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Ghana Appoints Former Real Madrid Coach Carlos Queiroz as Head Coach

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  The Ghana Football Association has named Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026. This was announced in a statement by the Ghana Football Association on Monday. The Portuguese tactician, who previously handled Real Madrid, Manchester United, Portugal and Iran, will lead Ghana at the tournament co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States. “The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association, working with all key stakeholders, has appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the senior national team, the Black Stars,” the statement read. Queiroz brings considerable World Cup pedigree to the role. He guided South Africa to qualification for the 2002 tournament, led Portugal to the knockout rounds in 2010, and was in charge of Iran at the 2014 and 2018 editions. He has also held coaching posts in Egypt, Oman, Japan and Qatar. “Coach Queiroz begins work immediately to prepare the Black Stars for the tournament, which kicks off on June 11, 2026,” the statement added. Ghana are drawn in a group with England, Panama and Croatia. The Black Stars open their campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, Canada.

Atiku’s Suspension Linked to “Indian Hemp Smoking,” Says Ex-SGF

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  Babachir Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, has urged the public to ignore the alleged suspension of Atiku Abubakar, himself, and others, dismissing the group behind it as “Indian hemp smokers.” Babachir is the Vice Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, North East region. A factional chairman of ADC in the state, Raji Zumo, announced during a press conference on Monday the suspension of Atiku, Lawal and the party’s transition committee chairman, Sadiq Ibrahim. Speaking exclusively to PUNCH, Babachir said, “If some people take heavy Indian hemp, they can claim to be President of Nigeria, so don’t consider them as normal people. Indian hemp is at duty.” He said Raji has no reasonable position in the ADC that empowered him to speak on behalf of the party. “Raji’s actions demonstrated the power of Indian hemp against our young men. What is his position in the party in Adamawa State, if not influence of drugs?” he said. Also speaking, the Adamawa State Chairman of the ADC, Mr. Shehu Yohanna, said the statement credited to Raji was not only baseless but also insisted that he had left the party long ago. “Raji was my deputy, before he disappeared to an unknown place, only for him to resurface on social media on Monday, suspending our father, Atiku Abubakar,” he said. An Adamawa State High Court on Thursday suspended the ADC congresses in the state. Justice Ahmed Isa of Yola High Court No. 6, who presided over the case, ordered the suspension of the congresses slated for Thursday until the determination of the case. The court adjourned the case to April 15, 2026, for continuation of hearing. The embattled ADC chairman of the Adamawa State chapter, Shehu Yohanna, approached the court and asked it to halt the congresses due to his exclusion from the planning process. Yohanna filed the suit against Mr. Sadiq Dasin, the state chairman of the transition committee of the ADC, Adamawa State chapter. When PUNCH contacted Lawal, he denied knowledge of the court ruling. “I am in Abuja, so I don’t know about the case. Go and ask those that were in court today. I don’t know anything concerning the court case,” he said. The Adamawa State chapter of the ADC has been engulfed in crisis since last year over the leadership of the party, creating three different factions.

Trump Dismisses Blasphemy Claims Over AI Image Portraying Him as Jesus

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  United States President, Donald Trump has denied allegations that he shared a now-deleted AI-generated image depicting himself as Jesus Christ, after the controversial post sparked widespread backlash on his Truth Social platform. Trump, who spoke to reporters on Monday at the White House in a now-circulating video, dismissed the interpretation of the image, insisting it had been misrepresented. “Well, it wasn’t a picture… I thought it was me as a doctor, and it had to do with Red Cross as a Red Cross worker there, which we support, and only the fake news could come up with that one,” he said. He added that the image was intended to symbolise healing rather than religious imagery. “It’s supposed to be me as a doctor making people better, and I do make people better. I make people a lot better,” he said. The image, which circulated widely online, depicted Trump in flowing robes, bathed in radiant light, with his hands outstretched in a pose suggestive of healing. It also featured figures resembling angels or armed personnel suspended mid-air, alongside fighter jets and fireworks, blending religious symbolism with elements of American nationalism. The post triggered criticism from various quarters, with some describing it as inappropriate and offensive, particularly given its resemblance to Christian imagery associated with Jesus Christ. The controversy also comes amid growing tensions between Trump and Pope Leo XIV, following the former president’s recent remarks criticising the pontiff’s stance on global issues. Trump had described the pope as “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy,” accusing him of unfairly targeting his administration while overlooking actions taken against religious gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the backlash, Trump maintained that the criticism was driven by misinterpretation, reiterating that the image had no religious intent.

