US Congressman Riley Moore Concludes “Very Productive” Visit to Nigeria Amid Allegations of Christian Genocide, Pledges Continued Accountability and International Scrutiny

 United States Congressman Riley Moore (R-WV), a vocal advocate for religious freedom and member of the House Appropriations Committee, has wrapped up an official congressional visit to Nigeria, describing the trip as “very productive” and reaffirming his commitment to addressing what he has termed a “genocide” against the country’s Christian population.

Moore, who represents West Virginia’s Second District, arrived in Nigeria on behalf of the American people and “in the name of the Lord,” as he stated in a post on his official X account (@RepRileyMoore). The visit, which included high-level meetings with Nigerian government officials and engagements with affected communities in Benue State—a hotspot for reported sectarian violence—marks a significant step in an ongoing U.S. congressional investigation into escalating attacks on Christians in Nigeria.

“The targeted killing of Christians in Nigeria is not just persecution; it is a violation of human rights that borders on genocide,” Moore said in a recent statement introducing a House resolution condemning the violence. “The United Nations’ failure to intervene has allowed this to continue for far too long. Thankfully, President Trump is not allowing the United States to turn a blind eye.” This trip follows President Trump’s October 31 directive to Moore and the House Appropriations Committee to probe the “slaughter of Christians” and report findings to the White House, amid threats of U.S. sanctions or even military action if the killings persist.

While Moore did not disclose specific details of his itinerary or discussions during the visit, sources indicate the delegation focused on documenting the scale of violence, consulting with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and Christian leaders on the ground, and evaluating Nigeria’s response to extremist threats from groups like Boko Haram and Fulani militants. Reports suggest over 7,000 Christians have been killed in Nigeria this year alone, making it the deadliest country for Christians worldwide, according to advocacy groups like Faith and Liberty.

The Nigerian government has firmly denied allegations of genocide, emphasizing that violence affects communities across religious and ethnic lines and rejecting portrayals of the crisis as a targeted campaign against Christians. In response to Moore’s visit, former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode urged the congressman to adopt a “balanced view,” noting that Muslims have also fallen victim to attacks and calling for U.S. support rather than “insults and threats.”

Moore’s delegation was hosted by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, as part of bilateral security consultations. Earlier U.S.-Nigeria talks in Washington, D.C., saw Nigerian representatives push back against genocide claims, leading to the establishment of a joint U.S.-Nigeria working group approved by President Bola Tinubu to address insecurity collaboratively.

“Genocide can’t be ignored,” Moore emphasized in a Fox News interview last month, outlining potential U.S. responses including sanctions, aid freezes, and “kinetic military action” if perpetrators are not brought to justice. He has also warned that the U.S. will hold Nigerian authorities accountable, particularly regarding the safety of high-profile figures like Reverend Dachomo, a vocal critic of the violence who has faced online harassment and threats.

This visit underscores growing bipartisan concern in Congress over religious persecution in Nigeria and could influence U.S. policy, including aid allocations and diplomatic pressure. Moore plans to brief the House upon his return and release a detailed report on findings.

Mohamed Salah Faces Backlash for 'Embarrassing' and 'Selfish' Outburst After Liverpool's Chaotic 3-3 Draw at Leeds United

Mohamed Salah's explosive post-match interview following Liverpool's frustrating 3-3 Premier League draw against Leeds United on Saturday has plunged the reigning champions into deeper turmoil, with the Egyptian star's comments drawing widespread condemnation as "embarrassing," "selfish," and "disrespectful" from pundits, former players, and club insiders.

The high-stakes clash at Elland Road saw Liverpool twice squander a 2-0 lead before Dominik Szoboszlai restored their advantage in the 80th minute, only for Leeds' Ao Tanaka to snatch a dramatic equalizer in the ninth minute of stoppage time. Despite the chaotic thriller—which extended Liverpool's winless run to four league games and left them languishing in eighth place with just 20 points from 15 matches—Salah's words from the mixed zone overshadowed the on-pitch drama.

