International

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Newly released emails attributed to the late Jeffrey Epstein allege that Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates contracted a sexually transmitted disease after encounters with Russian women.

In a memo Epstein wrote to himself and dated July 18, 2013, the convicted sex offender made a series of claims about Gates. The memo reads: “To add insult to the injury you them [sic] implore me to please delete the emails regarding your STD, your request that I provide you antibiotics that you can surreptitiously give to Melinda and the description of your penis.”

Epstein later sent himself another email, which he composed in the voice of a different person. In that message, the writer described alleged tensions in the Gates household and his purported role in assisting Gates. The email states: “I have been caught up in a severe marital dispute between Melinda and Bill…

In my role as his right-hand man, I have been asked and wrongly acquiesced into participating in things that have ranged from the morally inappropriate, to the ethically unsound and have been repeatedly asked to do things that get near and potentially over the line into the illegal…

From helping Bill to get drugs, in order to deal with consequences of sex with Russian girls, to facilitating his illicit trusts [sic], with married women, to being asked to provide Adderall for bridge tournaments, as I am a medial doctor, but have no presriptions [sic] writing ability.”

The allegations outlined in the emails have not been independently verified. Gates has not issued any public response to the claims as of the time of filing this report.

The released files also contain undated photographs that show the Microsoft billionaire in the company of Epstein at undisclosed locations. One image includes a woman whose face has been redacted.

The materials were released by the United States Department of Justice.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

US President Donald Trump has dismissed claims that he fell asleep during a cabinet meeting, saying he only closed his eyes because the session was dull.

The 79-year-old leader faced renewed scrutiny over his health after video footage from a December cabinet meeting appeared to show him dozing off. The incident sparked online debate, especially because such meetings are often broadcast live and tend to last for hours.

Cabinet meetings under Mr Trump are known for their length. One session in August reportedly ran for more than three hours. The meeting held on Thursday, however, ended after one hour and 20 minutes.

During the gathering, Mr Trump departed from the usual practice where cabinet members take turns praising the president and outlining progress in their ministries. After delivering an opening speech that lasted about 25 minutes, he limited the number of officials allowed to speak.

“We are going to ask a couple of people to say a few words, and we’re not going to go through the whole table,” he said.

He referred to criticism from a previous press conference, stating: “Because the last time we had a press conference, it lasted for three hours, and some people said ‘he closed his eyes.’”

Mr Trump then explained his action, saying: “Look, it got pretty boring. I love these people, but there’s a lot of people.” He added: “But I didn’t sleep. I just closed them because I wanted to get the hell out of here.”

The president has repeatedly rejected suggestions that his age affects his performance. In an interview with New York Magazine published on Monday, he again defended his health, blaming what he described as “boring as hell” cabinet meetings for appearing sleepy.

In the interview, Mr Trump said he is in “perfect health” and feels “the same as [he] did 40 years ago”. A senior staff member quoted in the report claimed that the president’s decision to stop dyeing his hair was his “only concession to age”.

Attention also turned to those who were not invited to speak during Thursday’s meeting. Mr Trump did not call on Kristi Noem, the US homeland security secretary, despite her presence in the room.

Ms Noem is facing heavy criticism over the conduct of Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers following recent deadly incidents in Minneapolis. Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, was killed during a protest on Saturday. Renee Nicole Good, a mother of three, was killed on January 7 during a confrontation with officers carrying out immigration raids.

Amid rising tension, Mr Trump has reshuffled his immigration leadership. He sidelined Ms Noem and dismissed Gregory Bovino, the head of border control.

Other senior officials also did not speak during the session, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, although the president praised both men.

In a move that surprised reporters, Mr Trump declined to take questions at the end of the meeting. As a result, he avoided direct queries about his confidence in Ms Noem and the ongoing controversy surrounding immigration enforcement.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In a significant military mobilization, Iran has deployed over 2,500 military aircraft to operate alongside its naval forces in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The move, reported tonight, centers on the area of Hormuz Zaldmoon.

Regional analysts view the large-scale deployment as a major security preparation and strategic exercise. It is widely interpreted as a show of force and a direct response to escalating regional tensions and recent threats of conflict.

A senior Iranian military official stated the operations have a “special focus on marine security,” underscoring Tehran’s declaration of readiness to defend vital waterways. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global chokepoint for oil shipments.

