TIG Post

Author: Chris Kodo

  • Woman charged with crime after pretending to be high school student for entire year

    Woman charged with crime after pretending to be high school student for entire year

    A 32-year-old Boston woman is charged with impersonating a high school student at three different schools in the area, according to authorities.

    Following the filing of a criminal complaint on Tuesday, Shelby Hewitt, of Canton, Massachusetts, was charged with identity theft and document forgery.

    Hewitt was initially brought to police’s attention when Ellie Alessandra Blake, a student at English High School in Jamaica Plain, called the school’s principal.

    On June 14, a man who identified himself only as ‘John Smith’ entered the high school and told them he would be withdrawing Blake, who he claimed was his daughter.

    32-year-old woman criminally charged after posing for entire year as high school student - brighton high school
    Hewitt also attended Brighton High School sometime in the 2022-2023 school year (Picture: Google)

    It is still unclear who ‘John Smith’ is and what his relation to Hewitt is. An incident report obtained by Metro.co.uk listed him as an involved person, as well as a teacher who offered to help ‘Ellie’ with her bullying problems.

    According to the school, Smith said he would be enrolling Blake in a different school because she was experiencing ‘bullying’ at the hands of other students.

    ‘The school found it odd because “Ellie” was just enrolled on Thursday, June 8, and just earlier in the morning they had begun to address the bullying,’ the criminal complaint against the fraudster states.

    The school became concerned that Blake’s parents were having a custody issue, so they began looking through her enrollment documentation.

    ‘It was when looking through the paperwork that a school administrator had noticed that one of the forms submitted for enrollment was not right,’ the complaint reads.

    The form, from the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF), listed a contact info for a social worker named ‘Michelle Delfi’ – but upon investigating the school found that no such person was ever employed by the department.

    ‘Ellie’ was eventually determined to be Shelby Hewitt, a former social worker at the DCF. She has not been employed by the DCF as of February 2023, the department said in a statement.

    The next day on June 15, investigators executed a search warrant at Shelby Hewitt’s apartment in Jamaica Plain.

    Inside, they found ‘falsely made, altered, or forged Court Mittimus documents from the Lowell Juvenile Court and the DCF,’ her criminal complaint reads.

    After searching through Boston Public School records, investigators concluded that Hewitt had been attending multiple high schools from September 7, 2022 through June 14, 2023.

    Officials confirmed that she had enrolled at English High School, Jeremiah Burke High School, and Brighton High School over the course of the school year by ‘utilizing the student transfer process and enrolling under multiple pseudonyms.’

    While she was at Burke High School, Hewitt went by the name ‘Daneilla.’

    According to students at Burke, ‘Daneilla’ claimed to be an immigrant from Colombia and was in the foster system, the Boston Globe reported.

    While at the school, ‘Daneilla’ made friends with other students and played with the women’s basketball team, Burke students told the paper.

    Mary Skipper, the superintendent of Boston Public Schools, said she was ‘deeply troubled’ by the incident, and said Hewitt has been ordered to stay away from public school facilities.

    ‘While the investigation is in its early stages and remains ongoing, school officials have not identified any incidents of harm to students or staff,’ Skipper wrote in a letter sent to parents and students.

    However, authorities have still not released a motive for the strange incident. In a radio interview at WBUR on Monday, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu called the news ‘extremely disturbing.’

    Earlier this year, a 29-year-old woman in New Jersey was caught after enrolling in a local high school.

  • US lifts aid restrictions on Ethiopia due to improved human rights situation

    US lifts aid restrictions on Ethiopia due to improved human rights situation

    • The US eases aid restrictions on Ethiopia due to observed improvements in human rights. 
    • Assistance will focus on promoting sustainable peace, demining, transitional justice, and accountability.
    • Concerns about human rights abuses in Western Tigray persist, urging the government to protect civilians and hold perpetrators accountable.

    According to White House national security spokeswoman John Kirby, the US has eased certain aid limitations on Ethiopia in light of human rights gains.

    Human rights have improved significantly since the halt of hostilities deals struck by the Ethiopian government and forces from the Tigray area in November, according to Kirby. The accord brought an end to a battle that had left hundreds of thousands hungry, uprooted millions, and murdered tens of thousands.

    Despite a decline in overall violations since the truce, rights groups claim that violence, including ethnic cleansing, has continued in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray area, as seen in the American news agency, Reuters.

    “We are lifting some restrictions on certain kinds of assistance while pausing food aid,” Kirby said. “This decision, we believe, expands the tools available to us to bolster our support for a durable peace in Ethiopia.”

    The United States State Department stated that their help will promote peace and reconciliation. “The focus of resumed bilateral assistance will be to support further implementation of the cessation of hostilities agreement and promote sustainable peace and reconciliation through efforts including demining, transitional justice, and accountability,” said a State Department spokesperson.

    “We will continue to raise concerns and speak out about reports of serious human rights abuses, including by non-state actors in Western Tigray, and urge the government to protect civilians and hold perpetrators accountable,” the spokesperson added.

    During the conflict, the United States curtailed economic and security support to Ethiopia, as well as access to the trade advantages of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a duty-free program that had been a boon to the country’s textile industry.

    According to a White House National Security Council official, AGOA access is being reviewed separately from the move made on Friday. According to this spokesman, the US Trade Representative heads an annual interagency evaluation of Sub-Saharan African nations’ eligibility for AGOA benefits.

    The United States Agency for International Development said earlier this month that it was halting food aid to Ethiopia because donations were being diverted from individuals in need, and the United Nations World Food Programme followed suit a day later.

    More than 20 million people in Africa’s second most populous country require food aid, owing primarily to the worst drought in decades in the Horn of Africa and the war in northern Ethiopia.

    In March, the United States ruled that all parties had committed war crimes. Ethiopia, as well as neighboring Eritrea, whose soldiers fought with Ethiopian troops against Tigrayan forces, denied the charges.

  • Titan rescue team commander fights back tears as she remembers finding the debris

    Titan rescue team commander fights back tears as she remembers finding the debris

    The captain of the team deployed to try to save the Titan submersible choked back tears as he remembered the moment they discovered Titan submersible wreckage on the ocean below.

    Pelagic Research Services CEO Edward Cassano provided a timeline of his company’s actions following a request for assistance in locating the missing submarine during a news conference on Friday.

    He said that on June 18, Titan’s owners OceanGate contacted them and asked to use its deep-water remotely operated vehicle (ROV), Odysseus 6K. He claimed that OceanGate “immediately began assembling a team.”

    Mr Cassano told reporters in New York they started heading to the scene the following day, adding: ‘We were always conscious of the crew of the Titan. Plain and simple, we were focused on rescue.’

    They joined the huge ongoing search operation within 24 hours and soon launched the ROV, which took 90 minutes to reach the bottom of the North Atlantic.

    He said: ‘Shortly after arriving on the seafloor, we discovered the debris of the Titan submersible. Of course, we continued to document the site, and by 12 o’clock, sadly a rescue turned into a recovery.’

    Visibly moved, he apologised for pausing, adding: ‘It’s a lot of emotions. People are tired.’

    Asked what he thought of the Titan’s voyage, Mr Cassano said that, based on his own experience with a company that focuses on deep-sea research, he believes the crew was motivated by ‘a passion and a joy for exploration’.

    British adventurer Hamish Harding and father and son Shahzada and Suleman Dawood were killed on board the deep-sea vessel, alongside OceanGate Expeditions’ chief executive Stockton Rush and French national Paul-Henri Nargeolet.

    Officials announced the Titan suffered a ‘catastrophic implosion’ after a piece of the vessel was discovered near the bow of the Titanic. The wreckage was then recovered from the ocean floor.

    Further debris from the sub were unloaded in St John’s, Canada, on Wednesday, along with what is presumed to have been human remains.

    The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has said it is looking into the five deaths.

    Safety investigators from the Transportation Safety Board (TSB) of Canada made inquiries on Titan’s main support ship, the Polar Prince, after it docked in St John’s harbour.

    The Titan submersible lost contact with tour operator OceanGate Expeditions an hour and 45 minutes into the two-hour descent to the wreckage, with the vessel reported missing eight hours after communication was lost.

    The company charged passengers $250,000 each to participate in the voyage.

  • Police ‘arrests’ their toddler for wetting himself during potty training

    Police ‘arrests’ their toddler for wetting himself during potty training

    As punishment for wetting himself when he was potty training, police allegedly locked their toddler kid in a cell.

    They claim that on October 5, 2022, and again the following day, the police twice “incarcerated” their 3-and-a-half-year-old son.

    The boy’s parents are still employed by the Daytona Beach Shores Police Department as an investigation into the incidents is ongoing, some nine months later.

    The parents – the mother, detective Sgt Jessica Long, and the father, Lt Michael Schoenbrod – were interviewed by a state child abuse investigator, Law & Crime reported on Friday.

    The parents of a toddler who serve as cops brought him to a jail cell to potty train him because he continued having accidents
    The parents of a toddler who serve as cops brought him to a jail cell to potty train him because he continued having accidents (Picture: Facebook)

    A Volusia County Sheriff’s deputy who escorted the investigator recorded the hour-long interview with a body camera and the footage was shared with the media earlier this week.

    In the video, Long denies any wrongdoing and says ‘it’s just people getting it twisted’. She also labels the probe ‘the definition of insanity’.

    Meanwhile, Schoenbrod said that his son’s day care requires that kids stop using diapers by age 3 and that he and his wife had exhausted options to potty train their toddler. That was when he decided to confront his son.

    ‘I said you know what I do for a living. I said I’m a cop. I take bad boys to the jail that don’t follow the law. So that’s what I did,’ the father said. ‘I said you know you aren’t following the rules, let’s go to jail.’

    The cell was ‘nasty’, Schoenbrod said, adding that he checked it for contraband before locking up his son for about 13 minutes.

    ‘Had eyes on him the entire time,’ he said.

    ‘He was crying. I was getting the response I expected from him.’

    Long had put their son in the cell the prior day for roughly three minutes, Schoenbrod noted.

    Schoenbrod claimed to investigators that the move worked and that his son promised not to wet himself again.

    It is not known who exposed the couple’s treatment of their son.

    The father stated: ‘It’s just disgusting that somebody would drag our family through the mud like this.’

    Most of the records in the case have been sealed by the county judge.

    ‘The city strives to always be open and transparent, however due to the court order that was issued to the city, we are unable to comment at this time,’ stated the city’s spokesperson Tammy Marzik.

    It is apparently not the first time that the officer couple have used the tactic. Schoenbrod said that he put his older son in a jail cell about nine years ago when he admitted to hitting a girl in their preschool class.

  • Amissah Arthur ‘died a clean man’ – Wife

    Amissah Arthur ‘died a clean man’ – Wife

    Wife of the late Vice President of Ghana, Paa Kwesi Bekoe Ammisah-Arthur, has vehemently refuted any insinuations of corruption associated with her husband. Mrs. Matilda Amissah-Arthur boldly defended her late spouse, emphasizing that throughout his life and even in his untimely death, no accusations of corruption were ever leveled against him.

