TARKWA, GHANA — Medeama SC moved a decisive step closer to the Ghana Premier League title after Salim Adams scored twice in a commanding 2-0 victory over Bibiani Gold Stars on Matchday 31.
The high-stakes clash took place at the Tarkwa and Abosso Stadium, where both sides entered the encounter occupying the top two positions in the league standings.
Medeama delivered a composed and clinical performance under coach Ibrahim Tanko, rising to the occasion in front of their home supporters.
Salim Adams opened the scoring in the 20th minute, calmly converting from the penalty spot after the referee awarded a first-half spot kick.
The midfielder doubled the lead just before halftime, curling a precise free kick into the net to give Medeama full control of the match heading into the break.
Medeama maintained their dominance throughout the encounter, creating more attacking opportunities and demonstrating greater efficiency in the final third.
The home side registered eight shots compared to Gold Stars’ five, while also forcing multiple saves from the opposition goalkeeper.
Possession remained evenly balanced between the two teams, but Medeama’s cutting edge in front of goal proved to be the decisive factor in the outcome.
For Bibiani Gold Stars, the defeat represents a significant setback in their title ambitions, as they arrived at the match knowing a victory could have reduced the gap at the top.
Instead, they leave Tarkwa without a point and now trail Medeama by five points with only four matches remaining in the season.
The result places Medeama firmly in control of the title race, giving them a clear advantage as the league campaign approaches its conclusion.
The Tarkwa-based club are now aiming to secure their first league title since 2013, a milestone that would mark a major achievement for the team.
Their consistency throughout the season has been a key factor in their success, with strong performances in both attack and defence.
The victory also highlights Medeama’s ability to deliver under pressure, particularly in decisive matches against direct title rivals.
As the final fixtures approach, Medeama will look to maintain momentum and avoid costly mistakes that could reopen the title race.
For Gold Stars, the focus will shift to regaining form quickly and capitalising on any slip-ups from the league leaders.
The closing stages of the season promise intense competition, but Medeama’s latest victory has placed them in a commanding position to secure the championship.
BARCELONA, SPAIN — Real Madrid kept their La Liga title hopes alive after Vinícius Júnior delivered a match-winning performance in a 2-0 victory over Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium on Sunday, May 3, 2026.
The win ensured that Real Madrid remain mathematically in the title race, delaying any immediate celebrations for league leaders Barcelona and setting up a decisive period in the closing stages of the season.
After a tightly contested first half that ended without goals, Espanyol showed resilience and threatened on occasion, particularly through Ruben Sánchez, but were unable to convert their chances.
Real Madrid, however, returned from the break with renewed intensity and sharper attacking movement, which eventually broke down the hosts’ defensive structure.
Vinícius Júnior opened the scoring after combining effectively with substitute Gonzalo García, executing a quick one-two before calmly finishing into the bottom corner to give Madrid the lead.
The Brazilian forward continued to dominate the attacking play and doubled the advantage just eleven minutes later, capitalising on a clever backheel assist from Jude Bellingham and striking first-time into the top corner.
The introduction of Gonzalo García and Franco Mastantuono in the second half provided additional energy and creativity, allowing Real Madrid to exploit spaces as Espanyol’s defence began to tire.
Despite the victory, Real Madrid still face a significant challenge in the title race, as Barcelona maintain a commanding 11-point lead at the top of the table.
However, the result ensures that the championship cannot yet be decided, keeping competitive tension alive heading into the final fixtures.
Attention now shifts to the highly anticipated El Clásico, scheduled for Sunday, May 10, 2026, at the Spotify Camp Nou.
The upcoming clash carries enormous significance, as Barcelona can secure the league title with either a win or a draw, while Real Madrid must claim victory to extend the title race further.
The match is expected to draw global attention, given its historical importance and the high stakes involved at this stage of the season.
For Real Madrid, the performance against Espanyol highlights both their attacking quality and determination to compete until the very end, despite the points gap.
Vinícius Júnior’s standout display reinforces his importance to the team’s ambitions, as he continues to deliver in crucial moments.
As the season approaches its climax, the focus will remain on whether Real Madrid can produce another decisive performance in El Clásico and keep their fading title hopes alive.
ACCRA, GHANA — Port City FC delivered a dramatic comeback performance to secure a 3-2 victory over WAFA SC, while Okwawu United FC strengthened their survival chances with a crucial win in Zone Three league action.
Port City, already crowned champions, showcased resilience and attacking quality to overturn an early deficit in an entertaining five-goal encounter at Kukurantumi Ohene Park.
WAFA SC took an early lead in the 4th minute through Sylvester Henyo, setting the tone for a fast-paced contest that tested the champions’ composure.
Port City responded in the 21st minute when Korbla Junior Kedzie found the equaliser, restoring balance before halftime and setting up an intense second half.
The champions returned stronger after the break, with Alex Boateng scoring in the 51st minute to give Port City the lead for the first time in the match.
Captain Hamza Zakari extended the advantage ten minutes later, putting Port City in control and appearing to secure the result.
WAFA SC, however, refused to concede defeat easily, as substitute Melchizedek Frimpong pulled one goal back in the 76th minute to set up a tense finish.
Despite late pressure, Port City held firm to claim all three points, taking their tally to an impressive 64 points from 28 matches and reinforcing their dominance this season.
Elsewhere, Okwawu United FC secured a vital 2-1 away victory over Great Olympics at the McDan Astro Turf, boosting their chances of avoiding relegation.
Abraham Tetteh opened the scoring in the 14th minute for Okwawu United, giving the visitors an early advantage in a high-stakes encounter.
