EPL Review: Nottingham end United’s winning streak, Wolves falter, Arsenal extend lead

Nottingham Forest earned a dramatic 2-2 draw against Manchester United at the City Ground, claiming their first Premier League point under new manager Sean Dyche.

Super Amad’s brilliant strike rescued a point for the hosts, while a crucial clearance off the line by Murillo denied Amad Diallo the winner for United.

The Red Devils saw their winning streak come to an end but remain unbeaten in their last four matches.

t Molineux, bottom club Wolves suffered a 2-0 defeat to Fulham, piling pressure on manager Nuno Pereira. The loss leaves Wolves languishing at the foot of the table as they struggle to find form in a season that has started poorly.

Meanwhile, league leaders Arsenal maintained their top spot with a convincing 2-0 victory over newly promoted Burnley at Turf Moor.

oals from Gyokeres and Rice secured all three points for the Gunners, extending their lead at the summit and reinforcing their title credentials this season.

It was a weekend of contrasting fortunes in the Premier League: Forest take a step forward under Dyche, Wolves remain in trouble, and Arsenal continue their march at the top.

’Short man devil’ Odumodublvck publicly disowns M.I

Nigerian rapper Odumodublvck has launched a fresh attack on hip-hop legend M.I Abaga, accusing him of being a “fencist” and claiming he no longer holds any respect for the veteran rapper.

The outburst, shared via Odumodublvck’s X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, comes amid his ongoing feud with fellow rapper Blaqbonez. According to him, M.I was aware of alleged conspiracies against him but chose to remain neutral, a move he described as cowardly.

In the post, Odumodublvck said M.I only maintains a “good guy” public image but lacks sincerity in private matters.

He wrote: MI_Abaga as for you. The whole world are going to be shocked that I am talking to you like this and I know they will come for me because you are very good at portraying the ‘good’ guy.”

You stood in front of a blatant lie and decided to sit on the fence like Abuchi. I have lost every iota of respect for you.”

“Short man devil, you no be my OG. You are nothing but a rat. I bet you won’t reply because I am saying the truth.”

Group lauds president Tinubu’s socio-economic reforms

A group of young Nigerians under the aegis of Young Professionals For Tinubu (YP4T), have lavished praises on the several socio-economic initiatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government, that has been described as epochal.

In a statement signed by the National Coordinator of YP4T, Alex Oware, it noted that the new waves of national strides by the government of President Tinubu, not only accentuates the renewed hope agenda, it is a pointer that Nigeria is on the path to self-discovery and growth.

“We’re happy and enthusiastic about the future of Nigeria. Recent reports and findings have shown that there are remarkable improvements in the Nigeria’s foreign reserves and it’s a five year high.

Nigeria has been delisted from the grey list of Financial Action Task Force, even as Nigeria’s debt profile has also reduced significantly.

“Today, Nigeria’s national economy is improving and our regional economies are also growing, as the President has ensured that all regions have a development commission.

“Even on security, we want to also appreciate the changes made by President Tinubu, amongst the Armed forces of Nigeria.

It not only displays a religious balance and equity, it also shows that President Tinubu is a genuine nationalist, as it also proves that he is committed to the general development of a peaceful, united and prosperous Nigeria,” the youthful Nigerian patriot enthused.

Troops crush terrorists, foil bomb attacks in fierce North East battles

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Nigerian troops under Operation HADIN KAI have dealt a decisive blow to terrorist elements across Borno and Adamawa States, neutralising several insurgents, foiling bomb attacks, and intercepting vital logistics during a week of intense counter-terrorism operations.

Between October 25 and 31, the troops repelled coordinated assaults, dismantled bomb networks, and secured key routes, reaffirming their resolve to crush terrorist strongholds in the North East.

ccording to the operation’s spokesman, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, troops on Oct. 25 thwarted a deadly plot to attack Kukawa with a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device.

The bomb-laden truck was destroyed by a T-55 tank, preventing a large-scale disaster. A 10-year-old girl injured in the attack received immediate medical care.

In another operation, troops and Civilian Joint Task Force operatives neutralised three planted explosives along the DikwaAjiri highway, safeguarding major supply lines from potential sabotage.

