Rayo Vallecano hold Real Madrid to frustrating goalless draw

La Liga leaders Real Madrid were held to a disappointing 0-0 draw by Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, missing a chance to extend their lead at the top of the table, though they remain five points clear for now.

It was a frustrating afternoon for Xabi Alonso’s side, who managed just five shots on target as Rayo became the first team this season to keep a clean sheet against the league leaders.

Despite boasting a star-studded line-up led by Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, Real struggled to find any attacking rhythm at the Estadio de Vallecas, where they have now failed to win for four consecutive seasons.

Rayo’s goalkeeper, Augusto Batalla, was the hero of the match, pulling off several vital saves to deny Madrid, while the home side’s disciplined defending earned them a valuable point.

Mbappe, La Liga’s top scorer with 13 goals, endured a quiet afternoon — restricted to just one shot — as Real’s attack lacked sharpness and creativity.

The draw gives Barcelona an opportunity to cut the gap to three points when they face Celta Vigo later on Sunday. Rayo, meanwhile, stay 12th on 15 points after another resilient display.

nalysts and fans were quick to question Real Madrid’s positional play, with football commentator Kiyan Sobhani noting:

“When you need players in between the lines or in the box, they’re not there. When the ball is far away from those zones, they’re in those positions you needed them earlier. Positionally, this team has suffered regression.”

Despite dominating possession, Los Blancos rarely looked threatening. Castilla graduate Jorge De Frutos came closest for Rayo, firing just over the bar in the second half, while Madrid failed to muster any serious response.

Tamil Nadu woman, lesbian partner arrested after husband alleges they killed son

Tamil Nadu man, Suresh, has alleged that his wife and her partner killed their five-month-old son.

Police have arrested both women as investigations continue into the suspicious death.

The incident, according to INDIA TODAY took place in Chinnati village in Krishnagiri district on November 5 when the infant fell unconscious while feeding and was declared dead when taken to hospital.

Suresh alleged that his wife Barathi, and her partner Sumithra, killed his son. Both the accused have been arrested by the police.

Suresh, a 38-year-old day laborer, and Barathi, 26, are also parents to two daughters, aged four and five. Their youngest child, a son, was born five months ago.

ccording to preliminary information, the infant was taken to Kelamangalam Government Hospital after becoming unconscious while feeding. The child was pronounced dead upon arrival and subsequently buried.

The case took a dramatic turn after Suresh claimed that his son was intentionally killed by his wife. Suspecting foul play, he checked Barathi’s phone and discovered photographs and voice messages implicating her and her partner, Sumithra. He then informed the police.

Police sources said that Barathi and Sumithra had been in a relationship for the past three years.

Tensions reportedly arose after Barathi’s childbirth, as the couple could not spend much time together, which allegedly led to the fatal incident.

Suresh also handed over a recorded phone conversation in which Barathi allegedly confessed to killing the infant. Following this, the Kelamangalam Police arrested Barathi and Sumithra. Further investigation is ongoing.

INDIA TODAY

Edo partners with FG to lift 54,000 women economically

The Edo State Government, in partnership with the Federal Government, has empowered no fewer than 54,000 women through various economic programmes.

The State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, revealed this while speaking to journalists about the ministry’s work over the past year.

She said the ministry trained women in different skills, provided access to small loans, and supported entrepreneurship to help them become financially independent.

According to her, the programmes included training in areas such as Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle conversion and electric vehicle maintenance.

Abdallah explained that the ministry worked with several organisations, including the German International Cooperation (GIZ) and the Society for the Empowerment of Young Persons (SEYP).

It also partnered with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment (FMITI) to create more opportunities for women.

She noted that the ministry has continued campaigns against human trafficking, helping people understand its dangers and working with relevant agencies to stop it.

The Commissioner also said the government is committed to empowering the girl child through education and skills training, adding that young people are being encouraged to develop positive values and attitudes that will help build a better society.

Abdallah stated that rape victims are receiving medical, emotional, and psychological support from the ministry, while offenders are being brought to justice.

She said the government continues to push for tougher punishments for those convicted of sexual violence.

