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Ghana Music Producer Spiky Wins $250,000 in Copyright Case Against CAF

In a landmark decision for the creative industry in Ghana, music producer Spiky (born Kwabena Ofei-Kwadey Nkrumah) has won a significant legal battle against the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over copyright infringement. The Commercial Court 7 in Accra delivered its verdict on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, finding CAF guilty of unauthorized use of Spiky’s music.

The Case and Verdict

The court, presided over by Justice Emmanuel Loddoh, ruled that CAF had infringed on Spiky’s copyright by using the beat from his track “Okomfo Anokye” in promotional materials for the 2018 CAF awards without seeking permission. As a result, CAF has been ordered to pay damages equivalent to USD 250,000 and legal costs of GHS 40,000.

Background of the Dispute

Spiky first raised the issue in 2019 through a series of tweets, accusing CAF of copyright infringement. Despite CAF’s admission of using the work without consent and their subsequent apology, they failed to respond to Spiky’s demand for compensation, leading to the legal action.

CAF’s Defense

In their defense, CAF claimed that the musical work was “available online for free download without any restrictions or conditions.” They also argued that the CAF Awards was not a profit-making venture and that they had removed the work from their social media platforms upon realizing the infringement.

Implications for the Creative Industry

This verdict represents a significant win for artists and producers in Ghana and potentially across Africa. It underscores the importance of respecting intellectual property rights and the potential consequences of unauthorized use of creative works, even by major organizations.

Spiky’s Reaction

Expressing his excitement on social media, Spiky, who is also known as a tech expert, celebrated the verdict as “A win for the creative industry: CAF vs Spiky’s.” This statement highlights the broader implications of the case for creators across various fields.

Looking Forward

This case sets a precedent for how copyright infringement cases might be handled in Ghana and potentially in other African countries. It serves as a reminder to organizations to be diligent in obtaining proper licenses for creative works, even when they are freely available online. For artists and producers, it reinforces the importance of protecting their intellectual property and pursuing legal action when necessary.

As the creative industry continues to evolve in the digital age, this verdict may encourage more robust discussions about copyright laws, fair use, and the value of creative works in the African context.

Transfer Rumors: Haaland Rejects Real Madrid, Bayern Eyes Simons, and More Football (Soccer) News

The football transfer market continues to buzz with activity as top clubs across Europe vie for talent. Here’s a roundup of the latest transfer rumors and potential moves:

Haaland Rejects Real Madrid, Considers Barcelona

Manchester City’s prolific striker Erling Haaland has reportedly ruled out a move to Real Madrid following Kylian Mbappe’s arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu. Sources suggest Haaland is unwilling to share the spotlight with the French star and is instead considering a potential move to Barcelona next summer.

Bayern Munich Pursues Xavi Simons

Bayern Munich has emerged as the frontrunner in the race to sign Xavi Simons from Paris Saint-Germain. The Bundesliga giants are reportedly working on a loan deal with an obligation to buy, potentially worth up to €90 million.

Premier League Clubs Battle for Defenders

Liverpool is intensifying efforts to secure Sporting CP centre-back Goncalo Inacio, competing with Manchester United and Arsenal for the player’s signature. Inacio’s contract includes a €60 million release clause.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid is considering a move for Al Nassr’s Aymeric Laporte after missing out on Leny Yoro, who’s set to join Manchester United.

PSG Closes in on Joao Neves

Paris Saint-Germain is reportedly nearing a €70 million deal for Benfica midfielder Joao Neves, potentially beating Manchester United to his signature.

Other Notable Rumors:

– Newcastle United has held talks with Juventus winger Federico Chiesa.

– Atletico Madrid is eyeing Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez as a replacement for Alvaro Morata.

– Chelsea joins Aston Villa, Tottenham, and Napoli in pursuit of Atletico Madrid’s Mario Hermoso.

– Tottenham’s Richarlison is attracting interest from Saudi Arabian clubs Al Ittihad and Al Qadsiah.

– West Ham United leads the race for Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson, valued at £25 million.

– Everton is close to securing a loan deal for Napoli midfielder Jesper Lindstrom with a £21 million purchase option.

These rumors highlight the dynamic nature of the football transfer market, with clubs across Europe actively seeking to strengthen their squads. As the transfer window progresses, some of these potential moves may materialize, reshaping team rosters for the upcoming season.

90min.com

Javier Mascherano Defends Argentina Players Over ‘Taken Out of Context’ Racist Chants Video

Argentina’s Olympic coach Javier Mascherano defends national team players after a video showing racist chants post-Copa America victory is claimed to be taken out of context. Read more on the controversy and Mascherano’s response.

