US Religious Freedom Panel Alleges Collusion in Nigeria’s Deadly Attacks, Urges Tougher US Policy as Violence Escalates
A report from the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) landed like a thunderclap in both Washington and Abuja. The commission, tasked with monitoring global religious rights, accused some officers within Nigeria’s police and army of colluding with Fulani militias in a wave of deadly attacks and mass abductions that have terrorized religious communities across the country. The allegations were not made in a vacuum. The commission’s new report, bluntly titled “Non-state Violators of Religious Freedom in Nigeria: Fulani Militants,” painted a grim picture: government censorship and conflicting media narratives had obscured the true scale and motivation of armed groups violating Nigerians’ religious freedom. Even as the news spread, attempts to get a response from Nigeria’s police and military headquarters were met with silence, calls went unanswered, and messages went unread. Behind closed doors, US officials were already taking action. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth revealed that President Donald Trump had ordered the Pentagon to prioritize the protection of Nigerian Christians targeted by ISIS. This directive, Hegseth said, led, quietly but decisively, to the killing of ISIS’s second-in-command in Nigeria. “There’s a lot that happens behind the scenes that the president deserves credit for,” Hegseth remarked. The commission’s report was unflinching in its detail. It spoke of unknown fates for kidnapping victims, the opacity of ransom negotiations, and the possible complicity of some police and army officials. It described an environment where 30,000 armed actors, operating in loosely organized bands, roamed the country, with violence concentrated in the North-West, Middle Belt, and parts of the South. Escalating violence in the Middle Belt had, according to the commission, driven at least 1.3 million people from their homes, forcing them into overcrowded and unsafe displacement camps. The attacks were often meticulously timed, sometimes to coincide with Christian holidays such as Christmas or Easter, maximizing terror and psychological harm. The report recounted a litany of horrors: the massacre of more than 200 Christians, mostly women and children, in Benue’s Yelwata; mass killings in Plateau State; and the abduction of priests and imams alike, as violence targeted both churches and mosques. Observers, the report noted, debated the motivations behind the Fulani militants’ violence; some saw economic and environmental roots, others a campaign of genocide against non-Muslims. The truth, the commission concluded, was likely a tangled web of overlapping grievances, with religion playing a significant role. As the violence continued, the commission criticized Nigerian authorities’ inadequate response and highlighted claims of favoritism toward Muslim communities during investigations. It noted that some state governors had tried to address the crisis by establishing ranch lands for herders, hoping to reduce clashes over grazing routes. The report’s impact was not limited to Nigeria. In Washington, the commission urged Congress to bar lobbyists representing governments blacklisted for religious freedom violations from receiving payment for their services, a move directly targeting Nigeria’s recent re-designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) by President Trump. The commission also recommended that Congress allow US residents to sponsor persecuted relatives for resettlement and to fund humanitarian aid for displaced populations. Meanwhile, Nigerian politicians ramped up their own lobbying efforts. The federal government signed a $9 million contract with Washington-based DCI Group to shape US perceptions and counter criticism, while opposition figure Atiku Abubakar engaged another US firm to burnish his reputation and counter rival narratives. Back in Nigeria, reactions to the USCIRF report were immediate and passionate. Dr. Bitrus Pogu, National President of the Middle Belt Forum, insisted the findings merely confirmed what many had long believed: elements within the security services were aiding insurgents. He recalled past warnings, like those from General T.Y. Danjuma and former President Jonathan, about collusion within the security apparatus, and called on US authorities to use their intelligence capabilities to help root out the conspirators. “This conspiracy is too large for peace-loving components of the security agencies to deal with alone,” Dr. Pogu warned. “No stone should be left unturned in addressing this terrible conspiracy against the Nigerian nation.” A similar note was struck by Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization. Spokesman Jare Ajayi said he was not surprised by the commission’s findings, arguing that terrorism’s persistence in Nigeria pointed to complicity by powerful actors. While he praised the government’s stated determination to end banditry, he lamented the spike in violence and urged security agencies to look inward for saboteurs, politicians included. Ajayi concluded, “The US Commission’s assertion may be uncomfortable, but it must not be dismissed. It should serve as a beacon for a thorough investigation.” As Nigeria faces another perilous year, the ghosts of the missing and the displaced haunt both its countryside and its corridors of power. The world, now watching more closely, wonders how long the violence and the alleged complicity will continue unchecked. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Secret Service says officers fatally shot a person who fired at them near White House
