Fola Badmus

NDLEA Operatives Burst Drug Party, Arrest Over 100 Fun Seekers

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has warned night club operators and fun seekers about the creeping culture of organising, hosting and attending drug parties, a disturbing fad within social circles, which is a blatant illegality under the Nigerian law.   ​The Agency’s warning comes on the heels of a raid carried out by its operatives at a drug party, which held on the night of Saturday 25th October into the early hours of Sunday 26th October 2025, at Proxy Night Club located at 7 Akin Adesola street, Victoria Island Lagos where over 100 attendees were arrested along with the owner of the facility, Mike Eze Nwalie Nwogu alias Pretty Mike and his manager Joachin Millary.   ​According to the Agency, “any gathering organised for the purpose of consuming, distributing, or abusing illicit substances is an act of criminality. These ‘drug parties’ contravene the explicit provisions of the NDLEA Act and will be treated as serious narcotic offences. In the case of the drug party at Proxy night club, organisers went above board and had the audacity to produce and circulate flyers inviting fun seekers to come together to commit crime, an act that not only constitutes an incitement to commit crime but equally an affront to the law enforcement capabilities of the country if condoned.   ​“Nigeria is currently grappling with a very high prevalence rate of drug abuse, particularly among our youths. These illicit drug parties do not only fuel the drug scourge but equally serve as hubs for new recruitment into drug addiction and actively undermine our current national efforts to safeguard public health and security.   “In the recent case, the NDLEA was meticulous and professional throughout the processes leading to the raid and during the operation. Following intelligence on the party, our undercover agents conducted surveillance on the facility, made pre-purchases of illicit drugs from within the club and for four hours between 11pm on Saturday and 3am on Sunday during the party, our operatives observed and recorded drug transactions and abuse going on before we eventually disrupted the brazen public display of illegality and made arrests.   “All attendees initially arrested were later profiled, addressed, counselled and released within hours in custody, in line with best global practices while the two principal suspects: Pretty Mike and his manager, Joachin Millary remain in custody following the seizure of 384.882 kilograms of Canadian Loud, a strong strain of cannabis and other substances from the club’s store.   “While the Agency will intensify surveillance and apply the full force of the law against perpetrators, owners of properties, hotels, and event centres found to be knowingly hosting such illegal activities risk the confiscation and forfeiture of their assets to the Federal Government. Those held in custody in the ongoing case will face prosecution while we will file for forfeiture of the property, Proxy Night Club, in which the drugs were found.”   ​The Agency urged all patriotic Nigerians, parents, religious and community leaders, as well as concerned citizens to be vigilant, report such activities, and partner with the NDLEA in combating this threat to national well-being.  

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Over 32,000 APGA Members Defect to APC as Prince Ukachukwu Gains Momentum Ahead of 2025 Anambra Polls

Massive Endorsements, ₦150 Million Fundraising Mark Turning Point in Guber Race In what analysts are calling a major shift in Anambra’s political dynamics, over 32,000 members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in support of Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, the party’s governorship candidate for the November 8, 2025, election. The unprecedented mass defection occurred during a mega rally and thanksgiving event hosted by the Sustenance of Faith in Governance (SOFIG) Family—popularly known as the Ikwukuoma SOFIG Family—marking its sixth anniversary on Saturday. The event drew thousands of party supporters, political stakeholders, and grassroots mobilizers from across the state. Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Prince Ukachukwu, fondly called Ikwukuoma, expressed deep gratitude to the SOFIG movement for its unreserved endorsement and support. “This is the first time I’ve received such overwhelming support without anyone asking for a single kobo,” Ukachukwu said. “SOFIG has invested in this journey with faith, love, and commitment. This isn’t politics as usual—it’s a divine movement rooted in family, community, and vision.” He pledged to usher in a new era of people-focused, integrity-driven governance, promising to build political leadership from the grassroots to the statehouse. “Within this crowd are tomorrow’s councillors, local government chairmen, and Assembly members,” he added. “We are laying the foundation for a new political future.” Senator Ekwunife Declares Ukachukwu “Anambra’s Needed Leader” Deputy governorship candidate, Senator (Iyom) Uche Ekwunife, described Ukachukwu as a visionary leader capable of transforming Anambra. “The time is ripe. Prince Nicholas is trustworthy, God-fearing, and ready,” she stated. “Our victory must start at the ward level and spread across all 901 wards of Anambra Central and beyond.” She praised SOFIG founders Dr. (Bar) Kingsley Ezekwelu and Dr. Kenneth Ezekwelu for creating what she called “one of Nigeria’s most impactful political platforms.” ₦150 Million Boost for Campaign SOFIG National President, Dr. Kingsley K. Ezekwelu, Esq., formally endorsed Ukachukwu and Ekwunife, announcing a ₦150 million donation to the campaign. “We are more than 35,000 members strong, including 32,000 defectors from APGA today,” Dr. Ezekwelu said. “This is more than an endorsement—it’s a mission. We are ready to win this battle with our PVCs.” APC Welcomes New Members APC State Chairman, Chief Basil Ejidike, welcomed the new members, describing the day as a “historic milestone.” “With Prince Ukachukwu, APC is poised to deliver the long-awaited transformation in Anambra. The tides are turning—and SOFIG has shown us the way,” he said, while donating ₦2 million to SOFIG on behalf of the party. Financial Powerhouses Fuel Campaign Momentum The rally also featured a significant financial show of force: As the 2025 polls draw closer, Saturday’s event signals a strong and coordinated push by the APC and its supporters to challenge APGA’s longstanding dominance in Anambra politics.

