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West Africa

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#West Africa

440 Articles

Nollywood Actor Emeka Ike Plans Legal Action Over Voter Data Breach

In a troubling turn of events, renowned Nollywood actor Emeka Ike has signaled his intention to pursue legal recourse following the unauthorized disclosure of his personal data from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal. The situation escalated when a senior aide to the Federal Capital Territory minister faced backlash for disclosing what seemed to be Ike's confidential voter information via an INEC webpage. On the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the aide, Lere Olayinka, scrutinized Ike's…

Nigerian Police Deny Reports of Armed Bandit Invasion in Lagos

In response to alarming reports of armed bandits allegedly attacking various communities with a specific focus on school children, police in Lagos are taking decisive steps to reassure the public. A recent police statement highlighted the serious repercussions of circulating false security alerts, which have already resulted in a “tragic and avoidable loss of life” following an incident where a group of youths killed a motorcycle rider. The police emphasized their commitment to accountability, declaring, “Individuals found…

Guineans Protest ‘Electoral Farce’ Amid Low Voter Turnout

Guinea has taken a significant step towards re-establishing its constitutional framework, as legislative and municipal elections unfolded in the country following the presidential election on December 28, 2025. Despite the peaceful nature of the double ballot, the voter turnout was notably low. Just five months post-presidential vote, nearly 7 million Guinean citizens participated in the elections aimed at solidifying constitutional order. This pivotal moment follows a transition period initiated by General Mamadi…

Barrow Appoints New Gambian Army Chief Following Abuse Allegations

In a significant leadership shift, President Adama Barrow has named Major General Ousman Gomez as the Acting Chief of Defence Staff of the Gambia Armed Forces. This decision comes on the heels of Lieutenant General Mamat O. A. Cham's resignation, which was surrounded by serious allegations of misconduct. In his resignation letter, Cham cited his departure was prompted by "numerous allegations of misconduct and abuse of office inconsistent with the Office of Chief of Defence Staff." Prior to his new role, Gomez held the…

Former Nigeria Military Chief and Wife Abducted in Katsina

In a troubling incident that underscores the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, retired Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife have fallen victim to armed kidnappers in Katsina state, according to military sources. Abubakar, who previously served as a military spokesperson, was taken on Saturday while en route to a wedding. Reports indicate that his driver managed to escape, albeit with injuries. Authorities have launched operations to secure the couple's release, as armed banditry continues to plague the region, where…

Missing Outspoken Critic of Mali’s Junta Remains Unfound

In a shocking incident that has raised alarm across Mali, prominent lawyer and government critic Mountaga Tall was abducted from his home in Bamako by unidentified gunmen. A full month has passed since this brazen attack, yet the Malian authorities have remained tight-lipped regarding Tall's fate. They have not confirmed whether he is in their custody, nor have they disclosed any details about his whereabouts, legal standing, or well-being.

Burkina Faso Suspends Major Student Union Amid Junta Criticism

Amid escalating tensions in Burkina Faso, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has issued a stark warning against the suppression of student voices, emphasizing that stifling dissent will not address the nation’s deepening security and governance challenges. This alert comes on the heels of a government decision to suspend the General Union of Burkina Students (UGEB), the largest student organization in the country, signaling a troubling trend of crackdowns on civil liberties. Founded as one of Burkina Faso's longest-standing and most…

Neglected Tropical Diseases Recognized as a Human Rights Issue

Despite significant advancements, neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) continue to fly under the radar of global health initiatives. To date, 61 nations have successfully eradicated at least one NTD, showcasing what sustained dedication can achieve. However, the fallout from neglecting these diseases is dire: children lose vital educational opportunities, while adults struggle to maintain employment, directly impacting household income and overall quality of life. Furthermore, stigma and discrimination thrust individuals into…

Thousands of Fulani Militants Contribute to Nigeria’s Security Crisis, Report Says

In a troubling revelation, the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has reported that around 30,000 armed Fulani militants are currently active in Nigeria, exacerbating issues of insecurity and threatening religious freedoms throughout the nation. The USCIRF's latest report, titled "Nonstate Violators of Religious Freedom in Nigeria: Fulani Militants," characterizes these armed groups as among the most lethal non-state actors engaging in violent activities, particularly in the Middle Belt and…