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Afrobeat Star Davido Seeks Joint Custody of Daughter Imade in Nigerian Court Battle with Sophia Momodu

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One of Africa’s music stars, David Adeleke, widely known as Davido, has initiated legal proceedings against Sophia Momodu, the mother of his first child, Imade. The custody battle, filed at the Lagos State High Court in Nigeria, seeks joint custody of their eight-year-old daughter.

Davido’s legal team, including Dr. Olaniyi Arije and Okey Barrah, filed the suit, marked LD/1587PMC/2024 and dated April 17, 2024. The singer is requesting “an order granting joint custody of Miss Imade Adeleke to the applicant” or, alternatively, “an order granting to the applicant unfettered and unrestricted access to Miss Imade.”

Davido, his estranged baby mama, and daughter.

In a 44-paragraph affidavit, Davido detailed his financial contributions to Imade’s upbringing, including payment of school fees, rent for Momodu’s apartment, and the provision of vehicles for transportation. The singer claims to have offered Momodu a ₦200 million apartment in a gated community in Victoria Island, Lagos, which she allegedly declined.

Davido also states that he provided two SUVs—a Range Rover and a Highlander—along with ₦5.8 million for vehicle repairs. He further alleges that he made commitments for living expenses, nanny fees, medical care, insurance, and international travel costs for Imade.

Davido, his estranged baby mama, and daughter.

Despite these efforts, Davido claims Momodu has made “outlandish and utopian demands,” including a request for $19,600 annually for nanny services. The singer expresses frustration, stating that Momodu “has continued to show me unwarranted cruelty, inflicting so much pain on me.”

Davido, his estranged baby mama, and daughter.

This legal action marks a new chapter in the ongoing tensions between Davido and Momodu. In 2021, Momodu publicly expressed her distress over Imade bearing Davido’s surname instead of hers, highlighting the complex dynamics of their co-parenting relationship.

Davido, his estranged baby mama, and daughter.

As this high-profile case unfolds, it sheds light on the challenges of co-parenting in the public eye and the intersection of celebrity status with personal family matters in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

The outcome of this custody battle could have significant implications not only for Davido and Momodu but also for similar cases involving high-profile individuals in Nigeria.

Four Members of Britain’s Richest Family Get Jail Terms for Exploiting Servants

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A Swiss court has sentenced four members of Britain’s wealthiest family, the Hindujas, to jail terms for exploiting Indian domestic staff at their Geneva mansion. The verdict, delivered on Friday, has sent ripples through the business and legal worlds.

The court handed four-year sentences to Prakash Hinduja and his wife Kamal, and four-year terms to their son Ajay and his wife Namrata. Estimates place the family’s fortune at a staggering 37 billion pounds ($47 billion), but they were not present in court for the ruling.

Prakash Hinduja and his wife Kamal, and four-year terms to their son Ajay and his wife Namrata were sentenced.

Despite their acquittal on human trafficking charges, the Hindujas faced conviction on other counts pertaining to their treatment of their domestic staff. The case centered around the family’s practice of bringing servants from India to work in their Swiss residence.

Prosecutors argued that the Hindujas severely underpaid their staff, offering monthly salaries between 220 and 400 Swiss francs ($250–450), far below Swiss living wage standards. Moreover, they allegedly restricted the employees’ freedom to leave the house and confiscated their passports upon their arrival in Switzerland.

Prakash Hinduja and his wife Kamal, and four-year terms to their son Ajay and his wife Namrata.

Geneva prosecutor Yves Bertossa, who had sought even longer sentences, accused the family of exploiting the power imbalance between wealthy employers and vulnerable employees. “They’re profiting from the misery of the world,” Bertossa stated in his closing address.

The defense team for the Hindujas vehemently denied these allegations, arguing that the employees received ample benefits and were not kept in isolation. Lawyer Nicolas Jeandin insisted, “We are not dealing with mistreated slaves,” while his colleague Robert Assael claimed the staff “were grateful to the Hindujas for offering them a better life.”

