Notorious Russian arms dealer freed in Brittney Griner exchange awkwardly backs out of pledge to fight in Ukraine

 The Russian arms dealer who was freed in a prisoner exchange for Brittney Griner late last year has walked back on earlier claims that he would volunteer to fight on the front line in Ukraine.

In an interview on the Russian newspaper Komsomolskaya Pravda’s radio station on Wednesday, Viktor Bout became evasive and irritable when reminded of an earlier statement about his willingness to fight, according to The Daily Beast.

Bout was speaking at length about his pride in the Russian invasion of Ukraine, when the interviewer cut in to relay a question from a listener, saying: “Let Bout prove his patriotism towards the Motherland by joining Wagner in Soledar,” according to The Daily Beast.

The listener went on to ask whether Bout had received an offer to join the troops of the Wagner Group, a mercenary army fighting on Russia’s behalf. Earlier this week, Wagner claimed to have captured the eastern Ukrainian town of Soledar, though independent assessments question the extent of its control.

According to The Daily Beast, Bout said: “No, there were no offers to join. There again, you have to understand where you can be most useful, and which of your skills and knowledge would be handy.”

It was a strong about-face from comments Bout made to Russian state TV only a month ago.

Back then, Bout said: “If I could, I would share the skills I have and I would readily volunteer” to fight.

Bout was freed from US prison on December 9, in exchange for the WNBA star Brittney Griner, in a high-profile prisoner swap the Biden administration engineered.

Bout attracted the nickname of “The Merchant of Death” due to his prominent arms-dealing operation in the 1990s, as Insider previously reported. Authorities arrested him in a sting operation in 2008, and he was later convicted in the US of conspiring to provide material support to terrorists.

When freed, he was serving a 25-year prison sentence, most recently at a federal penitentiary in Marion, Illinois, according to The New York Times.

Bout has loudly backed Russia’s military in interviews since his release, and has joined the ultranationalist, pro-Kremlin Liberal Democratic Party, Reuters reported.

Source: businessinsider

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Russia ‘to work’ with Burkina Faso to fight terror

 Russia says it is planning to work with Burkina Faso to develop strategies to fight terrorism in the West African nation, state-owned news agency AIB reports.

This emerged following a meeting between Burkinabe Prime Minister Apollinaire Kyelem de Tembela and Russian ambassador accredited to Burkina Faso, Alex Saltynov.

“We will develop a roadmap for bilateral co-operation. And from this, we will see what Russia could bring to Burkina Faso within the framework of security and the fight against terrorism,” the Russian envoy was quoted as saying.

Burkina Faso appears to be progressively embracing Russia under the influence of neighbouring Mali, where diplomatic relations with France collapsed last year over the deployment of mercenaries from the Wagner Group.

In December, the interim prime minister’s visit to Russia triggered rumours of the presence of Russian mercenaries in the country.

Source: BBC

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20 Places to visit in Nigeria’s Akwa Ibom State

 Akwa Ibom state is one of Nigeria’s oil-rich states, located on the country’s southern coast. This state shares borders with Rivers, Cross River, Abia, and Cameroon. Akwa Ibom state, like neighbouring Cross River state, is one of the cleanest and most beautiful states in Nigeria, with numerous tourist attractions.

Ibeno Beach, Ibeno

You perhaps did not know before now that Ibeno beach is the longest beach in West Africa. It stretches from Ibeno to James town. This beach is one of the many tourist attractions in Akwa Ibom state. Ibeno beach is one of the places in Akwa Ibom that cannot be perfectly described with words. The soothing feel of its breeze coupled with the sound of the roaring waters makes Ibeno beach one place that is a must visit for everyone.

Akwa Ibom International Stadium, Uyo

Akwa Ibom stadium is the most recent stadium in Nigeria. It was designed and built by Julius Berger in 2014 and was patterned after the home stadium of German football giants, Bayern Munich. The Akwa Ibom international stadium is the home turf of Akwa United; a professional football team and one of the biggest teams in the Nigerian Premier League.

Ibom Plaza, Uyo

Ibom Plaza, also known as the heart of Uyo is a tourist attraction that was established in 2001. It was built to provide relaxation both for the locals as well as visitors. Ibom plaza presently occupies the former independent square, the site formerly occupied by the British flag; the Union Jack. It is also responsible for the growing nightlife in Uyo.

