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From Youth Parliament to Grassroots Leadership: J’Icon’s Next Chapter (INTERVIEW)

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From Youth Parliament to Grassroots Leadership: J’Icon’s Next Chapter (INTERVIEW) INTERVIEW SESSION WITH JOSHUA OJO ADEREMI AKIN (J’ICON) Aspiring Executive Chairman, Oriire Local Government 1. Can we meet you? Thank you. My name is Joshua Ojo Aderemi Akin, popularly known as J’Icon. I am a proud son of the family of the Are-Ago of Kedo in Ward 5, Oriire Local Government Area. I studied Urban and Regional Planning at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso. I completed my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at the Oyo State House of Assembly during the 2018/2019 service year. 2. You’ve held several leadership positions over the years. Could you briefly tell us about your leadership journey? Leadership has been a defining part of my journey for many years. I have served in various student and youth organizations since 2011. I was National Secretary of the Ogbomoso Students’ Union, Vice President and Pioneer Senate President of the Federation of Oriire Students’ Union (FORSU), and one of the co-founders of the Oriire Youth Council (OYC). I also represented Oriire State Constituency in the Oyo State Youth Parliament, where I served as Chief Whip and Public Relations Officer of the Ogbomoso Caucus. These opportunities have equipped me with valuable experience in leadership, advocacy, and public service. 3.  You also worked in government. How has that prepared you for this aspiration? I served as Special Assistant on New Media to the former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Joshua Olagunju Ojo, and later as New Media Aide to Professors Raphael Afonja and Dahud Shangodoyin, former Commissioners for Public Works and Transport in Oyo State. Those experiences exposed me to governance, public administration, policy implementation, and the importance of responsive leadership. 4.  What inspired your decision to contest for the office of Executive Chairman? I recently completed my tenure at the Oyo State Youth Parliament. Rather than seeking a second term, I chose to challenge myself by offering my services from a greater platform. My passion for serving the people of Oriire did not begin today; it dates back to my days as a student union activist at LAUTECH. As I watched our local security outfits respond to the recent security challenges confronting our communities, I realized they needed greater motivation, improved training, and better resources to perform more effectively. I also concluded that one of the best ways to empower our people and drive meaningful development is to serve from a position where I can influence policies and mobilize the necessary support. I believe Oriire deserves empathetic, visionary, and people-centred leadership. After deep consultation, careful reflection, and prayer, I decided to offer myself for greater service. 5.  Security has become a major concern in Oriire. What is your position on this? Security will be the foremost priority of my administration because no meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of fear. My administration will work closely with security agencies, the Amotekun Corps, community vigilante groups, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and neighbouring local governments to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve community policing, and restore confidence so that our people can live, farm, and do business safely. 6. You acknowledged the efforts of the state and local governments in your declaration. Why was that important? Leadership should be about continuity where progress has been made. I appreciate Governor Seyi Makinde for his investments in security and intelligence-led operations, as well as his support for the Amotekun Corps. I also commend the Executive Chairman of Oriire Local Government, Hon. Michael Alabi Olateju, for working with security agencies during these challenging times. While there is still more work to be done, it is important to acknowledge genuine efforts where they have been made. 7.  Beyond security, what other priorities do you have for Oriire? My vision is centred on five key areas: strengthening security, improving road infrastructure, providing access to potable water, empowering youths and women through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship, and improving the quality of basic education. These are practical areas that directly impact the lives of our people. 8.  Road infrastructure has remained a challenge in many rural communities. What is your plan? Oriire has nearly 800 communities, and connectivity is essential for development. Improved road infrastructure will facilitate agriculture, boost commerce, improve access to healthcare, and stimulate economic activities across our communities. My administration will pursue strategic partnerships and advocate for road projects that connect our communities and open up economic opportunities. 9.  How do you intend to address unemployment among young people? Youth empowerment is central to my vision. We will revive the Vocational Training Centre within the Local Government Secretariat and introduce practical skills acquisition programmes, entrepreneurship support, and empowerment initiatives that will enable our youths and women to become economically productive. 10.  Education is also one of your priorities. What should the people expect? During my tenure at the Oyo State Youth Parliament, I partnered with the Oriire Youth Council to introduce an annual Pre-UTME Quiz Competition beginning in 2024. The initiative was designed to prepare candidates for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) while encouraging academic excellence among our young people. Outstanding participants received free UTME registration sponsored by our partners and supporters. Going forward, I intend to expand similar initiatives to include inter-primary and inter-secondary school academic competitions across Oriire Local Government. Education is the foundation of sustainable development. We will work to improve learning environments, support quality basic education, and ensure that children in Oriire have the opportunity to compete favourably with their peers anywhere in Nigeria. 11. Some people may say you are still young. Why should they trust you with this responsibility? Leadership is not defined by age but by vision, competence, integrity, character, and a proven record of service. My years of leadership in student organizations, youth development, legislative advocacy, and public service have prepared me for this responsibility. I believe I have the energy, experience, and commitment required to serve effectively. 12. Where do you see Oriire in the next four years … Read more

