OYO Gist

Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri in talks for Ligue 1 loan move

by hassan January 20, 2026

written by hassan

Olympique de Marseille Pursues Arsenal Talent Ethan Nwaneri on Loan

French Ligue 1 club Olympique de Marseille is actively negotiating to secure a loan deal for Arsenal’s promising young midfielder, Ethan Nwaneri, until the conclusion of the current season.

Loan Agreement Details and Financial Terms

According to insider reports from David Ornstein of The Athletic, while discussions are ongoing, no formal agreement has been finalized. The proposed arrangement would see Nwaneri join Marseille on a temporary basis without any clause for a permanent transfer. The French side is prepared to pay a loan fee of €3 million and assume responsibility for the 18-year-old’s salary throughout the loan period.

Limited Playing Time Spurs Loan Interest

This season, Nwaneri has struggled to break into Arsenal’s starting lineup, making only six substitute appearances in the Premier League. The arrival of new signings Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke during the summer has further limited his opportunities to gain first-team experience.

Marseille’s Strategic Move Amidst Competitive Ambitions

Marseille, currently positioned third in Ligue 1, aims to bolster their squad depth as they prepare for crucial fixtures, including a pivotal Champions League group stage match against Liverpool. The club views Nwaneri as a valuable addition to enhance their midfield options for the remainder of the campaign.

Arsenal’s Stance on Nwaneri’s Future

Arsenal remains keen on retaining Nwaneri’s long-term potential and has no intention of sanctioning a permanent transfer. The loan deal is designed solely to provide the young talent with more competitive minutes and development opportunities before returning to the Premier League leaders.

Contextualizing the Move in Today’s Football Landscape

Loan moves for emerging talents like Nwaneri have become increasingly common as top clubs seek to balance squad depth with player development. For example, in the 2023-24 season, over 150 Premier League players were loaned out to gain valuable playing time, highlighting the importance of such arrangements in nurturing future stars.

January 20, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News

Driver of diesel tanker that overturned in Lagos won’t go unpunished – LASTMA

by hassan January 20, 2026

written by hassan

Accountability to Follow Diesel Tanker Overturn on Apapa Bridge

Authorities have confirmed that the driver involved in the diesel tanker accident on Apapa Bridge, near Mile 2 inbound, will face disciplinary measures after a thorough investigation.

Incident Overview and Immediate Response

On Monday, January 19, a tanker carrying diesel overturned on the Apapa Bridge, resulting in a significant fuel spill across the roadway. The incident quickly attracted local residents, some of whom were recorded collecting diesel from the scene, raising safety concerns.

Following the accident, emergency responders acted promptly to mitigate potential hazards. The Lagos State Fire Service dedicated additional hours to thoroughly clean the spilled fuel, successfully preventing any fire outbreaks. The area was secured and cleared soon after the tanker was removed to ensure public safety.

Investigation and Accountability Measures

Olalekan Bakare-Oki, General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), spoke on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on January 20, emphasizing that the Nigeria Police Force is leading the investigation into the crash. He stated, “The police are responsible for probing all traffic accidents, and I am confident that the driver will be held accountable once the investigation concludes.”

Bakare-Oki also clarified that LASTMA has not yet drawn any conclusions regarding the cause of the accident, awaiting the official police report before making further statements.

Context and Safety Implications

Diesel tanker accidents pose significant risks, including fire hazards and environmental contamination. According to recent data from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), tanker-related incidents have accounted for over 15% of traffic accidents in the region in the past year, underscoring the need for stringent safety protocols and driver accountability.

This event highlights the critical importance of coordinated emergency response and thorough investigations to prevent recurrence and safeguard public welfare on Lagos’s busy transport corridors.

January 20, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News

Driver di£s as buses collide in Lagos (video)

by hassan January 20, 2026

written by hassan

Fatal Collision Between TATA Bus and Minibus at Independence Tunnel, Lagos

Tragedy struck at the Independence Tunnel inward Maryland along Ikorodu Road when a collision involving a TATA bus and a minibus resulted in the death of one individual. The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed the fatality, identifying the deceased as the driver of the minibus.