Great Olympics responded almost immediately, with Frederick Akatuk equalising just two minutes later to keep the contest finely balanced.
Okwawu United regained the lead shortly after, as Morgan Abayatey scored what proved to be the decisive goal, restoring momentum and securing a crucial victory.
The result ended Okwawu United’s three-game winless run and lifted them to 32 points from 28 matches, although they remain in a tense relegation battle with only two fixtures left.
In another key fixture, Semper Fi FC strengthened their hold on second place with a narrow 1-0 win over Attram De Visser at the Tuba Astro Turf.
Samuel Adonteng Owusu scored the decisive goal just three minutes into the second half, capitalising on a loose ball from a corner to secure the win.
Semper Fi FC managed to hold on despite playing much of the second half with ten men, demonstrating defensive discipline and determination under pressure.
The victory pushed them to 52 points after 28 matches, consolidating their position near the top of the standings.
Across the division, the results highlighted both the intensity of the title race and the fierce battle for survival, with teams fighting to secure their objectives as the season approaches its conclusion.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND — Jamie Carragher has strongly criticised Federico Chiesa following Liverpool’s dramatic 3-2 defeat to Manchester United, pointing to a costly late error that summed up the team’s struggles.
The former Liverpool defender expressed frustration during live commentary after Chiesa made a poor throw-in during stoppage time, at a moment when Liverpool were pushing for a late equaliser at Old Trafford.
Carragher described the decision as “unbelievable,” highlighting it as a key lapse in concentration during a critical phase of the match when composure was required.
The error quickly drew comparisons to a notorious moment involving Iago Aspas in 2014, when a poorly executed corner kick cost Liverpool a crucial opportunity in a high-stakes game.
Liverpool had endured a difficult start to the match, falling two goals behind early through strikes from Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Šeško, leaving them with a significant deficit to overturn.
However, the visitors responded strongly in the second half, with Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo scoring to restore parity and revive hopes of securing at least a point.
The comeback ultimately proved insufficient, as Kobbie Mainoo scored a late winner to seal victory for Manchester United and deepen Liverpool’s disappointing run of results.
Beyond the individual error, Carragher also addressed broader concerns about Liverpool’s tactical direction under manager Arne Slot.
He suggested that the team’s current style represents a clear shift away from the high-intensity pressing system associated with former manager Jürgen Klopp.
Carragher argued that supporters may need to adjust expectations, as Slot appears committed to a more possession-based and technical approach influenced by Dutch football philosophy.
He noted that recent recruitment decisions have also reflected this change in direction, with players suited to a slower, more controlled style of play rather than the aggressive pressing game of previous seasons.
While acknowledging that such an approach can be successful, Carragher questioned whether the current squad is fully equipped to execute the system effectively.
Liverpool’s ongoing inconsistency has raised concerns about identity and long-term direction, particularly as results continue to fluctuate despite moments of quality in attack.
The defeat to Manchester United further exposed these issues, with individual mistakes and tactical adjustments combining to undermine the team’s efforts.
As the season progresses, scrutiny is expected to intensify on both player performances and managerial decisions, with Liverpool facing growing pressure to stabilise results and define a clear path forward.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND — Arne Slot criticised VAR decisions after Liverpool suffered a dramatic 3-2 defeat against Manchester United, while also admitting his side must address recurring defensive mistakes.
The Premier League clash at Old Trafford exposed both controversy and deeper structural issues within Liverpool’s campaign, as they slipped to another damaging loss despite mounting a second-half comeback.
United raced into a 2-0 lead early in the game, with Benjamin Šeško scoring a goal that was checked for a potential handball but ultimately allowed to stand after review by VAR official Stuart Attwell and on-field referee Darren England.
Slot reacted angrily to the decision, insisting there appeared to be contact with the ball and questioning the consistency of VAR rulings that he believes have repeatedly gone against Liverpool this season.
He pointed to previous incidents, including a controversial penalty decision involving Paris Saint-Germain and Alexis Mac Allister, as evidence of a pattern of unfavourable calls.
Despite his frustration, Slot acknowledged that VAR was not the sole reason for the defeat, admitting that his team’s own mistakes—particularly losing possession in dangerous areas—contributed significantly to the result.
Liverpool managed to fight back and level the score at 2-2, showing resilience and attacking intent, but defensive lapses once again proved costly in the decisive moments.
Kobbie Mainoo scored the winning goal in the 77th minute after a defensive error, sealing victory for Manchester United and completing a league double over their rivals.
The defeat highlighted a troubling trend for Liverpool, with the team conceding what Slot described as “ridiculous goals” throughout the season, reflecting ongoing issues with concentration and defensive organisation.
Former England striker Alan Shearer also weighed in on the controversial goal, stating that while he believed it involved handball, he would prefer such marginal incidents not to result in goals being disallowed.
Liverpool’s struggles this season have been compounded by injuries to key players, including Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak, both of whom were unavailable for the match.
Their absence has reduced attacking threat and squad depth, forcing the team to rely on less experienced options in crucial fixtures.
Despite the defeat, Liverpool remain on course to secure Champions League qualification, sitting just ahead of Bournemouth with only a few games remaining in the season.
However, the performance has reinforced the perception that the team is in decline compared to their previous title-winning campaign, with inconsistency and defensive errors undermining their ambitions.
Slot has already indicated that the upcoming summer will mark the beginning of a new cycle for Liverpool, with potential squad changes expected as the club looks to rebuild and regain competitiveness.
As the season nears its conclusion, the focus will shift to whether Liverpool can secure a top-four finish while preparing for what appears to be a significant period of transition.