    Matilda Amissah-Arthur is celebrating her husband as a scandal-free person during his years in public service.

    Mrs. Amissah-Arthur said she was thankful to God for her husband’s integrity because despite the many criticism he faced, issues of him having engaged in any act of corruption does not exist.

    That situation, she affirmed had allowed her enough leverage to go on with her life with in a dignified manner.

    “…for six years (he) was Governor of the Central Bank; for five years, he was the Vice President, while he did all those jobs nobody impugned any corrupt thing to his name, even in his death, nobody,” she said in an interview on JoyNews.

    “Am I not lucky? Thank you, Lord. I hold my head up, I can go anywhere, I go to NPP, NDC and CPP functions, and I hold my head up because there is nothing,” she added.

    The trained educationist said she currently lives a comfortable life because like her husband, she is living a diligent life and staying off any acts of corruption.

    “Nobody can impute any corrupt thing against me. If you give me work, I do it well, and that is all we are all supposed to do. We are all supposed to work well to uplift the country.

    “Ghana is ours and nobody’s. If in our corners, we do our work well, and we are truthful, then we will go very far and stop this bickering,’ she added.

    The late Vice President was an economist, academic and politician who was the fifth Vice-President of Ghana’s 4th Republic, in office from 6 August 2012 until 7 January 2017, under President John Dramani Mahama. Previously he was Governor of the Bank of Ghana from 2009 to 2012.

    He was born in April 1951 and passed on in June 2018.

  • ‘Devastating’ home fire claims lives of mom and two children in Cambridge

    ‘Devastating’ home fire claims lives of mom and two children in Cambridge

    Following a devastating fire that tore through a Cambridge residence, two children and a woman perished.

    Smoke began to seep through the windows of a two-story maisonette in Sackville Close around 1.08am on Friday, setting off the alarm.

    A team of 30 firefighters put up a lot of effort to put out the fire and stop it from spreading to other homes.

    A 30-year-old guy was able to leave the flat before help arrived, but he was transported to the hospital with significant injuries and is still there today.

    Two children, a boy and a girl, were rescued by firefighters.

    They received treatment at the scene by firefighters and paramedics but both later died in hospital.

    A woman in her 30s also died at the scene.

    Area Commander Stuart Smith, of Cambridge Police, said: ‘This is a devastating and deeply upsetting incident that will touch many people. Our thoughts are with the relatives, friends and neighbours of the family. It’s just heart-breaking.

    ‘We know this will have a huge impact on the local community and our fire safety team was in the area visiting residents yesterday to provide fire safety information and reassurance and will be returning next week.

    ‘A fire like this is one of the toughest incidents you can attend as a firefighter and we’re looking after the welfare of all those who responded to or supported this incident.’

    An investigation to establish the cause of the fire started yesterday and will continue over the weekend.

  • St Monica’s college commences investigations into death of student

    St Monica’s college commences investigations into death of student

    St Monica’s College has commenced investigations to the death of a student in the school.

    This is after the Chronicle Newspaper on May, 29, 2023, reported that a 17-year-old student of the school had died.

    The deceased student identified as Patience Amaning and a General Art student of the school is said to have been unwell for some time.

    According to the newspaper, despite her attempts to secure permission to seek medical attention outside of the school, her request was reportedly denied leading to her demise.

    It is on the back of this that the school’s authority has set up a committee of enquiry to delve into the cause of the student’s death.

    According to a reporter with UTV Ghana, the school set up the committee in order to refute claims that the school denied Patience of seeking medical attention.

    “The school’s authority said they want to refute claims that they caused the student’s death. As I speak to you, some parts of the school’s authority have laid down their tools that they’re not going to work until the enquiry is finally done and act upon whoever is responsible,” UTV’s reporter noted.

  • Here are the demands Hajia4Reall made in court

    Here are the demands Hajia4Reall made in court

    Ghanaian socialite Mona Faiz Montrage, commonly known as Hajia4Reall, has reportedly submitted requests to the court, seeking to have her bail conditions eased.

    As part of her current bail requirements, she is restricted from leaving her condominium in New Jersey, where she is presently residing, she said in an interview with KOFI TV

    Also, Hajia’s current situation can be somewhat likened to a house arrest, as she isn’t supposed to step outside her apartment, coupled with the fact that she has still got a GPS tracker stuck to her ankle.

    However, Kofi Adomah Nwawani has gotten hold of Hajia4Reall’s court statement, in which she is seeking the judge to ease up the conditions, based on the premise that she has been on good behavior.

    Hajia said, her daughter, who currently resides with her is somewhat affected by her inability to move around, and that, the 9-year-old is also beginning to feel like a prisoner.

    Due to this, she has put out the following demands;

    To be able to take her daughter out for shopping, amusement parks

    Hajia4Reall said her daughter will begin elementary school soon and before she commences, she desires to give her a series of treats.

    Hajia has pleaded with the court to allow her to take her daughter out for shopping, visit amusement parks and so on.

    Access to the neighborhood and parts of New York

    Hajia4Reall, in her statement in court, also prayed the judge to permit her to move around her New Jersey neighborhood and some parts of New York.

    The socialite said if in any case, the court doubts her, the tracking device on her ankle is enough to monitor her movements.

    “She said she’d be happy if she is permitted to move around New York, particularly, the South East areas. and even move around New Jersey where she is currently based. She said in UK, she was given some time from 6am to 6pm to move around. But currently in the US, she has been confined. So in this case, she wants to be allocated same time..” KofiTV reports.

  • Student fine £400 for putting cardboard boxes near trash

    Student fine £400 for putting cardboard boxes near trash

    A student was fined £400 for fly-tipping after leaving two cardboard boxes close to a trash can.

    ‘Extreme’ is how Marta Stankiewicz, a student at Keele University, described the punishment.

    On the Friday before her Monday pickup, she placed the two boxes next to her trash.

    Student Marta, who studies environmental science, said, “I was cleaning out the shed and there were these two cardboard boxes.” They were small. I positioned them outdoors by the wall towards the back of the building.

    ‘There wasn’t any room for them in the bins so I just put them next to the bins. This was on the Friday and the bins usually get collected on a Monday. On the Saturday, someone called saying they had reported the rubbish.

    ‘On the same day, I got a letter from the council saying I had been fly-tipping and I was being fined £400.

    ‘The boxes were just placed next to the wall by the gate out in the back alleyway. I was about to dispose of them. For two cardboard boxes, it seems extreme.’

    The £400 fine comes as the council’s new Labour administration has promised an even tougher crackdown on fly-tipping.

    Marta, who lives alone, added: ‘It is excessive. I have no income, only the student loan. I felt petrified. I was scared to answer the phone. The fine is really out of proportion.

    ‘I understand dumping waste is a problem. If it was a sofa or a cupboard I would understand. But it was just two cardboard boxes. I had just put them next to the bin ready to collect. I just want to know why the penalty was so high.

    ‘Why don’t they treat every case individually and adjust the fine.’

    The environmental science student, from Tunstall, now faces having to go to court if she refuses to pay the Stoke-on-Trent City Council penalty.

    The council says fly-tipping penalties are set by the Government.

    Councillor Amjid Wazir, cabinet member for the environment and enforcement, said: ‘Stoke-on-Trent City Council is taking a zero-tolerance approach to all fly-tipping cases. Residents are reminded to only present rubbish for collection on the morning of their collection day.

    ‘Any rubbish left out and not at the collection point will be treated as fly-tipping and the perpetrator will be fined. In this case, the cardboard boxes could have been presented with the recycling collection and included in the appropriate bin.’

  • Delay expresses interest in going into politics soon

    Delay expresses interest in going into politics soon

    Deloris Frimpong Manso, a well-known television personality and businesswoman, popularly known as Delay, has recently revealed her interest in venturing into politics in the future.

    She made this known when she engaged her followers on Twitter in a Q&A session Thursday night.

    Delay believes she has got what it takes to join the political scene to contribute her quota to the development of Ghana after achieving some level of success in both entertainment and business.

    A follower with the handle Ralph Ahyi-Mensah’s question read “Do you have the ambition to be a politician?”

    Delay answered in the affirmative that “Yes I do!”.

    Delay will join a number of entertainers including John Dumelo who have joined politics should she walk the talk.

  • 16-year-old boy murdered by car in vicinity of Bournemouth Airport

    16-year-old boy murdered by car in vicinity of Bournemouth Airport

    A car struck a 16-year-old boy, killing him horribly, close to Bournemouth Airport.

    Just around 9.40 p.m. yesterday, the adolescent was struck and murdered on Parley Lane in Christchurch.

    Despite the fact that police and paramedics arrived on the scene to help, the young man, who was from the neighbourhood, was declared dead.

    Both the coroner and his next of kin have been contacted.

    Officers arrested a man on suspicion of driving offences following the fatal collision between a car and a pedestrian.

    Dorset Police is now appearing for any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward.

    Inspector Craig Tatton, of the roads policing team, said: ‘Tragically, a young person has lost his life and our thoughts are with his family at this incredibly difficult time.

    ‘We are conducting a thorough investigation to establish the full circumstances of the incident and I would urge any witnesses to please contact us.

    ‘I would also like to hear from anyone who may have captured anything relevant on dashcam footage.

    ‘We are aware that the current road closure has a large impact at the location and I am very grateful for everyone’s patience while it is necessary to stay in place to enable us to gather all required evidence.’

    Last week, three teenagers were killed after a car crashed into a tree.

  • Another Nigerian Chef begins 150-hour cook-a-thon to break world record

    Another Nigerian Chef begins 150-hour cook-a-thon to break world record

    Adeyeye Adeola, a Nigerian chef, has embarked on an extraordinary culinary journey with the aim of setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual.

    Adeola’s cook-a-thon began on Friday, June 30, 2023, in the Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State and is scheduled to conclude on Thursday, July 6, 2023.

    This is coming after another Nigerian chef, Adeparusi Damilola, also known as Chef Dammy embarked on a 120-hour cook-a-thon in Oye Local Government Area of Ekiti State.

    Chef Dammy, a 26-year-old student at the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, aimed to push the boundaries of culinary endurance.

    Another Nigerian chef, Hilda Baci, currently holds the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon.

    Baci’s record-breaking attempt took place from Thursday, May 11 to Monday, May 15, during which she cooked over 100 pots of food over four days.

    In an official statement on its website, the Guinness World Records confirmed Hilda Effiong Bassey, also known as Hilda Baci, as the record holder for the longest cooking marathon (individual), with an impressive time of 93 hours and 11 minutes.

    The GWR in a statement on its website, said, “Following a thorough review of all the evidence, Guinness World Records can now confirm that Hilda Effiong Bassey, better known as Hilda Baci, has officially broken the record for the longest cooking marathon (individual), with a time of 93 hours 11 minutes.”

    However, Adeola’s 150-hour cook-a-thon if achieved will break Hilda Baci’s record and also set a new world record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual.

