Yes, Persons With Disabilities Are Also Vulnerable To HIV - Dr Folakemi Animashaun, CEO Lagos AIDS Control Agency

The chief executive officer(CEO) , Lagos AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), Dr Folakemi Animashaun, has debunked the myth that persons with disabilities are less likely to be vulnerable to HIV because of perceived less sexual activity within the disabled community, saying that everyone who is exposed to the virus, whether abled body or with disability, is vulnerable to HIV.

Dr Animashaun made this disclosure while speaking on an exclusive chat with Lagos Today Extra!, on the sideline of a one-day awareness and sensitization programme organized for persons with disabilities in the state on HIV prevention and management.

The programme, held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), brought together members of the hearing and visually impaired community, stakeholders, and advocates to enhance awareness on HIV prevention, promote disability-inclusive healthcare services, and address the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in accessing HIV-related information and support.

“Yes, persons with disabilities are also vulnerable to HIV. Whether you are abled body or living with disability, if you are exposed to HIV, you are vulnerable to the virus,” Dr Animashaun told our correspondent.

She added that even though the agency was still working out the data to find out the percentage of PWDs among those living with HIV in Lagos state, there was no denying the fact that anyone exposed to the virus is vulnerable to HIV, whether abled body or with disability.

“And that’s why we are organising this event specifically for those living with disabilities. We want them to know how to find out if they or their partners are HIV positive and what to do if they are, how to reduce the viral load through medication and also how to avoid discriminating against those who are HIV positive,” she further added.

She revealed that participants in the programme are also taught how to recognise and avoid domestic violence, stressing that  even though it may not be rampant in the disability community, cases of domestic violence are rampant in the larger society.

“People who knew that their partners are positive and willingly go into the marriage, end up inflicting domestic violence on such partners. We are also using this sensitization event to discourage such attitudes,” she said.

The Ceo of LSACA said information materials for the programme have been specifically processed into formats that are accessible to the participants. “In this event, we have participants from both the visually and the hearing impaired communities. And to ensure that the information is properly digested by participants, we have them presented in formats that each group can easily access. For those with visual impairment, we have the information in brail while there is a sign language interpreter on ground to pass the message to those with hearing impairment,” she stated.

On issues of stigma, Animashaun said LSACA is there to mediate for those who are being stigmatized or discriminated on because they are HIV positive. She said the agency is there for people to report to and get justice.

According to her, being a person with disability in Lagos does not exclude one from knowing what one should know concerning HIV, hence the need to have a separate awareness programme for persons with disabilities. “The mantra from His Excellency, Babajide Sanwo-Olu  is that no one should be left behind and at LSACA, we have keyed in to that policy direction of inclusivity. So we have the mandate to ensure that anyone with disability in Lagos has the basic knowledge  of HIV, knows how to interact with those living with HIV, and how to prevent themselves from contracting the virus. We are also here to make participants understand that those who have the virus must not transmit it to others and that they are taking their medications regularly,” she said.

Earlier, during his presentation, Mr Michael Essien, one of the facilitators, outlined the main modes of HIV transmission to include unprotected sexual intercourse, mother to baby transmission during pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding, as well as sharing of sharp objects that have been used to pierce the body, and through blood transfusion.

“The prevention for sexually transmitted HIV is either proper and consistent use of condoms during sex, abstinence , or faithfulness to partners,” he said, adding that pregnant women should regularly take their medications to avoid transmitting the virus to their baby either in the womb, during delivery or in the process of breastfeeding. He also advised participants to avoid sharing sharp objects like syringes, needles and hair clippers, while patients going for blood transfusion should make sure that the blood they are using is certified by the Lagos state government.

Another facilitator, Dr Sule Omolola, while making her own presentation, said The right of persons to access healthcare should not be violated, adding that this happens when someone is denied access to healthcare because of their disability status.

“If, for instance, a hearing impaired patient goes to a healthcare facility and the medical personnel says the patient should go home and bring a family member as an interpreter, it is very wrong. Such a family member may not only end up disclosing the HIV status of the patient to others but may also start giving the patient instructions on what to do and what not to do, most of which may not be medically correct,” she said, adding  that people who are vulnerable to HIV and largely depend on others for their livelihood, often lack access to healthcare and this increases their vulnerability as well as transmitting the virus to others.

