TIG Post

Author: Amanda Cartey

  • Power outage hits Cape Coast and nearby areas from Jan 20, as 66MVA upgrade nears completion

    Power outage hits Cape Coast and nearby areas from Jan 20, as 66MVA upgrade nears completion

    The Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo), and the Electricity Company of Ghana has announced that power supply to customers in Cape Coast and surrounding communities will be interrupted on Tuesday, 20th January 2026, from 9:00am to 2:00pm.

    This was contained in a statement issued by the Corporate Communications Section of GRIDCo and the Communications Directorate of ECG informing residents of Cape Coast and surrounding communities that it is in the final phase of completing works associated with the upgrade of a 66MVA power transformer at the Cape Coast Substation.

    It stated, “to facilitate the successful commissioning and operation of the new higher-capacity transformer, power supply to customers in Cape Coast and surrounding communities will be interrupted on Tuesday, 20th January 2026, from 9:00am to 2:00pm.”

    “The transformer upgrade will significantly enhance the substation’s capacity, enabling improved and reliable power supply for residents and businesses in Cape Coast and surrounding areas, while enhancing the overall quality and stability of electricity supply in the region.”

    It further indicated that, the transformer upgrade will significantly enhance the substation’s capacity, enabling improved and reliable power supply for residents and businesses in Cape Coast and surrounding areas, while enhancing the overall quality and stability of electricity supply in the region.

    GRIDCo and ECG have apologised for the inconvenience this temporary power interruption will cause, while assure the public of it continued commitment to deliver reliable and improved electricity transmission services.

    In July last year, businesses and households in Greater Accra, Tema, and their surrounding areas were cautioned to brace themselves for a blackout lasting approximately 9 to 12 hours, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced.

    In three separate public notices issued on Wednesday, July 2, the power supply company alerted consumers of an impending power interruption during the day on Thursday, July 3.

    The blackout, according to ECG, was due to planned maintenance works to enhance service delivery and ensure a more stable power distribution system.

    Communities affected by the maintenance in Accra were as follows: Glefe, Wiaboman, Odorkor, Awoshie, Mandela, SCC, Sunny Coast, Korkordjor, Gbawe, Alogboshie, Achimota Neoplan, Benjilo, Asofa, Amen Amen, Omandjor, Tesano, Alajo, Adenta Estate, Adenta Container, Ashaley Botwe Town, Ashongman Pure Water, Ashongman Estates, Osu, and surrounding areas.

    The outage in these areas lasted from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

    And in the Tema Region, ECG said power was interrupted between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

    The affected areas included Kpong, Nuaso, Kpongunor, Agormanya, Odumase, Kojonya, Atua, Sawer, Okornya, Somanya, Jericho, Roman Down, Under Bridge Market, State School for the Deaf, Kanawu, Adjei Kojo, Community 25, Bulasu, Ghana Flag, Afienya Zongo, and surrounding areas.

    The notice prepared consumers accordingly to minimise the impact of the temporary outage.

    Nonetheless, ECG restored the power immediately after the completion of the maintenance works.

    It also apologised for the inconvenience the outage is likely to cause.

    “ECG regrets the inconvenience that will arise out of this exercise,” parts of the statement read.

    Residents in Pokuase Pharmacy, Ayawaso, Nii Ayi, Odumase, Amanfrom, Nsakina, Agbogba, and Pantang Royal also experienced a temporary power outage on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 as the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) wraps up its scheduled two-day maintenance exercise.

    The outage lasted from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The maintenance work, aimed at improving electricity distribution also affected parts of the Tema Region, where areas such as High Tension, Golf City, Community 17, Fafali, Cambodia, and HFC Estates were without power from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

    Earlier on Tuesday, March 11, the same year, similar maintenance activities were carried out in parts of the Volta and Ashanti Regions. Residents of Tsito and its surrounding areas in the Volta Region faced outages between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

    In the Ashanti Region, a two-phase exercise was conducted. The first phase impacted Darko, Bebu, Ampabame No.2, Trede, Sabin Akroform, and parts of Pakyi No.2, while the second phase, lasting from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, affected Atwima Agogo, Abuakwa, Mankranso, Kunsu, Sepaase, Nkawie, Afari, Abakomade, Kasapreko, and several nearby communities.

    The ECG assured customers that this maintenance was crucial for enhancing power reliability and reducing unexpected disruptions.

    Residents and businesses in the affected areas were advised to make necessary arrangements, while the company apologized for any inconvenience caused.

    This came at a time when several parts of the country was experiencing power outages due to challenges in the energy sector. However, the Energy Minister at the time, John Jinapor, had rejected demands from the Minority and some Ghanaians for a load-shedding timetable, despite recent power outages in parts of the country.

    Their demand stemed from concerns that the current power situation mirrors past periods of prolonged power crises (dumsor), despite government assurances that there is no full-scale rationing of electricity.

    However, at a press conference at the Jubilee House last Friday, 7 March 2025, Mr. Jinapor explained that there was no need for such a timetable because the country was not experiencing full-scale power cuts.

  • ‘The most famous black person in America’: How the 1950s ‘Red Scare’ erased a US icon

    ‘The most famous black person in America’: How the 1950s ‘Red Scare’ erased a US icon

    Paul Robeson was a superstar of the stage and screen, a talented football player and a music hitmaker. Then, amid the “anti-communist fervour” of the US in the Cold War, came a dramatic fall from grace.

    Paul Robeson’s Ballad for Americans was an unlikely pop smash. A 10-minute-long patriotic folk cantata, it offered an inclusive version of the US story, from fiery formation (“In ’76 the sky was red”) to a pan-ethnic present, as articulated by a narrator who reveals himself to be America itself.

    Warning: This article contains use of an antiquated racial term that some readers may find offensive

    Yet when the celebrated baritone first performed the song on a national CBS radio broadcast in 1939, it became an instant sensation. The studio audience cheered for 20 minutes. Letters and phone calls flooded into the station, and the show was repeated throughout the following year. Already a star of stage, screen and the football field, the broadcast and subsequent single release of Ballad for Americans cemented Robeson’s status as the most famous black person in America.

    He died on 23 January 1976, 200 years after the bloody birth of the US and 50 years ago this month. His final decades were marked by illness and seclusion, the lingering effects of a campaign of suppression that was unprecedented, even amid the widespread entertainment industry blacklisting that characterised the “Red Scare”.

    Paul Robeson was born in 1898 in Princeton, New Jersey, the youngest of five children. His father, a pastor, raised the family after his mother died in a house fire a few years after his birth. To say that Robeson was a remarkable young man would be a significant understatement. He excelled academically, in sports and the arts while attending his Jersey high school.

    He won a four-year scholarship to Rutgers University, eventually leaving with the highest academic honours and delivering the graduating class oration. He was awarded 15 varsity letters, including for baseball, basketball, javelin, discus and shot put. But it was at American football that he became a true star, twice making the All-American first team before playing professionally to help finance his studies at Columbia Law School in the early 1920s. Walter Camp, the US’s leading football expert, called Robeson “the greatest defensive back ever to trod the gridiron”.

    Living in Harlem at the height of the Harlem Renaissance, Robeson also used his time at Columbia to take up acting, as well as singing in the famous Cotton Club. His legal career ended abruptly not long after graduation, when he quit his position at a law firm in protest after a white secretary refused to take dictation from him. Instead, he became a full-time performer, supported financially at first by his wife Eslanda, the head of New York-Presbyterian hospital’s pathology laboratory. He starred in two Eugene O’Neill plays (All God’s Chillun Got Wings and Emperor Jones), recorded albums of so-called Negro spirituals and opened a new Oscar Hammerstein/Jerome Kern musical, Show Boat, in 1927, singing Ol’ Man River to critical acclaim.

    A mere decade later, however, he had been branded not just “un-American” but an effective non-person, barred from television, expunged from textbooks, his passport revoked. As the Cold War took hold and the US political and cultural establishment was gripped by anti-communist fervour, Robeson’s civil rights activism and socialist solidarity made him a prime target.

    He also began travelling to the UK and Europe. In 1930, he played Othello at London’s Savoy Theatre, the first black actor to do so in the British capital since Ira Aldridge a century before. And when, after spending much of the early decade performing overseas, he returned to the US to star in the 1936 Hollywood film version of Show Boat, his ascension to A-list status was complete. In 1928, New Yorker magazine had labelled him “the promise of his race”, “King of Harlem”, and the “idol of his people”.

    By 1940, shortly after he performed Ballad for Americans for 30,000 people at the Hollywood Bowl, Colliers magazine crowned him “America’s No. 1 Negro Entertainer”. According to his biographer Martin Duberman, Robeson seemed to “the white world in general […] a magnetic, civilised, and gifted man who had relied on talent rather than belligerence to rise above his circumstances”.

    A swift and damning response

    In reality, Robeson spent much of his rise to fame educating himself and becoming increasingly outspoken on the broader context of the black struggle. In Europe, he performed benefits for Welsh miners, Jewish refugees and Republican fighters in the Spanish Civil War. He studied African languages and Marxist writings, and visited the Soviet Union. Back home in the US, he refused to perform for segregated audiences, joined union picket lines, and, in the 1948 presidential race, campaigned for Henry Wallace’s Progressive Party. Yet all these causes proved relatively undamaging to Robeson, prior to a speech he gave in Paris on 20 April 1949. The World Congress of Partisans for Peace was a gathering of some 2,000 scientists, teachers, activists and artists from 75 countries, convened to condemn the Cold War arms race and what it saw as US aggression against the Soviet Union.

    “It is unthinkable that American Negroes would go to war on behalf of those who have oppressed us for generations,” Robeson announced to the assembled leftists, “against a country [the USSR] which in one generation has raised our people to the full dignity of mankind.” Some six years before the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the birth of the modern civil rights movement, Robeson suggested a form of black rebellion that far outstripped the assimilationist goals of the then-dominant NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People). The response, from mainstream liberals and conservative anti-communists alike, was swift and damning.

    A few months after Paris, Paul Robeson twice attempted to perform a concert for holidaymakers at Jewish socialist summer camps near Peekskill, New York, just as he had done in previous summers. Twice, thousands of local war veterans counter-protested, and rioters attacked concertgoers with rocks, sticks and fists, overturning cars and injuring 150 people while the police watched on. While this violent attempted cancellation of Robeson was broadly condemned and never repeated, a more subtle version began almost immediately afterwards.

    In March 1950, NBC barred him from appearing on Eleanor Roosevelt’s TV show, Today With Mrs Roosevelt, after protests by the American Legion (a veterans’ organisation) and others. Then in July, the State Department revoked his passport, preventing him from performing overseas, where he remained hugely popular. In the US, his career was effectively already over. Record companies refused to issue his old records or record new ones. From being one of the top 10 highest paid performers in the US in 1941, and earning $100,000 from concerts as late as 1947, by 1952 he was barely making $6,000 a year.

    “Of all those blacklisted, from Hollywood screenwriters to civil servants and academics, none were as high profile or once-beloved”

    The lyrics of Ballad for Americans were removed from school textbooks, and the poet Langston Hughes was forced to cut any mention of Robeson from his book Famous Negro Music Makers, lest it be banned from school library shelves. His name was retrospectively erased from lists of NAACP award winners and football champions alike. Even owning a Paul Robeson record, as hundreds of thousands of Americans had done, was enough to earn government employees a black mark at the various loyalty board interviews that took place in the 1950s.

    Baseball star Jackie Robinson was brought before the House Committee on Un-American Activities (HUAC) to disassociate himself, and by extension, the black public, from Robeson’s Paris remarks. Eventually, in 1956, Robeson himself appeared before HUAC. Unapologetic as ever, he told the committee members: “you are the un-Americans”.

    ‘A unique threat’

    In her book Many Are the Crimes, Cold War historian Ellen Schrecker argues that “probably no other individual was as heavily censored” as Paul Robeson. And in some ways he did present a unique threat. Not as a spy, but as an outspoken black socialist. Someone who linked the African American fight for civil rights to the cause of the working classes worldwide, from the Welsh valleys to West Africa, from Mississippi to Moscow. And of all those blacklisted, from Hollywood screenwriters to civil servants and academics, none were as high profile or once-beloved. As Schrecker says, “The most charismatic black actor and singer of his generation had become a non-person”.

    Robeson’s passport was finally returned to him in 1959 and he tried to once again tour internationally. But, worn down from his years of struggle, his efforts were derailed by bouts of sickness and depression. By the mid-60s he ceased giving concerts entirely, and, following the death of Eslanda, spent his remaining years under the care of his sister.

    In 1973 he addressed a Salute to Paul Robeson event at New York’s Carnegie Hall. He declared himself “dedicated as ever for the worldwide cause of humanity for freedom, peace and brotherhood”, affirmed his commitment to the struggle of African Americans to “achieve complete liberation from racist domination”, and paid tribute to anti-colonial movements around the world. He concluded his message with the following. “Though ill health has compelled my retirement, you can be sure that in my heart I go on singing:

    Source: BBC

  • “The media made me a pastor, I only teach the gospel” – Majid Micheal clarifies

    “The media made me a pastor, I only teach the gospel” – Majid Micheal clarifies

    Ghanaian actor and preacher Majid Michel has explained that he is not an ordained pastor, contrary to what many people believe.

    He said he has never been officially ordained but he teaches the words of God.

    Adding that the perception of him as a pastor was created by the media, not by himself.

    “First of all, I’ve said it so many times, in so many places. The media, you people, made me a pastor. It is you people that made me a pastor.”

    “I am not an ordained pastor. I am a teacher of the Word of God. I am not ordained. I don’t have a church,” he said in an interview shared on X on January 16, 2026.

    In July 2024, Actor Big Akwes revealed that he has become an ordained evangelist after completing a six-month course at Bible School.

    He shared that this personal milestone, achieved under the guidance of his head pastor upon graduation, marks a significant shift in his life’s focus.

    Big Akwes emphasized that while he prefers to keep such achievements private, his new role will involve spreading the word of God across various locations rather than being confined to a single place.”I am now an ordained man of God. I was ordained after attending Bible School for six months. Some attend Bible School for one year, and others for six months; that’s what I did. After we graduated, we were ordained by our head pastor.

    “I am not a prophet; I am an evangelist. My work won’t be confined to one place; it will be interconnected,” he said on UTV’s United Showbiz hosted by MzGee.

    In April 2024, actress and entrepreneur Victoria Lebene took her followers by surprise on at on Monday, April 22, 2024,when she assumed the role of a preacher during her Instagram live.

    In June, the Ghanaian actress revealed that her journey to becoming a pastor has been a long time coming, with the call to ministry being present since her childhood.

    During an interview with Joy Prime TV on August 16, 2024, she reflected on how, as a child, pastors often told her mother that she was destined to become an “Osofo Maame” (pastor’s wife).

    At the time, Lebene assumed this meant she would one day marry a pastor, not realizing that she herself would take on a significant role in the ministry.

    Lebene’s transition into preaching surprised many when, on April 22, 2024, she began sharing biblical teachings and heartfelt messages during an Instagram live session.

    She has since made it clear that her ministry is not for social media attention but stems from a genuine calling she has felt deeply for years.“

    Yes, I knew. I had that call for a very long time. When I was very little, pastors would tell my mom, ‘This child will be Osofo Maame’ and I actually thought I was going to marry a pastor to be that kind. Never did I know that it would toll towards that line where I would particularly be in the middle of the whole picture as a woman of God,” she said.

    As expected, Lebene—now widely described as a minister of the gospel—began drawing public attention. While some people commended her for stepping into ministry, others questioned her motives, suggesting it could be a move to gain attention on social media.

    Speaking in an interview with Showbiz Graphic, Lebene dismissed those claims, stressing that her decision had nothing to do with clout or online popularity. She explained that the calling to serve in ministry had been with her for a long time and was not a sudden decision.

    She noted that answering such a calling requires patience and personal growth, adding that she needed time to fully prepare herself before stepping into that role.

    According to her, the journey was about obedience and purpose, not pressure or public approval.

    Lebene also highlighted the importance of responding to one’s calling, pointing out that life is short and everyone has a purpose to fulfill.

    Her move into ministry, she said, is rooted in strong faith and personal conviction, beyond the noise of social media speculation.

  • Sarkodie sells out Royal Albert Hall in UK edition of Rapperholic 

    Sarkodie sells out Royal Albert Hall in UK edition of Rapperholic 

    Ghanaian rap icon Michael Owusu Addo, known globally as Sarkodie, has sold out the legendary Royal Albert Hall in the UK.

    The achievement comes just weeks before his headline concert, Rapperholic UK, set for March 6, 2026—a date that also marks Ghana’s 69th Independence Day.

    The famous London venue, known for hosting some of the biggest names in music, will be packed to capacity with all 5,272 seats sold to fans ready to watch the “Landlord” of African rap perform live.

    This success further proves Sarkodie’s status as a global cultural representative and shows the growing appetite for Ghanaian music among audiences abroad.

    What started as a Christmas concert in Accra at the International Conference Centre more than ten years ago has now grown into a major international event.

    Rapperholic has moved beyond Ghana to become one of Africa’s most respected hip-hop brands, known for delivering powerful live performances.

    Music industry observers say selling out the Royal Albert Hall is a big deal, as the venue is known for its strict sound standards and refined audience.

    Sarkodie’s ability to fill such a venue confirms his place as one of Africa’s top music acts on the world stage.

    The date of the concert also makes it special.

    By holding the show on Ghana’s Independence Day, Sarkodie has turned the concert into a proud celebration of Ghana’s talent and culture.

    Creative arts experts see the sell-out as a strong sign of Ghana’s growing influence and the global demand for African music.

    The show is expected to draw a wide mix of people, including Ghanaians living in the UK and hip-hop fans from different parts of the world.

    The impact of the concert is also likely to benefit the UK economy, especially hotels and tourism, as fans from across Europe have reportedly bought tickets for the event.

    As excitement builds, the rapper has been giving fans hints of a high-quality show, said to feature a live orchestra and surprise guest appearances from top UK and African artists.

    For Ghana’s creative industry, this sold-out concert stands as an example for other artists, showing that with strong branding and consistency, performing on the world’s biggest stages is possible.

    About Rapperholic 2025

    The concert was held on Saturday, 27, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. When the stadium was announced as the venue to host the concert, concerns were raised by football enthusiasts and stakeholders about the authority approving the concert to be held at the stadium when Ghana is preparing for an international match. Ghana has a mixed history when it comes to the quality of our pitches, with rare cases of consistent maintenance often from hosting football, concerts, and rallies. Lack of pitch covers, among others.

    The Baba Yara pitch is undergoing renovations to meet CAF and FIFA standards, including turf upgrades and drainage improvements.

    Hence, to address these concerns, the Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, clarified that while his outfit has given the rapper the green light to host the concert at the stadium, he has been banned from extending his activities to the pitch itself.

    Acknowledging the poor state of pitches in the Ghana government’s efforts to renovate and add to the number of stadiums nationwide, he explained that, “Sarkodie is prohibited from using the pitch to host the Rapperholic event. The pitch is important to us, and there is no way the event will be hosted on the pitch,” he said during an appearance on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

    He continued that, while Sarkodie has explicitly been told to stay away from the pitch itself, he cautioned that sanctions would be applied if the arrangements were violated.

    “We are aware that there is an agreement in place stating that a penalty or fine will be incurred should that happen, but we are not interested in pursuing that. There are no pitch covers, so we have to put measures in place to ensure that the pitch is safe,” he noted.

    Sarkodie, responding to the NSA’s directive, took to his social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to assure fans that, as he had been explicitly directed from the outset, he expressed his intention to host the concert at the stadium and would not break any rules.

    “The rules were set from day 1, and we are not ready to break it (sic),” he said.

    When did Rapperholic start

    The Rapperholic Concert was founded in 2012 to showcase Sarkodie’s music, celebrate Ghanaian rap, and thrill fans with exciting performances from both local and foreign artists. The concert is usually headlined by Sarkodie, who mostly gives opportunities to emerging rappers to perform. Rapperholic is mostly nothing short of an actual display of fashion and culture, with fans dressing in streetwear, among others.

    Sarkodie visits Otumfuor

    Sarkodie visited Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at Manhyia Palace to formally seek royal blessing for the Rapperholic Kumasi Edition. During the meeting, Otumfuo warmly welcomed Sarkodie’s initiative and said:

    “They don’t allow me to go out often, but this one, I would like to attend and watch the event myself.”Sarkordie was there with his team to officially inform the King about the upcoming concert and also seek his blessings and consent. 

  • Ayawaso East by-election set for March 3 – EC announces

    Ayawaso East by-election set for March 3 – EC announces

    The Electoral Commission of Ghana has announced that a Parliamentary by-election will be held in the Ayawaso East Constituency on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

    The election has become necessary following the death of the area’s Member of Parliament, Hon. Mahama Naser Toure, which has left the seat vacant.

    In a statement dated January 16, 2026, and signed by the EC’s Deputy Chairman for Operations, Samuel Tettey, the Commission explained how interested persons can contest the election. Nominations will be accepted at the EC’s Ayawaso East Municipal Office in North Ridge from Monday, February 9, to Wednesday, February 11, 2026. Submissions will be taken between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day.

    Aspiring candidates can download nomination forms from the EC’s website, www.ec.gov.gh/forms, starting Friday, January 16, 2026. Completed forms must be submitted in four copies and can be presented by the candidate or by their proposer or seconder during the nomination period.

    Each candidate must be supported by a proposer and a seconder who are registered voters in Ayawaso East, along with eighteen other registered voters from the constituency. Candidates are also required to submit two recent passport-size photographs with a red background.

    A filing fee must be paid as part of the process. General candidates are to pay GH¢10,000, while female candidates and persons with disabilities will pay a reduced fee of GH¢7,500. The fee is non-refundable.

    The EC said the by-election is being held in line with Article 112 (5) of the 1992 Constitution, which requires an election to be conducted when a parliamentary seat becomes vacant.

    The Commission has called on the public to take note of the information as it works to ensure a free, fair, and transparent by-election.

    Meanwhile, controversies surrounding the Kpandai parliamentary seat have received a reaction from the Supreme Court. On Tuesday, December 16, the Supreme Court ordered that the parliamentary rerun election in the area, scheduled for Tuesday, December 30, be suspended until further notice.

    The legal team of New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate Matthew Nyindam has also been directed by the Supreme Court to follow due process in serving the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Daniel Nsala Wakpal. Meanwhile, Tuesday, January 13, 2026, has been set for the next hearing.

    A couple of months ago, the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Kpandai constituency, Mathew Nyindam, filed an application challenging the recent High Court ruling on the 2024 parliamentary elections in the area.

    Earlier this year, the former Member of Parliament and NDC parliamentary candidate for Kpandai, Daniel Nsala Wakpal, submitted a petition to the Tamale High Court challenging the results of the 2024 parliamentary election in the constituency.

    According to the petitioner, the Kpandai parliamentary election was marred by irregularities in the voting and collation processes. He argued that Pink Sheets from many polling stations were not accurate or consistent.

    He stated: “The parliamentary election held in the Kpandai constituency on 7th December 2024 was not conducted in compliance with Regulations 39 of the Public Elections Regulations, 2020 (CI 127) and the principles laid down by Regulations 39, and that the said non-compliance affected the results of the elections.

    “The declaration and publication of the parliamentary election results held in the Kpandai constituency on 7th December 2024 were not made in compliance with Regulations 43 of the Public Elections Regulations, 2020 (C.I 127) and the principles laid down by Regulations 43, and that the said non-compliance affected the entire results of the parliamentary elections in the Kpandai constituency.”

    However, Mathew Nyindam has argued that “The Parliamentary Election Petition filed by the 1st Interested Party on 25th January 2025, in respect of the Parliamentary Election held at the Kpandai Constituency on 7th December 2024, was invalid and could not have properly invoked the jurisdiction of the High Court, Commercial Division, Tamale.”

    This will be the second time the country has had a rerun of elections after the 2024 general polls. Ablekuma North had remained the only constituency in Ghana without a sitting MP due to unresolved disagreements over the outcome of the parliamentary vote.

    In view of this, the Electoral Commission (EC) on Friday, July 11, held a rerun election in 19 polling stations in Ablekuma North to provide constituents with a representative. Ewurabena Aubynn polled 34,090 votes to beat the NPP’s Akua Afriyie, who secured 33,881 votes.

    On December 10, 2024, three days after the national polls, the EC declared Ewurabena Aubynn of the NDC the winner of the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat, defeating the NPP’s Nana Akua Owusu Afriyieh.

    However, the EC later revoked the announcement, revealing that results from 62 of the 281 polling stations had not been included in the initial collation.

    Efforts to restart the collation in January 2025 were disrupted by multiple challenges. These included interruptions due to the submission of unverified Pink Sheets and a violent intrusion at the collation centre that heightened security concerns.

    After extensive deliberations, the Electoral Commission in July announced that it would hold a rerun election because the 19 scanned polling station results used for the collation, though approved by agents of both political parties, were not verified by the presiding officers responsible for those polling stations.

    The EC arrived at this decision after meeting with representatives of the NDC and the NPP on Tuesday, July 1.

  • Financial support from individuals does not compromise my integrity – AG Ayine

    Financial support from individuals does not compromise my integrity – AG Ayine

    The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has stated that financial support from individuals does not compromise his integrity.

    According to him, his 2024 parliamentary campaign in the Bolgatanga East Constituency was supported by contributions from several individuals.

    However, “It doesn’t compromise me. Let me say this, all the political parties receive donations, either in cash or kind, from companies, from individuals, and so on. I am no exception,” he remarked in an interview on GHOne TV on Thursday, January 15, 2026.

    For his 2024 parliamentary campaign, Mr Ayine disclosed that he spent between GH¢3 million and GH¢4 million to finance it.

    “I can’t put an exact figure on it, but certainly between GH¢3 million and GH¢4 million,” he stated.

    He also revealed that, not only do they receive financial aids from people but they also invest so much in people to attain victory.

    “Almost every rally, we give people small amounts, like GH¢20,000 for water or transport. If you don’t have the money, you might have the intellect, but politics requires resources,” he explained.

    In 2023, fundraising Manager at Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), the local chapter of Transparency International, Michael Boadi, highlighted the importance of overseeing the financial aspects of political campaigns.

    His comment is in a bid to bolster the fight against corruption.

    “We cannot successfully combat corruption without controlling the financing of political parties. We must establish mechanisms to regulate political campaign finance,” stated Boadi during a session at the Ghana News Agency’s Boardroom Dialogue in the Tema Regional Office.

    The event centered around the theme, “The fight against corruption in the Fourth Republic: A Mirage or Reality?”

    Boadi pointed out that political campaign financing had become a significant catalyst for corruption, often leading to misappropriation of the country’s abundant resources if left unchecked.

    “The situation is becoming increasingly perilous. According to research by the Centre for Democratic Development-Ghana, winning a parliamentary seat costs approximately US$300,000.00, a figure that continues to rise,” he noted.

    Questioning the source of substantial funds required for political campaigns, Mr Boadi raised concerns over transparency and accountability.

    “If a parliamentary seat in a smaller constituency demands $300,000.00, one must ponder the source of even larger sums spent by presidential candidates,” he commented.

    Boadi stressed the urgency of disclosing the origins of funding for political parties and their candidates at both the presidential and parliamentary levels.

    He warned that the failure to scrutinize funding sources could potentially lead to criminal entities such as money launderers, drug traffickers, and terrorists wielding influence over the country’s political landscape.

    The efficacy of anti-corruption efforts, Michael Boadi argued, hinges on addressing these challenges and ensuring greater transparency.

    He cautioned against the politicisation of corruption investigations, which has, in some instances, impeded the functionality of relevant institutions and dampened public interest in their proceedings.

    To remedy this, Boadi suggested that corruption investigations be conducted transparently and without external interference. Such an approach, he believed, would encourage citizens to actively participate in the fight against corruption in Ghana.

    In 2023, member of Parliament for Keta constituency in the Volta Region, Kwame Dzudzorli Gakpey, disclosed that it cost him a whopping GH¢1.4 million to run his campaign for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Parliamentary primaries which took place across the country on Saturday, 13 May 2023.

    According to the lawmaker, politics has become expensive and not an easy enterprise to fund.

    Speaking on Talk of the Nation on Class91.3FM on Tuesday, 16 May 2023, Mr Gakpey said “It cost me GH¢1.4 million to run the campaign.”

    Asked by show host Klem Setumte if the money was from his own resources, he said “From my own funds, friends and family”.

    Mr Gakpey explained further, “Now posters are very expensive, the economy is hard” and quizzed rhetorically “Do you know how much an A0 poster costs now? One is GH¢20, GH¢25 that one is even impression…do you know how much T-shirt costs now? GH¢45, and then, do you know how much fuel costs? You have to empower teams to go house to house, it’s not an easy task and then [on election day], you have to convey all the people to the election ground, how to feed them and all that, it’s not an easy task.”

    He continued that “Politics is expensive, campaigning is expensive, but the resources are from multiple sources, genuinely, that is what is happening, campaigning cost, it’s not an easy task”.

    He added that “conveying 1,200 people to a ground to vote and feed them and all that, and then radio advert and all that, is not an easy task, I must be sincere with you, politics is becoming a very expensive business now.”

    Asked about his motivation for wanting to be a parliamentarian when it has to cost him this much, Mr. Gakpey noted that his motivation is to save lives.

    “My motivation is to save lives and people that’s it so that your name will remain in the books that you also saved lives because I [have] human-centered policies for my people. So money is not everything, caring for the aged, the needy ones are things you can see. If you ask me the benefits of this to me, it is that I see my people being healthy, I see my people being happy that I’ve impacted their lives.”