2027: INEC Adds 3.4 Million New Voters to Register

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  The Independent National Electoral Commission has recorded over 3.4 million new voters in the ongoing second phase of the Continuous Voter Registration exercise nationwide. According to the commission’s week 13 update released on Wednesday in Abuja, a total of 3,441,121 registrations have been completed as of April 3, covering both online pre-registrations and physical walk-ins. INEC disclosed that 2,068,384 citizens completed their registration online, while 1,372,737 others registered physically at designated centres across the country. State-by-state data showed that Jigawa recorded the highest number of registrants with 201,047, representing 5.84 per cent of the total. Lagos followed with 181,095, while Kano ranked third with 177,681 registrations. Youth participation remained dominant, with citizens aged between 18 and 34 accounting for 2,354,768 registrants, representing 68.43 per cent of the total figure. Gender distribution indicated a higher turnout among women, with females accounting for 1,922,143 registrations (55.86 per cent), compared to 1,518,978 males (44.14 per cent). On occupational breakdown, students formed the largest group of new voters at 1,235,931, representing 35.92 per cent. This was followed by those in business at 701,912 (20.40 per cent) and individuals in farming and fishing at 615,967 (18.28 per cent). INEC also reported that 48,330 Persons with Disabilities registered during the period. The commission noted that the figure remains provisional, explaining that it is “a preliminary figure pending data clean-up during the period for citizens’ claims and objections, followed by the deployment of the Automated Biometric Identification System.” It further stated that voter registration remains suspended in the Federal Capital Territory in line with Section 9(6) of the Electoral Act 2022, following the Area Council Election held on February 21. INEC urged eligible Nigerians who have yet to register to visit its official portals to complete their registration before the deadline.

UCL: Atletico Beat 10-man Barcelona 2-0 in Quarter-Final First Leg

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  Julian Alvarez and Alexander Sorloth’s goals earned Atletico Madrid a commanding 2-0 lead over 10-man Barcelona in a tense Champions League quarter-final first leg clash on Wednesday. The La Liga leaders were on top in the all-Spanish tie at Camp Nou before Pau Cubarsi was sent off for bringing down Atletico’s Giuliano Simeone, who was through on goal. Alvarez whipped home the free-kick and Sorloth doubled their advantage with 20 minutes remaining to give Atletico a strong chance of reaching the semi-finals. Diego Simeone’s side, who have never won the competition, reached the 2014 and 2016 finals but were beaten by rivals Real Madrid on both occasions. “We have things to improve and learn from… we’re happy for the win but there’s a long way to go,” Atletico’s Antoine Griezmann told Movistar. “We’re very far from the semis, we’re 90 or more minutes away… we’re confident but keeping our feet on the ground.” Barca, semi-finalists last season, need to make a huge comeback next Tuesday in Madrid if they are to stand a chance of lifting the trophy they last won in 2015. “It will be tough there but if anyone can do it, it’s us,” Barca defender Ronald Araujo told Movistar. “We’ve got great players, quality, personality — we will look for the comeback.” Atletico knocked Barca out of the Copa del Rey in the semi-finals in March and this was the second of three meetings between the sides in a space of a fortnight. Barcelona started well with Marcus Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, their main threat down the left. On the right flank Atletico tried to suffocate teenage star Lamine Yamal with defensive numbers, allowing Rashford more room. The first chances fell to the England international, who scored against Atletico in La Liga on Saturday, but Musso denied him. At the other end Alvarez, who has been linked with a switch to Barcelona in recent months, tested Joan Garcia. The busy Rashford, constantly escaping beyond Nahuel Molina, volleyed narrowly wide and then rolled a shot into the bottom corner but it was disallowed for offside against Yamal in the build-up. Even though the 18-year-old was up against three Atletico defenders he produced some superb skill to break free of their shackles, but Robin Le Normand blocked his shot. Veteran Atletico midfielder Koke was fortunate to stay on the pitch after fouls on Dani Olmo, Pedri and Yamal were only punished with a yellow card, to Barca supporters’ fury. Hansi Flick’s side were controlling the game with Atletico talisman Griezmann quiet against his former team, but a moment of clumsiness from Cubarsi dramatically gave the visitors the upper hand before half-time. The 19-year-old centre-back, chasing Giuliano Simeone as he ran through on goal to reach a ball in behind Barca’s defence from Alvarez, clattered the Atletico coach’s son from behind. Although referee Istvan Kovacs only produced a yellow card for Cubarsi, he upgraded it to a red after a VAR review. Worse was to come for Barca, with former Manchester City striker Alvarez whipping the free-kick into the top corner. Sorloth doubles down Barca coach Flick took action at half-time, withdrawing the quiet Robert Lewandowski and the booked Pedri for energetic midfield tandem Gavi and Fermin Lopez. It helped the hosts continue to battle well with 10 men, as Barca kept generating chances for Rashford. Yamal sent the forward through on goal but after rounding Musso could only hit the side netting. Le Normand brought down Yamal on the edge of the box and Rashford’s free-kick was tipped over by Musso. It was against the run of play again that Atletico snatched their second. Griezmann and Matteo Ruggieri combined and the latter crossed for target man Sorloth, who outmuscled Gerard Martin and fired past the helpless Garcia. Barca tasted defeat at home for the first time since Camp Nou reopened in November 2025 — and Atletico coach Simeone won at the stadium for the first time in his 14-year career at the helm of the Rojiblancos. Musso later saved from Joao Cancelo and Yamal, but Barca could not pull a goal back, leaving the five-time winners in a tough spot ahead of the second leg next Tuesday.

