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Wednesday, January 31, 2018
I'm doing a great job at Chelsea despite loss to Bournemouth insist's Conte
Mercy Lank
Fnishing in the top four would be a 'great success' for the Blues this season, according to their under-pressure manager Antonio Conte fears for Chelsea's top-four hopes following their 3-0 thrashing by Bournemouth but is adamant he is doing a "great job" at Stamford Bridge. The champions' title defence has not really gathered pace this season with Manchester City 18 points ahead of the fourth-placed Blues and looking certainties to take the trophy to the Etihad Stadium. Chelsea still have Champions League qualification to fight for but Wednesday's defeat to Bournemouth - courtesy of goals from Callum Wilson, Junior Stanislas and ex-Blues defender Nathan Ake - has made life more uncomfortable for Conte, although he remained bullish afterwards. He told reporters: "I think the pressure is normal. It's normal for a coach, for a manager. It's normal if you are Chelsea's coach. "After the first game this season [a home defeat to Burnley], you tried to put pressure on my job but I'm trying to do my best. "I repeat: we are doing everything, we are doing 120 per cent. I'm exploiting this squad to the maximum level but if someone doesn't agree about this, I'm here. "I have to accept every situation. I'm very relaxed about this. I know that I'm doing a great job, a great work, me and the staff and the players." Asked if he felt Chelsea were overachieving, he added: "Yes, yes. I think we are doing more. We are doing more, yes." He did admit, however, to some concern over their top-four ambitions.
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"Yes, we must be worried. It won't be easy but this is normal. We have to struggle for a position in the Champions League. But I think the players, until now, are great, for their commitment and their behaviour. If they hadn't done that, our place in the table would be worse. "If we are able to reach a place in the Champions League it will be a great success for us." Conte finally got the physical centre-forward he craved in January - Olivier Giroud coming in from Arsenal to replace Michy Batshuayi who departed for Borussia Dortmund on loan - earlier on deadline day. But he dismissed suggestions the transfer talk had disrupted his team's preparations. "No but now it would be very simple to find a lot of excuses, a lot of alibis," he said. "This is not the right way. We made a lot of mistakes. Together. When we win, we win together. When we lose, we lose together." Another worrying development for Chelsea was Denmark international Andreas Christensen limping off in the first half of Wednesday's game. Conte said: "We have played other games without Christensen. Injuries are a part of the game. It's not right to find excuses. This is not the right way to solve the situation. Only through work can you solve the situation. "I think it's a hamstring problem for Christensen, but I don't know the extent of his injury. We have to wait one day, two days, three days to have a clinical examination."
BREAKING: Obasanjo’s Coalition for Nigeria launched today in Abuja
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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s proposed political movement, Coalition for Nigeria, CN, has been launched in Abuja. The launch held at the Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja. Former Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Governors, Olagunsoye Oyinlola and Donald Duke were in attendance. Obasanjo suggested the formation of the movement in his recent statement on President Muhammadu Buhari and his administration. Speaking at the event, Oyinlola said the group is not yet a political party. Oyinlola said for it to make electoral impact in the manner described by the former President, they would need to follow the constitution and register it as a political party. He said, “If and when we come to an agreement that we must metaphose into a political party, then we will. “We’re not a political party, at least, for now. “We recognise the facts that by the dictates of the Constitution, you can only contest on the platform of a political party.”
Benue Killings: Buhari writes Senate, lists steps taken
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President Muhammadu Buhari has written to the Senate saying the police are working to arrest those responsible for the recent killings in the state. In a letter read by the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, on Wednesday, Mr. Buhari said the federal government was initiating measures to address the killings and other security challenges, alleviate their consequences and forestall reoccurrence. The letter reads, “I thank you for your letter referenced NASS/8S/R/01/33 dated 18th January 2018 and carefully studied the resolutions and comments there in. As I briefed you and the RT. Hon speaker when we met, several courses of action have been taken prior to the senate resolution. “You may recall that I told you of the following steps taken as soon as the information came in to me about the Benue killings. “One, on Thursday 4th January, I sent the minister of interior and the deputy inspector-general of police in charge of operations for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation. Two, on Friday 5th January, the inspector-general of police briefed me verbally on the latest situation, calm had then been restored.
“Three, on Monday 8th, the minister of interior met with the following, governors of Adamawa, Kaduna, Niger, Benue Taraba and Nasarawa together with the DG of the State Security Services, inspector-general of police, CG civil defence, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development and police commissioner of the six aforementioned states. “After the meeting, I instructed the Minister of Interior to brief you on the information gathered so far and steps taken. “On Tuesday, 9th of January, at a session with Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue state during which in informed of police arrests of some suspects. In addition, I told him that I have instructed to speed up trial of the suspects and give wide publicity of the police efforts. “At the instance of the governor, a meeting was held in the presidential villa on 15th with a wide cross-section of Benue personalities and frank and open discussions were held. Everybody appreciated the difficulties of this farmers-herders strife. I assured all of my commitment and assured justice would be done. “To infer therefore that nothing has been done, is incorrect. The police are strenuously working to apprehend the rest of the culprits of these heartless killings. “Furthermore, I have instructed the IGP to relocate to Benue state and redeploy forces to the most sensitive towns. The federal government is initiating measures to address these and other security challenges, alleviate the consequence of these attacks and forestall reoccurrence. The senate resolution itemised in your letter would be taken into consideration and I’m instructing all relevant MDAs to factor them in their work. “On December 19 to be precise, while receiving the report of the committee that was set up to review the technical and administrative structure of the NIA, I underscored the need to review the entire national security architecture as I promised in my inaugural address on the 29th May 2015. Action is being initiated to receive maximum cooperation from the senate in line with paragraph three of the senate resolutions.”
