The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • You are not a child of the Palace, Oba of Benin tells LP’s Akpata

    You are not a child of the Palace, Oba of Benin tells LP’s Akpata

    Labour Party governorship candidate in Edo Olumide Akpata was humiliated yesterday in Benin by the Oba of Benin during a courtesy visit.

    Accompanied by former presidential candidate of the party Peter Obi, Akpata had in the course of his presentation to the Oba, claimed several times that he was a son of the Oba’s Palace.

    In his remarks, His Royal Majesty Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, said he heard the claims previously, and asked one of his chiefs to verify because he was not aware that Olumide was a child of the Palace.

    He reported his chief confirmed Akpata had no direct or distant links to the Palace.

    “You are an industrious son of the soil, but to say you are a child of the Palace…I am not aware that any of my children is contesting or is a politician. So I need to make that clarification for the sake of the public and the fourth estate of the realm,” the Oba said.

    Read Also: Oba of Benin’s palace clashes again with Obaseki

    “I hope you don’t mind that clarification. You are an industrious, indigenous son of the soil but you are not a child of the Palace.”

    In response to Oba Ewuare II ‘s correction,  Olumide Akpata said,: “I am grateful for the correction. It was a mistake on my part. I’m a true son of the Benin Kingdom. I hope His Royal Majesty Will forgive me”.

    Akpata and his entourage left soon after.

  • How youths attacked reporters, security agents, others- Journalist

    How youths attacked reporters, security agents, others- Journalist

    An Ebonyi-based Journalist, Uchenna Ịnya, has narrated how he and other journalists were attacked by irate youths of Nkomoro community in Ebonyi State on Saturday.

    Inya, who is the correspondent of Sun Newspaper, said his car windows was smashed in the community when he went to cover the installation of a new monarch for the community.

    The event turned violent when government officials coronated one of the contestants, Jacob Nwakpa against the wishes of majority of the community members.

    He noted that his alertness and proactive steps ensured the attack on his vehicle was not as severe as that suffered by others including security agents.

    He said: “I was invited to cover the coronation of a new traditional ruler for Nkomorọrọ community. I knew that the area is volatile so I elected to go with my car for easy escape incase of any issues.

    Read Also: Ebonyi State University (EBSU)

    “I went with my colleagues Godwin Oguta and Chinelo Okoro of Unity FM.I refused to go with a convoy going to the area. I was adviced to follow army/police/convoy  which accompanied one Jacob Nwakpa(one of the contestants) and I refused to do so knowing the implications. 

    “It was because I didn’t go with the convoy that  my vehicle’s own destruction was not as serious as the vehicles in the convoy that were properly smashed.

    “It was even a hand that the guy that smashed my car used and smashed it after maneuvering through a lot of them and he blocked me on the road when I almost succeeded in escaping,” he narrated.

    Inya noted that he would have left earlier before the area turned violent when he noticed it was becoming  charged but for the refusal of  colleagues he drove to the venue.

    “Both Jacob Nwakpa and Oscar Nwafor invited me and pleaded that I should join their vehicles and come there. I refused and told them that I can’t do so and decided to use my car. 

    “Oscar Nwafor personally pleaded that I should join his car. I told him I can’t. Jacob Nwakpa also did same and I refused because I knew what will happen.

    “If Chinelo Okoro and Godwin Oguta had obeyed me when that man came out with a paper and pleaded that the exercise should not hold, nothing would have happened to my car. 

    “This is because atmosphere was still friendly that time but they refused to join me and I had to wait for them to meet my car.

    “The youths started raising their voices and hands against Chika Igboke the Coordinator of Imoha Development Center after he presented a paper to them that he was directed by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy matters to coronate Jacob Nwakpa”  

    “They were protesting against it. It was at that time that a member of the community appeared with a paper which he said is a court order and pleaded that Nwakpa should not be coronated. 

    “While they were doing this, Nwakpa was taken and coronated which caused the crisis.

    “As the youths were raising voices, Jacob Nwakpa and wife were brought down from his  jeep and coronated in a place very close to where the jeep was parked which is also close to where the youths were raising voices”.

    He noted the youths started destroying cars in the area leading to Nwakpa and wife being smuggled out of the area.

  • 2024: Mbappé wants to erase bad memory

    2024: Mbappé wants to erase bad memory

    The last time Kylian Mbappé kicked a ball at the European Championship, it sent France out of the competition.

    He was the only player to miss in a penalty shootout against Switzerland, and France was eliminated from Euro 2020 in the round of 16 in a game where they led 3-1.

    Mbappé, who received hateful abuse online following the miss, is desperate to make amends at Euro 2024 in Germany.

