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Witness Reveals How $760,910 Was Paid for Yahaya Bello’s Children’s School Fees as EFCC Trial Continues

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Witness Reveals How $760,910 Was Paid for Yahaya Bello’s Children’s School Fees as EFCC Trial Continues

An FCT High Court heard that $760,910 was allegedly used to pay advance school fees for former Kogi governor Yahaya Bello’s children at the American International School Abuja

Court Told $760,910 Was Used to Pay Yahaya Bello’s Children’s School Fees at Abuja International School

Fresh revelations emerged on Wednesday at the Federal Capital Territory High Court Maitama in Abuja as a prosecution witness disclosed how $760,910.84 was allegedly used to pay advance school fees for the children of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Adoza Bello, at the American International School Abuja (AISA).

The testimony was delivered by Nicholas Okehone, an internal auditor at the school and the 14th prosecution witness, during proceedings before Justice Maryanne Anineh, who is presiding over the high-profile corruption trial.

Bello is currently standing trial alongside Umar Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu on a 16-count charge bordering on criminal breach of trust and money laundering involving an alleged ₦110.4 billion.

While being led in evidence by prosecution counsel Professor Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, Okehone told the court that four of Bello’s children were enrolled at AISA.

According to him, the students include Farid Bello, Zahra Bello, Na’ima Bello, and Nana Fatima Bello.

He added that Zayyan Ali Bello, the son of Ali Bello, a nephew of the former governor, also benefited from the school fee arrangement.

Okehone explained that the school entered into a “Pre-Paid School Fees Until Graduation” agreement with the Bello family.

The arrangement allowed tuition fees for the children to be paid in advance up to their graduation.

The witness told the court that the agreement was signed by Grace Hudge, Head of School at AISA, and Ali Bello, who represented the family.

According to Okehone, the funds were received through multiple international transfers from companies and individuals across several countries.

Among the payments presented in court were:

$49,600 from Forza Oil and Gas for Zahra Omanike Bello

$44,700 from Forza Oil and Gas for Fatima Bello

$11,000 from Whales Oil and Gas for Farida Oricha

$78,160 from Alyeshua Solutions Services for Fatima Bello

$42,170 from Alyeshua Solutions Services for Na’ima Ohunene Bello

He also disclosed that Unnati General Trading LLC, through First Abu Dhabi Bank in the UAE, transferred $75,000 each for several of the Bello children.

Other payments included:

$100,000 from Manzi Issa in Kampala, Uganda, for Zayyad Ali Bello

$90,000 from Dada Grand Merchant Limited in Uganda for Zainab Ali Bello

According to the witness, records from the school’s TD Bank account showed multiple inflows corresponding with the transactions.

The payments included $29,575, $44,675, $78,135, $42,145 and $74,920.71, with the last amount transferred four times on September 7.

“I confirm that all the payments are in line with the agreement to pay school fees in advance,” Okehone told the court.

Okehone further informed the court that the American International School Abuja later refunded the entire $760,910.84 after communicating with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

“The school wrote to the EFCC indicating its intention to refund the school fees paid. The commission then provided an account with the Central Bank of Nigeria, and the total amount was refunded,” he said.

Earlier in the proceedings, Prosecution Witness 13, lawyer Yakubu Haruna, narrated how a property located at No. 35 Danube Street, Maitama, Abuja, was sold for ₦950 million.

The property, which consists of four detached housing units, belonged to Palchi Nigeria Limited and was sold in January 2022 to White Tree Nigeria Limited.

Haruna told the court that the payment was made in United States dollars and delivered in cash.

“A man came with the dollar equivalent of ₦950 million in Ghana-Must-Go bags. After confirmation, my client instructed a Bureau de Change operator, Murtala Maigari, to take custody of the money,” he said.

Another witness, lawyer James Bem Igbakymeh, testified that he facilitated the ₦650 million sale of a property on Durban Street, Wuse II, Abuja, belonging to SFC Foods Limited.

He said the transaction was negotiated by Shehu Bello, while payments were made through accounts linked to SFC Foods Limited and JIT Agric Limited via Bureau de Change operators.

