An African food import company, MacPhilips Foods Ltd, along with its director and manager, has been fined over £13,000 following an investigation by Thurrock Council’s Trading Standards team. The company, previously based in Purfleet-on-Thames, was found guilty of distributing palm oil contaminated with illegal Sudan dyes, which pose significant health risks, including cancer.

Colchester Magistrates' Court ordered MacPhilips Foods to pay £6,000 in fines, £2,000 in victim surcharges, and £5,000 in costs. The company failed to recall the contaminated oil in a timely manner, taking five months to provide the necessary information. Both the company’s manager and director were fined £600 each.

Councillor Victoria Holloway praised the Trading Standards team for removing the unsafe product despite delays caused by poor record-keeping. Concerns about products can be reported to Citizens Advice or the Trading Standards consumer helpline.

Judges across the UK, including in Liverpool, Plymouth, and Teesside, have handed down prison sentences to individuals involved in some of the worst unrest the country has seen in over a decade. The riots were triggered by the killing of three young girls in Southport 10 days ago.

Among those sentenced were a 69-year-old man who armed himself with a truncheon and a 28-year-old man who knocked a teenager off his bike with a helmet. In total, 21 convictions were secured on Thursday, with more rioters set to face jail time as cases are fast-tracked through the courts.

Notable cases include Steven Mailen, 54, and Ryan Sheers, 29, who were sentenced to two years and two months each for their roles in a large-scale disturbance in Hartlepool. Another defendant, Kieron Gatenby, 19, received 16 months in a young offender institution for throwing missiles and smashing windows during the unrest.

At Liverpool Crown Court, John O'Malley, 43, and William Nelson Morgan, 69, were each sentenced to over two years in prison for their roles in the violence, including attacking police and setting a library on fire. Two brothers, Adam and Ellis Wharton, were also jailed for looting the burned library.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) emphasized that the substantial sentences serve as a warning to others involved in the disorder. Nearly 500 arrests have been made so far, with 149 charges filed, and police expect more to follow. The recent violence is the most significant since the 2011 UK riots.

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has suspended an Assistant Superintendent of Immigration II (ASI II) for allegedly soliciting a bribe from a traveler. The suspension follows a viral video showing the officer engaging in the misconduct, which has drawn widespread condemnation.

NIS Comptroller General, Kemi Nandap, announced the suspension in a statement issued by the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Udo, on Thursday in Abuja. Nandap emphasized that the officer’s behavior, as seen in the video, is contrary to the professional standards upheld by the NIS.

Condemning the act, Nandap stated that it undermines the ongoing reforms aimed at improving service quality. The officer has been suspended indefinitely pending the outcome of disciplinary proceedings, in accordance with the law and Public Service Rules.

The NIS reiterated its commitment to rooting out corruption within its ranks and assured the public of its dedication to excellence in service delivery, in line with the Federal Government’s 'Renewed Hope Agenda.' Nandap also mentioned that electronic gates (e-gates) are being installed at all international airports to enhance passenger experience and prevent similar incidents.

The NIS urged the public to report any instances of misconduct or corruption by its officers to the appropriate authorities.

The Advocacy for Advancement of Peace & Harmony in Africa Initiative (ADAPHAI) has issued a stark warning to political and thought leaders in Northern Nigeria, urging them to take immediate action to prevent a violent uprising among idle youths in the region.

In a press statement signed by National Coordinator Comrade Sulaimon Suberu, ADAPHAI highlighted the recent violent actions of Northern youths during the ongoing nationwide protests against bad governance. The group attributed this unrest to widespread unemployment and lack of education, which have created a volatile environment.

ADAPHAI emphasized that the North suffers from a significant educational deficit that has been ignored by successive leaders, leading to a breakdown in values and critical thinking among the youth. Despite producing numerous military and civilian leaders since independence, the region remains underdeveloped in both physical and human capital, making it prone to various social issues.