Secret Service officers shot and killed a person who the agency said approached a security checkpoint Saturday near the White House and fired at them. Shortly before 6 p.m. ET, an individual approached a checkpoint just outside the White House complex and began firing at officers, a Secret Service spokesperson said, citing a preliminary investigation. Secret Service officers returned fire and hit the suspect, who later died at an area hospital, the spokesperson said. “During the shooting, a bystander was also struck by gunfire. It remains unclear whether the bystander was struck by the suspect’s initial gunfire or during the subsequent exchange of gunfire,” the spokesperson added. Secret Service personnel were not injured, and President Donald Trump was in the residence and unaffected, the spokerson said. He’s been briefed on the incident by the Secret Service, a White House official said. The bystander is in critical condition, according to a law enforcement official. | Suspected gunman Nasire Best The suspect has been identified as 21-year-old Nasire Best, three sources told CNN. Best had previous encounters with the Secret Service, one law enforcement source said, including an incident in June 2025 in which he blocked an entry lane at the White House. After claiming he was “God,” he was detained by the Secret Service and committed to the Psychiatric Institute of Washington for mental evaluation, the source said. The following month, in July 2025, the Secret Service arrested Best again after he attempted to enter a White House complex driveway, the source said. A judge issued an order demanding he stay away from the White House grounds. While investigating the encounters last year, investigators discovered Best had made various statements on social media, including claiming he was “the real” Osama bin Laden, and at least one post indicating his desire to harm Trump, the source said. But police had never encountered the suspect behaving violently or wielding a weapon before, according to a law enforcement source. Gunshots trigger rapid security response CNN reporters heard what appeared to be dozens of gunshots near the White House shortly after 6 p.m. ET, triggering a roughly 40-minute lockdown for the press on the grounds and a rapid response from the Secret Service. The sounds of gunfire broke out nearly an hour after a press lid had been called at 5:06 p.m. — a signal that reporters were not expecting to see Trump again for the remainder of the day. By that point, many journalists and White House press staff had already departed the complex. Members of the press corps on the North Lawn were rushed into the White House briefing room, where they were told to shelter in place as Secret Service agents shouted “get down” and warned of “shots fired.” CNN counted roughly two dozen journalists sheltering inside the briefing room during the lockdown, including photographers, producers, photojournalists and correspondents. Secret Service agents carrying rifles could be seen moving through the North Lawn area following the incident and blocking the White House press briefing room. The lockdown was lifted just after 6:45 p.m. ET. The incident unfolded after several top administration officials, including White House chief of staff Susie Wiles, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Vice President JD Vance, were captured by CNN cameras leaving the White House grounds. CNN has reached out to the White House, DC Metropolitan Police, and the DC Fire and EMS Department for comment. FBI Director Kash Patel said on Xthat the agency was on the scene and supporting Secret Service. Selina Wang, ABC News’ chief White House correspondent, posted a video on X showing the moment the apparent shots rang out and she ducked for cover. “I was in the middle of taping on my iPhone for a social video from the White House North Lawn when we heard the shots. It sounded like dozens of gunshots. We were told to sprint to the press briefing room where we are holding now,” she posted. The incident comes less than a month after the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, where reporters and Trump administration officials ducked for cover as shots rang out. The suspect in that shooting, Cole Tomas Allen, sprinted through a security checkpoint with a shotgun in hand, exchanging fire with Secret Service agents who chased behind him, according to security footage. He has pleaded not guilty to attempting to assassinate Trump and to other charges. Source: cnn.com
Nigerian Engineer Michael Amuzie Bags NJDOL Public Service Award in America
Nigerian-born engineer and public service professional, Chief Michael Amuzie, has been honoured with the prestigious NJDOL Public Service Award in Trenton, New Jersey, USA, in recognition of his contributions to engineering regulation, workplace safety advocacy, and public administration. The award, presented in the United States, has attracted commendation from members of the Nigerian diaspora community and professional bodies who described the recognition as another testament to the growing impact of Nigerians excelling in strategic sectors abroad. Amuzie, an accomplished engineering professional and title holder of Gburugburu 1 of Umuaka in Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State, has built a reputation for excellence in mechanical engineering, regulatory compliance, and public sector service. Based in New Jersey, Chief Amuzie is the Chairman of the Governor’s Rules Board as well as the head of the New Jersey Mechanical Inspection Bureau of Boiler & Pressure Vessel Compliance (MIBB&PVC). He has over the years, been involved in initiatives relating to engineering inspections, safety standards, and institutional accountability within the American regulatory system. His professional accomplishments earned him appointments and responsibilities as he presently represents the State of New Jersey in both the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Conference