Entertainment
Nollywood Actress Floors FG In ECOWAS Court
Nollywood actress, Dorothy Njemanze has won the case against the Federal Government at the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court in Abuja. The actress and two other ladies, Justina Etim and Amarachi Jessyford were arrested and detained by the Abuja Environmental Protection Board and some force men as they were declared as prostitutes and for being outside in late hours.
The regional court ruled that “there is no law prohibiting women from staying out late in the night. The ECOWAS Court agreed with the counsel to the plaintiffs, Bolaji Gabari that there was no law in Nigerian statute book prohibiting women from being outside in late hours.
Justice Chjioke Nwoke who delivered the lead judgement said the ECOWAS Court was satisfied that the plaintiffs were humiliated and dehumanised after they were arrested in an operation that was carried out by a joint force that comprises the military men, police and officials of Abuja Environmental Protection Board, who claimed to have acted on the Federal Government’s directive.
The court declared their arrest as arbitrary and unconstitutional, noting that the security operatives failed to prove that the plaintiffs were commercial sex workers. The court therefore said that the Federal Government’s action by declaring the three ladies as prostitutes, amounted to gross violation of their rights to dignity, since they were only arrested for being outside in late hours.
The court ordered the Federal Government to pay the plaintiffs the sum of six million naira each for their unlawful arrests and detention after they were declared prostitutes in Abuja.
Meanwhile, the Nollywood actress in her reaction after the court judgement wept uncontrollably and expressed appreciation to the court for giving her justice. She expressed optimism that with the judgement, the government would reconsider some laws and policies that are discriminating to women. She also took to her instagram handle to share the cheering news while sharing photos of her and the other ladies in the court room during the hearing.
The Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine is a prestigious accolade awarded by Thomas Jefferson University, recognising outstanding individuals.
The actress was honoured with the Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine by Thomas Jefferson University in America in recognition of her outstanding contributions to social activism and impact through her work.
This remarkable achievement, they said, highlights her dedication to societal well-being and marks her as the first Black recipient of this distinguished award.
The Tide Entertainment reports that the Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine is a prestigious accolade awarded by Thomas Jefferson University, recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to the medical field, promoting scientific discovery and advancements.
Named after Lennox K. Black, a Canadian manufacturing executive known for his philanthropic efforts and service on various boards, including Thomas Jefferson University, the prize celebrates excellence in medical innovation and global contribution to health and medicine.
The actress is renowned for her activism and impactful work in areas concerning women’s health and rights, including her efforts to combat issues like fistula and gender-based violence.
According to the award organisers she has been instrumental in bringing about social change through her films and campaigns. They added that her work extends beyond borders, affecting lives and policies internationally, embodying the spirit of the Lennox K. Black International Prize.
On receiving the award, Stephanie expressed her gratitude and reaffirmed her commitment to using her platform for social good.
“This recognition goes beyond me; it is for all the women and girls fighting for a healthier, safer world. It amplifies our message and our work. It strengthens my resolve to continue advocating for gender equality, social justice, and improved maternal and reproductive health in Africa,” she said
Susan Aldunge, Interim President of Thomas Jefferson University, admired the actress, saying, ‘‘Your ability to educate while humbly addressing the cultural obstacles impeding progress for young women is commendable. Your intelligent, personal take on the necessary human rights changes has deeply impacted all lucky to encounter you. Congratulations once more on this well-deserved award and the acknowledgement of your efforts.’”
Ms Aldunge further said that Thomas Jefferson University, a leader in medical education and research, hosts the award to underscore its mission of improving lives through innovation in health care.
‘‘The university is proud to honour Stephanie Linus, whose work aligns with Jefferson’s values of creativity, collaboration, and compassion in pursuing excellence in medicine and beyond.
“Awarding the Lennox K. Black International Prize to Stephanie Linus celebrates her achievements and signals a broader recognition of the importance of social activism in medicine and health,” she added.
“Her pioneering efforts continue to inspire and effect change, paving the way for a healthier, more equitable world’’.
Stephanie, who was named Chairperson of the Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) for the Best International Feature Film (IFF) category of the Oscars in August 2023, is best known for her 2015 advocacy movie ‘Dry’, which tells the story of a 13-year-old girl whose parents marry her off to a 60-year-old man, with devastating consequences.
Ilebaye’s revelation came just after Phyna had publicly called out the organizers for withholding some of her prizes.
Phyna, who revealed this to Newsmen insinuated that Ilebaye broke the gender code by announcing that she got her full prize money.
She also stressed that she would continue to demand for her balance, stating that she worked hard for the money during the show’s 72-day duration.
“I believe I should at least get what I worked so hard for 72 days. You all suddenly remembered your alert screenshots and IG Live………… Common……one among others is 1BTC which is over 80m in today’s market.
“To those who got their money in full
I’m happy for you. As a poor man’s child, let me ask for my money and other items remaining.,” She added.
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