Content creator and entertainer Lande has shared a troubling account of an encounter he says he and his brother had with officers of the Nigerian police in Ajah.
In an emotional narration posted online, Lande described the incident as a mix of oppression, intimidation, extortion and outright theft. According to him, what began as a routine interaction quickly escalated into violence.
Lande alleged that he and his brother were stopped by officers and questioned, but the situation became heated when demands were allegedly made of them. He claimed that despite attempts to remain calm and explain themselves, the officers resorted to force.
The entertainer further stated that he was physically assaulted, while personal belongings were allegedly taken from them during the confrontation. He said the experience left both of them shaken and humiliated.
“This is really sad,” he lamented in the video, insisting that citizens should be able to move freely without fear of harassment from those meant to protect them.
The claims have triggered reactions across social media, with many Nigerians expressing anger and frustration. Several commenters called for accountability and urged the authorities to investigate the officers involved. Others pointed to the long-standing public concerns about police conduct, harassment and unlawful demands.
As of the time of this report, the Nigerian police have not issued an official statement regarding Lande’s allegations.
(DDM) – Nigeria continues to struggle with one of the world’s highest burdens of sickle cell disorder.
DDM gathered that the Sickle Cell Awareness Initiative Ireland–Nigeria (SCAIIN) has called for urgent policy action.
The NGO advocates nationwide newborn screening to prevent deaths and reduce lifelong complications from the disease.
The call was made during a sickle cell health promotion programme at Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt.
SCAIIN launched a targeted awareness campaign to address stigma, misinformation, and late diagnosis, all factors worsening outcomes.
Founder Mrs Esther Pepple Onolememen stressed that Nigeria must move beyond awareness to structured early detection and care.
She said social discrimination and ignorance continue to isolate families affected by sickle cell disorder.
Onolememen noted that newborn screening allows early planning, prompt intervention, and better quality of life for children.
She added, “Newborn screening is the foundation of effective sickle cell care. Without it, we are reacting too late.”
She emphasized that early detection can prevent complications and save lives.
Onolememen commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for supporting the initiative.
She said sickle cell disease is both a health and development issue affecting productivity, family stability, and social outcomes.
NDDC Managing Director Dr Samuel Ogbuku described sickle cell disorder as a major public health challenge in the Niger Delta.
Access to early diagnosis and specialised care remains limited in the region, he added.
Represented by Dr Patience Ezugu, Director of Education, Health and Social Services, Ogbuku said preventive healthcare drives the Commission’s involvement.
He highlighted the importance of knowing one’s genotype early, especially for young people.
Ogbuku said patients deserve improved access to care and ongoing support.
He reaffirmed NDDC’s commitment to partner with stakeholders for early diagnosis, community education, and research-driven interventions.
The human cost of delayed diagnosis was highlighted by Mr Derefaka Yemiesibo, a parent of a child living with sickle cell disorder.
He expressed gratitude to NDDC and SCAIIN for sustained advocacy that gives families hope and visibility.
The programme featured health education, counselling, and distribution of medical support kits to patients.
It reinforced calls for a shift from crisis response to prevention-led sickle cell management in Nigeria.
Advocates stressed that early intervention, education, and community support are crucial to reducing mortality.
The event emphasized collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and families in addressing the disorder.
Experts say that structured newborn screening could transform sickle cell outcomes nationwide.
The programme also aimed to reduce stigma and encourage regular monitoring for affected families.
Stakeholders called on policymakers to adopt legislation supporting routine screening and early intervention programmes.
DDM gathered that preventive healthcare remains central to reducing Nigeria’s long-term sickle cell burden.
The collaboration between SCAIIN and NDDC highlights a growing focus on sustainable health solutions in the Niger Delta.
Families and healthcare workers were urged to prioritise awareness, screening, and supportive care for newborns.
The initiative underscores that effective sickle cell management begins with early detection and community engagement.
Operatives of the Oyo State Fire Service (OYSFA) rescued a 65-year-old woman from a blaze that gutted part of a residential building in Elekuro, Ibadan, on Friday evening.
The fire caused panic among residents and destroyed properties valued at millions of naira.