The rapid military buildup has drawn intense international scrutiny, with world leaders and defense observers closely monitoring the speedy activities. The deployment raises concerns over potential miscalculations or confrontations in an already volatile region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The European Union has officially designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a “terrorist organisation”, a move that further deepens tensions between Tehran and Western powers amid rising military threats from the United States.

The decision followed a meeting of EU foreign ministers and was announced by the bloc’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas. The designation came as US President Donald Trump renewed warnings of possible military action against Iran.

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, responded with a sharp warning, saying the country’s armed forces were ready to respond “immediately and powerfully” to any attack by the United States. His remarks came hours after Trump said Washington was prepared to act with “speed and violence”.

In recent days, the US has strengthened its military presence in the region. Among the assets deployed to the Arabian Sea is the USS Abraham Lincoln, a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.

Alongside the terror designation, EU foreign ministers approved fresh sanctions against Iran. The measures include travel bans and asset freezes targeting Iranian officials accused of involvement in the killing of thousands of antigovernment protesters since late December last year.

From Tehran, the General Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces condemned the EU’s decision. In a statement, it described the move as “illogical, irresponsible and spiteful”, and accused the bloc of acting in line with US and Israeli policies. The statement warned that “the dangerous consequences of this hostile and provocative decision will be directly borne by European policymakers”.

Iranian officials noted that the United States had already taken a similar step in 2019, when it designated the IRGC as a foreign “terrorist organisation”.

International reactions quickly followed the EU’s announcement. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged restraint and called for diplomacy to prevent further escalation.

“We believe that it’s important that there is a dialogue allowing for an agreement in relation, namely, to the nuclear question and that we can avoid a crisis that could have devastating consequences in the region,” Guterres told reporters.

In Washington, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said Iran still had an opportunity to reach an agreement with the United States, but warned that the Pentagon stood ready to act if talks failed.

“They have all the options to make a deal,” Hegseth said. “They should not pursue nuclear capabilities.”

He added: “We will be prepared to deliver whatever this president expects from the war department, just like we did this month [in Venezuela].”

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also engaged regional leaders as tensions rose. According to a statement from the Iranian presidency, Pezeshkian spoke with the emir of Qatar and the prime minister of Pakistan, stressing “the importance of strengthening unity among Islamic countries” and the need for continued diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions.

The statement added that Iran had chosen “the path of dialogue and dignified diplomacy”, while warning that the country “will not hesitate to defend itself if necessary”.

Germany welcomed the EU’s decision, with its Foreign Office calling the move “overdue”.

“The decision taken today sends a strong political message,” the ministry said. “We as the EU are thus showing that we see what is happening in Iran. We stand side by side with the Iranian people. We stand up for humanity and we oppose repression.”

Germany also confirmed that new individual sanctions had been imposed on officials accused of responsibility for what it described as the “brutal suppression of the protests”.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed that position, calling the designation “long overdue”.

“‘Terrorist’ is indeed how you call a regime that crushes its own people’s protests in blood,” she said. “Europe stands with the people of Iran in their brave fight for freedom.”

Israel also praised the EU action. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar described it as an “important and historic decision”, claiming it would deal a “powerful blow” to the legitimacy of Iran’s government.

Meanwhile, Tehran summoned Germany’s ambassador after Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the Iranian government’s “days are numbered”.

“It could be a matter of weeks, but this regime has no legitimacy to govern the country,” Merz said.

Iran has also issued warnings of upcoming military drills in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which about 20 percent of global oil supplies pass, raising further concerns over regional stability.

The IRGC, established after Iran’s 1979 revolution, operates alongside the regular army and reports directly to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. It plays a central role in Iran’s defence strategy and regional influence and remains deeply embedded in the country’s political and economic structures.

As diplomatic pressure mounts and military posturing continues, analysts warn that the situation carries high risks, with the potential for serious consequences across the Middle East if tensions spiral further.

By Muhammad Abubakar

The Confederation of African Football has imposed heavy sanctions on Senegal following the dramatic Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco, including a five-match suspension and $100,000 fine for coach Pape Thiaw.

Thiaw was penalised for “unsporting conduct” after instructing his players to walk off the pitch during the final. The incident marred Senegal’s championship victory.

Senegalese players Ismaila Sarr and Iliman Cheikh Baroy Ndiaye have each been banned for two CAF matches for similar misconduct. The Senegalese Football Federation faces a substantial $615,000 fine despite lifting the trophy.