Similarly, on Oct. 29, an ambush by troops of 192 Battalion in the GwozaLimankara axis left two terrorists dead, with seized bicycles and food items pointing to disrupted logistics channels. A follow-up night raid on the BamaKonduga route saw insurgents fleeing under heavy gunfire as troops closed in from the GezuwaSambisa axis.

The clampdown extended to Adamawa State, where 232 Battalion troops intercepted smugglers transporting petrol and motorcycles believed to be aiding terrorists. The suspects escaped, but the materials were confiscated for investigation.

In another breakthrough, troops arrested five suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP collaborators at Sabon Gari, Madagali, recovering camouflage uniforms, ammunition, and drugs used by insurgents.

ir power also played a crucial role, with precision strikes and reconnaissance missions bolstering ground operations and eliminating fleeing terrorists.

Lt.-Col. Uba said one AK-47 rifle, 98 rounds of ammunition, and four bicycles were recovered during follow-up raids. No military casualty was recorded.

The Military High Command lauded the troops’ gallantry and professionalism, reaffirming its commitment to total victory over terrorism and continued efforts to block supply lines and protect vulnerable communities across the North East.

Trump orders U.S. military to prepare for invasion of Nigeria over ‘Christian genocide’

U.S President Donald Trump has warned that America could take military action against Nigeria over what he called the “continued killing of Christians” in the country.

Trump, in a post on social media Saturday, said he had ordered the Pentagon to begin planning for a possible strike, accusing the Nigerian government of failing to stop attacks on Christians.

“If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the USA will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now disgraced country, ‘guns-a-blazing,’ to completely wipe out the Islamic Terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities,” Trump said. “If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet, just like the terrorist thugs attack our CHERISHED Christians!”

His comments came after Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, rejected Trump’s claims, saying Nigeria is not a country that promotes or tolerates religious persecution.

“Religious freedom and tolerance have always been a core part of our national identity,” Tinubu said in a statement. “Nigeria opposes religious persecution and guarantees protection for citizens of all faiths.”

Trump’s warning followed his decision to list Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” for alleged failure to curb attacks on Christians.

The US president claimed Christianity faces an “existential threat” in Nigeria, blaming “radical Islamists” for what he described as “mass slaughter.”

However, analysts and security experts note that Nigeria’s violence is complex and not purely religious. Many of the attacks are linked to terrorism, banditry, farmer-herder conflicts, and communal clashes.

spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, restated the government’s position, saying the country would continue to protect all citizens regardless of religion.

“Like America, Nigeria has no option but to celebrate diversity — that is our greatest strength,” Ebienfa said.

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation of about 220 million people, has nearly equal numbers of Christians and Muslims. The country was previously placed on the US religious freedom watchlist in 2020 but removed in 2023 to improve diplomatic relations.

2027: Okpebholo leads Edo APC in massive endorsement rally for Tinubu

By Ayox Ojo

Governor Monday Okpebholo and other chieftains All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election in 2027 amidst encomiums for the Nigerian leader.

Okpebholo, his Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Senator Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole and the Minister for Regional Development, Hon. Abubakar Momoh and other prominent APC chieftains took turns to pour encomiums on Tinubu at the event.

The event also featured the official reception of prominent decampees from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) into the APC, signaling a renewed sense of unity and momentum within the ruling party ahead of the next general elections.

The endorsement, which took place in Edo Central, was also attended by the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; former Deputy Governor, Chief Pius Odubu; Senator Mathew Urhoghide; Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu; APC State Chairman, Emperor Jarret Tenebe; and Retired General Cecil Isegaigbe, Edo Central senatorial leader.

Okpebholo, while addressing party faithful, expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for his continued support to Edo people, particularly in infrastructure development.

The Edo Governor said: “I want to thank Mr. President for what he’s doing for Edo people. We will let him know that we are for him completely here.”

“When I went to Abuja to discuss the road infrastructural challenge. The Minister of Works came down to inspect it. Now, the Agbor road among other project have been approved, and in a few weeks, you’ll see caterpillars working on this Agbor road. The President is not coming here to campaign because we have already done the campaign.”

