EPL: Kudus inspires Tottenham to end Leeds’ year-long home invincibility

Mohammed Kudus was the hero as Tottenham Hotspur ended Leeds United’s remarkable unbeaten home run with a 2-1 victory at Elland Road on Saturday.

Leeds had not suffered a league defeat on home soil in over a year, their last coming in September 2024 against Burnley in the Championship but Kudus’ brilliance on a rainy afternoon brought that record crashing down.

The Ghanaian midfielder produced a stellar performance, assisting Mathys Tel for Tottenham’s opener and later firing home the decisive goal that sealed all three points for the visitors.

Tel opened the scoring in the 18th minute after latching onto Kudus’ through ball and unleashing a fierce 20-yard strike that deflected off Pascal Struijk and wrong-footed Leeds’ goalkeeper Karl Darlow.

The hosts, however, found a way back into the contest when Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s intelligent hold-up play teed up Brenden Aaronson, whose shot was parried by Guglielmo Vicario into the path of Noah Okafor to tap in the rebound.

But Spurs, hungry to return to winning ways after back-to-back draws, restored their lead in style. Kudus weaved across the top of the box before driving a low effort into the bottom corner to make it 2-1 – a goal that silenced Elland Road.

Despite Leeds’ late surge, including a near-miss from Joel Piroe and a Struijk header over the bar in stoppage time, Tottenham held firm to secure a crucial away win.

The result lifts Spurs to second place on the Premier League table, just one point behind leaders Liverpool, while Leeds’ impressive home record finally comes to an end.

For manager Frank, the victory was a statement of resilience following a tough midweek Europa fixture in the Arctic Circle. With key creative players James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski sidelined, Kudus’ influence was evident – registering his fourth assist of the season, winning 10 duels, and completing six successful dribbles in a dominant display.

As the rain poured down and the final whistle blew, Spurs’ celebrations said it all – this was more than just three points; it was a morale-boosting victory that reaffirmed their title ambitions.

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.

TikTok Creator Ushie Delight Agbo Loses Account After Reaching 2.2 Million Followers

Nigerian content creator and social media marketer Ushie Delight Agbo has lost access to her TikTok account after the platform issued a ban.

Agbo, known online by the aliases ‘Energy Goddess’ and ‘Queenlight,’ had been active on TikTok since 2021, gaining 2.2 million followers and more than 62 million likes prior to the removal. She was recognized for her energetic videos and frequent collaborations with brands through digital marketing campaigns.

The ban has prompted reactions from her supporters, many of whom expressed surprise at the sudden disappearance of her account. TikTok has not disclosed the reason for the enforcement action, reflecting broader concerns among creators about transparency in platform moderation and account security.

Agbo, who was born on August 9, 2000, is considered one of several young Nigerian influencers who have built large followings on TikTok in recent years. While the suspension marks a setback in her online career, industry observers suggest she could continue leveraging her profile and experience on other platforms as the creator economy in Nigeria expands.

FG distributes free agriculture inputs to 49 cooperatives in Sokoto

The Federal Government has distributed free inputs, including motorised and solar powered water pumps, sprayers, pesticides, fungicides, power tillers, multipurpose trashers, dehydrators, motorized weeders and others to 49 agricultural cooperative groups in Sokoto State.

The free inputs, distributed through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in Sokoto state were part of the Federal Government’s initiative to increase food production.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, told beneficiaries that the initiative was designed to strengthen Nigeria’s food security especially among small holder farmers adding that the farmers’ groups were selected to benefit with free items across the country.

Represented by a Director from the ministry, Mr Abdulmajid Sule, the minister said all the beneficiaries would received the farming inputs completely free of charge.

He emphasised that President Bola Tinubu considered food security as emergency and aligned the agriculture sector among the Renewed Hope Initiatives to ameliorate food crises in the country.

According to him, the present administration was implementing numerous economic reforms to stimulate productive capacity, create jobs, and reduce cost of living among the citizens.

