In a recent funeral in Ghana, a footballer named Godfred Yaboah was buried in a unique coffin shaped like a football boot. The funeral pictures showed the deceased dressed in a football jersey and positioned as if ready for a match, with a ball under his arm. The coffin was made by carpenters in the region of Ghana known for creating fantasy coffins that symbolize the deceased's profession in life. This practice of using fantasy coffins to represent a person's profession is a popular culture in parts of Ghana.
The use of the football boot coffin sparked mixed reactions on social media. Some internet users questioned why corpses are made to stand in these coffins. This is not the first time such a coffin has been used in Ghana, as a previous report mentioned a man being buried in a coffin shaped like an airplane. The article does not mention the date of the funeral or the specific location in Ghana. [46e0bd53]
In addition to the challenges of security, economy, and financial struggles in Nigeria and Ghana, former Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan has raised concerns about the preservation of standard-sized pitches in Ghanaian communities. Gyan believes that maintaining these pitches should be a top priority, rather than diverting towards smaller pitches. He argues that while small-sized pitches provide a modern experience, true learning of the game comes from playing on standard-sized pitches over an extended period. Gyan expresses concern about the conversion of these pitches into 5-aside ones and questions where future players will compete and where Colts tournaments will thrive. He emphasizes the importance of preserving standard-sized pitches for the development of youth football in Ghana. Gyan was recently appointed as the chair of the youth and sports sub-committee for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia's campaign manifesto ahead of the 2024 elections. [0939dfed]
The challenges in Nigeria continue as a priest and farmer expresses frustration over the insecurity and economic situation in the country. He reveals that many farmers and medical personnel are leaving Nigeria due to the worsening security and economic conditions. The priest emphasizes the need for improved security and a better economy in Nigeria. [e19d14e1]
Similarly, a human rights advocate in Nigeria calls on the government to provide adequate security for the citizens of Kogi state ahead of the governorship election. He highlights the history of electoral crisis and violence in the state and expresses concern over the current tense situation. The advocate also raises concerns about the proliferation of illegal arms in the state and calls for proper investigation and security measures to ensure a free and fair election. [3702a800]
In Ghana, a security man named Joe shares his financial struggles despite earning a monthly income. He supports his family but is left with very little after expenses. On the other hand, a waakye seller named Mahmood Abdul Rahman is content with his income and has no plans to travel abroad for better opportunities. [d62333ca]
Blind beggars in Oyo State, Nigeria, are relying on their wives' businesses to survive as the economy worsens. The beggars, who used to receive alms from people, now depend on the income generated by their wives' small businesses. Some of their children have had to drop out of school due to financial constraints. [46bb72d3]
Moving back to Ghana, there is a focus on safeguarding the country's peace and spirituality. On an episode of JoyNews' The Probe, the discussion revolves around the theme of 'Safeguarding Ghana’s Peace and Spirituality: A Glimpse of 2024.' The guests include Rev Dr Ernest Adu-Gyamfi, Very Rev. Prof. Asamoah-Gyadu, and Rev. Dr Cyril G.K. Fayose. The livestream of the discussion can be found on MyJoyOnline.com. [0b4520f0]