In a bold and emotionally charged move, the Super Eagles of Nigeria have publicly expressed unwavering solidarity with Ademola Lookman, who has formally submitted a transfer request to his current club, Atalanta, in an effort to facilitate his much-anticipated move to Inter Milan. The 27-year-old forward, widely celebrated for his exceptional talent and recently crowned as the African Footballer of the Year, appears to have reached a breaking point due to Atalanta’s continuous refusal to allow the transfer. Despite multiple formal offers from Inter Milan, all bids have been rejected by the Bergamo-based Serie A club, causing escalating frustration for both the player and the Italian giants. Sources close to the negotiations report that Inter Milan may abandon the deal entirely if Atalanta maintains its hard stance. Lookman Speaks Out Against Atalanta’s Handling Amid this impasse, Lookman took to his verified social media platforms to express his dissatisfaction with the treatment he has received from his current club. His statement highlighted the emotional toll the saga has taken and reemphasized his clear desire to begin a new chapter in his football career. The talented winger made it clear that the decision to request a transfer wasn’t taken lightly, but stemmed from his professional aspiration to explore new opportunities and grow on a bigger stage, particularly under the spotlight of UEFA Champions League football, which Inter Milan offers. Super Eagles Back Lookman’s Decision In a display of national pride and player support, the Super Eagles’ official X (formerly Twitter) account shared a powerful message of unity. Accompanied by a striking photo of Lookman, the post read: “We stand with Ademola Lookman. #FreeLookmanNow” The move reflects the Nigerian football community’s recognition of Lookman’s loyalty, discipline, and performance in national colors. Many fans and analysts have also interpreted the club’s stance as unnecessary resistance that could stall the progress of one of Africa’s leading football exports.
Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is reportedly close to finalizing a transfer to Spanish La Liga side Villarreal, as the 32-year-old prepares for the next chapter of his football career. According to The Athletic, Partey has successfully completed his medical examination and is now expected to sign a two-year contract that will keep him at the club until 2027. Partey, who officially became a free agent in June following the expiration of his contract with Arsenal Football Club, is poised to make a return to Spanish football, having previously played for Atletico Madrid before moving to the Premier League in 2020. ⚽ Return to Familiar Grounds The move signifies a full-circle moment for the Ghanaian international, who rose to prominence during his time with Atletico Madrid. His experience in La Liga and tactical discipline are expected to bolster Villarreal’s midfield strength, particularly as the club rebuilds for the upcoming seasons. Partey’s anticipated return to Spain comes amid continued interest from several European clubs, but Villarreal appear to have won the race for his signature. Once the final details are completed, an official club announcement is expected. ? Legal Matters in the Background Despite the professional momentum, Partey’s situation remains clouded by serious legal allegations. On July 4, the former Arsenal player was formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. He has strongly denied all the charges. The allegations stem from an investigation that began in February 2022. However, during the course of the investigation, Partey remained active in the Arsenal squad until his contract officially ended. Partey is scheduled to appear before the Westminster Magistrates Court on Tuesday, August 5, in connection with the case. While the case proceeds through the UK legal system, Villarreal have yet to comment publicly on the allegations or how they may impact the finalization of the deal.