Bandits threatened to kill Oyo pupils if troops came closer — Defence Minister

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  The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has revealed that the bandits who abducted pupils and teachers from schools in Oyo State warned they would kill the victims if security operatives attempted to move closer to their hideout. Musa said this in a preview clip of an interview with News Central, shared on Wednesday ahead of its broadcast on the NC Exclusive programme on Friday. He explained that the kidnappers were using the children as leverage to secure the release of their commanders in military custody. “For whatever reason, they are looking for leverage because we have some of their commanders with us and they feel taking these kids and holding them to ransom will make us release their commander. Shoot terrorists without delay, defence minister orders troops Don’t wait for order before shooting terrorists, Defence minister tells soldiers “And now they’re threatening when we wanted to take action against them that if we come any closer, they’re going to kill all the kids,” he said. The minister’s comments come nearly eight weeks after gunmen abducted 39 pupils and seven teachers from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, and two other schools in Esinle, in the Oriire Local Government Area of the state, on May 15. Speaking further on measures to curb banditry and kidnapping, Musa backed the death penalty for perpetrators, saying weak laws had emboldened criminals. “I think we should do that. There must be deterrence. The laws are soft, and that’s why people take advantage. If they know once you commit an offence, there must be punishment,” he added.

World Cup: Egypt Coach Claims FIFA, Referee Favoured Argentina

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  Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has alleged that FIFA and the match officials showed favouritism towards defending champions Argentina following his team’s dramatic 3-2 defeat in the Round of 16. Egypt surrendered a two-goal lead on Tuesday as Argentina staged a remarkable comeback, inspired by Lionel Messi, who created one goal and scored the equaliser before Enzo Fernández netted a stoppage-time winner. The Egyptians were left frustrated after a goal was ruled out following a VAR review, while officials declined to review an incident in which they believed Mohamed Salah was fouled by Alexis Mac Allister in the build-up to Argentina’s winning goal. Speaking after the match, Hassan alleged that external influences affected the outcome. “We looked better than the reigning champions—better in everything—but the result was influenced by internal factors on the pitch and external factors off it. “Perhaps they wanted to keep the world champion in the competition. Perhaps they wanted Messi to stay in the running. In football, there are sometimes external factors that go beyond the technical aspects. The world champion received support at every level,” he said. Hassan also questioned the appointment of French referee François Letexier, claiming Egypt had raised concerns before the match. “There seems to be pressure from the Argentine side on this outcome. We were objecting to the selection of the referee because of the French situation, but everybody has to suffer at some point, and we suffered,” he added. The coach further criticised the officiating, insisting Egypt had been denied a penalty and unfairly had a second goal ruled out. “We haven’t seen respect or fair play. A penalty was ruled out. It was not even checked by the VAR, and our second goal was remarkably, for whatever reason, disallowed. “I want to put it in beautiful words and say, ‘Hard luck,’ but we have been treated unfairly, and it has been an injustice,” he said. Hassan disclosed that he confronted Letexier after the final whistle. “What I told the referee was, ‘This is unfair.’ I said maybe he isWorld Cup: Egypt Coach Claims FIFA, Referee Favoured Argentina carrying a scar or has something to hide. If somebody is trying to hide something, they often fail to hide it,” he added. Egypt forward, Mostafa Zico, also questioned the officiating after the defeat. “Hard luck. The match was in our hands and slipped away at the last moment. Strange things happened on the pitch. “We were hard done by today, and everyone saw that. We were winning 2-0. After the 2-0 result, everything went against us. I don’t even know why the second goal was disallowed, but we must look for a solution,” he stated.