  • Who leads NPP? – Prof Adu-Gyamfi questions Bawumia’s political narrative

    Who leads NPP? – Prof Adu-Gyamfi questions Bawumia’s political narrative

    A Professor at the Department of History, Political Science and Public Administration at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Samuel Adu-Gyamfi, has raised fundamental questions about the consistency, electoral logic, and campaign strategy of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, warning that unresolved contradictions could erode public confidence in his leadership credentials.

    In a series of analytical articles published on Friday, January 16, 2026, the political scientist examines what he describes as growing tensions between Dr Bawumia’s past principles and his current political stance.

    NPP presidential primaries set for January 31, 2026

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has scheduled its presidential primaries for Saturday, January 31, 2026, as part of the process to select its flagbearer ahead of the 2028 general elections.

    Five candidates are confirmed to be contesting the flagbearer race: former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Dr Bryan Acheampong, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, and Kwabena Agyei Agyepong. The party has completed key preparatory steps, including voter register validation nationwide and the official balloting that determined the order of names on the ballot.

    In the lead-up to the primaries, aspirants have been actively campaigning on varied platforms. Dr Bawumia has been assuring party delegates of unity and renewal, saying, “This is a journey with all and for all; we will win together in January, by the grace of God,” in comments emphasising collective effort to rebuild the party.

    Meanwhile, other candidates, such as Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, have sought to broaden their appeal with issue-based campaigns, focusing on poverty alleviation.

    Principles, Consistency and the Weight of Past Positions

    But Prof. Adu-Gyamfi argued that democratic leadership is anchored on credibility accumulated over time, not on momentary political convenience. He recalls that Dr Bawumia, particularly between 2014 and 2016, built a reputation as a fierce critic of fiscal indiscipline, economic mismanagement, and weak governance structures.

    “These positions were not casual remarks; they were framed as moral and economic absolutes,” the professor noted, stressing that voters therefore expect clarity when such standards appear to shift.

    “The real question is not whether circumstances have changed, because they always do,” he wrote. “The real question is whether Dr Bawumia has offered a clear, intellectually honest framework explaining why the standards he once championed no longer apply.”

    Without such an explanation, he warned, voters may interpret the shift as “principle substitution rather than principle evolution,” a perception that could weaken public trust.

    Ethnic Arithmetic and Contradictory Electoral Logic

    Turning to electoral strategy, Prof Adu-Gyamfi revisits Dr Bawumia’s earlier public assessment that Ghanaians might be reluctant to vote for another northern presidential candidate after former President John Mahama.

    He described the statement, made during the 2023 presidential primaries and the 2024 general elections, as a serious claim about voter psychology rather than a passing comment.

    “If Dr Bawumia genuinely believed that voter appetite for another northern presidential candidate was limited, then his decision to contest again raises an unavoidable analytical puzzle,” he stated.

    According to Prof Adu-Gyamfi, political science teaches that contradictory electoral logic must be explained either by new data or by changing incentives. “If no new data has been presented, observers are entitled to question whether the motivation is strategic clarity or personal ambition,” he added.

    Party stakeholders have also urged the NPP to consider holding a flagbearer debate ahead of the January polls to help delegates make more informed decisions.

    Silence on the economy and campaign vulnerability
    The professor also expressed concern about what he described as a conspicuous silence on economic stewardship in Dr Bawumia’s current campaign messaging, despite the economy being his strongest intellectual and professional asset.

    “For Dr Bawumia, the economy, macro-stability and reform-driven governance were once the foundation of his political brand,” he wrote.

    “In political communication theory, issue avoidance is often interpreted as issue vulnerability,” Prof Adu-Gyamfi warned, questioning whether the economic record has become politically costly to defend or whether the campaign is deliberately retreating from its defining strength.

    “A campaign that abandons its strongest intellectual asset without replacing it with a compelling alternative risks appearing defensive rather than visionary,” he cautioned.

    Zongo, Northern and Muslim vote: promise versus performance

    Prof Adu-Gyamfi further interrogates claims that bloc support from Zongo communities, northern constituencies and Muslim voters would decisively reshape the electoral map in Dr Bawumia’s favour.

    He noted that the promise of overwhelming support from these constituencies played a key role in persuading sceptical delegates and voters during the 2023 electoral cycle. However, available results, he argued, suggest underperformance in several of the very areas expected to form Dr Bawumia’s strongest base.

    “This creates a serious credibility gap between mobilisation rhetoric and electoral delivery,” he observed, raising questions about whether assumptions on identity-based voting were flawed or whether campaign organisation failed to convert identity into turnout.

    “In electoral politics, missed promises do not simply disappear. They are remembered,” he stressed.

    A test of coherence, not an attack
    In his concluding assessment, Prof Adu-Gyamfi emphasised that his analysis should be seen not as a personal attack but as a test of coherence and strategic clarity.

    “They ask whether principles align with present posture, whether past electoral logic aligns with current ambition, and whether promised voting coalitions align with measurable outcomes,” he wrote.

    “In leadership selection, voters are not only choosing a candidate,” he concluded. “They are choosing a theory of victory—and any theory that cannot explain its own contradictions will struggle to inspire confidence.”

    Read the full articles below

    Article 1

    Principles, Consistency, and the Burden of One’s Own Words
    One of the most important currencies in democratic leadership is credibility over time. Political actors are not judged only by what they say today, but by whether their current positions are internally consistent with their previously declared principles.

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia built a strong reputation as a principle-driven political actor, particularly between 2014 and 2016, when he positioned himself as a critic of fiscal indiscipline, economic mismanagement, and weak governance structures. Those positions were not casual remarks; they were framed as moral and economic absolutes.

    The critical question now is not whether circumstances have changed. Circumstances always do. The real question is this:

    Has Dr Bawumia offered a clear, intellectually honest framework explaining why the standards he once championed no longer apply, or why he should now be judged by a different metric?

    Without such an explanation, voters are left with the impression of principle substitution rather than principle evolution. In political theory, this is dangerous. Leaders who appear to move the goalposts retroactively weaken public trust, even when their intentions are sincere.

    Key Analytical Question

    Are Dr Bawumia’s current positions a continuation of his earlier principles under new constraints, or a strategic retreat from them?

    Article 2

    Ethnic Arithmetic, Electoral Logic, and the Question of Motivation
    Electoral politics is not only about ideology; it is also about coalition mathematics. During the 2023 Presidential Primaries and 2024 General Elections, Dr Bawumia publicly raised a question that has now returned with force:
    Would Ghanaians vote for another Northerner after John Mahama?

    This statement was not made in abstraction. It was presented as a realistic assessment of voter psychology and electoral fatigue. That is precisely why it now deserves scrutiny.

    If Dr Bawumia genuinely believed that voter appetite for another northern presidential candidate was limited, then his decision to contest again raises an unavoidable analytical puzzle:
    What has changed in the electorate since that assessment was made?

    Has voter sentiment shifted measurably?

    Has ethnic voting behaviour changed structurally?

    Or has the earlier statement been abandoned without explanation?

    Political science teaches us that contradictory electoral logic signals either new data or new incentives. If no new data has been presented, observers are entitled to question whether the motivation for re-contesting is strategic clarity or personal ambition.

    Critical Question

    Is Dr Bawumia now rejecting his own earlier electoral analysis, and if so, on what empirical basis?

    Article 3

    The Silence on the Economy and the Problem of Campaign Narrative
    Every successful presidential campaign is anchored on a central governing narrative. For Dr Bawumia, that narrative has historically been the economy, macro-stability, and reform-driven governance.

    However, a notable feature of his current posture is the relative silence on economic stewardship, despite the economy being his strongest intellectual and professional advantage.

    This silence is not neutral. In political communication theory, issue avoidance is often interpreted as issue vulnerability.

    If the economy is no longer being foregrounded, voters are left asking:

    Is the economic record too politically costly to defend?

    Is there uncertainty about ownership of outcomes?

    Or is the campaign deliberately shifting away from what once defined it?

    A campaign that abandons its strongest intellectual asset without replacing it with a compelling alternative risks appearing defensive rather than visionary.

    Key Question

    If the economy was the foundation of Dr Bawumia’s credibility, why is it no longer the centrepiece of his message?

    Article 4

    The Zongo, Northern, and Muslim Vote: Promise Versus Performance

    One of the most powerful mobilising narratives in the 2023 elections was the promise of bloc support from Zongo communities, northern constituencies, and Muslim voters, particularly as a counterweight to perceived weaknesses in parts of the South.

    That promise was not symbolic. It was instrumental in persuading sceptical delegates and voters that the electoral map could be decisively altered.

    The empirical outcome, however, tells a different story.

    Available results indicate that Dr Bawumia underperformed in several of the very constituencies that were expected to form his strongest base, in some cases performing worse than previous candidates.

    This creates a serious credibility gap between mobilisation rhetoric and electoral delivery.

    Critical Questions

    What explains the failure of the promised voting bloc to materialise?

    Were the assumptions about identity-based voting flawed?

    Or was the organisational machinery insufficient to convert identity into turnout?

    In electoral politics, missed promises do not simply disappear. They are remembered as benchmarks against which future claims are judged.

    Concluding Strategic Framing for Team Ken
    Taken together, these questions are not attacks. They are tests of coherence.

    They ask whether Dr Bawumia’s:

    • principles align with his present posture,

    • past electoral logic aligns with current ambition,

    • economic brand aligns with campaign silence, and

    •promised voting coalitions align with measurable outcomes.

    In leadership selection, voters are not only choosing a candidate. They are choosing a theory of victory.

    Any theory that cannot explain its own contradictions will struggle to inspire confidence.

    Source: otecfmghana.com

  • Black Sherif cleared of major liability in ex-management lawsuit

    The High Court (Commercial Division) has handed down its decision in the case of Shadrach Owusu Agyei versus Mohammed Ismail Sherif, effectively ending the legal battle between the internationally known Ghanaian musician Black Sherif and his former management firm, Charvis Wayne’s Consult.

    In a judgment delivered on January 16, 2026, Her Ladyship Justice Afia Adu-Amankwa dismissed most of the claims brought against Black Sherif, ruling that the Plaintiff did not provide sufficient evidence to support the core allegations.

    The Court acknowledged that a management contract existed between the parties but held that accusations of withheld revenue, unreported income, and other alleged financial losses were not proven.

    It further determined that the Plaintiff failed to properly account for funds as stipulated in the agreement and could not show that contractual obligations were still being performed after the contract had been terminated.

    Claims concerning construction projects and other expenses said to have been incurred on Black Sherif’s behalf were also thrown out due to lack of evidence. The Court additionally found that the Plaintiff did not take reasonable steps to limit any losses following the termination of the agreement.

    While the Court noted that Black Sherif’s involvement with a third party during the life of the management contract amounted to a technical breach, it stressed that no actual financial harm was established. As a result, nominal damages of GHS 50,000 were awarded to reflect the minor nature of the breach, with all other claims dismissed.

    The Court also granted costs of GHS 15,000, restricted to reasonable legal and related expenses.

    The ruling brings the dispute to an end, with the Court dismissing the majority of the claims and affirming that Black Sherif did not incur any significant liability.

    Black Sherif continues to concentrate on his music career and international commitments as he maintains his presence on the global stage representing Ghana.

    The Cruise People Limited has taken legal action against musician Black Sherif, accusing him of breaching a contract they had entered into.

    The lawsuit, filed at the High Court, alleges that Black Sherif failed to fulfill the terms of their agreement, which ultimately led to the cancellation of the Afro Cruise Jam concert he was scheduled to perform at in August.

    According to the suit, Cruise People Limited had booked Black Sherif for the cruise event and paid half of his booking fee, amounting to $20,000. As part of the agreement, Black Sherif was supposed to provide a video confirming his participation in the event in Greece.

    However, the Plaintiff claims that despite assurances from Black Sherif that he would send the video before the media launch on May 19, he failed to do so. Consequently, the company went ahead and paid $18,000 to secure cabins on the cruise and an additional GHS65,000 to Joy FM for the launch on Drive Time.

    Due to Black Sherif’s alleged failure to honor the contract, the concert had to be canceled, leading to financial losses and disappointment for Cruise People Limited. The lawsuit seeks to address the breach of contract and the damages incurred as a result.

    “The Plaintiff avers that as a result of the Defendant’s willful neglect and or refusal to confirm his musical performance on the Joy FM radio show through the video clip, the paid deposit of $18,000 for the cabins on the cruise ship was lost to the cruise line due to the cancellation of the booking of the cabins since the expected Interests and patronage of the event could not be guarantee,” part of the suit read.

    Cruise People Limited emphasized that Black Sherif was fully aware that his failure to fulfill his obligations, specifically confirming his participation in the event, would severely impact the Afro Cruise Jam. The success of the event relied heavily on the Defendant’s announcement of his availability to perform on the cruise ship.

    They further asserted that this conduct by Black Sherif constitutes a significant breach of the agreement that was executed on April 18, 2023, rendering the entire agreement ineffective.

    As a result of the breach, the organisers of the Afro Cruise Jam are seeking legal recourse. They are asking the court to direct Black Sherif to reimburse the $20,000 booking fee he was initially paid, in addition to seeking $18,000 to cover the expenses incurred in securing cabins on the cruise ship.

    In summary, Cruise People Limited is urging the court to hold Black Sherif accountable for his actions and to provide compensation for the financial losses incurred due to the breach of contract.

    Again, they are seeking “payment of interest on the $20,000 from the 18th April 2023, up to the date of final payment and an order directed at Defendant to pay Plaintiff $50,000 being lost profits occasioned by Defendant’s breach of the agreement.

    Cruise People Limited are also seeking “an order directed at Defendant to pay to Plaintiff the Ghc65,000 which was paid to the Multimedia Group with the sole purpose of advertising the video clip of the Defendant which the Defendant refused to make available, general damages for breach of contract and Costs Inclusive of legal fees.”

    https://youtube.com/watch?v=15DMqnccf-U%3Frel%3D0%26modestbranding%3D1

    Background

    Following his arrival in Ghana, Black Sherif was arrested by the police at the Kotoka International Airport for alleged breach of contract. Sources close to the musician confirmed that he had been booked for the Afro Cruise Jam event and had initially paid a deposit of $20,000 out of the total $40,000 booking fee.

    According to the same sources, the contract did not specify a requirement for promotional videos to be made for a press launch prior to the event.

    In response to the threats of contract cancellation and potential lawsuits, Black Sherif’s agents chose to refund the initial deposit. However, the event organizer insisted on being reimbursed $50,000 instead of the original $20,000 fee that had been paid.

    Black Sherif’s agents find this request unfair and inconsistent with their understanding of the agreement.

    On the other hand, CEO of Cruise People Limited, Daniel Vanderpuye, maintains that a promotional video was indeed part of Black Sherif’s obligations under the contract. Despite the musician’s failure to provide the video, his team expressed readiness to consider any changes or proposals to the agreement in an email.

    However, Mr. Vanderpuye stated that there was no response from Black Sherif’s team for almost two months, during which he made multiple attempts to reach out to them through various channels, but to no avail.

    “Gramps Morgan was in Ghana, he called the team and they called his bluff. Papa Logic, Baba Sadiq, and Amakye Dede’s folks all reached out and they called their bluff. I didn’t want to go on this tangent so I used all available human resources to reach out to the team,” he told Kwame Dadzie.

  • ‘Why are DJs not paying me? – Shatta Wale on why the industry hated on him

    ‘Why are DJs not paying me? – Shatta Wale on why the industry hated on him

    Dancehall King Shatta Wale has recounted what he considers as factors that made industry stakeholders hate on him.

    According to him, the entertainment industry initially used Samini to “fight” him because he raised concerns about why DJ’s were not paying him and other discrepancies in the industry.

    He belives that Stonebwoy was made to inherit the feud when they realized Samini was losing influence.

    “My only problem was that, ‘Why are DJs not paying me? Why are radio stations putting my face and name on shows without informing me?’ and they said I don’t respect. I was fighting for those things for every Ghanaian artiste, so stakeholders will stop that nonsense thing, and that got me to become an enemy to the industry,” he explained duirng a TikTok live session.

    Shatta Wale noted that, the former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Mark Okraku-Mantey, had even acknowledged this on radio.

    The “On God” hitmaker insisted there is no real tension between them and said they actually live very close to each other.

    “Where I live is only about a 30-second drive from Stonebwoy’s place, so we are neighbours. Sometimes, I see that people are worried about us not being at peace, but it’s important to understand that this perception is largely influenced by the media,” Shatta Wale said.

    He stressed that even Stonebwoy is unhappy with the way their relationship is often misrepresented.

    “Stonebwoy doesn’t like this portrayal either. However, it’s all part of the game, and we just have to live with it,” he explained.

    Shatta Wale further pointed out that the media’s persistent portrayal of rivalry has made fans believe there is genuine bad blood between them.

    “The media tends to create a narrative that suggests we are at loggerheads, and many of you take it seriously,” he added.

    Over the years, the relationship between the two artistes has been characterised by public disagreements, brief reconciliations, and renewed speculations — a situation Shatta Wale now says is far from reality.

    Shatta has set the record straight about his relationship with fellow Stonebwoy, saying they are actually on good terms despite what many people think.

    Speaking in a recent interview, Shatta Wale revealed that he and Stonebwoy are even neighbours, living about a five-minute drive from each other.

    He pointed out that the idea of constant tension between them has been largely pushed by the media, and does not reflect the reality of their relationship.

    “It will shock people to know that Stonebwoy, Samini, and the others are all on good terms, but the media only focuses on the negatives,” he said.

    Shatta Wale added that even Stonebwoy is not happy about how the media stirs up rivalry among fans and creates unnecessary drama between artistes.

    He explained that while some of the hype and tension might be seen as part of the showbiz game, fans should learn to separate reality from entertainment.

    “When I see people worried about peace among us, I know the media has planted that idea in their minds. Even Stonebwoy himself doesn’t like that. But I understand — it’s part of the game, and sometimes, we just play along,” he said.

    Shatta Wale’s remarks come as a call for unity in the music industry, urging fans and the media to focus more on positivity rather than conflict.

    Sonnie Badu shared an intriguing comment after Nana Kwame Bediako revealed his involvement with The New Force political movement.

    Badu congratulated Cheddar for his bold move in addressing the challenges faced by Ghanaians through this political agenda.

    In a seemingly playful manner, he humorously expressed his desire to be appointed as the Minister for Youth and Sports if he were to run for the presidency in the future.

    Last year, Sonnie Badu lightheartedly suggested roles for artists like Shatta Wale, Sarkodie, and Kwaw Kesse in his hypothetical government, emphasising that it was all in good fun.

    “Cedar, Asem ben nie? BEDIAKO, you are literally living your name… Well, I want ministers of youth and sports so I can travel with the Black Stars, and please give ministers of entertainment to… Nii Amah, Livingston and Obidi… Then give Agriculture to Kwaw Kese, I will help him find all fertile grounds to plant intampi… Just kidding… But on a serious note, Congratulations my brother; it’s a bold step,” he wrote on his Instagram page.

    Cheddar officially revealed himself as the driving force behind The New Force political movement after the last-minute cancellation of the convention programme at Independence Square due to unforeseen circumstances.

    The announcement sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some expressing doubts about his chances of leading the country.

  • “I hate men!” – Cardi B

    “I hate men!” – Cardi B

    Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B has sparked fresh controversy after making explosive remarks during a heated rant on X Spaces, where she threatened to rob men again and declared her dislike for them.

    The outburst comes amid growing public scrutiny surrounding the 33-year-old artiste, who has recently been linked to multiple controversies, including allegations involving her boyfriend, Stefon Diggs, and claims made against her father, Carlos Almánzar.

    Addressing the issues in a series of comments on X Spaces on Monday, January 5, Cardi B strongly dismissed the allegations circulating online, describing the individuals spreading them as perverted and disturbed.

    “Y’all the type of motherfuckers that probably be having fucking kid porn on y’all’s motherfuckucking cell phones, because y’all motherfuckers is deranged,” Cardi B said.

    She went on to label her critics as “predators” and warned that she was prepared to escalate matters if necessary.

    Cardi also pushed back against accusations of hypocrisy tied to her past admission of drugging and robbing men before she became famous.

    “And for y’all to be talking about, ‘Oh, she drugged and robbed…’ I’ll rob n***as again. I don’t give a fuck,” she said around the 25-minute mark. “And I’ll rob them for real…I hate men, and I don’t give a fuck. … Find me a fucking mugshot. I don’t give a fuck.”

    The comments revive a long-standing debate stemming from a 2019 Instagram Live session in which Cardi B openly spoke about drugging and robbing men in hotel rooms during a period when she worked as an exotic dancer.

    Following backlash online, the rapper took to X again, clashing with a user who described her as someone who had “always been a street bitch.”

    “Ya be glorifying this street rappers that talk and do that grimmey street shit but they can’t stand a street bitch!” she wrote.

    Cardi B also addressed claims made about her father after Grok alleged that Carlos Almánzar served five years in Nassau County for attempted rape in 1993. She firmly denied the allegation, stating that her father has “never been arrested in this country.”

    “I don’t know why yall like playing these games just for you to be fake mad when I post who got those real mugshots, real evidence, AND REAL cases for rape,” she tweeted. “stop playing wit me and my family and leave me the fck alone fr before I start some shit today.”

    The rapper’s remarks have since fueled intense debate online, with supporters and critics continuing to clash over her comments and past admissions.

    Last year, she has revealed that the process to divorce her estranged husband, Offset has stalled because of his demands from her, such as money and properties.

    During a livestream on X spaces on Monday, the 32-year-old confidently stated that she will not succumb to those demands.

    “The only reason why I’m still married is because somebody wants me to pay for their taxes,” the Grammy-winning rapper stated without mentioning Offset’s name. “Y’all wanna know the tea? The only way I can get out of my marriage is if I pay for somebody else’s taxes, even though I pay for my own, and give them one of my properties. I’mma fight for that. This is no love shit. I’m not gonna stop living my life,” Cardi B stated.

    It is alleged that Cardi B spilled the tea over backlash from netizens because she has already moved on with another man, Stefon Diggs and is expecting a baby with him.

    In 2023, Cardi B responded to public accusations of adultery made by her husband, Offset. The situation garnered attention as both parties navigate the challenges within their relationship.

    Offset stated in an Instagram post uploaded on his official Instagram account that his wife slept with a man behind his back.

    “My wife fcked a nigga on me gang yall nigga know how I come,” Offset said.

    Cardi B fashioned a song out of her answer on Twitter, implying that her husband was accusing her of the same thing he does.

    The couple’s relationship has been rocky in the past, with multiple public breakups and reconciliations.

    Cardi B had stated that if she ever divorced her spouse, she would write hit songs about the event. She further stated that if they divorced, she would marry another wealthy man.

    Cardi B went on to advise her fans not to lend their ears to Offset’s words. She emphasized that he was attempting to shift blame onto her for actions he knew he was guilty of. Urging her followers not to pay attention to Offset’s words, she dismissed him as a mere “country man.”

    She asserted her identity as Cardi B and reminded everyone that she was not just anybody.

    Cardi B confidently stated that if she were involved with anyone intimately, she would make it known, highlighting her refusal to engage in clandestine amorous affairs.

    In her words:

    “You can’t accuse me of the things you know you are guilty of and I see that it’s easy for you to blame everything on me.

    “Don’t pay attention to that country man you all.

    “Come on now, I’m Cardi B and I think motherfuckers forget I’m Cardi B. If I was giving out my body to anybody, it would be out. I’m not just anybody.”

    Netizens have reacted to the incident, with many expressing sympathy for Cardi B and condemning her husband’s actions.

    Others said Offset can’t handle everything he throws at her and that he should be more understanding of his wife’s career.

    authentik_fitwears said: “She said she’s gon upgrade dude.”

    callmedamy said: “Let the divorce begins.”

    captain__linda said: “Did I hear her say upgrade.”

    ndukauba_anthonia commented: “So he can’t work it out with her? Seek counselling, maybe he’s gained extra weight or maybe doesn’t know better ways of satisfying her…”

    king_mayorblack reacted: “Man had a taste of his medicine.”

    iam_veekee_ reacted: “Most Nigerian men deserves a character like cardi B.”

    evelyn_ xX said: “Pray for your wife. Be a good husband.”

    worha sonia said: “The day offset married Cardi B he married both gold and thorn, he should pick which one he wants to live with.”

    In 2023, Cardi B announced she had broken up with her spouse, rapper Offset.

    She revealed in an Instagram Live that she had been dropping hints that she and her partner are no longer together on social media.

    “I’ve been single for a minute now, but I have been afraid to like… not afraid, I just don’t know how to tell the world. But I feel like today has been a sign,” she said. “The last time I got on Live, I kind of wanted to tell you guys. But I didn’t know how to tell you, so I changed my mind. But it has been like this for a minute now. I just took it as a sign.”

    The “sign” she was referring to was some online messiness in which Offset’s name was part of an allegation of infidelity that he has denied on social media.

    “I don’t think it’s true, I don’t care to find out,” Cardi B said of the chatter.

    It seems like she would prefer to concentrate on the future.

    “I want to start 2024, like, fresh, open,” she said during the IG Live. “I don’t know. I’m curious for a new life, for a new beginning. And yeah, I’m excited.”

    In October 2017, the pair publicly announced their engagement when he proposed to her onstage. Subsequently, it was disclosed that they had privately tied the knot in his hometown of Atlanta in September of the same year.

    Together, they share a daughter named Kulture, aged 5, and a son named Wave, aged 2.

    Cardi B. and Offset have experienced multiple separations in the past, notably in 2018 when he made a grand gesture by crashing her performance at the Rolling Loud Festival in Los Angeles to plead for her reconciliation.

  • Media personality Kafui Dey joins  ZED Multimedia after quiting GTV

    Media personality Kafui Dey joins  ZED Multimedia after quiting GTV

    Media personality and seasoned broadcaster Kafui Dey has moved to join ZED Multimedia after taking a bow from Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) last year in July.

    This was announced by ZED Multimedia in a Facebook post shared on January 16 2026.

    Kafui Dey is set to host a new weekly segment titled “What Dey Happen with Kafui” and it will aired on ZED 101.9FM every Thursday at 10:00 pm commencing  22nd January, 2026.

    Listeners may also tune in live through the station’s online streaming service at radio.zedmultimedia.com.

    The management of ZED Multimedia has characterized Kafui Dey’s joining as a strategic move intended to boost the station’s evening programming and enhance listener involvement.

    Renowned for his composed presentation, insightful commentary, and strong connection with varied audiences, Kafui Dey adds extensive experience in broadcasting, moderation, and content curation to the ZED brand.

    “What Dey Happen with Kafui” has been crafted as an engaging, conversational show that will delve into current issues, lifestyle trends, entertainment, and the social discussions influencing Ghanaian society.

    The program will also serve as a space for open conversations, reflections on national issues, and interactions with guests from different backgrounds, presented in a manner that is relatable yet intellectually stimulating.

    Commenting on his choice to join ZED Multimedia, Kafui Dey shared his enthusiasm for the new phase, stating that the platform matches his interest in impactful discussions and quality broadcasting.

    He noted that the show will mirror everyday life while prompting listeners to critically examine matters that affect them.

    ZED Multimedia also indicated that the program aligns seamlessly with its goal of delivering varied, relevant, and engaging content that connects with its audience.

    The station further said Kafui Dey’s professionalism and insight will add value to ZED 101.9FM’s standing as a destination for trustworthy and entertaining radio.

    Both staff and listeners have received the news positively, describing it as a welcome boost to the station’s prime-time lineup.

    As “What Dey Happen with Kafui” prepares to air on Thursday evenings, audiences can look forward to a compelling blend of discussion, reflection, and genuine storytelling as ZED 101.9FM broadens its programming and reinforces its place in Ghana’s competitive radio space.

     Former host of GTV’s Breakfast Show, Kafui Dey, officially announced his departure from the morning program after four impactful years on air.

    In a heartfelt statement shared on July 24, 2025, the media personality reflected on his journey, which began on August 2, 2021.

    He described the experience as “incredible,” expressing gratitude to the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), the Director-General, his co-presenters, producers, directors, crew, social media team, and every guest who contributed to the success of the show.

    “After 4 incredible years, IT IS TIME,” Kafui wrote. “Today, I step away from #GTVBreakfast.”

    He also extended a warm message to his audience, thanking them for riding with him through the highs and lows. “To all who supported me—thank you. For the highs, the lows, and the memories, I’m truly thankful. If I ever offended anyone, please forgive me,” he added.

    In 2023, popular host of Ignition and the Weekend City Show, Sammy Forson, concluded his tenure at the SuperStation Joy 99.7 FM.

    After joining Ghana’s The Multimedia Group in 2018 from Live FM, Sammy expressed readiness to embark on fresh opportunities. Throughout his stint at Joy FM, he enthralled listeners with his extensive radio experience, impeccable musical taste, and infectious sense of humor.

    The velvety-voiced radio personality adeptly handled various roles at the station, including hosting Overdrive and standing in for the hosts of Drive Time and Showbiz A-Z.

    “I am overwhelmed with gratitude for each and every one of you. Your unwavering love, support, and dedication have been the heartbeat of my journey. It’s been an honor to be a part of your lives, to share stories, laughter, and moments that have woven us together,” Sammy Forson says. 

    “From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for allowing me into your homes, cars, and daily routines. The memories we’ve created will forever hold a special place in my heart. To my incredible team, colleagues and all those who’ve supported me along this path, your contributions have been invaluable,” he adds. 

    According to him as he steps into a new chapter, he carries with him, the cherished memories.

    “I will miss the connection, the shared moments, and the joy of being in your company. You’ve been my inspiration, my motivation, and my reason to strive for excellence,” he says. 