Meanwhile, Mohammed Abdulaziz, Chief Accountant of Dantata and Sawoe Construction Company Limited, told the court that the company sold a plot of land measuring 8,240.72 square metres in Gwarimpa II District, Abuja, to Azba Real Estate Limited for ₦100 million.

He said the payments were made in tranches through Keystone Bank by Murtala Maigari on behalf of Ali Bello.

The court admitted the Deed of Assignment and Irrevocable Power of Attorney related to the transaction as Exhibits AW1 and AW2.

Justice Anineh also admitted several documents presented by the prosecution as Exhibits AX1 to AX13, despite objections raised by defence counsel Paul Daudu, SAN.

Daudu indicated that the defence would address the objections in their final written submissions.

The admitted documents include:

Admission letters

Payment receipts

Bank transfer records

Correspondence between AISA and the EFCC

Agreements relating to advance school fee payments

After hearing testimonies from the witnesses, Justice Anineh adjourned the case to May 5 and May 8, as well as June 16 and June 17, 2026, for the hearing of pending applications and continuation of the trial.

The high-profile case remains one of the most closely watched corruption trials involving a former Nigerian governor. Read More

UBA Business Series Highlights Rise Of ‘Gen W’ — The Evolved Woman Driving Leadership And Enterprise

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UBA Business Series Highlights Rise Of ‘Gen W’ — The Evolved Woman Driving Leadership And Enterprise

UBA Business Series Showcases ‘Gen.W: The Evolved Woman’s, Celebrating Female Leadership, Enterprise

Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, on Thursday, hosted a captivating edition of its quarterly Business Series, bringing together accomplished female leaders and entrepreneurs to discuss the theme “Gen.W: The Evolved Woman.”

The hybrid session, which was held at the UBA House in Marina Lagos and also transmitted live to participants across the globe, is part of activities to mark the International Women’s Month and focused on the evolving role of women in leadership, business, and innovation, highlighting how African women are redefining success while also creating sustainable impact across their various spheres of operation.

UBA’s Group Head, Customer Experience, Michelle Nwoga, who gave the opening remarks at the event, explained that the evolved woman is one who is taking charge, volunteering and making their voice heard above the noise.

The event was moderated by popular media personality and actor, Tobi Bakare; who said, “When I think about the evolved woman, I personally do not see a checklist or a finish point. In my own opinion, it is a woman who is grounded in her own self-worth and gives room for other women to be grounded in theirs, choosing herself daily and ultimately letting other women around her know and believe that they belong here too.”

The event featured panel conversations with leading entrepreneur and founder of ORÍKÌ Group, Joycee Awosika; celebrated media personality and digital entrepreneur Tomike Adeoye; founder of Fine-Funky, Olufunke Davies, and award-winning broadcaster, Ayo Mario-Ese who shared experiences around their struggles and eventual evolution as female business owners.

From her point of view, Joycee Awosika, an energy economist who has been focused on promoting the African heritage, the evolved woman is one who has awareness of who she is.

“That woman does not need to ask to sit at the table, she is creating her own table and adding value. As your company is growing, you must grow too, and always do an audit of where you need to become a better leader,” she stated.

To Tomike Adeoye, the question of what a woman is bringing to the table has now become obsolete, as the evolved woman is now bringing their own table.

“She is now more vocal about their struggles, setting the standards and she is not ready to give up on her dreams,” she added.

Ayo Mario-Ese expressed worry about females who are usually laidback about speaking up and sharing their achievements, and said that women need to own their own stories: “A lot of women are doing phenomenal work and are sometimes afraid of showcasing what they are doing. As an evolved woman, you have to find out what you are comfortable doing, and create your own unique offering, and also be open to collaboration.”

“Creating unique designs that are affordable remains my driving force and something that has helped me grow as an evolved woman,” remarked Olufunke Davies, who confessed to having ventured into a lot of businesses before finding her niche. “It is important to do your research, streamline and think about relatability. But the important thing I will say is start where you are as it is a progression.”

The Group Head, Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, who commended the panellists and the attendees for taking their time to join the event said, “Raising each woman up is actually not that hard; because, everyone has their community as well as their story; and so as women, we need to take position so that you can give to others.”