France, Morocco Set for World Cup Quarter-Final Rematch

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  France will continue their quest for a third FIFA World Cup title on Thursday when they face Morocco in a highly anticipated quarter-final clash, as the tournament’s star-studded last-eight stage gets under way. After a month of scintillating action that has dispelled pre-tournament anxieties over sky-high ticket prices and geopolitics, the biggest, boldest and most logistically complex World Cup ever staged has been whittled down to eight teams. France, who have emerged as the outstanding team of the tournament after a series of dazzling attacking displays, face arguably their toughest test so far in the shape of African champions Morocco at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, outside Boston. Les Bleus have surged into the last eight in style, scoring 14 goals in five games — seven of them from in-form captain Kylian Mbappe. Mbappe is one of four star strikers who are leading the chase for the World Cup’s Golden Boot as the tournament enters the home stretch. Argentina’s Lionel Messi tops the scoring chart with eight, Mbappe and Norway’s Erling Haaland have seven each and England’s Harry Kane has six. Thursday’s opening quarter-final is a repeat of the 2022 World Cup semi-final in Qatar, won 2-0 by France, who would go on to lose in the final against Argentina. – Tactical nous – Morocco meanwhile have looked impressive en route to the last eight, easing through the group phase before battling past the Netherlands in the last 32 and swatting aside Canada in the round of 16 last weekend. The Atlas Lions will threaten France with a mix of technical quality, physicality and tactical nous under the guidance of coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who masterminded Morocco’s shock victory in the under-20 World Cup last year. The winner will advance to a semi-final showdown against the victor of Friday’s tie in Los Angeles between European champions Spain and Belgium. The Spaniards eliminated Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal in the last 16 on Monday to advance with a clinical 1-0 victory. While La Roja haven’t hit the dizzying attacking heights of France, they will fancy their chances of navigating a Belgium side who have slowly built momentum over the course of the tournament. Belgium struggled through the group phase with lacklustre draws in their first two matches before routing New Zealand 5-1 to secure their place in the knockout rounds. They came back from the dead in the last 32 to beat Senegal 3-2, when they had trailed 2-0 with four minutes to go, before dismantling the United States 4-1 with arguably their best display of the tournament in Seattle on Monday. – Houdini act – On the other side of the draw, holders Argentina face Switzerland in Kansas City on Saturday after staggering into the quarter-finals. The South Americans, aiming to become the first back-to-back champions since Brazil in 1962, were given an almighty scare by Cape Verde in the last 32 before winning 3-2 in extra-time. On Tuesday, Messi inspired an incredible Houdini act in a jaw-dropping 3-2 defeat of Egypt in Atlanta, when the reigning champions recovered from 2-0 down with 11 minutes of normal time remaining to snatch victory. Messi was reduced to tears of relief after that roller coaster victory. “We wanted to stay in the tournament,” the Argentina captain said afterwards. “We didn’t want today to be the end, we didn’t want to go home.” The winner of Argentina-Switzerland will face either Norway or England in the semi-finals in Atlanta next week. England advanced to the last eight on Sunday with a pulsating 3-2 defeat of Mexico in the Azteca Stadium, winning an extraordinary, drama-filled contest which has given the Three Lions renewed belief in their bid to win a first major title since 1966. England’s talismanic midfield star Jude Bellingham says the victory reinforced his belief that the Three Lions can claim the ultimate prize — and wants his team-mates to feel the same. “I’m convinced of it and I hope that a win like this can give them that same “I’m convinced of it and I hope that a win like this can give them that same conviction that they’re top players and we shouldn’t fear anyone,” Bellingham said. Blocking England’s path is a formidable Norway side spearheaded by the irrepressible Haaland, who scored both goals in Sunday’s last 16 win over Brazil. “We have to study England but obviously we have seen them in their previous games in the tournament and they will be a very strong opponent, but hopefully it will be a very even and tight game,” Norway coach Stale Solbakken said. AFP

