Grammy-winning rapper Durk Devontay Banks, known as Lil Durk, has been acquitted of all charges in a federal murder-for-hire case stemming from a 2022 shooting in Los Angeles. The incident resulted in the death of the cousin of rival rapper Quando Rondo.

A Los Angeles jury deliberated for three days before finding the rapper not guilty on all five federal felony counts. Lil Durk had been accused of orchestrating a revenge plot against Tyquian Bowman (Quando Rondo) following the 2020 killing of Banks’ friend, Dayvon “King Von” Bennett. Prosecutors alleged Banks planned, ordered, and financed the operation, which ultimately led to the death of Bowman’s cousin, 24-year-old Saviay’a Robinson, during an ambush on August 19, 2022.

The defense maintained Lil Durk’s innocence, arguing that his former personal assistant, Kavon Grant, was responsible for the alleged scheme. Banks was arrested in 2024 and pleaded not guilty to charges including conspiracy, stalking with a dangerous weapon, stalking resulting in death, and two murder-for-hire-related counts. His co-defendants, Deandre Dontrell Wilson and David Brian Lindsey, were convicted of stalking and conspiracy to commit stalking but acquitted of other charges.

Following the verdict, supporters celebrated outside the Los Angeles courthouse. Defense lawyer Drew Findling stated that Banks was “thankful” for the acquittal.

Despite this acquittal, the 33-year-old rapper, who has achieved significant commercial success with seven top-five albums since 2019 and collaborations with artists like Drake and J. Cole, remains in custody. He faces a separate federal trial next month on racketeering, murder, and firearms charges, which could result in a life sentence if he is convicted.

Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, globally recognized as Lady Gaga, has reportedly embraced motherhood, welcoming her first child with fiancé Michael Polansky. The couple was recently observed in Northern California, with the acclaimed singer seen holding their newborn, as reported by Page Six.

Lady Gaga, known for her iconic music and performances, began her relationship with entrepreneur Michael Polansky in 2020, with their engagement announced in 2024. While the joyous news of their child’s arrival circulates, specific details such as the baby’s name, gender, and exact date of birth have yet to be disclosed to the public.

This new chapter aligns with Lady Gaga’s previously expressed aspirations for a family. In a December 2019 YouTube discussion, she openly shared her hopes for the future, stating, “I want to do more movies, I want to have babies.” This significant life event marks a fulfilling moment in the artist’s personal journey, expanding her multifaceted legacy beyond her celebrated professional achievements.

A recent livestream by Nigerian streamer Carter Efe has ignited a heated debate, as he publicly accused social commentator VeryDarkMan (VDM) of attempting to disrupt the businesses of Igbo traders. The controversy stems from VDM’s announced intention to travel to China to directly source and sell the newly released iPhone 18 to Nigerians, bypassing local vendors.

During his Friday livestream, Carter Efe expressed strong disapproval of VDM’s venture into phone sales, a domain he claims is outside VDM’s known expertise. Efe suggested that VDM’s actions could provoke a severe backlash from the Igbo community. “VDM go do wetin them go take gather am. VDM go do wetin go take make Igbo people gather am kill am for China,” he stated, implying serious repercussions.

Efe further questioned VDM’s motives, stating, “VDM no dey sell phone o but enter China, he wan go buy phone dey sell. He wan spoil people business.” He rhetorically asked, “VDM, I never see that kind person before, you be witch?” highlighting his disbelief and suspicion regarding VDM’s sudden foray into the electronics market.

The genesis of this dispute lies in VDM’s earlier video, filmed at an Apple Store in China following the iPhone 18 launch. In the video, VDM declared his intention to facilitate direct purchases of the devices for Nigerians, aiming to counter the inflated prices often charged by local retailers. This move, intended by VDM to benefit consumers, has evidently been perceived by Carter Efe as a direct threat to established business interests. The unfolding situation underscores the complexities and sensitivities within Nigeria’s commercial landscape, particularly concerning entrepreneurial ventures that challenge existing market structures.