PSG Beat Liverpool 2-0 in Champions League Quarter-Final First Leg

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  Holders Paris Saint-Germain took a 2-0 lead over Liverpool in their Champions League quarter-final tie as Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored in Wednesday’s first leg in the French capital. Doue’s deflected strike looped over Giorgi Mamardashvili to give PSG the lead before Kvaratskhelia’s cool finish put Luis Enrique’s team in a strong position ahead of next week’s return leg at Anfield.   Details later…

Oyo PDP Guber Aspirant, Debo Akande Unveils Ibadan Hall Of Fame Project, Targets Preservation Of City’s Legacy

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  A governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Dr. Debo Akande, has unveiled plans to establish an Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame as part of efforts to preserve the city’s rich cultural heritage. Akande, who currently serves as the Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) and Executive Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde, disclosed this during a foundation-laying and groundbreaking ceremony held at Bode Amoo Hall, Ibadan House, Oke-Aremo, under the auspices of the 2026 Historical Tour Committee. Speaking at the event, Debo Akande described the initiative as a long-term vision aimed at creating a lasting legacy for Ibadan and ensuring that its history is preserved for future generations. “This is something that has been very paramount in my mind for a long time. It is not just about today; it is about creating a legacy that will stand the test of time,” he said. He expressed concern over what he termed a growing disconnect between younger generations and the history of Ibadan, noting that many youths lack awareness of the city’s significant contributions to Yoruba culture and national development. “If you ask a young person today about key figures in Ibadan’s history, many may not be able to provide answers. Yet, Ibadan has produced individuals who have made remarkable contributions across different sectors, both locally and internationally,” he added. Akande explained that the proposed Hall of Fame would function as both a museum and a knowledge hub, documenting and showcasing the achievements of past rulers, warriors, professionals, and other distinguished indigenes. “Where is this history documented? Where can people go to see what our heroes have done and when they did it? This project is about answering those questions and preserving our identity as a people,” he said. In his remarks, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief (Barr.) Sulaiman Ajewole, said the project was conceived to immortalise the legacies of Ibadan’s heroes and heroines. Ajewole explained that the Hall of Fame idea originated from a historical subcommittee within the council, and would serve as a platform to honour past rulers, warriors, philanthropists, politicians, and community leaders. “This is how we preserve our history. By documenting and celebrating those who have contributed to the growth of Ibadan, we are ensuring that their names are not forgotten,” he said. He commended Akande for championing the initiative, describing him as a worthy ambassador of Ibadanland, and expressed optimism that the project would be completed within a short time. According to him, the Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame will stand as a major cultural landmark in the city upon completion.