LONDON, ENGLAND — Chelsea are increasingly considering Francesco Farioli as a leading managerial candidate, with analysis suggesting his tactical system could be perfectly suited to unlocking the full potential of young goalkeeper Mike Penders.
The club’s ongoing search for a new head coach has intensified following uncertainty around Liam Rosenior, with Chelsea aiming to appoint a manager who aligns with their long-term squad development strategy.
Farioli has emerged as a standout option due to his possession-based philosophy, which emphasizes structured build-up play from the back and heavy involvement of the goalkeeper in controlling the tempo of matches.
His approach has been particularly evident during his time at FC Porto, where his system relies on the goalkeeper functioning almost as an additional outfield player during attacking transitions.
This tactical framework is seen as a natural fit for Mike Penders, who has impressed during loan spells, most notably with RC Strasbourg, where he played a key role in helping the team reach the latter stages of European competition.
Penders has built a reputation as a modern “sweeper-keeper,” drawing stylistic comparisons to Manuel Neuer due to his composure on the ball, ability to play outside the penalty area, and confidence in distributing possession under pressure.
Statistical analysis highlights his strengths, including a passing accuracy exceeding 85 percent and a willingness to attempt progressive passes that initiate attacking sequences.
Chelsea’s current goalkeeping options, including Robert Sánchez and Filip Jørgensen, have struggled to consistently meet the demands of a high-possession system, particularly in terms of distribution and decision-making.
This has reinforced the argument that the club’s next managerial appointment must align closely with the skill sets of its emerging talents, especially if Penders is to be promoted as the first-choice goalkeeper.
Farioli’s teams are known for dominating possession while maintaining defensive stability, often conceding few goals due to structured positioning and controlled build-up play.
Such a system could provide the ideal environment for Penders to develop, allowing him to maximise his strengths while adapting to the demands of elite-level football.
Timing is also considered crucial, as integrating Penders into a clearly defined tactical system during pre-season could accelerate his development and improve long-term consistency.
Conversely, appointing a manager whose philosophy does not match the goalkeeper’s profile could hinder progress and create structural imbalance within the team.
Chelsea’s decision will therefore carry significant implications, not only for immediate results but also for the club’s broader tactical identity and player development pathway.
As discussions continue, Farioli’s compatibility with both the squad and the club’s vision places him firmly among the most intriguing candidates for the role.
The Labour Party has set the cost of its presidential nomination and expression of interest forms at a combined ₦50 million as it rolls out its timetable for the 2026 primaries ahead of the next general elections.
In a statement on Sunday, the party’s spokesperson, Ken Asogwa, said the schedule is in line with the constitution, the Electoral Act, and guidelines from the electoral body.
Under the new structure, presidential hopefuls will pay ₦10 million for the expression of interest form and ₦40 million for the nomination form.
However, the party made a notable exception for its national leader and Abia State governor, Alex Otti, who will receive both forms free of charge.
The party said the gesture recognises his performance in office and his role in strengthening its image.
The sale of forms is set to run from May 6 to May 16, with submissions scheduled for May 17 and 18.
For other positions, House of Assembly aspirants will pay ₦3 million, House of Representatives ₦5 million, Senate ₦10 million, and governorship ₦25 million.
The party also announced concessions for women, young aspirants aged 25 to 30, and persons living with disabilities, who will only be required to pay for the expression of interest forms.
Screening for state-level aspirants is fixed for May 20, while National Assembly and presidential aspirants will be screened on May 22.
Results are expected a day later, with appeals to follow shortly after.
Primaries for governorship and state assembly seats are slated for May 27, while those for National Assembly and the presidency will hold on May 29.
The party urged prospective aspirants to complete their membership registration before the May 4 deadline, ahead of submitting its register to the electoral commission.
Three people have died and several others are receiving medical attention following a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius, a polar cruise ship travelling across the Atlantic Ocean from Argentina to Cape Verde.
The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed on Sunday that one case of hantavirus has been laboratory confirmed, while five additional suspected cases are currently under investigation. Among the six reported cases, three people have died and one passenger remains in intensive care in South Africa.
The United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said it is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to assist British nationals if necessary.
Victims Identified
According to reports, the first victim was a 70-year-old passenger who became ill and later died on board the vessel. His body was transferred to Saint Helena, a British territory located in the South Atlantic Ocean.
The second victim, identified as the man’s 69-year-old wife, also fell sick during the voyage. She was medically evacuated to South Africa, where she later died in a hospital in Johannesburg. Sources quoted by AFP said the couple were Dutch nationals.
The third victim reportedly died while still aboard the ship. Health officials are also considering isolating two additional passengers in a hospital in Cape Verde before the vessel proceeds to Spain’s Canary Islands.
About the MV Hondius
The MV Hondius is operated by Dutch tour company Oceanwide Expeditions. The 107.6-meter expedition cruise ship can accommodate up to 170 passengers in 80 cabins and is staffed by 57 crew members, 13 guides, and one onboard doctor.
The voyage began in Ushuaia, Argentina, on March 20 and was expected to conclude in Cape Verde on May 4. Ship-tracking data showed the vessel near the port of Praia, the capital of Cape Verde, on Sunday.
Understanding Hantavirus
Hantavirus refers to a group of viruses commonly spread through contact with infected rodents, their droppings, urine, or contaminated dust particles. In rare situations, some strains can spread between humans and may cause severe respiratory illness or hemorrhagic fever.
The WHO stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the exact strain linked to the outbreak. The agency is also carrying out epidemiological studies and virus sequencing as part of the response efforts.
