Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has stated that caterers under the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP) who pre-financed food items in anticipation of the new school term will not be compensated for their losses.
Her clarification follows the government’s decision to terminate all existing contracts under the GSFP, which has left many caterers distressed, especially those who claim to have already purchased foodstuffs in readiness for the third term of the 2024/2025 academic year.
Speaking in an interview on Channel One TV on Thursday, May 8, Dr. Lartey sympathised with the caterers but maintained that the government would not reimburse them for food bought without official instruction to begin cooking.
“I sympathise with the situation. There’s no room for compensation, but for the period that they have cooked, they will be paid,” she said.
She added that the affected caterers were already aware of the difficulties facing the programme and should have exercised caution.
“Most of them were not cooking, and they are very much aware they were not cooking. Some too were cooking, but not consistently,” she noted, pointing to inconsistencies in service delivery during the just-ended school term.
A formal statement from GSFP National Coordinator Hajia Fati Forgor, issued on May 2, announced the termination of all contracts, directing that “no existing caterer on the programme should cook for the third term of the 2024/2025 academic year.”
The ministry has promised to settle all arrears for the second term and indicated that new recruitment guidelines will be introduced as part of a broader restructuring effort.
Meanwhile, President of the Concerned School Feeding Caterers Association, Gifty Asamoah, has voiced her disappointment over the abrupt cancellation, stating that members had already acquired large quantities of food.
“You have seen the foodstuffs we have purchased — fish, groundnuts, and others have been bought from Ejura. The foodstuffs were to be shared among us, but we had to stop the truck after receiving the new information. We have lost a lot of money,” she said.
While some caterers had earlier considered withdrawing their services due to the transition in government, they reversed the decision after receiving communication to continue operations for the rest of the academic year.
Dr. Lartey has urged calm and encouraged interested caterers to reapply when the new guidelines are made public. Adding that the termination is part of a broader restructuring exercise.
“The GSFP Secretariat, as part of its ongoing restructuring exercise, will soon announce the modalities for the recruitment of new caterers for the programme,” the statement added.
Illegal miners have taken over the Jimirah Forest in the Nkawie Forestry District of the Ashanti Region, with support from armed groups who are keeping forest officials away.
Since the start of the year, staff from the Forestry Commission have been unable to enter the area because of threats from these gunmen protecting the miners.
It wasn’t until the military stepped in that the officials were finally able to visit the forest and assess the destruction caused.
Failed Attempts and Escalation
According to the Nkawie District Manager of the Forestry Commission, Abraham Essel, efforts made in January to remove the illegal miners were thwarted by the presence of weapon-wielding guards.
“We tried to mobilise to come and flush them out, but we realised they were conducting the operations under the protection of thugs who were wielding offensive weapons, and we could not access this place,” he recounted.
Early Thursday morning, a group of soldiers was sent to carry out a special operation in the Jimirah Forest. But by the time they got there, the illegal miners had already escaped, taking much of their equipment with them. The machines left behind, including excavators, had been shut down.
Following tracks, the team discovered eight excavators hidden in the nearby Adobewora community.
The Acting Executive Director of the Forestry Commission, Lydia Opoku, and the Ashanti Regional Manager, Clement Omari, were both present and took part in the operation.
Environmental Devastation
Illegal mining has led to the destruction of vast portions of forest cover. Land has been haphazardly dug up, and vegetation stripped in the search for gold. Among the affected areas is a mature plantation owned by Tepa Sawmill, a private company. “They established the plantation so many years ago—a Cinderella Plantation—and the plantation is matured for harvesting,” said Mr Essel.
“The Forestry Commission Headquarters granted us authorisation to value the trees for the company to fell, but we couldn’t access the place because of the illegal miners.” Although a full assessment is yet to be completed, the Commission estimates the affected trees to be worth millions of cedis. Some trees had been harvested, but the majority were reportedly destroyed.
What’s even more worrying is the harm caused to the River Punpuni, which flows through the forest. The river used to be an important water source for farmers in the area, but illegal mining has polluted it with silt, making the water dirty and unsafe to use.
According to Mr Essel, “The whole ecosystem has lost its resilience and health. The activities of the illegal miners are greatly impacting the sustainable forest practices we do.”
Call for a Military Base in the Forest
The military has supported the Forestry Commission in prior operations, including one in February. In total, nine excavators have been confiscated during joint missions, though no arrests have yet been made.
Mr Essel is now calling for a permanent military presence in the area.
“It has gone beyond the Forestry Commission. It has become a security matter because, as a Forest officer, you come to the field, you don’t have a catapult to protect yourself, and these illegal miners are protected by heavily built and weapon-wielding thugs,” he lamented.
“Looking at the gravity of the situation, we will advise or suggest that we have some permanent military presence within this enclave so that at any point in time, there will be their presence on the ground,” he insisted.
Regional Manager Clement Omari, who was part of the forest visit, fully supported the call for a military base.
Appeal to Local Communities
The Commission has also called on local communities, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to support efforts in protecting the forest reserves.
“We are very surprised that this time round the communities don’t seem to support our cause because the excavators, when they move them, are parked in the communities. The excavators come into the communities at night, and the community members can help us,” Mr Essel said.
Acting Executive Director Lydia Opoku echoed the need for community cooperation, stressing that forest protection is a shared responsibility.
“Peace be with all of you!” – the first words of Pope Leo XIV. The Conclave has elected Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as the 267th Bishop of Rome. The new pope was announced to the waiting crowds by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti.
From the central loggia of Saint Peter’s Basilica, Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti pronounced the formula “Habemus Papam,” proclaiming to the city of Rome and to the whole world the news of the election of Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as Pope Leo XIV
Leo XIV – Second Pope from the Americas
The first Augustinian Pope, Robert Prevost – now Leo XIV – is the second Roman Pontiff from the Americas after Pope Francis. However, unlike Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the 69-year-old Robert Francis Prevost is from the northern part of the American continent, though he spent many years as a missionary in Peru before being elected head of the Augustinians for two consecutive terms.
First Augustinian Pope
The new Bishop of Rome was born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, to Louis Marius Prevost, of French and Italian descent, and Mildred Martínez, of Spanish descent. He has two brothers, Louis Martín and John Joseph.
He spent his childhood and adolescence with his family and studied first at the Minor Seminary of the Augustinian Fathers and then at Villanova University in Pennsylvania, where in 1977 he earned a Degree in Mathematics and also studied Philosophy.
On September 1 of the same year, he entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.) in Saint Louis, in the Province of Our Lady of Good Counsel of Chicago, and made his first profession on September 2, 1978. On August 29, 1981, he made his solemn vows.
He received his theological education at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. At the age of 27, he was sent by his superiors to Rome to study Canon Law at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum).
In Rome, he was ordained a priest on June 19, 1982, at the Augustinian College of Saint Monica by Monsignor Jean Jadot, then Pro-President of the Pontifical Council for Non-Christians, now the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue.
Prevost obtained his licentiate in 1984; and the following year, while preparing his doctoral thesis, was sent to the Augustinian mission in Chulucanas, Piura, Peru (1985–1986). In 1987, he defended his doctoral thesis on “The Role of the Local Prior in the Order of Saint Augustine” and was appointed vocation director and missions director of the Augustinian Province of “Mother of Good Counsel” in Olympia Fields, Illinois (USA).
Mission in Peru
The following year, he joined the mission in Trujillo, also in Peru, as director of the joint formation project for Augustinian candidates from the vicariates of Chulucanas, Iquitos, and Apurímac.
Over the course of eleven years, he served as prior of the community (1988–1992), formation director (1988–1998), and instructor for professed members (1992–1998), and in the Archdiocese of Trujillo as judicial vicar (1989–1998) and professor of Canon Law, Patristics, and Moral Theology at the Major Seminary “San Carlos y San Marcelo.” At the same time, he was also entrusted with the pastoral care of Our Lady Mother of the Church, later established as the parish of Saint Rita (1988–1999), in a poor suburb of the city, and was parish administrator of Our Lady of Monserrat from 1992 to 1999.
In 1999, he was elected Provincial Prior of the Augustinian Province of “Mother of Good Counsel” in Chicago, and two and a half years later, the Ordinary General Chapter of the Order of Saint Augustine, elected him as Prior General, confirming him in 2007 for a second term.
In October 2013, he returned to his Augustinian Province in Chicago, serving as director of formation at the Saint Augustine Convent, first councilor, and provincial vicar—roles he held until Pope Francis appointed him on November 3, 2014, as Apostolic Administrator of the Peruvian Diocese of Chiclayo, elevating him to the episcopal dignity as Titular Bishop of the Diocese Sufar.
He entered the Diocese on November 7, in the presence of Apostolic Nuncio James Patrick Green, who ordained him Bishop just over a month later, on December 12, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, in the Cathedral of Saint Mary.
His episcopal motto is “In Illo uno unum”—words pronounced by Saint Augustine in a sermon on Psalm 127 to explain that “although we Christians are many, in the one Christ we are one.”
Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, from 2015 to 2023
On September 26, 2015, he was appointed Bishop of Chiclayo by Pope Francis. In March 2018, he was elected second vice-president of the Peruvian Episcopal Conference, where he also served as a member of the Economic Council and as president of the Commission for Culture and Education.
In 2019, Pope Francis appointed him a member of the Congregation for the Clergy (July 13, 2019), and in 2020, a member of the Congregation for Bishops (November 21). Meanwhile, on April 15, 2020, he was also appointed Apostolic Administrator of the Peruvian Diocese of Callao.
Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops
On January 30, 2023, the Pope called him to Rome as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, promoting him to the rank of Archbishop.
Created Cardinal in 2024
Pope Francis created Prevost Cardinal in the Consistory of September 30 of that year and assigned him the Diaconate of Saint Monica. He officially took possession of his Titular church on January 28, 2024.