Ajay and his wife Namrata

Despite reaching a confidential out-of-court settlement with the three employees who made the initial accusations, prosecutors decided to pursue the case due to the gravity of the charges. This decision highlights the Swiss justice system’s commitment to addressing labor exploitation, even when involving high-profile individuals.

The case has sparked a broader discussion about the treatment of domestic workers in wealthy households and the responsibilities of employers. It also raises questions about the legal and ethical implications of bringing staff from developing countries to work in more affluent nations.

Prakash Hinduja (left) has been found guilty of exploiting workers and providing unauthorised employment – AJIT KUMAR/AP

As the Hinduja family faces these unprecedented legal consequences, the verdict serves as a stark reminder that even the world’s wealthiest are not above the law when it comes to fair labor practices and human rights.

The family’s legal team is expected to appeal the decision, potentially leading to a protracted legal battle that could have far-reaching implications for similar cases in the future.

Punchng.com

France and Netherlands Play to Goalless Draw in Euro 2024 Clash; VAR Denies Dutch Victory

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In a tense Euro 2024 group-stage encounter, France and the Netherlands played out a 0-0 draw in Leipzig, with controversy surrounding a disallowed Dutch goal. The match, notable for the absence of French star Kylian Mbappé from the starting lineup, saw both sides create chances but ultimately fail to break the deadlock.

The game’s most contentious moment came midway through the second half when the Netherlands’ Xavi Simons thought he had given his team the lead. Despite Simons’ powerful shot from the edge of the box, the VAR review chalked the goal off. The decision centered on Denzel Dumfries’ positioning, with officials ruling he was too close to French goalkeeper Mike Maignan, obstructing his view as the ball hit the net.

Despite seeing less of the ball, the Netherlands created several promising opportunities on the counterattack. Jeremie Frimpong tested Maignan with a well-struck effort in the first half, while Cody Gakpo also came close to breaking the deadlock.

With Mbappé confined to the bench due to an injury, France struggled to capitalize on their possession advantage. Antoine Griezmann, usually reliable in front of goal, had an uncharacteristically poor night, squandering two clear-cut chances in the penalty area.

The match highlighted the resurgence of N’Golo Kante, who showcased his creative prowess with a series of elegant passes into dangerous areas. Kante’s performance suggested a return to form following injury-plagued seasons and his recent move to Saudi Arabia.

However, his teammates didn’t always match Kante’s excellence. Adrien Rabiot missed a late opportunity to set up a winner, failing to find Kingsley Coman with a cross in a promising position.

This goalless draw, the first of Euro 2024, has significant implications for Group D. While France and the Netherlands remain in strong positions to qualify, the result confirms Poland as the first team eliminated from the tournament.

As the competition progresses, questions will arise about France’s attacking prowess without Mbappé in the starting lineup. For the Netherlands, the disallowed goal will undoubtedly be a talking point, but their solid defensive display and counterattacking threat will encourage the matches ahead.

With both teams still in contention, the final group stage matches will be crucial in determining the outcome of Group D and the path forward in Euro 2024 for these football powerhouses.

Mbappé Benched for France’s Euro 2024 Clash with Netherlands After Nose Injury

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In a surprising tactical decision, France’s star forward Kylian Mbappé was left out of the starting lineup for the crucial Euro 2024 match against the Netherlands on Friday. The Paris Saint-Germain striker, who recently suffered a broken nose, was named among the substitutes, sparking discussions about France’s strategy and Mbappé’s fitness.

France key striker, Kylian Mbappé substituted for game against Netherland.

Mbappé’s participation had been uncertain following the facial injury sustained during France’s opening 1-0 victory over Austria on Monday. Despite training with a protective face mask on Thursday and Coach Didier Deschamps expressing optimism about his availability, the decision was made to start the match without the prolific scorer.

