Police in Zimbabwe have arrested 95 demonstrators following protests in Harare on Monday, where they demanded the resignation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The protesters were charged with “promoting public violence” and “breaches of peace,” with many identified through social media posts and a WhatsApp group, as well as by police presence at the scene. Despite the calls for protests, very few people turned out, as many Zimbabweans opted to stay home in light of a heavy security presence.

The protests were organized by Blessed Geza, a veteran of the ruling Zanu-PF party, who opposes moves by a faction within the party to keep Mnangagwa in power beyond the end of his second term in 2028. Geza is advocating for Vice-President Constantine Chiwenga to replace Mnangagwa. He had previously urged Zimbabweans to “fill the streets” in a final effort to force the president to step down.

Social media videos shared during the protests depicted the police using tear gas to disperse crowds, including one in Harare’s President Robert Mugabe Square. In another video, a woman expressed her determination to stay despite police attempts to break up the protest, stating, “We’re not going anywhere, we’re going to stay here.” One elderly protester, on crutches, also shared her frustrations, highlighting the tough conditions many Zimbabweans face, including taking care of grandchildren due to economic hardships.

While only a small number of protesters were arrested, the low turnout raised questions about the level of support for the protest movement. Farai Murapira, from the ruling Zanu-PF party, downplayed the significance of the social media-driven protests, calling them not reflective of reality. However, political scientist Ibbo Mandaza argued that the shutdown was a significant political statement, as businesses across cities were shuttered, streets were empty, schools closed, and public transport was scarce. The presence of roadblocks and heightened security throughout the day further underscored the tense atmosphere.

The protests were fueled by rumors that President Mnangagwa was planning to extend his second term until 2030, despite the Zimbabwean constitution limiting presidents to two five-year terms. While Mnangagwa has assured the public that he intends to step down in three years, many remain skeptical, especially in light of the widespread support among his backers for the idea of his extended leadership.

Geza, who is vocally opposed to the extension of Mnangagwa’s presidency, has called for the president to step down, warning that failure to do so would result in his removal. The clergy in Zimbabwe has since urged calm, warning that any unrest could further destabilize the already fragile nation.

A volcanic eruption in south-west Iceland has prompted the evacuation of both residents and tourists near the town of Grindavik, a fishing community close to the famous Blue Lagoon spa. The volcano has been erupting since the morning, spewing lava and smoke in a dramatic display of orange and red. A large crack, measuring 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles) in length, has opened up in the ground, and multiple earthquakes have been recorded in the area throughout the day.

Local authorities have urged people to “leave the danger zone,” with Grindavik’s police commissioner, Ulfar Ludviksson, stating that most residents had complied. However, a small group of individuals chose to stay in their homes, despite the increasing risk of lava flows reaching the town. Experts, including Rikke Pedersen from the Nordic Volcanological Centre, expressed concern that the town might be directly threatened by lava, especially as protective barriers around the town were breached by new fissures.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) has confirmed that significant cracking has occurred within Grindavik, including a break in a hot water pipe. Although the volcanic activity eased somewhat in the early afternoon, the eruption continues to pose significant risks to the surrounding area.

While roads in and out of Grindavik remain closed, flights have not been affected at this time. This eruption follows a mass evacuation of the town’s 4,000 residents in 2023 due to ongoing volcanic threats. The latest eruption’s magma flow has stretched to about 11 kilometers (6.8 miles), the longest measured since November 2023, with the magma corridor extending further northeast than previous eruptions.

The eruption began around 09:45 local time (10:45 BST) and follows a series of earthquakes in the Sundhnúk crater range. Iceland, sitting on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, is home to 33 active volcano systems, with volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula having occurred repeatedly since 2021. The last major volcanic period in the region lasted for decades, about 800 years ago.

As of now, gas pollution from the eruption is expected to move northeast, towards the capital area, depending on wind direction. The situation continues to develop, and authorities are closely monitoring the situation for further risks.

