Lere Olayinka, a media aide to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, asserted that Peter Obi distributed money to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) delegates during his 2023 presidential campaign consultations. Speaking on AIT’s Democracy Today on Friday, Olayinka pushed back against the widespread narrative that Obi—who eventually left the PDP for the Labour Party—never spends money on political bids.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Drawing from his personal experience as a PDP delegate in Ekiti State in 2022, Olayinka claimed he personally received a share of the funds provided by Obi during his visit. While conceding that Obi’s financial payout might have been smaller compared to what other contenders handed out, he maintained that the distribution did happen.

Olayinka used the point to argue that financial expenditure is an unavoidable reality of politics both in Nigeria and globally, including in countries like the United States. He emphasized that campaigns inherently require financial resources for consultations, primaries, and elections alike.

Bayer Leverkusen manager Carles Martinez addressed the decision to exclude Nigerian forward Victor Boniface from the team’s UEFA Europa League squad following fitness setbacks during pre-season. Martinez explained to Kicker that the 25-year-old was dealing with knee pain and was well behind physically when the squad selection had to be made two months ago.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

While Boniface’s condition has progressively improved—with his knee responding better despite occasional minor flare-ups—the initial lack of readiness forced his omission. Martinez expressed optimism that the player’s fortunes will turn around, emphasizing his high regard for the striker’s exceptional talent.

The Leverkusen coach anticipates ongoing inquiries regarding Boniface’s absence as the player continues striving for full fitness. Reassuring that the Nigerian remains a key figure in his tactical plans, Martinez noted that Boniface is frequently on his mind when the team needs a goal. The club intends to support his recovery closely, with the ultimate objective of seeing Boniface return to 100 per cent performance later in the season.

Making their long-awaited return to major doubles competition since the 2022 tournament, Serena and Venus Williams fell in a riveting three-set thriller to Chan Hao-ching and Maya Joint at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Friday. The legendary pair—owners of 14 Grand Slam doubles titles and two US Open crowns—dropped the match 6-3, 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (10/7) after squandering a commanding 5-0 advantage in the decisive 10-point tie-break.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Greeted by a roaring ovation from the Flushing Meadows crowd, the American icons rebounded from a first-set deficit by firing off 20 winners in the second set to force a decider. Serena, returning to the tournament at age 44 following her Wimbledon singles appearance against Joint, combined with Venus to display vintage form with powerful volleys and overheads.

Though they seized an early 5-0 lead in the final-set tie-break, Chan and Joint mounted an incredible comeback to snatch the victory. Reflecting on the unforgettable encounter, Joint acknowledged the surreal environment and the immense privilege of sharing the court with two defining legends of the sport.