According to Maroof Akinwande, Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, the fire began in the boys’ quarters of a six-room residential building and quickly spread, threatening other parts of the structure and neighboring buildings.
“Our personnel responded promptly and contained the fire, preventing it from spreading to the main building and surrounding structures,” Akinwande said.
During the rescue, the trapped 65-year-old woman suffered severe smoke inhalation and was immediately taken to a nearby hospital, where she is receiving treatment.
While no lives were lost, the fire destroyed furniture, electrical appliances, and personal belongings.
Residents praised the swift intervention of the fire service, noting that it prevented a more catastrophic outcome, especially given the building’s proximity to a primary healthcare center.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing. Akinwande urged the public to observe safety precautions when using electrical appliances or cooking equipment and to report fire outbreaks promptly to ensure quick responses.
Football star Nicolás Pépé has shared joyful personal news, revealing that he is set to marry Treanna Trump, whom he has been dating for roughly a year and a half.
The announcement has quickly drawn attention from fans across both the sports and entertainment worlds. According to those close to the couple, their relationship has grown steadily over time, built on mutual support and a shared vision for the future.
Pépé, known for keeping much of his private life away from the spotlight, surprised many by opening up about the next chapter of his journey. The winger reportedly played a significant role in encouraging Trump to step away from the adult film industry as they began planning a life together.
Sources say the pair are now focused on building a stable home and are looking forward to starting a family. Friends describe the decision as a natural progression of a relationship that has deepened away from public scrutiny.
Since news of the engagement broke, social media has been buzzing with reactions. Supporters have congratulated the couple, praising their commitment and wishing them happiness. Others have expressed curiosity about how the high-profile union will unfold given the public attention surrounding both of their careers.
Despite the noise, people close to the pair insist they are prioritizing love, privacy, and long-term plans over outside opinions.
For Pépé, the milestone represents more than romance. it signals a new phase of maturity and personal growth beyond the football pitch. For Trump, it marks the beginning of a different path, with marriage and family life now at the center.
As wedding preparations begin, fans will undoubtedly be watching to see how the couple shares their journey. For now, however, it appears they are simply enjoying their engagement and the promise of what lies ahead.
(DDM) – A recent encounter at a Positive Living Centre has sparked concern about the emotional struggles facing people living with HIV.
DDM gathered that a young woman expressed deep anger about how she contracted the virus.
She reportedly spoke about wanting others to feel her pain.
Health advocates say such reactions reveal unresolved trauma.
They warn that anger can cloud judgment and fuel harmful thoughts.
They stress that emotional support remains essential after diagnosis.
They explain that many newly diagnosed patients experience grief.
They note that some patients also feel betrayal or stigma.
Counsellors say these feelings require careful professional guidance.
They emphasise that revenge does not bring healing.
They insist that harmful intentions can worsen mental health.
They add that fear and isolation often follow diagnosis.
Nigeria continues to battle stigma around HIV.
Many people still misunderstand how the virus spreads.
Public health experts say education reduces panic and blame.
They highlight that HIV treatment has improved greatly.
Modern medicines help people live long healthy lives.
Doctors encourage strict adherence to medication.
They explain that treatment lowers the virus in the body.
They say consistent care protects both patients and communities.
They warn that stopping medication harms the patient’s health.
They emphasise that treatment supports long-term wellbeing.
Positive Living Centres provide counselling and testing services.
These centres also connect patients to support groups.
Support groups often reduce loneliness and fear.
Advocates say shared experiences build resilience.
They encourage compassion toward people with positive status.
They remind the public that HIV is a medical condition.
They reject narratives that promote blame or shame.
They call for calm and factual conversations.
They urge families to support affected relatives.
They say empathy improves treatment outcomes.
They highlight the role of media in shaping opinions.
They ask broadcasters to share verified health information.
They warn that misinformation can spread quickly online.
They note that false claims can endanger lives.
They encourage responsible storytelling about HIV.
They call for more public health campaigns.
They want schools to teach accurate health education.
They say early education builds safer communities.
They conclude that healing requires responsibility and care.
They maintain that hope grows with the right support.
They affirm that compassion and knowledge save lives.