President Vladimir Putin has called up 160,000 young men, aged 18-30, for Russia’s spring conscription, marking the country’s highest number of conscripts since 2011. This increase is part of a broader effort to expand Russia’s military, following Putin’s previous statement about raising the overall size of the military to nearly 2.39 million, with 1.5 million active servicemen. This includes a rise of 180,000 troops over the next three years.

Despite Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, Vice Admiral Vladimir Tsimlyansky emphasized that the new conscripts would not be deployed to fight in Ukraine as part of the “special military operation.” However, there have been reports of conscripts being sent to Ukraine in the early stages of the war, and some have been killed while fighting in Russia’s border regions.

The conscription period runs from April to July, and the latest draft is 10,000 higher than last year’s. Additionally, Russia has extended the maximum age for conscription from 27 to 30, widening the pool of eligible men. Notifications for the draft are being sent through both traditional mail and Russia’s state services website, Gosuslugi.

The announcement comes amid continued violence in Ukraine, including a recent Russian attack on a power facility in Kherson, which left 45,000 people without electricity. Despite Russia’s agreement to halt attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, Ukrainian officials have reported ongoing drone attacks.

Efforts to avoid conscription are growing in Russia, with increasing numbers of young men seeking “alternative civilian service.” Human rights lawyer Timofey Vaskin has expressed concern that conscription has become more unpredictable, with authorities employing new strategies to fill military ranks.

Since the war began, Russia has also relied on contract soldiers and recruited personnel from North Korea to bolster its military. Moscow’s expanding forces are seen as a response to heavy losses in Ukraine, with verified reports of over 100,000 Russian soldiers killed. The true number may be even higher.

The increase in military size follows Russia’s claims of “growing threats,” particularly from the war in Ukraine and NATO’s expansion. NATO has added Finland and Sweden as new members, which has prompted countries like Finland to reconsider their defense strategies. Finland recently announced plans to resume the use of anti-personnel mines, a decision based on military advice, citing the ongoing threat from Russia.

Wellesley Bolt, the father of Jamaican sprinting legend Usain Bolt, has passed away at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness. His death, reported by the UK Independent, occurred on Monday in Jamaica. Wellesley, who ran a grocery store with his wife Jennifer, was known for keeping a low profile, but he played an integral role in Usain’s remarkable career, which includes eight Olympic gold medals and a legacy that has made him one of the greatest sprinters of all time.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness of Jamaica extended his condolences to the Bolt family on social media, acknowledging Wellesley’s significant influence. “Mr. Bolt was the father of a global icon, and a strong, quiet force behind one of Jamaica’s greatest sons,” Holness wrote. “His presence, support, and guidance helped to shape a legacy that continues to inspire the world.”

Wellesley is survived by his wife Jennifer and their three children: Usain, Sadiki, and Christine Bolt-Hylton. His passing is a loss not only to his family but to Jamaica, as his quiet support contributed to the rise of a global icon.

The idea of holding elections in Ukraine amidst the ongoing war with Russia has sparked significant debate, especially as the country faces a delicate balance between maintaining unity in the face of external aggression and the democratic principle of electoral process. As martial law remains in effect and the war continues, a presidential election that was due in 2024 has been suspended. However, the prospect of elections has resurfaced, fueled by speculation and strategic considerations.

Several factors are driving the renewed speculation about the possibility of elections later this year. President Volodymyr Zelensky’s rising popularity, particularly after he was criticized by former U.S. President Donald Trump, has led some to believe that now might be the ideal time for him to secure a second term. A recent poll by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) showed that Zelensky’s approval ratings had increased, with 69% of Ukrainians expressing trust in him, suggesting he might have an advantage in the event of a vote. Furthermore, some diplomats and political analysts speculate that holding elections could strengthen Zelensky’s position in any future peace talks with Russia, effectively countering Russia’s assumption that Zelensky would be replaced.

Additionally, the logistics of conducting an election in wartime are complicated, but not impossible. Some have suggested that digital solutions, such as the Diia app—already used for services like voting in the Eurovision Song Contest—could allow Ukrainians living abroad or displaced by the war to participate safely and efficiently. However, the app would need new legislation, and there are concerns about its security, as well as issues with voter registers being incomplete or outdated.