House of Tara, Uyo

House of Tara, Uyo is one of the most established beauty salons in Uyo. It is located at no 4, Lane Traffic Light 264 Oron Road. A visit to House of Tara might not mean much to everyone. However, if you are in the beauty industry, then, House of Tara is a place that is worth visiting.

Ibom Specialist Hospital, Uyo

Ibom specialist hospital is a medical Mecca in Akwa Ibom state. It is a world class hospital and even has a higher status than most teaching hospitals in Nigeria. If you are in the medical profession, then this might just be your chance to get to see medical facilities that are not existing in most Nigerian hospitals

Lord Luggard’s Residence, Ikot Abasi

Not very many people are aware of the existence of this building. Lord Luggard’s residence is just opposite the Amalgamation house. This house is a small one-story cottage and is one of the destinations that are worth visiting if you have a keen interest in Nigerian history.

Raffia City Plaza, Ikot Ekpene

Raffia city plaza is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Ikot Ekpene. This plaza is not just a place to get affordable stuff, it is also a place where children can have fun while the adults do the shopping. Raffia city plaza features a football viewing centre and a place to see movies.

Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Center, Uyo

Ibom Tropicana entertainment centre is a world-class resort that was perfectly designed for both business and leisure.  It features a five-star hotel, a shopping mall, a cinema and a convention center. Irrespective of the reason you are in Akwa Ibom, business or pleasure, Ibom Tropicana entertainment center is always open to meet your needs.

Ibom e-Library, Uyo

If you have never been to a digital library, then a visit to Ibom e-library is non-negotiable. Ibom e-library is situated in Uyo and is the first and biggest digital library in the whole of West Africa. This e-library is definitely not a place for leisure. However, it could be the extra spice to your visit to Akwa-Ibom. It was built by Godswill Akpabio and commissioned by Goodluck Jonathan.

Vista Restaurant, Uyo

Are you in Akwa Ibom and in search of a place to have your local dish in a world-class restaurant? If yes, then, you should pay Vista restaurant a visit. In this restaurant, you can have a well-cooked meal while you enjoy the beauty that Akwa Ibom is known for.

Silverbird Cinema, Uyo

In search of a place to view the latest movies, then, you should find your way to Silverbird Cinema, Uyo. This cinema occupies a section of the Ibom Tropicana entertainment center and is located at Udoudom Avenue. At Silverbird cinema, Uyo, you do not only get to watch the latest movies with a bowl of popcorn, you also get to meet with fun and interesting people.

Bridge of No Return, Ikot Abasi

The bridge of no return was given its name by the people of Ikot Abasi. This bridge brings to mind the pains of slave trade and was usually the last point of contact between slaves and their lands before they were put on big ships and sent to work on farms in America. Although the bridge of no return is very infamous among the people of Ikot Abasi, it is a major tourist destination in Akwa Ibom.

Ibiobio Museum and State Park, Uyo

Ibiobio Museum and state park is the no 1 place to visit if you are interested in knowing more about the Ibiobio people and their way of life. This museum contains artifacts that will help you understand the history of the Ibiobio people. If you are not cut out for museums, you can also have a picnic in the gardens surrounding this museum.

National Museum of Colonial History, Uyo

This is for all lovers of history and arts. The National Museum of colonial history is located at Wellington Bassey way. This museum contains lots of artifacts that relate to the people of Akwa Ibom and how they fared during the period of slave trade.

The Amalgamation House

If you have read a lot about the history of Nigeria in books, then, this is your opportunity to see some facts for yourself. The amalgamation house is a cottage which was once the administrative headquarters of the southern protectorate. In this building, Lord Luggard decreed the amalgamation of the northern and southern protectorates.

The Playground, Uyo

Just as its name states, the playground is one of the most famous relaxation spots in Akwa Ibom. This spot welcomes its visitors with the sweet aroma of grilled meat and the sounds of soft music. If you are a vegetarian, then, this is not a place you should find yourself because you could just give up on some of your vegetarian beliefs.

Presbyterian Church, Uyo

The Presbyterian Church might sound like a spot for only Christian faithfuls. However, contrary to what a lot of people believe, the Presbyterian Church is a tourist destination for people from all over the world. This church was built by Mary Slessor and is open to the public.

