International

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A 24-year-old Nigerian national, Gift Oladele, has been handed a 17-year prison sentence in the United Kingdom after a court found him guilty of raping a 19-year-old woman in Wrexham.

The incident occurred in the early hours of September 7 last year. Oladele, who previously lived in the Manchester area and had no fixed address at the time, carried out the attack after encountering the victim in Wrexham city centre.

North Wales Police said the young woman had been returning home after spending time with friends when she met Oladele. He approached her and her friend, introduced himself, and insisted on walking her home, claiming he was going the same way.

As they moved along Mold Road, Oladele diverted her onto a secluded footpath where he attacked her.

Following the incident, he threatened the victim and warned her against reporting the matter. The case was, however, reported to the police, leading to his arrest within hours. Authorities later charged him and kept him in custody pending trial.

During proceedings at Mold Crown Court in March, Oladele denied the allegations and claimed the encounter was consensual. The jury dismissed his claim and convicted him of rape and sexual assault.

At Caernarfon Crown Court on April 30, the judge imposed a total sentence of 25 years. This includes 17 years in prison and an additional eight years on extended licence.

The court also issued an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a lifetime restraining order to safeguard the victim.

Reacting to the judgment, Wrexham Chief Inspector Caroline Mullen-Hurst described Oladele as a “dangerous predator” who subjected the victim to a “disturbing and terrifying attack.”

“He demonstrated no remorse for his crimes after forcing her to relive the traumatic experience through a trial.

“I would like to praise the dignity and courage she has shown throughout the investigation, and for her bravery in reporting this incident to us.

“Thankfully, today’s sentence has removed Oladele from the streets, preventing any further harm to anyone else. I hope it reassures the public that North Wales Police is committed to eradicating all incidents of violence against women and girls and is working tirelessly to bring perpetrators of sexual abuse to justice.

“I would urge any victim of sexual assault to get in touch with us. You will be listened to, your report will be taken seriously and fully investigated. We are here to support you,” she added.

By Daniel Nduka Okonkwo

Reports of killings, beatings, intimidation, harassment, and violent attacks on migrant communities, including incidents affecting children, allegations of denied hospital access to pregnant women, and the targeting of foreign-owned businesses, raise serious concerns about South Africa’s ability to uphold basic human rights. Despite a population surpassing 63 million in 2024, with a youthful demographic and steady growth, the state faces ongoing challenges in protecting the estimated 2.4 to 3.9 million foreign-born residents, who make up about 5.1% of its population.

Migrants, largely from Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Lesotho, Malawi, Nigeria, Ghana, and other African nations, are widely reported to contribute significantly to the economy, often bringing skills, entrepreneurship, and labour. Yet xenophobic violence and social exclusion continue to persist in some areas. Critics argue that government responses have been insufficient or inconsistent, raising concerns about gaps in protection and accountability.

South Africa’s leaders frequently emphasise democracy, freedom, and equality. However, for many migrants, lived experiences are described as marked by fear and uncertainty. Nigerians are sometimes portrayed negatively in public discourse despite their economic contributions. Zimbabweans who fled economic hardship often face precarious working conditions, while Malawians, Mozambicans, and Basotho migrants also report experiences of discrimination. Observers say that inconsistent responses to xenophobic incidents risk creating the perception of official indifference.

Migrants are not a homogeneous group, and many contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s economy. Some studies indicate that immigrant-headed households may, on average, earn higher incomes or have higher levels of post-school qualifications. They also fill labour gaps and support small and medium enterprises. However, public narratives in some quarters continue to frame migrants as competitors for scarce resources, contributing to social tension instead of focusing on broader structural challenges such as unemployment, inequality, and governance issues.

Responses to xenophobia have sometimes fallen short of addressing root causes. Allowing the destruction of businesses or failing to respond swiftly to violence, they argue, reflects weaknesses in enforcement capacity. Others point to the need for stronger governance, improved economic policies, and clearer communication to counter misinformation and division.

South Africa can reinforce its role as a continental leader by strengthening protections for all residents within its borders, or it risks continued reputational and social challenges if violence and exclusion persist. The effectiveness of its response will likely shape both domestic stability and international perception.

Addressing recurring xenophobic incidents remains a significant responsibility for the government. While frameworks such as the National Action Plan against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance exist, implementation has been described as uneven. Law enforcement responses are sometimes criticised as delayed or insufficient, leaving victims vulnerable and raising concerns about accountability. These issues point to broader institutional challenges in treating xenophobia as a sustained national concern.

