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US Freezes Assets of Eight Nigerians Over Alleged Links to Boko Haram, ISIL

Phinadon Mag

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Quick Summary:
The United States Treasury freezes assets of eight Nigerians accused of ties to Boko Haram and ISIL, citing terrorism and cybercrime concerns under Executive Order 13224.

The United States government has frozen the assets and properties of eight Nigerians accused of having links to Boko Haram and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).

The sanctions were detailed in a 3,000-page document released by the US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on February 10, under the “Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List” (SDN List).

The SDN List identifies individuals and entities subject to US sanctions, including those involved in terrorism, cybercrime, and other security threats.

Background to the Sanctions

The move follows recommendations by the US Congress for visa bans and asset freezes on individuals and groups accused of religious persecution and violations of freedom of worship in Nigeria.

The sanctions are being enforced under Executive Order 13224, which targets persons who support or finance terrorism.

The development comes after former US President Donald Trump had declared Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” over religious freedom violations.

Nigerians Named in the Sanctions List

Among those designated is Salih Yusuf Adamu (also known as Salihu Yusuf), born August 23, 1990, identified as having links to Boko Haram. He was one of six Nigerians convicted in the United Arab Emirates in 2022 for establishing a Boko Haram cell to raise funds for insurgents in Nigeria. The group was found guilty of attempting to transfer $782,000 from Dubai to Nigeria.

Another individual, Babestan Oluwole Ademulero, born March 4, 1953, was listed under terrorism-related sanctions and identified under multiple aliases, including Wole A. Babestan and Olatunde Irewole Shofeso.

Also designated was Abu Abdullah ibn Umar Al-Barnawi (Ba Idrisa), reportedly born between 1989 and 1994 in Maiduguri, Borno State, and flagged for terrorism-related activities.

Abu Musab Al-Barnawi (Habib Yusuf), identified as a Boko Haram leader, was also listed, with varying birth years between 1990 and 1995.

In addition, Nnamdi Orson Benson, born March 21, 1987, was sanctioned under CYBER2 provisions for cybercrime-related offences and was reported to hold a Nigerian passport.

Implications of the Sanctions

Those listed face asset freezes, travel restrictions, and financial isolation under US law. Any US-based assets or transactions linked to the individuals are blocked, and American citizens and institutions are prohibited from engaging in business with them.

The sanctions underscore Washington’s renewed focus on counterterrorism and cybercrime in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria’s northeast, where Boko Haram and ISIL affiliates continue to operate.

Foreign

Netanyahu Warns Israel Will Not Tolerate Attacks On Its Soldiers

Phinadon Mag

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vows strong retaliation against Hezbollah after four Israeli soldiers were killed, calling the attack a violation of the ceasefire.

Netanyahu Issues Strong Warning After Hezbollah Attack

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that Israel will not tolerate attacks on its soldiers, following the killing of four Israeli troops in a Hezbollah assault.

In a statement released on Friday, Netanyahu offered condolences to the families of a commander and three fighters killed by Hezbollah, describing the attack as a blatant violation of the ceasefire.

“We Won’t Tolerate Attacks On Our Soldiers”

Netanyahu said he had instructed the Israeli military to respond with full force against Hezbollah positions.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would continue to act decisively to thwart any threat to Israeli forces and territory.

Israel To Maintain Presence In Southern Lebanon

Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to maintaining a security zone in southern Lebanon, saying it was necessary to protect northern settlements from further attacks.

Background

The latest escalation follows months of cross-border tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, with both sides exchanging fire despite international calls for restraint.

The Israeli military has intensified operations targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in Lebanon, while Hezbollah has continued to launch rocket and drone attacks into northern Israel.

Analysts warn that the renewed hostilities could further destabilize the region and undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts to restore calm along the Israel-Lebanon border.

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Trump Condemns Israeli Attack On Beirut, Urges Restraint Amid Peace Talks With Iran

Phinadon Mag

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The U.S. President, Donald Trump criticizes Israel’s Sunday attack on Beirut, calling it unnecessary and urging all sides to maintain calm as Washington and Tehran near a peace deal.

United States President Donald Trump has said that Sunday’s attack on Beirut by Israeli forces “should not have happened.”