The Governor also promised to remain connected to his roots even after his tenure, emphasizing that service to the people remains his top priority.

Senator Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole, former governor of Edo State, praised both President Tinubu and Governor Okpebholo for fostering stability and development.

Oshiomhole said: “One of the things the governor always reminds us is that he is not borrowing to execute projects.”

“If the President had not created a transparent financial environment, many of his ideas could have died in his head. When you have a good driver, you retain him. Constant change can make the vehicle collapse.”

In his remarks, the Minister for Regional Development, Hon. Abubakar Momoh, described President Tinubu’s administration as one that has introduced the most far-reaching reforms in Nigeria’s history.

“No administration since independence has embarked on impactful reforms like President Tinubu’s. These reforms will put Nigeria on the path of sustainable growth and development,” he said.

Retired General Cecil Isegaigbe moved the motion for the formal adoption of President Tinubu as APC’s preferred candidate for 2027, seconded by Hon. Joe Ikpea, Senator representing Edo Central, and unanimously adopted by Senator Oshiomhole and other leaders.

To strengthen mobilization efforts, four campaign buses were donated through the Office of the Special Adviser on Youths to coordinators from Edo North, Edo Central, and Edo South.

New entrants from the PDP and LP led by Hon. Emmanuel Okoduwa, Hon. Patrick Iluobe, Mr. Ehime Edangbe, and Hon. Anthony Iselobho were formally welcomed into the APC fold.

The new members pledged loyalty to the party and vowed to work tirelessly for President Tinubu’s re-election.

With Friday’s endorsement, Governor Okpebholo has positioned Edo APC as a united front firmly behind President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, signaling strong intra-party cohesion and renewed political energy across the state.

UN chief raises alarm over post-election violence in Tanzania

By Cecilia Ologunagba

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for restraint in Tanzania amid deadly protests following the Oct. 29 general election, as the country remains under curfew and faces widespread internet restrictions.

uterres, in a statement issued by his Spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric deplored the loss of life and extended his condolences to the families of the victims.

The secretary-general called for “a thorough and impartial investigation into all allegations of excessive use of force.”

He urged Tanzanian authorities to uphold accountability and transparency in handling the post-election unrest.

ccording to the UN human rights office (OCHCR), credible reports indicate at least ten demonstrators were killed.

This resulted from security forces’ use of firearms and tear-gas against demonstrators in urban areas including the cities of Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga and Morogoro.

OHCHR also reported that a nationwide curfew is in effect while access to the internet appears to have been widely restricted since polling day.

The UN human rights office urged authorities in Tanzania to promptly reinstate internet service.

It also urged the government to facilitate citizens’ full enjoyment of their rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.

Protesters were also urged to demonstrate peacefully.

“Curtailment of communication will only further undermine public trust in the electoral process,” the office said.

The violent post-election scenes come in the aftermath of electoral campaigns marred by allegations of arbitrary arrests and detentions of opposition figures, including the Chadema party leader and his deputy.

It follows reported enforced disappearances of dissenters, including the country’s former ambassador to Cuba.

“All those in arbitrary detention must be immediately and unconditionally released.

“Those held legally must be accorded full due process and fair trial rights,” OHCHR spokesperson Seif Magango, briefing reporters in Geneva on Friday.

“We urge the authorities to ensure prompt, impartial and effective investigations into all cases of election-related violence, and to ensure those responsible are brought to justice,” he added. (NAN) (www.nannew.ng)

CIA/YEN

Strike: Hope for doctors as FG promises quick payment of N11.9bn backlog in 72 hours

The Federal Government has announced plans to release about N11.995 billion within the next 72 hours to pay outstanding allowances and arrears owed to doctors and other health workers across Nigeria.

This was revealed in a statement on Saturday by Alaba Balogun, Deputy Director and Head of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

ccording to the statement, the payment is part of efforts to address the welfare complaints raised by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) and other unions. It also shows the government’s commitment to maintaining peace and reform in the health sector.

The assurance was given during a meeting led by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, between top ministry officials and the leadership of NARD. The meeting followed the recent strike by resident doctors over unpaid benefits and poor working conditions.

The strike, which began on Saturday, involves about 11,000 resident doctors working in 91 hospitals across the country.