International Health Response
The WHO said it has been informed of the incident and is supporting coordination efforts between national health authorities and the ship’s operators. Medical care is currently being provided to affected passengers and crew members onboard.
The organization also confirmed that preparations are underway for the medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers.
South African health authorities were among the first to raise concerns about the outbreak after an evacuated patient in Johannesburg tested positive for hantavirus. Initially, officials had described the incident as a severe acute respiratory illness outbreak before laboratory testing confirmed the infection.
The opposition coalition built around the African Democratic Congress is still on track, despite the exit of key figures like Peter Obi, according to Paul Ibe, a former media aide to Atiku Abubakar.
Speaking on Sunday, Ibe brushed off concerns that Obi’s departure could weaken the alliance ahead of the 2027 elections.
Instead, he said the movement continues to grow and attract new supporters.
Obi had joined forces with Atiku, former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, and other political heavyweights in mid-2025, when the ADC emerged as a rallying platform for opposition figures looking to challenge President Bola Tinubu.
After formally joining the party at the start of 2026, Obi announced his resignation on May 3, citing internal divisions, legal wrangling, and what he described as growing mistrust within the party.
But Ibe insisted the coalition remains focused.
“The train is still moving,” he said, using a metaphor to describe the alliance’s progress.
“Some people may have stepped off at what they believe is their stop, but the journey continues and more passengers are coming on board.”
He added that the immediate priority for the coalition is to work with stakeholders to deliver a smooth primary election process in line with the party’s timetable.
The ADC coalition had initially been seen as a major attempt to unify Nigeria’s fragmented opposition, especially after the 2023 elections, where divided votes were widely blamed for the opposition’s loss.
Obi’s entry earlier this year boosted that effort, particularly given his strong backing among young and urban voters.
But behind the scenes, disagreements over leadership structure and power-sharing soon surfaced, eventually leading to his exit just four months later.
While his departure has raised fresh questions about the coalition’s stability, ADC leaders maintain that the alliance is holding together and still building momentum as the race toward 2027 begins to take shape.
Nigerian influencer and media personality Priscilla Ojo-Mkambala has finally addressed the long-standing dating rumors between her and content creator Enioluwa Adeoluwa, offering a heartfelt explanation that has resonated with many.
According to Priscilla, the speculation about a romantic relationship was never something they felt the need to publicly deny or clarify. For her, their bond has always been rooted in genuine friendship one built on shared experiences, creativity, and mutual support. Rather than engage with public assumptions, they chose to focus on their connection as it truly was.
She also opened up about the emotional moment that caught public attention during her wedding, when Enioluwa was seen in tears. While many interpreted it as something romantic, Priscilla explained that it was simply the reaction of a close friend facing a major change.
The two had spent a significant amount of time creating content together, building not just a working relationship but a strong personal bond. Her transition into a new phase of life especially relocating to Tanzania after marriage came as an emotional shift for both of them.
According to her, Enioluwa’s tears reflected the reality of that change. It wasn’t about lost romance, but about the end of a familiar chapter and the distance that would now exist between two people who had grown used to being part of each other’s daily lives.
Her clarification has struck a chord with many, highlighting how deep friendships can sometimes be misunderstood, especially in the public eye. It also sheds light on the emotional side of growth how moving forward in life can mean leaving certain routines, even when the bond remains strong.
Ultimately, Priscilla’s words reframe the narrative, turning what many assumed was a love story into something equally meaningful: a genuine friendship navigating change, distance, and new beginnings.
Nigerian content creator Peller has opened up about a deeply personal family issue that has now spilled into the public, revealing a growing rift between him and his father following a car gift from businessman E-Money.
According to Peller, what started as a heartfelt gesture quickly turned into a source of tension. After receiving the luxury car, he chose to gift it to his father as a sign of appreciation and respect. However, instead of strengthening their bond, the situation reportedly led to unexpected demands and disagreements.
He claimed that his father refused to keep the car at home, opting instead to park it at a filling station. The reason, he said, was tied to concerns about space or safety, but it soon escalated into a bigger issue. Peller alleged that his father insisted on having a new house where the car could be properly kept, even going as far as threatening to return the vehicle if that demand wasn’t met.
The situation became more complicated when Peller attempted to retrieve the car, only to be met with resistance. According to him, his father refused to release it, further straining their relationship.
Beyond the immediate conflict, Peller used the moment to reflect on his upbringing. He spoke about feeling unsupported during his school years, recalling times he struggled while his father, despite earning an income, allegedly did not provide for him. These unresolved feelings appear to have resurfaced, adding emotional weight to the current dispute.
As a result of the ongoing tension, Peller revealed that he has stopped sending his father monthly financial support a decision that signals just how serious the fallout has become.
The story has sparked widespread reactions online, with many people sharing mixed opinions. Some sympathize with Peller, viewing his gesture as generous and his frustration as understandable. Others believe family matters of this nature should be handled privately, away from social media.
At its core, the situation highlights how financial success, expectations, and past experiences can collide within family relationships. What was meant to be a gift has instead exposed deeper issues, turning a moment of generosity into a complex emotional conflict.
Former senator Shehu Sani has taken a swipe at leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following the exit of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso from the party.
Obi and Kwankwaso, both key opposition figures from the 2023 presidential race, recently parted ways with the ADC a move that has stirred backlash within the party, particularly among supporters of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Some party loyalists have openly criticised the duo, accusing them of abandoning the platform at a critical time. But Sani appears to see things differently.
In a Facebook post on Sunday, the former lawmaker dismissed the outrage, suggesting that Obi and Kwankwaso had good reason to walk away.
“Marriage is not by force,” he wrote, in a pointed remark about the political fallout.