Details of the Incident

The accident occurred on Tuesday, January 20, and was promptly reported by LASTMA via their official X (formerly Twitter) account. According to their statement, the crash involved multiple vehicles, with the minibus driver losing his life in the collision.

Emergency Response and Traffic Management

Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene. A tow truck was dispatched to clear the wreckage, while LASTMA’s Rescue and Recovery Team took charge of vehicle removal and traffic regulation to minimize disruption along the busy Ikorodu Road corridor.

Context and Road Safety Concerns

Road accidents remain a significant challenge in Lagos, with recent statistics from the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation indicating a 12% increase in traffic-related fatalities in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year. Incidents like this underscore the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations.

Preventive Measures and Public Awareness

Authorities continue to advocate for safer driving practices, including adherence to speed limits, proper vehicle maintenance, and increased vigilance on high-traffic routes such as Ikorodu Road. Public education campaigns are also being intensified to reduce the frequency of such tragic events.

For further updates and traffic advisories, follow LASTMA’s official channels and stay informed about road conditions in Lagos.

January 20, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News

DSS Detains Ogun Pastor ‘Over Campaign For Good Roads’ As Governor Abiodun Clamps Down On Critics

by hassan January 20, 2026

written by hassan

Unlike his previous visits, Pastor Kayode Olawoye was not permitted to exit the Department of State Services (DSS) facility and has been formally detained since his latest appearance.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has taken Pastor Kayode Olawoye into custody. Pastor Olawoye, a well-known religious leader and community activist, recently gained attention for spearheading a public movement advocating for the urgent repair and upgrade of road networks throughout Ogun State.

According to sources, Pastor Olawoye was summoned to the DSS office in Abeokuta on Monday for what was described as a discussion. This marked the third time the secret police had called on him. However, this time, he was not released and remains in detention.

The pastor’s detention has sparked widespread unease among local residents, who view this as part of an escalating trend of suppressing voices that highlight governance shortcomings under Governor Dapo Abiodun’s leadership.

Advocacy for Road Safety and Infrastructure

Pastor Olawoye has long been recognized for his dedication to community welfare and activism. In recent weeks, he amplified his efforts to draw attention to the perilous state of major roads in Ogun State, emphasizing the daily struggles faced by commuters, traders, and residents due to poor road conditions. His advocacy has included sermons, grassroots meetings, and media appearances.

These outspoken demands for infrastructural improvements reportedly provoked displeasure among state officials.

Growing Hostility Toward Dissent in Ogun State

Many citizens accuse Governor Abiodun’s administration of fostering an environment intolerant of criticism and transparency. Numerous reports indicate that individuals who publicly expose governance failures, especially at the local government level, have been subjected to intimidation, arrests, or threats.

For instance, in 2025, Governor Abiodun faced allegations of orchestrating the impeachment of Wale Adedayo, the chairman of Ijebu East Local Government, after Adedayo demanded the release of statutory funds essential for local governance and development.

The impeachment was legally contested, and in a landmark ruling in December 2025, the court declared the removal unlawful, politically motivated, and unconstitutional. Adedayo was reinstated and awarded ₦30 million in damages.

Legal Challenges Against Online Critics

In a related development, the Ogun State Police Command has pressed six criminal charges against Adetoun Onajobi, a prominent social media influencer known as @justadetoun. The charges, currently before the Federal High Court in Abeokuta, include cybercrime, dissemination of false information, and obstruction of justice.

Authorities allege that Onajobi used digital platforms to spread misleading claims about the Ogun State government and engaged in persistent online harassment of Governor Abiodun, violating provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act.

The Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, stated that Onajobi was invited for questioning on January 2, 2026, to address these allegations. However, she declined the invitation through her lawyer, citing medical incapacity.

Fabricated Medical Report and Subsequent Arrest

The police investigated the medical claims and uncovered that the report was falsified. Following this discovery, the doctor who issued the fraudulent document was arrested. During interrogation, the doctor admitted to fabricating the report under instructions from Onajobi, with involvement from her legal representative.

The doctor now faces charges including conspiracy, forgery, and obstruction of justice at an Ogun State Magistrates’ Court.