As head of the Dicastery, he participated in the Pope’s most recent Apostolic Journeys and in both the first and second sessions of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops on synodality, held in Rome from October 4 to 29, 2023, and from October 2 to 27, 2024, respectively.
Meanwhile, on October 4, 2023, Pope Francis appointed him as a member of the Dicasteries for Evangelization (Section for First Evangelization and New Particular Churches), for the Doctrine of the Faith, for the Eastern Churches, for the Clergy, for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, for Culture and Education, for Legislative Texts, and of the Pontifical Commission for the Vatican City State.
Finally, on February 6 of this year, the Argentine Pope promoted him to the Order of Bishops, granting him the title of the Suburbicarian Church of Albano.
During the most recent hospitalization of his predecessor at the “Gemelli” hospital Prevost presided over the Rosary for Pope Francis’s health in Saint Peter’s Square on March 3.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has reported a relatively significant decline in prank calls during the first quarter of 2025.
GNFS said between January and March this year, they recorded 131,862 prank calls—down from 192,545 during the same period in 2024, representing 31.52% decrease.
This was announced in a statement by the Head of Public Relations, DOII Desmond E. Ackah. He attributes this to increased public sensitization and ongoing public education campaigns.
“Prank calls seriously undermine emergency response by wasting critical resources and delaying real interventions. Such acts pose significant risks to lives and property and are punishable under Ghanaian law,” the statement noted.
The GNFS has been actively using TV, radio, social media, schools, and community outreach to teach people about the serious risks and consequences of making fake emergency calls.
Acting Chief Fire Officer, Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sapong, has praised the public for helping reduce prank calls by taking the Service’s message seriously. She urged Ghanaians to stay alert and keep supporting the Fire Service’s work.
The Ghana National Fire Service also assured the public of its commitment to faster and better emergency responses.
They reminded everyone to report real fire emergencies by calling the toll-free numbers 192 or 112, or using the hotlines 0302772446 and 0299340383 for quick help.
It would be recalled that in 2024, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) recorded a total of 800,000 prank calls, averaging about 2,000 prank calls per day. These false emergency calls significantly disrupted operations, wasting valuable resources and delaying responses to genuine emergencies.
According to GNFS, many of these prank calls come from urban areas where access to mobile phones is easy adding that these calls hike mostly during vacations linking it to young people who possibly do not know the weight of their actions.
Some calls also come from public phone booths and unregistered SIM cards, making them hard to trace. To tackle the issue, GNFS is partnering with telecom companies to block repeat offenders and use call-tracing technology.
The Ghana cedi has been ranked as the best-performing currency globally for the month of April 2025, appreciating nearly 16% against the US dollar, according to data from Bloomberg.
This impressive appreciation has played a significant role in easing inflationary pressures in the country, bringing Ghana’s inflation rate to its lowest level in eight months. The cedi is currently trading at GH₵13.4 to the dollar.
This comes after the Ghanaian cedi performed poorly against the US dollar, depreciating significantly and reaching its lowest point of the year at approximately GH₵16.71 per dollar in October 2024.
Government Statistician Alhassan Iddrisu announced on Wednesday that consumer inflation dropped to 21.2% in April, down from 22.4% in March. Monthly inflation also slowed to 0.8%, largely due to reduced import costs made possible by the cedi’s strength.
Food and non-food inflation also saw notable declines. Food inflation fell from 26.5% to 25%, while non-food inflation eased from 18.7% to 17.9%. Iddrisu credited the cedi’s appreciation for the drop, stating that the currency’s surge had helped curb the cost of imported goods.
Bloomberg’s analysis confirmed that since April began, the cedi has outperformed all other global currencies against the dollar, boosting consumer confidence and reducing inflationary pressures tied to import prices.
However, despite the positive outlook, financial analysts believe the Bank of Ghana (BoG) is unlikely to lower interest rates in the immediate term.
Dr. Agyapomaa Gyeke-Dako, an economist at the University of Ghana Business School, explained that the central bank had taken a tightening stance in its last policy move to absorb excess liquidity. As a result, any decision to cut rates will likely depend on continued improvements in inflation, especially in the face of rising utility costs.
In March, the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee raised the benchmark interest rate by 100 basis points to 28% in a surprise move aimed at curbing inflation. The central bank has since signaled a cautious approach, committing to monitor economic conditions before making further changes to its policy stance.
“It tightened at its last meeting to mop up any excess liquidity,” said Dr. Agyapomaa Gyeke-Dako, an economist and senior lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School. “So now the central bank action going forward may not readily reduce the monetary policy rate yet because there might still be some threats to inflation coming from the hikes in utility prices.”
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) had surprised markets in March with a 100 basis-point hike, raising the key rate to 28% as part of efforts to stabilise prices. The central bank has indicated it will continue to assess inflation trends before easing its stance.
“Easier monetary conditions could rekindle inflationary pressures,” warned Mark Bohlund, senior credit analyst at REDD Intelligence, cautioning that the Bank of Ghana may hold off on any near-term rate cuts.
On issues regarding the volatility of the cedi, the BoG Governor Johnson Asiamah has stated that there is cautious optimism for rate relief later in the year if disinflation continues.
“As the monetary authority sees the next readings of inflation and we see declines, the committee will reassess the scope for a gradual easing in the policy stance.”
In the wake of the cedi’s recent surge against the U.S. dollar, some critics have accused the government of propping up the local currency by offloading foreign reserves. However, the Bank of Ghana has strongly denied these claims, insisting that the currency’s gains are not the result of artificial intervention.
According to the central bank, the cedi’s improved performance is largely driven by a steady buildup of foreign reserves, which has been made possible through the implementation of sound economic policies and strategic initiatives aimed at boosting forex inflows. These efforts, officials say, are strengthening the currency on a more sustainable basis.
Despite this progress, inflation in Ghana remains above the Bank of Ghana’s target range of 6 to 10 per cent—a trend that has persisted since September 2021, when a debt crisis triggered a steep cedi depreciation and sharply increased the cost of imports. The Monetary Policy Committee expects inflation to ease to around 16 per cent by the end of 2025 and gradually return to the target band by mid-2026.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF), which is working closely with Ghana under a support programme, also expressed optimism.
“It makes us very confident that inflation is going to go down in the next few months toward the program objectives,” said Stéphane Roudet, IMF Mission Chief to Ghana, during a recent briefing in Washington.
FFormer Arsenal boss Arsène Wenger has criticised Polish referee Szymon Marciniak for awarding what he believes was an unfair penalty to Inter Milan during their dramatic second-leg Champions League clash against Barcelona.
The incident occurred when Inter striker Lautaro Martínez advanced into the box and was challenged by Barça defender Pau Cubarsí, who appeared to slide in and get the ball.
However, following a VAR review, Marciniak ruled the tackle a foul, concluding that Cubarsí made contact with Martínez’s foot before touching the ball.
The resulting penalty proved pivotal in Inter’s 4-3 victory.
Speaking on beIN SPORTS during the post-match analysis, Wenger expressed his frustration with the decision.
🚨🇫🇷 Arsene Wenger on Inter's penalty: "I'm highly AGAINST these kind of penalties. And I'm highly against using slow motion VAR." ❌🚫 pic.twitter.com/3f18Q7qUl4
He argued that Cubarsí clearly played the ball first and questioned the reliance on slow-motion replays to determine such calls, noting that they often distort the true nature of a challenge.
Wenger, now FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, also criticised Martínez’s role in the incident, suggesting the forward exaggerated the contact and that the challenge did not merit a penalty.
“I’m highly against this kind of penalty, and I’m against using slow motion on normal pace. He’s first on the ball. Why does he touch him? Look what he’s doing, Martinez leans into him [Cubarsi]. He looks for the penalty. He knows he won’t score now because he feels him there.
“And the referee in this situation shows that he hasn’t made the right decision. Look, he’s first on the ball, and that’s what counts for me. It doesn’t matter if there’s contact. It’s who plays the ball and who wins the ball first. I’m highly against this kind of penalty,” he said.
President Donald Trump’s Cabinet has issued a firm message to international visitors planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States: overstaying your visa will not be tolerated.
While emphasizing America’s enthusiasm for welcoming football fans from across the globe to enjoy its world-class stadiums and vibrant culture, officials underscored the importance of adhering strictly to visa regulations.
In a video shared on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), U.S. Vice President JD Vance warned that individuals who remain in the country beyond their permitted stay will be subject to enforcement actions by relevant authorities.
“I know we will have visitors from close to 100 countries. We want them to come, we want them to celebrate, we want them to watch the games. But when the time is up, they will have to go home — otherwise, they’ll have to talk to the Secretary,” the Vice President said.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation also emphasized the importance of respecting visa rules, while encouraging visitors to explore more of the country during their stay:
“We’re going to encourage everyone to go on a road trip to celebrate our great country. So if you’re coming to see some soccer, go on a road trip and see America. Don’t overstay your visa. Don’t stay too long. But when you come, actually see this great country that we’re going to celebrate over the course of the next year.”
A cautionary message has been issued, seemingly targeting certain Ghanaian football fans who have openly declared their plans to overstay their visit after attending the 2026 World Cup in the United States.
Set to be the most expansive edition yet, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada — a groundbreaking arrangement involving 16 cities across North America.
This will be the first time the tournament is spread across three countries, and only the second time it’s being co-hosted, following the 2002 edition in Japan and South Korea.
The upcoming World Cup will also make history by expanding to 48 participating nations, up from 32, making it the biggest tournament in the event’s history.
President John Mahama has revealed that several officials have been interrogated over their involvement in the controversial 2023 African Games.
Speaking during a national address on Wednesday night to mark his first 120 days in office and outline his social contract with citizens, Mahama said accountability measures are underway following widespread public concern.
The African Games, hosted in Accra in March 2024, came under heavy scrutiny amid reports of financial irregularities and suspected corruption.
Approximately $245 million is said to have been spent on organizing the event.
