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.

South Africa’s former ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, has accused the Trump administration of being “self-evidently” racist in a recent interview with the BBC. This statement came after Rasool was expelled from the U.S. following strong criticism of President Donald Trump’s policies, particularly regarding race.

Rasool had previously accused Trump of trying to “project white victimhood as a dog whistle,” a comment that led to a heated response from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who branded Rasool a “race-baiting politician who hates America.” In his interview, Rasool suggested that the administration’s actions, such as its focus on deporting migrants and targeting foreign students supportive of pro-Palestinian protests, were indicative of a racial bias.

Rasool further emphasized that the connection between these actions and racism was “self-evident” and likened the situation to seeing a hinge on a piece of wood and concluding that it must be a door. He also accused Trump’s administration of mobilizing far-right groups, a claim the administration has denied.

The diplomat’s expulsion came at a time of heightened tensions between the U.S. and South Africa. Relations had already deteriorated due to Trump’s criticisms of South Africa’s land reform policies and his decision to cut all U.S. aid to the country. Trump has also controversially stated that members of South Africa’s white Afrikaner community should be granted refugee status in the U.S. due to alleged persecution, a claim Rasool dismissed as “an unadulterated lie.”

While Rasool’s language in his criticism of the U.S. government has been called undiplomatic, he defended his stance, saying that diplomacy should not be about flattering the host country or accepting lies. He added that his comments were made to alert the U.S. that South Africa’s dignity and truth were at stake, especially regarding false narratives about the country.

Rasool also pointed out that South Africa has been attempting to address its historical racial and economic imbalances through policies aimed at aiding the black majority, which he argued had been misrepresented by the Trump administration.

The diplomatic spat also touches on broader tensions, such as South Africa’s legal action against Israel over alleged genocide against Palestinians, and the U.S.’s cutting of aid due to the country’s new Expropriation Law, which allows land confiscation without compensation in certain cases. Despite the controversy, Rasool, who served as ambassador from 2010 to 2015, has no regrets about his remarks and remains firm in his position.

Utah has become the first U.S. state to implement a ban on flying LGBTQ+ pride flags at schools and all government buildings. This law, which will take effect on May 7, was allowed to become official after Utah Governor Spencer Cox did not take action on it by the midnight deadline on Thursday night, thus allowing the bill to pass without his signature.

The legislation, introduced by Republican state Rep. Trevor Lee of Layton, specifically targets the display of pride flags in educational institutions. The law is seen as part of ongoing efforts by some state lawmakers to restrict LGBTQ+ symbols and messages in public spaces.

Despite allowing the bill to become law, Governor Cox expressed his appreciation for the LGBTQ+ community in a letter to legislative leaders. He acknowledged that recent legislation has been challenging for LGBTQ+ individuals, stating that politics can be divisive. Cox emphasized that he loves and appreciates the LGBTQ+ community and is grateful for their presence in Utah, though he recognized that his words might not be well-received by everyone.

The timing of this decision coincided with the announcement that the Sundance Film Festival, a major cultural event that had been held in Park City, Utah for over four decades, would be moving its operations to Boulder, Colorado. This move has raised concerns among local supporters of the festival, particularly in the wake of the new law.

The Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as the Shi’ites, has reported that at least five of its members were killed in a violent clash with the Nigerian Army on Friday in Abuja. The confrontation occurred in the Banex and Ademola Adetokunbo Crescent area of Wuse 2 during a procession marking International Quds Day.

Sheikh Sidi Sokoto, a leader of the Shi’ite group, claimed that the army’s actions were unprovoked. He stated that the group was peacefully marching from Banex Plaza, where they had observed Juma’at prayers, toward Wuse Market when the army, using an armored vehicle, blocked their path and began shooting at the participants. Sokoto mentioned that many of those involved were women and minors, and based on eyewitness reports, at least five individuals were killed. He promised to provide further updates as more information became available.

In contrast, the Nigerian Army’s spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, stated that the Shi’ite members became violent and disrupted public order during their procession. He confirmed that there was an exchange of fire between the Shi’ites and the troops but could not confirm whether there were any casualties. Nwachukwu mentioned that he was unsure of the specific reasons behind the protest.

The incident follows a security alert issued by the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, warning its citizens about planned IMN protests in Abuja and other major cities on Friday, highlighting concerns over potential violence during the demonstrations.

Canada has confirmed its decision to impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods starting next week, following a phone conversation between Prime Minister Mark Carney and U.S. President Donald Trump. This move comes in response to the U.S. government’s planned implementation of new tariffs on April 2, 2025. According to a statement from Carney’s office, the Prime Minister informed Trump that the Canadian government would take these measures to protect Canadian workers and the economy in the face of the upcoming U.S. trade actions.

While the exact timing and scope of the retaliatory tariffs were not disclosed, the statement hinted that the leaders also discussed the upcoming U.S. presidential election, scheduled for April 28. Both leaders expressed a desire to engage in comprehensive negotiations on a new economic and security relationship following the election. Carney’s office described the conversation as “very constructive,” while Trump characterized it as “extremely productive” in a social media post.

