Month: November 2026

Akala, Qamar Deliver Late Drama as Shooting Stars Edge Well-Drilled Bendel Insurance in Ibadan Thriller

CSNewsLeave a Comment on Akala, Qamar Deliver Late Drama as Shooting Stars Edge Well-Drilled Bendel Insurance in Ibadan Thriller

It was an evening of breathtaking football, tension and late drama at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, on Friday, as Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), popularly known as the Oluyole Warriors, secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Bendel Insurance FC, nicknamed the Benin Arsenal, in a thrilling Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 13 encounter. In a contest that maintained a high tempo from the opening whistle to the final minutes, the home side eventually found a way past a resolute Bendel Insurance defence, with all three goals arriving towards the closing stages of the encounter. Both sides approached the fixture with determination, producing an entertaining contest characterised by intensity, tactical discipline, physical battles and attacking ambition. Shooting Stars enjoyed spells of attacking dominance, particularly in the opening half, creating opportunities that could have put them ahead much earlier. However, Bendel Insurance’s goalkeeper, Adewale Adeyinka, proved to be an enormous obstacle for the Oluyole Warriors, producing several impressive saves to keep his side in the contest. His outstanding performance between the sticks frustrated the home supporters and repeatedly denied 3SC the breakthrough they desperately sought. Even when the goalkeeper was beaten, the woodwork came to his rescue, ensuring that the first half ended goalless. The second half witnessed an even greater display of urgency from both teams, with Shooting Stars increasing their attacking pressure while Bendel Insurance remained organised and dangerous on the counter. The Benin Arsenal demonstrated why they are regarded as one of the competitive sides in the Nigerian top flight, combining defensive organisation with purposeful movement and an impressive understanding among their players. Their ability to withstand sustained pressure without abandoning their tactical structure was particularly noticeable. Despite the home side’s determination, Adeyinka continued to stand tall, making crucial interventions and giving his teammates hope of securing at least a point from the encounter. However, the deadlock was finally broken in the 84th minute when Shooting Stars’ midfield maestro, Olakunle Akala, produced a moment of brilliance to send the Adamasingba faithful into wild celebrations. The midfielder capitalised on a loose ball before unleashing a low, powerful effort that found its way past the previously outstanding Adeyinka. It was a decisive moment that rewarded the Oluyole Warriors’ persistence and attacking commitment. Akala’s strike was more than just an opening goal; it was the breakthrough that transformed the atmosphere inside the stadium and shifted the momentum firmly in favour of the hosts. With the visitors still attempting to recover from the setback, Shooting Stars delivered another devastating blow in the second minute of additional time. Qamar Adegoke, who had come on as a substitute, found the back of the net after a well-executed attacking move involving Damilola Akinola, who provided the assist. The goal appeared to have settled the contest, sending the home supporters into another round of celebrations. Qamar’s contribution underlined the importance of squad depth and the impact substitutes can make in closely contested league fixtures. Nevertheless, Bendel Insurance refused to surrender without a fight. The Benin Arsenal pulled one back through Alex Oweilayefa in the seventh minute of added time, taking advantage of a defensive lapse by the hosts. The late goal briefly reignited hopes of an unlikely comeback and introduced another layer of tension into an already dramatic encounter. However, Shooting Stars held their ground, managing the remaining moments to secure all three points. The final whistle confirmed a 2-1 victory for the Oluyole Warriors in what was undoubtedly one of the more entertaining fixtures of the matchday. Beyond the result, Bendel Insurance deserves considerable recognition for the quality of football displayed in Ibadan. Speaking with some football enthusiasts, fans and dignitaries after the encounter, the general assessment was that the Benin Arsenal possess a very good and well-drilled team capable of competing strongly against any side in the league. Their organisation, tactical awareness, discipline and collective understanding were among the qualities that attracted positive comments from spectators. Although the result did not favour the Edo State representatives, their performance suggested a team with considerable potential and the quality to challenge for important honours. Their goalkeeper, in particular, deserved special commendation for keeping the scoreline respectable for much of the encounter. For Shooting Stars, the victory represents an important boost to their NPFL campaign, taking them to seventh position with 18 points from 13 matches, while Bendel Insurance remain second with 21 points. Although the Benin Arsenal will undoubtedly rue the late collapse that cost them valuable points, their overall performance offers encouragement as the season progresses. Ultimately, Adamasingba witnessed more than just a football match; it witnessed a contest between two ambitious sides, a goalkeeper’s remarkable resistance, a midfield moment of brilliance and a late surge of attacking quality. Shooting Stars claimed the victory, but Bendel Insurance left Ibadan with their reputation as a formidable and well-organised side very much intact. By: CS News