On the other hand, many are opposed to the idea of elections during this period of martial law. There are practical concerns about the risks of holding elections during the war, including the possibility of undermining unity by introducing political divisions or giving Russia an opportunity to exploit propaganda. Moreover, some argue that Ukrainians themselves are not eager for elections at this time. The KIIS poll showed that 78% of Ukrainians opposed holding elections even after a full settlement of the war, indicating that the public’s priority may be to focus on the conflict rather than political change.

From a legal standpoint, any elections would require changes to existing laws, particularly those stipulating that elections must take place a certain number of days after martial law is lifted. Moreover, lifting martial law could have unintended consequences, including jeopardizing Ukraine’s military readiness as troops could potentially leave the front lines to vote.

In sum, while the idea of elections in Ukraine has gained some traction in recent discussions, there are significant hurdles—both logistical and political—that could make it challenging. The ultimate decision will likely hinge on both internal and external pressures, including the ongoing war effort, the need for political stability, and international expectations.

What do you think? Is holding elections in Ukraine right now a practical move, or should the focus remain solely on the war effort and national unity?

The UK is preparing for potential tariffs on imports to the U.S. under the Trump administration, with trade secretary Jonathan Reynolds expressing that the UK is in the “best possible position” to have the tariffs reversed. Although Reynolds acknowledged that most countries are likely to be affected by the new tariffs, he remains optimistic that ongoing talks could lead to an exemption for the UK. This optimism stems from the strong relationship between the two countries, with Reynolds suggesting that these discussions could not only avoid tariffs but further strengthen bilateral ties.

Tariffs are essentially taxes on goods imported into the U.S., and President Trump has argued that they will protect American jobs and revitalize domestic manufacturing by making imports more expensive. However, many economists warn that tariffs could hurt U.S. consumers by raising prices, dampen business investment, and slow overall economic growth.

Trump’s intention to apply these tariffs across a wide range of countries, not just those with significant trade imbalances with the U.S., has raised concerns globally. The UK, which has been negotiating directly with the Trump administration, is still hopeful of avoiding these penalties but has also been clear that it may need to take its own steps if the tariffs are imposed.

The UK’s digital services tax, which targets large U.S. tech firms like Amazon, could be used as leverage in these talks. Chancellor Rachel Reeves has suggested that a revision of this tax might help broker a deal. The U.S. government has already imposed tariffs on steel, aluminum, and vehicles, and now, with the latest wave of tariffs expected, there are concerns about the impact on industries like pharmaceuticals and Scotch whisky, which are significant exporters to the U.S.

The pharmaceuticals industry, for example, which sent £6.6 billion worth of products to the U.S. in 2024, is worried about the negative impact tariffs could have on its exports. Similarly, the Scotch whisky industry, which faces tariffs from Trump’s first term, could suffer again if the new tariffs are as high as feared. Small companies, like Nc’nean Distillery in Scotland, worry that they may not have the financial capacity to absorb these costs and might have to raise prices or reduce investments in the U.S.

The UK is preparing for the worst but is hopeful that its close relationship with the U.S. can help mitigate some of the damage. The outcome of these negotiations will be crucial for industries that depend on U.S. markets, and both sides will likely continue to look for ways to reach a deal that avoids a trade war.

How do you think the UK will navigate these negotiations, and do you think they’ll be able to avoid tariffs, or will they need to retaliate?

The Kogi State Police Command’s call for the cancellation of a proposed rally in honor of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan highlights growing concerns about security in the region. According to the police, intelligence reports suggest that some individuals may try to hijack the event and cause unrest, putting the safety of the people at risk. This preemptive action seems to stem from a desire to maintain the peace that the state is currently experiencing, as the police emphasized that they cannot afford to let any event disturb public order.

While the rally may have been intended to celebrate the embattled lawmaker’s homecoming, the situation underscores the volatile nature of politics in the region and the challenges of organizing public events in such a charged atmosphere. The police’s warning signals that they are closely monitoring the situation and are ready to take action against anyone who tries to disrupt the peace.