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Amnesty International Nigeria has formally called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive and urgent action regarding the disappearance of Nigerian university lecturer and social media commentator, Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata, who vanished under mysterious circumstances in Kaduna State six years ago. The global human rights organization expressed deep concern over the prolonged silence and lack of credible investigation into the lecturer’s abduction, which occurred on August 2, 2019. Amnesty International urged the President to demonstrate leadership by addressing what previous administrations failed to resolve. Amnesty: Six Years of Government Silence Is Unacceptable While speaking to journalists at a press conference held in Kaduna, Isa Sanusi, the Country Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, criticized the persistent inaction and seeming indifference of the Nigerian government in the face of an unresolved and suspicious disappearance. Sanusi stressed that six years is an agonizingly long period, especially for the loved ones of someone forcibly taken, and yet the authorities have made no transparent effort to uncover the truth behind Dadiyata’s disappearance. He emphasized that President Tinubu has a moral and constitutional responsibility to show commitment where his predecessor failed. Crackdown on Critics and Culture of Silence According to Amnesty’s findings and observations over the years, critical voices in Nigeria—like Dadiyata—have increasingly come under attack. Isa Sanusi noted that the past few years have witnessed unlawful detentions, harassment, and legally questionable actions against dissenting voices and government critics. He further pointed out that state actors have engaged in vexatious litigation and intimidation, all of which create an environment of fear, insecurity, and repression. This is why the government’s passive stance on Dadiyata’s case is not only alarming but symptomatic of a wider crisis in democratic expression and freedom of speech in Nigeria. Six Years, No Update—No Justice Sanusi lamented the fact that apart from unfulfilled and superficial promises by the police to investigate, there has been no concrete action or update six years after the incident. He stated: “The Nigerian police and security agencies have not made any meaningful progress or publicly disclosed any findings. This total lack of accountability deepens the pain of Dadiyata’s family and erodes public trust.” He added that enforced disappearances like Dadiyata’s are characteristic of societies where rule of law is weak, and such acts are explicitly prohibited under international human rights law. Enforced disappearances also infringe upon numerous fundamental rights including the right to liberty, security, and access to justice. Call for Transparency and Accountability Amnesty International insists that Nigerian authorities must close all speculative narratives surrounding Dadiyata’s fate by conducting a thorough, impartial, and credible investigation. The government must also make the findings public to bring closure to the victim’s family, friends, and the broader community affected by this tragedy. Sanusi reiterated that such unresolved abductions instill widespread fear, not only within families directly affected but also among communities across Nigeria. This, in turn, contributes to a climate of terror and silence, which is antithetical to democratic principles and human rights. Abduction Details: A Night of Horror in Kaduna To recall the tragic incident, Abubakar Idris (Dadiyata) returned to his Kaduna residence on the evening of August 2, 2019, after a long day. Just as he was about to lock his front gate, he was ambushed by unknown armed men, reportedly wearing masks and heavily armed. Eyewitness accounts from his family say the assailants forced him into his own vehicle and drove off, vanishing without a trace. Since that day, there has been no contact or demand, and the perpetrators have never been identified or apprehended. Amnesty International and numerous Nigerians believe that Dadiyata’s disappearance is likely connected to his vocal criticism of government policies and politicians on social media. The organization insists that no individual should be targeted for exercising their right to free expression.
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In a significant development for the Catholic Church in Africa, Most Reverend Stephen Dami Mamza, the Catholic Bishop of Yola Diocese in Adamawa State, Nigeria, has been elected as the First Vice President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM). His election marks a historic milestone, as it is the first time a Nigerian bishop from Yola has assumed such a prestigious continental role within the Church’s hierarchy. Bishop Mamza, who previously served as the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Adamawa State, was chosen during the 20th Plenary Assembly of SECAM, held in Kigali, Rwanda. The high-level gathering brought together Catholic bishops from across Africa and Madagascar to reflect on the future of the Church, its mission, and its strategic spiritual direction. New SECAM Leadership Structure During the same plenary session, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, a Congolese prelate and the Archbishop of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, was elected as the new President of SECAM. In addition, Most Reverend José Manuel Imbamba, the Bishop of Dundo in Angola, emerged as the Second Vice President. In other key appointments: Warm Reception in Yola Diocese Bishop Mamza’s election as First Vice President of SECAM was met with heartfelt joy, celebration, and spiritual pride among members of the Yola Catholic Diocese. Both clergy and lay faithful expressed their congratulations, describing his new role as well-deserved and timely. Parishioners and religious leaders within the diocese commended Bishop Mamza’s unwavering dedication to ecclesiastical service, pastoral care, and leadership across both local and national levels. They also voiced optimism that he will thrive in his new assignment and bring further spiritual and administrative growth to the Church across Africa. This elevation is seen as a testament to Bishop Mamza’s outstanding contributions to Christian unity, his advocacy for peace, and his role in community development, especially in a region historically challenged by insecurity and humanitarian concerns.
