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Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior said that Enzo Fernandez remains dropped for Sunday’s Premier League clash against Manchester City despite apologising for comments that cast doubt over his future at Stamford Bridge.

The Argentina midfielder, linked with Real Madrid, fuelled speculation by telling a podcast during the recent international break that he would like to live in the Spanish capital.

It followed remarks he made last month casting doubt about whether he would still be at Chelsea next season after the club’s Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

Fernandez, 25, who has a contract at Stamford Bridge until 2032, was dropped for last week’s thumping 7-0 win against Port Vale in the FA Cup quarter-finals and this Sunday’s home Premier League fixture against City.

“He’s apologised to me, he’s apologised to the club,” Rosenior told reporters on Friday.

“It’s a serious meeting about something very serious,” he added. “I said every single step along this way, I’m not questioning Enzo’s character, I’m not questioning who he is as a person.

“I believe people make mistakes, and you can’t overstep the punishment for the mistake.

“I think we’ve made a sanction, we made a decision, I made a decision, and what I want for Enzo is for him to go on here and have an outstanding career.”

Rosenior said that the internal club sanction would remain in place despite the apology from Fernandez, who is the club’s vice-captain.

“He won’t play on Sunday but hopefully after that he’ll be a massive part of the group moving forward,” he said.

“There’s still a few hurdles that need to be overcome that I won’t go into. But at the same time I want every player really, really focused now on a huge run-in.”

Rosenior denied that the club, currently sixth in the table, were hurting themselves by omitting Fernandez against City, who are second in the Premier League.

“Football is a team sport, it’s not about individuals,” he said. “It’s not about shooting yourself in the foot.

“There are certain values and cultures that I believe in, that this club believes in, that makes the team stronger if you get that right.”

Chelsea have not beaten Pep Guardiola’s City since the two teams met in the 2021 Champions League final, when Thomas Tuchel, who is now the England boss, managed the Blues.

But Rosenior said that he was confident his men could win as they push for a top-five finish, which would guarantee Champions League football next season.

“We’re a very good team, we’ve gone through a difficult run, even though in that run we were punished for mistakes,” he said.

“There were good moments. When I actually analysed the games that we’ve had, we’ve caused every team we’ve played against problems, but haven’t had the results for that.”

The post Fernandez remains out despite apology – Chelsea boss Rosenior appeared first on Vanguard News.

The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has criticised the Federal Government’s plan to set aside N135.22 billion for anticipated election-related court cases ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The organisation described the allocation as worrying and questioned the government’s priorities in managing the electoral process.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Executive Director of CHRICED, Dr Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, on Friday.

According to the group, the allocation appears within the Service Wide Votes in the revised 2026 budget and represents about 15.48 per cent of the total election budget.

CHRICED expressed concern over what it described as a lack of transparency surrounding the decision, noting that the purpose and management of the funds were not clearly explained.

“This development raises urgent questions about Nigeria’s electoral direction and the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and credible democratic processes,” the group said.

It further argued that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) already has legal departments across the country, making such a large litigation fund unnecessary.

“The sudden appearance of this budget line raises serious red flags about transparency and intent,” CHRICED stated.

The group also warned that the allocation sends a negative message about the country’s electoral system.

“Budgeting such a huge amount for election disputes suggests an expectation of electoral failure rather than a commitment to preventing it,” it said.

CHRICED questioned whether the government was indirectly preparing for post-election legal battles instead of strengthening the electoral process to reduce disputes. The organisation also cautioned that the development could weaken public trust in democracy at a time when many Nigerians are already facing economic hardship. It noted that funds of such magnitude could be better used to improve voter education, electoral logistics, technology systems and staff training to reduce election disputes.

CHRICED added that the same resources could also support key sectors such as health, education, agriculture and security if properly redirected. It therefore called on the federal government to explain the rationale behind the allocation and ensure full transparency in its use.

It also urged authorities to prioritise electoral reforms that prevent disputes rather than spending heavily on resolving them after elections: “Nigeria cannot continue to institutionalise electoral dysfunction or normalise budgeting for its consequences. The integrity of elections must be protected at the source, not negotiated in court after the fact. The time has come to restore credibility, rebuild trust, and ensure that democracy truly reflects the will of the Nigerian people.”

FG’s N135bn election litigation budget ahead of 2027 poll faulted

The Kano State Police Command has arrested a suspected motorcycle thief and recovered a stolen Bajaj Boxer motorcycle in Badawa Quarters, Kano.

This was contained in a statement signed by the command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, on Friday.

According to the statement, the incident occurred on Thursday at about 5:30 pm, when the command received credible information about a stolen motorcycle.

The suspect, identified as Abdullahi A. Abdulhamid, a 43-year-old man from Tishama Hotoro Quarters, was alleged to have gone to Badawa Quarters near Nazalco Filling Station, where he stole a red Bajaj Boxer motorcycle with registration number SRA 306 VF, belonging to Rabiu Muhammad of Gezawa Local Government Area.

