Vinícius Júnior hits double as Madrid thrash Villarreal

Real Madrid secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu, with goals from Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé, and a spirited team display.

The hosts dominated possession from the onset, controlling 81% of the ball in the opening stages and keeping Villarreal pinned in their own half.

Despite several early half-chances, Real had to wait until the second half to make their breakthrough.

After a goalless first period, Real Madrid found the breakthrough just two minutes after the restart.

Vinícius Júnior showcased his trademark quick feet and dribbling ability, weaving through multiple yellow shirts before his deflected effort wrong-footed goalkeeper Arnau Tenas and found the back of the net to make it 1-0 in the 47th minute.

Villarreal, however, refused to be subdued and attempted to respond swiftly through Georges Mikautadze and Pape Gueye, who both came close to testing Thibaut Courtois.

Real Madrid extended their lead in the 69th minute when Pape Gueye’s handball inside the box prompted referee Guillermo Cuadra to point to the spot. Vinícius stepped up confidently and, despite Tenas getting a hand to the ball, slotted home to make it 2-0.

The goal came after a series of substitutions by Alonso, including the introduction of Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga, which injected more energy and precision into Madrid’s midfield.

Villarreal managed to pull one back just four minutes later when Gueye’s clever pass found Mikautadze at the edge of the box. The Georgian forward unleashed a pinpoint strike into the bottom left corner, reducing the deficit to 2-1 and giving the visitors a brief glimmer of hope.

That hope, however, was extinguished in the 81st minute. Brahim Díaz, who had just come off the bench, slipped an incisive pass to Mbappé inside the penalty area.

The French star calmly slotted past Tenas from close range to restore Madrid’s two-goal cushion at 3-1. Moments later, Mbappé limped off after appearing to suffer a minor knock, replaced by Rodrygo.

In stoppage time, Real Madrid continued to press for a fourth goal. Federico Valverde sent a fierce long-range effort over the bar, while Bellingham saw his late strike blocked inside the box. Villarreal offered little in response, especially after Santiago Mourino was sent off for a second yellow card in the 77th minute.

Oil prices fall as OPEC plans to produce more

The world oil market is facing a shock as OPEC plans to increase oil production. Oil prices fell again on Thursday, marking the fourth straight day of decline.

Brent crude dropped to its lowest level since early June, as traders worried about too much oil in the market.

Sources say OPEC+ may agree to raise production by as much as 500,000 barrels per day in November three times more than the increase for October. Saudi Arabia is reportedly leading this move to regain its share of the market.

Jorge Montepeque, Managing Director of Onyx Capital Group, said some banks, including Macquarie, are warning of a possible ‘super glut’ meaning there could be far more oil than needed, which is lowering market confidence.

Meanwhile, the finance ministers of the G7 countries said on Wednesday they plan to increase pressure on Russia by targeting those who keep buying Russian oil.

The United States also plans to give Ukraine intelligence to help with long-range missile strikes on Russian energy sites. According to officials, this will help Ukraine attack refineries, pipelines, and other key facilities to cut Russia’s oil revenue.

UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo said there are renewed concerns that Russian oil supplies could be disrupted. However, he added that unless actual disruptions occur, the effect on oil prices will likely be small.

Jonathan reacts to claims he linked Buhari with Boko Haram

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has dismissed viral claims suggesting he accused the late President Muhammadu Buhari of having ties to Boko Haram, describing the reports as ‘twisted and misleading.’

The rumours began circulating after Jonathan’s remarks at the public presentation of a book by former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor (retd), were allegedly misrepresented by some media outlets.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan said his words were deliberately taken out of context.

‘At no time did Dr. Jonathan suggest, imply, or insinuate that President Buhari had any connection with Boko Haram or that he supported the group in any form,’ the statement read.

He explained that his comments were meant to highlight how Boko Haram used deceit and manipulation in its early days to sow confusion in Nigeria’s political space.

‘The reference was to a well-documented episode when various individuals and factions falsely claimed to represent Boko Haram and named prominent Nigerians as possible mediators – without their consent,’ he clarified.

According to him, the terrorist group often invoked the names of respected figures like Buhari to ‘exploit political divisions and undermine public trust.’