Continue Reading

Old Rivalry, New Battle: Shooting Stars and Bendel Insurance Set for Another NPFL Showdown

CSNewsLeave a Comment on Old Rivalry, New Battle: Shooting Stars and Bendel Insurance Set for Another NPFL Showdown

Some football rivalries are built on trophies, others on geography, history and bragging rights. But when Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), popularly known as the Oluyole Warriors, lock horns with Bendel Insurance Football Club, the Benin Arsenals, there is always more at stake than just three points. It is a contest of pride, tradition and supremacy, and another intriguing chapter awaits as both sides prepare for a fresh encounter in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). The highly anticipated Matchday 13 fixture, scheduled for Friday, November 13, 2026, at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, promises another fiercely contested battle between two historic Nigerian football institutions. With the Oluyole Warriors enjoying the backing of their passionate home supporters and the Benin Arsenals arriving with their eyes firmly on the league summit, the stage is set for an encounter that could produce another memorable chapter in their rivalry. Looking back at their previous encounters, one thing has remained consistent: neither side has enjoyed an easy ride against the other. Their meetings have often been decided by narrow margins, with tactical discipline, determination and individual moments of brilliance separating the winners from the losers. In their last meeting in Ibadan on January 25, 2026, Shooting Stars edged Bendel Insurance 1-0 in a closely contested encounter. Qamar Adegoke’s decisive goal proved the difference, bringing an end to Bendel Insurance’s impressive nine-match unbeaten league run at the time. It was another reminder that playing against the Oluyole Warriors on their home turf is never a straightforward assignment for the Benin-based side. Interestingly, the rivalry has produced several tight encounters in recent seasons. Shooting Stars also recorded a 1-0 home victory over Bendel Insurance in February 2025, while their October 2024 meeting in Benin City ended 1-0 in favour of the Benin Arsenals. The two teams subsequently played out a 1-1 draw in August 2025. These results underline the competitive nature of the fixture and suggest that Friday’s meeting could once again be decided by the smallest of details. However, history offers no guarantee, and the visitors will certainly be hoping to rewrite the familiar script in Ibadan. This season, Bendel Insurance arrive with a stronger position on the league table, occupying second place with 21 points from 12 matches. The Benin Arsenals have demonstrated considerable ambition and consistency, recording seven victories so far. Under the guidance of experienced tactician Kennedy Boboye, the team will be eager to maintain its impressive position and keep the pressure on league leaders Enugu Rangers. Having enjoyed a 2-1 victory over Niger Tornadoes in their previous outing, Insurance will travel to Ibadan with renewed confidence. For them, this is more than an ordinary away fixture; it is an opportunity to make a statement, collect valuable points and demonstrate that their title ambitions extend beyond the comfort of their home ground. For Shooting Stars, however, the assignment carries a different kind of urgency. Sitting 13th on the table with 15 points, the Oluyole Warriors need victories to improve their position and restore momentum in their campaign. Their recent 1-0 defeat to Barau FC will undoubtedly serve as additional motivation to respond positively in front of their supporters. More importantly, the Ibadan side will be determined to protect its impressive home record and preserve its recent dominance over Bendel Insurance at the Lekan Salami Stadium. Losing at home to an old rival is certainly not the kind of result the Oluyole faithful would want to contemplate, particularly when bragging rights are involved. But can the Benin Arsenals finally overcome their Ibadan challenge, or will the Oluyole Warriors once again turn their home advantage into a decisive weapon? That is the question hanging over this encounter. Bendel Insurance will need to approach the game with discipline, attacking purpose and the confidence that has carried them to second place. Meanwhile, Shooting Stars must find a way to disrupt the visitors’ rhythm, exploit their defensive weaknesses and convert their opportunities. The opening exchanges could be crucial, but patience, concentration and composure may ultimately determine which side emerges victorious. As the countdown begins, one thing is certain: this is not just another NPFL fixture. It is a meeting of two proud football establishments, two passionate fan bases and two teams with very different ambitions but one common objective: victory. The Benin Arsenals want to strengthen their title credentials and return home with a result that could shake up the standings. The Oluyole Warriors, on the other hand, want to defend their territory, delight their supporters and remind their visitors why Ibadan remains a difficult destination. When the referee blows the opening whistle at Adamasingba, history will provide the background, but the players will write the next chapter. Will the Benin Arsenals finally silence the Oluyole faithful, or will the Warriors defend their pride once again? Friday’s showdown promises to deliver the answer. By: Asiwaju Adekunle Saheed

