Josie Gibson looks incredible in skinny jeans as she shows off 5st weight loss JOSIE Gibson looked incredible in her skinny jeans as she showed off her 5 stone weight loss after opening up on her health condition. The TV presenter recently revealed she has been diagnosed with lipoedema — which causes an abnormal accumulation of fat in the legs. Sign up for the TV newsletter Thank you!

Josie Gibson looks incredible in skinny jeans as she shows off 5st weight loss

JOSIE Gibson looked incredible in her skinny jeans as she showed off her 5 stone weight loss after opening up on her health condition. The TV presenter recently revealed she has been diagnosed with lipoedema — which…

Mauricio Pochettino makes major Tottenham admission as Thomas Frank faces potential sack Former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino has reignited speculation regarding a sensational return to North London, claiming that the club “needs to be” fighting for the Premier League and Champions League. His comments come at a time of immense pressure for current head coach Thomas Frank, whose tenure is reportedly at a “breaking point” following a string of poor results. Mauricio Pochettino says Tottenham need to be competing at the highest level (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images) Speaking on the High Performance Podcast, Pochettino, who is currently managing the United States national team, was blunt about his former club’s current trajectory.

Mauricio Pochettino makes major Tottenham admission as Thomas Frank faces potential sack

Former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino has reignited speculation regarding a sensational return to North London, claiming that the club “needs to be” fighting for the Premier League and Champions League.…

Someone that I am feeding: Portable drags Queen Dami for denying him online Nigerian singer Portable accused his girlfriend, Queen Dami, of publicly denying him despite their recent reconciliation The singer questioned her reasons for the denial and shared how he has been supporting her Portable’s online confrontation made waves online as fans and netizens criticised the couples Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has accused his girlfriend, Queen Dami, of publicly denying him despite their alleged private relationship. The singer made the claim during a recent live video that has since sparked reactions online.

Someone that I am feeding: Portable drags Queen Dami for denying him online

Nigerian singer Portable accused his girlfriend, Queen Dami, of publicly denying him despite their recent reconciliation The singer questioned her reasons for the denial and shared how he has been supporting her Portable’s…

Three affordable states where Social Security is enough to retire Living on a fixed income can make every financial decision feel like a significant one, whether you’re choosing where to buy groceries - or where to live. Retirees living on Social Security likely feel that stress. The average monthly Social Security payment for a retired worker was $2,071 in January 2026, according to the Social Security Administration. For those who own a home and only have Social Security to live on - meaning no additional pension, 401K or other investments to speak of - retirement is a lot easier in some states over others.

Three affordable states where Social Security is enough to retire

Living on a fixed income can make every financial decision feel like a significant one, whether you’re choosing where to buy groceries - or where to live. Retirees living on Social Security likely feel that stress. The average…

Father of Alexis Mac Allister sparks Liverpool exit speculations with fresh comments Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister’s future at the club has once again become the topic of discussion after the latest comments from his father. Despite being a key part of the midfield, speculation regarding a potential move to Real Madrid continues to swirl, fueled by suggestions that the Spanish giants view the Argentine as a key target to bolster their midfield. What Carlos Carlos Mac Allister has said about Alexis’ future at Liverpool Speaking to Win Win All Sports, the midfielder’s father and agent, Carlos Mac Allister, offered a measured take on his son’s career path.

Father of Alexis Mac Allister sparks Liverpool exit speculations with fresh comments

Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister’s future at the club has once again become the topic of discussion after the latest comments from his father. Despite being a key part of the midfield, speculation regarding a…

Music world mourns as Ghanaian highlife legend Ebo Taylor passes away at 90 Ghanaian musician Ebo Taylor has passed away at 90, leaving the music world in mourning just one day after a major festival was launched in his honour The highlife pioneer who worked with Fela Kuti and influenced stars like Usher died a month after celebrating his 90th birthday Fans and musicians across the globe are mourning the loss of the guitarist whose six-decade career has made an impact in the music world Renowned Ghanaian highlife musician, guitarist, and composer Ebo Taylor passed away at the age of 90. His family confirmed the news on Sunday, 8 February 2026, through a post on his official Instagram page, announcing his passing a day after the launch of the Ebo Taylor Music Festival in Ghana.