    Nigerians eagerly await the outcome, hoping to witness Adeola’s extraordinary achievement in setting a new Guinness World Record.

  • Mysterious Russian military firms compete for control

    Mysterious Russian military firms compete for control

    A covert network of Russian private military contractors is operating in Ukraine amid the repercussions of the Wagner group uprising.

    Although the militias are less well-known than Yevgeny Prigozhin’s mercenaries, they do contain battle-tested soldiers and a neo-Nazi-led organisation.

    They are broadly referred to as private military contractors (PMCs), although their relationships with Russia’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) are murky.

    One of the groups, Patriot, is said to have been formed as a counter-balance to Wagner under the auspices of the defence minister Sergei Shoigu, who has been the target of angry video tirades by Prigozhin.

    The formation was sanctioned by the US in April 23, 2023, with the Department of the Treasury’s listing stating that the entity was established in 2018 and is engaged in ‘defence activities’. 

    However, Patriot may be a generic term for a number of clandestine groups and individuals working in a ‘grey zone’ outside of Russia’s conventional military framework. The group, whose logo shows a fierce dog with red eyes, is among 25 entities active in Ukraine from the outset of Moscow’s aggression in 2014 to the present, according to the Molfar OSINT agency.

    Their stock is now said to be increasing in the wake of the Wagner group’s aborted mutiny last weekend, with the reach of the various formations stretching across Ukraine, the Middle East and Africa.

    A more notorious outfit, Rusich, is described as a ‘sabotage and assault reconnaissance group’ by an account on the Russian social media channel VKontakte. The group’s logo incorporates a Slavic symbol with neo-Nazi connotations and it has allegedly committed war crimes in Ukraine.

  • Ken Ofori-Atta to present Mid-Year Budget on July 27 

    Ken Ofori-Atta to present Mid-Year Budget on July 27 

    The Finance Minister, The Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, is scheduled to present the 2023 Mid-Year Budget Review on Thursday, July 27.

    The presentation is in accordance with Section (28) of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (PFMA) Act 921. 

    The Act requires that the Finance Minister or any other minister designated by the President in the absence of the Finance Minister presents a Mid-Year Review to Parliament six months after the presentation of the main budget for that fiscal year.

    The Majority Leader of Parliament, Osei Kyei Mensah-Bonsu, announced the date for the presentation on Friday, June 30, on the floor of Parliament.

    Ahead of that, industry players have already asked the government to use the opportunity to remove some tax handles. 

    The taxes include the tax on sanitary pads amongst others.

  • Davido prepares for upcoming tour amid ‘side chic pregnancy’ rumours

    Davido prepares for upcoming tour amid ‘side chic pregnancy’ rumours

    Singer Davido has been making headlines recently due to pregnancy rumors involving some women.

    The ‘Stand Strong’ crooner was accused of impregnating an American lady, Anita Brown.

    Since the news broke on the internet, Anita has constantly updated her social media pages with information about her relationship with Davido as well as Chioma.

    But in spite of all the rants and backlashes, the singer has remained mute.

    He has, however, taken to his Instagram story to share a flyer about his upcoming tour.

    The flyer indicated that he will be performing at the Capital One Arena in Washington DC, on Saturday, July 1.

    One call recall that prior to this development, Davido, in the midst of the numerous allegations and trolls, took to his Instagram and wrote, ‘Unavailable’.

    Read the post below;

  • Davido and Chioma have parted ways again -Reports 

    Davido and Chioma have parted ways again -Reports 

    Investigative journalist Kemi Olunloyo has reported that the married couple, Davido and Chioma, have separated once again.

    Afrobeat artist Davido and his side chics, Anita Brown and Ivanna Bay have been in the news for a couple of days after the ladies called him out for impregnating them and asking them to abort it.

    During the brouhaha, Kemi Olunloyo took to her page to disclose that Chioma has been hospitalized for being depressed over the cheating and pregnancy scandal of her husband.

    In a new revelation, Kemi Olunloyo has claimed that Davido and his wife, Chioma have separated again over the scandal.

    She tweeted, “#BREAKING Davido and Chioma have separated AGAIN. What a shameThe obvious”.

  • Gov’t revenue unlikely to be significantly affected by tax on sanitary pad – Tax Analyst

    Gov’t revenue unlikely to be significantly affected by tax on sanitary pad – Tax Analyst

    Tax analyst and lawyer, Fred Awutey has stated that taxing sanitary pads will not have any significant impact on the government revenue target.

    This comes on the heels of the latest legal action initiated by a private legal practitioner, James Kofi Afedo suing the Attorney General, Speaker of Parliament, and the Commissioner General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) over the continuous collection of taxes on sanitary pads.

    He argues that the trio had breached portions of Ghana’s constitution regarding the treatment of all persons as equal before the law.

    However, speaking on Starr Today with Joshua Kodjo Mensah, lawyer Awutey stated that Sanitary Pads can be classified as items under Value Added Tax that are not to be taxed.

    “So if you look at all these in whole you will notice this taxing of sanitary pads or products will not really have any much impact on revenue. This is basically because if you look at the sanitary pads per se you will notice that it is one way or the other a necessity product.

    “If you take for instance the Value Added Tax some of the items they have which are exempted are basically items which are basic necessities. Things like food, salt, and these items are basic necessities and most often they are exempted from tax. And I don’t see why sanitary pads could not be classified as a social product or item of necessity,” lawyer Awutey stated.

  • Aseda is biggest song in Ghana now — Nacee

    Aseda is biggest song in Ghana now — Nacee

    Gospel musician Nacee has been generating significant buzz over the past two months with his latest single, “Aseda,” claiming it to be the biggest song in the country at the moment.

    And he is not surprised the song is currently making waves because he has always known Aseda would be a banger even before he released it a couple of months ago.

    Aseda is not only doing great in Ghana but beyond the shores of the country. It’s gone viral and there is an open verse challenge on social media.

     Nacee tells Graphic Showbiz in a recent interview he already knew the song was going to be big.

    “The very day I recorded Aseda in 2015, I knew the song was going to be a hit. Although the content, arrangement and everything was on point, I never released it until two months ago.

    “Prior to bringing it out, anyone I played Aseda to liked it and kept asking me why I was not dropping such a beautiful song. I am not surprised at all that Nigerians and people all over the world are doing the open verse challenge,” he said.

    According to him, the song is flying because everyone can relate to it, adding, “The lyrics of the song is simple and talks to everyone. It’s about life, the struggles and happiness we go through”, he added.

    Nacee, goes on to thank Ghanaians for accepting Aseda and making it big. “When individuals start posting your songs on their timelines and making videos of themselves dancing to it, then you know that you are doing something great. So far, I can say for a fact that Aseda is the biggest song in Ghana at the moment,” he said.

  • Facility at risk of closure as mentally ill man persistently pursues nurses with cutlass

    Facility at risk of closure as mentally ill man persistently pursues nurses with cutlass

    Nurses at Aburi-Ketase CHPs compound are considering an indefinite strike over an ongoing threat by a mentally ill man armed with a cutlass.

    The mentally ill man alleged to be a relative of the chief of the community has been marauding and made several attempts to harm nurses at the facility.

    Starr News has gathered that three weeks ago, nurses at the Ketase CHPs compound were forced to shut down the facility for a week after the mentally ill man attacked them with cutlass and nearly butchered a nurse on duty.

    The nurses returned after safety assurance by the community, however, the mentally ill man continued with his threats.

    Recently, he invaded the facility brandishing cutlasses and threatened to kill the nurses forcing them to run helter-skelter for safety causing a near stampede.

    “For the past three weeks getting to one month now, our lives have been at stake There is this madman who invades our facility with cutlass threatening to attack us. Three weeks ago he nearly attacked a nurse on duty in the facility with cutlass but he took cover and run to safety. We decided to close down the facility for a week until the community take action to arrest the mentally ill young man and send him to a mental hospital. When we returned, we noticed nothing has been done and he continues with the threat. He has become a threat to us and the community at large,” a nurse told Starr News under condition of anonymity.

    According to the nurses, they have informed the Assembly member and elders of the community, but nothing has been done about it, leaving the mentally ill man to continue with his threats.

    They feel unsafe therefore threatening to close down the CHIPs compound until their safety is guaranteed.

    A meeting was recently convened at the facility participated by nurses, assembly members and opinion leaders on the matter.

    Efforts made to speak to the Assembly member for the Ketase, Emmanuel De-Graft Johnson on the practical steps the community will take to address the safety concerns of the nurse were however unsuccessful.

  • NDC lawyer questions who deserves a daily trial between Gyakye Quayson and NAM 1

    NDC lawyer questions who deserves a daily trial between Gyakye Quayson and NAM 1

    Head of Legal Affairs for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Abraham Amaliba, has reiterated the party’s opposition to the implementation of a daily trial mandate for their Member of Parliament representing Assin North.

    An Accra High Court made the order last month in a criminal case the state has brough against the MP.

    Amaliba holds that the order was discriminatory not just to the MP but also to his lawyers, because it means they will not deal with any other case except that of Quayson.

    “Why, did the lawyers learn law solely because of Gyakye Quayson that they have to attend court every day?” he quizzed.

    He maintained that the nature of Quayson’s crime as proffered by the state was no where close to that of Nana Appaih Mensah (NAM1) of Menzgold fame. Quayson’s case he stressed had not caused any loss of life or jobs as is the case with NAM1’s.

    “Day by day trial, tell me, between NAM1 and Gyakye Quayson, who should be tried day by day? Obviously (NAM1) because lives and jobs have been lost. People can’t live their lives again.

    “Tell me, who in Assin North has died out of Gyakye Quayson’s trial, so why should it be day by day?” he quizzed.

    Gyakye Quayson is facing five counts of among others perjury and deceiving a public official in the filing processes to contest for the 2020 parliamentary elections at a time he was said to have held dual citizenship, that of Ghana and of Canada.

    Nana Mensah is facing 61 counts of abetment of crime, defrauding by false pretences, carrying on deposit-taking business without license, sale of minerals without license, unlawful deposit-taking, and money laundering.

    The accused person has denied the charges and the court on July 26, 2019, admitted him to bail in the sum of GHC1 billion with five sureties, three to be justified.

    The court ordered him to be reporting to the Police every Wednesday pending the outcome of the case.

  • 7-year-old boy perishes after jumping from ferry

    7-year-old boy perishes after jumping from ferry

    A seven-year-old boy has perished in the Baltic Sea after jumping overboard from a passenger ferry.

    In a last-ditch effort to save him, his mother dove in after her and perished as well.

    According to a spokeswoman for the Swedish Maritime Administration, the mother chose to dive into the water after her child on Thursday when he fell into it.

    Both were travelling from the Swedish port of Karlskrona to the Polish port of Gdynia on the Stena Spirit boat.

    Crew issued a mayday signal and reportedly turned round to head back to the scene where they fell.

    Ships and helicopters from Sweden and from NATO units that were in the area assisted in the attempted rescue operation.