Dr Sule said the fear of negative attitudes of healthcare workers is a big barrier in the way of most patients trying to access such healthcare.

She also revealed that women and girls are at greater risk of gender based violence within the disability community. “Women and girls are at greater risk of gender based violence and this is often committed by care givers and family members,” she said adding   that such a situation could lead to physical injury, HIV infection and unwanted pregnancy.

“Some of these care givers may withhold access to mobility aids and insist that they would not release them to you unless you obey them. This becomes double burden because first you are with disability and now, you are being denied access to healthcare,” she further stated.   

Dr Sule also informed participants that most of these atrocities against persons with disabilities stem from cultural myths, saying that in some societies, there is the dangerous belief that if one have sex with a person with disability, one would be cured of one’s HIV, while some people also believe that having sex with a disabled person would make them wealthy. These myths, she said, fuel the risk of gender base violence and risk of HIV infection among persons with disabilities.

Clarifying the relationship between stigma and discrimination, Dr Sule said stigma occurs in the mind, when people begin to have negative thoughts about others because of their gender, health or disability status while discrimination sets in when such stigma is translated into action by isolating such people. Stigma, she said, feeds disability because if someone is isolated due to stigma and discrimination, they become economically disadvantaged and have to rely on others and when this happens, it leads to vulnerability that may end up with the person involved contracting the virus and unknowingly transmitting it to others.

Dr Sule, however, said even though there are several barriers on the way of persons with disabilities accessing healthcare, they have rights under the law to overcome these barriers if they report to agencies like the LSACA or the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA)whenever they perceive that those rights are being violated, whether by family members, care givers or healthcare providers.

The event featured demonstrations on how to properly use both the male and female condoms as well as on-the-spot self saliva HIV test carried out by participants themselves to know their HIV status.

Some of the participants who spoke with Lagos Today Extra!, said they benefited a lot from the event, promising to cascade the information they got down to their various disability communities when they get back.

“I have learnt so many things about HIV today. For instance, I did not know until today that I could carry out a self test all by myself. This is a good thing because it ensures confidentiality and reduces the likelihood of stigma in the event of a negative test. Again, I learnt of the many legal avenues at our disposal when our rights are being violated in our quest to have access to healthcare as persons with disabilities,” one of the participants who gave her name as Ola, said.

“The sessions were very interactive. We had opportunities to ask and answer questions. I have learnt so much today and when I get back, I will cascade the information I have gathered down to my community so that those who are not here can also benefit from the information,” another participant stated.

Cross sections of participants at the event

 

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Lagos Government Orders Immediate Evacuation Of Waste Across The State

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed an immediate scale-up of waste evacuation operations across the state following growing concerns over the accumulation of refuse in some areas.

The state government, in a statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gbenga Akosile, acknowledged residents’ complaints and assured Lagosians that efforts were underway to restore normal waste collection services.

According to the statement, relevant agencies and service providers have been mobilised to work round the clock to clear waste backlogs and improve sanitation across affected communities.

“The Lagos State Government acknowledges the concerns of residents regarding the recent accumulation of refuse in some parts of the state and wishes to assure Lagosians that the situation is receiving the highest level of attention from Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the entire machinery of government.

“We are not oblivious to the inconveniences and concerns occasioned by the situation. Lagosians deserve a clean, healthy and environmentally sustainable city, and this administration remains fully committed to delivering on that obligation,” the statement read.

Akosile said additional resources had been deployed to support waste evacuation efforts, while strategic interventions were being implemented to strengthen operational efficiency and improve waste collection and disposal.

He added that the governor had directed the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, the Lagos Waste Management Authority, the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency and other relevant agencies to intensify their operations.

The government noted that Lagos generates about 13,000 tonnes of waste daily, making it one of the highest waste-producing cities on the African continent.

While describing the current situation as temporary, the government said substantial progress had already been recorded in some locations and promised further improvements in the coming days.

“We wish to reassure residents that this challenge is temporary. Indeed, substantial progress is already being recorded in several locations, and more improvements will become visible across the state in the days ahead,” he added.

The government also urged residents, market associations, businesses and community leaders to support sanitation efforts by disposing of waste properly and avoiding activities that obstruct drainage channels, roads and designated waste collection points.