Jonathan also questioned the logic of the false claims, asking rhetorically:

‘If indeed Buhari was their chosen negotiator, why didn’t Boko Haram end their evil campaign when he became president?’

He further stressed that both he and Buhari fought terrorism during their respective administrations, sharing ‘a common commitment to peace and stability.’

Jonathan urged Nigerians to disregard any political mischief or sensational distortion of his comments.

‘Dr. Jonathan remains committed to peace, unity, and the strengthening of democratic values in Nigeria. The nation’s progress depends on truth, not twisted narratives,’ his office said.

Five arrested as Lagos seals market for violating sanitation laws

The Lagos State Government has indefinitely shut down Itedo Market in Lekki due to repeated environmental violations and illegal roadside trading.

The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced the closure via his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, stating that five individuals were arrested during the enforcement exercise for breaching state laws.

He wrote: ‘This morning, we took decisive action at Itedo Market, Lekki, which has now been shut down indefinitely due to repeated environmental violations and illegal roadside trading. Five individuals have been arrested for flouting state laws.’

Wahab added that three Black Maria vehicles had been stationed at the market to deter further illegal activity and ensure public order.

‘Three Black Marias have been stationed at the location to deter further illegal activity and maintain order. Lagos will not tolerate disregard for environmental regulations or unauthorised street trading.

‘Our commitment to restoring sanity, ensuring public safety, and upholding the rule of law remains unwavering.’

The closure forms part of the state’s ongoing clampdown on environmental infractions and unauthorised trading across major markets and roadways.

Police smash petrol smuggling syndicate in Sokoto, Katsina

Operatives of Nigeria Police Force Border Patrol Unit have successfully intercepted and recovered over 100 Jerry cans of petrol being illegally transported to Niger Republic through Sokoto and Katsina States.

CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, Force Public Relations Officer revealed this in a statement on Saturday.

According to the statement, police operatives while on stop-and-search duty along Illela-Sokoto Highway intercepted a vehicle loaded with eighty jerrycans of PMS and arrested the driver Yasir Adamu.

‘After preliminary investigation, it was discovered that the suspect was attempting to smuggle the petroleum product across the border into the Niger Republic,’ the statement indicated.

The statement also indicated that operatives of the Border Patrol unit in Katsina intercepted and recovered thirty-five Jerry cans, each containing twenty-five litres of petrol which were about to be transported into Niger Republic.

‘The suspects, on sighting the team, abandoned the exhibits and fled. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the suspects and bring them to justice,’ said Hundeyin.

The statement also quoted the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun as commending the officers who intercepted the Jerry cans of petrol for their vigilance and professionalism.

The IGP also reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to sustain robust operations against all forms of economic crimes.

Osun: Adeleke orders probe of alleged killings by Amotekun operatives

Osun governor, Ademola Adeleke, has ordered investigation into alleged killing of three people by operatives of Amotekun Corps in Akinlalu community, Ife North Local Government Area of the state.

The spokesperson for the Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed who announced this in a statement on Saturday also revealed that Adeleke had sent a top level government delegation to the community.

According to the statement, Adeleke expressed deep shock at the deaths of some individuals from the town after receiving a preliminary report from his Special Adviser on Security Matters on the incident.

‘After receiving the preliminary report, further briefings were presented to the Deputy Governor by the security team with a State Security council meeting now scheduled for Monday to further deliberate on the issue and other emerging security threat in the state.

‘Adeleke has vowed to dig into the root of the fatal encounter between the people of the town and the Amotekun security service, directing that a high powered delegation of government and service chiefs will visit the affected town after the scheduled state security council meeting on Monday.

‘Those expected on the delegation includes the Special Adviser on Security Matters to the state governor, the Commissioner for Information, the Commissioner for political affairs, the Commissioner for Transportation, the Attorney General of the State, the Special Adviser on Legal Matters to the governor and service chiefs of the various security agencies.

‘I am a rule of law Governor. This matter is being investigated and any infraction will be dealt with within the context of the law. I have ordered a security council meeting on this incident and others such as fears of spill over from Kwara banditry attacks.

