Category Archives: News

U.S. to withdraw from UNESCO again, citing anti-Israel bias, ‘divisive’ agenda

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The United States has announced it will withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) by the end of 2026, citing concerns over the agency’s alleged anti-Israel stance and promotion of “divisive social and cultural causes.”

U.S. Department of State Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said on Tuesday that remaining in UNESCO was “not in the national interest,” echoing criticisms first raised during former President Donald Trump’s initial decision to pull out of the organization in 2017. That decision had later been reversed by President Joe Biden.

“UNESCO maintains an outsized focus on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, a globalist, ideological agenda… at odds with our America First foreign policy,” Bruce stated, further describing the body’s 2011 decision to admit Palestine as a member as “highly problematic” and a contributor to anti-Israel sentiment.

Read Also: Trump signs order withdrawing US from UN bodies

UNESCO, a UN agency focused on promoting global peace through cultural, educational, and scientific cooperation, has now faced U.S. withdrawal three times. The first occurred in 1984 under President Ronald Reagan, before Washington rejoined in 2003. Trump’s administration pulled out again in 2017, and while Biden restored U.S. membership, the latest exit under the current administration will become effective in December 2026.

In a social media post, Bruce emphasized that future U.S. participation in global organizations “must make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.”

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay responded with “deep regret,” saying the decision undermines the principles of multilateralism and could affect American partners working with the organization. However, she noted that the move had been anticipated.

“UNESCO’s overall budget has steadily increased,” Azoulay said, adding that the U.S. now contributes just 8% of the agency’s funding, down significantly from previous levels. Structural reforms and increased support from other member states and private donors have helped buffer the agency financially.

“The U.S. is and will always be welcome at UNESCO,” Azoulay stated, adding that cooperation with American academic, private, and non-profit institutions would continue, alongside political dialogue with Washington.

The withdrawal adds another chapter to the often tense relationship between the United States and multilateral institutions, and could have wider implications for global cultural, educational, and scientific collaboration.

Airbus strengthens Africa operations with new Johannesburg Customer Centre

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Airbus has officially opened a new Customer Support Centre dedicated to commercial aircraft in Johannesburg, marking a major milestone in nearly five decades of partnership with Africa’s aviation sector.

The facility will bring Airbus closer to airline customers across the continent, enhancing customer proximity and offering a full range of services to help operators maintain safe, efficient, and reliable fleets. The centre will provide technical assistance, engineering and maintenance solutions, fleet performance analysis, training services, and on-site customer support for all Airbus commercial aircraft families, including the A220, A320, A330, and A350.

“The new centre expands Airbus’ presence in Africa and underscores our confidence in the region’s potential, as we invest in local capabilities, empower our customers, drive connectivity and shared progress across the continent,” said Gabriel Semelas, President of Airbus in the Middle East and Africa.

Read Also: Top 21 African rappers of all time

Airbus has been present in Africa since 1976, when the first A300 was delivered to the continent. Today, nearly 40 airlines operate more than 260 Airbus aircraft. According to its Global Services Forecast, Airbus foresees in the next 20 years on the African continent, a need for 14,000 new pilots and 21,000 mechanics and engineers to face the surge in air travel demand.

The opening coincides with Airbus Helicopters celebrating 30 years of service and innovation in Southern Africa, where the Midrand hub provides maintenance, spare parts, logistics support, and Africa’s first H125 virtual reality simulator for pilot training.

Airbus Defence and Space also continues to support African governments with military aircraft, Earth observation services, and satellite connectivity solutions.

With more than 180 African suppliers integrated into its global supply chain, Airbus continues to play a key role in developing the continent’s aerospace capabilities. From component manufacturing and maintenance services to training partnerships and technology transfer, Airbus’ industrial presence supports job creation, skills development, and local economic growth across Africa.

Why our party rejected Adeleke’s alleged defection plans, by Osun APC

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The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected claims made by the leadership caucus of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the alleged plans by Governor Ademola Adeleke to defect to the APC.