January 20, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News

EXCLUSIVE: Full List Of REC, HODs, 27 Electoral Officers Sponsored By Imo Gov Uzodimma On Jerusalem Pilgrimage

by hassan January 20, 2026

written by hassan

An insider has revealed that the pilgrimage group is headed by Professor Sylvia Agu, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of Imo State.

Exclusive information obtained by SaharaReporters indicates that Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has funded a religious pilgrimage to Jerusalem for senior officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Imo State. The delegation includes the Resident Electoral Commissioner, three department heads, and 27 Electoral Officers representing various local government areas across the state.

Sources close to the matter disclosed that the INEC Imo State leadership and selected staff members are scheduled to depart for Jerusalem on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, with the trip fully sponsored by the state governor.

Leading the pilgrimage is Professor Sylvia Agu, the Imo State REC, accompanied by key INEC officials such as Esther Okorie, Head of Operations; Barrister Onyinye Nwankwo, Acting Head of Legal; and Agnes Elukpo, Acting Head of ICT.

This gubernatorial sponsorship has sparked unease among INEC staff, who fear that such patronage might jeopardize the commission’s impartiality, especially in a politically charged environment like Imo State.

BREAKING: Governor Hope Uzodimma Funds Imo REC and 27 Electoral Officers’ Pilgrimage to Jerusalem

By law, INEC is mandated to function autonomously, free from executive interference.

Accepting gifts or sponsorships from political figures, particularly governors who wield significant influence, risks eroding public trust in the electoral system.

In addition to the REC and department heads, SaharaReporters has obtained the full list of the 27 Electoral Officers selected for the pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

Representatives from Aboh Mbaise: Ukelegharanya Edna

Ahiazu Mbaise: Uche Asagwara

Obowo: Ugo Blessing

Oru East: Obetta Chinyere

Ihitte Uboma: Anioma Honour

Onuimo: Ohabuiro Henry

Isiala Mbano: Nweze Elizabeth

Ideato South: Wendy Preye Ahumibe

Ngor Okpala: Ogbuishi Robinson

Owerri North: Kene Ezeabasili

Additional Electoral Officers include:

Ohaji/Egbema: Nwosu Ikenna Noel

Nkwerre: Ifeoma Okoli

Ehime Mbano: Ogbuehi Gloria

Ikeduru: Nkemakolam Nwankwo

Oguta: Obiechehie Ozioma

Orsu: Mbah Chinyere Gift

Owerri Municipal: Uzo Chikwendu

Orlu: Godfrey Okocha

Mbaitoli: Ikembuchukwu Omeje

Oru West: Anah-Kelechi Theresa

Ideato North: Onwuasoanya Anthony

Nwangele: Adonu Stella Apeh

Ezinihitte Mbaise: Mbamalu Fortune

Owerri West: Ijeoma Nlewedim

Isu: Nwazunku Jonas

Njaba: Ifeanyi Nnaji

Okigwe: Ifeanyi Nwakpa

An insider within INEC expressed to SaharaReporters that this pilgrimage could exacerbate voter skepticism, particularly with upcoming elections in Imo State, a region that has experienced significant electoral controversies in recent years. The impartiality of electoral officials remains a pivotal concern.

The delegation is expected to convene at the Government House Chapel by noon on Tuesday for prayers and a formal send-off before embarking on their journey.

“The REC, seven department heads, and 27 Electoral Officers will depart Imo State for Jerusalem at 10 pm tomorrow, sponsored by Governor Hope Uzodimma,” a source confirmed to SaharaReporters on Monday.

After the chapel gathering, the group will proceed to Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri around 3 pm.

Their flight to Jerusalem is scheduled for 10 pm the same day, marking the commencement of their spiritual pilgrimage.

January 20, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News

EXCLUSIVE: ‘We’re Treated Like Slaves’: Nigerian Army Trainers At NATRAC Kontagora Allege Starvation, Poor Living Conditions, Withheld Allowances

by hassan January 20, 2026

written by hassan

News

Nine Nigerian Army instructors stationed at the Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATRAC) in Kontagora, Niger State, have raised serious concerns about their working and living conditions. Despite their crucial role in preparing new recruits for combat in Nigeria’s volatile North-East region, they report being subjected to harsh treatment and neglect by their commanding officers.

