Paphael News

In a significant operation against terrorism in Zamfara State, the Nigerian military has apprehended a 25-year-old woman, Shamsiyya Ahadu, for allegedly acting as an ammunition courier for notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji. The arrest was made on December 28 by troops from Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West, operating under Operation Hadarin Daji. According to an official statement released on Sunday, Ms. Ahadu was detained in the Badarawa area of Shinkafi Local Government Area. She was intercepted alongside her accomplice, Ahmed Husaini, a motorcyclist who was reportedly assisting in the transportation of the contraband. The military recovered 764 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and six magazines in the suspects' possession. These items were allegedly intended for delivery to Bello Turji's camp, a hub for criminal and terrorist activities in the region. The Nigerian military has intensified its crackdown on criminal networks and their enablers under Oper...

Prominent gospel singer Veekee James has opened up about the challenges she faced early in her career and how her husband, Femi, stood by her through thick and thin. In a heartfelt expression of gratitude, Veekee reflected on her journey and credited Femi for his unyielding support, especially during her Zion worship journey. In a recent statement, Veekee recounted the difficult times when her personal and professional life faced scrutiny. She revealed that her brother once advised her husband to end their marriage and distance himself from her due to the pressures of her rising presence in the social and religious space. "I remember when all this social thing started," Veekee shared. "My brother told my husband to return me home and stay away from me. I was in the house going through it until God brought me out. He [Femi] promised my brother that he would support me. I have never seen a man like him." Her words reflect not only the challeng...

The Syrian Embassy in Lebanon announced on Saturday the suspension of all consular services indefinitely. The move comes just a day after two relatives of Syria's deposed president, Bashar al-Assad, were detained at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport for allegedly possessing forged passports. The announcement, made via the embassy’s official Facebook page, cited directives from Syria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs but did not specify the reasons behind the decision. However, Lebanese security officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that the alleged forgery of the passports—belonging to the wife and daughter of one of Assad's cousins—had reportedly been facilitated at the Syrian Embassy in Beirut. The suspension of consular services follows heightened scrutiny at the border. On the same day, Lebanese authorities deported dozens of Syrian nationals, including former officers of Assad's regime, back to Syria. The individuals had been app...

Ukraine announced on Saturday that its air force had successfully targeted a storage and maintenance facility for Shahed drones in Russia's Oryol region. The strike, which reportedly took place on Thursday, was described by Ukrainian officials as a significant blow to Russia’s drone operations. According to a statement from Ukraine’s military general staff, the facility housed storage, maintenance, and repair operations for Shahed kamikaze drones, which have been used by Russia in large-scale attacks against Ukraine. The depot was reportedly located within reinforced concrete structures, but the Ukrainian air force claimed it managed to destroy the facility entirely. “This strike has significantly reduced Russia's capability to launch mass drone attacks against Ukraine,” the statement on Telegram read. While Russia has not publicly commented on the incident, the strike underscores the increasing importance of drones in the conflict. Both Ukraine and Russia have reli...

Ademola Lookman, one of Africa's brightest football talents, has once again demonstrated his exceptional skills on the pitch. The Nigerian international, who currently plays for Serie A side Atalanta, delivered a standout performance in a crucial match against Lazio, earning him the well-deserved Man of the Match title. Lookman has been a consistent force for Atalanta this season, showcasing his sharp attacking instincts and impressive technical abilities. Against Lazio, his decisive contributions were pivotal in ensuring his team's success, further cementing his reputation as a key player for both club and country. The forward’s recent achievements add to what has been a remarkable journey in European football. Lookman has become a fan favorite, not only for his goal-scoring prowess but also for his disciplined and professional approach to the game. Unlike many rising stars, he remains grounded, focused on his craft, and determined to maintain his trajectory as one...

