Author: Faith Babatunde

Prosecutors in France are seeking 10-year prison sentences for four men involved in the 2016 armed robbery of Kim Kardashian in Paris. The high-profile trial, nearing its conclusion, revolves around a group dubbed the “Grandpa robbers” due to the suspects’ advanced ages, most are in their 60s and 70s. Kardashian, who testified last week, recalled fearing for her life when masked men tied her up and stole over $10 million worth of jewelry, including a $3.9 million ring from her then-husband Kanye West. Despite the trauma, she told the court she has forgiven the attackers. The alleged ringleader, Aomar Ait…

On Thursday, a U.S. District Court ruled in the federal antitrust case against Google, finding that the company illegally maintained monopoly power in key areas of the digital advertising market. The U.S. Department of Justice, along with over a dozen state attorneys general, brought the case. They argued that Google’s dominance in publisher ad servers and ad exchanges resulted from anticompetitive behavior. Judge Leonie Brinkema wrote in her decision that Google “willfully engaged in a series of anticompetitive acts.” She explained that these actions harmed market competition, publishers, and consumers seeking information on the open web. According to the court,…

Renowned Nigerian chess champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, is set to attempt a 70-hour chess marathon in Times Square, New York, from April 17 to 20, 2025. This bold move aims to break the current Guinness World Record of 61 hours, 3 minutes, and 34 seconds, set by Norwegian players in 2024. This time, Onakoya isn’t going solo; he’s joined by five young chess prodigies from Nigerian slums, showcasing how talent can thrive when given opportunity. “We’re not just chasing records. We’re building dreams starting with the biggest free preschool in Africa for homeless children,”…

Priscilla Ojo, daughter of Nollywood star Iyabo Ojo, has officially married Tanzanian music sensation Juma Jux in a stunning traditional ceremony held in Lagos. The event, which followed their intimate Tanzanian wedding in February, brought out top Nigerian celebrities and sparked a buzz across social media. Nollywood icons like Mercy Aigbe, Destiny Etiko, and Toyin Abraham were in attendance, while Juju music legend Ebenezer Obey made a surprise appearance. The couple dazzled in colorful traditional attire,Priscilla in purple asooke with sequins, and Jux in a regal agbada with a staff carved in the shape of Africa. Their bridal party added…

The global economy is expected to avoid a recession despite rising market volatility and slower growth caused by U.S. tariff policies, according to IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva. Speaking ahead of the IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington, Georgieva warned that trade tensions and protectionist policies are harming global growth. The IMF now anticipates “notable” markdowns to its previous forecasts but stops short of predicting a full-blown recession. She outlined three major risks: rising uncertainty, upfront economic slowdowns due to trade barriers, and long-term productivity losses, especially in smaller economies. Georgieva urged countries to reform fiscal policies, support…

Lyon came from two goals down on the night to pull level and force extra time, before appearing to be heading through as they went 4-2 ahead despite being reduced to 10 men. But a Bruno Fernandes penalty and a Kobbie Mainoo strike brought United level again before Harry Maguire headed in the winner with the game in added time in extra time. Manchester United’s English midfielder #37 Kobbie Mainoo scores the fourth goal during the UEFA Europa league quarter-final final, second leg football match between Manchester United and Lyon at Old Trafford stadium in Manchester, north west England, on…

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has warned that global trade is expected to shrink in 2025 due to the escalating tariff war driven by U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent policies. Since returning to office, Trump has imposed a 10% tariff on global imports, and higher duties of 25% on steel, aluminum, and cars. The situation has worsened with a 145% tariff on Chinese goods, prompting China to retaliate with 125% duties on U.S. products. WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala expressed deep concern, highlighting an expected 81% drop in U.S.-China trade volumes. “Uncertainty is stalling global growth and hitting the most vulnerable…

Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has confirmed that Andre Onana will return to the starting lineup for Thursday’s clash after being benched during the 4-1 loss to Newcastle. The 29-year-old goalkeeper faced criticism following errors in the 2-2 draw in France but has received full backing from his coach. “Onana will play tomorrow,” Amorim said. “It was important to give him a mental break. He’s ready now.” Former captain Harry Maguire also showed support, calling Onana a “big personality” and an “excellent goalkeeper” with proven experience. When asked about potential summer signings, Amorim stated that improvements are needed across the…

The Federal Government has declared Friday, April 18, and Monday, April 21 as public holidays to mark Good Friday and Easter Monday.Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement in a statement on Tuesday, extending Easter greetings to Christians nationwide.He urged Nigerians to reflect on the values of sacrifice, love, and unity embodied in the Easter story, encouraging prayers for peace and national stability.The minister also reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at driving national development.Tunji-Ojo called on citizens to show kindness and generosity during the holiday and wished everyone a joyful Easter celebration.

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has signaled his readiness for Nigeria’s highest political office, stating he has the capacity to lead the nation. Makinde emphasized that the 2027 elections would be a choice between Nigerians and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), not merely a PDP vs. APC contest. Makinde, a prominent PDP figure serving his second term, said: “I have no doubt I can occupy the highest office in the land. But is that what Nigerians want now? That decision lies ahead.” He stressed the need to first rebuild the PDP before pursuing national ambitions. “Your house must be in order…