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Inferno in Paradise: The Untold Agony of the Los Angeles Wildfire

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2 months ago

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Inferno in Paradise: The Untold Agony of the Los Angeles Wildfire By Femi Oyewale

The sun had barely risen when the sky turned an eerie shade of orange. Smoke curled through the streets, thick and suffocating, as the unforgiving wildfire tore through Los Angeles like a beast unleashed from hell. Sirens wailed, helicopters thundered overhead, and the acrid scent of burning wood and ash choked the air.
Inferno in Paradise: The Untold Agony of the Los Angeles Wildfire By Femi Oyewale
For Maria Sanchez, it had started with a single ember—a flickering threat on the horizon. Within hours, the firestorm had swallowed her neighborhood whole, reducing decades of memories to smoldering ruins. She had fled with nothing but her daughter, Isabella, and a family photo album clutched in her trembling hands. As they drove away, she watched in horror as the home she and her late husband built together crumbled into flames.
Across the city, Jake Holloway, a firefighter, braved the inferno. His unit had been battling the blaze for three days with little rest. He had seen homes, forests, and even animals succumb to the fire’s wrath. But nothing had prepared him for the moment he stumbled upon an elderly man sitting on the curb of a burned-out street, staring blankly at the charred remains of his life. Jake knelt beside him, his own eyes burning—not just from the smoke but from the sheer weight of helplessness.
In the evacuation shelters, despair clung to the air. Families huddled together, their faces streaked with soot and tears. A little girl clutched a singed teddy bear, whispering to it as though trying to bring comfort to herself. Volunteers moved swiftly, handing out food and blankets, but nothing could replace what was lost.
The wildfire did not just consume homes—it stole lives, dreams, and a sense of security. The death toll rose daily, and even those who survived were left with scars, both visible and invisible. Businesses were gone, livelihoods turned to dust, and communities that once thrived now lay in ashes.
But amid the devastation, resilience flickered like a dying ember refusing to be snuffed out. Strangers became family, firefighters became heroes, and amid the wreckage, there was still hope. People vowed to rebuild, to rise from the ashes stronger than before.
The Los Angeles wildfire was more than a natural disaster—it was a tragedy etched into the souls of those who lived through it. And though the flames had been extinguished, the pain, loss, and impact would burn in their hearts forever.
It would be recalled that as of January 12, 2025, Los Angeles is grappling with multiple devastating wildfires, notably the Palisades and Eaton fires, which have collectively scorched over 38,000 acres.
The death toll has tragically risen to at least 16, with 13 individuals reported missing.
Sadly, more than 153,000 residents have been evacuated, and an additional 166,000 are under severe warnings.
According to reports the fires have destroyed over 10,000 structures, including entire residential neighborhoods.
Affluent areas such as Brentwood and Encino are under threat, with numerous homes reduced to ash.
Containment efforts are ongoing, with the Palisades Fire at approximately 11% containment.
Firefighters are battling strong Santa Ana winds, with gusts up to 70 mph, complicating suppression efforts.
It is reliably gathered that over 1,400 firefighters have been mobilized, including the deployment of more than 1,000 prisoners to assist in combating the flames.
This ugly trend also has economic impact on Los Angeles. The economic toll is substantial, with estimated damages reaching up to $150 billion.
Insurance challenges are mounting, as homeowners face difficulties obtaining coverage and significant rate increases.
Also, there is the air quality and health concerns too. Air quality has significantly deteriorated, posing health risks to residents. Authorities have issued advisories, especially for vulnerable populations, to remain indoors and limit exposure.
Concerns have emerged regarding the potential causes of the wildfires, with reports suggesting that spikes in power grid faults may have been a contributing factor.
An independent investigation is being called for due to firefighters’ complaints.
Inferno in Paradise: The Untold Agony of the Los Angeles Wildfire By Femi Oyewale The sun had barely risen when the sky turned an eerie shade of orange. Smoke curled through the streets, thick and suffocating, as the unforgiving wildfire tore through Los Angeles like a beast unleashed from hell. Sirens wailed, helicopters thundered overhead, and the acrid scent of burning wood and ash choked the air. For Maria Sanchez, it had started with a single ember—a flickering threat on the horizon. Within hours, the firestorm had swallowed her neighborhood whole, reducing decades of memories to smoldering ruins. She had fled with nothing but her daughter, Isabella, and a family photo album clutched in her trembling hands. As they drove away, she watched in horror as the home she and her late husband built together crumbled into flames. Across the city, Jake Holloway, a firefighter, braved the inferno. His unit had been battling the blaze for three days with little rest. He had seen homes, forests, and even animals succumb to the fire’s wrath. But nothing had prepared him for the moment he stumbled upon an elderly man sitting on the curb of a burned-out street, staring blankly at the charred remains of his life. Jake knelt beside him, his own eyes burning—not just from the smoke but from the sheer weight of helplessness. In the evacuation shelters, despair clung to the air. Families huddled together, their faces streaked with soot and tears. A little girl clutched a singed teddy bear, whispering to it as though trying to bring comfort to herself. Volunteers moved swiftly, handing out food and blankets, but nothing could replace what was lost. The wildfire did not just consume homes—it stole lives, dreams, and a sense of security. The death toll rose daily, and even those who survived were left with scars, both visible and invisible. Businesses were gone, livelihoods turned to dust, and communities that once thrived now lay in ashes. But amid the devastation, resilience flickered like a dying ember refusing to be snuffed out. Strangers became family, firefighters became heroes, and amid the wreckage, there was still hope. People vowed to rebuild, to rise from the ashes stronger than before. The Los Angeles wildfire was more than a natural disaster—it was a tragedy etched into the souls of those who lived through it. And though the flames had been extinguished, the pain, loss, and impact would burn in their hearts forever. It would be recalled that as of January 12, 2025, Los Angeles is grappling with multiple devastating wildfires, notably the Palisades and Eaton fires, which have collectively scorched over 38,000 acres. The death toll has tragically risen to at least 16, with 13 individuals reported missing. Sadly, more than 153,000 residents have been evacuated, and an additional 166,000 are under severe warnings. According to reports the fires have destroyed over 10,000 structures, including entire residential neighborhoods. Affluent areas such as Brentwood and Encino are under threat, with numerous homes reduced to ash. Containment efforts are ongoing, with the Palisades Fire at approximately 11% containment. Firefighters are battling strong Santa Ana winds, with gusts up to 70 mph, complicating suppression efforts. It is reliably gathered that over 1,400 firefighters have been mobilized, including the deployment of more than 1,000 prisoners to assist in combating the flames. This ugly trend also has economic impact on Los Angeles. The economic toll is substantial, with estimated damages reaching up to $150 billion. Insurance challenges are mounting, as homeowners face difficulties obtaining coverage and significant rate increases. Also, there is the air quality and health concerns too. Air quality has significantly deteriorated, posing health risks to residents. Authorities have issued advisories, especially for vulnerable populations, to remain indoors and limit exposure. Concerns have emerged regarding the potential causes of the wildfires, with reports suggesting that spikes in power grid faults may have been a contributing factor. An independent investigation is being called for due to firefighters' complaints.