Breaking: Arsenal completes the signing of Aubameyang for a staggering record fee worth £56 million
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The club described him as “one of the world’s most highly-rated strikers”. “He scored 98 goals in 144 Bundesliga games for Dortmund and had a hand in 172 goals in 213 matches in all competitions for his former club,” it continued. “That works out at an average of 96 minutes per goal or assist. “Auba is the Gabon captain and all-time top goalscorer, and became the first Gabonese winner of the African Footballer of the Year award in 2015.”
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Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has completed his club record move to Arsenal from Borussia Dortmund, it has been announced today.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has joined Arsenal for a record fee for the Gunners, a reported £56 million,from Bundesliga outfit Borussia Dortmund, both clubs confirmed Wednesday. Aubameyang The 28-year-old Gabon striker, who has scored 141 goals for Dortmund since joining in 2013, signed a long-term contract with the storied London club. His transfer fee outstrips the £46.5 million that Arsenal paid for French striker Alexandre Lacazette last August. Aubameyang’s arrival is likely to lead to the departure of veteran marksman Olivier Giroud. “Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has joined us from Borussia Dortmund on a long-term contract for a club-record fee,” the statement from Arsenal said.
Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester United - Match preview,team news, predictions, statistics and form
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Tottenham really need to win this contest if they are to stand any chance of catching second-placed Manchester United and our Kickoff predictive algorithm gives them a 48% chance of doing so as they look to extend their 11-match unbeaten run in the top-flight at their temporary home. Last Season's Score The Red Devils’ most recent visit back in May was a truly special one for everyone connected with Spurs, as goals from Victor Wanyama and Harry Kane helped the North London outfit to secure a 2-1 success in their final fixture at White Hart Lane, with the chances of the same result this time around rated at a healthy 9%.
Team News For Spurs
Following this match, Tottenham face Liverpool, Arsenal and then Juventus, so Mauricio Pochettino will be pleased to see the likes of Toby Alderweireld and Harry Winks nearing a return to action.
Team News For Man Utd
Eric Bailly and Zlatan Ibrahimovic remain unavailable to Jose Mourinho, but new signing Alexis Sanchez will be keen to make an impression against his former club’s local rivals.
First Goal Scorer Betting Predictions
Between them, Harry Kane (21% chance) and Romelu Lukaku (12% chance) have netted 32 Premier League goals in 2017/18, so both men have the potential to fire their respective teams in front, but Heung-Min Son (12% chance) has scored in five consecutive top-flight home games for Spurs.
This clash will take place at Wembley Stadium at 8:00pm on Wednesday 31st January and will be broadcast live on BT Sport 1. Highlights will be shown on Match of the Day on BBC One later that evening at 10:45pm.
17 Year Old Boy Kills his own Father (PHOTO)
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The Bauchi State Police Command have arrested a 17 year old boy identified as Nuhu Bulus of Boloji ward, Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State who killed his 65-year-old father, Bulus Azi. According to police reports, the boy killed the father by hitting him with a mud pot, wood and Sickle. It was gathered that the suspect’s other siblings, Samaila Bulus and Musa Bulus reported the incidence at Toro police station on January 17th, 2018. They reported that they left their brother with the father and returned to find their father with head injuries allegedly inflicted on him by their brother.
The father was later rushed to Toro General Hospital where he was certified dead by a medical doctor and the suspect was later arrested. Speaking to journalists after their arraignment, Nuhu Bulus confessed that they had an argument with his father which later degenerated and he hit the father several times on the head with various objects. He also admitted that he committed the act under the influence of hard drugs which he had taken. The suspect will be charged to court after investigation.
Donlad Trump Blast Buhari’s Government,Others Over Stand On Jerusalem
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President Donald Trump on Tuesday slammed countries that voted at the UN General Assembly against US recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. Buhari’s administration was one of the nations that kicked against Trump’s decision. The US leader, in his first State of the Union Address, wondered why there was opposition against America’s sovereign right to make the recognition. In his speech, Trump noted that America had greatly improved under his leadership. “American taxpayers generously send those same countries billions of dollars in aid every year. “That is why, tonight, I am asking the Congress to pass legislation to help ensure American foreign-assistance dollars always serve American interests, and only go to America’s friends. “As we strengthen friendships around the world, we are also restoring clarity about our adversaries,” he said. Reeling out his accomplishments in office in the past one year, Trump said 2.4 million jobs were created in the last one years while unemployment was at its lowest in 45 years. The U.S. leader also said African-American unemployment stood at the lowest rate ever recorded in history and the defeat of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS’) defeat. Trump touted the largest tax cut in American history saying roughly three million workers have already gotten tax cut bonuses. “Since the election, we have created 2.4 million new jobs, including 200,000 new jobs in manufacturing alone. After years of wage stagnation, we are finally seeing rising wages. “Unemployment claims have hit a 45-year low. African-American unemployment stands at the lowest rate ever recorded, and Hispanic American unemployment has also reached the lowest levels in history. “”Small business confidence is at an all-time high. The stock market has smashed one record after another, gaining eight trillion dollars in value. “That is great news for Americans’ 401k, retirement, pension, and college savings accounts. “And just as I promised the American people from this podium 11 months ago, we enacted the biggest tax cuts and reforms in American history,” he said. Trump, who started out his address recalling some of the perilous moments in the past one year, noted the unity showed by both Republicans and Democrats at such sad moments. He, therefore, made bipartisan appeals for unity saying “it is not enough to come together only in times of tragedy. “Tonight, I call upon all of us to set aside our differences, to seek out common ground, and to summon the unity we need to deliver for the people we were elected to serve.
