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Today in Africa — April 13, 2026: Nigeria Airstrike Probe Deepens, Ghana Footballer Killed in Armed Bus Attack

OkayAfrica has scoured the Internet for today’s major news stories, so you don't have to. On April 13, coverage includes: Nigeria launching an investigation into a deadly military airstrike that reportedly killed dozens of civilians; a Ghanaian footballer shot dead after gunmen ambushed his team bus; and more.

A Nigerian Air Force plane, with Nigerian soldiers preparing to leave Kaduna for Mali on January 17, 2013.
Nigeria’s military is facing scrutiny after a weekend airstrike on a market near the Borno–Yobe border reportedly killed dozens of civilians.

Every day, OkayAfrica shares a roundup of news we’re following but haven’t published as full articles. These short updates cover what’s happening on the continent — in culture, politics, and beyond. For more on stories like these, be sure to check out our News page, with stories from across the regions.

Nigeria Opens Investigation as Market Airstrike Sparks Civilian Death Toll Scrutiny

Nigeria’s military is facing scrutiny after a weekend airstrike on a market near the Borno–Yobe border reportedly killed dozens of civilians, with local sources and Amnesty International putting the death toll at over 100, though officials have not confirmed figures. The military says the strike targeted an Islamist militant hub and has launched an investigation, even as fresh attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters killed a base commander and six soldiers in Borno late yesterday, Sunday, April 12, underscoring worsening insecurity in the northeast.

What to watch:

  • Some local officials and witnesses estimate total casualties, including injured, could be as high as 200.

  • Amnesty International says at least 35 people were seriously wounded, including children.

  • The military describes the strike zone as a long-identified militant corridor and logistics hub.

  • Militants recently looted weapons and intensified attacks on military bases across Borno.

  • At least 12 militants were killed during a gun battle at the Monguno barracks attack yesterday.

Ghanaian Footballer Killed in Armed Attack on Team Bus

Ghanaian footballer Dominic Frimpong has died after gunmen ambushed a Berekum Chelsea team bus and opened fire as players returned from a league match. The 20-year-old forward was shot during the attack and later died in hospital, while teammates fled into nearby bushes, as police launched a manhunt and football authorities called for stronger security for traveling teams.

What to know:

  • Six armed men blocked the road and attacked a bus carrying about 30 players and officials.

  • The team was returning from a match against Samartex, about 270 km from Berekum.

  • Frimpong was on loan from Aduana FC and had scored two goals in 13 appearances.

  • Similar attacks have affected other clubs, including Wa All Stars and AshantiGold.

  • The Ghana FA says it will review and strengthen security measures for league travel.

Sudan Hunger Crisis Deepens as Millions Survive on One Meal a Day

Millions of people in Sudan are now surviving on just one meal a day as the war between the army and the Rapid Support Forces enters its third year, pushing the country deeper into one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. A new report by major aid groups says families are skipping meals, eating leaves and animal feed, and facing growing famine conditions, with nearly 29 million people now acutely food-insecure.

The deeper impact:

  • Famine conditions have been confirmed in areas including El Fasher and Kadugli.

  • Severe child malnutrition has exceeded famine thresholds in places like Um Baru and Kernoi.

  • The crisis is driven in part by destroyed farms, disrupted markets, and starvation tactics.

  • Communal kitchens are struggling to keep up as demand surges and funding drops.

  • Women and girls face heightened risks of violence, with female-headed households hit hardest.

In Brief: More Stories Today

Uganda Nursery Killings Trial Opens in Public Mobile Court

The trial of a man accused of killing four children at a Kampala nursery has begun in a public mobile court set up near the crime scene. Christopher Okello Onyum pleaded not guilty, as the unusual format — ordered by President Yoweri Museveni — draws criticism over concerns about fairness and political interference.

Ghana Says France Open to Slavery Reparations Talks

Ghana says France is open to discussions on reparations for transatlantic slavery following talks between President John Mahama and Emmanuel Macron. The talks come amid growing global pressure for restitution, though France has not formally committed to reparations.

South Africa Unveils Draft AI Policy to Boost Innovation

South Africa has released a draft national AI policy aimed at driving innovation while addressing ethical and economic risks. The proposal includes plans for new regulatory bodies and incentives to support startups, with public comments open until June 10.

Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline Deal Moves Forward

A long-planned $25 billion gas pipeline linking Nigeria to Morocco is set to advance with a formal intergovernmental agreement expected this year. The 6,900 km project aims to boost regional energy supply and support exports to Europe, with first gas targeted for 2031.

Cameroon Separatists Announce Safe Passage for Papal Visit

Separatist groups in Cameroon’s Anglophone regions say they will allow a three-day safe travel window during Pope Leo’s visit. The move aims to protect civilians and pilgrims, though past ceasefires have not always held.

Djibouti’s Guelleh Wins Sixth Term With 97.8% Vote

Djibouti’s long-serving president, Ismail Omar Guelleh, has secured a sixth term with 97.8% of the vote, extending his 27-year rule. The election was boycotted by major opposition parties, with critics raising concerns about political repression.

Ex-Nigerian Oil Minister Denies Bribery in London Trial

Former Nigerian oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke has denied bribery charges in a London court, rejecting claims she received luxury benefits in exchange for contracts. Prosecutors allege she enjoyed high-end properties, private jets, and shopping sprees funded by energy firms.