    Originating in Kumasi in 2001, Sammy embarked on his journey as a computer systems engineer at Ghana Computers, guided by Fred Arthur. His expertise in repairing, servicing, and assembling computers led him to the PCDJ software. Mastering it, Sammy revolutionized radio stations like Asta Radio and Chriss FM in Techiman and Berekum, replacing traditional setups with high-specification computer systems.

    Joining the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation in October 2003, Sammy played a pivotal role in transitioning Garden City Radio to computerized music systems.

    Over time, he expanded his responsibilities to manage the IT department and establish a production studio, showcasing his passion for music and DJing.

    Influenced by mentor Jojo Lemaire, Sammy displayed his voice and musical talent on shows like ‘Reggae Sun Splash,’ ‘Sentimental Jazz,’ ‘Joy in His Presence,’ and ‘Smooth Joints.’

    A significant turning point occurred in 2004 when Sammy met radio legend Tommy Annan Forson, leading him to Citi 97.3FM. There, he hosted ‘Rhythms in the Citi’ and later took charge of shows like ‘Citi Drive’ and ‘Country Club.’ Under the leadership of CEO Samuel Atta Mensah, Sammy experienced remarkable growth during his tenure at Citi FM.

    Making the move to YFM 107.9FM in 2009 under the mentorship of radio veteran George Brun, who was then the General Manager, Sammy curated ‘The Mid-Morning Show with Sammy Forson.’ This show gained immense popularity across Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi. Notably, Sammy received several accolades, including the Radio Mid Morning Host of the Year at the Ghana Radio and Television Awards and the Record Promoter of the Year at the Ghana DJ Awards.

  • Fuel to start selling at GHS11.75 today – COMAC announces

    Fuel to start selling at GHS11.75 today – COMAC announces

    Fuel prices are expected to record a slight drop at the pumps starting today, January 16, 2026.

    This expectation is contained in the latest pricing outlook from the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), which guides fuel pricing decisions by oil marketing companies. JOYBUSINESS has sighted the report.

    This will be the second time fuel prices are projected to fall in January 2026, driven by favourable movements on the global market and the strengthening of the cedi against the US dollar.

    According to COMAC data, petrol prices are expected to fall by between 1.26 percent and 2.30 percent, potentially bringing the price per litre down to about GH¢11.75.

    Diesel prices could also decline by up to 2.10 percent, with a litre likely to sell for around GH¢12.45.

    Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is expected to record the biggest reduction, with prices projected to fall by as much as 5.09 percent. This could bring the price of LPG to approximately GH¢12.30 per kilogram.

    COMAC explained that the expected price reductions are largely due to falling prices of finished petroleum products on the international market.

    The report noted that even though crude oil prices saw a slight increase, an oversupply of petroleum products globally led to lower prices for petrol, diesel, and LPG.

    For the second pricing window, petrol prices dropped by 1.07 percent on the international market, diesel declined by 0.68 percent, while LPG fell by 3.40 percent.

    At the same time, the Ghana cedi recorded a strong performance against major foreign currencies at the start of the year. For the January 16, 2026 pricing window, the cedi strengthened from GH¢11.52 to GH¢10.90, representing a gain of 5.71 percent.

    Databank Research has suggested that pressure on the cedi may remain limited, supported by the gradual release of the one-billion-dollar allocation for January under the Bank of Ghana’s Foreign Exchange Intermediation Programme.

    Market analysts say the cedi’s strong performance over the past two weeks has played a key role in the expected reduction in fuel prices.

    Some oil marketing companies have told JOYBUSINESS they will begin adjusting prices at the pumps in the coming days, while others indicate the review may take effect from next week.

    Meanwhile, Motorists have started the New Year on a good note with less pressure on their pockets as several  Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs)  have effected a reduction in fuel prices at their respective pumps across the country in the January pricing window.

    The price cuts, which took effect in the early hours of the New Year, signify a continued downward trend in petroleum costs, offering much-needed breathing room for both commercial and private transport users.

    Among the first OMCs that effected the reduction was market leader Star Oil. It set the pace and a benchmark for other OMCs as it adjusted its digital displays. A marginal dip from previous prices.

    Petrol is now selling at GH¢10.86 per litre, diesel is priced at GH¢11.96 per litre, and RON 95 is selling at GH¢13.56 per litre.

    According to the Star Oil management, the reduction in oil prices is a result of a “favourable domestic and external cost environment,” citing the cedi appreciation and a dip in international refined product prices.

    It said the current reductions may only be the tip of the iceberg for January. The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) projected a robust outlook for the month, suggesting that competitive pressures will force more OMCs to follow suit in the coming days.

    In its January pricing outlook, COMAC provided a breakdown of the expected percentage declines. It was projected that petrol would fall by up to 4.80%, and diesel was also estimated to drop by approximately 3.77%. LPG, on the other hand, was expected to see a reduction of roughly 2.19%.

    Industry analysts believe that if the cedi maintains its current trajectory and international crude prices remain below $80 per barrel, Ghanaians could see even more substantial relief by the second pricing window in mid-January.

    While the prices of fuel are dropping, Ghanaians have had to brace themselves for an increase in utility tariffs, which took effect on January 1, 2026.

    Following the announcement of the increase, there was widespread disapproval, particularly from stakeholders and the general public.

    On December 2, 2025, the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) announced an imminent increase in tariffs, with the new rates set to take effect from January 1, 2026. The Commission said the increases, 9.86% for electricity and 15.92% for water, had become necessary to meet utility investment needs, respond to macroeconomic pressures, and ensure the long-term stability of the sector.

    Consequently, the Trades Union Congress (TUC), the labour umbrella body that represents workers’ interests and coordinates labour unions, engaged the Commission on two different occasions, first, about a week after the increase was announced, and later in a subsequent meeting nearing the end of December.

    Following these engagements, a joint statement released by the institutions revealed efforts to balance consumer concerns with the financial sustainability of utilities; however, the PURC’s stance remained unchanged.

    The Commission contended that any reversal of its 2026–2030 Multi-Year Tariff Order (MYTO) could have serious consequences for the stability of Ghana’s energy and water sectors, as well as the broader economy.

    The Multi-Year Tariff Order (MYTO) is a regulatory framework used by the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) to set electricity and water tariffs over a fixed period, 2026 to 2030, in this case. It is intended to ensure predictable pricing, financial stability for utilities, and protection for consumers.

    The Commission reaffirmed this position during meetings with the Trades Union Congress (TUC) held on December 11 and 30, 2025, during which the new tariff schedule, which took effect on Thursday, January 1, 2026, was discussed.

    “…The PURC reaffirmed its position that any reversal of the tariff decision would have significant implications, not only for the Commission’s independence but, crucially, for the stability of the energy and water sectors and the broader Ghanaian economy,” parts of the statement said.

    According to the joint statement, discussions focused particularly on the implications of the tariff adjustments on the living conditions of workers, as well as on electricity stability and investments in the power and water sectors. The discussions also explored avenues for collaboration between the two institutions.

    While the PURC stressed the need to maintain the increases, it also acknowledged the concerns raised by the TUC and committed to addressing them during the next tariff review window.

    The TUC, on the other hand, in line with its mandate to advocate for workers’ interests, pledged to engage the government on wage levels, anticipating the financial impact the increases would have on workers. It added that it would continue to monitor the situation to determine its next course of action.

    The TUC said it would continue to monitor the impact of the tariff adjustments on salaries and wages, noting that the findings would inform Congress’s subsequent course of action. It further indicated that it would engage the government on current wage levels and their impact on the cost-of-living conditions of the Ghanaian worker.

    Meanwhile, the TUC had earlier warned that it would call a nationwide strike if the government failed to intervene to stop or adjust the new utility tariff increases announced by the PURC.

    In a statement signed by Secretary-General Joshua Ansah on Wednesday, December 3, the TUC argued that the 9% wage adjustment for 2026 was insufficient to cushion workers against a 9.86% increase in electricity tariffs and a 15.92% rise in water tariffs scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026.

    “Workers cannot accept these increases unless the government returns to the negotiating table to top up the wage increase for 2026. Anything short of that, the TUC will mobilise workers to resist the implementation of these insensitive increases in utility prices,” the statement said.

    The union further described the tariff adjustments as an unpleasant “New Year’s gift,” deliberately targeting the 9% increase in the national minimum wage and base pay, an increment it said it was still struggling to accept due to the additional financial burden it would place on workers.

  • Akufo Addo has no favorite among NPP flagbearer candidates – Abu Jinapor

    Akufo Addo has no favorite among NPP flagbearer candidates – Abu Jinapor

    The Member of Parliament for Damongo, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has adopted former President John Agyekum Kufuor by refusing to hail one NPP flagbearer over the other.

    According to him, this calculated approach is meant to preserve the former President’s moral authority to reach out to all sides of the party and foster unity after what is expected to be a closely fought contest.

    Speaking on The Pulse on Thursday, January 15, Mr Jinapor explained on JoyNews that “we have the luck and fortune of having two former presidents in the party, and we must make maximum political use of that,” he said, adding that their neutrality places them in a strong position to help reconcile and bring the party together after the contest.

    Mr Jinapor said it is a good and smart move that the two respected party elders have not openly supported any candidate. According to him, staying neutral allows them to step in and bring people together if the party needs unity later on.

    He downplayed the importance of their personal choices, saying those views do not represent the President’s position and do not affect his neutrality in the race.

    While admitting that the competition is tough, Mr Jinapor said he is confident about the final result and believes Dr Mahamudu Bawumia will win the contest.

    The latest National Tracking Poll by Global InfoAnalytics has disclosed that 56 per cent of voters and 72 per cent of committed delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) wants former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

    According to the poll, 28 per cent voters are rooting for former Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, with 6 per cent for Dr Bryan Acheampong and Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum and 4 percent supporting Kwabena Agyapong.

    19 per cent of NPP delegates want Kennedy Agyapong while Dr Bryan Acheampong records 4 per cent, Dr Osei-Adutwum 3 per cent, and Kwabena Agyapong 1 per cent.

    The poll was conducted between December 1 and December 21, this year across all 16 regions of the country. Methods used include, a combination of web-based, telephone and face-to-face interviews.

    In October 2025, the Pan-African civil society organisation, Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, released its Phase Two survey on the NPP presidential primaries.

    According to the organisation’s survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.

    The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, which represents a 1.7 % point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB), trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).

    The results of the survey carried out between July and October 2025 came from a sample of 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.

    It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as a leading candidate in ten regions out of Ghana’s 16, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).

    His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds his lead in the Northern sector, thus with an advantage in the rest of the six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.

    Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).

    Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.

    The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid.

    Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.

    With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.

    Meanwhile, Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) into the 2028 general election against his closest contender, former Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The other contenders, i.e., former Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, secured 6%, Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Bryan Acheampong, polled 5%, while former NPP General Secretary, Kwabena Agyapong, registered 3%.

    In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also leads decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.

    The survey further indicates that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr. Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

  • Metro Mass reduces buses to Kumasi, Cape Coast to serve Accra commuters

    Metro Mass reduces buses to Kumasi, Cape Coast to serve Accra commuters

    Metro Mass Transit Limited (MMT) has temporarily scaled back some of its intercity services to reassign buses to intracity routes in Accra, in a bid to ease mounting congestion during peak hours.

    The initiative is intended to relieve pressure on commuters, especially during the busy morning and evening periods.

    Mohammed Mubarak Watara, Head of Communications at MMT, explained that the move was in line with instructions from the Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, who called on the company to assist private transport operators during rush hours.

    “Indeed, I can confirm that the Minister met with Metro Mass and our sister company to make sure that we make some buses available for the rush hours,” he said on Citi FM on Thursday, January 15, 2026.

    Mr Watara added that although Metro Mass is operating with a smaller fleet, management has reorganized operations to make the best use of available buses.

    “So, Metro Mass, we are able to do that even though at the moment our fleet of buses is very low. We have been able to adjust. What we did is that we have extended our working hours and, most importantly, even though we do more intracity transport, we have had to increase our routes, not to every place because of our limited fleet,” he said.

    He highlighted that services on major intracity routes with high passenger demand had been boosted.

    “For example, on the route to Adenta, we use the EV buses. All 10 of them have been working from 4:30 a.m., and even after 8:30 p.m., our buses are still running on the routes,” he said.

    Mr Watara further revealed that arrangements had been made to support commuters along the Kasoa corridor.

    “We also have Kaneshie to Kasoa. We have created another station in our yard for Kasoa commuters. Also, we have Circle to Amasaman and Nsawam,” he stated.

    To maintain the strengthened intracity operations, some long-distance routes have been reduced.

    “We have reduced the number of buses that go to Kumasi and Cape Coast to make way for buses to serve the intracity commuters,” he said.

    In December 2025, Parliament passed the Road Traffic Amendment Bill 2025, giving formal approval for motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles to be used for commercial transport. Government officials said the move is expected to streamline operations within the transport industry and improve overall road safety.

    Approved on Wednesday, December 10, the amendment also adjusted Ghana’s legally permissible alcohol limit for drivers and introduced stricter sanctions designed to curb alcohol-related road offences.

    Presenting the rationale behind the changes, the Minister for Transport, Joseph Nikpe Bukari, told lawmakers that the updated law seeks to restore order to a sector that has long faced regulatory inconsistencies.

    “The Road Traffic Amendment Bill seeks to sanitise road transport services. We have had several issues involving road users, and this bill aims to introduce stricter punishment, enhance safety measures, and ensure the effective and efficient use of our roads,” he told MPs.

    The recently enacted law aims to formalise the operations of commercial riders, especially among the more than one million motorbike and tricycle operators who have worked outside formal regulations for years.

    Authorities say the reform will create fresh job opportunities for youth while establishing clearer procedures for licensing, training, and regulatory oversight.

    The legislation also revises the legal limit for alcohol levels in drivers.

    Parliamentarians argue that the change is vital to ensure enforceable standards and to reduce preventable accidents caused by impaired driving.

    Road safety continues to be a critical challenge nationwide. Ghana records roughly 2,000 traffic-related deaths each year, with motorcycles playing a major role in accidents in both cities and surrounding communities.

    The Ministry of Transport notes that the new framework will mitigate these dangers through structured rider education, mandatory safety gear, and harsher penalties for violations.

    The amendments also complement wider transport sector reforms scheduled for 2025, which include enhanced safety regulations, evidence-based enforcement, and strengthened cooperation among law enforcement agencies.

    Following the bill’s approval, the Transport Ministry is set to release operational guidelines for commercial licensing and outline enforcement timelines in the near future.

    In July, The Ghana Medical Trust Fund Bill, 2025, also known as MahamaCares, was passed by Parliament.

    The Bill, which was laid before Parliament on Monday, July 21, was opposed by the Minority; the caucus warned that it could put a strain on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) budget and its operations.

    It is currently play a pivotal role in enhancing healthcare access for many Ghanaians, particularly those battling chronic diseases and unable to afford the necessary medical treatment.

    The Social Protection Bill 2025 intended to aid the establishment of the Social Protection Fund has been successfully passed by parliament.

    This will provide a legal framework for social protection programmes that will enhance accessibility and equity in the delivery of social services to the impoverished communities.

    “This bill will give legal backing and strengthen regulations of many social intervention initiatives in the country,” the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, said on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, July 31.

    The Bill was passed after it faced strong opposition from the Minority in Parliament on Wednesday, July 30, who claimed that the proceedings lacked required quorum.

    However, it has paved the way to set up the Social Protection Fund aimed at providing financial resources to tackle emergencies and the mobilisation of funds for social protection delivery.

    The programmes include the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty LEAP, Ghana School Feeding Programme, Basic Education Capitation Grants, and National Health Insurance Exemption, among others.

    The Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill 2025 has also been passed by parliament after taking the Bill through a certificate of urgency on July 16, 2025.

    Explaining the purpose of the Bill to the House, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Hon. Emelia Arthur noted that the Bill had been revised to reflect Ghana’s commitment to the Blue Economy agenda.

    She was of the view that this underscores the importance of harnessing marine and aquatic resources sustainably to support economic growth, social inclusion, food security, and environmental protection.

    Parliament also passed the University for Development Studies Bill, 2025 after taking the Bill through a certificate of urgency.

    Explaining the purpose of the Bill to the House, the Minister of Education, Honourable Haruna Iddrisu noted that the Bill seeks to establish the University for Development Studies(UDS) through the re-enactment of P.N.D.C.L 279.

    This, he said, will help to restructure and empower the University for Development Studies to provide quality and higher education to meet the diverse and development needs of the country.

    Presenting the report of the Committee to the House, the Chairman of the Committee, Honorable Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, indicated that the Committee acknowledges the significant structural changes that have taken place since the establishment of the UDS over the past 32 years of its existence.

    Accordingly, it has become necessary to review P.N.D.C.L 279 to bring the law into conformity with current policy and best practices adopted in public universities in Ghana.

  • National Service Authority military training programme to roll out when funds are released – Youth Minister

    National Service Authority military training programme to roll out when funds are released – Youth Minister

    Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment George Opare Addo, has disclosed that all other measures are in place to roll out the National Service Authority military training programme except for funds.

    He explained that the Finance Ministry is yet to disburse funds for the programme, however, two of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama’s flagship programs for the ministry, the Adwumawura Program and National Apprenticeship Programme, are currently running.

    “The only one that should have started last year, we’ve done everything, but finance has not released funds yet. But we are still in talks with the Finance Minister and he has assured us that this year, we will have the funds to roll that program out,” Mr Opare Addo said, while taking Her Excellency, the Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyeman, through programs being implemented at the Ministry of Youth, Development, and Creation.

    In April 2025, President John Dramani Mahama announced that National Service Personnel (NSPs) across Ghana will undergo up to two months of military-style training starting August 3, 2025, as part of a new initiative dubbed the National Service Emergency Response Readiness Programme (NSERRP).

    The initiative is intended to equip service personnel with foundational military drills and a sense of national duty.

    Speaking at a high-level meeting on April 23, Director-General of the NSA, Felix Gyamfi, described the move as essential for cultivating patriotism and resilience among Ghana’s youth.

    “The introduction of this military training is a step in the right direction and must be embraced by all and sundry as one of the indicators for resetting the country, particularly the youth,” Gyamfi noted.

    He confirmed that all NSPs would participate in basic military drills and orientation during their service, describing the training as a vital component of national development and identity-building.

    Representing the Ghana Armed Forces, Brigadier General Amoah-Boakye affirmed the military’s full commitment to the programme, assuring the NSA of the army’s readiness to support and deliver the required training once the programme launches.

    The initiative reflects the vision of President John Dramani Mahama, who outlined the programme during his maiden State of the Nation Address to Parliament on February 27, 2025. It forms part of a broader agenda to instill discipline, national pride, and physical preparedness in the country’s graduates.

    “To achieve a legally robust regime to govern National Service, I have also tasked the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment to coordinate and present to Parliament a Legislative Instrument (L.I.) to support the implementation of the newly passed National Service Authority Act 2024 (Act 1119),” President Mahama stated.

    Ghana joins a host of nations—such as Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and China—that have integrated some form of military service or basic drills into their national service programmes. These models range from mandatory conscription, as seen in Russia, to more symbolic or limited training, such as in the United States, where compulsory service exists legally but is rarely enforced.

    The NSERRP initiative is expected to not only provide practical survival and leadership skills to service personnel but also help instill a deeper sense of duty and discipline among Ghana’s next generation of leaders.

    The late Minister of Defense, Dr. Omane Boamah, clarified that the National Service Emergency Response Readiness Programme, will be optional and not mandatory.

    “10,000 national service volunteers are expected to kick-start this initiative with plans to increase the numbers substantially next year. They’re volunteers. It is not compulsory,” the minister said.

    Engaging the media today, July 21, as part of the government’s accountability series, he noted that the basic military and emergency response training is a 6-week orientation training scheduled to run in two batches from August to October this year.

    The areas of training will include basic military orientation, first aid, basic life support, disaster or fire management, nationalism and patriotism, loyalty and discipline, leadership, mentorship, and physical training, among others.

    President John Dramani Mahama, on Monday, April 28, launched the Adwumawura Programme at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi, unveiling a major initiative aimed at fighting youth unemployment and promoting entrepreneurship.

    The Adwumawura Programme, according to its design, will “create, mentor, and support at least 10,000 businesses annually,” focusing specifically on young people aged 18 to 35. Participants will benefit from skills training, mentorship, start-up capital, and equipment to help them build sustainable businesses.

    During his address, President Mahama described youth unemployment as “one of Ghana’s most pressing challenges” and reiterated his administration’s commitment “to create decent and sustainable jobs for young people,” aligning with the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s vision of economic growth and innovation.

    Funding for the initiative has been secured through a GH₵100 million provision made in the 2025 Budget Statement, delivered by Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson. To complement Adwumawura, the government also plans to implement the National Apprenticeship Programme, providing free technical and vocational training opportunities for the youth.

    At the event, Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, called on young people to take charge of their future and contribute to national progress, while reiterating the government’s commitment to supporting youth empowerment and entrepreneurship.

    Also in July last year, President John Dramani Mahama officially launched the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP) in Tamale. The nationwide initiative was designed to equip young Ghanaians with practical, employable skills to reduce youth unemployment. The inauguration ceremony, held at the University for Development Studies (UDS), marked the beginning of a skills revolution expected to train tens of thousands of individuals each year across all 261 districts.

    The programme began with 10,000 apprentices and was planned to scale up to 100,000 by 2026, supported by a GH¢300 million allocation from the 2025 budget, which was set to cover both training expenses and monthly stipends for participants.

    President Mahama emphasized that the National Apprenticeship Programme offered young Ghanaians—particularly those unable to pursue further education—a valuable opportunity to acquire practical skills for self-reliance. He assured that individuals with no formal education were welcome to apply and would receive training in local languages if necessary.

    Training included both short courses (2–4 months) and long-term apprenticeships (12–18 months), tailored to specific trades and the prior experience of applicants.

    The application process was scheduled to commence shortly after the launch and was made accessible online via the National Youth Authority (NYA) portal, as well as at all metropolitan, municipal, and district assembly offices, ensuring inclusivity for all potential applicants.

    The National Apprenticeship Programme was positioned as a key part of the government’s broader strategy to tackle the country’s 12.6% youth unemployment rate and the 29% of young people not engaged in education, employment, or training. The initiative was expected to significantly improve income levels among beneficiaries, contributing meaningfully to long-term national development.

  • GES  declares January 23 holiday for students to allow Nationwide Teacher Development Programme

    GES  declares January 23 holiday for students to allow Nationwide Teacher Development Programme

    The Ghana Education Service has declared January 23 a holiday for students to allow uninterrupted participation of teachers in an upcoming Nationwide Teacher Development Programme.

    The program, known as phase two of Cybersecurity and Data Protection training is in recognition of the importance of Continuous Professional Development for teachers.

    “In view of the above, 23rd January, 2026 is therefore declared as a holiday for learners.”

    “The Management of GES is by this letter requesting all Regional Directors of Education to inform all Metro, Municipal, District Directors of Education, Heads of Basic Schools and Second Cycle Institutions to adhere to the above directive with regard to the CPD day for our teachers,” a letter signed by Acting Deputy Director-General in charge of Quality and Access, Munawaru Issahaque (PhD), on behalf of the Acting Director-General indicated.

    In 2025, the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation  proposed Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill, 2025 aimed at expanding the powers of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) to regulate, investigate, and prosecute cyber-related offences.

     However, it has sparked significant public debate due to concerns over privacy, overreach, and industry impact.

    Economic Adviser at the Office of the Vice President, Professor Sharif Mahmud Khalid, has recommended that the proposed passage of the Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, should be informed by consensus-building, bi-partisanship, and broad stakeholder engagement and not political expediency.

    Since cybersecurity affects the general public, the Professor believes that there is a need for extensive consultations with key stakeholders and experts in the digital sector.

    Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, November 1, Professor Khalid cautioned that,

    “With such legislation, I will always call for bipartisan support,” he said. “The cybersecurity network in the country, including professionals, civil society organisations, and others whose work directly relates to this field, ought to be consulted to chart the way forward.”

    Among the about nine stages a bill goes through to become a law in Ghana, as stipulated by the dictates of the 1992 constitution, Professor Khalid noted that legislative drafting is often one of the most complex stages of lawmaking, emphasising that the language used in bills must accurately reflect their intended purpose.

    “Legislation can be a very challenging process, and drafting is often the hardest part. Sometimes the intent of a law is not clearly captured on paper, which is why it’s important to involve skilled drafters in the process,” he detailed.

    The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor, also raised concerns about some aspects of the Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, laid before Parliament for consideration.

    The Bill is currently in a public consultation phase, led by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), and has not yet been passed into law. Speaking at an event to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists on Monday, November 3, Mr. Dwumfuor stressed the need for broader consultation to avert future challenges that could threaten media freedom and democratic governance.

    “We call for broad engagement, public consultation, and education to fine-tune the bill to ensure that every sector directly impacted understands and makes the needed input in the public interest. If what the amendment seeks to cure will worsen the cyber ecosystem, then we must tread cautiously,” he added.

    Vice President for Innovation and Technology at IMANI Africa, Selorm Branttie, has criticised the 2025 Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill, describing it as ambiguous and potentially oppressive.

    In an interview with Joy FM, he observed that several sections of the draft law are vaguely written and overly broad, making it challenging to separate minor online infractions from serious cyber offences.

    Mr. Branttie warned that such lack of clarity could lead to misinterpretation and abuse, allowing ordinary digital activities to be unfairly criminalised.

    “A lot of the lettering for the Cybersecurity Bill, for example, is ambiguous in terms of the kinds of offenses that are being discussed and the ramifications for you being seen as contravening some of these offences makes them draconian, makes it unsuitable for the current day and age and society that we have.“You are looking at things that could either be minor or major, and bottling it up into just one category and then criminalising all of it,” he added.

    Mr. Branttie noted that several Ghanaians maintain additional social media profiles or alternative online identities for valid purposes such as protecting their privacy or adhering to workplace policies.

    He explained that, as the bill currently stands, such practices could easily be misconstrued as dishonest or unlawful. According to him, the absence of precise definitions and a clear categorisation of offences could give authorities undue power, potentially paving the way for the harassment of individuals, journalists, or political critics under the pretext of enforcing cybersecurity measures.

    “It’s a dangerous to have laws like this, or some of the stipulations in laws like this dictating the what should be the government’s response or the security aparatus’ response to some of these things that happen digitally because in the wrong hands, this could be used to abuse the personal rights of many indivuduals and could be used to target people percieved as political opponents or people perceived as not liked by anybody who is in authority,” he explained.

    Mr. Branttie called on Parliament to carefully revise the language of the bill before its approval to ensure it maintains a fair balance between strengthening national cybersecurity and upholding citizens’ online rights.

    He recommended that legislators work closely with technical professionals, civil society groups, and private sector stakeholders to refine the scope of offences, classify their severity, and establish transparent oversight systems.

    IMANI Africa, a policy think tank recognised for its advocacy in governance and technology, has long championed openness and fairness in the formulation of Ghana’s digital regulations.

  • Regina Daniels’ best friend, Ann, arrested but released over alleged $40,000 theft

    Regina Daniels’ best friend, Ann, arrested but released over alleged $40,000 theft

    Regina Daniels’ best friend, Ann, who was arrested on Monday, January 12, has been released.

    According to the report, Ann’s arrest was necessitated by an alleged $40,000 theft by Regina Daniels’ estranged husband, Senator Ned Nwoko.

    After spending two nights in detention, Regina Daniels’ elder brother, Sammy, announced on his Instagram story on Wednesday, January 15 that  “My T.E.D. Ann is out.”

    Adding that, “Similar techniques. Not letting legal representative or family aware of the whereabouts. Not allowing anyone know the court, final stage prison. Case adjourned until March 5th.”

    Before Ann’s release, Sammy had disclosed that Ann was taken to court without access to her legal representative.

    However, Ann reportedly regained her freedom on Wednesday evening after the case was adjourned to March 5, 2026.

    Senator Ned Nwoko made the fresh allegation two months after Regina Daniels parted ways with him over alleged domestic violence.

    However, Regina Daniels has confidently stated that she is psychologically unhealthy to consider remarrying again.

     Responding to an X user asking whether she would consider marrying another man and if he would be her age.

    She candidly replied, “Nopeee! Traumatized with that institution.”

    Regina has asked netizens to put an end to hurling insults at her mother over her estranged marriage to Nigerian senator Ned Nwoko.

    “Stop insulting my mother. She’s the best woman on earth. She warned me. My brothers warned me. Everybody warned me. Nobody’s going to cry on this camera. Everybody warned me, and then I drove out at night. I was going to kill myself if I didn’t marry Ned,” she said in a video posted on her Instagram page on November 5, 2025.

    Contrary to claims that her parent endorsed her marriage to Ned for money, Regina says she was genuinely in love despite opposition from her entire family.

    She recounted an instance where she drove out of home at night to kill herself over her family’s resistance towards her choice of man.

    “I went to the police station and said, ‘Arrest me. My family does not want me to marry the love of my life.’ But I actually did fall in love. It’s crazy, but I did. And I still care and respect him. That’s love. What is love? Care and respect,” she stated.

    Earlier this year, Regina Daniels returned to Instagram after a brief disappearance, but one striking detail has caught fans’ attention—her husband, Senator Ned Nwoko, is missing from her page.

    The Nollywood actress, who had deactivated her account weeks ago, reappeared with a video post captioned, “Even for convoy I Dey with my Google Map 📌#young&accomplished!” However, what stood out was a noticeable change in her profile.

    Her name, previously displayed as Regina Daniels Nwoko, now reads Regina Daniels Nneamaka Favour. In addition, all posts featuring Senator Nwoko have vanished from her account.

    Her social media break coincided with swirling rumors that the senator had welcomed a child with actress Chika Ike—claims he later denied.

    Though Regina has not addressed the changes, her updated profile and missing posts have sparked widespread speculation, with fans flooding her comment section, eager to know the status of her marriage.

