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Pope Francis Dies at 88 on Easter Monday

Pope Francis has died at the age of 88 on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. 

He passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. at his residence in the Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican.

His death was officially announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who praised the late pontiff for dedicating his entire life to serving God, the Church, and especially the poor and marginalized.

The Pope had been battling health challenges for several years. He was hospitalized on February 14, 2025, with bronchitis, which later developed into bilateral pneumonia. After spending 38 days at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital, he returned to the Vatican to recover, but his condition continued to decline.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Pope Francis had long struggled with respiratory issues. He lost part of a lung in his youth due to a severe infection and continued to face complications as he aged. In 2023, he canceled a scheduled trip to the UAE due to influenza and lung inflammation.

Pope Francis made history in 2013 when he became the first pope from Latin America and the first Jesuit to lead the Catholic Church. He was widely admired for his humility, his focus on social justice, and his efforts to reform the Church.

Before his passing, he approved a simplified version of the papal funeral rites, aiming to reflect a life of service and faith rather than power.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be officially announced.

Vetican News

Mahama, Julius Debrah Exchange Handshake with Music Mogul Nana Kobo During Kwahu Easter Courtesy Call

A heartwarming moment of unity and mutual respect was captured on video as President John Dramani Mahama, accompanied by his Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, warmly exchanged handshakes with renowned Ghanaian executive music producer and business mogul Nana Kobo at Kwahu Obomeng during this year’s Easter celebrations.

The encounter took place at the residence of Nana Kobo’s good friend, Mr. Mike Twum Barimah, where President Mahama paid a rare but symbolic courtesy call on former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, following the Kwahu Business Forum.

The brief but symbolic moment between the two political giants, in the presence of key private sector figures like Nana Kobo, sent a strong signal of statesmanship, mutual tolerance, and the crucial role of business leadership in Ghana’s socio-economic development.

The Kwahu Business Forum, held earlier during the Easter festivities, brought together some of Ghana’s most influential business minds. Esteemed personalities such as Dr. Kwaku Oteng, Nana Kobo, and several other prominent entrepreneurs gathered to deliberate on leveraging local investment opportunities, youth employment, and private sector-led growth.

Nana Kobo, whose influence spans music, real estate, and hospitality, has been a driving force in Ghana’s creative economy and was lauded for his contributions to youth empowerment.

The Easter engagement, which fused politics, business, and cultural tradition, has been described by observers as a positive demonstration of how Ghana’s leadership—both past and present—can collaborate for national progress.

The video has since gone viral, with many praising the dignified interaction and calling for more such moments of unity among political and business leaders.

As the nation continues to navigate economic recovery and youth development, stakeholders at the forum pledged renewed commitment to using their platforms to support local industry and inclusive growth.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu 

Kobby Kyei Withdraws from MTN Heroes of Change Awards

Kobby Kyei

Online journalist and youth empowerment advocate Kobby Kyei has announced his withdrawal from the MTN Heroes of Change Awards in the Digital Heroes category. 

Despite being honored by the nomination, Kobby Kyei cited disagreements with certain award modalities as the reason for his decision.

In a statement, Kobby Kyei expressed his gratitude for the recognition from MTN and its committee.

However, he emphasized the importance of transparent criteria and a fair process that aligns with the values he upholds.

Due to recent discussions around the award guidelines, Kobby Kyei felt compelled to withdraw his nomination to preserve the integrity of his work and principles.

Kobby Kyei congratulated his fellow nominees for their outstanding contributions to digital media and community impact. 

He also extended his best wishes to each contender and expressed his desire to collaborate on initiatives that drive positive change across Ghana and beyond.

Kobby Kyei’s decision to withdraw from the MTN Heroes of Change Awards reflects his commitment to transparency and fairness. 

By standing by the standards he champions on his platform, Kobby Kyei demonstrates his dedication to upholding the integrity of his work and principles.

Kobby Kyei’s statement serves as a message to fellow change-makers and advocates. It highlights the importance of staying true to one’s values and principles, even in the face of recognition and accolades.

By prioritizing integrity and transparency, individuals can maintain their credibility and continue to drive positive change in their communities.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Asare Bediako-Addo 

Bawku Tragedy: Woman and Four Children Killed in Overnight Attack

A horrifying wave of violence has once again rocked the Upper East Region, as armed bandits launched a deadly assault on a household in Bawku, killing a woman and her four children while they were asleep.

The gruesome incident occurred late last night, sending shock and fear through the already tense community. 

According to local sources, the unidentified attackers stormed the residence and opened fire on the victims in cold blood. All five family members were pronounced dead at the scene.