Music world mourns as Ghanaian highlife legend Ebo Taylor passes away at 90

Ghanaian musician Ebo Taylor has passed away at 90, leaving the music world in mourning just one day after a major festival was launched in his honour The highlife pioneer who worked with Fela Kuti and influenced stars…

IRS tax refund deadlines: All the dates you need to know Though tax season is stressful, tens of millions of Americans will walk away this year with a refund payment in their bank account. How fast that refund arrives depends on several important factors, including when and how you file, and whether there are mistakes on the return, according to the Internal Revenue Service. The most important deadline Taxpayers can file their taxes through April 15 this year. But don’t forget that April 15 is also the deadline to pay any taxes owed. While individuals can ask for a six-month filing extension (Form 4868) to push the filing deadline back to October 15, the same doesn’t apply to the payment deadline.

IRS tax refund deadlines: All the dates you need to know

Though tax season is stressful, tens of millions of Americans will walk away this year with a refund payment in their bank account. How fast that refund arrives depends on several important factors, including when and how you file, and…

Tottenham injury blow as Thomas Frank confirms Destiny Udogie out for a month Tottenham Hotspur’s difficult season has taken another turn for the worse as head coach Thomas Frank confirmed that defender Destiny Udogie is set for a significant spell on the sidelines. Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s Premier League clash against Newcastle United, Frank revealed that the Italian left-back suffered a hamstring injury that will keep him out of action for at least a month. Destiny Udogie out for four to five weeks The injury occurred during Tottenham’s disappointing 2-0 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford last Saturday. Udogie pulled up early in the second half and was forced to limp off the pitch in the 55th minute, replaced by January signing Souza.

Tottenham injury blow as Thomas Frank confirms Destiny Udogie out for a month

Tottenham Hotspur’s difficult season has taken another turn for the worse as head coach Thomas Frank confirmed that defender Destiny Udogie is set for a significant spell on the sidelines. Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s…

IPOB permanently cancels Monday sit-at-home in south-east, schools reopen The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has permanently cancelled the Monday sit-at-home order across Nigeria’s South-East The decision, effective from February 9, 2026, marked the end of a protest that had disrupted schools, businesses and markets since August 2021 Analysts noted that the move could restore economic activity in the region, which had suffered economic losses The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) announced the permanent cancellation of the Monday sit-at-home directive across Nigeria’s South-East region. The decision followed a direct order from its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, and took effect from Monday, February 9, 2026.

IPOB permanently cancels Monday sit-at-home in south-east, schools reopen

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has permanently cancelled the Monday sit-at-home order across Nigeria’s South-East The decision, effective from February 9, 2026, marked the end of a protest that had disrupted schools,…

Major milestone for record-breaking roller coaster Tormenta: Rampaging Run reached Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

Major milestone for record-breaking roller coaster Tormenta: Rampaging Run reached

Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's…

Newcastle United midfielder could leave soon to play Champions League football Sandro Tonali’s long-term future at Newcastle United may depend on whether the club can secure a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League, with growing indications that failure to qualify could prompt serious conversations about a summer exit. According to Football Insider, the Italy international is ambitious to test himself consistently at the highest level of European football and that ambition could become decisive in the months ahead. Tonali has been a central figure in Newcastle’s midfield project since arriving from AC Milan, bringing leadership and elite-level experience to Newcastle United.