Borussia Dortmund agree loan deal for Chelsea striker
Mercy Lank
The possibility of Michy Batshuayi joining Borussia Dortmund has been doing the rounds and now latest reports from reputable outlet BBC claim that the deal is done. The move could start a cascading effect in the January transfer window with both, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Olivier Giroud both set to join new clubs. 
With Batshuayi now set to play at Dortmund for the rest of the season, Aubameyang might finally be heading to the Premier League. Batshuayi has struggled for regular playing time at Chelsea Having made the move to Stamford Bridge last season, the Belgian forward has struggled to win over Antonio Conte and has often been left out of the starting XI. Even with Alvaro Morata not available in recent weeks, Conte used Batshuayi sparingly, often preferring Eden Hazard to play in a 'false 9' position. With Batshuayi now set to join Dortmund, the German side might be willing to let Aubameyang go whose arrival, in turn, could see Olivier Giroud joining the Blues after spending close to 5-and-a-half seasons at Arsenal. The heart of the matter With the 2018 FIFA World Cup coming up soon, Batshuayi's move to Dortmund could see him get regular playing time. Although the Belgian has scored more often than not when given the opportunity, Conte has usually preferred to start with Morata or Hazard and a move to Dortmund could just reinvigorate the Belgian's career. On the other hand, Aubameyang's potential arrival to Arsenal could provide a boost to the club. The Gunners are desperate to find a prolific goalscorer and the arrival of the Gabon international will certainly add more firepower to the Arsenal attack.
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Respected journalist David Ornstein had summarised the situation in his tweet:
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
2019: CAN mobilizing Christians to Vote against Muslim Candidates – MURIC
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The Muslim rights concern group (MURIC) has blasted the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, for religionizing politics.
Prof. Ishaq Akintola, Director of the group said CAN is mobilising Christians to vote against Muslim candidates in the forthcoming 2019 general elections. The statement read in full ; “The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has begun subterranean mobilization of Christians in the country in preparation for the 2019 general elections. In CAN’s most recent election-related stunt, particularly on social media, Christians were instructed to shun Muslim candidates (especially President Muhammadu Buhari) and to vote massively for Christian candidates instead. The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) condemns CAN’s resort to acrobatic religiosity in the political arena. It is parochial, pernicious, myopic and unpatriotic. READ Appeal Court Dismisses Suit against Oba of Benin Politicisation of religion will not take us anywhere in this country. It is to the glory of our gymnastic religiousity that we are clever devils today. In spite of the proliferation of churches and mosques on our streets, our paradoxical criminality has no equal under the sun. Is this the time to dig deeper into religious zealotry by indulging in religious politics? MURIC calls on Nigerians to reject CAN’s attempt to drag Nigeria into the abyss of another religious crisis over the 2019 general elections. It is crude, naïve and infantile. We urge citizens not to allow excellence to be sacrificed on the altar of mediocrity. Serious nations focus on result-oriented criteria like credibility, pedigree, ability to deliver, high-level patriotism, farsightedness, and industry. Nigeria should be the issue, not primordial sentiments like religion and ethnicity. MURIC’s advice to Nigerian Muslims: Don’t vote for religion. Shun ethnic blindness. Afterall, many of those who corruptly enriched themselves are Muslim politicians. Vote according to your conscience. Those who stole billions of naira from the public treasury did not think of their Muslim brothers when they were stealing. They were driven by egocentricity, not by their love for Islam. If a Christian candidate has the right qualities, vote for him. This is about Nigeria, not about the mosque. We will cross our bridges when we get to them. In a nutshell, we urge responsible Christians all over the country to ignore CAN’s pernicious and tortuous propaganda of ‘Christians vote for Christians’. Nigerian Muslims should vote for candidates trusted for delivery of the dividends of democracy, not for religion. Looters who try to deceive Nigerians in 2019 will have themselves to blame if Muslims, Christians, and traditionalists can come together to shun corrupt elements in society during the 2019 elections. Imams, pastors, and priests should publicly rain curses on looters to keep them at bay.”Buhari Will Die If He tries to Contest for 2019 Presidency – Prophet (VIDEO)
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General Overseer of South Africa based church, Freedom For All Nations, Prophet Samuel Akinbodunse has revealed that President Muhammadu Buhari will die if he tries to contest for second term. Akinbodunse also stated that God has destined President Buhari to be a one term President, and if he tries to go for second term, he won’t see the election. In the 2015 general election, Samuel Akinbodunse predicted correctly that candidate Muhammadu Buhari will be the winner and it came to pass.