Sani went further, alleging that some within the ADC had ulterior motives for aligning with the two politicians in the first place.
According to him, the pair may have sensed trouble early and chose to step aside.
In a more biting comment, he accused certain party figures of attempting to “use” Obi and Kwankwaso for their own political ambitions a claim likely to deepen the ongoing rift within the opposition camp.
His remarks add another layer to the widening cracks in the ADC, as shifting alliances and defections continue to reshape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections
Nigerian actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has shared a relatable reason behind her decision to switch from attending physical church services to joining online instead.
Speaking candidly, the award-winning star explained that her presence in public spaces like church often draws a lot of attention. Rather than being able to focus on worship, she finds herself constantly approached for photos, with many people eager to capture moments with her. While she appreciates the love from fans, she admitted that it can become distracting, especially in a setting meant for quiet reflection and spiritual connection.
For Funke, church is a personal space one where she wants to be fully present without interruptions. The frequent attention, however well-meaning, made it difficult for her to engage in the experience the way she would prefer.
As a result, she opted for online services, which give her the freedom to participate without the pressure of being in the spotlight. From the comfort of her home, she can worship, listen, and reflect without distractions, allowing her to maintain a more private and focused spiritual routine.
Her revelation has sparked conversations about the unique challenges public figures face in everyday spaces. Many fans expressed understanding, noting that while admiration is natural, boundaries are important especially in places meant for personal or spiritual moments.
Funke Akindele’s choice highlights how technology is reshaping how people connect with faith, offering alternatives that cater to individual needs even for those constantly in the public eye.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken a swipe at Peter Obi following his exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), accusing him of constantly moving between parties in search of an easy path to power.
In a post shared on X on Sunday, APC spokesman Felix Morka described Obi as a “political rolling stone,” suggesting he lacks the patience to build a party structure from within.
Morka argued that Obi’s pattern of switching platforms from APGA to PDP, then Labour Party, and now leaving the ADC reflects a preference for securing a presidential ticket without going through a competitive internal process.
He went further, claiming the former Anambra governor appears to favour a “ready-made” route to the presidency rather than working his way through party ranks.
He ended his remarks by branding Obi a “political drifter.”
Obi, however, had earlier explained that his decision to leave the ADC was not driven by personal grievances against party leaders, including David Mark and Atiku Abubakar.
Instead, he pointed to persistent internal crises, legal disputes, and divisions within the party, which he said were distracting from addressing Nigeria’s deeper challenges.
The former presidential candidate maintained that he is not desperate for office, insisting his focus remains on governance reforms and improving the lives of Nigerians.
He also reiterated his belief that effective and compassionate leadership is still achievable in the country.
His exit adds to the shifting political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections, with alliances and party loyalties continuing to evolve.
Reports claiming a final split between Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith along with a court ruling awarding all assets to Will should be treated with caution.
As of now, there has been no widely verified record of a court decision stripping one party of assets based on past infidelity. In most legal systems, including those in the United States, divorce settlements are typically based on factors like marital property, financial contributions, and agreements between both parties not personal allegations alone. Claims like this often spread quickly online but don’t always reflect how courts actually operate.
What is publicly known is that the couple has had a complex and unconventional relationship over the years. They have openly discussed periods of separation, personal challenges, and evolving dynamics within their marriage. Despite this, they have also repeatedly emphasized mutual respect and a commitment to their family, even while living separate lives at times.
Stories about celebrity relationships often gain traction because of public interest, but they can easily become distorted or exaggerated as they circulate. Legal matters, in particular, tend to be more nuanced than viral summaries suggest.
Until confirmed by credible sources or official statements, narratives about asset division or court rulings should be approached carefully.
What remains clear is that the relationship between Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith has long been one of the most talked-about in entertainment marked by honesty, controversy, and ongoing public fascination.
United Bank for Africa (UBA) has debunked a viral social media claim alleging that its Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, has separated from his wife, Awele Elumelu, describing the report as false and damaging.
In a statement released on Sunday, the bank said the claim was entirely fabricated and appeared designed to mislead the public while tarnishing the reputation of both its chairman and the institution.
UBA said the content circulating online was “reckless and malicious,” stressing that there was no truth to the allegation.
The bank also confirmed that the matter has been reported to law enforcement agencies, leading to the arrest of three individuals linked to the creation and spread of the false information.
According to the statement, investigations are ongoing and could result in more arrests as authorities track others involved in the alleged smear campaign.
UBA warned bloggers, social media users, and platforms to immediately stop sharing the claim, adding that all related posts should be taken down and preserved as potential evidence.
The bank said it would not hesitate to pursue legal action against anyone found responsible, reiterating its commitment to protecting the privacy and reputation of its chairman and his family.
Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso have arrived at the secretariat of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), in what appears to be a decisive step toward a possible defection.
The two political heavyweights were seen entering a closed-door meeting with the party’s national leader, Seriake Dickson, as talks over a new political platform gather pace ahead of the 2027 elections.
Their move comes just hours after Obi formally resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where he had cited lingering legal battles and internal divisions as reasons for his departure.
While details of the meeting remain under wraps, the development signals a significant shift in the opposition landscape, with both Obi and Kwankwaso now at the centre of ongoing realignments.
More information is expected as discussions progress.