Trump made the remarks in a post on his Truth Social platform on Sunday, following reports of Israeli airstrikes on Beirut.

The strike occurred at a time when the United States and Iran were reportedly close to finalizing a peace deal aimed at ending the crisis that began on February 28.

“The Attack Should Not Have Happened”

In his statement, Trump acknowledged Israel’s right to self-defense but described the attack as unnecessary and counterproductive to ongoing peace efforts.

Trump noted that no casualties were reported and urged all parties to avoid further escalation.

Call For Restraint From All Sides

The U.S. President called on both Israel and Hezbollah to cease hostilities, emphasizing that restraint was crucial to achieving lasting peace.

He expressed optimism that the situation could mark the beginning of a lasting peace in the Middle East.

Context

The reported Israeli strike on Beirut came amid heightened regional tensions and diplomatic efforts led by Washington to broker a U.S.–Iran peace agreement.

Analysts say Trump’s remarks signal a renewed push for de-escalation as the administration seeks to stabilize the region and prevent further conflict.

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Entertainment

Nollywood Screen Diva Queen Phinadon Set to Launch Two Powerful Inspirational Books in Denmark: A Literary Event Not to Be Missed.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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In Copenhagen, Denmark – July 4, 2026, is set to be a landmark day in the literary world as the acclaimed author and life coach, Queen Phinadon, prepares to unveil two transformative books in Europe. This highly anticipated event, scheduled for 2:00 PM in Copenhagen, is expected to draw a distinguished audience comprising dignitaries, media professionals, and avid book enthusiasts, all eager to witness what promises to be a memorable and impactful occasion.

The literary and professional circles are already abuzz with excitement surrounding this dual book launch. Queen Phinadon, whose real name is Delight Benson, is widely recognized for her dynamic contributions across various platforms, including media, coaching, and humanitarian initiatives. Her foray into the literary spotlight with these two compelling works is seen as a natural progression of her unwavering passion for inspiring and empowering individuals to reach their full potential.

The first book, “Unseen Untold,” offers readers a profound and emotionally resonant exploration of personal struggles. It delves into the often-hidden fears and limiting beliefs that individuals encounter, illuminating the path toward self-liberation. Through a masterful blend of evocative storytelling and practical insights, the book equips readers with essential tools for developing mindfulness, enhancing emotional intelligence, and cultivating resilience. “Unseen Untold” bravely confronts real-life challenges while providing a compassionate guide toward healing, personal growth, and the discovery of renewed purpose.

Her second offering, “My Last Journey To Nigeria,” presents a gripping narrative woven around themes of betrayal, awakening, and ultimately, survival. This powerful book paints a vivid and often stark picture of the delicate boundaries that exist between trust and deception, and between unwavering faith and crippling fear. “My Last Journey To Nigeria” serves as a poignant invitation for readers to introspect on the complexities of human relationships, underscoring the crucial realization that not all connections are inherently genuine or destined to endure.

Industry observers have lauded this dual release as a testament to Queen Phinadon’s remarkable versatility as an author. The two books seamlessly combine profound emotional depth with thought-provoking storytelling, demonstrating her ability to engage readers on multiple levels. The July 4th event is expected to significantly bolster her influence within the global literary community, particularly among diaspora audiences seeking inspiring and relatable narratives.

Beyond her burgeoning literary career, Queen Phinadon has meticulously carved a niche for herself as an internationally recognized consultant, speaker, actress, and mentor. She is the visionary founder of the Phinadon Touching Lives Foundation and the esteemed convener of the Phinadon Awards, both initiatives dedicated to uplifting lives and celebrating excellence in various fields. Through her consulting firm, PDMI Solutions, she provides invaluable career guidance and mentorship, positively impacting over 250 individuals annually.

With a multitude of accolades across media, acting, and humanitarian service, Queen Phinadon continues to expand her reach and catalyze meaningful change in the lives of countless individuals. As anticipation for the upcoming launch steadily builds, it is clear that this event is poised to leave an indelible mark, serving as a powerful reinforcement of storytelling’s enduring capacity as a tool for profound transformation and unwavering hope.

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