(DDM) – Health experts in Nigeria have raised fresh concerns about how the public discusses and understands snakebite treatment.
DDM gathered that the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors issued a detailed statement addressing misinformation after a reported snakebite death in Abuja.
The association reacted to public conversations that followed the reported death of a young singer named Ifunaya.
Doctors described the loss of a young life as deeply painful and extended condolences to her family and supporters.
They said emotional reactions are natural but must not replace accurate medical understanding.
NARD leaders signed the statement to clarify modern standards in snakebite care.
They identified misinformation spreading through television discussions and social media commentary.
The group specifically referenced claims made during a recent breakfast television programme.
They warned that inaccurate medical claims on national platforms can mislead millions of viewers.
They stressed that wrong advice can push people toward harmful first-aid practices.
The association rejected the suggestion that tying a snake-bitten limb helps victims.
They explained that medical science abandoned that method years ago.
They said constricting a limb can worsen tissue damage and increase complications.
They added that constriction does not reliably stop venom from spreading.
They emphasized that current global guidelines strongly discourage that practice.
NARD also addressed confusion about intravenous fluid treatment in emergencies.
They explained that doctors use intravenous fluids to stabilize many critical patients.
They said fluids help manage shock, dehydration, and systemic complications.
They rejected claims that such fluids serve as malaria treatment in snakebite cases.
They stressed that supportive care often determines survival in emergencies.
The doctors highlighted that antivenom remains the main treatment for venomous bites.
They noted that early access to antivenom can save lives.
They pointed to shortages of antivenom in Nigerian hospitals as a serious concern.
They blamed long-term supply and funding gaps for those shortages.
They said procurement and supply chain weaknesses affect many health facilities.
They reminded the public that doctors often work with limited resources.
They said frontline workers still try to deliver the best care possible.
They warned that blaming doctors for systemic problems discourages morale.
They urged Nigerians to seek information from qualified medical professionals.
They encouraged journalists to consult experts before airing medical advice.
They called for responsible reporting that informs rather than provokes anger.
They also urged governments to stock life-saving medicines consistently.
They stressed that snakebite cases occur more in rural and farming communities.
They said those regions need stronger emergency preparedness.
They concluded that preventable deaths should inspire health system reforms.
They called for national focus on solutions instead of sensational debates.
They insisted that better funding and planning can reduce future tragedies.
They encouraged collaboration between media, government, and medical professionals.
They reaffirmed their commitment to public health education and patient safety.
Shaniece Hairston is getting candid about the emotional realities of raising a child on her own.
During a heartfelt conversation, the model and entrepreneur admitted that while she deeply loves being a mother, there are moments when she feels a sense of sadness or regret, particularly when she sees two-parent families spending time together with their children. Hairston welcomed her son with rapper The Game, and since then has largely kept details of her parenting journey private.
According to her, those public moments can sometimes stir complex feelings.
She explained that watching other families share experiences together can make her pause and reflect on what her own situation looks like, especially when navigating big milestones or everyday responsibilities without a partner by her side.
Her mother, reality television star Evelyn Lozada, offered emotional support and understanding, acknowledging how heavy that realization can feel.
“You feel bad because you feel like you shouldn’t be on this journey alone,” Lozada said, validating her daughter’s honesty and the vulnerability it takes to admit such emotions.
Despite the tough moments, Hairston emphasized that motherhood remains one of the most meaningful parts of her life. Like many single parents, she balances gratitude with the occasional feeling of wishing circumstances had unfolded differently. Her transparency resonated with many listeners, particularly women who say they face similar thoughts but rarely voice them publicly.
The conversation has since sparked discussions online about the pressures placed on single mothers, the expectations surrounding modern relationships, and the importance of emotional support systems. Many praised Hairston for normalizing feelings that are often misunderstood, pointing out that acknowledging challenges does not diminish love for one’s child.
Others applauded Lozada for standing beside her daughter with compassion rather than judgment, a reminder of how crucial family backing can be during vulnerable moments.
By sharing her truth, Shaniece Hairston has helped shed light on the layered experience of parenthood where joy and difficulty can exist at the same time.