For those supporting the rally, this move may be seen as an unfortunate setback, especially if they feel the event could have been an opportunity for political expression or celebration. On the other hand, security concerns are always a priority, especially in areas with potential for unrest.

How do you think the situation will unfold? Do you think the rally will be canceled, or could there be other ways to address the security concerns?

Senate Majority Leader John Thune’s remarks about Donald Trump potentially seeking a third term are raising eyebrows, especially since the U.S. Constitution explicitly limits presidents to two terms in office. Thune’s acknowledgment that the only way for Trump to serve a third term would be through a constitutional amendment reflects the legal reality of the situation.

Trump’s recent statement that he is “not joking” about wanting a third term is a provocative one, but Thune’s response suggests that he doesn’t believe Trump is truly serious about the idea. Thune, known for his measured political approach, seems to interpret Trump’s comments as more of a playful challenge or an attempt to stir the media rather than a genuine push to alter the Constitution. This suggests that Trump may be more interested in provoking debate or capturing attention than seriously pursuing a third term.

The idea of a third presidential term for any leader has long been a point of discussion in U.S. politics, but the constitutional limits are clear. For Trump, or any future president, to extend their time in office beyond two terms, it would indeed require a significant shift in the law—an uphill battle that would likely face intense opposition.

What do you make of Trump’s statement about a third term? Do you think he’s serious, or just playing around with the media?

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, responded strongly to President Donald Trump’s recent threat of bombing Iran if it does not agree to a new nuclear deal with the United States. Trump had sent a letter to Iran’s leadership in early March, giving Tehran a two-month window to decide whether to engage in talks with the U.S. or face consequences, including potential military action and secondary tariffs.

Khamenei, speaking on Monday, dismissed the threat of a U.S. attack as unlikely but warned that if the U.S. or Israel takes any aggressive action against Iran, they will face a “strong reciprocal blow.” He also highlighted that if the U.S. attempts to instigate internal unrest within Iran, the Iranian people themselves will deal with it, referencing past protests that have been blamed on Western influence.

The article also touches on Iran’s response to Trump’s overtures. Iran, under Khamenei’s guidance, has refused to engage in direct talks with the U.S. but remains open to indirect negotiations, as indicated by President Masoud Pezeshkian. This stance continues Iran’s strategy following the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal during Trump’s first term. The U.S. withdrawal and subsequent reimposition of sanctions have significantly strained relations, with Iran now exceeding the limits set in the original nuclear deal on uranium enrichment.

The West, particularly the U.S. and European powers, continues to express concerns that Iran’s nuclear activities are aimed at developing nuclear weapons, although Tehran insists that its nuclear program is solely for civilian energy purposes. The tensions reflect the broader geopolitical struggle over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its role in regional stability.

President Donald Trump discussed the possibility of pursuing a third term in the White House, despite the 22nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits any individual from being elected to the presidency more than twice. While Trump acknowledged that the 22nd Amendment is in place, he hinted that there are “methods” that could allow him to run for a third term, though he did not provide further details.

During a phone interview with NBC News’ Kristen Welker, Trump stated that many people wanted him to consider a third term and emphasized that he wasn’t joking about the idea. He mentioned the possibility of Vice President JD Vance running in 2028 and then “passing the baton” to Trump, although he also suggested there were other potential strategies.

The 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, was enacted after Franklin D. Roosevelt’s four terms in office and prohibits presidents from being elected more than twice. However, Trump has often teased the idea of a third presidency. Steve Bannon, an ally of Trump, has argued that the amendment doesn’t specify consecutive terms, which some interpret as a potential opening for Trump to run again after serving two non-consecutive terms.

In response to this, Rep. Andy Ogles, a Tennessee Republican, has introduced a proposal in the House to modify the 22nd Amendment, which would allow presidents to serve non-consecutive terms, though this would require a significant process of legal changes. Legal experts, such as Michael Waldman, argue that such an effort is unlikely to succeed, noting that the 22nd Amendment is clear in its prohibition.

