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  • Anti-LGBTQ law: US imposes visa restrictions on Uganda officials

    Anti-LGBTQ law: US imposes visa restrictions on Uganda officials

    United States has imposed visa restrictions on Uganda officials over anti-LGBTQ law that was condemned by many countries.

    Recall that, U.S. President Joe Biden had threatened aid cuts and other sanctions, while Secretary of State Antony Blinken said last month that the government would consider visa restrictions against Ugandan officials.

    The Uganda’s anti-homosexuality imposes life sentence for same-sex intercourse and a 20-year sentence for promotion of homosexuality

    The State Department statement on Friday did not mention any names or even the number of officials that would be hit with the visa restriction but said the U.S. would hold accountable those who are responsible for abusing human rights in Uganda, “including those of LGBTQI+ persons.”

    The State Department also updated its Uganda travel guidance for U.S. citizens to highlight the risk that LGBTQI+ persons could be prosecuted and subjected to life imprisonment or the death penalty based on provisions in the law, it said.

    “The United States strongly supports the Ugandan people and remains committed to advancing respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in Uganda and globally,” the State Department said.

    Firms including media and non-governmental organizations that knowingly promote LGBTQ activity will also incur harsh fines, the law says.

  • SAD! Three dead in US mass shooting

    SAD! Three dead in US mass shooting

    No fewer than three people were feared dead while three got injured in a mass shooting at a house in Maryland’s capital city, on Sunday night.

    Annapolis Police Chief Edward Jackson told reporters at a media briefing that the shooting came from what he called an “interpersonal dispute.”

    Jackson, however, assuaged the fear of the people about a further threat to the public, according to CBS.

    He declined to elaborate on the relationship among the people involved but said those killed ranged in age from their 20s to their 50s.

    He said authorities had not established a concrete motive for the shooting.

    “It wasn’t random,” Jackson said, noting that the victims “died outside” the home.

    Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley said, “We are saddened for the families and for Annapolis that they have to deal with this. This can happen anywhere and nothing gets resolved through the use of guns.”

    We are in a very middle-class neighbourhood in Annapolis, Maryland,” Buckley said. “Tonight is an example of, yet again, senseless violence, people trying to resolve issues with guns. It is the most ridiculous thing we can do as a society. We have to do things to stop this.”

    The police statement said a suspect was in custody. The chief later described the person as a “person of interest” and said no charges had been filed, adding that authorities have recovered a weapon.

  • US convoy attack: Joint task force nab 4 ESN commanders

    US convoy attack: Joint task force nab 4 ESN commanders

    A joint task force security operatives has arrested four Commanders of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) over alleged involvement in a recent attack by gunmen on a convoy of United States (US) embassy officials in Ogbaru, Anambra State.

    ESN is the armed wing of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), which was set up to flush out terrorists herdsmen that have been ravaging the entire South East, destroying farm crops, raping women in their farms and killing others during the eight years of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    The group had also been accused of carrying some attacks on security formations especially on checkpoints where security men had turned into extortion point.

    It was gathered that wife of one of the Commanders was also arrested, in the joint operation led by the Commander of the Naval base, Onitsha and the Anambra State Police Command.

    No fewer than four staff of the United States Embassy in Nigeria and security agents were shot dead and their bodies burnt while some were kidnapped in the Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State on May 17, 2023.

  • Anti-gay law: US may restrict visas issued to Ugandan officials

    Anti-gay law: US may restrict visas issued to Ugandan officials

    Following the enactment of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality, the United States (US), has said its government may restrict visas issued to Ugandan officials

    Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, said that Joe Biden’s White House is “deeply troubled” by the Anti-Homosexuality Act, which was signed into law by Yoweri.

    Blinken while reacting to the law said that he was looking to “promote accountability” for Ugandan officials who have violated the rights of LGBTQ+ people, with possible measures including the curtailment of visas.

    “I have also directed the department to update our travel guidance to American citizens and to US businesses as well as to consider deploying existing visa restrictions tools against Ugandan officials and other individuals for abuse of universal human rights, including the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons,” Blinken said in a statement.

    Uganda’s government has faced widespread criticism over the new laws, with the EU, human rights groups and LGBTQ+ organizations all calling for it to be reversed. Biden, who has raised the possibility of sanctions against Uganda, has called the law a “tragic violation of universal human rights”
    while Volker Turk, the UN high commissioner for human rights, described the law as “devastating”.