The police said that upon receiving the report, officers were quickly mobilised to the scene.

“The suspect was intercepted and arrested along Arewa Surgery by Ring Road in Badawa Quarters after he was involved in an accident,” the statement said.

He was immediately taken into custody along with the recovered motorcycle for investigation, while the command said he would be charged in court after the investigation is concluded.

The Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, commended the officers for their swift response and also appreciated members of the public for providing timely information that led to the arrest and recovery.

He also advised motorcycle and tricycle operators to be more careful with their belongings, warning that many riders fall victim to deception and end up losing their means of livelihood.

CP Bakori urged riders to avoid handing over their motorcycles to strangers and to always ensure they park in safe and secure places.

The command further reaffirmed its commitment to tackling crime in the state and encouraged residents to continue supporting police operations by reporting suspicious activities.

Members of the public were also advised to contact the command through its emergency lines or the Nigeria Police Force Rescue Me application when necessary.

Police arrest suspected motorcycle thief, recover stolen bike in Kano

…Set up 7-man C’tte to resolve impasses

By Emem Idio, Yenagoa 

The National Conference of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (N-CITRE-INC) has suspended the Ijaw National Congress (INC) elections till further notice.  

The N-CITRE, after its meeting in Yenagoa deliberated extensively on all issues that led to the impasse in the INC elections, including petitions received.

The group, therefore, unanimously agreed to suspend the conduct of the INC elections and directed the electoral committee to stop all forms of electoral duties.

N-CITRE, which is empowered by the INC constitution to resolve all disputes, has also set up a seven-man Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC) to investigate all petitions.

The resolutions read in part ‘’ That the elections into the National Executive Council of the Ijaw National Congress (NE-INC), which were rescheduled for Monday, 13th April, 2026, by the National Electoral Committee, Ijaw National Congress(N-ELECO-INC), have been temporarily suspended until N-CITRE directs further after all pending disputes have been settled. 

“N-CITRE-INC, as the appointing authority for N-ELECO-INC, also holds the constitutional power to resolve all disputes within the Congress, consequently, N-ELECO-INC has been directed to stop performing any electoral functions until otherwise subsequently directed by N-CITRE.’’

The N-CITRE has directed the DRC to resolve the lingering dispute and probe all petitions, including the petitions against the n-ELECO- INC.

 The DRC is headed by HRM, King Bubaraye Dakolo Agada IV, Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom, Chairman of Bayelsa Traditional Rulers Council, and Chairman of N-CITRE.

Other members are HRM, King Dr. Brig-Gen Bright Ateke Fiboinumama (Rtd), Chief Dr. Silas Eneyo (representing Eastern Zone), Dr. Loveth Ige (representing Central Zone), HRM, Pere Luke Kalanama III, HRM, Dr. Ekiomi Oweigbe John (Gbisa I) representing Western Zone, and Zonal Chairman of N-CITRE.

N-CITRE, which reminded all stakeholders of the principle of honesty that guides the Ijaws, therefore appealed for cooperation to achieve peace.

The post Ijaw monarchs, stakeholders suspend INC elections indefinitely  appeared first on Vanguard News.

Tottenham manager Roberto de Zerbi says he is “not better” than predecessors Thomas Frank or Igor Tudor as he prepares to take charge of his first game at the Premier League strugglers.

Sunderland will be Spurs’ first opponents under the Italian, who was appointed on 31 March with the club one point outside the relegation zone with seven games remaining.

De Zerbi is Tottenham’s third manager of the season after Frank and Tudor – the latter only lasting 44 days and seven matches in the role.

“I am proud and happy to be here and I have to say thank you to Vinai [Venkatesham] and Johan [Lange] because they showed me a big, big confidence,” said De Zerbi on Friday.

“I’m sure about the level of the players because I was very, very close to bringing many of these players to my former teams in the past.

“I think I am not better than Frank or Tudor because I consider them very good coaches.

“I try to bring my style, my character, my personality and my strengths to achieve our target, which is the most important part now.”

Tottenham have not won a domestic league game in 2026 and only two since 26 October 2025.

They were also knocked out of the Champions League in the last 16 by Atletico Madrid 7-5 on aggregate.

Since 1950, Spurs have only spent one season outside the top flight, which was back in 1977-78.

“For me, it was a big opportunity because Tottenham are a very important club in the Premier League and the Premier League is the best league in the world,” said De Zerbi, who previously managed Brighton between 2022 and 2024.

“I love the qualities of the players and the crucial part that there was 12 days before the first game and for me it was important to have more than one week. I thought it would be important to understand the problems.

“The message for my staff and players is that we have to deserve the support because the fans are suffering like us. But for the fans, there is just one club. The players can change but for the fans, their club is unique.

“We have to make them happy with the right spirit and the right behaviour on the pitch. Then it’s easier to make points.”

“I’m not speaking about titles, but to put Tottenham in a position in the Premier League because they are all parts to reach that level.”

Tottenham travel to the Stadium of Light to face 11th-placed Sunderland on Sunday (14:00 BST kick-off).