    “It was a slap in the face when we failed at the Euro,” the 25-year-old striker said earlier this month. “It’s a big stain on my CV in the national team. I’m in a vengeful mood.”

    Read Also: Kaduna Assembly report, a tissue of lies motivated by malice, say former commissioners

    France is in Group D, where it faces Austria on Monday, followed by the Netherlands on Friday and Poland on June 25.

    Mbappé, the team captain, was missing from practice at France’s team based in Germany on Thursday but was back training with his teammates the following days.

    “He took some rest but he’s not going to lose his physical condition just because he missed one or two training sessions,” France veteran Olivier Giroud said Friday. “He still has the same legs that we all know and the determination to achieve a great competition. So don’t worry he’s going to be ready for the first match.”

  • Peller preaches peace, positive reflection at Sallah

    Peller preaches peace, positive reflection at Sallah

    Hon Shina Peller, former member of the House of Representatives and the Ayedero of Yorubaland, has shared a message of unity, kindness and peaceful coexistence to Muslims and Christians across the nation. 

    In his goodwill message commemorating the joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Adha, Peller emphasised the significance of embracing goodwill, compassion, and reflection embodied by the sacred celebration.

    He reminded Muslims of the teachings of sacrifice, empathy and charity illustrated through Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering devotion to fulfilling Allah’s command, and charged individuals from all faiths to internalize these virtues, incorporating them into their daily lives and interactions with others.

    Furthermore, in the spirit of Eid-ul-Adha, Peller urged everyone to embrace unity, kindness, and understanding amidst Nigeria’s diverse populace. He also emphasized the need to reach out and extend support to those in need and the less fortunate, adding that spreading joy through acts of generosity and benevolence will make the celebration worthwhile for all. 

    Read Also:Sallah: Emir Bayero greets Tinubu, Yusuf

    The former federal lawmaker envisioned a time of spiritual renewal, personal growth, and collective harmony. He therefore called on individuals to recommit themselves to values of compassion, peace, and mutual respect, fostering a society characterized by inclusivity and empathy.

    He expressed optimism and prayed that 2024 Eid-ul-Adha will be a time filled with peace, joy, and blessings for everyone and Nigeria as a country. 

    According to him:  “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all members of Muslim Community, as well as Christians and all believers on this occasion of the Eid-ul-Adha.

    “In this auspicious moment of spiritual significance and communal unity, I urge everyone to embrace the essence of goodwill, compassion, and reflection that Eid-ul-Adha embodies.

    “As we mark this sacred occasion, let us remember the teachings of sacrifice, empathy, and charity exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to submit to Allah’s command by sacrificing his only son Prophet Ismail (AS). Let us draw inspiration from his unwavering faith and commitment to righteousness, embodying these virtues in our daily lives and interactions with others.

    “In the spirit of Eid-ul-Adha, I encourage everyone to make the most of this reflective period by fostering unity, kindness, peaceful coexistence and understanding within our diverse communities in Nigeria. Let us seize this opportunity to reach out to those in need, offer support to the less fortunate, and spread joy through acts of generosity and benevolence.

    “May this Eid-ul-Adha be a time of spiritual renewal, personal growth, and collective harmony. Let us reaffirm our commitment to compassion, peace, and mutual respect, making this moment truly count in building a more inclusive and compassionate society.

    “Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Eid-ul-Adha filled with peace, joy, and blessings.”

  • Why we must protect Nigeria’s democracy, Obasa, Fashola, others

    Why we must protect Nigeria’s democracy, Obasa, Fashola, others

    Despite its challenges, democracy in Nigeria must be protected by every citizen.

    The advice was given by the speakers at an event to commemorate the country’s 25 years of unbroken democratic governance, organised by the Lagos State House of Assembly.

    Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; former governor of Lagos, Mr. Babatunde Fashola; foreign diplomats, and business experts argued on Wednesday evening that democracy has benefitted Nigeria since 1999 when the country began its Fourth Republic.

    Others who spoke at the event include Prof. Eghosa Osaghae of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs; Dr. Muda Yusuf, former chairman of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce; and Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa of the Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).

    Obasa said Nigeria deserved to celebrate because, in the last 25 years, the country has successfully transferred power from one administration to another, and upheld the principles of representation, accountability, and the rule of law.

    Read Also: Lagos, Ogun, Oyo govts move to check cholera outbreak

    “Our democracy has endured despite challenges and setbacks. We have faced elections, protests, and debates, but our commitment to democracy has remained unwavering.

    “We have demonstrated that democracy is not a destination but a journey, and we are proud to be on this path. We must continue to guard it jealously, for it is the foundation upon which the fabric of our nation’s progress is built.