    Homosexual acts were already illegal in Uganda but now those convicted face life imprisonment under the new laws, with the legislation imposing the death penalty for “aggravated” cases, such as gay sex involving someone below the age of 18. People convicted of “promoting” homosexuality face 20 years in prison, with Human Rights Watch noting the bill essentially criminalizes “merely identifying” as LGBTQ+.

    Full statement from President Joe Biden on the enactment of Uganda’s anti-homosexuality Act

    The enactment of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act is a tragic violation of universal human rights—one that is not worthy of the Ugandan people, and one that jeopardizes the prospects of critical economic growth for the entire country. I join with people around the world—including many in Uganda—in calling for its immediate repeal. No one should have to live in constant fear for their life or being subjected to violence and discrimination. It is wrong.

    Since the Anti-Homosexuality Act was introduced, reports of violence and discrimination targeting Ugandans who are or are perceived to be LGBTQI+ are on the rise. Innocent Ugandans now fear going to hospitals, clinics, or other establishments to receive life-saving medical care lest they be targeted by hateful reprisals. Some have been evicted from their homes or fired from their jobs. And the prospect of graver threats—including lengthy prison sentences, violence, abuse—threatens any number of Ugandans who want nothing more than to live their lives in safety and freedom.

    This shameful Act is the latest development in an alarming trend of human rights abuses and corruption in Uganda. The dangers posed by this democratic backsliding are a threat to everyone residing in Uganda, including U.S. government personnel, the staff of our implementing partners, tourists, members of the business community, and others. As such, I have directed my National Security Council to evaluate the implications of this law on all aspects of U.S. engagement with Uganda, including our ability to safely deliver services under the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and other forms of assistance and investments. My Administration will also incorporate the impacts of the law into our review of Uganda’s eligibility for the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). And we are considering additional steps, including the application of sanctions and restriction of entry into the United States against anyone involved in serious human rights abuses or corruption.

    The United States shares a deep and committed partnership with the people of Uganda. For more than 60 years, we have worked together to help millions of Ugandans live healthier, more productive lives.

    Our programs have boosted economic growth and agricultural productivity, increased investments in Ugandan businesses, and strengthened our trade cooperation. In total, the U.S. Government invests nearly $1 billion annually in Uganda’s people, business, institutions, and military to advance our common agenda. The scale of our commitments speaks to the value we place on this partnership—and our faith in the people of Uganda to build for themselves a better future. It is my sincere hope that we can continue to build on this progress, together, and strengthen protections for the human rights of people everywhere.

  • Tinubu finally reacts to attack on US Embassy convoy after call with Blinken

    Tinubu finally reacts to attack on US Embassy convoy after call with Blinken

    The President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has condemned the attack on some United States Embassy officials at Ogabru in Anambra.

    Tinubu, in a statement issued by Mr Tunde Rahman, his media aide on Friday in Abuja, said he was shocked to hear of the attack.

    “Tinubu is deeply shocked to learn of the attack on United States Embassy convoys, just hours after his telephone call with the U.S Secretary of State, Antony Blinken.

    “He expresses his sympathy and condolences with the U.S Government and families of the four personnel killed in the horrific attack at Ogabru, Anambra,” the statement said.

    It said Tinubu had been making inquiries into the persons responsible and their motives, and would do all he could to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

    It added that security is one of the cardinal issues on Tinubu’s agenda, and he would give it priority attention on assumption of office.

    This, it said was why security, featured prominently in his telephone discussion with Secretary Blinken.

    The statement said Tinubu had, in a telephone conversation on May 16, with Blinken, urged the U.S to factor in Nigeria’s important place in Africa and provide needed assistance in the areas of security and economic investment.

    This, he said, was critical for Nigeria to lead the way and be a shining example to the rest of Africa continent.

    He said his immediate priorities would be to deliver institutional reforms and development programs to deepen Nigeria’s democratic institutions and bring help to poor and vulnerable Nigerians.

    Tinubu had expressed determination to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and faithfully serve the people as president

  • US convoy: Police confirm nine persons died during attack

    US convoy: Police confirm nine persons died during attack

    Anambra Police Command has revealed that nine persons lost their lives in an ambush attack on the US convoy in the state on May 16.