Committee and the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI). The NJDOL Public Service Award is associated with the New Jersey Department of Labour and Workforce Development, one of the major state institutions responsible for labour administration, workforce development, worker protection, occupational safety compliance, and employment services in New Jersey. The NJDOL said in an official statement that the “Employee Spotlight Award” received by Engineer Amuzie recognized individuals who demonstrate exceptional performance, professionalism, and dedication to supporting their team and the organization’s mission. “Michael Amuzie is a positive role model and always the consummate professional when collaborating with his peers both internally and externally. He has distinguished himself through his leadership, knowledge, hard work, and integrity. He has supported the professional development of his staff, encouraging them to seek higher education and professional certifications and development to advance their careers, ” the statement reads in part. The department plays a critical role in enforcing labour laws, improving workplace standards, supporting workers’ welfare, and promoting economic opportunities through skills development and workforce initiatives across the state. Observers noted that recognition from an institution linked to such an important public agency underscores the level of trust and confidence reposed in Amuzie’s professional competence and dedication to service. Speaking after receiving the award, Amuzie expressed gratitude for the honour and dedicated it to Nigerians striving for excellence across the world. “This recognition is not just about me personally; it is about the values of hard work, integrity, professionalism, and service,” he said. “We must continue to show that Nigerians everywhere can contribute positively to society and help strengthen institutions through dedication and competence.” He further encouraged young Nigerians, especially those in the diaspora, to remain focused on professional development and ethical leadership. “Every opportunity to serve should be seen as an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Young Nigerians must believe that excellence and integrity still matter,” he added. Members of the Nigerian community in the United States praised Chief Amuzie for what they described as his consistency, humility, and commitment to public service. Some community leaders noted that his recognition reflects positively on Nigeria at a time when many citizens abroad are distinguishing themselves in medicine, engineering, academia, technology, business, and public administration. Analysts also described the honour as symbolic of the increasing visibility of Nigerians in leadership and technical positions across global institutions. They argued that such recognitions help counter negative stereotypes about Nigeria by projecting stories of competence, innovation, and service. For many young professionals in the diaspora, Amuzie’s achievement is being viewed as an inspiration and proof that sustained dedication and professionalism can open doors to global recognition and leadership opportunities. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana
The Patriotic Journalists Against Galamsey (PAJAG) Urge Support for Returning Ghanaians
In the wake of mounting xenophobic attacks in South Africa, the Patriotic Journalists Against Galamsey (PAJAG) has sounded a clarion call for the Government of Ghana to prioritize Ghanaian businesses, especially in strategic sectors like mining, as part of a broader effort to support citizens returning home under distressing circumstances. The story began when news broke of yet another wave of violence targeting African nationals, including Ghanaians, in South Africa. Many were forced to leave behind thriving businesses and livelihoods, journeying back to Ghana with uncertainty clouding their futures. In a heartfelt statement signed by Executive Director Nana Otu Darko, PAJAG expressed deep concern for the displaced Ghanaians and the challenges they now face. Despite the pain and frustration, PAJAG stood firm in cautioning against any acts of retaliation towards South Africans living or working in Ghana. “Let us uphold peace, diplomacy, and Pan-African unity,” the group urged, reinforcing Ghana’s reputation for hospitality and level-headedness in times of crisis. PAJAG took a moment to commend President John Dramani Mahama, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa Benjamin Quashie, and businessman Ibrahim Mahama for their swift support to affected compatriots. Their efforts, the group noted, exemplified true leadership in a time of need. Looking ahead, PAJAG advocated for a thorough audit of South African companies operating in Ghana. They recommended that, where lawful and necessary, expiring contracts should not be renewed. Instead, any opportunities arising from such transitions ought to be channeled toward capable Ghanaian entrepreneurs and investors, boosting local participation in vital sectors and opening new doors for those forced to return home. The group further championed the creation of a national reintegration programme, envisioning access to credit, skills training, and employment opportunities for returning Ghanaians. “Empowering local businesses and transitioning opportunities to Ghanaian companies will help create jobs, strengthen local industries, and reinforce our economic resilience,” PAJAG affirmed. Diplomatic engagement, they insisted, should be intensified with South African authorities to protect Ghanaian nationals and develop long-term strategies to combat xenophobia across Africa. Through it all, PAJAG maintained that Ghana’s response must be rooted in lawful economic empowerment and national development, without compromising the country’s commitment to peace, unity, and positive relations within the African family. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu Assumes Office as Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister
