Amad’s hat-trick rescues Manchester Utd from land of the dead
The Red Devils were on their way to their most humiliating defeat yet as they trailed 1-0 at home to Premier League basement club Southampton after a Manuel Ugarte own goal in the first half. But Amad took matters into his own hands, equalising in the 82nd minute and completing a hat-trick within the final 10 minutes to give United a 3-1 win they barely deserved but which they badly needed, taking them 10 points clear of the drop zone. Manchester United’s Amad Diallo speaking to TNT after scoring a 12-minute hat-trick: “In football you have to believe. We believed until the end and are very happy to win this game. We drew with Arsenal and Liverpool so the confidence was there. We are very happy.” On where this week ranks after scoring his first senior hat-trick and signing a new contract: “Maybe one of the best weeks in my life. I am very happy for this win. This team deserved to win this game so I am very happy.” On why United left it so late to click into gear: “We know we have quality players in this team. We need sometimes to be more hungry in the final third. Today we showed at the end we were the best team. I am so happy for the win today because this team deserves it. “I am ready to play every position where the manager likes to put me. I am ready to fight for this club. I am so happy to play where the manager wants me to play and I am so happy to score a hat-trick.”
Two sisters to die for killing, burning woman’s body in Niger
For the brutal killing of Hafsat Aliyu, a married woman, two siblings, Amina Aliyu and Aishat Mohammed Aliyu, have been sentenced to death in Niger State. The third sibling, Zainab, received life imprisonment due to her age at the time of the crime. The incident occurred in March 2021 at the family residence in Barkin Saleh, Minna. Amina and Aishat were convicted of murdering Hafsat, who was both Amina’s co-wife and the wife of Alhaji Muhammad Sani. According to the prosecution, Aishat attacked Hafsat with a pestle before setting her body on fire in the kitchen. The trial began at Minna Chief Magistrate Court Number One before being transferred to the High Court. During the proceedings, which spanned three years, four witnesses testified, including Sani, who recounted how Amina killed Hafsat. Justice Balkisu Gambo Yusuf of Minna High Court 7 confirmed the prosecution had proven its case beyond doubt, stating, “The punishment for culpable homicide under Section 221 of the Penal Code is death.” Peter Omale, the defence counsel, urged leniency for Zainab, highlighting her status as a minor at the time of the crime. Justice Yusuf concurred, ruling, “As of 2021, when the offence was committed, the ACJA excluded anyone below 18 from facing the death penalty.”
Nine die of cholera outbreak in Rivers Community
Nine people have died from a cholera outbreak in the Andoni and Akuku-Toru Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Rivers State. This was confirmed on Thursday by the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, during a media conference. Dr. Oreh stated that three persons died in the Isiodun community of Andoni LGA while six died in Akuku-Toru LGA within 48 hours, raising the total number of suspected recorded cases to 41 on 13 January. She acknowledged that through the Ministry of Health, adequate measures have been put in place to tackle this issue. She said, “With the deepest sense of sympathy to victims of a suspected outbreak of acute watery diarrhoea caused by a suspected cholera outbreak, because we at the Ministry of Health are yet to confirm that those deaths were from cholera in the Isiodun community of the Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State. “However, the symptoms of the cases reported are in keeping with the surveillance case definition of cholera. “Cholera, as we all know, is an acute diarrhoeal disease that is caused by the bacteria ‘Vibrio holerae.’ It thrives in areas with poor water, sanitation, and hygiene wash infrastructure. While highlighting the means of transmission through consuming contaminated water, she noted that contact with contaminated surfaces from infected persons can lead to transmission. She stressed the effect of the alarming rate of acute watery diarrhoea and cholera during the dry season, posing a threat to society due to the high mortality rate. “It was majorly these deaths that were reported and brought to our attention that necessitate the quick response from our directorate of public health and disease control. Read Also:FG launches 2024 hazard risk analysis on disaster She added, “The state rapid response team led by the Director of Public Health and Disease Control investigated and commenced actions to contain that outbreak.” In collaboration with some partners, Dr. Oreh revealed that Andoni LGA authority has activated emergency response measures to strengthen surveillance. She urged members of the public to practice preventive measures such as practicing food hygiene, hand washing with soap, and clean water, particularly before eating and after using the toilet, among others. “Ensure the safety of drinking water; boil water or treat water with chlorine before it is used. Avoid consuming water from unverified sources and eating unsafe food.