    “We must continue to promote democratic values, protect human rights, and ensure that our democracy remains perpetually unbroken,” the Speaker said while recalling the struggle and sacrifice made by well-meaning Nigerians during the struggle for democracy.

    Also speaking, former governor of Lagos, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, said 25 years of democracy had provided an opportunity for effective representation of the people as well as freedom to make laws.

    Urging Nigerians to hold on to democracy very jealously, he argued that the federal system practiced in Nigeria remained important to the country’s growth.

    “For those who are understandably impatient with democracy, I hear them. It can be a tedious way to govern. There is no better way to order our affairs. I will not trade the liberties it offers for anything else.”

    The Consul General of the French Embassy in Lagos, Laurent Favier, while congratulating Nigeria, said “Democracy is not a state of perfection but something people have to fight for at all times. It is a political structure that must be deepened.”

    He expressed satisfaction with how democracy in Nigeria has ensured freedom just as he urged the country not to relent in making citizens happy.

    On the other hand, Weert Börner, Consul General of Germany, said his country with 16 states, practices the same federal system as Nigeria adding that this results in healthy competition.

    Consul General of the Embassy of Italy, Ugo Boni assured that the government of his country will continue to be a trustworthy companion of Nigeria while the British Deputy High Commissioner, Lagos, Jonny Baxter, said: “In these challenging times, it is important that we support each other in our shared commitment to democracy.”

  • Rampant Spain bully Croatia; Petković misses late penalty

    Rampant Spain bully Croatia; Petković misses late penalty

    Spain secured a perfect start to their Euro 2024 campaign as La Roja stormed to a 3-0 win over Croatia in Berlin.

    La Roja secured victory via a superb first half performance with Luis de la Fuente’s team three goals ahead at the break in the German capital.

    Despite a low key start, as both sides looked to edge each other out, Spain burst into life to convert their first real chance on the half hour mark.

    Read Also: Senegal’s Sarr slams racism in Spain

    Captain Alvaro Morata raced clear onto Fabian Ruiz’s fantastic pass as the Atletico Madrid striker slotted home his seventh European Championship goal.

    Ruiz quickly seized the initiative again just minutes later as he lashed home from the edge of the Croatia box.

    However, there was still time for a third Spain goal before the break, as Dani Carvajal poked home his first ever international goal.

  • 2024: Mbappé wants to erase bad memory

    2024: Mbappé wants to erase bad memory

    The last time Kylian Mbappé kicked a ball at the European Championship, it sent France out of the competition.

    He was the only player to miss in a penalty shootout against Switzerland, and France was eliminated from Euro 2020 in the round of 16 in a game where they led 3-1.

    Mbappé, who received hateful abuse online following the miss, is desperate to make amends at Euro 2024 in Germany.

    “It was a slap in the face when we failed at the Euro,” the 25-year-old striker said earlier this month. “It’s a big stain on my CV in the national team. I’m in a vengeful mood.”

    Read Also: Madrid move, ‘a dream come true’, says Mbappe

    France is in Group D, where it faces Austria on Monday, followed by the Netherlands on Friday and Poland on June 25.

    Mbappé, the team captain, was missing from practice at France’s team based in Germany on Thursday but was back training with his teammates the following days.

    “He took some rest but he’s not going to lose his physical condition just because he missed one or two training sessions,” France veteran Olivier Giroud said Friday. “He still has the same legs that we all know and the determination to achieve a great competition. So don’t worry he’s going to be ready for the first match.”

  • Euro 2024: Yamal becomes youngest ever Euros player

    Euro 2024: Yamal becomes youngest ever Euros player

    Lamine Yamal became the youngest player ever to appear at a European Championship on Saturday when he started for Spain in its tournament-opening game against Croatia.

    He also became the youngest player to set up a goal at the tournament when he crossed for Dani Carvajal to score Spain’s third goal before the break. Enzo Scifo was 18 when he set up a goal for Belgium against Yugoslavia in 1984.

    Read Also: Madrid move, ‘a dream come true’, says Mbappe

    Yamal was 16 years, 338 days. The previous youngest record-holder was Kacper Kozlowski of Poland, who was 17 years, 246 days in 2021 when he played against Spain.

    It’s Yamal’s eighth appearance for Spain. He played 47 games in the Spanish league and Champions League for Barcelona last season.

    Yamal will turn 17 the day before the Euro 2024 final on July 14 in Berlin.