Unused for the entire 90 minutes as an unused substitute—the third consecutive Premier League benching under manager Arne Slot—Salah unleashed a tirade accusing the club of scapegoating him for their dismal title defense. "It seems like the club has thrown me under the bus," the 33-year-old declared, adding that his relationship with Slot had "broken down" and that "someone doesn't want me in the club." He lamented broken promises since signing a two-year contract extension in April, compared his treatment unfavorably to Harry Kane's during Bayern Munich's struggles, and even took a swipe at Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher for selective media criticism.

Salah's frustration stems from a sharp dip in form—four goals and two assists in 13 league appearances this season, a far cry from his 29-goal haul in last term's title triumph—and Slot's tactical shift toward a more defensive setup that has seen the Reds look marginally sharper without him (one win, two draws in his last three absences). "I have done so much for this club... I think it is very clear that someone wanted me to get all of the blame," he insisted, hinting that next weekend's home clash with Brighton could be his Anfield farewell before departing for the Africa Cup of Nations on December 15.

The backlash has been swift and severe. Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy labeled Salah's remarks "making it all about him," arguing they undermine team unity at a pivotal juncture with Champions League ties against Real Madrid and Manchester City looming. Pundits Tony Cascarino and Alex Crook on talkSPORT called the comments "embarrassing" and "not happy," with Cascarino adding, "You think you're immune to criticism... well you're not!" Michael Owen, another ex-Reds forward, echoed the sentiment, slamming Salah for disrespecting Slot and his teammates. The Athletic described the outburst as "selfish and disrespectful," questioning why Salah couldn't "grin and bear" it until after Afcon.

Club sources are reportedly "furious," demanding a public apology from Salah to quell the civil war erupting at Anfield. Whispers of a January exit to Saudi Arabia—where Al-Ittihad's £150m bid was rebuffed in 2023—have resurfaced, with insiders suggesting either Salah or Slot could depart to resolve the impasse. Betting markets have already shifted, with odds on the next Liverpool manager tightening amid Slot's nine losses in 15 games.

Slot, speaking post-match, defended his selections as pragmatic amid Liverpool's crisis: "We have to accept the situation... I make my choices based on that." He is expected to address the rift directly in the coming days, potentially benching Salah for Tuesday's Champions League showdown with Inter Milan as punishment.

As Liverpool grapple with their unraveling campaign—two wins in their last 10 across all competitions—Salah's words have amplified the sense of implosion. With Afcon potentially sidelining him until late January, the Egyptian's Anfield legacy hangs in the balance, his once-unbreakable bond with the club now fractured beyond repair.

Key Quotes from Salah's Interview:

On feeling scapegoated: "I think it is very clear that someone wanted me to get all of the blame."

On Slot: "All of a sudden, we don’t have any relationship."

On his future: "I don’t know what is going to happen next."

Social media erupted, with #SalahOut and #SlotOut trending on X, amassing over 1.2 million mentions in 24 hours. Fans remain divided: some decry his "diva" antics, while others back his right to speak amid the Reds' woes.

Manchester City Close In on Premier League Leaders Arsenal with Convincing 3-0 Victory Over Sunderland

 Manchester City reignited their Premier League title charge with a dominant 3-0 home win over high-flying Sunderland at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, reducing the gap to table-toppers Arsenal to just two points after 15 games.

The Citizens, who entered the match on the back of narrow escapes against Leeds United and Fulham, produced one of their most assured performances of the season under Pep Guardiola. Goals from Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, and Phil Foden sealed a comprehensive victory, while Sunderland's challenge crumbled after a red card to substitute Luke O'Nien in stoppage time.

The breakthrough came in the 38th minute when defender Ruben Dias unleashed a stunning 25-yard strike – just his sixth goal for City – that rocketed into the top corner, leaving Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs rooted to the spot. The Black Cats, who started the day in fifth place on the back of a strong return to the top flight, had barely regrouped before Gvardiol doubled the lead three minutes later, rising highest to head home a pinpoint corner from Bernardo Silva.