Javier Mascherano, the coach of Argentina’s Olympic football squad, addressed a controversy on Wednesday involving a video showing national team players allegedly engaging in racist chants after their Copa America win. Mascherano insisted the video was “taken out of context” and defended his players against accusations of racism.

“Argentines, if there’s one thing we’re not, it’s racists, far from that,” Mascherano stated during a press conference at Argentina’s pre-Olympic training base in northwestern France.

The controversial chants were heard in a live video posted on social media by Chelsea and Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez. The footage, filmed on the team bus following Argentina’s Copa America victory over Colombia in Miami on Sunday, quickly sparked backlash online.

“I know Enzo, he’s a great guy. He doesn’t have any problems like that,” Mascherano asserted, emphasizing Fernandez’s character.

Mascherano explained that the video was misinterpreted and that it was a common post-victory celebration among the players. “Often, as part of a celebration, you can take part of a video and take it out of context,” he said.

The coach’s statements aim to quell the controversy and reassure fans and the public of the team’s integrity. The incident highlights the complexities and potential misunderstandings surrounding celebratory moments in sports, especially in the age of social media where clips can be easily misconstrued.

Spanish FA President Suspended for Two Years Following European Championship Victory

The president of the Spanish Football Association (FA) has been suspended from all football activities for two years. This comes just days after the Spanish team’s triumphant European Championship win in Berlin. The suspension was handed down by Spain’s Administrative Tribunal of Sport (TAD), citing multiple infractions and abuse of authority.

The decision follows a series of controversies that began with his predecessor, Luis Rubiales. Rubiales faced widespread criticism and legal action after forcibly kissing Spain’s Jennifer Hermoso during the Women’s World Cup trophy presentation in the summer of 2023. Although Rubiales claimed the kiss was consensual, he was handed a three-year ban from FIFA and now faces trial for sexual assault and coercion.

Rocha, who took over as the interim president and was later appointed permanently, has now come under scrutiny for his conduct. TAD found that he had overstepped his authority, particularly in the dismissal of former general secretary Andreu Camps. This decision, along with two other infractions, led to additional fines amounting to £13,880 (€16,527).

The tribunal’s ruling emphasizes the importance of ethical leadership in football administration. Rocha’s actions were deemed an ‘abuse of authority,’ reinforcing the need for accountability at the highest levels of sports governance.

The Spanish FA has not yet commented on the suspension, but the decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to maintain integrity within the organization. The ban serves as a reminder of the rigorous standards expected from those in leadership positions within the football community.

Kenya Police Ban Protests in Nairobi Amid Rising Tensions and Violence

The authorities in Kenya have imposed an indefinite ban on protests in the capital city of Nairobi, citing concerns over public safety and a lack of leadership to ensure peaceful demonstrations. This decision comes amid a month of political unrest that has seen violent clashes, property damage, and allegations of police brutality.

Acting police inspector general Douglas Kanja announced the ban just hours before a planned march to the president’s office, where demonstrators intended to call for President William Ruto’s resignation over alleged poor governance. Kanja stated that the “lack of leadership had made it difficult to enforce safety protocols,” justifying the ban as a necessary measure to maintain order.

The protests, which began on June 18, initially focused on opposition to a controversial finance bill proposing higher taxes amidst a cost-of-living crisis and growing public debt. These demonstrations have resulted in significant economic losses for businesses due to looting and property damage. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reports that at least 50 people have died since the protests began.

In response to the unrest, President Ruto has made several concessions. He announced he would not sign the contentious finance bill passed by parliament on June 25 – the same day protesters stormed and partially burned the parliament building. Last week, Ruto dismissed almost his entire cabinet and the attorney general, addressing protesters’ accusations of incompetence and corruption among government officials.

The protests have been marred by accusations of excessive force by law enforcement. Former inspector general of police Japhet Koome resigned last Friday following calls for accountability over the shooting of protesters. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority is currently investigating multiple cases of police brutality in Kenya, with four out of ten cases already forwarded to the director of public prosecutions.

Kenyan President Ruto

Many businesses in Nairobi remained closed on Thursday in anticipation of planned protests, despite the ban. Police maintained a heavy presence around the central business district, patrolling the streets amid the tense atmosphere.

The controversy surrounding Kenyan police actions takes on additional significance given that a contingent of 400 Kenyan officers is currently leading a UN-backed police mission in Haiti to combat gang violence. This international deployment contrasts sharply with the domestic criticism of police conduct.

As Kenya grapples with this political crisis, the protest ban raises questions about freedom of assembly and the balance between public safety and democratic rights. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether this measure reduces tensions or further inflames the ongoing conflict between the government and its critics.