Newcastle United midfielder could leave soon to play Champions League football

Sandro Tonali’s long-term future at Newcastle United may depend on whether the club can secure a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League, with growing indications that failure to qualify could prompt serious…

Faithia Balogun loses mother GistReel Nollywood actress and filmmaker Faithia Balogun Williams has reportedly lost her mother just hours before celebrating her 55th birthday. The news, revealed by the actress on social media, came as a shock to fans and left many expressing sympathy. Birthday Celebration Overshadowed by Tragedy Faithia, who turned 55 on Thursday, February 5, hosted a star-studded birthday party on Sunday, February 8. Guests included top Nollywood personalities such as Malaika, Funke Akindele, Pasuma, Kazim Adeoti, Regina Chukwu, Fausat Balogun, and Shaffy Bello. Hours after the party, Faithia took to her official social media pages to announce that her…

Faithia Balogun loses mother

GistReel Nollywood actress and filmmaker Faithia Balogun Williams has reportedly lost her mother just hours before celebrating her 55th birthday. The news, revealed by the actress on social media, came as a shock to fans and left many expressing sympathy. Birthday…

How I raised my credit score over 30 points using one credit card The secret’s out: Nearly 40 percent of Americans use credit cards to build up their credit score, according to recent data from survey firm Ipsos and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. When used wisely, credit cards have the potential to improve your credit in two key areas. First, credit cards give consumers the chance to build up a history of on-time payments, which makes up 35 percent of their FICO score, according to Credit Karma. FICO scores are used by 90 percent of top lenders, according to myFICO. Secondly, keeping credit card balances under 30 percent of their limits can improve scores, as the ratio of balance to credit limit (called the utilization ratio) makes up 30 percent of a credit score.

How I raised my credit score over 30 points using one credit card

The secret’s out: Nearly 40 percent of Americans use credit cards to build up their credit score, according to recent data from survey firm Ipsos and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. When used wisely, credit cards have the…

Man United star Bruno Fernandes responds to haircut question about viral fan Manchester United’s recent resurgence has sparked optimism both on and off the pitch, with a growing sense that momentum is finally building at Old Trafford. Four consecutive victories under interim manager Michael Carrick have steadied the club after a turbulent period, while an unexpected off-field storyline has captured the imagination of supporters online. At the centre of that lighter moment is superfan Frank Ilett, better known on social media as The United Strand. Ilett famously pledged not to cut his hair until United won five matches in a row, a challenge that has stretched on for more than a year as the club struggled for consistency.

Man United star Bruno Fernandes responds to haircut question about viral fan

Manchester United’s recent resurgence has sparked optimism both on and off the pitch, with a growing sense that momentum is finally building at Old Trafford. Four consecutive victories under interim manager Michael…

Stylist na secret hater: Faithia faces intense backlash over 55th bday look Fans have expressed disappointment in Faithia Williams over one of her looks at her recent birthday celebration The actress recently clocked 55 years of age and shared the special moment with her fans However, many gave her, her friends, and her stylist a piece of their minds after seeing one of the outfits worn for the party Nollywood actress Faithia Williams has come under intense scrutiny after a video from her birthday celebration surfaced online. The actress, who shares the same birthday date with her ex-husband, marked her 55th birthday in grand style.

Stylist na secret hater: Faithia faces intense backlash over 55th bday look

Fans have expressed disappointment in Faithia Williams over one of her looks at her recent birthday celebration The actress recently clocked 55 years of age and shared the special moment with her fans However, many gave…

Five things I wish I knew about men — Woman sparks debate with relationship advice GistReel A woman has gone viral online after sharing what she described as the five most important things she has learned about men in relationships, prompting discussion across social media platforms. Lady says “respect to a man is what love is to a woman.” She began by highlighting the importance of respect in relationships. According to her, men tend to withdraw when they do not feel respected. She explained that respect is to a man what love is to a woman, and without it, the connection can begin to break down.

Five things I wish I knew about men — Woman sparks debate with relationship advice

GistReel A woman has gone viral online after sharing what she described as the five most important things she has learned about men in relationships, prompting discussion across social media platforms. Lady says…

Man United are looking to sign Newcastle star to replace Casemiro in the summer Manchester United’s summer rebuild is already taking shape, and a commanding new presence in midfield has emerged as a top priority. According to The Telegraph, Man United have identified Sandro Tonali as a leading candidate to replace Casemiro, who has confirmed he will leave Old Trafford when his contract expires at the end of the season. Casemiro’s impending departure marks the end of a short but influential spell in Manchester, and it has accelerated United’s search for a new midfield anchor. Club sources suggest the Red Devils are planning a major reset in the engine room, with the possibility of more than one midfield arrival if the right opportunities arise.