    Regina Daniels revealed that her mother and entire family were against her marriage to Ned Nwoko, the Senator from Delta North.

    Disclosing this during a live on Instagram, the actress said: “I went to visit my boyfriend, and I was so angry about why we had to go sightseeing, but when we got there, I met a cute man.

    “The moral of the story is that your boyfriend should not stop you from seeing your husband.

    “When I started with my husband, I forgot I was to have boyfriends; of course, I had like 20. When people think I don’t have a choice, I’m like, what?

    “People were saying Mummy forced me, not knowing that she was against the marriage; my full family said no.”

    Nwoko tied the knot with Regina Daniels in May 2019 in the Aniocha Local Government Area of Delta State, despite their significant age difference.

    The 63-year-old politician expressed that he chose to marry the 23-year-old actress because she hails from his community.

    “For her particularly, I married her because she is from my place. I wanted to marry a wife from my place and was looking for the right person. By the time I met her, I knew she must be the one,” Nwoko had said.

    Nigerian actress Regina Daniels has expressed her deep joy and pride in being a mother of two, describing it as her greatest honor.

    Sharing a touching photo with her children on Instagram on March 31, 2025, Daniels highlighted her commitment to protecting them and doing everything in her power to ensure their happiness and safety.

    “My greatest honour in life is being a mother to these two adorable angels, and everything I will ever do will be for them,” she shared in the post, radiating love and warmth as she celebrated her role as a mother.

    In her message, Daniels emphasized the significance of motherhood in her life, revealing how her children have transformed her world in ways words can hardly capture.

    Beyond the personal celebration, Daniels also surprised her fans with a generous giveaway, pledging ₦50,000 each to 10 lucky followers to do something special for their own families. She encouraged her followers to share what makes their mothers special, adding an extra layer of joy to the celebration.

    “My children are my everything, and I would do anything for them. It is an honor beyond measure,” she said, clearly overjoyed by the blessing of motherhood.

  • Court orders “sick” Abu Trica to hospital at state expense

    Court orders “sick” Abu Trica to hospital at state expense

    Court has ordered “sick” Abu Trica, facing US extradition over alleged $8m scam, to be sent to hospital at the state’s expense.

    The 31-year-old Ghanaian from Swedru, was been arrested after he allegedly tricked elderly victims in the United States (U.S) into sending him money by pretending to be in a romantic relationship with them. He was arrested in Ghana on Thursday, December 12.

    Kumi has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and a forfeiture specification. He risks being jailed for 20 years.

    According to the indictment, Kumi had been working with a criminal group since 2023, using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to create fake profiles and lure victims into online romantic relationships.

    The indictment further added that Abu Trica and his team contacted the elderly individuals through social media and dating platforms, where they requested money or valuables to sort out urgent medical bills, travel expenses, or investment opportunities. The criminal group’s co-conspirators in Ghana then received funds and valuables defrauded from the elderly victims.

    The Attorney General’s Office, Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Ghana Police Service, Ghana Cyber Security Authority, Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), and the National Intelligence Bureau, among others, aided the U.S. in tracing Abu Trica. Meanwhile, these agencies are working to arrest co-conspirators and recover the defrauded funds.

    In October, four Ghanaian nationals—Isaac Oduro Boateng aka “Kofi Boat,” Inusah Ahmed aka “Pascal,” Derrick Van Yeboah aka “Van,” and Patrick Kwame Asare aka “Borgar”—were charged for their roles in an international criminal organization that stole more than $100 million from victims via romance scams and business email compromises.

    United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, and Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Christopher G. Raia, announced the unsealing of an indictment charging them.

    Boateng, 36; Ahmed, 40; Van Yeboah, 40; and Asare, 39, are charged with one count of wire fraud conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of money laundering conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of conspiracy to receive stolen money, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; and one count of receipt of stolen money, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

    The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    Boateng, Ahmed, and Van Yeboah were extradited and arrived in the U.S. on August 7 and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Lehrburger. Asare, on the other hand, remains at large. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian.

    “As alleged, Isaac Oduro Boateng, Inusah Ahmed, Derrick Van Yeboah, and Patrick Kwame Asare led and participated in an international fraud ring that engaged in a massive conspiracy to defraud vulnerable people and steal from businesses,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton.

    “Offshore scammers should know that we, the FBI, and our law enforcement partners will work around the world to combat online fraud and bring perpetrators to justice.”

    “The defendants have been brought to the United States to be held accountable for their alleged roles in scamming companies and vulnerable Americans out of over $100 million,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia.

    “Deceiving businesses using email compromise campaigns and tricking innocent elderly victims through fraudulent companionship in order to exploit their trust and finances is not merely appalling but illegal. The FBI will continue to ensure anyone who preys on companies and vulnerable Americans online is made to face the criminal justice system.”

    The indictment revealed that Boateng, Ahmed, Van Yeboah, and Asare were high-ranking members of a criminal organization based in Ghana that committed romance scams and business email compromises against individuals and businesses located across the U.S.

    Many of the conspiracy’s victims were vulnerable older men and women who were tricked into believing that they were in online romantic relationships with people who were, in fact, fake identities assumed by members of the conspiracy.

    Once members of the conspiracy had gained the trust of their victims, they deceived those victims into sending their money to the enterprise or into helping them launder funds from other victims.

    The conspirators also committed business email compromises to trick and deceive businesses into wiring funds to the enterprise. In total, the conspiracy stole and laundered more than $100 million from dozens of victims.

    After stealing the money, the fraud proceeds were then laundered to West Africa, where they were largely funneled to individuals called “chairmen,” who directed the activities of other members of the conspiracy. Boateng and Ahmed were considered chairmen of the organization.

    The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge.

    Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the FBI. He also thanked Ghana and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs for their assistance.

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with the International Cooperation Unit of the Office of the Attorney-General of Ghana to secure the extraditions to the United States. Ghana’s Economic and Organized Crime Office, the Ghana Police Service – INTERPOL, Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority, and Ghana’s National Intelligence Bureau all provided significant assistance to ensure the success of these extraditions.

    The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Mead and Mitzi Steiner are in charge of the prosecution.

    There has been a surge in reports of Ghanaian nationals being involved in illegal activities abroad, especially romance scams.

    Last month, Ghana’s nightlife mogul and alleged crypto kingpin, Nana Kojo Boateng, popularly known as “Dada Joe Remix,” was extradited successfully to the United States to face romance scam charges.

    This was made known on the Embassy’s Facebook page on July 1, 2025, following a collaborative effort between the Embassy’s Diplomatic Security Service special agents and Ghanaian authorities who offered support to the FBI in the operation.

    Mr. Boateng has been charged with leading a fraud ring that targeted Americans through deceptive romance and inheritance ploys, resulting in multimillion-dollar losses. He is now in the U.S. to face prosecution.

    Last year, a Ghanaian national, Emmanuel Quamey, was sentenced to 48 months in prison for his involvement in defrauding vulnerable and elderly victims in the United States, according to asaaseonline.com.

    United States District Judge Carol Bagley Amon handed down the sentencing, which also includes a forfeiture order of $3.3 million and restitution totaling approximately $3.8 million to the victims.

    Quamey, who pleaded guilty in October 2023 to conspiring to receive stolen money, was part of a scheme laundering the proceeds of romance scams, exploiting victims’ trust and companionship desires, resulting in significant financial loss.

    Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, underscored the seriousness of the crime, condemning romance scams as callous crimes preying on vulnerable victims.

    “Romance scams are callous crimes in which perpetrators steal money from vulnerable and elderly victims by taking advantage of the victims’ trust and desire to form human connections,” Peace stated.

    “This sentence serves as a warning to individuals like the defendant that there are real consequences to participating in these cruel scams. This Office and our law enforcement partners are committed to bringing these fraudsters to justice and getting the victims’ money back.”

    Special Agent-in-Charge Ivan J. Arvelo of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New York, commended the investigators for their efforts.

    According to court filings, between September 2019 and March 2023, Quamey and his co-conspirators orchestrated a scheme receiving over $3.8 million in fraud proceeds from vulnerable U.S. victims of romance scams. These scams involve scammers posing as potential romantic partners on social media or dating sites, tricking victims into sending money under false pretenses.

    Quamey’s role was to receive and launder the victims’ money, personally receiving approximately $3.3 million wired into bank accounts he controlled.

    Using multiple bank accounts in the United States and Ghana, Quamey and his co-conspirators transferred the victims’ money overseas to Ghana.

    “Romance scams are callous crimes in which perpetrators steal money from vulnerable and elderly victims by taking advantage of the victims’ trust and desire to form human connections,” Peace stated.

    “This sentence serves as a warning to individuals like the defendant that there are real consequences to participating in these cruel scams. This Office and our law enforcement partners are committed to bringing these fraudsters to justice and getting the victims’ money back.”

  • King Promise surprises 3 fans with iPhones at concert

    King Promise surprises 3 fans with iPhones at concert

    Afrobeats and highlife artiste Gregory Bortey Newman, popularly known as King Promise, has gifted three fans iPhones during his performance at the PromiseLand concert.

    The gesture took place as King Promise mounted the stage as the headline act at the event, which was held at Ghud Park on December 30, 2025, and attracted a large crowd of music lovers.

    The PromiseLand concert, organised by the award-winning musician, featured performances from a mix of established and emerging artistes, including Black Sherif, Kojo Black, KiDi, Sarkodie, R2bees, Lasmid, AratheJay, AlorG, and Lalid, who kept the audience engaged throughout the night.

    King Promise performed a number of his popular songs and interacted closely with fans, with the surprise presentation of iPhones to three audience members drawing loud applause and excitement.

    The atmosphere at the venue was lively, as patrons sang along and danced through the performances. Security at the event was visible and well organised, ensuring the smooth running of the concert.

    By the end of the night, both organisers and attendees described the concert as a success, citing the blend of strong performances and audience engagement, which raised expectations for future editions of PromiseLand.

    While some fans are receiving iPhones from music artistes, others are being adopted by fans who take care of them.

    Little Tracy Shay was carefree and dancing one moment. Today, she is a viral sensation receiving attention and support from her favourite artiste, Wendy Shay.

    What began as a 30-second video has turned into a life-changing moment. The pre-teen, whose dance clip sparked widespread positive reactions online, was celebrated in person on Thursday.

    Wendy Shay surprised Tracy at her school, where she met her with hugs, gifts, and a major pledge that drew excitement from pupils and teachers.

    The viral video, which surfaced online on April 3, showed Tracy dancing happily to Wendy Shay’s song ‘Too Late’ during the All Ashaiman Schools Festival at Ridona JHS. The moment caught the attention of the award-winning musician, who later promised to support Tracy’s education through to the university level.

    Reacting to criticism that followed the video’s circulation, Wendy Shay addressed the issue directly.

    “It’s heartbreaking to see a talented, confident child abused,” she said.

    She further explained her motivation, saying: “I was touched and wanted to show appreciation to little Tracy. I wanted to encourage her to stay awesome and outgoing without any fear or limits. I also wanted to sponsor her education so she can become the best version of herself.”

    The gesture, which came during the Easter season, quickly gained nationwide attention and was widely praised. Beyond trending online, it also served as a response to negative commentary directed at Tracy after the video went viral.

    During her visit, Wendy Shay also presented items to the school, a move that was warmly received by the teachers and school authorities.

    The donations included custom-branded exercise books, Peeva beverages, a 40-inch Hisense television, and an undisclosed amount of money for Tracy.

    For Tracy and her schoolmates, the visit reinforced the importance of expressing joy freely, while fans were reminded of the impact of kindness and encouragement.

    Meanwhile, ‘Too Late’, the song behind the viral moment, continues to gain traction across several countries, including the United States, Nigeria, South Africa, Zambia, Tanzania, Uganda, and Liberia. Since Tracy’s video gained attention, the track has also become one of the most Shazamed songs, drawing increased interest worldwide.

    In November, she officially filed a complaint with the Ghana Police Service concerning allegations that she is engaged in lesbianism with a young girl she has adopted, known as Tracy Shay.

    A young man, in a viral video, alleges that Wendy is acting on a spiritualist’s instructions to engage in inappropriate conduct with the minor.

    Wendy is therefore urging the public to help identify the perpetrator so the person can be held accountable.

    “The matter has been formally reported to the Ghana Police Service, and active investigations are underway. I have been informed that the individual behind the account has been traced to the United Arab Emirates, where he is currently employed with a construction company. Further steps are being taken through the appropriate channels to ensure he is held accountable for his actions.

    “I am cooperating fully with the police and trust the investigation process to bring this matter to a swift and just resolution. I further encourage us all to continue standing against cyberbullying, online harassment, and malicious attacks on innocent people,” the statement shared on November 19, 2025, read.

  • Latif Abubakar’s African Festival revives “By the Fireside” experience

    Latif Abubakar’s African Festival revives “By the Fireside” experience

    The African festival staged by playwright Latif Abubakar featured a re-enactment of the popular children’s educational and entertainment television programme By the Fireside, blending storytelling, music, and dance.

    One of the key activities at the festival was the Den of History, an outdoor session that combined storytelling, film screenings, and African folktales presented around a fireside setting.

    The re-enactment was led by the Lododo Art Foundation, an organisation focused on inspiring creativity and reviving conversations around art among students and the general public. The performance took the audience back to the era when By the Fireside was hosted by Grace Omaboe, popularly known as Maame Dokono.

    The storytelling centred on the adventures of Kweku Ananse, the clever and crafty spider known for outsmarting humans and other animals in folklore.

    At the Den of History, the format involved the audience sitting in a circle while the storyteller occupied the centre, narrating a Kweku Ananse tale. The story focused on how Ananse managed to deceive death by stealing an item belonging to it, triggering a chase into a village.

    In the story, Ananse ran past his hut while being pursued, calling out to his wife, Okonorea, and his sons to come out and flee with him.

    The chase intensified until death lost track of Ananse and his family in the forest. Unable to find them, death chose to remain in the village permanently, an explanation given for why people continue to die.

    The narrative was intended to convey the message that death is inevitable, encouraging people to live meaningful lives and serve others while they can.

    The storytelling session concluded with singing and dancing, aligning with the festival’s broader aim of promoting Accra as a global Pan-African cultural destination every December.

    The African Festival ended on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, with a major concert at the Accra International Conference Centre, uniting music, dance, and cultural expressions from across Africa.

    The concert was hosted by Multimedia broadcast journalist Doreen Avio and opened with a performance by the Adaha Band, which delivered a mix of Ghanaian highlife, Nigerian Afrobeat, and popular songs from Côte d’Ivoire.

    Ghanaian musician Wiyaala later mounted the stage, using her music to call on Africans to reconnect with their heritage and play active roles in the continent’s development. Her set was complemented by a spontaneous dance display from the All Stars Dance Group that drew strong reactions from the audience.

    Bessa Simons and Amandzeba Nat Brew also performed, with Nat Brew’s popular song Worgbe lifting the energy in the hall. Rocky Dawuni followed with an Afro Roots performance that underscored themes of African identity and togetherness.

    The programme was brought to a close by South African music legend Yvonne Chaka-Chaka, who combined music with personal reflections while urging young Africans to help shape the future of the continent.

    Several high-profile figures attended the event, including the Minister for Tourism and Arts and Culture, Dzifa Ablah Gomashie; UNESCO Ghana Country Manager, Edmond Moukala N’Gouemo; Ghana’s Ambassador to the Caribbean; and veteran actors Fred Amugi and Tony Umez.

    The grand finale showcased the richness of African music and culture, as well as the continent’s enduring spirit.

  • Man arrested for firing gunshot in honor of Asake while in Ghana

    Man arrested for firing gunshot in honor of Asake while in Ghana

    The Ghana Police Service has arrested Paa Nii Cyborg, popularly known as the Accra New Town street king, following an incident in which he fired a gun in public during Nigerian music star Asake’s visit to the area.

    The arrest was made after videos of the incident surfaced on social media, prompting swift police action.

    Before Cyborg’s arrest, he was seen in a video acknowledging Mahama and other govt officials to pardon hi, as he was aware his conduct was against the law.

    “It’s not allowed in Ghana now that you will give a warning shoot. , but I’m pleading with my boss, John Dramani Mahama, Ibrahim, Randy Abbey and Muntaka, that my brother (Asake) from another mother come. So I just want to give a warning short for him, please,” and that’sis when the Accra New Town Street King fired the gunshot in a crowed at the El-Wak Stadium.

    Meanwhile, Greater Accra Region is leading in the number of firearms retrieved under the Gun Amnesty Programme led by the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapoms (NACSA).

    Executive Secretary of NACSA, Dr Adam Bonaa disclosed this information in an engagement with the National Chief Imam on Friday, December 26.

    He noted,”The Greater Accra Region is one of the areas where most of the weapons we have collected are coming from. It is currently leading in terms of arms surrendered under the amnesty programme, with the support of the security commanders”.

    Dr Adam Bonaa’s meeting with the Chief Imam forms part of efforts to create awareness of the ongoing program to the Muslim community.

    The gun amnesty program is a window of grace. It offers every law-abiding Ghanaian who holds an unregistered or illicit firearm the opportunity to surrender it without fear of interrogation, arrest, or prosecution.

    From the 1st of December 2025 to the 15th of January 2026, any person who voluntarily hands over such weapons at designated collection points will be commended, not condemned. You will be recognised as a patriot contributing to the peace and safety of our nation”, the Interior Minister said during an engagement with the media.

    However, individuals who fail to surrender any illegal weapon in their possession, the Asawase Member of Parliament noted, will be treated as criminals and be made to face the full course of the law.

    “But let me be clear: when this amnesty period ends, the law will take its full course. The Ghana Police Service and all security agencies will intensify operations to recover illicit arms. Those who refuse this generous offer will be treated as criminals, and the consequences will be firm and uncompromising”, the Minister added, stressing that the effort is essential to creating a safer and more secure environment for all Ghanaians.

    The Minister also announced a temporary ban on the use of firearms during traditional festivities within the amnesty period, a measure intended to curb celebratory gunfire, prevent injuries, and save lives in communities nationwide.

    He also noted that, “We cannot continue to bury our loved ones while the tools of violence remain unchecked. The statistics are not looking good at all”.

    Also, on the gun, Minister Muntaka revealed during a session with the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament in Accra, on Tuesday, 30 September, in response to questions on firearm regulation and monitoring, announced that gun registration, which is currently done manually, will be digitalised to make it easily accessible and less daunting for citizens.

    In a detailed explanation, he broke down what measures the Ministry intends to put in place.

    He said, “So this is what is going to happen: You register, and we have you in the registry. In the registry, we have your contact number and all your details. So, three months before expiry, we will send you a notification that your license will expire on 31st December. And you no longer need to walk to any CID office where you have to join a queue to pay for the renewal. Because the databases will be talking to each other, and over the one year, we will have recorded no criminal activities about the person we granted the license to hold the firearm, you will be able to pay through your MoMo or using your bank details. You can renew it immediately without any struggle.

    “Many people even tend to forget that the time has come for them to renew it. Maybe along the line, they just see the gun and say, “Hey, when was the last time I renewed this?” So we want to digitalise this, and by the grace of God, when we are done, by the close of the year, worst case, by the close of the year, all these things will be digitalised. It will give people the opportunity to do the renewal online without necessarily having to walk to the Police Headquarters.

    However, Mr Muntaka added that gun owners flagged for criminal activity during the renewal period will not be allowed to complete the process online.

    “The only thing is that if there’s a criminal record over the period when you want to renew, it may deny you, and that may require that you come physically. But it also helps us. Even if you change address; because we are going to link it to your Ghana Card, we will be able to tell that Maka has a gun, has not renewed it over this period, and has changed his address from Asar to Bima. We will be able to track him and either retrieve the gun from him or get him to renew his license”, he continued.

  • Creative Canvas 2025: Shatta Wale – Disruption as a strategy, dominance as the result

    Creative Canvas 2025: Shatta Wale – Disruption as a strategy, dominance as the result

    Some artists work within the system.

    Others build their own and dare the industry to catch up.

    In 2025, Shatta Wale stood firmly in the second camp.

    This was a year defined not just by music releases, but by power, scale, controversy, and control. Whether through his signature live interactions with fans on social media, global recognition, or public conflict, Shatta Wale remained impossible to ignore.

    The year opened with a historic moment.
    On January 1, 2025, Shatta Wale became the only African artist invited to perform at Vybz Kartel’s Freedom Street comeback concert in Kingston, Jamaica. In front of 35,000 people, he performed “On God” and “Already,” before being introduced by Kartel himself as the “King of African Dancehall.”

    That moment was more than a performance.
    It was a symbolic handover of genre authority on a global stage.

    Back home, Shatta Wale turned presence into dominance.

    From performing at the President’s Cup to hosting ShattaFest 2025 at Independence Square, the scale was unprecedented. His birthday concert alone drew hundreds of thousands of fans, making it the largest single-artist outdoor concert in Ghanaian history.

    Beyond the numbers, the moment that stood out most was unity. Sharing the stage with Sarkodie and Samini ended years of public perceived rivalry in one night; proof of his influence not just over fans, but over narratives.

    Disruption often comes with friction.
    In August, Shatta Wale was caught in a high-profile controversy involving the seizure of his 2019 yellow Lamborghini Urus by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO). The case drew national and international attention, sparking debates about celebrity, law enforcement, and power.

    He also led a fan-driven digital protest that resulted in the resignation of a social media personality within 48 hours—another reminder of the weight his voice carries.

    For Shatta Wale, controversy is a tool. One he uses, to his advantage, and forms part of an ecosystem he controls.

    Musically, 2025 was focused and intentional.

    The Voice of the Crown EP, released in August, was fully self-produced and carried messages of faith, resilience, and authority. Songs like “God Is Here” and “Street Crown” reinforced his identity as an artist who speaks directly to his base without filters.

    This was not music chasing trends.
    It was music reinforcing ownership.

    “Street Crown” became the year’s anchor record.

    The remix featuring Vybz Kartel spent eight weeks on the Billboard US Afrobeats chart, topped the UK Afrobeats Chart, and became the most-Shazamed Ghanaian song in London and New York during October.

    Online, the visuals crossed millions of views in weeks, proof that the street message still travels globally.

    The numbers closed the argument.


    Across Audiomack, Spotify, Apple Music, and combined platforms, Shatta Wale emerged as Ghana’s most-streamed artist of 2025, surpassing 700 million streams for the year alone and over 1.2 billion streams across his career.

    This level of reach is not accidental.
    It is the outcome of independence, direct fan engagement, and total creative control.

    Why Shatta Wale Represents the Disruptor Archetype


    Shatta Wale’s 2025 was not about approval.
    It was about agency.

    He disrupted systems, challenged authority, and proved that an artist can build power outside traditional industry structures and still dominate globally.

    In the Creative Canvas framework, he stands as the Disruptor:


    an artist who bends the industry around him, rather than the other way around.

    About the Curator

    Creative Canvas is curated by Noella Kharyne Yalley, a broadcast journalist and media professional focused on culture, storytelling, and Ghana’s creative economy.
    For editorial enquiries: brainsoutloudgh@gmail.com

    Source:Myjoyonline.com

    DISCLAIMER: Independentghana.com will not be liable for any inaccuracies contained in this article. The views expressed in the article are solely those of the author’s, and do not reflect those of The Independent Ghana

  • I’m being linked to occultism for helping save lives through blood donation – Kwame Despite

    I’m being linked to occultism for helping save lives through blood donation – Kwame Despite

    Renowned Ghanaian businessman and media mogul, Dr Kwame Despite Osei, has rubbished claims suggesting that he is involved in occultism.

    According to him,until the speculations began, the word “occult” was unknown to him.

    However, the rumours were influenced by his desire to help save lives after being informed about blood shortages in hospitals.

    Speaking in an audio shared by Fadda Dickson on December 29, 2025, Dr Despite provided details of how his desire to save lives through his media platforms became the reason someone believes he is an occult.

    “I was told that the hospitals have shortages of blood, so, I should use my medium to help advertise so they will get people to donate blood and I accepted to help. I love helping humanity, so, it wasn’t a problem for me.”

    “I knew someone who had an accident and was taken to 37 Military Hospital. I was with the person at the hospital most of the time. The doctors said they needed blood for the patient and an extra two as standby.”

    “The patient’s family members were all abroad. We searched for blood everywhere but we didn’t find. I pleaded for them to try and get the blood elsewhere so that when everything is fine, they will get the blood back to them. That’s when we got someone to donate the blood for the patient,” he shared.

    However, he expressed disappointment that his efforts to help humanity were later met with allegations intended to tarnish his image.

    “After all this, I got one person to spoil my reputation. The person wanted to spoil everything I’ve laboured for just because I helped someone.”

    has broken his silence over the controversy surrounding the late highlife icon Daddy Lumba, speaking on issues that arose before, during and after the musician’s passing.

    Speaking in an interview with Fiifi Pratt, monitored by MyNewsGh, Despite, who collaborated closely with Daddy Lumba for close to 20 years, stated that he could not align himself with either side in the dispute involving the musician’s wives, Serwaa Broni and Akosua Serwaa.

    “As someone who worked with Daddy Lumba for almost twenty years, there was no way I could side with one party at the expense of the other,” he said.

    Despite also disclosed that after receiving news of Lumba’s death, he donated GHC 100,000 to the family, noting that the money was meant to assist with arrangements for the one-week observance and other household expenses.

    “Mourners would be trooping to their homes to commiserate with them,” he added.

    He further spoke about his good relationship with both women, explaining that Akosua Serwaa contacted him from Germany shortly after she heard of her husband’s passing.

    “She intended to travel to Ghana, and I even made one of my vintage cars available to her confidante, Papa Shee, to use when they arrived and paid a courtesy call,” he stated.

    Addressing his relationship with Serwaa Broni, Despite said, “I have maintained a very good rapport with Odo Broni. I wonder why my name has been dragged into the melee, with some accusing me of supporting one side.

    It was morally wrong for me to support one against the other in this sombre moment, to make one side laugh while the other mourns.”

    He ended by appealing to the public to respect his stance, emphasising that the legacy of Daddy Lumba should be handled with respect. “I ask Ghanaians to make my name rest. Lumba’s legacy deserves decorum,” he said.

    This is not the only occassion Dr Kwame Despite has offered to help humanity.

    Last year in December, Ghanaian actor Kwaku Manu revealed that his choice to hold a housewarming celebration for his newly completed six-bedroom home in East Legon was motivated by business tycoon Osei Kwame Despite.

    He revealed that the multiple business onwner covered the full expenses of the extravagant event.

    “Papa told me that he will let the world know how well God has honoured me with this property in Accra and everything you see here today; Papa gave me the money to do this for everyone to see what God has done,” he stated.

    The actor expressed gratitude to Mr. Despite and other affluent personalities who serve as motivation for him.

    The event, held on December 26, 2024, in East Legon, Accra, saw many prominent personalities, including Ernest Ofori Sarpong, Kennedy Osei, Emmanuel Agyemang Badu, and celebrities like Nana Ama McBrown, Obaapa Christy, and Tracey Boakye, present to grace the occasion.

    The housewarming party was meant to officially open Manu’s newly-built mansion in East Legon Hills and showcase it to the public.

  • GRA to roll out revised VAT rates from January 1, 2026

    GRA to roll out revised VAT rates from January 1, 2026

    The implementation of the value-added tax reforms is set to commence from 1st January 2026 by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

    New VAT, Commissioner for Domestic Tax Revenue Division, Dr. Martin Kolbil Yamborigya explained that hat customers will now be required to pay 20 % instead of 21.9% on their goods and services.

    “There will be a lot benefits for the tax payer because we have now re-coupled the National Health Insurance Levy and Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFUND), so it will bring down the amount to be paid. This will mean that some savings will be made by businesses and also the fact that it has become an input tax to be claimed at the end of the day” he said.

    Following the passage and presidential assent of the VAT Bill 2025 in November fter it was presented to parliament during the 2026 Budget statement and economic policy presentation, the new law is set to simplify Ghana’s tax framework, consolidate existing regulations, abolish the COVID-19 Levy, and enhance compliance through digitalisation.

    The reforms aim to promote fairness and stimulate economic growth while strengthening domestic tax mobilisation. They also reflect recommendations from the International Monetary Fund to reduce bureaucratic hurdles in revenue collection.

    Among the key changes are the unification of the flat-rate system, lower effective tax rates, the ability to deduct GETFund and NHIL contributions as input tax, and measures to improve overall revenue efficiency.

    The law will also leverage digital platforms, including the E-VAT system, to ensure more accurate and transparent tax collection.

    Presenting the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament on Thursday, November 11, Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson hinted that the government had completed the design of a modernised Ghana Value Added Tax (VAT) system fit for the country’s economic transformation agenda.

    He mentioned, “As the new VAT reforms will do the following, we will abolish the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy, Mr Speaker; we will abolish the decoupling of GetFund and National Insurance Levies from the VAT tax base. The current VAT rate will be reduced from 21.9% to 20%.

    “In the 2025 budget, in the mid-year fiscal policy review, government made a firm promise to reform Ghana’s Value Added Tax (VAT) system to make it fairer, simpler, and more efficient. We pledged to remove distortions, address the cascading effects inherited in the VAT system, strengthen compliance, and create a tax regime that supports both businesses and fiscal stability. These distortions have negatively impacted overall welfare, increasing the deadweight loss in the economy and reducing VAT compliance.

    “Today, Mr Speaker, I am proud to report to this House that we have finally delivered on that promise. After months of detailed analysis and broad consultations with stakeholders, we have completed the design of a modernised VAT system fit for Ghana’s economic transformation agenda. Government is therefore submitting to this House today, for approval, a bold package of VAT reforms that will make our tax system more equitable, transparent, and business-friendly.