Systemic factors also contribute to tensions. Reports of discriminatory policing, the presence of vigilante groups, and political rhetoric linking migrants to unemployment and crime have influenced public attitudes. Groups such as Operation Dudula operate within this environment, while enforcement actions targeting undocumented migrants are sometimes perceived as contributing to broader hostility toward foreign nationals.

Xenophobic violence in South Africa has developed into a recurring and complex issue. Foreign nationals, particularly African migrants, continue to face risks of violence, intimidation, and exclusion. Commonly link these developments to socio-economic pressures combined with institutional limitations.

High unemployment, poverty, and competition for limited resources have created conditions of tension. Many citizens view foreign nationals, especially undocumented migrants, as competitors for jobs, housing, and services. Concerns about border control and immigration enforcement further shape these perceptions. In some cases, these frustrations manifest in vigilante actions by community groups.

Authorities have not fully addressed these underlying tensions, allowing xenophobia to persist. Over time, foreign nationals have often been scapegoated for broader socio-economic challenges such as crime and inadequate service delivery, contributing to exclusionary attitudes and, in some instances, violence.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has publicly condemned xenophobic attacks and called for adherence to the principle of ubuntu, emphasising shared humanity and mutual respect. He has also highlighted the need to distinguish between undocumented migrants and lawful residents who contribute to society. Despite these statements, concerns remain that migration management and law enforcement responses could be strengthened.

Government responses continue to face scrutiny for inconsistency. While policies exist, implementation gaps remain a concern. Law enforcement agencies are sometimes criticised for delayed responses, while limited prosecutions may contribute to perceptions of impunity.

Concerns about systemic challenges persist. Reports of harassment by some authorities have contributed to mistrust among migrant communities. Vigilante groups have, in certain instances, operated with limited intervention. Movements such as Operation Dudula and Put South Africa First have gained attention for campaigns that emphasise citizenship verification in access to jobs and services, raising debates about exclusion and legality.

Political rhetoric has also shaped public perception. Statements linking migration to unemployment and crime have reinforced negative stereotypes in some quarters. While enforcement against undocumented migration may be lawful, broader messaging is sometimes interpreted as contributing to public hostility toward foreign nationals.

The historical pattern of xenophobic violence highlights the persistence of the issue. In 1998, three foreign nationals were killed in Johannesburg. In 2008, widespread attacks resulted in over 60 deaths, more than 1,700 injuries, and the displacement of approximately 100,000 people. Violence in 2015 required military intervention. In recent years, organised groups have continued to disrupt communities and enforce exclusionary practices.

Regional and international responses have varied. The African Union has faced criticism for what is perceived as a limited response. The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights has condemned xenophobic attacks as violations of fundamental rights. Nigeria has called for improved security measures, accountability, and diplomatic engagement.

Several structural factors continue to influence xenophobia: weak law enforcement, political pressures, economic inequality, and social acceptance of vigilantism all play roles. A limited coordinated regional response may also reduce external pressure for reform.

Xenophobia in South Africa is not solely a spontaneous reaction but reflects deeper structural and institutional challenges. Addressing it will require stronger governance, consistent law enforcement, and sustained accountability. Long-term solutions will depend on coordinated national action and regional cooperation grounded in human rights, dignity, and African unity.

Daniel Nduka Okonkwo is a Nigerian investigative journalist, publisher of Profiles International Human Rights Advocate in collaboration with Daniels Entertainment, and a policy analyst and can be reached at dan.okonkwo.73@gmail.com.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

The Saturday, 25th April 2026, coordinated attacks by gunmen in Mali are frightening and call for serious reflection. Several news outlets have reported that insurgents have attacked multiple locations across the country, including the capital, Bamako, and nearby Kati, as well as Gao and Kidal in the north, and the central city of Sévaré.

Observers say these attacks are well coordinated and “unprecedented.” Reports also indicate that fighting is ongoing in several locations, including areas near the airport in Bamako, an alarming development that underscores both the scale and audacity of the assaults. The ability of insurgents to strike multiple, geographically dispersed targets almost simultaneously suggests not only careful planning, but also a growing level of sophistication and operational confidence.

These coordinated assaults, particularly in the Malian capital, should be a cause for concern for everyone in West Africa, especially in the Sahel, a region already grappling with the activities of numerous armed groups linked to extremism, separatism, and organised crime. What is unfolding in Mali is not an isolated crisis; it is part of a broader regional security challenge that continues to evolve in both intensity and complexity.