In a strongly worded statement signed by the state APC Chairman, Sooko Tajudeen Lawal, and released on Tuesday, the party dismissed the communique issued by the PDP caucus, signed by Governor Adeleke and 27 other chieftains, as deceptive and misleading. The APC insisted Adeleke was never accepted into the party because he was identified early on as “a trojan horse,” “a political liability,” and a potential threat to the integrity of the party.

“The Osun public knows that it was the fear of a looming defeat in the 2026 election that drove the governor to seek asylum in the APC. His approach was treated with the caution it deserved,” the statement read.

The APC accused Adeleke of presiding over what it described as a decaying PDP structure in the state, alleging that the party has lost its moral compass since the governor took office. It also claimed that credible politicians had continued to defect from the PDP to the APC in protest against what it termed the “brutal hijack” of the party by the Adeleke dynasty.

Read Also: APC will welcome Wike – Tinubu

The statement further challenged the PDP’s claim of popularity in the state, asking whether the party consulted students of the University of Ilesa, who are reportedly being charged N1.5 million per session, or the general public, whom it claimed are angry over the government’s alleged N13 billion expenditure on luxury vehicles for political aides, instead of improving public infrastructure.

The APC also cited the case of over 32,000 job applicants who were allegedly duped under the guise of teaching recruitment, accusing the Adeleke administration of mismanaging close to N1 trillion within 30 months.

Lawal questioned why the PDP would expect the APC to accept individuals allegedly under investigation by the EFCC and ICPC for misappropriating local government funds, or those allegedly involved in the killing of APC members during the 2023 elections.

“Those who rejected Adeleke’s defection bid saw it for what it was: a desperate move to escape the people’s wrath in 2026. You cannot abuse President Bola Tinubu publicly in Osun and run to Abuja pretending to be his ally,” the statement continued.

The APC also took a swipe at Adeleke’s economic policies, accusing him of hoarding resources instead of using increased federal allocations to improve healthcare, agriculture, and public welfare in the state.

The party praised the people of Osun who, it said, came out in large numbers to celebrate what it called “the blocking of Governor Adeleke’s unholy attempt” to join the APC.

“This is payback time from Osun people, who have endured misgovernance, high-handedness, and corruption,” Lawal stated. “Let Governor Adeleke stop complaining and await the people’s verdict in August 2026.”

The development marks a deepening of tensions between the two leading political parties in Osun as the state gears up for what is expected to be a fiercely contested 2026 governorship election.

EFCC drops fraud cases against Oba Otudeko

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally withdrawn the 13-count charge filed against Chief Oba Otudeko, CFR, Chairman of Honeywell Group, and three others at the Federal High Court in Lagos. The charges, which stemmed from alleged non-performing loan transactions, had been initiated in January 2025.

This development marks a significant resolution to a case that Chief Otudeko and Honeywell Group had consistently maintained was civil in nature and had been fully resolved as far back as eight years ago.

In a statement issued by Olasumbo Abolaji, counsel to Honeywell Group, the company reiterated its commitment to responsible corporate governance and transparency. The statement emphasized Dr. Otudeko’s contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth and institutional development, highlighting his leadership across banking, industry, and public service—especially during his tenure as Chairman of First Bank.

Read Also: EFCC arraigns REA director Garba Bulkwang for alleged N223.4m fraud

“Dr. Otudeko has, for over six decades, upheld values of service and stewardship,” the statement read. “This outcome only reaffirms what we have always known, that there was no wrongdoing, and the matter had long been concluded. His legacy of enterprise and nation-building remains untarnished.”

At the court sitting earlier today, EFCC counsel Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, informed the court that after reviewing detailed representations from all parties, including First Bank of Nigeria and the defendants, the Attorney General of the Federation decided to discontinue the case.

Mr. Oyedepo explained that the decision was made in the interest of justice, public policy, and to prevent abuse of the judicial process.

The EFCC’s withdrawal brings clarity to stakeholders in the financial and corporate sectors, reaffirming confidence in Nigeria’s judicial and institutional frameworks. Honeywell Group described the resolution as the closure of a “challenging chapter,” while maintaining that the case had always been a commercial dispute that was legally and conclusively resolved years ago.

12 things to know about late legendary singer Ozzy Osbourne

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Legendary rock icon Ozzy Osbourne has passed away at the age of 76, just weeks after his emotional farewell performance in Birmingham.

