Today’s Headlines: Osimhen Lacks Character – Kartal; Ex-Zamfara Council Chairman Dumps APC for ADC

Former Fenerbahçe coach İsmail Kartal criticised Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen over his conduct during Galatasaray’s 2-1 derby victory against Fenerbahçe. Kartal acknowledged Osimhen’s exceptional footballing ability but accused him of lacking character and displaying unsportsmanlike behaviour towards opposing fans and players after scoring twice.

Kartal maintained that a player of Osimhen’s calibre should serve as a role model for younger footballers rather than provoke opponents. Despite the criticism, Osimhen has established an impressive record against Fenerbahçe, scoring five derby goals and contributing significantly to Galatasaray’s success in domestic and European competitions.

Former Anka Local Government Area chairman in Zamfara State, Alhaji Sharu Anka, has defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing unresolved internal crises, injustice and a lack of equal opportunities within the ruling party. In his resignation letter, he accused some party members of disregarding others’ contributions and allowing a few individuals to dominate its affairs.

Anka also announced that his political supporters across Zamfara State had joined him in the ADC. The grassroots politician previously served two terms as Anka LGA chairman and held commissioner positions overseeing four different ministries under successive state administrations.

The Federal Government has explained that its proposed $21.7 billion external borrowing plan for 2026 and 2027 will fund transport, defence, security, agriculture, energy, education and other critical sectors. Transport projects will receive $10.6 billion, while defence and security will get $2.4 billion. Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele stressed that the proposal was only a financing plan and did not mean the government would borrow the entire amount.

The financing package includes commercial loans, concessional facilities and blended funding from international lenders, with the Federal Government, states, the Federal Capital Territory and development agencies expected to benefit. Major projects include the Lagos-Calabar and Sokoto-Badagry highways, electricity substations and rail infrastructure. Oyedele defended the plan, arguing that the investments would create valuable assets, boost economic growth, improve infrastructure and generate benefits exceeding the cost of borrowing.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has postponed its presidential campaign flag-off in Sokoto State from October 31 to November 4, 2026, citing planning and coordination concerns. The decision follows allegations that the state government directed hotels to deny accommodation to delegates travelling for the event, with some reportedly asked to vacate rooms they had booked. However, the state government denied issuing such an order, describing the allegation as unfounded.

The postponement comes amid heightened political tension following a reported clash during an ADC rally involving about 5,000 women and youths. The party alleged that suspected All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters attacked its members, leaving some injured and damaging vehicles, while the APC denied responsibility and accused ADC supporters of attacking its own members. The police confirmed the confrontation, said some property was damaged and announced an investigation into the incident.

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