International

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A court in Russia’s Kursk region has sentenced a Colombian citizen to 28 years behind bars after finding him guilty of fighting as a “mercenary” with the Ukrainian Armed Forces against Moscow.

The sentencing was announced on Tuesday, with Russian authorities stating that the man took part in combat operations within Ukraine’s military, including in the border region of Kursk.

In its ruling, the court declared that the individual had participated “in the armed conflict as a mercenary in the Armed Forces of Ukraine,” and added that he was “sentenced to imprisonment for 28 years.”

Russian officials have consistently maintained that foreign nationals who support Ukraine on the battlefield are violating Russian law.

The Colombian’s involvement on the side of Kyiv further reflects the international dimension of the ongoing war.

The conviction comes amid continued hostilities between Russia and Ukraine, which have seen rising casualties on both sides.

It also aligns with Moscow’s broader efforts to clamp down on foreign fighters it accuses of aggravating the conflict.

The Russian government has not released the name of the convicted individual, nor has it provided further details regarding the specific charges or dates of the alleged combat activities.

The situation remains a stark reminder of the far-reaching consequences of the war, now drawing individuals from different continents into its orbit.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

Pep Guardiola, the renowned Manchester City manager, delivered a moving and heartfelt speech on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza while receiving an honorary doctorate from the University of Manchester this week.

In an emotional address, Guardiola veered from the usual ceremonial tone to speak about the suffering in Gaza, calling for compassion and courage in the face of ongoing violence. 

“It is so painful what we see in Gaza, it hurts all my body,” he said, his voice weighted with emotion. “It is not about ideology but the love of life. It is about refusing to be silent or still when it matters the most.”

Guardiola, known as much for his principled stances as for his tactical brilliance on the pitch, received a standing ovation from many in the audience, including faculty, students, and dignitaries.

The University of Manchester awarded Guardiola the honorary degree in recognition of his contributions to sport and his influence as a global figure. Yet, it was his candid acknowledgement of human suffering and his call for empathy that left a lasting impression.

Social media erupted in praise following the speech, with many highlighting Guardiola’s words as a rare and courageous gesture from a figure in elite sport.

As tensions and humanitarian concerns continue to mount in Gaza, Guardiola’s remarks have added a prominent voice to the growing international calls for peace and justice.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

Khaby Lame, the Senegal-born TikTok sensation who rose to global fame for his silent comedic videos, has voluntarily left the United States after being detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for overstaying his visa.

The 25-year-old, who officially became an Italian citizen in 2022, was held at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas for immigration violations. Lame had been in the U.S. on a temporary visa, which reportedly expired before his detention.

Lame, known by his handle @khaby.lame, boasts over 162 million followers on TikTok, making him one of the most followed creators on the platform. His signature style—wordless, expressive reactions to overly complicated life hacks—catapulted him to viral fame during the COVID-19 pandemic.

His detention comes amid intensified immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump’s administration, which has renewed crackdowns on visa overstays and undocumented immigrants.

Sources close to Lame say he has returned to Italy and cooperates fully with authorities. Neither Lame nor his representatives have made a public statement regarding the incident.

By Uzair Adam 

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has extended his Sallah greetings to the state’s pilgrims in Saudi Arabia and presented them with monetary gifts to mark the occasion. 

During his visit to their accommodation on Saturday night, he gifted each pilgrim 250 riyals, approximately N105,000.

Governor Yusuf praised the success of this year’s Hajj exercise, describing it as an improvement over previous years, particularly last year. 

“Last year’s Hajj exercise was also good, but this one is better, and we are grateful to God for this success,” he remarked.

The governor said the visit was intended to strengthen relationships, pray for the progress of Kano State and Nigeria, and share in the joy of Sallah with the pilgrims.

He urged the pilgrims to continue praying for Kano, Nigeria, and for those who lost their lives during the Hajj exercise. 

“I also commiserate with the families of those who died in Makkah, Madina, and during Arafah. May those who are missing be found,” he said.

Governor Yusuf called on the pilgrims to remain dedicated to their acts of worship and avoid any actions that might compromise the completion of their Hajj rituals until they return home safely.

He thanked the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, local government chairmen, and other stakeholders for ensuring a smooth Hajj experience. 

“I also thank the local government chairmen for their unwavering support in caring for the people from their areas. And there are also members of the State Assembly, like I said. None of them is sleeping. Everyone is doing their best,” he added.

The governor concluded by praying for the acceptance of the pilgrims’ Hajj and a safe trip back to Nigeria.

In his remarks, the Director General of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Lamin Rabi’u Ɗan Baffa, expressed gratitude to Governor Yusuf for his unwavering support and leadership during the pilgrimage.

By Muhammad Abubakar

The African Union Commission has expressed concern over the recent travel restrictions imposed by the United States, which affect nationals from several countries, including some within the African continent.

