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Paul Merson: Guardiola’s Departure a Huge Loss for English Football

Paul Merson: Guardiola's Departure a Huge Loss for English Football

Arsenal icon Paul Merson has opened up about his feelings regarding Pep Guardiola’s upcoming exit from Manchester City, describing it as a significant blow to the Premier League. Speaking in his regular column for Sportskeeda, the former midfielder expressed genuine sorrow over the Catalan coach’s decision to leave England’s top flight.

Guardiola is set to oversee his final match in charge of Manchester City this Sunday against Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium. This fixture marks the end of an era, concluding a remarkable ten-year tenure with the club that has redefined modern football in England.

According to Merson, the 54-year-old manager’s influence goes beyond trophies and tactical innovations. He labeled Guardiola an absolute legend of the game and admitted that his absence will be deeply felt. “I’m truly sad to witness him go,” Merson wrote. “There’s no doubt that the Premier League will miss him immensely. He’s been a transformative figure.”

The City boss’s final game against Aston Villa will bring the curtain down on one of the most successful managerial reigns in football history. Merson’s comments reflect a wider sentiment among pundits and fans alike, who recognize Guardiola’s unparalleled impact on the league’s quality and global appeal.

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Nollywood Star Sharon Ooja Welcomes First Child with Husband Ugo Nwoke

Nollywood Star Sharon Ooja Welcomes First Child with Husband Ugo Nwoke

Nollywood actress Sharon Ooja, also known as Sharon Ojo Nwoke, has joyfully announced the birth of her first child, a baby boy, with her husband Ugo Nwoke. The actress took to social media to share the exciting news, expressing deep gratitude to God, her spouse, and her family and friends for their unwavering support during her pregnancy journey.

In her heartfelt post, she wrote, “I just gave birth to the most handsome baby boy I have ever seen. I’m still overwhelmed with joy and gratitude.” She reflected on how the years 2025 and 2026 have been transformative, stating that God has written a story only He can take glory for. She described how pregnancy deepened her understanding of God’s love as unconditional, intentional, and indescribable. Quoting Psalm 126:2, she said, “My mouth is filled with laughter and my tongue with singing.” She also encouraged those trying to conceive, writing, “God is about to surprise you the same way He surprised me. Write it down today: your miracle is here.”

Sharon praised her husband for his fierce love and support throughout the pregnancy, thanking him for prayers, reassurance, back rubs, trips, baths, gifts, and food runs. She said, “Me, Win, and Zoey are so blessed to have you.” She announced her son’s initials as W.I.N and happily declared, “You can officially call me mama win, the yummiest mummy on the block.”

The actress and Ugo Nwoke had a whirlwind romance, dating for only two and a half months before tying the knot in a private civil ceremony in March 2024. Sharon had previously referred to this period as “the year God made me laugh” because of the unexpected joy she experienced.

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Mercy Johnson under Fire for Endorsing N25,000 Menstrual Kit

Mercy Johnson under Fire for Endorsing N25,000 Menstrual Kit

Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson Okojie is facing strong criticism online after being named a brand ambassador for Girls Tag, a menstrual care product that retails for N25,000. The product, described as a comprehensive period care pack aimed at girls aged nine and above, was launched with Johnson and her daughter Purity Okojie as faces of the brand. Shortly after, actress Regina Daniels was also announced as an ambassador for Girls Tag.

The premium pricing of the menstrual kit has ignited a firestorm on social media, with many accusing the actress of being out of touch. Critics argue that in a country where countless women and girls cannot afford basic sanitary pads—often resorting to unsafe alternatives or missing school during menstruation—a N25,000 pack is insensitive and elitist.

Some netizens defended Johnson, saying she is running a business and not obligated to serve the masses. “Not everyone is a philanthropist. She knows her target audience. We don’t ask Dangote to sell fuel at a loss,” one user remarked. Others, however, were less forgiving. “Mercy Johnson, you are an embarrassment to women. In a country where women are struggling to afford sanitary pads, you want to charge 25k,” wrote Ms Jorji.

Many Twitter users pointed out that sanitary pads should be a basic amenity, not a luxury. “The target audience had to be baddies,” commented A Tall Edo Girl. Rebekah added, “Nigeria is a poor country. Elitism should never extend to the basic rights and dignity of girls and women. Sanitary pads are not luxury items.”