    Once found, the 36-year-old mother and boy were transported separately by helicopter to a hospital in Karlskrona.

    Anders Olsson, who was on the rescue helicopter that pulled the woman from the sea, told Swedish radio on Friday that she was ‘not responsive’ and first aid was administered to her.

    Police spokesperson Mariusz Ciarka told local media that it was impossible to save the lives of the two, both of whom were Polish citizens.

    He said: ‘Unfortunately, in the morning we received information from the Swedish side that we have to pass on this terrible news to the family, because both the boy and the woman are dead.’

    The boy fell from a height of about 20 meters – 65 feet – off the Stena Line ferry, it has been reported.

    ‘At the moment we have no information whether this was due to a malfunction of the ferry,’ Stena Line spokesperson Agnieszka Zembrzycka told TVN 24.

    ‘We are cooperating with the police and other authorities that are appointed to explain the causes and circumstances of this event.’

    Swedish police issued an appeal to Polish passengers via Poland’s state-run news agency PAP asking for information that could explain how the accident occurred.

  •  I will name my next child after Asamoah Gyan- Dr Likee

     I will name my next child after Asamoah Gyan- Dr Likee


    Asamoah Gyan, the esteemed footballer, is set to welcome a new addition to his prestigious family. However, this child will not be biologically related to him. Instead, the child has been dedicated to Asamoah Gyan by actor Dr. Likee.

    Reciprocating kindness showered on him since his emergence into the film industry, Dr Likee said it is only prudent he names his child after Gyan.

    According to him, Gyan has played the daunting role of his godfather and offered him both financial and moral support.

    “Asamoah Gyan is one of the few people who believed in my talent. Even when I was a nobody, he posted my skits and it went viral and that’s why I am here now. So for Asamoah Gyan, I owe him a lot. I will not be able to pay him back, so the child I will be welcoming next week will be named after him,” Dr Likee said, drawing cheers from his set mates.

    On why he has reached that decision, Dr Likee said he wants his child to emulate the good attributes of Gyan which includes his love for his country.

    Aside the benevolent factor, he further mentioned Asamoah Gyan’s supportive nature and team sprit as one of the reasons he would want his child to be raised in the identity of the legendary footballer.

    Dr Likee broke the news when Asamoah Gyan paid him a surprise visit while he was filming on set.

    This, in Dr Likee’s view is a testament of Gyan’s unwavering support for him and his entire team.

    As a matter of fact, Asamoah Gyan purchased the camera which has shot all of Dr Likee’s hilarious films and skits.

  • Mzbel outlines reasons for hiding identity of baby daddy

    Mzbel outlines reasons for hiding identity of baby daddy

    Singer, Mzbel has been quite open about various aspects of her personal life, including the birth of her new daughter. However, there is still one aspect that she chooses to keep guarded and undisclosed.

    The singer says she will never disclose the identity of her child’s father to her followers as she did with her pregnancy and delivery story.

    Speaking in an interview with OB TV, Mzbel said she does not want social media’s commentary into her relationship with her child’s father.

    She stated that posting her baby daddy may attract unsolicited comments which has the potential to ruin their relationship.

    “I can’t reveal his identity. Because of what I have seen on social media, I will never post anything that’s very dear to me on such a platform. Someone got married and announced it on social media and a few days later, it was revealed that her husband is a carpenter, make-up artiste, macho man, and other things, and eventually, the couple divorced.”

    Mzbel said that it is important to keep social media out of things one adores or would like to protect.

    “If you have something you cherish, you are happy about it, and wish to keep it forever, then please social media should be the last place to make people know about it but for my daughter’s father, I wouldn’t post him for an ordinary person to disrespect and associate him with false information,” she said.

    This comes after Mzbel welcomed her second child. In a video shared on her Instagram page, Mzbel revealed she welcomed a baby girl.

    The ‘16 Years’ hitmaker shared snippets of her delivery story including footage from the caesarean operation, nurses cleaning the baby, and videos of mother and daughter sleeping in their room.

  • Fourth night of unrest in France after police shooting of teenager

    Fourth night of unrest in France after police shooting of teenager

    For the fourth night in a row, riots shook French cities as the government sent in 45,000 police and numerous armoured vehicles to quell the disturbance that was brought on by an officer shooting and killing a teenager.

    According to the interior ministry of France, 994 people were detained overnight, up from 875 the night before, amid the violence that has put President Emmanuel Macron through the largest leadership crisis since the Yellow Vest rallies.

    The ministry posted on its Twitter account on Saturday that the level of violence was “lower in intensity” than the previous night.

    Buildings and vehicles have been torched and stores looted in unrest that has spread nationwide, including in cities such as Marseille, Lyon, Toulouse, Strasbourg and Lille.

    Protests also continued in Paris where Nahel M., a 17-year-old of Algerian and Moroccan descent, was shot during a traffic stop on Tuesday in the French capital’s Nanterre suburb.

    His funeral is due to be held later on Saturday, sources told Reuters.

    Nahel’s death, caught on video, has reignited longstanding complaints by poor and racially mixed urban communities of police violence and racism.

    Friday night’s arrests included 80 people in the southern city of Marseille, France’s second-largest and home to many people of North African descent.

    Social media images showed an explosion rocking Marseille’s old port area. City authorities said they were investigating the cause but did not believe there were any casualties.

    Rioters in central Marseille looted a gun store and stole some hunting rifles but no ammunition, police said. One person was arrested with a rifle likely from the store, police said. The store was now being guarded by police.

    Marseille Mayor Benoit Payan called on the French government to immediately send additional troops.

    ‘The scenes of pillaging and violence are unacceptable,’ he said in a tweet late on Friday.

    Three police officers were slightly wounded early on Saturday. A police helicopter flew overhead.

    In Lyon, France’s third-largest city, the gendarmes police force deployed armoured personnel carriers and a helicopter.

    Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin had asked local authorities to halt bus and tram traffic and wrote to firefighters and police officers saying he could rely on them.

    Asked on a television news programme whether the government could declare a state of emergency, Darmanin said: ‘Quite simply, we’re not ruling out any hypothesis and we’ll see after tonight what the President of the Republic chooses.’

    In Paris, police cleared protesters from the iconic central Place de la Concorde square on Friday night.

    More than 200 police officers have been injured since the unrest erupted and hundreds of rioters have been arrested, Darmanin said, adding their average age was 17.

    Macron earlier urged parents to keep children off the streets.

    Players from the national soccer team issued a rare statement calling for calm. ‘Violence must stop to leave way for mourning, dialogue and reconstruction,” they said, in a statement posted on star Kylian Mbappe’s Instagram account.

    Looters have ransacked dozens of shops and torched some 2,000 vehicles since the riots started.

    Events including two concerts at the Stade de France on the outskirts of Paris were cancelled. Tour de France organisers said they were ready to adapt to any situation when the cycle race enters the country on Monday after starting in Spain.

    Macron left a European Union summit in Brussels early to attend a second cabinet crisis meeting in two days and asked social media to remove ‘the most sensitive’ footage of rioting and to disclose identities of users fomenting violence.

    Videos on social media showed urban landscapes ablaze. A tram was set alight in the eastern city of Lyon and 12 buses gutted in a depot in Aubervilliers, northern Paris.

    Darmanin met representatives from Meta, Twitter, Snapchat and TikTok. Snapchat said it had zero tolerance for content that promoted violence.

    A friend of the victim’s family, Mohamed Jakoubi, who watched Nahel grow up, said the rage was fuelled by a sense of injustice after incidents of police violence against minority ethnic communities, many from former French colonies.

    ‘We are fed up, we are French too. We are against violence, we are not scum,’ he said.

    Some tourists were worried, others supportive of protests as some Western governments warned their citizens to be cautious.

    ‘Racism and problems with the police and minorities is an important topic going on and it’s important to address it,’ U.S. tourist Enzo Santo Domingo said in Paris.

    Macron denies there is systemic racism inside law enforcement agencies.

    In Geneva, the U.N. rights office emphasised the importance of peaceful assembly and urged French authorities to ensure that use of force by police was non-discriminatory.

    The policeman whom prosecutors say acknowledged firing a lethal shot at the teenager is in preventive custody under formal investigation for voluntary homicide, equivalent to being charged under Anglo-Saxon jurisdictions.

    His lawyer, Laurent-Franck Lienard, said his client had aimed at the driver’s leg but was bumped when the car took off, causing him to shoot towards his chest.

    ‘Obviously (the officer) didn’t want to kill the driver,’ Lienard said on BFM TV.

    The unrest has revived memories of three weeks of nationwide riots in 2005 that forced then President Jacques Chirac to declare a state of emergency following the death of two young men electrocuted in a power substation as they hid from police.

     

  • Kwaku Azar joins calls for Gyakye Quayson’s case to be discontinued

    Kwaku Azar joins calls for Gyakye Quayson’s case to be discontinued

    Prof Kwaku Asare, US-based lawyer and academic has called on the Attorney General to drop criminal charges against Assin North Member of Parliament, James Gyakye Quayson.

    His view comes on the back of the June 27 by-election victory by the MP whose ouster from the lawmaking chamber via a Supreme Court ruling triggered the by-election.

    Kwaku Azar as he is popularly known said the AG should file a nolle prosequi, which in law is an entry in the record of the court that a prosecutor will not proceed with a case.

    “GOGO pleads with AG to nolle prosequi the criminal charges against MP-elect.
    Da Yie!” Azar’s post of June 29 read.

    James Quayson had pleaded not guilty to five charges of deceit of the public officer, forgery of passport or travel certificates, knowingly making a false statutory declaration, perjury and false declaration for office.

    The charges relate to his participation in the 2020 polls at a time he supposedly held dual citizenship.

    The Accra High Court ordered a daily trial, which ruling has been challenged by his lawyers in the Court of Appeal.

  • NPP inaugurates committee for presidential election vetting

    NPP inaugurates committee for presidential election vetting

    In accordance with Article 10(3)(F)(ii) of the Party’s Constitution, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially established and inaugurated the vetting committee for its upcoming presidential elections.

    The National Steering Committee, acting for and on behalf of the National Council, at its emergency meeting held on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, and upon further stakeholder consultations, appointed former Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Prof. Aaron Mike Oquaye as Chairman of the committee.

    The General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, on Friday, June 30, 2023, inaugurated the committee at the party’s Headquarters.

    Mr Kodua reiterated the need to uphold the Party’s Constitution and urged the Committee members to ensure a free, fair and transparent vetting process.

    Other members of the committee include Roads Minister; Kwasi Amoako Atta, former NPP Treasurer; Stephen Abankwa Sekyere, Akuapem North MP; Osei Bonsu Amoah and Presidential staffer; Lord Oblitey Commey.

    The rest are; Lawyer Frank Davies, former Women’s Organiser, Rita Talata Asobayire, Chairman of NPP Council of Elders; Hackman Owusu-Agyeman and former GRA Board Chairperson; Adelaide Ahwireng.