Ladipo took time to speak about the Gen W platform, put together by the bank, as she explained that it is a lifestyle platform dedicated to the evolved woman, adding, “Through expert insights, real stories, and practical resources, the platform connects women who are building brands, creating businesses, growing careers, and leading across industries. They also have access to a plethora of discounted products and loans. The best part: it is open to every woman. No UBA account needed. This is Gen W, for the evolved woman,” she said.

UBA continues to reaffirm its commitment to empowering women and entrepreneurs through platforms such as the Business Series, which continues to serve as a hub for mentorship, knowledge exchange, and thought leadership.

By convening influential voices and sharing practical experiences, the bank aims to inspire a new generation of women leaders and innovators across Africa and beyond. Read More

Olota of Otta Congratulates Adebola Ojugbele on Promotion to Commissioner of Police

Lukman Omikunle
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Olota of Otta Congratulates Adebola Ojugbele on Promotion to Commissioner of Police

Olota of Otta, Oba Adeyemi Obalanlege, congratulates Adebola Ojugbele on his promotion to Commissioner of Police, describing it as a proud moment for Aworiland and Ogun State

CP Adebola Ojugbele

Olota of Otta Celebrates Adebola Ojugbele’s Promotion to Commissioner of Police

The Olota of the Ancient and Paramount Ottaland, Awori Kingdom, His Majesty, Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege, PhD (Lanlege Ekun II, Arole Iganmode, Olofin Apesin Olode), has congratulated Aremo Adebola Ojugbele on his elevation to the prestigious rank of Commissioner of Police in the Nigeria Police Force.

Oba Obalanlege described the promotion as a proud and well-deserved milestone that reflects years of dedication and exemplary service.

The royal father’s congratulatory message was conveyed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Principal Secretary to the monarch, Prince Adeyemi Sulaimon Olusesi, and made available to Newsheadline247.

According to the statement, the revered Awori monarch expressed immense joy over the elevation of Ojugbele, noting that the honour resonates deeply within the ancient kingdom of Otta and across the broader Awori community.

“The elevation of CP Ojugbele did not come as a surprise, it represents the natural culmination of a career marked by unwavering dedication, discipline, integrity, and exemplary service to the nation.”

Oba Obalanlege described the development as a moment of pride not only for the newly promoted police chief but also for the people of Otta, Aworiland, and Ogun State at large.

The monarch also offered royal prayers for Ojugbele as he assumes his new responsibilities within the Nigeria Police hierarchy.

He prayed that the Almighty would grant the new Commissioner of Police wisdom, courage, and sound health to successfully navigate the challenges associated with the office.

The royal father expressed confidence that Ojugbele’s appointment would further enhance the reputation of his family and community while strengthening public service within the country’s law enforcement system.

Oba Obalanlege further stated that the promotion would bring additional honour and recognition to the ancient Awori Kingdom, noting that Ojugbele’s achievements reflect the values of discipline and excellence deeply rooted in the community.

His Majesty concluded by expressing hope that the newly elevated Commissioner of Police would continue to serve the nation with distinction and integrity, thereby bringing pride to Otta, Aworiland, Ogun State, and Nigeria as a whole. Read More

Ayra Starr Names Her Afrobeats ‘Big 3’: Tiwa Savage, Wizkid and Rema Make the List

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Ayra Starr Names Her Afrobeats ‘Big 3’: Tiwa Savage, Wizkid and Rema Make the List

Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr has shared her personal list of the top three artists who define the genre, naming Tiwa Savage, Wizkid and Rema as her “solid Big 3.”

Speaking during a recent interview with Hot 97 FM, the singer highlighted the trio’s unique contributions to the global growth of Afrobeats.

According to Starr, Tiwa Savage represents the pioneering female force in the genre, Wizkid symbolizes Afrobeats’ international breakthrough, while Rema stands out for pushing creative boundaries with innovative sounds.

“My Afrobeats Big 3 would be Tiwa Savage, Wizkid and Rema. My solid Big 3,” she said.

Her selection has sparked conversation among fans and industry watchers, as it notably leaves out Davido and Burna Boy—two global stars frequently mentioned alongside Wizkid in discussions about the traditional Afrobeats “Big 3.”

The debate over Afrobeats’ leading figures has long been a hot topic within the music community, reflecting the genre’s rapid growth and evolving global influence.

