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Court in Lagos, Nigeria Sentences Man to Life Imprisonment for Defilement of 13-Year-Old Girl

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Court in Lagos, Nigeria Sentences Man to Life Imprisonment for Defilement of 13-Year-Old Girl

LAGOS, Nigeria – Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court has sentenced Peter Odu, an artisan, to life imprisonment for the defilement of a 13-year-old housemaid. The conviction and sentencing were handed down on Monday after the court found the prosecution’s case against Odu beyond reasonable doubt.

Justice Oshodi highlighted the weight of the prosecution’s evidence and comments, particularly emphasizing the profound impact of Odu’s actions on the young victim. “The crime strikes at the heart of our society’s duty to protect its most vulnerable members. At the tender age of 12, the prosecutrix was placed in your family’s care, far from her home and bereft of her parents’ protection. Instead of providing her with safety and guidance, you exploited her vulnerability for your desires,” stated Oshodi.

He further stressed the enduring psychological and emotional trauma inflicted on the victim, remarking, “The physical and emotional trauma you have inflicted on this child is immeasurable and likely to have long-lasting effects on her life.”

Justice Oshodi underscored the legal system’s recognition of the severity of offenses against children and the necessity of strict enforcement of these laws. “The law recognizes the severity of such offences against children, and the court must enforce those laws to their fullest extent,” he asserted.

In his concluding remarks, Oshodi noted the careful consideration of the case’s facts and evidence, pointing to Section 137 of the Criminal Law, which mandates life imprisonment for the defilement of a child. This reflects society’s unequivocal condemnation of such acts. “Therefore, according to the law and considering the grievous nature of your crime, I now sentence you, Peter Odu, to life imprisonment. You shall also be registered as a sex offender,” Oshodi declared.

Credit: punchng.com

Kenyan Officials Seek Public Assistance to Locate Looted Toxic Chemical Containers

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Kenyan Officials Seek Public Assistance to Locate Looted Toxic Chemical Containers

NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenyan officials have issued an urgent appeal for assistance in locating several containers of a highly toxic chemical looted from an overturned lorry near the capital city, Nairobi. The incident has raised significant health and environmental concerns.

The chemical, identified as sodium cyanide, is highly dangerous. Health officials warned that even small amounts, if swallowed or inhaled, could be fatal. Additionally, it poses a severe environmental threat. Authorities emphasized the urgent need to recover the containers to prevent further risks.

It is not uncommon for looting to occur at accident sites in Kenya. On Saturday, after a lorry overturned on the busy Nairobi-Nakuru highway, several containers were taken by individuals who rushed to the scene. The government has strongly urged people to avoid the site and report any sightings of the containers to the nearest police station. The US embassy has also advised its citizens to take a detour around the area.

The accident occurred approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Nairobi, causing a significant spillage on the tarmac. While the cause of the overturn is still unknown, and the condition of the driver remains undisclosed, the national environmental agency has stressed the importance of not coming into contact with the contents of the containers.

The agency cautioned that the containers hold white substances in pellet form, which can interfere with oxygen use, leading to rapid death if ingested or inhaled. Symptoms of exposure include headache, dizziness, rapid breathing, nausea, vomiting, and convulsions. The health ministry advised that only trained personnel equipped with protective gear should handle the chemical.

Kenyan health officials have warned that sodium cyanide can contaminate soil and groundwater, persisting in the environment for an extended period and causing long-term ecological damage. The chemical is primarily used in industrial applications such as fumigation, gold extraction, and silver mining.

Authorities are taking this situation very seriously and have requested the public’s cooperation in locating the looted containers to mitigate the severe health and environmental risks posed by sodium cyanide.

bbc.com

Ghana Achieves Steady Economic Progress Amid Challenges, Says World Bank

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Ghana Achieves Steady Economic Progress Amid Challenges, Says World Bank

ACCRA, Ghana – The World Bank, in its eighth Ghana Economic Update, has reported that the country has seen “steady progress” towards economic stabilization over the past year, despite ongoing challenges.

The report attributes this steady progress to a “modest recovery” in the Ghanaian economy, driven by a firm monetary policy stance, comprehensive debt restructuring, and a series of structural reforms aimed at supporting long-term growth. However, it also highlighted potential obstacles, such as financial sector stress, contingent liabilities in the cocoa and energy sectors, and election expenditure slippages, which could threaten sustainable stability.

