment for operating a notorious “baby factory” in Ondo State.

Prince Ogundeji Abiodun and his wife, Mrs. Ayodele Ogundeji were convicted following an 11-year legal battle spearheaded by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). The sentencing occurred on Thursday, February 26, 2026, before Justice F.A. Olubanjo.

The couple, described as high-profile operators, were found guilty on a 10-count charge, including detaining victims against their will, deprivation of personal liberty, and related offenses under Section 19(c) of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act (TIPPLEA) 2003 (as amended).

Investigations revealed that the pair ran the illegal operation from their residence at No. 10 Sarajo Street, Ilu-Titun, in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State. Underage pregnant girls were allegedly lured or brought to the facility, detained until delivery, and had their babies sold to prospective buyers, often childless individuals or couples seeking to acquire infants illicitly.

The operation came to light in 2014 when the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) referred the case to NAPTIP, leading to the couple’s arrest and the eventual prosecution.

In addition to the prison term, served without the option of a fine, the court ordered the forfeiture of significant assets recovered during investigations. These include eight cars, two bungalows, and ₦4 million in cash, all handed over to the Federal Government through NAPTIP.

Furthermore, three identified victims were awarded ₦1 million each in compensation, highlighting efforts to provide restitution to those exploited.

NAPTIP officials hailed the conviction as a major victory. A spokesperson emphasized that after more than a decade of persistent prosecution, “justice has finally been secured for the victims.” The agency described the outcome as a “landmark conviction” that would serve as a strong deterrent to others involved in similar crimes.

Baby factories remain a persistent issue in parts of Nigeria, often linked to broader human trafficking networks that exploit vulnerable young girls and women, fueled by demand for babies amid cultural stigmas around infertility, adoption, and out-of-wedlock pregnancies.

NAPTIP reiterated its commitment to combating such exploitative practices and urged the public to report suspicious activities involving child trafficking or illegal maternity operations.

read more
1 … 3 4 5 6 7 … 71
Page 5 of 71