OPay Debunks Reports of Office Closure Over Tax Issues, Says Operations Remain Uninterrupted

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OPay Debunks Reports of Office Closure Over Tax Issues, Says Operations Remain Uninterrupted

OPay has dismissed reports claiming its offices in Lagos and Abuja were sealed by the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) over alleged tax non-compliance, describing the claims as false and misleading.

The reports, which circulated widely on social media and some online platforms, alleged that the fintech firm’s offices were shut down due to failure to meet obligations related to Value Added Tax (VAT) and Company Income Tax under the Nigeria Tax Act 2025.

However, in a statement released on Thursday, the company clarified that all its offices across Nigeria remain open and fully operational.

“Our attention has been drawn to reports claiming that our offices in Lagos and Abuja were sealed by the Nigeria Revenue Service over alleged non-compliance with VAT and Company Income Tax,” the company said.

“Our offices across Nigeria, including Lagos and Abuja, remain open and fully operational, and we continue to serve our customers, partners, and merchants without disruption.”

OPay emphasized that it complies with all tax obligations and regulatory requirements in Nigeria, adding that it maintains transparent working relationships with government agencies and regulators.

According to the company, the notice referenced in the circulating reports was linked to an industry-wide directive from the NRS requiring payment platforms to clearly separate certain statutory charges on their applications to improve transparency and reconciliation.

The fintech firm said the directive applied to multiple operators across the digital payments industry and was not specifically targeted at OPay.

“The suggestion that the notice indicates non-payment of taxes is factually incorrect and misleading,” the company said, adding that singling it out in the reports appeared designed to damage its reputation.

OPay also reiterated its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital economy by providing secure and inclusive financial services to millions of users nationwide.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the information circulating online suggesting that OPay is shutting down or that our offices have been sealed should be disregarded, as it does not reflect the true situation,” the company said.

Tonto Dikeh Fulfills Promise: Supports JSS Student’s Education, Empowers Family, Donates Laptops

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Tonto Dikeh Fulfills Promise: Supports JSS Student’s Education, Empowers Family, Donates Laptops

Actress Tonto Dikeh has fulfilled a promise to support the education of a junior secondary school student by providing new school supplies, financial assistance, and long-term educational support.

The student, who lost his mother, will now receive help through university, Dikeh revealed in an Instagram post. In addition, she gave the boy’s father ₦1,000,000 to start a business, aiming to provide stability and a sustainable livelihood for his three children.

The actress also donated 10 laptops to the school to enhance digital learning for all students.

“Last week, during our evangelism outreach in JSS Durumi II, a promise was made to support a young boy’s education from JSS1 all the way to university. By God’s grace, my team and I returned to fulfil that promise,” Dikeh wrote.

She added that the support extended to other students as well and emphasized the importance of turning faith into action: “This is what the Gospel looks like, not just words, but action.”

Tonto Dikeh has gained recognition for her philanthropic initiatives, recently announcing free JAMB registration for 1,000 students in select Nigerian cities.

Russia’s Kirill Dmitriev Meets Trump Envoys in Florida Amid Ukraine Peace Talks

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Russia’s Kirill Dmitriev Meets Trump Envoys in Florida Amid Ukraine Peace Talks

Russian special envoy Kirill Dmitriev met with representatives of former U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida, according to Russian state news agency TASS, citing sources close to the negotiations.

Dmitriev, who serves as Russian President Vladimir Putin’s special representative for economic cooperation with foreign countries, has played a key role in ongoing efforts to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine.

Reports indicate that Dmitriev has developed a strong working relationship with Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, over the past few months. The United States continues to position itself as a mediator in the Russia-Ukraine talks.

The Florida meeting follows several recent discussions in the Middle East currently destabilized by the war in Iran—and a prior negotiation in Switzerland, highlighting ongoing international efforts to find a resolution.

Naira Records Biggest Gain in Weeks as Nigeria’s Foreign Reserves Cross $50 Billion

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Naira Records Biggest Gain in Weeks as Nigeria’s Foreign Reserves Cross $50 Billion

The naira recorded its strongest gain in three weeks at the official foreign exchange market, appreciating to N1,376 per dollar as Nigeria’s foreign reserves climbed to $50.01 billion

Naira Posts Strongest Gain in Three Weeks as Nigeria’s Foreign Reserves Hit $50bn

Nigeria’s currency, the Nigerian Naira, recorded its strongest appreciation against the US dollar in three weeks at the official foreign exchange market on Wednesday, buoyed by a marginal increase in the country’s external reserves.