Kwara Community Rejoices as Abducted Worshippers Return

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  Families and residents of the Omugo community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have welcomed with joy the return of the three remaining members of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), Omugo, who regained their freedom after spending 105 days in captivity. The three women, including a hearing-impaired widow, were among eight worshippers abducted by suspected kidnappers who invaded the church during a Sunday service on March 22, 2026. While five of the victims reportedly died in captivity, the remaining three regained their freedom following a coordinated security offensive against suspected kidnappers operating in forests along the Kwara-Kogi border. In a statement issued on Tuesday, President of the Omugo Development Union, Oladimeji Thompson, described the return of the three women as a moment of “mixed emotions,” saying the community was celebrating their freedom while mourning those who lost their lives in captivity. He said, “With grateful hearts, we give all glory to Almighty God because the three remaining mothers in captivity have finally regained their freedom and have been reunited with their families. “Indeed, God has once again shown that He hears and answers the prayers of His people. To Him alone be all the glory.” Reflecting on the ordeal, Thompson recalled that the attack on the church remained one of the darkest moments in the history of Omugo, noting that the community endured 105 days of fear, anxiety and unceasing prayers while hoping for the safe return of the victims. “For 105 painful days, our community lived in fear, anxiety, uncertainty and unceasing prayers. Yet, we never gave up hope. We trusted in God, stood together as one people and believed that He would make a way where there seemed to be none,” he said. The community leader also paid tribute to the five worshippers who died in the kidnappers’ den, describing their deaths as a painful loss that would never be forgotten. “Even as we celebrate this joyful reunion, our hearts remain heavy with grief as we remember the five precious worshippers who lost their lives in the kidnappers’ den,” Thompson said. “On behalf of the Omugo Development Union, I extend our heartfelt condolences to their families, ECWA Church, Omugo, and the entire community. May the Almighty God comfort every grieving family and grant eternal rest to the souls of our departed brothers and sisters,” he added. Thompson commended security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Armed Forces, local vigilante groups and other security personnel for their roles in securing the victims’ release. “We sincerely appreciate the government at all levels, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Armed Forces, local vigilante groups, and all security personnel whose courage, professionalism and relentless efforts contributed to the successful rescue of the remaining captives,” he said. He also praised the Oloro of Oro Ago, the Olomugo of Omugo and the Council of Chiefs for providing leadership and encouragement throughout the period of uncertainty, while thanking sons and daughters of Omugo, both at home and in the diaspora, for their financial support, prayers and solidarity. Calling for sustained unity, Thompson urged displaced residents to return home, assuring them that adequate arrangements had been put in place to safeguard lives and property. “I also encourage you all to return home, as all arrangements have been made to ensure the safety of lives and property in our community,” he stated. Earlier, the Joint Security Watch, Kwara South, said the victims were released after sustained pressure was mounted on the kidnappers during the coordinated security operation along the Kwara-Kogi border. “A fierce and coordinated operation by Kogi State Joint Security Forces, comprising the military, police, hunters and vigilante groups, has forced the release of many captives held in forests along the Kwara-Kogi border,” the group said. “The relieving news filtered in last night as freed victims began reuniting with their families,” it added. Also confirming the return of the ECWA worshippers, the pastor-in-charge of the church, Rev. Sunday Omole, said the church had received the three women and appealed for prayers for their recovery. “With great joy in my heart, I announce that we already received back three of the eight people kidnapped from ECWA Omugo this afternoon. Join us as we pray for their quick recovery in Jesus’ name, amen,” Omole said. Efforts to obtain an official reaction from the Kwara State Police Command were unsuccessful, as calls and a text message sent to the Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, were not responded to as of the time of filing this report.