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Fuel stations across Nigeria have raised the retail price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), following an upward revision in the ex-depot prices by both Dangote Refinery and major depot operators. According to on-ground updates gathered by LMSINT MEDIA correspondents, the sudden surge affected several areas, particularly Gwarimpa and other zones within Abuja, where Empire Energy and Ranoil stations revised their petrol pump prices. As observed on Saturday morning, Empire Energy now dispenses petrol at ₦935 per litre, while Ranoil has pushed the rate further to ₦970 per litre. This marks a noticeable jump from ₦905 and ₦900 per litre, respectively, recorded on Friday night. In a direct conversation with LMSINT MEDIA, Chinedu Ukadike, the spokesperson for the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), confirmed that the fresh price adjustment is tied to an increase in ex-depot pricing by Dangote Refinery and other key supply depots across Nigeria. “Both the depot operators and Dangote Refinery have revised their ex-depot petrol rates upward,” Ukadike stated. He further disclosed specific figures, saying, “As of Friday’s rate, Dangote Refinery set its ex-depot price at ₦858 per litre, up from ₦820 per litre. Other depots followed suit, with NIPCO at ₦870, and both Aiteo and Ranoil pegging theirs at ₦855 per litre.” The IPMAN spokesperson attributed this spike to two global economic indicators — the foreign exchange rate volatility and the rising crude oil prices in the international market. Despite this development, some major petrol stations including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), MRS, Optima, and AP Ardova were still retailing petrol at relatively lower rates in Abuja. At the time this report was filed, NNPC dispensed at ₦890, while MRS, Optima, and AP Ardova sold at ₦885 per litre. Additionally, according to a report by OilPrice.com, global benchmarks such as Brent Crude and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) declined as of Saturday morning, settling at $69.67 and $67.33 per barrel, respectively.
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Senegal’s national team has been dealt a significant setback ahead of their first match at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), as their first-choice goalkeeper, Idris Ndiaye, has been officially ruled out due to injury. Ndiaye, who played a key role in his club Génération Foot’s narrow 1-0 win over Jaraaf Dakar in the Senegal Cup final, failed to recover in time for the tournament after sustaining an injury during that match. With the tournament set to kick off shortly, head coach Souleymane Diallo has had to make a last-minute change, calling up Cheikh Lô Ndoye as Ndiaye’s replacement. The emergency call-up comes just days before their critical opening fixture against Nigeria. Ndoye is expected to join the Senegalese squad by Monday in Zanzibar, where the defending champions are finalizing preparations. The much-anticipated clash between Senegal and Nigeria is scheduled to take place at the Amman Stadium in Zanzibar on Tuesday next week. Senegal will now face the challenge of adapting quickly without their key goalkeeper as they aim to defend their CHAN title.
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As anticipation builds for the 2024 edition of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), the head coach of Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles, Daniel Ogunmodede, has expressed confidence in his team’s readiness to face reigning champions Senegal in their tournament opener. Nigeria is set to begin their campaign in the CHAN 2024 finals next Tuesday at the Amman Stadium in Zanzibar, where they will square off against Senegal, a formidable side that lifted the trophy in the last edition of the tournament. In preparation for the high-stakes encounter, the Home Eagles engaged in two friendly matches against Zanzibar’s national side this week. These games were part of their final tune-up sessions ahead of the continental showdown. Despite acknowledging the quality of Senegal’s squad—led by coach Souleymane Diallo—Ogunmodede remains optimistic about his team’s chances of causing an upset. “Senegal are the defending champions, and naturally, they’ll want to hold onto their crown,” Ogunmodede stated in an interview with ESPN. “However, we’re prepared to challenge them and give a strong account of ourselves on the pitch.” This tournament marks a significant return for Nigeria’s home-based squad, who failed to qualify for the past two editions of CHAN. Their most recent appearance was at the 2018 tournament in Morocco, where they impressed many by reaching the final and ultimately finishing in second place. Now, under the guidance of Ogunmodede, the team is hoping to go one step further by lifting the trophy and reclaiming their status as one of Africa’s top footballing nations.
