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    Nigeria: Marcos Rojo reveals how crucial goal saved Argentina from ‘humiliation’ during 2018 World Cup

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    Read Time:1 Minute, 43 Second

    Abuja, Nigeria – (African Boulevard News) – Former Argentina defender Marcos Rojo has spoken out about his crucial goal against Nigeria’s Super Eagles during the 2018 World Cup in Russia, revealing that it saved the team from “humiliation”.

    Rojo’s goal in the 86th minute helped Argentina secure a 2-1 win in Group D, and progress to the round of 16. Speaking about the game, Rojo said, “We were all aware of the situation. We knew that if we didn’t win that game, we were going home.”

    In an interview with Soccernet.ng, Rojo said, “We knew that we had to win, and we were playing against a very strong Nigerian team. They were very fast and good on the counter-attack. We had to be very careful.”

    Rojo revealed that the pressure was so intense that some of the players were afraid for their lives. “It was a very difficult game,” he said. “We were playing in Russia, where there were a lot of Argentine fans. But there were also a lot of Nigerian fans, and they were very passionate. We knew that if we lost that game, they’d have killed us.”

    Rojo’s goal was a moment of relief for the struggling Argentine team. “When the ball went in, it was like a weight had been lifted off our shoulders,” he said. “We knew that we had done enough to get through to the next round.”

    The win secured a knockout round tie against France, which Argentina narrowly lost 4-3. However, Rojo remains proud of his team’s efforts. “We fought until the end,” he said. “We gave it everything we had.”

    Rojo’s comments highlight the intense pressure that comes with playing at the World Cup, where the hopes of an entire country can rest on the performances of 11 players.

    As the World Cup returns this summer, teams will be hoping to avoid the same fate as Argentina in 2018. With Rojo’s words still ringing in their ears, they’ll be aware that a single goal can make all the difference between success and failure.

    Senegal: Opposition Leader Targeted in Poison Gas Assassination Attempt

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    Dakar, Senegal – (African Boulevard News) – The leader of the opposition Pastef party, Ousmane Sonko, has reportedly been targeted in an assassination attempt involving the use of poison gas. During a press conference on Monday, May 1st, Mr. Sonko revealed that laboratory tests confirmed that he had been sprayed with a “toxic and lethal” chemical gas.

    According to the politician, he had previously reported feeling unwell after tear gas was used on him during a rally in mid-March. However, after undergoing tests at a local laboratory, it was discovered that he had been exposed to a far more dangerous substance. Mr. Sonko stated that the gas was “more lethal than mustard gas”, which was used during World War I.

    The news of the assassination attempt has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Senegal. Sonko is a charismatic and popular figure, and his Pastef party has gained significant support in recent years.

    The incident has also raised concerns over the safety of politicians in the country, particularly those who are critical of the ruling government. Several opposition leaders and activists have been arrested or harassed by authorities in recent months, leading to accusations of authoritarianism and a crackdown on dissent.

    In response to the incident, several prominent figures have expressed their support for Mr. Sonko, including the Senegalese Bar Association, which issued a statement condemning the “cowardly attack” and calling for a full investigation.

    The Senegalese government has also condemned the alleged assassination attempt, with Prime Minister Mohamed Dionne stating that “we must ensure the safety of all our citizens, especially those who are in the public eye”.

    The incident has also drawn international attention, with several foreign governments expressing concern over the safety of politicians and activists in Senegal. The European Union has called for a “full and transparent investigation” into the matter, while the United States has urged all parties to “exercise restraint and pursue a peaceful and democratic resolution”.

    As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the attack. However, Mr. Sonko has vowed to continue his political campaign, stating that “we will not be intimidated by these cowardly actions”.

    Uganda: Outrage as Parliament Passes Amended Anti-LGBT+ Law with Harsh Penalties and Reporting Requirements

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    Kampala, Uganda – (African Boulevard News) – Uganda’s parliament has passed an amended version of an anti-LGBT+ law on Tuesday, which has maintained harsh penalties for same-sex relationships. This move has been met with outrage from many advocacy groups and Western governments.

    The new version of the anti-gay bill, which was first introduced in 2013, doubles down on the criminalization of same-sex relations and expands the definition of homosexuality to include acts such as touching and kissing. The bill also includes a provision that would require citizens to report anyone suspected of being LGBT+ to authorities.

    The passage of the new anti-gay bill is a significant setback for Uganda’s LGBTQ+ community, which has faced discrimination and persecution for years. Many activists fear that the law will embolden homophobia and lead to increased persecution of LGBTQ+ individuals.

    Frank Mugisha, the Executive Director of Sexual Minorities Uganda (SMUG), spoke out against the bill’s passage, stating that “this law will bring more violence towards LGBT+ people, who already face significant challenges in their daily lives.”