It reiterated its commitment to maintaining environmental standards and protecting public health across the state.

  

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Fire Guts Polaris Bank Building On Lagos Island

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has extinguished a fire outbreak that occurred on the third floor of the Polaris Bank Building on Broad Street, Lagos Island.

The incident, which happened at about 11:33 a.m. on Thursday, involved a stationary saloon car parked on the third floor of the 17-storey building, which also serves as a parking facility.

In a statement issued by the Controller General of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, firefighters from the Ebute Elefun and Sari Iganmu fire stations were deployed to the scene immediately after the alert.

“The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has successfully extinguished a fire outbreak that occurred on the 3rd floor of the Polaris Bank Building, located at 61/65 Broad Street, Lagos Island.

“The only damage recorded was to the affected vehicle and its immediate surroundings. No casualties or injuries were reported,” she said.

Authorities have not disclosed the cause of the fire as of the time of filing this report.

  

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Seadogs, Firefighters Take Fire Prevention Awareness To Residents Of Amuwo-Odofin

The Federal Fire Service (FFS)

Fire safety professionals and the National Association of Seadogs (NAS) have called on Nigerians to be more conscious of the causes of fire outbreaks, stressing that prevention remains the most effective strategy against fire disasters.

The appeal was made during a fire safety sensitisation campaign organised by NAS in partnership with the Lagos State Command of the Federal Fire Service at Mile 2 Estate in Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area of Lagos State.
The organisers noted that while some fire incidents occur accidentally, many are caused by negligence, ignorance and failure to observe basic safety precautions.

Delivering a lecture on the causes and prevention of fire outbreaks in homes, the Operations Officer of Festac Fire Station, Mr. Oghene Michael, explained that fires are classified according to the nature of combustible materials involved and therefore require different methods of control and extinguishing.
He identified cooking gas, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), furniture, clothing, curtains and rugs among common combustible and flammable materials found in homes, warning that such materials can ignite easily under certain conditions.

According to him, substances in gaseous form are particularly dangerous because of their low ignition thresholds and ability to spread rapidly.
“Anything with a high flashpoint has a lower risk of ignition when exposed to heat. It is not the material itself that burns, but the vapour it produces. That is why substances in a gaseous state are generally more dangerous than those in liquid or solid forms,” he said.

Michael advised residents to identify and manage potential ignition sources, including matchsticks, lighters, faulty electrical connections, defective appliances and excessive heat.
As part of preventive measures, he urged parents to keep matches and lighters away from children, regularly inspect cooking gas cylinders and hoses, and ensure that kitchens and electrical installations are properly maintained.

He also encouraged good housekeeping practices, including the disposal of unused furniture, electrical appliances and other combustible materials that may obstruct escape routes during emergencies.
In the event of a fire outbreak, he advised occupants to evacuate immediately and contact the nearest fire service station without delay.

He cautioned against using water to extinguish fires involving petroleum products such as petrol, diesel, kerosene and cooking oil, noting that water could worsen such fires by spreading the burning substance.
Similarly, he warned against using water on electrical fires without first disconnecting the power source to avoid electrocution.

Michael explained that Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) fire extinguishers are best suited for flammable liquid and electrical fires, particularly in kitchens and locations containing sensitive electronic equipment, as they leave no residue after use.
He added that Dry Chemical Powder (DCP) extinguishers are effective against fires involving solid materials, flammable liquids and gases, making them suitable for homes, garages and other multi-risk environments.

The fire safety session also featured a practical demonstration by personnel of the Federal Fire Service, including Festac Station Commander, Oyibode Idowu; Operations Officer, Oghene Michael; and Drill Officer, Adebayo Sodiku, who simulated fire outbreak and suppression procedures for residents.
Earlier, the Head of NAS Festac Chapter (Saratoga Deck), Mr. Emeka Achonu, said the sensitisation programme formed part of the association’s quarterly community outreach activities for 2026.

He explained that NAS chapters worldwide regularly organise free advocacy programmes, health interventions and public enlightenment campaigns aimed at improving the well-being of communities and promoting human dignity.
As part of the initiative, the association donated firefighting equipment to the Mile 2 Estate community to strengthen local emergency response capacity.