Further reports indicated that $15 million was used to cater for athletes and officials, while another $4.5 million went into setting up the games’ management system and producing accreditation tags.
“A cornerstone of our commitment to good governance and accountability is tackling corruption and eliminating waste,” President Mahama said.
“I promised to initiate inquiries and forensic audits into several critical matters of public interest.
“This war against corruption continues unabated. A number of officials have been invited and questioned concerning the 13th African Games.”
In early April, former Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif was questioned by the National Investigation Bureau, although it remains unclear whether the inquiry was directly linked to the spending on the African Games.
President John Mahama has officially inaugurated the newly reconstituted Governing Board of the National Peace Council (NPC).
The swearing-in ceremony took place on May 7 at the Jubilee House, where key religious figures, traditional leaders, and civil society representatives gathered.
The newly appointed board members are expected to lead the Council’s efforts in fostering peace, encouraging dialogue, and strengthening national unity.
Here is the list of members serving on the reconstituted National Peace Council:
A leaked memo authored by former National Signals Bureau (NSB) Director-General, Kwabena Adu-Boahene, has shed light on controversial expenditures within Ghana’s security and intelligence apparatus, raising serious concerns about state fund mismanagement and political manipulation.
The document, covering “Special Operations” from 2020 to 2024, outlines questionable financial activities—most notably, an alleged GH₵8.3 million spent on “communications equipment” for an opposition political party and nearly GH₵1 million reportedly disbursed to Members of Parliament as incentives to pass critical security legislation.
This revelation comes as Mr. Adu-Boahene remains in EOCO custody, following his remand by an Accra High Court last week to allow the Attorney-General’s office to finalize witness statements. He and his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, now face criminal charges amounting to GH₵49 million.
Alongside two co-accused, Mildred Donkor and Advantage Solutions Limited, the couple has been charged with 11 offences, including stealing, defrauding by false pretence, money laundering, and intentionally causing financial loss to the state.
The leaked memo, accessed by Myjoyonline.com, is fueling public outcry and prompting demands for deeper investigation into the alleged diversion of public funds and its possible impact on Ghana’s democratic processes.
The leaked memo shows GH₵8.3 million was disbursed in September 2024 to provide an unnamed opposition party with communications equipment for election collation, justified as ensuring “Stability of Nation/National Cohesion/Political Impartiality.”
The confidential letter also detailed several high-value disbursements allegedly made under the guise of national security, including nearly GH₵1 million in “allowances” to parliamentary committees involved in passing key legislation.
According to the document, GH₵960,000 was allocated to the Defence and Interior Committee in 2020/2021 during the enactment of the National Signals Bureau Act, while GH₵309,000 was paid to the Subsidiary Legislation Committee in 2024.
Expenditures linked to electoral activities exceeded GH₵14 million, with GH₵7.2 million reportedly spent on operations tied to the December 2020 general elections and GH₵6.7 million earmarked for the December 2024 polls.
The memo further revealed that GH₵5.1 million was used to procure high-end vehicles—including 2024 Nissan Patrols and a Land Cruiser—for a “Special Aide to the President-Elect” shortly after the 2024 election.
Substantial sums also went toward security operations: GH₵9.5 million was directed at cyber surveillance systems under code names such as Taurus, Scorpion, and Essien, while GH₵6.9 million funded counter-terrorism efforts under “Operation Conquered Fist” between 2020 and 2024.
Despite his continued detention by EOCO, Mr. Adu-Boahene insists these expenditures were legitimate and necessary for national security purposes.
His memo challenges the Attorney-General’s prosecution, stating: “How does one steal public funds without the Auditor-General flagging it?”
The former head of the now-defunct National Security Bureau (NSB),Kwabena Adu-Boahene, has defended the use of GH¢5.1 million currently under investigation, stating that the funds were used to purchase vehicles for then President-elect John Dramani Mahama.
In a statement written from EOCO custody, where he remains on remand, Adu-Boahene outlined what he called a summary of expenditures under “Special Operations” during the critical post-election transition period.
The former intelligence chief, who faces multiple charges from the Attorney-General—including stealing and wilfully causing financial loss to the state—has strongly denied any wrongdoing and insists the expenditures were legitimate.
He insisted that every disbursement made under his leadership at the NSB was authorised, and directly related to national security operations. “I am not a thief,” he wrote.
“All funds were expended in good faith and in service to the Republic.”
In his letter, Adu-Boahene stated that the vehicles in question were essential for the logistical needs of the incoming President and his team, and that procurement was carried out under urgent and classified directives.
Ghana Water Limited (GWL) in the Ashanti South Region, in collaboration with the Kumasi Central Police Service, has arrested five individuals for their alleged involvement in illegal water connections.
The arrests took place on Wednesday across multiple areas in Kumasi, including Danyame, Dakodwom, Kwadaso Estate, and Santasi Apire.
According to officials, the suspects were picked up after failing to settle surcharges totaling Gh₵31,803.97 issued over their illegal connections.
Out of the five, three have since made payments amounting to Gh₵11,515.00, while the remaining two are still in police custody and face further action if they do not comply with payment conditions.
GWL has raised alarm over the growing trend of illegal water tapping in the Ashanti Region, identifying it as a major contributor to Non-Revenue Water (NRW)—water that is produced but not accounted for due to theft, leaks, or other unauthorized use.
Acting Regional Chief Manager, Madam Innocentia Kuupiel, praised the support of law enforcement in carrying out the arrests and emphasized the need for continued partnership to deter such acts.
“Management’s dedication to fostering relationships with the police and the media will help to eradicate this menace,” she said.
She further encouraged people to join the water company to eradicate illegal water connections as they vow to provide good service.
“Ghana Water Limited is committed to meeting the demands of its customers and entreats that all and sundry should join the fight against Illegal Water Connections, as such acts deny the company the resources to enhance operations,” she added.
The utility company reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with law enforcement to root out illegal water connections and secure water supply systems across the Ashanti Region.
Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has assured the public that President Mahama did not violate any laws by accepting and donating two electric vehicles, stressing that the process was entirely above board.
The Minister emphasized that although accepting gifts is not illegal, Ghanaian law requires that any gift exceeding a certain value must be officially declared and surrendered to the state.
“If a gift exceeds GH₵20,000, it must be declared and handed over to the state. That is precisely what President Mahama did, so he has not committed any offence,” Mr Kwakye Ofosu emphasised.
His remarks come in the wake of the President’s launch of a new Code of Conduct for appointees, during which he disclosed receiving two electric vehicles as gifts—both of which he subsequently handed over to the state.
In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen on Wednesday, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu explained that the vehicles were presented by a Ghanaian company and a Chinese firm operating locally.
He emphasized that the gesture formed part of a broader effort to support Ghana’s transition to green energy and environmentally friendly transportation.
“There is no law that prohibits the acceptance of gifts,” he asserted. “Some companies provide their products to prominent individuals in the hope that, by using them, these individuals will increase public awareness of the products and potentially encourage others to patronise them.”
The Minister explained that it is common practice for individuals in high-profile positions to receive promotional items from businesses seeking visibility.
“On a daily basis, people bring such items with the intention of gaining support for promotion,” he said.
According to Mr Kwakye Ofosu, the electric cars were given to President John Mahama in line with this principle.
The gesture, he said, aligns with the government’s broader environmental agenda and the President’s influential role in shaping public perception.
“The cars in question are electric vehicles… and the companies gifted the cars to the President in line with the broader goal of transitioning to green energy,” he said.
He further explained that the President’s use of the cars could encourage the public to patronise them.
“His use of the vehicles could help encourage the public to adopt them,” he noted.
He further noted that such a requirement is not exclusive to Ghana, as similar provisions exist in the legal systems of many developed democracies—the only difference being the varying financial thresholds set by each country.
Retired Supreme Court Justice William Atuguba has launched a scathing critique of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), accusing them of using the judiciary as a political shield rather than standing up for justice in the case involving suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
Speaking exclusively to JoyNews’ Elton Brobbey on The Pulse, Justice Atuguba dismissed the party’s recent objections to the judicial process for the possible removal of the suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkonoo, as nothing more than strategic self-preservation.
“You have been overthrown through the ballot. Now your final defence is the Chief Justice? You say, ‘If she falls, we all fall.’ That’s what they are fighting for. It’s not about justice—it’s about survival,” Atuguba declared.
His remarks come on the heels of a protest organised by the NPP on Monday, where the party publicly opposed efforts to remove Chief Justice Torkornoo. Former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame had also argued it was procedurally wrong for an acting Chief Justice to empanel and preside over a case involving the sitting CJ.
But Atuguba was unimpressed. “When they [the NPP] were in office, how did they perform? Transparently? Neutrally? In the interest of the people? This is the kind of thing I just hate—pure hypocrisy,” he said.
The retired judge didn’t stop there. He pointed to former National Security Minister Albert Kan-Dapaah’s admission that judicial decisions are sometimes shaped to avoid national instability. “Yes, that’s an honest man,” Atuguba said. “But if the courts were truly implementing the law, what would make him apprehensive? Public perception? The trend? Repeated unanimous decisions in favour of a particular party?”
Citing a recent 3–2 decision that broke a pattern of unanimous rulings favouring the NPP, Atuguba raised deeper concerns about the judiciary’s independence under the current regime. “Before that, it was unanimous after unanimous—always in their favour. Is that justice? That’s the democracy they want to entrench?” he asked pointedly.
Atuguba’s comments cut to the heart of a growing national debate—not just about the fate of a Chief Justice, but about the integrity of the justice system itself.
Nigerian music icon Davido had fans in stitches on social media during the thrilling Champions League semi-final clash between Inter and Barcelona on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, as he shared a comical tale of his most painful football heartbreak—courtesy of none other than Harry Maguire.
As the tension in the game soared, Davido tweeted, “Football ehn fit give person BP … I remember when CR7 personally invite me come watch match for Old Trafford then couple years ago … He don book dinner ALL! Party chillin etc …. Nah so dem go lose match .. BABA VEX GO HOUSE .. since that day I still never forgive Maguire.”
