A court in Nigeria has convicted 125 Boko Haram Islamist militants and financiers on various terrorism-related offences.
The Attorney General’s office stated that the charges included “bordering on terrorism, terrorism financing, rendering material support, and International Criminal Court-related crimes.”
The mass two-day trial was overseen by five Federal High Court judges at a military detention facility in Kainji, Niger State.
Since the Boko Haram insurgency began in 2009, thousands have been killed, and millions displaced. This has led to a humanitarian crisis in northeastern Nigeria, pressuring the government to resolve the conflict.
Of the 125 convicted, 85 were found guilty of terrorism financing, 22 for ICC-related crimes, and the remaining defendants for other terrorism offences. They were sentenced to various jail terms.
The last mass trials of Boko Haram suspects took place between 2017 and 2018, where 163 people were convicted and 887 set free.
In 2014, Boko Haram kidnapped over 270 girls from a school in Chibok, northeastern Nigeria. The abductions triggered a global campaign, #BringBackOurGirls, endorsed by former United States First Lady Michelle Obama. More than 180 of the abducted girls have since been freed or escaped, while many remain missing. Those who returned often face numerous challenges, including reintegration into their communities and dealing with the trauma of their captivity
The Ghana Police Service has filed an injunction to prevent the Gen-Z demonstration from taking place.
The seven-day protest, scheduled from July 31 to August 6, 2024, aims to bring over 2 million young people onto the streets of Accra.
The demonstration intends to address severe economic hardships primarily affecting the youth, driving many into drug addiction, dangerous migrations, and some even joining terrorist groups.
Additionally, the protest seeks to express Gen-Z’s strong disapproval of the widespread corruption and nepotism allegedly characterizing the incumbent administration.
The court is scheduled to hear the injunction application on Tuesday, July 30, 2024.
Reacting to this, the conveners of the demonstration have pledged to defend their right to protest, citing constitutional provisions that protect citizens’ rights to demonstrate.
It appears the organizers are taking a cue from the massive protests by the young people of Kenya, which has forced the President to make drastic changes.
Celine Dion has admitted she’s “so full of joy” after her breathtaking comeback performance at the 2024 Paris Olympic Opening Ceremony on Friday night. The Canadian singer, 56, who is battling the incurable stiff-person syndrome, closed the ceremony with a jaw-dropping performance on the Eiffel Tower.
Twenty-eight years after making her Olympic debut in 1996 at Atlanta’s stadium, Celine proved she’s still got it by following her emotional act in the French city. And after bringing fans to tears, Celine reflected on the iconic moment with a heartfelt message on X.
She wrote: “I’m honored to have performed tonight, for the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony, and so full of joy to be back in one of my very favorite cities! Most of all, I’m so happy to be celebrating these amazing athletes, with all their stories of sacrifice and determination, pain, and perseverance.
All of you have been so focused on your dream, and whether or not you take home a medal, I hope that being here means that it has come true for you! You should all be so proud, we know how hard you have worked to be the best of the best. Stay focused, keep going, my heart is with you! – Celine xx…”
Celine looked incredible in a shimmering silver gown as she performed in front of the Eiffel Tower. She gave a rendition of “Hymne à L’amour,” which was originally sung by French music icon Edith Piaf. The song was originally released in 1950, and its title translates into English as “Hymn to Love.”
Her “My Heart Will Go On” songstress looked to be on the verge of tears as she finished the performance to cheers from the crowd, whilst viewers at home were also left emotional. One wrote on X: “Celine got my a** crying #OpeningCeremony. Wow Celine Dion! If you’ve seen her documentary, you’ll know… #OpeningCeremony.”
Celine’s performance was particularly significant given her battle with stiff-person syndrome, an incredibly rare neurological disorder that causes severe muscle stiffness and spasms. Her return to the stage marked her first major performance since being diagnosed with the disorder in 2022.
Dion’s Olympics performance marks her return to performing after years of struggling with the condition. At the premiere of the documentary “I Am: Celine Dion,” she told The Associated Press that returning required therapy “physically, mentally, emotionally, vocally.” She added, “So that’s why it takes a while. But absolutely why we’re doing this because I’m already a little bit back,” she said.
Celine’s stirring performance and touching message have resonated with fans worldwide, inspiring many with her resilience and dedication to her craft. Her return to the stage at such a prestigious event highlights her enduring talent and the impact she continues to have on the music world and beyond.
Pop superstar Lady Gaga, 38, has left an indelible mark on Paris with two remarkable performances over the weekend. The singer first wowed audiences at the 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony on Friday night, followed by a surprise impromptu performance for fans outside her hotel on Saturday.
At the Olympic Opening Ceremony, Gaga delivered a stunning rendition of ‘Mon Truc En Plumes’ on a set of stairs along the Seine River. The performance, which featured the singer in pink plumes, was a tribute to French culture and history. Despite the grandeur of the event, some viewers reported issues with sound quality and noted that wet weather caused a dancer to slip during the routine.