Five soldiers, 6 terrorists killed during gunfight in Sokoto
Troops of the Defence Headquarters Special Operations Brigade have killed at least six terrorists in a coordinated operation targeting Lakurawa terrorists in the Gudu Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The operation, carried out under Operation Fansan Yamma, was announced in a statement on Thursday by Lt. Col. Abubakar Abdullahi, Coordinator of the Joint Media Coordination Centre. However, five soldiers lost their lives in the fierce firefight, the statement disclosed. During the operation the troops recovered the following items, four AK-47 rifles, 160 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and one box of 12.7mm ammunition, the statement said. While the military hailed the success of the operation, it expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the five soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. “Despite this success, the operation came at a heavy cost, as five gallant soldiers tragically lost their lives in the line of duty,” the statement added. In the aftermath of the operation, the military urged residents of Gudu LGA and surrounding areas to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to terrorism or security threats to security agencies. The statement reiterated the importance of public cooperation in maintaining peace and safeguarding lives, calling on communities to stay alert and proactive in supporting security operations.
Israel kills 40, wounds 200 in Gaza despite ceasefire deal
…20 children and 25 women among casualties The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have killed at least 40 Palestinians despite the truce announced recently. After news of a ceasefire agreement sparked mass rejoicing in Gaza, residents woke up Thursday to columns of smoke, rubble and more deaths following new Israeli air strikes. The killings came as the Israeli cabinet preparation to vote on the deal. The latest strikes came after Qatar and the United States announced a fragile ceasefire deal that should take effect on Sunday. Al Jazeera insists that in defiance of the proposed deal, the Israeli military has stepped up attacks on the Gaza Strip since the announcement. “We were waiting for the truce and were happy. It was the happiest night since October 7,” said Gaza resident Saeed Alloush, referring to the Hamas attack on Israel that sparked the war in 2023. “Suddenly… we received the news of the martyrdom of 40 people,” including his uncle, Alloush said. “The whole area’s joy turned to sadness, as if an earthquake struck.” This picture taken from the Israeli side of the border with the Gaza Strip shows an Israeli army vehicle driving past destroyed buildings in the northern Gaza Strip on January 16, 2025, following the announcement of a truce amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. (Photo by Menahem KAHANA / AFP) AFP has contacted the Israeli military for comment. Mahmud Bassal, spokesman for Gaza’s civil defence agency, told AFP on Thursday that at least 73 people had been killed in Israeli air strikes since the announcement on Wednesday. Among them were 20 children and 25 women, he said, with around 200 others wounded. As day broke, crowds gathered to inspect and clear the remains of a building reduced to rubble, where chunks of concrete lay interspersed with rebar and personal items scattered across the site. The scenes mirrored those in other parts of the densely populated territory of 2.4 million people, most of whom have been displaced at least once since war broke out in October 2023. At Nasser Hospital, the main medical facility of the southern city of Khan Yunis, AFP journalists saw stained metal mortuary stretchers stained in red as staff drained them of the blood of the dead in a strike. In Gaza City’s Al-Ahli hospital, where several strike casualties were taken, grieving families knelt by the white shrouds enveloping their loved ones’ bodies. Rescuer Ibrahim Abu al-Rish told AFP that “after the ceasefire was announced and people were happy and joyful, a five-storey building was targeted, with more than 50 people inside”. Wearing headlights, first responders and local residents searched through the rubble late at night in the devastated streets of Gaza City. Abu al-Rish, an ambulance driver for Gaza’s civil defence agency, said Thursday that “shelling is still continuing, targeting one house after another”. In the Al-Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza, resident Mahmud al-Qarnawi told AFP that until the agreement takes hold, Gazans would remain vulnerable. “The shooting has not stopped, the planes are still in the air and the situation is difficult,” he said. As a result, Qarnawi and others AFP spoke to in the nearby city of Nuseirat said they were worried about what could happen next. “We must remain cautious. And for the next three days, we are afraid of a (possible) bloodbath (worse) than before,” Motaz Bakeer, a displaced Gazan, said from the market at Nuseirat. International medical charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said no one could yet feel safe in Gaza. “Last night it was a lot of cheering for 20 minutes, and then it was a very bloody night,” MSF’s emergency coordinator Amande Bazerolle told AFP by phone from the territory, rounds of shelling audible in the background. The Israeli cabinet is expected to approve the Gaza deal later Thursday, though Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office accused Hamas of backtracking on elements of the agreement. Key mediators Qatar and the United States said Wednesday that Israel and Hamas had agreed to a ceasefire in Gaza starting on Sunday, along with a hostage and prisoner exchange. If the fragile agreement is approved, 33 hostages should be released in a first phase, Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani said. The war in Gaza was sparked by Hamas’s attack, which resulted in the deaths of 1,210 people in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of official Israeli figures. Israel’s retaliatory military offensive in Gaza has killed 46,788 people, the majority civilians, according to figures from the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory considered reliable by the United Nations. However, Hamas official, Izzat al-Risheq, said the deal reached in the Qatari capital, Doha, meets all of the Palestinian group’s conditions. The conditions include the full withdrawal of Israeli forces, the return of displaced people to their homes and a permanent end to the war. Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, thanked US President, Joe Biden, and President-elect, Donald Trump, for their “assistance in advancing” an agreement to end “the suffering of dozens of hostages and their families.” Israel’s war in Gaza has killed at least 46,707 Palestinians and wounded 110,265 since October 7, 2023.