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Newcastle United have officially secured the services of Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale on a season-long loan deal, with an option to make the move permanent next summer. The loan agreement, reached between both Premier League clubs, comes after Newcastle missed out on their initial target, James Trafford, who completed his transfer to Manchester City just last week. Having failed in their pursuit of Trafford, Newcastle quickly turned their attention to Ramsdale. The English shot-stopper, who has Premier League experience and notable international exposure, is seen as a solid short-term addition to bolster their goalkeeping department for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, in a separate development within the transfer market, Manchester United have reportedly set their sights on Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez. According to reports from Sport, a reputable Spanish outlet, Manchester United are preparing to submit a formal bid valued at approximately €70 million for the highly-rated midfield talent. Sources close to the situation indicate that Lopez is already aware of Manchester United’s interest and could be open to the move. The 21-year-old midfielder is regarded as a dynamic playmaker with technical finesse, energy, and the ability to operate seamlessly in various midfield roles. Lopez is believed to align well with Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim’s tactical setup, which values high-pressing, ball control, and progressive attacking play. As both clubs move strategically in the summer transfer window, Newcastle aims to reinforce their squad depth while Manchester United continues to pursue youthful creativity for their midfield rebuild. Stay tuned as more updates unfold in what’s turning out to be a very eventful transfer window.
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The housemates of Big Brother Naija Season 10, themed 10/10, have encountered their first major setback in the house after failing to win their initial wager challenge for the season. The task, held on Friday, demanded the housemates to deliver a dramatic performance featuring a ball theme combined with unmasking elements. Unfortunately, the performance did not meet the standards set by Big Brother, affectionately called Biggie, who expressed clear disappointment in the outcome. “That was a very unimpressive showing,” Biggie remarked bluntly. “Housemates, your presentation lacked creativity and depth. “Big Brother’s judgment is as underwhelming as your performance. You have officially lost the wager,” he concluded. As a consequence, the housemates will not receive new groceries or luxury items for the upcoming week. They will instead need to survive on minimal food supplies, intensifying the tension within the house. In addition to the loss, Biggie issued stern warnings to the housemates over delayed responses and repeated microphone violations during the challenge—infractions that could further impact their standing in future tasks. The weekly wager challenge in Big Brother Naija is designed to evaluate how well housemates can collaborate, think creatively, and communicate as a unit. When they perform well, they are rewarded with stocked-up fridges, luxury goods, and improved morale. But when they fall short, it often leads to internal conflicts, blame games, and heightened emotional drama. The failure of their first wager sets the tone for what could be a rocky start for the Season 10 contestants, who must now regroup and prepare for the next challenge.
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The Niger State Police Command has apprehended 24 suspected criminals in a string of coordinated operations aimed at dismantling major criminal hideouts in Minna, the state capital. This was revealed in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, who noted that the strategic operation was supervised by Commissioner of Police Adamu Abdullahi Elleman. The raids were carried out on July 30, between the early hours of 3:00 a.m. and 5:30 a.m., targeting specific locations including Unguwan-Roka, Kwari-Berger, Flamingo, and Tudun Wada within the Maitumbi axis of Minna. According to the police, some of the suspects arrested include Abubakar Nura (23), Auwal Mohammed (20), Suleiman Hassan (21), Alhassan Mohammed (19), and Usman Abubakar Bahaho (18). During the sweep, law enforcement agents recovered one pump-action firearm loaded with cartridges, cutlasses, a pair of scissors, and what appeared to be suspected illegal substances. In a separate but related operation, officers apprehended two gang members who were trying to escape from a shop linked to a suspected gang leader. Additionally, eleven more individuals were arrested in different locations under similar criminal suspicion. Commissioner Elleman urged the residents of the affected communities to stay calm, assuring the public of the command’s unwavering dedication to fighting crime and ensuring the safety of lives and property in the state.