‘I sent my condolences to the victims of this unfortunate incident. I urge the good people of Akinlalu to keep calm as our government acts on the matter. I feel their pains but investigations are ongoing’, the governor was quoted as saying.

The Governor also commiserated with all those who lost loved ones in the tragic incident and prayed to God almighty to comfort them.

Amotekun Corps Shot three dead in Akinpelu – Group

Recall that a group, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, had on Thursday accused operatives of Amotekun Corps of killing three members of the same family and injuring several others in Akinlalu community

The group also alleged that the Osun State Amotekun commander attempted to cover up the murder by presenting the victims as armed bandits, despite evidence that they were innocent civilians were attacked inside their compound.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Convener, Olusola Badero, through its Home Director, Princess Balogun, the group said the victims who were not caught with any weapons or incriminating items were shot at close range, and left to die in their compound.

‘Shockingly, the Amotekun operatives later returned, opened fire on those who came to rescue the injured, and carried away the corpses, while labeling them as bandits. This is not only barbaric but also a complete betrayal of public trust.’

‘We are a people of peace and law-abiding citizens. But we cannot continue to fold our arms and watch our people killed like animals by those empowered to defend them. Governor Adeleke must demonstrate leadership by bringing the killers to justice and suspending the commander who orchestrated a false narrative to shield his men from accountability,’ the union said.

It also accused Adeleke of indifference, saying that since the killings occurred, he had not ordered any investigation or arrest.

The group vowed vow to pursue legal actions both locally and internationally if justice is not served.

It gave the Governor seven-day ultimatum to investigate the incident and bring the culprits to justice.

‘We will not allow this case to be buried. We will mobilise our people in Yorubaland and in the diaspora to ensure that the truth prevails and that the victims do not die in vain. If Governor Adeleke refuses to act, history will remember him as a leader who failed to protect his people,’ the Yoruba Union added.

Kalu to Tinubu: Demolition of Igbo properties in Lagos makes our hearts bleed

The Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Ben Kalu has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in what he called demolition of the houses and offices of South Easterners in Lagos State

Kalu made the request on Friday while speaking during the reception at the Enyimba International Stadium organised in honour of Tinubu after inaugurating some projects in Abia.

Kalu pleaded with the president to speak with the Lagos State governor to allow the Igbo people whose houses have not been destroyed already to regularize their documents.

He said that destruction at this time of hardship makes the hearts of victims bleed, stressing that the need for an amicable resolution rather than destruction of property.

‘I also want to say that the destruction and the demolition of the houses, the offices of our brothers in Lagos makes our hearts bleed,’ he said.

The Deputy Speaker also urged the President to grant a sea port to enhance trade in the Southeast zone.

‘Mr President, we want to thank you for what you are doing in our state through our governor and what you are doing around the south East.

‘But I must say it is about time that we had another sea port in the South East; South Easterners are mainly traders and We need a sea port to enhance our trading.

Kalu said governance is about partnership hence the state must partner the federal government and the federal government must partner the state.

He said although he is an All Progressives Congress (APC) party member, it is his character to support the governors of his state to ensure the state succeeded and promised to support Alex Otti to succeed.

‘I have gone with him from the morning, visiting all the projects till this evening and I have seen the state’s projects carried out by the governor and for that we commend him.

‘But as a member and citizen of this state, I request, like Oliver Twist, that the governor should do more,’ he said.

He thanked the president for his assistance in the projects in Abia and urged the Abia Information Commissioner and media houses in Abia to accord Tinubu his merited credits.

Kalu said this would induce the president to do more for the state and the South East which he had shown love to.

Rap Goddess releases Libra Woman

Libra woman, Rap Goddess, was born on September 30th and she is known for her charm, social grace, lyrical prowess, love of balance and harmony, often called Goddess of Rap for her anthemic ode to female empowerment she values fairness and intellectual conversation but she is decisive with decision-making and may hide her true emotions to maintain peace and balance, sometimes leading to mood swings.

Ruled by the planet Venus, she has an innate charm and appreciation for beauty, making her an attractive and logical problem-solver who enjoys making others feel welcome and entertained with her timeless music.

Rap Goddess personality and Traits; As a Libra Woman she’s charming and social, Rap Goddess has natural social butterflies, comfortable in new situations, and skilled at drawing people in with their humor and intellect.