In a bizarre turn of events in the Shasha area of Lagos State, Nigeria, a local man has taken a public and unusual step to prevent the alleged sale of his property by his ex-wife. The individual, identified as a prince of the Shasha Kingdom, placed a banner in front of his house bearing a strong warning to deter potential buyers. The banner, prominently displayed, reads: “My house is not for sale. Beware of my ex-wife, Miss Owole Rose Ameh.” The public nature of the warning, combined with the man’s royal status, has sparked widespread conversation both offline and online. Residents in the area have been drawn to the scene, with many expressing shock and amusement at the unconventional approach. The situation has also gone viral on social media platforms, where it has garnered a mix of reactions. Some commentators have criticized the ex-wife, citing the banner as evidence of the alleged lengths some individuals might go to in disputes over property. Others, howev...

On December 28, 2024, grief-stricken relatives gathered at the Mars Field military cemetery in Lviv to pay tribute to a soldier who gave his life defending Ukraine during the ongoing Russian invasion. The solemn event, marked by prayer and reflection, was part of the "Mourning Christmas Carol," an annual tradition to honor the nation's fallen heroes during the holiday season. The cemetery, a resting place for many soldiers who perished in the conflict, became a poignant scene as family members, friends, and fellow citizens lit candles and offered prayers at the soldier’s grave. The atmosphere was imbued with a mixture of sorrow and resilience, reflecting the heavy toll the war has exacted on Ukraine and its people. The "Mourning Christmas Carol" is a somber reinterpretation of the traditional holiday carol, symbolizing the nation’s collective mourning and its unyielding hope for peace. This year’s observance served as a powerful reminder of the sacri...

South Korea's National Fire Agency has confirmed that at least 47 people have lost their lives in a tragic plane crash involving a Jeju Air flight. The incident occurred earlier today, December 29, 2024, as the aircraft attempted to land at Muan International Airport in the southwest of the country. Rescue operations are still ongoing, with two survivors rescued from the wreckage so far. The ill-fated Boeing 737-8AS had departed from Bangkok, Thailand, carrying 181 passengers and crew on board. According to preliminary reports from local news outlet Yonhap, the crash was triggered by a bird strike that caused a malfunction in the plane's landing gear. The aircraft failed to make a safe landing and subsequently burst into flames. "So far, two rescued and 47 confirmed dead," the National Fire Agency stated in an official release, emphasizing the ongoing search-and-rescue efforts at the crash site. The disaster has cast a shadow over South Korea’s...

In a display of remarkable ingenuity and determination, Inky, an octopus residing at the National Aquarium of New Zealand, made a daring escape that has captivated the world. The incident, which occurred during the night, underscores the intelligence and resourcefulness of these marine creatures. According to aquarium staff, Inky managed to lift the lid of his tank, an impressive feat considering his lack of bones or conventional limbs. Once free of his enclosure, the octopus navigated his way across the aquarium floor, heading toward a narrow drainage pipe that led directly to the open ocean. The pipe, just six inches wide, was small enough to challenge most creatures, but not Inky. Octopuses are known for their extraordinary ability to squeeze through tight spaces, and Inky proved to be no exception. Aquarium staff discovered the escape during their morning rounds, finding only a trail of water leading from Inky’s tank to the drain. After following the trail, they deduced...

In a significant development highlighting the intensifying nature of the conflict in Ukraine, the White House announced that North Korean forces fighting alongside Russian troops have suffered severe casualties. According to John Kirby, the White House National Security Council spokesperson, approximately 1,000 North Korean soldiers were killed or injured in the past week alone during clashes in Russia’s Kursk region. Kirby, addressing reporters on Friday, emphasized the dire conditions faced by these troops. "It is clear that Russian and North Korean military leaders are treating these troops as expendable and ordering them on hopeless assaults against Ukrainian defenses," he stated. The comments underline growing international concern about the use of foreign troops in highly dangerous and seemingly futile military operations. The grim revelation coincided with a statement by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his nightly address. Zelenskyy corrobor...

An Anglican cleric, Canon Olowolagba, along with his wife and two children, has been released from captivity following their abduction. The incident, which occurred earlier this week, had left the religious community and the public deeply concerned about the safety of the family. Reports indicate that the cleric and his family were kidnapped by unidentified gunmen under circumstances that remain under investigation. The abduction sparked widespread appeals for their safe return, with various religious leaders and local authorities intensifying efforts to secure their release. Details surrounding their release remain sketchy at this time, but sources close to the family confirmed that they were freed unharmed. It is unclear whether a ransom was paid or if their release was facilitated through negotiations with the abductors. Reacting to the development, the Diocese of the Anglican Church expressed relief and gratitude for the family’s safe return. In a statement, the church ...