Football ehn fit give person BP … I remember when CR7 personally invite me come watch match for Old trafford then couple years ago … He don book dinner ALL! Party chillin etc …. Nah so dem go lose match .. BABA VEX GO HOUSE .. since that day I still never forgive Maguire 😂😂
Afrobeats sensation Davido recounted a humorous yet disappointing experience after being personally invited by Cristiano Ronaldo to watch a Manchester United game at Old Trafford.
The evening was meant to be a memorable one, with plans for a celebratory night out, including dinner and partying after the match.
However, things quickly took a turn when United lost the game—putting a damper on the festive mood. Ronaldo, visibly upset, left immediately after the match without saying much, abruptly ending all post-game plans.
Davido, poking fun at the situation, said he’s still not over it—not because of Ronaldo, but because of Harry Maguire, whom he jokingly blames for ruining the night.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick and his players were left frustrated and confused by several officiating decisions during their narrow Champions League semi-final defeat to Inter Milan.
The Spanish giants crashed out of the competition after a dramatic 4-3 loss in the second leg at San Siro, with the Italian side advancing 7-6 on aggregate to reach their second final in three years.
In the aftermath, both Flick and his squad voiced strong dissatisfaction with Polish referee Szymon Marciniak, accusing him of making multiple questionable calls that influenced the outcome of the game.
Midfielder Pedri, a standout performer this season, went as far as to call on UEFA to investigate Marciniak’s officiating, reflecting the depth of discontent within the Barcelona camp.
The match was filled with controversy, particularly around two key VAR interventions. In the first half, Barcelona’s Pau Cubarsi was initially believed to have cleanly dispossessed Lautaro Martinez in the box, but VAR overturned the call and awarded Inter a penalty, which Hakan Calhanoglu converted.
Later in the second half, Barcelona were awarded a penalty after Henrikh Mkhitaryan appeared to foul Lamine Yamal.
However, after another VAR review, the decision was reversed, with officials determining that the foul occurred just outside the penalty area—despite claims that the contact may have continued into the box.
The contentious decisions added to the heartbreak for Flick’s side, who now turn their focus to domestic competition after narrowly missing out on a place in the final.
Flick raised questions over the officiating, claiming that most of the 50-50 calls went against his side. “I know that everyone’s disappointed now that we’re out, but it’s because we invested a lot in this match,” the German head coach told reporters after the game.
“We came back again (into the game), and I think some decisions, like the 50/50, were always for Inter, but it’s like that, we have to accept it. It’s football.
“I’m proud of my team, we gave everything, and sometimes you feel like it’s unfair because some decisions the referee made were not for our side, but it’s like that. We have to accept it, and we’ll start again next season.
Winning the Champions League is one of our goals, because the fans deserve it. We’ll be back next season in the Champions League.”
In contrast, Inter boss Simone Inzaghi heaped praise on Marciniak. “That’s Barca’s opinion, he’s one of the best referees in Europe and he had a great match,” the Italian told Movistar’s Ricardo Sierra (h/t AS).
Declan Rice has showered praise on Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey, insisting that the Black Stars deputy captain is vastly underrated.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s high-stakes UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain, Rice highlighted Partey’s importance to the team.
Arsenal head into the match in France trailing 1-0 on aggregate, having missed Partey’s presence in the first leg due to suspension.
The Gunners struggled early in that match, with PSG taking control and scoring the decisive goal in the fourth minute through Ousmane Dembele.
Reflecting on the upcoming clash set for Wednesday, May 7, Rice expressed his admiration for Partey, noting that the former Atletico Madrid star brings immense quality and composure to the midfield.
“The best thing about playing with Thomas [Partey] is the calmness he brings to play with the team. Before I came to Arsenal there was so much talk about how good he is.
He doesn’t always get the recognition he deserves. I am quite lucky Thomas is there and he lets me roam up and down.”
Partey is in the final months of his contract with Arsenal and negotiations between his camp and the Gunners on a new deal have been reported.
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has vowed that his side will return stronger next season following their heartbreaking Champions League elimination at the hands of Inter Milan.
Despite the narrow 7-6 aggregate loss in a thrilling semi-final encounter, Flick praised his players for their determination and resilience.
The defeat brought an end to Barcelona’s dream of securing a quadruple in Flick’s debut campaign, but the German tactician remains optimistic about the future.
“We will be back next season,” Flick said, reflecting on the defeat. “I’m proud of my team, I’m proud of your team, we gave everything, and sometimes it’s like that. We have to accept it, and we start again next season. To win the Champions League, this is one of our goals…”
Hansi Flick’s remarkable success at Bayern Munich—where he led the club to a historic sextuple—is expected to shape his strategy as he looks to rebuild and strengthen Barcelona next season.
With their Champions League journey over, the Catalan side now turns its attention to La Liga, where they currently hold a four-point advantage over arch-rivals Real Madrid.
The two sides are set to clash this Sunday at the Munjua Stadium, with Barcelona aiming to widen the gap at the top to seven points.
“And of course, La Liga, it will be also a tough match on Sunday but we also give everything,” Flick added. “When they (the players) look in the mirror when they arrive at home at three or four o’clock in the night, or in the morning, I think they can be very proud.”
In his debut season, Hansi Flick has already guided Barcelona to triumph in both the Spanish Super Cup and the Copa del Rey, defeating Real Madrid in the finals of both competitions.
With only four matches remaining in the season, the reigning La Liga champions are now eyeing a domestic treble—hoping to outclass their fierce rivals once more to cap off a successful campaign.
Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare received a brand-new car on Wednesday from prominent businessman Alhaji Seidu Adongo, CEO of Class Media Group.
The donation was made during a brief ceremony held at the club’s commercial centre in Accra.
This generous gesture follows the circulation of a viral video in March, which showed Asare travelling in the front seat of an ‘ovam’ commercial vehicle shortly after making his debut for the Black Stars.
The footage sparked widespread criticism online, with many questioning the treatment and welfare of national team players.
“I thank all the supporters of Hearts of Oak and everyone. It is incredible for a lovely gesture to be extended to someone like me,” he said.
“I thank the whole nation and the president for this opportunity. I also thank my coach Ouattara and everyone who has helped me. I thank Ghanaians as well. God willing, we will be at the World Cup,” he added. Asare Hearts been in imperious form for Hearts of Oak this season, keeping 15 clean sheets in 24 games.
“I’ll tell Asare to utilise the car well. He should bare in mind it was as a result of his abilities on the pitch that earned him this prize. I’ll urge him to perform at the highest level because Ghana is one of the most powerful football nations in the world,” Hearts of Oak coach Aboubakar Ouattara said.
Hearts of Oak are trailing league leaders GoldStars 10 points with four games to end the season.
Shock and grief have gripped the Democratic Republic of Congo after the horrific death of football referee Patrick Ngalamulume, who was brutally killed by a mob in the eastern city of Bukavu.
The 36-year-old, widely known by his nickname “Ngalas,” was attacked in the Irambo neighbourhood overnight between May 5 and 6, 2025.
He was accused by locals of theft—a charge that remains unproven—and was violently beaten before being set on fire by a furious crowd.
Witnesses say the gruesome incident played out in public view, with no response from police or emergency services as the situation escalated.
The killing has sparked outrage and mourning across the country, particularly within the sporting community.
“It was horrifying. No one could stop it. The anger was uncontrollable,” said one local who witnessed the lynching but asked to remain anonymous for fear of reprisal.
Patrick Ngalamulume, a respected member of the Bukavu Urban Football Association (EUFBUK), had a clean record and was widely regarded for his integrity and dedication to refereeing.
His tragic death has deeply shaken the local football fraternity and sparked widespread mourning across civil society.
“We have lost not just a referee, but a man who believed in fair play and justice,” said a senior official with EUFBUK. “To think he was denied the very justice he upheld is heartbreaking.”
In a strongly worded statement, the Football Association condemned the killing:
“We are deeply saddened by the senseless and barbaric murder of Patrick Ngalamulume. We call on the authorities to arrest all those involved and restore trust in the rule of law.”
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) also joined in expressing solidarity, adding:
“Football must remain a sport that unites, not one that becomes entangled in the breakdown of law and order.”
The lynching underscores the deteriorating security in parts of eastern Congo, where armed rebel groups like M23 have weakened state control, and vigilante justice has become common.
“The government must act. This level of barbarity cannot become a norm,” said a Bukavu local official. “People are losing faith in the justice system, and we’re seeing the dangerous consequences of that.”
In recent months, Bukavu and neighbouring Goma have seen a rise in similar acts of mob justice, a symptom of the growing void left by an overwhelmed and under-resourced justice system.
Civil society groups, sports authorities, and local leaders have called for an independent investigation into the killing, the arrest of those responsible, and urgent action to prevent further breakdowns in law enforcement.
Patrick Ngalamulume’s tragic death serves as a grim reminder of what happens when fear replaces justice. His memory now stands as both a loss and a call—for accountability, reform, and the protection of all citizens under the law.
Cristiano’s Ronaldo’s eldest son has been called up to the Portugal Under-15s squad for the first time.
The 14-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo Jr is at Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia with his father, who signed for the Pro League club in December 2022.
Portugal great Ronaldo, 40, posted a picture on social media of his son’s name on the national team squad list along with the message, “Proud of you, son”.
Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. has earned a call-up to represent Portugal in an upcoming youth tournament in Croatia, scheduled to take place from May 13 to 18.
During the competition, Portugal will face off against Japan, Greece, and England.
Meanwhile, his father, Cristiano Ronaldo Sr., remains an active player for Portugal and holds the all-time men’s international scoring record with 136 goals.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner famously led Portugal to their first major trophy at Euro 2016, though an early injury in the final forced him to watch most of the match from the sidelines.