The World Bank encouraged the Ghanaian government to enhance tax revenue mobilization through robust measures and to fully implement other policies associated with the ongoing $3 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan-support program.

Launched by Mr. Stefano Curto, Lead Economist for Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone at the World Bank, the report, themed “Strengthening domestic revenue systems for fiscal sustainability,” underlines the significant strides Ghana has made in fiscal consolidation. According to Mr. Curto, Ghana’s macroeconomic situation has improved considerably over the past year, with growth in 2023 reaching a resilient 2.9 percent, surpassing projections.

Mr. Curto emphasized that while Ghana has made commendable progress, the sustainability of these efforts hinges on minimizing the impact of tax revenue increases on the poor and most vulnerable. He recommended that the government streamline and simplify the complexities of personal income tax, Value Added Tax (VAT), and excise duty, as well as rationalize tax exemptions.

The report acknowledged that Ghana’s path to sustainable fiscal consolidation is largely attributed to its ability to enhance tax revenue. It urged the government to continue these efforts, ensuring that the progress made is robust and resilient.

Mr. Pierre Laporte, Country Manager, World Bank, Ghana, praised the country’s steady efforts and reinforced the importance of sustained reforms to maintain economic stability.

Only 1.5 Million Out of 7.9 Million Registered Taxpayers in Ghana Pay Taxes, Says Deputy Finance Minister

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Only 1.5 Million Out of 7.9 Million Registered Taxpayers in Ghana Pay Taxes, Says Deputy Finance Minister

Ghana’s Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr. Alex Ampaabeng, has revealed that only about 1.5 million out of 7.9 million registered taxpayers in the country are currently honoring their tax obligations. This startling statistic was disclosed during the launch of the 8th Ghana Economic Update by the World Bank.

Ghana’s Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr. Alex Ampaabeng

Dr. Ampaabeng stated that the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority are currently cleaning the tax database to increase tax revenue. He emphasized the government’s commitment to improving the fiscal environment, particularly by reducing human interface in tax collection and enhancing digital collection methods.

“Going forward, reducing the human interface is key to growing our [Ghana’s] tax revenue. The Ministry of Finance is working with the GRA to reduce lots of tax infractions,” Dr. Ampaabeng said.

The World Bank report highlighted that Ghana’s tax collection has been low compared to its peers. Between 2017 and 2021, Ghana’s average tax collection was 13.2% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), well below the Sub-Saharan Africa average and 8.0 percentage points short of the country’s estimated tax capacity of 21.2% of GDP.

The report identified areas of inefficiencies within Ghana’s tax policy framework and compliance mechanisms. It suggested rationalizing large tax expenditures that have contributed to the overall decline in tax revenues, while balancing the need to reduce revenue losses against potential distributional and social impacts.

The World Bank emphasized that addressing these issues could help ensure macroeconomic stability and generate resources necessary for sustainable long-term growth and poverty reduction efforts.

As Ghana grapples with its fiscal challenges, the government’s focus on improving tax compliance and modernizing collection methods reflects a broader effort to strengthen the country’s economic foundation. The success of these initiatives will be crucial in determining Ghana’s ability to fund essential services and drive economic development in the coming years.

Source: myjoyonline.com

Uganda Law Society Deploys Lawyers to Aid Detained Anti-Corruption Protesters

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Uganda Law Society Deploys Lawyers to Aid Detained Anti-Corruption Protesters

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has dispatched a team of lawyers to Jinja Road Police Station and other detention centers in Kampala to secure the release of protesters arrested during an anti-corruption march on Tuesday. ULS president Bernard Oundo, accompanied by lawyers from the Legal Aid Project, arrived at the police station to negotiate bond for the detained individuals.

This legal intervention comes in response to a series of arrests made by Ugandan security forces as young activists attempted to march to Parliament. Among those detained were former Rubaga South MP candidate Habib Buwembo and comedian Samuel Okanya, known as Sammy.

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke had earlier warned against the protest, stating, “We will not tolerate disorderly conduct. We understand and acknowledge individual rights, but we have a duty to maintain law and order that we cannot evade.”

The protesters’ demands include the resignation of Speaker of Parliament Anita Among and four backbench commissioners, a reduction in the number of MPs, an audit of MPs’ lifestyles, and a cap on MPs’ salaries and allowances at 3 million Ugandan shillings.