    “The new VAT reforms will do the following: we will abolish the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy. We will abolish the decoupling of GetFund and National Insurance Levies from the VAT tax base. We will abolish VAT on the recognition of minerals. We will reduce the effective VAT rate from 21.9% to 20%. We will raise the VAT registration threshold from GH₵200,000 to GH₵750,000.

    “We will extend VAT zero rating on the supply of local manufacturing textiles to 2028. Mr Speaker, for emphasis, we promised to abolish the COVID Levy, and with the support of this House, I am proud to say that today, the COVID Levy is accordingly abolished. By abolishing the COVID-19 Levy, the government is putting GH₵3.7 billion in the pockets of individuals and businesses in 2026 alone”.

    Earlier this year, President John Dramani Mahama’s administration repealed the betting tax, emissions tax, and other levies. The Electronic Transaction Levy (E-Levy), introduced in 2022, imposed a 1.5% tax on electronic transactions. Although it was later reduced to 1%, the levy remained unpopular, drawing criticism from businesses, consumers, and political stakeholders who argued that it stifled digital transactions and disproportionately affected low-income earners. Many contended that it placed an unnecessary burden on citizens.

    The removal of this tax was a core pledge in the NDC’s manifesto, aimed at reducing the cost of living and encouraging business expansion. With the repeal bill now signed into law, many Ghanaians can breathe a sigh of relief.

    Supporters of the repeal argue that eliminating these levies will promote digital transactions, stimulate economic activity, and improve disposable income for households and businesses. Meanwhile, the government has officially scrapped the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy introduced during the pandemic era.

    Introduced on 31 March 2021 under Act 1068 during the tenure of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the levy applied a 1% charge on the supply of goods and services in Ghana, excluding certain items. and on imports of goods and services. According to the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the levy was intended to help the government raise funds to fight the pandemic and support recovery efforts.

    However, presenting the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament on Thursday, November 11, Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson disclosed that the government has abolished the levy with immediate effect.

    According to him, the move will save individuals and businesses GH₵3.7 billion in taxes, money that can instead be invested back into their businesses or personal ventures.

  • E/R: NAiMOS arrests 5 Chinese miners, seizes equipment, at Oda Illegal mining sites

    E/R: NAiMOS arrests 5 Chinese miners, seizes equipment, at Oda Illegal mining sites

    A series of raids on illegal mining sites at Akyem Oda in the Birim Central Municipality of the Eastern Region by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS)team has led to the arrest of five (5) Chinese illegal miners.

    The raid was carried out on Monday, 29 December, while the Chinese illegal miners were actively mining and washing into the Birim River. 

    According to a report by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources on Facebook, “two excavators found at the site were immobilized. One Toyota Hillux pickup and another Toyota Land cruiser used by the arrested Chinese illegal miners were seized by the taskforce. Several makeshift structures erected at the sites were destroyed together some water pumping machines and other mining equipment.|”

    In September, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat task force seized illegal mining equipment in a major swoop in Obuasi in the Amansie Central District of the Ashanti Region.

    Equipment seized during the operation conducted on Monday, November 17, included motorbikes, vehicles, water pumps, and other tools used for illegal mining activities. Makeshift shelters and assorted equipment at the site were also destroyed.

    The task force also stormed a concession at Anyankyireml, a site that had been taken over by groups of illegal miners. Although the concession is legally owned by Asante Gold Corporation, it has been occupied by these illegal miners, forcing the rightful owners to flee the site.

    However, the intervention of the NAIMOS team drove out the miners and securing the land for its rightful owners. Illegal mining continues to pose a major challenge to the country, with several foreign nationals implicated and multiple arrests made. In June, NAIMOS warned criminal groups to vacate galamsey areas.

    The John Dramani Mahama-led government established the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat in July as part of efforts to curb illegal mining activities in the country.

    Speaking during an update on Wednesday, July 23, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, disclosed that the newly established Secretariat would act as the brain of Ghana’s anti-illegal mining operations.

    “To coordinate the efforts of the military, police, and other security agencies, the ministry has established the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) as the operational nerve-centre for Ghana’s fight against illegal small-scale mining,” he stated.

    The Secretariat’s responsibility is to collaborate with other key institutions such as the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Finance (GRA–Customs Division), and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority as part of its mandate.

    This collaboration is expected to ensure that excavators and other earth-moving equipment entering the country are not diverted for illegal mining activities.

    “In collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Finance (GRA–Customs Division), and the Ports and Harbours Authority, we have initiated a proactive tracking of all imports of excavators and earth-moving equipment from the point of entry,” he added.

    Illegal mining activities continue to pose a major challenge to the country. Several Chinese nationals have been involved in such illegal operations, leading to multiple arrests.

    Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that scientific tests are being carried out on new chemicals that could help restore polluted water bodies and rivers affected by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

    Speaking at a high-level stakeholder engagement on galamsey in Accra on Friday, October 3, with members of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), President Mahama said, “There are new chemicals that have come that allow you to treat water and take out the toxins and the heavy metals. One of them is called dowtine. The people came, and we sent them there. They took samples, tested. We are waiting for them to bring the results back.”

    He has asked Ghanaians to exercise patience regarding the longstanding battle against illegal mining (galamsey) activities. During a meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), President Mahama said declaring a state of emergency will not end the menace.

    According to him, government advisors believe the country can overcome galamsey by adopting best practices in small-scale mining, including technologies that help neutralize or remove harmful chemicals from water bodies.

    Additionally, the President pledged to honor the calls of many Ghanaians by declaring a state of emergency when his advisors give him the nod to do so.

    President Mahama believes that the country can eradicate the long-term canker if it deploys more troops and invests additional resources in the fight. He concluded that the battle seems to be a long one, but his administration is committed to ending it.

    “While we are fighting the menace, I am also saying we should uptake technology in order to protect the environment. So yes, let’s fight the illegal mining but at the same time, let’s bring the new technology that will help us protect our environment.

    “Now with the elephant in the room, state of emergency, yes, I have the power to do it, but the president acts on the advice of the National Security Authority, and as at now, this moment, the National Security Authority believes that we can win the fight against galamsey without declaring a state of emergency. I want to assure you that the day they advise me otherwise, that boss, now we need a state of emergency, I won’t hesitate,” he added.

  • Selection of Transaction Advisor for PSP does not mean sale of ECG – Energy Ministry clarifies

    Selection of Transaction Advisor for PSP does not mean sale of ECG – Energy Ministry clarifies

    The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has clarified that the selection of a Transaction Advisor for Private Sector Participation (PSP) does not imply the sale of Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

    According to a statement signed by its Spokesperson and Head of Communication, Richmond Rockson, Esq. Cabinet, Cabinet, under the leadership of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, in April 2025, approved Private Sector Participation in ECG as part of a broader reform agenda aimed at improving billing and revenue collection, enhancing service delivery, and reducing aggregate technical and commercial losses within the Company.

    It indicated that, while there has been significant improvement in ECG’s overall performance since January 2025, the Ministry acknowledges that critical challenges still persist, and these challenges continue to threaten the financial sustainability of ECG and the stability of the power sector if not adequately addressed.

    Thus, “The selection of a transaction advisor is a technical and procedural step to properly structure the PSP framework and does not in any way constitute or imply an outright sale of ECG. The Ministry emphasizes unequivocally that Government of Ghana does not intend to, and will not, sell ECG.”

    The Ministry has therefore called for calm and restraint as engagements continue in good faith as government remains committed to protecting the interests of workers, strengthening ECG, and ensuring a reliable, efficient, and sustainable power sector for all Ghanaians.

    This follows a press release issued by the Public Utilities Workers’ Union (PUWU) saying, “What transaction is there to advise on, which has not already been tackled by ECG Management?” PUWU-TUC asked. “We see the move for this appointment as a rushed decision influenced by external interests seeking to privatise a strategic national asset,

    This, the Ministry of Energy clarified the government’s position on Private Sector Participation in ECG, stating:

    “The Ministry wishes to clarify that Cabinet, under the leadership of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, in April 2025, approved Private Sector Participation in ECG as part of a broader reform agenda aimed at improving billing and revenue collection, enhancing service delivery, and reducing aggregate technical and commercial losses within the Company, “the Ministry of Energy said in a statement signed by its Spokesperson and Head of Communication, Richmond Rockson, Esq.

    Concerns raised by PUWU-TUC

    The Public Utility Workers’ Union’s opposition to the selection of a transaction advisor for the transition of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) into Private Sector Participation (PSP) stems from an ongoing turnaround programme agreed upon with the Ministry of Energy.

    The union argues that “over the past five months, ECG workers have demonstrated an exceptional level of commitment, discipline, and dedication to this turnaround agenda.

    The gains we have achieved such as improved revenue collection, reduced system losses, and stabilized power supply prove that ECG can be revived and sustained through local expertise, worker commitment, and non-political interference.”

    PUWU-TUC believes the government’s move to appoint a transaction advisor at this stage is premature and risks undermining the success of the current programme, which was designed to revitalise ECG through internal reforms rather than privatisation.

    In September, ECG launched “Operation All Must Pay” initiative to facilitate the retrieval of outstanding debts owed by customers across the nation, as well as prosecute offenders involved in illegal connections.

    The exercise, which came to a close on September 30 after its begun on September 9 targeted residential, commercial, industrial and government institutions such as Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs)

    A statement released by the Electricity Company of Ghana states, “The exercise will include Bill distribution, Streetlight & SHEP meter capturing & reporting. This exercise will be monitored by special teams who will apprehend and prosecute customers who have connected electricity illegally, or attempt to interfere with the exercise, or undertake illegal self-reconnection after disconnection.”

    ECG further advised customers with arrears at the time to pay their bills immediately to avoid disconnection and payment of reconnection fees. 

    It added that customers who are unable to access their bills should visit the nearest ECG Office for assistance.

    Customers were entreated to use their regular channels, including the ECG Mobile App, to pay their bills. 

    Persons with no access to the ECG App were directed to download it from Google Play Store, or call the ECG contact centre on 0302611611/Social Media handles, for assistance. 

  • Intense spiritual exercise, the result of my new look – Florence Obinim

    Intense spiritual exercise, the result of my new look – Florence Obinim

    Gospel artiste Florence Obinim has pushed back against speculation that her recent appearance is the result of plastic surgery, explaining that the changes came from sustained periods of fasting and prayer dedicated to her husband’s ministry.

    In her response to the claims, Mrs Obinim maintained that her face is natural and emphasized that she has never undergone any cosmetic procedure.

    She said the visible weight loss followed months of intense spiritual commitment, undertaken as she sought divine help for the restoration and progress of her husband’s church.

    According to her, the fasting and prayer were not motivated by a desire to alter her physical looks but were a personal sacrifice made during a challenging phase to support the revival of the ministry.

    Her clarification follows comments made by Apostle Daniel Obinim, founder of the International God’s Way Church, who also addressed the matter during a church service.

    The preacher admitted that he had previously gone off course, noting that the criticism and public pressure he experienced contributed to his personal growth and transformation.

    He further explained that his wife also needed to face public scrutiny to renew her mindset and make adjustments in some areas of her life. Apostle Obinim appealed to the public not to hold him or their marriage responsible for what many have described as Florence Obinim’s dramatic transformation.

    He added that criticism can be a catalyst for improvement and reiterated that neither he nor their union should be blamed for the changes seen in his wife.

    https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1JqtdWWYFj

  • King Paluta releases new single ‘Ewor Me’ featuring Kwabena Kwabena

    King Paluta releases new single ‘Ewor Me’ featuring Kwabena Kwabena

    Ghanaian music star King Paluta has released a new single titled ‘Ewor Me’, sparking excitement across the entertainment scene as he builds momentum toward the end of the year.

    The song, a collaboration with Highlife veteran Kwabena Kwabena, is now available on all major streaming platforms and is already gaining traction, particularly on TikTok where fans have embraced the track.

    The release comes amid lingering public discussion over King Paluta’s encounter with a fan during his London concert earlier this year. However, the controversy appears to have had little impact on his career trajectory.

    The reigning 2025 Most Popular Song of the Year winner has continued to churn out crowd-pleasing records, reinforcing his staying power and influence in the music industry.

    His growing momentum was further underscored by a compelling performance at the 2025 AfroFuture Concert, where he impressed audiences and strengthened his status as one of Ghana’s most dynamic live performers.

    King Paluta is now preparing to headline his own concert on December 30 in Atonsu, Kumasi, a show expected to draw fans from across the region.

    With a fresh release, a notable festival appearance, and a major hometown concert ahead, the artiste is rounding off the year on a high note while laying the groundwork for an even stronger 2026.

    In the world of gospel music, award-winning Ghanaian gospel artist Kofi Owusu Peprah unveiled the official music video for his latest single, “M’aseda,” featuring celebrated gospel musician Diana Antwi Hamilton, further strengthening his impact on Ghana’s contemporary gospel scene.

    The much-talked-about video, which premiered on Tuesday, 23 December 2025, has quickly gained traction on television, digital streaming services and social media platforms.

    Many gospel music lovers have hailed the song as timely, spiritually uplifting and reflective, especially as the year draws to a close.

    Ahead of the release, Peprah shared that “M’aseda,” a Twi expression meaning “Thanksgiving” – was birthed from a deep personal and spiritual appreciation for God’s goodness.

    He explained that the song encourages believers to reflect on the year and recognise God’s constant mercies and blessings, regardless of difficulties faced along the way.

    “As we bring the year to a close and prepare to step into a new one, it is essential that we give thanks to God for His unfailing blessings and mercy,” he said. “Even in moments of loss and pain, Scripture reminds us to give thanks in all circumstances.”

    From a musical standpoint, M’aseda blends modern gospel influences with traditional Ghanaian worship elements, creating a rich and engaging worship atmosphere. The lyrics emphasise gratitude, humility and unwavering faith, making the song suitable for both private devotion and corporate worship.

    The feature from Diana Antwi Hamilton adds depth and spiritual weight to the song. Known for her emotive and powerful voice, she complements Peprah’s sincere delivery with a strong yet graceful vocal presence, resulting in a harmonious collaboration that reinforces the song’s central theme. Their combined performance invites listeners into a moment of genuine thanksgiving and reflection.

    Peprah noted that the collaboration was intentional, explaining that Diana Antwi Hamilton’s ministry and musical journey align seamlessly with the message of gratitude and faith conveyed in the song. The natural chemistry between the two artistes is evident, contributing to the song’s lasting impression.

    Rooted in biblical teachings on thanksgiving, “M’aseda” reflects scriptures such as 1 Thessalonians 5:18, which calls on believers to give thanks in all situations. Peprah added that the song was created to serve multiple purposes, including church worship, thanksgiving services and moments of quiet personal reflection.

    Since its release, the song has received significant airplay on radio stations across the country and has been widely circulated on digital platforms such as YouTube and other streaming services. Fans and fellow gospel musicians have commended it as a meaningful reminder of faith, hope and gratitude during a season of reflection on both victories and challenges.

    The music video complements the message of the song through simple yet powerful visuals that highlight worship, reverence and thanksgiving. Its imagery aligns closely with the spiritual tone of the song, making it relatable to a wide audience.

    With this latest release, Kofi Owusu Peprah continues to solidify his position as one of Ghana’s leading gospel voices, recognised for crafting music that inspires, uplifts and draws listeners closer to God through thoughtful lyrics and polished production.

    As the year comes to a close, “M’aseda” stands out as one of the season’s most meaningful gospel offerings, reinforcing the enduring importance of gratitude within the Christian faith, regardless of life’s circumstances.

    Award-winning Ghanaian gospel musician Celestine Donkor has teamed up with fellow gospel powerhouse Diana Hamilton to release a new song titled ‘Akorfala’.

    The song, which was released on April 1, 2025, is an Ewe word meaning “comforter” and continues Celestine’s mission to promote unity among female gospel musicians in Ghana.

    ‘Akorfala’ follows earlier collaborations with Obaapa Christy and Piesie Esther and was produced by Joseph Amoah of Springboard Studio.

    Both Celestine and Diana have, over the years, ministered healing and hope through their music, and this latest joint effort is being hailed as a spiritually uplifting project that strengthens bonds within the gospel music fraternity.

    In April, Diana Hamilton teamed up with award-winning Ghanaian gospel musician Celestine Donkor to release song titled ‘Akorfala’.

    The song, which was released on April 1, 2025, is an Ewe word meaning “comforter” and continues Celestine’s mission to promote unity among female gospel musicians in Ghana.

    ‘Akorfala’ follows earlier collaborations with Obaapa Christy and Piesie Esther and was produced by Joseph Amoah of Springboard Studio.

    Both Celestine and Diana have, over the years, ministered healing and hope through their music, and this latest joint effort is being hailed as a spiritually uplifting project that strengthens bonds within the gospel music fraternity.

    She also unveiled one of her singles, collaborating with Nigerian singer Mercy Chinwo.

    The eagerly anticipated song, titled ‘The Lord’s Doing,’ made its debut on January 15, 2023, and has been met with a wave of positive reviews.

    Despite their distinct musical styles, Diana Hamilton and Mercy Chinwo showcased a seamless collaboration on this track, leaving fans impressed once again.

    A notable surprise for fans was Mercy Chinwo singing some of her verses in Twi, adding an extra layer of excitement to the joint release.

  • British boxer Anthony Joshua involved in fatal accident in Nigeria, 2 dead

    British boxer Anthony Joshua involved in fatal accident in Nigeria, 2 dead

    Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has been injured in a car crash along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, north-east of Lagos.

    According to officials five people were involved in the crash, but two died, while Joshua, the British boxer, was rescued alive with minor injuries, and two others were unhurt.

    Matchroom Boxing confirmed that two other men who died in the crash, who were Anthony Joshua’s friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, his promoter.

    It also confirmed that Joshua was taken to hospital for “checks and treatment” and is in a “stable condition and will remain there for observation”.

    Meanwhile, Eddie Hearn, chairman of Anthony Joshua’s promoter company Matchroom, has paid tribute to Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele.

    “With the heaviest of hearts,” he posted on Instagram.

    “Two great men. Rest in eternal peace Sina and Latz. My thoughts and deepest prayers are with everyone.”

    In the same vein, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu says he has spoken to Anthony Joshua to convey his condolences over the death of his two friends in a car crash near Lagos.

    “I wished him a full and speedy recovery, and prayed with him. AJ assured me he is receiving the best possible care,” Tinubu posted on social media.

    “I also spoke with his mother and prayed for her. She was deeply appreciative of the call,” he added.

    The BBC has said that the late Latif “Latz” Ayodele was Joshua’s personal trainer.

    Adding that his passion for the gym is clear on his social media pages, as is his dedication to Islam.

    “Finding Islam in 2012 has been my biggest blessing,” he wrote in a pinned post from 2020.

    The late Sina Ghami on the other hand was Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach for more than 10 years.

    He also co-founded Evolve Gym in London, which says on its website that Ghami was a qualified sports and exercise rehabilitator who specialises in musculoskeletal injuries and corrective exercise.

    Sina Ghami had worked with athletes in the National Football League (NFL), National Basketball Association (NBA) and Michigan State University football team.

    A long-discussed bout between Anthony Joshua and fellow British heavyweight Tyson Fury had been floated for 2026.

    Although the two boxers have never faced each other in a professional contest despite years of public interest and stalled talks, fresh hope had emerged that the blockbuster fight could take place late next year.

    Joshua reignited the conversation earlier this month after defeating Jake Paul, publicly challenging Fury to step into the ring with him.

    “Come and fight one of the ‘realest’ fighters out there. Step in there with me next if you’re a really bad boy,” Joshua said.

    Fury, meanwhile, has not returned to the ring since losing to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024.

  • Kwame Despite denies supporting any side in Daddy Lumba feud

    Kwame Despite denies supporting any side in Daddy Lumba feud

    Ghanaian businessman Osei Kwame Despite has broken his silence over the controversy surrounding the late highlife icon Daddy Lumba, speaking on issues that arose before, during and after the musician’s passing.

    Speaking in an interview with Fiifi Pratt, monitored by MyNewsGh, Despite, who collaborated closely with Daddy Lumba for close to 20 years, stated that he could not align himself with either side in the dispute involving the musician’s wives, Serwaa Broni and Akosua Serwaa.

    “As someone who worked with Daddy Lumba for almost twenty years, there was no way I could side with one party at the expense of the other,” he said.

    Despite also disclosed that after receiving news of Lumba’s death, he donated GHC 100,000 to the family, noting that the money was meant to assist with arrangements for the one-week observance and other household expenses.

    “Mourners would be trooping to their homes to commiserate with them,” he added.

    He further spoke about his good relationship with both women, explaining that Akosua Serwaa contacted him from Germany shortly after she heard of her husband’s passing.

    “She intended to travel to Ghana, and I even made one of my vintage cars available to her confidante, Papa Shee, to use when they arrived and paid a courtesy call,” he stated.

    Addressing his relationship with Serwaa Broni, Despite said, “I have maintained a very good rapport with Odo Broni. I wonder why my name has been dragged into the melee, with some accusing me of supporting one side.

    It was morally wrong for me to support one against the other in this sombre moment, to make one side laugh while the other mourns.”

    He ended by appealing to the public to respect his stance, emphasising that the legacy of Daddy Lumba should be handled with respect. “I ask Ghanaians to make my name rest. Lumba’s legacy deserves decorum,” he said.

    Evangelist Papa Shee has revealed that Akosua Serwaa, wife of the late highlife legend Daddy Lumba, together with other family members, missed the late musician’s funeral due to a lack of official notice.

    In an interview on Adom TV’s morning show Badwam, Papa Shee explained that Lumba’s immediate family was absent because they were abroad and had requested a postponement to allow everyone to be present.

    He also said his absence at the funeral was to respect elders who had withdrawn from the arrangements and instead stayed home to worship.

    Akosua Serwaa on the other hand, who is currently in Germany, chose to leave the matter in God’s hands after learning of the funeral through hearsay.

    “I didn’t attend the funeral because I was at home worshipping. I didn’t see a need to go, especially since I can’t disrespect my elders who said they would not be attending. Akosua Serwaa is in Germany, and some family members are overseas; that’s why they wanted the funeral postponed until everyone could be present,” he said.

    He added, “Akosua Serwaa has left everything in God’s hands. She was not officially informed about the funeral date on the 13th; it was only hearsay. Since Lumba’s immediate family wasn’t present at the funeral, it’s up to the family to decide if there will be another service. Akosua Serwaa is the reason Daddy Lumba became who he was.”

    Thousands of mourners turned out in long, solemn queues to pay their final respects to the late music icon, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, when his body was laid in state at Heroes Park in Kumasi.

    From the early hours of the day, fans from across the country thronged the venue to honour the legendary musician, creating an emotionally charged atmosphere as family members, fellow musicians, industry players and admirers filed past to bid him farewell.

    Daddy Lumba’s timeless songs played softly in the background, deepening the sense of loss and underscoring his immense contribution to Ghana’s music industry.

    Many mourners described him as a cultural symbol whose music spoke to love, hardship, hope and everyday social realities, noting that his work influenced generations of artistes and helped shape the sound and identity of contemporary Ghanaian music.

    Others said that although he has passed on, his music and lasting impact will endure, ensuring that the name Daddy Lumba remains celebrated for years to come.

    The family went ahead with the funeral on December 13, 2025, after the Accra High Court ruled that the burial should proceed as originally scheduled.

    The court’s decision followed an earlier injunction that had halted the funeral, restrained the family head, Kofi Owusu, from organising the burial, and barred Transitions Funeral Home from releasing the body. Shortly after issuing that order, the court recalled all legal representatives and issued a fresh directive.

    In its ruling, the court directed the applicants to deposit GH¢2 million by 2 p.m. on Friday, December 12, 2025, as security to cover potential costs arising from the postponement of the funeral. The judge explained that while the applicants’ concerns were noted, the injunction carried significant financial implications and could impose an unfair burden on the respondents. When the applicants, made up of members of Daddy Lumba’s maternal family, failed to meet the condition, the court ruled that the funeral should proceed on December 13.

    Despite the court’s position, conflicting statements emerged from sections of the family and associates of the late musician ahead of the burial. Evangelist Papa Shee had earlier claimed the funeral would not take place in December, citing delays in travel arrangements for some family members abroad, examinations involving the musician’s children, expired passports, and pending autopsy results. He also indicated that the family intended to meet President John Dramani Mahama over a proposed state burial and suggested a new burial date of March 14, 2026.

    These claims were rejected by the Abusuapanyin, Kofi Owusu, who insisted that December 13 remained the official burial date and warned that he would take legal action against anyone suggesting otherwise. He maintained that no individual had the authority to change the date once it had been fixed.

    The late musician’s elder sister, Ernestina Fosu, also publicly opposed earlier burial arrangements, stating that the family could not proceed with the funeral until the exact cause of Daddy Lumba’s death was known. She stressed that no court ruling or family decision would compel her to support the burial without clarity on the circumstances surrounding his death, though she later indicated her readiness to organise the funeral once the cause was established.

    Amid the family disagreements, Prophet Kumchacha issued warnings of spiritual consequences if the burial was not conducted peacefully, claiming to have received revelations about potential tragedy should the funeral be mishandled. His comments added to the public debate surrounding the burial.

    Daddy Lumba’s burial date had earlier been shifted from December 6 to December 13, 2025, to allow additional time for matters relating to the cause of death to be addressed. Following the court’s final ruling and the failure of the applicants to meet the imposed conditions, the funeral eventually took place on December 13, bringing an end to weeks of legal disputes and public controversy over the final rites of the celebrated musician.

  • Aseibu Amanfi of Highlife fame is dead

    Aseibu Amanfi of Highlife fame is dead

    The music industry is grieving the death of Kwabena Owusu, better known as Aseibu Amanfi, who died on the morning of Sunday, December 28, 2025, following a short illness.

    A video shared on X the same day highlighted Amanfi’s passing as a powerful reminder of his influence and the mark he left on generations, signalling the close of a chapter in Ghana’s vibrant highlife music history.

    His legendary track, “Kakra b3ka wo” (“a little will tell you” or “little by little will reveal to you”), embodies the virtue of patience and the revelations that come with time.

    Aseibu Amanfi was a towering presence in Ghana’s music scene, celebrated for his emotive voice and the lively rhythms that brought his songs to life.

    He once said, “We have somewhere to go or a journey to embark on,” reflecting on life and mortality during a performance paying tribute to the late Daddy Lumba.

    With unforgettable songs like “Kakra Bɛka Wo,” “Bamaso,” and “Asoko,” Amanfi’s music has become an enduring part of Ghanaian culture, bridging generations and resonating with fans of all ages.

    His work was more than entertainment; it became a cultural legacy, linking people across different times and experiences.

    “In life, when a child is born, joy fills the air, celebrated with white cloth and gifts during naming ceremonies. However, when death strikes, we are left with sorrow and sympathy as we bid farewell,” he once said, capturing the profound emotions tied to life and loss.

    Aseibu Amanfi’s impact went beyond music; he mentored upcoming artists and inspired many, leaving a legacy that will continue to shape the future of highlife music.

    Though his passing leaves a deep void, the melodies he created will live on in the hearts of countless fans.

    Legendary Ghanaian highlife musician Daddy Lumba, born Charles Kojo Fosu, also passed away months ago.

    A statement by the counsel for the Fosu family confirmed that the music veteran passed on today, July 26, after a short illness.

    He succumbed to the illness at the Bank Hospital in Accra, per reports.

    The statement reads: “With profound sorrow and deep grief, the Fosu family announces the passing of Ghana’s beloved musical icon, Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, who passed away earlier today, Saturday, July 26, 2025, after a short illness.”

    “Daddy Lumba was more than a musician; he was a cultural icon whose music touched countless lives. His soulful voice provided the soundtrack to our love stories, and his poignant lyrics captured the poetry of our struggles, dreams, and resilience.”

    The bereaved family has respectfully requested privacy as they navigate this profound grief. Details of funeral arrangements will be shared in the coming days.

    Article image 1

    Profile of the late veteran musician

    Daddy Lumba was renowned for his incredible talent as a singer, composer, songwriter, recording artist, and producer.

    With an illustrious career that has spanned over three decades, Daddy Lumba was widely regarded as the greatest and most influential musician in Ghanaian history.

    Many artists in Ghana, including Ofori Amponsah, Sarkodie, Kuami Eugene, Paa Solo of Sibo Brothers, Oheneba Kissi, KiDi, and others, consider him their major inspiration in the music industry.

    Article image 2

    Daddy Lumba was born 60 years ago to Mr. Johnson Kwadwo Fosuh and Madam Comfort Gyamfi, also known as Ama Saah, in Nsuta, near Mampong in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Both of his parents were teachers, and he was the second of three siblings.

    His educational journey began in Nsuta Kyebi, and he completed junior high school at Suame Methodist, Kumasi in 1979. Subsequently, he attended Adu Gyamfi Senior High School in Jamasi, but later transferred to Juaben Senior High School, where he completed his secondary education in 1984.

    Daddy Lumba’s music career took off in the early 80s when he formed the Nkwanta Wesley Singers, gaining fame at the Anokye Krom Cultural Center.

    During his time at Juaben Senior High School, he led the school choir and composed the song “Lumba Lumba,” dedicated to the freedom fighters in South Africa. This song’s popularity earned him the nickname “Daddy Lumba”, which later became his stage name. He also formed the Lumba Brothers band during his school days, which included his girlfriend at the time, Theresa.

    After completing school, Daddy Lumba, with the help of his high school sweetheart Theresa Abebrese, traveled to Germany. There, he met Ernest Nana Acheampong, and they formed another Lumba Brothers group, recording their debut album, “Yee Ye Aka Akwantuom,” in 1986. Financial constraints delayed the album’s release until 1989, and eventually, the duo split.