Ex-Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, in a warm handshake with ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar
By Shola Adebowale
The African Democratic Congress was supposed to be the answer. One party. One candidate. 13.5 million votes recombined into a single fist aimed at Aso Rock. The arithmetic was elegant: Atiku plus Obi plus Kwankwaso in 2025 equals defeat for Tinubu in 2027. Nine months after the historic takeover at Yar’Adua Centre, the arithmetic remains elegant. The politics does not. For ADC, May has become the Ides, a month of deadlines that will either crown the opposition or bury it like Caesar, quietly and with some ceremony. Three dates tell the story: May 10, May 15, and May 30. Fail any one of them, and the opposition’s grand experiment dies before a single ballot is printed.
To understand how we arrived here, go back to July 2, 2025. That afternoon, what the press quickly christened a “coalition of strange bedfellows” walked into the Yar’Adua Centre and rewrote Nigeria’s opposition map. Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, David Mark, and Rauf Aregbesola sat in one room. Ralph Nwosu stepped down as chairman. David Mark assumed the role of Interim National Chairman. Aregbesola took the secretary’s seat. The goal was stated plainly: unseat President Bola Tinubu in 2027. The method was equally clear – avoid the fatal three-way split of 2023, when PDP, LP, and NNPP ran separately and handed APC victory with barely 36 percent of the vote. A divided opposition had gifted Tinubu the presidency. A united one would take it back.
But coalitions built on shared fear are rarely built on shared trust. ADC now has three presidential egos, one ticket, and few days left to meet INEC’s May 10, 2026 deadline for submission of membership registers. The clock is ticking louder than any of them will admit.
From the very start, Atiku moved first and fastest. On July 5, 2025, three days after the Yar’Adua handshake, he addressed supporters in Hausa: “I swear to God, if elected, whoever steals or engages in corruption will be declared war upon and punished.” The video went viral before the week was out. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga fired back that Nigerians found it “incredible” that a man long shadowed by corruption allegations would make such a vow. Yet Atiku’s position is unambiguous. He is running. Commentator Dele Momodu ranks him first on ADC’s ticket. He brings national networks, Northern votes, and three decades of political structure. He also brings 78 years of age come 2027, six failed presidential bids, and the long tail of a $40 million corruption case that kept him out of the United States for a decade.
For Atiku, ADC serves a dual purpose. Win in 2027, and he finally reaches Aso Rock. Lose, and he controls the party machinery for 2031. For everyone else in the coalition, ADC is now or never.
Peter Obi, meanwhile, has become the coalition’s most consequential absentee. As of April 30, 2026, he has still not formally joined ADC. The party’s official line is diplomatic: Obi is “rounding off critical electoral engagements” within the Labour Party, including ongoing by-elections, and the transition process is proceeding. Translation: he is waiting. The Obidient movement’s position is equally direct. ADC should not sell the ticket before Obi crosses the floor. ADC’s counter-position is just as firm. Join first, then negotiate.
The stalemate exposes the coalition’s deepest fracture. Obi wants a guaranteed presidential ticket. His 2023 campaign proved he can generate mass mobilisation without PDP structure, without governors, without machine politics. He carries South-East loyalty, urban youth, and a moral authority that no other figure in ADC can replicate. He does not need ADC unless ADC needs him, and he knows it.
Atiku knows it too, which is why his July 5 speech was less a campaign promise to voters than a declaration of intent to his coalition partners. ‘I am running. Deal with it.’ ADC has issued Obi a deadline of May 15, 2026 to formally resign from the Labour Party. Party primaries must be concluded by May 30, 2026 per INEC regulations. The clock is not a metaphor. It is a mechanism.
El-Rufai sits at the coalition’s uneasy centre, equal parts mediator and wildcard. He joined ADC explicitly to ensure a Southern presidential candidate gets the ticket, yet he has also made clear he may walk if Atiku secures the Northern slot unchallenged. Like Obi, he has not formally completed his own entry into the party. Two of ADC’s three most consequential figures remain, technically, on the outside looking in.
Four fault lines run beneath the coalition’s surface, and each one splits Atiku’s camp from Obi’s with surgical precision.
On age and baggage, Atiku’s allies argue that experience and structure win elections. Obi’s camp insists that Nigeria is tired of recycled faces. El-Rufai, privately, sides with Obi on the age question but he needs a Northern ticket to retain political relevance, which puts him at odds with himself.
On geography, Atiku’s camp argues that the North must complete its eight years following Buhari’s tenure before power rotates. Obi’s camp invokes the principle of rotation and points South. Kwankwaso wants Kano. Amaechi wants Rivers. They cannot all run, and none of them intends to yield.
On structure versus momentum, Atiku’s side argues Obi has no governors. Obi’s side counters that Atiku’s governors defected to APC. Both claims are accurate. Both are fatal in a general election.
On ticket mathematics, Atiku’s camp floats Atiku/Makinde or Atiku/Amaechi as its preferred pairings. Obi’s camp pushes Obi/Kwankwaso, a ticket that by internal ADC accounts is making the presidency genuinely nervous. Uniting South-East youth with the Kano bloc would scramble the electoral map in ways APC strategists have not fully war-gamed. But Atiku controls the party machine assembled on July 2, 2025. A ticket that makes Aso Rock nervous is useless if it cannot survive ADC’s own primary.
Beyond internal fractures, ADC is also fighting in court. Former members led by 2023 ADC presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu have filed legal challenges, framing the July 2025 takeover as an illegitimate usurpation. The cases are live. Simultaneously, Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi has argued before a Federal High Court that ADC should be deregistered outright for poor electoral performance. A party that cannot prove who its members are cannot hold a primary. A coalition that cannot hold a primary by May 30, 2026 is constitutionally dead.
