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Theressa May Charges Member Nations at CHOGM to Revoke Same-sex Laws

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7 years ago

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Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa May (L) poses with Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari (R) on the step of 10 Downing Street in London on April 16, 2018 ahead of a meeting on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

British Prime Minister, Theresa May, has told Nigeria and other Commonwealth nations to have a rethink on the ban against same sex marriage, saying nobody should be discriminated against.

May, who gave the charge, yesterday, in London, United Kingdom, while addressing leaders at Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, CHOGM, described the law banning same sex as “outdated legislation.”

Apparently referring to Nigeria and other countries, which had made laws prohibiting marriage to a person of the same sex, May pledged the support of Britain to any of the countries that was ready to revoke its anti-same sex law.

Recall that President Goodluck Jonathan had signed the anti-same sex bill into law in 2014 and the action attracted condemnation from some Western countries.

CAN urges FG to reject call

But Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, in 19 Northern states and Abuja, in a swift reaction, called on the Federal Government to reject the call, saying Nigeria already had several social challenges to contend with.

Chairman of the regional CAN, Rev. Yakubu Pan, described the call as an unnecessary diversion that Nigeria could afford at a time like this.

“In Africa, we have our culture, which is unique to us and we cannot begin to think of changing our way of life,’’ he said.

He called on all Nigerians, especially Civil Society Organisations, to rise in opposition to another imperialistic recommendations not suitable for the country’s cultural environment, stressing that Nigerian youths were already inundated with drug-related challenges, which the nation was yet to pull out of.

We’ll not pre-empt Buhari’s reaction

— Ja’afaru

Similarly, Administrative Secretary of National Mosque, Umoru Ja’afaru, said the Abuja Muslim Umma (body) would not pre-empt the President Muhammadu Buhari’s response to the British PM’s call.

However, he expressed confidence that President, being a devout Muslim, would not cause to be set in motion actions for the repeal of the law banning same-sex marriage in Nigeria.

He said: “We should not put the cart before the horse. The Abuja Muslim Umma is already aware of the appeal made by the British Prime Minister but we would not react to her statement until we observe the tone and colour of President Buhari’s response.

“Be that as it may, we are confident that the President Buhari we know as a devout Muslim would never accede to such a demand. However, if he speaks or acts otherwise, then we would fully express our reaction through appropriate channels.”

PFN

On his part, National President of Pentecostal Fellowship, PFN, Rev. Felix Omobude, said the world should respect the values and customs of individual nations of the world.

He said the British people must respect the values of other nations “because Nigerians elected President Muhhammadu Buhari to lead the independent nation of Nigeria and will not tolerate any dictation to our leaders.

He said: “If they feel like giving the aids to the African nations they should do so. The British Prime Minister was elected by British people just as Nigerians elected the leaders of their choice to rule over them.”

But the British Prime Minister insisted that no one should make any law persecuting or discriminating against another person on account of who the person chooses to love.

She said the world had moved from what it used to be in over 50 years ago, when people were dictated to, explaining that nowadays, young persons design their own lifestyles and run their life affairs as they deem fit.

Recalling that the last commonwealth meeting resolved to float an organisation promoting the interests of gays, lesbians, and transgenders, May said three of such countries which had made such laws recently revoked their laws and advised others to emulate them.

According to her, “Recent years have brought welcome progress. The three nations that have most recently decriminalised same-sex relationships are all Commonwealth members, and since the heads of government last met the Commonwealth has agreed to accredit its first organisation for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.

“Yet there remains much to do. Nobody should face persecution or discrimination because of who they are or who they love. And the UK stands ready to support any Commonwealth member wanting to reform outdated legislation that makes such discrimination possible.

“Because the world has changed. When, in 1953, the newly-crowned Queen Elizabeth set off on a tour of the Commonwealth, she travelled by air, sea and land on a journey that took more than five months. Today, many members of the Youth Forum have only ever known a time in which they can instantly converse with one another regardless of where in the world they live.

“Unlike previous generations, today’s young people don’t need an organisation like the Commonwealth to connect them. They can build their own bridges, forge their own links, mastermind and run their own campaigns.

“If the Commonwealth is to endure in such a world, we must demonstrate our relevance and purpose anew. We must show what the Commonwealth is capable of. And this summit can be the moment where that change begins to happen.”

May on the occasion stated that her country was investing £44 million for the purpose of improving the abilities of member-nations to independently curb any menace of natural disasters in their countries.

She further disclosed that 90 per cent of members were affected by the scourge of malaria, May also said the disease kills no fewer than 445,000 persons every year, pointing out that talks on legacies for children would remain a mirage if a disease which kills a child every two minutes is not decisively tackled.