    Daddy Lumba then launched his solo career and released his debut solo album, “Obi Ate Meso Buo,” in 1990. The album received immense popularity and critical acclaim, featuring classics like the title track and “Theresa,” dedicated to his ex-lover. He has since released 33 albums, including notable ones like “Sika Asem,” “Aben Wo Ha,” “Wo Ho Kyere,” “Awosoo,” “Give Peace A Chance,” and “Ahenfo Kyiniye.” His latest project, “Ofon Na Edi Asem Fo,” was released in December 2022, reuniting him with longtime collaborator Kweku Mensah.

    In addition to his own success, Daddy Lumba is renowned for nurturing the careers of budding artists who went on to become legends in their own right.

    Some of these artists include Felix Owusu, for whom he produced the debut album “Vida” in 1992, Afia Ampofowaa, Kwabena Sunkwa, Ofori Amponsah with the “Woho Kyere” album in 1999, Selina Orleans, Akua Serwaa Bonsu, Borax, Ateaa Tina, and many others.

    His contributions to Ghanaian music and the support he provides to upcoming talents have solidified his status as an iconic figure in the country’s music industry.

    With his passion, talent, and dedication to the craft, Daddy Lumba continues to be a role model for aspiring musicians, leaving an indelible mark on the rich musical landscape of Ghana.

  • Stonebwoy to tour stadiums across Ghana in 2026

    Stonebwoy to tour stadiums across Ghana in 2026

    Public Relations Officer of Burniton Music Group, Vida Adutwumwaa, has hinted that BHIM Nation President Stonebwoy will embark on a nationwide stadium tour across Ghana, following the successful tenth edition of the BHIM Concert held at the Accra Sports Stadium on December 24, 2025.

    She made the disclosure while speaking on UTV’s United Showbiz on December 27, 2025, noting that the tour will begin in March 2026 to coincide with Stonebwoy’s birthday, with the Ho Sports Stadium in the Volta Region set to host the opening show.

    According to her, the planned stadium events form part of efforts by Stonebwoy to share his talent with fans across the country.

    “In 2026, we are hosting events in every stadium possible in Ghana. We will start from Ho Sports Stadium in March 2026, where Stonebwoy will let everyone have a share of his talent. The Bible even says that if you are given a talent and you do not use it, you will account for it,” she said.

    The announcement follows a packed and energetic night at the Accra Sports Stadium, where Stonebwoy marked a decade of musical dominance with the tenth edition of the BHIM Concert.

    The atmosphere on December 24, 2025, was electric, with nonstop energy, passion and hit-making performances as thousands of BHIM fans gathered to witness the BHIM Nation President in action.

    Stonebwoy made a grand entrance, appearing like a crowned king with golden bull horns as he opened his performance with his hit song, “Send Them a Prayer.”

    The concert also celebrated Ghana’s music scene, featuring performances from Peter of Psquare fame, Fantan Mojah, Kwabena Kwabena and others. Additional performances from Dope Nation, Cartel Big J and Kwaw Kesse kept the crowd on its feet throughout the night.

    Stonebwoy has built a reputation for staging high-quality live events.

    Since he launched the Bhimnation Ultimate Concert at the Tema Sports Stadium in May 2015, his shows have continued to impress fans, and the 10th edition of BhimFest proved that trend is still strong.

    BhimFest 2025 attracted a huge crowd to the Accra Sports Stadium, with the venue completely filled to its 40,000 capacity. With support from many popular musicians, Stonebwoy delivered a night of music that stood out from the many end-of-year concerts held in December.

    What made the event different was not just the artistes who performed, but how well everything was planned. The concert enjoyed strong promotion ahead of time, and on the day, security was well arranged. Different ticket holders were directed through specific entry points, and security officers were present to assist fans, making movement into the stadium smooth and stress-free.

    The show also started on time, which many fans welcomed. Activities began at exactly 8:00 p.m., giving upcoming artistes the chance to perform early. By midnight, the stadium was full, and DJs and hosts had the crowd fully warmed up.

    Stonebwoy later appeared on stage in a silver outfit, performing some of his popular songs as fans sang along. Other artistes such as DopeNation, D Cryme, Praye and LalixLola also delivered energetic performances that kept the audience entertained.

    He returned later in the night dressed in black, joined by dancer Incredible Zigi and the Afrozigi dance crew, adding more excitement to the show. One of the biggest surprises of the night was the appearance of Nigerian musician Mr P, formerly of P-Square, who thrilled fans with his well-known songs.

    Overall, the concert was praised for its sound, lighting and general organisation, leaving many people happy with the experience. However, some attendees felt certain parts of the event could have been better. VIP and VVIP ticket holders, in particular, complained about limited access to facilities like washrooms.

    Even with these issues, the 10th anniversary of BhimFest showed that Stonebwoy remains a strong force in Ghana’s music industry, and his festival continues to be one of the country’s biggest music events.

    At last year’s edition, Stonebwoy issued a public apology to his wife, Dr. Louisa Ansong Satekla, following a performance at the 2024 BHIM Festival where he danced provocatively with Jamaican dancehall star Spice.

    The incident, which took place on December 22, 2024, at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, sparked controversy especially since he was a married man.

    During the performance, Stonebwoy and Spice delivered an energetic rendition of their hit song “Jiggle and Whine” from Stonebwoy’s 2024 album “Up and Runnin6.”

    Their on-stage chemistry included a moment where Stonebwoy danced closely with Spice, a move that was highly condemned by the majority of the public and it was deemed inappropriate.

    In a video that circulated online, Stonebwoy is seen addressing his wife directly after the performance, saying, “It was all for showbiz.” He emphasized that the dance was purely for entertainment purposes and held no deeper significance.

    This light-hearted apology was met with cheers from the audience, and Dr. Louisa, present at the event, appeared to take the gesture in stride.

    Some found the moment entertaining and a testament to Stonebwoy’s showmanship, while others debated the appropriateness of such interactions given his marital status.

  • Music, culture and heritage take centre stage at AfroFuture Festival

    Music, culture and heritage take centre stage at AfroFuture Festival

    Ghana continues to attract visitors from across Africa and the diaspora, especially during the festive season, as it cements its position as a top end-of-year travel destination on the continent.

    One of the major attractions driving this interest is the AfroFuture Festival, which has become a key contributor to Ghana’s growing appeal in international tourism. The festival is particularly popular among younger members of the African diaspora who travel to reconnect with their roots through music, culture and shared experiences.

    The trend was evident on Saturday, December 28, 2025, the first day of the two-day festival, as thousands of people converged in Accra for the event.

    El Wak Sports Stadium hosted the opening night of what is widely regarded as one of Africa’s biggest music and cultural celebrations, with excitement building from the early hours of the evening.

    AfroFuture brings together audiences from around the world to enjoy a blend of international and local artistes, DJs, cultural activations and African-inspired food. The 2025 edition maintained this tradition, with day one delivering high energy throughout the night.

    Nigerian superstar Asake headlined the opening day, supported by performances from Ghanaian artistes King Paluta, Moliy and Melissa, as well as Obi’s House from Nigeria.

    King Paluta opened the night’s performances at 10:25 pm, delivering a series of hit songs from his catalogue. Tracks such as “Makoma” and “Aseda” kept the crowd engaged until he ended his set at 10:39 pm.

    Moliy took the stage around 11 pm, beginning her performance with “Sad Gurlz Love Money,” a song by Amaarae on which she is featured. She later invited her sister, Melissa, to join her on stage for their collaboration “Kweku,” featuring Joey B. Moliy also performed “Shake It to The Max” and delivered an energetic rendition of “Backie.”

    Asake, popularly known as Mr Money, mounted the stage at about 1:20 am, thrilling fans with a run of his popular songs. His performance included a surprise appearance by King Promise, which stood out as one of the highlights of the night. Asake maintained the crowd’s energy from the beginning of his set to the end.

    Attention now turns to the second day of the festival on Sunday, December 29, 2025. Nigerian Afrobeats star Rema is billed as the headline act, following Asake’s opening-night performance.

    Rema will be joined by Ghanaian artiste KiDi, whose fusion of Highlife and Afropop has gained him recognition across the continent.

    The second-day lineup also features several international DJs, including Skyla Tylaa, DJ LAJ, DJ RBnice, Flygerian, DJ Mohogany, Afrolektra, TMSKDJ and DJ Oreo.

    MC Lola, Kojo Manuel, Princess AJ and Michael Nichols are hosting the festival, guiding the audience through the event and adding to the overall AfroFuture experience.

  • Christian Association of Nigeria kicks against title of Ini Edo’s new Christmas movie

    Christian Association of Nigeria kicks against title of Ini Edo’s new Christmas movie

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has reacted angrily to the title of a new movie by actress Ini Edo, called “A Very Dirty Christmas.”

    According to CAN, the title is insulting and shows a lack of respect for the Christian faith.

    The group explained that Christmas is a holy period for Christians because it celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It stands for things like purity, peace, love and salvation. CAN believes that using the word “-dirty” to describe Christmas takes away its spiritual value and turns a sacred celebration into something cheap and attention-seeking.

    In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN said it supports creativity and artistic freedom, but stressed that such freedom should be used carefully and responsibly, especially in a country like Nigeria where people practice different religions.

    CAN said creative works should promote unity and understanding, not offend people’s deeply held religious beliefs.

    The association also expressed concern that a movie with such a title was approved by regulators without proper checks.

    Because of this, CAN has asked the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to explain how the title was allowed, especially since the film is being released during the Christmas season.

    CAN further called on bodies like the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and other Nollywood stakeholders to speak up against the use of religious themes in ways that can offend believers.

    In addition, CAN asked the producers and promoters of the movie to change the title, apologise publicly, and make sure religious symbols and sacred periods are treated with respect.

    The association also appealed directly to Ini Edo to show understanding and respond to the concerns raised by Christians.

    CAN concluded that at a time when Nigeria is already dealing with serious moral and social problems, actions that make light of sacred values only increase division and reduce mutual respect.

    Ghanaian actor and filmmaker Lilwin’s movie based on Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has been surrounded by several controversies since production began.

    The film, titled Captain Ibrahim Traoré: The Last African Hero, first drew attention after its production was violently disrupted in Kumasi. During filming, a group of masked men riding motorbikes reportedly stormed the set, ordered the crew to stop work and caused damage. Following the incident, the property owner withdrew permission for the location to be used, forcing the production team to suspend filming temporarily.

    Amid the disruption, Lilwin claimed he was approached with an offer of $20,000 to abandon the project. According to him, the offer was meant to stop the movie from being completed. He said he rejected the money and decided to continue with the film, insisting that he believed in the project and its message.

    The movie also became part of public debate after its scheduled premiere date clashed with a national candlelight vigil organised in honour of the late highlife musician Daddy Lumba. Lilwin described the situation as unfair and expressed concern that the vigil would overshadow the premiere of his movie, a comment that sparked criticism from sections of the public.

    Beyond these incidents, the film attracted mixed reactions online, with some critics questioning the approach, production choices and overall direction of the project. Others debated whether the story was told in a way that could appeal to a wider international audience.

    After the premiere, Lilwin further accused some Ghanaian media houses of ignoring the film, despite what he described as international interest and recognition. He expressed disappointment over what he saw as a lack of local media support for the project.

    In response to the challenges, Lilwin also announced that he was open to selling the broadcast rights of the movie to Ghanaian television stations in order to increase its reach and generate revenue.

    Despite the setbacks and criticism, Lilwin has maintained that the film will be completed and distributed, describing the controversies as part of the challenges that come with telling bold and unconventional stories.

  • GoldBod to fully take over ASM Gold Trading Programme from January 2026 – Sammy Gyamfi

    GoldBod to fully take over ASM Gold Trading Programme from January 2026 – Sammy Gyamfi

    The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) will assume full control of Ghana’s Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) gold trading programme from January 2026, effectively taking over the purchasing, trading and sale of gold under the scheme.

    This was announced by the Chief Executive Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, in a statement shared on Facebook on December 24 2025.

    Under the new arrangement, GoldBod will operate independently, with no obligation to pay fees to the Bank of Ghana (BoG). This, Mr Gyamfi said, will bring to an end concerns about the impact of GoldBod’s fees and charges on the central bank’s financial records.

    “The GoldBod is set to fully takeover the ASM gold trading program effective January 2026. Under this new arrangement, the GoldBod will solely be responsible for both the purchasing, trading and sale of gold under the program, with no fee obligation to the BoG,” he stated.

    He explained that the transition would resolve long-standing issues linked to the accounting treatment of GoldBod-related charges on the BoG’s books, stressing that such matters would no longer arise from 2026.

    “The issue of GoldBod’s fees and charges and their impact on BoG’s books will thus, be a thing of the past in the year 2026,” Mr Gyamfi added.

    According to him, GoldBod is prepared to take on the expanded responsibility, having received revolving seed trade capital from the government to support its operations. He expressed confidence that the institution would use the funds effectively to generate positive returns for the country.

    “The GoldBod is ready to embrace this new challenge and use its revolving seed trade capital allocated to it by government to deliver positive returns for the Ghanaian people,” he said.

    Mr Gyamfi expressed optimism about the outlook of the sector under the new framework, describing the reforms as a step toward improved management of Ghana’s gold resources.

    Meanwhile, Mr Gyamfi has rejected the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) report suggesting that the Bank of Ghana incurred losses of about 214 million dollars under the Gold-for-Reserves programme 

    He described the claims as inaccurate, adding that the IMF’s assertions are based on misconceptions and an inaccurate understanding of GoldBod’s operational framework.

    He wrote, “First and foremost, the Ghana Gold Board has made no losses. Rather, the GoldBod has made significant profit/surplus under its gold trading programs in the year 2025. Financial statements of the GoldBod (unaudited) published on its website bear this fact out and indicate that the institution is set to declare income surplus of not less than GH600 million for the year 2025.

    “The GoldBod has this year been responsible for only the local purchasing, assay and export of gold for the Bank of Ghana (BOG). The selling or trading of gold purchased by GoldBod to off-takers lies in the exclusive domain of the BoG.”

    The GoldBod, he added, is not aware of any loss of $214 million incurred by the Bank of Ghana under the Gold-for-Reserves Programme on account of “GoldBod offtaker fees,” noting that the financials of the Gold-for-Reserves and Gold-for-Forex programmes of the Bank of Ghana for the year 2025 are yet to be audited.

    According to him, for the record, there is nothing like “GoldBod offtaker fees” under the ASM gold trading programme, stressing that the assertion is incorrect. He explained that per its 2025 operations, the GoldBod does not deal with off-takers, neither does it charge any off-taker fees. All off-take agreements, he noted, are signed and implemented by the Bank of Ghana. Under these off-take agreements, discounts covering freight, insurance, refining charges, among others, are granted by the Bank of Ghana to off-takers.

    “The only fees the GoldBod takes from the BOG is a statutory Assay Fee of 0.25% and a Service Charge of 0.5%. These fees are not new. In fact, they were inherited by the GoldBod from a 2023 Gold Purchase Agreement between the BOG and the defunct PMMC,” he stated.

    In November, the Ghana Gold Board made significant strides in its operations during the third quarter of 2025, particularly in gold collection and export, reserve building, and regulatory compliance among miners.

    Its latest report shows that small-scale miners handed over 26,153.98 kilograms of gold, valued at approximately US$2.76 billion.

    According to the Chief Executive Officer of the Board, Sammy Gyamfi, “The Ghana Gold Board continued to demonstrate strong institutional performance and sectoral leadership during the third quarter of its operational year (July–September 2025). The period was marked by steady progress in regulatory enforcement, gold aggregation and export, licensing and compliance, and inter-agency collaboration aimed at formalizing Ghana’s gold value chain.”

    “The GoldBod’s operational and financial performance reflects its growing institutional maturity and alignment with the objectives of the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140), which mandates it to regulate, promote, and ensure transparency in the purchase, assay, and export of gold and other precious minerals,” Sammy Gyamfi stated.

    This growth, according to the institution, demonstrates that more small-scale miners are operating formally and under improved supervision.

    GoldBod also purchased 119.78 kilograms of gold from large mining companies to support the Bank of Ghana’s reserves, valued at approximately US$11.82 million. This forms part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen Ghana’s gold reserves and support the economy.

    The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) also reported strong export figures for both small-scale and large-scale miners. Small-scale miners exported 25,780.60 kilograms of gold, valued at about US$2.71 billion, while large-scale miners exported 24,911.21 kilograms, worth US$2.43 billion.

    According to the Board, these exports underscore the continued importance of mining in revenue generation and foreign exchange inflows into the country.

    The report further highlighted progress under the new tiered licensing system, which aims to streamline operations and ensure compliance across the sector.

    During the period, a total of 577 licences were processed, comprising 432 Tier 2 licences, 123 Tier 1 licences, and 22 self-financed aggregator licences. Two licences were suspended, while several others were revoked for non-compliance, demonstrating GoldBod’s commitment to sanitising the sector.

  • 120 arrested as police crack down on drug dealers, gangs in East Legon

    120 arrested as police crack down on drug dealers, gangs in East Legon

    A police operation aimed at curbing illicit drug trade and criminal activity in the East Legon area has resulted in the arrest of 120 suspects, including six women.

    The suspects were subsequently taken to the East Legon Police Station, for screening to identify individuals linked to specific offences and those suspected of engaging in drug-related activities.

    According to Graphic.com, a police report said “the operation was led by ACP Saviour Ahiamadi and supported by other senior officers, including DSP Malaika-Jibril Alhassan, DSP Richard Beriko, ASP Afram and ASP Sarpong, all from Police Headquarters, as well as ASP Imoro from the Accra Region,”

    It added that the exercise formed part of a joint operation involving personnel from the Police Intelligence Directorate, the Criminal Investigations Department, the National Operations Directorate, and the Accra and East Legon regional commands, among others.

    Days ago, seven suspects were arrested in an intelligence-led swoop targeting narcotic drug peddling networks within the Cape Coast Metropolis on Saturday, December 13. The suspects were identified as Robert Kobbina, Abu Issifu, Janet Mensah, Emmanuel Quarshie, Osei Boateng, Animful Emmanuel, and Charity Nkrumah.

    Led by the Central Regional Police Command, the operation raided hotspots believed to be hubs for the sale and use of prohibited substances. Meanwhile, the police also seized large quantities of cigarettes, tobacco products, lighters, and three jackpot gaming machines.

    This information came at a time when more than 11 nationwide intelligence-led swoops have been conducted between March and December this year by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), aimed at cracking down on illicit drug activities.

    Speaking to the media on Friday, December 19, the Acting Director of Public Affairs and International Relations at NACOC, PNCO Francis Opoku Amoah, indicated that during that period, the swoops were carried out in areas such as:

    “From March till now, we have conducted more than 11 swoops, which, in our line of work, is a good number because investigations take time. For us to have achieved this means we are doing well.

    “This year, we have carried out swoops in Fadama, Effiakuma in the Western Region, Atinkpoko, parts of the Ashanti Region, and other areas. It all depends on where the intelligence is coming from and the type of intelligence we receive,” he said.

    In September, 1,195 boxes of Tramadol Hydrochloride 120mg, locally known as ‘Red,’ were confiscated, with six individuals arrested following a joint operation by the Ghana Police Service and NACOC. The seizure took place at Gbintri, near Nalerigu in the North East Region, on Thursday, September 18.

    This information was contained in a statement signed by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Robert Anabiik Anmain of the Public Affairs Unit and issued by the North East Regional Police Command on September 21.

    The trucks, with registration numbers GR 1712-16 and AW 4417-14, were loaded with Tramadol en route to Gbintri from Sankase in the Republic of Togo.

    The suspects have been identified as Alhassan Braimah, Yakubu Muntaka, Abdulai Shakur, Mumuni Iddrisu, Mumuni Yakubu, and Moses Ayorik.

    “The North East Regional Police Command in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) in Nalerigu has intercepted 1,195 boxes of Tramadol Hydrochloride 120mg, popularly known as ‘Red,’ a restricted drug concealed in a truck and arrested six suspects at Gbintri near Nalerigu in the North East Region.

    “A search of the trucks uncovered the 1,195 boxes of Tramadol Hydrochloride 120mg, popularly known as ‘Red,’ concealed among other goods in the truck with registration number GR 1712-16. The exhibits have since been secured for evidential purposes.

    “During interrogation, the suspects admitted that the consignment was destined for Moses Ayorik at Gbintri for onward delivery to another individual at Gushegu,” part of the statement read.

    According to the statement, the apprehended individuals are in police custody assisting with investigations. In addition, efforts are underway to trace and arrest other individuals connected to the case.

    Officials of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) at the Transit Terminal on Thursday, June 19, intercepted a shipment disguised as general merchandise and headed for Niger. The officials uncovered 100 cartons of Tramadol (50 of 250mg and 50 of 120mg), also known on the streets as “Red.”

    The operation, led by CRO William Kpodo and the monitoring team, has now been escalated to the Tema Collection’s Investigation Unit in collaboration with the Narcotics Board, Port Security, and the Joint Port Control Unit (JPCU).

    In March, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division intercepted contraband goods at Tema Port. Boxes containing opioids were confiscated before noon.

    There were 26 cartons of Rahol Tapentadol 250mg, 160 cartons of Tafradol Tapentadol 120mg, 40 cartons of Timaking Tapentadol 120mg, four cartons of Timaking Tapentadol 250mg, 190 cartons of Diazole Loperamide 2mg, and 320 cartons of Chlorpheniramine Maleate.

    The drugs were worth approximately GH₵20 million. The shipment was en route to Niger, its final destination. Engaging the media, Health Minister Mintah Akandoh condemned the use of land borders to smuggle drugs and announced that the impounded consignment would remain in the safe custody of the Authority.

    “There are only two designated areas for the import and export of medication—Tema Port and Kotoka International Airport. Drugs are not imported through our land borders,” he said.

    He called on stakeholders and security agencies to confiscate any drugs brought in through the land borders. The Health Minister indicated that authorities would swiftly seek a court order for the proper disposal of the consignment. Following the court order, the consignment was disposed of.

  • Nollywood actress Allwell Ademola is dead

    Nollywood actress Allwell Ademola is dead

    Nollywood has lost actress and producer Allwell Ademola, who has passed away at the age of forty-three.

    Reports suggest that she died on Saturday, December 27, 2025.

    News of her death spread quickly across social media, which saw several actors took to their platforms to express commiserate with her family.

    Actress Fathia Williams shared the sad news on Instagram, posting, “Haaaa. This hit me so bad. Eniobanke. Allahu Akbar.”

    Damola Olatunji also reacted by sharing a candle image with the words, “Life is a mirage,” while Mide Martins posted a photo of Ademola on Facebook accompanied by a tribute.

    Bidemi Kosoko responded with disbelief in an emotional Instagram post, openly rejecting the news.

    “No way. No, no, no. Ko possible ooo. This isn’t true. God forbid, in Jesus’ name. I refuse to accept this one Lai Lai. God forbid. Olorun oni je,” she wrote. She went on to plead for a response from the late actress, adding, “Just reply to my message, abeg, oremi/aunty mi. I will wait patiently for your reply.”

    Information circulating within the industry suggests she collapsed at home and was taken to a hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.

    Nigerian actor, content creator and influencer Odira Nwobu is dead.

    According to his lawyer Chukwujiekwu Chukwudi and the Guild of Nigeria, who spoke to the BBC, the actor who died on Monday, November 25, died in South Africa at the age of forty-three (43).

    The cause of the death is yet to be known but Chukwujiekwu Chukwudi  has revealed  that an ambulance was called to Nwobu’s hotel in the town of Benoni, near Johannesburg, after he was discovered alone in his room “gasping for breath”

    Adding that, Paramedics attempted to keep the actor alive using a defibrillator, but he died at the scene before they could take him to the hospital.

    While his family is yet to comment on the matter, many Nigerians and fans have expressed shock online.

    Odira Nwobu was born in Nigeria’s south-eastern state of Enugu in 1982.

    He was in more than 60 films during his lifetime and was well-known for his comedic persona and babyface.

    He landed his first professional role – in a film called Joseph the Dreamer – straight out of secondary school.

    He told the BBC News Igbo in 2021 that he enjoyed a successful career but often felt boxed into the same kinds of roles that pushed him toward creating online content, where he felt he had more creative freedom.

    On TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, he built a large audience, gathering hundreds of thousands of followers.

    According to Emeka Rollas, president of the Actors’ Guild of Nigeria, Nwobu was in South Africa at the time of his passing with a team of social media influencers promoting a Nigerian-owned real estate company.

    His lawyer was also on the trip, serving as the legal adviser to the Nigerian firm that arranged the visit.

    “[We] were shocked to receive calls from Nigeria to confirm the passing away of the young man, while we were still debating how to break the news to his family,” Mr Chukwudi said.

    Nollywood actor Duro Micheal also died in October this year.

    The news was shared in a social media post by Nigerian film producer Stanley Ontop.

    The deceased is said to have been bedridden for a period of time before his demise.

    Details of the exact cause of his death are not yet known; however, his colleagues have confirmed that he had struggled with his health in recent months.

    “Nollywood actor Duro Michael has kicked the bucket. He died a few days ago after battling a terminal illness. May his soul rest in peace,” Stanley Ontop, in his tribute, stated.

    Months ago, renowned Nollywood actor and distinguished academic, Dr. Columbus Irosanga, sadly passed away.

    Actress Hilda Dokubo announced the news on her Instagram account on Thursday.

    In her heartfelt message, she wrote, “There can’t be a shortage of Angels in heaven that the few here are called home like this na! This one is heavy on Uniport, Rivers State, Nollywood.”

    She continued, “Our uncle Coli @colu_mbusirisoanga has gone to be with the Lord. Ikoli eh dein na mu.”

    Originating from Okrika in Rivers State, Dr. Irosanga became a household name for his compelling performances as chief priests in Nollywood films.

    He is especially remembered for his unforgettable portrayal of “Igbudu” in the 2001 hit film, Isakaba.

    His extraordinary acting skills garnered him numerous prestigious awards, such as Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), Best Actor in a Drama at the City People Entertainment Awards, Most Promising Actor in Nigeria at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), and Best Actor in a Leading Role at the Best of Nollywood Awards.

    Beyond his film career, Dr. Irosanga was a respected senior lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt, where he played a pivotal role in mentoring many budding actors.

    He is survived by his spouse and children, though the circumstances surrounding his death remain undisclosed. His passing represents a profound loss to both the academic and entertainment sectors in Nigeria.

    In 2024, veteran Nollywood actor Emmanuel France passed away at the age of 80, leaving a void in the entertainment world.

    The circumstances surrounding his death were not disclosed at the time.

    The sad news was confirmed by filmmaker Femi Ogedengbe, who honored France’s memory in a heartfelt social media tribute.

    Ogedengbe reflected on the joy of collaborating with him on various projects, including a notable trip to Tanzania in 2006.

    Together, they worked on several films, such as Cross My Sin, She is My Sister, and The Director.

    Born in Ghana, France was widely admired for his gentlemanly nature, humility, and respect for others.

    His infectious warmth and vibrant personality endeared him to both colleagues and fans alike, making him a cherished figure in Nollywood.

    One of his lifelong aspirations was to produce the film Ghana Must Go, a project that remained close to his heart but sadly never materialized.

    Throughout his prolific career in Nollywood, France’s wit, charisma, and immense talent made him a beloved actor.

    His passing represents a great loss to the Nigerian film industry, and he will be sorely missed by all who were fortunate enough to know and work with him.

    France leaves behind a lasting legacy of elegance, professionalism, and invaluable contributions to African cinema.

    Right around the same year, the legendary Joe Zulu Adigwe, a titan of the Nigerian film industry, reportedly bid adieu to this mortal coil, leaving behind a legacy that’ll be remembered as long as there are screens to watch movies on.

    The exact cause of his departure from this world remained a mystery, with his family keeping tight-lipped on the matter. But one thing’s for sure: his absence has left a Zulu-shaped hole in the hearts of fans and fellow actors alike.

    From the silver screen to the small screen, Zulu Adigwe made his mark with his unforgettable performances in countless Nollywood flicks. Whether he was making us laugh, cry, or sit on the edge of our seats, he knew how to command attention and steal the show.

    But it’s not just his acting chops that’ll be sorely missed; it’s the warmth, the charisma, and the sheer presence he brought to every role. The outpouring of love and tributes flooding in from fans and colleagues is a testament to the impact he had on so many lives.

    As we bid farewell to this Nollywood icon, we can’t help but reflect on the other stars who’ve left us too soon. Since the dawn of 2024, the stage lights have dimmed for several other beloved actors, each leaving behind a trail of memories and a profound sense of loss.

    So, let’s take a moment to remember those who’ve taken their final bow, leaving us with nothing but their cinematic legacies to cherish. The list includes the venerable Olofa Ina [Deji Aderemi], the radiant Ethel Ekpe, the vibrant Sisi Quadri, and the ever-comical Mr. Ibu, and most recently, the strong and fierce Junior Pope. Their names may have left the credits, but they’ll forever remain etched in the annals of Nollywood history.

  • “I’m ready to commit $2m to build event venues” – Mr Eazi to GTA

    “I’m ready to commit $2m to build event venues” – Mr Eazi to GTA

    Detty Rave convener and Nigerian artiste Mr Eazi has asked the Ghana Tourism Authority to support Ghana’s entertainment industry by making space available for him to set up purpose-built event venues.

    He suggests that authorities may doubt his seriousness, which is why he publicly made a $2 million pledge to demonstrate his commitment during his headline performance on December 27, 2025, at Untamed Empire, off the Spintex Road. 

    “I need to tell the Ghana Tourism Authority that we need proper venues for events in Ghana. I also want to say clearly to the Authority that I need land for both an outdoor and an indoor venue. If the GTA thinks I am not serious, I am pledging $2 million. What I am saying is simple: I need a space in Accra to build a proper rave yard, and I will also build a 3,000-capacity indoor events venue,” he said.