He later captained the team to another triumph in the 2019 UEFA Nations League.
Most recently, in March, the 40-year-old forward found the net but also missed a penalty in Portugal’s dramatic victory over Denmark, a win that secured their place in the Nations League semi-finals.
Ronaldo Sr., a former Manchester United star, is also a father to four other children: seven-year-old twins Eva and Mateo, Alana Martina, also 7, and Bella, who is 3.
Ronaldo Jr’s career so far Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.’s budding football journey has closely followed his father’s illustrious career, with the young forward developing his skills in the youth academies of some of the world’s biggest clubs — including Real Madrid, Juventus, Manchester United, and currently Al-Nassr.
During his stint with Juventus’ youth setup, reports suggest he once netted an impressive 58 goals in a single season. While at Manchester United, he shared the pitch with Kai Rooney, son of former England captain Wayne Rooney, as their fathers reunited at Old Trafford for a second spell.
Ronaldo Jr. has also gained online attention for mimicking his father’s trademark ‘Siu’ celebration while playing for Al-Nassr’s youth team, with several clips of his performances going viral.
Though he has been named in Portugal’s U15 squad for an upcoming tournament, Ronaldo Jr. remains eligible to represent other nations, including the United States, where he was born, and Spain, where he lived during his father’s time at Real Madrid.
Inter Miami have stepped aside in the race to sign Kevin De Bruyne, clearing the way for Chicago Fire to lead the pursuit of the departing Manchester City midfielder should he opt for a move to Major League Soccer.
Miami had previously held exclusive negotiation rights with the 33-year-old through MLS’s ‘discovery list’ system, but sources have confirmed to BBC Sport that the club has chosen not to initiate talks before the mid-July deadline.
As a result, a potential reunion with Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets in Florida is now off the table.
With Miami out of the picture, Chicago Fire now hold the priority to negotiate with De Bruyne, who announced in April that he would be leaving City at the end of the season when his contract expires.
Reports suggest his representatives are preparing to meet with the MLS club, who currently sit 11th in the Eastern Conference standings.
The Belgian midfielder, who expressed surprise at not receiving a contract extension from City, departs after a decorated spell at the Etihad.
His time in Manchester has seen him collect 16 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and a Champions League crown in 2023.
Iñaki Williams has been ruled out of Athletic Club’s Europa League semi-final second leg against Manchester United on Thursday.
The Spanish side confirmed on Wednesday that the Ghanaian forward will miss the crucial tie after picking up a muscle injury.
“Player Iñaki Williams has not been called up for the Europa League semi-final second leg match due to a muscle injury in the common tendon of the right hamstring,” the club said, adding, “His recovery will be monitored.”
Athletic Club’s 30-year-old forward was taken off after 62 minutes during Sunday’s league clash with Real Sociedad.
He shares the top scorer spot for the club in this season’s Europa League with five goals, tied with his younger brother, Nico Williams — who is also absent from the squad for the upcoming match.
With Manchester United carrying a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg in Spain, Athletic face a steep uphill battle in Thursday’s return fixture at Old Trafford.
Showbiz promoter Sam Larry has finally broken his silence on the ongoing controversy surrounding the death of rising Afrobeats star Mohbad.
Speaking via video at the coroner’s inquest, Sam Larry firmly denied ever assaulting Mohbad.
He explained that their relationship was purely professional and had nothing to do with the unfortunate incident.
“I never harassed or beat Mohbad. The only connection I had with him was giving him shows,” he said.
Sam Larry shared more details during his appearance at the coroner’s inquest into Mohbad’s death.
He revealed that their disagreement began after he paid Mohbad ₦2 million to perform at his birthday party in Dubai—a celebration that reportedly cost over ₦20 million to organize.
According to him, Mohbad failed to show up at the last minute, which caused tensions between them.
“I messaged him on Instagram to refund the money, but he ignored me. I even involved my lawyer… still nothing,” Larry said.
He also addressed the widely circulated Elegushi Beach video, stating that he only confronted Mohbad verbally and that the issue was quickly settled, thanks to fellow musician Zlatan.
“Afterwards, we all sat down to eat. There was no fight,” he claimed.
Larry confirmed that Mohbad had filed a petition against him, accusing him of showing up at the beach with thugs and weapons. However, he claimed Mohbad never honored any police invitations to follow up on the allegations.
Regarding a viral video in which he was heard saying, “Won ti gbe sin” (They’ve buried him), Sam Larry explained that the clip was from 2013, unrelated to Mohbad, and had been taken out of context.
He concluded his testimony by calling on the court to investigate the people who were with Mohbad in his final hours. “They know what really happened to him,” he said.
Emmanuel Kofi Tetteh George, brother of Ghana’s Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Hon. Sam George, got married in a colourful traditional ceremony on April 10, 2025.
The celebration continued with a lively wedding reception on April 12, which quickly went viral on social media due to exciting videos from the event.
Photos from the ceremony show Emmanuel and his bride, Ruth Ewoenam, dressed in elegant kente and agbada outfits, highlighting the rich Ghanaian culture on display.
In pictures trending on social media, renowned Ghanaian photographer Manuel Photography captured the memorable moments at Emmanuel’s wedding.
Their traditional was filled with a rich display of the Ghanaian culture as wedding guests dazzled in their African print attires, kente and beaded jewellery.
For their traditional Ghananian wedding, he and his newly wedded wife, Ewoenam Ruth, looked regal in kente fabric.
Ewoenam dazzled in an orange kente corseted gown styled with beads. Her makeup was beautiful, and she went for a sleek ponytail with tucked-in wavy puffs as the hairstyle for her introduction ceremony.
Emmanuel looked dapper in his three-piece agbada outfit, which had a touch of kente fabric that his wife, Ewoenam, used in sewing her corseted kente gown.
Congratulatory messages poured in for Emmanuel George, the brother of the Ningo Prampram MP, Honourable Sam George, and his ever-gorgeous wife, Ewoenam Ruth.
Many people in the comment section highlighted how beautiful Emmanuel’s wife looked for her traditional Ghanaian wedding ceremony.
Emmanuel took to the comment section of the Instagram post by Manuel Photography about his gorgeous wife with his official handle, @mr_georgee, and spoke about how beautiful his wife looked.
DJ Cuppy, a well-known Nigerian disc jockey and daughter of billionaire Femi Otedola, has shared how meeting Jesus Christ changed the course of her career—in a positive way.
She gave her life to Christ in August 2024 at Holy Trinity Brompton church in London.
Looking back on her spiritual journey in a post on X, Cuppy reflected on how her relationship with God has led to a major shift in her life’s path.
“Was thinking this evening. Jesus really disrupted my DJ career plans o. But in the BEST way. ‘Booked and busy’ means nothing if you’re not walking in purpose.”
Now 31 years old, she has spent the past ten years establishing herself in both the Nigerian and global music scenes.
DJ Cuppy, born Florence Ifeoluwa Otedola on November 11, 1992, in Lagos, Nigeria, is a renowned Nigerian disc jockey, music producer, and philanthropist. She is the daughter of Nigerian billionaire businessman Femi Otedola. At the age of 13, she moved to London for her education.
Cuppy holds a BSc in Economics from King’s College London and a Master’s degree from New York University. She also pursued further studies at the University of Oxford.
Cuppy began her DJ career in her teens, performing at various events and clubs in London. She has since performed at major events worldwide, including the Wireless Festival and the Cannes Film Festival.
Beyond music, she is known for her philanthropic efforts, notably launching the Cuppy Africa Steinhardt Scholars Fund at NYU to support African graduate students facing financial hardships.
Ghanaian rapper Darlington Agyekum, widely known as D-Cryme, has been elected as the Student Representative Council (SRC) President of Methodist University Ghana for the 2025/2026 academic year.
He announced the news on Saturday, April 12, 2025, through a post on X, where he shared a celebratory artwork to mark the occasion.
“Congrats! Darlington Agyekum (Dr Cryme) SRC President Elect.”
D-Cryme, best known for hit tracks like “Kill Me Shy” and “Fine Fine Girl,” had earlier announced his intention to run for SRC President, promising to help build a more engaging and supportive student community at Methodist University.
Following his win, many fans and supporters took to social media to congratulate him.
His victory adds to a growing list of Ghanaian musicians stepping into student leadership.
In 2022, reggae star Samini becameSRC President at GIMPA, and rapper Guru currently holds the same position at the University of Ghana.
Ghanaian rapper Freda Rhymzsays she’s ready to make a strong comeback and reclaim her spot among the country’s top music talents.
Speaking in an interview on Okay FM, she admitted that stepping away from the spotlight affected her career.
She explained that her break was mostly due to issues surrounding her departure from a record label.
“I didn’t have much of a choice. I needed time off to fix things and find my rhythm again. The process was long, I had to wait, resolve everything, and come back stronger,” she shared.
Freda Rhymz made a short-lived return in 2022 with her song Don’t Kiss Me, which brought her some attention.
Around the same time, she stirred controversy with a heated beef with Sista Afia, briefly making headlines.
But as the buzz faded, so did her visibility in the music scene, leaving fans curious about her absence.
Now, Freda is back with fresh determination, ready to revive her career and make a strong impact in the industry once again.
Ghanaian musician Black Sherif has said that winning a Grammy or the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) Artiste of the Year title does not compare to the personal satisfaction he gets from his latest album, Iron Boy.
In an interview with Graphic Showbiz, the 23-year-old explained that although he appreciates recognition for his work, true success for him is defined by the emotional connection people have with his music.
“This is the biggest project of my career so far. It’s my life, my emotions and my truth. It tells my story from the moment I stepped into the music industry to where I am now.
My struggles, my victories, my doubts and my faith in my journey are all in here,” he said.
Released on April 3, 2025, Iron Boy is a 15-track album that Black Sherif calls his most personal project so far.
More than just a set of songs, the album tells a raw and honest story of his journey—highlighting his growth, struggles, and achievements.