JUST IN: Tinubu Orders Investigations into Google, Meta, and X for Alleged Exploitation of News Content

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  President Bola Tinubu has directed the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to investigate major global technology companies and Generative Artificial Intelligence platforms over allegations of anti-competitive practices and unlawful exploitation of the content of Nigerian media organisations. The move followed a joint petition submitted to the Presidency by the Nigerian Press Organisation, an umbrella body comprising the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria and the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers. The directive, conveyed to the FCCPC through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, could open a new chapter in the relationship between global digital platforms and Nigeria’s media industry, which has for years complained about declining revenues and the increasing use of its content by technology companies without compensation. A statement issued on Monday by the Director of Corporate Affairs at the FCCPC, Ondaje Ijagwu, said the investigation would focus on allegations against major technology companies, including Meta, Alphabet, which owns Google, and X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as certain Generative AI platforms operating in Nigeria. The statement partly read, “Big technology companies have come under the radar of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission following allegations of anti-competitive practices, unlawful exploitation of news content, and other potentially unfair market conduct. “Also to be investigated are Generative Artificial Intelligence platforms operating in Nigeria. This is in sequel to a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR to FCCPC to look into a joint petition submitted to the Presidency by the Nigerian Press Organisation.” I The media organisations alleged that the activities of the firms could be undermining fair competition, threatening the commercial viability of Nigerian media organisations and violating the legitimate rights of content creators and publishers. “The investigation promises to open a new vista in Nigeria’s media history. In recent years, concerns have been raised by the Nigerian media industry over the growing impact of certain digital platforms on the sustainability of the country’s news ecosystem. “Specifically, the NPO is increasinglyu uncomfortable with major technology companies including Meta, Alphabet, X (formerly Twitter), and certain Generative AI platforms, citing practices capable of undermining fair competition, the commercial viability of Nigerian media organisations, and the legitimate rights of content creators and publishers,” the statement added. The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello, said the commission would conduct an independent, transparent and evidence-based investigation into the allegations. “We recognise the strategic importance of the media to Nigeria’s democracy and the equally significant role of technology in driving innovation and economic growth. Our responsibility is to objectively determine the facts and ensure that competition within the digital ecosystem remains fair, transparent, and consistent with Nigerian law,” said Bello. Clarifying the issues, Bello added, “This inquiry is not directed at any entity by presumption of wrongdoing. Rather, it is an opportunity to carefully examine the facts, hear from all affected parties, and determine whether any conduct has resulted in anti-competitive outcomes or unfair business practices. Every party will be accorded a fair opportunity to present relevant information before any conclusions are reached.” In specific terms, FCCPC will determine whether the practices in question constitute a breach of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018 or any other applicable law. According to the commission, the investigation will determine whether the practices complained of constitute a violation of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018, or any other applicable law. The FCCPC said the probe would focus on allegations of market dominance and possible anti-competitive conduct by global technology companies. Another major area of investigation is the alleged unauthorised extraction, scraping, ingestion and commercial utilisation of copyrighted news articles, broadcast materials and other original journalistic content for the development and training of Generative Artificial Intelligence models. The commission will also examine complaints by Nigerian publishers that they have been denied meaningful opportunities to negotiate fair compensation and appropriate commercial arrangements for the use of their journalistic content. The development comes amid growing global concerns over the relationship between media organisations andJUST IN: Tinubu Orders Inquiry into Google, Meta, and X for Alleged Exploitation of News Content technology companies that distribute and monetise news content. Several countries have in recent years introduced regulations compelling digital platforms to negotiate compensation agreements with publishers. In South Africa, sustained agitation by media organisations and investigations by the South African Competition Commission culminated in an agreement under which Google would pay South African news media R688m, equivalent to about $40m, annually for between three and five years. The outcome of the Nigerian investigation could have far-reaching implications for the future of journalism and digital regulation in the country. The probe also comes barely a year after the FCCPC secured a landmark judgment against Meta over alleged violations of Nigeria’s competition and consumer protection laws, including data privacy breaches. The commission imposed a $220m penalty on the technology giant, although the company has appealed the decision. The latest investigation signals the Federal Government’s determination to ensure that global technology firms operating in Nigeria comply with local laws and that Nigerian publishers receive fair value for the content that sustains the digital information ecosystem.