  • Super Eagles coach, Finidi resigns

    Super Eagles coach, Finidi resigns

    •I have lost respect for him, says Osimhen

    Finidi George has resigned as the head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles following the announcement to appoint a foreign technical adviser by the Nigeria Football Federation.

    This decision to hire a foreign technical adviser came amidst dissatisfaction with the team’s recent performances, including a crucial defeat to Benin Republic that left the Super Eagles struggling in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

    Finidi, who was unveiled as the head coach earlier this year, had signed a one-year contract with the NFF, with the possibility of extension based on performance in the African Cup of Nations and World Cup qualifiers.

    His tenure included leading Nigeria in two international friendlies and working as an assistant coach under the previous head coach, Jose Peseiro.

    The NFF’s move to hire a foreign technical adviser was seen as a step to revitalise the team’s prospects after a series of disappointing results.

    This reported exit might be inseparable from the move made by the NFF.

    Meanwhile, an official announcement has yet to be made by the NFF – website and social media handles.

    However, ex-Super Eagles media officer, Toyin Ibitoye in a post on X.com on Saturday shared the same.

    He wrote, “News just in Finidi George #FinidiGeorge_FG has resigned from his #NGSuperEagles manager position.”

    Read Also: Foundation greets Nigerians at Sallah

    Similarly, Sport photojournalist, #poojamedia on his X account said, “Finidi George RESIGNED after being stylishly demoted with the arrival of a foreign technical adviser.”

    Finidi George, born in 1971 in Nigeria, is a former professional footballer renowned for his time at Ajax Amsterdam, where he won the UEFA Champions League in 1995.

    A skillful winger, he also played a crucial role for the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, during the 1990s, participating in two FIFA World Cups and winning the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations.

    After retiring in 2004, he has remained active in football, engaging in coaching and sports administration roles.

    I have lost respect for Finidi, says Osimhen

    Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen, has lashed out at coach Finidi George, stating that he has lost respect for him, over some comments on his attitude towards the national team.

    Finidi, who is said to have also resigned as the head coach of the Super Eagles on Saturday, was quoted to have said he can’t beg Osimhen to play for the national team after the player withdrew from their last two 2026 World Cup qualifiers due to injury.

    The striker was said to have been ruled out by a four-week injury and was replaced by Enugu Rangers defender, Kenneth Igboke.

    But following the Super Eagles wobbling performances against South Africa and Benin Republic, the narrative of Osimhen’s absence changed as an online medium (not The PUNCH) reported that Finidi used Osimhen’s absence as a poser for the players’ bad attitude towards the national team when he and the Nigeria Football Federation chiefs met with the Sports Minister, John Enoh, in Abuja on Wednesday.

    Osimhen was apparently infuriated by the comments and, in a live Instagram video on Saturday opened up on the circumstances that led to his withdrawal from the Super Eagles last two World Cup qualifiers, adding that Finidi was adequately briefed by him and his doctor.

    “I knew things like these would happen and that’s why I have the videos and screenshots of when I called Finidi while I was with the doctor in Germany,” Osimhen said.

     “I got injured in our (Napoli’s) last game against Lecce and I went to the MRI scan. And I called Finidi there for him to listen to the doctor too.

    “I called him (Finidi) and asked him to allow me to come to the camp to be with the boys and I spoke to some of my teammates too but he said I have to be with my family.

    “I’m not addressing anything, everybody knows I play my heart out whenever I’m playing for the club or national team. I’ll share the screenshot and videos of my conversation with Finidi for the sake of those believing what Finidi said.

    “I’ve lost respect for that man because before I disrespect anybody, I always respect them,” the player added

    In Finidi’s first game in charge of the Super Eagles, Nigeria were held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, last Friday and a 2-1 defeat against Benin Republic in Abidjan compounded the Super Eagles fate in Group C of the qualifying series, leaving them with just three points after four games.

  • Millwall goalkeeper Sarkic dies on duty at 26

    Millwall goalkeeper Sarkic dies on duty at 26

    Millwall’S 26-year-old goalkeeper, Matija Sarkic, has tragically passed away after falling ill while on international duty with Montenegro.

    Sarkic fell ill at an apartment in Budva, Montenegro, on Saturday morning.

    Despite immediate medical attention, he passed away around 6:30 am local time. Sarkic had recently played a full match for Montenegro against Belgium just over a week ago.

    Millwall, on its website on Saturday morning, issued a statement expressing their devastation.

    Read Also: Senegal’s Sarr slams racism in Spain

    It read, “Sarkic, The Lions’ number one goalkeeper, made 33 appearances for the club since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023.

    “A Montenegro international, Matija proudly represented his country on numerous occasions.

    “Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija’s family and friends at this immensely sad time.”