“I also feel with the kind of validation I need in my life right now, Iron Boy will do the job better than even a Grammy or TGMA AOTY. That is not to say I don’t value awards but it is just how I feel at the moment,” he said.
The 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards(TGMA)has stirred a lot of excitement, with fans and artiste teams actively debating who will take home top honours.
Since public support plays a big role in who wins, many artistes have stepped up their promotional efforts. Some have even hired professional PR experts to help improve their chances ahead of the awards night on May 10, 2025.
On April 9, 2025, popular Ghanaian media personality Tilly Akua Nipaa was named the head of PR for King Promise, a global music star who has received 10 nominations this year.
Tilly’s role is to lead the campaign highlighting King Promise’s success in 2024, with the main focus on helping him win the prestigious Artiste of the Year award—an award he missed out on last year.
King Promise dominated the music scene in 2024 with hits like Paris, Continental, Favorite Story, and Too Sexy. His nominations span several key categories at this year’s TGMA.
Artiste of the Year
Best Afrobeats Artiste
Most Popular Song of the Year – Paris
International Collaboration of the Year – Continental ft Shallipopi
Collaboration of the Year – Favorite Story
Best Music Video – Continental
Best Music Video – Keep It Sexy
Best Afrobeats Song – Favorite Story
Best Afropop Song – Paris
Album of the Year – True to Self
About Tilly Akua Nipaa
Matilda Mensah Marfo, popularly known as Tilly Akua Nipaa, is a well-known Ghanaian media personality with a strong background in the entertainment industry.
She holds a degree in Psychology, English, and Theatre Arts from the University of Ghana and has built a solid reputation through her work on major platforms like Peace FM’s Entertainment Review, TV3’s The Trendz, and Hitz FM’s Showbiz Review Xtra.
Tilly is also recognised as a leading figure in digital media, thanks to her popular podcast, T Means Talkative, and her strong online presence.
With Tilly leading his PR efforts, King Promise is aiming to make a powerful impact at this year’s Telecel Ghana Music Awards.
Nigerian authorities have banned the broadcast of the song Tell Your Papa by musician Eedris Abdulkareem, which openly criticises President Bola Tinubu.
In the song, Abdulkareem calls on the president’s son, Seyi Tinubu, to inform his father that many Nigerians are suffering due to rising hardship, insecurity, and hunger.
The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), which regulates TV and radio stations in the country, issued a directive to all broadcasters, stating that the song should not be aired. According to the commission, the track goes against the national broadcast code.
The NBC said it considered Tell Your Papa’s content to be “inappropriate” and “objectionable” adding that it falls short of public decency standards.
The song, released earlier in the week, has quickly gained traction on Nigerian social media, sparking widespread debate about the country’s economic struggles and security challenges.
Since taking office in May 2023, President Bola Tinubu has implemented several economic reforms that have significantly increased the cost of living. One major move was removing the fuel subsidy, which had kept petrol prices low for years.
Tinubu argued that the government could no longer afford the subsidy. As a result, fuel prices surged, causing ripple effects across the economy.
Throughout most of last year, inflation stayed above 30%, and prices for many essential food items rose even higher. This has forced many Nigerians to reduce the number of meals they eat each day and cut down on food consumption.
Security concerns remain high as well. Kidnappings for ransom are still common, and there are growing fears that the Islamist militant group Boko Haram could regain strength in the north-east.
On the track, in a mix of English, Yoruba and Pidgin, Abdulkareem tells Tinubu’s son that his father “is not trying” and that he has made “too many empty promises”.
When it comes to insecurity, the artist urges Seyi to travel by road, instead of private jet, to experience the dangers faced by ordinary Nigerians.
Tinubu’s government has in the past defended its economic policies saying that the president was aiming to put the country on a stable footing in the long term.
In order to deal with the short-term pain, the authorities have an on-going cash transfer scheme to help 15 million poorer Nigerian households.
Regarding security, officials say the situation has improved over the past 18 months.
As the country’s broadcast regulator, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the power to penalise media outlets that disobey its directives. In the past, it has issued fines and suspended licences for similar breaches.
Eedris Abdulkareem is no stranger to controversy. Back in 2003, he released his biggest hit, Nigeria Jaga Jaga, which means “Nigeria is messed up.” That song angered then-President Olusegun Obasanjo, who publicly criticised the musician.
Though it was banned from the airwaves, the song became widely popular and turned into a street anthem.
Popular Ghanaian musician Shatta Wale stirred excitement in Accra when he cruised through the city in a lengthy convoy, accompanied by Nigerian content creator Peller.
Armed security guards stood on the sides of the moving vehicles to manage the large crowds and keep enthusiastic fans at a distance.
The convoy passed through various parts of the city, attracting huge crowds along the way. At one point, Shatta Wale stood through the sunroof of an SUV, smiling and waving at fans.
In a dramatic gesture, he threw cedi notes into the crowd, causing people to rush forward in a frenzy, eager to grab the money. The scene created a brief commotion on the streets.
This isn’t new for Shatta Wale, who has a reputation for giving out cash during his public appearances. He has previously said that it’s his way of showing gratitude to the fans who always support him.
According to him, he feels compelled to give back when people show him love.
Peller, the Nigerian streamer who is currently in Ghana, joined in the excitement. He was seen enjoying the moment and also threw cedi notes into the crowd.
His visit comes after an invitation from Shatta Wale, who recently revealed plans to host him in Ghana. Since then, the two have been seen together in several videos, laughing and enjoying each other’s company.
Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel has opened up about how he met his current girlfriend, Sidem Öztürk, while in prison.
Speaking during an interview on Hot 97 on April 10, 2025, Kartel said he first noticed Sidem’s Instagram profile while browsing through the comments on one of his posts.
He added that he was going through relationship problems with his baby mama at the time.
“Yeah, I met her on July 25, 2015, and I’ll never forget it. In prison, I was very active on Instagram because, you know, you have time. I was going through my comment section and saw this girl who always liked my pictures, so out of curiosity, I went onto her page… At that time, I was also going through a lot with my baby mama,” he shared.
Vybz Kartel further explained that Sidem told him she had been trying to find him for some time. However, because of the many fake accounts in his name, she ended up discovering his real profile through his baby mama’s page.
“She confessed that she was actually looking for me, but because there were a lot of fake Vybz Kartel pages, she jumped onto my baby mama’s page, and that was how she found me,” he said.
The musician also revealed his plans to settle down with Sidem Öztürk this year.
“She’s at my hotel right now with my mother. We’re getting married this year. I need some Turkish children who will talk to me and I won’t understand,” he added.
Ghanaian music star Kofi Kinaata, born Martin King Arthur, has won over fans once again with the release of his new song, Saman Na M’aba Wo Fie.
The powerful track explores themes of trust and relationships, highlighting Kinaata’s gift for writing lyrics that connect deeply with his audience.
The 34-year-old artist, who comes from Effia Kuma in Takoradi, also impressed with his stylish look in the video — wearing a trendy hoodie and fashionable sunglasses that match his unique blend of music and fashion.
Kofi Kinaata drops video for Saman.Some media users have commented on Kofi Kinaata’s new post on Instagram. holybwoy20 stated:
"Songwriter category is shaking 🫨 💥❤️."
Ghanaba stated:
"This is my brother's story oo Kofi. You are too talented 🙌."
kuks_stewsnsoups
"Finally, this video is o."
Kofi Kinaata loves and invests in football
Apart from his achievements in music, Kofi Kinaata has also made a name for himself in the world of football.
Driven by a passion for developing young talent, he has invested in Team Move FC, a football club based in Takoradi.
The club, under his leadership, runs teams in multiple age categories—U12, U15, U17—and has a Division 2 team that actively competes in the national league.
Interestingly, Kofi Kinaata once dreamed of becoming a professional footballer before choosing to focus fully on his music career.
"I have a football team because I used to play the sport. The team is called Team Move FC. We have teams for U12, U15, U17, and a second division, participating in a league. The goal is to ensure someone is looking after the players and helping them develop in their careers. Ideally, we aim to organize them well enough to one day play in the Premier League and win the cup."
"I feel happy watching them play because, when I was their age, we didn't have opportunities like this. They see me as a source of inspiration, which I appreciate because it motivates me to work harder. I am fulfilled by being able to give them hope."
Prophet Nicolas Osei, widely known asKumchacha, has urged young women to be careful when choosing a life partner.
Speaking on Joy Prime during a discussion on premarital sex, the founder of Heaven’s Gate Ministries said many young men today act like “sexual testing agents,” using relationships as an excuse to sleep with multiple women.
“Nowadays, many men have become ‘testing agents,’ I don’t know whether they work with the DVLA or not. If they meet Abena, they will test; if they meet Akua, they will test; if they meet Yaa, they will test; Afia, they will test,” he said humorously.
He cautioned women to stay alert and not fall for such men easily.
“So, if you are a lady and a man approaches you, be vigilant,” Kumchacha added.
Ghanaian musician Wendy Shay has thanked a young girl whose dance to her song “Too Late” went viral and sparked massive conversations online.
Speaking on Hitz FM on April 11, 2025, Wendy described the teenager as a blessing to her music career.
“She has really been a blessing. That video changed everything,” Wendy said.
After the video went viral, both Wendy Shay and the young girl received backlash on social media. Many users criticised the girl’s dance moves, calling them too sensual for her age, and also raised concerns about the song’s lyrics being inappropriate for minors.
Despite the criticism, Wendy Shay highlighted the positive outcome the video had for her.
“People can say whatever they want, but the fact is that video helped me. The song is now playing in over 50 countries,” she explained.
Wendy noted that although the backlash was expected, the exposure the song received proved to be valuable.
“I realised that the song she was dancing to is Too Late, which I released three months ago. And the video caught my attention and has shed light and brought so much attention to my song.