If underfunding, weak training, corruption, and poor intelligence are persistent problems within the military, then such daring and large-scale attacks become not only possible but inevitable. The situation raises critical questions about the preparedness and effectiveness of Mali’s security architecture. It also highlights the urgent need for institutional reform, better coordination among security agencies, and a renewed commitment to professionalism within the armed forces throughout the Sahel

Assimi Goïta, the current military leader and head of state of Mali, seized power in 2020 and again consolidated control in 2021, largely on the grounds of addressing severe insecurity. His rise was justified as a corrective measure to restore stability and reclaim territory from insurgents. Yet, under his watch, Mali is now witnessing some of its most brazen and coordinated attacks, even right in the heart of Bamako.

This reality presents a stark contradiction. It forces both the leadership and the public to confront difficult truths about the current trajectory of the country’s security situation. Has the strategy changed in a meaningful way? Are the structural weaknesses being addressed, or merely managed? And perhaps most importantly, is the state regaining control, or gradually ceding more ground?

Beyond Mali, these developments carry serious implications for neighbouring countries across the Sahel and West Africa. Borders in the region are porous, and armed groups have repeatedly demonstrated their ability to exploit weak state presence to expand their reach. What happens in Mali rarely stays confined within its borders.

This moment, therefore, should serve as a wake-up call, not only for Mali’s leadership but for the entire region. It demands stronger regional cooperation, intelligence sharing, and a unified approach to tackling insecurity. Without this, the cycle of violence risks deepening, with consequences that could destabilise an already fragile region.

The attacks in Mali are not just headlines; they are warnings. And ignoring them would come at a high cost.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja via zaymohd@yahoo.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A man in eastern India has triggered widespread anger after he carried the skeletal remains of his late sister to a bank in an attempt to prove that she had died and access her savings.

The incident involved Jitu Munda, 52, from Odisha state. A video showing him taking the remains to a bank branch surfaced online this week and quickly went viral. The development drew strong reactions across the country.

Munda explained that he took the drastic step after several failed attempts to withdraw money belonging to his sister, Kalara, who died earlier this year at the age of 56. He said bank officials repeatedly demanded proof of her death before releasing the funds.

“When the bank manager refused to listen and kept asking for proof, I got frustrated,” he said. “I brought the skeleton to show that she had died.”

Police confirmed that Munda dug up his sister’s remains and transported them to the bank premises. The incident occurred on Monday in Keonjhar district.

In response, the bank rejected claims that it asked him to present the physical remains of the deceased. Officials stated that only standard legal documents were required to process the request. They added that the situation appeared to result from a misunderstanding of procedures. The bank also said the funds have now been released to the rightful beneficiaries.

The case attracted national attention. Many observers criticised both local authorities and the bank for not offering adequate guidance to the man. Others pointed to the bureaucratic challenges families face when trying to access a deceased relative’s funds, especially in rural communities.

Under Indian law, if a person dies without naming a nominee on their bank account, relatives must present documents such as a death certificate and proof of legal heirship. This process can be slow in remote areas where access to documentation is limited.

The bank further alleged that Munda initially arrived in an “inebriated state” and caused a disturbance before returning later with the remains. It described the situation as “distressing”.

Branch manager Sushant Kumar Sethi said Munda first claimed his sister was paralysed and unable to visit the bank. According to him, staff had offered to visit her at home. He added that Munda later reported her death and had not visited the branch in the past two months. He also noted that other legal heirs had come forward, which prompted officials to request proper documentation.

Authorities have since stepped in to resolve the matter. Police and local officials persuaded Munda to return the remains to the burial site and assured him that his concerns would be addressed.

Odisha’s Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari said the case is under investigation and that action will be taken against the branch manager over alleged misconduct. The Keonjhar district administration also expressed “deep concern” and stressed that safeguarding citizens’ rights and dignity remains a priority.

Officials later issued the necessary death certificate and documents confirming legal heirs. The bank confirmed that the money has now been handed over to the family. Munda has also been offered financial assistance of 30,000 rupees.

By Maryam Ahmad

A former head of Israel’s intelligence agency has sharply condemned rising settler violence in the West Bank, saying it has left him “ashamed to be a Jew.”

Tamir Pardo, who led Mossad from 2011 to 2016, made the remarks in a recent interview, warning that attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinian communities are eroding Israel’s moral standing and threatening its long-term security. His comments come amid an uptick in reported incidents involving arson, assaults, and property damage in the territory.

Human rights organisations have documented a rise in settler-related violence in recent months, often carried out with limited accountability. Israeli authorities say they are working to curb such incidents, but critics argue enforcement remains inconsistent.

Pardo’s intervention adds to a growing chorus of current and former security officials voicing concern over developments in the West Bank. He urged the government to uphold the rule of law and take decisive action against perpetrators, warning that failure to do so risks further escalation and international isolation.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Kenyan President William Ruto has clarified that his recent remarks suggesting Kenyans speak better English than Nigerians were made during a private conversation that was leaked and taken out of context.