Following the ceremony, Gaga took to social media to express her gratitude, stating, “I feel so completely grateful to have been asked to open the Paris @Olympics 2024 this year.” She also detailed the preparation for her performance, including studying French choreography and collaborating with Dior for custom costumes using naturally molted feathers.
The ceremony audience included world leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron and Sir Keir Starmer, the recently-elected British Prime Minister. However, fan reactions to the performance were mixed, with some praising it as “sensational” while others criticized the sound quality and questioned the choice of an American artist for a French event.
Just a day after her Olympic performance, Lady Gaga delighted fans with an unexpected encore. The “Born This Way” singer emerged from the sunroof of her car outside her Paris hotel to perform “Always Remember Us This Way,” a hit song from her 2018 film “A Star Is Born.” Dressed in a black suit, Gaga spread her arms theatrically and encouraged the crowd to sing along.
This impromptu performance was met with enthusiasm from gathered fans, many of whom Gaga graciously stopped to sign autographs for and pose with for photos before entering her hotel.
The song “Always Remember Us This Way” is particularly significant as it’s featured in “A Star Is Born,” the fourth English-language adaptation of the story. The film, which co-starred Bradley Cooper, received numerous accolades, including eight Academy Award nominations. Gaga’s work on the film led her to become the first woman in history to win an Academy Award, a Grammy Award, a BAFTA Award, and a Golden Globe Award in the same year.
These Paris performances showcase Lady Gaga’s versatility as an artist, from her ability to command a global stage at the Olympics to her willingness to connect intimately with fans in an impromptu street performance. Despite the mixed reactions to her Olympic show, Gaga’s dedication to her craft and her fans remains evident.
As the Olympics continue and Paris remains in the global spotlight, Lady Gaga’s performances have certainly added to the city’s artistic vibrancy, reinforcing her status as one of the world’s most captivating and unpredictable performers.
Academy Award-winning actor Ben Affleck, 51, has reportedly closed escrow on a new $20.5 million estate in the oceanside enclave of Pacific Palisades, according to TMZ. This significant real estate move comes amidst swirling speculation about the status of his relationship with singer and actress Jennifer Lopez, 55.
The newly acquired property boasts five bedrooms and six bathrooms, complete with breakfast and dining areas, a separate family room, den, walk-in closets, media room, powder room, and a guest house. These amenities are typical of high-end real estate in the area.
This purchase has raised eyebrows in Hollywood circles, particularly as Affleck and Lopez recently listed their Beverly Hills home for $68 million. The couple had purchased that estate for $60 million in May of last year, but have reportedly struggled to find immediate buyers in the current market.
Adding fuel to the rumor mill, reports suggest that Affleck and Lopez spent their second wedding anniversary apart. Sources claim that while Lopez has been staying in their marital home, Affleck has been living in a $100,000 monthly rental property near his ex-wife Jennifer Garner’s Brentwood house. Affleck and Garner, 52, who were married from 2005 to 2018, share three children: Violet, 18, Fin, 15, and Samuel, 12.
Speculation about potential marital issues began circulating in May when the couple hadn’t been seen together publicly since late March. An unnamed source told In Touch, “Ben already moved out and they’ll likely have to sell the dream house they spent two years searching for. They’ll never stop loving each other, but she can’t control him, and he can’t change her. There’s no way it could have lasted.”
However, not all sources paint a gloomy picture. One of Lopez’s LA-based friends told the Daily Mail, “If it is only a question of putting the work in then you had better believe that [Jen] will turn it around. She has thrown her heart and soul into her love story with Ben and will not give it up without a fight. From what I hear there is still a lot of love there, so there must be hope.”
As of now, Lopez is reportedly in New York City, having recently celebrated her 55th birthday in the Hamptons. She hosted a Bridgerton-themed party, which Affleck did not attend, and later thanked her fans for their birthday messages in a heartfelt social media post.
While these recent developments have sparked intense speculation about the couple’s future, it’s important to note that neither Affleck nor Lopez has made any official statement regarding their relationship status. As with all celebrity news, it’s crucial to approach such reports with a degree of skepticism until confirmed by the individuals involved.
As this story continues to develop, fans and onlookers alike will be watching closely for any official word from the high-profile couple about their relationship and future plans.
A poignant final photo of America’s beloved gospel group, The Nelons, has emerged, capturing their last moments before a tragic plane crash that claimed their lives. The image, shared on Amber Nelon Kistler’s Instagram account, shows the family inside the aircraft as they embarked on their fateful journey to Alaska.
