Entertainment
Miss South Africa 2024, Mia Le Roux Withdraws From Miss Universe
In a significant development for the Miss South Africa Organisation, reigning Miss South Africa 2024, Mia Le Roux has announced her withdrawal from the upcoming Miss Universe pageant, citing health concerns.
The organisation confirmed Le Roux’s decision in a statement released on Friday, with the 24-year-old expressing her appreciation for the unwavering support she has received from South Africans.
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Le Roux described her decision as a “challenging” one, acknowledging the weight of expectations placed upon her. “I am profoundly thankful for the unwavering support from South Africa during my time at Miss Universe,” Le Roux shared in her statement.
“Making this decision has been incredibly challenging, knowing the dreams and hopes that have been placed upon me.
“However, I am deeply grateful to have the opportunity to focus on my health and recovery so that I may continue to serve my country with full strength.”
The Miss South Africa Organisation also extended its support to Le Roux, applauding her resilience during this difficult time. “Mia has shown incredible courage and grace throughout this difficult period,” the organisation said.
“Her health and well-being are our utmost priority, and we stand by her side, dedicated to ensuring she regains her strength and returns to full health.”
Le Roux’s withdrawal comes after a year of controversies that have impacted the Miss South Africa pageant.
Earlier this year, the pageant made headlines when contestant Chidimma Adetshina, who has Nigerian and South African heritage, pulled out of the competition following social media backlash over her nationality.
Adetshina, 23, was born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican descent, but faced criticism about her cultural identity.
The controversy surrounding Adetshina deepened when South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs opened an investigation that reportedly uncovered allegations her mother may have committed identity theft.
Amid the fallout, Adetshina accepted an invitation to compete in the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 pageant, which she went on to win.
Following these developments, Mia Le Roux, who has Boer heritage, was crowned Miss South Africa 2024.
While Le Roux’s decision to step down from Miss Universe has disappointed fans, her choice underscores the pressure and scrutiny pageant participants often face.
Entertainment
Tragic Funfair Crush In Ibadan Claims Children’s Lives
Several children lost their lives, and many others were injured in a tragic incident at a funfair in Ibadan, a city in south-west Nigeria.
The event, which was advertised as free entry, attracted a massive crowd, resulting in a crush as attendees struggled to gain access.
Eyewitnesses reported that over 5,000 children gathered at the venue, located at the Islamic High School Basorun. The tragedy unfolded when the main organisers arrived to begin the event. While the exact sequence of events leading to the crush remains unclear, the situation escalated into chaos, leaving scores injured.
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The Oyo state government confirmed the incident, stating that victims had been rushed to various hospitals across Ibadan for treatment. In a statement, they acknowledged “multiple loss of lives and injuries.” Authorities have urged concerned parents to check local hospitals for their children’s whereabouts.
The devastating event has left the community in shock, with residents mourning the lives lost in what should have been a joyous occasion. Investigations are expected to shed light on how the situation spiraled out of control.
Entertainment
Actor John Dumelo Makes Political Debut, Wins Parliamentary Seat
Ghanaian actor-turned-politician, John Dumelo has secured a victory in the 2024 general elections, winning the parliamentary seat for Ayawaso West Wuogon.
Running on the platform of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dumelo triumphed with 40,561 votes, defeating incumbent Lydia Alhassan of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who garnered 27,377 votes.
Dumelo’s victory follows a narrow loss to Alhassan in the 2020 elections, making this win a significant political milestone.
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Speaking after his victory, the 40-year-old expressed deep gratitude to his supporters and reflected on the lessons learned from his past defeat.
“The people of Ghana have been calling for change, and they’ve shown that if you don’t perform well or if you’re arrogant, they will vote you out,” Dumelo stated.
“This is a valuable lesson for everyone. It’s not about money; it’s about the development of the people and addressing their needs.”
Dumelo, who began his acting career in 1991 with the film Baby Thief, is well-known for his roles in popular Ghollywood and Nollywood productions such as Away Bus, The Game, Black Men Rock, One Night In Vegas, The King is Mine, and Four Play.
His transition from actor to politician has garnered significant attention, with many hoping he will bring a fresh perspective to parliamentary work.
In his victory speech, Dumelo pledged to work tirelessly over the next four years to address the needs of his constituents and help steer the country in the right direction.
Entertainment
How Male Celebrities Shine At Funke Akindele’s Movie Premiere
The much-anticipated movie premiere by Nollywood star and filmmaker Funke Akindele turned into a dazzling showcase of style and flair as some of the industry’s leading male celebrities stepped out in grand fashion.
Themed Lagos Afterparty, the event was nothing short of a spectacle. Attendees embraced the vibrant, nightlife-inspired dress code, bringing an electrifying energy to the red carpet. From bold suits to statement accessories, the stars proved they were ready to own the night.
As the cameras flashed, fans online couldn’t stop raving about the impressive ensembles. One post captured the moment perfectly: “Take a look at how some of your favorite male celebrities brought their A-game!”
Funke Akindele, known for her creativity and ability to host unforgettable events, once again demonstrated why she’s a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry. Her premiere wasn’t just about the movie but also a celebration of Lagos’s vibrant culture, reflected in the theme that inspired the night’s looks.
With the mix of star power, fashion-forward statements, and Funke Akindele’s magic touch, this premiere undoubtedly sets the tone for events to come.