The comments had sparked light-hearted banter on social media between Kenyans and Nigerians, drawing widespread reactions from both countries.

Speaking on Tuesday at the Kenya Mining Investment Conference 2026 in Nairobi, Ruto struck a conciliatory tone, emphasising that Nigerians speak “excellent” English, just as Kenyans do.

The event was attended by a Nigerian delegation, including the Minister of Solid Minerals, Henry Dele Alake.

Ruto’s remarks appeared aimed at easing tensions and reinforcing cordial ties between the two nations following the online exchanges triggered by the earlier statement.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Nigeria and Malaysia have taken fresh steps to reinforce cooperation between their customs authorities, with a focus on improving trade processes and tightening border control systems.

This followed a series of high-level meetings in Malaysia involving the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD).

The engagements took place during an official visit by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to the RMCD headquarters. The visit coincided with his attendance at the Defence Services Asia (DSA) Malaysia 2026 event.

Adeniyi was hosted by his Malaysian counterpart, Director-General Dato’ Haji Amran bin Haji Ahmad. Both officials held discussions that centred on strengthening institutional ties, advancing customs modernisation, and improving coordination in border management.

Trade relations between the two countries have continued to expand in recent years. Nigeria’s imports from Malaysia rose from ₦159.9 billion in 2020 to ₦716.0 billion in 2024. Total trade between both nations has reached about ₦1.82 trillion within five years.

During the talks, Adeniyi emphasised the importance of establishing a more structured partnership between the two customs services. He described Malaysia as a major trading partner, noting that Nigeria imports products such as crude palm oil, refined palm olein, aviation fuel, machinery, and other industrial materials.

He also pointed out that customs agencies play a key role in supporting legitimate trade while protecting national economic and security interests.

Despite the long-standing trade relationship, both sides observed that there is no formal legal framework guiding their customs cooperation. They agreed to begin the process of developing a Mutual Recognition Agreement under the World Customs Organisation (WCO), which will be pursued through diplomatic channels.

As part of the engagement, Malaysian officials presented their border management structure, including the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), which operates as an integrated frontline system.

In response, the Nigerian delegation highlighted ongoing reforms within the NCS, including the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme and other initiatives designed to speed up cargo clearance, cut costs, and improve compliance.

Both parties stressed the need for closer collaboration in intelligence sharing, enforcement efforts, and the use of technology to tackle illicit trade and cross-border crimes.

The NCS reaffirmed its commitment to building stronger bilateral and multilateral partnerships as part of its modernisation drive. It expressed optimism that the outcomes of the visit will enhance operational efficiency, promote smoother trade, and strengthen border security in line with Nigeria’s economic goals.

While in Malaysia, Adeniyi also met with officials at the Nigerian diplomatic mission and the Defence Office, where he commended their role in promoting Nigeria’s interests and assisting citizens abroad.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Nigerians residing in South Africa have urged the Federal Government to take firm measures to safeguard their lives and businesses amid rising xenophobic tensions in the country.

The call was made by the President of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA), Rev. Frank Onyekwelu, in a statement issued on Sunday. His appeal comes as anti-foreigner protests intensify across several South African cities, with demonstrators reportedly targeting businesses owned by foreign nationals and demanding their expulsion.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) had earlier advised citizens in South Africa to temporarily shut down their businesses and remain indoors for safety. The commission’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, said the directive followed a notice from the Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg.

NiDCOM disclosed that protests in areas such as East London, Cape Town, Durban, and KwaZulu-Natal have turned violent. Incidents of looting, property damage, and injuries have been reported. The commission also warned of planned demonstrations in Gauteng province between April 27 and 29. It noted that foreign-owned businesses are often the main targets during such unrest. Nigerians were therefore advised to close their shops on April 27, which marks South Africa’s Freedom Day, and possibly remain closed until April 29.

According to Daily Trust, despite the advisory, many Nigerians have criticised the Federal Government on social media. They argued that asking citizens to stay indoors does not address the root of the problem or guarantee their safety.

Meanwhile, Ghana has taken diplomatic steps over a related incident involving one of its citizens. Authorities in Accra summoned South Africa’s acting High Commissioner, Thando Dalamba, after a viral video showed a Ghanaian being harassed. Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the victim was a legal resident and condemned the act. The country’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Ablakwa, also announced plans to relocate the victim, Emmanuel Asamoa, at government expense. The move followed direct engagement with South African authorities, which led to official apologies and diplomatic discussions.

In its statement, NICASA expressed strong concern over what it described as a growing pattern of hostility against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.