American heavy metal band Metallica led the tributes, posting a broken-heart emoji in response to the heartbreaking news.

A statement released by the Osbourne family on Monday confirmed the news: “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family’s privacy at this time.”

Here are things to know about late legendary singer Ozzy Osbourne

1. Born in Birmingham, England

John Michael “Ozzy” Osbourne was born on December 3, 1948, in Aston, Birmingham. Raised in a working-class family, his early life shaped the gritty, rebellious attitude that would define his music career.

2. Struggled in School but Found a Love for Music

Ozzy left school at age 15 after struggling with dyslexia and bullying. However, he found inspiration in The Beatles and realized early on that music could be his escape from hardship.

3. Formed Black Sabbath in 1968

Alongside Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward, Osbourne co-founded Black Sabbath, a band that would go on to define the heavy metal genre with its dark tones and ominous lyrics.

Read Also: JUST IN: English singer Ozzy Osbourne dies at 76

4. The Birth of Heavy Metal

Black Sabbath’s self-titled debut album (1970), followed by Paranoid and Master of Reality, changed rock music forever. Osbourne’s haunting vocals and raw stage presence made him an icon.

5. Earned the Nickname “Prince of Darkness”

With shocking antics like biting the head off a bat during a concert and his eerie aesthetic, Ozzy earned the nickname Prince of Darkness, which stuck with him throughout his career.

6. Fired from Black Sabbath, Then Rose Again

In 1979, Osbourne was dismissed from Black Sabbath due to drug and alcohol abuse. However, he bounced back by launching a solo career that became even more successful.

7. Solo Success with ‘Blizzard of Ozz’

His debut solo album Blizzard of Ozz (1980) was a commercial triumph. Featuring hits like “Crazy Train” and “Mr. Crowley,” it helped cement his status as a rock legend.

8. Sold Over 100 Million Records Worldwide

Combining both his work with Black Sabbath and his solo releases, Ozzy sold more than 100 million albums, making him one of the best-selling music artists in history.

9. Reality TV Fame with The Osbournes

In the early 2000s, Ozzy became a household name through the MTV reality show The Osbournes, starring alongside his wife Sharon and children Kelly and Jack. The show gave fans an unfiltered look into his chaotic family life.

10. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee – Twice

Ozzy was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006 as a member of Black Sabbath and again in 2024 as a solo artist—an honor shared by only a select few.

11. Final Performance in Birmingham, July 2025

Despite battling Parkinson’s disease since 2019, Ozzy returned to his hometown for a final performance at the “Back to the Beginning” concert on July 5, 2025, reuniting with Black Sabbath for one last epic show.

12. Passed Away on July 22, 2025

Ozzy Osbourne died peacefully on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76, surrounded by family. His passing marked the end of a monumental era in rock and heavy metal history.

Army arrests 183 suspected fraudsters in Delta

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 Troops of 63 Brigade Nigerian Army /Sector 1 Joint Task Force, Operation Delta Safe (OPDS) have arrested 183 suspected internet fraudsters in a raid in Warri, Delta.

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‎Spokesman of the Brigade, Capt. ILiyasu Bawa, disclosed this in a press statement on Sunday in Asaba.

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‎ ILiyasu said the raid was carried out on July 19, following a tip-off on the activities of the suspects.

Read Also: President Tinubu charges Army to defeat terrorism, insurgency

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‎He said that the suspects, all males between the ages of 16 and 29, were arrested in some apartments that served as an internet fraud training center within the area.

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‎Iliyasu said Items recovered from the suspects include 274 laptops, 87 mobile phones, nine laptop chargers, a table phone, and two WiFi devices.

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‎He said the suspects were undergoing preliminary investigation for the next line of action.
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‎He assured Deltans that the Nigerian Army will continue to support the fight  to rid the society of the menace of cybercrime and other forms of criminality.

(NAN)

NNPP denies members’ defection to ADC in Katsina

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The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), says no any of its Chairmen across the 34 local government areas in Katsina State has defected to the coalition ADC or any party.

The NNPP State Chairman, Alhaji Armaya’u Abdulkadir, stated this in a statement issued in Katsina on Monday.

