Hello and welcome! In today’s trending today news stories;
1. Kenneth Okonkwo, a prominent figure in the Labour Party (LP) and spokesperson for its 2023 presidential campaign, has expressed dissatisfaction with recent developments within the party. He criticized the LP as lacking integrity and likened it to a “secret society led by a group of clowns.” The party has been mired in a leadership crisis since Lamidi Apapa declared himself acting national chairman, a move contested by Julius Abure’s re-election as chairman. Okonkwo condemned the party’s inability to hold a credible national convention and hinted at potentially leaving the LP if these issues persist. He originally joined the LP in 2022 after leaving the APC due to its adoption of a Muslim-Muslim ticket for the presidential election.
2. The Federal High Court in Kano has invalidated all actions taken by the Kano State government to repeal the Kano Emirates Council Law 2024 and reinstated Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir. Presiding Judge A.M. Liman ruled that the government’s steps were null and void as they ignored an interim court order to maintain the status quo. The judge emphasized that any actions by the governor, including assenting to the new law and reappointing Sanusi, are invalid. The court criticized the respondents for violating its orders and transferred the case to Justice Simon Amobeda due to Judge Liman’s elevation to the Court of Appeal.
3. The Court of Appeal in Port Harcourt has reserved judgment on the crisis within the Rivers State House of Assembly. The judgment date will be communicated later. The appeal, led by factional speaker Martin Amaewhule and 24 others, seeks to overturn a high court order that barred them from acting as lawmakers and prohibited Governor Siminalayi Fubara from engaging with them. This order was initially sought by Victor Oko Jumbo and two other legislators loyal to Fubara. The crisis began in 2023 due to a rift between Fubara and Nyesom Wike, leading to a factional split and the defection of 27 assembly members from the PDP to the APC.
4. Kenya’s Parliament is debating a controversial finance bill that proposes new taxes, which many fear will exacerbate the cost-of-living crisis. The bill aims to generate 346.7 billion shillings ($2.7bn) and reduce the budget deficit but has sparked significant public outcry. On June 20, 2024, police in Nairobi used tear gas and water cannons to disperse hundreds of protesters demonstrating against the proposed tax hikes. Although the government has made some concessions by removing certain levies, it still plans to implement other tax increases. The bill’s critics argue it unfairly targets the poor and young people, with additional taxes on digital content creation and essential goods like fuel. Protests are also taking place in other cities, reflecting widespread discontent with the government’s handling of economic challenges.
5. Kylian Mbappe was seen wearing a tricolor mask during France’s training for Euro 2024 after breaking his nose in a match against Austria. Despite his injury, he is recovering well and may play against the Netherlands. However, UEFA regulations prohibit wearing masks with team colors or logos during matches; they must be a single color and free of any identification. France’s football authorities have prepared compliant masks for Mbappe to wear in upcoming games, ensuring adherence to these rules.
6. Nigerian superstar Rema, after his crossover hit in the U.S. with “Calm Down” featuring Selena Gomez, has released a new single, “Benin Boys,” in collaboration with Shallipopi. The track, marked by heavy drums and stirring strings, celebrates their success and wealth. The accompanying music video, directed by DK, features vibrant scenes including a nightclub, a private jet, and a church. Rema recently won two ASCAP London Music Awards for “Calm Down,” which reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and made history on several U.S. charts. “Benin Boys” is his first release under Interscope Records through a partnership with Mavin Global.