The group also pointed out the high consumption of illicit substances among Northern youths as a major contributing factor to the region's instability. ADAPHAI called for an immediate education and social summit to address fundamental issues such as education, youth employment, and drug abuse.

"The reactions of Northern youths to the nationwide protests indicate a lack of critical thinking and reasoning, highlighting dangerous trends in the region," the statement read. It further criticized regional leaders for prioritizing power struggles over addressing the systemic problems plaguing the North.

ADAPHAI urged Northern political elites and stakeholders to urgently address these issues to avert a potential disaster of unimaginable scale, emphasizing the need for comprehensive solutions to the region's endemic problems.

President Bola Tinubu has made a heartfelt appeal to Nigerians to exercise patience amid the current economic hardships. In a video recorded in July, the president emphasized that the present suffering is temporary and assured that better days are ahead.

Tinubu acknowledged the unavoidable delay between the removal of the petrol subsidy and the implementation of policies designed to ease the economic strain. He reiterated his commitment to the greater good for the majority of citizens, promising a “glorious dawn” following the current difficulties.

"Fellow Nigerians, this period may be hard on us, but I urge you to look beyond the present temporary pains and aim at the larger picture," Tinubu stated. He called for faith in the government's ability to deliver, noting that plans to improve the nation's welfare are underway and will soon take effect.

The president highlighted efforts to make education more affordable and provide loans for higher education students, ensuring no one has to abandon their studies due to financial constraints.

Tinubu concluded with a message of hope, assuring Nigerians that the country will emerge stronger and better equipped for the future. He expressed his dedication to turning this vision into reality, urging continued patience and faith in the process.

The organizers of the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests have expressed disappointment with President Bola Tinubu's recent nationwide address. They believe the president is disconnected from the reality in Nigeria, as he justified state violence against protesters and dismissed their demands.

Michael Lenin, National Coordinator of Youth Rights Campaign, criticized Tinubu's speech for ignoring the protesters' grievances and justifying violence against them and journalists. Lenin emphasized that the protests, ongoing for over three weeks with casualties, highlight the president's disconnection from the masses.

Emiola Osifeso from the Take It Back Movement accused Tinubu of misrepresenting the protests as politically motivated. Osifeso clarified that the protests are a response to the government's failure to address widespread poverty, inequality, corruption, and human rights abuses after 14 months in power.

Omole Ibukun from Creative Change Centre called the broadcast filled with empty promises, noting that the president's economic claims do not reflect the actual conditions in the country. Ibukun criticized Tinubu's focus on abstract economic growth over the immediate welfare of Nigerians, and condemned the suppression of protesters' rights.

Despite the president's call for dialogue, the organizers vowed to continue protesting until their demands are met. They urged Nigerians to join the protests in large numbers, emphasizing the importance of persistence in achieving a better Nigeria.

The Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) has highlighted the widespread suffering, hardship, hunger, frustration, and anger in the country, describing the situation as evident even to the blind. According to the CCN, Nigeria's struggles have not emerged overnight but have been building since the country gained independence in 1960, with corruption, selfishness, and greed increasingly characterizing the administration and management of the nation’s resources.

CCN President and Anglican Archbishop of Owerri Province, Most Rev. David Onuoha, emphasized that protests are a legitimate way for citizens to express their frustrations and urge the government to reconsider its policies and programs. However, he warned that the current severe security challenges could be exploited by those seeking to cause further harm.

Given the highlighted suffering and hunger, the CCN urged protest organizers to consider postponing planned demonstrations. Unlike in Kenya, where government reforms followed significant destruction, the CCN believes the Nigerian government should proactively address the demands made by protest organizers. This would demonstrate a commitment to the welfare of the citizens and require wisdom, sincerity, and maturity.

The CCN demanded that the government outline its action plan for immediate, short-term, and long-term solutions to alleviate the people's suffering. Government officials were also urged to live and communicate in ways that reflect the current realities, fostering trust among the citizens when calling for patience.

