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Allegations of Ticket Racketeering and Fraud Mar Imo NDC Primaries, Says Sam Amadi

Allegations of Ticket Racketeering and Fraud Mar Imo NDC Primaries, Says Sam Amadi

Sam Amadi, a prominent member of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and former chairman of the Nigerian Electric Regulatory Commission, has raised serious concerns over the conduct of the party’s primaries in Imo State. He claims the process was tainted by ticket racketeering and deceptive practices against aspirants.

According to Amadi, several party officials engaged in collecting money from candidates under the pretense of securing tickets, but failed to deliver on their promises. He made these allegations while discussing the primary outcomes, noting that multiple aspirants have come forward with complaints.

In his statement, Amadi revealed that aggrieved aspirants have been approaching him, sharing their experiences of how they paid sums to officials but did not receive the anticipated tickets. He urged those who made payments beyond the official party fees to contact him, promising to help recover their funds.

Amadi emphasized the need for accountability, describing the alleged actions as fraudulent. He warned that such behavior undermines the credibility of the political process and insisted that internal party mechanisms must ensure transparency. He added, “There must be accountability for fraud. This is beyond politics. If you collected money for a transaction, then perform or refund. Political processes must not be commercialized.”

He reiterated his call for responsibility and transparency within the NDC’s nomination procedures, stressing that accountability is non-negotiable.

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Datti Baba-Ahmed: No One Will Come Between Peter Obi and Me

Datti Baba-Ahmed: No One Will Come Between Peter Obi and Me

Datti Baba-Ahmed, the former vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has dismissed claims of a rift between him and his former principal, Peter Obi. He emphasized that no individual or situation will damage their relationship.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s ‘Inside Source’ program with Laolu Akande, Baba-Ahmed addressed the speculation about a fallout. He stated unequivocally that nothing can create problems between them.

“Let me make it clear: nobody will cause any trouble between my boss, Peter Obi, and me,” Baba-Ahmed said. “Regardless of which party he belongs to, I continue to hold him in high regard. He governed Anambra State well and doesn’t engage in frivolities. We share mutual respect, and no one will drive a wedge between us.”

Recall that Baba-Ahmed was Obi’s running mate in the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party. However, their political paths diverged ahead of the 2027 general elections. Obi moved to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and secured its presidential ticket, while Baba-Ahmed joined the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP).

Despite these changes, Baba-Ahmed insists their bond remains unbroken. He reiterated his respect for Obi’s leadership and integrity, stressing that external forces cannot disrupt their connection.

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NDC Mandates Consultations for 2027: Party Supremacy Key

NDC Mandates Consultations for 2027: Party Supremacy Key

The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued new directives aimed at strengthening party discipline and institutional framework ahead of the 2027 elections. In a statement released by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, the NEC outlined a series of resolutions designed to ensure that all elected officials under the NDC banner prioritize party consultation before making significant decisions.

According to the NEC, the party must remain the supreme authority, and all members are expected to subordinate their personal ambitions to broader party interests. The resolutions emphasize that programs, policies, and appointments—except for personal staff—by any government formed on the NDC platform must be cleared with party structures at appropriate levels.

The NDC also declared that all affiliated groups and non-governmental organizations operating under its umbrella will act solely under party guidance. These groups must not operate parallel to or independent of the official party hierarchy, ensuring unity of purpose and preventing fragmentation.

The statement further revealed plans to establish a comprehensive Code of Conduct for all party officials and candidates. A committee led by the National Legal Adviser has been tasked with developing a detailed framework and guidelines to enforce ethical standards and accountability.

In a move to heal internal rifts, the NEC inaugurated a National Reconciliation Committee to address grievances and bring together aggrieved members. The party stressed that the NDC is being built as an enduring institution, not a personality cult, political movement, or temporary vehicle for individual gain.

On financial matters, the NEC insisted on strict accountability for all party resources. Candidates at all levels must disclose all funds raised and contributions made, routing them through dedicated party campaign accounts—including presidential and governorship accounts. This transparency measure aims to ensure that party funds are used solely for legitimate party business.

The NDC called on members to remain committed and contribute to the party’s growth, emphasizing that total allegiance must always be to the party and the national interest. These resolutions mark a significant push toward institutionalizing the party ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.

