Mabel Makun, the former wife of renowned comedian Ayo Makun, has officially addressed the status of their marriage. Taking to her social media platform, Mabel candidly acknowledged that her hopes for a lifelong partnership with Ayo have veered unexpectedly off course. In her statement, Mabel expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support she has received from well-wishers. However, she emphasised her intention to maintain a dignified silence, underscoring the need to respect Ayo’s privacy as the father of their children. Dispelling any falsehoods circulating in the media, Mabel pledged to shield her children from the turmoil, prioritising their mental well-being…
Author: Editor Francis
Most of Liberia’s 29 senators approved the creation of a War and economic crimes court Tuesday (Apr. 9), twenty years after the bloodiest conflict in the west African country’s history. Before approval, the bill had stirred controversy as some former warlords have held elective positions in the Senate. The Pro-Tempore of the Liberian Senate, Senator Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence, said “there must be justice and accountability for both the victims of the wars and the perpetrators”. According to her, “establishing is for us a necessary and critical step for a formal closure” to the terrible memories left behind protecting the peace…
The United Nations Security Council has referred the application of the observer State of Palestine for full membership to the specialized committee set up to vet new members. The Council’s President made the announcement on Monday (Apr. 8). “I shall refer to the Committee on the Admission of New Members the request that renewed consideration be given to the application of the Observer State of Palestine during the month of April 2024. As I hear no objection, it is so decided.” The specialized commitee shall examine any application referred to it and report its conclusions thereon to the Council. Palestine…
South Africa’s Electoral Court on Tuesday ruled that former President Jacob Zuma can run for office in the upcoming general election, overturning an earlier decision that had barred him from contesting the polls. The decision paves the way for Zuma to run for president on behalf of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, or MK, a new political organisation that he joined last year after denouncing the ruling African National Congress party that he once led. South Africans will elect 400 members of the country’s General Assembly on May 29. A month later, the lawmakers in the new parliament will choose the…
During a recent inspection of the Enugu-Port Harcourt dual carriageway, Works Minister Dave Umahi took aim at former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar’s assessment of the ongoing Lagos-Calabar coastal road project. Umahi accused Atiku of having a “poor understanding of figures” and labelled his remarks as a “gross misrepresentation of facts and figures,” suggesting that they were an attempt to mislead the public. Umahi’s remarks came in response to Atiku’s questioning of the contract awarded to Hitech Construction Company without competitive bidding. Atiku also raised concerns about the total cost of the project, stating that N1.06 trillion had been released for the…
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared viral hepatitis infections as the second leading cause of infectious disease mortality worldwide, on par with tuberculosis, a leading infectious killer. This revelation emerged from the 2024 Global Hepatitis Reports presented at the ongoing World Hepatitis Summit in Lisbon, Portugal, running from April 9 to 11, 2024, themed “Integrate Accelerate Eliminate.” Hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver caused by various infectious viruses and non-infectious agents, claims approximately 1.3 million lives annually, according to the WHO. The report underscores the critical need for heightened attention to combat this health threat. Distinguished by five main…
In a press briefing on Tuesday, the Otun Balogun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Abimbola Ajibola, voiced his apprehension regarding the fitness of the Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, to ascend to the throne. The declaration follows the recent vacancy in the Olubadan stool following the passing of Oba Lekan Balogun, who reigned for two years until his demise at the age of 81. Addressing reporters at his Sanyo private residence in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, Oba Ajibola underscored concerns over Olakulehin’s health status, asserting that the prospective ruler is currently indisposed and unfit for the responsibilities of kingship. “What is in…
In the heart of Dodota, Ethiopia, a population of 96,000 faces a formidable battle against malaria with only two health centres. Yet, amidst these challenges, frontline health workers are stepping up, going door-to-door equipped with nothing but hand sanitizer and masks to combat both malaria and COVID-19. Their unwavering dedication mirrors that of health workers worldwide, who tirelessly endeavour to provide essential healthcare, even in the face of peril. Across the globe, health workers are the unsung heroes navigating treacherous terrains and dense urban landscapes alike to deliver life-saving medical assistance. From scaling rope bridges to immunising children in remote…
The Murtala Muhammed Airport Command (MMA), Lagos, under the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), announced a remarkable revenue achievement for the first quarter of 2024. According to the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Mohammed Yusuf, the command generated an impressive N45.23 billion from importers at the airport during this period. Comptroller Yusuf highlighted that this revenue figure marks a substantial increase of 111% compared to the same period in 2023, where the command generated N21.36 billion. The stark difference of N23.86 billion reflects the command’s commitment to revenue generation despite prevailing challenges. In addressing the challenges faced, Comptroller Yusuf acknowledged the global…
Sore and sandblasted but triumphant, runner Russ Cook reached the northernmost point of Africa on Sunday, almost a year after he set off from its southern tip on a quest to run the length of the continent. Dozens of supporters gathered on a rocky outcrop beside the Mediterranean in northern Tunisia, cheering on the British charity fundraiser, who has run more than 16,000 kilometers (10,000 miles) across 16 countries in 352 days. “I’m a little bit tired,” Cook said — likely an understatement. In the course of his journey the 27-year-old endurance athlete from Worthing in southern England crossed jungle and…
In a move emphasising transparency and commitment to robust trade agreements, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has disclosed summaries of proposed texts from the U.S. side in ongoing negotiations with Kenya. The released summaries cover crucial areas, including good regulatory practices, workers’ rights and protections, and a second tranche of agriculture-related matters. This disclosure aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration’s pledge to transparency in trade negotiations. The negotiations, which commenced on April 2 and will continue until April 12 in Washington, D.C., are pivotal in shaping the U.S.-Kenya Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership. The overarching objective of…
Exciting news for Nollywood fans! Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage is set to make her acting debut in the highly anticipated blockbuster film “Water and Garri,” scheduled for premiere on May 10th. Directed by Meji Alabi and produced by Jimi Adesanya, the film promises to captivate audiences with its star-studded cast, including Jemima Osunde, Mike Afolarin, and Andrew Bunting. Inspired by Tiwa Savage’s EP song of the same name released in 2021, “Water and Garri” delves into themes of love, identity, and self-discovery. The plot follows Aisha, an ambitious fashion designer, returning to her native Nigeria after a decade abroad, only…