The CCN concluded by urging the government to take all necessary steps to persuade the youth to suspend the protests.

Following Aliko Dangote's allegations of illicit activities in the petroleum sector, Nigeria's oil imports from Malta have surged dramatically. According to Trade Map, a global trade statistics database, the value of Nigeria's petroleum imports from Malta increased 43-fold over the past decade, from $47.5 million in 2013 to $2.08 billion in 2023, marking a 342% rise.

Previously, Malta was not considered a major player in the oil market or a significant source of refined petroleum imports for Nigeria. Dangote, chairman of Dangote Industries Limited, has accused personnel from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, oil traders, and terminals of establishing blending plants in Malta, potentially contributing to the spike in imports.

Dangote highlighted that despite Nigeria's production of high-quality petroleum at 650,000 to 700,000 barrels per minute (bpm), inferior fuel imports are causing vehicle issues. He asserted that some NNPC personnel and traders are involved in these blending operations in Malta, a fact well-known among industry stakeholders.

In response, NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari denied any involvement, clarifying that he does not own or operate any business related to the allegations.

This situation has raised concerns and may prompt further investigations into Nigeria's petroleum import practices and the integrity of the imported fuel.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released Engineer Khalid Aminu, who was detained on Thursday morning for allegedly organizing the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest in Kaduna State. Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore confirmed his release, stating that Khalid has been reunited with his family. Sowore urged continued vigilance and solidarity in the fight for justice.

In a related incident, DSS operatives also arrested Aliyu Sanusi in Sokoto State for allegedly printing and distributing protest materials. Sowore reported Sanusi's arrest, demanding his immediate release.

Roasting Groundnuts in Nigeria

Groundnuts are a beloved snack in Nigeria, often enjoyed with garri. Using an air fryer to roast groundnuts is a simple and convenient method that enhances their rich, nutty flavor.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 cup raw groundnuts
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 cups hot water

Preparing the Groundnuts

1. Soak in Brine: Mix salt in hot water and pour over groundnuts in a bowl. Soak for 4 hours to infuse flavor.
2. Dry Overnight: Drain the brine, strain the groundnuts, and lay them on a baking sheet to dry overnight.

Roasting in the Air Fryer

1. Preheat and Roast: Place dried groundnuts in the air fryer at 170°C for 25 minutes.
2. Check Progress: Stir every 10 minutes to ensure even roasting and prevent overcooking.

Cooling and Serving

• Cool Down: Let the groundnuts cool for a crispy texture before serving.
• Enjoy: Serve on their own or with garri, fruits, or cheeses.

Storage Tips

• Store Leftovers: Keep leftover roasted groundnuts in an airtight container at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use different salt? Yes, adjust the quantity based on the salt type.
2. Is drying overnight necessary? It ensures thorough drying but try to dry as much as possible if short on time.
3. Can I roast other nuts? Yes, adjust the roasting time as needed.
4. What else can I pair with roasted groundnuts? Fruits, cheeses, or use in dishes for added texture and flavor.

Roasting groundnuts in your air fryer is a straightforward process that yields a delicious, crispy snack. Enjoy experimenting with different accompaniments and variations!

Rwanda has declared it will not refund the £270 million paid by the UK for a controversial asylum seeker program, even though the new UK government has canceled the initiative.

Dr. Doris Uwicyeza Picard, from Rwanda's Ministry of Justice, confirmed that Rwanda fulfilled its part of the agreement, which aimed to help the UK manage its asylum seeker issues. Kigali views this as a "UK problem" and does not expect a reimbursement.

Speaking to the BBC World Service, Dr. Uwicyeza Picard said, “We are under no obligation to provide any refund. We will remain in constant discussions. However, it is understood that there is no obligation on either side to request or receive a refund.”

The UK had paid Rwanda as part of the Migration and Economic Development Partnership, but no migrants were forcibly deported to Rwanda. Only four failed asylum seekers voluntarily went to Rwanda after receiving £3000.

