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Fella Makafui Opens Up About Her Relationship with D Black

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Actress and filmmaker, Fella Makafui, has emphatically rejected any suggestion of romantic involvement with Desmond Kwesi Blackmore, better known as D Black.

Speculations about their relationship surfaced after Medikal announced his split from Fella Makafui following four years of marriage.

In a recent post on X app, Medikal directly labeled D Black as “fake,” sparking speculation until a video surfaced showing D-Black and Fella Makafui smoking in a club. This led to public assumptions linking the video to the couple’s split.

In a later interview, Medikal expressed his dismay over the video, stating that he wouldn’t disrespect another man’s wife and family, as he felt D-Black had done to him. He emphasized his principles of respect and loyalty in such matters.

However, during an interview with Andy Dosty on Daybreak Hitz, Fella Makafui clarified the rumors, emphasizing her platonic relationship with D-Black and urging people to refrain from spreading baseless gossip out of respect for him and his family.

Fella emphasized her resilience against negative narratives, stating she wouldn’t allow falsehoods to affect her. She reiterated her bond with D-Black, describing him as a big brother, and explained her innocent visit to the club with friends from Nigeria, where D-Black offered hospitality with free drinks.

“I don’t allow negative stories to break me. They are not true so why would you allow something false that is being said about you to break you? How would a D Black story break me?”she quizzed.

“Let’s not disrespect D Black and his family. I don’t want to channel my energy into this whole thing. He is like my big brother. I went there with my friends to chill. There were thousands of people in the club,” she added.

Regarding Medikal’s reaction, Fella Makafui chose not to engage, focusing instead on her business ventures for inner peace and declining further controversy.

Currently, Fella is on a media tour promoting her upcoming movie, “Resonance,” premiering on May 11th and June 8th, 2024.

Join Me in Another ‘Dumsor Must Stop’ Vigil – Yvonne Nelson Calls on the General Public

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Actress and advocate, Yvonne Nelson, has issued a heartfelt plea to Ghanaians to rally together for another Dumsor vigil to combat the recent power crisis.

This call comes after Imani declined to collaborate and clarified that they were not directly involved in the 2015 protest she led. In a statement shared on her social media platforms, Yvonne expressed her astonishment at the reappearance of Dumsor after her previous demonstration and stressed the urgent need for national unity to address this critical issue.

Addressing Imani’s stance on the recent call, Yvonne acknowledged that some individuals who supported the 2015 campaign, such as Kofi Bentil from Imani Ghana, may now be aligned with the current government. However, she stressed the importance of transcending political affiliations in the fight against Dumsor.

In her statement, Yvonne detailed the collaborative efforts that were instrumental in the success of the 2015 campaign, highlighting the collective effort required to make a difference. Despite her outreach efforts, she acknowledged that she had yet to receive a response from key individuals at Imani Ghana regarding their interest in supporting another vigil. Consequently, she extended an open invitation to all Ghanaians, organizations, and legal professionals willing to contribute to the cause.

”I have reached out to key individuals from Imani Ghana, including Kofi Bentil and Franklin Cudjoe via WhatsApp text, but I am yet to receive a response regarding their interest in supporting another vigil. Therefore, I am extending an open call to all Ghanaians, organizations, and legal professionals who are willing to join me in pushing for meaningful action to address the current power crisis.

“Together, we can make our voices heard and compel our leaders to prioritize the needs of the Ghanaian people. I appeal to lawyers, volunteers, and concerned citizens to contribute their expertise and support in planning and executing this event because Yvonne Nelson can’t do it alone,” she said.

“Let us unite in our pursuit of a brighter and more prosperous future for our nation,” she added.

Read the full statement below:

Fella Makafui Opens Up on Why Her Wine Shop Was Closed

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Four years back, Actress and filmmaker Fella Makafui launched several businesses, which she proudly showcased on social media and regularly promoted.

These ventures included a clothing store, a wine shop, a beauty line, and real estate development. However, in recent times, her promotion of these businesses has dwindled.