Deschamps opted for a front three of Antoine Griezmann, Marcus Thuram, and Ousmane Dembélé, likely considering the physical nature of the Dutch defenders. This tactical shift sees Griezmann moving into a more advanced role compared to his deeper position against Austria, facilitated by the return of Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni from injury.

What must in the mind of Mbappé as he is substituted for Netherland game?

The pre-match warmup provided insight into Mbappé’s current condition. He emerged wearing a plain black face mask, adhering to UEFA equipment regulations that prohibit team colors or identifications on medical equipment worn during play. This contrasted with the personalized red, white, and blue mask, adorned with his initials and the French Football Federation logo, which he wore during Thursday’s training session.

Mbappé’s behavior during the warmup suggested some discomfort with the mask. He was observed adjusting and tapping it, potentially testing its suitability for match play. Despite this, he appeared relaxed upon arrival at the stadium, sporting sunglasses but no visible bandage on his nose.

The decision to bench Mbappé for this crucial match underscores the delicate balance between player welfare and competitive strategy. France and the Netherlands are currently level on three points in Group D, with France holding a strong historical advantage, having won seven of their last eight encounters.

This match gains additional significance following Austria’s 3-1 victory over Poland earlier in the day, further tightening the group standings. As the game unfolds, all eyes will be on the French bench, awaiting a potential game-changing appearance from Mbappé.

The absence of Mbappé from the starting lineup presents both a challenge and an opportunity for France. It allows other forwards to step up while preserving their star player for future matches. However, it also raises questions about France’s attacking prowess against a formidable Dutch side.

As the Euro 2024 tournament progresses, the management of Mbappé’s playing time and recovery will be crucial for France’s ambitions. This tactical decision by Deschamps could prove pivotal in shaping the outcome of not just this match, but France’s entire campaign.

AP

Highland Park Parade Shooter May Change Not-Guilty Plea in Upcoming Hearing

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In a twist of events involving the Highland Park Fourth of July parade shooting case, Robert Crimo III, the man accused of killing seven people and injuring dozens more in the 2022 attack, is scheduled for a court appearance next week that could see a change in his not-guilty plea.

Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart announced on Friday that Crimo will return to court on June 26 for a “possible change of plea.” This hearing comes just days before the second anniversary of the tragic event that shook the suburban Chicago community.

Highland Park Fourth of July parade shooting took the lives of seven.

Crimo, 23, was initially set to face trial in February 2024 on numerous charges, including multiple counts of murder and attempted murder. The potential plea change could dramatically alter the course of the legal proceedings.

“We have been updating and supporting the victims as the situation has been developing,” Rinehart stated, emphasizing the ongoing communication with those affected by the shooting.

While the public defender’s office representing Crimo has not yet commented on the upcoming hearing, an attorney representing three wounded family members revealed that prosecutors have indicated Crimo is expected to change at least part of his earlier not-guilty plea to guilty.

Robert Crimo III, the man accused of killing seven people and injuring dozens more in the 2022 attack.

Mike Bonamarte, representing the Kolpack family in a civil suit against Crimo, his father, and gun manufacturers, shared that his client’s primary concern is whether a plea change would result in a life sentence for the accused.

“What Zoe said to me is she’ll feel better if she believes this is a step closer to some justice,” Bonamarte relayed, referring to one of his clients. “But it doesn’t change the fact she’s going to deal with what happened for the rest of her life.”

Authorities have stated that Crimo confessed to the shooting in the days following the attack, during which he opened fire from a rooftop onto the parade route, causing widespread panic and devastation.

Robert Crimo III, the man accused of killing seven people and injuring dozens more in the 2022 attack.

The case has progressed slowly due to the extensive evidence, including video footage, that required a thorough review. In December, Crimo briefly attempted to dismiss his public defenders and represent himself, but later reversed this decision.

If convicted of first-degree murder, Crimo faces a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole.

