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Nigeria Beats Benin 3-0 in AFCON Qualifier

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Nigeria Beats Benin 3-0 in AFCON Qualifier

Nigeria’s Super Eagles kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign with a convincing 3-0 victory over Benin at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Saturday.

Ademola Lookman, nominated for the Ballon d’Or, scored twice, while substitute Victor Osimhen added a third to secure the win for Nigeria. The result marks a positive turn for the Super Eagles, who have struggled in recent World Cup qualifiers.

Lookman broke the deadlock just before halftime, dribbling into the Benin box and coolly slotting the ball into the bottom right corner of the net. The Atalanta forward doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 84th minute with a header off a cross from Moses Simon.

Osimhen, who recently signed with Galatasaray, came off the bench to volley in Nigeria’s third goal in the 79th minute, connecting with a cross from Wilfred Ndidi.

Despite dominating possession throughout the match, Nigeria faced some resistance from Benin. The visitors’ best chance came in the 65th minute when Steve Mounie tested goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali twice in quick succession, but the Nigerian keeper was equal to the task.

The Super Eagles’ lineup featured a strong attacking presence with Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and Victor Boniface leading the front line. Ndidi and Alex Iwobi controlled the midfield, while the defense was anchored by William Troost-Ekong.

Nigeria’s coach made several substitutions in the second half, bringing on Osimhen, Simon, and Dele Bashiru to maintain the team’s momentum.

The victory provides a confidence boost for Nigeria as they continue their AFCON qualification journey, with their next match against Rwanda scheduled for September 10.

Luis Suarez Moved to Tears by Messi’s Emotional Tribute After Uruguay Farewell

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Luis Suarez Moved to Tears by Messi’s Emotional Tribute After Uruguay Farewell

Luis Suarez, Uruguay’s prolific striker, was overcome with emotion as he watched a heartfelt video message from longtime friend and teammate Lionel Messi following his final match for the national team on Thursday.

The 36-year-old Suarez, who scored 69 goals in 143 appearances for Uruguay, concluded his international career after a 0-0 draw with Paraguay at the Estadio Centenario. As the match ended, attention turned to the stadium’s big screen where Messi’s surprise tribute was broadcast.

“Hello fatty,” Messi began affectionately, using a nickname for Suarez. “I wanted to be present and record this video on such a meaningful day for you, for your family, for the people of Uruguay and for football fans in general.”

Suarez, visibly moved, wiped tears from his eyes as Messi continued, “You always gave your all, and until the very last day. You are leaving a great legacy for the people today and for the new generations to come.”

The emotional moment highlighted the strong bond between the two soccer stars, who played together at Barcelona and are now reunited at Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.

Suarez’s international career, spanning 16 years, included four World Cup appearances and a Copa America victory in 2011. His final match, though ending in a goalless draw, was a celebration of his contributions to Uruguayan football.

As Suarez stood on the pitch, absorbing the crowd’s applause and his friend’s words, it marked the end of an era for Uruguay’s national team. The striker’s focus now shifts to his club career with Inter Miami, where he and Messi aim to bring success to the Eastern Conference leaders.

The emotional farewell, punctuated by Messi’s touching tribute, underscored Suarez’s impact on international football and the deep friendships forged throughout his illustrious career.

Thousands Protest in France After Macron Appoints Barnier as Prime Minister

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Thousands Protest in France After Macron Appoints Barnier as Prime Minister

Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets across France on Saturday to protest President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to appoint Michel Barnier, a 73-year-old conservative and former European Union Brexit negotiator, as prime minister.

The appointment of Barnier on Thursday came after a two-month search following Macron’s call for legislative elections that resulted in a hung parliament divided into three blocs. Left-wing parties have accused Macron of disregarding democracy and “stealing” the election by refusing to select a candidate from the New Popular Front (NFP) alliance, which won the most seats in the July vote.

In his first interview as government chief, Barnier stated that his government, which lacks a clear majority, will include conservatives, members of Macron’s camp, and he hoped some from the left. Barnier faces the challenge of driving reforms and the 2025 budget as France faces pressure from the European Commission and bond markets to reduce its deficit.

The far-left France Unbowed (LFI) party said 130 protests were planned across the country. A poll by Elabe showed that 74% of French people believed Macron had disregarded the election results, with 55% saying he had stolen them.

Left-wing party leaders, unions, and student bodies called for mass protests on Saturday ahead of potential strikes on October 1. The demonstrations come as Barnier continues consultations to form a government, a task complicated by the potential for a no-confidence vote, especially with an urgent draft budget for 2025 due for parliamentary discussion in early October.

The NFP and the far-right National Rally (RN) together have a majority and could potentially oust the prime minister through a no-confidence vote if they decide to collaborate. RN party leader Jordan Bardella gave tacit approval for Barnier, stating conditions for not backing a no-confidence vote, effectively making the RN a kingmaker for the new government.

