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Nigerian officials have a culture of denial – US lawmaker alleges

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United States lawmakers conducted a hearing on Wednesday examining global threats to religious freedom, with Nigeria featured as a primary focus of concern. The session, held by the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, revisited longstanding allegations of persecution against Christians in Nigeria, claims that Nigerian authorities have consistently rejected.

Congressman Chris Smith, chairman of the subcommittee, opened the hearing with stark language, citing the organization Genocide Watch to describe Nigeria as “a killing field of defenceless Christians.” He commended the recent redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by the U.S. State Department, stating, “That wrong in our foreign policy has been righted with the President’s CPC designation. We commend and thank him for that action.”

While acknowledging Nigeria had taken “small steps” to improve conditions, Smith strongly criticized recent lobbying efforts by Nigerian entities aimed at influencing U.S. policy. He specifically referenced a reported $9 million contract between Nigeria and the lobbying firm DCI Group, as well as a separate $120,000-per-month contract between a Nigerian security executive and the firm Valcour Global. “They hire these firms; they come up with their very well-written talking points to say nothing to see here,” Smith argued, suggesting these efforts demonstrate “a culture of denial by Nigerian officials persists.”

The hearing also saw debate over the effectiveness of U.S. policy. Congressman Joaquin Castro questioned the impact of U.S. military strikes in Nigeria under the previous administration, accusing it of using the “front of ‘protecting Christians’” while simultaneously “cutting assistance that would actually address discrimination against religious communities.”

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Lawmakers further discussed the practical consequences of Nigeria’s CPC status, with some characterizing it as a largely symbolic “name and shame” measure, while others argued it helps maintain critical attention on the situation in Nigeria.

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Autopsy reveals what led to singer Destiny Boy’s death

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The cause of death of Nigerian singer Afeez Adesina, popularly known as Destiny Boy, has been revealed months after his passing.

According to P.M News, the 22-year-old artiste, who died on January 17, 2026, had sparked speculation at the time, especially after videos from the scene circulated online.

While his family initially stated that he had been dealing with a long-term health condition that caused seizures, new findings have provided more clarity.

According to the Ogun State Police Command, an autopsy carried out by the State Criminal Investigation Department showed harmful levels of tramadol and methamphetamine in his system.

The report concluded that the cause of death was aspiration pneumonitis resulting from the ingestion of these substances.

Police spokesperson, DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, also confirmed that one suspect has been arrested in connection with the case, with investigations still ongoing.

Destiny Boy rose to fame in 2019 after his Fuji-style cover of Davido’s song If gained attention online.

He is survived by his partner, Iremide, and their child, whom they welcomed in November 2024.

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See also  65th Independence Anniversary: Tinubu To Address Nigerians October 1st By 7 AM
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Cuba releases more than 2,000 prisoners amid US pressure

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The Cuban government on Saturday morning, April 3, announced plans to release 2,010 prisoners in what it described as a “humanitarian gesture,” as pressure from the United States continues to mount.

The announcement was shared by the Cuban Embassy in the US on social media, with officials linking the move to the observance of Holy Week rather than directly referencing tensions with Washington.

According to the government, those set to be released include foreign nationals, Cuban citizens living abroad, young people, women and older adults. Authorities said the decision was based on factors such as good conduct, time already served, the nature of the offenses and the health condition of the inmates.

No timeline was provided for when the prisoners will be released, and officials did not disclose the specific crimes committed by those affected. It also remains unclear whether individuals convicted during protests are among those included.

While Cuban authorities deny holding political prisoners, rights group Prisoners Defended has reported that more than 1,200 people are detained on political grounds.

The move comes as the administration of Donald Trump intensifies economic pressure on the island, including an effective oil blockade that has contributed to fuel shortages and economic strain.

Washington has pushed for political and economic reforms in Cuba, although details of those demands have not been made fully public. The US has also signaled that sanctions relief would depend on significant changes by the Cuban government.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has previously stated that Cuba would need to undergo major reforms to qualify for any easing of sanctions, stressing that the country’s economic challenges are tied to its political system.

See also  Ghana defence, environment ministers killed in helicopter crash — Presidency

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PHOTOS: Man hospitalised after sustaining injuries from beatings while portraying Jesus Christ during Good Friday procession

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A second-year law student at Kampala International University, Dennis Zziwa, sustained injuries while portraying Jesus Christ during a Good Friday Way of the Cross procession at Our Lady of Africa Church, Mbuya, Uganda.

Dennis sustained injuries from the beatings he received during the intense scenes of the reenactment.

He received immediate first aid from Red Cross responders.

He was later taken to Lamone Health Center in Luzira for further medical attention.

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See also  “Muslim Will One Day Become US President” — Nigerian Islamic Cleric, Sheikh Gumi Predicts
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