ULS representatives are visiting multiple police stations where protesters are being held, offering legal representation and assistance. The law society has stated its readiness to provide legal aid to all detained protesters, underscoring the tension between civil liberties and government control in Uganda.

nilepost.co.ug

Ugandan Police Arrest Anti-Corruption Protesters Marching to Parliament

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Ugandan Police Arrest Anti-Corruption Protesters Marching to Parliament

Ugandan security forces arrested scores of anti-corruption protesters in Kampala on Tuesday as they attempted to march to Parliament. The joint operation by military and police targeted demonstrators demanding political reforms and action against corruption.

Among those detained were former Rubaga South MP candidate and activist Habib Buwembo and comedian Samuel Okanya, known as Sammy. The arrests occurred as protesters, carrying placards, began their march to the August House.

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke had earlier warned against the protest, stating, “We reiterate our position we shall not tolerate disorderly conduct. We understand, feel and acknowledge the existence of rights of individuals but we have a duty to keep law and order that we can’t run away from.”

The protesters’ demands include the resignation of Speaker of Parliament Anita Among and four backbench commissioners, reduction in the number of Ugandan MPs, resignation of MPs involved in corruption scandals, an audit of MPs’ lifestyles, and slashing MPs’ salaries and allowances to a maximum of 3 million Ugandan shillings.

Police justified their actions by citing past protests that turned chaotic. Rusoke explained, “Organisers are calling people to occupy every street of Kampala. Who on earth can allow such recklessness!”

This crackdown on protesters highlights ongoing tensions between the Ugandan government and opposition groups. It also underscores the challenges faced by anti-corruption activists in their efforts to push for political reforms in the country.

As arrests continue, the situation in Kampala remains tense, with both protesters and security forces maintaining their positions. The government’s response to these demonstrations is likely to draw international attention and scrutiny regarding political freedoms and anti-corruption efforts in Uganda.

The events in Kampala reflect a broader struggle between civil society groups demanding accountability and a government intent on maintaining order. As the situation unfolds, observers will be watching closely to see how this latest confrontation impacts Uganda’s political landscape and its approach to addressing corruption allegations.

Source: nilepost.co.ug

Ethiopia Landslides Kill at Least 146, Search for Survivors Continues

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Ethiopia Landslides Kill at Least 146, Search for Survivors Continues

At least 146 people have been killed in two landslides that struck a remote mountainous area in the Gofa zone, southern Ethiopia, local officials reported to the BBC on Tuesday. The disaster, triggered by heavy rains, has prompted an intense search and rescue operation, with authorities warning the death toll could rise further.

Dagmawi Ayele, chief administrator of Gofa zone, told the BBC that the victims include both adults and children – 90 males and 46 females. Ten survivors have been rescued and are receiving treatment in hospital.

The first landslide occurred on Sunday evening, with a second following on Monday morning as rescue efforts were underway. “We are still digging,” Ayele said, indicating that search operations are ongoing.

Footage from the scene shows hundreds of people gathered, with many digging through mud and debris in search of trapped victims. A partially collapsed hillside and a large exposed area of red earth are visible in the background.

The Gofa zone, located approximately 320km southwest of the capital Addis Ababa, is part of the Southern Ethiopia region that has experienced particularly heavy rains and flooding in recent months, according to the UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (Ocha).

This disaster highlights the increasing frequency of extreme weather events in the region. In May 2016, at least 50 people were killed in floods and landslides in southern Ethiopia. Climate experts warn that such incidents may become more common as global temperatures rise due to climate change.

As rescue efforts continue, the tragedy underscores the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and climate change mitigation strategies in vulnerable regions. The international community’s attention is now focused on supporting the rescue operations and providing aid to the affected communities in southern Ethiopia.

Source: bbc.com

’16 And Pregnant’ Star Autumn Oxley Dies at 27, Police Investigating

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’16 And Pregnant’ Star Autumn Oxley Dies at 27, Police Investigating

Autumn Oxley, formerly known as Autumn Crittendon, a former cast member of MTV’s “16 and Pregnant,” was found dead at her home in Henrico County, Virginia, on July 20. She was 27 years old. The Henrico County Police Division has launched an investigation into her death.