According to the NNPP chairman, their local government chairmen have not defected to any party in the state.

He said that their attention has been drawn to some publications made in some media organisations and circulated in the social media.

Read Also: Osun senator Francis Fadahunsi dumps PDP 

Abdulkadir said, “The attention of the NNPP Katsina chapter has been drawn to some publications made in some media organisations and circulated in the social media.

“The publication revealed that 34 NNPP local government chairmen have defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

“The defection, as it was reported, was through the former Secretary to the state government, Alhaji Mustapha Inuwa in Katsina State.

“It is on record, however, that some of our chairmen, after the 2023 presidential elections, defected to the All Progressive Congress (APC).

“Thus, these same people are the ones that defected to the ADC from the APC. Therefore, their defection was from APC, not from NNPP.”

(NAN)

Respect rule of law, stay away from NASS – Senate tells Natasha

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The Nigerian Senate has cautioned suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central to respect the rule of law and refrain from returning to the National Assembly until her suspension officially ends.

In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, emphasized that no court ruling currently mandates the Senate to reinstate the embattled lawmaker.

“The Senate wishes to reaffirm, for the third time, that there is no subsisting court order mandating the Senate to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan before the expiration of her suspension,” Adaramodu stated.

The clarification follows reports that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is planning to return to plenary on Tuesday, citing a recent judgment by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court.

Read Also: Akpabio denies sexual harassment allegations by Natasha

However, Adaramodu clarified that the court’s verdict was merely advisory, not binding. According to him, the judge suggested that the Senate may consider amending its Standing Orders and reviewing the suspension, which the court found might be excessive — but stopped short of ordering her reinstatement.

“The Honourable Court did not mandate her recall. In fact, it found her guilty of contempt and imposed a ₦5 million fine, along with an order to publicly apologize in two national newspapers and on her Facebook page. These have not been complied with,” the Senate spokesman added.

He warned that any unauthorized attempt by Akpoti-Uduaghan to return to the chamber would be viewed as a breach of due process and a challenge to the Senate’s authority.

“The Senate emphasizes once more: there is no enforceable order directing her immediate return to the chamber,” he said.

Adaramodu assured that the Senate will deliberate on the court’s advisory at an appropriate time and will formally communicate its decision.

Until then, he urged Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to “stay away from the Senate chambers and allow due process to run its full course.”

Top 21 African rappers of all time

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Africa has long been a fertile ground for musical innovation, and in the realm of hip hop, the continent has produced some of the most iconic and influential rappers of all time.

From West Africa to the southern tip of the continent, these artists have blended African identity with global hip-hop culture, crafting distinct sounds, lyrical depth, and undeniable charisma.

Here’s a look at some of the biggest and most influential rappers Africa has ever seen:

1. Soolking (Algeria)

With a genre-blending style that fuses rap, raï, and reggaeton, Soolking has become one of North Africa’s most recognizable names in music. His breakout hits have not only dominated French and Arabic-speaking markets but have also resonated across Africa and Europe.

2. Die Antwoord (South Africa)

This controversial and eccentric rap-rave duo brought South African counterculture to global stages. Known for their provocative visuals and unfiltered lyrics, Die Antwoord carved out a niche that challenged global perceptions of African music.

3. Sarkodie (Ghana)

A titan in African hip hop, Sarkodie is revered for his intricate flows in both English and Twi. He has won numerous international awards and is often credited with pushing Ghanaian rap into the global spotlight.

4. Olamide (Nigeria)

Olamide is a street king and a trendsetter in Nigeria’s rap scene. His use of Yoruba in his lyrics, combined with consistent hitmaking and the development of new talent through his YBNL label, has cemented his legacy in African music history.

5. ElGrandeToto (Morocco)

One of the leading voices in North African trap and drill, ElGrandeToto blends Arabic and French effortlessly while delivering powerful verses that speak to urban life, youth culture, and personal ambition.

6. Ice Prince (Nigeria)

Known for the smash hit “Oleku,” Ice Prince became one of the early Nigerian rappers to successfully break into mainstream music. His cool delivery and stylish presence set him apart in the early 2010s.