He reiterated that the Fed Government was prioritising the agricultural programmes and overhauled it through promoting profitable synergies with non governmental organisations, federal institutions and state governments in order the achieve the objective.

He explained that the beneficiaries included commodity groups, cooperatives, persons with disabilities, women and youths associations, and other agricultural stakeholders across the state.

Kyari warned the beneficiaries not to sell the inputs but to use them responsibly highlighting that agro-inputs and basic machinery were meant for small-scale farmers who were constrained by the hight market cost of the products.

‘The present administration developed agricultural sector toward improved agriculture and rural productivity as well as attaining objectives of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and zero hunger,’ Kyari said.

The Coordinator of Federal Ministry of Agriculture Office in Sokoto, Hajiya Hadiza Abdullahi, said all the cooperative groups were registered and drawn from the 23 local government areas of the state.

Abdullahi said the gesture would boost food production and improve the state’s role in national and regional agricultural output.

‘It is part of a national push to support smallholder farmers with critical tools and resources,’ dhe said.

Speaking also, the Programme Manager of Sokoto State Agricultural Development Project (SADP), Alhaji Abubakar Danmaliki, said the state government had opened more irrigation sites and procured 250 tractors to support agriculture production in the state.

Danmaliki said the inputs’ support had augmented the state government’s efforts adding that mor extension workers were recruited to support farmers in all parts of the state.

Speaking on behalf of benefiting groups, Alhaji Aliyu Maitasamu and Kabiru Dange, Chairmen of Onion Producers and Cotton farmers unions respectively, commended the Federal Government and assured that members would use the items to improve their yields.

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.

Chelsea sink Liverpool with last-gasp winner at Stamford

Chelsea grabbed all three points in dramatic fashion after edging Liverpool 2-1 in a heated Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge on Saturday night.

Moises Caicedo was the hero for the Blues, scoring twice, including a 95th-minute stunner that sent the home fans wild.

The midfielder gave Chelsea an early lead in the 14th minute with a fine strike from the edge of the box after a clever pass from Malo Gusto.

Liverpool drew level in the 63rd minute through Cody Gakpo, who finished off a neat move from Alexander Isak’s assist.

Just when it looked like both sides would share the spoils, Caicedo struck again deep into stoppage time to hand Enzo Maresca’s men a massive win.

Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai was booked late on for a rough challenge on Marc Cucurella, while Chelsea’s defensive troubles worsened after Benoît Badiashile limped off injured – leaving all six senior centre-backs sidelined.

The victory extends Chelsea’s unbeaten run to three league games and lifts the mood around Stamford Bridge after a dramatic finish..

Insecurity: Kogi LG Chairs ban sale of fuel in jerrycans

The Chairmen of Mopamuro and Ijumu Local Governments in Kogi, have issued executive orders prohibiting the sale of petrol in jerrycans as part of efforts to curb activities of kidnappers and bandits in their domains.

The two local government areas in Kogi West Senatorial have virtually become the hub for kidnapping activities in the state.

The ban on the sale of fuel in jerrycans will cut off logistics supply to the criminal elements, Mr Ademola Bello, Chairman of Mopamuro, said while announcing the executive order on Friday in Mopa.

He reiterated that the directive was part of efforts to address the growing menace of banditry and kidnappings in the area and Kogi at large.

According to him, the prohibition of fuel sales to individuals in jerrycans is designed to prevent the diversion of fuel into unauthorized channels, especially bandits’ hideouts.

Additionally, Bello restricted sales of provisions in bulk, instructing provision store owners to stop selling goods, particularly food items and other essentials in bulk, to discourage supplying bandits in their various hideouts.

‘To further enhance security surveillance and reduce the incidence of crime at late-night, a curfew has been imposed in Mopamuro LGA, restricting movement beyond 10 p.m.,’ he said.

The chairman directed all security agencies within the local government to strictly enforce the provisions of the executive order.

He warned that any individual found violating these directives would be apprehended and sanctioned in accordance with the law.

‘By adhering to these regulations, residents can significantly contribute to maintaining peace and security within their communities.