Tony Elumelu to Step Down as UBA Chairman, Successor Named

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  United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA) has announced that its Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, will retire from the bank’s Board of Directors effective August 21, 2026, marking the end of his tenure as chairman. “Under his chairmanship, UBA deepened its pan-African expansion strategy and now operates in 20 African countries, alongside operations in four global financial centres. “The bank currently serves more than 50 million customers across its network. His retirement comes as Nigerian banks continue to align with the CBN’s corporate governance guidelines, which impose a maximum tenure of 12 years for non-executive directors to strengthen board independence and governance standards.” Reacting, Elumelu on his Facebook acknowledged his years of service as the chairman of an “African institution that can compete globally, while being deeply committed to our continent’s development.” In the post titled, “Celebrating an African Institution: My Farewell from UBA,” he said, “I have never been able to look at Africa and see only borders. Where many see fifty-four separate markets, I saw one continent, one destiny — waiting to be transformed, waiting to be believed in. “Africa does not have a shortage of brilliant women and men. Africa suffers a shortage of institutions that outlast brilliant women and men. Today is a day of huge excitement – of potential delivered and continued opportunity. Leadership is not about holding onto a position, but knowing when an institution is ready for the next chapter. “I conclude my tenure as Chairman of the Group Board of United Bank for Africa (UBA) on August 21, 2026, after twelve years and decades of association with this extraordinary institution, with profound gratitude, immense pride, and most importantly – great optimism for the future.” He maintained that his objective of building the bank was to connect Africa to itself and the world and to build something that would outlive individuals. Elumelu continued, “Today, that vision is reality. UBA Group serves over 50 million customers, operates across 20 African countries and four continents, supports trade and investment, and demonstrates that an African institution can compete globally, while being deeply committed to our continent’s development. “This success belongs to generations of dedicated colleagues, exceptional management, visionary directors, loyal customers, supportive regulators, committed shareholders, and partners who believed in our shared purpose.” He further welcomed his successor, Nnorom, to lead the bank, stressing that he believed in his experience, leadership, and deep understanding of the bank, while urging shareholders, customers, partners, and the entire UBA family to extend to him the same trust and support they have entrusted him with over the years. The bank disclosed this on Monday during its board meeting, asserting that the process was necessary after the completion of the maximum 12-year tenure for non-executive directors prescribed by the Central Bank of Nigeria. The financial institution also named a current non-executive director on the board, Emmanuel Nnorom, as its incoming group chairman, whose appointment will take effect on the same day Elumelu retires. In a statement released shortly after the meeting, the bank said, “The Board places on record its profound appreciation to Elumelu for his visionary leadership and exceptional contribution to the strategic vision and institutional strength of the UBA Group.

COURT GRANTS SOWORE BAIL, GIVES FRESH TERM

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  A Federal Judge has set aside an arrest warrant against activist and politician, Omoyele Sowore, and granted him bail after revoking an earlier one for failing to show up in his ongoing trial. An earlier bail granted Sowore was revoked and a warrant for his arrest ordered by the court for failing to show up for his trial on June 16. Sowore who is on trial for allegedly defaming Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu was admitted to bail in the sum of 200 Million Naira along with two sureties. One of the sureties must be a traditional ruler from his community Kiribo, a town in the Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. The trial judge, Mohammed Umar, ruled that the second defendant must be a resident of Abuja and an owner of a landed property. The court also ordered the prosecution to verify the sureties. Lastly, Justice Umar ordered the defendant to deposit his passport with the court. The court expressed satisfaction with the defendant’s ‘readiness in the case.’ He adds that Sowore did not wait till he was arrested. The judge expressed satisfaction that the defendant readily makes himself available for trial. ’He came to court to face his trial,’ the judge said. ‘This shows that he is set to face his trial with all seriousness,’ the judge further added. On the aspect of the defendant’s passport, his counsel, Raphael Adakole, said it is presently at the United States Embassy in Lagos and would need to be there in person to get it. The lawyer thereby made an undertaking assuring that their client would be their responsibility. He assures that Sowore would be present to face trial. Adakole said meeting that request was crucial as it is part of the terms of bail handed down by the court. Following this request, the trial judge gave a ruling handing the defendant over to his legal team headed by Senior Advocate Adeyinka Fusika. The judge adjourned the case till July 6 for Sowore to open his defense.

