New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • Trump urges Australia to grant asylum to Iranian women’s soccer team or send them to US

    Trump urges Australia to grant asylum to Iranian women’s soccer team or send them to US

    Washington, D.C., US — March 9, 2026 — U.S. President Donald Trump has called on Australian authorities not to force the Iranian women’s national soccer team to return to Tehran after the players refused to sing the national anthem during a recent match, as war rages back home.

    In a statement on his Truth Social account, Trump warned that sending the team back would be a grave mistake. “Australia is making a terrible humanitarian mistake by allowing the Iran National Woman’s Soccer team to be forced back to Iran, where they will most likely be killed. Don’t do it, Mr Prime Minister, give ASYLUM. The U.S. will take them if you won’t,” he wrote.

    Trump urged Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to grant the players asylum, while declaring America’s readiness to accept them if Australia declines.

    The Iranian women’s team faces serious risks in Tehran after their silent protest. State media has branded them “wartime traitors,” raising fears of persecution, imprisonment, or worse. Several players have already sought asylum in Australia, while international voices continue to press for their protection.

    Iranian state television and conservative commentators have accused the players of treason, intensifying concerns about their safety should they be forced to return.

  • Israel increases defence production for war with Iran and Hezbollah

    Israel increases defence production for war with Iran and Hezbollah

    Jerusalem, Israel (NPA) — March 9, 2026 — The Israeli Ministry of Defence (IMOD) has intensified production of military equipment, including munitions, to sustain operations in the ongoing war with Iran. The announcement came during a visit by IMOD Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram to Elbit Systems, where he conducted a situational assessment with company leadership on scaling up production rates to meet anticipated defence requirements and potential expansion into additional theatres.

    “The central focus of the Ministry of Defence, per the Minister of Defence’s directive, is aerial munitions. Months of preparation and early readiness have enabled the IDF to operate with virtually no constraints in Iran and Lebanon. At the same time, we are now working to replenish all munitions expended in order to be prepared for any scenario. The decisions we made to expand and accelerate production lines in Israel before the operation will now allow us to take production rates to the next level,” Baram stated.

    The Director General expressed gratitude to Elbit Systems and other defence industries for their mobilisation. “Israel has a unique ecosystem that no other country can match: a distinctive integration between the IDF, the Defence Ministry, and the defence industries that enables the rapid translation of operational needs and battlefield lessons into real-time modifications and upgrades, creating exceptionally fast feedback loops,” he added.

    The visit was also attended by IMOD Deputy Director General and Head of the Planning Department, Itamar Graff; Deputy Director General and Head of the Defence Procurement Directorate (DPD) Ze’ev Landau; General Manager of Elbit Systems Land Yehuda (Udi) Vered; and other senior officials.

  • Iran security chief accuses U.S. of seeking Iran’s disintegration

    Iran security chief accuses U.S. of seeking Iran’s disintegration

    Tehran (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), has accused the United States and Israel of attempting to fragment Iran through the ongoing military conflict. In a televised interview marking the war’s eighth day, Larijani said their “problem is ‘Iran’ itself… not a minor change but the total breakdown of the country.”

    He claimed the initial attacks, including the “martyrdom of Imam Khamenei and other children of the revolution,” were designed to trigger collapse. According to Larijani, Washington’s strategy relied on “shock” tactics to overthrow the government and divide Iranian territory. “Even today, Mr Trump’s published message claimed Iran is being torn apart,” he noted.

    Larijani argued the U.S. miscalculated: “They wanted to trap the people in a state of shock and awe, but they failed because the Iranian people have seen such trials before.” He added, “They did not expect the Iranians not to let go; now they are desperate.”

    He dismissed rumours of military defections, insisting the IRGC, Army, and Basij remain active. He accused the U.S. of trying to incite ethnic divisions, particularly among Kurds, but said they “know the Americans treat them transactionally and have no loyalty.”