The case has also implicated Crimo’s father, Robert Crimo Jr., who pleaded guilty last year to seven misdemeanor counts of reckless conduct for sponsoring his son’s firearm owner’s identification card application in 2019, despite prior concerns about his son’s behavior.

As the community of Highland Park continues to heal from the trauma of the 2022 Fourth of July attack, this potential plea change represents a significant moment in the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.

Mass Shooting Leaves 2 Dead, 8 Injured Outside Arkansas Grocery Store

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A devastating mass shooting unfolded outside a grocery store in Fordyce, Arkansas, on Friday, resulting in two fatalities and leaving eight others wounded, including a law enforcement officer with non-life-threatening injuries, according to Arkansas State Police.

nine civilians were shot, two fatally, in a shooting outside a grocery store in Fordyce, Alabama on June 21, 2024.

The incident occurred around 11:30 a.m. local time at the Mad Butcher grocery store, where authorities swiftly responded to the scene. The shooter, critically injured during the altercation, has since been taken into custody, state police confirmed.

Active shooting scene declared in Fordyce, Arkansas on Friday.

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders expressed her condolences and gratitude to law enforcement and first responders who acted swiftly to mitigate further harm. In a statement on social media, she remarked, “I have been briefed on the tragic shooting in Fordyce, and I’m in constant contact with State Police at the scene. I am thankful to law enforcement and first responders for their quick and heroic action to save lives. My prayers are with the victims and all those impacted by this.”

The community of Fordyce and surrounding areas are reeling from the shocking incident, with authorities continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

CBSNews

Ex-Gang Leader in Tupac Shakur Murder Case Seeks $750K Bail Release

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In a significant development in the long-standing Tupac Shakur murder case, Duane “Keffe D” Davis, a former Los Angeles-area gang leader accused of orchestrating the legendary hip-hop artist’s 1996 killing in Las Vegas, is set to petition for release on a $750,000 bail.

Davis’s attorney filed documents on Thursday, prompting Judge Carli Kierny to schedule a hearing for Tuesday. The accused is seeking permission to post the substantial bond, which would allow him to be released to house arrest under electronic monitoring while awaiting his trial.

Duane “Keffe D” Davis, a former Los Angeles-area gang leader accused of killing Tupac Shakur in 1996.

Arrested on September 29 last year, Davis has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder charges. He has been held at the Clark County Detention Center in Las Vegas since his arrest. If convicted, Davis faces the possibility of life imprisonment.

The Clark County District Attorney’s office has requested a “source hearing” to ensure that any funds used for Davis’s potential release are obtained legally. This adds another layer of scrutiny to the high-profile case.

The late music legend, Tupac Shakur killed by gun in 1996.

Davis, originally from Compton, California, has been living in Henderson, a Las Vegas suburb, with his wife and son in recent years. He is the only surviving member of the four individuals allegedly present in the car from which the fatal shots were fired at Shakur in September 1996.

Over the past 27 years, Davis has publicly claimed to be the orchestrator of the shooting but denies being the actual gunman. His arrest came after a renewed investigation by Las Vegas police, which included a raid on his Henderson home in July 2023.

Prosecutors argue that they have compelling evidence against Davis, citing his self-incriminating statements in various interviews and his 2019 memoir detailing his life as a Compton street gang leader. However, Davis’s defense attorney, Carl Arnold, contends that his client’s accounts are unreliable and motivated by financial gain.

The defense strategy appears to focus on challenging the prosecution’s evidence. Arnold has stated that the police lack crucial evidence, including the murder weapon and the vehicle used in the shooting. He also plans to call Marion “Suge” Knight, who was with Shakur during the attack, as a witness.

This case has garnered significant attention not only due to Shakur’s iconic status in the music world but also because it represents a potential resolution to one of hip-hop’s most infamous unsolved murders. The trial, scheduled for November 4, is expected to attract widespread media coverage and public interest.