She said the United Kingdom remained committed to the promise it made two years ago that it would yearly spend £500 million to fight the scourge of malaria among member-nations in five years.

She said: “We are only meeting in London this week because of the devastation wrought on Vanuatu by Cyclone Pam in 2015. The impact of other recent extreme weather events in the Caribbean and Pacific have underlined the vulnerability of smaller states across the Commonwealth.

“So I am proud to say that the UK, long a supporter of such nations, is investing a further £44 million to help improve members’ ability to prepare for and deal with natural disasters of all kinds. It is an issue Prime Minister Holness and I have already spoken about this morning.

“But extreme weather is not the only threat our people face from nature. Today, some 90 per cent of Commonwealth citizens live in countries where malaria is endemic. Worldwide, the disease kills 445,000 people every year, many in the Commonwealth and most of them children. Malaria has a serious impact on the economies of countries it affects. The human cost is incalculable.

“We cannot talk to the young people of the world, talk about securing a legacy for our children and grandchildren, without tackling a disease that, worldwide, kills one of them every two minutes. That is why, this week, I will be calling on my fellow leaders to commit to halving malaria across the Commonwealth by 2023.

“It is an ambitious goal, but one that is firmly within our reach. Since the Commonwealth Heads of Government last met, Sri Lanka has been declared malaria-free. Malaysia is on-course to eliminate the disease by 2020. And, since the year 2000, global malaria deaths have been cut by more than 60 per cent – the result of a concerted effort by governments, civil society groups, and individuals alike.

“Bill, you and Melinda deserve particular praise for all the work you have done in the fight against this terrible disease. Your philanthropy has saved countless lives, and your tireless campaigning has kept the issue firmly on the global agenda, including at tomorrow’s Malaria Summit.

“The UK remains committed to its five-year pledge, made in 2016, to spend half a billion pounds a year tackling malaria. Over the next two years £100 million of that will be match-funded by partners in the private sector. I know other Commonwealth nations are also among the biggest funders of this global effort.”

Vanguard

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Global Affairs

Iran–Israel War Escalates: Today’s Attacks, Trump’s Warning & Biblical Insights

The Iran–Israel conflict has surged into a full-fledged air war with growing humanitarian tolls. Trump’s evacuation call adds urgency and affects global stability.

Published

1 day ago

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June 17, 2025

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Iran–Israel War Escalates in today’s Attacks

Latest Developments

  • Israel’s Operation Rising Lion launched coordinated airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear sites (Natanz, Isfahan, Fordow), key IRGC commanders, and missile infrastructure—including in Tehran—claiming “total air superiority” (theguardian.com).
  • Iran retaliated with over 300 missiles and drones, landing in Tel Aviv, Haifa, and other regions (apnews.com).

Current Casualties & Damage

  • Iran: Health Ministry reports 224 killed, ~1,277 injured; independent sources suggest up to 400+ deaths, many civilians, with extensive damage to city infrastructures—water, power, hospitals (theguardian.com).
  • Israel: Official sources confirm 24 civilian deaths, ~60–500 injured from Iranian strikes (apnews.com).

Official Statements

President Donald Trump

  • Urged all Tehran residents to vacate right away; left G7 early to address crisis (reuters.com).
  • Pushed for a “real deal” nuclear agreement with Iran, denying ceasefire claims (reuters.com).

Israeli Government (PM & IDF)

  • PM Netanyahu stated the operation will persist “as many days as needed to neutralize the threat”—emphasizing hits on nuclear/scientific and missile facilities (understandingwar.org).
  • The military claims destruction of 120 missile launchers (~1/3 of Iran’s stockpile) and “total air superiority” over Tehran (theguardian.com).

Iranian Response

Humanitarian Impact & Civilian Exodus

  • Over 100,000 Tehran residents have fled northwards to Mazandaran, Gilan, and Alborz provinces (en.wikipedia.org).
  • Reports of fuel shortages, hospital strain, internet blackouts, and psychological distress are emerging (en.wikipedia.org).

🔮 What’s Next?

  1. Further military escalation — Iran may strike U.S. or allies if intervention continues (understandingwar.org).
  2. Nuclear diplomacy in limbo — Iran paused talks pending Israeli ceasefire; Trump supports negotiation .
  3. Broader regional ripple effects — Proxy groups, including Hezbollah, Houthis, and Iraqi militias, could escalate (en.wikipedia.org).
  4. Global economic disruptions — Oil prices spiked after Tehran warnings; airlines diverted flights (en.wikipedia.org).

