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Showing posts from April, 2024

A Journey of Restitution and Reconciliation for Ghanian Artifacts

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The United Kingdom made a remarkable decision about artifacts that were taken from Ghana more than 150 years ago.  The country took a commendable step towards righting a historical wrong by returning dozens of precious artifacts that had been looted from what is now Ghana over 150 years ago. These stolen treasures, consisting of 32 gold and silver artifacts, were sent on a long-term loan to Ghana by two prestigious institutions, the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) and the British Museum. The origin of these artifacts traced back to the 19th century when conflicts between the British and the powerful Asante people led to their theft from the court of the Asante king, known as the Asantehene. Among the returned treasures were a gold peace pipe, a sword of state, and gold badges worn by officials charged with cleansing the soul of the king. These gold artifacts held immense significance as they symbolized the Asante royal government and were believed to be invested with the sp...

Winds of Change: Togo's Transition to a Parliamentary System

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In the West African country of Togo, a significant decision was made on April 20, 2024. The country's parliament, after long-standing debates, unanimously approved constitutional reforms that would shape the future of Togo's governance. These reforms marked a transition from a presidential system to a parliamentary system, heralding a new era for the nation. The changes had been adopted on March 25, involving amendments to the country's law that established the Constitution of the Fifth Togolese Republic. At the heart of these reforms lay the introduction of a parliamentary system, where parliamentary groups would present candidates for the presidency and elect them. The presidential term was also shortened to four years, with the possibility of renewal once. Additionally, the reforms created the position of the President of the Council of Ministers, similar to a Prime Minister, without any term limit. However, not everyone welcomed these reforms with open arms. The Dynamiq...

Tarnished Triumph: The Beijing Half Marathon Scandal

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A  half marathon was held that would go down in history for all the wrong reasons. The race was filled with excitement and anticipation, as top athletes from around the world gathered to showcase their endurance and skill. One of the participants, He Jie, was a rising star in China's marathon scene. Known for his incredible speed and determination, he had become a national record holder and a member of China's prestigious marathon team. He was determined to make his mark in the Beijing half marathon and secure a victory for his country. As the race commenced, the runners sprinted through the streets, their footsteps echoing in harmony with the cheering crowds. He Jie was in excellent form, pushing himself to the limits, his eyes set on the finish line. But little did he know that a twist of fate awaited him. Just as He Jie was closing in on victory, three African runners, Dejene Hailu Bikila from Ethiopia, and Kenyans Robert Keter and Willy Mnangat, who were hot on his heels, d...

Kenya Mourns the Loss of Military Chief General Francis Ogolla

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On April 18, 2024, tragedy struck in Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya, as a military helicopter carrying senior officers crashed and burst into flames. Among the ten lives lost in the accident was Kenya's esteemed military chief, General Francis Ogolla. The helicopter had embarked on a visit to troops deployed in northwest Kenya to combat cattle rustling but tragically crashed mere minutes after takeoff near Cheptulel Boys Secondary School in West Pokot County. President William Ruto conveyed the nation's profound grief and condolences following the devastating incident. General Francis Ogolla's untimely demise, while serving as the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, sent shockwaves across the nation. A seasoned fighter pilot who had dedicated his career to the military since 1984, General Ogolla's leadership had been instrumental during his year-long tenure as the military chief. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, prompting the dispatch of a team of inves...

APOSTLE JOHNSON SULEMAN WINS DEFAMATION LAWSUIT AGAINST HALIMA ABUBAKAR: COURT ORDERS N10 MILLION PAYMENT AND RETRACTION

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Apostle Johnson Suleman has filed a defamation lawsuit against actress Halima Abubakar, claiming damages and seeking an injunction to restrain her from further defaming him. The court has ordered Halima Abubakar to pay a sum of N10 million to Apostle Johnson Suleman for defaming him on social media. Additionally, the court has directed Halima Abubakar to publish a retraction of her defamatory statements and has granted an injunction restraining her from further publishing or causing to be published the said or similar defamatory statements.  A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory has ordered Halima Abubakar to pay the sum of N10 million to Apostle Johnson Suleman for defaming him on social media. The court has directed Halima Abubakar to publish a retraction of her defamatory statements and has granted an injunction restraining her from further publishing or causing to be published the said or similar defamatory statements. Apostle Johnson Suleman has filed a defamation laws...

THE FATE OF LANDMARK BEACH RESORT: PROGRESS VS. PRESERVATION

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The Landmark Beach Resort, nestled along the picturesque coastal town of Badagry in Lagos State, has long been a beloved tourist destination. Surrounded by swaying coconut trees, this idyllic beach spans approximately twenty miles toward Nigeria’s border with Benin Republic. With its tropical sun and inviting ambiance, Coconut Beach has drawn holidaymakers seeking relaxation and natural beauty. However, the tranquil existence of the Landmark Beach Resort is now under threat. The Lagos State Government has issued a notice of demolition for this multimillion-dollar property, citing its obstruction of the planned route for a 700-kilometer coastal road connecting Lagos State to Calabar. The proposed highway aims to enhance connectivity and foster economic growth in the region.   The Landmark Beach Resort boasts a staggering value of over $200 million. It accommodates more than 80 businesses directly, providing employment for over 4,000 people. The resort contributes more than N2 b...

Former South African Parliament Speaker Released on Bail

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In a significant development, the former Speaker of the South African Parliament has been released on bail pending trial . The former Speaker, whose name has not been disclosed due to legal restrictions, was arrested last month on charges related to corruption and abuse of power during their tenure. South Africa parliament The allegations against the former Speaker include accepting bribes, misusing public funds, and obstructing justice . The bail hearing took place at the High Court in Pretoria, where the defense argued that their client was not a flight risk and would cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation. The prosecution, however, raised concerns about potential witness tampering and the seriousness of the charges. Justice Themba Makhanya, presiding over the case, granted bail with strict conditions. The former Speaker must surrender their passport, report to the police station weekly, and refrain from contacting any potential witnesses. The bail amount was set at ZAR 500...