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Fabio Wardley: Give Oleksandr Usyk Directions to Ipswich — Bring His Belts and Let’s Get This On

Fabio Wardley: ‘Give Oleksandr Usyk Directions to Ipswich — Bring His Belts and Let’s Get This On!’ Fabio Wardley has called out undisputed heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk after stunning Joseph Parker with an 11th-round stoppage victory at The O2 Arena in London on Saturday night. The dramatic win — one of the biggest upsets in recent British boxing history — makes the Ipswich-born fighter the mandatory challenger for Usyk’s WBO title, one of four belts currently held by the Ukrainian star. Wardley, who began his career as a white-collar boxer with no amateur background, has defied expectations to rise through the ranks unbeaten. Now, after dethroning Parker, he is set for the biggest opportunity of his life. “I haven’t sat down and dissected him yet, but that’s a job for next year,” Wardley said after the fight. “It’s a wild one when you piece it all together, but I’m the next one up. I’ve got big broad shoulders, so that’s fine by me — I’ll carry the pressure. But I’m something different. We’ve thrown all the usual guys at him, our top dogs. Let me have a crack and see where we end up.” Wardley’s performance against Parker shocked many, as he weathered early pressure before finishing strongly to claim the WBO Interim title and earn a shot at Usyk. The 30-year-old previously sparred with Usyk in Ukraine and now believes the full-circle moment has arrived. “That’s been the goal for years — the dream fight,” Wardley said. “One of the best to ever do it, all the marbles on the line. I’m not planning on going there to say, ‘Thanks for having me.’ When that bell goes, Usyk’s going to have to work for it.” Wardley is hopeful the fight can take place in early 2026, whether in the UK or abroad. But if he has his way, Usyk won’t have to travel far. “Tell Usyk to turn up — give him the directions to Ipswich!” Wardley joked. “I’ll give him my postcode. He can find me in the garden; I don’t care. Just bring the belts and let’s get this on!” The victory cements Wardley’s remarkable rise from the small halls of Suffolk to world title contention. Reflecting on his journey, he credited his setbacks for shaping him into the fighter he is today. “All the bumps in the road built me,” he said. “People said I was just a white-collar guy who wouldn’t make it. But that built resilience. When I’m in that ring, I believe in me. It’s been a wild ride — and it’s nowhere near finished.” With his victory over Parker, Wardley has positioned himself on the doorstep of boxing greatness. The only question now is whether Usyk will defend his belts against the hungry Brit — or vacate the WBO title to avoid him.Fabio Wardley: ‘Give Oleksandr Usyk Directions to Ipswich — Bring His Belts and Let’s Get This On!’ By John Dennen | Sunday, October 26, 2025 | London, UK Fabio Wardley has called out undisputed heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk after stunning Joseph Parker with an 11th-round stoppage victory at The O2 Arena in London on Saturday night. The dramatic win — one of the biggest upsets in recent British boxing history — makes the Ipswich-born fighter the mandatory challenger for Usyk’s WBO title, one of four belts currently held by the Ukrainian star. Wardley, who began his career as a white-collar boxer with no amateur background, has defied expectations to rise through the ranks unbeaten. Now, after dethroning Parker, he is set for the biggest opportunity of his life. “I haven’t sat down and dissected him yet, but that’s a job for next year,” Wardley said after the fight. “It’s a wild one when you piece it all together, but I’m the next one up. I’ve got big broad shoulders, so that’s fine by me — I’ll carry the pressure. But I’m something different. We’ve thrown all the usual guys at him, our top dogs. Let me have a crack and see where we end up.” Wardley’s performance against Parker shocked many, as he weathered early pressure before finishing strongly to claim the WBO Interim title and earn a shot at Usyk. The 30-year-old previously sparred with Usyk in Ukraine and now believes the full-circle moment has arrived. “That’s been the goal for years — the dream fight,” Wardley said. “One of the best to ever do it, all the marbles on the line. I’m not planning on going there to say, ‘Thanks for having me.’ When that bell goes, Usyk’s going to have to work for it.” Wardley is hopeful the fight can take place in early 2026, whether in the UK or abroad. But if he has his way, Usyk won’t have to travel far. “Tell Usyk to turn up — give him the directions to Ipswich!” Wardley joked. “I’ll give him my postcode. He can find me in the garden; I don’t care. Just bring the belts and let’s get this on!” The victory cements Wardley’s remarkable rise from the small halls of Suffolk to world title contention. Reflecting on his journey, he credited his setbacks for shaping him into the fighter he is today. “All the bumps in the road built me,” he said. “People said I was just a white-collar guy who wouldn’t make it. But that built resilience. When I’m in that ring, I believe in me. It’s been a wild ride — and it’s nowhere near finished.” With his victory over Parker, Wardley has positioned himself on the doorstep of boxing greatness. The only question now is whether Usyk will defend his belts against the hungry Brit — or vacate the WBO title to avoid him.Fabio Wardley: ‘Give Oleksandr Usyk Directions to Ipswich — Bring His Belts and Let’s Get This On!’ By John Dennen | Sunday, October 26, 2025 | London, UK Fabio Wardley has called out undisputed heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk after stunning Joseph Parker with an 11th-round…