Biblical Perspective

  • Operation Rising Lion invokes Isaiah 31:4 (“As a lion… roars!”), reinforcing Israel’s belief in its God-given resolve (newarab.com).
  • Some Christian prophecy scholars see this as part of eschatological build-up (Ezekiel 38, Isaiah 17)—though cautioned by others to avoid hasty conclusions (forums.crosswalk.com).
  • Biblical themes abound: calls for justice, divine defense, and the lament over cities under siege echo Psalms and prophets (e.g., Lamentations 2:1; Joel 3:2). Prayer for peace and wisdom is urged.

Key Takeaways

  • The Iran–Israel conflict has surged into a full-fledged air war with growing humanitarian tolls.
  • Trump’s evacuation call adds urgency and affects global stability.
  • Expect continued conflict, potential negotiations, and regional escalation.
  • Many believers are interpreting the events through biblical lenses—prayers for peace are critical.
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Global Affairs

Israel-Iran Conflict: History, Latest Impact & Solutions–Trackingtimes

This opposition has led to covert operations and battlefield skirmishes across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen.

Published

2 days ago

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June 16, 2025

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Trackingtimes News & Politics

Historical Background

Since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, tensions with Israel have grown over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and support for proxy militias like Hezbollah. Israel has consistently opposed any perceived existential threat. This opposition has led to covert operations and battlefield skirmishes across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen. These conflicts are mostly orchestrated from the shadows. This rivalry has rarely escalated into full-scale war.

Most Recent Updates & Casualties

🛑 Israeli “Operation Rising Lion” (Started June 13)

  • Targets hit: Over 100 Iranian sites—including Natanz and Isfahan nuclear facilities, IRGC bases, missile production plants, Tehran’s Ministry of Defense HQ, and oil/fuel depots near Tehran (english.mathrubhumi.com, theguardian.com, en.wikipedia.org, wsj.com).
  • Casualties in Iran: At least 78–224 killed (including 20+ senior commanders such as Maj Gen Mohammad Bagheri, Gen Hossein Salami, Gen Gholam Ali Rashid, Gen Amir Ali Hajizadeh); 6–14 nuclear scientists killed; hundreds wounded; many civilians among victims (theguardian.com).
  • Notable death: Brigadier Gen Mehdi Rabbani and his family were killed in one strike (en.wikipedia.org).

🇮🇷 Iranian Retaliation

  • Missile & drone attacks: Waves launched at Tel Aviv and Haifa; 65 ballistic missiles and scores of drones fired (theguardian.com).
  • Casualties in Israel: At least 14–24 killed and ~390 injured; critical infrastructure—including a power plant and U.S. Embassy wing—was damaged (theguardian.com).

Official Statements

Iran – Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei

“Israel opened its wicked and blood‑stained hand… will receive a bitter and painful fate… severe punishment awaits.” (thedailyguardian.com)

Israel – Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

“We acted pre‑emptively to prevent Iran’s nuclear bomb… we’ll do what we need to do. Regime change is possible.” (ft.com)

USA – President Donald Trump

“We were aware of the impending Israeli operation… working behind the scenes on a deal… vetoed Israeli plan to kill Iran’s Supreme Leader… unprecedented retaliation if Iran targets the U.S.” (theguardian.com)

🌍 Regional & Global Impacts

Middle East

  • New proxy wars erupt across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen.
  • Oil markets surged, then stabilized—global energy remains vulnerable .
  • Gulf and NATO countries deploy military to deter escalation amid high tensions (theguardian.com).

USA

  • Supports Israel’s missile defenses and may deploy naval vessels.
  • Oil price fluctuations could worsen inflation.
  • Diplomatic pressure mounts with vetoes and summit-level interventions .

Africa

  • Rising oil prices strain developing economies.
  • Cargo and shipping risks impact African trade.
  • Diaspora populations in Africa may intensify local debates or protests via spiritual and cultural channels.

📖 Historical & Biblical Lens

  • Biblical parallels: Books like Ezekiel (chapters 38–39) discuss invasions from the North targeting Israel. Some interpret modern Iranian threats through this prophetic narrative.
  • Spiritual implications: Maxwell Nnawuihe’s teachings on justice, fearlessness, and faith echo strongly amid this crisis.
  • Economic ties: Faith & Fortune Finance’s messages on biblical stewardship and fiscal resilience are directly relevant as nations and individuals face uncertainty.