Morocco has also been penalised. CAF handed the runners-up a $315,000 fine for improper conduct, whilst defender Achraf Hakimi received a two-match suspension for unsporting actions.

Neither federation has yet announced whether they will appeal the decisions.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Nigerians resident in Norwich, United Kingdom, have commenced a fundraising drive to facilitate the return of the remains of Uchenna Okirie, popularly called “Common Man,” who was stabbed to death in his student residence in November 2025.

Okirie, a Nigerian citizen, was reportedly killed under circumstances that unsettled both residents of the area and members of the Nigerian community in the UK. A 27-year-old Congolese national, Benjamin Katabana, has been charged in connection with the incident.

To raise funds for his repatriation and burial in Nigeria, the Nigerian Community Norwich set up a GoFundMe campaign titled, “Rest in Peace, Uche: Help Us Return Him to His Family.”

As of Wednesday, the appeal had attracted £1,149 from 67 donors, out of a target of £7,000.

In the message accompanying the fundraiser, organisers paid tribute to Okirie, describing him as a kind-hearted and selfless individual who dedicated himself to helping others.

“We are heartbroken to share the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Uchenna Okirie, fondly known by many as ‘Common Man’… Uche was tragically stabbed to death in his home. He was a remarkable soul—steady, genuine, and deeply compassionate,” the statement read.


The community disclosed that Okirie earned a Master’s degree in Development Economics from the University of East Anglia during the 2021/2022 academic session. During his time at the institution, he also served as an international student ambassador.

He was said to be well known among students for assisting newcomers to the UK as they settled into their new environment.

“When friends arrived in the UK with nowhere to stay, he opened his home without hesitation… When someone needed help setting up a bank account, searching for a job, or navigating a new environment, Uche showed up,” the organisers stated.


They further noted that his calm nature, sincerity, and habit of placing others first earned him deep respect, adding that he would be remembered for his “unique smile, quiet generosity, and habit of placing others’ comfort above his own.”

According to the Nigerian Community Norwich, Okirie left behind friends, classmates, and colleagues who were deeply affected by his death. The group explained that the funds would cover the cost of transporting his body to Nigeria and support burial arrangements, as he had no immediate family members in the UK.

“This is our way of giving back to someone who gave so freely of himself. No contribution is too small, and every donation brings us closer to giving Uche the farewell he deserves,” the organisers added.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Rap star Nicki Minaj has openly explained why she considers herself a steadfast supporter of United States President Donald Trump, a stance that has drawn both attention and controversy.

Minaj made the declaration on Wednesday during an event promoting “Trump Accounts,” a federal initiative intended to provide trust funds for children. During her remarks, she described her admiration for the American leader in strong terms.

“I will say that I am probably the president’s number one fan, and that’s not going to change,” the 43‑year‑old musician said. “And the hate or what people have to say, it does not affect me at all. It actually motivates me to support him more.”

Minaj also addressed the criticism aimed at the president, saying she would oppose what she interprets as mistreatment by his critics. “We’re not going to let them get away with bullying him and, you know, the smear campaigns. It’s not going to work, OK? He has a lot of force behind him, and God is protecting him. Amen,” she added.

Her remarks followed an appearance on stage with Trump, where she stepped forward to express her backing for the president’s policies and the new trust account programme.

Minaj’s support for Trump, which she reiterated despite public disagreement from fans and observers, has reignited debate about her political alignment and public image.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Islamic Republic of Iran has dismissed claims that it sought negotiations with the United States amid rising tensions between the two countries. Tehran said it has not made any request for dialogue with Washington and has had no recent direct contact with U.S. officials.

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, said he had not communicated with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff in recent days. He stressed that Iran did not initiate any move toward talks with the United States.

“There was no contact between me and Witkoff in recent days and no request for negotiations was made from us,” Araqchi told state media. He explained that while some intermediaries remain in touch with Tehran, they are only “holding consultations” with various parties.

Araqchi further outlined Iran’s position on any potential engagement with Washington. “Our stance is clear, negotiations don’t go along with threats and talks can only take place when there are no longer menaces and excessive demands,” he said. His remarks underlined Iran’s refusal to enter discussions under pressure.