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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Unity in Generosity : Prophet Genesis Unites Faiths at Ibafo Ramadan Lecture (See Video) – Alhaji Arems

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12 hours ago

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March 13, 2025

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Unity in Generosity : Prophet Genesis Unites Faiths at Ibafo Ramadan Lecture (See Video) – Alhaji Arems

 

On March 12, 2025, during a spirited Ramadan lecture in Ibafo, Prophet Genesis once again demonstrated that faith and generosity know no boundaries. In a moment captured on video that has since resonated with audiences far and wide, the Prophet called an elderly woman to the stage. With warmth and conviction, he declared, “Mama, I’m the one people have blessed with this cash – open up your bag, and you can as well get extra nylon bags – take it all.” He went on to reassure her that his personal driver and security team would ensure she got home safely, eliminating any worries about carrying the money.

The heartfelt gesture was part of a lecture themed “Truthfulness brings success,” a mantra that clearly underpins Prophet Genesis’ approach to ministry. Notably, he reiterated that his annual Ramadan gatherings are unique in that he never collects money. According to the Prophet, God has made it clear that accepting money on these occasions would sever his divine connection—a conviction that has guided his practice for years.

What makes this event particularly striking is its interfaith significance. Held during Ramadan—a time when millions of Muslims around the world are fasting—the lecture underscored Prophet Genesis’ commitment to inclusivity. His actions sent a powerful message that genuine compassion and kindness transcend religious labels, uniting communities in shared celebration and mutual respect.