EFCC to arraign Oba Otudeko, others over alleged N12.3bn fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed a 13-count criminal charge against the Chairman of Honeywell Group, Chief Oba Otudeko, and a former Managing Director of First Bank, Olabisi Onasanya, for allegedly defrauding First Bank of N12.3 billion. The arraignment of both individuals is scheduled for Monday, January 20, before Justice Chukwuejekwu Aneke at the Federal High Court in Lagos. Joining them as defendants in the case are Soji Akintayo, a former board member of Honeywell Flour Mills Plc, and Anchorage Leisure Ltd, a company linked to Otudeko. The EFCC prosecutor, Bilkisu Buhari-Bala, filed the charges on January 16, 2025, alleging that the accused obtained the funds in tranches of N5.2 billion, N6.2 billion, N6.15 billion, N1.5 billion, and N500 million between 2013 and 2014 in Lagos. To establish its case, the EFCC intends to present witnesses, including representatives from First Bank, the Central Bank of Nigeria, Stallion Nigeria Limited, and V-Tech Dynamics Ltd. Individuals like Cecelia Majekodunmi, Ola Michael Aderogba, Abiodun Olatunji, Raymond Eze, Abiodun Odunbola, and Adeeyo David are expected to testify about the alleged fraudulent misrepresentation. READ ALSO: Tinubu bent on tackling corrupt practices – EFCC boss Farida Abubakar and Adaeze Nwakoby are also listed as witnesses. The EFCC alleges that the offences violate Section 8(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006, and are punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act. The EFCC outlined the charges against the defendants as follows: In Count 1, the defendants are accused of conspiring to fraudulently obtain N12.3 billion from First Bank by falsely claiming the funds were credit facilities applied for by V-Tech Dynamic Links Ltd and Stallion Nigeria Ltd. Count 2 alleges that on November 26, 2013, the defendants fraudulently obtained N5.2 billion from First Bank, pretending it was a credit facility for V-Tech Dynamic Links Ltd. Under Count 3, the EFCC claims the defendants secured N6.2 billion between 2013 and 2014 from First Bank, falsely representing it as a credit facility for Stallion Nigeria Ltd. In Count 4, the defendants are charged with conspiring to use N6.15 billion, knowing it was proceeds from unlawful activities, including obtaining funds under pretence. READ ALSO: Gov Mutfwang reaffirms commitment to supporting Nigerian Army Finally, Count 5 states that on December 11, 2013, the defendants facilitated Honeywell Flour Mills Plc in retaining N1.5 billion, suspected to be proceeds of their unlawful activities. The charges also cite violations of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended), particularly Sections 18(a) and 15(2)(d), punishable under Section 15(3) of the Act. The case is set to bring further scrutiny to high-profile financial dealings involving corporate executives and financial institutions in Nigeria.
Mutfwang advances agriculture, alleviates poverty with tractors, $250,000 fund
In a significant move to strengthen Plateau State’s agricultural sector and combat poverty, Governor Caleb Mutfwang has inaugurated 20 tractors for farming communities and distributed $250,000 to ten communities. Gyang Bere, Director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor in a statement said the initiative, executed in partnership with the World Bank through the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, reflects the administration’s vision for food security and rural empowerment. At the commissioning ceremony held at the New Government House, Rayfield, Jos, Governor Mutfwang emphasised that the tractors would enhance farming activities, ensuring food security and economic growth across the state. He disclosed plans to procure an additional 200 tractors under the Plateau Agricultural Development Programme to bolster agricultural production further. READ ALSO: Gov Mutfwang reaffirms commitment to supporting Nigerian Army As part of the event, the governor presented a $250,000 Community Revolving Fund (CRF) to ten communities, with each receiving $25,000. The initiative, supported by the World Bank, is designed to empower rural communities financially. Beneficiary communities include Guratop, Kerang, Zamko, Ampang West, Dinting, Jimin, Kaler, Plateau Club/Bingham, Pishe, Yashi, and Wereh. The funds are to be repaid after a specified period, creating a sustainable cycle of empowerment for other communities. Governor Mutfwang encouraged the beneficiaries to utilize the funds effectively, stating, “This initiative is a revolving opportunity aimed at fostering community development. By God’s grace, none of these projects will fail. We are committed to ensuring that the funds and equipment uplift our people.” He further reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to alleviate poverty, saying, “Our priority is to ensure that these investments translate into tangible benefits, improving the living standards of our people and reducing poverty.” He urged citizens to support government initiatives and discouraged divisive tendencies that hinder progress. READ ALSO: Lagos Commissioner, Toke Benson denies slapping allegation The World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Dr. Ndiame Diop, congratulated the communities and highlighted the initiative’s role in addressing the effects of climate change on agriculture. “Desertification and climate change are major threats to livelihoods in Plateau State. Through ACReSAL, we aim to help communities adapt to these challenges while improving their well-being,” he said. Diop also commended Governor Mutfwang for his commitment to the project’s success. Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Gabriel Dewan, ACReSAL Task Team Leader Joy Iganya Agene, and Plateau State ACReSAL Coordinator Garba Gowon Gonkol, lauded Governor Mutfwang for fostering partnerships that deliver direct benefits to the people.