On the U.S. side, President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that another “armada” was moving toward Iran. He also said he hoped Tehran would agree to a deal with Washington. The United States has recently increased its military deployments in the Gulf, following nationwide protests in Iran. Those protests triggered what observers have described as the bloodiest crackdown since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Iran’s President, Masoud Pezeshkian, also commented on the situation. He told Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that Iran supports any effort that can prevent war, provided it aligns with international law. According to him, Tehran remains open to peaceful initiatives aimed at avoiding conflict.

The latest statements from both sides point to continued strain in relations. Iran insists that meaningful dialogue cannot happen under threats or excessive demands, while the United States continues to strengthen its military presence in the region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Islamic Republic of Iran has executed a man named Hamidreza Sabet Esmaeilipour after a court found him guilty of espionage on behalf of Israel, according to Mizan, the media outlet of the Iranian judiciary.

Mizan reported on Wednesday that Esmaeilipour was hanged following his conviction for spying and intelligence cooperation with Israel’s intelligence agency, the Mossad.

Judicial authorities said Esmaeilipour was arrested on April 29, 2025. They accused him of transferring classified documents and sensitive materials to a “hostile intelligence service.”

The report stated that the execution took place after Iran’s Supreme Court upheld the death sentence. Authorities also said all legal processes had been completed before the sentence was carried out.

Iran and Israel have remained engaged in a prolonged shadow conflict that has involved covert activities, assassinations, cyber operations and intelligence missions across the Middle East.

Tehran has repeatedly alleged that Israel has penetrated its security and military institutions, with particular focus on matters linked to Iran’s nuclear programme.

In recent years, Iranian authorities have executed several people accused of having ties to Israeli intelligence. These actions have attracted criticism from international human rights organisations, which have raised concerns about due process and Iran’s use of capital punishment.

Reports indicate that executions connected to alleged espionage for Israel have risen since last year. This followed a direct military confrontation in June, when Israeli and U.S. forces launched strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, a development that sharply intensified hostilities between the two rivals.

Iranian officials insist that such executions are essential for protecting national security. Critics, however, argue that espionage allegations often lack clarity and that court proceedings remain largely opaque.

By Anwar Usman

Nigeria has signed fresh security deal with Türkiye to help in its fight against insecurity.

The Daily Reality reports that nine fresh agreements were signed between Türkiye and Nigeria on Tuesday in the presence of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The agreements were signed following deliberations between the two countries and delegation-level meetings at the Presidential Palace in Türkiye’s capital, Ankara.

The two countries signed several agreements and memoranda of understanding MoU covering cooperation in diaspora policy, media and communication, higher education, halal accreditation, military cooperation, and cooperation with diplomatic academies. Both sides also adopted a joint declaration establishing the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO).

While pledging support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism President Erdogan said Ankara reviewed options for closer cooperation in military training and intelligence during talks with President Tinubu.

President Bola Tinubu is on an official visit to Türkiye from January 26 to 28, during which the two countries are expected to sign cooperation deals and hold meetings with business and defence industry leaders to deepen bilateral ties.

“We are ready to share Türkiye’s significant experience in counterterrorism,” Erdogan said, noting that terrorist groups, particularly in Africa’s Sahel region, pose a threat to the continent’s stability.

While addressing a joint press conference on Tuesday, following the talks in Ankara, Erdogan said deliberations also covered trade, energy, investment, education and the defence industry, reiterating both countries’ commitment to achieving a $5 billion bilateral trade volume.

The two sides signed a defence agreement called “Protocol on Military Cooperation”. Türkiye has become a primary alternative to Western and Eastern arms suppliers for Nigeria with the two countries signing a Defence Industry Cooperation (Oct 2021) which provided the legal framework for Nigeria to purchase Turkish military hardware, including Bayraktar TB2 drones, T129 ATAK helicopters, and Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs).

The latest part of the deal was Military Training & Intelligence Agreement (2026) – officially categorised as a Military Cooperation Protocol- allows for Turkish experts to train Nigerian Special Forces and share satellite intelligence for counter-terrorism operations against groups like Boko Haram.

It was gathered that the protocol focuses on three primary areas designed to address Nigeria’s internal security challenges. The Intelligence Sharing (Real-Time) aspect focuses on establishing a direct “intelligence bridge” between the Nigerian National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the Turkish National Intelligence Organization (MİT). This focuses on tracking the movement of illicit arms and monitoring the digital activities of insurgent groups in the Sahel and Lake Chad regions.