EPL: Wenger gives reasons for Arsenal’s 3-1 loss to Swansea
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Arsene Wenger has reacted angrily to Arsenal’s 3-1 loss to Swansea City in the Premier League on Tuesday night. The Gunners took the lead just past the half-hour mark courtesy of Nacho Monreal but fell apart as Swansea scored three. Sam Clucas scored the equalizer within 2 minutes before Jordan Ayew gave them the lead in the second-half and Clucas added a third, four minutes from time. With the result the Gunners’ hopes of making the top four has been dented as they are now eight points adrift of Liverpool who won comfortably 3-0 at Huddersfield. Arsene Wenger questioned his players’ discipline and blasted them for making “big mistakes”. He told BBC Sport, “I felt defensively we were very poor and made big mistakes. “It’s better not to talk about the second or third goals. “Swansea were sharp, disciplined and hungry. Unfortunately I believe we were not good enough, I believe we were not disciplined enough. “I don’t want to talk about second or third goals.” The match was also likely to be Olivier Giroud’s last for the club as he edges closer to a move to Chelsea. And Wenger admitted after the match the France international’s future would be resolved tomorrow on deadline day. When asked if Giroud had played his final game for the Gunners, he replied: “It’s a possibility. “But all that will be decided tomorrow morning. We will inform you once that is more definite.”
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Arsene Wenger has reacted angrily to Arsenal’s 3-1 loss to Swansea City in the Premier League on Tuesday night. The Gunners took the lead just past the half-hour mark courtesy of Nacho Monreal but fell apart as Swansea scored three. Sam Clucas scored the equalizer within 2 minutes before Jordan Ayew gave them the lead in the second-half and Clucas added a third, four minutes from time. With the result the Gunners’ hopes of making the top four has been dented as they are now eight points adrift of Liverpool who won comfortably 3-0 at Huddersfield. Arsene Wenger questioned his players’ discipline and blasted them for making “big mistakes”. He told BBC Sport, “I felt defensively we were very poor and made big mistakes. “It’s better not to talk about the second or third goals. “Swansea were sharp, disciplined and hungry. Unfortunately I believe we were not good enough, I believe we were not disciplined enough. “I don’t want to talk about second or third goals.” The match was also likely to be Olivier Giroud’s last for the club as he edges closer to a move to Chelsea. And Wenger admitted after the match the France international’s future would be resolved tomorrow on deadline day. When asked if Giroud had played his final game for the Gunners, he replied: “It’s a possibility. “But all that will be decided tomorrow morning. We will inform you once that is more definite.” Liverpool bounce back with a convincing win against Huddersfield Town
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Liverpool went back to winning ways with a 3-0 victory over Huddersfield Town in the Premier League on Tuesday night. First-half goals from Emre Can and Roberto Firmino set Jürgen Klopp’s team on their way to a much-needed result at the John Smith’s Stadium, following back-to-back defeats last week. Mohamed Salah’s penalty 13 minutes from time banked three points at the expense of the Terriers on a productive evening for the Reds.
#5 Liverpool show much-needed solidity
Make no mistake, Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool were under tremendous pressure coming into this game. The Reds had not lost two successive league games since 2015 which made this tie all the more important. Irrespective of the performance, Liverpool needed three points at all costs. But the Reds delivered a professional performance in Yorkshire. They were quick off the blocks, the combination play was brilliant and the Reds also dominated the midfield. Finishing was on point from the attackers though the scoreline would have been more authoritative if Mane would have scored from his chances. 911 passes by Liverpool is the most recorded by a team in a single match in Premier League history. Shows our dominance in that game! Also, when Huddersfield started getting into the game in the second half, Liverpool showed a surprising, hitherto rarely seen trait of mental toughness in defence and never looked like their usual suicidal self. This season Liverpool have not lost a game after taking a lead (17 times, 13 wins, 4 draws) which goes on to show their winning mindset after starting the game on the front foot.
#4 Liverpool's "one track" midfield deserve praise
Can produced a man of the match performance
A lot has been made (rightly so) of Liverpool's midfield since the departure of a South American genius desperate to complete his childhood dream move to Barcelona. The Reds have been criticized for lacking creativity in the centre of the park which was evident in the defeats against Swansea and West Brom. Adding Adam Lallana's recurrence of an injury, Liverpool looked well short of creativity in midfield. Klopp selected the trio of Emre Can, James Milner and Jordan Henderson for the trip to Huddersfield. All the three mentioned players are often criticized for their single-mindedness and not offering that extra bit more in midfield. But against Huddersfield, Henderson played the quarterback's role to perfection and also displayed a leadership which had been missing in his absence. Milner was at his industrious best - winning the ball back early and showing tremendous work rate. Emre Can was the man of the match on the night as he looked extremely at ease and played as many as four key passes. He scored one, assisted one, and could have had a couple of more too. Can still remains the most inconsistent player of this Liverpool squad - sublime against Manchester City, horrible against Swansea and back to his best against Huddersfield.