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Liverpool Boss Arne Slot Admits Reds Have ‘No Answer’ to Long Balls After Brentford Defeat

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has conceded that his side are still struggling to cope with teams deploying long-ball tactics and low defensive blocks, following a 3-2 defeat to Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium. The loss marked Liverpool’s fourth consecutive Premier League defeat, leaving them in sixth place and piling further pressure on Slot just months into his first season in charge. Brentford executed their game plan to perfection on Saturday evening, completing 62 long passes — their highest total of the season — as they overpowered the Reds with their direct style of play. Dango Ouattara opened the scoring from a long throw by Michael Kayode, a scenario Liverpool had specifically trained for on Friday. Kevin Schade then doubled Brentford’s lead on the counter-attack before halftime, exposing the Reds’ vulnerabilities in transition once again. “It is definitely that teams have a certain playing style against us; it is a very good strategy to play,” Slot said in his post-match press conference.“We have not found an answer yet. Going 1-0 down after five minutes does not help, and while we can still score goals, we are conceding far too many. That is not just on the defence — it’s about all 11 players.” Liverpool did manage to find the net twice, but defensive lapses continued to undermine their efforts. The defeat means the Reds have now lost as many league games this season as in the entirety of last season. Slot also pointed to the club’s record-breaking £446 million summer spending spree — which brought six new signings to Anfield — as a factor in their inconsistent performances. “It has something to do with when you change a lot in the summer,” he admitted. “I did not expect it to go with four losses in a row.” Despite intensive preparation for Brentford’s long throws and counter-attacks, Slot lamented his team’s inability to execute the basics. “Today, I don’t think we did the basics right,” he said. “Too many duels were lost, too many second balls weren’t won. That was the main thing we have to improve. Every time, a different problem has cost us the game.” With Liverpool looking a shadow of their former selves, Slot now faces the difficult task of restoring confidence and defensive solidity before their next Premier League fixture.