As the legal proceedings unfold, many questions remain about the night of September 7, 1996, when Tupac Shakur was fatally shot. The upcoming bail hearing and subsequent trial may finally shed light on the events that led to the untimely death of one of rap’s most influential figures.

Israeli Strikes on Gaza Tent Camps Kill 25, Wound 50 Near Rafah

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In a devastating development in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Israeli forces launched strikes on tent camps housing displaced Palestinians north of Rafah on Friday. The attack has resulted in at least 25 deaths and left 50 others wounded, according to reports from Gaza’s Health Ministry and emergency workers.

This latest assault marks another tragic chapter in the nine-month-long war that has seen Gaza’s civilian population bear the brunt of the violence. The strikes targeted makeshift shelters in a coastal area that has become a haven for hundreds of thousands fleeing the intense fighting between Israeli forces and Hamas militants.

Israel’s attack on makeshift camp in Gaza kills 25 Palestinians.

Ahmed Radwan, a spokesperson for Rafah’s Civil Defense first responders, reported that eyewitnesses alerted rescue workers to shelling at two locations near the coast. These areas, now densely populated with tent camps, lie just outside the Israeli-designated “safe zone” in Muwasi, a rural coastal region.

The Israeli military has stated they are investigating the reported coordinates of the strikes. However, this is not the first time areas in proximity to the designated humanitarian zone have come under fire, raising serious concerns about the safety of civilians in the region.

Israel’s attack on makeshift camp in Gaza kills 25 Palestinians.

The attack comes as Israel intensifies its military operations in Rafah, where over a million Palestinians had sought refuge from the fighting elsewhere in Gaza. The United Nations emphasizes that no place in Gaza can be considered safe, with humanitarian conditions reaching critical levels as families struggle to survive in overcrowded tents and apartments with limited access to food, water, and medical supplies.

This incident follows a similar tragedy less than a month ago when an Israeli bombing sparked a deadly fire in a camp for displaced Palestinians in southern Gaza. That event drew widespread international condemnation, including from some of Israel’s closest allies, over the expanding military offensive into Rafah.

While Israel maintains that it targets Hamas fighters and infrastructure while attempting to minimize civilian casualties, the mounting death toll tells a different story. The Gaza Health Ministry reports that Israeli ground offensives and bombardments have claimed over 37,100 lives since the conflict began, though it does not differentiate between combatants and civilians in its count.

Israel’s attack on makeshift camp in Gaza kills 25 Palestinians.

The ongoing conflict has drawn increasing international criticism, with the United Nations’ top court concluding there is a “plausible risk of genocide” in Gaza – an allegation Israel vehemently denies.

As the war enters its ninth month, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen. The conflict, which began after Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel that killed approximately 1,200 people and saw about 250 taken hostage, shows no signs of abating.

The international community watches with growing concern as the civilian death toll rises and the humanitarian situation in Gaza deteriorates further. Calls for a ceasefire and peaceful resolution to the conflict are intensifying, but for now, the people of Gaza continue to endure unimaginable hardship and loss.

Austria Triumphs 3-1 Over Poland, as Lewandowski’s Dreams Shatter

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In a thrilling Euro 2024 Group D match, Austria delivered a masterclass performance to defeat Poland 3-1, effectively ending the Polish team’s hopes of progressing to the knockout stage and dashing the dreams of their star striker, Robert Lewandowski.

Austria players celebrate goal.

The match, which unfolded as a tactical showcase for Austria’s coach, Ralf Rangnick, saw the Austrian side dominate from the opening whistle. The victory not only gives the Austrians hope to qualify for the round of 16 in the ongoing Euro 2024, but it also highlights their emergence as a formidable force in European football.

Austrian fans jubilate their teaming.

Austria’s second-half surge proved decisive, with Christoph Baumgartner and Marco Arnautovic finding the back of the net to extend their lead. These goals showcased the team’s offensive prowess and tactical superiority, leaving Poland struggling to respond despite the best efforts of their captain, Robert Lewandowski.