I Will Keep Tottenham In Premier League, Says New Coach is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, has given an update on the injury situation within his squad, as they prepare to host Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday.

The Gunners are looking to extend their lead over Manchester City to 12 points with a win at the Emirates.

Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Piero Hincapie, Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber all missed Thursday’s training session.

When asked about them, Arteta replied: “Yeah there have been changes there since yesterday.

“I don’t know. Some of them.”

On Eberechi Eze specificially, Arteta said: “He is available. My first conversation with him after felt that niggle he wanted to be available the next week. That was not possible.

“The recovery, the way he has shown to get back, the way he has pushed.

EPL: Arteta gives Arsenal injury updates ahead of Bournemouth clash

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Niger State, Jonathan Vatsa, has cautioned the party leadership against imposing candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Vatsa warned that such action could undermine the party’s chances at the polls.

Speaking to journalists in Minna on Friday, Vatsa stressed the need for internal democracy to prevail, insisting that all aspirants must be given a fair and level playing field during the primaries.

He warned that granting automatic tickets or adopting consensus arrangements without broad acceptance could divide the party and weaken its electoral strength.

The former Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism in Niger State maintained that only a transparent and open primary process would ensure unity within the party.

According to him, “Imposing unpopular candidates could trigger anti-party activities and create setbacks for the ruling party during the general elections.”

Vatsa also cautioned that the opposition remains a strong force capable of capitalising on any internal crisis within the APC.

He noted that allowing a widely accepted candidate to emerge would reduce the burden of campaigning, while undemocratic processes could have serious consequences for the party.

On the security situation in the country, he described the rising wave of banditry as a negative reflection on the government while drawing parallels with events leading up to the 2015 elections,

Vatsa warned that worsening insecurity and economic hardship could affect public perception of the administration, adding that much of the blame is being directed at President Bola Tinubu.

2027: Vatsa warns Niger APC against imposition of candidates

The Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) has filed a petitioned to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force, against social media influencer, Blessing ‘’CEO’ Okoro over alleged false cancer claims and obtaining donations from Nigerians to ‘’treat’’ herself. 

In a statement signed by its National Director of Publicity, Hon. Bashir Mohammed Ranccasu, the Society explained that the action followed growing public concern over the allegations, stressing the need to uphold accountability, transparency and integrity within cancer advocacy and patient support systems in the country.

The Society recalled that it had earlier issued a statement condemning the alleged conduct, describing it as unethical and harmful to the fight against cancer in Nigeria.

It noted that the seriousness of the allegations and their potential to erode public trust necessitated escalation to security agencies for thorough investigation, in the interest of the general public and to prevent a negative precedent.

According to the NCS, cancer remains a life-threatening disease that demands sincerity, compassion and responsible handling, warning that any form of exploitation undermines the credibility of genuine patients and discourages support for those in need.

Few weeks ago, Blessing came out online to claim she had stage four cancer. She alleged she was diagnosed of the ailment in Enugu and needed funds for treatment. 

Following her plea for financial assistance, she received over N12 million from well-meaning Nigerians. 

It has now been discovered that she lied about the claim as the original owner of the result she paraded has come out to disclose how Blessing doctored her result just to back up her false claim of having cancer.

Voters in Djibouti are heading to the polls in a presidential election widely expected to extend the rule of long-serving leader Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, who is seeking a sixth term in office.

The 78-year-old incumbent faces a single challenger, Mohamed Farah Samatar of the Unified Democratic Centre (CDU), a party that currently holds no seats in parliament.

More than 256,000 registered voters are eligible to participate in Friday’s vote. However, early reports indicated low turnout in several areas, with only a small number of voters present at some polling stations when they opened. In parts of the capital, Djibouti City, voting also began later than scheduled.

The election follows a controversial decision by lawmakers last year to remove the presidential age limit, allowing Guelleh to run again despite previously being ineligible. The move has drawn criticism from observers who argue it weakens democratic processes in the country.

Human rights organisations have also accused authorities of restricting political freedoms and limiting opposition activity—claims the government has consistently denied. Notably, two major opposition parties have boycotted elections since 2016.

Polling stations are expected to close at 6:00 p.m. local time, with provisional results likely to be announced shortly afterward or by Saturday morning, according to electoral officials.

International observers, including the African Union, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and the League of Arab States, are monitoring the process.

Guelleh has ruled Djibouti since 1999, when he succeeded the country’s founding president. He secured re-election in 2021 with an overwhelming majority, winning 98 percent of the vote.

Despite concerns over democratic standards, the government has emphasised stability as a key achievement. Djibouti occupies a strategic position in the Horn of Africa and hosts military bases belonging to several global powers, including the United States, France, and China.

The country also serves as a vital port for landlocked neighbours such as Ethiopia and has played a growing role in regional maritime activity, particularly amid ongoing tensions affecting shipping routes in the Red Sea.

Djibouti Votes As Incumbent President Seeks Sixth Term is first published on The Whistler Newspaper