In a world often divided by differences, Prophet Genesis’ demonstration of unconditional generosity and his call for truthfulness serve as a reminder of the unifying power of faith and goodwill.

Watch Video Here : https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMBY9RPus/

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Fake Testimony Lands Woman in Court Over Five-Bedroom Duplex Fraud

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17 hours ago

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March 13, 2025

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Fake Testimony Lands Woman in Court Over Five-Bedroom Duplex Fraud

Fake Testimony Scandal: Woman Who Falsely Claimed Ownership of Duplex Arraigned in Court

The Enugu State Police Command has arraigned Loveth Helen Alo, the woman who falsely claimed ownership of a five-bedroom duplex, before the Enugu North Magisterial District Court. This development follows her sensational but fraudulent testimony at Zion Prayer Ministry in Lagos, where she alleged that divine intervention had gifted her the property.

Spokesperson for the Enugu State Police Command, SP Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed her arraignment in a statement on Tuesday, March 11. According to Ndukwe, Alo was arrested on February 1, 2025, after a petition was filed against her for falsely claiming ownership of a luxury home located in WTC Estate, Enugu.

“The suspect was apprehended by detectives from the Legal Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department following investigations into the fraudulent claims,” Ndukwe stated.

Alo had previously gone viral after storming the Zion Prayer Ministry Movement Outreach in Lagos with an emotional testimony, claiming that God had miraculously blessed her with the house. However, her story unraveled under scrutiny, and she later confessed to fabricating the entire narrative.

Authorities have charged her with five criminal offenses, including fraud, defamation, and attempted property theft. Despite her confession, Alo was granted bail, with the case adjourned to April 9, 2025, for further proceedings.

The incident has sparked widespread debate on social media, with many condemning the misuse of religious platforms for deceit and personal gain. Meanwhile, legal experts warn that Alo could face serious legal consequences if found guilty of attempting to fraudulently claim another person’s property.

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FG MOVES TO FAST-TRACK CONSTRUCTION OF DASIN HAUSA DAM, OFFERS RENEWED HOPE FOR FLOOD-PRONE COMMUNITIES

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1 day ago

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March 12, 2025

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FG MOVES TO FAST-TRACK CONSTRUCTION OF DASIN HAUSA DAM, OFFERS RENEWED HOPE FOR FLOOD-PRONE COMMUNITIES

…as ICRC takes concrete steps to address perennial flooding caused by Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam

 

The Federal Government, through the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), has commenced concrete steps to accelerate the construction of the Dasin Hausa Dam, aiming to end decades of devastating floods affecting Taraba, Adamawa, Benue, and other river basin communities. The dam, first planned in the 1980s as a strategic buffer against floods caused by Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam, has remained stalled for over 40 years, resulting in recurring humanitarian crises.

 

Under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) recently convened a high-level meeting with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited to advance the project through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP). The session, led by ICRC Director-General Dr. Jobson Oseodion Ewalefoh, reviewed implementation timelines, addressed regulatory concerns, and identified immediate actions to expedite construction.

Dr. Ewalefoh emphasised President Tinubu’s directive for innovative private-sector participation in critical infrastructure, highlighting that the Dasin Hausa Dam would mitigate annual flooding disasters, generate over 300 megawatts of electricity, and provide irrigation to more than 150,000 hectares of farmland in Adamawa, Taraba, and Benue states.

“The completion of Dasin Hausa Dam is not just about stopping floods—it’s about securing our future,” Dr Ewalefoh stated. “We have witnessed enough devastation from floodwaters released from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam. This dam will protect communities, preserve livelihoods, boost industrial growth, and create thousands of jobs through enhanced irrigation farming and stable power supply.”

Engr. Lamu Audu, Managing Director of Mainstream Energy Solutions, expressed the company’s commitment to mobilising private-sector funds and technical expertise for the dam’s completion. He confirmed strong interest from international financiers, donor agencies, and the World Bank in supporting the project.

The Ministry of Water Resources assured stakeholders of its full support and agreed to set clear timelines to resolve all outstanding issues swiftly.

With this renewed momentum under President Tinubu’s administration, the Dasin Hausa Dam project is positioned as a transformative infrastructure investment, promising lasting solutions to flooding and unlocking significant economic opportunities for the nation.

Signed: Ifeanyi Nwoko Acting Head, Media and Publicity 07034335888 12 March, 2025 For enquiries send a mail to: info@icrc.gov.ng

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