    The passage of the bill also drew condemnation from several Western governments, with the United States and the United Kingdom issuing statements criticizing the move.

    “The United States is deeply concerned by the passage of this law, which runs contrary to our values of equality and human dignity,” said a spokesperson for the US State Department.

    The passage of the new anti-gay bill has also raised concerns about the safety of LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda. Human rights groups have documented cases of violence, discrimination, and arbitrary arrests of LGBTQ+ Ugandans, and fear that the new law will only exacerbate the situation.

    In conclusion, the passage of the new anti-gay bill in Uganda is a significant setback for LGBTQ+ rights in the country. The harsh penalties it maintains for same-sex relationships and the expansive definition of homosexuality in the bill are a clear violation of human rights. This law will embolden homophobia and lead to increased persecution of LGBTQ+ individuals. It is now up to the government and international community to take action to protect the rights of Uganda’s LGBTQ+ community and ensure that they are not subject to discrimination, violence, and persecution.

    Africa: Mayotte in Turmoil as Operation Wuambushu Continues to Arrest Suspects in Controversial Crackdown on Immigration

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    Diaspora, Africa – (African Boulevard News) – Tensions remain high in the French overseas territory of Mayotte as Operation ‘Wuambushu’ enters its second week. The operation was launched last week by the French gendarmerie and has resulted in numerous arrests.

    According to sources, Wuambushu aims to tackle illegal immigration and smuggling in Mayotte. The island, located in the Indian Ocean, has become a popular destination for those seeking a better life in Europe. However, the influx of migrants has put a strain on the island’s resources and has led to social tensions.

    Since the start of the operation, police have arrested dozens of people suspected of being involved in smuggling, trafficking, and other illegal activities. The operation has also led to the discovery of several clandestine boat-building sites and the seizure of numerous boats.

    Despite the success of the operation, it has not been without controversy. Human rights activists have criticized the heavy-handed approach of the French authorities, saying that it has led to the harassment and detention of innocent people.

    “The French authorities need to ensure that their actions are in line with international human rights standards,” said a spokesperson for Amnesty International. “The fact that people are being arrested without adequate evidence or due process is a cause for concern.”

    The French government has defended the operation, saying that it is necessary to maintain law and order in Mayotte. “We will not tolerate any criminal activity on our territory,” said a spokesperson for the French Ministry of the Interior.

    The situation in Mayotte remains tense, with protests and clashes reported in some areas. However, the authorities say that they will continue with the operation until they have achieved their objectives.

    In conclusion, the ongoing operation ‘Wuambushu’ in Mayotte is a controversial issue that has attracted international attention. While the French authorities have managed to arrest several suspects involved in smuggling and trafficking, human rights activists have criticized the heavy-handed approach of the security forces. The situation in Mayotte remains tense, and it remains to be seen how the authorities will move forward.

    Kenya: Protesters Clash with Police, Tear Gas Used to Disperse Opposition Delegation Demanding Release of Jailed Colleagues

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    Nairobi, Kenya – (African Boulevard News) – Kenyan police clashed with anti-government protesters on Tuesday, as opposition politicians attempted to visit the president’s office in the capital, Nairobi. Tear gas was used by police to disperse the delegation of politicians, in a day of protests against the government.

    The protesters were demanding the release of their jailed colleagues, who were arrested during a previous demonstration. The opposition politicians were accompanied by family members of those arrested, who are calling for their immediate release.

    According to eyewitnesses, the confrontation between the police and protesters turned violent, with the police using excessive force to disperse the crowd. Protesters were seen throwing stones at the police, and some were arrested.

    In a statement released by the police, they claimed that the protesters had become violent, and were disrupting the peace. They warned that they would not allow any form of lawlessness, and urged the public to stay calm.

    The opposition leaders condemned the police brutality, and accused the government of violating the constitutional rights of its citizens. They called on the government to respect the rule of law, and to release the detained protesters.

    “This is a clear demonstration of the government’s lack of respect for the rule of law. We will not be cowed by the police brutality, and we will continue to demand the release of our colleagues,” said one of the opposition politicians.

    The government has been facing increased pressure from the opposition and civil society groups, who are calling for reforms to address corruption and human rights abuses. The protests have intensified in recent weeks, and the government has been accused of using excessive force to quell them.

    The United Nations and other human rights groups have called for an end to the violence, and for the government to respect the rights of its citizens.

    “This is a worrying trend, and we call on the government to respect the right to peaceful assembly and protest. We urge them to address the concerns of the protesters, and to release those who have been detained,” said a representative from a human rights group.

    In conclusion, the Kenyan police clashed with anti-government protesters, who are calling for the release of their colleagues. The government has been accused of violating the constitutional rights of its citizens, and using excessive force to quell the protests. The opposition and civil society groups are calling for reforms to address corruption and human rights abuses in the country.