Discovery Park, Uyo

What better place to visit in Akwa Ibom if you want to enjoy a blend and good music and some of the finest local dishes than Discovery Park. This park is a perfect place to hang out with your old friends and also meet new people. Discovery Park is open from 8 am to 11 pm during the week and 1 pm to 11 pm on Sundays.

Oron Museum, Oron

Oron museum is endowed with a lot of artworks, traditional instruments, and masquerade costumes. This museum will help your knowledge of Efik history come alive. If you are a fan of arts, next time you are in Akwa Ibom, make it a duty to visit Oron museum.

Le Meridien Hotel, Uyo

Are you in Akwa Ibom and want to spend some time at the golf club, then Le Meridien hotel is just the ideal place to go. Le Meridien hotel is one of the most recognized hotels in Nigeria and the most prestigious in Akwa Ibom. The golf course in Le Meridien hotel features 18 holes and is one of the first golf courses in West Africa.

Source: allnigeriainfo.ng

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Prez Biden delivers sermon at Ebenezer Baptist Church to honor Martin Luther King

 DNT ATLANTA – President Joe Biden became the first sitting United States president to deliver a sermon at the famous Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta where the civil rights icon was a preacher.

Biden who specifically credited the black vote, especially the black women’s vote for his election into the White House wasted no time to warm himself to the congregation.

“I’ve spoken in front of kings, world leaders, and large organizations, but I tell you, this is intimidating,” Biden said to open his sermon.

 

Biden praised his hosts including another civil rights leader and former Atlanta Mayor Andrew Young reflecting on their collective fight against Apartheid.

In his sermon at what he called America’s Freedom Church, Biden lauded Dr. Martin Luther King and pointed out that as people say ‘Keep The Faith’, the civil rights icon not only kept the faith but spread the faith.

Biden also revealed that his two political heroes are Bobby Kennedy and Martin Luther King, and keeps a replica of the Rosa Parks bus at the Oval Office.

“This is a time a choosy,” Biden continued, using an old African American slang to illustrate the choices that the world faces between democracy and autocracy. Biden likened that fight to the civil right fight that Dr. King led which altered the course of history.

DNT News with correspondence reports from Atlanta

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Garland appoints special counsel for Biden classified documents probe

 Attorney General Merrick Garland announced Thursday that he has appointed a special counsel to investigate President Biden’s handling of classified documents after the end of the Obama administration.

Why it matters: The appointment of Robert Hur, former U.S. attorney for the District of Maryland, is designed to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest. The move comes as former President Trump faces a separate special counsel inquiry over his hoarding of hundreds of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago home.

Key details regarding the volume of documents, methods of discovery, and reaction by Biden and Trump distinguish the two cases.

But the revelations about Biden’s documents — especially the latest discovery of “a small number” of classified records at his Delaware home — present a new political headache for the president.

What they’re saying: “I strongly believe that the normal processes of this department can handle all investigations with integrity. But under the regulations, the extraordinary circumstances here require the appointment of a special counsel for this matter,” Garland said at a press conference Thursday.

“This appointment underscores for the public the department’s commitment to both independence and accountability in particularly sensitive matters. And to making decisions indisputably guided only by the facts and the law,” he added.

White House lawyer Richard Sauber said in a statement: “We are confident that a thorough review will show that these documents were inadvertently misplaced, and the President and his lawyers acted promptly upon discovery of this mistake.”

Background: Hur, currently a partner at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher, was nominated by Trump to serve as U.S. attorney in Maryland in 2017.

His former office has experience handling classified information cases due to its proximity to the National Security Agency.

How we got here: Garland revealed at the press conference that on Nov. 4, the National Archives notified the Justice Department that documents with classified markings had been identified at a private office at Biden’s think tank in Washington. The National Archives was made aware of the issue by the White House.

On Nov. 14, Garland ordered Trump-appointed U.S. attorney John Lausch to conduct an initial fact-finding review to determine whether a special counsel was warranted.

On Dec. 20, Biden’s personal counsel informed Lausch that additional classified documents from his Biden’s time as vice president had been found in the garage of his home in Wilmington, Delaware.

On Jan. 5, Lausch briefed Garland on the investigation and advised him that a special counsel was warranted.

On the morning of Jan. 12, Biden’s personal counsel called Lausch and informed him that an additional document with classified markings had been found at the Delaware home. Garland’s announcement came hours after news of the second set of documents leaked.