In the heartbreaking photo, family patriarch Jason Clark can be seen glancing out the window, while his wife, Kelly Nelon Clark, gazes at the camera. This snapshot, along with Amber’s final social media post featuring only a geotag of West Georgia Regional Airport and a sticker of a flying plane, serves as a haunting reminder of their final trip.
The Grammy-nominated family was en route from Nebraska to Alaska on Friday, planning to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise. Tragically, their plane crashed in Wyoming, sparking a massive wildfire and leaving no survivors, according to local authorities.
Accompanying The Nelons on this ill-fated journey were Amber’s husband Nathan Kistler, the family’s assistant Melodi Hodges, the pilot Larry Haynie, and his wife Melissa. All perished in the crash that has left the gospel music community in shock.
In a video taken prior to boarding the doomed plane, Jason can be seen addressing the group on the runway. The aircraft, believed to be owned by Larry Haynie, is visible in the background as it refuels for the journey. Another photograph, captioned “Gaither Alaskan Cruise Travel Vlog,” shows Amber, Jason, and Kelly Nelon Clark posing together, their smiles a stark contrast to the tragedy that would soon unfold.
The Nelons’ fourth member, Autumn Nelon Streetman, had declined to accompany her family due to her pregnancy. In a statement following the tragic news, she expressed her deep sorrow and asked for prayers for her family, including her unborn son.
“As many of you have heard by now, my father and mother, Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, along with my sister, Amber, and brother-in-law, Nathan, as well as our dear friends Melodi Hodges, Larry, and Melissa Haynie, were involved in a tragic plane crash on Friday,” Autumn said. “We appreciate your continued prayers, love, and support as we navigate the coming days.”
The plane, identified as a Pilatus PC-12/47E owned by Haynie Enterprises, crashed under circumstances that are yet to be determined. The National Transportation Safety Board has announced it will open an investigation into the incident.
As fans and the music industry grapple with this devastating loss, the final photo of The Nelons serves as a poignant reminder of their legacy. Inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 2016, the family’s impact on gospel music and their ministry touched countless lives.
This tragedy has left an indelible void in the gospel music world, with the last glimpse of The Nelons capturing a moment of normalcy before an unthinkable disaster. As investigations continue and tributes pour in, the music community mourns the loss of these beloved artists, their final image a testament to their enduring spirit and the fragility of life.
A shooting incident at Columbia Mall in Maryland on Saturday has left one person dead, according to local authorities. The Howard County Police Department responded to calls of an active shooter, later confirming that the situation resulted from an altercation inside the mall.
The police department initially posted on social media platform X: “COLUMBIA MALL: One person is deceased after being shot during an altercation inside the mall. There are no indications of an active shooter at this time. Will update.”
As of the latest update, authorities have confirmed that there is no ongoing threat inside the mall. The police are working to evacuate people in an orderly fashion. No information has been released about the victim or any potential suspects at this time.
Witnesses at the scene described moments of panic as the incident unfolded. One shopper reported on social media: “There was a shooting at Columbia Mall.. Me and my best friend were in the food court when we heard a loud pop. Everyone dipped.. I never ran that fast in my life! We’re safe!”
Another witness described it as the “scariest moment” of their life, saying: “I was ordering at the Chick-fil-A few meters away. Loud bang and we all ran towards JCPenny.”
This incident follows a non-fatal shooting that occurred in the Columbia area earlier this week, raising concerns about rising crime rates in Howard County. Local resident Diana Lyles told Fox affiliate WBFF: “The types of crimes I have witnessed and noticed are car break-ins, gang fights, robberies, vehicle thefts, and more.” She expressed her hope that Howard County authorities would take action to address these issues.
In response to these concerns, the Howard County Police Department acknowledged the rising crime trends, stating: “We are aware that auto theft and juvenile crime have been on the rise throughout the region and the state. Howard County is not immune to these trends.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The police department has promised to provide updates as more details become available.
As Venezuela approaches a crucial election, tensions are rising amid warnings of potential violence from incumbent President Nicolas Maduro, the sun-com reports. The South American nation, grappling with economic crisis and political instability, faces a pivotal moment that could shape its future and impact regional stability.
President Maduro, 61, who has ruled Venezuela for 11 years, is facing significant opposition in this election. The country’s economy has shrunk by 80 percent over the past decade, with hyperinflation and widespread poverty fueling discontent.
Maduro’s previous election victory in 2018, where he claimed 68 percent of the vote, was widely regarded as rigged, leading to a political crisis that saw opposition leader Juan Guaido claim the presidency with support from 57 countries, including the UK and US.
Recent polls suggest Maduro is trailing his opponents by 40 to 50 percentage points. In response, the president has issued stark warnings. At a rally, he declared, “If they jump a red light [by questioning the results], they will regret it for 200 years… There will be an iron fist and justice for the violent fascist protesters and the racists.” He further warned of a potential “bloodbath” and “fratricidal civil war” if the opposition disputes the election outcome.