This discussion of a third term takes place against the backdrop of Trump’s age, as he would be the oldest individual to ever serve as president if he were to run again after his second term in 2029.

Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State and the presidential candidate for the Labour Party in the 2023 election, recently visited the victims of the devastating fire that occurred at two markets in Onitsha. The fire, which broke out last week, ravaged parts of the electronics market on Iweka Road and several warehouses on Ifejirika Street within the Main Market, causing significant damage.

During his visit, Obi expressed deep sympathy for the traders and warehouse owners affected by the fire. He described the situation as heartbreaking, acknowledging the massive losses suffered, with goods worth billions of naira consumed by the flames. He also voiced concern about the devastating impact of the fire on the victims, many of whom rely solely on their businesses to support their livelihoods.

Obi called on well-meaning Nigerians to extend a helping hand to those affected by the disaster. He urged those who are able to support the victims, emphasizing that in moments like this, the spirit of shared humanity should prevail. “Let us come together to restore hope, rebuild livelihoods, and reaffirm the spirit of community that defines us,” he said.

One of the affected traders, Mr. Jeremiah Nwabueze, who guided Obi through the scene of the disaster, expressed gratitude for the visit. He described Obi’s presence as deeply consoling, noting that it brought a sense of comfort and solidarity during a time of immense loss.

Biola Adams-Odutayo, a healthcare professional, has been arraigned by the Lagos State Police Command in connection with the tragic death of Adetunji “Teejay” Opayele, the 32-year-old co-founder of the Nigerian tech start-up Bumpa. Opayele lost his life in a fatal accident on March 4, 2025, while riding his power bike along Ozumba Mbadiwe Road in Victoria Island, Lagos. Reports suggest that he was struck by a vehicle driven by Adams-Odutayo.

Following the incident, a petition surfaced on Change.org, calling for justice for Opayele. The petition alleged that Adams-Odutayo refused to assist the injured Opayele after the crash, citing concerns about her car being stained. This has sparked widespread outrage, with many Nigerians demanding legal action against her.

Lagos police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed on Saturday that Adams-Odutayo had been arraigned in Court 1, Tinubu, on March 12, 2025, after being discharged from the hospital. She was charged with driving recklessly and causing the death of Opayele. The court granted her bail and adjourned the case to April 16, 2025. Hundeyin emphasized that the police are committed to ensuring transparency, fairness, and justice in handling the case.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is set to visit Greenland from April 2-4 to engage in talks with the newly formed government of the semi-autonomous territory. This visit comes amid growing interest from the United States in taking a more active role in the governance and security of Greenland, particularly due to its strategic location in the Arctic.

Frederiksen expressed her commitment to continuing the “close and trusting cooperation” between Denmark and Greenland. However, her visit follows recent comments made by U.S. Vice President JD Vance during his visit to a U.S. military base in northern Greenland. Vance criticized Denmark’s handling of Greenland’s security, suggesting that the U.S. could offer better protection for the island, which has been under Danish control since 1721.

This criticism came shortly after Greenland formed a new broad-based government coalition, led by Jens-Frederik Nielsen. Nielsen reiterated that Denmark remains Greenland’s closest ally. In response to Vance’s remarks, Frederiksen defended Denmark, stating that Vance’s description of Denmark’s efforts was “not fair.” She expressed respect for the way Greenland’s people and politicians are handling the pressures on the territory, emphasizing the need for unity across political parties and the countries within the Kingdom of Denmark.

The situation highlights the delicate balance of Greenland’s political and security concerns, particularly as global powers show increased interest in the region due to its geopolitical and resource significance.

The dispute between LagRide, Lagos State’s government-owned ride-hailing service, and its drivers has escalated, with drivers threatening to suspend operations in response to what they claim are unfair enforcement tactics by the platform’s management.