    Condemning attacks on schools and hospitals, Larijani said, “Trump does not understand. Iranians may have differences, but they stand by Iran.” He also mocked Trump’s suggestion of deciding Iran’s future leader, calling it “backwards” and insulting.

    On U.S. casualties, Larijani alleged figures were understated and claimed American soldiers had been captured in some countries. He warned regional states against hosting U.S. bases: “If Israel has attacked us, why do you allow it to use your bases? It is Iran’s right to respond.”

    Larijani vowed to continue missile strikes until compensation is paid. “Our missile reservoirs are upright,” he said, rejecting claims of weakened capabilities. He concluded by thanking Iranians for their “zeal and pride” and warned: “Any talk that creates division is a deadly poison… We are passing through the peak of the war.”

  • El-Rufai: Obi accuses Tinubu administration of persecuting political opponents

    El-Rufai: Obi accuses Tinubu administration of persecuting political opponents

    Abuja, Nigeria — March 9, 2026 — Peter Obi, leader of Nigeria’s opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress (APC) government of engaging in what he described as “blatant persecution of political opponents disguised as criminal prosecution.”

    In a statement issued Monday, Obi cited the arrests and continued detention of former Attorney General of the Federation Abubakar Malami and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, both senior figures in the ADC. He questioned the timing of their arrests, noting that they coincided with their public commitment to challenge the current administration in the 2027 elections.

    Obi criticised the methods used in their apprehension, arguing that they contravened the principles of the rule of law. He said prosecutorial decisions must be based on credible evidence and probable cause, presented transparently and without political motives. “The undue denial of bail or unjustly stringent conditions imposed on bail leave little doubt that the government is wielding criminal prosecution as a weapon against its political opponents,” he stated.

    He further expressed concern over the repeated transfers of El-Rufai between the EFCC, ICPC, and DSS, describing the moves as “a desperate search for any charge that might stick, straying dangerously close to a fishing expedition rather than a credible investigation.”

    Obi emphasised the need for a justice system that instils confidence in citizens, ensuring that no one is persecuted for political beliefs. “As we approach a critical election period, the government must cease its efforts to undermine political opponents under the pretence of battling corruption and wrongdoing,” he said.

    While reaffirming his support for the fight against corruption, Obi insisted that such efforts must begin with those currently in power and be conducted with integrity and transparency. “A credible anti-corruption and anti-wrongdoing campaign cannot afford to be selective,” he added.

  • ADC to host National Support Groups Summit in Abuja

    ADC to host National Support Groups Summit in Abuja

    Abuja, Nigeria (NPA) — March 9, 2026 — The African Democratic Congress (ADC), one of Nigeria’s major opposition parties, has announced plans to convene its All National Support Groups Summit on March 10, 2026, at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.

    The announcement was made in a statement issued on Monday by the Summit Committee Chairman, Comrade Inetianbor. The statement confirmed that the event will be organised through the office of the party’s National Youth Leader (Female).

    The ADC has positioned the summit as part of its broader strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party has outlined its vision to build a strong ideological base, empower marginalised groups—including women, youths, persons with disabilities, and diaspora communities—while promoting transparency and accountability in governance.

    According to the party, its mission is to reengineer Nigeria’s political system by reducing the dominance of elites, “money bags,” and political godfathers. It also aims to consolidate democracy beyond flawed elections and rhetoric, with the long-term goal of building a resilient economy supported by strong institutions.

    If successful in 2027, the ADC pledges to pursue inclusive governance, grassroots empowerment, and economic diversification through agriculture, renewable energy, and technology. Analysts note, however, that the party’s ability to achieve these ambitions will depend on maintaining its ideological independence while navigating Nigeria’s coalition-driven political landscape.

  • Adamawa declares 24-hour curfew over ethnic clashes in Lamurde

    Adamawa declares 24-hour curfew over ethnic clashes in Lamurde

    CRIME REPORT (NPA) — March 9, 2026 — The governor of Adamawa State in northeast Nigeria, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has imposed a 24-hour curfew on several communities in Lamurde Local Government Area following deadly ethnic clashes.