“He is a prime minister under surveillance,” Bardella told BFM on Saturday. “Nothing can be done without us.”

The protests and political maneuvering highlight the challenges facing Barnier’s government as it seeks to navigate a divided parliament and implement Macron’s agenda.

REUTERS

Mexican Authorities Arrest Key Suspect in 2014 Student Disappearance Case

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Mexican Authorities Arrest Key Suspect in 2014 Student Disappearance Case

Mexican authorities have arrested a key suspect in the 2014 disappearance of 43 students from Ayotzinapa Rural Teachers’ College, as families prepare to mark the anniversary of the tragic event with demonstrations.

The suspect, whose identity has not been officially released, was apprehended in an operation that highlights the ongoing efforts to resolve one of Mexico’s most notorious human rights cases. The arrest comes at a sensitive time, with the anniversary of the students’ disappearance approaching and relatives planning public demonstrations to demand justice and answers.

On September 26, 2014, 43 male students from the Ayotzinapa Rural Teachers’ College in Guerrero state were forcibly disappeared after they commandeered buses to travel to a protest in Mexico City. The case shocked the nation and garnered international attention, becoming a symbol of Mexico’s struggle with corruption, impunity, and organized crime.

The official investigation into the disappearances has been marred by controversy and accusations of cover-ups. Initially, the government claimed the students were killed by a drug gang after being handed over by corrupt local police. However, subsequent investigations, including one by an international panel of experts, cast doubt on this theory and suggested the involvement of federal forces.

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who took office in 2018, promised to solve the case and formed a truth commission to reinvestigate the disappearances. The commission’s report, released in August 2022, declared the case a “state crime” and implicated high-ranking officials, including the military, in the cover-up.

This latest arrest is part of the renewed push to bring those responsible to justice. However, the case remains highly contentious, with families of the missing students and human rights organizations continuing to criticize the pace and transparency of the investigation.

As the ninth anniversary of the disappearances approaches, the families of the missing students are preparing demonstrations to keep public attention focused on the case. These events are expected to draw thousands of supporters and put additional pressure on the government to provide conclusive answers about the fate of the 43 young men.

The arrest of this key suspect may provide new leads in the investigation, but it also underscores the complexity and ongoing nature of the case nearly a decade after the tragic events unfolded.

Punchng.com

Uganda’s State Defense Minister Sarah Mateke Dies

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Uganda’s State Defense Minister Sarah Mateke Dies

Sarah Mateke, Uganda’s State Minister for Defence and Member of Parliament for Kisoro District, has died. Mateke passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning after suffering a heart attack.

Born on July 15, 1974, in Chahi subcounty, Kisoro District, Mateke was a prominent figure in Ugandan politics and known for her work in education and philanthropy. Her political career began when she was elected as the Kisoro District Woman Member of Parliament, a position she held from 2011 to 2016. She was re-elected to this position in 2021.

Following her re-election, President Yoweri Museveni appointed Mateke as the Minister of State for Gender, Labour and Social Development, with a specific focus on Children and Youth Affairs. In a recent cabinet reshuffle, she was promoted to the position of State Minister for Defence.

Mateke’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s political establishment. She was the daughter of Dr. Philemon Mateke, a well-known figure in Ugandan politics.

Throughout her career, Mateke was recognized for her dedication to public service and her efforts to improve the lives of her constituents, particularly in the areas of education and youth development. Her work as a minister involved critical responsibilities in both social development and, most recently, national defense.

The loss of Minister Mateke is expected to have significant implications for both her home district of Kisoro and the national political landscape. As Uganda mourns her passing, tributes are likely to pour in from across the political spectrum, recognizing her contributions to the nation’s governance and development.

The Ugandan government has not yet released an official statement regarding funeral arrangements or the process for appointing a successor to her ministerial position.

South Africa’s Justice Minister Denies Corruption in Bank Scandal

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South Africa’s Justice Minister Denies Corruption in Bank Scandal

South African Justice Minister Thembi Simelane strongly denied corruption allegations on Friday, addressing claims related to her involvement in the VBS Mutual Bank scandal that resulted in thousands of retirees losing their life savings.

The VBS Mutual Bank, which held savings primarily from retirees in the northern Limpopo province and unlawfully secured investments from local municipalities, was declared insolvent and bankrupt in 2018. Investigations revealed that more than 2 billion rand ($112 million) had been stolen from the bank.

Simelane, appointed to her position in June as part of South Africa’s newly-formed government of national unity, faces accusations of receiving a “loan” to purchase a coffee shop from a company allegedly involved in brokering unlawful investments for VBS from South African municipalities. This includes the Polokwane municipality where Simelane served as mayor at the time.