The backlash reflects deeper frustrations about income inequality and the high cost of essential goods in Nigeria. While Johnson has not publicly responded to the criticism, the controversy continues to trend online, sparking debates about celebrity endorsements and social responsibility.

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Akon Honors Michael Jackson, Hails Nigerians as Geniuses

Akon Honors Michael Jackson, Hails Nigerians as Geniuses

Senegalese-American music icon Akon recently shared heartfelt remarks about the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson, calling his collaboration with the legend the pinnacle of his career. Speaking on the ‘We Need To Talk’ podcast, Akon revealed that a photo with Jackson remains his most cherished possession, despite his own fame at the time. ‘I was already a huge star when that picture was taken, but next to him, I feel like a child,’ Akon said. ‘Growing up, he was everyone’s idol, and working with him was surreal.’

The 53-year-old singer also turned his attention to African music, proudly noting his role in boosting Afrobeats globally. He acknowledged signing Nigerian acts like P-Square and had a hand in Wizkid’s early career through Banky W’s Empire Mate Entertainment. Akon didn’t hold back his admiration for Nigerians, stating, ‘Nigerians are the most intelligent people on the planet. What they’ve done with Afrobeats is incredible.’

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Kwankwaso Dismisses Rumours of Secret Alliance with Tinubu Ahead of 2027

Kwankwaso Dismisses Rumours of Secret Alliance with Tinubu Ahead of 2027

Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the former governor of Kano State and leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has firmly rejected allegations that he is covertly collaborating with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in preparation for the 2027 presidential election.

Speaking during an interview on Global TV, Kwankwaso labeled those spreading the rumour as individuals lacking political understanding. He stated, “Only fools would think we are working for Tinubu. My supporters and I are dedicated to the NDC and to advancing what we believe will benefit Nigerians.”

The NDC chief acknowledged that he has a longstanding friendship with President Tinubu, but emphasized that this does not translate into political alignment. According to Kwankwaso, while their relationship spans many years, they remain in distinct political camps.

Kwankwaso also criticized certain presidential aides, accusing them of shielding Tinubu from the real situation in Nigeria. He claimed that instead of tackling the nation’s economic and security crises, these aides are more focused on wooing governors and politicians to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Regarding his coalition with Peter Obi, Kwankwaso explained that the decision came after extensive consultations and political analysis. They deemed Obi the strongest candidate from southern Nigeria. He added that the coalition has ample time before the 2027 elections to engage with Nigerians and dispel the false narratives being spread against them.

Kwankwaso reaffirmed that the alliance is committed to delivering quality leadership and offering Nigerians a viable alternative to the current challenges facing the country.

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PDP Clears Senator Dankwambo for 2027 Gombe North Primaries

PDP Clears Senator Dankwambo for 2027 Gombe North Primaries

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially sanctioned the candidacy of Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo, a former governor of Gombe State, to run for re-election in the upcoming 2027 National Assembly primaries. This development, confirmed by the party’s screening committee, paves the way for Dankwambo to seek another term representing Gombe North in the Senate.

Dankwambo, who currently holds the Gombe North senatorial seat, was among a list of aspirants whose bids were approved by the PDP ahead of the primaries. The party’s decision comes amidst heightened political activity in the senatorial district, particularly following reports that Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has also been cleared to vie for the same seat after serving his term as governor.

The PDP’s clearance was conveyed in an official communication from the party’s Gombe State Secretariat addressed to the National Chairman, routed through the National Organising Secretary. The document included a roster of screened candidates for both Senate and House of Representatives positions. Signatories to the letter included Mohammed Dan’azumi Adamu, chairman of the Screening Committee; Musa Abubakar, committee secretary; and Alhaji Adamu Abubakar, the PDP state secretary.

According to the document, other cleared senatorial aspirants are Anthony Siyako Yaro for Gombe South and Aliyu Hammadu for Gombe Central. For the House of Representatives, the party gave the green light to Gidado Alhaji Lawanti for Akko Federal Constituency, Mohammed Lamido for Dukku/Nafada Federal Constituency, and Dr. Obed Paul Shehu for Kaltungo/Shongom Federal Constituency. Additionally, Dr. Nasir Ibrahim was cleared for Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency, Shuaibu Umar Galadima for Yamaltu/Deba Federal Constituency, and Rambi Ibrahim Ayala for Balanga/Billiri Federal Constituency.

