Police Investigate Mysterious Damage to Akufo-Addo Statue
In a developing story from Sekondi, Western Region, the Ghana Police Service has officially launched an investigation into the vandalism of a statue dedicated to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Apexnewsgh reports The statue, prominently located at the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital roundabout, has been found with significant damage. According to a statement released by the police on the evening of December 16, 2024, preliminary investigations revealed that the statue’s left leg has been severely damaged, and the plaque identifying it has been removed. Authorities are taking this incident seriously and have initiated efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the defacement. The police are committed to ensuring that the perpetrators face justice for their actions, as the investigation progresses. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Damage Discovered on Akufo-Addo’s Statue
In Sekondi-Takoradi, a statue honoring President Nana Akufo-Addo stands at the entrance of the Effia-Nkwanta Hospital. Apexnewsgh reports This monument, unveiled during the President’s visit to the Western Region ahead of the 2024 general elections, was meant to celebrate his administration’s significant contributions to the area. Among these accomplishments are the rehabilitation of the Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital, the construction of the impressive 3-tier Sinohydro interchange, and the redevelopment of the bustling Takoradi Market Circle. However, on Monday, December 16, 2024, the serene image of the statue was marred by the discovery of a gaping hole at the back of one of its legs. The sight sparked a wave of concern and speculation among local residents. Questions arose about the cause of the damage—was it an act of deliberate vandalism, or did it stem from structural defects due to rushed construction? Opinions among the community diverged. Some argued that the statue, a symbol of pride and achievement, reflected the President’s legacy in the region and should endure as a testament to his administration’s work. Others worried that the apparent flaws suggested hasty construction practices that may have compromised the statue’s integrity. As residents debated the statue’s meaning and condition, investigations into the cause of the damage were yet to begin, casting uncertainty over the future of this once-celebrated monument. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NPP Urges EC to Resume Re-Collation of Disputed Parliamentary Seats
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is urging the Electoral Commission (EC) to recommence the re-collation of the remaining parliamentary results from the December 7 elections. Apexnewsgh reports At a recent press conference on December 16, former NPP Chairman Peter Mac Manu revealed that the party’s independent collation indicated victories in several constituencies, including Dome-Kwabenya, Ahafo Ano North, and Tema Central, among others. Mac Manu expressed the party’s confidence in the accuracy of its findings and highlighted that the EC had already declared the NPP as winners in Suhum, Fanteakwa North, and Akwatia after results were recollated at the National Police Training School. With the stakes high and tensions rising, he called for all stakeholders to work towards ensuring a smooth and peaceful re-collation process. “We expect the EC to resume the collation immediately,” he stated, emphasizing the need for the National Election Security Taskforce to provide adequate security during the proceedings to foster a calm environment. He also appealed to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to advise its supporters against incitement, asserting the NPP’s belief in the legitimacy of their parliamentary candidates’ victories in the contested constituencies. The EC had paused the re-collation effort on December 13 amidst escalating disagreements over the process. This decision came after the NDC secured a court injunction aimed at halting the re-collation of results in Nsawam/Adoagyiri, adding to the complexities of an already contentious election aftermath. With both parties eager to resolve the discrepancies and disputes, the political landscape remains charged as they await the next steps from the Electoral Commission. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mysterious Drone Sightings Spark Concern Across Eastern U.S.