Responding to questions in Parliament, Simelane insisted that the loan was legitimate and that she had repaid it with interest. She vehemently denied any connection between the loan and municipal investments in VBS Bank.

“The minister does not decide who should be prosecuted or not prosecuted. I offered impartiality to the NPA (National Prosecuting Authority),” Simelane stated, addressing concerns about potential conflicts of interest given her oversight of the National Prosecuting Authority, which is handling VBS-related corruption cases.

The scandal has led to calls from various quarters for Simelane’s removal from her position as justice minister. President Cyril Ramaphosa, who has pledged to tackle corruption in government and state-owned enterprises, faces mounting pressure from opposition parties and civil society groups to dismiss Simelane.

Ramaphosa recently requested an official response from Simelane regarding the allegations. Speaking to the media after a state visit to China, the President assured that the matter would not be “swept under the carpet.”

The VBS Bank investigation has already resulted in convictions of some alleged masterminds behind the scheme. Tshifiwa Matodzi, the bank’s former chairman, was recently sentenced to 15 years in prison after entering a plea deal. Matodzi’s testimony revealed details of the scheme, including payments made to the opposition party Economic Freedom Fighters as “donations.”

Police investigations have shown that funds stolen from the bank were used to purchase luxury houses, vehicles, and distribute financial gifts to various individuals and organizations, including political parties.

As investigations into the bank’s collapse continue, the case highlights ongoing challenges in South Africa’s fight against corruption and the complex interplay between politics and financial institutions.

Flight from India to Germany Grounded in Turkey over False Bomb Threat

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Flight from India to Germany Grounded in Turkey over False Bomb Threat

A Vistara Airlines flight from Mumbai, India to Frankfurt, Germany was forced to make an emergency landing in Erzurum, Turkey on Friday due to a bomb threat that later proved to be false.

The flight, carrying 234 passengers and 13 crew members, was diverted after a piece of paper with the words “bomb on board” was discovered in one of the aircraft’s lavatories. The incident prompted immediate action from the flight crew and Turkish authorities.

Vistara flight UK27 touched down at Erzurum airport at approximately 4:30 pm local time (1330 GMT). Upon landing, all passengers and crew were safely evacuated from the aircraft, as confirmed by Turkish Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu.

Erzurum Governor Mustafa Ciftci later addressed reporters, stating, “As of 23:30, we have completed all search and examination operations. As a result of the work we carried out, we found that the bomb threat was unfounded.”

Initial plans had considered diverting the flight to either Ordu or Trabzon, but air traffic conditions ultimately led to the decision to land in Erzurum, according to Turkey’s TRT news. As a precautionary measure, all other flights to and from Erzurum airport were temporarily halted during the investigation. Normal operations resumed once the threat was cleared.

Vistara Airlines confirmed that authorities had completed their security checks and announced arrangements for an alternate flight with a fresh crew to accommodate the stranded passengers in Turkey.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the aviation industry in managing security threats, even when they turn out to be false alarms. It also underscores the importance of international cooperation in handling such situations, as demonstrated by the swift response of Turkish authorities to the mid-flight emergency.

The false threat caused significant disruption to travel plans and airline operations, serving as a reminder of the sensitive nature of air travel security and the serious consequences of such actions, even when unfounded.

Death Toll in Kenya School Fire Rises to 18, 27 Injured, with 70 Children Missing

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Death Toll in Kenya School Fire Rises to 18, 27 Injured, with 70 Children Missing

The death toll from a devastating fire at a primary school dormitory in central Kenya has risen to 18, with authorities reporting that 70 children remain unaccounted for. The blaze, which erupted at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri county, has left the community reeling and families anxiously awaiting news of their children.

The fire broke out just after midnight on Friday, engulfing a dormitory where more than 150 boys between the ages of 10 and 14 were sleeping. Police spokesperson Resila Onyango confirmed that investigations into the cause of the fire have been initiated.

In addition to the fatalities, 27 children have been hospitalized with injuries. The death toll increased late Friday when one student succumbed to injuries at the hospital. Authorities expect the number of casualties may rise further, given the significant number of missing children.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has appealed to community members who may have sheltered some of the children to bring them back for proper accounting. The school, located in Kenya’s central highlands about 200 kilometers north of Nairobi, has a total enrollment of 824 students.

The rapid spread of the fire is attributed to the wooden plank construction of most of the school’s buildings. This incident has raised concerns about safety standards in Kenyan boarding schools, with Gachagua urging school administrators to adhere to safety guidelines recommended by the education ministry.

President William Ruto declared three days of national mourning, during which flags will be flown at half-staff to honor the deceased children. In a statement on social media platform X, Ruto promised a thorough investigation, stating, “Those responsible will be held to account.”