Personnel assigned to NATRAC since mid-February 2025, these nine trainers are tasked with equipping hundreds of fresh soldiers for deployment against Boko Haram insurgents. However, they reveal that their basic needs, including accommodation, nutrition, and timely payment of their ₦5,000 weekly instructors’ allowance, are routinely ignored.

One instructor, speaking anonymously to SaharaReporters due to fear of retaliation, described their situation as “akin to slavery,” emphasizing the irony of being educators preparing others for frontline combat while being denied fundamental rights themselves.

“Our responsibility is to train soldiers who will confront Boko Haram in the North-East,” the trainer explained. “Yet, we endure deplorable living conditions and are often left hungry.”

The soldiers report a complete lack of proper housing facilities. They are forced to sleep on bare wooden bunks without mattresses or adequate bedding, which exacerbates their discomfort during extended postings.

“There is no official accommodation provided. We make do with whatever space is available, but it’s far from acceptable,” another trainer added.

Food provision is inconsistent and substandard. The trainers say meals are only supplied when recruits are present, and even then, the quality is so poor that it would be rejected by most animals.

“Our commander only arranges food when trainees are on site, and the meals are barely edible. We have no choice but to eat it,” one soldier lamented.

In addition to inadequate living conditions, the trainers accuse their commanding officer of frequently delaying or withholding their instructors’ allowance. This ₦5,000 weekly stipend, intended to compensate them for their training duties, is often paid late or only when trainees are present.

“The allowance is supposed to be paid every week, but sometimes it takes weeks or even a month to receive it,” a source revealed. “Though the amount is modest, the irregularity makes it even more frustrating.”

These soldiers stress that their demands are modest, focusing solely on basic welfare and the punctual disbursement of their allowances, especially given their vital role in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts.

“We don’t ask for luxury, just fair treatment and timely payment. When there are no trainees, the allowance stops altogether,” another trainer noted.

Efforts to obtain a response from the Nigerian Army spokesperson, Colonel Onyechi Appolonia Anele, were unsuccessful at the time of publication.

Recent reports indicate that similar welfare issues persist across various military training centers in Nigeria, highlighting a systemic challenge in supporting frontline trainers adequately. Addressing these concerns is critical to maintaining morale and effectiveness in the ongoing fight against insurgency.

January 20, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News

Makinde’s Staff Welfare Agenda Driving Positive Change at LG Service Commission – Wolekanle

by hassan January 20, 2026

written by hassan

Governor Makinde’s Commitment to Staff Welfare Spurs Remarkable Progress at Oyo State Local Government Service Commission

Bashorun Akinwale Solomon Akinwole, Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission, attributes the significant advancements within the commission to Governor Seyi Makinde’s unwavering focus on enhancing employee welfare, ensuring timely promotions, and elevating service delivery throughout the local government framework.

Enhanced Pension Schemes and Consistent Retirement Benefits

Affectionately known as Wolekanle, the chairman praised Governor Makinde’s recent approval of increased pension allocations, highlighting it as a groundbreaking move that sets a benchmark for other Nigerian states. He emphasized the importance of the governor’s commitment to the punctual disbursement of gratuities and other retirement benefits to former civil servants, which has greatly improved the morale and financial security of retirees.

Driving Sustainable Improvements in Local Government Administration

Under Governor Makinde’s leadership, the local government service commission has witnessed a transformative shift characterized by streamlined processes and enhanced staff motivation. This approach aligns with global best practices where prioritizing employee welfare directly correlates with improved organizational performance. For instance, recent data from the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics indicates that states investing in civil service welfare report up to a 30% increase in productivity and service efficiency.

Setting a New Standard for Governance in Nigeria

The proactive measures championed by Governor Makinde not only foster a more dedicated workforce but also contribute to the overall socio-economic development of Oyo State. By ensuring that local government employees receive fair treatment and timely benefits, the administration is cultivating a culture of accountability and excellence that other states are encouraged to replicate.