Court orders arrest of Mercy Chinwo’s manager
A Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, issued a warrant of arrest on Thursday against Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the manager of popular gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. The order was given by Justice Alexander Owoeye following a motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). EFCC pushes for Manager’s arrest During Thursday’s hearing, EFCC counsel Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari presented the case before the court. She filed the motion pursuant to Section 35(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution and Sections 35, 36, 37, 38, and 39 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015. Buhari explained that the arrest warrant was necessary to compel Onyedikachukwu to appear in court and answer to criminal allegations. “The application seeks to ensure the manager’s presence in court,” Buhari said. “He must respond to the accusations leveled against him.” She warned that if the EFCC failed to arrest the manager, the commission might issue a public summons to declare him wanted. Serious allegations surface The EFCC revealed that the case originated from a petition submitted by Mercy Chinwo. According to an affidavit filed by EFCC investigator Mr. Michael Idoko, Chinwo accused Onyedikachukwu of financial misconduct. She alleged that her manager had been collecting royalties from her digital platforms and events without her knowledge or consent. The affidavit disclosed that Onyedikachukwu allegedly diverted $345,000, which he failed to share with Chinwo as agreed. The EFCC stated that multiple attempts to locate and arrest Onyedikachukwu had been unsuccessful, prompting the need for the court-issued warrant. Judge grants EFCC’s request After reviewing the motion and supporting affidavit, Justice Owoeye granted the EFCC’s application. The court issued the warrant of arrest and scheduled the manager’s arraignment for January 24. This legal action marks a critical step in the case against Onyedikachukwu. If the EFCC fails to apprehend him, the commission may resort to broader measures to ensure his accountability. Implications for the gospel music industry The case has sparked interest across the gospel music community and beyond. Mercy Chinwo, known for her chart-topping songs and spiritual influence, is a prominent figure in Nigeria’s music scene. The allegations against her manager have raised concerns about trust and transparency in the artist-manager relationship. Industry stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions. Some see the case as a warning to ensure ethical practices, while others believe it underscores the need for artists to maintain financial oversight. Next steps As the court awaits the arraignment, the EFCC is intensifying efforts to locate Onyedikachukwu. Legal experts suggest that the case could set a precedent for how financial disputes in the entertainment industry are addressed. Meanwhile, Mercy Chinwo has remained silent, refraining from making public statements about the case. Observers will be watching closely as the case unfolds. For now, the spotlight remains on the EFCC’s ability to bring Onyedikachukwu to justice and restore faith in the management practices within the music industry. Read Also: Mercy Chinwo, husband aid Port Harcourt with donations
Hollyoaks star Paul Danan dies at 46
Paul Danan, the actor best known for playing Sol Patrick on the Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks from 1997 to 2001, has passed away at the age of 46. His management company, Independent Creative Management, confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement on Wednesday. “It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of Paul Danan at just 46 years old,” the statement read. “Known for his television presence, exceptional talent, and unwavering kindness, Paul was a beacon of light to so many.” Career in the spotlight Danan rose to fame through his memorable role in Hollyoaks, where he captivated audiences with his portrayal of the troubled yet lovable Sol Patrick. His time on the show earned him a dedicated fan base and cemented his place as a household name in British television. Beyond Hollyoaks, Danan expanded his career with appearances on reality TV. He starred in Celebrity Love Island in 2005 and returned for the show’s second season in 2006. His charisma and candid personality made him a standout contestant. In 2017, he appeared on Celebrity Big Brother, further solidifying his status as a beloved public figure. Tributes pour in Fans and colleagues have expressed their sorrow over the untimely loss. Danan’s management described his death as leaving “irreplaceable voids in the lives of all who knew him.” They also requested privacy for his family, friends, and colleagues during this challenging time. Danan was remembered not only for his talent but also for his kindness. Many who worked with him noted his genuine warmth and ability to connect with others. These traits earned him widespread admiration, both on and