News
Stakeholders in Anambra have responded to the tragic stampede at Okija rice market that resulted in the loss of 22 lives.
The recent stampede during a Christmas rice-sharing event in Okija, Anambra, has left a profound mark on the community, with 22 confirmed fatalities as reported by the Police Command in Anambra. This tragic incident has prompted widespread grief among stakeholders, who have expressed their condolences and emphasized the urgent need for economic empowerment and enhanced safety measures during public events.
Chief Barth Nwibe, a prominent governorship aspirant for the upcoming November 2025 elections, lamented the loss of life, highlighting the stark reality that individuals were striving to secure basic sustenance. He articulated that the victims, in their desperate pursuit of food, should not be blamed for their plight but rather seen as reflections of the broader economic hardships permeating Nigerian society. Nwibe stated, “This incident highlights the dire situation in our society today,” underscoring the necessity for systemic change to alleviate such distressing circumstances.
In a similar vein, Chief Akai Egwuonwu, Managing Director of Stine Mill Industries, expressed sorrow over the demographic affected by the tragedy, noting the loss of vulnerable groups, including women, the elderly, and children. He called for a renewed focus on safety and crowd management during charitable distributions, urging organizations to prioritize the well-being of beneficiaries to prevent future calamities.
Chief Uzo Obi, Managing Director and CEO of Jozo Environmental Services Limited, echoed these sentiments, reflecting on the irony of a season marked by joy and celebration being overshadowed by such sorrow. He emphasized the critical need for community empowerment to foster self-reliance, stating, “There is a need to empower people to become self-reliant.”
As the community mourns this tragic loss, it is imperative for both event organizers and stakeholders to heed these calls for safety and economic support. The Okija incident serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by many in society and the collective responsibility to ensure that goodwill does not lead to unintended consequences. The path forward must prioritize the safety and dignity of all individuals, particularly those in need.
Nollywood actress Ekene Umenwa recently revealed experiencing pressure early in her career to compromise her Christian faith in exchange for professional advancement. In a Wednesday Instagram post, the “Black Choir” star recounted being advised by unnamed individuals to abandon her religious beliefs for success within the industry.
Umenwa affirmed her resolute refusal to yield to these pressures, choosing instead to find strength and guidance in her faith. She shared a video set to the gospel song “No Turning Back,” emphasizing her unwavering commitment to her beliefs despite the challenges.
Umenwa’s disclosure highlights potential ethical dilemmas faced by individuals navigating the complexities of the Nigerian film industry. Her story resonates with themes of integrity and the importance of adhering to personal values amidst external pressures.
American R&B artist Chris Brown has been released on bail in the UK, pending a future court appearance related to an alleged assault. The Southwark Crown Court granted Mr. Brown bail upon the condition of a £5 million guarantee.
Under the terms stipulated by Judge Tony Baumgartner, Mr. Brown is permitted to continue his scheduled international tour, commencing June 8 in Amsterdam. However, the bail conditions require his return to the UK for a series of concerts beginning June 15, failing which the £5 million will be forfeited. Additionally, he must surrender his passport when not traveling, reside at a court-approved address, and refrain from visiting the location of the alleged incident or contacting the alleged victim, Abraham Diah.
Mr. Brown and a co-defendant, Omololu Akinlolu, face charges of grievous bodily harm with intent. They are scheduled to appear in court again on June 20.
Jennifer Lopez is once again embroiled in a legal battle over alleged copyright infringement. Photographer Edwin Blanco, and his agency Backgrid, have filed a $300,000 lawsuit against the actress and musician for unauthorized use of two photographs. The photos, reportedly taken at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, were allegedly shared by Lopez on her social media platforms without proper licensing.
The lawsuit claims Lopez utilized the images to promote her brand, specifically tagging associated clothing and jewellery designers. Backgrid is seeking $150,000 in damages per photo. This is not the first instance of such a legal challenge for Lopez, as she previously faced similar lawsuits in 2019 and 2020 for analogous actions involving professionally captured images. The current case underscores the ongoing importance of understanding and respecting copyright law in the digital age, particularly regarding the use of professional photography.
Actress Ekene Umenwa Details Pressure to Abandon Faith for Success in Nollywood.
Chris Brown Granted Bail in UK Assault Case.
Jennifer Lopez faces a $300,000 lawsuit over unauthorized use of her own photos.
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