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Nigeria News (Standard)

AFN Coach Aliyu Opposes Dropping U.S.-Based Athletes from Lagos Commonwealth Trials

Federation reviews initial stance after immigration hurdles prevent several top Nigerian athletes from attending YABATECH selection event

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7 hours ago

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Federation reviews initial stance after immigration hurdles prevent several top Nigerian athletes from attending YABATECH selection event

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) is reconsidering its earlier decision to exclude U.S.-based athletes who missed the ongoing Commonwealth Games National Trials in Lagos, following concerns over immigration challenges. The trials, held at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), are set to conclude today, with about ten U.S.-based stars managing to attend while others were unable to travel due to unresolved travel documentation issues.

Initially, the AFN had announced that any athlete absent from the national trials would forfeit their chance to represent Nigeria at the upcoming Commonwealth Games scheduled for Glasgow, Scotland, from July 21 to August 2. However, speaking on Sunday in Lagos, AFN Head Coach Solomon Aliyu clarified that circumstances beyond the athletes’ control led to their absence, and it would be counterproductive for Nigeria to drop some of its best talents.

Aliyu stated, “Yes, it is true the AFN earlier made such declaration that no national trial, no ticket to Glasgow, but the circumstances that led to the absence of majority of the U.S.-based athletes is not their fault.” He explained that the federation had promised to assist with immigration matters so athletes could travel between Nigeria and the United States without risk of being stranded but has yet to resolve these issues.

The debate comes as Nigeria’s fastest woman, Ogundiran, emerged during the trials in Lagos. The men’s 100m and 400m finals are also taking place today. The outcome of this policy shift could impact Nigeria’s medal prospects at the Games and reflects broader challenges facing Nigerian athletes training abroad. The AFN is expected to announce a final list of selected athletes after concluding consultations with relevant authorities and stakeholders.

Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/it-will-be-unwise-to-drop-u-s-based-stars-from-commonwealth-games/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

US Authorities Set to Deport Nigerian Over Domestic Violence and Multiple Convictions

Move follows series of criminal convictions; Nigerian embassy yet to comment on possible repatriation support

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3 minutes ago

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June 23, 2026

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Move follows series of criminal convictions; Nigerian embassy yet to comment on possible repatriation support

United States immigration officials have concluded plans to deport a Nigerian national following his conviction for domestic violence and other criminal offences. The deportation order, which was confirmed on Tuesday, comes after the individual was found guilty in several cases involving domestic abuse and related crimes.

Authorities in the US said the decision was taken in accordance with federal laws that mandate the removal of non-citizens convicted of certain offences. The Nigerian, whose identity has not been disclosed as at press time, reportedly exhausted all legal avenues to contest his removal before the order was issued.

The development is expected to draw attention among Nigerian diaspora communities, as cases of deportation over criminal convictions remain a recurring issue. Legal experts say US immigration law provides little room for appeal once a non-citizen is convicted of crimes categorised as aggravated felonies or domestic violence. Many Nigerians living abroad have raised concerns about fair access to legal representation and consular support in such matters.

As at the time of filing this report, the Nigerian embassy in Washington D.C. had not released any official statement regarding the deportation or whether consular assistance would be provided for the affected individual upon arrival in Nigeria. Human rights advocates have previously urged government to offer reintegration programmes for deportees, especially those returning under challenging circumstances.

It remains unclear when exactly the deportation will take place or if further legal interventions may delay the process. Observers say the case underlines ongoing challenges facing Nigerians abroad who fall foul of host country laws, and highlights calls for increased awareness campaigns on compliance with foreign legal systems.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/889967-us-to-deport-nigerian-over-domestic-violence-other-convictions.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

NDC Candidate Rejects Enugu North Bye-Election Result, Alleges Irregularities

Opposition candidate demands cancellation as INEC declares winner; calls for investigation into alleged electoral malpractice

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32 minutes ago

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June 23, 2026

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Opposition candidate demands cancellation as INEC declares winner; calls for investigation into alleged electoral malpractice

The candidate of the New Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Enugu North Federal Constituency bye-election has rejected the outcome of the poll conducted on Tuesday, June 23, in Enugu State. The NDC flagbearer described the election result as unacceptable and alleged that irregularities marred the process.

According to reports from the constituency, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) concluded collation late Tuesday and declared a winner in the tightly contested bye-election. However, the NDC candidate swiftly condemned both the conduct and outcome, insisting that several incidents of malpractice were recorded at various polling units.

The Enugu North Federal Constituency bye-election was closely watched, given its significance for party representation in the National Assembly from South-East Nigeria. The contest drew heightened attention after previous court rulings nullified earlier results and mandated a fresh poll. Many constituents and political observers saw this rerun as an opportunity to restore credibility to local representation.

In a statement released after INEC’s announcement, the NDC candidate expressed disappointment with what he called ‘widespread irregularities’ during voting and counting. He called for immediate cancellation of the declared result and urged INEC to launch a full investigation into alleged ballot box snatching and voter intimidation. As at press time, no response had been received from INEC officials or other party representatives regarding these allegations.

It remains unclear whether the NDC will formally challenge the result in court. Political analysts note that electoral disputes have become increasingly common in South-East constituencies, often leading to prolonged legal battles and delays in effective representation. Stakeholders are calling on relevant authorities to address concerns raised by aggrieved parties in order to strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/889957-ndc-candidate-rejects-enugu-north-bye-election-result.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Nigerians Protest Delay in Evacuation at Pretoria Embassy as June 30 Deadline Approaches

Federal Government says five flights approved, but stranded citizens fear rising xenophobia and demand immediate action

Published

33 minutes ago

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June 23, 2026

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Federal Government says five flights approved, but stranded citizens fear rising xenophobia and demand immediate action

Hundreds of Nigerians stranded in South Africa staged a protest at the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria on Sunday, demanding urgent evacuation ahead of a June 30 deadline set by anti-immigrant groups. The demonstrators, many of whom had registered for government-assisted repatriation, chanted, “We wan go o, we no go gree,” expressing frustration over delays in scheduled evacuation flights.

The protest comes as anxiety grows within the Nigerian community in South Africa following months of anti-migrant demonstrations and threats from local groups targeting foreigners. The Federal Government began repatriating willing Nigerians earlier in June, with the first evacuation flight carrying 268 returnees landing in Lagos on June 11. However, subsequent flights have faced postponements, leaving over 1,000 registered Nigerians still awaiting their turn.

The President of the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA), Smart Nwobi, said about 300 citizens were left stranded after a planned second flight was cancelled at the last minute. “Many had gathered at the mission ready to leave before being informed that the flight would not depart,” Nwobi stated. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has attributed the delays to documentation and verification processes being conducted with South African authorities.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu assured affected Nigerians that Government remains committed to their safe return and has approved five evacuation flights to bring everyone home. “No Nigerian willing to return will be abandoned,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said during a press briefing last week. Crisis response units have also been established in Pretoria and Johannesburg to coordinate support for those affected.

With the June 30 deadline drawing near, many stranded citizens say they are increasingly concerned for their safety and have called on Abuja to speed up repatriation efforts before tensions escalate further. Meanwhile, officials continue negotiations with South African authorities on documentation requirements to facilitate smooth departures.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/we-wan-go-o-we-no-go-gree-stranded-nigerians-in-south-africa-demand-immediate-evacuation-from-south-africa-as-june-30-deadline-looms-2026062309592633142

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