Official :Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Emerson Palmieri from Roma
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Chelsea have signed defender Emerson Palmieri from Roma on a long-term deal.
The Blues need cover at left-back for Marcos Alonso, having allowed Kenedy to join Premier League rivals Newcastle on loan until the end of the season. Palmieri, 23, has committed to a four-and-a-half-year deal with the Premier League club. He told Chelsea’s official website: “English football is something I have been watching since I was 15 years old. It is a really beautiful game over here, but it is going to be even more beautiful to play it. “I came here because it’s a great team with a great history. Today I am realising one of my dreams to pull on the shirt of such a great club.”
Former Brazil under-17 international Palmieri , who has since switched international allegiances to Italy, has been restricted to just two appearances in all competitions for Serie A club Roma this season following a serious knee injury. As such, the defender will be eligible to play for Chelsea in the upcoming Champions League tie against Barcelona. Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said: “Emerson is a young and talented player who strengthens the squad and will provide excellent competition for places as we pursue success in three different competitions.”
Okorocha meets Miss Nigeria, Ugochi Ihezue who held from akokwa in Ideato north imo state
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Governor Rochas Okorocha, on Tuesday met with the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MISS NIGERIA), Miss Ugochi Ihezue who is an indigene of Imo State at the Government House and they agreed to aggressively pursue Youth-Oriented Programmes and Policies. Governor Rochas Okorocha with the current MISS NIGERIA, Miss Ugochi Ihezue (left) and the parents Mr. and Mrs. Ihezue when they visited the governor at the Government House on Tuesday,. Miss Ihezue is from Akokwa in Ideato North LGA, Imo State. Governor Okorocha who received the beauty pageant and her entourage including the parents said although his administration has embarked on certain programmes and policies for the youths in the State, but the current war his government is waging against illicit drugs and other related matters in the State is very dear to him, because the exercise is aimed at saving the youths from self-destruction. He described Miss Ihezue as a good example of what a youth should be, adding that her status as MISS NIGERIA would be an encouragement to other youths in the State in particular, and beyond, and commended her carriage which made her to win the crown. His words “I am proud that my daughter is the most beautiful girl in Nigeria. We are proud of you. We salute your courage, tenacity and we commend you for the carriage with which you carry this crown”. He added “I know how tedious it is to win this kind of award, a lot of things got involved not just beauty but brain equally. This award shows that you have outstanding contents in your brain. Government will support you in your programs to see that you actualize your dreams. This will equally encourage our young ones to focus more on their dreams”. The governor also explained “Akokwa is very key to the development of the Ideato nation.
Government will do everything within its powers to complete the dualization of Orlu/Akokwa road, and the Orie Akokwa market. I have the genuine intention of making it a modern market but a lot of structures need to go down for the market to take its full shape”. Miss Ihezue told the governor that she is proud to be an Imo daughter, and that she had come to share her vision with the governor, adding that her encouragement was that the governor is someone that loves charity more than anybody in history. She stated, “I have come to share my vision of opening a foundation on Child Abuse and other youth-oriented initiatives with you, my home governor, knowing full well that you, Governor Okorocha is someone that likes charity more than any one in history. I appreciate the infrastructural development that has transformed the State from what it used to be. I pledge to work with the Rescue Mission Government in any capacity”.
Chelsea offer David Luiz to Arsenal in exchange for Giroud
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David Luiz could find himself joining Arsenal, if the latest reports are accurate. The Blues are reported to have offered the Brazilian international to the Gunners. He is deemed surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge, where he has struggled to play this season. One of the bigger surprises of Antonio Conte’s first season, he has since found himself riding the bench. The Daily Star claim that Chelsea have offered the Brazilian to Arsenal in exchange for Olivier Giroud. The Gunners are having some big defensive struggles, while their opponents have been looking for a striking alternative to Michy Batshuayi. The Pensioners had been linked to Edin Dzeko, but the move was kiboshed by owner Roman Abramovich. Luiz, for his part, was sent to PSG several seasons ago, but bought back when Antonio Conte couldn’t land either Kostas Manolas or Alessio Romagnoli. Things have been difficult for him since, however, Cesar Azpilicueta and Toni Rudiger taking over in the middle.
Roma star Emerson Palmieri jets in for medical at Chelsea
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Chelsea are closing in on a deal for the defender with reports in Italy stating he is on his way to the Blues for a medical today, having agreed a four-year deal. But Conte didn’t go into detail on the speculation of his impending arrival. “If you remember I said that in case the club decides on loan Kenedy we have two options, to buy another player or work with a young player like [Dujon] Sterling, who is a good prospect,” he said. “I don’t know, if there is news then the club will tell you. “I don’t remember Palmieri because he only played in Italy last season. He had a bad injury, he hurt his ligament. “He is recovering, I don’t know if he is ready to play. We are talking about a player of another team at this moment.” Chelsea have been chasing the Brazilian-born for some time but a deal has stalled with the west London outfit hopeful of getting his team-mate Edin Dzeko too.
However, the Blues have failed to agree terms with the former Manchester City striker and will now look elsewhere for a striker. Palmieri, who is expected to provide back-up to Marcos Alonso, will cost Chelsea around £20m. With the 23-year-old's medical expected later today it means he has missed the deadline to be able to play in Chelsea's clash with Bournemouth tomorrow night. If Chelsea complete a deal before tomorrow's 11pm deadline he could make his debut against Watford on Monday.
