Author: Yusuf Lawal

In a twist of fate, Chelsea’s Europa Conference League play-off opponents have been determined, pitting them against the loser of the SC Braga vs Servette FC tie. The draw, held on Monday, sets the stage for a thrilling encounter. The Blues’ journey to this point was marked by a sixth-place finish in the Premier League last season, which initially seemed destined for the Europa League. However, Manchester United’s FA Cup final triumph over Manchester City had other plans, relegating Chelsea to the Conference League tournament. The play-off schedule is set, with the first leg taking place on Thursday, August 22,…

The Nigerian government has issued a travel alert to citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom, citing an increased risk of violence and disorder due to recent riots. In a statement signed by Amb. Eche Abu-Obe, spokesperson to the Minister of Interior, the government advised Nigerians to exercise caution when traveling to the UK. “Be extra vigilant and take measures,” the statement read. The government specifically warned Nigerians to avoid political processions, protests, rallies, and marches, as well as crowded areas and large gatherings. The alert comes as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of Nigerian citizens abroad. With…

A group of suspected hoodlums on Sunday disrupted the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota, Lagos State, chasing away demonstrators who had gathered there. The intervention came after a disagreement between two factions of protesters, one of which was urged to disperse by a legal practitioner, JP, following President Bola Tinubu’s call for dialogue and an end to the protests. However, another group, led by 70-year-old Adegboyega Adeniji, insisted on continuing the protest. The police had addressed the crowd, but the situation escalated when hoodlums emerged, wielding clubs and dispersing the protesters. A video shared by…

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has received a clear message from co-chairman Josh Kroenke: it’s time to win a title. The Gunners are the only team in the Kroenke Sports and Entertainment (KSE) empire yet to claim a championship. Following the Denver Nuggets’ NBA Championship win in June, Kroenke’s teams have secured four titles in 18 months, including victories for the Los Angeles Rams, Colorado Avalanche, Colorado Mammoth, and Colorado Rapids. According to Mail Sport, Josh Kroenke has texted Arteta, emphasizing that it’s Arsenal’s turn to win the Premier League. With the Gunners finishing second behind Manchester City in the last…

In a surprise move, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has announced that he will debate Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris on September 4, as reported by Fox News. Trump revealed the news on his Truth Social platform, stating, “I have agreed with FoxNews to debate Kamala Harris on Wednesday, September 4th. Rules will be similar to the rules of my debate with Sleepy Joe, who has been treated horribly by his party, but with a full arena audience.” However, it remains uncertain whether Harris has accepted the debate invitation. The announcement has sparked interest and speculation about the potential showdown…

Youths in Osun State continued their protest against the federal government’s removal of fuel subsidy and devaluation of the naira, demanding a reversal of the policies. The protest, which started on Thursday, saw the youths march through Osogbo, the state capital, accompanied by security operatives. The protesters, who converged on Friday Park, accused the federal and state governments of inflicting hardship on Nigerians. They vowed to continue the protest until their demands were met. After performing ablution and observing Jumaat prayers on the road, the protesters dispersed. Speaking to journalists, Wole Oladapo, convener of Nigeria for Good Governance, accused the…

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has praised the peace and tranquility that pervaded the state on the first day of the anti-hunger protest, commending the youth and students for their exemplary conduct. In a statement, Abiodun expressed his appreciation to the citizens of Ogun State for shunning the nationwide protests, describing their actions as a testament to their commitment to justice, unity, and societal betterment. The governor specifically lauded the youth for their discipline and resolve in maintaining order and respect, saying, “Your ability to stand firm in your convictions while maintaining order and respect is commendable. It is a…

A tense standoff between protesters and police officers at Eagles Square in Abuja turned violent yesterday morning, with officers deploying tear gas and pepper spray to disperse the crowd. The confrontation began at 10:30 am when police fired warning shots into the ground, prompting an angry protester to confront them, holding a baby and daring the officers to shoot. The situation quickly escalated as other protesters joined her, taunting the officers to open fire. In response, the police fired pepper spray, followed by tear gas canisters, to disperse the protesters. The incident has left many wondering if the police have…

MTN Nigeria has announced the resumption of its nationwide operations, following a temporary shutdown on Tuesday. The telecommunications giant confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that its physical shops would be open to customers from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, stating, “Y’ello customer, please note that our shops nationwide will be open today, 31 July. Operating hours: 8.00 am-3:00 pm. We are also available 24/7 to support you via digital channels.” The shutdown was prompted by widespread customer outrage and vandalism, sparked by the disconnection of subscribers who failed to link their SIM cards to their National Identification Numbers (NINs). The…

The National Assembly Complex in Abuja has been fortified with a heavy security presence as lawmakers convene for an emergency plenary session today. In an unusual move, the Sergeant-At-Arms has barricaded the entrance, requiring identification cards for entry at the MOPOL Gate, allegedly to prevent protesters from gathering. The emergency session, announced on Sunday, aims to address critical matters requiring immediate legislative attention. According to Rotimi Akin, spokesperson for the House of Representatives, “The House of Representatives wishes to announce that, pursuant to the directive of the Speaker, Abbas Tajudeen, PhD., a plenary session has been scheduled for Wednesday, July…