Damascus witnessed a significant display of power on Friday as hundreds of members of a prominent Syrian insurgent group marched through its streets. The group, known for its pivotal role in the uprising that ousted former President Bashar al-Assad, sought to assert its presence and influence in the capital city. The march, described by onlookers as both disciplined and symbolic, drew attention to the enduring divisions within Syria's political and social landscape. Participants carried banners and chanted slogans reflecting their demands for continued reforms and justice, underscoring their dissatisfaction with the current political state. This event marks one of the most visible demonstrations of strength by the insurgent group since Assad's removal from power. The group, which played a central role during the civil conflict, has since transitioned into a political entity while maintaining its identity as a formidable force in the region. Analysts suggest that th...

Footage broadcast on Yemen's Al Masirah TV on Thursday captured the dramatic moment an airport control tower was struck during an Israeli airstrike, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict involving the Iran-aligned Houthi movement. The attack is part of a series of recent military operations targeting Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. While the Israeli government has not provided an official statement on the strike, its forces have previously expressed concerns over the Houthi group's growing military capabilities and their ties to Iran. The video, which aired on Al Masirah TV—a network closely associated with the Houthi movement—shows the precise moment the tower was hit, leading to a large explosion and significant structural damage. The broadcast claimed that the strike was unprovoked and described it as an act of aggression against Yemeni sovereignty. The Houthis, who have been embroiled in a civil war with Yemen’s internationally recognized go...

A tragic incident in Haiti earlier this week has once again highlighted the perilous conditions under which journalists operate in the Caribbean nation, long plagued by rampant gang violence. At least two journalists, including one affiliated with Voice of America, lost their lives, and seven others sustained injuries when armed assailants opened fire on a group of reporters. The journalists had gathered in the capital, Port-au-Prince, to cover the reopening of Haiti’s largest public hospital, according to local media reports and government statements. The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from media watchdogs and international organizations. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) issued a strong rebuke, expressing outrage over the killings. “We are appalled by this brazen attack on journalists who were simply doing their job,” a CPJ spokesperson said in a statement. “We send our deepest condolences to the families of those killed and call on Haitian authorities ...

A leading global organization that monitors food crises withdrew a recent report warning of an impending famine in northern Gaza. The retraction followed a request from the United States, U.S. officials revealed to the Associated Press (AP) this week. The report, which highlighted the impact of Israel’s "near-total blockade" on Gaza, had drawn public criticism from the U.S. ambassador to Israel. The organization in question, the Famine Early Warning System Network (FEWS NET), is funded by the U.S. government and is recognized for its data-driven, impartial analysis of food security conditions worldwide. Its findings are often used to inform international responses to food crises. However, the decision to retract the Gaza famine warning has sparked concerns among humanitarian groups and human rights advocates, who view it as a potential instance of U.S. political interference in an independent analysis. Critics argue that the Biden administration’s actions undermin...

In a significant cultural exchange that underscores the global influence of Nigerian heritage, Borussia Dortmund striker Karim Adeyemi and his father recently paid a courtesy visit to the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II. The meeting took place at the historic Ile-Ife Palace, a revered cultural hub in southwestern Nigeria, known as the cradle of Yoruba civilization. Karim Adeyemi, who is of Nigerian descent, was warmly welcomed by the Ooni, a monarch deeply respected for his commitment to preserving and promoting Yoruba traditions and fostering connections with the global diaspora. During the visit, Adeyemi and his father engaged in discussions with Oba Ogunwusi on various topics, including the importance of cultural identity, the role of sports in uniting communities, and the influence of Nigerian heritage in shaping global perspectives. The Ooni expressed pride in Adeyemi’s achievements on the international football stage and commen...

