West Africa

On June 21, a tragic suicide bombing rocked Borno state in Nigeria, claiming the lives of 12 individuals. This incident has stirred anxiety about a potential escalation in the conflict between the nation’s security forces and the notorious Islamist group, Boko Haram. Anietie Ewang, a researcher with Human Rights Watch, underscores the gravity of the situation. In the years leading up to 2024, the region had witnessed a noticeable decline in suicide bombings. Analysts credited this decline to significant military victories…

Sierra Leone's President, Julius Maada Bio, recently ascended to the position of chairperson of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). With this new role, he sets his sights on reinstating constitutional order and fostering a more robust democratic framework across the region. Taking over from Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, who faced significant tribulations during his two terms, Bio steps into a complex landscape. Tinubu’s leadership was not without its hurdles. His tenure endured the strain of…

Human Rights Watch has issued a compelling call to action, urging the Guinean government to conduct an investigation into the disturbing abduction and torture of Mohamed Traoré, a distinguished lawyer and former president of the national bar association. Over the weekend, armed intruders stormed his residence, seizing Traoré and his daughter in a harrowing display of force. Known for his outspoken criticism of Guinea's military junta, which seized control in September 2021, Traoré's situation highlights the escalating…

In a pivotal moment for Liberian politics, a coalition of opposition parties has emphatically called for the appointment of a special prosecutor. This comes in light of serious allegations regarding witness tampering and claims of "torture" linked to the investigation of a devastating fire that ravaged parts of the building housing the national legislature. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. This coalition, comprising several significant political entities, issued a robust joint statement accusing the…

In a significant stride toward reconciliation and cultural restitution, the Netherlands has returned 119 ancient sculptures that were taken from the former Kingdom of Benin in southern Nigeria over a century ago. These remarkable artifacts, widely referred to as the Benin Bronzes, were the spoils of conflict during a turbulent chapter in history; they were seized in 1897 when British forces invaded and subsequently exiled the kingdom's ruler. This return marks not just a physical relocation of art but a profound…

The High Court in London has delivered a significant ruling, establishing that Shell plc and its former Nigerian subsidiary must be held accountable for long-standing oil pollution in the Niger Delta. This decision signals not only a potential shift in legal precedents but also raises critical questions about corporate responsibility in environmental matters. In this instance, the Bille and Ogale communities in Rivers State have brought forth serious allegations. They assert that the infrastructure owned by Shell has led to…

The United Kingdom has renewed its commitment to the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS)—an initiative that aims to strengthen trade relationships with developing nations. This program, introduced in 2023, opens doors for Nigeria and 36 other African countries, allowing them to export over three thousand products with either no duties or significantly reduced tariffs. "Nigeria plays a pivotal role in the UK's aspirations for global trade," remarked British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery. He…

Julius Malema, a figure whose turbulent career often stirs both passion and controversy, has once again been denied entry to the United Kingdom. This is the second instance in just two months that the outspoken leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has faced such a setback. The UK Home Office has cited multiple reasons for this decision. Most notably, they highlighted his vocal support for Hamas, incendiary remarks directed at the white population of South Africa, and ultimately described his potential presence in…

President Joseph Boakai has taken a firm stance in defense of his choice to travel via private jet for international engagements, asserting that this decision is not rooted in an ostentatious lifestyle. Yet, the controversy surrounding his travel habits continues to swirl, especially among opposition figures who are quick to spotlight what they deem a disconnect between his earlier critiques of luxury travel by his predecessor and his current practices. In a candid interview with the BBC, President Boakai remarked, “I can…

Recently, a troubling video from Olabisi Onabanjo University in Ogun State ignited a wave of indignation across social media platforms. The footage depicted women students subjected to unwarranted physical contact from female staff members tasked with checking for bras prior to an examination. This incident raises several uncomfortable yet crucial questions about conduct, authority, and the rights of students in educational settings. The university, thus far, has opted to remain silent, not providing any immediate…