Though British ministers have not officially notified Rwanda of the termination, Rwanda is aware of the new UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's decision to cancel the deal, announced post-election victory.

According to the agreement's break clause, the UK can withdraw from two scheduled £50 million payments in 2025 and 2026 without penalties. However, the UK is likely still responsible for funding the four asylum seekers already in Rwanda. Formal termination requires a three-month notice period.

Dr. Uwicyeza Picard reiterated Rwanda's commitment to the agreement, stating that Rwanda had increased its capacity to accommodate thousands of migrants and upheld its end of the deal. She emphasized that the partnership was initiated by the UK to solve its own problem, and Rwanda had stepped up as it often does to provide refuge and opportunities for migrants.

Dr. Uwicyeza Picard also addressed the criticism faced by Rwanda, stating that the deal was often misunderstood and unfairly targeted. She implicitly criticized the UNHCR, which uses Rwanda to accommodate asylum seekers from other regions but criticizes the UK-Rwanda scheme.

The termination of the agreement is further complicated by a group of Sri Lankan Tamil asylum seekers transferred to Rwanda from the British territory of Diego Garcia. They have reported feeling isolated and unsafe in Rwanda and are hoping for relocation by the UK.

Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, has ordered an audit of the Rwanda scheme’s costs and liabilities, with results expected before the summer recess in July.

Labour claims that scrapping the scheme will free up £75 million in the first year, which will be used to create a new Border Security Command. This command will include Border Force, MI5, and the National Crime Agency, aiming to tackle people smuggling gangs. Labour plans to hire hundreds of additional investigators and intelligence agents with counter-terror-style powers.

More than 90,000 migrants, who were marked for deportation to Rwanda, will now be processed within the UK's asylum system. The government may also face a substantial compensation bill for over 200 migrants detained for flights to Rwanda this summer without a realistic prospect of deportation.

A spokesperson for Ms. Cooper criticized the scheme, highlighting the wasted funds and calling for investments in border security instead.

Nigerian footballer Olarenwaju Kayode has filed for divorce from his wife, Ezinne, and is demanding N1 billion in damages from UK-based pastor Tobi Adegboyega. The suit, filed in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja, claims the marriage has irretrievably broken down. Kayode, based in Turkey, is also seeking custody of their three children.

Kayode accuses Pastor Adegboyega of causing him emotional trauma, financial loss, and loss of goodwill through an alleged affair with Ezinne. The former Manchester City striker has been embroiled in a marital dispute with his wife over infidelity allegations and other issues. Kayode also claims Ezinne plans to take over his landed properties, leading to legal action from both parties.

Ezinne's suit, dated March 20, 2024, accuses Kayode of making unfounded allegations of infidelity and witchcraft against her and her mother. She also alleges that Kayode damaged her phone and threatened her with a knife during a fight.

In his cross-petition, Kayode alleges Ezinne's repeated adultery since their marriage in 2013 and claims she kidnapped their children, who were later rescued by the Department of State Services (DSS). He also accuses Ezinne of undermining their joint business ventures to ruin him financially.

Kayode's reliefs include:

• Dissolution of the marriage on grounds of irretrievable breakdown.
• Custody of the children with visitation rights for Ezinne.
• N1 billion in damages from Pastor Adegboyega for the emotional trauma, financial loss, and loss of goodwill caused by the alleged affair.

The court has adjourned the hearing until September 24, 2024.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to focus on understanding and addressing the underlying causes of youth migration rather than simply trying to halt it.

Speaking at an ECOWAS Parliament session, she highlighted the need to tackle the factors driving young people to leave their countries. Akpoti-Uduaghan cited examples of successful Nigerians who have made significant contributions internationally, such as Silas Adekunle, a prominent robotic engineer, and Abigail Marshall Katung, the Mayor of Leeds.