  

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Lagos NDC Governorship Primary Controversy: ‘I Remain NDC Authentic Governorship Candidate' - Balogun Assures Supporters, Urges Calm

Amidst the internal tensions over the outcome of its governorship primary in Lagos state, with competing claims and allegations threatening to deepen divisions within the party , the Lagos State governorship candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Naheem Balogun, has assured supporters that he remains the party’s authentic flag bearer for the 2027 election, dismissing reports suggesting that another candidate has emerged with the ticket.

Balogun gave the assurance yesterday while receiving party faithful and supporters who turned out to welcome him on his return from a short trip to the United States.

The NDC hopeful expressed appreciation for the show of support, describing the turnout as a source of encouragement and motivation.

He reiterated the need for calm among party members, insisting that he remains the duly recognised governorship candidate of the party.

“I urge all our supporters not to be distracted by rumours and misinformation. Remain calm, focused and steadfast. The mandate given to us by party members cannot be taken away through speculation and propaganda.

“I will continue to protect the interests of our supporters and the NDC faithful. I will not take any decision affecting our collective future without consulting stakeholders across Lagos State. This project belongs to the people, and together we will determine its direction,” he said.

Balogun thanked party members across the state’s local government areas for their continued support and sacrifices, describing their commitment as the foundation of the movement he represents.

He also reassured supporters of his commitment to pursuing the matter through legitimate party channels while safeguarding the interests of those who have stood by him.

The NDC has in recent weeks been embroiled in internal tensions over the outcome of its governorship primary, with competing claims and allegations threatening to deepen divisions within the party.

The party chieftain urged members to remain united and avoid actions capable of weakening the NDC ahead of future political contests.

Balogun’s grassroots influence and the public show of support are expected to intensify discussions over the party’s next steps as members await clarity on the governorship ticket.

Meanwhile, his return and the reception organised by supporters underscored his continued influence within sections of the NDC grassroots structure in Lagos State.

  

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No Bandits Presence On Our Campus - Pan-Atlantic University, As Lagos Police Command Deploys Surveillance Drones

Pan-Atlantic University (PAU), Lekki, Lagos State, has declared its campus safe and directed students to resume normal academic and social activities after

an intensive overnight security operation triggered by reports of suspected bandit-like men within the institution's premises.

The development comes less than 24 hours after the university instructed students to remain indoors while a joint security operation involving the Nigeria

Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Navy combed the campus and surrounding areas following security

concerns.

In an emergency advisory issued late Tuesday, the university’s Student Council said it was working closely with the institution’s management and security

authorities to ensure the safety of students as security operatives carried out a comprehensive sweep of the campus.

The advisory, addressed to all undergraduates, also acknowledged rising concerns over the presence of “unauthorised individuals” within the university

premises.

However, on Wednesday, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, led operational personnel of the command on an on-the-spot security

assessment visit to Pan-Atlantic University following the circulation of a viral video showing two masked individuals emerging from a forested area adjoining

the institution.

According to the Lagos State Police Command, the visit was aimed at assessing the security situation and strengthening measures already put in place to

safeguard lives and property within and around the university community.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Lagos State Command, SP Abimbola Adebisi.

During the visit, CP Fatai met with the university's management and stressed the need to continuously improve the institution's security architecture in

order to prevent future security breaches.

The police commissioner advised the management on practical measures to strengthen security across the campus and urged the institution to adopt more proactive

approaches to safety.

"He advised on practical measures to tighten security across the institution. He also stressed the importance of avoiding acts of self-sabotage that could

undermine existing security efforts," Adebisi said.

As part of efforts to support ongoing security operations in the area, the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), with the support of the Lagos State

Government, has deployed surveillance drones to the axis.

According to the police, the drones will enhance aerial surveillance, intelligence gathering and crime prevention efforts within and around the university

environment.

"The deployment, facilitated by the Lagos State Government, is aimed at strengthening aerial surveillance, intelligence gathering, and crime prevention

within and around the area," Adebisi said.

CP Fatai reassured the university management, staff, students and parents of the command's commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property across

Lagos State.

He further urged the institution to take proactive measures towards improving perimeter security, strengthening access control mechanisms and maintaining

close collaboration with security agencies.

"CP Tijani reassured the management, staff, students, and parents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property across

Lagos State,” the statement said.