Continue Reading

Ese Ohwojeheri Hits The Streets Of Benin, Flags Off Edo South Senate Campaign With A People Over Personal Interest Pledge

CSNewsLeave a Comment on Ese Ohwojeheri Hits The Streets Of Benin, Flags Off Edo South Senate Campaign With A People Over Personal Interest Pledge

The African Action Congress candidate for the Edo South Senatorial District, Eseoghene Ohwojeheri, popularly known as Ese, has formally flagged off his campaign with a rally in Benin City, taking his message of openness and everyday welfare to the streets as the race for the Senate gathers pace. The rally, which held on Saturday at 9am, started from the National Museum on Ring Road, marking the public launch of a campaign he had earlier promoted on social media and radio. In an invitation sent ahead of the event, he urged supporters and well wishers to come out and be counted, insisting that what Nigeria needs to change for the better is no longer the real problem, and that the true hurdle is getting elected. Ese Ohwojeheri, whose name appears on the Independent National Electoral Commission’s final list of Senate candidates for Edo South, is contesting the Senate seat in the Presidential and National Assembly elections fixed for January 16, 2027. He is stepping into a field that also includes candidates of the PDP, the NDC and other parties, which makes visibility an urgent priority for a candidate from a smaller platform. At the heart of his campaign is a promise of openness. He has said he intends to be among the first to openly use the Senate for the good of the people, to the extent that every kobo received and spent would be published for public scrutiny. For voters long frustrated by opaque public spending, that pledge speaks directly to a question many Nigerians ask after every election cycle, where did the money go. The candidate also says he has written about 25 bill summaries to show what he would bring to the legislature. Among them is a Compulsory Shift Bill, meant to cut working hours for people who are not being paid enough, and a Budget Transparency Bill, which would require government to report its spending so citizens can compare it with what was budgeted. Another proposal, the Fair Contract Bill, would open government contracts to everyday traders, a nod to small business owners who often feel shut out of public procurement. Taken together, the proposals sketch an agenda built around workers, small traders and public accountability, summed up in his campaign slogan, People Over Personal Interest. Ese has been candid about the odds, describing the road to the Senate as an uphill battle and the flag off as an important step in showing that his campaign is on the ground and deserves attention. His belief is that once people see that his camp is different, the choice will not be a hard one to make. His outreach has also carried a notably humble tone. Ahead of the rally, he asked guests to confirm their attendance so organisers could plan for numbers, adding that he would fully understand whatever answer anyone gave, a gentle contrast with the loud rhetoric that often defines campaign season. With the flag off done, the real work now begins. The coming weeks will show how far a message built on transparency and everyday welfare can travel in a district long dominated by bigger parties, and whether voters in Edo South are ready to give an alternative voice a seat in the Senate. By Asiwaju Adekunle Saheed

Continue Reading

Flamingos Fly To The Top Of The World, Enabulele Hails Nigeria’s Golden Generation