University Students Protest 10-Hour Electricity Rationing and Tuition Hike in Ibadan, Nigeria

Students at the University of Ibadan, located in the southwest region of Nigeria, staged a protest on Wednesday to express their grievances over a new electricity rationing schedule and a recent hike in tuition fees imposed by the university management.

Reports from PUNCH Metro, Nigeria indicate that the students were provoked by the announcement of a 10-hour daily power supply on campus, incessant tuition increases, and what they termed “outrageous fees” introduced by the authorities.

The protest began in the late hours of Tuesday and continued into Wednesday, with students carrying placards at the university gate.

An internal memo addressed to the Chief Engineer (Electrical) by the Director of Works and Maintenance Department, O.A. Adelotu, indicated that electricity would be rationed and made available to students for 10 hours daily. The memo, issued on Tuesday, outlined the approved schedule: 8 am – 2 pm for daytime and 10 pm – 2 am for nighttime.

“Effective immediately, the Vice Chancellor has approved a 10-hour daily electricity supply on campus as follows: Day time: 8 am – 2 pm; Night time: 10 pm-2 am. Kindly adhere to the approved schedule,” the memo read.

In a voice clip obtained by our correspondent, the Students’ Union President, Aweda Bolaji, condemned the recent policies implemented by the university management as “not satisfactory” and described them as “an inconsiderate action.”

Bolaji stated, “The injustice that has been meted upon us as students of the University of Ibadan is getting too much. The university cannot ration electricity in this 21st century. On this basis, if you are a student, come out and join us as we protest peacefully against the injustice we face.”

The protest highlights the growing discontent among students regarding the administration’s policies and calls for immediate resolution to ensure a conducive learning environment.

Credit: Punchng

Nigerian Father Allegedly Beats 19-Year-Old Son to Death with Shovel in Lagos

Nigeria – Lagos State police have launched an investigation into the tragic death of a 19-year-old boy, allegedly beaten to death by his father. The incident has raised significant concerns about domestic violence in Nigeria.

According to SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Lagos Police Public Relations Officer, the incident occurred on Tuesday. The Alagbado Police Division received a report that a father, identified as Olumide, had inflicted a deep cut on his son, Adeyemi, with a shovel. The altercation reportedly occurred around 12:00 p.m. on July 5 and escalated by 2:00 p.m.

Hundeyin detailed that the young man sustained severe injuries from the shovel attack. “The young man was immediately rushed to the hospital for treatment. However, when the injury became severe, he was transferred to the General Hospital Ikeja, where he unfortunately succumbed to a tetanus infection, as confirmed by the attending doctor,” Hundeyin explained.

Police detectives have since visited the scene of the crime, but the father, Olumide, remains at large. The case is currently under thorough investigation by the Lagos police.

This incident highlights the urgent need for addressing domestic violence and improving the reporting and intervention mechanisms to prevent such tragedies in the future. The Lagos State police are calling for any information that may assist in the apprehension of the suspect to ensure justice for the deceased.

Britney Spears Claps Back at Ozzy Osbourne’s Criticism, Defends Kate Beckinsale’s Instagram Content

Pop icon Britney Spears has fired back at rock legend Ozzy Osbourne following his recent criticism of her dance videos, while simultaneously defending actress Kate Beckinsale against ageist comments on social media. This latest celebrity clash highlights ongoing debates about self-expression and age-appropriate content in the digital age.

In a strongly worded social media post, Spears addressed Osbourne’s recent podcast comments where he described her dance videos as “nauseating.” The pop star didn’t hold back, stating, “I’m gonna do a photoshoot with Kate and tell the Osbourne family who is the most boring family known to mankind to kindly f*** off!!!”

Spears began her post by expressing admiration for Kate Beckinsale, particularly praising her British heritage. She condemned the “incredibly cruel” comments Beckinsale has received about her Instagram content being inappropriate for her age. Spears appreciated Beckinsale’s signature bow emoji and her defiant attitude towards critics.

Addressing the criticism of her own content, Spears explained her passion for dancing, stating, “I’m good at it, and I love it.” She defended her free-spirited dance videos, which often feature her in minimal clothing, as a form of self-expression and joy.

This incident is part of a broader conversation about celebrity behavior on social media, ageism, and the public’s expectations of female celebrities. Spears, who has faced intense scrutiny throughout her career, seems to be aligning herself with other celebrities who face similar criticism.

Intriguingly, Spears hinted at a possible collaboration with Beckinsale, suggesting a joint photoshoot. This proposed alliance between the two stars could be seen as a statement against their critics and a celebration of their right to self-expression.