How it’s playing: Republicans in Congress have seized on the unfolding controversy to accuse Biden, the Justice Department and the National Archives of a double standard, vowing to use their new House majority to investigate.

The top Democrat and Republican on the Senate and House Intelligence committees, respectively, have called for the director of national intelligence to provide a “damage assessment” on both the Biden and Trump documents.

Between the lines: Biden says he did not know about the presence of classified documents and pledged full cooperation.

Trump, meanwhile, is under investigation for obstruction of justice after refusing to return the documents for over a year, resulting in a court-authorized search of Mar-a-Lago by FBI agents.

Special counsel Jack Smith has been tasked with investigating both Trump’s handling of classified documents and efforts to overturn the 2020 election leading up to the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection.

Source Zachary Basu

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Macron will not seek Algeria’s ‘forgiveness’ for colonialism

 Macron has prodded and soothed over the French occupation throughout his political career.

President Emmanuel Macron says he will not “ask forgiveness” from Algeria for French colonisation, but hopes to continue working towards reconciliation with his counterpart, Abdelmajid Tebboune.

“It’s not up to me to ask forgiveness, that’s not what this is about, that word would break all of our ties,” he said in an interview for Le Point magazine, published late on Wednesday.

“The worst thing would be to decide: ‘We apologise and each go our own way,’” Macron said.

“Work on memory and history isn’t a settling of all accounts,” he added.

He expressed hope that Tebboune “will be able to come to France in 2023”, to return Macron’s own trip to Algiers last year, and continue their “unprecedented work of friendship”.

But some on social media denounced the French president’s decision.

The French PhD candidate Rim-Salah Alouane said on Twitter: “On step forward, 10 steps backwards. I don’t wanna tell you that I told you so, but I told you so.”

France’s 100-year colonisation of Algeria and the viciously fought 1954-62 war for independence have left deep scars, which Macron has prodded and soothed over his political career.

In 2017, then-presidential candidate Macron dubbed the French occupation a “crime against humanity”.

A report he commissioned from historian Benjamin Stora recommended in 2020 further moves to reconcile the two countries while ruling out “repentance” and “apologies”.

In 2021, Macron admitted for the first time that French soldiers murdered a top Algerian independence figure and then covered up his death, in the latest acknowledgement by Paris of its colonial-era crimes.

But the French leader has also questioned whether Algeria existed as a nation before being colonised, drawing an angry response from Algiers.

“These moments of tension teach us,” Macron told the Algerian writer Kamel Daoud in the Le Point interview.

“You have to be able to reach out your hand again and engage, which President Tebboune and I have been able to do,” he added.

He backed a suggestion for Tebboune to visit the graves of Algerian 19th-century anti-colonial hero Abdelkader and his entourage, who are buried in Amboise in central France.

“That would make sense for the history of the Algerian people. For the French people, it would be an opportunity to understand realities that are often hidden,” Macron said.

Algeria and France have maintained enduring ties through immigration, involvement in the independence conflict and post-war repatriations of French settlers, touching more than 10 million people living in France today.

SOURCE: NEWS AGENCIES

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Breaking: AMAA founder, Peace Anyiam-Osigwe dead

One of the pillars of the entertainment industry in Nigeria and the Founder of the prestigious AMAA Awards, Peace Anyiam-Osigwe is dead.

She reportedly gave up the ghost at St. Nicolas Hospital, Lagos after being in a coma since Saturday.

While colleagues and close friends, some of whom went to see her at hospital wouldn’t believe news of her demise, maintaining that she was merely in the ICU, notable movie maker, Zik Zulu broke the news.

“Our President, Peace, has passed. As at Saturday, she was reported to be in coma at Saint Nicholas. But now her family has confirmed her transition. May the memory of her life be a blessing. Rest in peace, dear Peace, he writes on a Nollywood platform.

Award-winning producer, Obi Emelonye also confirmed her passing-on on his social media handles even though the family was trying to be courteous with releasing the information.

The industrious woman would be remembered as one of those who shaped the face of the new Nollywood, as her contributions to the industry can not be overemphasized.

Peace Anyiam-Osigwe was not only the Founder of the African Movie Academy Awards, AMAA, she was also the President of the Association of Movie Producers, AMP and one of the most prominent figures in Nollywood.

Source vanguardngr

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