Category: Entertainment

Social media influencer Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, has launched a scathing verbal attack on Bayo Onanuga, a spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu. The outburst came after the Presidency threatened legal action over an AI-generated audio clip that allegedly featured the President’s voice.

The controversy began when a user on X (formerly Twitter) named @Pious_minister accused VeryDarkMan of using a fake audio clip in one of his videos. The clip purported to show President Tinubu stating that insecurity in Nigeria would persist because he did not receive votes from some citizens during the 2023 elections.

In a video response shared on his social media platforms, VeryDarkMan refused to defend the audio but directed his ire at Onanuga, calling him stupid and daft. He questioned why the Presidency was focusing on him while serious security incidents, such as the abduction of teachers and students in Oyo State, went unaddressed.

According to VeryDarkMan, bandits kidnapped three teachers and several students from a school in Oyo State. One of the teachers, who was carrying an infant, was reportedly beheaded, and the victims remain in captivity as of Children’s Day. He demanded to know why Onanuga had not commented on this tragedy.

VeryDarkMan also criticized the President’s team, stating that their lack of intelligence was a reason why Tinubu should not seek re-election in 2027. He asserted that only stupid people would believe the AI-generated audio clip, and he urged the government to prioritize real issues over fabricated controversies.

Manchester United have taken a significant step toward signing Atalanta midfielder Ederson, as the Brazilian has reportedly agreed to personal terms with the Premier League club. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed that Ederson has put negotiations with other suitors on hold, signaling his desire to move to Old Trafford this summer.

The total cost of the transfer is expected to be around €45 million, covering all fees. Romano stated on X that talks between Atalanta and Manchester United have been ongoing for weeks regarding this package. The final decision now rests with the Red Devils, who must determine whether and when to finalize the deal.

Ederson’s arrival would bolster United’s midfield options, adding depth and quality as the club aims to strengthen under their current manager. The 24-year-old has impressed in Serie A with his energy and technical ability, making him a sought-after target this window.

Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe has once again been awarded the Mahou Five Star Player of the Season, marking his second consecutive win of this prestigious honor. The French forward delivered an outstanding campaign for Los Blancos, netting 42 goals across all competitions.

The France captain also claimed the Pichichi Trophy as LaLiga’s top scorer with 25 goals, and he topped the Champions League scoring charts with 15 strikes. In total, the former Paris Saint-Germain standout found the back of the net 42 times in 44 appearances this season.

Mbappe’s remarkable consistency and goal-scoring prowess have been instrumental for Real Madrid since joining in 2024. His ability to perform at the highest level continues to earn him accolades and admiration from fans and teammates alike.

West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes has signaled that Manchester United is his preferred destination in the upcoming summer transfer window. The 21-year-old, who impressed during a challenging season with the Hammers, is set to leave the club following their relegation from the Premier League.

Fernandes, who joined West Ham from Southampton, attracted attention from several top European clubs, including Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, and Atletico Madrid. However, according to reports from the i Paper via Metro UK, the Portuguese talent has identified the Red Devils as his top choice for the next step in his career.

The report indicates that a move for Fernandes is expected to materialize in the coming weeks, as Manchester United looks to strengthen their squad. Fernandes’ decision to prioritize Old Trafford over other suitors underscores his desire to play under the management of Erik ten Hag and compete in the Premier League at the highest level.

Fenerbahçe have ramped up their efforts to secure the services of Fulham centre-back Calvin Bassey, as per reports. The Turkish Super Lig outfit has identified the Nigerian defender as a prime target for the upcoming summer transfer window.

According to sources, presidential candidate Aziz Yıldırım is set to travel to England for face-to-face discussions with Fulham officials. During his trip, Yıldırım will also meet with Bassey’s representative to discuss a potential move.

Bassey, who joined Fulham from Ajax in 2023 for €22.5 million, has one year remaining on his current contract. The 26-year-old has been a regular for the Cottagers and is now attracting interest from abroad.

In the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior has spoken highly of his teammate Kylian Mbappe, calling him a football legend. The Brazilian star emphasized that Mbappe has already made a lasting impact on the sport.