One of the 3 goals that gave Austria the win.

The result was a testament to Austria’s preparation and execution under Rangnick’s guidance. Their high-pressure style and fluid attacking movements consistently troubled the Polish defense, creating numerous scoring opportunities throughout the match.

Poland and Polish striker Lewandowski lost and out of Euro 2024.

Poland’s defeat was particularly bitter for Lewandowski, the Barcelona striker whose international career may now be approaching its twilight. The Polish team’s reaction at the final whistle, with players collapsing to the ground, underscored the emotional weight of their likely elimination from the tournament.

Bugatti Unveils $4 Million Tourbillon: A 1,800 HP Hybrid Hypercar

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In a stunning expose that has sent shockwaves through the automotive world, Bugatti has pulled back the curtain on its latest masterpiece: the Bugatti Tourbillon. This groundbreaking hybrid hypercar is set to redefine the boundaries of performance and luxury, carrying a hefty price tag of $4 million and boasting an earth-shattering 1,800 horsepower.

The Bugatti Tourbillon is a plug-in hybrid with a 16-cylinder engine and three electric motors. Bugatti.

The Tourbillon, named after the intricate mechanism found in high-end mechanical watches, is poised to succeed the iconic Bugatti Chiron. While many industry experts anticipated Bugatti’s next move to be an all-electric vehicle, especially given the company’s 2021 merger with Croatian electric hypercar manufacturer Rimac, the Tourbillon takes a different approach.

Mate Rimac, CEO of the newly formed Bugatti Rimac, explained the rationale behind the hybrid powertrain: “We wanted to create something that retained the spirit of mechanically powered Bugatti cars, just better. Our goal was to make the most exciting, most emotional combustion engine possible.”

The Bugatti Tourbillon’s gauge cluster is modeled on mechanical wristwatches. Bugatti.

At the heart of the Tourbillon lies a massive 16-cylinder gasoline engine, developed in collaboration with British racing engineering firm Cosworth. This powerplant is complemented by three electric motors – one at the rear and two at the front – capable of generating at least 800 horsepower on their own. The result is a combined output of at least 1,800 horsepower, a figure that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in a road-legal vehicle.

Unlike its predecessor, the Chiron, the Tourbillon’s engine is naturally aspirated, foregoing turbochargers in favor of a high-revving design that promises to deliver an unparalleled auditory and driving experience. This decision underscores Bugatti’s commitment to preserving the essence of traditional high-performance engines while embracing the benefits of electrification.

Bugatti Tourbillon

The Tourbillon’s interior is a testament to Bugatti’s appreciation for mechanical artistry. The instrument cluster draws inspiration from mechanical watch dials, featuring a unique dual-needle speedometer that displays both vehicle speed and engine RPM. This design choice reflects the meticulous attention to detail that Bugatti is known for.

Despite its focus on mechanical heritage, the Tourbillon doesn’t shy away from modern conveniences. A retractable display screen offers Apple CarPlay functionality, striking a balance between timeless design and contemporary technology. “We think about how this product will look in 50 years, 100 years,” Rimac noted, explaining the decision to keep digital displays discreet.

Bugatti Tourbillon

The Bugatti Tourbillon offers an electric-only range of approximately 37 miles, catering to environmentally conscious drivers. However, purists can opt to run the gasoline engine continuously, ensuring the full Bugatti experience is always available.

Production of the Tourbillon will be limited to just 250 units, each handcrafted at Bugatti’s historic facility in Molsheim, France. With a starting price of around $4 million, the Tourbillon is not just a car – it’s a statement of automotive excellence and a collector’s item in the making.

As the automotive industry continues its march towards electrification, the Bugatti Tourbillon stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of high-performance engineering. It represents a bold vision for the future of hypercars, where cutting-edge technology and time-honored craftsmanship coexist in perfect harmony.