Latest data released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) showed that the naira strengthened significantly to N1,376.19 per dollar at the official market.

This represents an improvement from N1,401.40 per dollar recorded on Tuesday, translating into a N25.21 gain within 24 hours.

The development marks the currency’s largest day-to-day appreciation in three weeks, signaling a temporary recovery after a period of sustained pressure in the foreign exchange market.

The strengthening of the naira comes after the currency began to break from a recent depreciation trend earlier in the week.

Analysts say the improved performance may be linked to better liquidity conditions in the official market and growing confidence following an increase in Nigeria’s external reserves.

Despite the improvement at the official market, the local currency recorded a slight depreciation in the parallel market, commonly referred to as the black market.

At the informal trading window, the naira weakened by N10, trading at N1,430 per dollar on Wednesday, compared with N1,420 per dollar recorded the previous day.

Meanwhile, data from the Central Bank of Nigeria showed that the country’s foreign exchange reserves climbed to $50.01 billion as of March 10, 2026.

The figure represents a slight increase from $49.99 billion recorded on March 9, pushing the reserve position above the $50 billion mark.

Foreign reserves are a critical indicator of a country’s ability to defend its currency, finance imports, and maintain stability in the foreign exchange market.

Economists note that while the recent appreciation offers temporary relief, the naira’s long-term stability will depend on sustained foreign exchange inflows, improved oil revenue, and continued monetary policy interventions by the CBN.

The widening gap between the official and parallel market exchange rates also remains a key challenge policymakers are monitoring.

For now, Wednesday’s performance provides a positive signal for the local currency after weeks of volatility in Nigeria’s foreign exchange market. Read More

‘I Am a Die-Hard Democrat’ — Tinubu Pledges to Protect Democracy, Rule of Law

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‘I Am a Die-Hard Democrat’ — Tinubu Pledges to Protect Democracy, Rule of Law

President Bola Tinubu reiterates his commitment to protecting democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria while engaging APC and IPAC leaders on electoral reforms and party democracy

Tinubu Pledges to Protect Democracy, Rule of Law as Nigeria Marks 26 Years of Civil Rule

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding democracy and strengthening the rule of law in Nigeria, describing both as enduring pillars for national unity and stability.

Tinubu said his government remains determined to uphold democratic principles and good governance as a lasting legacy for future generations.

The assurance came during an inter-faith breaking of the fast with members of the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and leaders of the Inter‑Party Advisory Council (IPAC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The president emphasised that strengthening internal democracy within political parties is essential to building credible electoral institutions and ensuring transparent governance in Africa’s most populous nation.

Tinubu: ‘I Am a Die-Hard Democrat’

Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey over the past 26 years, Tinubu recalled the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists during the military era.

“The Chairman of IPAC, Yusuf Dantalle, provoked some questions. I am glad we are all democrats. And we all subscribe to this democracy voluntarily, willingly, and we’ve been at it selflessly in the last 26 years.

“Some of us had been bruised struggling for it. We were detained, we protested, we had street demonstrations, we went into exile and all of that. We formed NADECO. I followed the leadership destiny that God has chosen for me. There’s no doubt about it. I am a die-hard democrat.

“I followed that belief wholeheartedly, committed to a united Nigeria, and that principle and the philosophy will live and die with me.”

Tinubu also stressed that democracy must always operate within the framework of the rule of law.

“There’s no threat from any democrat under my watch. The rule of law must prevail in any democracy. The majority will have their way, and the minority will have their say and their way. I must not stand in their way. That is the sweetness, the essence of democracy.”

The president further assured political stakeholders that his administration remains committed to credible and transparent elections.

“I am a registered voter. I am on the same platform as you. I’m going to stick to my platform. When it was against me years ago, I toed the line. I was in opposition without a threat to any human being except the military junta.

“I want democracy, and since democracy is back here, there’s a fundamental voluntariness that is enshrined, and I am extremely glad to listen to you.”