In a tragic incident that has shocked the Catholic community, Rev. Fr. Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo, a Catholic priest of the Nnewi Diocese in Anambra State, was fatally shot by unidentified gunmen on December 26, 2024. The attack occurred along the Owerri-Onitsha Expressway between 7:00 and 8:00 p.m., according to reports. Rev. Fr. Okonkwo, who was also a trained pharmacist, served as the priest in charge of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Ihiala, Anambra State. Known for his dedication to both his medical profession and spiritual ministry, Fr. Okonkwo was a beloved figure in the local community, where he provided healthcare services and spiritual guidance to many. Details surrounding the attack remain unclear, and the identity of the assailants is yet to be determined. The motive for the shooting has not been established, and authorities are conducting investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice. This tragic incident highlights the growing security concerns in parts...

On Thursday, aviation experts suggested that Russian air defense systems may have been responsible for the tragic crash of an Azerbaijani plane on Wednesday. The crash resulted in the death of 38 individuals, while 29 others sustained injuries, some of them critical. The aircraft, whose model and flight details are still under investigation, went down under circumstances that have raised suspicions about external interference. Initial analysis points to the involvement of surface-to-air missile fire, with experts specifically highlighting the possibility of Russian air defense systems being involved. Aviation analysts have called for a thorough and transparent investigation, noting the complexities of operating in regions where geopolitical tensions run high. “The evidence we have reviewed so far strongly indicates the involvement of external factors, possibly linked to air defense activities,” said an unnamed expert familiar with the situation. The crash site h...

A North Korean soldier captured by Ukrainian forces while reportedly fighting alongside Russian troops has died from his injuries, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) announced on Friday. The soldier was among thousands of North Korean troops allegedly deployed by Pyongyang to bolster Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine, according to South Korean intelligence sources. This deployment reportedly includes North Korean forces stationed in the Kursk region, a key border area where Ukraine launched a surprise incursion in August. Details surrounding the soldier’s capture remain unclear. However, an anonymous South Korean intelligence official confirmed to AFP that the individual was seized by Ukrainian forces on Thursday. The exact location of the incident has not been disclosed. Shortly after the capture, the NIS reported that the soldier had succumbed to injuries sustained during combat. No further information about the nature of his injuries or the circumstance...

The much-anticipated heavyweight showdown between British boxing icons Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua is poised to be one of the most lucrative events in sports history, with potential revenue projections exceeding $300 million. Discussions about the fight, which has been long-awaited by fans worldwide, are gaining momentum as both camps signal their interest in a historic clash at London’s Wembley Stadium in 2025. According to sources close to the negotiations, the fight would mark a pinnacle moment in British boxing, uniting two of the country’s greatest heavyweights in a battle for supremacy. Tyson Fury, the reigning WBC heavyweight champion, and Anthony Joshua, a former two-time unified heavyweight champion, have flirted with the idea of a matchup for years. However, obstacles ranging from scheduling conflicts to contract disputes have delayed any formal agreement. Now, both fighters appear more aligned than ever, with Wembley Stadium emerging as the preferred venue. Kn...

Israeli forces conducted a significant raid on the Kamal Adwan hospital in the northern Gaza Strip on Friday, causing extensive damage and forcing the evacuation of patients and civilians, according to local officials. The hospital, located in Beit Lahiya, is one of three major medical facilities serving the area. Gaza's Health Ministry reported losing contact with its staff inside the hospital during the operation. Munir al-Bursh, the Ministry's Director, stated in a press release, "The occupation forces are inside the hospital now, and they are burning it." The ministry expressed grave concern over the safety of patients, medical personnel, and others sheltering within the facility. The Israeli military confirmed the raid, stating it was part of an operation targeting Hamas militants allegedly using the hospital as a strategic base. In an official statement, the military claimed the hospital had become “a key stronghold for terrorist organizations and co...

