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NIWA Investigates Jnr Pope’s Boat Mishap

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The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has commenced its investigation into the boat accident that resulted in the loss of lives, including Nollywood actor Junior Pope, in Onitsha, Anambra State.

NIWA expressed its deepest regret over the unfortunate mishap, which resulted in the loss of four lives on Wednesday.

In a condolence message delivered by Dakio Horsfall, the Acting General Manager (Marine) of the authority, NIWA extended condolences to the Actors Guild of Nigeria and the families of the victims for their losses.

The incident, involving two boats on the River Niger en route to Asaba, Delta State, reportedly occurred around 2:00 PM on Wednesday.

The accident involved an unregistered fiberglass boat carrying 12 individuals and a privately owned wooden boat with a single driver.

Tragically, four individuals lost their lives, while seven others were rescued from the incident.

He said: “Preliminary reports indicated that the accident resulted from a frontal collision between the two boats due to over speeding.

“Sadly, two people died at the scene of the accident, two more bodies were recovered 24 hours later off-site, while 7 persons were rescued.

“Consequently, the Authority commiserates with the families of the deceased persons and pray that the good Lord will repose the souls of the departed”.

He mentioned that upon receiving the report of the accident through its community-based network, NIWA promptly dispatched its search and rescue team to the site to initiate immediate rescue operations.

He added that the team, along with local divers and other stakeholders, swiftly mobilized and have been tirelessly conducting search and rescue operations since Wednesday.

He said “As of the last count, one person is still unaccounted for. Also, the Marine Department of NIWA has activated its accident investigation mechanism with a view to determining the cause(s) of the accident and make appropriate recommendations.”

The manager emphasized the importance of all inland waterways users strictly adhering to established safety protocols, including the completion of passenger manifests at loading and offloading points.

He reiterated that wearing life jackets while on the waterways is mandatory, as well as avoiding over-speeding and respecting weather conditions at all times.

Horsfall expressed appreciation to the Marine Police, local divers/fishermen, Maritime Unions, and other compassionate Nigerians who supported the Authority in its rescue endeavors.

Nonetheless, NIWA reassured all Nigerians of its ongoing commitment to enhancing safer inland waterways for everyone’s use.

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Why Osun is Tapping into $2 Trillion Global Creative Industry Economy

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The desire to create community prosperity and productive engagement for youths has driven Osun State to tap into the two trillion dollar global creative industry economy.

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke made the assertion after the massively attended concert organised by his son, B-Red and other music stars at Osogbo.

“The creative sector is a gold mine. It is an area I know holds huge potential for our youth and that is why I personally attended the free concert. I choose to boost the entertainment sector using my family brand which is very big in the Nigerian and global music industry.

“Osun is destined to be the hub of global entertainment. We have all the big stars and the network. An annual concert in Osun will boost local commerce and provide upward movement for local artistes.

“I expect the organisers to build on the successes recorded today. By 2027, a similar concert in expanded format should be held. Osun should become the rallying point of the creative industry, not only in Osun State but across Nigeria”, the governor posited.

ALSO READ: Peterside Harps on Strong Leadership at NCDMB Book Reading Series

Commenting on the maiden event, the chief organiser and son of the Governor, Adebayo Adeleke (B-Red) expressed happiness that despite the initial rain, the concert was held with massive attendance of music enthusiasts across the state.

“I thank God, my father, the governor, the government of Osun State and all partners for the successful outing. We plan to make it an annual event to feature leading musicians and artists from far and near.

“Personally, my goal is to provide a platform for upcoming artists to be mentored and to be afforded the opportunity to be seen. Our concert is designed to build careers and make a success out of many aspiring youth”, B-Red noted.

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UK Says ‘No Entry’ to Kanye West Ahead of Big Comeback Show

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Chicago College Revokes Kanye West's Honorary Doctorate Degree

The United Kingdom government has denied entry to controversial American rapper Kanye West, blocking his planned return to the European stage ahead of a highly anticipated comeback performance.

According to reports, the artist recently applied for permission to travel to the UK, where he was scheduled to headline the popular Wireless Festival in July.

SEE ALSO:Adidas, Kanye West Reach Settlement, Ending Legal Dispute

However, authorities turned down the request, citing concerns that his presence would not be in the interest of public good.

The decision is believed to be linked to widespread backlash over West’s past antisemitic remarks, which have sparked global criticism and strained his professional relationships in recent years.

The UK government’s move reflects a growing trend of holding high-profile figures accountable for statements considered harmful or divisive.

West was billed to perform across all three nights of the festival, set to take place at Finsbury Park in London, as part of what many fans saw as a major comeback tour.

His absence now leaves organizers scrambling to adjust the lineup for one of the summer’s biggest music events.

While officials have not provided further details beyond the decision, the development has stirred reactions across the entertainment industry, with fans and critics divided over the government’s stance.

As anticipation builds toward the festival, attention now shifts to how organizers will fill the void left by one of music’s most polarizing figures.

 

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‘Cancer Is Not a Joke, Show Proof’ – VDM Calls Out Blessing CEO

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Nigerian entertainer Martin’s Ortse, popularly known as Verydarkman (VDM) has expressed skepticism over influencer Blessing CEO’s claims that she is battling breast cancer and seeking financial support for urgent surgery.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, VDM cautioned about the sensitive nature of cancer and the need for transparency before public appeals.

“I just hope what Blessing CEO is saying is true because cancer is a very sensitive matter globally. Cancer is not something that someone should joke with; it has claimed the lives of many people. A friend of mine lost his mother from cancer,” he wrote.

SEE ALSO: Blessing CEO Battles Breast Cancer, Appeals to Fans for Urgent Surgery Support

VDM questioned the authenticity of Blessing CEO’s claims, pointing out the absence of hospital documentation.

“I’m not convinced enough that Blessing CEO is telling the truth. Why? Because you did not post any proof from the hospital that diagnosed you. You did not provide the hospital or a doctor’s report.

“You said a lot of resources have gone into your health, yet you did not provide receipts for people to see. Instead, you came online appealing emotionally, saying this is the time for people to show you love,” he added.

Recall that Blessing CEO had shared in a video on Instagram that she was diagnosed with breast cancer and urgently needs surgery, including a possible amputation, to halt the progression of the illness.

She revealed that what initially seemed like a harmless lump in her right breast last year was later confirmed as cancer, and the illness has now spread to her left breast.

“I have not been able to work, and my resources have been exhausted. That is why I am appealing for support. If my words have ever had a positive impact on your life, and you are a fan, this is the time to show it. Nothing is too small. I just want to be well,” she said.

 

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