Sunderland showed flickers of fight early in the second half, with Adama Traore testing City's defense on the break, but the game was put beyond doubt in the 62nd minute. French winger Rayan Cherki, in a moment of sheer brilliance, delivered an outrageous rabona cross from the right flank, which Foden met with a clinical header – his fifth goal in three league games and a testament to his red-hot form.

The result marks City's seventh consecutive Premier League home win against Sunderland and their third straight victory in the league, propelling them to 31 points and second place. Arsenal's shock 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa earlier in the day – sealed by Emiliano Buendia's 95th-minute winner – handed Guardiola's side a golden opportunity, which they grasped with both hands.

Post-match, Guardiola hailed the performance as "one of the best of the season," praising Cherki's "magical" assist and the defensive solidity that kept a clean sheet. "We needed this control after those scares," the City boss said. "Now we look to Madrid [in the Champions League] with confidence, but the Premier League is our focus – two points is nothing."

Sunderland, slipping to seventh with 25 points, can point to a valiant effort but rued their slow start and the late dismissal of O'Nien for a reckless challenge on Matheus Nunes. Manager Michael Beale admitted, "We came here to compete, but City's quality was too much today. We'll learn and bounce back."

With the Africa Cup of Nations looming from December 21, City will hope to maintain this momentum ahead of a midweek trip to Real Madrid in the Champions League. Fans at the Etihad were treated to a masterclass, chanting "Champions again" as the final whistle blew – a reminder that the title race is far from over.

Key Match Stats:

Possession: Man City 68% – Sunderland 32%

Shots (on target): Man City 18 (7) – Sunderland 6 (2)

Corners: Man City 9 – Sunderland 3

Fouls: Man City 8 – Sunderland 12

Man of the Match: Rayan Cherki (Man City)

Beloved Actor Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Iconic Shang Tsung in ‘Mortal Kombat,’ Passes Away at 75 from Stroke Complications

The entertainment world mourns the loss of Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, the versatile and unforgettable actor best known for his chilling portrayal of the villainous sorcerer Shang Tsung in the Mortal Kombat film franchise, who passed away peacefully at his home on December 4, 2025, at the age of 75. Tagawa died from complications following a recent stroke, as confirmed by his longtime manager, Margie Weiner.

Born on September 27, 1950, in Tokyo, Japan, to a Japanese stage actress mother and a Japanese-American U.S. Army veteran father, Tagawa spent his formative years navigating life in the American South and Hawaii. A martial arts enthusiast who trained in kendo and Shotokan karate, he honed his skills at the University of Southern California and later developed his own Chun-Shin style, which he taught throughout his life. Tagawa's journey to stardom was unconventional; after odd jobs as a celery farmer, limousine driver, and photojournalist, he entered acting at age 36, defying his mother's advice against pursuing a field with limited opportunities for Asian performers.

Tagawa's career spanned over 150 roles across film, television, and video games, captivating audiences with his commanding presence and depth. His breakthrough came in Bernardo Bertolucci's Oscar-winning The Last Emperor (1987) as the emperor's driver, followed by unforgettable turns in Rising Sun (1993) alongside Sean Connery and Wesley Snipes. But it was his magnetic villainy as Shang Tsung in Mortal Kombat (1995) and its 1997 sequel that cemented his pop culture legacy, a role he reprised in the 2013 web series Mortal Kombat: Legacy and the 2019 video game Mortal Kombat 11. Fans and creators alike hailed his performance for blending menace with charisma, with Mortal Kombat co-creator Ed Boon tweeting, "We lost a legend today. Cary brought Shang Tsung to life in ways we'll never forget."

Tagawa's filmography reads like a Hollywood hall of fame: the ruthless businessman in The Art of War (2000), the wise Baron in Memoirs of a Geisha (2005), the enigmatic Nobusuke Tagomi in Amazon's The Man in the High Castle (2015–2018)—a role he described as mirroring his own search for inner peace—and appearances in blockbusters like Pearl Harbor (2001), Planet of the Apes (2001), Elektra (2005), and 47 Ronin (2013). On television, he shone as the cunning Kam Chin in Nash Bridges and as the vengeful mentor Satoshi Takeda in Revenge. His voice work extended to animated gems like Kubo and the Two Strings (2016) and video games, including Tekken.