In a statement released this week, the Commission acknowledged the right of sovereign nations to protect their borders and ensure the safety of their citizens. However, it urged the US government to exercise this right in a manner that is “balanced, evidence-based, and reflective of the long-standing partnership between the United States and Africa.”

The Commission warned that the new travel restrictions could negatively impact people-to-people connections, educational exchanges, business relations, and the diplomatic ties cultivated over decades between Africa and the US.

“Africa and the United States share mutual interests in promoting peace, prosperity, and global cooperation,” the statement noted, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and strengthening those bonds.

The Commission also called on the US administration to consider a more consultative and inclusive approach in such policy decisions, advocating for constructive dialogue with the countries affected.

Highlighting the value of transparency and collaboration, the AU Commission reiterated its readiness to support any initiatives to foster mutual understanding, address the underlying concerns, and enhance cooperation between the two sides.

The statement comes amid increasing scrutiny of the broader implications of the US travel policy on international relations and multilateral engagement.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In an unprecedented move, Moroccan authorities have ordered the closure of livestock markets nationwide ahead of Eid al-Adha following a royal directive from King Mohammed VI.

The decision aims to mitigate the impact of severe drought and economic strain, which have drastically reduced livestock numbers and left many families unable to afford traditional sacrifices.

Local officials have been instructed to enforce the ban on all public and seasonal animal markets, with some provinces also suspending municipal slaughterhouses and restricting sales of sacrificial tools.

The measures seek to preserve Morocco’s dwindling herds and ease financial burdens on households grappling with rising meat prices.

In a gesture of solidarity, King Mohammed VI announced he would perform the Eid sacrifice on behalf of all citizens, echoing a tradition of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

The move has drawn widespread praise, with many Moroccans viewing it as a compassionate response to the country’s challenges.

While the restrictions may disrupt customary celebrations, they highlight Morocco’s emphasis on unity and shared resilience during hardship.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Matthew Miller, former spokesperson for the U.S. State Department under President Joe Biden, has said Israel has “without doubt” committed war crimes in Gaza.

In a recent interview, Miller pointed to the targeting of civilian infrastructure, the high civilian death toll, and the ongoing blockade as clear violations of international law. His remarks mark a significant departure from the official U.S. position, which has largely avoided directly accusing Israel of war crimes.

Miller’s comments come as independent investigations into alleged violations by Israeli forces continue. He also criticized the Biden administration’s support for Israel, warning it risks enabling serious breaches of humanitarian law.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria joined other West African leaders in Lagos on Wednesday to celebrate the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Golden Jubilee. The event marked 50 years of regional cooperation and integration.

Among the dignitaries present were Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Togolese President Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové, and Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Emalo. Also in attendance were former Nigerian Head of State Yakubu Gowon and ECOWAS Commission President Umar Alieu Touray.

The gathering highlighted ECOWAS’ achievements in promoting peace, economic development, and solidarity across the region since its founding in 1975. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deeper integration amid current challenges.

President Tinubu, in his remarks, praised ECOWAS’ resilience and called for stronger collaboration to address security and economic issues. The ceremony featured cultural displays and discussions on the bloc’s future.

The event concluded with a renewed pledge to advance the ECOWAS vision of a prosperous and united West Africa.

By Muhammad Abubakar

In response to recent media reports suggesting a potential easing of Saudi Arabia’s longstanding alcohol prohibition, a senior Saudi official has categorically denied any plans to lift the ban.

Princess Haifa bint Mohammed Al Saud, the Assistant Minister of Tourism, addressed the issue during a panel session at the World Economic Forum in Davos. She emphasized that the Kingdom remains committed to its laws prohibiting alcohol consumption.

“The short answer is that we’re going to continue with our current laws,” she stated, highlighting that Saudi Arabia has successfully attracted tourists without altering its cultural and legal frameworks.

The clarification comes amid speculation fueled by the recent opening of a liquor store in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, exclusively serving non-Muslim diplomats. While this move marks a controlled exception, it does not indicate a broader policy shift regarding alcohol availability in the country.

Furthermore, Saudi officials have reiterated that the alcohol ban will remain during major upcoming events, including the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud, the Saudi ambassador to the UK, confirmed that alcohol will not be available to fans during the tournament, aligning with the Kingdom’s cultural and religious values.

As Saudi Arabia continues its Vision 2030 initiative to diversify the economy and promote tourism, officials stress that modernization efforts will proceed without compromising core cultural principles.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Spain has called for international sanctions against Israel following its ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which has led to heavy civilian casualties and a worsening humanitarian situation.

At a high-level summit in Madrid, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares proposed suspending the EU’s cooperation agreement with Israel, imposing an arms embargo, and targeting top Israeli officials with sanctions. 

Mr Albares also called on world powers to recognise the State of Palestine as a step toward peace.

Spain has joined South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of genocide, further escalating diplomatic pressure. 

Meanwhile, public protests across major Spanish cities have amplified demands for an end to arms sales and more decisive action against Israel.