CSNewsLeave a Comment on Flamingos Fly To The Top Of The World, Enabulele Hails Nigeria’s Golden Generation

The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has congratulated Nigeria’s Flamingos on their historic victory over Japan to emerge champions of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco. Nigeria 2-1 Japan In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Enabulele described the triumph as a remarkable demonstration of courage, resilience and the Nigerian fighting spirit, noting that the young footballers had etched their names in history as the first Nigerian team to win a FIFA women’s world title and the first African team to win the tournament. He singled out Awawu Bashiru, who opened the scoring in the 39th minute, and Edo Queens striker Oluebube Umejiaku, whose goal two minutes after the restart doubled Nigeria’s advantage and provided the platform for victory. Japan pulled one back through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute, but the Flamingos held firm to the final whistle. Enabulele applauded the entire squad for their tactical discipline, teamwork and commitment throughout the competition, calling the achievement a defining moment for Nigerian and African women’s football. He highlighted the team’s journey to the title, including a 3-1 group stage win over defending champions North Korea, a 2-1 victory over Mexico in the Round of 16, and a hard fought 1-0 quarter final win against Venezuela, courtesy of a late penalty from captain Azeezat Oduntan. The Flamingos then sealed their place in the final with an emphatic 3-1 semi final win over Brazil, making them the first African team to reach the tournament’s title match. The Sports Commission boss also praised the technical crew, led by Coach Hakeem Busari, for their dedication and tactical input, stressing that the victory reinforces the case for sustained investment in grassroots sports and women’s football. He said the triumph would inspire a new generation of female footballers across Nigeria, particularly aspiring players in Edo State, urging them to believe in their abilities, pursue excellence and aim for international recognition. By Asiwaju Adekunle Saheed

Continue Reading

APC TELLS ADC TO RESOLVE LEADERSHIP CRISIS, EXERCISE RIGHT OF APPEAL

CSNewsLeave a Comment on APC TELLS ADC TO RESOLVE LEADERSHIP CRISIS, EXERCISE RIGHT OF APPEAL

By CS News. The All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to resolve its internal leadership crisis rather than blame the ruling party and the judiciary over recent court decisions. The APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, stated this in a reaction to the Federal High Court judgment in Abuja concerning the leadership dispute involving the David Mark-led faction of the ADC. Morka maintained that the APC had no involvement in the APC-ADC leadership crisis, which followed a challenge instituted by some ADC national officers over the party’s leadership. He said the legal action accused David Mark and his associates of taking over the party in violation of its internal democracy and the rule of law. The APC spokesman described the court’s decision as evidence of the independence of the judiciary, urging the ADC to exercise its constitutional right of appeal if it disagreed with the judgment. He also accused the opposition party of selectively respecting judicial decisions, arguing that it praised the judiciary when rulings favoured its interests but criticised it when judgments went against it. Morka further maintained that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remained committed to upholding the rule of law, protecting democratic institutions and delivering good governance to Nigerians.

Continue Reading

COURT JAILS 10 FOR ILLEGAL DEALING IN PETROLEUM PRODUCTS IN WARRI

CSNewsLeave a Comment on COURT JAILS 10 FOR ILLEGAL DEALING IN PETROLEUM PRODUCTS IN WARRI