    According to eyewitness accounts, heavily armed attackers stormed villages, killing residents and burying victims in shallow graves.

    The curfew was announced in a statement issued on March 8 by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Humwashi Wonosikou, who said the measure was aimed at halting bloodshed linked to ethnic rivalry between the Bachama and Chobo-speaking communities.

    Quoting Governor Fintiri, the statement read: “Government views these disturbances as unacceptable and has directed security agencies to enforce the curfew strictly.” The governor added that the curfew would remain in place until further notice while security forces devise measures to end the violence.

    “The government will not condone acts of violence and will take necessary measures to restore peace and order,” Fintiri said, appealing to residents to cooperate with security agencies.

    The crisis stems from a protracted land boundary dispute between the Chobo and Bachama communities, which flared into violence on March 7, 2026.

  • BREAKING: Iran appoints Mojtaba Khamenei as Supreme Leader despite Israeli warning

    BREAKING: Iran appoints Mojtaba Khamenei as Supreme Leader despite Israeli warning

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — After days of speculation, Iran’s Assembly of Experts announced on Sunday that Mojtaba Khamenei, a cleric and the second son of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been formally selected as the country’s new Supreme Leader.

    The announcement comes amid heightened tensions following remarks by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who warned that any successor to the late Ayatollah would be considered a target for elimination. 

    Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has long been regarded as an influential figure within Iran’s political and religious establishment, despite never holding elected office. His appointment marks a historic moment, as Iran’s system traditionally discourages hereditary succession. However, his close ties to the Revolutionary Guards and clerical networks positioned him as a strong candidate.

    Born in Mashhad in 1969, Mojtaba studied at the Qom Seminary and rose to prominence as a mid-ranking cleric. He briefly served in the Iran–Iraq War before gaining influence through his role in the Basij militia and his proximity to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. 

    Known for his behind-the-scenes influence, he was widely believed to have played a role in shaping Iran’s domestic politics during the 2009 Green Movement protests. His leadership is expected to consolidate power within the Khamenei family.

  • US Central Command issues safety warning to civilians in Iran

    US Central Command issues safety warning to civilians in Iran

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has issued a safety advisory urging civilians in Iran to remain indoors, citing concerns that the Iranian government is conducting military operations from heavily populated areas. According to CENTCOM, these operations include the launch of one-way attack drones and ballistic missiles.

    In a statement released on March 8, CENTCOM described the Iranian strategy as “a dangerous decision that risks the lives of civilians,” noting that under international law, locations used for military purposes lose their protected status and may become legitimate military targets.

    The statement alleged that Iranian forces are operating from crowded urban areas in cities such as Dezful, Esfahan, and Shiraz. CENTCOM warned that this tactic places civilians at risk, while also accusing Iranian forces of targeting civilian airports, hotels, and residential neighborhoods across the Middle East.

    “Iran’s terrorist regime is blatantly disregarding civilian lives by attacking Gulf partners while compromising the safety of their own people,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of CENTCOM.

    CENTCOM further reported that since February 28, Iran has launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and thousands of one-way attack drones. However, it claimed that launch rates have declined significantly due to U.S. and partner forces degrading Iran’s military capabilities.

    The statement emphasized that the U.S. military takes “every feasible precaution to minimize harm to civilians” but cautioned that it cannot guarantee civilian safety near facilities being used by Iranian forces for military purposes.

  • BREAKING: Tinubu resolves OPL 245 dispute, ending Nigeria’s longest-running oil block battle

    BREAKING: Tinubu resolves OPL 245 dispute, ending Nigeria’s longest-running oil block battle

    Abuja, Nigeria — March 8, 2026 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has brought closure to Nigeria’s longest-running and most controversial oil block ownership dispute, announcing a landmark settlement over Oil Prospecting Licence (OPL) 245 with ENI and Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited (NAEL).

    In a statement issued Sunday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the resolution was described as a turning point that will reposition Nigeria’s economy and strengthen its fiscal capacity.

    Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, praised President Tinubu’s leadership, calling the agreement “a milestone in repositioning Nigeria’s economic landscape.”

    “The agreement marks a turning point for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector after more than two decades of legal battles and international arbitration,” Fagbemi said. “The clear vision and deep commitment of President Tinubu provided the political will required to bring closure to this protracted dispute. The agreement demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.”

    According to the Attorney-General, the settlement will culminate in a Consent Arbitral Award, resolving a complex international dispute and restoring Nigeria’s credibility as a responsible global business partner.

    Fagbemi emphasized that the deal will pave the way for large-scale investments, stimulate job creation, and reinforce Nigeria’s position as a leading energy producer in Africa. He noted that projected revenues from OPL 245 can now be factored into Nigeria’s medium-term fiscal framework, supporting budget stability, long-term planning, and debt sustainability.

    He further highlighted that resolving the matter through negotiation rather than prolonged arbitration underscores Nigeria’s commitment to alternative dispute resolution and enhances its standing in international commercial and arbitration circles.

    “This settlement sends a clear signal to the global community that Nigeria is open for business and committed to fairness and respect for contractual obligations,” Fagbemi said, commending the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and international partners including ENI and Shell for their roles in achieving the resolution.

    “With this agreement, Nigeria can now move forward with confidence, ensuring that the development of OPL 245 becomes a source of prosperity for the nation and future generations,” he added.

    Background on OPL 245

    OPL 245 is a deepwater oil block located offshore Nigeria, widely regarded as one of the country’s most valuable reserves. It was originally awarded in 1998 to Malabu Oil and Gas, a company linked to former Petroleum Minister Dan Etete.

    Over the years, disputes over ownership, licensing rights, and allegations of bribery involving multinational oil companies ENI (Italy) and Shell (UK/Netherlands) led to decades of litigation in Nigeria and abroad. Former officials, including ex-Attorney General Mohammed Adoke, faced prosecution but maintained their actions were lawful. Adoke recently demanded an apology from the government, claiming he was persecuted despite efforts to resolve the matter.

    The prolonged controversy stalled development of the block, preventing Nigeria from exploiting its estimated billions of barrels of crude oil.

  • International Women’s Day 2026: Governor Peter Mbah honours Enugu Women as “extraordinary”

    International Women’s Day 2026: Governor Peter Mbah honours Enugu Women as “extraordinary”

    Enugu, Nigeria — March 8, 2026 — Enugu State Governor, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has paid tribute to the women of Enugu on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2026, describing them as “extraordinary” and central to the state’s progress.

    In a statement issued on Sunday, Governor Mbah hailed women across the state as mothers, entrepreneurs, farmers, professionals, innovators, and leaders whose resilience and determination continue to drive development in southeastern Nigeria.

    “On this International Women’s Day 2026, we celebrate the extraordinary women of Enugu State — mothers, entrepreneurs, farmers, professionals, innovators, and leaders whose resilience and determination continue to power our progress,” Mbah said.

    Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” the governor emphasized the importance of investing in women by providing opportunities, support, and platforms that enable them to thrive. He noted that inclusive governance is central to sustainable development, stressing that meaningful progress is only possible when women are fully involved in shaping policies and decisions.

    “That is why we have been deliberate about including women in governance and placing them in key leadership and decision-making positions where their competence and resilience help drive progress,” he added.

    Governor Mbah reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding opportunities for women to lead, contribute, and succeed, stating that empowered women strengthen communities and the state as a whole.

    The Enugu State Government has adopted a Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy, anchored in the Ministry of Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, and aligned with Nigeria’s National Gender Policy. The initiative seeks to:

    • Ensure women have equal access to resources, jobs, and entrepreneurship opportunities.
    • Safeguard women and girls from violence, discrimination, and harmful practices.
    • Increase women’s representation in political, economic, and social decision-making.
    • Integrate gender equality into climate action and community development strategies.

    Governor Mbah concluded by urging continued investment in women as a pathway to inclusive growth and sustainable development.