    The command’s disclosure is contained in a press statement made available through DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, Anambra Police Command spokesman, in Awka on Thursday.

    Ikegna said the information about the incident was received by Anambra State Police Command, through an official of the US consulate.

    The command disclosed that through its preliminary investigation, it gathered that the officials of the USA consulate were on a mission to assess the impact of erosion in Ogbaru Local Government Area (LGA).

    The statement said the attack took place along Atani/Osamela road in Ogbaru LGA by suspected members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN)/Indigenous people of Biafra (IPOB).

    However, the  command disclosed that upon arrival at the scene of the incident, the joint security team sighted and engaged the assailants in a shoot-out but they escaped through a nearby forest.

    Ikenga said the Command continued their search jointly with security forces comprising police tactical teams from the command and troops of the Nigerian Army as well as the Nigerian Navy.

    The PPRO said they raided a camp in Ugwuaneocha community of Ogbaru LGA, which was suspected to be the hideout of the assailants, but discovered that it had been deserted.

    However, he disclosed that two persons of interest have been arrested and they are currently assisting the police in their investigation.

    The statement also revealed that the criminal camp has been razed down by the joint security team.

    The Command listed the following persons as the fallen heroes of the US consulate, Jefferson Obayuwane (RTD DSS personnel), Sunday Prince Ubong, Ekene Nweke, Hassan Etila, Avwuvie Kaye, Monday, Bukar . A. Kabuiki – (Police), Emmanuel Lukpata – (Police), Friday Morgan -(Police), and Adamu Andrew – (Police).

    The PPRO  said that the remains of the deceased persons have all been recovered and deposited in a morgue.

    He said that the state police command and other security agencies are working round-the-clock, in concert with the Government of Anambra State, to find and rescue the missing officials.

    Ikenga urged members of the public to support its effort to get the identities and locations of the culprits, through provision of quality information.

    The Commissioner condoles with the families and friends of the deceased persons.

    He extended his condolence to the USA Consulate over the tragic incident and assured that efforts would be deployed to track down the perpetrators of the heinous crimes and bring them to justice.

  • Police reveal identity of US embassy officials involved in Anambra brutal attack

    Police reveal identity of US embassy officials involved in Anambra brutal attack

    The Police Command in Anambra have released names of nine U.S.  Consulate personnel from Lagos involved in Tuesday’s brutal attack which claimed seven lives at Ogbaru area of the state.

    Mr Echeng Echeng, the  Commissioner of Police in Anambra made the disclosure at a news  conference at the  command’s headquarters in Amawbia on Thursday.

    Echeng listed the persons as; Jefferson Obayuwane, Sunday Prince Ubong, Ekene Nweke, Hassan Etila, Avwuvie Kaye Monday, Bukar. A. Kabuiki, Emmanuel Lukpata, Friday Morgan, and Adamu Andrew.

    It was gathered that out of the number, seven were killed and set ablaze in their vehicles, while two were kidnapped.

    Echeng said the deceased included men from Squadron 23, Police Mobile Force Lagos, Inspectors Bukar Adams, Friday Morgan, Adam Andrew and Emmanuel Lupata.

    The CP said that security operatives had arrested two persons in connection with the crime and were now helping in investigations on the matter.

    Echeng said joint security forces comprising,  police tactical teams, Nigerian Army and Nigerian Navy raided a camp in Ogwuanaocha community of Ogbaru, which was suspected to be the hideout of the assailants on Wednesday May 17 but discovered that it had been deserted.

    The personnel of Lagos Consulate of the U. S. and their police escorts were ambushed on May 16,  between 12 noon and 2 pm along Atani/Osamala road in Ogbaru after assessment tour of erosion ravaged communities.

    Echeng blamed the attack on members of suspected Eastern Security Network ESN and proscribed  Indigenous People of Biafra, (IPOB) adding that efforts were on to track the location of the gunmen.

    “Information about the incident was received by the police command in Anambra , through an official of the consulate, at about 2:30 pm on Tuesday.

    “Consequently, a joint team of Mobile Policemen and troops of the Nigerian Navy stationed in Onitsha was immediately deployed to the area.

    “Upon arrival at the scene of the incident, the joint security team sighted and engaged the assailants in a shoot-out but they escaped through a nearby forest,’’ he said.