By CS News. A Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, has convicted and sentenced 10 persons to various prison terms for illegal dealing in petroleum products. Justice H.A. Nganjiwa delivered the judgment on Friday, November 6, 2026, following the arraignment of the defendants by the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The convicts are James Terry, Gift Ezewu Godfrey, Obidi Peter Obi, Anthony Onyebuchi Edekobi, Victor Ataria Sule, Jubril Abubakar, Auwal Aliyu, Nnaemeka Nwobodo, Victor Edem and Sunday Ndem Eyere. They were arraigned on a one-count charge bordering on criminal conspiracy and illegal dealing in petroleum products. The charge against one of the defendants, Victor Edem Udo, alleged that he dealt in Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) that was not of the quality expected of the product at Koko, Warri North Local Government Area, Delta State, on August 8, 2026. All the defendants pleaded guilty to the charges, prompting the prosecution counsel, Francis Jirbo, to urge the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. In his judgment, Justice Nganjiwa sentenced James Terry and Gift Ezewu Godfrey to two years’ imprisonment each, with an option of a N300,000 fine. Obidi Peter Obi, Victor Ataria Sule, Jubril Abubakar, Auwal Aliyu, Nnaemeka Nwobodo and Victor Edem received three-year prison terms each, with an option of a N300,000 fine. Anthony Onyebuchi Edekobi was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment or a N350,000 fine, while Sunday Ndem Eyere received three years’ imprisonment or a N400,000 fine. The EFCC said the defendants’ arrest followed intelligence from the Office of the National Security Adviser concerning their suspicious activities in Koko, Delta State. They were subsequently investigated and prosecuted.

Continue Reading

NAF RECOVERS COCKPIT VOICE RECORDER, SAYS INVESTIGATION INTO IGBOKODA AIRCRAFT INCIDENT CONTINUES

CSNewsLeave a Comment on NAF RECOVERS COCKPIT VOICE RECORDER, SAYS INVESTIGATION INTO IGBOKODA AIRCRAFT INCIDENT CONTINUES

By CS News. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced further progress in the investigation of the ATR-42 aircraft accident in Igbokoda, Ondo State, following the recovery of the aircraft’s Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR). The NAF said the CVR was confirmed intact by technical teams from the Air Force and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB). According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, part of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) was also retrieved, while efforts to locate and recover the remaining portion are ongoing. The NAF Igbokoda aircraft accident recovery operation has also yielded additional aircraft wreckage, engine components and human remains. The Air Force disclosed that operations were continuing in the challenging swamp terrain, with teams working to retrieve outstanding components and facilitate the necessary technical examinations. It added that the investigation was being conducted with due diligence to ensure comprehensive and evidence-based findings. The recovery process also involves the careful handling of human remains, with the Directorate of Identification and Classification undertaking the necessary procedures for proper identification. The NAF said it had maintained contact with the victims’ families to provide information and support, while also engaging relevant authorities over environmental concerns raised by the host community.

Continue Reading

HAJ 2027: SINGAPORE EXPANDS PILGRIM PACKAGES, INTRODUCES SHORTER 18-DAY OPTION

CSNewsLeave a Comment on HAJ 2027: SINGAPORE EXPANDS PILGRIM PACKAGES, INTRODUCES SHORTER 18-DAY OPTION

By CS News. Prospective pilgrims from Singapore planning to perform the 2027 Haj will have more travel packages to choose from, following an announcement by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS). In a media statement issued on November 5, MUIS disclosed that it had appointed 10 authorised travel agents to offer 37 approved Haj 2027 travel packages, an increase from the 25 packages approved in 2026. The new options include an 18-day itinerary, alongside existing 23-day, 25-day and 28-day packages. The shorter option is designed to provide greater flexibility for people balancing work, family and other personal commitments. MUIS said the expanded package options were intended to make the Singapore Haj pilgrimage 2027 more accessible to a wider segment of the community while accommodating different needs and circumstances. Singapore has been allocated 900 places for the 2027 Haj by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The 900 prospective pilgrims are expected to begin receiving their letters of offer through SMS and email from November 16. Successful applicants must retrieve their offer letters through the MyHajSG portal, purchase an approved package from an authorised travel agent and complete the required procedures by November 30. The approved packages range from $13,864 to $21,199, depending on the duration of the trip and room-sharing arrangements. The prices include services such as accommodation arrangements during the peak pilgrimage days, transportation, meals, crowd management, safety provisions and medical services. However, the package prices exclude airfare on Saudia Airlines, estimated at around $3,300 for an economy ticket before taxes, as well as emergency medical assistance coverage costing $295. MUIS has advised prospective pilgrims to consider additional travel insurance and warned them against unauthorised operators or claims of guaranteed Haj visas outside official channels.