    Senegal: Opposition Leader Claims Police Targeted Him with ‘Toxic and Lethal’ Gas During Protest, Causing Public Outrage and Political Turmoil

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    Dakar, Senegal – (African Boulevard News) – In a press conference held on Monday, opposition leader Ousmane Sonko accused the police of spraying him with a ‘toxic and lethal’ gas during a protest in mid-March. Sonko stated that laboratory tests concluded that he had been exposed to the dangerous gas. The announcement has caused an uproar in Senegal, with the opposition asking for answers.

    Sonko, who is currently under investigation for rape, insisted that the police had targeted him, and not the protesters, with the deadly gas. He stated that he felt unwell after being exposed to the gas, and that his health condition had worsened since then.

    The claims made by Sonko have been met with skepticism from the government and the police. Officials from the government have denied any wrongdoing and have accused the opposition leader of spreading false propaganda. The police have stated that they used tear gas to disperse the protesters and deny using any other chemical agents.

    The latest accusations by the opposition leader come at a time when protests and unrest have been rocking the country. Senegal has been battling with a severe economic crisis, high unemployment rates, and an ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

    The opposition has accused President Macky Sall’s government of being corrupt and incompetent, and they have called for his resignation. The government has responded by cracking down on the opposition, arresting several members, and imposing strict restrictions on public gatherings.

    The accusations made by Sonko have reignited the debate on police brutality in Senegal. There have been several instances in the past where the police have been accused of using excessive force on protesters. The government has promised to investigate the matter and punish those responsible if any wrongdoing is found.

    The latest developments have raised concerns about the state of democracy in Senegal. The opposition maintains that they are fighting for the rights of the people and the rule of law. However, the government has accused them of trying to destabilize the country and undermine its sovereignty.

    In conclusion, the accusations made by Ousmane Sonko have caused a stir in Senegal. The government and the opposition are at loggerheads, with both sides refusing to back down. The situation in the country remains tense, and it is unclear how it will end. As always, African Boulevard News will keep you updated on the latest developments.

    Sudan: Foreign Nationals Flee Violence on British Military Planes to Safety in Cyprus

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    Khartoum, Sudan – (African Boulevard News) – People from various nationalities have gathered at the Port Sudan airport, anxious to board British military planes that are heading to Larnaca, Cyprus. The evacuation process, which began on Monday, May 2nd, is aimed at removing foreign nationals from the volatile African nation, which has been embroiled in a crisis for several months.

    The decision to evacuate foreign nationals came after a wave of unrest and violence hit Sudan, with several cities being subjected to mass protests and violence for weeks on end. Many countries have issued warnings to their citizens, urging them to leave the country for their own safety.

    Hundreds of people were seen queuing up at the airport to board the British military plane, with many expressing their relief at being able to leave the country. “I am so grateful to be able to leave this unsafe country and return to my homeland, where I will be safe,” said one evacuee.

    The evacuation process has been praised by experts as a necessary step to safeguard the lives of foreign nationals who may be caught up in the ongoing conflict in Sudan. However, there are concerns that not all foreign nationals will be able to leave the country due to limited flights and other logistical issues.

    “The evacuation of foreign nationals is a critical step towards protecting their safety and well-being. However, it is important to ensure that all those who need to leave the country can do so,” said an expert.

    The evacuation process is expected to continue until all foreign nationals who wish to leave Sudan have been evacuated. Meanwhile, the Sudanese government has assured the public that it is doing all it can to restore order and ensure the safety of all citizens and foreign nationals in the country.

    In conclusion, the evacuation process is a much-needed step towards safeguarding the lives of foreign nationals in Sudan. It is hoped that the evacuation process will be completed quickly and efficiently, with all foreign nationals who wish to leave being given the opportunity to do so. The Sudanese government must continue its efforts to restore peace and stability in the country to ensure the safety and well-being of all its citizens and foreign nationals.

    Burkina Faso: Famous Whistleblower Released From Custody After Being Accused Of “Foreign Intelligence”

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    Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso – (African Boulevard News) – Burkina Faso’s most famous whistleblower, Wendpouire Charles Sawadogo, has been released from police custody after being detained for four days. Sawadogo was suspected of engaging in foreign intelligence while working to expose corruption in the country.

    According to the African News web site, Sawadogo was arrested on Thursday, April 28th, and was held in police custody for questioning. His arrest quickly drew international attention, with many demanding the government release him and drop the charges.

    Fortunately, Sawadogo’s lawyer, Mathieu Somé, announced on Monday that his client had been released and that the charges against him had been dropped. Somé added that Sawadogo was in good health and had been well-treated while in police custody.

    This news has been met with jubilation and relief from Sawadogo’s supporters, who have praised him for his bravery in speaking out against corruption in the country. Many of his supporters say that his release is a victory for freedom of speech and a sign that the government is beginning to take the issue of corruption seriously.