Onyekwelu said, “We are alarmed by the increasing normalisation of hostility, manifested through inflammatory rhetoric by certain political actors, unlawful intimidation, and discriminatory enforcement practices by some law enforcement personnel.

“These actions not only undermine human dignity but also threaten the long-standing bonds of African solidarity.”

The association called for immediate high-level diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and South Africa. It also demanded a clear system for reporting and addressing cases of harassment, abuse, and xenophobic attacks. NICASA further requested accountability for security personnel found guilty of misconduct and urged the Nigerian government to reassure its citizens of their protection abroad.

The group warned that xenophobia contradicts the vision of African unity and called for a coordinated response through the African Union and regional bodies.

Reacting to the situation, the spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said the government is awaiting updates from its missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg. He stated, “[We are] waiting for updates from our Missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg”.

Diplomatic experts have also weighed in on the development. A former President of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Ambassador Martin Ihoeghian Uhomoibhi, condemned the attacks and urged Nigeria to respond decisively.

He said, “The Federal Government should take strict action.

“You cannot go to sleep when you are being publicly attacked. Nigeria should act and act very simply and promptly.”

Uhomoibhi dismissed suggestions that Nigerians should leave South Africa, adding, “That is not the solution. You [Nigeria] should take diplomatic action.”

“The game of diplomacy is reciprocity. You slap me, I slap you back. In diplomacy. If you keep quiet, you portray yourself as a sleepy dog or something or a nobody.”

On his part, former Nigerian ambassador to Sudan, Côte d’Ivoire, and Angola, Suleiman Dahiru, said Nigeria’s options are largely limited to diplomatic engagement.

He explained that while the attacks are “totally misplaced,” addressing them remains the responsibility of South African authorities.

“Nigeria has engaged South Africa on so many occasions. This is a diplomatic issue, and it is being handled diplomatically,” he said.

Dahiru also rejected claims that Nigerians are responsible for job losses in South Africa, describing such arguments as baseless.

“They are not working for any state government in South Africa. They are not working for any local government. So, to blame them for taking away jobs that should normally go to them is totally wrong,” he said.

He added that most African migrants operate private businesses and should not be blamed unfairly. “Nobody has stopped South African blacks from doing what other Africans are doing. Let them set up their own businesses and get their own people to patronise them,” he said.

However, Dahiru advised migrants to be mindful of how they are perceived. He noted that displays of unexplained wealth could create suspicion among locals.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance were quickly escorted out of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner after gunshots were heard outside the venue.

Authorities confirmed that both leaders were unharmed. President Trump later stated that the situation had been brought under control, adding that the suspect had been apprehended. He also disclosed that the attacker was “armed with multiple weapons.”

Security personnel moved swiftly to shield the president during the incident. Footage aired by CNN showed officers surrounding Mr Trump on stage before leading him out. He reportedly stumbled briefly during the evacuation.

Officials later identified the suspect as Cole Allen, a 31-year-old resident of Los Angeles who worked as a teacher and video game developer.

Law enforcement authorities said the suspect was present at the Washington Hilton Hotel, where the event was held. The motive behind the shooting has not yet been established.

“Preliminary information. We do believe he was a guest here at the hotel,” CNN quotes the Interim Chief at the Metropolitan Police Department, Jeffery Carroll, as saying at a news conference late Saturday (US time).

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

By Maryam Ahmad

Slovenia has announced that it will broadcast a series of Palestinian documentaries instead of airing the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest 2026, marking a significant cultural and political statement amid growing tensions surrounding the annual music competition.

According to reports, Slovenia is among the five countries that have withdrawn from this year’s contest. While most participating nations will continue with scheduled broadcasts, only Iceland and the Netherlands are expected to air the competition despite their withdrawal. The contest is set to take place next month in Vienna.

Slovenian officials indicated that the decision to replace Eurovision programming with Palestinian documentary content is intended to provide alternative perspectives and highlight ongoing humanitarian concerns. The move reflects a broader debate across Europe about the role of cultural events during geopolitical conflict, particularly regarding the Israel–Palestine issue.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organises Eurovision, has not yet issued a detailed response to Slovenia’s programming change but has previously maintained that the contest is a non-political event aimed at fostering unity through music.

Slovenia’s decision adds to mounting tensions surrounding this year’s competition, with critics arguing that Eurovision cannot be entirely separated from political realities, while supporters insist it should remain an apolitical platform for artistic expression.

The development is likely to intensify discussions about the intersection of culture, media, and politics in Europe, as audiences across the continent prepare for one of the world’s most-watched entertainment events.