During a visit by members of the Afemai Daughters and Wives Association (ADAWA), Abdallah assured them that Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration remains committed to women’s empowerment, inclusion, and sustainable development.

She emphasised that the government is determined to ensure equal opportunities for all residents of Edo State, particularly women and vulnerable groups.

Abdallah praised ADAWA for its support and unity and encouraged continued partnership to promote community development.

In her remarks, ADAWA President, Hajiya Zuliat Bello-Osagie, congratulated Mrs. Abdallah on her appointment and praised her commitment to women’s advancement.

The association’s Vice President and former Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajiya Maimuna Momodu, also commended the ministry’s achievements, expressing confidence in Abdallah’s leadership and its positive impact on women’s participation in the state’s growth.

Anambra Decides: Tension as APC responds to Soludo’s election victory

Femi Fabunmi

Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, the Candidate of the All Progressives Congress, (APC) in Yesterday’s governorship election in Anambra state, has dismissed the victory of the candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Prof Chukwuma Soludo.

Ukachukwu who spoke with pressmen on Sunday said that theelection was riddled with intimidation, violence against his supporters, most of whom sustained injuries, lost homes and vehicles.

The APC candidate hinted that he has started to make consultations with his supporters, stakeholders, party agents across the state regarding his next line of action.

He said: “We thank members of our team, they are all gallant soldiers, they are all winners in different ways, including those who were intimidated in many ways, their cars burnt, houses burnt, even my deputy who was intimidated into running for her dear life when they threatened her. All these people are winners.

“I called you here to tell you that we are speaking with our agents and collating information about what happened on that day, and we will talk when the time is right.

PM News reports that INEC in the early hours of Sunday declared incumbent governor, Chukwuma Soludo of All Progressives Grand Alliance, (APGA) as the winner of the 2025 guber election in Anambra state

Why I don’t drive my luxury cars Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo, Al-Nassr striker, has revealed why his fleet of luxury cars is more for display than use.

In a recent interview on Piers Morgan’s Uncensored, Ronaldo explained that his garage, which some estimate holds around 40 vehicles, is more of an investment than a playground.

“Three weeks ago, I bought a car,” Ronaldo said. “That is for collection. It’s like you buy a frame. I’m not gonna drive that car. It’s like investment.”

The Portuguese forward admitted he rarely drives the cars, especially in Saudi Arabia where traffic is a nightmare. He also revealed that during a recent trip to Madrid, he didn’t even check if his cars were there.

Ronaldo’s favorites in his collection are his Bugattis, which he described as “different beasts,” though he noted that cars are no longer a personal passion.

The superstar also touched on his personal life, revealing details about his proposal to fiancee Georgina Rodriguez, who is hoping for a small wedding ceremony.

SOVCI demands action to protect Orphans across Nigeria, Africa

As the world observes World Orphans Day on 10 November, the Smiles For Orphans and Vulnerable Children Initiative (SOVCI), has urged Nigerians and the global community to step up support for orphaned children, particularly in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Speaking ahead of the day’s commemorations, Euriel Momah, Founder and Team Lead of SOVCI, highlighted the staggering statistics:

“There are approximately 140 million orphaned children worldwide, with 17.5 million in Nigeria alone. These children face significant challenges, including poverty, limited access to education and healthcare, and vulnerability to abuse and exploitation,” he said.

In line with efforts to address these challenges, SOVCI is organising a Musical Concert and Fundraising Event under the theme: “Sing for Hope, Give for Change”.

Scheduled for November 16, 2025, at Makanjuola Hall, LASU, the event will celebrate individuals and organisations that have demonstrated remarkable support for orphaned and vulnerable children, while also raising funds to provide education, healthcare, and protection for these young lives.

Momah emphasised the importance of public participation, saying that “Every contribution can make a tangible difference in the lives of these children. Our aim is to mobilise communities, organisations, and governments to provide opportunities that these children so desperately need.”

He also noted the growing challenges faced by orphans in Sub-Saharan Africa, saying that rising numbers of orphaned children in Nigeria are exacerbating social and economic pressures, making awareness and support even more critical.

