Jury selection begins in Elon Musk's high-stakes OpenAI lawsuit
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Jury selection has commenced in the legal dispute between Elon Musk and OpenAI, where Musk accuses his co-founders of betraying a non-profit mission to develop artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity, rather than for financial gain. This trial, taking place across the bay from San Francisco, pits Musk, the world's richest person, against a startup he once supported and now competes with in the AI sector. OpenAI's ChatGPT is a significant competitor to Grok, the chatbot developed by Musk's xAI lab. Wedbush analyst Dan Ives described the situation as a "tech soap opera" that investors will closely monitor, noting the personal nature of the feud between Musk and OpenAI Chief Executive Sam Altman. The lawsuit highlights a broader debate about whether AI should serve a select few or society as a whole. Court filings indicate that Altman convinced Musk to back OpenAI in 2015 as a co-founder for a non-profit lab, with its technology intended to "belong to the world." Musk invested millions into the lab before his departure. OpenAI later established a commercial subsidiary to secure the substantial funding required for data centers to power its technology. Microsoft has invested billions in OpenAI, and its CEO, Satya Nadella, is expected to testify. Musk argues he was misled about OpenAI's altruistic mission. OpenAI, based in San Francisco, has countered in court filings that its separation from Musk was due to his desire for absolute control, not its non-profit status. O
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Oby Ajih, the South-East Zonal Woman Leader of the All Progressives Congress, stated that President Bola Tinubu is creating opportunities that could lead to a woman becoming Nigeria’s president. Speaking at the Abia APC Women Mid-Year Prayer Summit and Widows Empowerment Programme in Umuahia, Ajih noted that women are now being included in national affairs and will no longer face hunger. She added that First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu acknowledged women's challenges and encouraged them, assuring that their situation would improve after the 2027 elections. Lady C.C. Erondu, the Abia APC Woman Leader and event organizer, shared her understanding of widows' struggles as a widow herself and promised support from the First Lady. Erondu also expressed optimism that President Tinubu's administration would create employment for youths. Uzor Azubuike, the APC candidate for Aba North and South Federal Constituency, commended Erondu's efforts in organizing the program.
The Federal University Birnin Kebbi has confirmed the death of Zaharadeen Nuhu, a 300-level Biochemistry student, who was killed in an attack by suspected thieves. The incident occurred at a private hostel in Kalgo Local Government Area of Kebbi State, where Nuhu sustained severe machete injuries. He was rushed to a hospital but died in the early hours of Thursday. The university's Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Ibrahim Magawata, stated that the deceased, who hailed from Niger State, was attacked at his off-campus residence. The university management has contacted the Nigeria Police Force, Kalgo Division, and investigations are underway. Security patrols have been intensified in Kalgo and other off-campus areas. A meeting is scheduled with private hostel owners to implement stricter security measures, including improved lighting and night guards. Students are urged to remain calm, vigilant, and report suspicious activities. The university expressed its commitment to student safety and welfare. Nuhu was buried on Thursday after a funeral prayer at the Federal Teaching Hospital mosque in Birnin Kebbi. The university management extended condolences to his family, friends, and the student community.
BreakingThe 2026 World Cup commenced with co-hosts Mexico securing an early advantage over South Africa, with Julian Quinones scoring in the ninth minute at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. This marked the beginning of a nearly six-week tournament featuring 48 teams across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, projected to generate a record $13 billion in revenue. The opening ceremony included performances by Shakira and Burna Boy. Despite scuffles outside the stadium and criticism regarding ticket prices and visa issues, FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended the tournament's organization, citing affordable entry prices and the challenges of international events. He also addressed the controversy surrounding Somali referee Omar Artan, who was denied entry to the US, and highlighted Iran's participation amidst geopolitical tensions. Infantino praised former US President Donald Trump for his role in securing the World Cup for the United States. South Korea and the Czech Republic are scheduled to play the second game, while Spain, France, and England are considered favorites, with Lionel Messi leading reigning champions Argentina.