Right now, it is chatting in over 50 countries, which is mind-blowing. I was overwhelmed. I am so grateful to God and the little girl. She is a blessing to me,” she added.
Veteran highlife musician and television host Akosua Agyaponghas taken a swipe at pastors she believes are being dishonest about premarital sex.
Speaking on JoyPrime TV on April 10, 2025, during a discussion about sex before marriage, Agyapong accused some church leaders of acting contrary to their own teachings.
She claimed that while some pastors are involved in intimate relationships with their choristers and ushers, they still preach against fornication.
“Some pastors have already slept with their choristers and ushers. But when a man comes to marry them, the same pastor will say, ‘No sex before marriage!’” she said.
Agyapong questioned why such pastors still hold influence over their congregations, despite their actions contradicting their messages.
“You can call them fake, but to their congregations, they’re not. If they practised what they preached, I wouldn’t have a problem. But they should stop lying to their members,” she added.
Her comments come shortly after she stirred controversy by encouraging unmarried people to consider premarital sex.
She believes testing sexual compatibility is important for a successful marriage and helps reduce cases of infidelity and divorce.
“Fornication involves consenting adults, but adultery breaks marriages. Sometimes, we make Christianity too hard, people should worship God in truth, not under false restrictions,” she said.
European countries have promised €21 billion (£18.2 billion) in new military aid to Ukraine, calling 2025 a “critical year” in the ongoing war. The pledge was made during a meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group at NATO headquarters in Brussels.
With the U.S. showing signs of shifting its focus under Donald Trump’s leadership, European nations are stepping up to help fill the gap—offering weapons, air defence systems, missiles, and other equipment to support Ukraine on the battlefield.
Germany’s Defence Minister, Boris Pistorius, said his country would provide €11 billion in aid over the next four years. The UK’s Defence Secretary, John Healey, said the collective pledges would send a strong message to Russia that European support remains firm.
Friday’s announcements included a £450 million package from the UK and Norway. The support will go toward drones, radar systems, anti-tank mines, and vehicle repairs.
Healey clarified that this amount is part of the £4.5 billion the UK had already committed earlier this year—the largest single pledge to Ukraine in 2025 so far.
Air defence was a key topic at the meeting. Healey noted that Russia had dropped 10,000 glide bombs on Ukraine and launched about 100 attack drones per day in the first three months of the year.
At this stage in the war, battlefield casualties on both sides inflicted by drones “way outnumber those inflicted by artillery”, the UK defence secretary said. “In our calculations, 70% to 80% of battlefield casualties are now caused and inflicted by drones,” he added. Defence ministers from 50 nations gathered in Brussels for the 27th gathering of the UDCG.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth joined the meeting remotely, telling allies that America appreciated all the work “you guys” are doing. Pistorious said it Hegseth’s decision was a matter of “schedules” rather than “priorities”, and that the “most important fact was that he took part”.
The commander of the U.S. military base in Greenland, Col. Susannah Meyers, has been relieved of her duties after reportedly sending an email that appeared to distance the base from comments made by Vice-President JD Vance.
According to the U.S. Space Operations Command, Col. Meyers was removed from her position at Pituffik Space Base due to a “loss of confidence in her ability to lead.”
Last month, during a visit to Greenland, Vice-President Vance criticised Denmark, saying the country had not done enough for the people of Greenland or invested properly in security.
In response, a military news outlet published what is believed to be an internal email from Col. Meyers to base staff, stating that Vance’s remarks were “not reflective” of the base’s views.
A Pentagon spokesperson, referencing the report, said actions that appear to “undermine U.S. leadership” are not acceptable.
Following Vance’s trip, on 31 March, Col Meyers is reported to have written: “I do not presume to understand current politics, but what I do know is the concerns of the US administration discussed by Vice-President Vance on Friday are not reflective of Pituffik Space Base.”
Military.com – which published the email – said the contents had been confirmed as accurate to them by the US Space Force. Appearing to confirm this was the reason for her firing, chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell linked to the Military.com article in a post on X, writing: “Actions [that] undermine the chain of command or to subvert President [Donald] Trump’s agenda will not be tolerated at the Department of Defense.”
The Space Force’s statement announcing Col Meyers’ removal on Thursday said that Col Shawn Lee was replacing her.
It added: “Commanders are expected to adhere to the highest standards of conduct, especially as it relates to remaining nonpartisan in the performance of their duties.”
Col. Susannah Meyers took over as commander of the Arctic base in July last year. She has now been replaced by Col. Lee, who previously led a squadron at the Clear Space Force Station in Alaska.
During his recent visit, Vice-President JD Vance repeated former President Donald Trump’s interest in the U.S. acquiring Greenland for strategic security reasons.
Since that visit, Greenland and Denmark have presented a united stance, firmly rejecting any idea of U.S. annexation of the semi-autonomous Danish territory.
Earlier this month, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen visited Greenland, where she appeared alongside Greenland’s current leader, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, and former Prime Minister Mute Egede to reinforce their shared position.
Speaking to reporters, Frederiksen directly addressed Trump, telling him: “You can’t annex other countries.” She added that Denmark was fortifying its military presence in the Arctic, and offered closer collaboration with the US in defending the region.
The US has long maintained a security interest in Greenland as a strategically important territory. It has had a military presence on the island since occupying it following the occupation of Denmark by Nazi Germany during World War Two.
“If Russia were to send missiles towards the US, the shortest route for nuclear weapons would be via the North Pole and Greenland,” Marc Jacobsen, an associate professor at the Royal Danish Defence College, previously told the BBC.
“That’s why the Pituffik Space Base is immensely important in defending the US.”
Greenland, the largest island in the world, has been under Danish rule for about 300 years.
Surveys show that most Greenlanders support the idea of becoming independent from Denmark, but they do not want to become part of the United States.
Since 2009, Greenland has had the legal right to hold an independence referendum. In recent years, some political parties have been increasing pressure to make that vote happen.
Andre Onana is among several goalkeepers spotted applying Vaseline-like substances to their gloves before kick-off—but what’s the reason behind this curious habit?
The 29-year-old Manchester United shot-stopper came under scrutiny on Thursday night after a shaky showing in their 2-2 draw against Lyon in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-finals.
Onana was blamed for two costly mistakes, including one in the final moments of stoppage time.
His errors denied United a crucial away win and left the tie finely balanced.
Lyon took the lead in the 25th minute through Thiago Almada. However, United responded just before the break with Leny Yoro scoring his first goal for the club.
In the closing stages, Joshua Zirkzee put United ahead 2-1, but Onana spilled a shot straight to Rayan Cherki, who capitalised to equalise. The second leg will now be decided at Old Trafford.
Andre Onana is not the only goalkeeper who applies substances like Vaseline to his gloves. This technique is used by several top goalkeepers to enhance grip, especially in wet conditions:
Manuel Neuer: The Bayern Munich legend was seen applying Vaseline to his gloves before a Bundesliga match against Hoffenheim in January 20232.
Jordan Pickford: England’s first-choice goalkeeper has been spotted using Vaseline during training sessions2.
Joe Hart: Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart used Vaseline on his gloves during the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil3.
Ben Foster: He learned the trick from Joe Hart and has mentioned its effectiveness.
This practice is particularly popular during rainy matches, as it helps goalkeepers maintain better control of the ball.
WWE icon and Hollywood actor John Cena has shared that he has been diagnosed with skin cancer on two separate occasions. These experiences have completely changed how he views skincare and sun protection.
The 16-time world champion admitted he used to ignore the importance of sunscreen but is now speaking out to educate others about the risks of too much sun exposure. Cena is using his fame to encourage people to take better care of their skin and protect themselves from the sun.
A painful lesson from the past
In an interview with People magazine, John Cena opened up about his battle with skin cancer, revealing that he “never” used sunscreen as a child.
Growing up near Salisbury Beach in Massachusetts, Cena remembered spending countless hours in the sun without giving much thought to protecting his skin. Skincare, he admitted, was simply not a concern during his younger years.
“My mom raised five boys, and I’m pretty sure she just wanted to keep us alive and healthy,” he said. “Being born in 1977, this was kind of all new knowledge.”
Even after moving to Florida in his twenties, Cena said he remained “stubborn” about skincare, wrongly believing that skin cancer “would never reach me.”
That mindset changed when he visited a dermatologist and had a cancerous spot removed from his right pectoral muscle.
Not long after the first procedure, Cena received a call that many dread—a follow-up request for another check. A year later, he had a second cancerous spot removed, this time from near his right shoulder.
“Man, that phone call’s not what you want to get,” Cena recalled. “You don’t know how bad it’s going to be.” The experience, while frightening, also proved transformative. His dermatologist supported him throughout, and Cena now reflects on the ordeal with gratitude: “I’m so grateful to be able to dodge those two bullets.”
After facing a health scare of his own, John Cena has teamed up with Neutrogena to promote their Ultra Sheer Mineral Sunscreen. The campaign, cleverly named “Sunscreen You Can’t See,” is a nod to his iconic WWE catchphrase “You Can’t See Me.” Through this initiative, Cena hopes to inspire fans to take sun protection seriously and make sunscreen a regular part of their routine.
“Never once did I picture myself as the go-to person for a skincare campaign,” he admitted. “But just because I love what I do and I’ve had the backing of such a dedicated audience, a very unlikely spokesperson is now trying to make a difference.”
Cena, now 47, says he’s gone from “neglect” to “mass protect,” and hopes to inspire others to take that “extra few seconds” to safeguard their skin daily.
Cristiano Ronaldo and the Al-Nassr team took a break from training to celebrateSadio Mané’s 33rd birthday in style.
A heartwarming video shared online by shows the players creating a joyful moment in the dressing room. Ronaldo led the celebration, clapping in rhythm as the team sang a lively birthday song for Mané.
The mood was light and full of team spirit, with Mané beaming throughout the tribute.
After the song, the Senegalese star thanked his teammates for their kind gesture.