off the screen. Life After Hollyoaks After departing Hollyoaks, Danan occasionally expressed a desire to return to the series. However, his character was last seen fleeing the village with Jess Holt over two decades ago. In the years since, he pursued a variety of projects, showcasing his versatility as an entertainer. From 2019 to 2023, Danan hosted the podcast The Morning After With Paul Danan. The show offered listeners an intimate glimpse into his life, exploring themes of resilience, recovery, and personal growth. He also appeared on Celebrity Coach Trip and the Channel 4 sketch comedy series The Kevin Bishop Show. Struggles with health Danan faced health challenges in recent years, which he candidly discussed with fans and the media. In 2022, he revealed that he had been hospitalized with pneumonia and spent time in intensive care. He credited the experience with inspiring significant lifestyle changes. In an interview with The Sun on Sunday, Danan shared that medical staff had urged him to quit smoking. Though he had successfully given up cigarettes, he admitted to becoming “obsessed” with disposable vapes. His openness about his struggles resonated with many, highlighting the importance of prioritizing health and well-being. A legacy of resilience and talent Paul Danan’s journey was one of highs and lows, marked by resilience, creativity, and a determination to connect with others. His ability to navigate the complexities of fame while remaining true to himself left a lasting impression on fans and peers alike. As news of his passing spreads, tributes continue to pour in, celebrating his contributions to British television and his impact as a person. Paul Danan’s legacy will be remembered as one of talent, kindness, and a life lived in the spotlight. For those who admired him, his memory will remain a source of inspiration. His untimely death is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with the ones we love. Read Also: Hollywood icon Dalyce Curry found dead amid Los Angeles wildfires
Tiwa Savage: ‘I’m unworried, God watches over me’
Afrobeat star Tiwa Savage shared how her faith in God keeps her grounded, offering peace of mind and helping her stay free from worry. In an Instagram story, the award-winning singer wrote, “How can I even worry when the God that creates this is the same one that watches over me?” Her words offered a heartfelt glimpse into her spiritual outlook, earning admiration from fans worldwide. Swimming with sharks sparks concern This revelation came shortly after Tiwa posted a daring video of herself swimming with sharks. The video, which quickly went viral, left many fans both impressed and concerned. While some applauded her adventurous spirit, others worried about her safety. However, Tiwa downplayed their concerns in her characteristic fearless manner. She reassured fans that swimming with sharks was less dangerous than they might think. She boldly claimed, “The music industry is far more dangerous than this.” This comment shed light on the often-overlooked challenges and risks she has faced in her career. Retirement on the horizon? Recently, Tiwa Savage hinted at stepping away from music. The singer admitted feeling a mix of exhaustion and accomplishment, which has led her to consider retiring. She revealed that she is currently working on what could be her final studio album, a move that has sparked speculation among fans about her plans. For many, this news came as a surprise. Tiwa Savage has been a dominant force in Afrobeat music, consistently delivering hit songs and memorable performances. If she retires, it will mark the end of an era for one of Africa’s most celebrated music icons. Her legacy and influence Tiwa Savage’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. From chart-topping singles to international collaborations, she has solidified her position as a trailblazer in the music industry. Despite her fame and success, Tiwa remains humble, often crediting her faith for keeping her steady. Her ability to maintain a calm and confident perspective, even in the face of challenges, has made her an inspiration to millions. As she reflects on her achievements, her words of faith and resilience continue to resonate with fans around the globe. What’s next for Tiwa Savage? While the prospect of retirement looms, fans are eagerly awaiting her upcoming album. Many believe it will be a fitting conclusion to her remarkable journey in music. Beyond that, Tiwa may choose to explore new ventures or focus on personal growth, family, or other creative pursuits. One thing is certain: Tiwa Savage’s influence extends far beyond music. Her authenticity, courage, and unwavering faith have made her a role model for countless people. Whether she continues in the music industry or ventures into a new chapter of her life, her legacy is firmly cemented. Tiwa Savage stands as a beacon of strength and grace, proving that faith and resilience can carry anyone through the most challenging times. Read Also: Tiwa Savage: Nigerian music industry has dangerous sharksTiwa Savage: “This might be my last studio album”