As the nation prepares for Donald Trump’s inauguration, questions abound regarding a series of mysterious drone sightings over the eastern United States. Apexnewsgh reports The incoming national security adviser, Republican Representative Michael Waltz of Florida, is calling for a thorough investigation into the origins and intentions behind these unidentified aerial vehicles. In recent weeks, residents from New Jersey and surrounding states have reported seeing upwards of 5,000 drones flying over their communities. U.S. officials quickly deemed this figure an exaggeration, with many conspiracy theories circulating, ranging from government surveillance to foreign threats posed by drones launched from vessels off the eastern coast. Waltz emphasized the need for clarity during a recent appearance on CBS’s “Face the Nation,” stating, “We need to get to the bottom of it.” Alongside him, Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota echoed concerns about transparency, insisting that “this can’t be the future.” Despite the growing worries, officials from the White House, the Department of Homeland Security, and the FBI have sought to quell fears, indicating that most reported sightings are actually manned aircraft and do not pose a threat to national security. An FBI representative noted that, out of the thousands of claims, fewer than 100 warranted further examination. “We can’t ignore the sightings,” an official remarked, acknowledging ongoing investigations. “However, there seems to be a slight over-reaction regarding the number of claimed drone sightings.” Evidence of drone activity has been confirmed at military installations, including Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey, yet investigators have found no indication of foreign involvement. The concern among state and local leaders continues to grow, as articulated by former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, who reported seeing “dozens of large drones” above his home. Amid the flurry of speculation, President-elect Trump suggested that the Biden administration may be withholding critical information regarding the drone phenomena and proposed that these devices be shot down. In a similar vein, New Jersey Representative Christopher Smith criticized the government’s handling of the situation as “dismissive.” In response to these concerns, federal authorities have provided New Jersey officials with advanced radar technology equipped with an electro-optical infrared camera system to monitor the drones. However, White House National Security spokesperson John Kirby has assured the public that investigations thus far have uncovered no evidence of illicit activities related to the sightings. “Many of the reported sightings turn out to be manned aircraft operating lawfully,” Kirby confirmed, aiming to address the growing public unease about the unexplained aerial activity. As investigations continue, the origins and intentions of the mysterious drones remain a topic of widespread intrigue and concern. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
UN Forms Technical Committee to Break Libya’s Election Deadlock
The United Nations announced the formation of a technical committee composed of experts in Libyan affairs. Apexnewsgh reports This initiative, shared by the acting head of the U.N. mission in Libya, Stephanie Koury, is intended to tackle the pressing issues that have hindered the country’s path to national elections. Libya has endured over a decade of upheaval since the NATO-supported uprising in 2011. The political landscape has been marked by conflict and division, particularly since the controversial election planned for December 2021 fell apart due to disputes over candidate eligibility. With the political process stalled, the new committee aims to address outstanding electoral law issues and develop strategies for holding elections as soon as possible. Koury emphasized the committee’s mission to explore various options, including potential guarantees and a timeline for the electoral process. The backdrop to this uncertain political climate is the presence of the Government of National Unity (GNU), led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah. Established through a U.N.-endorsed agreement in 2021, the GNU finds itself in a precarious position as the parliament no longer recognizes its authority. Despite this, Dbeibah has firmly vowed not to relinquish power without the mandate of a national vote, a statement that reflects the complex dynamics at play. As the nation grapples with the difficulties of achieving lasting peace, Libyans remain wary of the political players who, despite publicly advocating for elections, may not have their best interests at heart. Many citizens express skepticism about whether these leaders genuinely desire a democratic process that could see them removed from their positions. Koury reiterated UNSMIL’s commitment to facilitating not only the electoral process but also the unification of military and security institutions, emphasizing the importance of advancing national reconciliation. As Libya continues to navigate its turbulent political landscape, the efforts of the U.N. and the newly formed committee could be crucial in shaping the future of the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Catastrophic Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte, Rescuers Race to Find Survivors
The French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte has been left in ruins following a powerful cyclone that struck over the weekend. Cyclone Chido, packing winds of up to 226 kilometers per hour, swept across the islands, obliterating homes and disrupting vital services, with hundreds feared dead. Apexnewsgh reports Scenes of destruction have emerged from Mayotte, a region recognized as part of France but among its poorest territories. Entire neighborhoods have been flattened, leaving behind mere piles of rubble. “The storm has spared nothing. The hospital is hit. The schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated,” said Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, the mayor of Mamoudzou, the capital. The aftermath of the cyclone poses a significant challenge to the French government, which is presently operating in a caretaker capacity following President Emmanuel Macron’s last appointment of a new prime minister just days prior. As rescue efforts intensify, Health Minister Genevieve Darrieussecq revealed the grave state of healthcare on the island. “The hospital has suffered major water damage and destruction, notably in the surgical, intensive care, maternity, and emergency units,” she reported, noting that essential medical centers have become non-operational. With roads blocked and communication lines severed, officials are gravely concerned for those potentially trapped under debris in inaccessible areas. François-Xavier Bieuville, the prefect of Mayotte, warned that the death toll could reach several hundred or even thousands. In preparation for the rescue response, additional soldiers and firefighters have arrived on the island to support the initial deployments. Meanwhile, La Reunion, a nearby French island, serves as a crucial hub for relief operations. In the initial hours after the storm, a first aid plane delivered critical supplies, including medical materials and staff, to address the urgent needs of the injured and affected. As the scope of the disaster comes to light, international aid promises are flooding in. Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, assured that the bloc stands ready to support Mayotte in the coming days. Additionally, the World Health Organization has expressed its readiness to assist communities desperately in need. One local resident, Ibrahim, described the chaos unfolding on the island, referring to it as “apocalyptic scenes” as he navigated the wreckage. Many residents, particularly those living in shantytowns with flimsy roofs, faced immense peril as their homes were dismantled by the cyclone. The cyclone highlights the broader issue of climate change, with meteorologists noting that Chido was exacerbated by unusually warm waters in the Indian Ocean. Just after striking Mayotte, the storm made its way to Mozambique, where officials have reported three fatalities. As the rescue efforts continue under challenging conditions, the extent of Mayotte’s suffering remains uncertain, particularly for the estimated 100,000 individuals living clandestinely on the island, who may be hesitant to seek assistance for fear of possible repercussions. The coming days will be crucial in determining the recovery and support needed for the resilient islanders of Mayotte. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
What caused NPP abysmal performance in Upper East Region?