    Aside from being a committee member, Mr Amoah has been appointed the Spokesperson for the Committee.

    NPP Director for Research and Elections, Evans Nimako, has also been appointed as Secretary to the committee.

  • Two people killed at the Moldova airport

    Two people killed at the Moldova airport

    Ion Munteanu, the nation’s chief prosecutor, indicated that the incident is being looked into as a potential terrorist act.

    Olena Shevelyova, one of the witnesses, reported hearing four to five bullets. She continued, “We heard some guns firing and we were asked to go in some buildings here… to hide behind the building.”

    Ambulances could be heard approaching the airport, according to Ms. Shevelyova, a 48-year-old Ukrainian executive who was waiting to join a trip to Milan.

    ‘It was unclear if there was a bomb or something had happened,’ she went on. ‘It was only after we went far away from the airport that we were told there is someone who is shooting.’

    Since Russia invaded Ukraine, neighboring Moldova — a country with a population of about 2.6 million people, and a European Union candidate since June 2022 — has faced a long list of crises.

    These include an acute winter energy crisis after Russia dramatically reduced gas supplies and recurring anti-government protests organised by a Kremlin-friendly political party against the ruling pro-Western administration.

    Moldova’s leaders have also repeatedly accused Moscow of conducting campaigns to try to destabilise the country, which was a Soviet republic until 1991.

  • Muntaka returns to teaching after NDC stripped him of Chief Whip position

    Muntaka returns to teaching after NDC stripped him of Chief Whip position

    Former Chief Whip for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and MP for the Asawase Constituency, Muntaka Mubarak has disclosed that he has returned to his first love, the teaching profession, after he was stripped of his position as the Minority Chief Whip.

    Muntaka entered the Parliament of Ghana on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in 2005, through a by-election in Asawase in the Ashanti Region, where he won majority of votes; 11,142, to replace Dr. Gibril Adamu Mohammed.

    Gibril Adamu Mohammed also of the NDC had won the seat in December 2004 but died shortly after his win in 2005.

    Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka, prior to his parliamentary bid had served under late former President, John Evans Atta Mills as Minister for Youth and Sports until his resignation following allegations of corruption.

    Before this, he served as a teacher but moved on from this after his political career began.

    As Minority Chief Whip for over 10 years, Muntaka who has served in the 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th parliaments under the fourth republic, was replaced.
    A younger generation of Minority members in parliament took over the affairs of leadership in January 2023 and replaced persons like Muntaka, and Haruna Iddrisu among others.

    Despite having protested this for a long time, attributing the reshuffle to deliberate efforts to oust him and his colleague leaders at the time, Muntaka accepted the decision after the intervention from some big wigs including former President, John Dramani Mahama.

    In recent times, he has decided to go back to his ‘first love’; teaching which he was doing even before his political journey.

    Muntaka who has a Masters Degree in Development Policy and Planning from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology had the opportunity to teach at GIMPA for a short period and had plans to continue his teaching when his party; the NDC won power in 2008 under the Mills government.

    Speaking about how he has had to return to teaching as a way to give back to society following his replacement, Muntaka said with his position as an ordinary MP now, he has returned to teaching and is currently lecturing at the University of Professional Studies in Accra.

    “I’ve always had this at the back of my mind that someday when I’m done with this job, the best way to share your experiences is to be in the classroom so that you share that with the younger generation of our country.

    “So when this thing happened, I have some friends around – I used to be very busy, so now you wake up and you have the whole day to yourself, you don’t know what to do with it. It’s like if you are not in the constituency, you spend the whole time watching TV,” he noted.

    “I told myself that ‘no, you can’t do that’, I mean with this huge experience, it is important that you try to share it. So graciously, UPSA offered me that opportunity, and for the past three months,” he added.

    According to the Asawase MP, it is an experience he is willing to take up for a long time because he is enjoying it and hopes to influence younger generations with his knowledge acquired.

    “I’ve been doing that and I must say that I’m really enjoying it. We have seminars where you share your experiences. We have a master class, you are talking about life experiences, how things get done, how things get knocked down, and believe me, it’s such a wonderful thing and I’m enjoying doing that,” he added.

  • FDA halts production of Anointed Family Water

    FDA halts production of Anointed Family Water

    The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has taken the decision to suspend the production and distribution of Anointed Family Water, a sachet water product with registration number FDA/WT 22G-595.

    This comes on the back of an inspection by an FDA inspection team at its location, New Bortianor as part of routine activities to ensure the safe production of sachet water for public consumption.

    The team discovered the water is produced under unhygienic conditions at a risk to public health and safety.

    Also, they found several pieces of Rena Aqua sachet water, an unregistered brand at the premises, which were seized.

    In a statement, FDA advised the general public to refrain from consuming Anointed Family Water and the unregistered Rena Aqua brand.

  • Olivetheboy makes “history” as most streamed Ghanaian artiste in first half of 2023

    Olivetheboy makes “history” as most streamed Ghanaian artiste in first half of 2023

    The success of Olivetheboy, a fast-rising Afrobeats artist, can be attributed to his hard work and dedication. As the most streamed Ghanaian artist at the moment, Olivetheboy is experiencing a surge in popularity and recognition. This achievement showcases the impact of his music on listeners and reflects the growing appreciation for his talent within the Afrobeats genre.

    Olivetheboy’s accomplishment also highlights the power of streaming platforms in shaping the success of contemporary artists. With the increasing prominence of digital music platforms, such as Spotify, Apple Music, and others, artists have the opportunity to reach a wider audience and gain popularity on a global scale. By consistently releasing music, promoting his work, and engaging with his fan base, Olivetheboy has been able to attract a significant number of streams, further solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the Ghanaian music scene.

    The singer has been named number one in the official Chartmetrics list of the Top five most streamed Ghanaian artistes in the first half of the year 2023.

    Olivetheboy’s maiden song, Goodsin beat the likes of King Promise’s “Terminator” and “Into the future” by Stonebwoy to take the first spot.

    The report compiled by renowned music data analytics giants, Chartmetrics and Soundcharts, observed streaming metrics from January to June 2023 for Ghanaian musicians and their songs across five different streaming platforms: Spotify, Audiomack, Tiktok, Boomplay and YouTube.

    Unfortunately, reigning VGMA Artiste of the Year, Black Sheirf, Gyakie and Kidi didn’t make the top five list.

    The latest feat is a big deal for the new music sensation who made a grand entry into the music scene in May this year with Goodsin.

    Having realised the power of social media and music streaming platforms, the 20 year old and Tiktok sensation, with support from his team went all out to make a positive impact and that is certainly paying off.

    Goodsin by Olivetheboy, according to Chartmetrics, is the longest trend for a Ghanaian song on Tiktok (2023) having being number one for eight weeks, most streamed Ghanaian song on several major music charts in West Africa.

    According to chartmetrics and Soundcharts, Olivetheboy is the most streamed Ghanaian artiste in the first half of 2023
  • IPPs suspend planned shutdown

    IPPs suspend planned shutdown

    The independent power producers (IPPs) in Ghana, who are responsible for 50 percent of the country’s electricity generation, have decided to suspend their planned shutdown. This means that the scheduled shutdown of these power plants will not take place as initially intended. The decision to suspend the shutdown is likely influenced by various factors, such as the need to ensure a stable and uninterrupted power supply for consumers, the demand for electricity, and any potential challenges or constraints in the power sector.

    The move follows their engagement with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

    The Chamber of Independent Power Generators, Ghana (IPGG) had earlier threatened to shutdown power production by June 30, 2023 if government failed to pay 30 percent of the debt owed them.

    The nine companies said the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) owed them about the cedi equivalent of $1.4 billion as of February 2023.

    The Independent Power Generators, Ghana (IPGG), formerly known as the Chamber of Independent Power Producers, Distributors and Bulk Consumers, wanted the government to pay up at least the overdue debt which constituted more than half of the indebtedness.

    Their argument was that, they could not guarantee continuous production of power and that the situation was so dire that something urgent must be done.

    Explaining the new move in a press statement announcing the decision to suspend the planned shutdown, the chamber said it has agreed to keep operating their power plants after July 1, 2023. 

    As part of the understanding reached, all the IPPs have received an offer of payments from ECG to enable them operate in the interim thereby providing the government and ECG the needed grace period to address the outstanding arrears in the energy sector and to meet their contractual obligations.

  • Playing many shows doesn’t give you money —S3fa

    Playing many shows doesn’t give you money —S3fa

    Ghanian musician S3fa, disagrees with the notion that an artist’s absence from the public eye implies a decline in popularity or financial success. According to S3fa, simply performing on public stages does not necessarily indicate that an artist is still “hot” or thriving financially. This statement suggests that visibility and financial success are not solely determined by the frequency of public appearances. Other factors, such as behind-the-scenes work, collaborations, and business ventures, can contribute to an artist’s overall success and well-being. It’s important to consider various aspects when assessing an artist’s career rather than solely relying on public performances as a measure of their current status.

    She has not been performing all over the place not because her vibes have gone cold, but rather, she has realised private gigs rake in very good money and it is where she has been plying her trade lately.

    The E Choke hitmaker explained to Graphic Showbiz in a chat on Monday, June 26, 2023, that people often assume musicians who play a lot of shows make loads of money but that is not entirely true.

    “Although you see a musician moving from one show to the other doesn’t mean he or she is still relevant and making money as well. Some musicians play shows for free, especially during festive seasons. Sometimes, playing at a show is an avenue to promote one’s new album or a single or to entertain fans who have not seen you in a long while.”

    “However, it will interest you to know that a musician who plays a few private shows makes more money than a musician who plays 20 public shows” she added.

    According to S3fa, she is now more into private shows and she is making good returns. “Yes I might be on the low for now but I am still relevant and making the cash through the private shows I play these days. Don’t get it twisted but if the public shows come along fine, but if they don’t, I am cool because I am earning a good living from my private gigs,” she stated.

    Away from performances, S3fa pointed out that making music was an energy-zapping enterprise thus musicians should be accorded the needed respect.

    “I believe music is one of the most difficult jobs in the world. To write a song, record and finally push it with a lot of money to become a hit is not a small job. Some musicians have even gone through depression putting in the works just to make sure their songs are bangers but are yet to see the results.”

    “For me, to constantly get a hit song is by the grace of God. I always say it is God because there are very talented musicians who have great songs but are struggling to get hits”, she added.

    Touching on what she’s been up to concerning music, S3fa disclosed she was almost done with her EP titled Body Of Work which should be ready by the end of the year.

    “I am proud to announce to my fans that Body Of Work is almost ready and I know Ghanaians will love it. It is different. Working with different sound engineers and artistes on the EP was a great experience. Body Of Work has a very different vibe”, she added.

    S3fa, born Sefadzi Abena Amesu, started her music career as a singer performing with live bands at bars, pubs and events in Accra. In 2017, she was signed by record label, Black Avenue Muzik after its CEO, D-Black, reached out to her via Instagram. She released her debut single Marry Me featuring Jupiter.