According to a police statement provided to TODAY.com, officers and fire personnel responded to a medical emergency call at Oxley’s residence at approximately 3:12 p.m. local time. Despite life-saving measures performed by the Henrico Fire Department, Oxley was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Henrico Police are currently classifying this incident as a death investigation,” the department stated. “Detectives are working with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner on this case to determine the exact cause and manner of death.”

Oxley gained public attention in 2014 when she appeared on MTV’s “16 and Pregnant,” which documented her pregnancy with then-boyfriend Dustin Franklin. On the show, she gave birth to her son, Drake. Oxley later described herself on Facebook as a “mother of two little boys Drake and Luke and a beautiful little girl Abigail.”

The day after Oxley’s death, her sister, Misty Crittendon, changed her Facebook profile photo to an image of two young girls with the hashtag #justiceforautumn, suggesting potential concerns about the circumstances of Oxley’s death.

Henrico County Police Division is urging anyone with information regarding Oxley’s death to contact their department or submit tips. MTV has not yet commented on the tragedy.

As the investigation continues, fans and fellow cast members of “16 and Pregnant” are expressing shock and sadness at the loss of Oxley, who had become a mother of three since her appearance on the show. Her death highlights the often challenging lives of young parents featured in reality television and the lasting impact of such programs on their participants.

Devastating as Mother and Toddler Drown in North Carolina Creek

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Devastating as Mother and Toddler Drown in North Carolina Creek

Wilson Creek Gorge, North Carolina – A tragic incident occurred over the weekend near Wilson Creek Gorge in North Carolina, where a mother and her 1-year-old son drowned during an outing.

Fire and rescue agencies responded to reports of three people drowning in the creek on Saturday, July 20, Caldwell County Emergency Services (CCES) stated in a press release on Sunday, July 21. “All victims were rescued from the water and resuscitation efforts began on two unconscious victims,” CCES continued. “Unfortunately, a 1-year-old child and mother succumbed to their injuries on scene.”

The victims were identified as Chelsea Jackson and her 1-year-old son Oliver, reports WSOC-TV. Jackson, her husband, and another child were walking on the rocks near Wilson Creek Gorge, the outlet reported, citing a spokesperson for Collettsville Fire and Rescue.

Jackson and Oliver fell into the creek, and Jackson’s husband went into the water to save them.

The Collettsville Fire and Rescue and the Caldwell County EMS responded to Brown Mountain Beach Road at approximately 6:29 p.m. local time in the Wilson Creek Gorge regarding a drowning, the CCES said in its statement.

North Carolina Wildlife Rescue Commission Law Enforcement units also arrived at the scene, where they discovered “three victims in the water.”

After it was determined that Chelsea and her child had died, rescue units remained at the scene “for several hours, assisting law enforcement with the investigation, and providing high angle rope work for the recovery.”

Source: People.com

Eminem’s New Album Ends Taylor Swift’s 12-Week Reign at Billboard 200 No. 1

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Eminem’s New Album Ends Taylor Swift’s 12-Week Reign at Billboard 200 No. 1

Eminem’s 12th studio album, “The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce),” has claimed the top spot on the Billboard 200 chart, ending Taylor Swift’s historic 12-week reign with “The Tortured Poets Department.”

Swift’s album, which debuted at No. 1 in April, set a new record for the biggest streaming week in history with 891.34 million album streams in its first week, according to Luminate. The 12-week run at No. 1 tied Morgan Wallen’s 2023 album “One Thing at a Time” and surpassed Whitney Houston’s previous record of 11 weeks for a female artist, set in 1987 with “Whitney.”

Eminem’s latest release marks his 11th No. 1 album on the Billboard 200. The chart shuffle sees Swift’s album drop to No. 4, with K-pop boy band ENHYPHEN’s “ROMANCE:UNTOLD” at No. 2 and Zach Bryan’s “The Great American Bar Scene” at No. 3.

Despite the impressive runs by Swift and Wallen, Stevie Wonder’s 1976 album “Songs in the Key of Life” retains the overall record with 14 total weeks at No. 1, including 13 consecutive weeks after its debut.

This chart movement underscores the dynamic nature of the music industry and the continued influence of both established and emerging artists. As streaming continues to dominate music consumption, these record-breaking performances highlight the evolving metrics of success in the digital age.

The success of Eminem’s new album and its impact on the charts demonstrates the rapper’s enduring popularity and ability to compete with contemporary pop giants. It also sets the stage for potential future chart battles as artists continue to release highly anticipated albums in the coming months.

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