“He urged the institution to take proactive steps towards improving perimeter security, enhancing access control measures, and maintaining close collaboration

with security agencies."

The Lagos State Police Command reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace, public safety and security across the state and called on residents to remain

vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information.

  

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Why I Can Never Marry A Nigerian - DJ Coppi

Nigerian disc jockey and media personality Florence Ifeoluwa Otedola, popularly known as DJ Cuppy, has opened up on why she cannot marry a Nigerian.

While speaking during a recent discussion, Cuppy explained that her decision stems from her previous experience with an individual who was more interested in meeting her father than building a genuine relationship with her.

She stressed that the experience often makes her question the intentions of some men who approached her.

“I can never marry a Nigerian. It’s impossible. The last one I dated was asking me when he could meet my dad. I didn’t even think they liked me. My dad doesn’t even care who I marry; he just wants me to get married and that’s why I’m so happy for Temi and Eazi,” she stated.

DJ Cuppy has always maintained that she views marriage as a powerful spiritual covenant and life partnership rather than an outdated institution. She has strongly advocated for waiting for the right person instead of rushing into marriage due to societal pressure, and she actively seeks a low-key, genuine connection over status or wealth.

Following her sister Temi’s wedding, she expressed that marriage isn't outdated but rather a union that pulls couples closer to their purpose and builds love and legacy when done with the right person. 

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Rite Foods Takes Environmental Education To Schools In Lagos, Ogun States

As part of activities marking the 2026 World Environment Day, Rite Foods Limited has engaged students in practical environmental education, tree-planting, and recycling awareness programmes across Lagos and Ogun states, reaffirming its commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action.

The firm brought together students, teachers, and community stakeholders at Opebi Senior Grammar School, Ikeja, Lagos, and Moslem Primary School, Ososa, Ogun State, to promote environmental responsibility, sustainable living, and circular economic practices among young people.

The company announced this in a statement on Saturday.

According to the statement, the initiative featured interactive sustainability sessions with students and teachers focused on proper waste management, recycling, water conservation, and environmental stewardship.

“Students also participated in tree-planting exercises designed to encourage afforestation and carbon dioxide capture and instil a lifelong commitment to protecting the environment,” the statement read in part.

Speaking during the programme tagged ‘Plant the Future’, the Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Rite Foods Limited, Ekuma Eze, stressed the importance of equipping young people with the knowledge and values needed to address environmental challenges.

According to him, climate change remains one of the most pressing issues facing the world today, making it imperative for organisations, communities, and individuals to take deliberate actions that safeguard the environment.

“Environmental sustainability begins with awareness and responsibility. By catching them young and teaching them the importance of protecting the environment, they become ambassadors of positive change within their homes and communities. We must therefore take intentional steps today to ensure we leave a healthier planet for future generations,” said Eze, who further highlighted Rite Foods’ broader sustainability agenda, including its recently launched Waste-Is-Naira initiative in partnership with RecyclePoints.

He explained that the programme enables residents to exchange used plastic bottles and beverage cans for cash while promoting responsible waste management and advancing circular economy practices.

Also speaking at the event, the Health, Safety and Environment Manager at Rite Foods Limited, Timilehin Ajibola, emphasised the strong link between environmental sustainability, community development, and long-term business growth.

“Our goal is to remain in business for the next century and beyond. Achieving that requires collective responsibility in protecting our environment through simple actions such as conserving water, disposing of waste properly, and planting trees that will benefit future generations. A healthy environment creates healthier communities, supports learning, and contributes to sustainable economic development,” he stated.

Speaking on the initiative, the Chief Executive Officer of Kazih Kits Limited, Dr Chinedu Azih, explained that recycling offers practical solutions to environmental challenges while unlocking opportunities for social impact.

“Many of the materials people discard every day still have economic and social value. Through innovation and recycling, plastic bottles and product wrappers can be transformed into school bags and other useful products that support education, reduce pollution, and contribute to a more sustainable future,” she said.

Commending the initiative, the head teacher of Moslem Primary School, Ososa, Lawal Oladele, described environmental education as vital to raising responsible future citizens.

  

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Residents Of Surulere Petition Reps Member Over Road Project

Residents of Anjorin Community Development Association in Surulere, Lagos State, have petitioned their federal lawmaker, Lanre Okunola, over what they described as poor execution and prolonged delay in the construction of the Anjorin Street road project.