Still collating facts, will let you know soon!
ECOWAS Sets Exit Timeline for Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso Amid Military Coups
The regional bloc ECOWAS has set an exit timeline for three nations grappling with military coups. This decision came after a year-long mediation process aimed at preventing a potentially historic fracture within the organization.Apexnewsgh reports During a recent summit in Abuja, Nigeria, ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray announced a transitional period from January 29 to July 29, 2025. He emphasized the bloc’s commitment to keeping its doors open to Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso during this time. The announcement highlights the ongoing tensions, as these three countries, governed by military juntas, declared in January their intention to withdraw from ECOWAS. They labeled the organization as “inhumane and irresponsible” concerning its sanctions tied to their coup-related actions and accused it of neglecting their internal security challenges. Despite ECOWAS’s attempts to rekindle dialogue and encourage the military leaders to reconsider their departure, the juntas have stood firm, exploring options to issue travel documents independently and forming a new alliance. This unprecedented situation marks a turning point in ECOWAS’s nearly 50-year history, as it deals with the fallout from the coup-related withdrawals. Touray’s remarks at the summit underscored the sorrow within ECOWAS regarding the impending exits and commended the efforts made by the bloc’s envoys to mediate the crisis. “These efforts underscore your collective commitment to preserving peace and unity in our region,” he stated, addressing his fellow leaders. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s president, Bola Tinubu, who chairs ECOWAS, highlighted the broader challenges faced by the region. He reminded his counterparts of their fundamental duty to protect citizens and foster an environment where they can thrive. One crucial aspect of ECOWAS membership is the promise of visa-free movement among member states, a benefit now jeopardized by the potential departure of these three nations. In a recent statement, the juntas reaffirmed that while they would maintain visa-free access for other West African citizens, they would reserve the right to deny entry to certain individuals classified as inadmissible immigrants. The situation reflects a pivotal moment for ECOWAS, as analysts express concern about the impact of the exits. Babacar Ndiaye, a senior fellow at the Timbuktu Institute for Peace Studies, remarked that this division presents the organization with its greatest challenge since its inception in 1975. The likelihood of the military leaders returning to the ECOWAS fold appears slim. Mucahid Durmaz, a senior analyst at Verisk Maplecroft, pointed out that the bloc’s desire for a swift return to democratic governance stands at odds with the juntas’ intentions. Allowing the military leaders to maintain power could exacerbate regional disintegration, and accepting their rule would contradict the foundational principles of ECOWAS, he added. Critics have also noted that the bloc’s inconsistent responses to coups in recent years have raised questions about its commitment to democratic governance, suggesting that political ambitions may be overshadowing the guiding principles of the organization. As ECOWAS navigates this complex landscape, the future of its unity and influence in West Africa hangs in the balance. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Fatal Crash on Third Mainland Bridge: Brake Failure Blamed
In the early hours of December 16, 2024, the Lagos Third Mainland Bridge was the scene of a heartbreaking accident that would leave a community in mourning. As dawn approached, a tragic collision unfolded around 6 a.m. near Ilubirin, claiming the life of one individual and resulting in five others being hospitalized. Apexnewsgh reports The horrifying incident involved a J5 Ford bus, transporting a load of pepper and other perishable goods, and a Mercedes truck. Authorities reported that the bus experienced a brake failure while traveling at a high speed, leading to the catastrophic crash. Witnesses described the chaos that ensued, with LASTMA (Lagos State Traffic Management Authority) officials and bystanders springing into action. Their swift response allowed them to rescue four victims from the wreckage of the bus, three of whom miraculously survived. However, the toll of the accident was devastating; one passenger, sadly trapped within the mangled vehicle, succumbed to their injuries at the scene. Emergency response teams swiftly converged on the location, including the Lagos Response