World Cup: Morocco Victory Triggers Celebrations, Arrests in Netherlands

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  Morocco’s dramatic penalty shoot-out victory over the Netherlands sparked jubilant celebrations across The Hague on Tuesday, where a large Moroccan community resides, but the festivities were also marred by clashes with police that led to several arrests. In the Schilderswijk district of the city, AFP reporters saw fans draped in Moroccan flags dancing and cheering in the streets, as car horns blared and firecrackers exploded. Several hundred supporters gathered at a crossroads in the district, kicking a ball in the air and celebrating wildly with passengers of passing vehicles, sometimes jumping on cars. Around one hour into the festivities,however, the mood soured as riot police arrived on the scene, deploying water cannon and conducting baton charges to clear the crowd. The last-32 match in Monterrey ended in a thrilling 1-1 draw after extra time, leading to a nail-biting penalty shoot-out. After several misses on both sides, Morocco striker Ismael Saibari, who plays in the Netherlands for PSV Eindhoven, slotted home the winning penalty to set up a last-16 clash with co-hosts Canada. AFP

World Cup: France Face Sweden Test with Mbappe, Dembele, Olise

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  France are set to deploy their star-studded attack against Sweden in Tuesday’s World Cup Round of 32 encounter, as Erling Haaland aims to guide Norway past Ivory Coast and into the last 16. Co-hosts Mexico, meanwhile, bid to continue their journey in front of a fervent crowd at the Estadio Azteca when they take on Ecuador. The Swedish defence is bracing to face not only Kylian Mbappe, who has scored four times already in this tournament, but also Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele, who notched a hat-trick in a 4-1 win against Norway in the group stage. Completing the French trio, Michael Olise’s runs at defenders have been creating havoc. With attacking swagger and midfield flair, France appear well-placed to reach their third final in as many World Cups. The only question mark might be their defence — and Sweden have their own high-profile forward line who will try to unlock it, although Premier League duo Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres have not fully fired yet at this tournament. If France get past Sweden, they will face not Germany — who were beaten in a penalty shootout for the first time in World Cup history on Monday — but their conquerors Paraguay. France coach Didier Deschamps said Sweden had “nothing to lose”. “Sweden are playing for their survival. Obviously they will do everything to win the game,” Deschamps said on Monday. “We need to stay humble, maintain our determination and concentration. In the group stage winning the first game gave us some margin for error, but now we have no second chances.” France came into the World Cup as one of the leading contenders to win the trophy, following their triumph in 2018 and defeat on penalties to Argentina in the 2022 final. Sweden’s route to the World Cup was unusual — they finished bottom of their qualifying group but were parachuted into the play-offs thanks to their performances in the UEFA Nations League. They reached the knockout rounds in North America, despite a 5-1 drubbing by the Netherlands, as one of the best third-placed teams in the group phase. Sweden coach Graham Potter said his team would have to produce something special to beat France. “They have quality all over… They have won the World Cup before and they have a fantastic manager,” Englishman Potter said Monday. “An exciting challenge awaits us, and we will have to play the game of our lives, clearly.” ‘Powerhouse’ Haaland Haaland, another potent attacking force at this World Cup with four goals in two games, will be fully rested when he comes up against the Ivory Coast in Dallas after he was not used in the defeat to France. Norway coach Stale Solbakken hailed the leadership of his “powerhouse”, hailing Haaland as “one of the best players in the world”. “He’s a great leader for us, he leads by example on the pitch,” he said. “He has something that maybe you can’t train so much to reach it, the sniff for goals, the feeling that the ball will land at your feet… and I think that is his biggest strength.” Mexico meanwhile have the added bonus of knowing that if they beat Ecuador, they will remain in their capital city to face the winner of the tie between England and the Democratic Republic of Congo. On a dramatic day of action Monday, Paraguay stunned Germany in a penalty shootout of high drama after holding them to a 1-1 draw after extra time in Foxborough. “This qualification is for all Paraguayans who believed in us,” coach Gustavo Alfaro said — and Paraguay’s president called a national holiday to celebrate. Morocco won their own shootout to eliminate the Netherlands after an enthralling contest in Monterrey as goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved the Netherlands’ fifth penalty from Crysencio Summerville. Then striker Ismael Saibari stepped up to blast home the winning effort for the Atlas Lions. And Brazil came from behind to overcome Japan 2-1 in the day’s first game, and will face the winner of Norway’s game against the Ivory Coast on Sunday AFP

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