Man United are looking to sign Newcastle star to replace Casemiro in the summer

Manchester United’s summer rebuild is already taking shape, and a commanding new presence in midfield has emerged as a top priority. According to The Telegraph, Man United have identified Sandro Tonali as a leading…

Top security expert speaks on who is responsible for Kwara killings Security expert Kabir Adamu has linked the Kwara killings to a complex ecosystem of armed groups Recent jihadist attacks in Kwara highlight escalating violence along the Niger-Kwara axis President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's government denies systematic persecution of Christians amid rising insecurity Legit.ng journalist Ridwan Adeola Yusuf has over 9 years of experience covering security matters and counter-insurgency in Nigeria and Africa. FCT, Abuja - Kabir Adamu, a renowned security expert, has said an ecosystem made up of multiple armed groups is responsible for the Kwara killings. Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Monday, February 9, monitored by…

Top security expert speaks on who is responsible for Kwara killings

Security expert Kabir Adamu has linked the Kwara killings to a complex ecosystem of armed groups Recent jihadist attacks in Kwara highlight escalating violence along the Niger-Kwara axis President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's government…

Arsenal lead race for experienced Bundesliga midfielder Arsenal are keeping a close watch on the contract situation of Leon Goretzka, with the midfielder emerging as a potential free-transfer target ahead of the summer window. According to Daily Mirror, the Gunners are among several clubs exploring the possibility of signing the Bayern Munich star once his current deal expires in June. The north London side are understood to have made exploratory enquiries during the January transfer window, but Bayern Munich were unwilling to sanction a mid-season departure. With Bayern still competing on multiple fronts and short on experienced midfield depth, the German champions were determined to keep hold of Goretzka until at least the end of the campaign.

Arsenal lead race for experienced Bundesliga midfielder

Arsenal are keeping a close watch on the contract situation of Leon Goretzka, with the midfielder emerging as a potential free-transfer target ahead of the summer window. According to Daily Mirror, the Gunners are among several clubs…

Kidnappers who abducted Edo doctor, demanded ₦100m, nabbed at his hospital after showing up for treatment GistReel Two men suspected to have kidnapped a medical doctor and his brother in Edo State have been arrested in a dramatic turn of events at the Edo State University Teaching Hospital, Auchi. The suspects were identified as Idris Abubakar and Sani Abubakar, according to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem. How the Doctor Recognised His Alleged Abductors The arrest happened early Sunday when the doctor, Abu Ibrahim, reportedly recognised the suspects at the hospital where he works. The men had come to the facility to check on a sick baby girl who was receiving treatment in the emergency ward.

Kidnappers who abducted Edo doctor, demanded ₦100m, nabbed at his hospital after showing up for treatment

GistReel Two men suspected to have kidnapped a medical doctor and his brother in Edo State have been arrested in a dramatic turn of events at the Edo State University Teaching Hospital, Auchi.…

As how? Reactions as K1s daughter addresses dating rumours with Asake KWAM 1's daughter, Dami Marshal, has broken her silence following relationship rumours about Asake A viral video showing the Fuji star's daughter with the Afrobeats singer at a nightclub had ignited the rumours Dami Marshal has now addressed the claims, while also clapping back at the blog that shared the gossip online Dami Marshal, the daughter of Fuji musician King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1), has debunked rumours of a relationship with Afrobeats singer Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake or Mr Money. The rumours surfaced on social media after a video captured a club moment showing Asake vibing with KWAM 1's daughter to one of his tracks.