Monday, January 29, 2018
Chelsea would not sell Eden Hazard to Manchester City - even for a record fee
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Chelsea will refuse any Manchester City bid for Eden Hazard – even if the Premier League leaders offer to break the world-record fee of £200 million. It emerged over the weekend that City, having missed out on Alexis Sánchez, are interested in Hazard and are ready to rival a summer bid from Real Madrid if the Belgian does not extend his contract. But while Chelsea may ultimately be powerless to stop Hazard joining Real if the Spaniards lodge a huge bid, they will not allow him to join English rivals for any amount of money. City are yet to make a bid Chelsea still hope to convince Hazard to sign a new contract worth more than £300,000 a week, but they know he has always been interested in playing for Real.
Hazard wants to weigh up his options, but it seems Chelsea’s stance will effectively leave him with the choice of staying put or waiting for Real to make a bid. Real have held a long-standing interest in Hazard and are expected to overhaul their squad in the summer. Cristiano Ronaldo could leave the Bernabéu and Hazard is one of the players who has been touted as a potential replacement. But a Real move for Hazard may well depend on whether Zinedine Zidane keeps his job as manager. The pair share an affection for each other. The managerial situation at Chelsea will also play a role in influencing where Hazard starts next season. Head coach Antonio Conte is expected to leave, with Luis Enrique the favourite to take over. Meanwhile, Charly Musonda, Chelsea’s 21-year-old Belgian midfielder, has agreed to join Celtic on an 18-month loan. Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers said: “He has wonderful ability and is very dynamic. He’ll bring creativity to our side.”
Official:Liverpool sent out Daniel Sturridge on loan to West Bromwich Albion
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Liverpool FC have officially sent Daniel Sturridge out on loan to West Bromwich Albion and it’s a situation that’s win-win for everybody. Sturridge was far out of favor when it comes to Jurgen Klopp’s selection, as the English international made only five appearances in Premier League competition this season, after making 20 in 2016-17. He’s now seeking regular first team action, amidst worries that his lack of playing time could get him left off England’s World Cup roster for next summer. West Brom is the perfect destination, as the Baggies could use an upgraded centre forward, and they badly need goals, if they are to avoid relegation. “This is the right fit,” as Daniel Sturridge himself said. Although it’s worth noting that the Englishman had been coveting a loan move to Inter Milan. West Brom are currently 19th in the table, and the upgrade that Sturridge provides over Salomon Rondon and Hal-Robson Kanu could be just the edge they need to stay up. Alan Pardew must definitely be smiling today as this quite the coup for him.
Davido, Wizkid make list of most followed Africans on social media
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Nigerian singers Davido, Wizkid and South African comedian Trevor Noah have made the list of the most followed Africans on the social networks Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, a report has said. According to campsbaymedia, the African Social Media Power Report: Top 50 Footballers and Entertainers was released on January 26. The Power 50 has a combined following of almost 400 million, a number that is more than half the population of Europe and twice the population of Nigeria, Africa’s most populated country. The Power 50, which weighs the social media influence of African pop culture stars and football personalities, was compiled by Lagos-based sports communication company, CampsBay Media.
“In a world where social media continues to play a big role, the influence of African entertainers and footballers, the crème of popular culture on our continent, continues to fascinate and that is why we have compiled this list,” said Lolade Adewuyi, chief strategist at CampsBay Media. “We have tried as much as possible to gather the top African pop and sport stars into the list in order to show their influence across the three key social media platforms of Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. “We hope that the Power Report will be an annual ranking to gauge their growing impact as well as enable market planners and researchers to see the possibilities inherent in their influence.” Personalities from 12 countries are represented on the list with the top 10 places filled by Musician Akon, footballers Mohamed Salah and Didier Drogba, Moroccan stand-up comedian Gad el Maleh, Cameroonian footballer Samuel Eto’o, Moroccan actor Jamel Debbouze, Nigerian singer Wizkid and South African actress Charlize Theron. Also on the report are 13 actors/actresses, 14 singers, nine rappers, eight footballers, four comedians and two music producers/DJs. The report also includes a list of the top 50 African footballers and top 50 African entertainers on the three social media platforms.
Ibrahimovic free to leave Manchester United if he wants, Mourinho says
Mercy Lank
ts Manchester United will not stand in the way of Zlatan Ibrahimovic if he wants to leave the club, manager Jose Mourinho said on Monday. But the Swedish striker, linked by British media with a move to LA Galaxy, has not mentioned the subject to his manager. “If that is true and Zlatan wants a future in another club in another country then I will help and create conditions for that to happen,” Mourinho told reporters. The 36-year-old Ibrahimovic, who joined Manchester United in 2016 and is out of contract in the summer, has hardly played this season after suffering a knee ligament injury in 2017. But Mourinho said Ibrahimovic was striving to get back to peak condition.