She stated, “Nigerians are making our country proud internationally. Silas Adekunle, at 31, became the world’s highest-paid robotic engineer. Abigail Marshall Katung, a Nigerian woman, migrated to the UK and became the Mayor of Leeds. Immigration isn’t all bad; it’s the intent and context that matter. My father left Nigeria for Ukraine in search of better opportunities, and I exist today because of that.”

As a mother of eight, Akpoti-Uduaghan shared her struggle to encourage her children to return to Nigeria, understanding why many young Nigerians and West Africans migrate for better jobs and financial prospects.

She proposed solutions for ECOWAS leaders, including:

• Encouraging Africans in the diaspora to transfer knowledge and opportunities back to their home countries, similar to the Ethiopian cotton industry and Indian technology industry.
• Promoting trade among African countries to retain jobs and strengthen the collective economy.
• Supporting startups, especially in the tech sector, with access to finance, market access, angel investors, fiscal incentives, and tax waivers to boost the young entrepreneurs’ ecosystem.

By addressing these issues, she believes ECOWAS can create a more conducive environment for young people to thrive in their home countries, reducing the need for migration.

A Nigerian woman living in the United Kingdom, Prudence Daniel-Obia, has sadly passed away. Prudence, who was pregnant with triplets, died in her sleep on Friday, June 21, 2024. This pregnancy was the first for her and her husband. The tragic incident occurred just three days after her 36th birthday.

UK motorists will now have a 10-minute "grace period" in private car parks before fines are issued, as part of a new code of practice announced by industry trade bodies. This code, set to be implemented in the autumn, aims to introduce a fairer appeals system and maintain a £100 cap on penalty charges, reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days.

The British Parking Association and the International Parking Community, representing private car park operators, published the code. It calls for consistent signage and an "appeals charter" for drivers. While the industry targets an October introduction, full compliance with the new standards is not expected until December 2026.

Motoring organizations criticize the code, claiming it "falls far short" of necessary protections for drivers and calling for government legislation to address issues such as unreasonable fees, aggressive debt collection, and confusing signage. Private parking companies issued 9.7 million tickets between April and December last year, drawing widespread criticism from drivers, politicians, and motorists' groups.

A government attempt to regulate "rogue" operators failed in 2022 due to opposition from private parking companies. Despite the passing of a bill in 2019 to enforce stricter regulations, legal challenges led to the withdrawal of the legislation in June 2022. Critics argue that the new self-authored code does not adequately address the need for capped charges and the elimination of debt recovery fees, emphasizing the necessity of a government-backed code to protect drivers from exploitative practices.

Simon Williams of RAC stressed that the new code, developed by the private parking industry, is not equivalent to the long-delayed official code backed by legislation, which is needed to end the worst practices and protect vulnerable drivers.

The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) has called on President Bola Tinubu to tackle the increasing assault on the media, including the alarming rise in arrests and intimidation of journalists. The organization condemned the threats and censorship faced by media practitioners as unacceptable and absurd.

During the maiden media convening in Abuja, Lucy James Abagi, the Director of Partnerships and Innovation, urged the Nigerian government to cease using the Cybercrime Act to suppress the media and civic space. She highlighted the barbaric arrest and mistreatment of editor Segun Olatunji for exposing alleged corruption by the president's chief of staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, warning that such actions threaten press freedom and undermine democracy.

Abagi also pointed out the recent detention of investigative journalist Daniel Ojukwu, held without charge for over a week after exposing corruption involving senior officials, as a stark reminder of the hostile environment for independent media. So far in 2024, over 34 cases of journalist arrests have been documented, raising concerns about the misuse of the Cybercrime Act.

PPDC CEO Jubril Shittu emphasized the essential role of the media in promoting transparency and accountability, calling on the government to protect journalists and allow them to operate without fear. The event included a panel discussion on resilient reporting, where speakers shared insights on navigating hostile environments to uphold journalistic integrity.