A father of three—Calen, Brynne, and Cana—and grandfather to River and Thea Clayton, Tagawa shared his life with his wife, Sally, on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, where he embraced his cultural roots and advocated for Asian representation in media. "Cary was more than a client; he was family," Weiner said. "His resilience, humor, and profound humanity touched everyone he met. Though he faced challenges, including racism in the Jim Crow South, he channeled them into art that inspired generations."

Tributes have poured in from peers and fans worldwide. Director Paul W.S. Anderson, who helmed the original Mortal Kombat, shared, "Cary infused Shang Tsung with a soul that made evil unforgettable. Rest in power, brother." The gaming community, in particular, has rallied with #ThankYouCary trending on X, amassing millions of posts celebrating his enduring impact.

A private memorial will be held for family and close friends in Santa Barbara. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to the Japan Karate Association or the Asian American Actors Fund to support emerging talents.

Tagawa's legacy as a trailblazer, warrior, and storyteller will live on, reminding us—as he once said—of the lizard-like adaptability that defined his extraordinary life.

“Why My Mother Named Me After a ‘Lizard’” – Veteran Actor Antar Laniyan Reveals the Whimsical Cultural Story Behind His Unique Name in Exclusive Interview

 Nollywood icon and thespian Antar Laniyan has captivated audiences once again, this time not with a dramatic script or on-screen charisma, but with a deeply personal and humorous anecdote about the origins of his unconventional name. In a candid interview aired on Cool FM Lagos on December 6, the 70-year-old actor, producer, and broadcaster shared the charming tale of why his mother chose to name him after a "lizard," shedding light on the playful yet profound cultural traditions that shaped his identity.

Laniyan, best known for his commanding roles in classics like Living in Bondage and Wale Adenuga's Super Story, recounted the story with infectious laughter: "My mother named me Antar because, in our Yoruba culture, names carry stories, omens, and a bit of mischief. She saw a lizard scurrying across the compound the day I was born—quick, resilient, and always adapting. Lizards don't die easily; they shed their skin and keep going. She wanted me to have that spirit: unyielding, clever, and full of life. So, Antar it was—a nod to the swift-footed warrior from Arabian folklore, but with a local twist, like the lizard that outsmarts the world."

The revelation, delivered during a segment on the radio show hosted by the late OAP Tolu "Toolz" Oniru-Demuren, has resonated widely, blending folklore with family lore. Laniyan elaborated that his full name, Antar Laniyan, draws from the legendary pre-Islamic poet and warrior Antarah ibn Shaddad, symbolizing bravery and eloquence. Yet, the "lizard" connection—rooted in the Yoruba word for the creature's agility (alangba)—adds a layer of everyday magic. "It's not just a name; it's a blueprint for survival in Nollywood and life," he quipped, crediting it for his five-decade career spanning theater, film, and television.

The interview has sparked a wave of nostalgia and discussion on social media, with fans sharing their own naming stories under #NameLikeALizard and #AntarLaniyanTales. Celebrities like Jide Kosoko and Funke Akindele have praised Laniyan's storytelling prowess, with Akindele posting, "Uncle Antar's lizard wisdom just leveled up my day! Legends name legends." The clip has garnered over 1 million views on YouTube and X, trending nationwide and reminding audiences of the rich oral traditions that fuel Nigerian creativity.

Laniyan, a founding member of the Association of Nigerian Theatre-Arts Practitioners (ANTP) and recipient of multiple industry awards, used the moment to advocate for preserving cultural narratives in modern media. "In a world of quick trends, let's not forget the stories that make us who we are—like a lizard clinging to the wall, holding on through the storm."

Fans eager to hear more can catch Laniyan's upcoming guest spot on EbonyLife TV's cultural series Roots & Wings, airing December 15.