“He’s working hard to be fit. I’m not saying injured because he’s not injured. I think he’s in a moment of trying to feel really ready for the demands of English Premier League football.” Mourinho also gave an update on midfielder Marouane Fellaini, who is free to talk to other clubs as his contract ticks down. “He knows I want him and the club wants him and I think that’s very important for him. But then there is a paper to sign but you only sign the paper when you are happy with what’s on the paper,” Mourinho said. The 30-year-old Belgian has been linked with a move to Turkish side Besiktas.(Reuters/NAN)
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“He’s working hard to be fit. I’m not saying injured because he’s not injured. I think he’s in a moment of trying to feel really ready for the demands of English Premier League football.” Mourinho also gave an update on midfielder Marouane Fellaini, who is free to talk to other clubs as his contract ticks down. “He knows I want him and the club wants him and I think that’s very important for him. But then there is a paper to sign but you only sign the paper when you are happy with what’s on the paper,” Mourinho said. The 30-year-old Belgian has been linked with a move to Turkish side Besiktas.(Reuters/NAN)
Arsenal finally agreed a staggering fee worth £60m deal with Borussia Dortmund for the signature of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
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Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund have agreed a principle a £60m fee for the transfer of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, according to Bild. The 28-year-old now looks set to become a Gunners player, although the deal is dependent on Dortmund being able to sign a replacement. They are expected to move to bring Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi in on loan for the remainder of the 2017/18 season. Batshuayi, aged 24, is down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge and, despite his two goals in yesterday’s FA Cup fourth round win over Newcastle United, expected to make the switch to Germany. Dortmund failed to convince Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud to join them as a makeweight in the Aubameyang deal. Gabon international Aubameyang returned to the Dortmund starting lineup for the first time since December 16 for Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Freiburg. The Gunners will hope that the deal can now be finalised before Wednesday’s transfer deadline. Manager Arsene Wenger will be keeen to add goals to his side following Alexis Sanchez’s move to Manchester United.
Russia accuses US of meddling in its elections
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Moscow (CNN)Russia said a US Treasury report that could extend sanctions against Moscow for meddling in the 2016 US presidential elections is "a direct and obvious attempt" to interfere in its own upcoming presidential vote. By the end of Monday, the Treasury must send Congress a list of rich Russian business figures and detail their ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. US President Donald Trump reluctantly signed the legislation last August that ordered the report, even though US investigators believe he was the main beneficiary of Russian meddling. "We do think that this is a direct and obvious attempt to time some sort of action to coincide with our elections in order to influence them," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists on a telephone conference call Monday. "We disagree with this, and we are sure this will have no influence."
He said publication of the report "will be analyzed in Moscow, so that our interests and the interests of our companies are guaranteed." Russia is to hold presidential elections on March 18, a contest that seems certain to result in a win for Russian President Vladimir Putin because of tight constraints against political opponents. Opposition leader Alexei Navalny was briefly arrested Sunday during anti-Kremlin demonstrations in Moscow and across Russia and will have to attend a court hearing he wrote on Twitter. The arrest followed CNN's exclusive interview with Navalny broadcast before the protests in which he accused Putin of widespread corruption. Peskov said he did not think Navalny was a threat to Putin's power. "Putin's popularity reaches far beyond Russian borders and I don't think anyone can doubt the fact that Putin is an absolute leader in the way he is perceived by the public and an absolute leader of the political Olympus," he said. "It's unlikely that at this stage there is someone who is serious competition. Putin proved his undeniable leadership on multiple occasions and continues to do that," Peskov added. Navalny, the best-known opposition figure in Russia, has been barred from running by Russia's electoral commission as he has a conviction for embezzlement, a charge that critics say is politically motivated.
source:CNN
Killings: Bafarawa reveals those behind herdsmen, farmers crisis
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Former Sokoto State Governor, Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa, has alleged that Nigerian politicians are behind the incessant clashes between Fulani herdsmen and farmers in the country. Bafarawa also blamed the federal government for not heeding to advise that would give people the opportunity to evolve measures that would address the menace.
In an interview with journalists in Sokoto, Bafarawa on Sunday evening, described as unfortunate what the country was going through. “Politicians have succeeded in penetrating the two sides involved in the crisis. “What has conventional herdsmen have to do with guns and why now?” “If the FG had listened to the views of the people right from time the killings we are witnessing would not have continued,” he said.