Rapper and producer Lil Jon, born Jonathan H. Smith, is mourning the devastating loss of his son, Nathan Smith, whose body was discovered in a pond near the family’s home in Milton, Georgia, days after he was reported missing.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed by the music star in an emotional statement shared on Instagram. Expressing the depth of the family’s grief, Lil Jon said he and Nathan’s mother, Nicole Smith, are struggling to process the unimaginable loss.
“I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother, Nicole Smith, and I are devastated,” he wrote.
Lil Jon described Nathan as a gentle, loving soul who left a lasting impression on everyone he met. According to the grieving father, Nathan was kind, thoughtful, and deeply devoted to both family and friends.
“Nathan was the kindest human being you would ever meet. He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate and warmhearted, he loved his family and the friends in his life to the fullest,” the statement continued.
Beyond his character, Nathan was also remembered for his creativity and ambition. He was a talented music producer, artist, and engineer, and a graduate of New York University, accomplishments his family said made them incredibly proud.
“We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him. He was loved and appreciated, and in our last times together, we’re comforted in knowing that we expressed that very sentiment to him,” Lil Jon added.
The Milton Police Department also addressed the incident, noting that, based on the investigation so far, there is no indication of foul play. Authorities confirmed Nathan had last been seen running out of the house before search efforts ultimately led to the discovery of his body in a nearby pond.
As news of the tragedy spread, fans, fellow musicians, and celebrities flooded social media with condolences and prayers for the Smith family. Many expressed sympathy for the rapper, who has long been admired not only for his impact on music and pop culture but also for his dedication to family.
The loss of a child is an unimaginable pain, and messages of support continue to pour in from around the world as loved ones remember Nathan’s life, talent, and warmth.
The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD), an environmental rights and human rights advocacy organization, has expressed grave concern over the persistent and tragic loss of lives resulting from recurring road traffic accidents along the Waterside–Ogbor Hill axis of Aba, Abia State.
In a statement issued by it’s executive director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, FENRAD noted that this corridor remains one of the most accident-prone areas in the state, with frequent incidents involving heavy vehicular congestion, uncontrolled traffic movement, pedestrian exposure, and poor road safety infrastructure.
The advocacy group called on the State Government to urgently prioritize the provision of critical infrastructure, including the construction of flyovers and pedestrian (overhead) bridges, as well as comprehensive road redesigns to effectively separate vehicular and human traffic.
The statement reads: “This corridor remains one of the most accident-prone areas in the state, with frequent incidents involving heavy vehicular congestion, uncontrolled traffic movement, pedestrian exposure, and poor road safety infrastructure.
“These recurring accidents have led to avoidable deaths, serious injuries, and destruction of livelihoods, raising serious human rights and public safety concerns.
“FENRAD observes that the Waterside–Ogbor Hill axis serves as a major commercial and transportation hub, experiencing intense vehicular and pedestrian traffic daily. The absence of modern traffic engineering solutions—such as flyovers, overhead pedestrian bridges, and effective traffic flow systems—has significantly worsened congestion and increased the risk of fatal accidents.
“In view of this, FENRAD calls on the Abia State Government, under the leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, to urgently prioritize the provision of critical infrastructure, including the construction of flyovers and pedestrian (overhead) bridges, as well as comprehensive road redesigns to effectively separate vehicular and human traffic.
“These interventions are necessary to improve vehicle traffic movement, reduce congestion, and eliminate dangerous conflict points along the corridor.
“The organization further urges the government to commission an independent traffic, environmental, and social impact assessment to guide sustainable solutions. Complementary measures should include modern traffic control systems, proper signage, speed-calming mechanisms, strict enforcement of road safety regulations, and public sensitization.
“FENRAD emphasizes that infrastructure development must be proactive, inclusive, and people-centered. The right to life, safety, and a secure environment is fundamental, and no community should continue to endure preventable deaths due to inadequate planning or delayed government response.
“Road safety is a human rights issue. When citizens repeatedly lose their lives due to poor traffic management and unsafe infrastructure, urgent corrective action becomes a moral and constitutional obligation
“The organization calls on relevant ministries, road safety agencies, urban planners, and traffic management authorities to collaborate transparently and act without delay.