The halls of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs buzzed with anticipation as Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, officially took up her post. Her elevation, announced by President Bola Tinubu, was met with warm applause from staff and dignitaries alike. In a statement, Ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa highlighted that Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s appointment was a testament to the Federal Government’s confidence in her leadership and diplomatic acumen. During a reception held in her honor, Permanent Secretary Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed extended his heartfelt congratulations. He described her appointment as a well-deserved recognition of her unwavering dedication and professionalism in service to the nation. Ambassador Ahmed expressed optimism that the new minister would further strengthen Nigeria’s foreign relations and forge deeper diplomatic partnerships worldwide. He pledged the ministry’s full support as she works to advance the administration’s foreign policy priorities. Reiterating the ministry’s commitment, Ahmed emphasized the drive to promote Nigeria’s national interests, protect its citizens abroad, attract foreign investment, and nurture both bilateral and multilateral relationships. In her remarks, Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu graciously thanked the ministry’s management and staff for their warm welcome. She reaffirmed her resolve to build upon the achievements of President Tinubu’s administration and to push forward Nigeria’s foreign policy agenda. She reiterated her dedication to the Federal Government’s 4D Foreign Policy agenda, Democracy, Development, Diaspora, and Demography. Emphasizing citizen diplomacy, strategic autonomy, professionalism, and institutional efficiency, Odumegwu-Ojukwu underlined the importance of these values in confronting global challenges and safeguarding Nigeria’s interests on the world stage. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Tensions Rise as Mthatha Residents Prepare for Protest Over Jobs for Locals
On the morning of Thursday, April 23, the streets of Mthatha, South Africa, are expected to fill with voices demanding change. Local residents are planning a protest, set to begin at 9:00 a.m. and conclude by 11:00 a.m., over a growing sentiment that foreign nationals are taking jobs meant for South Africans. The demonstration, led by local South Africans, aims to pressure authorities to prioritize employment opportunities for citizens. Many in the community feel that an influx of foreign workers, particularly from Ghana, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe, has reduced job prospects for locals. Dr. Yirenyi Gyekye Darko, Chairman of the Ghanaian Community in Mthatha, has been working behind the scenes to ensure that the protest remains peaceful. “I spoke to one of the station commanders, and he confirmed that there will be a peaceful demonstration. The police are taking precautionary measures to ensure everything remains under control,” Dr. Darko explained. Despite reassurances from the police, Dr. Darko has urged Ghanaians living in Mthatha to be cautious. “We have asked our people to stay indoors and not open their shops until about midday, when the situation is expected to normalise,” he said, emphasizing the importance of safety for the Ghanaian community. Dr. Darko further clarified that the root of the protest lies in demands for the South African government to give employment preference to locals. “The demonstrators are calling for priority to be given to South Africans. Their main concern is that foreigners have taken their jobs,” he said. As Mthatha prepares for the protest, residents and foreign nationals alike wait anxiously, hoping that the demonstration will remain peaceful and that a solution can be found to address the community’s concerns. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Heads to France for One Health Summit and Bilateral Talks with Macron
Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama is set to embark on an official visit to France beginning Monday, April 6, 2026, following a formal invitation from French President Emmanuel Macron. The two-day engagement will take President Mahama across two of France’s most iconic cities, Lyon and Paris, for a packed schedule of global health diplomacy and high-level bilateral discussions. The visit begins in Lyon, where President Mahama will attend the 2026 One Health Summit, a landmark gathering bringing together world leaders, health ministers, and global health experts to tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing humanity, from the reform of global health systems and sustainable food production to coordinated strategies for combating health crises. As founder of the Accra Reset Initiative, President Mahama will take center stage at the summit on Tuesday, co-chairing its high-level segment alongside President Macron. He is scheduled to deliver two keynote addresses during the summit. The first will be at a session on Global Health Architecture, co-chaired by President Macron and Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization. That session will focus on reforming global health initiatives and endorsing a Political Declaration designed to strengthen international health cooperation. His second keynote will open the high-level segment for heads of state and government, where President Mahama is expected to articulate Ghana’s commitments and perspectives on global health security, signaling the West African nation’s growing role on the world stage. From Lyon, the President will make his way to the French capital. On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, he will be welcomed to the Élysée Palace for a bilateral meeting with President Macron. The talks are expected to center on deepening Ghana–France relations, with discussions spanning health, education, trade, investment, and regional security. Prior to the Élysée meeting, President Mahama will also be received by Gérard Larcher at the Senate House, a gesture that underscores the diplomatic significance of the visit. Following his meeting at the Élysée Palace, President Mahama is expected to return to Accra, closing out what promises to be a consequential chapter in Ghana’s international engagements. The statement was issued by Felix Kwakye Ofosu (MP), Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
