Hello and welcome! In today’s trending news stories;
1. The NTSB disclosed that investigations are still ongoing to determine the cause of the helicopter crash carrying Herbert Wigwe near Halloran Springs, California, which resulted in six fatalities, including Wigwe and his family. Condolences poured in from various quarters, including the boards of Access Holdings and Wigwe University, the NBA, CEOs of other banks, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, and singer Davido amongst others. Access Bank acknowledged the loss and plans to appoint an Acting Group Chief Executive Officer. The crash occurred near the California-Nevada border, possibly en route to the Super Bowl in Las Vegas, with authorities conducting inquiries to uncover further details.
2. The Kano State Hisbah Board confiscated 8,600 bottles of beer from a van arriving from Kaduna. The seizure occurred at Kwanar Dangora village along the Kano-Kaduna expressway. The board’s officers intercepted the vehicle and arrested the driver after he attempted to escape. Selling and consuming alcohol is illegal in Kano State. The driver will be taken to court, and further instructions from Hisbah management are awaited. Additionally, the board arrested 15 young women for engaging in prostitution at various locations in Kano City. Deputy Commander-General Dr. Mujahid Aminuddeen stated that some of the women had been previously arrested and charged but continued the illegal activity. Aminuddeen urged the public to report such activities to help maintain the state’s integrity.
3. Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, emphasized that Nigeria’s challenges demand spiritual solutions during his meeting with Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani. He stated that while political efforts are being made, divine intervention is urgently needed due to the magnitude of the nation’s problems. Adeboye highlighted the need to call upon God’s help, acknowledging that human efforts alone may not suffice. Governor Sani expressed gratitude for Adeboye’s presence and stressed the importance of spiritual guidance in navigating Nigeria’s current difficulties.
4. Former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi has attributed Nigeria’s current hardship to former President Muhammadu Buhari, stating that President Bola Tinubu should not be blamed. Sanusi criticized Buhari’s administration for not heeding his economic advice. He pledged to critique Tinubu if he observes any erroneous economic policies in the future. Sanusi defended Tinubu against criticism, citing the country’s economic challenges inherited from previous administrations. He advocated for the removal of the fuel subsidy as a necessary measure.
5. The Israeli military conducted strikes on the southern city of Rafah, resulting in at least 37 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza health officials. Additionally, two hostages were freed during a raid by Israeli special forces in Rafah. The hostages, Fernando Simon Marman, 60, and Louis Har, 70, were taken from the Nir Yitzhak kibbutz in previous Hamas attacks. The Israeli attack on Rafah has been condemned by Hamas as part of Israel’s ongoing conflict with the Palestinian people. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed intentions to proceed with a ground offensive in Rafah despite international concerns about the safety of civilians in the area. The situation remains tense as negotiations for a ceasefire continue amidst escalating violence.
6. The Super Eagles lost to hosts Ivory Coast in a thrilling Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final match in Ebimpe, Abidjan. Despite initially leading with a goal from captain William Troost-Ekong, Nigeria was unable to maintain their advantage. Ivory Coast’s Franck Kessie and Haller secured the victory, marking their third AFCON title. Nigeria’s vice president, Kashim Shettima, praised the team’s efforts, promising rewards for their performance. Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu praised the Super Eagles for their resilient performance in the final despite their loss to Côte d’Ivoire. He commended the team for their hard work and sacrifice and urged Nigerians to remain optimistic. The captain of the team Troost Ekong was named Man of the AFCON 2023 Competition.
7. R&B star Usher delivered a hit-packed halftime show at Sunday’s Super Bowl, showcasing his dancing skills and extensive catalog alongside guests like Alicia Keys, Ludacris, and Will.i.am. The performance featured a dynamic mix of club anthems and ballads, with Usher effortlessly transitioning between the two. Spectacular visuals, including acrobats and a large brass band spelling out “USHER,” added to the spectacle. Memorable moments included a duet with Alicia Keys on “My Boo” and a roller-skating sequence. Despite numerous cameo appearances, including from H.E.R. and Lil Jon, Usher’s performance culminated in a pulsing rendition of his hit “Yeah!” watched by celebrities like Taylor Swift and Jay-Z.