During an interview on Okay FM, Makafui disclosed to Abeku Santana that some of these businesses, like the wine shop, have since closed down. She mentioned giving away some of the wines and consuming the rest. When asked which business didn’t thrive, she singled out the wine shop, explaining, “The business didn’t perform as I had hoped, so we consumed some and gave away the rest.”

Despite its closure, Makafui refrained from labeling it a failure, attributing its lack of success to her diminished passion for the venture. She also mentioned that she oversees four other thriving businesses, particularly highlighting the success of her beauty line.

“I wouldn’t say it was a failed business . I just think I didn’t have much passion for it,”she explained.

Currently, Makafui is on a media tour to promote her upcoming movie, “Resonance,” scheduled to premiere on May 11th, 2024, and June 8th, 2024.

I Took the Public Test with Intent to Commit Suicide Afterwards; I Was Just Leaving Suicide Notes – Joyce Dzidzor Mensah Confesses

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Former AIDS Ambassador Joyce Dzidzor Mensah has revealed her struggles with suicidal thoughts in the face of public judgment regarding her HIV status.

After denying being HIV-positive, she underwent a public HIV test in June 2021 upon her return from Germany, only to receive a positive result.

During an interview on Onua FM’s Efie Ne Fie, Mensah admitted to considering suicide because of the relentless public scrutiny and insults regarding her HIV status. She also admitted that her original intention was to take her life following the public test, but she received support from an individual in Germany, causing her to reconsider her decision.

She admitted, “I did that test with the intention that afterward I was going to commit suicide but I changed my mind because I got help from Germany. I was just leaving suicide notes behind through my actions on social media but I got help.”

Reflecting on the assistance she received, Mensah emphasized the importance of her role as a mother, acknowledging the impact her death would have on her children. She added, “The person advised me that I have children who need me and even if I do not love myself, I have children and should think about what they will go through when I die.”

Bobrisky Is in a Shared Male Cell – Nigerian Correctional Service Clarifies

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The Nigerian Correctional Service, Lagos State Command, provided details regarding Bobrisky’s accommodation, stating that he is housed in a shared cell along with other convicted inmates. The spokesperson emphasized that the facility does not have one-bedroom flat or en suite style cells, as the infrastructure consists of shared buildings to accommodate multiple inmates.

“Idris has been allocated a shared cell with other convicted inmates as there are no en-suite or ‘one bedroom flat’ style cells in the Custodial Centre as the cell blocks infrastructure are built as shared buildings, to accommodate multiple inmates.”

Additionally, it was clarified that Bobrisky is being remanded in a male custodial center, adhering to the dress code for male inmates, and receiving standard treatment without any special amenities or privileges.

Regarding the alleged donation of chairs to the correctional center, the spokesperson denied the claim and highlighted that formal documentation would be necessary to verify any such donation, emphasizing the importance of acknowledgment or documentation involving both the donor and the recipient.

R. Kelly’s Appeal Denied: Court Upholds 20-Year Sentence for Child Sex Convictions

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An appeals court has rejected R. Kelly’s attempt to challenge his 20-year sentence for child sex convictions. A Chicago court affirmed the singer’s 20-year prison sentence, ruling that it was appropriate.
He was convicted in 2022 on three charges of producing child sexual abuse images and three charges of enticing minors for sex. Kelly, 57, argued in his appeal that Illinois’ old statute of limitations – which required prosecution within 10 years – should have applied, rather than the current law allowing charges while an accuser is alive.

The appeals court rejected this, labeling it an attempt by Kelly to elude the charges entirely after “employing a complex scheme to keep victims quiet.” He also contended that charges involving one accuser should have been tried separately from the charges tied to three other accusers due to video evidence.

Prosecutors claimed the video showed Kelly abusing a girl. The accuser, identified as Jane, testified for the first time that she was 14 when the video was taken. The three-judge panel from the appeals court noted jurors acquitted Kelly on seven of the 13 counts against him “even after viewing those abhorrent tapes.”

Iraqi Social Media Influencer Om Fahad Shot Dead in Baghdad

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Iraqi social media influencer Om Fahad was fatally shot outside her residence in Baghdad’s eastern Zayne neighborhood on Friday, as reported by local media outlets.