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Electoral materials delay ADC governorship primary in Plateau

Electoral materials delay ADC governorship primary in Plateau

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship primary election in Plateau State faced significant delays on Thursday due to the late arrival of voting materials. As of 1 PM, several local government areas were yet to commence the exercise.

In Jos North and Jos South, party members and officials were still waiting for the necessary materials to begin accreditation and voting. Despite the setback, supporters gathered at designated centers across the state, hopeful that the primary would proceed.

Plateau State ADC chairman Hannatu Gagara confirmed the delay in a phone interview, citing logistical challenges. “We are still expecting the arrival of electoral materials, but we remain optimistic that the election will hold today,” she stated.

Party faithful remained patient, awaiting further directives from officials, as anticipation for the governorship primary continued to build across Plateau State.

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Governor Nasir Idris Secures APC Nod for 2027 Kebbi Guber Race

Governor Nasir Idris Secures APC Nod for 2027 Kebbi Guber Race

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kebbi State has formally endorsed incumbent Governor Nasir Idris as its flag bearer for the upcoming 2027 governorship election. This endorsement was delivered during the party’s primary election held at the Haliru Abdu Stadium in Birnin Kebbi, drawing delegates and party faithful from across the state’s 225 wards.

Abdulmalik Mahmud, who chaired the APC Governorship Primary Election Committee, made the announcement. Mahmud, a former Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, emphasized that the committee’s role was to conduct the primary and affirm the collective decision of the party members.

Following the affirmation, Governor Idris expressed gratitude and accepted the nomination. He vowed to intensify development efforts across the state if re-elected in 2027. Idris also extended his appreciation to party leaders and former governors for their unwavering support and participation in the exercise.

The primary was a well-attended event, witnessing the presence of delegates from all political wards, alongside notable APC stakeholders and former state governors.

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Ogunbiyi: APC Senatorial Primary Win to Boost Party for Future Elections

Ogunbiyi: APC Senatorial Primary Win to Boost Party for Future Elections

Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi has declared that his victory in the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary for Osun West will fortify the party for upcoming electoral contests. Speaking to journalists and supporters after the primary, which covered the entire Osun West Senatorial District, Ogunbiyi emphasized the significance of his win.

Official results from the primary, released by DAILY POST, showed Ogunbiyi securing 30,651 votes, far ahead of his rivals. Gafar Akintayo garnered 1,456 votes, while Chief Peter Apata managed only 14 votes. The businessman described the outcome across all 110 wards as a clear endorsement of his appeal and acceptance among APC members in the region.

He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola, APC stalwart Bisi Akande, and other party leaders for their backing during the primary process. Ogunbiyi also thanked APC members in the district for placing their trust in him through the election.

He praised his fellow aspirants for their sportsmanship, noting that their conduct reflected maturity, unity, and dedication to the party’s advancement. According to Ogunbiyi, ‘My emergence as the party’s senatorial candidate will strengthen our party for success in the forthcoming governorship election and the 2027 general election.’

The APC flagbearer urged supporters and party members across Osun West to stay united and collaborate to secure victory in future polls. He pledged to uphold APC’s values through quality representation, integrity, and devoted service, while also backing the governorship ambition of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji.

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Buhari’s Ex-Aide: Kwankwaso More Strategic and Inclusive Than Obi

Buhari's Ex-Aide: Kwankwaso More Strategic and Inclusive Than Obi

A former media aide to late President Muhammadu Buhari, Bashir Ahmad, recently asserted that Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso surpasses Peter Obi in strategic planning and accommodative politics. Ahmad emphasized that Kwankwaso’s approach demonstrates the distinction between structure-based politics and popularity-driven campaigns.

Reacting to a post by X user @KafinHausaa, which suggested that Kwankwaso is now focused on selling his red ideology to Southerners for quick gains, Ahmad countered that Kwankwaso has shown greater political astuteness. He noted that Kwankwaso promptly opened his doors to Obi’s supporters, leveraging their numbers to strengthen his own political network and extend his influence across regions.

According to Ahmad, this move highlights a fundamental difference: Kwankwaso builds his political machine around solid structures, while Obi relies mainly on popular appeal. He wrote on X that Kwankwaso appears more strategic and inclusive, welcoming Obi’s followers to expand his base.

The comments come shortly after both Obi and Kwankwaso defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the National Democratic Coalition (NDC) ahead of the 2027 presidential elections. This development has sparked discussions about their contrasting political styles and potential impact on the opposition coalition.