    Africa’s flagship Afrodance gathering, Mr Eazi’s Detty Rave, made a powerful return this year with a refreshed and more daring expression.

    Branded under the 2025 theme, “Raise the Heat,” the festival amplified originality, high energy, and a revived creative spirit at the heart of the experience.

    On Saturday, December 27, 2025, Untamed Empire came alive as an electrifying hub of light, sound, and motion, pairing immersive stage concepts with crystal-clear audio for thousands in attendance.

    Now in its seventh edition, Detty Rave 2025 showcased a standout mix of performers and DJs, with appearances from Davido, JHus, SPINALL, Nooriyah, Chichi DJ, Ciza, DJ Aroma, and Choplife Soundsystem.

    Meanwhile the Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Abeiku Santana, has praised the previous government for its role in launching the Year of Return and Beyond the Return initiatives, describing them as “fantastic” projects that positioned Ghana as a leading tourist destination.

    In an interview with YFM, Abeiku Santana noted that the initiatives helped attract several international events, including Afro Nation, and significantly raised global awareness of Ghana as a tourist hotspot.

    “The previous government did a great job, a fantastic job with the launch of the Year of Return and Beyond the Return, which became a major international marketing promotion for Ghana as a destination. It was launched in America and that brought in a lot of event organisers, including Afro Nation, to host their events here. That launch significantly amplified global awareness about Ghana as a destination,” he said.

    He emphasized that the current administration has not altered the initiative but is building on the foundation laid by the previous government, extending its reach to cities and destinations that were previously not included.

    “What are we doing after the previous government? We are amplifying it because you don’t change a winning formula. The approach hasn’t changed. We are simply building on it by activating cities and destinations that were not previously touched,” Abeiku Santana explained.

    Launched in 2019, the Year of Return marked a historic milestone in Ghana’s cultural and historical journey, inviting people of African descent, particularly African Americans, to reconnect with their roots and explore ancestral heritage.

    The initiative evolved into the Beyond the Return programme in 2020, designed to sustain the momentum and encourage long-term engagement with the African diaspora.

    Abeiku Santana stressed that Ghana is now a competitive tourism destination, with the Year of Return and Beyond the Return initiatives serving as a springboard for ongoing tourism growth.

    The Ghana National Theatre is preparing for major renovation works intended to upgrade the historic cultural landmark into a modern facility capable of meeting current production demands and delivering world-class creative output.

    Having served Ghana’s performing arts sector for more than 30 years, the theatre is facing structural and technical difficulties that have affected the optimal functioning of some systems and departments.

    The upcoming refurbishment is expected to resolve these challenges and revive the theatre’s former status.

    Officials from the Chinese government held discussions with the National Theatre’s management, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, directors of the ministry, and architects after inspecting the facility to assess the required works.

    The Executive Director of the National Theatre, Mr Henry Herbert Malm, said the renovation would play a vital role in enhancing the institution’s ability to stage high-quality productions.

    According to him, the works would upgrade technical infrastructure, strengthen safety measures, and improve comfort for performers, staff, and patrons.

    “This renovation reflects our commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly evolving creative industry,” he added.

    The Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, welcomed the progress made on the long-anticipated refurbishment plan.

    She praised the Chinese government for backing the project, explaining that the agreement was finalised during President John Dramani Mahama’s recent five-day visit to China at the invitation of President Xi Jinping.

    She noted that the National Theatre has long served as a key platform for local and international cultural exchange and capacity building, adding that the renovation would open more avenues for creatives to develop and showcase their talents.

    “We are counting on strong collaboration with the government and people of China, and we expect that in a very short time this renovation will see the light of day,” she said.

    Head of the Chinese delegation, Mr Li Yaohong, said Ghana’s rich cultural heritage within the West African sub-region informed China’s decision to construct the theatre and later support its refurbishment.

    He disclosed that the Chinese government had allocated $30 million (¥200 million yuan) for two initiatives, namely the National Theatre project and an off-road market.

    “Our budget is limited, so we propose that you prioritise the most urgently needed parts of the building. Our head office in Beijing will send a technical team to Ghana to review more details,” Mr Yaohong said.

    Areas earmarked for renovation include performance halls, stages, storage facilities, air-conditioning systems, safety features such as fencing, CCTV, modern firefighting installations, and general improvements to the surrounding grounds.

    The National Theatre was built following an agreement signed on July 5, 1989, with construction beginning on March 8, 1990, and concluding on December 16, 1992. It was officially commissioned on December 30, 1992.

    The venue was established to lead Ghana’s theatre movement by offering a versatile space for concerts, dance, drama, musical productions, exhibitions, and special events.

    It is currently home to three resident ensembles: the National Dance Company, the National Symphony Orchestra, and the National Drama Company.

  • Ghana Police, Cybersecurity Authority nab 141 suspects involved in MoMo, romance scams

    Ghana Police, Cybersecurity Authority nab 141 suspects involved in MoMo, romance scams

    Minister for Communications and Digital Innovation, Minister of Communications, Samuel Nartey George, has disclosed that a coordinated, intelligence-led operation has led to the arrest of 141 suspects linked to organised cybercrime networks involved in Mobile Money fraud and Business Email Compromise scams.

    The early-morning operation on December 27, was carried out by the Cyber Security Authority Ghana in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, National Security, and the Ghana Immigration Service.

    According to a post shared by Sam George on Facebook , “100 suspects were arrested in Tabora, while 41 suspects were apprehended in Lashibi, resulting in a total of 141 arrests. Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects are believed to be Nigerian nationals,”

    He stated that law enforcement agencies also retrieved 38 laptops and 150 mobile phones believed to have been used in carrying out cyber-enabled financial crimes. Investigators say the suspects are believed to be Nigerian nationals alleged to have engaged in multiple criminal activities, including MoMo fraud, romance scams, sextortion, Business Email Compromise, and wire fraud.

    The operation also led to the arrest of a Ghanaian landlord who allegedly accommodated 100 of the suspects in his residence. Authorities stressed that property owners have a responsibility to ensure their premises are not used to facilitate criminal activities.

    Mr George noted that forensic analysis of the seized devices is ongoing and assured that those found culpable will be dealt with according to the law. “Forensic analysis of the seized devices is underway, and individuals found to be culpable will be processed in accordance with Ghanaian law,” he stated.

    He urged the public to remain alert and support national efforts to combat cybercrime, while reaffirming Ghana’s openness to legitimate business activities.

    “Ghana remains welcoming to all of our friends and neighbours interested in legitimate enterprise. However, if you are interested in committing a cybercrime, we will find you, arrest you, and deal with you decisively according to our laws,” he warned.

    Earlier this year, Director of Fintech and Innovation at the Bank of Ghana, Kwame Oppong, raised concerns over the rising cases of mobile money fraud.

    He explained that fraudsters are coming up with new ways to scam both mobile money vendors and users.

    Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the new leaders of the Mobile Money Advocacy Group, Oppong pointed out that Ghana’s mobile money regulations have been recognized as the best in the world, which is a big boost for the fintech industry.

    However, he emphasized the importance of protecting this sector from fraud.

    Since mobile money was introduced in Ghana, it has made sending and receiving money much easier. But with this convenience has come the problem of fraud, with both vendors and customers becoming victims.

    To raise awareness and protect people in the industry, the Mobile Money Advocacy Group was formed. Over the past eight years, the group has traveled across all 16 regions of the country to educate the public and mobile money operators about fraud.

    Despite some progress, fraud continues to be a challenge as scammers keep finding new tricks. To further strengthen the fight against fraud, the Mobile Money Advocacy Group has elected new executives who will lead the group for the next four years.

    Kwame Oppong assured that mobile money is benefiting the country and needs protection from fraudsters.

    Edward Ofori Agyemang, the new president of the Mobile Money Advocacy Group, shared that the group is working closely with the police to ensure the safety of mobile money vendors.

    He also provided security tips on how to protect mobile money accounts from scammers.

    Telecom giant MTN Group also confirmed a cybersecurity breach that may have compromised the personal data of approximately 5,700 customers in Ghana.

    In a statement dated April 28, MTN acknowledged the incident, noting that while the full extent of the breach was still under investigation, “early indications are that about 5,700 MTN Ghana customers’ data may have been affected.”

    The company emphasized that all its platforms remain functional and that it is closely monitoring its systems to safeguard operations. “The confidentiality, integrity and availability of our systems remain central to how we operate and serve our customers,” MTN stated.

    The affected customers will be contacted directly, according to the company, which has since launched a forensic investigation in partnership with top cybersecurity professionals. “We are working closely with leading cybersecurity experts and are conducting a forensic investigation to assess any impact to our environment in line with our established security protocols.”

    Although the investigation is ongoing, MTN urged all customers to take extra precautions. Users are advised to remain alert and follow standard cybersecurity practices. These include updating all MTN, Mobile Money (MoMo), and banking applications; using strong, unique passwords; and being wary of suspicious messages or links.

    Customers are also reminded not to share sensitive information like passwords, PINs, or One-Time Passwords (OTPs) via phone calls, texts, or emails, and to enable multifactor authentication wherever possible. In cases of suspected fraud, MTN recommends placing a fraud alert with major credit bureaus.

    “We understand that this incident may raise concerns,” the company said, assuring customers that their privacy remains a top priority. “We will continue to contain and manage this matter carefully.”

    MTN has encouraged concerned customers to reach out through its toll-free number 100 for further information or assistance.

  • $750m loan dispute between Ghana and Afreximbank settled after 3 years – Finance Minister announces

    $750m loan dispute between Ghana and Afreximbank settled after 3 years – Finance Minister announces

    Ghana’s financial engagements have received a boost following confirmation from the Ministry of Finance that outstanding concerns surrounding Afreximbank’s $750 million facility have been settled.

    In a joint statement posted on Facebook, the Ministry of Finance said matters connected to the $750 million facilities signed in 2022 had been addressed, “with satisfaction of both parties enabling both parties to continue to partner for Ghana’s development agenda.”

    Background

    Parliament gave the green light to the Loan Facility Agreement between the Government of Ghana, represented by the Ministry of Finance, and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) on July 20, 2022, during its 31st sitting of the Second Meeting of the Second Session.

    The move came as Ghana faced challenges securing funds from the capital market, following downgrades by all major ratings agencies.

    The facility was released in three tranches—two in US dollars and one in euros—amounting to US$187 million, €193 million, and US$332 million.

    The government is set to enjoy a three-year grace period for repayment. The US$187 million and €193 million tranches carry a seven-year tenor, while the US$332 million tranche has a ten-year tenor.

    Sources indicate that the government executed the facility agreement in August, meeting all conditions for disbursement.

    The utilisation request was signed that same month, and SWIFT confirmation of the successful transfer of funds into designated Bank of Ghana accounts was received on August 25, 2022.

    Disagreements and concerns

    The Government of Ghana’s move to include Afreximbank’s debts in a wider commercial debt restructuring plan, prompted by its IMF-supported bailout, was met with resistance from Afreximbank.

    The bank contended that its debts should be treated similarly to Ghana’s obligations to the IMF and the World Bank.

    Ghana, however, maintained that Afreximbank is not a multilateral institution and therefore should not be exempt from the restructuring. Afreximbank countered, asserting that it qualifies as a multilateral institution and should be protected from debt reductions.

    This disagreement played a role in Fitch’s downgrade of Afreximbank’s credit rating in June 2025 to just above junk status, citing the uncertainty arising from the debt situations of both Ghana and Zambia.

    Nevertheless, government officials, speaking at a meeting in Abuja, informed JOYBUSINESS that progress had been made toward settling the dispute.

    The joint statement, however, did not disclose the specific terms of the resolution reached between Ghana and Afreximbank.

    In October, Government has announced its fifth bilateral restructuring agreement with the Kingdom of Spain as the latest.

    This was announced by the Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson on Wednesday October 8 after signing the agreement with Spain’s Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Ángel Lossada Torres-Quevedo. 

    “On behalf of the Republic of Ghana, I signed a Bilateral Debt Restructuring Agreement with the Kingdom of Spain, represented by their Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Ángel Lossada Torres-Quevedo.  To date, we have concluded five bilateral restructuring agreements with France, Finland, the United Kingdom, China EXIM Bank, and now Spain, “ He shared on his X page.

    Adding that this signing marks another important milestone in Ghana’s debt restructuring journey. 

    Mr Ato Forson is optimistic that Ghana will complete the process and close this challenging chapter in our economic management history by the end of this year, considering valuable lessons learnt from this experience. 

    He said, government is determined to maintain sound fiscal discipline and never again “allow ourselves to reach such unsustainable levels of debt.”

    “I remain confident that the measures we are implementing will safeguard our recovery and strengthen Ghana’s resilience,” Ato Forson expressed.

    On behalf of the Government and people of Ghana, Ato Forson expressed deep appreciation to Spain for their cooperation, understanding, and unwavering support throughout this process.

    Meanwhile, the government formally signed a bilateral debt restructuring agreement with the United Kingdom (UK) as part of efforts with the External Creditor Committee to unlock funds for  ‘The Big Push’ initiative and other government programs.

    Taking to the X platform on Wednesday, September 24, the Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson revealed that the  US$256 million deal signed between the two countries is a key step in managing Ghana’s debt better.“On behalf of the Republic of Ghana, I signed a Bilateral Debt Restructuring Agreement with the United Kingdom, represented by His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa, Mr. John Humphrey. The agreement covers about US$256 million and represents another important step in Ghana’s debt restructuring efforts,” he wrote.

    According to the Finance Minister, the UK’s participation will motivate other lenders to act fast and finalize their part of the debt restructuring.

  • I no longer have children in a careless, unplanned, or casual ways – 2Face Idibia

    I no longer have children in a careless, unplanned, or casual ways – 2Face Idibia

    Legendary Nigerian musician 2Face Idibia, also known as 2Baba, has opened up about a major shift in his personal life.

    The Afrobeat star revealed that he has become more responsible when it comes to fatherhood.

    Speaking at a recent event in Edo State on December 26, 2025, the music icon said, “I have stopped impregnating women casually,” emphasizing his commitment to making thoughtful decisions regarding children.

    2Face, who has been in the music industry for over two decades, has often been in the public eye not just for his hits but also for his personal life.

    With this new stance, he appears focused on being deliberate and accountable in his relationships and family planning.

    Fans and followers have taken to social media to express their support for the singer’s statement, commending him for his honesty and maturity.

     2face Idibia justified cheating in marriage on a reality tv show he starred in with his wife, Annie Idibia.

    Some participants of the Young, Famous and African reality show, including 2face and Annie had a conversation about the touchy relationship topic.

    However, in the presence of his wife, and much to the surprise of many, 2face stated that a man will still cheat regardless of whether he likes his woman or not.

    He said: “Men are wired like that. A man would love a woman to hell. And maybe he is somewhere, his dick will just decide something.

    Article image 1

    “He will f**k. Men don’t give a fuck about that person, he just wants to sort himself out”

    Surprised by his statement, Annie asked whether he was talking about himself or men in general.

    “Are you talking about generally or you’re talking about yourself?” Annie asked.

    Responding, 2face said: “It’s what I believe.”

    Still not satisfied with his response, Annie asked again: “Is that you or is that a belief?”

    ‘2Face’ Idibia revealed in January that he is separating from his wife, Annie Macaulay, after 13 years of marriage.

    Through a social media post, 2Face shared that they had been living separately for some time and felt it was necessary to let his fans know that divorce proceedings were officially underway.

    In the Instagram post, which quickly gained attention, he pledged to be open and share all relevant details surrounding their split.

    “This thing I have to say is short but also long… Annie Macaulay and I have been separated for a while now and have currently filed for divorce. I will grant a press release soon to share my story—not because it’s anyone’s right to know my personal life, but because I love my people, and I need them to know my innocence or offense. Stay blessed, my people. I love you all.”

    The announcement led to mixed reactions from 2Face’s fans and followers.

    Shortly after, another post surfaced on the same platform, claiming that 2Face’s account had been hacked and the divorce news was false.

    In response, 2Face went live on social media to deny the hacking claim, strongly affirming that he had made the divorce announcement himself and stood by every word.

    The situation became even more controversial when, just days before the announcement, 2Face was seen with an unidentified woman at a club, sparking further rumors about his personal life.

    Meanwhile, Annie has yet to respond to the announcement.

    The couple, who have been together for 24 years and married for 13, share two children.

    He issued a harsh caution to anyone who used his marriage with Annie Idibia as motivation for perfect marriage aspirations.

    The African Queen crooner, who is tired of public criticism of his marriage, believes that all marriages have problems, and his is no exception.

    He also stated that people should not look at his marriage as an example for what a successful marriage is since he does not live by the dictates and standards that others have set for him.

    The artist and his actress wife wedded on May 2, 2012, but their ten-year marriage has been marred by infidelity scandals and accusations of a lack of support from extended family members.

    Despite the difficulties and repeated rumors of separation, the two appear to be going strong and appear to be unconcerned about the unfavorable comments about their relationship.

  • ‘Year of Return’ was a fantastic initiative, we are building on it – GTA CEO

    ‘Year of Return’ was a fantastic initiative, we are building on it – GTA CEO

    The Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Abeiku Santana, has praised the previous government for its role in launching the Year of Return and Beyond the Return initiatives, describing them as “fantastic” projects that positioned Ghana as a leading tourist destination.

    In an interview with YFM, Abeiku Santana noted that the initiatives helped attract several international events, including Afro Nation, and significantly raised global awareness of Ghana as a tourist hotspot.

    “The previous government did a great job, a fantastic job with the launch of the Year of Return and Beyond the Return, which became a major international marketing promotion for Ghana as a destination. It was launched in America and that brought in a lot of event organisers, including Afro Nation, to host their events here. That launch significantly amplified global awareness about Ghana as a destination,” he said.

    He emphasized that the current administration has not altered the initiative but is building on the foundation laid by the previous government, extending its reach to cities and destinations that were previously not included.

    “What are we doing after the previous government? We are amplifying it because you don’t change a winning formula. The approach hasn’t changed. We are simply building on it by activating cities and destinations that were not previously touched,” Abeiku Santana explained.

    Launched in 2019, the Year of Return marked a historic milestone in Ghana’s cultural and historical journey, inviting people of African descent, particularly African Americans, to reconnect with their roots and explore ancestral heritage.

    The initiative evolved into the Beyond the Return programme in 2020, designed to sustain the momentum and encourage long-term engagement with the African diaspora.

    Abeiku Santana stressed that Ghana is now a competitive tourism destination, with the Year of Return and Beyond the Return initiatives serving as a springboard for ongoing tourism growth.

    The Year of Return initiative was officially launched by President Nana Akufo‑Addo in September 2018 in Washington, D.C. as part of plans to mark the 400th anniversary of the first enslaved Africans arriving in what is now the United States.

    Ghana generated US$3.3 billion from the Year of Return initiative, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Barbara Oteng-Gyasi has revealed.

    The minister said the revenue came from accommodation, food, shopping, local transport, and entertainment during the campaign. She noted that GHS6 million was spent promoting the initiative both locally and internationally.

    “The average expenditure per tourist was $2,391. By the end of 2019, international arrivals reached 1.13 million from 956,372 in 2018, representing 27% growth, which was above the global average of 5%. The average expenditure per tourist increased from $2,708 in 2018 to $2,931 in 2019. The receipts attributed to tourism, therefore, amounted to $3.312 billion,” she said while responding to questions in Parliament on 28 May 2020.

    Minister Oteng-Gyasi highlighted that the increased number of visitors positively impacted key sectors including airlines, hotels, tour operators, restaurants, and arts and craft dealers.

    The Year of Return, launched in September 2018, was designed to encourage African diasporans to visit Ghana, reconnect with their roots, and invest in the country.

    Several high-profile African Americans, including celebrities Ludacris, Cardi B, and Steve Harvey, visited Ghana during the campaign period, exploring their ancestral heritage.

  • Tiwa Savage surprises guests with $500 each at star-studded Christmas dinner

    Tiwa Savage surprises guests with $500 each at star-studded Christmas dinner

    Nigerian singer and actress Tiwa Savage, born Tiwatope Omolara Savage, has captured attention on social media after hosting a lavish Christmas dinner on December 25, 2025, where she gifted $500 to each guest in attendance.

    The award-winning artiste, widely known for her generosity and love for festive celebrations, ensured everyone left the gathering with a cash token estimated at about ₦750,000.

    The Christmas dinner brought together family members, close friends, and colleagues from the entertainment industry, turning the event into a memorable occasion marked by her thoughtful gesture.

    Many social media users described the act as a true expression of love that went beyond online goodwill messages.

    The evening blended holiday cheer, good food, and generous gifting, leaving guests visibly excited and appreciative.

    Videos from the event showed a beautifully arranged dining table filled with Nigerian delicacies, including jollof rice and grilled meats, setting the festive mood ahead of the surprise giveaway.

    In one video circulating online on December 25, 2025, Tiwa Savage was seen counting U.S. dollar bills as guests cheered enthusiastically.

    One guest, clearly overwhelmed by the moment, exclaimed in excitement, “Ha ha! There’s still more money? Tiwa, what’s going on?” Moments later, the Afrobeats star announced that each person would receive $500, sparking loud cheers throughout the room.

    Founder and leader of Prophetic Hill Chapel, Prophet Nigel Gaisie, attracted positive attention on social media after a video of his generous gesture toward church members surfaced online.

    The incident occurred during a church service ahead of the 2025 festive season, where the Ghanaian preacher was seen sharing money with members of his congregation.

    In a video shared on TikTok by @newsghanalive and sighted by YEN.com.gh, Prophet Gaisie addressed the congregation before handing GH¢200 notes to a female church member.

    He later extended the gesture to several others, explaining that the money was meant to support their Christmas shopping.

    A separate clip also captured him distributing bags of rice to members of the church.

    The video highlighting Prophet Nigel Gaisie’s act of kindness has attracted over 5,000 likes and more than 100 comments, with many praising him for putting smiles on the faces of his congregants.

    Ahead of the Chrismas festivity, award-winning Afrobeats singer Wendy Shay made a bold statement at the Kasoa market by gifting thousands of cedis to traders ahead of her major end-of-year show, Shay Concert 2025.

    When it comes to spreading positivity, no one does it quite like the ‘Too Late’ hitmaker. She paid her respects to the town’s chief before visiting the local market.

    Her unexpected presence, and later, her generosity, drew hundreds of onlookers. Wendy Shay invested GHS25,000 in fifty traders and also shared mobile phones, sparking emotional moments that spread across social media like wildfire.

    The incredible gesture demonstrates Wendy Shay’s commitment to delighting Ghanaians. It also sets the stage for a memorable month with a free concert. The Shay Concert 2025 takes place this Saturday, November 22, at 7pm at the West Hills Mall, Weija. The night will feature a lineup of Ghanaian artists, including Shatta Wale, Medikal, KiDi, Kelvyn Boy, Olivetheboy, Amerado, and more, all ready to deliver electrifying performances.

    As her fourth studio album, “Ready,” continues to perform well on streaming platforms, 2025 has proven to be a successful year for Wendy Shay. This Saturday, she will wrap it up with a thrilling performance you dare not miss. Get ready for the biggest show of November!

    A businessman and philanthropist, Nana Adu Gyamfi Kumanin Barima Kese, Nyankyerenease Nkosuohene, has extended support to 5,000 vulnerable people as part of efforts to ease the burden on disadvantaged groups ahead of the Christmas celebrations.

    The initiative, undertaken through his annual Christmas outreach programme, focused on widows, the elderly, persons living with disabilities and financially challenged families across selected communities in the Offinso South Municipality of the Ashanti Region. The beneficiaries were provided with food items and other basic necessities to help them enjoy the festive season despite ongoing economic pressures.

    The distribution exercise took place at Abofuo on December 21, 2025, where Nana Adu Gyamfi underscored the need for compassion, generosity and togetherness, especially during the Christmas period. He noted that the season serves as a reminder to support the less privileged and share blessings with others.

    “Christmas is about love and giving. If we are able to put food on the tables of families who may otherwise struggle, then we have truly celebrated the season,” he said.

    He reiterated his dedication to humanitarian work, stressing that giving back to society is a core part of his personal principles and business outlook. He also called on individuals and corporate bodies to play their roles in uplifting vulnerable groups.

    “We are blessed to be a blessing to others. As we celebrate Christmas, it is important to remember those who may not have enough to share in the joy of the season. We need each other’s help one way or the other,” he added.

    Recipients of the support expressed appreciation for the intervention, describing it as timely assistance that brought relief and renewed hope during the festive season.

    New Patriotic Party flagbearer aspirant, Kennedy Agyapong, who was present at the event, joined in celebrating with the beneficiaries. He praised Nana Adu Gyamfi, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Shamor Group of Companies, for his generosity and urged beneficiaries to keep him in their prayers.

    In addition to the community outreach, Nana Adu Gyamfi honoured 12 staff members from his various companies with brand new vehicles in recognition of their dedication, loyalty and years of service.

    The car presentation was held during a short but colourful ceremony at the same venue and formed part of his broader commitment to rewarding excellence and recognising staff contributions to the growth of his businesses.

    While addressing employees, Nana Adu Gyamfi described his workforce as the foundation of his companies, emphasising that their hard work and commitment should not go unnoticed.

    “No business can grow without dedicated people behind it. These awards are a small way of saying thank you to staff who have stood by the company and given their best over the years,” he said.

    He further encouraged staff to remain disciplined, committed and passionate, assuring them that dedication and loyalty would continue to be acknowledged.

    The awards comprised three brand new Honda Civic cars and nine brand new Toyota Vitz vehicles. Nana Adu Gyamfi also presented an escort motorbike to the Offinso South Divisional Police Command to aid security operations.

    The award recipients, visibly excited, expressed gratitude for the gesture, describing it as a life-changing source of motivation.

    The initiatives once again highlight Nana Adu Gyamfi’s commitment to social responsibility and community development, reinforcing his image as a leader who places people’s welfare at the centre of his actions, particularly during significant occasions such as Christmas.

  • Kofi Owusu Peprah drops official video for M’aseda featuring Diana Hamilton

    Kofi Owusu Peprah drops official video for M’aseda featuring Diana Hamilton

    Award-winning Ghanaian gospel artist Kofi Owusu Peprah has unveiled the official music video for his latest single, “M’aseda,” featuring celebrated gospel musician Diana Antwi Hamilton, further strengthening his impact on Ghana’s contemporary gospel scene.

    The much-talked-about video, which premiered on Tuesday, 23 December 2025, has quickly gained traction on television, digital streaming services and social media platforms.

    Many gospel music lovers have hailed the song as timely, spiritually uplifting and reflective, especially as the year draws to a close.

    Ahead of the release, Peprah shared that “M’aseda,” a Twi expression meaning “Thanksgiving” – was birthed from a deep personal and spiritual appreciation for God’s goodness.

    He explained that the song encourages believers to reflect on the year and recognise God’s constant mercies and blessings, regardless of difficulties faced along the way.

    “As we bring the year to a close and prepare to step into a new one, it is essential that we give thanks to God for His unfailing blessings and mercy,” he said. “Even in moments of loss and pain, Scripture reminds us to give thanks in all circumstances.”

    From a musical standpoint, M’aseda blends modern gospel influences with traditional Ghanaian worship elements, creating a rich and engaging worship atmosphere. The lyrics emphasise gratitude, humility and unwavering faith, making the song suitable for both private devotion and corporate worship.

    The feature from Diana Antwi Hamilton adds depth and spiritual weight to the song. Known for her emotive and powerful voice, she complements Peprah’s sincere delivery with a strong yet graceful vocal presence, resulting in a harmonious collaboration that reinforces the song’s central theme. Their combined performance invites listeners into a moment of genuine thanksgiving and reflection.

    Peprah noted that the collaboration was intentional, explaining that Diana Antwi Hamilton’s ministry and musical journey align seamlessly with the message of gratitude and faith conveyed in the song. The natural chemistry between the two artistes is evident, contributing to the song’s lasting impression.

    Rooted in biblical teachings on thanksgiving, “M’aseda” reflects scriptures such as 1 Thessalonians 5:18, which calls on believers to give thanks in all situations. Peprah added that the song was created to serve multiple purposes, including church worship, thanksgiving services and moments of quiet personal reflection.

    Since its release, the song has received significant airplay on radio stations across the country and has been widely circulated on digital platforms such as YouTube and other streaming services. Fans and fellow gospel musicians have commended it as a meaningful reminder of faith, hope and gratitude during a season of reflection on both victories and challenges.

    The music video complements the message of the song through simple yet powerful visuals that highlight worship, reverence and thanksgiving. Its imagery aligns closely with the spiritual tone of the song, making it relatable to a wide audience.

    With this latest release, Kofi Owusu Peprah continues to solidify his position as one of Ghana’s leading gospel voices, recognised for crafting music that inspires, uplifts and draws listeners closer to God through thoughtful lyrics and polished production.

    As the year comes to a close, “M’aseda” stands out as one of the season’s most meaningful gospel offerings, reinforcing the enduring importance of gratitude within the Christian faith, regardless of life’s circumstances.

    Award-winning Ghanaian gospel musician Celestine Donkor has teamed up with fellow gospel powerhouse Diana Hamilton to release a new song titled ‘Akorfala’.

    The song, which was released on April 1, 2025, is an Ewe word meaning “comforter” and continues Celestine’s mission to promote unity among female gospel musicians in Ghana.

    ‘Akorfala’ follows earlier collaborations with Obaapa Christy and Piesie Esther and was produced by Joseph Amoah of Springboard Studio.

    Both Celestine and Diana have, over the years, ministered healing and hope through their music, and this latest joint effort is being hailed as a spiritually uplifting project that strengthens bonds within the gospel music fraternity.