    Despite the good news, many are still concerned about the wider issue of corruption in Burkina Faso. The country has long struggled with corruption at all levels of government, and many worry that this issue is still far from being resolved.

    In an interview with African Boulevard News, Romain Kaboré, a political analyst and commentator, said that while he was thrilled to hear of Sawadogo’s release, he was also concerned about the continuing problem of corruption in Burkina Faso. “There’s no question that Sawadogo is a hero for exposing corruption in the country, but we need to remember that corruption is still a major problem in Burkina Faso,” he said. “We need to continue to push for greater transparency and accountability in government and work to end corruption once and for all.”

    Overall, while the release of Wendpouire Charles Sawadogo is certainly cause for celebration, it is clear that the fight against corruption in Burkina Faso is far from over. However, with continued efforts and the bravery of whistleblowers like Sawadogo, progress can be made towards a more transparent and accountable government.

    Kenya: Former Taxi Driver Turned “Pastor” on Trial for Role in Deadly Forest Massacre

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    Diaspora, Africa – (African Boulevard News) – Former taxi driver turned “pastor”, Paul Mackenzie Nthenge, appeared in court yesterday to face charges related to the deadly “Shakahola Forest Massacre”. The trial has garnered national attention, as the accused was once a respected religious figure in the community.

    The trial began with the prosecution detailing the horrific events that took place on the fateful day of the massacre. Mackenzie and his followers allegedly stormed a rival religious group’s camp in the forest, resulting in the deaths of over 50 people. The prosecution also revealed that Mackenzie had been stockpiling weapons for months leading up to the attack.

    The defense team argued that Mackenzie was not involved in the planning or execution of the attack and was merely an innocent bystander. However, the evidence presented by the prosecution was damning, with several witnesses testifying to Mackenzie’s involvement in the massacre.

    The trial has sparked outrage across the country, with many calling for justice to be served. “This is a heinous crime, and those responsible must be held accountable,” said Sarah Wanjiku, a human rights activist. “The victims and their families deserve justice.”

    While Mackenzie’s guilt or innocence is yet to be determined, the case has raised important questions about the role of religion in society. “It’s important to remember that not all religious leaders are good people,” said Dr. James Mwangi, a sociologist. “We must be vigilant in identifying and calling out extremist behavior.”

    The trial is expected to continue for several weeks, with more witnesses set to testify. The outcome of the trial will have far-reaching implications for the religious community and justice system in the country.

    In conclusion, the trial of Paul Mackenzie Nthenge for his role in the “Shakahola Forest Massacre” has begun, with the prosecution presenting damning evidence of his involvement. While the trial is ongoing, the case has sparked important conversations about religious extremism and justice in society. We will continue to follow this story and provide updates as they become available.

    Liberia: President Weah commissions modern headquarters for football association, bringing a new dawn for football development in the country!

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    Monrovia, Liberia – (African Boulevard News) – Liberia’s Chief Patron of Sports, President George Manneh Weah, has officially commissioned the newly constructed headquarters of the Liberia Football Association (LFA), the first of its kind since 1936 when the organization was established. The newly constructed facility, named the “LFA Football House,” features modern amenities, including conference rooms, an auditorium, a gym, and offices for the association’s staff.

    The commissioning of the headquarters comes as a significant milestone for the LFA, which has long served as the primary force behind the development of football in Liberia. In his speech during the event, President Weah, a former world-renowned footballer himself, hailed the opening of the headquarters as a significant achievement for his administration, the LFA, and the entire nation.

    “I am delighted to commission this modern and functional edifice which will serve as the hub of football activities in Liberia. This football house, with its many modern facilities, will not only serve the administrative needs of the LFA but will also provide a conducive environment for footballers to train and develop their skills,” said President Weah.

    The LFA President, Mustapha Raji, described the new headquarters as a “dream come true” and a testament to the association’s commitment to developing the sport. He added that the football house would provide a platform for young and talented footballers to showcase their skills and talent.

    “The LFA has always been committed to developing the sport of football in Liberia, and the opening of the football house is a clear testament to that commitment,” Mr. Raji said.

    The commissioning of the football house comes at a time when the Liberian national football team’s performance has been less than stellar, failing to qualify for major international tournaments. However, stakeholders are optimistic that the new headquarters will provide a fresh impetus to the development of football in the country.

    Sports enthusiasts and fans across the country have lauded the opening of the LFA Football House, saying it would boost the development of football, grassroots football management, and administration in Liberia.

    In conclusion, the commissioning of the LFA Football House marks a significant milestone in Liberia’s football history and is a clear indication that the country is committed to developing the sport. The new headquarters will not only serve as the administrative home of the LFA but will also provide modern facilities for footballers to train and develop their skills. The opening of the football house is a welcome development, and stakeholders are optimistic that it will provide the necessary impetus to the development of football in Liberia.