NARD President, Dr. Muhammad Suleiman, had earlier stated that the government owes doctors and other health workers about N38 billion in accumulated allowances.

The Ministry’s statement emphasized that the government remains focused on improving the welfare, motivation, and stability of healthcare workers, describing them as the foundation of all health-related programmes.

The statement also explained that, working with the Federal Ministry of Finance, the government had started paying seven months’ arrears of the 25 35% salary increase approved under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS). A total of N10 billion was paid in August 2025.

It further noted that after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the quick payment of outstanding arrears, an additional N21.3 billion was moved to the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) account, and payments have already begun.

The statement added that N11.995 billion will be released within 72 hours to cover other arrears, including accoutrement allowance (for uniforms and related items).

The government also confirmed that N10.6 billion was paid in September 2025 to fund the 2025 Medical Residency Training Programme, benefitting resident doctors nationwide.

President Tinubu’s aide salutes government empowerment of tertiary Institution students

By Akeem Busari

The renewed hope agenda of the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been attracting positive vibes from across the different spheres of the Nigerian society.

One combustible sector of our national life is the education sector. And stakeholders, investors and the core players have been waxing lyrical about the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

Speaking on this impressive initiative, the Personal Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on General Duties, Olawale Fadare, said he’s particularly elated with the impact the interests free loans for students of the tertiary is making in the lives of the students.

In a chat with the press, the youthful aide to President Tinubu, noted the importance of the educational loan to the aspirations of the many indigent students, who would feel the succour of the loans to better their lives.

“In line with his avowed Renewed Hope Agenda, the President is leaving no stone or sector of national life untouched.

“He truly understands the yearnings of Nigerians, particularly, the impressionable, but gifted youths of Nigeria.

“I make bold to state that there are better days ahead for this country, because, the ship is in capable hands,” he added.

He went ahead to admonish all Nigerians, particularly, the youths to support the several life-changing initiatives and programmes of the President Bola Tinubu’s government.

Ekiti perfects preparations as Ikogosi 17.5km race set to boost tourism, reward runners with millions in cash prizes

Femi Fabunmi

Ekiti State has perfected preparations for the forthcoming Ikogosi 17.5km Road Race, scheduled to hold on Saturday, November 8, 2025.

The event, which begins at the Ilawe-Ekiti Roundabout and finishes at the scenic Ikogosi Warm Springs, is set to attract athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and tourists from across Nigeria and beyond.

ccording to the organizers, the race promoted as a world-class sporting and tourism event will combine fitness, culture, and adventure in the heart of Ekiti’s rolling hills.

The 17.5-kilometre route will take runners through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the state, offering both a physical challenge and a visual delight.

Registration for the event is free and can be completed online via www.ikogosimarathon.com/register,

while race packs will be available for collection at the Ikogosi Marathon Office, 128 Awedele Road, Ado-Ekiti (opposite New Iyin Road Police Station), from October 23 to November 7, 2025.

The Ikogosi Marathon 2025 also comes with exciting cash prizes worth over 10 million, with categories for both elite runners and indigenous athletes.

Prize Categories

Elite Runners (Male and Female) 1st Prize: 2,000,000 2nd Prize: 1,500,000 3rd Prize: 1,000,000

Indigenous Winners (Male and Female) 1st Prize: 1,500,000 2nd Prize: 1,000,000 3rd Prize: 500,000 4th Prize: 250,000 5th Prize: 100,000 6th10th Prize: 50,000 each

Organizers said the marathon is aimed at promoting tourism, investment, and healthy living in Ekiti State while showcasing the region’s natural attractions, especially the globally acclaimed Ikogosi Warm Springs, where warm and cold waters flow side by side.

They added that the event will further place Ekiti on the map of international sports destinations and contribute to local economic development through increased visitor traffic.

Participants and spectators are encouraged to follow @Ikogosimarathon on social media for real-time updates, race information, and highlights.

With days to go, the atmosphere in Ekiti is charged with excitement as the state prepares to host one of Nigeria’s most scenic and rewarding road races.

#IkogosiMarathon2025 Run the Hills, Feel the Springs, Celebrate Ekiti.