Abiodun Presents Ceremonial Sword to Tinubu, Advocates Ongoing Crackdown on Crime

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  Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his recent visit to the state, during which several key infrastructure projects were commissioned. Abiodun disclosed this in a Facebook post on Tuesday, where he also revealed that he presented the President with a ceremonial sword as a symbolic gesture. “Yesterday, I had the honour and privilege to visit and thank the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic, for the historic visit to Ogun State to commission the Gateway International Airport, Gateway Airlines, welcome the first cargo airline, and other landmark projects,” he said. The governor explained that the presentation of the sword was tied to Tinubu’s traditional title and leadership role, urging him to continue efforts to tackle national challenges. “I presented him with a ceremonial sword in his esteemed capacity as the Jagaban (leader of warriors/conquerors), urging him to continue his war on crime and criminality, anti-corruption, and particularly as he embarks on the second-term re-election,” Abiodun added. He also reaffirmed the state’s political support for the President. “Assuring him that in Ogun State, we are solidly behind him,” he stated. Recall Tinubu on Saturday visited Ogun State to commission the Gateway International Airport located in Iperu, alongside the unveiling of the state-owned airline, Gateway Air. The event marked a major milestone in the state’s infrastructure drive, with the projects expected to boost transportation, logistics and economic activities within the region. The commissioning ceremony, which was broadcast live, also underscored collaboration between the federal and state governments in advancing development initiatives. The President is also expected to inspect and commission additional projects across sectors, including transportation, energy, agriculture and security, as part of efforts to strengthen economic growth in the state.

FIFA Approves Okonkwo’s International Switch from England to Nigeria

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  The International Federation of Association Football has officially confirmed goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo’s change of international allegiance from England to Nigeria, making the 24-year-old Wrexham shot-stopper eligible to represent the Super Eagles. The approval was documented on FIFA’s Change of Association platform on April 6, 2026. Checks by PUNCH Online on Tuesday show Okonkwo’s new national association listed as the Nigeria Football Federation on the FIFA website, replacing his former allegiance, The Football Association Ltd of England. Born on September 9, 2001, in Camden, London, to Nigerian (Igbo) parents, Okonkwo stands at 1.98–1.99m tall and began his career in Arsenal’s academy at age eight. He represented England at youth level between 2015 and 2019, featuring for the U-15, U-16, U-17 and U-18 teams. But he has never featured for the senior Three Lions team, clearing the path for the switch under FIFA eligibility rules. Okonkwo is currently the first-choice goalkeeper for Wrexham in the EFL Championship following a permanent move from Arsenal. He has impressed this season with consistent performances and key saves, helping the club compete in the second tier of English football. His form has drawn attention as a potential high-quality addition to Nigeria’s goalkeeping options. The switch followed discussions with Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle during the Unity Cup in London last year. However, administrative procedures ruled him out of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Okonkwo’s move adds depth to the Super Eagles’ goalkeeping options, which currently include Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye.  

Resident Doctors Halt Strike, Set Wednesday for Work Resumption

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  The National Association of Resident Doctors on Tuesday announced the suspension of its planned strike after reaching an understanding with the Federal Government on key demands, including payment of outstanding allowances and improvements in doctors’ welfare. The decision was taken after an emergency meeting of the association’s National Executive Council, where members reviewed assurances from government representatives and resolved to give dialogue another chance. NARD said the suspension was informed by “progress made” in negotiations, particularly commitments on the prompt payment of salary arrears, hazard allowances, and steps toward resolving issues surrounding the Medical Residency Training Fund. Although the association did not declare a full resolution of the dispute, it noted that the government had shown “renewed willingness” to address the concerns that triggered the strike threat. Resident doctors in Nigeria have repeatedly clashed with the Federal Government over welfare issues, including irregular salary payments, inadequate hazard allowances, and poor hospital infrastructure. The recurring disputes have contributed to brain drain in the health sector, with many Nigerian doctors seeking better opportunities abroad. The University College Hospital President, Dr Uthman Adedeji, disclosed this on Tuesday, noting that the development is in line with the directive from the national body. Adedeji said the strike was suspended after an Extraordinary National Executive Council meeting, during which NARD directed members nationwide to resume by 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday. He explained that the decision followed the federal government’s reversal of its stance on the revised professional allowance and a commitment to address other outstanding issues raised by the association. The crisis stems from the implementation of a revised Professional Allowance Table negotiated between NARD and the Federal Government following a prolonged strike in 2025. The agreement included improved remuneration packages for resident doctors, covering call duty allowances, shift allowances, rural posting incentives, and non-clinical duty payments. Although implementation was initially scheduled to commence in January 2026, delays pushed the rollout to February. However, NARD alleged that the government is now planning to discontinue the process by April, a move the association says undermines trust and violates prior agreements. Details later…

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