During a chat with Cazé TV, Vinicius described Mbappe as an exceptional person, noting that Brazilian fans might have a certain perception of him, but off the pitch they share a close friendship. He highlighted Mbappe’s incredible achievements, including winning the World Cup final and netting three goals in that decisive match.

Vinicius added, “He is a legendary figure who will leave an indelible mark on Real Madrid and the entire history of football. He is already doing so now.”

Ranchers Bees, the recently promoted Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) club, have announced the appointment of Kabiru Muazu as their general manager. The decision was made public on Tuesday by club owners Sadiq Umar and president Nura Abdullahi.

The Kaduna-based side earned their place in the top flight after a successful campaign in the 2025-26 Nigeria National League (NNL). They secured a third-place finish during the NNL Super Four playoff held last month in Ikenne, which clinched promotion.

With their return to the NPFL, the club is actively strengthening its squad and management. Alongside Muazu’s hiring, they have also extended the contract of defender Umar Gamagira, who impressed during the NNL season. These moves highlight the club’s ambition to compete effectively in the elite division.

Rivers United has expressed pride in their players after securing a second-place finish in the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season. The club praised the squad’s resilience, determination, and discipline throughout the campaign, which also earned them a spot in the CAF Champions League.

In an end-of-season statement, the Pride of Rivers acknowledged the players’ efforts: ‘The season has now concluded and we are proud to announce that Rivers United finished as runners-up, securing a CAF Champions League spot once again. This achievement reflects the resilience, discipline and unity displayed by our players.’

The club admitted they fell short of the title but remained competitive until the final weeks, which they believe underscores the club’s ambition and standards. ‘We narrowly missed the title, and competing at the highest level and challenging for it until the final weeks reaffirmed the standard and ambition that define this club,’ the statement added.

Rivers United also extended congratulations to Rangers for winning the league championship. ‘While the ultimate prize eluded us, we accept the result with grace and respect for the champions. Our focus remains clear, to build on this foundation, address our shortcomings and return next season with greater resolve to bring the trophy back to Port Harcourt,’ the club stated.

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has offered an update on Lionel Messi’s fitness as the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies. The Albiceleste coach is closely monitoring the recovery of several key players, with Messi being a primary concern after he was substituted early in Inter Miami’s recent 6-4 win over Philadelphia Union.

During that match, Messi asked to be taken off in the 73rd minute, sparking fears among fans and the national team camp about his availability for the summer tournament. Inter Miami later confirmed that the issue is a muscle overload in his left hamstring, with a return date dependent on his response to treatment.

Scaloni, speaking to DSports and quoted by ESPN, said the preliminary reports are not alarming but emphasized caution. “We need to wait and see how he progresses,” Scaloni noted. “The early signs aren’t bad, but we must confirm through further tests.” He acknowledged that Messi will not be at 100% when he links up with the squad for pre-World Cup friendlies.

Scaloni also pointed out that Argentina has multiple injury worries beyond Messi. “It’s not just him; there are other players still working their way back,” the coach explained. “Our main focus is on their recovery so they can reach the World Cup in peak condition.”

Argentina are placed in Group J for the 2026 tournament, where they will face Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. The team’s hopes rest heavily on Messi’s fitness, but Scaloni is urging patience as medical staff monitor the situation.

Alhaji Salmanu Abubakar, the chairman of Wikki Tourists, has reassured fans that the club will make a strong comeback following their relegation from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season.

The Bauchi Elephants ended the campaign at the foot of the NPFL standings, accumulating just 40 points from 38 matches. Abubakar acknowledged that this season ranks among the most challenging in the club’s history.

“Wikki Tourists is bigger than one season. The elephant may stumble, but it never forgets how to rise,” Abubakar affirmed as the NPFL season came to a close.

Joining Wikki Tourists in the drop to the Nigeria National League (NNL) are Remo Stars, Bayelsa United, and El-Kanemi Warriors. Meanwhile, Rangers FC claimed the NPFL title at the season’s end.