“FENRAD also encourages civil society organizations, community leaders, and the media to sustain advocacy efforts toward lasting and life-saving solutions.
“FENRAD remains steadfast in its commitment to environmental justice, sustainable development, and the protection of human rights and will continue to engage stakeholders to ensure that residents of Aba and Abia State enjoy safe, efficient, and humane transportation infrastructure.”
Riley Moore, a member of the house of representatives in the United States, has said efforts to embolden separatists pushing for secession from Nigeria would only hurt Christians, especially in the North and Middle Belt.
Diaspora Digital Media reported that Moore visited Nigeria in December to investigate alleged Christian genocide claims, meeting with officials, aid groups, and internally displaced persons.
During his trip, the lawmaker met with Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser (NSA).
He also visited Benue state, where he met with Hyacinth Alia, the governor, religious and traditional rulers, aid groups, and internally displaced persons (IDPs).
“In my discussions, the idea of dividing the country has not come up in any serious way,” Moore said in a tweet on Saturday.
“Efforts to embolden separatists hurt Christians in Nigeria – especially in the North and Middle Belt. A destabilised Nigeria would embolden terrorists and make Christians less safe in Nigeria and across the continent.”
Meanwhile, Moore’s comments come amid lobbying efforts by Biafra separatist groups, including a $66,000 monthly contract with Washington & Madison to push for US engagement with a potential Biafran administration.
The Nigerian government has also hired lobbyists to communicate its efforts to protect Christians.
Of recent, the US and Nigeria have entered a security cooperation agreement, seen as a step towards tackling violence and strengthening bilateral relations.
Media personality and style icon Ebuka Obi-Uchendu melted hearts as he pulled off a touching surprise for his wife, Cynthia Uchendu, during their 10th wedding anniversary celebration in Rome.
The beloved TV host, known for his suave presence on and off the screen, chose one of the world’s most romantic cities to reaffirm his love for the woman who has stood by him for a decade. In what many have described as a fairy-tale moment, Ebuka went down on one knee once again, presenting Cynthia with a reproposal that symbolized renewal, gratitude, and enduring commitment.
Videos and photos from the intimate scene quickly made their way onto social media, where fans and well-wishers could not hide their excitement. Cynthia appeared visibly emotional as Ebuka expressed his love, recreating the magic of their journey together while celebrating how far they have come as partners, parents, and friends.
The couple, who tied the knot in 2016, have often been admired for maintaining a strong, scandal-free relationship despite the pressures of public life. Over the years, they have built a beautiful family and continued to present a picture of stability, mutual respect, and unwavering support.
For many followers, the reproposal felt like more than just a romantic gesture, it was a reminder that love can be nurtured, renewed, and celebrated, even after many years of marriage. Ebuka’s action also earned praise from fans who applauded him for intentionally honoring his wife in such a grand yet heartfelt way.
Social media has since been flooded with congratulatory messages, with many describing the moment as “goals” and applauding the couple for showing that long-term commitment can still carry excitement and romance.
As they mark ten years of marriage, Ebuka and Cynthia’s love story continues to inspire admirers both within and beyond the entertainment industry.
(DDM) – Popular socialite and businessman Pascal Okechukwu, known as Cubana Chief Priest, has secured a new political appointment in Imo State.
DDM gathered that the City Boy Movement which some Nigerians describe as (mumu boys) selected him to serve as its Imo State director ahead of future political campaigns.
The City Boy Movement operates as a youth-focused political support group backing President Bola Tinubu and his policy direction.
The group publicly announced the appointment through its verified Instagram platform, drawing attention from supporters and critics across Nigeria.
Leaders of the movement praised Cubana Chief Priest for his visibility, grassroots connections, and strong influence among young Nigerians.
They stated that his popularity could energise youth mobilisation and expand the movement’s reach in Imo State communities.
The statement described him as a symbol of dedication, strategic leadership, and commitment to organisational growth.
The movement expects him to coordinate local structures and encourage wider participation in political engagement among young voters.
Supporters believe his entertainment industry background gives him communication advantages when connecting with Nigeria’s youth population.