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2026 WAFCON Race: Ihezuo, Okoronkwo Earn Falcons Win Over Bénin’s Amazons

Forwards Chinwendu Ihezuo aand Esther Okoronkwo scored first-half goals to give reigning African champions, Nigeria’s Super Falcons a 2-0 win over their Bénin Republic counterparts in the first leg of their 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture, first leg in Lome, Togo. ‎ ‎   The Super Falcons started strongly with Rasheedat Ajibade’s 6th minute lob over the Amazons’ goalkeeper Ogoun which was denied by the woodwork, while Folashade Ijamilusi’s strike two minutes later was parried away by Ogoun. ‎ ‎The Beninise couldn’t hold on tight to their low block game plan as Deborah Abiodun weaved open a congested midfield with a pass to Chiwendu Ihezuo who excellently put the ball beyond the reach of the Beninise goalkeeper to give Nigeria the lead in the 23rd minute. ‎   ‎With the Super Falcons enjoying long spells of possession, dominating every department of the game, the Amazons had their first sight of Nigerian goal in the 36th minute when Moumouni connected to a pass on the byline and managed to get past Osinachi Ohale to strike at goal, only to be denied by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. ‎ ‎   Deborah Abiodun was, once more, in her elements as she picked out Esther Okoronkwo with a defence-splitting pass, with the latter slotting home to double the lead for Nigeria before the stroke of halftime. The Super Falcons were lucky not to concede in the closing stages of the first half, as Moumouni’s shot against the run of play struck the frame of the post to end the half 2-0 in favour of Nigeria. ‎ ‎   The second half proved tough for both teams following tactical adjustments and a number of substitutions. However, Nigeria soaked the pressure better, containing the pace of the Amazon wingers who stepped up with high intensity in their search for goals. ‎ ‎An in-swinger in the 90th minute unsettled the Nigerian defence, leaving Sadikou with a chance to head into the net but her effort was denied by Nnadozie.‎   ‎The scoreline gives Nigeria the advantage ahead of the return leg billed for the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta on Tuesday. ‎

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Pat Utomi, Others Set for CITN UK District Ceremony

By Bunmi Ogunyale Nigerian professor of political economy and management expert, Pat Utomi will deliver the keynote address as Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) UK District holds its investiture ceremony in London, United Kingdom on Saturday. Utomi, who is the founder for Values in Leadership, Nigeria, alongside Barrister Gerardine Omamuli and Professor Ezekiel Williams, Managing Partner, Egoheads Group of Professionals will deliver address at the epoch making event. Utomi is a professor at Lagos Business School and has served in senior positions in government, as an adviser to the president of Nigeria, the private sector, as Chief Operating Officer at Volkswagen Nigeria. The theme of the event is; Taxation and accountability. Honourable Lanre Okunola, Member, House of Representatives, Nigeria and Honourable Frank Esenwa, Member, Delta State House of Assembly, Nigeria are also billed to grace the occasion as special guests of honour. Mr. Innocent Ohagwa, the 17th President of Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, the chief host will present at the inauguration of Barrister Lawrence Okolie as the Second Chairman of the CITN UK District and the 2025 to 2027 Executive Committee. Mrs. Oghenerukevbe Sharlyn Wilcox will also be inaugurated as the Pioneer Coordinator of the 2025-2027 Executive Committee.

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Brazil’s President Lula to Seek Fourth Term in 2026