Iraq’s interior ministry issued a statement confirming that a “woman known on social networking sites” had been killed by “unknown assailants”.

The ministry also announced the formation of a ‘specialized work team’ to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death.”

Fahad, known by her real name Ghufran Sawadi, was allegedly shot while in her car by a lone individual on a motorbike. According to an Iraqi security source speaking to the AFP news agency, the attacker seemed to have disguised as a food delivery person. Additionally, the US-owned Al Hurra news agency reported that another woman sustained injuries during the attack.

Fahad gained prominence on TikTok for posting videos of herself dancing to pop music in tight-fitting attire, amassing tens of thousands of followers.

Last year, she received a six-month prison sentence for sharing videos deemed to undermine “modesty and public morality” by the court. This ruling came after the establishment of a government committee tasked with monitoring social media platforms for offensive content and penalizing those responsible. The independent Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor expressed grave concern, stating, “Iraqi authorities’ detention and conviction of several social media content creators on vague charges that do not justify the restriction of natural rights is extremely concerning.”

More recently, tensions between Fahad and fellow influencer Dalia Naeem have intensified. Naeem, nicknamed “Iraqi Barbie” for her numerous plastic surgery procedures, has allegedly been threatening to expose Fahad’s purported relationship with senior Iraqi officials, according to media reports.

Funeral Arrangements Announced for Nollywood Actor Junior Pope

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The family of the late Nollywood actor, John Odonwodo, also known as Junior Pope, has announced the funeral arrangements following his tragic death in a boat accident on the River Niger on a movie location.

The funeral arrangements include a requiem mass at the Saint John-Mary Vianney Parish in Asaba, Delta State, on April 23, and another requiem mass scheduled for May 13 at the Christ the King Catholic Parish in G.R.A, Enugu. A candlelight event and heartfelt tributes will follow at the Amadeo Event Center in Enugu on May 14, providing an opportunity for friends, colleagues, and fans to pay their respects.

On May 16, a wake will be held in his hometown, Uwala Abaka, Ukehe, Nsukkaa, Igboetiti LGA of Enugu State, as the community gathers to say goodbye. The final rites will take place on May 17, with a burial mass at St. Peter’s Parish, Ukehe, where Junior Pope will be laid to rest in his ancestral land. A final thanksgiving mass is set for Sunday, May 19, at St. Peter’s Parish Ukche Nsukkaa, Igboetiti LGA, Enugu, to celebrate his life and legacy.

Iranian Rapper Toomaj Salehi Sentenced to Death for Role in 2022 Iran Protests

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Toomaj Salehi, an Iranian dissident rapper, has been sentenced to death for his role in the 2022 nationwide protests in Iran, as confirmed by his attorney.

“An order for the execution of Toomaj Salehi has been issued,” Salehi’s lawyer Amir Raesian tweeted Wednesday.

The rapper has been detained, held in solitary confinement and was allegedly tortured following his arrest.

In an unprecedented move, a court in Isfahan reversed the higher Supreme Court’s decision on Saleh’s case on Tuesday, upholding the original verdict of “corruption on earth” and issued the maximum punishment of death, according to Iranian pro-reform outlets Shargh and Entekhab.

State media said Salehi’s sentence is subject for reduction by a pardoning committee if he appeals again.
Salehi, 32, who has been critical of the Iranian regime and outspoken against the government in rap lyrics and on social media, was briefly released from prison last year before police violently rearrested him and sent him to prison in Isfahan, witnesses said at the time.


He was rearrested after appearing in a video where he revealed that he was tortured and placed in solitary confinement for 252 days following his arrest in October 2022, UN experts said in a statement published by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
Another artist, Kurdish-Iranian rapper Saman Yasin, who was also arrested at the height of 2022’s protests in Iran, was transferred to a psychiatric hospital two times in less than a year, according to pro-reform news outlet IranWire.

A court in Tehran sentenced Yasin to five years in prison, according to group focused on Kurdish human rights, Hengaw.

Demonstrations swept the country after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, which occurred under suspicious circumstances while in police custody. A brutal crackdown on the protests by Iranian authorities targeted the weeks-long protests.