Unit (LRU), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigerian Police Force, and the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS). They worked tirelessly to provide urgent medical assistance to the survivors, transporting them to the General Hospital on Lagos Island for critical care. In the aftermath of the accident, LASTMA’s dedicated rescue team undertook the task of clearing the crash site, removing the wrecked vehicles and the spilled cargo to restore normal traffic flow. The tragic event brought forward a message of caution from the General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, who expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family. “During this festive season, it’s crucial for drivers, especially those of heavy-duty vehicles, to adhere to road safety regulations,” Bakare-Oki urged. “Excessive speeding must be avoided, and all vehicles should undergo thorough inspections to ensure their braking systems are functioning properly prior to hitting the road.” The haunting echoes of the accident served as a stark reminder of the importance of safety on the road, as the city grappled with the loss of life and the fragility of human existence. Source: Apexnewsgh,com
Tinubu’s Budget Dilemma: Borrowing Binge Threatens Economic Stability
As President Bola Tinubu gears up to address the National Assembly regarding the impending 2025 national budget, apprehensions are mounting over the federal government’s increasing reliance on borrowing to fund its ambitious plans. With the government poised to exceed its domestic borrowing target for 2024 by a staggering N4 trillion—67% more than initially budgeted—the atmosphere is thick with concern about the nation’s escalating debt burden. Recent reports reveal that, by November 2024, the government’s domestic borrowing had already surpassed N8.93 trillion, a notable rise from the N6 trillion that had been initially planned for the entire year. This rapid accumulation of debt points to an alarming trend; if current borrowing patterns continue, the federal government could end up accumulating N10 trillion in domestic loans for 2024 alone—significantly higher than anticipated. The backdrop to this financial maneuvering is the government’s strategy to address the projected budget deficit for 2025, which comes with a hefty financing plan involving both domestic and foreign borrowings. The proposed budget deficit is expected to reach N9.22 trillion, an 18% increase from the previous year. Most of this deficit financing will rely on local borrowings, given the limited options available for external funding. Delving into the figures, the Debt Management Office (DMO) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) report significant domestic borrowing activities throughout 2024. In the third quarter alone, the government borrowed N2.134 trillion, primarily through treasury bills and bonds. This trend has not abated, with recent months seeing further issuance of Nigeria Treasury Bills and FGN Savings Bonds. The first half of 2024 saw the total domestic debt stock balloon to N66.957 trillion, marking a staggering 38.6% increase from the prior year. The surge in borrowing has been largely fueled by the nation’s high-interest rate environment, which has drawn investors keen on capitalizing on rising yields. The Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) was hiked significantly from 18.75% in February to 27.5% by November, causing the interest rates on key government securities to reach new heights. Analysts are voicing their concerns over the implications of the government’s borrowing spree. David Adonri, an analyst at Highcap Securities Limited, elaborates that while investors may benefit from the high returns on government debt, the broader economic landscape is suffering. Corporations are increasingly feeling the pinch of elevated borrowing costs, which could stifle private sector growth and exacerbate inflationary pressures. The continuous escalation of the federal government’s debt has led some experts to warn of a potential “debt trap,” where new loans become necessary just to service existing obligations. If this trend persists, the specter of sovereign default looms large, prompting urgent discussions on the sustainability of such fiscal strategies. As the nation stands on the brink of significant economic decisions, the implications of these financial actions will undoubtedly shape Nigeria’s financial landscape for years to come. The intersection of high borrowing, rising interest rates, and the need for economic development presents a complex challenge for the federal government as it navigates these turbulent waters in search of stability and growth. Source: Apexnewsgh reports