The announcement comes amidst growing concerns over the potential for higher prices on goods in both the U.S. and Canada, with President Trump referring to April 2 as “Liberation Day.” The retaliatory tariffs mark the latest development in a tense trade relationship between the two nations.

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba land, Iba Gani Adams, has strongly advocated for the immortalization of the late Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, former Chairman of the defunct National Electoral Commission (NEC), citing his pivotal role in conducting the June 12, 1993, Presidential election, which is widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history. Adams argued that Nwosu’s dedication and integrity in ensuring the election’s fairness ultimately led to the recognition of the late MKO Abiola’s mandate, even though the government at the time failed to install him as president.

Adams called for Nwosu to be honored in the same way as Abiola, who was posthumously recognized by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018. He suggested that a monument be named after Nwosu as a lasting tribute to his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic process. According to Adams, this would set a positive example for future INEC chairmen, emphasizing honesty and transparency in organizing elections.

The Senate, however, rejected a motion to immortalize Nwosu for the second time, instead opting to observe a minute of silence in his honor. This decision sparked heated debates on the floor of the Upper Legislative Chamber, with Southeast senators staging a walkout in protest. Adams criticized the Senate’s stance, particularly pointing out that the refusal to immortalize Nwosu was unjust, and described it as an act of “self-centeredness” on the part of some Yoruba leaders. He emphasized that Nwosu’s contributions to Nigeria’s democracy should not be overlooked and that denying him the honor he deserved would be a disservice to the nation.

Adams further stressed that Nwosu’s spirit would not be pleased with how the country is handling the recognition of his contributions, highlighting the importance of acknowledging those who have played significant roles in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future.

The recent mass Russian drone attack on Dnipro, a central Ukrainian city, has resulted in tragic consequences, with at least four people killed and 21 others injured. The attack, which occurred late on Friday, led to significant damage, including fires in a restaurant complex and several residential buildings. The attack involved over 20 drones, although most were reportedly shot down. Images from the aftermath show extensive damage, including large fires and debris on the streets.

In addition to the Dnipro attack, overnight air sirens were heard across other Ukrainian regions, including Kyiv. It is unclear if there were further casualties from these alerts. Meanwhile, Russia’s defense ministry claimed to have intercepted or shot down three Ukrainian drones over its Belgorod region.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has again criticized Russia for targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure, accusing Russia of violating a temporary moratorium on such attacks. Tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue, with various diplomatic developments. Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested placing Ukraine under UN control to elect a “more competent” government, a proposal that has been widely condemned as an effort to challenge Ukraine’s sovereignty. Ukraine and its allies have also raised concerns about Russia’s possible attempts to derail peace efforts.

In parallel, French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans for a “reassurance force” in Ukraine, involving French and UK forces. This proposal is part of ongoing efforts by Ukraine’s international allies to strengthen support for the country in its fight against Russian aggression. However, Russia has strongly opposed any foreign troop deployments in Ukraine, warning that such actions would be considered legitimate military targets.

The situation remains volatile as both sides continue to clash on multiple fronts, with no clear path to a lasting resolution in sight.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has raised significant concerns about the growing problem of drug abuse in Cross River State, with many young people falling victim to addiction. This issue has become so severe that even the federal psychiatric hospital is overcrowded with youths suffering from drug abuse, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

During a street walk organized by the Niger Delta Students Union Government (NIDSUG) in Calabar, Nandi Roselyn Ada, the Deputy Commander of Narcotics in the Drug Demand Reduction Department, expressed her deep concern over the rising drug abuse among the youth. She pointed out that, though specific arrest statistics were unavailable, the situation is overwhelming, with young people visibly suffering from the effects of drugs in various parts of the state.

One of the most concerning aspects is the overwhelming number of youths in the psychiatric hospital due to drug addiction, with 90% of the inmates being young drug addicts. Ada also mentioned that less severe cases are often rejected to accommodate those facing more serious conditions, illustrating how dire the problem has become.

The abuse of substances like Cannabis Sativa (marijuana) is particularly prevalent in the region, and the narcotics officer warned that the issue is affecting not only the addicts but also the entire community. She highlighted the role of traffickers, who profit off these young people while keeping their own children safe from the same dangers. Ada urged everyone to take a stand against drug abuse, emphasizing that it is a societal problem, not just the responsibility of the NDLEA.

Comrade Scott Ogunsere, the National President of NIDSUG, pledged to continue the campaign against social vices, taking the message to other states in the Niger Delta region and across Nigeria. He called on students and youths to reject drugs, cultism, and other forms of crime.

Dr. Peter Odey, the Acting Governor of Cross River State, also expressed the government’s commitment to fighting cybercrime and providing opportunities for the youth to steer away from criminal activities. Through various initiatives, the government aims to engage the youth productively and deter them from drugs and crime.

This situation highlights the urgent need for continued awareness and intervention to address drug abuse and its devastating impact on the youth in Cross River State and Nigeria as a whole.