    In April, Diana Hamilton teamed up with award-winning Ghanaian gospel musician Celestine Donkor to release song titled ‘Akorfala’.

    The song, which was released on April 1, 2025, is an Ewe word meaning “comforter” and continues Celestine’s mission to promote unity among female gospel musicians in Ghana.

    ‘Akorfala’ follows earlier collaborations with Obaapa Christy and Piesie Esther and was produced by Joseph Amoah of Springboard Studio.

    Both Celestine and Diana have, over the years, ministered healing and hope through their music, and this latest joint effort is being hailed as a spiritually uplifting project that strengthens bonds within the gospel music fraternity.

    She also unveiled one of her singles, collaborating with Nigerian singer Mercy Chinwo.

    The eagerly anticipated song, titled ‘The Lord’s Doing,’ made its debut on January 15, 2023, and has been met with a wave of positive reviews.

    Despite their distinct musical styles, Diana Hamilton and Mercy Chinwo showcased a seamless collaboration on this track, leaving fans impressed once again.

    A notable surprise for fans was Mercy Chinwo singing some of her verses in Twi, adding an extra layer of excitement to the joint release.

  • “My heart goes out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Karen Lojore” – Asake on death of fan at his concert

    “My heart goes out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Karen Lojore” – Asake on death of fan at his concert

    Afrobeats star Asake has mourned the death of a Kenyan fan who lost her life after a crowd crush at his concert in Nairobi, Kenya.

    The incident occurred on Saturday at the Nyayo National Stadium, where the victim, identified as 20-year-old Karen Lojore, was among fans queuing near one of the entry gates.

    Reports indicate that heavy rainfall contributed to delays in accessing the venue, leading to overcrowding and injuries to several attendees.

    Following the incident, family members and friends of Ms Lojore have called for a thorough investigation and accountability, as Kenyans across social media platforms shared messages of sympathy and solidarity.

    Reacting to the tragedy, Asake took to Instagram on Monday to express his sorrow, describing himself as “devastated by the tragic incident”.

    “I am devastated by the tragic incident that took place at the festival on Dec 20th in Nairobi,” he wrote.

    “My heart goes out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Karen Lojore, and I pledge to support and do my best to understand what happened. Those responsible should be held accountable.

    “Music has always been my way of sharing love and joy, and it breaks my heart that anyone had to experience such loss. My thoughts are with everyone grieving, and I pray that Karen rests in peace. God Bless Kenya.”

    Meanwhile, Kenyan police spokesman Michael Muchiri described the incident as “very unfortunate”.

    The incident has once again drawn attention to the deep bond between artistes and their fans, highlighting how musicians often respond with compassion in moments of tragedy, just as Ghanaian singer Wendy Shay recently touched the life of a young fan, Tracy Shay, after the girl went viral for her joyful dancing.

    Tracy gained attention on social media when she was seen energetically dancing to Wendy Shay’s hit song Too Late during the singer’s performance at the Ridoana School Complex on March 29, 2025.

    However, while the video was lighthearted, Tracy faced some criticism from social media users.

    Wendy Shay quickly stepped in to defend her, condemning the negative comments.

    In a beautiful gesture, Wendy Shay visited Tracy’s school on April 9, 2025, to personally support the young fan.

    During the visit, Wendy made an incredible promise: she would sponsor Tracy’s education all the way from Class Five through to university.

    She also gave Tracy an undisclosed amount of money.

    The act moved both Tracy and her mother, Barbara Oteng, to tears, as seen in a touching video.

    Tracy’s mother expressed heartfelt thanks, saying she was deeply grateful for Wendy Shay’s generosity.

    In addition to the scholarship and financial gift, Wendy Shay also donated educational supplies, including custom-branded exercise books and Peeva Beverages products, to Tracy and her classmates.

    She had earlier spoken out against the backlash surrounding the viral video of the teenage girl dancing at one of her recent performances.

    The video, which circulated widely on social media on April 3, 2025, captured the young girl dancing enthusiastically to Wendy Shay’s latest song, Too Late, which contains explicit lyrics.

    While the girl’s passion impressed some viewers, others expressed concern about the setting of the performance, criticizing Wendy for performing such a song in front of minors. The young girl also became a target of online trolls, with some social media users mocking her moves and labeling her dance as overly sensual.

    In reaction to the growing criticism, Wendy Shay took to social media to share her thoughts, highlighting how many were failing to recognize the girl’s potential and confidence. She wrote:

    Wendy went on to condemn the negativity flooding the comment sections and stressed the importance of nurturing young talent rather than discouraging it.

    She continued, “My performance over the weekend has put light on a little girl dancing passionately and happily in the crowd and it’s surprising how some people cannot easily identify a talented and confident child when they see one.

    “I see a lot of negative comments under the post, and it is heartbreaking because what I see is a beautiful, talented, and confident young girl who could become a professional dancer or a musician if she is carefully guided,” she said.

    She concluded her post by urging critics to adopt a more constructive mindset and stop tearing down young people expressing themselves creatively, “Let us advance our mindset and see positivity in things like this.

    Her response has sparked a wave of support from fans and social media users who agree that young talents should be encouraged rather than attacked.

  • My 50-month prison term is unfair, free me – Diddy appeals to court

    My 50-month prison term is unfair, free me – Diddy appeals to court

    Sean “Diddy” Combs has petitioned an appeals court to grant his release from prison and set aside his conviction on two prostitution-related offences.

    In documents filed to fast-track the appeal, lawyers for the rap mogul contended that his sentence was wrongly imposed and that the actions leading to his conviction did not amount to criminal conduct.

    His attorney, Alexandra Shapiro, described the 50-month jail term as “unlawful, unconstitutional, and a perversion of justice”.

    She urged the appeals court to order a fresh sentencing if it decides not to overturn the conviction entirely.

    This move marks the most recent effort by Combs’ legal team to either shorten his prison term or nullify the conviction.

    Prosecutors from the Southern District of New York, who led the case against Combs, declined to comment on the appeal before the Second Circuit Court of Appeals.

    Combs’ legal team had earlier indicated plans to challenge both his conviction and sentence.

    Federal prosecutors alleged that Combs leveraged his wealth, influence, and threats of violence to pressure women into sexual encounters against their will.

    At a widely followed trial earlier this year, jurors heard testimony from two former partners of Combs — Cassie Ventura and another woman identified in court as “Jane Doe”. Both testified that Combs subjected them to abuse and compelled them to take part in what were referred to as “freak-offs” involving male escorts.

    While the jury cleared Combs of the most serious allegations, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, it convicted him on two counts of transporting individuals for the purpose of prostitution.

    Following the verdict in September, Combs asked Judge Arun Subramanian to acquit him or order a new trial, arguing that prosecutors had misapplied the Mann Act, a federal anti-prostitution law. The request was denied.

    Prior to sentencing, his lawyers pushed for a minimal sentence that would effectively amount to time already served, which would have allowed for his immediate release. Prosecutors, however, urged the court to impose a prison term of no less than 11 years.

    Judge Subramanian ultimately handed Combs a sentence of just over four years. In delivering his ruling, he acknowledged Combs’ charitable work and the character references submitted on his behalf, but stressed that “a history of good works can’t wash away your record”.

    In the appeal, Combs’ lawyers argue that the judge failed to properly apply sentencing guidelines in imposing the 50-month term.

    They further claim that the court “flouted” updated guidelines and wrongly factored in conduct for which Combs had already been acquitted, accusing the judge of acting as a “thirteenth juror” and branding the sentence “draconian”.

    Before sentencing, Combs offered an apology to Ms Ventura and “Jane.”

    “My actions were disgusting, shameful, and sick,” Combs said. “I got lost in excess, I got lost in my ego.”

    Beyond the criminal case, Combs is also facing numerous civil lawsuits accusing him of sexual assault, rape, and sexual exploitation.

    Several of the suits allege that he used his celebrity status and influence to intimidate accusers into silence, while others claim that victims were drugged at parties before the alleged assaults, either by Combs himself or individuals associated with him.

    Representatives for Combs have consistently denied the allegations, insisting that he “never sexually assaulted or trafficked anyone – man or woman, adult or minor”.

    A new documentary produced by rapper and filmmaker 50 Cent, detailing the rise and fall of Sean “Diddy” Combs, premiered on Netflix on Tuesday, featuring fresh allegations, unseen archival material, and interviews with former insiders.

    The second episode of the multi-part series, “Sean Combs: The Reckoning,” released on December 2, includes accounts from former Bad Boy Records staff and artistes who revisit long-standing controversies surrounding the deaths of rappers Biggie Smalls and Tupac Shakur. In their recollections, they suggest that Combs had a notable influence on events connected to both cases.

    The documentary also features testimony from rapper Mark Curry, Craig Mack’s former wife Roxanne Johnson, and Bad Boy Records cofounder Kirk Burrowes. Their interviews allege that Combs exploited artistes under the label and contributed to the East-West hip-hop tensions that shaped the industry in the 1990s.

    “I think Sean had an envy for his own artistes, he was jealous of their talent,” Burrowes said.

    One interviewee alleged that Combs pressured him into surrendering his 25% stake in the record label they cofounded, claiming the threat was made while Combs held a baseball bat.

    The episode also explores the intensifying rivalry between Combs’ Bad Boy Records and Suge Knight’s Death Row Records on the West Coast.

    At the time, Death Row featured artistes such as Dr. Dre and later Tupac Shakur, while Bad Boy represented Biggie Smalls, Faith Evans, 112, and Mase.

    According to those interviewed, the feud was not primarily driven by the artistes themselves but escalated when executives—including Combs—heightened tensions between the camps.

    Responding to the allegations, Combs’ representatives told USA TODAY that “Netflix’s so-called ‘documentary’ is a shameful hit piece.”

    “Several of these stories have already been addressed in court filings, and others were never raised in any legal forum because they’re simply not true. The project was built around a one-sided narrative led by a publicly admitted adversary, and it repeats allegations without context, evidence, or verification,” he added

    Engelmayer added, “Sean Combs will continue to address legitimate matters through the legal process, not through a biased Netflix production.”

    Diddy, Suge Knight label war turned into deadly turf war

    The label war eventually bled into a gang war, the documentary argued, with the Crips on the side of Bad Boy and Biggie, and the Bloods on the side of Knight and Death Row.

    Combs was at the centre of it all, the documentary alleged, connecting to drug boss Duane “Keffe D” Davis through Eric Von Zip.

    Davis is currently awaiting trial for the killing of Shakur.

    Von Zip, who Combs claimed was his uncle, loomed large in the New York gang scene.

    In recordings accompanied by commentary from former Los Angeles Police Department detective Greg Krading, Davis was allegedly heard recounting how he and his nephew, Orlando Anderson, pulled off the 1996 Las Vegas shooting of Shakur.

    Davis alleged that Combs had agreed to pay him and other gang members to do away with Shakur and Knight, who was in the car the night of the shooting.

    The money never materialised, he alleged, in part because Knight wasn’t killed and because it was funnelled through Von Zip, who has since died.

    “I think that Sean, now in my mature mind, had a lot to do with the death of Tupac,” Burrowes said.

    He claimed that following the shooting, the Bad Boys crew knew it was dangerous to be in Los Angeles but that Combs pushed them to go anyway.

    He said Diddy urged Biggie Smalls, real name Christopher Wallace, to go to LA for promotion for his album against the rapper’s wishes.

    Wallace was shot and killed during that trip in 1997.

    “He ushered Biggie to his death,” Burrowes argued, claiming in later years that Combs lied about the artiste’s desire to be in Los Angeles, alleging it was Biggie’s idea and not his own.

    In September, USA TODAY uncovered court files in which Davis, a former LA gangbanger, claimed that Combs put a $1 million bounty on the heads of Shakur and Knight.

  • My wife has become the true friend I never had in the industry – Stonebwoy

    My wife has become the true friend I never had in the industry – Stonebwoy

    Dancehall artiste Livingstone Etse Satekla, known professionally as Stonebwoy, has stated that his wife, Dr Louisa, has become the only true friend he never found in the music industry.

    “My wife is… the wife alone is a graduation of all. There’s my friend in there, my lover, my kid’s mom, my bonafide. But when it comes to the industry, I have a few persons that I respect and relate to.”

    According to Stonebwoy, none of his existing industry relationships qualify as true friendship apart from his wife.

    “But at this particular moment, if I say friend, I do not really have one. Truth be told, I cannot describe any relationship I have right now as a very true friendship, industry-wise, that is, music to music. Understanding what friendship really is, I can’t claim any relationship I have now as friendship; that would be deceiving somebody,” he said.

    Despite this, Stonebwoy was quick to clarify that respect and professional rapport still exist.

    “But that doesn’t mean that I do not have people that I respect and can relate to,” he added, underlining that while trust may be scarce, mutual respect remains a cornerstone of his professional interactions.

    While some friendships can build you up, there are those who will be the cause of bitter experiences.

    Singer and songwriter, Akwaboah, lamented on the attention given to spreading hate and negativity on social media than celebrating people’s achievements.

    What troubles him the most, he said, this behaviour often comes from friends and close associates.

    “Jealousy on social media, the envy on social media is so real. I mean your friends will scroll past your progress but let anybody insult you, they would screenshot it and send it to you. When you are doing something good, they would never mention it to you. The envy is so real. Protect your peace and move on,” Akwaboah stated.

    The songwriter recounted an occasion where he observed hesitation from the gospel fraternity to share a song simply because he was featured.

    “Three days ago, I recalled that I did a song with TY Crew; I wrote it, but they featured me. When the song was released, the gospel fraternity didn’t want to play it just because I was part of it,” he said.

    He has therefore encouraged people to protect their mental health and resist the urge to be affected by the cold behaviour of some social media users.

    Meanwhile, Akawboah has now decided to sing every song he writes due to past experiences with ingrates.

    During an interview on 3 Music TV, the musician revealed that, “I was writing songs for people and not getting recognition. One time, a lady won an award with a song I wrote and went on stage thanking everyone, except me. That was a turning point,” he revealed.

    The conversation on 3 Music TV progressed into a discussion about Akwaboah’s decision to feature celebrated actress Nadia Buari in his latest album.

    Akwaboah revealed that it all began through her connection with Nadia’s sister, Samira, who also has a passion for music.

    “I know Nadia’s sister, Samira. We’ve been talking because she also sings. One day she asked us to do a song, and I was like, sure, that’s fine. She spoke to Nadia first before giving me her number,” he added.

    On Sunday 29th June, he released a brand new single titled Smile Again.

    The song featured celebrated Ghanaian actress Nadia Buari, who played a leading role.

    It also marked the first-ever full-on-screen appearance of the actress in a music video.

    Her emotionally charged performance brought a new depth to the song’s powerful message of hope, healing, and rediscovered joy.

    Also in the month of May, Akwaboah released a special new album titled Live and Personal.

    The nine-track live album was a tribute to his musical roots, honoring the legacy of three generations of the Akwaboah family.

    Live and Personal was more than just music. It was a personal journey that blends the sounds of his grandfather, Master Bob Akwaboah, and his father, the legendary Kwadwo Akwaboah, with Akwaboah’s songs.

    One standout track was the timeless Awerekyekyere, originally by his father.

    The album celebrates love, family, and tradition, all through the classic sounds of Highlife music.

    In 2024, Ghanaian Afro-highlife musician, Omayor, opened up about a significant ordeal he faced in the past.

    Taking to Instagram, he shed light on a challenging chapter that deeply impacted his life and career.

    Recounting events from three years ago, he detailed a troubling encounter that led to his arrest.

    According to Omayor, the distressing turn of events originated from a betrayal of trust by a close friend.

    He mentioned that he had the chance to travel to the United States (US), but his friend, who had previously gained much from him, placed an illegal substance in his bag, resulting in his deportation.“I have a story to share with those who like friends. Three years ago I was arrested. I had a visa to travel to America but my close friend who benefited a lot helped put an illegal substance into my bag which eventually led to my arrest. This is why I composed this song, otan,” he added.

    Omayor reaffirms his dominance in the Afro-highlife music landscape and beyond, following his successful partnership with Kwame Yogot on the chart-topping track ‘Arroglass.’

    His ability to excel across diverse musical genres remains evident.”

    Titled ‘Otan,’ meaning ‘Hatred’ in English, the song unfolds a tale inspired by real-life experiences. It showcases Omayor’s signature style, characterized by poignant lyrics exploring themes of love, hate, betrayal, and resilience.”

    The collaboration with Kwame Yogot on ‘Arroglass’ initially showcased Omayor’s versatility as an artist. With the release of ‘Otan,’ he further solidifies his standing as an emerging talent in the music industry.”

  • Shatta Wale has been the cause of every attack against him – Stonebwoy

    Shatta Wale has been the cause of every attack against him – Stonebwoy

    Dancehall artiste Livingstone Etse Satekla, Stonebwoy has disagreed with assertions that Dancehall King Shatta Wale often get attacked by fellow musicians for no reason.

    According to him, According to Stonebwoy, any public comment made by artistes about Shatta Wale is usually in response to something he has already said.

    “Which artist attacks Shatta Wale? Who wakes up in the morning, unprovoked, picks a camera and starts talking about Shatta Wale?” he asked. “I don’t think there’s anybody.” 

    “Should anybody say anything, it will be like a response to what he has said. So I tell you for free, no human being is attacking Shatta Wale, not me,” Stonebwoy said in an interview with Headless YouTuber.

    He dared critics to cite a single occasion where he spoke about Shatta Wale without being provoked.

    “Point at one interview where I’ve gone unprovoked, where I’m not replying to something that has already been said, and say I’m causing a rift or beef,” Stonebwoy stated. “I don’t think any artiste does that.”

    He noted that certain people fuel unnecessary disputes by assuming they are under attack even when they are not.

    “I can confidently tell you every day, every time, that some people are their own enemies,” he said. “Some people are going through so much that they always feel others are against them.”

    Montths ago, Dancehall artiste Charles Nii Armah Mensah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, addressed long-standing rumours of animosity between himself and fellow musician Stonebwoy, blaming the media for fueling a false narrative.

    During a TikTok live session, the “On God” hitmaker insisted there is no real tension between them and said they actually live very close to each other.

    “Where I live is only about a 30-second drive from Stonebwoy’s place, so we are neighbours. Sometimes, I see that people are worried about us not being at peace, but it’s important to understand that this perception is largely influenced by the media,” Shatta Wale said.

    He stressed that even Stonebwoy is unhappy with the way their relationship is often misrepresented.

    “Stonebwoy doesn’t like this portrayal either. However, it’s all part of the game, and we just have to live with it,” he explained.

    Shatta Wale further pointed out that the media’s persistent portrayal of rivalry has made fans believe there is genuine bad blood between them.

    “The media tends to create a narrative that suggests we are at loggerheads, and many of you take it seriously,” he added.

    Over the years, the relationship between the two artistes has been characterised by public disagreements, brief reconciliations, and renewed speculations — a situation Shatta Wale now says is far from reality.

    In April this year, the came a need for the management of Stonebwoy to dismiss claims by popular disc jockey, DJ Lord, that they prevented him from playing Shatta Wale’s songs during the Guinness Accravaganza concert.

    In a post on X on April 1, Stonebwoy’s manager, Chief Stylz, refuted the allegations, calling them fabricated. He questioned why DJ Lord would push the narrative that Stonebwoy’s team was behind the directive when he had already acknowledged that it was an event organizer who approached him.

    “Just got off the phone with DJ Lord, and he admitted it was a lady from the organisers who told him that Stonebwoy’s team wouldn’t be happy if he played Wale’s songs. And just like that, you run with it? C’mon bro, think!” Chief Stylz wrote.

    However, DJ Lord stood by his claims, insisting that his version of events was accurate. He maintained that the Guinness representative explicitly relayed that Stonebwoy’s team was not comfortable with a Shatta Wale back-to-back set.

    “I have been faultless all my years in this industry, and I have no reason to fabricate stories. The Guinness representative explicitly relayed to us, verbatim from her phone, that ‘Stonebwoy’s team wasn’t comfortable with the Shatta Back-to-Back.’ I’m simply sharing what occurred,” DJ Lord stated.

    Amid the ongoing dispute, an audio recording of a conversation between DJ Lord and Chief Stylz surfaced online. In the purported clip, Chief Stylz expressed disappointment over what he described as DJ Lord’s misrepresentation of the situation.

    “Lord, what you are telling us right now isn’t what you wrote on social media… It’s like you have an agenda and you know what you are doing. If you were a good person, you wouldn’t have done what you did because we didn’t speak to any organiser,” Chief Stylz was heard saying.

    Responding to the leaked audio, DJ Lord accused Stonebwoy’s team of recording the conversation without his consent and selectively editing it to fit a narrative.

    “Recording without consent? Selective editing? That’s not how respectful communication works. I spoke openly in trust. Let’s not twist words to fit narratives,” he fired back.

    As the controversy unfolds, the disagreement continues to spark debate among fans and industry players.

  • I’m claiming the love of Ghanaians even if they don’t love me back – Moliy

    I’m claiming the love of Ghanaians even if they don’t love me back – Moliy

    Ghanaian singer and global sensation Moliy says she is choosing to embrace the love of Ghanaians, regardless of whether it is fully returned.

    Speaking about her relationship with her home country, the singer described it as complex but deeply rooted in affection and commitment, stressing that she remains firmly connected to Ghana no matter how it is perceived.

    She explained that her bond with Ghanaians goes beyond approval or validation, adding that she has made a personal decision to stand with them through every phase of her journey.

    “Me and Ghana, we have a very interesting relationship. I love them and hopefully they love me back. Whether or not they choose to love me, I am claiming their love, you know what I’m saying. It’s do or die, we’re in this together,” Moliy said.

    Burna Boy has also openly expressed his affection for Ghana, revealing that he owns a house in the country and visits as frequently as he can.

    Speaking in a recent interview on The Breakfast Club radio show in New York City, the Grammy-winning Nigerian artiste shared his admiration for Ghana while reacting to one of the hosts’ decision to acquire property there.

    During the conversation, Charlamagne tha God disclosed that he recently purchased a beachfront home in Ghana. When Burna Boy asked if the property was located at Labadi, Charlamagne clarified that it is situated in East Legon.

    Burna Boy praised the move, describing it as a wise decision and reiterating his personal connection to the country.

    “Bro that’s the best decision you have ever made,” the singer said.

    “Trust me, trust me, Ghana is a beautiful place. You’re in a beautiful place man… Cos for me personally that’s my go to place for refuge,” he added.

    Away from their love for Ghana, Moliy chided netizens for habitually body-shaming her

    In a post shared on July 18, she sarcastically quizzed such netizens if they had been able to pay their utility.

    “Hope all of you spending your day talking about my body again got rent and due bills ready. We’re in the middle of the month, just a reminder, much love.”

    She has expressed her contentment with remaining independent of any record label.

    Moliy cited record labels’ restraints on her creativity, issues of trust, as well as hearsay about artists and the challenges that come with being signed to a label.

    Her remarks were in response to a feature of discussion about her career as an independent artiste since her debut in 2020.

    For the sake of creative freedom Moliy says she doesn’t want to be a part of any record label.

    “Yeah. I’ve always been kind of hesitant to be a label artist because I’ve just heard so many stories.I don’t just wanna be a name on a list. Music is very personal to me.

    “So, I think if I did get locked in with a label, I hope it’s something that could be a real, long-lasting, organic relationship.

    “The most freeing part is just getting to do what I want creatively without someone telling me what to do. I don’t like being told what to do,” she shared during an interview on July 7 with Revolt TV.

    She said, “I always feel like the people I work with, I want to trust them. I want it to feel organic”.

    Though she has seen significant success with her songs hitting millions on boards in the UK and other streaming platforms, her independent journey hasn’t been without challenges.

    She struggled with getting her music distributed effectively without the backing of a record label; she had to navigate distribution hurdles on her own.

    “I realized at some point, I was actively seeking [distribution]. I hadn’t released music for a whole year in 2024, and me and my manager were trying to get a [distribution deal] so I could put out music.

    The conversations were sounding positive, but nothing was actually happening. I remember thinking, I still wanna move. I don’t wanna be stagnant,’” she said.

    It was at this point that she realised that “also, if you’re not pushing yourself, if you’re not putting your foot on the gas, no one is gonna do it for you. That’s what I love the most”

    Meanwhile, her journey as an independent artiste has proven quite successful with the awards she’s won and success of her releases over the years.

    In June 2022, she was named Spotify EQUAL Africa Ambassador. She also featured on MTV Base, 3Music TV, and Revolt TV and was later nominated for Ghana Music Awards and honored as BET Amplified Artist of the Month.

  • My marriage is over – Nollywood’s Anita Joseph announces

    My marriage is over – Nollywood’s Anita Joseph announces

    Nigerian actress Anita Joseph has officially announced her five-year marriage to hype man Michael Fisayo Olagunju, better known as MC Fish has been annulled.

    According to a post shared on Instagram, Anita Joseph revealed that she has recently been going through a season of deep reflection, pain and healing.

    Her post also suggested that she has questions that are yet to be answered, however, she wants to make it public that, “my marriage is over 🙏 ogbugianyi! Omere ka Anyi Mara ihe! Shalom!.”

    Popular Nigerian comedian, Chukwuemeka Ejekwu, more popular as Sabinus, also announced weeks ago that his two-year old marriage to Ciana Chapman has ended.

    Addressing circulating rumors’ about marital issues, including allegations of domestic violence and infidelity, Sabinus said, “I’m not married.

    “My marriage ended peacefully. The mum and I are good. My daughter is okay, and she is doing fine,” he said during a recent TikTok live stream.

    He adds that he is on good terms with his ex-wife and continues to prioritise the well-being of their daughter.

    Controversial Nigerian broadcaster and media personality, Daddy Freeze opened up about the collapse of his first marriage.

    According to him, he feared criticism from his church and notable figures in his life which made him maintain appearances rather than reveal the failing state of his marriage to the public. 

    In an interview with Chude Jideonwo on the “With Chude Show,” Daddy Freeze noted that he and his wife at the time weren’t even sleeping in the same room anymore, but they attended church services together.

    “The day she packed her load, the first thing that came to my mind was, ‘Ah, my pastor is going to hear about this, ,” Freeze confessed.

    At this point Daddy Freeze said he realized he was staying in the marriage because of the fear of being demoted from his position in church. 

    “I used to introduce my pastor in church. I used to go to MC church events. And I was afraid, can we manage this in such a way that nobody hears? Then I realised that I was the one putting myself in trouble,” he said.

    According to him, by the time his wife finally left, their marriage had been dead for a while.

    “This union was gone,” he admitted. “We were living in a Cool FM house.

    In Ghana, Cynthia Appiah-Kubi of Mentor II fame, known in showbiz as Cee, opened up about her status as a divorcee after several years.

    She emphasized that her decision was not influenced by instructions from God as some gospel musicians claim.

    Cee said she left her marriage because she could not endure it anymore.

    “I was married to a pastor, but I left because of certain issues and circumstances that I could not stand. He is aware of those issues. God did not tell me to leave my husband; I left because I could no longer take certain things,” she said.

    The mentor star revealed that, she had always resisted proposals to marry a man of God.

    Unfortunatley, she ended up with one and it did not last forever.

    Meanwhile, Ghanaian playwright, author, and motivational speaker, Uncle Ebo Whyte, has advised bachelors and bachelorettes not to allow themselves to be forced into marriage to satisfy societal, family, or peer pressure, emphasizing that marriage is not a requirement in life.

    “Marriage is not given to everybody. Not everybody needs to marry. Not everybody will marry. Marriage is not a magic wand. It may not deliver half of what you expect.

    So if you do choose to marry, do so because you’ve found someone with whom you genuinely want to build a life, not because society says you must,” he noted.

    Taking to his social media (Instagram) yesterday, the playwright in a video boldly challenged the longstanding norm, which asserts the need for everyone to marry, citing evolution and the growth surrounding the purpose of marriage.

    “There was a time when everybody needed to marry. That time has changed. There was a time when there was a purpose of marriage. That time has changed. There was a time when we needed to marry. That time has changed. It’s not now,” he said.

    He affirmed his stance, drawing biblical references to the teachings of Apostle Paul, which admonished that “He who marries does well. He who does not marry does even better.”

    In Ghanaian society and beyond, procreation is often emphasised to ‘pressure’ people into marriage, but Uncle Ebo Whyte argues that population control, coupled with family planning, has shifted that cultural expectation.

    “Because now we are saying there are too many people. Let’s control the population, citing his 42-year-old marriage as companionship as well. Then there’s the issue of companionship. I’ve been married for 42 years. Companionship,” he said.

    He also warned against entirely romanticising marriage, saying that it’s a commitment that requires “hard work, patience, humility, and respect,” not just love.

    Uncle Ebo reminded his audience that people can live happy lives without being married and that marital status does not define one’s values.

    “You are complete with or without marriage. Some of the most fulfilled people I know never married, and that’s perfectly okay,” he said.

    Hiplife pioneer, Reggie Rockstone, has advised that dating should be the focus of single who lack the virtue of patience.

    According him, his years of marriage experience has proven to him that marriage requires hard work and a lot of patience to sustain it.

    who are not yet married should not prioritize marriage if they have not developed the attitude of patience.

    “Just continue being in relationships and don’t think of marriage if you’re impatient. It’s a hard work, but it’s easy as well. Love is good and it’s natural to have a partner,”  he said in an interview on Joy Prime on November 19, 2025.

    Addressing the public perception that dating or marrying a celebrity is difficult, Reggie Rockstone explained that celebrities are humans too, experiencing life in different ways just like everyone else.

    “I’m like everybody else. I go through the ups and downs, I’m actually a stubborn man. Marriage is work. If you’re not patient enough, don’t try it,” he said.