January 20, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News

If Fubara is impeached, then it’s a big indictment on President Tinubu’s ability to protect APC governors- media personality, Rufai Oseni

by hassan January 20, 2026

written by hassan

Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara Faces Impeachment: A Test for President Tinubu’s Influence Over APC Governors

Media commentator Rufai Oseni has expressed concerns over the ongoing impeachment process targeting Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara. In a social media statement released on January 20, Oseni suggested that if the impeachment succeeds, it would highlight a significant weakness in President Bola Tinubu’s capacity to safeguard governors within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Political Dynamics Behind the Impeachment Proceedings

The impeachment initiative is being driven by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly aligned with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. These lawmakers insist that their actions are not motivated by the political rivalry between Governor Fubara and his former mentor, Wike. Instead, they argue that the governor has violated state governance protocols, including unauthorized expenditure of funds not approved in the state budget.

Implications for APC’s Cohesion and Leadership

Oseni’s commentary underscores a broader concern about the stability and unity of the APC, especially as several governors have recently switched allegiance to the party. The impeachment of a sitting APC governor like Fubara could be interpreted as a failure of the party’s leadership to maintain discipline and protect its members from internal conflicts and political attacks.

Contextualizing the Situation with Recent Political Trends

In recent years, Nigerian politics has witnessed a surge in intra-party disputes, with impeachment attempts becoming a common tool for settling political scores. For instance, in 2023, similar impeachment efforts were seen in other states, reflecting a pattern of political instability that challenges governance and development. The outcome of Governor Fubara’s case may set a precedent for how such conflicts are managed within the APC moving forward.

Rufai Oseni’s Perspective on Presidential Authority

According to Oseni, the success or failure of the impeachment will serve as a litmus test for President Tinubu’s influence over his party’s governors. If Fubara is removed from office, it could signal a diminished presidential capacity to shield APC governors from political adversaries, potentially weakening the party’s cohesion ahead of upcoming elections.

Rufai Oseni comments on Governor Fubara's impeachment

Impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara

Governor Fubara faces impeachment challenge

January 20, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News Oyo State

Oyo Assembly Moves to Regulate Activities of House Agents

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 19, 2026

written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

The Oyo State House of Assembly is set to draft a bill aimed at regulating the activities of house agents across the state, following growing complaints from tenants over exorbitant and arbitrary charges.

Lawmakers disclosed that the proposed legislation is a response to persistent public outcry, with many residents accusing house agents of inflating rent, charging excessive agency and agreement fees, and exploiting the ongoing housing shortage. In some cases, tenants report paying fees far above legally acceptable limits before securing accommodation.

According to members of the Assembly, the planned bill will seek to introduce clearer guidelines on agency charges, promote transparency in rental transactions, and protect tenants from unfair practices. The lawmakers also indicated that stakeholder consultations, including engagements with property owners, agents, and tenant associations, would precede the drafting of the bill.

Residents have welcomed the move, describing it as long overdue, while urging the Assembly to ensure strict enforcement once the law is passed. Housing advocates say effective regulation could ease the financial burden on tenants and restore fairness to the state’s rental market.

Further details on the scope and timeline of the proposed bill are expected in the coming weeks as deliberations continue at the Assembly.

January 19, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News Fashion

Italian Fashion Icon Valentino Garavani Dies at 93

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 19, 2026

written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

Legendary Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani has died at the age of 93, his foundation announced, marking the end of an era in global haute couture.

Renowned for his signature elegance, refined silhouettes, and the iconic “Valentino red,” Garavani dressed some of the world’s most glamorous women for over six decades. His evening gowns became synonymous with timeless luxury, gracing royalty, Hollywood stars, and international socialites.

Born in 1932 in Voghera, Italy, Valentino founded his fashion house in Rome in 1960 and quickly rose to prominence as one of the most influential designers of the 20th century. His work defined modern glamour, blending classical craftsmanship with contemporary sophistication, and earned him numerous international honors throughout his career.

Valentino retired from active design in 2008, but his legacy continued through the fashion house bearing his name, which remains one of the most prestigious luxury brands in the world.

Tributes have poured in from across the fashion industry and beyond, celebrating a visionary whose designs shaped generations of style and redefined elegance on the global stage.

January 19, 2026 0 comments

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