Maureen James, who is widely known as Rap Goddess, is diplomatic and peaceful: she’s drawn to balance and harmony, excels at mediating disputes, and dislikes unfairness, often seeking peaceful solutions.

As a Libra Woman, she is very intellectual and logical: She has strong reasoning powers and enjoys intelligent and healthy conversations, even engaging in logical arguments.

She is often Indecisive, her careful consideration of all possibilities can make it difficult sometimes to make quick decisions.

Rap Goddess is a lover of act, music, creativity, and balance. In her first verse of her hit song, Libra Woman, she said;

I operate from the sense

Of balance

You gotta understand

a libra woman

Is an independent woman

With a big heart

And her true essences

Is her inner beauty

When she steps into a room

It magnetic

Her true currency is not of the world

Which is the paper money

It’s her big energy

That’s her true currency

She’s the boss queen

The captain of her own ship

She sensitive

And delicate heart

that few get to experience

she’s a true love of nature

A libra woman loves so hard

A libra woman is the leader of the zodiac

Selfless and caring

with decisiveness

But her intuition is so strong

I’m a libra

With her natural grace and presence

She’s equilibrium

And she’s the balance

”Hate is not an option”- Tinubu’s emotional message at APC chairman’s mother’s funeral

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday urged Nigerians to shun hate and embrace unity across religious lines, declaring that ‘hate is not an option for us.’

Speaking at the funeral service of the mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, in Plateau State, the President used his own family as an example of peaceful coexistence, stressing that love and understanding can bridge any divide.

‘I inherited Islam from my parents and haven’t changed, but my wife is a pastor. She prays for me, and there’s no conflict. I have never tried to convince her to convert,’ Tinubu said.

The President continued by emphasizing the need for mutual respect among people of different faiths, insisting that Nigerians are all accountable to one divine authority.

‘I believe in the freedom of religion. We are praying to the same God. We are answerable to the same Almighty God. We will account to Him,’ he added.

Tinubu said faith should never be a reason for division or hostility, adding that Nigeria’s diversity will only become a strength when tolerance and respect prevail.

‘Our differences are not meant to divide us but to strengthen us. Hate is not an option,’ he stressed.

He concluded by praying for the soul of the departed to rest in peace and for God to comfort the bereaved family.

New Coalition emerges ahead of 2027 elections

A new political movement, the New Direction for Nigeria Movement (NEDMO), has emerged with a bold promise to fight corruption and restore credibility to Nigeria’s political system

The group says it is committed to ending decades of bad leadership, injustice, and rigged elections that have hindered the nation’s progress.

The convener, Comrade Mark Adebayo, made this known during a press conference held in Abuja.

He explained that the movement was formed out of frustration with what he described as a ‘broken political system’ that no longer reflects the will of the people.

‘We are tired of leaders who manipulate elections and ignore the suffering of Nigerians,’ Adebayo declared.

‘The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must be reformed. We can no longer tolerate an electoral body that betrays the trust of citizens and suffocates democracy.’

According to Adebayo, NEDMO’s mission is to build a new Nigeria founded on integrity, justice, and transparency. The group plans to mobilize Nigerians from all walks of life youths, professionals, and grassroots communities to reclaim the political space from corrupt politicians.

NEDMO is demanding a total overhaul of INEC, stronger electoral laws, and the selection of leaders who are honest, competent, and patriotic.

Adebayo emphasized that real change will only come when Nigerians unite behind a shared vision of progress and accountability.

The movement has already established a presence in over 600 local government areas and is working to expand to every part of the country before the 2027 general elections.

NEDMO leaders believe that their growing network of volunteers and supporters could make it a major force in shaping Nigeria’s future.

Adebayo called on citizens to join the movement and take responsibility for building a nation that works for everyone.

‘Nigeria belongs to all of us,’ he said. ‘If we don’t act now, the same corrupt system will continue to rob future generations of hope.’

As the country looks ahead to another election cycle, many Nigerians are watching closely to see if NEDMO can deliver on its promise.

For now, the coalition’s emergence has reignited public debate about the need for credible leadership and genuine reform in Africa’s largest democracy.