The conflict centers around allegations that some drivers have been promoting rival services such as InDrive and Bolt, rejecting trips without valid reasons, and accepting cash payments, all of which violate the platform’s policies. In response, LagRide management warned that drivers who fail to comply would face penalties, including vehicle impoundment, arrest, and legal action, and that officials from the Lagos State Task Force would be monitoring operations closely.

Steven Iwindoye, the spokesperson for the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, condemned the platform’s aggressive stance. He argued that heavy-handed measures like vehicle impoundment and arrests would only escalate tensions and called for government intervention. He also pointed out that many drivers have resorted to accepting cash payments after LagRide disabled the app’s cash payment option, which they believe was done to pressure them into remitting earnings weekly. Iwindoye also criticized the financial burden on drivers, noting that CIG Motors, the Chinese automaker now managing LagRide after taking over from Zenolynk Technology Ltd., imposes multiple charges without adequately covering vehicle maintenance costs.

CIG Motors, which took full control of LagRide in March after the Lagos government ended its partnership with Zenolynk, has introduced a new app following Zenolynk’s shutdown of the previous platform. However, the shift has not been smooth. Tensions continue to grow as drivers are voicing dissatisfaction with the new app’s issues and demanding better working conditions and resolutions.

As the situation develops, LagRide’s management faces mounting pressure to resolve the conflict or risk further disruptions to the service. The drivers’ protest, which has involved offline boycotts, could lead to more widespread action unless their grievances are addressed.

This article explores the growing trend of prestigious British schools opening campuses in Nigeria. For years, wealthy Nigerians have sent their children abroad, particularly to the UK, for secondary education. These schools have been highly regarded for their rigorous curricula, global prestige, and networking opportunities. However, with the high costs of sending children abroad, especially with rising exchange rates and added expenses, many of these institutions are expanding into Nigeria.

Charterhouse, for example, has already launched a primary school in Lagos and plans to open a secondary school there in September. Other schools like Rugby School and Millfield are also entering the Nigerian market. This move not only provides a more affordable option for families but also allows them to maintain educational quality while staying closer to home.

One of the key factors driving this change is the desire of Nigerian parents to provide their children with international opportunities without sacrificing their cultural identity. While these British institutions cater to global standards, they also adapt to local needs, being mindful of Nigeria’s religious and cultural values, such as sensitivity to LGBTQ+ issues.

The rise of these schools also reflects Nigeria’s increasing reputation for producing high-achieving students, and the country’s young population (40% under 14 years old) presents a vast market for educational services. Despite the competition these new schools might create for existing elite institutions in Nigeria, experts believe that the market is large enough to accommodate both.

This trend could extend beyond secondary education into higher education. With the challenges posed by foreign exchange difficulties and stricter visa regulations, Nigerian students may increasingly look to local campuses of British universities in the future, mirroring the success of early educational collaborations between Nigeria and the UK, such as the University of Ibadan, established as a campus of the University of London.

In summary, these new British schools in Nigeria offer an exciting opportunity for parents seeking world-class education for their children while preserving their cultural roots, and they may signal a larger shift in how education is accessed globally, particularly in Africa.

The Northern Senators Forum has strongly condemned the lynching of northerners traveling through Edo State, describing the killings as “dastardly,” “despicable,” and “condemnable.” The tragic incident occurred on Thursday, March 27, 2025, in Uromi, Edo State, where a mob targeted and brutally murdered innocent travelers, mistakenly profiling them as Fulani kidnappers. The Forum expressed deep concern over how such violent actions could occur and emphasized that taking the law into one’s hands is unacceptable.

In a statement released on Saturday, the Forum called the killings a heinous crime and a clear violation of the victims’ human rights. They urged Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, to take swift and decisive action to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The Forum also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for quickly instructing security agencies to investigate the incident thoroughly and arrest the culprits, which they viewed as a strong demonstration of the government’s commitment to justice and the protection of citizens’ rights.

Citing Section 41 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to freedom of movement and residence within the country, the Forum stressed the importance of ensuring all citizens are treated with dignity and respect. They called on the Edo State Government, security agencies, and all relevant stakeholders to work together to prevent similar incidents in the future and promote a culture of tolerance, understanding, and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.