“We strongly condemn Toomaj Salehi’s death sentence and the five-year sentence for Kurdish-Iranian rapper Saman Yasin. We call for their immediate release,” the United States’ Office of the Special Envoy for Iran tweeted. “These are the latest examples of the regime’s brutal abuse of its own citizens, disregard for human rights, and fear of the democratic change the Iranian people seek.”

UN experts also demanded Salehi’s release and urged Iranian authorities to reverse the death sentence.
“We are alarmed by the imposition of the death sentence and the alleged ill-treatment of Mr. Salehi which appears to be related solely to the exercise of his right to freedom of artistic expression and creativity,” the experts said.

Salehi’s political sponsor in Europe, German Member of Parliament Ye-One Rhie, called the death sentence against Salehi “absurd and inhumane.”
“It is still completely unclear how this verdict came about,” she tweeted Wednesday. “It is unbelievable how irresponsibly and arbitrarily the Iranian regime treats defendants. It is impossible to recognize the rule of law in the chaos of the courts in charge.”

Legendary Football Commentator Joe Lartey Dies at 96

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Renowned Ghanaian football commentator and sports journalist Joe Lartey has passed away, as confirmed by the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG).

He died on Friday, April 26, 2024, at the age of 96. Born on June 6, 1927, in Accra, Lartey attended Accra Academy. Known as “Over to You,” he was an iconic broadcaster and served as the first president of SWAG. Starting his journalism journey at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) in 1961, Lartey became a beloved figure in the Ghanaian sports community over the years. He later joined Radio Nigeria for a decade before returning to GBC in 1990. During his tenure, he hosted programs like Sports Digest on GTV.

In recognition of his contributions, he received the prestigious “A Life in Sport” award from the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) at the AIPS Sport Media Awards ceremony in Doha, Qatar, in June 2022.

His pioneering spirit and lasting impact on sports broadcasting will be deeply missed, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and colleagues.

Diana Asamoah Takes Legal Action Against Assistant Pastor Over Alleged Theft of GH₵4000

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Gospel musician and evangelist Diana Asamoah, has led to the apprehension of her assistant pastor, Reverend Kwame Asante, on suspicion of stealing GH₵4000 from her mobile money account.

She claimed that Asante confessed to secretly watching her during a transaction, getting hold of her mobile money PIN, and then transferring the funds. In a video circulating on social media, Reverend Kwame Asante is seen in handcuffs at the Tesano Police station while Diana Asamoah recounts the incident.

In the background of the video, Diana Asamoah explains, “He is the one that translates my preaching into English, he is also my Bible reader. He speaks in tongues and he sometimes works in my absence. But this is not the first or second time, he usually goes on his knees to beg and I forgive him.”

The singer also highlighted the significance of digital technology in exposing the theft, crediting both the Holy Spirit and the digital initiatives endorsed by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

“By the grace of the Holy Spirit and digital Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, now everything is simple because of digitalisation. He confessed that he saw my secret code while I was conducting a transaction so he transferred GHC4,000 which he was going to enjoy and spend some on women…He knows my house, if I don’t cause his arrest he might end up contacting assassins to kill me. Such a thief,” she said.

Diana Asamoah is well-known for her allegiance to the ruling New Patriotic Party and her vocal endorsement of Dr. Bawumia’s presidential aspirations in the upcoming 2024 election.

Ghanaian Activist Sets World Record: Hugs 1,123 Trees in One Hour

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An environmental activist and forestry student from Ghana has set a new world record for the most trees hugged in one hour.

29-year-old Abubakar Tahiru hugged a total of 1,123 trees, averaging almost 19 per minute.

Abubakar grew up in a farming community in Tepa, Ghana, where he developed a keen interest in nature and its conservation.

After completing his undergraduate degree specializing in forestry at one of Ghana’s top universities, Abubakar moved to Alabama, USA, last year to begin his master’s degree in forestry at Auburn University.
His record attempt took place at Tuskegee National Forest, one of four national forests in the timber-rich state of Alabama.