‘Together, we can make Mopamuro a safer and more secure place for everyone,’ Bello said.

Similarly, Alhaji Ibrahim Haruna, the Chairman, Ijumu Local Government, issued a directive halting the sale of petrol in jerrycans in the area.

Haruna cited credible intelligence indicating that large quantities of petrol were being diverted for use by kidnappers and bandits.

He emphasised the urgent need for residents to comply with the directive, stressing that the measure was necessary for the safety and security of the community.

Both Chairmen urged residents to cooperate with the local government administration and security agencies in ensuring the success of this initiative.

They assured residents that Kogi State Government was working assiduously to tackle the current security threats.

The chairmen urged the public to remain calm, cooperate fully with authorities, and continue to support government efforts with their prayers. (NAN)

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

Brake Failure Horror: Dangote truck crushes five in Ogun

Tragedy struck on Friday evening at the Alapoka axis of the Papalanto-Ilaro Road in Ogun State when a Dangote Cement truck lost its brakes and rammed into a tricycle, killing all five occupants instantly.

The fatal accident, which occurred around 8:25 p.m., involved an unregistered tricycle and a Dangote truck bearing the number plate GRZ 767 XA. According to Babatunde Akinbiyi, spokesperson for the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE), the truck driver failed to notice he had collided with the tricycle until it was too late.

‘The impact was so severe that the tricycle was crushed under the truck’s tyre, killing the five passengers on the spot,’ Akinbiyi said.

A rescue team led by the Acting TRACE Head, Adedayo Omonayajo, and the Ilaro Divisional Commander, Salako Idowu, was deployed to the scene. However, tensions escalated as angry residents attempted to attack the team. The situation was brought under control with the intervention of the Amotekun Corps and other security operatives.

The remains of the victims were evacuated and taken to the morgue by officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

He has performed excellently – Aiyedatiwa urges Ekiti people to re-elect OyebanjI

Ondo governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has urged people of Ekiti to re-elect Biodun Oyebanji, his Ekiti counterpart, for a second term in office.

He said this will ensure continuity of what he described as Oyebanji’s ‘people-oriented policies and programmes’ that have transformed Ekiti state in the last three years.

Aiyedatiwa , who described Oyebanji as a dependable leader, said a second term would avail the governor the opportunity to deepen the people-oriented programmes that had touched lives across the state.

The Ondo State Governor made the appeal on Friday during the funeral ceremony of Chief Mathew Okunola, father of Justice Oyebisi Omoleye of the Court of Appeal, held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ikole Ekiti.

Aiyedatiwa also urged Ekiti people within and outside the state to intensify prayers for the progress and development of the state under Oyebanji till 2030.

‘Please continue to support Oyebanji because he has performed excellently and if given another chance, he will do more.

‘This our work is a big one and we cannot do it alone, that is why I am requesting for all your support.

‘The things we are doing are not what can happen within one month, it will take a while, every one wants it to get to them immediately and it is not possible. Just be patient with us,’ Ayedatiwa said.

While commiserating with Justice Omoleye and her family on the death of their patriarch, the governor described the deceased as a highly respected community leader.

He prayed for repose of the soul of the deceased, and urged the family to uphold his legacy of integrity and service.

‘The deceased did well and that is why we see everybody here today.

‘Those of us alive at this time, let us do well in whatever position we occupy, let us put in our best just as my brother Oyebanji, is putting in his best and am also trying my best in my state,’ the governor said.

Earlier, Oyebanji described the deceased as a trail blazer and an achiever in several fronts.

He said the late Okunola would be remembered for his dedication to community development and positive influence on the Ikole traditional Council, Church, and society at large, where he served with distinction in different capacities.

Oyebanji, while commiserating with family of the deceased, urged them to take solace in the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled life that impacted on the lives of many.

In his homily, the Vicar in charge of St Silas Anglican Church, Omuo Ekiti, Ven. Ajao Mathew, described the late Okunola as a true lover of God and His work.

He said that Okunola lived his life in the service of the Church and humanity.

The burial ceremony was attended by dignitaries from across the country.