7. MI Abaga (Nigeria)

Often referred to as “The Chairman,” MI revolutionized Nigerian hip hop with his thoughtful lyricism and genre-defining albums. He elevated the standard of rap music in Nigeria and mentored a generation of new artists.

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8. AKA (South Africa)

The late AKA was a lyrical genius and pop culture icon in South Africa. With his fusion of hip hop and Afrobeats, he left an indelible mark on the music industry before his untimely death in 2023.

9. Nasty C (South Africa)

One of Africa’s youngest rap exports, Nasty C gained global recognition for his technical skill, storytelling, and polished production. He has collaborated with international stars and continues to push boundaries.

10. HHP (South Africa)

A pioneer of Motswako rap, Hip Hop Pantsula (HHP) was a beloved figure who rapped in multiple South African languages, promoting cultural pride and lyrical diversity.

11. Cassper Nyovest (South Africa)

With multiple platinum albums and historic concerts, Cassper Nyovest became a household name through both music and entrepreneurship. His influence extends beyond rap into fashion and business.

12. Phyno (Nigeria)

Phyno rose to fame with Igbo-infused rap tracks, becoming a symbol of linguistic pride. His ability to seamlessly blend indigenous language with mainstream sounds has won him a loyal fanbase.

13. Naeto C (Nigeria)

A pioneer in Nigerian rap, Naeto C brought suave flows and Western-influenced rap to the early 2000s scene. His music helped shape the commercial direction of Nigerian hip hop.

14. Khuli Chana (South Africa)

Another flagbearer of the Motswako movement, Khuli Chana earned respect for his intelligent bars and authentic South African sound, using Setswana and English with finesse.

15. M.anifest (Ghana)

Known for his poetic delivery and sociopolitical commentary, M.anifest is celebrated for his intellectual lyricism and progressive voice in Ghanaian music.

16. Omar Sterling (Ghana)

A member of the R2Bees duo, Omar Sterling brings introspection and streetwise narratives to his solo projects. His lyrical versatility has made him a staple in Ghanaian rap culture.

17. Kwesta (South Africa)

With a deep voice and poetic storytelling, Kwesta embodies the essence of authentic South African hip hop. He is known for award-winning albums and classic hits like “Ngud’”.

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18. Reggie Rockstone (Ghana)

Often hailed as the “Godfather of Hiplife,” Reggie Rockstone pioneered the fusion of hip hop and highlife in Ghana, paving the way for modern rap acts in West Africa.

19. Modenine (Nigeria)

A lyrical purist, Modenine is often called Nigeria’s most technically gifted rapper, known for his deep bars and punchlines.

20. Vector (Nigeria)

Lyrically sharp and philosophically deep, Vector blends bars with bold commentary, making him a respected figure in Nigerian hip-hop.

21. Reminisce (Nigeria)

Bringing indigenous street rap in Yoruba to the charts, Reminisce is known for his gritty sound and longevity.

At least 30 injured as car rams into crowd in Los Angeles

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No fewer than 30 people sustained injuries when a car ploughed into a crowd in Los Angeles early Saturday, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Seven individuals are reported to be in critical condition, while six others are in serious condition. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. on Santa Monica Boulevard in East Hollywood.

Authorities say the vehicle, reportedly driven by someone who may have lost consciousness, veered off the road, hit a taco cart, and crashed into a group of people gathered outside a nightclub.

“A call came in around 2 a.m. about a traffic accident,” said LAFD spokesperson Adam VanGerpen. “Somebody had lost consciousness inside the vehicle, drove into a taco cart, and then ultimately ran into a large number of people who were outside a club in East Hollywood.”

There were also reports that one of the victims had sustained a gunshot wound, though officials could not confirm if the person was the driver.

Read Also: FBI cracks down on fraudster over ₦460m Trump inauguration crypto scam

The incident occurred near The Vermont Hollywood, a known entertainment venue where an event had just ended. Eyewitness footage circulating online showed a silver car mounted on the sidewalk and several injured individuals lying on the ground.

Emergency response was swift, with 124 fire personnel deployed to the scene. Several victims were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Authorities say the situation is currently stable, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause and whether foul play is involved.