Nigeria’s political parties increasingly rely on youth-led groups to shape narratives and mobilise support before major elections.
Analysts note that celebrities now play visible roles in political messaging, campaign visibility, and voter motivation.
The City Boy Movement aligns itself with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda and promotes his governance priorities.
That agenda emphasises economic reforms, infrastructure development, and youth inclusion in national progress conversations.
Political observers say youth-focused movements often attempt to convert online popularity into offline voter turnout.
Cubana Chief Priest built his public image through nightlife entrepreneurship, celebrity partnerships, and social media engagement.
His large digital following gives him a ready-made audience for political communication and campaign messaging.
Critics sometimes question whether celebrity appointments prioritise popularity over policy knowledge and governance experience.
Supporters counter that influence and mobilisation skills matter greatly in modern democratic participation.
Imo State remains politically significant in the Southeast due to its voting strength and active youth population.
Parties frequently compete for strong local figures who can persuade undecided or first-time voters.
The movement urged unity and collective focus as it prepares supporters for future political contests.
It also stressed goals of inclusive development, stable leadership, and sustained civic participation among young citizens.
Some residents view the appointment as a sign of deeper celebrity involvement in Nigeria’s evolving political culture.
Others see it as a strategy to maintain visibility and loyalty among younger demographics before the 2027 cycle.
Nigeria’s democracy continues to witness growing intersections between entertainment, social influence, and political advocacy.
The true impact of the appointment will likely appear in how effectively the movement converts popularity into structured political support.
Mr Pascal Okechukwu aka, Cubana Chief Priest, in trouble for spraying Naira at event
Popular socialite and nightlife entrepreneur Pascal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, has announced his intention to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives in the 2027 general elections.
The celebrity businessman disclosed his plan in an Instagram post, stating that he would run on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He described the decision as strategic, arguing that aligning with the ruling party would give him greater leverage to influence federal policies.
Cubana Chief Priest said his political ambition is partly driven by the desire to advocate for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
According to him, operating from outside government limits the ability to effect meaningful change at the national level.
“I no fit help Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from opposition.
I have always been an APC,” he said, adding that his loyalty to the party is also influenced by his political ties to Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma.
Addressing his support for Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi during the 2023 elections, Cubana Chief Priest clarified that his involvement with the Obidient movement occurred while he was serving as a Special Adviser to Governor Uzodimma.
He said his political alignment has since shifted fully back to the APC and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Last election, as special adviser to Governor Hope, I worked for Peter Obi, but this time I dey with Asiwaju,” he said.
Describing his 2027 ambition as a transition from online influence to active political engagement, Cubana Chief Priest said the South-East needs younger and influential figures within the ruling structure to effectively advance the region’s interests at the federal level.
Celebrity fashion entrepreneur and stylist, Toyin Lawani, has alleged that she was physically and verbally mistreated by staff of British Airways while attempting to obtain her boarding pass at an airport counter.
Lawani, who has been open in recent times about dealing with health challenges affecting her mobility, said the incident occurred despite her visible condition. According to her account, what should have been routine assistance escalated into an uncomfortable confrontation.
The designer claimed she requested support while trying to sort out her travel documents but was instead met with hostility. She further alleged that members of staff handled her in a rough manner and spoke to her disrespectfully, leaving her shaken and embarrassed.
The incident has since sparked reactions online, with many of her supporters expressing outrage and calling for the airline to investigate the matter. Some users have pointed to the need for better training in dealing with passengers who require special assistance, particularly those living with disabilities or health limitations.
Lawani has long been admired for her resilience, often continuing to work and appear at events while managing her condition. Fans say the situation makes the allegations even more troubling, as they expected empathy and professionalism from airline representatives.
As of the time of reporting, British Airways has not publicly responded to the accusations.
(DDM) – Manchester United seized a narrow but important lead over Tottenham after an intense first half at Old Trafford.
DDM gathered that the encounter produced high tempo football, loud crowd energy, and several standout individual displays from United players.
The first half ended with United ahead by one goal, rewarding their sharper attacking movements and better control in midfield areas.
Bryan Mbeumo emerged as the difference maker when he finished calmly inside the penalty area to give United the advantage.