    Her single, E Choke, featuring Mr Drew was dropped on April 16, 2021. The song became popular due to its choreographed dance and music video which became a trend and music challenge on TikTok and Instagram.

    S3fa grabbed Afrobeats Song of the Year award with E Choke at the 2022 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA).

  • NPP releases vetting roster; Alan and Bawumia to face vetting committee same day

    NPP releases vetting roster; Alan and Bawumia to face vetting committee same day

    In preparation for the eagerly awaited presidential flagbearership race, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has declared the initiation of the vetting procedure for its presidential aspirants. Commencing on Monday, July 3, and concluding on Wednesday, July 6, 2023, the party’s vetting process marks a crucial step in determining the candidates who will contend for the coveted position.

    According to a statement issued by Evans Nimako, the Secretary to the National Presidential Vetting Committee, the first day of vetting, July 3, will see Alan John Kyerematen, former Minister for Trade and Industry, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and Kwadwo Poku appearing before the committee.

    On July 4, the committee is scheduled to vet three more candidates Boakye Kyeremateng Agyarko, former Energy Minister, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, a former NPP General Secretary, and Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, will all face scrutiny regarding their presidential aspirations.

    The remaining candidates will undergo the vetting process on July 5 and 6, as indicated in the statement. The NPP urges all presidential hopefuls to adhere to the schedule and actively participate in the vetting process, which is a crucial step in determining the party’s candidate for the upcoming general elections.

    However, the total number of the aspirants will be trimmed down to five during the first round of the vetting process.

    The vetting process serves as a platform for aspirants to present their visions, policies, and plans for the country’s development to the NPP’s National Presidential Vetting Committee.

    The election is slated for November 3, 2023.

  • Mallam defiles 6-year-old; leaves her in critical condition

    Mallam defiles 6-year-old; leaves her in critical condition

    A KG2 pupil, whose identity is being withheld, from Twifo Ampekro in the Twifo Hemang Lower Denkyira District of the Central Region, is battling for survival after reportedly being sexually assaulted by a self-proclaimed Mallam called John Afedzi, also known as A.T

    Sarah Antwi, the victim’s mother, told the media that she noticed significant changes in her daughter’s walking pattern.

    Because the child cried profusely whenever she urinated, she performed a body examination on the victim and suspected the minor had been defiled.

    According to Sarah Antwi, she immediately informed the Twifo Ampekro Shed unit committee of the situation.

    Following extensive investigations by the unit committee, Mallam’s name was revealed as allegedly defiling the minor.

    The victim’s parents took her to the Twifo Praso district hospital, where it was also determined that she had been defiled.

    According to the victim’s mother, as a result of this, her child is now unable to walk, eat, and is constantly wearing pampers, and, most importantly, experiences severe pains when urinating.

    Hemang police are currently investigating the incident in the Twifo Hemang Lower Denkyira district.

  • 48 persons confirmed dead following truck collision on Kenyan highway

    48 persons confirmed dead following truck collision on Kenyan highway

    48 persons are confirmed dead following a truck collision on a Kenyan highway. Several vehicles and pedestrians were hit by a truck that swerved off the road at a busy intersection, killing at least 48 people in western Kenya.

    Local broadcasters’ footage of the accident’s aftermath showed minibuses and trucks with damage alongside mangled wreckages of cars and motorcycles.

    Geoffrey Mayek, the local police commander, stated following the accident on Friday night, “So far, we can confirm 48 dead and we are suspecting one or two are still trapped under the truck.”

    ‘Thirty people have been seriously injured and rushed to various hospitals. The numbers could be more but as of now we are sure about 30.’

    The accident took place on the highway between the towns of Kericho and Nakuru near Londiani, west Kenya.

    Heavy rains are hindering rescue operations, according to local media reports.

    ‘I saw a speeding oncoming trailer. I swerved and escaped hitting him head-on. The person who was behind me thought I wanted to buy something. He overtook me and that is when he was hit. The trailer went off the road and hit other vehicles,’ said Peter Otieno, a driver.

    ‘I saw about 20 bodies with my own eyes. There were other bodies that were under the vehicle.’

    The Kenya Red Cross said the lorry rammed more than six vehicles and ran over pedestrians. More than 20 casualties were taken to local hospitals, the Red Cross said.

    ‘The country mourns with the families who have lost loved ones in a horrific road accident in Londiani,” Kenyan President William Ruto wrote in a tweet.

    ‘It is distressing that some of the fatalities are young people with a promising future and business people who were on their daily chores.’

    The accident is one of the most deadly on Kenya’s roads in recent years. Last year 34 people died in central Kenya when their bus veered off a bridge and plunged into a river valley.

    ‘My heart is crushed,’ Kericho governor Erick Mutai said on Facebook. ‘It is a dark moment for the people of Kericho. My heart goes out to the families who have just lost their loved ones.’

  • IES forecasts marginal decrease in diesel and LPG prices, petrol to stay unchanged

    IES forecasts marginal decrease in diesel and LPG prices, petrol to stay unchanged

    The Institute for Energy Security (IES) has predicted a drop in the prices of diesel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in the 1st two weeks of July.

    According to the Institute for Energy Security (IES), this is due to the various changes in the price of the commodities on the international fuel market which will reflect positively in the local market.

    However, the price of petrol is expected to remain unchanged.

    This is because the international petrol price increase and the Ghana cedi depreciation are insignificant to cause a price increase in the first two weeks of July.

    World oil market

    The month of June 2023 ended with crude oil prices still trading far below analyst projections at the beginning of year 2023.

    IES said several factors played against the commodity performance in the first half of 2023, ranging from global slowed demand due to China’s COVID-19 restrictions to the U.S.A and banking crisis.

    Again, supply decisions by leading oil producers through OPEC+ decisions as a body and individual member decisions of production cuts have still not helped the price of crude oil to recover the slump. At close of the trading day on June 30m 2023, Brent Crude price closed at $74.90 per barrel and a 2-week average of $74.85.

    Local fuel market performance

    Monitored on a 15-day rolling basis, the IES said prices of liquid fuels on the domestic fuel market saw some variations among Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).

    The first week saw some OMCs reduce prices, while others maintained prices from the previous pricing window in the second pricing window for June 2023.

    The national average of petrol, diesel and LPG is pegged at ¢11.80, ¢11.83 per litre and ¢10.30 per kilogramme as per IES analysis of price data gathered from the domestic fuel market.

  • No one is holy – Yul Edochie reacts to Davido’s sexual scandal

    No one is holy – Yul Edochie reacts to Davido’s sexual scandal


    Nollywood actor Yul Edochie firmly maintains that no human being is inherently holy or completely free from imperfections or flaws.

    The actor made this statement amid the sexual controversies surrounding Afrobeats singer David Adeleke who is widely known as Davido.

    Recall that the singer has being the talk of town following some explosive revelations made by a number of women and other people the singer has come into contact with.

    A number of ladies have dislosed that they have had a romantic affair ith the singer and one who is an American revealed that she got pregnant for the singer but had to terminate the pregnancy.

    She also revealed that Chioma Rowland, who many know as being Davido‘s legal wife, isn’t the singer’s first wife.

    Folowing ths and many revealtions, Yul took to his Instagram page to emphasize that no human being is holy.

    According to Yul, many people are unholy, however, they shield theirs and judge his which can not be compared to theirs.

    He wrote: “Nobody good pass. Nobody holy pass. Everybody just hide their own, just dey judge me since.”

    Many people reacted to Yul’s post in his comment section stating that he deserves the trolling he has been getting because he disrespected his wife May Edochie, but Davido on the other hand respected Chioma and never rubbished his affairs in her face.

    See comments here

    anndora_betty: “Oga you should be ashamed. U want to compare yourself with Davido. What happens to be a good example to the young generation marriage?”

    luxurydesignersforless: “Nobody is holy but the difference between you and “

    onyinyechi_favour: “Oga REST! Davido is still better than you, at least he did not marry a side hen. You no only cheat but you get mind colabi public property”

    pappy_stephen: “Even so u are right but to make your 1st wife look irrelevant in public is on call for a wife u know since the day of your youth when u where nothing and u jus start making another lady fill so special in social media is not right, like u rub in on her face u don’t even think about the emotional trauma she wil be going through , she is really a strong woman”

    officialugeed: “Aren’t you shameless and petty for this post? You acting so juvenile. The way you reduced yourself to this level leaves me livid.”

    affordable_dealss: “People will continue to troll you until you say the exact thing your wife did to you to make you impregnate another man’s wife.am curious about it.”

    nationsblogger: “You wanted to use DAVIDO’s situation to redeem yourself but Nigeria‘s still dey give you wototo , @yuledochie did David gang up with his mistress’s to humiliate his wife publicly? Yeye dey smell . What you did to May can never be forgiven, move on with Mrs Obasi and stop disturbing our peace”

  • Sarkodie to release groundbreaking video tonight

    Sarkodie to release groundbreaking video tonight

    Social media users have been thrown into a state of uproar following Sarkodie’s announcement on his official Twitter page, revealing his plans to release forthcoming visuals, which has sparked significant anticipation and excitement among his fans and followers.

    This announcement adds to the ongoing brouhaha between Sarkodie and Ghanaian actress Yvonne Nelson, further fueling the existing controversy and discussions surrounding their recent conflict.

    Check out his post below:

    Check out some reactions from netizens below

  • Nigerians drag Yul Edochie for hailing Sarah Martins on his page

    Nigerians drag Yul Edochie for hailing Sarah Martins on his page

    A considerable number of Nigerians have gathered in Nollywood actor Yul Edochie’s comment section to strongly criticize him for sharing a video of actress Sarah Martins on his social media platforms, subjecting him to public scrutiny and negative feedback.

    The actor posted a message on his official Instagram page to Sarah Martins, his second wife Judy Austin’s best friend, congratulating her on getting NAFDAC approval to promote her products.

    Many netizens and fans of Yul Edochie appear to have found his post to be unappealing because they have taken to the comment section to criticize him.

    Yul’s posting of Sarah Martins, who repeatedly batters his first wife, May Edochie, on his social media pages, disappointed several of his fans and many who constantly troll him.

    See some comments here

    Kasituna “This woman insults your first wife almost everyday”.

    Ifeoma: “God forbid u all the day’s of ur life…. So this lady kept on insulting the mother of ur children n u deem it fit to keep associating with them. You have lost it all…. You will live to regret all ur actions…. May God punish you n ur infection Sarah… Disgusting set of idiots…. U have lost ur glory to Judy n Sarah…. Ur life revolves around them..”

    Eagle_collecion: “The most shameless man in the whole wide world @yuledochie, Chukwu Melu gi ebele. I reject your type as a son or son-in-law.”.

    Mavisgoodlife: “What exactly did your wife May do to you that you hate her this much with passion?? She keeps insulting and making fun of the mother of your children, and you are here hailing her?? Wooow!!!”

    Usunella: “Unpon all the insult and disgrace make this Sarah don give your first wife for Facebook you still dey post her for your page na wa o , this is not ordinary.”