Benue killings: FG opts for full military options – Presidency
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ts
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The Federal Government has opted for full military force to deal with the bandits believed to be behind the killings in parts of the country especially regarding the crisis often associated with herdsmen, authoritative sources say. A Presidency source, who wanted to remain anonymous, disclosed that this was one of the outcomes of the Working Group formed less than two weeks ago by the National Economic Council with nine governors, and chaired by the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo in a renewed bid to end the impunity that has marked the activities of the bandits resulting in several deaths and maiming especially the recent case of Benue State. The source also confirmed that the military were already engaged and would soon begin to implement decisive military steps to tackle the situation. Also the Nigerian Police and other security agencies have been asked to recruit more rank and file to tighten security in the troubled spots and in the country generally. The source also hinted that the role of bandits and suspected mercenaries in what has become known as herdsmen/farmer clashes provoked the need for a fresh approach to dealing with the crisis. According to the source, the view in official circles is that the reported killings and violence recorded are the work of bandits and mercenaries since in many cases the herdsmen are often well-known in the communities where their cattle normally graze. The Kano State Governor Dr. Abdullahi Ganguje who read out highlights and decisions of the last NEC had said the Working Group “will work in accordance with the President’s commitment to ensuring that all perpetrators of violence are brought to book.” The Working Group which consists of Governors from Zamfara, Kaduna, Adamawa, Benue, Taraba, Edo, Plateau, Ebonyi and Oyo States actually commenced its work with a meeting presided over by the VP right immediately after NEC at the Presidential Villa. The source disclosed that at the end of the inaugural meeting, “it was clear a major turning point had been reached in the management of the crisis and sufficient consensus recorded on the need to stop the impunity by engaging the military in a more decisive manner.” They also concluded that the crisis also required a political solution considering the religious and ethnic tones that could easily become further exacerbated and possibly worsen the situation if proper and timely care is not taken. According to the source, “Indeed one of the firm outcomes of the Working Group’s meeting was the expressed readiness of the FG to locate and identify the bandits who perpetrate the killings and the violence, and using all necessary means including military involvement to flush them out of their hideouts in forests across the country as a definite move to secure the life and property of Nigerian citizens. “The Working Group has also resolved to work with the federal government to strengthen law enforcement and all security and intelligence agencies in the country so they can coordinate better in dealing with, checkmating, and preventing the crisis from further escalation.” On how to permanently address the basis of the herdsmen and farmer clashes, the source maintains that the view has been taken that every State should by a rigorous consultative process with all stakeholders design its own solutions. “The Federal government will not impose any solution on any State. The Vice President assured all that the Federal government would certainly not imposed its ideas on the States and noted that fears being expressed on cattle colonies are misplaced.”
Antonio Conte to make 3 changes:Chelsea strongest XI to face Bournemouth,and early team news
Mercy Lank
The Blues beat Newcastle 3-0 in the FA Cup yesterday to bounce back from their disappointing 2-1 loss to Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-finals. But now Antonio Conte must focus on the league once more, as he looks to pull ahead of Liverpool and make up ground on Manchester United. However, there are several personnel issues meaning he has some tough team selection decisions to make.
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Thibaut Courtois, Alvaro Morata, David Luiz and Willian
are all doubts for the Blues with minor injuries, butCesc Fabregas:CM
is fit to play once again.Michy Batshuayi:CF
- who scored twice yesterday - might be unavailable as rumours persist around a possible loan move away before the transfer deadline closes, just minutes after full time on Wednesday.Liverpool close in getting the signature of the Brazilian Star For £44m After Seeing Opening Bid Rejected
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The January transfer window is in full swing so clubs are working hard trying to strengthen their squads for the second half of the season and put deals in place for the summer. Today, the latest on Liverpool’s move for Alisson Becker… AS Roma have told Liverpool they will only sell Alisson Becker if their £44m valuation is met after rejecting Jurgen Klopp’s opening bid for the goalkeeper, according to a report in the Mirror. Klopp is on the look-out for a new number one as neither Simon Mignolet nor Loris Karius have managed to establish themselves between the sticks at Anfield over the past two years. Mignolet has once again lost the first team shirt after a string of poor displays while Karius has failed to take his opportunity to cement his position with a number of unconvincing performances. It’s left Klopp searching for a reliable number one and Alisson has emerged as a key target with widespread reports this month suggesting Liverpool have lined-up the Roma star as the man they want. It looks like the Merseysiders have now formalised their interest as the Mirror are citing a report from Il Tempo that claims Liverpool have submitted an unspecified opening offer for Alisson’s signature. However, the Italian outlet says that although Roma have knocked back Liverpool’s approach, they have told the English giants they will do business if their £44m valuation is met. Liverpool’s owners have shown with the signings of Virgil van Dijk and Naby Neita they are willing to spend big money on the right player so they could be tempted to pay what Roma are demanding for Alisson. However, even if they do put £44m on the table, the report says Roma want to keep hold of the 25-year-old stopper until the summer so any proposed deal would have to go through at the end of the season.
Sunday, January 28, 2018
Alexis Sanchez will be like Cristiano Ronaldo under Jose Mourinho at Man Utd claim's Castles
Mercy Lank
United have struggled to find a top talent to take his No.7 shirt, with Memphis Depay and Angel Di Maria failing to impress. But journalist Duncan Castles think the club are onto a winner with Sanchez who joined last week from Arsenal. He thinks manager Jose Mourinho will use the Chilean in a similar way to how he coached Ronaldo while in charge at Madrid. "I think Mourinho is going to use him (Sanchez) in much the same way he used Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid," Castles said on the latest episode of The Transfer Window Podcast. "Make him a focal point of the attack and allow him a freedom to play the position he would like to play against particular opponents and use his skills to build the rest of the attack off. "I think that's the way things are going to go with him." Castles also claimed Ronaldo expects to leave the Bernabeu this summer - with a move to United a possibility. "As far as he's concerned, he's been informed by the club that they will sell him in the summer and that he is allowed to talk to suitors," he added. "If you look at what's been happening in the press in Spain there's been a lot of reporting that Madrid want him out. "There's also been lots of reporting that the door was closed to him at Manchester United, as a result of the Alexis Sanchez signing and the great play made of Alexis Sanchez being given the No.7 shirt. "I think you'll see something from United saying that's not the case and that the door remains open to him there.
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