Momah said interested members of the public could support the initiative or obtain further information by contacting Euriel Momah via or 0802313540.

As Nigeria observes World Orphans Day, SOVCI’s event underscores a call to action: through collective effort, vulnerable children can be given hope, protection, and the chance to thrive.

NPFL: Katsina United breaks silence on viral ‘player’s neck slit’

Femi Fabunmi

Katsina United Football Club has dismissed as false the circulating rumour alleging that its supporters engaged in acts of indiscipline and that someone was injured during the league match against Barau FC, which ended in a 11 draw.

In a statement issued by the club’s Media Director, Nasir Gide, Katsina United described the viral picture accompanying the rumour as the handiwork of “mischief makers and unpatriotic individuals” bent on tarnishing the image of the club.

ccording to the statement, a thorough review and confirmation from match officials, security operatives, and independent observers present at the stadium revealed that the game was conducted in a peaceful atmosphere, with no record of violence or injury.

“All reports confirm that the match was conducted under a peaceful atmosphere.

Spectators behaved responsibly, and no case of injury or violence was recorded before, during, or after the match,” the club said.

Katsina United commended its supporters and the people of Katsina State for their maturity, sportsmanship, and continued commitment to peace and harmony.

The club noted that Katsina has long maintained a reputation for orderliness and respect in sporting engagements.

The club also cautioned members of the public against spreading unverified claims capable of creating unnecessary tension, urging sports lovers to always verify information before sharing.

Katsina United reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peaceful sporting activities and ensuring a safe and friendly environment for all fans.

Oyetunde reaffirms dedication to Training, calls on Lagos NUJ members to ignore hate campaigns

The Deputy National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Dr. Mrs. Abimbola Oyetunde has reaffirmed the National Secretariat’s commitment to strengthening professional capacity among journalists, promising to facilitate training opportunities for members of the Lagos State Council.

She also urged members to shun campaigns of hatred and maintain unity ahead of next year’s council elections.

Dr. Oyetunde made this known while addressing members at a Special Congress of the Lagos Council to welcome her back in Lagos, where she shared her journey through the ranks of the union, while emphasising the importance of continuous development in the profession.

Recalling her early days in unionism, she said her involvement started at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Lagos Operations. Her passion for fairness and members’ welfare led her to be elected as Chapel Chairman, and later, Secretary of the Lagos State Council of NUJ. Her dedication subsequently earned her the position of Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the NUJ National President, then member of the NUJ National Trustee, before emerging as the National Deputy President.

Dr. Oyetunde stressed that journalism today demands constant upskilling due to the fast-paced evolution of media technology and audience expectations.

She pledged the National Secretariat’s resolve to collaborate with the Lagos Council to organize training programs that will expose members to modern skills and improve professional standards.

“Training is no longer optional for us. The world is moving fast. A journalist who stops learning will be left behind. We must constantly upgrade ourselves to remain relevant and respected,” she said.

She further encouraged members to conduct themselves responsibly as next year’s Lagos Council elections draw closer.

She urged them to reject campaigns of hate speech, character assassination, and divisive rhetoric, emphasising that internal unity must remain a core value of the union.

“Elections are temporary, but our brotherhood and professional identity remain permanent. Let us disagree in ideas, but not in spirit. Let us promote maturity and respect in everything we do,” she stated.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Lagos State Council of the NUJ, expressed delight at having Dr. Oyetunde back in the council.

He described her presence as symbolic and inspiring, noting that her leadership journey remains a reference point for journalists, especially younger professionals in Lagos.

He commended her loyalty to the union, her proven track record of service, and her continued interest in the growth of the Lagos Council.

He assured her that the council remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote training, welfare, and unity among members.

The Special Congress was attended by senior media professionals, council leaders, and members from various chapels.

Dr. Oyetunde’s remarks were widely applauded, with participants describing her message as timely, encouraging, and reflective of the values the union stands for.

Speaker after speaker, spoke glowingly of her dedication and her excellent performance while at Radio Nigeria Bronze FM, Benin.