    Queen Ivy: “Senseless man! Have mercy on your daughter who is trying to use social media right.”

  • ‘You told me Chioma is manic’ – Davido’s new baby Anita Brown

    ‘You told me Chioma is manic’ – Davido’s new baby Anita Brown

    Anita Brown, an American businesswoman, has recently turned to social media to make allegations against Afrobeats singer David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, claiming that he impregnated her and tarnishing his reputation in the process.

    Just a few days ago, Anita took to her Instagram page to publicly disclose that she is expecting a child from the singer.

    She shared numerous screenshots of alleged conversations between herself and the singer to corroborate her claim, in which he allegedly asked her to handle the pregnancy the same way as other girls have in the past.

    Davido, however, is yet to respond to the former porn star’s social media rant from Tuesday and has instead just uploaded a poster for his hit song, “Unavailable,” in the midst of the controversy.

    Anita Brown has since started shouting on Twitter as a result of this. She attacked the 30 BG boss in a string of messages sent through her Twitter account, branding him a nasty man who exploits women.

    She questioned whether Davido would have married Chioma if their son, Ifeanyi hadn’t passed away.

    Recall that following the passing of their son in October 2022, Davido and his longtime companion, Chioma, discreetly got married.

    She expressed amazement that Davido, who had previously referred to his wife Chioma as insane, was now praising her on social media.

  • Jada Pinkett announces the release of her memoir

    Jada Pinkett announces the release of her memoir

    On June 29, popular American actress, Jada Pinkett, made an announcement about the release of her memoir scheduled for October.

    In a previous interview published by people online, Jada Pinkett revealed that she started the writing process in 2021, long before the rumors surrounding her marriage to Will Smith and prior to the 2022 Oscars. She mentioned that writing her book was initiated with guidance and inspiration from a higher source.

    “It’s an adventure, a search for love and self-worth,” Jada Pinkett Smith tells PEOPLE of her forthcoming book and book tour.

    “It was like divine advice,” she says with a laugh. “It was just like, the idea of being willing to take full responsibility for my story, through and through. And doing it with grace and love. For myself and for others.”

    Jada Pinkett said she had many people encourage her to write a book.

     “I had so many people encourage me to write a book,” she says. “But I was believing that my journey was not a worthy journey. But when I saw it on paper — I couldn’t help but look at myself and say, wow. What a life.”

    In a Facebook post, Jada Pinkett said the memoir will offer an unvarnished and revealing account from her challenging upbringing in Baltimore into a controversial life in Hollywood.

    “It’s a harrowing ride of reclaiming my self-worth while unraveling unspoken truths” a part of the post reads.

    Hers is the full post:

    “On October 17th, I invite you into a journey that, understandably, many think they already know. The fact that I have, in the last four years contributed to the creation and perpetuation of falsehoods about myself, in which other untrue narratives were birthed, has surely aided in the misunderstandings that surround me.

    This fall, with deep humility and respect, I will take back my narrative. My memoir starts at the beginning, offering an unvarnished and revealing account from my challenging upbringing in Baltimore into a controversial life in Hollywood. It’s a harrowing ride of reclaiming my self-worth while unraveling unspoken truths.

    My adventures of my youth, meaningful friendships, marriage, motherhood, self-betrayal and self-reclamation are mere reflections of the adventures so many of us have taken in search of happiness.

    My hope is that through the exploration of my own tumultuous situations to the rediscovery of deep love, we are all reminded that no matter where we may be on our journey, we are all…Worthy.

  • 5 reassurances your girlfriend needs to hear regularly

    5 reassurances your girlfriend needs to hear regularly

    Many individuals, particularly women, desire assurance and certainty that they hold an exclusive position in a relationship, except for those who willingly choose to be involved as “side chicks.”

    Indeed, regardless of the circumstances, individuals still seek reassurance that the conditions under which they entered into a relationship or situationship have remained unchanged. It is a common desire for people to feel valued and cherished not only at the beginning of a relationship but throughout its entirety, with the hope that the connection will endure indefinitely.

    So how exactly does one give assurance to his girlfriend or the woman in his life?

    PRO TIP: You don’t have to have ₦30 billion in the account to do any of these.

    Look her in the eye, tell her she’s the only one. Hold her face in your hands as you say so. Be close enough for the timbre of your voice to create gentle echoes in her heart and spread into every tiny bit of her consciousness.

    She needs to be reassured that despite how rough life can get sometimes, she’s still the one you with whom you want to find calmness, the one with whom, and in whose arms you want to enjoy *-the peace and tranquility that always comes after the storm.

    And mean it every time you say it.

    Yes, her beauty drew you in. The alignment of her eyes and nose and lips and the way her smile lit something inside you and made your heart skip like a lamb… it all made you die for her. And it wasn’t until you got her that you felt alive again.

    Never let her forget this. You need to always reassure her that she’s still beautiful, that time has not put a film too thick in your eyes to stop you from seeing how pretty she is.

    The problem is that guys often forget this. They often become numb to the beauty their babes are. Don’t be that guy who forgets to melt at the terrific beauty he’s been blessed with. Always remind yourself of how lucky you are and let her know about it. Other guys may say it, but she needs it for you.

    Ok. You may think I do not have ₦30Billion in your account but you actually do not need a Porsche before to impress your girl.

    Little gifts, grand gifts, and everyone you give within your means to please your girl are assurances that you have her in your mind and that she’s special.

    Don’t ever forget to keep assuring her.

    She wants to be sure that this is not just about the here and now.

    Sure, everyone wants to live in the moment and it’s good to not overthink things, but she also needs reassurances that the future is secure and she’s not just wasting her today with you.

    Every action that confirms your love to her, never hesitate to do them. The goal is to never let her forget, to never let things get into doubt.

    Run relentlessly with that goal.

  • Agenda 111 Projects to function as Teaching Hospitals – Dr Nsiah Asare reveals

    Agenda 111 Projects to function as Teaching Hospitals – Dr Nsiah Asare reveals

    Presidential Advisor on Health, Dr Anthony Nsia Asare, has revealed that once the Agenda 111 hospitals are completed, they will also serve as vital teaching institutions for medical professionals.

    According to him, the hospitals will be equipped with state of the art equipment which will not only provide holistic healthcare to Ghanaians across the country but will also facilitate the smooth teaching of students in the health sector.

    Dr Anthony Nsiah Asare said this on Thursday, June 29, 2023 when the Ministry of Information, Ghana Infrastructure Fund Health Division, Agenda 111 Implementation Secretariat and other allied stakeholders in the health sector visited the site for Agenda 111 project at Trede in the Atwiman Kwanwoma District of the Ashanti Region.

    The Information Ministry used the occasion to do its usual ministers, departments and agencies press briefing at Trede to update the public on the progress of work.

    Dr. Anthony Nsia Asare addressing the media said work on the Trede hospital is now 61 percent complete with another 87 at various stages of completion.

    He assured the public of the government’s commitment to completing the entire project as promised by President Akufo-Addo.

    Unprecedented Infrastructure Project

    Dr. Nsiah Asare again emphasized that no government in the world’s history has embarked on more massive infrastructural projects in the health sector than the Akufo-Addo led administration.

    The renowned health expert believes the government’s Agenda 111 which seeks to provide one hundred and eleven hospitals across the country is the biggest ever project in the health sector across the world.

    President Akufo-Addo in August 2021 performed the ground-breaking ceremony on the project at Atwima Kwanwoma in the Ashanti Region.

    The Agenda 111 project includes 101 district hospitals, six regional hospitals in the newly created regions, two specialized hospitals in the middle and northern belts, as well as a regional hospital in the Western Region and renovation of the Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital.

  • John Jinapor appeals to IPPs to reconsider decision to shut plants July 1

    John Jinapor appeals to IPPs to reconsider decision to shut plants July 1

    Ranking Member for Mines and Energy, John Abu Jinapor has pleaded with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to reconsider their decision to shut down their plants on July 1.

    This is in a bid to avert the impending power crisis. 

    He further urged the government to demonstrate commitment in resolving the outstanding debt issue that has led to this critical situation.

    The IPPs, which account for 50 percent of Ghana‘s generation mix, have threatened to halt operations unless the government provides an interim payment of 30 percent of the outstanding debt amounting to $1.7 billion owed to them.

    Recognising the gravity of the situation, Jinapor implored the IPPs to give the government and the nation more time to address their concerns.

    “Please reconsider your decision towards shutting your plants on July 1. Please give the government and the nation some more time,” Jinapor appealed.

    Expressing his dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the matter, Jinapor criticised the Finance Minister’s approach, stating that selective and discriminatory payments were being made to preferred IPPs while neglecting others.

    “The Finance Minister instead of dealing with the Chamber of IPPs is engaged in selective and discriminatory payment, selecting some preferred IPPs, paying them and leaving them to their own fate,” Jinapor remarked.

    Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Jinapor called upon the government, particularly the President, to intervene promptly and ensure the swift resolution of the matter.

    He also emphasised that the outstanding debt currently stood at approximately $1.7 billion, with mounting losses for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and substantial forex losses.

    “The debt as we speak now is about $1.7 billion, and it keeps compounding. ECG’s losses today are over 30 percent, forex losses alone account for more than $300 million, fuel supplied that has not been paid runs into hundreds of millions of dollars,” Jinapor revealed during a press briefing in Accra.

  • AGN suspend Nollywood Actor Jerry Williams over drug abuse

    AGN suspend Nollywood Actor Jerry Williams over drug abuse

    Nollywood actor Jerry Williams has been subjected to an indefinite suspension by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) due to his alleged association with illicit drugs.

    In a statement signed by AGN National President Emeka Rollas, the Guild said it had been keeping an eye on Jerry’s use of illegal substances since December last year until things got out of hand.

    Further, he stated that in order to avoid any potential risk to other actors on set, the actor cannot be permitted to interact with fellow actors as things currently stand.

    The statement reads;

    “The Guild has been monitoring his involvement in illicit substances since December last year, until it got out of hand and as it is now, he cannot be allowed to associate with other performers on set due to danger. He ought to have been suspended before now. But we decided to allow him go through minor treatments, which he has been defaulting overtimes. But at it stands now, Jerry is a risk not only to himself but also, other actors who might be acting alongside him on set.

    We, therefore, have decided to suspend him indefinitely until he gets a clean bill of health from a medical practitioner or a professional that handles drugs abuse.’’

    Jerry Williams has starred in movies including Forbidden Love, Wanted By All, Way To My Heart, Two Hearts and Mine Forever alongside other notable Nollywood actors like Don Brymo, Chinenye Ubah, Frederick Leonard and Ebele Okaro.

  • More NDC supporters congratulate Gyakye Quayson on re-election in Assin North

    More NDC supporters congratulate Gyakye Quayson on re-election in Assin North

    The Volta Diaspora Caucus of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has extended its congratulatory message to the MP-elect for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson on his landslide victory in the by-election.