As how? Reactions as K1s daughter addresses dating rumours with Asake

KWAM 1's daughter, Dami Marshal, has broken her silence following relationship rumours about Asake A viral video showing the Fuji star's daughter with the Afrobeats singer at a nightclub had ignited the rumours Dami Marshal has…

Meghan dazzles in strapless satin gown and velvet shawl at LA charity bash THE Duchess of Sussex shawl looks good as she ­dazzles in a glam gown at a charity bash. Meghan, 44, arrived without hubby Prince Harry on Saturday, exuding Hollywood style in a strapless satin gown with a black velvet shawl. Sign up for the Royals newsletter Thank you! Meghan Markle dazzled in a glam gown at a charity bashCredit: Getty The Duchess of Sussex exuded Hollywood style in a strapless satin gown with a black velvet shawlCredit: Shutterstock Editorial The mum of two was a guest at the Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala in LA — to support small black-owned businesses.

Meghan dazzles in strapless satin gown and velvet shawl at LA charity bash

THE Duchess of Sussex shawl looks good as she ­dazzles in a glam gown at a charity bash. Meghan, 44, arrived without hubby Prince Harry on Saturday, exuding Hollywood style in a strapless satin gown with a black velvet…

Man United want Premier League star who is famous for his long throw-ins Michael Kayode’s rapid rise in the Premier League has sparked widespread interest, with several of England’s biggest clubs now tracking the Brentford wing-back ahead of a potential summer move. According to TEAMtalk, both Manchester United and Newcastle United have entered the race to sign the 21-year-old, joining an already competitive field that includes Manchester City. Kayode has been one of the best performers in his first full season in west London, quickly establishing himself as a key component of Brentford’s system. His pace and physicality has made him a difficult opponent for wingers across the division, while his trademark long throw-ins have become a genuine attacking weapon, regularly creating chaos in opposition penalty areas and contributing directly to goals.

Man United want Premier League star who is famous for his long throw-ins

Michael Kayode’s rapid rise in the Premier League has sparked widespread interest, with several of England’s biggest clubs now tracking the Brentford wing-back ahead of a potential summer move. According to TEAMtalk, both…

La Liga: Real Madrid grind out Valencia win to stay in title hunt GistReel Real Madrid maintained their perfect La Liga start to 2026 with a narrow but effective victory over Valencia at Mestalla, keeping the pressure on leaders Barcelona. With Vinícius Júnior suspended and Rodrygo Goes sidelined through injury, head coach Álvaro Arbeloa opted for a pragmatic 4-4-2 setup. Kylian Mbappé partnered Gonzalo García in attack, but Madrid struggled for fluency in a first half that produced little attacking quality from either side. Carreras breaks the deadlock Clear chances were scarce, although debutant right-back David Jiménez came closest to breaking the deadlock before the interval, forcing Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski into a sharp save with a low effort from the edge of the area.

La Liga: Real Madrid grind out Valencia win to stay in title hunt

GistReel Real Madrid maintained their perfect La Liga start to 2026 with a narrow but effective victory over Valencia at Mestalla, keeping the pressure on leaders Barcelona. With Vinícius Júnior suspended and Rodrygo Goes sidelined…

Probe on lagoon of filth around Mandelson is pointless… the rich are protected SO, poor old Boaty McBoatface has gone. The Prime Minister’s special adviser Morgan McSweeney, who everybody in the Labour Party apart from Sir Keir seemed to loathe, has resigned. Asking Parliament to probe lagoon of filth around Mandelson is pointless… the rich & powerful will forever be protectedCredit: Refer to source Keir Starmer appointed Mandelson, who was a pal of paedo Epstein, as Ambassador to the USACredit: AP The first victim of the tide of sewage that has gushed from Peter Mandelson’s appointment as Ambassador to the USA. Had to be a fall guy.