Known for his down-to-earth nature, the former Liverpool forward kept his response simple and sincere.
"We have to keep fighting. We can do better, and together we can go for silverware," he urged, signalling his intent to inspire a strong finish to the campaign.
Sadio Mane’s performance this season
On the field, Mane’s performances have fluctuated, yet his overall impact remains noteworthy.
In 25 league appearances, he’s tallied seven goals and nine assists—solid numbers for a winger still adjusting to a new environment. Sadio Mane has bagged five assists in his last five matches.
Charterhouse Productions, organisers of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), have announced a new date for the 26th edition of the popular awards show.
The event, which was originally scheduled for May 3, 2025, will now be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025. It will take place at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre.
In a statement, Charterhouse apologised for the date change and said it would also affect some of the activities leading up to the main event.
Here is the updated lineup:
TGMA Masterclass – Thursday, May 8, 2025
TGMA Pre-Party – Friday, May 9, 2025
The organisers assured the public of an exciting show despite the changes.
Meanwhile, voting is officially open for fans to support their favourite artistes. To vote, fans can dial *1767#, enter the artiste’s code, and follow the prompts. Free voting is also available online at www.GhanaMusicAwards.com.
Dancehall star Vybz Kartel has said he will never bleach his skin again, explaining that his past decision came from personal struggles with self-acceptance.
Speaking in an interview with American host Ebro Darden on Hot 97 radio, the popular Jamaican artiste reflected on his skin-bleaching experience and what influenced it.
“I mean, in hindsight it definitely had to do with self-love, but on the other hand, while I was doing it, my mind wasn’t telling me that. My mind was telling me, ‘I am doing this to show my tattoos’…
I got a lot of tattoos. But looking back, it was just as a Black man, sometimes we have those issues. But I would never bleach again though,” Kartel said.
He also shared that he has cut down on drinking and smoking, and is now focused on starting a new chapter of his life with his fiancée, Sidem Öztürk.
“I analyse myself a lot of times, and I think the heavy drinking and smoking when I came out was just my crutch. You got to try to cope. I’ve been in prison for 13 years; I’m out now. The world is bigger — it’s a lot,” he explained.
Looking to the future, Kartel said he is excited about settling down and starting a family. “I want some Turkish children,” he said, expressing his hopes of marrying Öztürk and building a life together.
Prada has announced plans to buy its rival Versace in a major deal worth $1.36 billion (£1.06 billion), marking a big move to bring together two of Italy’s most well-known luxury fashion houses.
The deal, revealed on Thursday by the Prada Group, will see Versace become part of a growing fashion empire that already includes brands like Miu Miu and high-end shoe label Church’s.
“We aim to continue Versace’s legacy celebrating and re-interpreting its bold and timeless aesthetic,” said Prada chairman Patrizio Bertelli.
By acquiring Versace, Prada hopes to form a stronger fashion group that can better compete with French luxury giants like LVMH and Kering.
Talks between Prada and Capri Holdings, Versace’s current parent company, began in February.
Although Capri bought Versace in 2018 for $2.15 billion, Prada’s purchase price is significantly lower. The deal also includes taking on Versace’s existing debts.
Versace has recently struggled financially, facing losses due to a global dip in luxury fashion demand. Capri Holdings also owns brands like Jimmy Choo and Michael Kors.
Prada’s CEO Andrea Guerra said the company sees great opportunity in Versace but acknowledges the work ahead:
“Versace has huge potential. The journey will be long and will require disciplined execution and patience.”
In March, Donatella Versace stepped down from her long-standing role as creative director after nearly three decades. She took the position in 1997 following the death of her brother, Gianni Versace. Now, at 69, she has taken on a new role as Versace’s chief brand ambassador.
Dario Vitale, formerly design and image director at Miu Miu, has been named the new chief creative officer of Versace.
Senior lecturer at the University of Ghana, Professor Kofi Agyekum, has urged President John Dramani Mahama to take action against the conduct of some national security operatives before it appears he is allowing lawlessness.
According to Professor Agyekum, while he does not believe the president supports the recent actions of some operatives, continued silence on the matter could send the wrong message—that the president approves of these abuses of power.
Speaking on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo show on April 10, 2025, he cited a recent case in which masked men, suspected to be from the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), reportedly stormed the home of Assin South MP, Rev. Ntim Fordjour.
He also referred to other incidents where security officers allegedly entered private homes without following the right procedures.
“If your calf becomes bigger than your thigh, then it means there is a problem.
There is no way a leader should remain aloof while his subordinates misbehave. You shouldn’t allow someone you have given authority to overuse that power,” he said, using a proverb to highlight the issue of unchecked authority.
Professor Agyekum expressed concern over the growing reports of security personnel violating people’s rights and warned that continued silence could be seen as an endorsement.
“What is going on? I don’t believe President Mahama is happy with what the security forces are doing, invading people’s privacy and attacking individuals. We haven’t heard anything positive from them lately that warrants applause.
That’s why I’m saying that if you’re an elderly person and children are misbehaving, and you watch on without taking action, when trouble arises, you’ll also be blamed.”
He urged the president to act quickly and rein in the operatives who are allegedly taking advantage of their positions.
“So, I plead with the president: I know this is not what he wants, so he should act now because they are using his authority to overstep their bounds,” he said.
Former ECG boss, Samuel Dubik Mahama,has revealed that the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) saw little to no investment during President Nana Akufo-Addo’s first term in office.
Speaking at the JoyNews National Dialogue on Thursday, Mr. Mahama said the government’s attention was focused on privatising ECG rather than improving its infrastructure and operations.
“If you cast your mind back, during the President’s first tenure, all efforts were geared towards sending ECG into privatisation. So, there was zero investment in the company,” he said.
He recalled how the management of ECG was handed over to Power Distribution Services (PDS) as part of the privatisation effort, but that arrangement lasted only eight months before it collapsed.
ECG was then returned to full government control just before the 2020 general elections.
Mr. Mahama, who became ECG’s Managing Director in 2022, said one of his first tasks was to assess the company’s condition.
“What I found was that although there had been massive growth in the number of ECG customers, this was not properly reflected in the company’s data,” he noted.
He explained that the billing system ECG used, which was developed through a World Bank project, could not keep up with the growing customer base.
“The billing system had its own deficiencies. When it hit the 4.5 million customer mark, new customers being added were not being captured in the billing system. They were hanging,” he added.
Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, who leads both the Ghana Football Association and the West African Football Union Zone B, paid a special one-day visit to Lomé, Togo, for the launch of a new National Technical Football Centre.
He was invited by the President of the Togolese Football Federation, Guy Kossi Akpovy.
The event marked the start of construction on a modern football facility that will focus on developing young players and improving coaching and training in Togo and the wider West African region.
Once completed, the centre is expected to help raise football standards and strengthen the region’s presence on the global stage.
At the event, Mr. Okraku gave a speech where he applauded the Togolese Football Federation for its forward-thinking approach and strong efforts to grow football at both the grassroots and professional levels.
He described the new project as “a significant and positive advancement” for the future of the sport in West Africa.
As head of WAFU Zone B, Mr. Okraku also promised to keep supporting programs that focus on youth development, better facilities, and long-term progress.
He stated, “I am fully dedicated to providing guidance and backing for projects that strengthen West African football.”
The launch of the National Technical Centre marks an important step in Togo’s journey to build a strong football foundation, with expected benefits reaching far beyond its borders.
Retired Ghanaian boxer Brimah Kamako, also known as Bukom Banku, has taken over as the caretaker of the Bukom astroturf. He has boldly told locals that if they have a problem with him managing the facility, they can report him to former President John Dramani Mahama.
The astroturf was previously overseen by a committee set up in 2024. However, Bukom Banku now claims full control.
In an interview on Max TV, he said he was born and raised in Bukom, so no one can make him step down from his new role.
He added that he is responsible for collecting fees from people who want to use the astroturf, and all payments go directly to him.
“I’m from Bukom, and no one can bully me because of the astroturf. I’m the caretaker. If you like, go and tell President John Mahama, the Vice President, or the MP. They pay directly to me because I’m the caretaker,” he said.
When asked why he had seemingly taken over a role meant for the assembly, he explained that the primary duty of assembly members is to ensure cleanliness in the community.
“This issue has nothing to do with the assemblyman. The assemblyman cannot be the caretaker of the astroturf. His job is to clean the gutters and clear refuse to keep the community clean.”
He also clarified that all funds received from the use of the astroturf are strictly for its maintenance, emphasizing that it is a community-owned facility.
“I use the money to maintain the turf because it belongs to the community. It is a community park, so someone must be in charge—but not just anybody.”
The Bukom astroturf was officially opened in 2020, after the former government upgraded the old sandy field into a modern sports facility as part of efforts to improve sports infrastructure.
By 2022, however, the pitch had fallen into poor condition. Many residents believed it was because the project had been rushed.
In 2024, the park was fixed and given a facelift, including the addition of an administrative office.
Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee for Youth & Sports has announced that Sports Minister Kofi Adams will soon update the media on the Black Stars’ budget for their recent World Cup qualifiersagainst Chad and Madagascar.
This statement comes after public concerns about the delay in disclosing the costs for these matches.
President John Mahama had earlier promised to make the budgets for national teams available to the public.
In an interview with Citi Sports, Norgbey assured the public that there was no need for worry.
“The sports minister is prepping to brief the media very soon on the Black Stars budget for the Chad and Madagascar games. I am not sure there should be any cause for alarm.”
Ghana achieved strong victories over Chad and Madagascar in March, providing a much-needed lift after recent struggles.
The Black Stars’ dominant 5-0 win against Chad and a 3-0 triumph over Madagascar have put them at the top of Group I with 15 points, leading Comoros by three points.
Ghana will return to World Cup qualifying action in June 2025, with matches against Chad and Mali.
Before that, they will compete in the 2025 Unity Cup in May, where they will face Nigeria, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago.