The PPDC reiterated its commitment to standing in solidarity with journalists and media organizations facing threats, urging the government to ensure press freedom and the safety of journalists who uncover the truth.

Nick Imudia, former CEO of Konga and CEO of D.light, tragically committed suicide on June 25 by jumping from the balcony of his apartment in Lekki, Lagos. Before his death, he called his US-based brother to discuss wealth distribution and spoke to his young daughter, offering her comforting words. His suicide has left his friends, family, and associates in shock and confusion. Nick, originally from Delta State, had a previous marriage that ended due to irreconcilable differences and was remarried to a Caucasian. Prior to his roles at Konga and D.light, he worked with TCL/Alcatel and Microsoft.

A fire has erupted at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery in the Lekki Free Zone near Lagos, Nigeria. The cause of the blaze is currently unknown. Videos shared on social media show thick, dark smoke rising from one of the tank storage areas. The refinery, which began refining diesel, has a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day and was inaugurated on May 22, 2023.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported 53 deaths and 1,528 suspected cases of cholera across 31 states and 107 local government areas since the start of 2024, resulting in a case fatality rate of 3.5%.

During a press briefing, NCDC Director General Dr. Jide Idris highlighted concerns that the outbreak could worsen with the intensifying rainy season. In response, the NCDC has activated a National Cholera Emergency Operation Centre to coordinate nationwide efforts. This includes bolstering surveillance, enhancing diagnostic capacities, and raising public awareness. The NCDC emphasizes the need for immediate and coordinated actions from all stakeholders to contain the outbreak and prevent further fatalities.

Dr. Idris also acknowledged the recent public health challenges, including Lassa fever and meningitis outbreaks, stressing the importance of comprehensive and swift responses to the ongoing cholera crisis.

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has formally questioned the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) regarding age discrepancies for four Nigerian athletes set to compete in the World U20 Championships in Lima, Peru. The AIU suspects potential falsification of identification documents due to multiple dates of birth (DOB) used by these athletes in various competitions.

In a letter dated June 7, 2024, AIU Head Brett Clothier addressed AFN President Tonobok Ojuru Okowa and Secretary General Rita Moshindi, outlining the issue. The AIU has requested extensive documentation, including passports, birth certificates, medical and educational records, to verify the athletes' true ages. The AFN had a deadline of June 21, 2024, to provide the necessary documentation and clarify the discrepancies.

The athletes under scrutiny include a male U18 double champion and three female athletes—a sprinter, a hurdler, and a long/triple jumper—with notable variations in their recorded birth dates across different competitions.

The headquarters of Christ Embassy, also known as Believers LoveWorld, in Oregun, Lagos, is on fire. The cause of the fire is currently unknown. Okunbor Nosa, the Public Relations Officer of the Lagos State Emergency Management Authority (LASEMA), confirmed that the cause remains undetermined. Videos and pictures on social media show heavy smoke rising from the building, while Lagos State Fire Service and other emergency responders work to contain the blaze.

The BBC is hosting a special edition of Question Time featuring the leaders of the UK's four biggest political parties on Thursday, 20th June 2024.

Presented by Fiona Bruce, the program will air from 20:00 to 22:00 BST on BBC One, radio, online, and on BBC iPlayer. The participating leaders are:

• Prime Minister and Conservative Party leader, Rishi Sunak
• Labour Party leader, Sir Keir Starmer
• Scottish National Party leader, John Swinney
• Liberal Democrats leader, Sir Ed Davey

Each leader will appear separately and have 30 minutes to answer questions from a live studio audience in York. Sir Ed Davey will go first, followed by John Swinney, Sir Keir Starmer, and Rishi Sunak.

The broadcast will also be available on the BBC News Channel in the UK and internationally, and on the BBC News website with live coverage and analysis.

Additionally, a Question Time Leaders' Special featuring representatives from Reform UK and the Green Party will be broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at 20:00 BST on 28th June.