He timed his run intelligently and met a pass with a first-time strike that beat the goalkeeper and lifted the home supporters.
Mbeumo had earlier threatened the defence with clever positioning and nearly scored from another precise attacking move.
His constant movement stretched Tottenham’s backline and created spaces that teammates tried to exploit throughout the half.
Casemiro delivered a commanding midfield performance that blended defensive discipline with ambitious attacking contributions for his side.
He attempted shots from distance and forced Tottenham’s goalkeeper into alert saves that prevented the scoreline from widening.
He also challenged strongly in aerial duels and redirected a cross toward goal that required quick reactions from the defence.
His ball-winning ability helped United recover possession quickly and maintain territorial pressure on their opponents.
Amad Diallo played an energetic role in attack by linking midfield and forward lines with speed and sharp passing.
He slipped a neat pass to Bruno Fernandes in a promising area, although the move did not end in a goal.
Diallo also accepted physical battles and drew a booking during a competitive midfield contest for possession.
His quick feet and direct runs repeatedly forced Tottenham defenders to adjust their positioning and stay alert.
Captain Bruno Fernandes orchestrated play with creative distribution and leadership in advanced attacking positions for United.
He combined short corners, forward passes, and a blocked long-range effort to keep pressure on the visiting defence.
His awareness and communication helped coordinate United’s attacking shape during sustained periods of pressure.
Lisandro Martinez anchored the defence with firm tackles and calm distribution from the back under pressure.
He stepped forward to intercept passes and launched forward balls that started new attacking sequences for United.
His composure allowed United to hold their shape whenever Tottenham attempted to build counterattacks.
The overall first-half display showed a balanced United side mixing discipline, creativity, and controlled aggression in key moments.
Supporters responded loudly as the team demonstrated urgency and belief in pursuit of valuable league points.
Analysts noted that maintaining intensity in the second half would prove crucial to securing a full victory.
The match highlighted how individual brilliance and teamwork can combine to shape tight Premier League contests.
Plateau State has reported a Lassa fever outbreak affecting seven local government areas, with 11 confirmed cases and four deaths since December 2025.
The affected areas are Quanpan, Shendam, Wase, Langtang South, Jos North, Jos South, and Mangu.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, provided the update during a press briefing in Jos, noting that the first case was reported on December 20, 2025, from Quanpan LGA.
Following this, the state activated its incident management team and began extensive contact tracing.
Suspected cases: 28
Confirmed cases: 11
Contacts under follow-up: 109
Tragically, four people have died, including one health worker. Two fatalities occurred at Jos University Teaching Hospital, one at Plateau Specialist Hospital, and one at Bingham University Teaching Hospital.
Another medical doctor is currently hospitalized and receiving treatment.
Dr. Baamlong emphasized public health education, active case search, and deployment of rapid response teams as key measures to curb the spread of the disease.
Treatment drugs and personal protective equipment (PPE) have been distributed to major health facilities.
Residents are urged to:
Follow preventive measures diligently
Seek prompt medical attention if symptoms appear
Participate in public health awareness programs
This outbreak highlights the importance of collective responsibility in containing Lassa fever in Plateau State.
Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, has officially confirmed her membership in the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the party as her political “natural home.”
In an interview with Nigerian football legend Segun Odegbami on 103.7FM Eagle7 Sports, Iyabo said her return to active politics after roughly 15 years was motivated by sustained encouragement from supporters.
“Like I told you, a group of people who I did not bring together, I did not form them into a group, have been working, I think, for two years now.
And then they started talking to me about a year ago, saying, ‘Look, we think you are the best candidate. We want you back,’” she said.
The former Ogun State Commissioner for Health explained that she ruled out a return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) or the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing greater comfort with political actors within the APC.
She also noted that the ADC “doesn’t have its ducks in a row yet; they’re still working on it.”
“I feel more comfortable, actually, than with some of the actors I know in the PDP, and some of them are now in the ADC
. So I think it’s my natural home. I feel quite confident and happy to have made that decision,” Iyabo said, adding, “I have an absolute 100% feeling it’s my natural home.”