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2027: Senator Ndume Says APC Ticket Came from Divine Will, Not Tinubu’s Favor

2027: Senator Ndume Says APC Ticket Came from Divine Will, Not Tinubu's Favor

Senator Ali Ndume has revealed that his victory in securing the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the 2027 elections stems from divine intervention, the unwavering support of his constituents, and encouragement from select political figures. He acknowledged that he does not enjoy popularity within President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

During an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Ndume highlighted his consistent electoral achievements, attributing them to the trust his people place in both him and the APC. He is gearing up for his seventh electoral contest, having served two terms in the House of Representatives and four in the Senate.

According to Ndume, voters in his constituency are well-informed and capable of making independent choices. Their backing for him and the APC reflects a belief that these options serve their best interests. He emphasized that the ticket came from God, his people, and some leaders, adding that he is not among the influential figures in Tinubu’s government.

Ndume, who has occasionally criticized the administration, stressed that public officials deserve praise when they take actions beneficial to the populace. He said, ‘By God’s grace, this is the seventh election I’m going into… I’ve always been winning. Our people are not fools. They are mostly aware and educated. If they elect APC and Ndume, it’s because they feel it’s better for them.’ He added, ‘I got the ticket from God and my people and the support of some of our leaders. You know I’m not one of the popular guys on the corridor of power so far.’

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Galatasaray VP Admits Replicating Victor Osimhen Transfer Is Nearly Impossible

Galatasaray VP Admits Replicating Victor Osimhen Transfer Is Nearly Impossible

Abdurrahim Albayrak, a former vice-president of Galatasaray, has openly acknowledged the immense difficulty of repeating the club’s landmark acquisition of Victor Osimhen. Despite the Turkish side’s unwavering ambition to compete at the highest levels of European football, Albayrak conceded that such a financial feat is unlikely to happen again soon.

The Nigerian striker, who was named African Footballer of the Year, joined Galatasaray permanently in July 2025 after a stellar loan spell. His transfer, worth €75 million (approximately N119 billion), set a new record for Turkish football and captured global attention, even as clubs from the Saudi Pro League and Europe’s top five leagues circled.

Speaking to NTV via Ajansspor, Albayrak said, “Every Galatasaray fan dreams of this, but realistically, we are up against very strong teams. We signed Osimhen for €75 million, and the world press was buzzing. He contributed immensely. However, paying €75 million a second or third time is extremely difficult right now.”

The former executive highlighted the financial constraints that make it challenging to acquire players of Osimhen’s caliber. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence in Galatasaray’s transfer strategy moving forward. He added, “Galatasaray will make good transfers. The dream of every management is to win the Champions League. Just as God granted us the UEFA Cup, He will also grant us the Champions League.”

Osimhen still has three years remaining on his contract with Galatasaray, but speculation about a summer departure persists. European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Arsenal have all been linked with a move for the striker.

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Patrice Evra Warns Lamine Yamal: ‘I’d Destroy You on the Pitch’

Patrice Evra Warns Lamine Yamal: 'I'd Destroy You on the Pitch'

Patrice Evra, the legendary former Manchester United defender, has issued a bold challenge to rising star Lamine Yamal. The Frenchman insists that in his prime, he would have completely overpowered the young Barcelona winger if they faced off.

Evra, who famously played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford and frequently battled Lionel Messi during his career, claimed that both superstars would confirm his dominance. ‘Ask Cristiano, ask Messi, ask any player who faced me—they know I was not an easy opponent,’ he stated in an interview with ESPN UK.

The 45-year-old didn’t mince words when comparing himself to the 17-year-old talent. ‘In my prime against Lamine? I would eat him alive. I’m sorry, Lamine, I love you, but it’s true,’ Evra declared. He emphasized that those who know his game understand how formidable he was during his peak years.

Evra’s comments come amid Yamal’s rapid rise, which has drawn comparisons to football’s elite. The teenager has already shown he can handle pressure from French players, notably during the 2024 European Championship semifinal. Adrien Rabiot had challenged him before the match, but Yamal responded with a stunning goal—widely considered the tournament’s best—and appeared to mock Rabiot after the game.

For Evra, his message is clear: despite Yamal’s immense potential, the veteran believes his own experience and tenacity would have been too much for the youngster. ‘Those who played against me know the truth. I wasn’t there to make friends,’ Evra added.