Experts are concerned about the possibility of post-election violence. Andre Masuko, a research analyst for Latin America and the Caribbean at the Economist Intelligence Unit, told The Sun, “We think that he’s inciting violence because he knows he’s going to lose in a free and fair vote.” Masuko predicts both sides may declare victory, potentially leading to protests similar to those seen in 2019.
Dr. Christopher Sabatini, a senior fellow for Latin America at Chatham House, suggests that if large-scale protests erupt, Maduro might resort to violence to ensure his political survival. This could involve not only the military but also the ‘Colectivos’ – far-left paramilitaries and criminal organizations accused of killing hundreds of political opponents.
The international community is closely watching the situation. Russia, a key ally of Maduro’s government, has provided economic support and military advisers to Venezuela. There are concerns that Russian involvement could complicate potential international interventions aimed at ensuring a peaceful resolution.
Neighboring countries, particularly Brazil and Colombia, have a vested interest in a stable Venezuela. The economic crisis has already led to an exodus of 8 million Venezuelans, with another 8 million indicating their readiness to leave. Any further instability could exacerbate this migration crisis.
While a full-scale civil war is considered unlikely by experts, the potential for localized violence and political instability remains high. The loyalty of the military, especially junior officers and soldiers who have suffered economic hardships, could be a crucial factor in how events unfold.
As Venezuela approaches this critical juncture, the international community remains on alert. The outcome of this election and the immediate aftermath could have far-reaching consequences not only for Venezuela but for the entire region.
The Russian defense ministry announced on Saturday that its forces have taken control of the settlement of Lozuvatske in the Pokrovsk sector of Ukraine’s Donetsk region. This area has been the site of some of the most intense frontline battles in the 29-month-long war.
The defense ministry stated that its “center” grouping of forces had captured Lozuvatske, which is located northwest of the Russian-held regional center of Donetsk. In addition to this claim, the ministry reported launching strikes on other localities in the sector and repelling three Ukrainian counter-attacks.
This latest development aligns with the pattern of slow but steady Russian advances through the Donetsk region in Ukraine’s east since the capture of the key town of Avdiivka in February. These incremental gains have been a consistent feature of the conflict in recent months.
Ukraine’s General Staff, however, has not explicitly mentioned the loss of Lozuvatske in its reports. Their latest update acknowledged that the area around the settlement is gripped by heavy fighting. The Ukrainian military reported repelling 17 attacks in the Pokrovsk sector, with 10 clashes still ongoing. “The situation is difficult, but under the control of the armed forces,” the report stated.
The intensity of the fighting in the Pokrovsk sector has been a focus of Ukrainian officials for weeks. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has discussed the situation in this sector twice on Thursday with his top commander, Olexandr Syrskyi, underlining the strategic importance of the area.
While official Ukrainian sources have not confirmed the loss of any settlements, unofficial military bloggers have reported the fall of at least two other localities in the sector. The popular unofficial Ukrainian military blog DeepState has reported in the past two days the loss of two villages in the sector — Prohres and Vovche — although it made no reference to Lozuvatske in its latest update.
The conflict continues to rage along the 1,000-km (600-mile) front line, with both sides claiming successes and refuting the other’s claims. The situation remains fluid, with control of settlements often changing hands rapidly in the heat of battle.
As the war approaches its third year, the international community continues to watch closely, with concerns about the humanitarian impact of the conflict and its potential to escalate further. The capture of Lozuvatske, if confirmed, could represent a small but significant shift in the balance of power in the Donetsk region.
The coming days and weeks will likely see continued intense fighting in the Pokrovsk sector and across the eastern front, as both Russian and Ukrainian forces seek to gain or maintain control of strategic positions. As always, the fog of war makes it challenging to verify claims independently, and the situation on the ground can change rapidly.
High jumper Gianmarco Tamberi issued a heartfelt apology to his wife on Saturday after his wedding ring slipped off his finger while he was serving as Italy’s flag bearer on a boat in the Seine River during the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics.
“Too much water, too many kilos lost in the last few months or maybe the irrepressible enthusiasm of what we were doing,” Tamberi, who won gold at the Tokyo Games, wrote on Instagram in a post directed at his wife, Chiara Bontempi Tamberi.
“Probably all three things, the fact remains that I felt [my ring] slip away. I saw it fly… I followed it with my gaze until I saw it bounce inside the boat.”
Tamberi said that his wedding ring then bounced into the waters of the Seine in what he described as “a few moments that lasted forever.
“But if it really had to happen, if I really had to lose it, I couldn’t imagine a better place,” Tamberi added. “It will remain forever in the riverbed of the City of Love.”
Tamberi said the mishap would be an excuse to renew vows and get married again, and perhaps serve as an impetus to earn more Olympic hardware.
“May it be a good omen to return home with an even bigger gold!” he wrote.