Recall that Iyabo Obasanjo lost her re-election bid in 2011 to Senator Gbenga Obadara of the then Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and subsequently returned to the United States to continue her academic career, eventually rising to the rank of professor.
In the last three years, a disturbing and painful pattern has taken root in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, one that raises urgent questions about security, governance, and the price of community leadership. One after another, Presidents General of major towns within the local government have been attacked, silenced, or marked for death, leaving behind grief-stricken communities and a growing sense of fear among those who have committed their lives to grassroots development.
The roll call of loss is chilling. The President General of Obosi was assassinated. The President General of Umuoji met the same tragic fate. In Abatete, an assassination attempt was narrowly escaped. In Ogidi, yet another President General was brutally killed. These are not random incidents. To many observers and stakeholders, they represent a targeted assault on community leadership in one of Anambra’s most prominent local government areas.
These men were not criminals, warlords, or political thugs. They were community leaders—individuals who invested their time, energy, and personal resources into making their towns safer, more organized, and more progressive. Ironically, it is this very commitment that appears to have turned them into targets.
Across Idemili North, Presidents General also double as community security chiefs, working closely with local vigilantes, traditional institutions, and sometimes state security agencies to maintain peace. In a period marked by cult-related violence, criminal infiltration, and social tension, these leaders often find themselves on the front lines, making difficult decisions for the collective good. According to several community insiders, such decisions rarely please everyone.
“What have we done to deserve this?” one grieving community member asked rhetorically. “These are people who chose service over comfort, peace over chaos, and responsibility over silence.”
In the words of one local leader, Presidents General have increasingly become “endangered species.” Their lives, once defined by honour and service, are now exposed to constant danger. They are stalked, threatened, humiliated, and in the worst cases, murdered. Yet, despite the sacrifices they make, they are often treated with levity, left vulnerable, and inadequately protected by the very systems meant to safeguard them.
The killing of Chief Ikwuka Okoye, popularly known as Anumili Ogidi, stands out as a particularly painful chapter in this unfolding tragedy. DDM NEWS reports that Anumili was widely respected across Ogidi and beyond for his calm disposition, principled leadership, and dignified conduct. Those who knew him describe him as a gentleman to the core—measured in speech, fair in judgment, and deeply committed to the welfare of his people.
At the time of his death, Anumili was in the final stages of preparations to give his late mother a befitting burial, scheduled for the coming Friday. Just one week before that solemn family event, he was killed, plunging his household and the entire Ogidi community into mourning.
Sources say that Ogidi had recently come under pressure from cult-related activities and rising insecurity. As President General, Anumili took steps any responsible leader would take: he moved to protect lives, restore calm, and prevent the spread of violence. His actions were guided by duty, not personal interest. Sadly, those very efforts appear to have sealed his fate.
Community accounts indicate that he was trailed and eventually brought down by those who felt threatened by his resolve to protect Ogidi. His death has since sent shockwaves across Idemili North, reinforcing fears that community leadership has become a dangerous calling.
A grim reality now confronts Presidents General across the region. As one insider put it, they have become targets for anyone or any group dissatisfied with decisions taken in the interest of peace and order. In Igbo parlance, “Umu ibe, obi zoba onwe ya, las las”—when danger comes, everyone looks inward and tries to survive.
DDM NEWS observes that beyond mourning, these repeated attacks demand urgent reflection and action. What message does this send to young, capable individuals who may wish to serve their communities tomorrow? How long can grassroots governance survive if its leaders are routinely eliminated or intimidated into silence?
The silence surrounding these killings is almost as troubling as the acts themselves. Many fear that without decisive intervention, community leadership structures may weaken, leaving a vacuum that criminal elements will be eager to exploit.
As prayers continue to pour in, the people of Ogidi, Idemili North, and Anambra State at large remember Chief Ikwuka Okoye not just as a fallen leader, but as a symbol of selfless service in perilous times.
DDM NEWS joins family, friends, and community members in praying that his soul finds peace among the just, and that his sudden journey into the great beyond is met with divine comfort and eternal rest, in Jesus’ powerful name. At the same time, his death stands as a sobering reminder that the safety of those who guard our communities must no longer be taken for granted.