    The group, in a statement dated June 30, 2023, commended Gyakye Quayson for his hard work, dedication, selflessness, and humility, throughout the campaigning period in Assin North which earned him overwhelming support from constituents.

    “Your hard work, dedication, selflessness, and humility exhibited throughout your interactions with your constituents have won their heart hence this overwhelming endorsement.

    “The National Democratic Congress, Volta Diaspora Caucus, our MPs, and other identified groups in the party have all played their part in securing this much desired victory as a collective effort in fighting this inhumane injustice meted out to the good people of Assin North,” parts of the statement said.

    The caucus also emphasized that the NDC’s all-inclusive approach, demonstrated during the election, would ensure that the Assin North constituency remains an NDC seat forever.

    “This Assin North seat will remain in the bosom of the NDC for a long time if this all-inclusiveness style adopted by the party is maintained whenever there is such an election,” it added.

    The Volta Diaspora Caucus, however, warned that the landslide victory comes with great responsibility if the party wants to remain appealing to the constituents of Assin North.

    It further expressed its commitment to support James Gyakye Quayson, to stay connected with both the constituents of Assin North and the Voltarians residing outside the region to win the 2024 general election.

    “We would also like to sound a word of caution by borrowing these words ‘To whom much is given, much is expected’, we believe the Volta populated areas will continue to burn for the course of the NDC so we as their caucus will continue to be in touch with them in your constituency and the many other voltarians living outside the volta region to ensure maximum impact on elections in Ghana.

    “Assin North has spoken, Ghana has spoken, and the world is singing along. Your victory is a victory for the NDC going into the 2024 elections. The course of victory is continuing with full vigor, hard work, and passion throughout till December 2024 unabated. The victory of the NDC is coming again,” the statement added.

  • Man who stole Meek Mill’s phone arrested again for stealing another phone

    Man who stole Meek Mill’s phone arrested again for stealing another phone

    A 33-year-old scrap dealer, Nuhu Sulley, who was granted a GHC50,000 bail by an Accra Circuit Court for stealing American rapper Meek Mill’s iPhone, has been arrested for another phone theft.

    Sulley, who was granted bail five months ago for grabbing Meek Mills’ cellular phone, is in the grips of the police for stealing a phone valued at GHC 4,000 belonging to a medical officer at Madina.

    He appeared before an Adentan Circuit Court for allegedly stealing the medical officer’s phone when he (the complainant) attempted to board a commercial vehicle from Madina to Oyibi.

    Sulley’s accomplice, whose name was only given as Junior is said to be at large.

    Charged with conspiracy to steal and stealing, Sulley has pleaded not guilty.

    The court presided over by Mrs Sedinam Awo Balokah has admitted Sulley to bail in the sum of GH¢100,000 with three sureties one to be justified.

    He is expected to reappear on July 20 as police mount a search for his accomplice.

    An Attorney from the Attorney General’s Department opposed the grant of bail extended to Sulley pointing out that he was the same person who was before an Accra Circuit Court for charges of phone theft against American Wrapper Meek Mills at the Independence Square during the Afro nation concert last December.

    According to state prosecutors, Sulley, when granted bail, was likely to commit a similar offence, and was a flight risk.

    In Sulley’s application for bail, the Defence Counsel described Sulley as a law-abiding person who had never had a brush with the law and was also a peaceful member of society.

    According to his lawyer, Sulley has people who were ready to stand as sureties.

    The prosecution’s case was that the complainant is a Clinical Physician and a resident of Oyibi, Accra.

    It said Sulley was unemployed and resided in Madina. Sulley’s accomplice, known as Junior, is at large.

    The prosecution said on March 10, 2023, at about 2100 hours, the complainant was boarding a car from Madina to Oyibi when he felt a hand in his pocket where he had kept his Huawei mobile phone valued at GH¢4,000.

    It said by the time the complainant could get hold of the hand in his pocket; the person absconded.

    The prosecution said the complainant saw Sulley running away with the phone.

    It said when the complainant enquired from some people around the scene, he (the complainant) was told that the accused person was a “Loading boy,” at the place and the scene was where he plies his trade.

    The prosecution said the following day, Sulley resurfaced, and he was arrested.

    It said Sulley, however, resisted arrest and raised an alarm which attracted about 20 people who tried to rescue Sulley.

    In the process, the complainant and a witness in the case were injured.

    The prosecution said the Police and the assembly member for the area were able to put the situation under control.

    It said in Sulley’s caution statement, he denied stealing the phone but indicated that it was Junior, his accomplice who had stolen the phone.

    Sulley further stated that he chased Junior and collected the phone from him.

    The prosecution said Sulley and Junior went and gave the complainant’s mobile phone to someone to decode for them.

    According to the prosecution, Sulley showed where they took the phone, and it was retrieved.

    The prosecution said an investigation was underway.

  • Parliament lacks t-rolls in its washrooms – NDC MP claims 

    Parliament lacks t-rolls in its washrooms – NDC MP claims 

    Krachi West MP Helen Ntoso has raised concerns over insufficient toilet paper in the female MPs’ restrooms of Parliament.

    Expressing her concerns on the floor of parliament , Helen Ntoso emphasised the need for immediate action to address the issue, stating that it is the responsibility of Parliament to ensure the availability of basic amenities like toilet rolls.

    Addressing the Speaker, the MP highlighted the persistent absence of toilet rolls in the washrooms. She brought the matter to the attention of the House, emphasising the significance of resolving such a basic yet crucial issue.

    “Mr. Speaker, if you go to the washroom, there are no toilet rolls since yesterday. There are no toilet rolls in the washroom, so I need to draw the attention of the House,” she voiced her concern on the floor of the Parliament on June 30, following the business statement for the week.

    The MP’s statement sheds light on the importance of maintaining adequate supplies in the parliamentary washrooms to ensure the comfort and convenience of all MPs and visitors.

  • 4 important tips to maintain a healthy weight

    4 important tips to maintain a healthy weight

    Achieving and maintaining an optimal weight goes beyond mere aesthetic appeal, as it plays a crucial role in safeguarding our overall health and protecting us from a multitude of diseases and health conditions associated with both obesity and malnourishment.

    The key to a healthy weight is not a short-term endeavor; rather, it involves embracing a sustainable lifestyle that demands consistent effort and dedication on a daily basis. By committing to such a lifestyle, we prioritize our well-being and ensure that we take care of our health in the long run.

    Having that ideal weight is a task. It is a result of the perfect amalgamation of diet, workout, and stress management.

    By incorporating these basic habits, you can achieve and sustain a healthy weight. Here’s how:

    The foundation of maintaining a healthy weight lies in consuming a well-balanced diet. Focus on incorporating a myriad of nutrient-dense foods into your everyday meals. Fill your plate with colourful vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Avoid or limit processed foods, sugary beverages, and foods high in saturated and trans fat. By nourishing your body with wholesome foods, you provide it with the necessary nutrients for optimal function and energy.

    • Stay hydrated 

    Don’t overlook the importance of staying hydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day not only supports overall health but also aids in weight management. Water helps boost metabolism, suppresses appetite, and promotes optimal digestion. Make it a habit to carry a reusable water bottle with you and sip on water consistently.

    • Exercise

    Adding workouts into your fitness routine is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. It not only helps build lean muscle mass but also improves bone density and increases metabolism. Engage in regular strength training exercises such as weightlifting, resistance training, or bodyweight exercises. These activities not only shape and tone your body but also contribute to a healthier weight and overall fitness.

    • Manage stress

    Chronic stress can hinder weight management efforts. When the body experiences stress, it goes into protection mode, often leading to weight gain and increased fat storage. Take proactive steps to manage stress, such as practising relaxation techniques, engaging in activities you enjoy, getting enough sleep, and seeking support from a loved one, or a professional. By effectively managing stress, you reduce the likelihood of emotional eating and promote a healthy mindset towards food and the body.

    Achieving and maintaining an optimal weight goes beyond mere aesthetic appeal, as it plays a crucial role in safeguarding our overall health and protecting us from a multitude of diseases and health conditions associated with both obesity and malnourishment.

    The key to a healthy weight is not a short-term endeavor; rather, it involves embracing a sustainable lifestyle that demands consistent effort and dedication on a daily basis. By committing to such a lifestyle, we prioritize our well-being and ensure that we take care of our health in the long run.

  • Expansion of Intra-Regional Trade in manufactured goods vital for African companies – Expert

    Expansion of Intra-Regional Trade in manufactured goods vital for African companies – Expert

    Former African Union Commissioner, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, has called on African Businesses to foster Intra-Continental Trade in finished goods.

    She said: “We need to trade in our own goods… so that in 50 years [when Agenda 2063 is due], we will be able to celebrate free trade and say, I can drive from Cape Town to Cairo and from Djibouti to Senegal.”

    Her call comes as the continent implements the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the largest free-trade area by number of member states, and a flagship project of the AU Agenda 2063.

    Dr Dlamini-Zuma was speaking at a ceremony held by the Secretariat of the (AfCFTA) in Accra in her honour to championing the AU Agenda 2063 and gender equality.

    “Trade is not about raw materials; our colonisers did that and they continue to want to buy raw materials from us. That’s ill, and should stop. It’s something we must work at and fast,” she said.

    “Ninety per cent of our goods are transported across the Mediterranean. Who is in control of these processes?” she quizzed, adding that “this is something we must look at.”

    She explained that when raw materials were exported, it was the higher-level of jobs that Africa exported, leading to the export of revenue at the detriment of its people and development.

    “When we export raw materials, by the time it’s turned into a finished good, it’s probably 10 times or more expensive than the raw materials, and sometimes when they come back, most of us can’t afford them,” Dlamini-Zuma said.

    She, therefore, urged businesses to shore up efforts to change such a situation, while encouraging governments on the continent to create the enabling environment for the success of AfCFTA.

    On gender issues, the Minister for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities at the Presidency in South Africa, said that: “Our continent cannot develop socially and economically and reach its full potential if we do not invest in women and give them opportunities to explore their potential.

    Wamkele Mene, Secretary General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, said, “it is important that we honour people once they’re still alive, and recognise their contribution while they’re still with us.”

    Mr Mene said the Secretariat decided to honour Dr Dlamini-Zuma because she had contributed immensely in helping to build Africa, and introduced reforms in the AU.

    “She ensured that when we talk about gender equality and equality of opportunities in institutions, such as the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU Commission, it’s not just a slogan, but we see the impact,” he eulogised her.

    The Secretary General also acknowledged the effort of women, at the launch of the African Prosperity Network, during the 2023 Afeximbank Annual Meetings in Accra.

    He said: “The principal architects of AfCFTA are strong women. We’ve found the moving train; a train that was started by strong women. A moving train whose foundation was already built by strong African women leaders.”

    Mr Mene reiterated that the private sector remained critical in the actualisation of the objectives of the intra-trade pact to create jobs, engender innovations, and make Africa competitive on the global market.

    He verbalised that the network of private sector that was being built under AfCFTA would create jobs for young Africans, spur on innovation, and put the continent on a path of competitiveness.