School fires are not uncommon in Kenya, often linked to arson, drug abuse, and overcrowding, according to a recent education ministry report. Many parents opt for boarding schools, believing they provide more study time for their children without long commutes.

This tragedy is reminiscent of Kenya’s deadliest school fire in 2001, when 67 students died in a dormitory fire in Machakos County.

As the community grapples with this disaster, families continue to wait anxiously for information about their children. The government has pledged to mobilize all available resources to support the affected families during this challenging time.

africanews.com

Argentina Calls on ICC to Order Arrest of Venezuela’s Maduro

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Argentina Calls on ICC to Order Arrest of Venezuela’s Maduro

Argentina is urging the International Criminal Court (ICC) to issue an arrest warrant for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, citing actions by his government following the controversial July election that could potentially constitute crimes against humanity.

The Argentine Foreign Ministry announced plans to submit a formal request to the ICC on Monday, seeking the arrest of Maduro and other members of his administration. This move comes amid escalating tensions and unrest in Venezuela since Maduro was declared the winner of the July 28 election.

Maduro, a former bus driver who assumed power in 2013 following the death of his mentor Hugo Chavez, has faced numerous controversies during his tenure. However, the disputed July election has intensified both domestic and international pressure on his government.

The Venezuelan opposition claims victory for its candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, alleging widespread fraud in the electoral process. This contestation has plunged the Latin American nation into turmoil, with at least 23 people reported dead, dozens injured, and thousands detained in subsequent protests.

International reaction to the election and its aftermath has been swift and critical. The United Nations, the United States, the European Union, and several other countries have condemned the ongoing crackdown on opposition to the election results.

Adding to the diplomatic tension, Venezuelan security forces on Friday surrounded the Brazil-managed residence of the Argentine embassy in Caracas, where six opposition figures have sought refuge since March. Opposition figure Pedro Urruchurtu Noselli reported this development on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Brazil has reportedly taken the six opposition figures into custody.

The involvement of Brazil in managing the Argentine embassy stems from Venezuela’s expulsion of diplomats from seven Latin American countries in late July. These expulsions followed expressions of concern from their governments regarding the election results. Since August, Brazil has been in charge of Argentina’s diplomatic representation in Venezuela.

Argentina’s call for Maduro’s arrest marks a significant escalation in diplomatic efforts to address the ongoing crisis in Venezuela. It remains to be seen how the ICC and the international community will respond to this request, and what implications it may have for regional stability and Venezuelan domestic politics.

The situation continues to evolve, with potential far-reaching consequences for Venezuela, its people, and the broader Latin American region.

Source: dw.com

Nigeria’s NNPC Says Not Sole Buyer of Dangote Gasoline

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Nigeria’s NNPC Says Not Sole Buyer of Dangote Gasoline

Nigeria’s state-owned oil company, NNPC Ltd, clarified on Saturday that it will not be the exclusive purchaser of gasoline from the newly operational Dangote refinery. The company stated it would only intervene if the facility sold above established pump prices.

This announcement comes in the wake of the Dangote refinery’s commencement of gasoline production earlier this week. The 650,000 barrel-per-day capacity facility had initially stated that NNPC would be the sole buyer of its petrol, also known as premium motor spirit (PMS), with the government setting prices.

However, NNPC’s statement indicates a shift in this arrangement. The company explained that Dangote would determine the price of its gasoline and could sell directly to marketers who buy in bulk and distribute to fuel stations. This marks a significant change from the previous system where NNPC was the sole importer of gasoline into Nigeria.

The development is crucial for Nigeria’s energy sector and economy. For decades, the country has relied on imports for its gasoline supply, costing billions of dollars annually. The Dangote refinery’s production is expected to alleviate this dependency and potentially reduce fuel costs for consumers.

NNPC’s role in the new arrangement was further clarified: “The NNPC Ltd. will only fully offtake PMS from the DRL (Dangote Refinery Ltd) if the market prices of PMS are higher than the pump prices in Nigeria,” the company stated.

This announcement comes on the heels of NNPC’s recent price hike for petrol, from an average of 617 naira ($0.3905) per liter to 855 naira. The timing of this increase, coinciding with the Dangote refinery’s start of operations, has raised questions about the future pricing structure of gasoline in Nigeria.

According to reports, the Dangote refinery plans to supply 25 million liters of gasoline daily to the domestic market this month, with an increase to 30 million liters expected from October. This substantial production could significantly impact Nigeria’s fuel market dynamics.

The clarification from NNPC highlights the evolving landscape of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, as the country seeks to balance domestic production capabilities with market forces and consumer needs. It also underscores the complex relationship between state-owned enterprises and private sector players in Nigeria’s energy industry.

As the situation develops, stakeholders will be closely watching how this new arrangement affects fuel prices, supply stability, and the overall energy security of Africa’s largest economy.

REUTERS

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