As this celebrity feud unfolds, it raises important questions about artistic freedom, the impact of social media on public figures, and the ongoing challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry. Spears’ robust defense of herself and Beckinsale underscores her commitment to authenticity and her rejection of age-based limitations on self-expression.

TMZ

Lamine Yamal Receives New Barcelona Shirt Number 19 Following First-Team Promotion

Barcelona’s rising star Lamine Yamal has been officially promoted to the first team, marking a significant milestone in the 17-year-old’s burgeoning career. As part of this transition, the club has announced that Yamal will don the prestigious number 19 shirt for the upcoming season, a number steeped in Barcelona’s rich history.

First-Team Status and Number Change

Despite featuring prominently for Barcelona throughout the 2023/24 season, Yamal was not officially registered as a first-team player – a distinction that holds particular importance in Spanish football. Following his stellar performances at Euro 2024 and his consistent displays for the club, Barcelona has now formalized his status within the senior squad.

This promotion necessitated a change in Yamal’s shirt number. In Spain, first-team numbers are restricted to 1-25, and Yamal had previously worn number 27. The club has now confirmed that he will wear number 19, the same number he sported for Spain during Euro 2024.

Historical Significance of Number 19

The number 19 shirt at Barcelona carries a special legacy. It was notably worn by Lionel Messi early in his career after his promotion from La Masia to the first team in 2005. Messi wore this number until 2008 when he inherited the iconic number 10 following Ronaldinho’s departure.

Other notable players who have worn the number 19 for Barcelona include Patrick Kluivert, Sergio Aguero, and Martin Braithwaite, among others. Yamal’s assignment to this number underscores the club’s faith in his potential and their expectations for his future contributions.

Implications for the Squad

Yamal’s new number also has implications for other players in the squad. Vitor Roque, who wore number 19 after his January 2024 arrival from Athletico Paranaense, will need to be reassigned. The Brazilian forward has struggled to make an impact since his transfer and has been linked with a potential move to Saudi Arabia.

Looking Ahead

As Lamine Yamal prepares to embark on his first full season as an official first-team player, expectations are high. His performances in the previous season and at Euro 2024 have already established him as one of the most exciting young talents in world football.

Barcelona’s decision to promote Yamal and assign him the historically significant number 19 shirt reflects their commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and their belief in the youngster’s ability to play a crucial role in the team’s future success.

As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Yamal to see how he handles the increased responsibility and expectations that come with his new status and iconic shirt number.

Bianca Censori Covers Up Breasts but Bares ‘Bumbum’ During Lunch with Kanye West at Chateau Marmont

Bianca Censori donned another daring outfit for lunch with her husband, Kanye West, at the historic Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles. The Australian architect, 29, opted for an incredibly clingy top, minus the trousers, for their outing on Wednesday.

Bianca, known for her bold fashion choices, wore thong underwear and completed her minimal yet jaw-dropping look with a tan cap and a pair of classic black heels. In contrast, Kanye was covered up with a black hooded sweatshirt and coordinating trousers, following closely behind Bianca as they entered the establishment.

While still revealing, Bianca’s latest outfit was a tad more modest compared to her recent daring ensembles. The look she sported at the Chateau was notably more covered up than the one she wore on Monday, where she bared it all in a jaw-dropping appearance while heading to a tanning salon in Los Angeles.

On that day, Bianca exposed her breasts in a completely see-through netted top, opting not to wear a bra. She paired the barely-there top with tiny beige underwear and heels, shielding her short brunette hair with a camouflage print hat. This revealing look pushed boundaries and raised questions about indecent exposure under California law. According to California Penal Code Section 314(1), intentionally exposing one’s genitals or naked body in public can result in a misdemeanor, with penalties including up to six months in county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and mandatory registration as a sex offender for at least ten years.

Following these bold fashion statements, restaurateurs have vowed to ban the controversial couple from their establishments. Censori shocked onlookers when she dined out in Los Angeles with Kanye, wearing a barely-there bra top that left little to the imagination.

“If I am the owner of any establishment that these two intend to enter, I will tell them due to respect for my customers, you are not allowed to enter,” one restaurateur wrote. “I wouldn’t have them in my restaurant. Totally inappropriate and not a good role model for young children to see this out and about. What is wrong with them?” another agreed.

Many echoed similar sentiments, questioning how any decent restaurant could accept a customer dressed in such revealing attire. Some pointed out that even supermarkets enforce dress codes for hygiene purposes, and Bianca’s outfits were seen as crossing the line of decency.

Despite the backlash, Bianca and Kanye continue to make headlines with their bold fashion choices, sparking discussions on public decency and fashion boundaries in modern society.

Daily MailOnline