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has announced he will run for re-election next year, seeking a fourth nonconsecutive term. Speaking during a state visit to Indonesia on Thursday, President Lula said he remains energised despite his age. “I’m turning 80, but you can be sure I have the same energy I had when I was 30. And I’m going to run for a fourth term in Brazil,” Lula told reporters in a joint news conference with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. He then turned to Subianto to deliver a quip: “I’m telling you this because we’re still going to see each other many times.” Brazil’s constitution allows presidents to serve only two consecutive terms. Lula, who served two terms in 2003-2010, returned to office in 2023 after 13 years out of power and thus remains eligible to run again. The Brazilian leader is currently on a diplomatic trip across Asia. After his visit to Indonesia, Lula will head to Malaysia to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit. While in Malaysia, Lula is expected to meet on Sunday with United States President Donald Trump, their first in-person encounter following a conciliatory phone call earlier this month, Brazilian media has reported. The two leaders have clashed over the prosecution of former far-right Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro — an ally of Trump — and international trade. Trump and Lula are expected to discuss the 50-percent trade tariff that Trump imposed on Brazil in August, in protest against the Bolsonaro prosecution. Lula had previously said his 2022 presidential bid would be his final campaign, both because of his age and because he believed the country needed political renewal. That election saw him narrowly defeat Bolsonaro in a run-off. But early in his current term — his third — Lula began hinting that he might run again. In February 2023, the president said he could seek re-election in 2026, adding that his decision would depend on the country’s political context and his health. A dominant figure on Brazil’s left, Lula is the country’s longest-serving president since its return to democracy 40 years ago. Some Brazilian politicians have expressed concern about Lula’s age and recent health issues. He underwent emergency surgery to treat a brain bleed late last year after a fall in the bathroom. Still, Lula frequently insists he remains healthy and energetic, often sharing workout videos on social media. Lula currently leads all polls for the 2026 election, though roughly half of voters say they disapprove of him. Trump’s tariffs reenergised the Brazilian leader and pushed his popularity up. His main political rival, Bolsonaro, has been barred from running for office and was sentenced in September to 27 years in prison for attempting a coup. While no strong opposition candidate has yet emerged, analysts say a viable contender is likely to depend on Bolsonaro’s backing as he serves his sentence under house arrest.

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Showmax Premier League Chat with Conor Bradley on Liverpool’s Difficult Run

Ahead of Liverpool’s crucial game against Brentford this weekend, Showmax Premier League caught up with marauding Reds right back Conor Bradley. This wasn’t just a standard chat – Bradley got candid with us about the team’s “emotional” slump after those tough defeats and what it takes for them to pull out of a difficult moment. Liverpool FC right-back Conor Bradley has opened up about the club’s recent difficult run, emphasising that the team’s only path forward is to “stick together and keep fighting.” The Reds suffered four consecutive defeats across all competitions before securing an emphatic 5-1 victory against Eintracht Frankfurt in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night. Reflecting on the preceding Premier League loss to Manchester United, Bradley admitted the results were hard for everyone at the club. “We’re just trying to recover from it,” Bradley said. “It was a tough setback for Arne Slot and the whole team, but with the group we have, we’re determined to bounce back.” The young defender acknowledged the gravity of the four losses, stressing that the focus must now shift entirely to the upcoming away fixture against Brentford. “I think the focus has to be on beating Brentford. We need to perform on the pitch, that’s the only way.” “Losing four times in a row is never easy, especially for Liverpool – it’s emotional for everyone. But we just have to stick together and keep fighting.” Bradley offered insight into the team’s current struggle, attributing it to collective performance issues. “It’s hard to point fingers. It’s just been a tough period for us. We’re not creating enough chances and we’ve been conceding too many goals,” he explained. “It’s been a difficult spell, but I’m confident we’ll find our rhythm again soon.” Having overcome his own injury setbacks during the pre-season, Bradley spoke about the challenge of finding consistent form. “It’s never easy. When you’re ready to go and then get hit by an injury, it really disrupts your momentum. It’s frustrating, but I’m just trying to get as many games as possible under my belt and help the team wherever I can.” The arrival of several new signings has also brought a period of adjustment to the squad, which Bradley believes requires patience. “Yes, it will definitely take time. Building relationships doesn’t happen overnight, it takes weeks and months,” he said. “But I think the new lads are settling in really well. They’re top players and great people too, so that helps a lot.” He singled out one of the new arrivals, Florian Wirtz, as a player he has best connected with.   “Probably Florian Wirtz. We got to know each other when playing for our national teams against one another crazily enough.” Addressing the frequent comparisons made between himself and fellow right back Jeremy Frimpong, Bradley welcomed the intensity. “Competition is always healthy, it pushes you to be your best. Jeremy’s a great guy and a top player. He’s brought great energy from Germany, and I think that kind of challenge only makes us both stronger.”   “For me, it would be about cementing my place in the team and helping Liverpool win trophies. Whether that’s the Champions League, Premier League, or FA Cup, any silverware would mean a lot. We just have to keep striving, and I believe we can go again even stronger next season.” Watch Liverpool take on Brentford away in the Premier League, LIVE on Showmax Premier League this Saturday at 8pm (WAT). How can fans get Showmax Premier League on their phones? Sign up for the Showmax Premier League mobile plan for N3,600 at www.showmax.com for all the Premier League action.

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