And then there is Washington, because there is always Washington. Tinubu’s administration has retained DCI Group at a confirmed $9 million, documented in FARA filings. A viral claim that Atiku retained a lobbyist for $1.2 million through an April 1, 2026 FARA filing has circulated aggressively online. As of April 30, 2026, no such filing exists in the public FARA database. A single blog carried the story. No major outlet has confirmed it. Real or fabricated, the narrative war is itself instructive: two wings of the same political elite, competing fixers, the same Washington game. For voters in Plateau State and internally displaced persons in Benue, the campaign plays out on a different register entirely, subsidies, inflation, security, the cost of bread. The deeper structural questions do not get touched.
Three scenarios now present themselves, and none of them is comfortable.
In the first, Atiku wins the ticket and Obi walks, returning to the Labour Party or sitting out 2027 entirely. The opposition fractures along 2023 lines. Tinubu wins again. ADC becomes Atiku’s personal vehicle for a 2031 run he will be eighty years old to make.
In the second, Obi wins the ticket and Atiku’s Northern structure sits on its hands. Kwankwaso runs on NNPP again. The South-East fires up; the North stays home. Tinubu wins again. ADC splinters before 2028.
In the third, the scenario that coalition optimists whisper about in Abuja restaurants, a consensus dark horse emerges. Both Atiku and Obi step aside for Makinde or Amaechi. El-Rufai accepts. The ticket holds. This scenario requires a level of ego surrender that neither Atiku nor Obi has demonstrated across a combined fifty years of Nigerian politics. For both men, 2027 is the last realistic shot. Age and time make 2031 a fantasy.
ADC was built to unite what APC could not survive, a coherent, disciplined opposition. Instead, the Atiku-Obi conundrum is accomplishing what APC’s strategists could not: tearing the coalition apart before the campaign begins.
Beware of the ides of May. May 10 for the INEC membership register. May 15 for Obi’s resignation from LP. May 30 for primaries. After those three dates, ADC either has a candidate or it has an obituary.
The coalition came in a hurried rush and, if the Ides have their way, will dissolve in a hushed one.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe State on Sunday announced Jamilu Ishiyaku Gwamna as its consensus governorship candidate for the 2027 election.
Isa Pantami, a former minister of Communication and Digital Economy, lost out in the race as the stakeholders picked Mr Gwamna.
Diaspora Digital Media understand that the decision was reached at an enlarged stakeholders’ meeting presided over by the party leader and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.
The meeting also ratified consensus candidates for the state’s three senatorial districts, six House of Representatives seats and 24 State House of Assembly constituencies.
Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi
Mr. Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State, has categorically stated that he did not quit the African Democratic Congress (ADC) because of former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Senator David Mark.
Obi also reiterated his earlier position that he is not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President.
He made this clarification in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday.
According to Obi, the same Nigerian state and its agents that created unnecessary crises within the Labour Party that forced him to leave, now appear to be finding their way into the ADC, with endless court cases, internal battles, suspicion, and division, instead of focusing on deeper national problems and playing politics built more on control and exclusion than on service and nation-building.
Obi accused the ruling party of frustrating him, adding that where one labours sincerely, one is sometimes treated like an outsider in one’s own home.
Speaking further in the statement, Obi said his team has become an easy targets for every failure, frustration, or misunderstanding, as though honest contribution has become a favour being tolerated rather than appreciated.
The statement reads: “Fellow Nigerians, good morning.
“I woke up this morning after my church service with a deeply reflective heart, and despite every constraint, I felt compelled to share these thoughts with you.
“Many people do not truly understand the silent pains some of us carry daily—the private struggles, emotional burdens, and quiet battles we face while trying to survive and serve sincerely in difficult circumstances.
“We now live in an environment that has become increasingly toxic, where the very system that should protect and create opportunities for decent living often works against the people—a society where intimidation, insecurity, endless scrutiny, and discouragement have become normal.
“More painful is when some of those you associate with, believing you would find understanding and solidarity among them, become part of the pressure you face. Some who publicly identify with you privately distance themselves or join in unfair criticism.
“We live in a society where humility is mistaken for weakness, respect is seen as a lack of courage, and compassion is treated as foolishness—a system where treating people equally is questioned simply because you refuse to worship status, tribe, class, or power.
“Personally, I have never looked down on anyone except to uplift them. I have never used privilege, position, or resources to oppress others, intimidate the weak, or make people feel small. To me, leadership has always been about service, sacrifice, and helping others rise.
“Let me state clearly: my decision to leave the ADC is not because our highly respected Chairman, Senator David Mark, treated me badly, nor because my leader and elder brother, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, or any other respected leaders did anything personally wrong to me. I will continue to respect them.
“However, the same Nigerian state and its agents that created unnecessary crises and hostility within the Labour Party that forced me to leave now appear to be finding their way into the ADC, with endless court cases, internal battles, suspicion, and division, instead of focusing on deeper national problems and playing politics built more on control and exclusion than on service and nation-building.
“Even within spaces where one labours sincerely, one is sometimes treated like an outsider in one’s own home. You and your team become easy targets for every failure, frustration, or misunderstanding, as though honest contribution has become a favour being tolerated rather than appreciated.
“And when you choose to leave so that those you are leaving can have peace, and you step out into the cold, you are still maligned and your character is questioned. Despite all your efforts to continue working for a better Nigeria and engaging people with sincerity and goodwill, those who do not wish you well continue to attack your character and question your intentions.
“There are moments I ask God in prayer: Why is doing the right thing often misconstrued as wrongdoing in our country? Why is integrity not valued? Why is the prudent management of resources, especially when invested in critical areas like education and healthcare, wrongly labelled as stinginess? Why are humility and obedience to the rule of law often taken to be weakness rather than discipline?