For the purposes of this record, a hug is defined as both arms wrapped around a tree in a close embrace. No tree may be hugged more than once, and no damage can be caused to any tree or else the attempt is disqualified.

Abubakar says the hardest part of the record attempt was having to move quickly between trees while ensuring that each hug met the required standards. He also found the repetitive hugging motion to be quite tiring.
What made his record attempt even harder was the fact that he was fasting for Ramadan thus could not consume any water.

“Not being able to drink water throughout the attempt posed a significant challenge, especially given the physical exertion required,” Abubakar said.

“However, this also proved to be helpful in a way, as there was no need to pause for water breaks, allowing me to continue the attempt uninterrupted from start to finish.”
Averaging one hug every three seconds, Abubakar easily surpassed the minimum requirement of 700 to become the first holder of this record.

“Achieving this world record feels incredibly rewarding,” he said.

“It’s a meaningful gesture to highlight the crucial role of trees in our ecosystem and the urgency of environmental conservation.”

After setting this world record, Abubakar now plans to deepen his involvement in forestry by working on the development of sustainable practices and by collaborating with environmental organizations to promote sustainable projects.

Efia Odo opens up on lying about her heritage to avoid insults

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Actress-turned-musician Efia Odo recently recounted a troubling experience she faced while living in the USA, shedding light on the challenges of being Black in a predominantly African-American community.

Reflecting on her high school years, she revealed how classmates subjected her to hurtful taunts due to her African heritage, prompting her to fabricate Jamaican roots to avoid further ridicule.

Efia shared this personal story on the X app in response to a video interview featuring Nigerian artist Davido, who highlighted similar struggles faced by Africans in the past when identifying their nationality.

”When I was in junior high school, my African-American classmates used to tease me for being African. They used to call me names like African booty scratcher so I would lie and say I’m half Jamaican. Sad but true,” Efia Odo revealed.

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Election 2024: Stephen Appiah to Contest in Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency

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Former Black Stars captain, Stephen Appiah, is gearing up to enter the political arena, preparing to contend with notable figures in the upcoming general elections.

He’s reportedly set to challenge opponents such as John Dumelo and the incumbent Member of Parliament for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency, Lydia Alhassan.

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Being a Judge for the Model International is a Big Portfolio- Ex MP Barbara Ayisi Asher

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Former Member of Parliament for Cape Coast North constituency in the Central Region, Barbara Ayisi Asher, took on the prestigious role of judging the Cape Coast Audition for The Model International, adding yet another feather to her cap of accomplishments. Not only did she oversee the audition, but she also secured her place as a guest judge on the show itself, solidifying her position as not just a politician but a prominent figure in the world of fashion and entertainment.

The Cape Coast Audition, which served as a gateway for aspiring models in the region, marked the beginning of an exciting journey towards discovering West Africa’s next top talents in modeling. However, the spotlight now shifts to the bustling city of Accra, where the next round of auditions is set to take place.

Scheduled for Saturday, the 4th of May 2024, the Accra audition will be hosted at the prestigious Gold Coast Restaurant, conveniently located near Rockstone’s Office, Cantonments. Doors will open at 10 am, welcoming female West Africans between the ages of 18-26, residing or schooling in Ghana, to showcase their flair and passion for the runway, the camera and the screens.

Registration for the audition comes at a nominal fee of GHS100.00, providing participants with a chance to compete for the coveted title of The Model International, mouth-watering contracts and $2000.00 cash prize. To secure a spot in the audition line-up, aspiring models can register online at www.themodelinternational.com/register or seek assistance by contacting Esther, via call or WhatsApp on +233 50 890 6222.

The Model International promises to be a spectacle of talent, elegance, and glamour, captivating audiences across the nation. Set to premiere on Metro TV from the 1st of June 2024, viewers can tune in every Saturday at 8 pm to witness the unfolding drama and excitement of the competition.

As the anticipation mounts and the countdown to the grand premiere begins, the stage is set for an exhilarating journey towards declaring the next face of West African modelling and fashion. With Barbara Ayisi Asher involved, The Model International is poised to redefine standards of cat walking with grace, elegance in front of the camera and shaping the future of the fashion industry one runway at a time.

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