New APC Deputy Chairman Hits the Ground Running, Appoints Diaspora Medical Leader as Special Adviser
In a bold move signaling his commitment to inclusive leadership, the newly elected All Progressives Congress (APC) National Deputy Chairman for the South, Dr. Benjamin Nwoye, has announced his first major appointment—tapping a prominent Diaspora leader to bridge the gap between the party and Nigerians abroad. Dr. Nwoye has named Dr. Kingsman Obinna Chikelu, a medical doctor and Managing Director of Diaspora Hospital Abuja, as his Special Adviser on Diaspora and Medical Affairs. The appointment, made public on Monday, March 30, 2026, comes just days after Dr. Nwoye’s emergence at the party’s National Convention, where he took over from Chief Emma Eneukwu. Dr. Chikelu is no stranger to Diaspora leadership. A respected medical practitioner, he previously served as Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Worldwide. His background spans Diaspora mobilization, international relations, and healthcare advocacy—qualities his new principal believes will be instrumental in advancing the party’s vision. According to sources close to the Deputy National Chairman’s office, the appointment is strategic. The goal, they explained, is to harness the skills, expertise, and vast networks of Nigerians living abroad to support the APC’s development agenda while also strengthening the party’s health and welfare initiatives. “This appointment reflects our commitment to inclusivity and tapping into the vast resources and expertise of our brothers and sisters in the Diaspora,” Dr. Nwoye said, expressing confidence in Dr. Chikelu’s ability to deliver. In his acceptance, Dr. Kingsman Obinna Chikelu pledged to work diligently to mobilize Diaspora support for the party and contribute meaningfully to its medical and welfare programmes. Party stakeholders have welcomed the move, describing it as a timely signal that Dr. Nwoye is ready to hit the ground running in his new leadership role. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
South Korean court sentences ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol to life for insurrection
A South Korean court has found former President Yoon Suk Yeol guilty of orchestrating an insurrection, sentencing him to life in prison for his failed attempt to impose military rule in December 2024. The 65-year-old’s order, which lasted just six hours, brought the government to a standstill and significantly weakened his political party, contributing to its loss in the subsequent elections. “The attempt to subvert the constitutional order cannot go unpunished,” the presiding judge said during the verdict announcement. The incident has left a lasting mark on South Korean politics and society. Crowds of Yoon’s supporters gathered outside the court in protest, reflecting the deep divisions his actions have caused across the nation. Yoon is already serving prison time for another conviction related to the same failed martial law order and still faces two additional trials. Source: BBC
Ghana and Zambia Sign Landmark Visa Waiver Agreement to Boost Bilateral Ties
In a historic move to deepen ties and promote seamless mobility, the governments of Ghana and Zambia have signed a landmark visa waiver agreement, allowing citizens of both countries to travel freely without the need for visas. The announcement came during President John Dramani Mahama’s recent three-day state visit to Zambia, where he was welcomed by President Hakainde Hichilema at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport on February 4. The development was disclosed to the press by Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who described the visa waiver as one of the most significant outcomes of the high-level visit. Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that the new policy is poised to enhance trade, tourism, investment, and cultural exchange between the two nations, removing long-standing bureaucratic barriers for travelers, including students, businesspeople, professionals, and tourists. According to the Foreign Affairs Minister, the visa-free arrangement was a key directive personally issued by President Mahama as a top priority for the visit. “We are prioritising your smooth mobility, and one of the major outcomes of this state visit is that, for the first time in the history of Ghana-Zambia relations, we are going to have a free visa between our two countries, so you no longer have to stress about visas,” Mr. Ablakwa said. He added that the President had made it clear that the agreement was a non-negotiable condition for the diplomatic trip. The visa waiver agreement signals a new era of cooperation, expected to foster closer diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people relations between Ghana and Zambia. As both countries look to the future, the removal of travel restrictions is set to unlock new opportunities and strengthen the bonds between their citizens. Source: Apexnewsgh.com