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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially commenced its campaign for the forthcoming by-election in the Adamawa State House of Assembly, aiming to fill the vacant legislative seat in Ganye constituency. The by-election is slated to take place on Saturday, August 16, 2025, following the death of Hon. Abdulkadir Musa, whose passing last year created a vacant seat in the state assembly. Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri was present in Ganye on Saturday to formally launch the campaign for the PDP candidate, Mohammed Joda, urging constituents to back the party’s nominee in the upcoming polls. While addressing a gathering of supporters at the rally, Governor Fintiri issued a strong message against ethnic and religious bias in electoral decisions, asserting that true development can only occur when voting is based on merit, not sentiment. “No society thrives when its choices are shaped by religion or ethnicity,” he stated. Adding to the campaign message, PDP State Chairman, Tahir Shehu, called on residents of Ganye Local Government Area to support Mohammed Joda, emphasizing that the PDP-led administration in Adamawa has clearly demonstrated its commitment to good governance and inclusive leadership. In his own address, the PDP candidate, Mohammed Joda, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the party for giving him the platform to serve, promising to represent the people of Ganye with commitment, transparency, and diligence if given the mandate. According to a field report by LMSINT MEDIA, there appears to be no formidable opposition facing the PDP candidate, as of Saturday afternoon when this report was filed. Meanwhile, the main opposition party in Adamawa State, the All Progressives Congress (APC), is reportedly embroiled in internal conflict, with two opposing factions within the Ganye constituency struggling to agree on a unified candidate. The absence of a clear contender from the APC could spell a significant political setback, especially considering that the late Abdulkadir Musa — whose seat is now up for contest — was not only a member of the APC but also served as the Deputy Minority Leader in the State Assembly until his death.
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Fresh controversy has emerged over the leadership of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), as its Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Bayo Ojulari, has allegedly been compelled to sign a resignation letter under pressure. This claim was reported on Saturday by Peoples Gazette, citing sources familiar with the matter. According to the report, Mr. Ojulari was allegedly confronted on Friday by Ola Olukoyede, the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and Adeola Ajayi, the Director-General of the State Security Service (SSS). The high-ranking officials reportedly pressured him into signing a resignation letter. Sources told the platform that Mr. Ojulari was intensely interrogated regarding his possible connection to Olatimbo Ayinde, a British-Nigerian oil magnate who has recently gained significant influence within the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “He insisted he had no links to Olatimbo Ayinde,” a confidential source quoted by the publication said. So far, the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, has not issued an official response to media inquiries. Likewise, Mr. Ojulari has not commented despite multiple attempts to reach him for a statement as of Saturday afternoon. It’s important to note that NNPCL recently raised concerns about deliberate sabotage targeting its leadership structure, raising further questions about the company’s internal dynamics and political undercurrents. Recall that Bayo Ojulari was appointed as the GCEO of NNPCL in April 2025 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marking a strategic move to stabilize the national oil sector.
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The Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation has officially acknowledged the feedback and concerns raised by stakeholders and media experts over the recent suspension of Badegi FM, a Minna-based radio outlet, by the Niger State Government. According to reports, the directive to suspend Badegi FM originated from Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago during an extended All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus meeting that took place in Minna on August 1. Notably, the Minister of Information and National Orientation was also present during the meeting. Governor Bago is said to have justified the order by citing allegations of unprofessional broadcasting practices and content deemed provocative against the state administration. In an official release signed by Rabiu Ibrahim, who serves as the Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister, the Ministry acknowledged the concerns raised by the Niger State Government. However, it stressed that the revocation or suspension of broadcast licences falls under the exclusive authority of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), which is the legally recognized regulatory body in such matters. The Ministry welcomed the Niger State Government’s move to refer the issue to the NBC, calling it the most appropriate and lawful route for addressing such accusations of misconduct by broadcast stations. The Minister, in the statement, urged all involved to remain composed while the issue is thoroughly examined. It concluded by affirming that the NBC is fully equipped with the structures and capacity to investigate and settle the matter in a just and unbiased manner.