The attack is believed to be part of the ongoing spate of insecurity in the Bawku enclave and surrounding areas.

Earlier the same day, a separate attempted assassination was thwarted by security personnel, who intervened to prevent the killing of a former NDC Bawku Central Chairman and his two wives. 

The former party official was travelling to a funeral in the Tempani District when his convoy came under attack at Kugrago in Garu. Though lives were spared, his vehicle was torched by the assailants.

The latest bloodshed has heightened calls for urgent government intervention and reinforced military presence in the region. Residents continue to live in fear, with many accusing authorities of doing too little to stop the violence.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com 

North Tongu: Ablakwa Increases Tertiary Scholarships to 400

The Member of Parliament for North Tongu and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced an additional 100 tertiary scholarships for students in the Volo and Podoe communities, bringing the total number of scholarships awarded in 2025 to 400.

Hon. Ablakwa made the announcement during his Easter engagements with constituents, where he participated in various community festivals and reaffirmed his commitment to youth development through education.

“Yesterday I offered 100 extra tertiary scholarships to my beloved constituents in Volo and Podoe,” he posted on Facebook. “This brings the total scholarships offered this year to 400.”

The North Tongu MP, known for his people-centred leadership, used the occasion to reflect on the meaning of Easter, urging Ghanaians to embrace the spirit of sacrifice and selflessness.

“Easter teaches us to live and die for others; it must never be all about self,” he wrote, extending warm wishes to all Ghanaians.

His latest scholarship gesture has been widely praised as a major boost for access to higher education in North Tongu, where many families continue to face financial constraints in supporting their wards to pursue tertiary education.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu 

CPP Flagbearer Calls for Unity and Renewal in Easter Message

The 2024 Flagbearer of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Nana Akosua Frimpomaa Sarpong Kumankuma, has urged Ghanaians to use the Easter season as a time for deep reflection, national renewal, and unity of purpose.

In a heartfelt Easter message, the CPP leader called on citizens to embrace the spirit of the resurrection by shedding fear, doubt, and division—elements she believes have long hindered Ghana’s progress.

“This Easter, may we welcome a new season of hope, unity and purpose,” – she stated. 

“As we reflect on the power of resurrection, let it stir in us the courage to overcome the divisions and setbacks that have delayed our progress.”

Her message, laced with optimism and patriotic appeal, encouraged Ghanaians to rise with renewed strength and work collectively toward building the future they envision.

“Now is the time to lay down fear, doubt and disunity—and rise with renewed faith, strength, and resolve to build the future we all believe in,” she added, ending with the CPP’s historic slogan: “Forward Ever, Backward Never.”

Nana Akosua Frimpomaa’s message comes at a time when the nation continues to grapple with economic challenges and political polarization. 

As the only female presidential candidate in the just ended 2024 elections, she has consistently championed a message of inclusion, integrity, and transformation.

Her Easter call for unity and collective action echoes the core principles of the CPP’s founding values—hope, self-reliance, and national development.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu 

Kasoa: Soldier Shoots Youth Over Missing Polytank

Tension erupted at a new site in Kasoa Domeabra in the Central Region on Thursday following a disturbing shooting incident involving a military officer. The chaos, which eyewitnesses say stemmed from a missing polytank, left one young man injured and the entire community shaken.

According to multiple eyewitness accounts, a soldier—accompanied by two other uniformed colleagues—stormed the area in search of his missing water tank, which he alleged had been stolen by some youth in the vicinity. In his attempt to retrieve it, he visited a local drinking spot, where he reportedly accused some young men of also smoking marijuana.

“He said he wanted to buy some (weed), but when the guys told him nobody sells it around, he got angry and started beating them with a thick electric lift cable,” a resident told our source, Queen Shoody . 

“Some of the elders asked him to calm down so they could help him investigate who took the tank, but he refused to listen.”

The situation escalated when the soldier allegedly asked the youth to turn off their phones, fearing they might record him. However, one of the youths quickly alerted others in the main township for reinforcement. On seeing them approach, the soldier reportedly rushed to the police station to report the matter. 

Moments later, the soldier returned—this time with police officers—and launched another attack, during which he allegedly shot one of the young men, identified as Isiah, in the leg. 

Isiah was quickly rushed to the Kasoa Polyclinic, where he is currently receiving medical attention.

The soldier who fired the shot was immediately arrested by the same police officers he had brought. 

His two colleagues reportedly fled the scene.

The incident has sparked widespread anger in the community, with many residents calling for justice and restraint from security personnel. 

As investigations continue, the Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana Police Service are yet to issue official statements on the matter. 