On the morning of December 26, 2004, a catastrophic event forever altered the lives of millions around the world.  The Indian Ocean tsunami, triggered by one of the most powerful earthquakes in recorded history, struck coastal regions from Indonesia to Africa, leaving devastation in its wake. Among the survivors of this tragedy is a Singaporean who vividly recalls the harrowing experience that day, a memory that continues to haunt her. The survivor, who was vacationing with her family in Thailand at the time, describes the serene morning quickly descending into chaos as the tsunami hit the coastal resorts. “It was a beautiful day, and everything seemed calm. We were enjoying breakfast by the beach when suddenly, we noticed the ocean pulling back. It was as if the sea was retreating,” she recalls. “There was no warning, no sirens. It felt like the earth was trembling beneath us.” As the ocean began to withdraw, the family instinctively moved to higher ground, a decision ...

Beyoncé, renowned for her groundbreaking artistry and profound cultural impact, continues to redefine the boundaries of music and storytelling. Her latest endeavor shines a spotlight on a long-overlooked aspect of American history: the contributions and enduring legacy of Black cowboys and cowgirls. In this homage, Beyoncé weaves a narrative that not only celebrates their significance in shaping the American West but also challenges traditional representations of the cowboy archetype. Historically, Black cowboys and cowgirls have been marginalized in mainstream depictions of the Wild West, with their stories often relegated to the periphery. Yet, African Americans have been integral to the development of ranching, cattle drives, and frontier life, with some estimates suggesting that one in four cowboys was Black. From guiding cattle herds to working as lawmen and rodeo performers, Black individuals made indelible marks on the Western frontier, yet their contributions have ...

The Metro Richmond Zoo is celebrating the birth of a healthy pygmy hippopotamus calf, marking a significant milestone for the species, which is listed as endangered. Zoo officials announced the exciting news earlier this month, sharing that the newborn is the offspring of Iris, a resident female pygmy hippo, and Corwin, her mate. The new arrival, whose name has not yet been decided, is the third calf born to Iris and Corwin. This addition highlights the success of the zoo's ongoing conservation and breeding efforts for this rare species. Native to the forests and swamps of West Africa, pygmy hippos are significantly smaller than their larger relatives and face increasing threats from habitat loss and poaching. In a statement, the Metro Richmond Zoo emphasized the importance of such births in maintaining the genetic diversity of the species in human care. “Every successful birth is a step forward in our mission to help preserve and protect endangered species,” zoo repre...

A poignant and heartbreaking moment unfolded recently as a passenger on board a doomed jet reportedly managed to send a final message to his wife moments before the aircraft was allegedly shot down. The tragic incident has sent shockwaves across the globe, drawing attention to the harrowing reality faced by passengers caught in sudden, catastrophic events. The incident occurred in what is believed to be a conflict-prone region, where tensions have been escalating. Preliminary reports suggest that the commercial jet, carrying dozens of passengers, was struck mid-flight, potentially by hostile fire. While investigations are ongoing, early indications point to a possible deliberate attack on the aircraft. Among the victims was a man whose heartbreaking last communication with his wife has come to symbolize the human cost of such tragedies. According to sources close to the family, the man managed to send a text message, expressing his love and gratitude to his wife, seconds be...

Mozambique is grappling with a severe security crisis as authorities confirm that at least 6,000 inmates have escaped from a maximum-security prison amid ongoing post-election riots and violence. The mass prison break, reported on Wednesday, adds to the mounting challenges facing the nation as political unrest continues to destabilize several regions. The escape occurred under the cover of widespread chaos that has erupted in the wake of disputed election results. The riots, which began shortly after the announcement of the controversial election outcome, have spread rapidly, engulfing urban centers and rural areas alike. Protesters have targeted government facilities, with prisons and police stations among the hardest hit. Officials have not disclosed the exact location of the prison or the circumstances leading to the mass escape, but early reports suggest that rioters overwhelmed security forces, breaching the facility and enabling the inmates to flee. Authorities fear t...

Manchester United's troubled start to the Premier League season took another turn for the worse as they endured their third successive defeat, slipping to 14th place in the league table. The latest loss has intensified scrutiny on manager Erik ten Hag and his squad, who now face mounting pressure to turn their season around. The match, played at [stadium name], saw United fall short against [opponent team], who capitalized on defensive errors and lackluster play in midfield. [Opponent team] secured a [scoreline] victory, leaving United fans disheartened and raising questions about the team’s preparedness and strategy. This marks Manchester United’s worst start to a Premier League campaign in recent years. Despite boasting a roster of world-class talent, the team has struggled to find consistency, with their defense appearing vulnerable and their attack failing to capitalize on key opportunities. Speaking after the match, manager Erik ten Hag expressed his disappointment...

 Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s esteemed former Prime Minister and one of the country’s most respected economists, passed away today at the age of 92. The news of his demise was confirmed in a statement released by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi. Dr. Singh, who served as India’s 13th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, was widely regarded for his pivotal role in shaping India’s economic policies and steering the nation through significant global and domestic challenges. A member of the Indian National Congress, he helmed the United Progressive Alliance government for two consecutive terms, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s governance and economic landscape. Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, a village now in Pakistan, Dr. Singh’s early life was marked by academic excellence. He earned his doctorate in economics from Oxford University, following which he held prominent positions in academia and international financial institutions, i...

A growing wave of supporters has called for the immediate release of Naomi Silekunola, the former queen of the Ooni of Ife, and Oriyomi Hamzat, the Chief Executive Officer of Agidigbo FM. The duo's detention has sparked widespread attention and prompted solidarity from various quarters. Reports indicate that both individuals have been held under circumstances that remain unclear, fueling concerns among their sympathizers. In a show of support, crowds gathered in key locations, demanding clarity on the reasons for their detention and urging authorities to ensure justice and fairness in handling the matter. Naomi Silekunola, known for her grace and philanthropic initiatives during her time as the Ooni’s queen, has remained a figure of public admiration even after her separation from the monarch. Her sudden detention has raised eyebrows and ignited conversations across social and traditional media. Similarly, Oriyomi Hamzat, a renowned media personality and advocate for so...

A violent riot at a prison in the capital city of Maputo has resulted in the tragic loss of 33 lives and left 15 others injured, according to Bernardino Rafael, Mozambique's Police General Commander. The incident, which has sent shockwaves across the nation, is one of the deadliest in recent years within the country’s penal system. The unrest reportedly broke out earlier this week at the maximum-security facility, though authorities have yet to confirm the exact cause. Initial reports suggest that tensions between inmates escalated, leading to widespread chaos and violence. Security forces intervened to restore order, but the situation rapidly spiraled out of control, resulting in significant casualties. General Commander Rafael, addressing the press on Wednesday, expressed deep concern over the tragedy and assured the public of a thorough investigation. “This is a devastating incident, and we extend our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. The inj...

On Thursday, thousands of people gathered in solemn prayer and reflection to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, one of the deadliest natural disasters in modern history. In Aceh province, residents visited mass graves to honor the memories of loved ones lost in the tragedy. At Ulee Lheue village, mourners placed flowers and offered prayers at a burial site holding the remains of over 14,000 unidentified victims. The grave is one of several in Banda Aceh, the provincial capital, which bore the brunt of the destruction caused by a magnitude 9.1 earthquake and the ensuing tsunami. Tears streamed down the faces of many as they paid their respects, remembering the lives of friends and family swept away two decades ago. Among them was Muhamad Amirudin, who lost two of his children in the disaster and has never found their bodies. “We miss them, and we still don’t know where they are. All we know is that every year we visit the mass grav...

Syria’s transitional authorities initiated a major military operation on Thursday targeting militias loyal to ousted President Bashar al-Assad, state news agency SANA reported. The campaign, centered in the western province of Tartous, reportedly resulted in the deaths of several militia members, marking a significant development in the post-Assad era. The operation follows escalating tensions between pro-Assad forces and the rebel group that spearheaded the offensive to remove Assad from power. On Wednesday, pro-Assad fighters killed 14 members of the rebel group in a deadly confrontation. Syria’s newly appointed Interior Minister condemned the attack, describing it as an “ambush” and pledging to take decisive action against those threatening the nation’s stability. Ten others were injured in the incident. In a statement on Telegram, the Interior Minister vowed to restore order and ensure accountability. "Syria’s security is paramount, and we will not tolerate any att...