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David Beckham Predicts England to Win 2026 World Cup, Japan as Dark Horses

David Beckham Predicts England to Win 2026 World Cup, Japan as Dark Horses

In a recent interview, soccer icon David Beckham shared his predictions for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, backing England to end their six-decade wait for the trophy. Speaking with ABC News, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star expressed confidence in his home nation’s chances, stating that it’s high time for England to lift the World Cup again after 60 years. Beckham acknowledged the tournament’s unpredictability, noting that surprises often emerge, and he singled out Japan as a potential dark horse with a strong squad. His comments come as football legends continue to weigh in on the upcoming competition.

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Orji Kalu: Barau FC Battled Hard to Secure NPFL Survival

Orji Kalu: Barau FC Battled Hard to Secure NPFL Survival

Barau FC’s defender, Orji Kalu, has expressed that the team fought relentlessly to preserve their place in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL).

The Maliya Boys concluded the season in eighth place, finishing five points above the relegation zone. Kalu noted that the primary objective was to retain the club’s top-flight status, a goal they successfully achieved.

“We had to battle to stay in the NPFL because Barau FC is a newly promoted side. Our focus was on maintaining that position,” Kalu told totorinews.

Looking ahead to the 2026-27 NPFL campaign, Kalu voiced optimism about the team’s prospects. “We aim to accomplish more than just avoiding relegation in the upcoming season,” he added.

Barau FC has also advanced to the quarter-finals of the 2026 President Federation Cup after overcoming Sunshine Stars U-19 in the Round of 16.

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Portugal vs Nigeria: Martinez downplays friendly impact on World Cup lineup

Portugal vs Nigeria: Martinez downplays friendly impact on World Cup lineup

Portugal’s manager Roberto Martínez has made it clear that the upcoming friendly against Nigeria will not determine his starting eleven for the World Cup opener against the Democratic Republic of Congo. Speaking after a 2-1 win over Chile, Martínez stressed that squad preparation for the tournament as a whole takes precedence over any single match.

With all 26 players now assembled, the Portuguese squad is at full strength for the Super Eagles encounter. The quartet from Paris Saint-Germain—Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, João Neves, and Gonçalo Ramos—arrived ahead of the Chile friendly and are available for selection. Matheus Nunes is expected to resume full training on Sunday after sitting out the Chile game due to physical issues, while João Félix is also in contention to feature against Nigeria.

During his press conference, Martínez addressed whether the lineup against Nigeria would be shaped with the DR Congo game in mind. He responded: “No, no. We now have the four PSG players arriving, along with Matheus Nunes, and we expect to have all 26 or 27 players ready for the second game. We continue with individual preparation.” He added that Francisco Trincão did not play due to a red card situation affecting the end of the Chile match, but reiterated that the goal is to prepare every player for the World Cup, not just the first match.

Portugal will face the Democratic Republic of Congo at the NRG Stadium in Houston on June 17, a week after the Nigeria friendly.

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Nélson Semedo Sees Nigeria Friendly as Key to Portugal’s World Cup Preparation

Nélson Semedo Sees Nigeria Friendly as Key to Portugal's World Cup Preparation

Portugal’s right-back, Nélson Semedo, believes that the upcoming international friendly against Nigeria will provide an excellent chance for head coach Roberto Martínez to experiment with fresh tactical approaches and team combinations as the team gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The full-back, who featured in the first half of Portugal’s 2-1 win over Chile last Saturday, emphasized the importance of such fixtures. Goals from Gonçalo Guedes and Bruno Fernandes sealed that victory, but the focus now shifts to the clash with the Super Eagles.

According to Semedo, this match is part of a broader preparation plan. Martínez is keen on testing different setups and strategies before their World Cup opener against the Democratic Republic of Congo. The encounter with Nigeria will serve as a stern test, allowing the coaching staff to evaluate players in various roles.

“Absolutely, that is exactly what these games are for. We have a match against Nigeria coming up, and it presents an opportunity to build new dynamics,” Semedo told RTP, as cited by Record. “We are professionals, and I have full confidence that we can execute whatever ideas the coach has, no matter what they are.”

The friendly between Portugal and Nigeria is scheduled for Wednesday at Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria, with kickoff at 20:45 local time. Nigeria arrives in impressive form, remaining unbeaten in regulation time over their last 11 matches, recording eight victories and three draws.