Tinubu also highlighted the importance of direct primaries, noting that they offer party members greater participation in selecting their representatives at different levels of governance.

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Nentawe Yilwatda, praised the president for providing strong leadership in a diverse and multi-ethnic country.

“We thank you for inviting the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, IPAC and other political parties to be part of this breaking of fast. This means so much for us as a party and people.”

He assured the president of the ruling party’s continued support in delivering his administration’s vision.

“We are grateful to God to have you as a leader of this country. We shall support you, and we will stand by you as a party.”

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Inter‑Party Advisory Council, Yusuf Dantalle, appealed to the president to reconsider aspects of the newly signed 2026 Electoral Law, particularly the requirement for the National Identity Number (NIN) during voter registration.

According to him, the policy could potentially disenfranchise millions of eligible voters who have yet to obtain the identification number.

Dantalle also urged the government to reconsider the removal of the indirect mode of party nominations and called for the restoration of financial support previously provided to political parties by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The IPAC chairman also disclosed that a documentary film titled “Unbroken Democracy” has been produced to commemorate Nigeria’s 26 years of uninterrupted democratic rule.

The project, supported by Hope Uzodimma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, is scheduled to premiere at the State House in Abuja.

According to Dantalle, the documentary highlights the struggles, sacrifices and milestones that have shaped Nigeria’s democratic experience since the return to civilian rule in 1999.

The meeting comes at a time when political stakeholders are increasingly focusing on electoral reforms and preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

For Tinubu, however, the message remains clear — Nigeria’s democracy must be protected and strengthened.

By reaffirming his commitment to the rule of law and credible electoral processes, the president signalled that safeguarding democratic institutions remains central to his administration’s agenda. Read More

“Under No Circumstances”: Iran Cannot Compete at 2026 World Cup, Says Sports Minister

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“Under No Circumstances”: Iran Cannot Compete at 2026 World Cup, Says Sports Minister

“Under No Circumstances”: Iran Cannot Compete at 2026 World Cup, Says Sports Minister

Iran says it cannot participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after U.S. and Israeli airstrikes killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali said the attacks triggered a regional conflict, making participation in the tournament impossible.

“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” Donyamali told state television.

The expanded 48-team World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19.

“Our children are not safe and conditions for participation do not exist,” the minister said.

He added that hostile actions against Iran had forced two wars within months and killed thousands of citizens.

Iran’s UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani said more than 1,300 Iranian civilians have died since U.S. and Israeli airstrikes began on Feb. 28.

Iran are drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand at the tournament.

All three group matches are scheduled in the United States, with two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.

Iran dominated Asian qualifiers to secure their place in March last year but skipped a FIFA planning summit for participating teams held recently in Atlanta.

There was no immediate reaction from the Iranian Football Federation or FIFA, football’s world governing body.

FIFA rules state that any team withdrawing no later than 30 days before the first match faces a minimum fine of 250,000 Swiss francs (about 320,800 dollars).

Further sanctions may include expulsion from future competitions or replacement by another national team.

The FIFA Council or relevant committee may also decide on a replacement team for the tournament.

Iran had selected Tucson’s Kino Sports Complex in Arizona as their World Cup base camp.

Preparations spanning 18 months now face uncertainty, potentially affecting local economic plans linked to the team’s stay.

Ticket sales may also be affected if Iran withdraws, as fans who bought expensive tickets could resell them on the secondary market.

Earlier, FIFA President Gianni Infantino said he met U.S. President Donald Trump, who welcomed Iran’s participation in the tournament.

Infantino said the discussion with Trump was productive and included assurances that Iran’s team would be allowed to compete.

“President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the United States,” Infantino said.

A Tehran-based source said Iran’s decision could also affect scheduled international warm-up matches due to the ongoing conflict.

Meanwhile, Australia has granted humanitarian visas to five Iranian women footballers who sought asylum over fears of persecution.

The players reportedly refused to sing Iran’s national anthem during a Women’s Asian Cup match.

Trump had earlier urged Australia to grant asylum to members of Iran’s women’s football team.

Australian police also assisted two other members of the Iranian women’s delegation seeking asylum, though one later opted to return to Iran. Read More

(Reuters/NAN)

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