    Giving more details, he said further preliminary investigation by the command revealed that five male officials of the U.S. consulate and four armed Mobile Police escorted from Lagos were on a mission to assess the impact of erosion in Ogbaru before they were ambushed.

    “Regrettably, seven persons including three of the consulate officials and four Mobile Police escorts were murdered during the attack while two other officials of the consulate are yet to be found.

    “The deceased police officers include; Bukar Adams, Friday Morgan, Adam Andrew and Emmanuel Lupata,’’ he said.

    Echeng said the remains of the deceased persons had  been recovered and deposited in a morgue while the state police command and other security agencies were working round-the-clock with the  Anambra government to rescue the missing officials.

    He appealed to the public to  provide information about the identities and locations of the culprits, to  assist the police.

    Echeng also condoled with  families and friends of the deceased persons as well as the U.S. consulate over the tragic incident.

  • White House reacts to attack on US Embassy convoy in Anambra

    White House reacts to attack on US Embassy convoy in Anambra

    The White House has confirmed that no American citizen was killed as gunmen ambushed a US Embassy convoy in Nigeria on Tuesday, killing four people.

    Those who died include two personnel from the US consulate and two police officers.

    The attack took place in the Amiyi/Eke Ochuche communities in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra state.

    “No US citizens were involved and therefore there were no US citizens hurt.

    “We are aware of some casualties, perhaps even some killed,” John Kirby of the US National Security Council said.

    The spokesperson for the Anambra Police Command, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, also revealed that the assailants “made away with two police operatives and a driver of the second vehicle in the convoy.”

    Ikenga confirmed that joint security forces “have embarked on a rescue and recovery operation in the area.”

  • UPDATE: U.S. explains class of individuals affected by visa ban

    UPDATE: U.S. explains class of individuals affected by visa ban

    The United States of America (USA) on Monday disclosed it has taken steps to impose visa restrictions on specific individuals in Nigeria for undermining the democratic process during Nigeria’s 2023 elections cycle.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken made the disclosure on Monday in a statement titled: “Taking Steps to Impose Visa Restrictions on Individuals Involved in Undermining the Democratic Process During Nigeria’s 2023 Elections Cycle”.

    According to the statement, the visa restrictions are specific to certain individuals and are not directed at the Nigerian people or the Government of Nigeria as a whole.

    The statement published on the official website of the USA explained that the visa restriction affects individuals involved in the intimidation of voters through threats and physical violence during the elections, the manipulation of vote results, and other activity that undermines Nigeria’s democratic process.

    “These individuals will be subject to restrictions on visas to the United States under a policy covering those believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy,” the statement added.

    Read full statement below:

    Taking Steps to Impose Visa Restrictions on Individuals Involved in Undermining the Democratic Process During Nigeria’s 2023 Elections Cycle

    The United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Nigeria and around the world. Today, I am announcing that we have taken steps to impose visa restrictions on specific individuals in Nigeria for undermining the democratic process during Nigeria’s 2023 elections cycle. These actions are specific to certain individuals and are not directed at the Nigerian people or the Government of Nigeria as a whole.

    Under Section 212(a)(3)C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, these individuals will be subject to restrictions on visas to the United States under a policy covering those believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy. These individuals have been involved in intimidation of voters through threats and physical violence, the manipulation of vote results, and other activity that undermines Nigeria’s democratic process.

    The decision to take steps to impose visa restrictions reflects the continued commitment of the United States to support Nigerian aspirations to strengthen democracy and the rule of law.

  • BREAKING: US imposes visa ban on Nigerian politicians over 2023 elections

    BREAKING: US imposes visa ban on Nigerian politicians over 2023 elections

    The United States of America (USA) has imposed a VISA ban on a number of Nigerian politicians for undermining democratic processes during the 2023 elections.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken made the disclosure in a statement on Monday.

    However, Blinken did not disclose the identity of the individuals affected by the VISA ban.

    “We have imposed visa restrictions on specific individuals who undermined the democratic process during Nigeria’s 2023 elections.

    ALSO READ || UPDATE: U.S. explains class of individuals affected by visa ban

    “We remain committed to supporting Nigerian aspirations to strengthen democracy and rule of law,” the US Secretary of State disclosed via Twitter.