🕊️ Pathways to Peace

  1. U.N.-mediated ceasefire with verified arms monitoring to halt further strikes.
  2. Inclusive regional security framework involving Gulf states, Iraq, and Syria to reduce proxy aggression.
  3. Faith-driven diplomacy: Interfaith councils (Christian-Muslim-Jewish) promoting reconciliation, trust-building, and shared economic ventures.
  4. Economic resilience programs: Channel resources into reconstruction and economic stability—aligning with themes from Faith & Fortune Finance’s “Kingdom Wealth” strategy.
  • Faith & Fortune Finance’s content tied to economic resilience:
  • “Biblical Wealth Under Crisis”
  • “Kingdom Finances When Markets Shake”

Maxwell Nnawuihe’s video on prophetic motivation and fearless leadership:

“Courageous Voices Precede Peace”

Conclusion

This Israel–Iran conflict marks a historic escalation, with devastating strikes, high-profile casualties, and global political impact. Blending historical, biblical, and economic insight provides deeper understanding—and grounds your YouTube channels in relevance.

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Biafra

Tinubu Refused To Honour Our Agreement To Release Nnamdi Kanu After Election– Kanu’s Brother

Disclosing that the meeting had the blessing of the president, Emmanuel, however, lamented that Tinubu has refused to honour the pact by releasing his elder brother and the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from the DSS dungeon in Abuja, Nigeria.

Published

6 months ago

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January 3, 2025

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Emmanuel Kanu, younger brother of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, has said they had an agreement with President Bola Tinubu for the release of his elder brother, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Emmanuel disclosed that he had the pact with Tinubu’s son, Seyi, in Abuja before the 2023 presidential election.

Disclosing that the meeting had the blessing of the president, Emmanuel, however, lamented that Tinubu has refused to honour the pact by releasing his elder brother and the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from the DSS dungeon in Abuja, Nigeria.

According to him, it was agreed that IPOB would not bycott the polls on the condition that Tinubu would release Kanu if elected President.

Prince Emmanuel expressed disappointment that nearly two years after the emergence of Tinubu as President, his brother (Kanu), has continued to languish in detention despite the fact that the presiding Judge, Justice Binta Nyako, had since recused herself from the matter.

He said it was disappointing that those who claimed to be honourable, failed to keep their words.

The statement read:”Before the last election, I received a message from an ex-governor that Seyi the son of President Tinubu wanted to see me. I agreed to meet with him on the condition that the overriding priority and hence the fulcrum of our discussion will be the release of my brother. The meeting was held in Abuja in the presence of another individual whom I asked along to witness the deliberations and if need be provide independent verification should the need arise.

“Seyi confirmed to me that his father sanctioned the meeting and that I should consider any agreement we reach as binding on the then candidate Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

READ ALSO: BREAKING: Justice Binta Nyako Steps Down From Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial, As He Fearlessly Scolds Her For Disobeying Supreme Court’s Judgment

Biafra: Justice Binta Nyako Directs Tinubu-led Fed. Govt. And Nnamdi Kanu To Pursue Reconciliation

Nnamdi Kanu Facing The Most Violation Of Fundamental Human Rights In The World- Ohanaeze Youth Council.

“In good faith we agreed that I shall relay the outcome to my brother to reinforce the long held tradition of IPOB not interfering with the conduct of elections, either through boycott or any other form of civil disobedience. This understanding was duly communicated to my brother and he reaffirmed his commitment not to stop the elections or order any boycott.

“When President Tinubu as a candidate visited Owerri during his campaign, he too reiterated his commitment to facilitate the release of my brother if elected. We took his public statement as a tacit reaffirmation of the understanding I reached with his son Seyi.

“At the end, IPOB did not call for election boycott despite having the capacity to do so. IPOB also made sure that discordant voices urging election boycott were overcome because election boycotts would not reflect well on the reputation of a global movement that prides itself on adherence to democratic tenets.

“It therefore, defies logic that nearly two years after President Tinubu assumed the mantle of leadership in Nigeria, my brother is still in detention despite not having any charge against him. It’s been over three months now that Justice Binta Nyako recused herself from the case yet no new judge has been assigned the case.

“This is on top of the fact that Appeal Court had earlier discharged him of the sham charges and ordered his release which the previous regime of Buhari declined to obey.

“Supreme Court determination that his bail ought not to have been revoked has been ignored by the courts and the government. The latest insult is that Abuja courts of all persuasion are no longer willing to determine the case of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu on merit but are rather relying on ludicrous and inapplicable technicalities to stall the timely determination of his cases.

“The truth is that Nigerian courts cannot, will not and do not have both the substantive and procedural jurisdiction to try him. His detention is without the backing of any known law in Nigeria or elsewhere in the world.”

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