“Let me assure all that I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President. I am desperate to see a society that can console a mother whose child has been kidnapped or killed while going to school or work. I am desperate to see a Nigeria where people will not live in IDP camps but in their homes. I am desperate for a country where Nigerian citizens do not go to bed hungry, not knowing where their next meal will come from.
“Yet, despite everything, I remain resolute. I firmly believe that Nigeria can still become a country with competent leadership based on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity for all.”
Director of the presidential campaign council of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bayo Onanuga
Presidential spokesman, Chief Bayo Onanuga, has launched scathing attack on Peter Obi, over his sudden exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The former governor of Anambra State who officially joined ADC on March 7, after obtaining his membership card at Agulu ward 2 in Anaocha LGA of Anambra, left the party on Sunday.
In a statement, Obi confirmed quitting ADC over “endless court cases, internal battles, suspicion, and division”.
Obi said: “the same Nigerian state and its agents that created unnecessary crises and hostility within the Labour Party that forced” him to leave “now appear to be finding their way into the ADC”.
While reacting in a post on X, Onanuga described Obi as a “political nomad” and a “politician made of jelly”.
He said Obi left the ADC because he could not contest the party’s presidential ticket against former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Rivers governor Rotimi Amaechi.
“The political nomad is on the move again. Ignore all those puerile reasons he gave in these illogical musings, a self-serving letter to his mob,” Onanuga wrote.
“Peter Obi is a politician made of jelly, an opportunistic fellow. He can’t fight Atiku or Amaechi for the ticket of ADC.”
Onanuga known for his reckless flippancy said that Obi had taken “the easy road that will only lead him to doom, like in 2023”.
“He always blames the government without doing a soul-searching of himself. Welcome, Peter to the 2027 race,” Onanuga added.
A support group within the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has urged supporters of Peter Obi popularly known as Obidients to remain respectful and avoid hostility as talks of his possible defection gather momentum.
In a message shared on X, the group appealed for calm and mutual understanding, noting that its members had been part of the party long before the anticipated arrival of new supporters.
“Dear Obidients, remember we were here before you. Please be cordial and friendly. Do not bully us,” the group said.
The appeal follows an earlier post by the same group referencing ongoing leadership crises in both the Labour Party and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signalling concern over potential internal tensions.
The development comes amid growing reports that Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso are set to join the NDC as part of wider political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
Both figures have been at the centre of opposition discussions in recent weeks. Obi has already confirmed plans to leave the ADC, citing internal disputes and prolonged legal battles within the party.
Kwankwaso, on his part, says he is still consulting widely and has not made a final decision on his political future.
He also dismissed claims that he has endorsed any presidential candidate or formally declared his ambition.
The NDC, associated with leaders such as Seriake Dickson, is positioning itself as a stable alternative platform at a time when several opposition parties are grappling with internal crises.
As political alignments continue to shift, the message from within the NDC reflects a growing awareness that managing relationships between existing members and incoming supporters could be just as important as the broader electoral strategy.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State says the buzz surrounding Peter Obi on social media does not reflect the reality of electoral politics, insisting that President Bola Tinubu remains firmly positioned to win at the polls.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Sani argued that platforms like X, Facebook and Instagram often amplify perceived popularity that doesn’t always translate into votes.
He noted that while Obi continues to dominate online conversations and enjoys strong digital backing, elections in Nigeria are ultimately decided by voters at polling units not by trends or hashtags.
“If elections were conducted on social media, Tinubu would lose,” Sani admitted. But he quickly added that the real contest lies in physical voter turnout, where he believes the president holds a clear advantage.
According to him, Tinubu’s grassroots network across the country gives him the edge, predicting that the president could secure as much as 70 percent of the vote in a conventional election.
Sani’s remarks come as political activity ahead of the 2027 elections begins to gather momentum, with both ruling party figures and opposition leaders positioning themselves for what is expected to be a fiercely contested race.
While Obi remains a strong voice in the opposition, particularly among younger and urban voters, the Kaduna governor maintained that real political strength lies beyond the digital space in organisation, mobilisation, and turnout on election day.
The United States has approved more than $8.6 billion in emergency arms sales to its Middle East allies, stepping up military support as tensions with Iran remain unresolved.
The move, authorised by the administration of Donald Trump, allows weapons to be sent to key partners including Israel, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio invoked an emergency provision to push the deals through immediately, sidestepping the usual congressional review process.
The decision has drawn criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who argue it undermines oversight.
The weapons package includes advanced rocket systems for Israel, Qatar and the UAE, as well as air defence systems for Qatar and Kuwait.
A major part of the deal involves Qatar purchasing Patriot missile interceptors worth over $4 billion systems that have been heavily used during the recent conflict and are now in short supply.
The arms transfers come in the aftermath of intense fighting during the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, where Gulf countries and Israel were repeatedly targeted by Iranian missiles and drones.
Several civilian and military casualties were reported across the region, alongside damage to infrastructure.
Although a ceasefire is currently in place, efforts to reach a long-term agreement have stalled.
Both Washington and Tehran remain far apart on key issues, particularly Iran’s nuclear programme.
Tensions are also high in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy supplies.
Iran has disrupted Western shipping in the area, while the U.S. has responded with a blockade of Iranian ports raising fears of a renewed confrontation.
Back in Washington, critics say the administration’s repeated use of emergency powers to approve arms sales reflects a pattern of bypassing legal checks.
Supporters, however, argue the move is necessary to protect U.S. interests and strengthen allies facing ongoing threats.
For now, the weapons may take time to reach the region, as production constraints and depleted stockpiles continue to challenge U.S. military supply chains.