The petition, signed by CDA Chairman Kehinde Okelade, accused contractors of substandard work, lack of professional supervision, and abandonment of sections of the project since work commenced in 2024.

Okelade said residents had endured months of disruption after the initial clearing of drainage channels began in August 2024, but no meaningful construction followed for an extended period.

“Sometime in August 2024, clearing of drainage commenced on Anjorin as preparation for the construction of the road. However, it was not until June 2025 that we noticed the breaking of culverts in front of buildings,” he said.

Democracy Day Protesters Converge at Ikeja Under Bridge

He alleged that when construction eventually resumed, the materials and methods used fell below acceptable standards.

“We observed that the iron rods used for the construction were so tiny, below the required specifications, and the work was being executed by mallams without any engineer on site for supervision,” Okelade said.

He also raised concerns about supervision and interference in the project, alleging that individuals without technical qualifications were directing workers on-site.

“We noticed one of the notable CDA members from Ramoni Ward, by name Ayo, was the one supervising the construction… the said Ayo is not an engineer and does not have any qualification known to us for handling road construction,” he added.

According to the residents, construction activities have also disrupted access to adjoining streets without consultation.

“Ayo instructed the mallams to dig up the Akanji road junction by Anjorin, thereby preventing residents of Akanji from accessing their street. The action was taken without formally informing the CDA or the residents,” the petition stated.

The CDA compared the ongoing project with neighbouring roads, alleging uneven standards of execution.

“The construction of Onadeko was attested by residents of our CDA as the best road construction in Surulere. Sadly, Anjorin Street… is being poorly constructed and will likely fail just as we are currently experiencing with Cole Street,” Okelade said.

He urged the lawmaker to intervene directly by inspecting the project and ensuring accountability in the use of public funds.

“As leaders within the community, we have been receiving so many complaints from residents regarding the state of Cole Street and also Anjorin… which has been ongoing for about two years,” he said.

  

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How Air Force Officers Beat Driver To Death Along Oshodi-Apapa Expressway Over Minor Crash

A 43-year-old commercial bus driver, Joseph Okpe, has died after he was allegedly beaten by a group of officers of the Nigerian Air Force following a dispute over a minor traffic incident involving their vehicle.

It was gathered that the incident occurred on May 9 along the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway, where the officers allegedly assaulted the deceased.

Details of the incident were contained in an Affidavit of Facts filed before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in the Maitama Judicial Division.

According to the affidavit, deposed to by the deceased’s brother, Innocent Okpe, Joseph was carrying out his duties as a commercial bus driver when he was accosted by Air Force personnel travelling in a Coaster bus with registration number GO 1–14AF.

The officers allegedly accused him of hitting their vehicle and demanded N100,000 as compensation for the damage.

When Okpe could not provide the money, the officers allegedly descended on him, repeatedly punching and battering his face and head until he nearly lost consciousness.

It was further gathered that the assault only stopped after passersby and fellow commercial drivers intervened and pleaded with the officers.

According to the document, the bystanders also offered to raise N50,000 to compensate for the damage to the vehicle.

After the officers left the scene and continued their journey, Okpe was reportedly rushed to several hospitals but was allegedly denied treatment.

A source familiar with the incident, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter, said Okpe was eventually taken to Charing Cross Clinic in Mushin, Lagos, where he was pronounced dead at about 5pm.

“The incident happened sometime after 3pm. He was taken to several hospitals, but they refused to admit him.

“They got to the last hospital around 5pm, and he was pronounced dead there. He died the same day.

“The incident was immediately reported at the Ilasa Police Division.

“The matter is currently being handled by the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, Yaba, after it was transferred from the Ilasa division,” the source said.

A Medical Certificate of Cause of Death signed by Dr Okechukwu Ogboo of Charing Cross Clinic, Mushin, and dated May 13, 2026, listed the primary cause of death as “severe head injury,” while the secondary cause was stated as “pulmonary failure until his death.”

Okpe left behind three children and a wife. When contacted on Monday, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, CSP Abimbola Adebisi, said she would find out about the incident and provide an update on the matter.

However, she had yet to do so as of the time this report was filed.

  

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