Probe on lagoon of filth around Mandelson is pointless… the rich are protected

SO, poor old Boaty McBoatface has gone. The Prime Minister’s special adviser Morgan McSweeney, who everybody in the Labour Party apart from Sir Keir seemed to loathe, has resigned. Asking Parliament to probe lagoon of…

Alan Shearer drops Leeds relegation prediction on MOTD Alan Shearer has backed Leeds United to remain in the Premier League, insisting their formidable home form will be the deciding factor in preserving their top-flight status. Speaking on Match of the Day, the Premier League’s all-time top scorer highlighted the unique atmosphere at Elland Road as a weapon that sets Leeds apart from their relegation rivals. Despite a season of ups and downs, Shearer believes the Whites have enough in their locker to avoid an immediate return to the Championship. Speaking about the relegation race, Shearer said: “Leeds will be alright I think, because of the home form.

Alan Shearer drops Leeds relegation prediction on MOTD

Alan Shearer has backed Leeds United to remain in the Premier League, insisting their formidable home form will be the deciding factor in preserving their top-flight status. Speaking on Match of the Day, the Premier League’s all-time top…

Arne Slot reacts to Liverpools last-minute defeat vs Manchester City at Anfield Liverpool manager Arne Slot has reacted after his side lost to Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday, February 8 The Reds surrendered a 1-0 lead to the Reds with six minutes to the end of the entertaining encounter Liverpool appealed for a penalty after Egyptian forward, Mohammed Salah, was fouled inside the penalty area in the first half Liverpool manager Arne Slot has shared his thoughts following his side’s 2-1 defeat to Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday, February 8. The Reds are currently sixth on the English Premier League table, behind leaders Arsenal, as well as Aston Villa, Manchester United and Chelsea.

Arne Slot reacts to Liverpools last-minute defeat vs Manchester City at Anfield

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has reacted after his side lost to Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday, February 8 The Reds surrendered a 1-0 lead to the Reds with six minutes to the end of the entertaining encounter…

Horror at music festival as man dies and six rushed to hospital in Sydney A MAN has died and six others have been hospitalised after falling ill at a music festival in Sydney. The man – thought to be in his 40s – died after suffering a medical episode at the Dreamstate festival at about 11.30pm. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! One man died and six others have been hospitalisedCredit: Instagram/dreamstateau Despite the best efforts of festival medical staff in Sydney Olympic Park, the man died at the scene. Another six people have been rushed to hospital. One of the six remains in critical condition.

Horror at music festival as man dies and six rushed to hospital in Sydney

A MAN has died and six others have been hospitalised after falling ill at a music festival in Sydney. The man – thought to be in his 40s – died after suffering a medical episode at the Dreamstate festival at about 11.30pm.…

Match of the season? VAR chaos sees Man City goal disallowed & Szoboszlai sent off at Anfield | CaughtOffside Anfield witnessed one of the undisputed games of the season this Sunday, as Manchester City clawed their way back from a goal down to snatch a dramatic 2-1 victory, ending with a red card, a disallowed goal, and touchline chaos. The clash between the title rivals lived up to every bit of the hype, delivering a second half of relentless drama. It looked as if Liverpool had struck a decisive blow in the title race, but a late collapse and a controversial VAR intervention ensured the points went back to Manchester.

Match of the season? VAR chaos sees Man City goal disallowed & Szoboszlai sent off at Anfield | CaughtOffside

Anfield witnessed one of the undisputed games of the season this Sunday, as Manchester City clawed their way back from a goal down to snatch a dramatic 2-1 victory, ending with a red card,…

Biafra: Nnamdi Kanu announces total cancellation of sit-at-home in South East GistReel The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has officially announced the total cancellation of the Monday sit-at-home across the South-East, bringing an end to the directive that began in 2021. The announcement was made by IPOB spokesperson, Emma Powerful, in a statement released on Sunday. According to the group, the decision takes effect from Monday, February 9, 2026. The Monday sit-at-home was first declared in August 2021 as a protest against the rendition of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, to Nigeria and his continued detention. Since then, markets, schools, banks, offices and other businesses across the South-East have often remained shut on Mondays.

Biafra: Nnamdi Kanu announces total cancellation of sit-at-home in South East

GistReel The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has officially announced the total cancellation of the Monday sit-at-home across the South-East, bringing an end to the directive that began in 2021. The announcement was…