Blatter urges FIFA to defend football’s universality after Somali referee denied entry by US authorities despite valid credentials

Former President of the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA), Sepp Blatter, has cautioned the world football governing body not to undermine the universality of the sport following the exclusion of Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan from the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. Blatter issued this warning on Saturday through a post on his official X account, insisting that all qualified officials must be granted safe and unrestricted entry by host countries, including the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The incident occurred when Artan, who was named the Confederation of African Football (CAF)’s top referee for 2025 and is the first Somali ever selected for a World Cup, was refused entry at Miami Airport despite holding valid travel documents and official FIFA credentials. US authorities cited unspecified vetting and security concerns as grounds for denying him access, resulting in his removal from officiating duties at the tournament.

Blatter described Artan’s experience as a violation of football’s principle of universality and called on FIFA to ensure that no qualified official is barred based on nationality or other non-sporting criteria. He stated that such incidents threaten to erode the inclusive spirit that has defined international football for decades. “Football belongs to everyone, and its governing bodies must protect its openness,” Blatter wrote in his statement.

There has been no official reaction yet from FIFA or US immigration authorities regarding Artan’s removal. However, stakeholders across Africa have expressed concern over what they described as a setback for African representation at global sporting events. The development comes as Nigeria and other African nations prepare their teams and officials for participation in major international tournaments.

Observers say FIFA may face growing pressure to clarify protocols with host governments ahead of future competitions to prevent similar occurrences. The matter is expected to feature prominently in discussions among football administrators worldwide as preparations for the 2026 World Cup continue.

Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/football/fifa-must-never-compromise-footballs-universality-sepp-blatter/

Organisation warns demonstrators to vacate premises immediately, citing security concerns after recent Abuja protest

A prominent group in Abuja has issued a stern warning to protesters who recently occupied its headquarters, threatening to take legal action if the demonstrators do not vacate the premises without delay. The incident took place at the organisation’s Abuja office on Saturday, 13 June 2026, drawing attention to rising tensions around property rights and protest activities in the Federal Capital Territory.

Witnesses reported that a number of protesters stormed the group’s headquarters in Abuja, staging a sit-in and making various demands. Security personnel were seen monitoring the situation as the demonstration continued for several hours before dispersing. The group, whose name was not disclosed at press time, described the occupation as unlawful and disruptive to its operations.

The group’s management stated that such actions pose significant risks to staff safety and could escalate into further confrontations. They emphasised that while peaceful assembly is a constitutional right, trespassing on private property violates Nigerian law and would not be tolerated. The leadership called on relevant authorities to intervene if the protesters refuse to leave voluntarily.

In a statement released after the incident, group officials said they were prepared to pursue all available legal remedies to protect their interests. “We will not hesitate to seek redress in court if this illegal occupation persists,” the statement read. Efforts to reach representatives of the protest group for comment were unsuccessful as at press time.

The Abuja police command has yet to issue an official response regarding possible investigations or enforcement measures. The situation highlights ongoing debates about balancing civic activism with respect for legal boundaries in Nigeria’s capital city.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/887432-group-threatens-legal-action-against-protesters-who-occupied-its-abuja-headquarters.html

Governor Radda confirms security agencies’ failed rescue efforts as state mourns loss of former Defence Information Director

Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, former Director of Defence Information, has died while being held captive by armed men in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. The incident occurred after the senior officer was abducted with his wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, near Zakin Baure village along the Marabar Musawa-Kafinsoli road. His death was confirmed on Thursday by Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda and the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Muazu.

According to official accounts, Abubakar and his wife were kidnapped several weeks ago while travelling with their driver, Abdullahi Sa’idu. The driver managed to escape despite sustaining a gunshot wound. Security agencies and the state government launched extensive efforts to secure their release, but these proved unsuccessful. The retired general reportedly died in captivity from complications related to diabetes and hypertension.

The abduction and subsequent death of General Abubakar has further highlighted persistent security challenges in Katsina State and across the North-West region. Matazu LGA, where the incident took place, has witnessed repeated attacks by armed groups targeting commuters and residents in recent years. The government described the situation as a national tragedy and a dark moment for both the state and Nigeria at large.

In a statement, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda expressed deep sorrow over the development, extending condolences to the late officer’s family and the wider Nigerian military community. “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity. Despite relentless and concerted efforts by the State Government and various security agencies to secure his safe release, this tragedy could not be prevented,” Dr. Nasiru Muazu said on behalf of the state government.

The family of the deceased confirmed that their vehicle—a red Peugeot 504 assigned to Major General Abubakar—was recovered by police at Matazu Divisional Headquarters after the incident. As at press time, security agencies have intensified patrols in affected areas while reiterating calls for greater collaboration among stakeholders to tackle insecurity in Katsina State.

The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment on Thursday evening.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/abducted-army-general-abubakar-rabe-dies-in-captivity-after-weeks-of-being-held-by-bandits-2026061317225131709