Continue Reading

EFCC INVESTIGATES EX-BANKER OVER ALLEGED N515 MILLION DIVERSION FROM CUSTOMER’S ACCOUNT

CSNewsLeave a Comment on EFCC INVESTIGATES EX-BANKER OVER ALLEGED N515 MILLION DIVERSION FROM CUSTOMER’S ACCOUNT

By CS News The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced investigations into the alleged diversion of N515 million from a customer’s account by Obinna Nwaobi, a former Head of Operations of a new-generation bank. The investigation is being handled by the Commission’s Enugu Zonal Directorate following a petition dated June 22, 2026, submitted by the bank against the former banker. The petition alleged that funds belonging to DAHUA Paper Company were transferred from its Debt Service Reserve Account (DSRA) without authorisation. According to the petition, the EFCC N515 million diversion investigation concerns three transactions of N200 million, N150 million and N165 million, allegedly carried out on July 17, 2024. The bank alleged that the account had been reactivated in June 2024 but was not placed on Post No Debit (PND), as required. It further claimed that the transactions were processed through its Okpara Avenue Branch in Enugu using forged documents and were allegedly authorised by Nwaobi. Preliminary investigations by the EFCC reportedly revealed that the account was a Bank of Industry loan repayment account, which was not ordinarily accessible for customer withdrawals or transfers to third parties without the approval of the Account Officer, Regional Manager and Credit Monitoring Team. The Commission further stated that the transactions were allegedly carried out with forged documents and authorised by the suspect, who was serving as Head of Operations at the time. Nwaobi is also standing trial before a Federal High Court in Enugu over an alleged unauthorised withdrawal and diversion of $510,000 belonging to another customer of the same bank, Lantern Gate Nigeria Limited. He was arraigned on a nine-count charge bordering on forgery and criminal diversion in November 2025. The EFCC said the suspect would be charged to court over the N515 million allegation upon the conclusion of investigations.

Continue Reading

INEC CHAIRMAN OPENS BVAS STORAGE FACILITY IN KOGI, SEEKS TRADITIONAL RULERS’ SUPPORT FOR PEACEFUL 2027 POLLS

CSNewsLeave a Comment on INEC CHAIRMAN OPENS BVAS STORAGE FACILITY IN KOGI, SEEKS TRADITIONAL RULERS’ SUPPORT FOR PEACEFUL 2027 POLLS

By CS News The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, has commissioned a newly constructed Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) storage facility in Lokoja, Kogi State, as part of the Commission’s preparations for the 2027 General Election. The commissioning, which took place on Thursday, November 5, 2026, formed part of the Chairman’s North-Central Zonal Readiness Assessment and nationwide engagements with staff and stakeholders ahead of the January 16 and February 6, 2027 elections. Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Amupitan explained that the INEC BVAS storage facility in Kogi was designed to address operational challenges associated with the storage and maintenance of BVAS devices, particularly those resulting from improper storage conditions and inadequate cooling systems. He noted that INEC had identified the need for dedicated storage facilities across states to ensure that the devices are maintained under appropriate conditions, preserve battery life, perform optimally and enjoy an extended operational lifespan. The INEC Chairman expressed satisfaction with the quality of the facility, particularly its foundation, structural protection, electrical connections and equipment installations. He formally commissioned it for use ahead of the 2027 elections and urged officials to ensure it serves its intended purpose. Earlier, Professor Amupitan paid a courtesy visit to the Kogi State Council of Traditional Rulers, where he sought their support and royal blessings for peaceful, credible and inclusive elections in 2027. Describing the visit as a homecoming, he said it was important to pay homage to traditional rulers before undertaking a major national assignment in his home state. He emphasised that traditional institutions remained critical partners in the electoral process, noting that peaceful elections required cooperation from community leaders and other stakeholders. The traditional rulers, led by the President of the Council and Attah Igala, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Matthew Alaji Opaluwa Oguche Akpa, received the INEC delegation alongside other prominent traditional rulers in the state.

Continue Reading