Nigeria News (Standard)
Mali Security Agencies Arrest Two Journalists Under Cybercrime Law for Criticising Authorities
Arrests spark renewed concerns over press freedom as media advocates urge government to respect journalists’ rights
Arrests spark renewed concerns over press freedom as media advocates urge government to respect journalists’ rights
Two journalists have been arrested in Mali for allegedly violating the country’s cybercrime law after they criticised authorities, escalating fears over press freedom in the West African nation. The arrests reportedly took place on Wednesday, though officials have not released the identities of those detained.
According to reports, security agencies carried out the arrests following online publications in which the journalists were said to have made critical remarks about Malian authorities. This incident follows a pattern of increased pressure on media professionals in Mali, with several journalists previously detained under similar charges in recent months.
The development has prompted widespread concern among media rights groups, who argue that Mali’s cybercrime law is increasingly being used as a tool to silence dissent and restrict freedom of expression. Stakeholders point to a growing trend across parts of West Africa where digital laws are deployed against journalists and online commentators, raising alarms for democracy and civic engagement.
While Malian officials have not issued a formal statement on the latest arrests, media advocacy organisations have called for their immediate release and for government to review laws perceived as stifling independent journalism. “These detentions undermine efforts to promote transparency and accountability,” one group stated in a public appeal.
Observers say this crackdown could further discourage critical reporting in Mali, especially as the country navigates political transition and insecurity challenges. The international community is also watching developments closely, with calls mounting for Malian authorities to balance national security concerns with respect for fundamental freedoms.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Saint Helena’s Jonathan Confirmed as World’s Oldest Living Land Animal at 194 Years
Guinness World Records recognises Seychelles giant tortoise, brought to Saint Helena in 1882, as oldest chelonian ever recorded
Guinness World Records recognises Seychelles giant tortoise, brought to Saint Helena in 1882, as oldest chelonian ever recorded
Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise residing at Plantation House on Saint Helena island, has been officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest living land animal at an estimated age of 194. The announcement was made on Monday following fresh archival reviews and shell measurements confirming Jonathan’s maturity upon arrival in 1882.
According to historical records, Jonathan was transported from Seychelles to Saint Helena in the South Atlantic as a gift to the island’s governor. While no birth certificate exists due to the era, scientists conservatively estimate his hatching year as around 1832, based on photographs and his size when he arrived. In 2022, local authorities marked December 4th as his symbolic birthday. Jonathan has now outlived 31 governors of Saint Helena and features on the territory’s five-pence coin.
Jonathan’s longevity is remarkable even by tortoise standards and places him as a living witness to nearly two centuries of global history, including the reigns of eight British monarchs and forty United States presidents. He was already alive before the invention of the telephone or electric lightbulb, and during events such as the American Civil War. Residents of Saint Helena regard him as part of their cultural heritage.
Despite being blind and lacking a sense of smell due to old age, Jonathan remains active under the supervision of his longtime veterinarian Joe Hollins. He enjoys sunbathing on warm days and burrows into grass clippings for warmth during colder periods. A few years ago, a decline in his health led to the introduction of a specialised weekly diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which has since improved his condition.
With Jonathan continuing to thrive at Plantation House, conservationists say his story offers hope for efforts to protect endangered species worldwide. Local officials maintain regular veterinary care and public awareness campaigns about animal welfare on Saint Helena.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/jonathan-worlds-oldest-tortoise-2026061716510189921
Nigeria News (Standard)
Saudi Arabia Completes Annual Replacement of Holy Kaaba’s Kiswa in Mecca
Ceremony marks significant religious tradition as new black cloth adorns Kaaba ahead of Hajj pilgrimage
Ceremony marks significant religious tradition as new black cloth adorns Kaaba ahead of Hajj pilgrimage
Saudi Arabian authorities have completed the annual replacement of the Kiswa, the sacred black cloth covering the Holy Kaaba in Mecca, on Wednesday, 17 June 2026. The event took place at the Grand Mosque, with a specialised team carrying out the change in preparation for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage.
The replacement process began after dawn prayers, with skilled technicians carefully removing the old Kiswa and draping the new one over the Kaaba’s structure. This tradition is observed every year ahead of Hajj, signifying spiritual renewal for millions of Muslims expected to converge on Mecca from across the world.
The Kiswa is made from high-quality black silk and embroidered with gold-plated Quranic inscriptions. Its production and installation are overseen by Saudi Arabia’s General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques. The ceremony attracts attention from both local and international pilgrims who view it as a momentous occasion in Islam.
According to Saudi officials, preparations for this year’s Hajj are ongoing, with authorities emphasising their commitment to maintaining all religious rites and safety standards at the holy sites. The annual change of the Kiswa remains one of the most symbolic moments leading up to Hajj season.
With this year’s pilgrimage approaching, Nigerian pilgrims and others from around the globe are expected to witness the newly adorned Kaaba as they commence their rites in Mecca.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Federal Government Denies Plans to Introduce New Telecoms and Fuel Taxes Nationwide
Presidency dismisses reports of proposed levies on fuel and telecoms, urges public to ignore speculation
Presidency dismisses reports of proposed levies on fuel and telecoms, urges public to ignore speculation
The Federal Government has debunked claims circulating online about plans to introduce new taxes on telecommunications and fuel across Nigeria. The clarification was made on Wednesday, 17 June, following widespread reports alleging imminent policy changes affecting the cost of telecom services and petrol.
Authorities moved swiftly to address growing public concern as rumours about possible hikes in telecoms tariffs and fuel prices gained traction on social media. Many Nigerians had expressed fears that such taxes would worsen the economic burden already facing households amid high inflation.
The government’s position comes at a time when citizens are grappling with persistent increases in the prices of essential goods and services. With inflation rates remaining in double digits, any suggestion of additional taxes sparks anxiety among businesses and consumers alike. The telecoms sector, a major driver of Nigeria’s digital economy, would have been particularly affected by such fiscal moves.
Responding to the reports, the Presidency categorically stated there are no plans to impose new taxes on either fuel or telecommunications. Officials urged Nigerians to disregard unsubstantiated claims and assured that any significant changes in government tax policy would be communicated transparently through official channels. No opposition party or independent experts had issued statements as at press time.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to stabilising the economy without imposing extra hardship on citizens. Economic analysts say ongoing reforms should focus on improving tax compliance and widening the revenue base rather than introducing new levies in critical sectors.
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