Insecurity: UK warns against travel to six Nigerian states

The United Kingdom (UK)’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office has issued a fresh warning against travel to parts of Nigeria, citing escalating insecurity, violent crime, terrorism, and kidnappings across multiple regions.

In its latest Foreign Travel Advice GOV.UK, the FCDO stated that insecurity was increasing across Nigeria.

“Kidnapping, violent crime, and intercommunal violence occur throughout all regions of Nigeria,” it said.

The advisory urged British nationals to exercise extreme caution, review safety procedures, and ensure they have contingency plans in place.

The FCDO advised against all travel to Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Katsina, and Zamfara states, citing a “high and increasing threat from Boko Haram or Islamic State West Africa, particularly around transport hubs, religious areas and large gatherings.”

The statement warned that “humanitarian personnel, vehicles, supplies, and infrastructure can be targeted by terrorists and criminals.”

In addition, the UK government advised against all but essential travel to Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Plateau, and Taraba states, as well as the outer suburbs of Abuja within the Federal Capital Territory.

The FCDO said, “Violent crime, often involving firearms, has increased and spread from the outer suburbs to more central, wealthier areas of the city.”

It added that “British Government staff in Nigeria have been advised to restrict travel to an area broadly within the Abuja metropolitan area.”

Protests in Abuja were also noted as potential flashpoints.

“There are protests in Abuja from time to time, which can turn violent. Monitor local media, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and follow instructions from local police and security forces,” it added.

The advisory paints a particularly alarming picture of the North-East region, where “regular military operations are ongoing in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states” and there remains “a risk of retaliatory attacks.”

Those in Maiduguri were cautioned that “if security were to deteriorate any further, it could be extremely difficult for you to leave the city.”

In the South-East and South-South regions, the FCDO warns against all travel to “the riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states.”

The department stated that “militant groups are active across the Niger Delta region and have carried out many attacks on oil and gas infrastructure.”

It further cautioned that “there’s a high risk of armed robbery, criminality and kidnap” in the region.

The advisory also raised concern over “secessionist groups active in the south-east,” noting that “attacks and violent clashes often occur with the military and other security forces” and warning travellers that “although foreign nationals are not normally targeted, there is a risk you could be caught in an attack.”

In the South-West, including Lagos, the government described violent crimes such as “mugging, kidnapping, car-jacking and armed robbery” as “common, particularly in the larger cities.”

While large-scale terrorist attacks are rare, “Islamic State West Africa claimed two attacks in 2022,” though none targeted foreign nationals.

1 killed, 2 injured in road crash on Sagamu-Benin Expressway

By Joy Akinsanya

The Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE) said that one person died, and two others were injured in a road crash on Saturday along the Sagamu-Benin Expressway in Odogbolu Local Government Area.

The Corps’ Public Relations Officer, Mr Babatunde Akinbiyi, confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday in Abeokuta that a road accident had occurred on Saturday evening at about 5:20 p.m. at Ijebu-Ode Express Trailer Park.

He stated that the crash involved a containerized truck with registration number KTU 357 XX and a white bus with registration number DGB 650 XA.

kinbiyi added that a preliminary investigation had revealed that the accident was caused by excessive speeding on the part of the bus driver.

“Eyewitnesses said the bus driver, while driving at high speed, lost control and rammed into the stationary truck from the rear as it was about to navigate the expressway from the trailer park.

“There were five occupants in both vehicles, two in the truck and three in the bus.

“Two passengers from the bus sustained minor injuries, while the driver of the bus died on the spot,” Akinbiyi said.

The TRACE spokesman said its operatives and that of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) had evacuated the deceased to the General Hospital Mortuary in Ijebu-Ode, while the injured victims were receiving treatment.

He added that TRACE officials had worked in collaboration with the FRSC and the Police to control traffic and ensure the swift removal of the accidented vehicles.

“The containerized truck and the bus have been taken to the Ijebu-Ode Police Area Command, Igbeba, for further investigation,” he said.

kinbiyi added that although traffic was initially disrupted, TRACE operatives professionally managed the situation, restoring normal vehicular movement shortly after the evacuation.