Hello and welcome! In today’s trending news stories;
1. A counter-insurgency expert and security analyst, Zagazola Makama, shared a viral video on TikTok showing a terrorist displaying money collected from victims as ransom. Makama expressed concern over the user’s 3000 followers, some of whom openly display weapons and wear military or police attire. He criticized TikTok for providing a platform for insurgents to promote terror without restriction. See Video
2. The Nigerian government has taken a strong stance against Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, a controversial Islamic cleric, regarding his comments on banditry in Northern Nigeria. Security agencies have invited him for questioning over his statements, particularly concerning the abduction of over 280 pupils and teachers in Kaduna State. The government emphasized that no one is above the law and that constructive suggestions will be considered, but reckless remarks will be addressed. The government also reiterated its commitment not to pay ransom for kidnapped victims and thanked security agencies for rescuing recently kidnapped students from Kuriga in Kaduna State. There’s been controversy over the number of abducted pupils, with conflicting reports, but the government assures that all released victims are safe.
3. Vinicius Junior, the Brazilian football sensation playing for Real Madrid, broke down in tears during a press conference ahead of Brazil’s friendly match with Spain. He was repeatedly questioned about racism, which he has faced while living in Spain since 2018. The emotional outburst came as Vinicius expressed frustration over the racial abuse he has endured, both on and off the field. Despite the challenges, he affirmed his commitment to staying in Spain, stating that leaving would only satisfy the desires of the racists. Vinicius has been subjected to racist attacks from rival fans, including incidents during matches he wasn’t even participating in. Despite his resilience, the continuous abuse has taken its toll on the 23-year-old. The upcoming friendly against Spain holds mixed emotions for Vinicius, who remains determined to continue playing despite the challenges he faces.
4. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) announced the sale of $10,000 to each eligible Bureau De Change (BDC) operator at the rate of N1,251/$1 as the naira gradually appreciates against the dollar. BDCs are instructed to sell to end users at a spread of not more than 1.5% above the purchase price, with warnings of sanctions for non-compliance. The Nigerian naira has faced challenges in recent months due to rising inflation, the forex crisis, and economic hardships. The CBN revoked licenses of BDCs and raised minimum capital requirements to stabilize the currency. New monetary policies are anticipated under the leadership of the CBN’s new chief, Olayemi Cardoso, during the Monetary Policy Committee meeting on March 26, 2024, following a recent interest rate hike aimed at curbing inflation.
5. Federal agents raided properties connected to rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami as part of an ongoing investigation by the Department of Homeland Security. Two properties in Los Angeles and Miami were searched, but officials did not specify the reasons for the raids or if they were linked to Combs. Representatives for Combs did not respond to requests for comment. Recent lawsuits have accused Combs of sexual misconduct, which his attorneys have denied. The raids reportedly took place at a mansion associated with Combs’ production company, Bad Boy Films, and were said to be part of an ongoing sex trafficking investigation, although this has not been independently confirmed. Several individuals, including R&B singer Cassie, have filed lawsuits alleging abuse by Combs. Attorney Douglas Wigdor, representing some of the alleged victims, expressed support for the law enforcement efforts.
6. A cargo ship named the Dali collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, causing a significant portion of the bridge to collapse into the water. Emergency services reported up to 20 people and several vehicles fell into the river following the collapse, prompting a large-scale rescue operation. The incident is described as a “developing mass casualty event,” with multiple agencies involved in rescue and recovery efforts. Emergency responders are cautious due to unsafe conditions caused by debris from the collapsed bridge. All lanes on Interstate 695, which crosses the bridge, are closed, and traffic is being redirected. Baltimore’s mayor and county executive have confirmed ongoing rescue efforts and called for prayers for those affected.