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com| Queen Shoody 

Atinka KidsDance Heartbreak: China, Nelly, Others Sent Home Ahead of Grand Finale

It was an emotional moment at the Sika Hall of the Tobinco Media Group as the final eviction show of the Flora Tissue Atinka Kids Dance Season 3 saw four remarkable performers bow out — China, Nelly, CVA, and Maame Pokuaa — just one step away from the coveted finale.

Their unexpected exit drew tears from fans, families, and fellow contestants who had watched their journeys blossom from hopeful auditions to captivating performances. China, in particular, was seen by many as a potential finalist, and her exit triggered a wave of gasps from the audience, but that didn’t reflect in the public vote. 

With the stage now set for the grand finale, all eyes turn to the Trust Sports Emporium (Bukom Boxing Arena) on Saturday, May 3, 2025, where the top 15 finalists will battle it out for the crown of Ghana’s most gifted kid dancer. 

The finale promises to be an electrifying spectacle, graced by some of Ghana’s most celebrated musical and dance artists.

The lucky and talented finalists who made it through include:

– DD Ansah Dancers (Contestant No. 20)

  • Nyhira Alimatu Coleman (No. 9)

– Jay B (No. 32)

– Official Baby (No. 37)

– Naakai (No. 47)

– Dance Dimention (No. 19)

– Yaa Baby (No. 31)

– Kiki Star (No. 44)

– Adwoa Henewaa (No. 1)

– Love (No. 49)

– Baaba (No. 46)

– Princess Conny (No. 39)

– Tema Dance Academy (No. 45)

– Afro_Clem (No. 14)

– De Betilites (No. 22)

Who will rise and claim the crown? All roads lead to the Bukom Boxing Arena this May 3rd. 

To vote for your favorite finalist, simply dial

*713*203* followed by the contestant’s number.

Flora Tissue Atinka Kids Dance ! Wo be sa efeeeeeli!!! 

Cable Thief Electrocuted at ECG Substation in Kumasi

A suspected cable thief met his untimely death after being electrocuted at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) substation at Adoato in the Ashanti Region. 

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, April 19, 2025, has plunged parts of Greater Kumasi and surrounding areas into darkness.

The deceased, believed to be in his late 30s, was allegedly attempting to steal electrical cables when he was fatally shocked. 

His body was discovered at the scene, highlighting the deadly risks associated with illegal interference in power infrastructure.

According to ECG officials, this is not the first time the Adoato substation has been targeted by thieves. 

In a previous attack, cable thieves succeeded in stealing vital components, severely compromising the stability of electricity supply in the area.

In an interview with Atinka News, the Public Relations Officer for ECG Ashanti West, Mr. Benjamin Obeng Antwi, condemned the recurring acts and warned of the serious consequences such illegal activities pose — not just to individuals involved, but to entire communities relying on uninterrupted power.

He further urged the public to remain vigilant and support the ECG in safeguarding its installations. 

The ECG has reiterated its commitment to restoring power to affected areas as quickly as possible and is working closely with law enforcement to clamp down on cable theft.

The grim incident serves as a sobering warning to others and reignites public conversation about protecting critical national infrastructure from theft. 

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Sofoba Kwame Afrifa

SDA School Shooting: High Tension Foundation Appeals for Support as Victim Awaits Surgery

The Executive Director of the High Tension Foundation, Madam Cecilia Agyeiwaa, popularly known as Akosua High Tension, has made a passionate appeal to some of Ghana’s leading philanthropists to come to the aid of the SDA Senior High School shooting victim who is in dire need of surgery.

Speaking on Atinka 104.7 following the adjournment of the court case to April 30, Madam Agyeiwaa called on prominent figures such as Ibrahim Mahama, Samuel Amo Tobbin Foundation, McDan Foundation, and other benevolent Ghanaians to extend their usual humanitarian support to the young victim and her family.

“The surgery must be done, and the family needs help. You these philanthropists have always been the only lifeline for the poor, the forgotten, and the helpless. Today, we need them again,” – she stated.

The victim, who was shot in a tragic incident involving a juvenile suspect, remains in critical condition, and the financial burden of surgery is weighing heavily on her mother, Madam Afia Comfort, who has already made headlines for her bold vow to curse anyone who attempts to bribe their way into silencing justice.

Akosua High Tension emphasized that while the legal process continues, the immediate need is the health and recovery of the victim.

 “Justice must be served, but we cannot let the child’s life hang in the balance. We are appealing to the very people who have time and again restored hope to the hopeless,” – she pleaded.

She lauded these philanthropists for their continuous support to underprivileged Ghanaians and added that their role in the lives of the vulnerable is beyond charity—it is often their only hope.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu