LAWMA Kicks Off Operation 'Show Your PSP Payment Receipt' In Apapa-Iganmu Council Area

The Lagos Waste Management Authority has announced a compliance operation requiring residents and businesses in Apapa-Iganmu communities to present proof of payment to their assigned Private Sector Participant waste operators.

The initiative, tagged “Show Your PSP Payment Receipt,” was disclosed in a statement shared on the Lagos State Government’s official social media platforms on Monday.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the exercise was designed to address indiscriminate waste disposal and identify properties without valid waste collection arrangements.

According to the statement, the operation would involve routine compliance checks across residential and commercial premises.

“The initiative was designed to tackle the root causes of indiscriminate waste disposal by verifying property-level compliance with Private Sector Participant waste collection payment obligations.

“The operation would involve routine checks requiring residents, commercial premises, and business operators to present evidence of registration and payment to their assigned PSP operators,” the statement partly read.

Gbadegesin explained that the measure would help close service gaps contributing to illegal dumping and blackspot formation across the axis.

“He stated that the exercise would help identify properties without valid PSP arrangements and close service gaps that contribute to illegal dumping and blackspot formation,” the statement read.

He urged residents and business operators within the Apapa-Iganmu corridor to regularise their PSP payments and maintain proper waste storage practices ahead of the enforcement drive.

  

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Outrage As Abdulganiyu Obasa Gives Palliative Of 3kg Gas Refill To Agege Residents

Social media users have expressed disappointment at the Chairman of Agege Local Government in Lagos State,
Abdulganiyu Vinod Obasa, following his announcement of a free 3kg cooking gas refill programme for 4,000 residents across the seven wards in Agege.

Obasa announced on X that the gesture is “part of our continued commitment to easing the daily burdens faced by our people.”

The intervention, commencing on Saturday, February 21, 2026, is designed to cushion the impact of rising gas prices, support vulnerable households, and provide immediate, practical relief at the grassroots.

Obasa stated that the slots have been fairly distributed across all seven wards, with designated gas stations assigned to ensure accessibility and inclusiveness.

The exercise will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis, and beneficiaries must bring their personal gas cylinders. Once the allocated slots for a ward are exhausted, the exercise will be concluded at that location.

“This initiative is one of several people-focused programmes we are implementing to improve quality of life, promote cleaner energy use, and demonstrate that governance must be felt where it matters most, in our homes and communities,” Obasa said.

However, the effort was dismissed by netizens who believe it solves nothing for the 4,000 beneficiaries in a local government with an estimated population of 683,600.

An X user, @ReformerOluseun, said, “What social problem will a 3kg gas refill intervention solve in Nigeria in 2026? What will be the long term impact of this programme, and what will be the outcome of such activity?”

@_astalavi_ said, “Provide jobs that will allow citizens not see free 3k gas as a helping hand from the LG. Affording to fill 8.5 gas and above should be the least of Nigerians, but this is Nigeria, this is all the lg chairman’s could come up with.”

@vira9ja said, “Free 3kg gas for 4,000 people sounds nice, but let’s not pretend this isca structural change. This is palliative politics. Good for the families who will benefit? Yes. But first come first served relief for a few thousand in a packed LGA like Agege is a drop in an ocean. Governance should not feel like a weekend giveaway… it should feel like stable prices, steady power, and real economic relief. Do the outreach, fine. But don’t package short-term charity asca long-term solution.”

@proudfada1 said, “Omo! This is the lowest I have seen in recent times. 3kg of gas that can’t go beyond 5/7 days, so what happens afterwards? I’m not disappointed, your dad shared loaf of bread during COVID. One day, when the masses are ready, they will free themselves from dis Nonsense. Enjoy.”

@McDoulous said, “I remembered when Rt Hon Obasa shared bread in Agege, you are sharing 3kg of gas. Why not do something sustainable for your people? After 3kg of gas, enu ma Gbe.”

@realkingnath said, “When are we going to ever come out of palliative government? Sharing 3kg of gas is not good governance; good governance is to tackle whatever makes 3kg of gas not affordable to the residents.”

@simply_adediran said, “Youth are the leaders of tomorrow… Tomorrow is here. Our Agege people deserve at least 3kg of gas. Is this how the Awolowos started? We still have a long way to go. What lasting impact can 3kg of gas provide? That amount is equivalent to N13.2 million gone down the drain. Truly, youth have a role in leadership.”

@Segunomowumi1 said, “When we thought citizens would have a new lease of life, with younger politicians, they are in for the worst. In this age, a politician is thinking of topping cooking gas and is celebrating. You are planning to keep them in perpetual poverty, so they would be useful for the election.”

 

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Flights Diverted Out Of Lagos As Fire Engulfs Murtala Muhammed International Airport

No fewer than four flights were diverted out of Lagos on Monday as serious fire outbreak engulfed the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Old Terminal.

Also, at least six persons were seriously injured and taken to a hospital as a result of the incident, which started at the server room of the airport.

Speaking on the incident, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr. Olubunmi Kuku, said that the collaborative efforts of other sister agencies helped to contain spread of the fire, which began at few minutes past 3pm.

She also said that 12 Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs) who were trapped as a result of the fire incident were later rescued.
According to her, some of the diverted flights included British Airways, Lufthansa and Emirates.
The flights were diverted to Abuja and Malabo in Equatorial Guinea.

She furry expressed that the fire incident started from the ground floor of the airport, but said the cause of the outbreak was unknown as of the time of the briefing.

She explained that FAAN had activated the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) and assured that the inferno would finally be put out in the next few hours, while flight services would resume immediately.
She said: “But I think what is critical is to make sure that the fire itself is controlled. Of course, investigations are ongoing. We were able to activate our emergency operating procedures and get everybody out of the building with no fatality due to all of the coordination done by sister agencies.
” In terms of all of the agencies that are coordinating, we do have standard procedures for all the agencies that are involved. And it differs by state, so that we get support from the states as well.

“British Airways was diverted to Abuja while Lufthansa to Malabo and, of course, Emirates flight. However, for travelling passengers, please note that in the next half an hour, our operations will be back up and running. So it’s okay to come into the airport if you have flight operations in the next couple of hours or in the next couple of days.”

However, it was learnt that the fire outbreak was caused by electrical faults from the server room before it escalated to other parts of the terminal.
The fire was contained by the firefighters from FAAN with assistance from the Lagos State Fire Service, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Nigeria Police.

The source said: “Our findings show that the fire was caused by an electrical fault from the server room at the terminal. As you are aware, work is ongoing at the terminal, but I believe FAAN will critically investigate the fire incident.

“So far, we have been able to contain it through the assistance of other sister agencies like the Lagos State fire service, FRSC, NSCDC, police and others. However, the incident will not affect the ongoing work at the terminal.”

Earlier, FAAN in a statement by its Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, confirmed the incident.

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) had in August approved the sum of N712 billion for the full rehabilitation, upgrade, and modernisation of the terminal.

The project, awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), is expected to strip the old terminal down to its structural core before rebuilding it with new mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.

The project, funded entirely through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, is expected to be executed over a period of 22 months.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, had said: “We have decided to strip it down to only the carcass and then do the complete M&E again.”

He emphasised the administration’s departure from patchwork repairs towards comprehensive overhaul of key aviation facilities.

  

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Lagos Jerks Up BRT Fares By 13 Percent

The Lagos state government has approved a 13 per cent increase in fares across Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) schemes, including Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and standard routes.

This was made known in a statement by the state government.

The statement said operators were also investing in newer, cleaner and more fuel-efficient buses to improve service delivery, enhance passenger comfort

and promote environmental sustainability.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu granted the approval, following appeals by regulated public transport operators, who cited rising operational costs and concerns

over the sustainability of transit services amid prevailing economic pressures.

The revised fare structure will take effect from March 2.

The government said the adjustment was intended to cushion the impact of sustained economic challenges on public transport operations, adding that it aligned

with the state’s approved annual fare review mechanism.

The statement said the review was necessitated by persistent inflationary trends, noting that Nigeria’s inflation rate closed 2025 at 15.2 per cent, according

to data from the National Bureau of Statistics.

Bus Operating Companies (BOCs), the government said, had continued to grapple with increased costs, including vehicle maintenance, spare parts and workers’

salaries, particularly following the implementation of the new national minimum wage.

The government reassured commuters of its commitment to balancing affordability with the need to provide safe, reliable and efficient public transportation

across the state.

  

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How Police Officers Knocked Down A Pregnant Woman While Raiding Motorcyclists In Ajegunle

A pregnant woman, Zainab Bakare, is receiving medical treatment after officers attached to the Nigeria Police Force, Ajeromi Division, allegedly rammed into the motorcycle conveying her during a raid on commercial motorcyclists along Layinka Street in the Ajegunle area of Lagos State.

It was gathered that the incident occurred on Tuesday, February 18.

According to residents, the officers had positioned their patrol vehicle at a junction in the community, reportedly lying in wait to apprehend commercial motorcyclists plying the route.

During the operation, a motorcycle carrying Bakare approached the junction. In the process, the police minibus allegedly knocked down the motorcycle, causing both the rider and the passenger to fall.

A resident, Moshood Oshunfurewa, who witnessed the incident, said the police vehicle struck the motorcycle from a short distance.

“The incident happened at Layinka Street, by KD Bread, close to Arumoh Street. We were under the LED streetlight at the junction when we saw the officers hit the motorcycle from a short distance. The pregnant woman fell and started crying in pain. We rushed to help her, while the officers allegedly took the motorcycle to the police station,” he said.

Speaking on the incident, Bakare said she was returning from a hospital where her sister was in labour when the incident occurred.

“I was coming from the hospital where my sister was in labour. When we got to the T-junction, the motorcycle rider slowed down. Suddenly, a minibus hit us and we were knocked to the ground,” she recounted.

Bakare said she sustained injuries to her arm and leg and was thrown into severe distress over the safety of her pregnancy.

“The police did not show concern when it happened. They were about to take the motorcycle away when residents challenged them because of my condition. That was when they came back,” she alleged.

In a video now going viral, Bakare was seen crying and writhing in pain from the injuries she sustained during the incident.

Another resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said it took more than three hours to stabilise the pregnant woman, adding that the conduct of some officers had become a source of concern in the community.

He also noted that Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area is not among the local governments covered by the Lagos State Transport Law restricting commercial motorcycle operations in 10 local government areas and 15 local council development areas.

“While residents support the state’s restrictions, enforcement should not come at the cost of endangering lives,” he said.

  

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Navy Kicks Off Operation AWKWARD 2026 To Protect Lagos Waters

The Western Naval Command (WNC) of the Nigerian Navy has kicked off a strategic exercise codenamed Operation AWKWARD 2026. This is to prevent unauthorised activities around the harbours and back channels within the area of the command.

The exercise is coming at a time when concerns have been raised about activities of stowaways who usually snuck into foreign vessels around Lagos Anchorage, as well as illicit substance smugglers.

Inaugurating the exercise onboard Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) KADA, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), WNC, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, said it was designed to strengthen harbour protection capabilities, enhance operational readiness, and improve response to asymmetric and unconventional maritime threats.

He emphasised inter-unit coordination, strict adherence to standard operating procedures, and the integration of lessons learned into future operational planning.

According to him, boats would mainly be deployed for the exercise, explaining that while vessels will deploy their inflatable boats, gunboats from units under the command like Takwa Bay and Badagry, would link up mid-channel to participate.

“Nigeria continues to attract partner nations seeking to train with the Nigerian Navy due to the high level of professionalism demonstrated by our personnel. This is further reflected in the Navy’s recent ranking among the top 22 in the world. Many countries are particularly interested in training alongside our special forces.

The exercise also improves the proficiency of our personnel in equipment handling and seamanship, contributing to a more secure maritime environment where economic activities can thrive.

“Although the exercise is primarily a harbour defence operation, many of the drills are applicable at sea. Activities will not extend beyond the harbour limits but will cover the channels and terminals within the harbour area, including up to the fairway buoy, over the next two days,” he explained.

  

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Murders Of Prince Sheriff Isola And Prince Ademola Akinloye: Police Finally Arrest Two Principal Suspects

The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of two prime suspects over the murders of two princes of Ajiran community,

Sheriff Isola Salami and Ademola Akinloye.

The Commissioner of Police (CP) Olohundare Jimoh, confirmed the arrest of the suspects identified as Sefiu Fatai alias Fabo, 40, and Yusuf Ismail also

known as Baraka, during a press conference.

The Ajiran community earlier endorsed police investigation into the murders that occurred in February 2023 and August 2024, accusing a businessman, Alhaji

Hammed Akanbi, of being behind the murders.

 Jimoh said the suspects were arrested on January 24 and February 6, adding that they confessed that they were allegedly hired by Akanbi, 38.

He said the police had invited Akanbi and even searched for him but met his absence, noting that the allegations against him were weighty.

Declaring him wanted, Jimoh said Akanbi should report himself to the police for questioning.

The CP explained that investigations showed that the killings were carried out by a gang armed with local pistols, axes and machetes.

“On April 18, 2023, about 8am., the suspects attacked Sherif Salami Ishola at an isolated building, where he was shot severally and died on the spot. The

suspects subsequently fled the scene,” he said.

He added that the same gang carried out the second murder on August 26, 2024, when Prince Damilola Akinloye was shot multiple times at Eti-Osa.

Further investigations, he said, implicated Akanbi, described as the Chief Executive Officer, Amtachek and Amrok Markham Company in the murders.

The CP alleged that Akanbi paid the suspects N2 million, with N500,000 given to each of the principal actors after the first murder.

He said other benefits, including opportunities to travel abroad were promised to the gang of killers, adding that five of them had earlier been charged

to court, following their alleged implication in other crimes, and three were at large.

“No stone will be left unturned in ensuring that those connected with these heinous crimes are arrested and brought to justice,” he said.

  

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Third Rotary Club Sports Festival Holds In Lagos

The third Rotary Club Sports Festival, Rosfest ‘26, ended on Sunday with organisers describing the event as a success in promoting unity, healthy living, and community service through sports.

District Governor of Rotary Club District 9112, Rotarian Lanre Adedoyin, said the festival demonstrated sport’s power to unite people regardless of their differences.

“For us, sports is a unifier and globally for all nationalities regardless of their differences. In our country, you will note that anytime there is a sports event, we are all united in ensuring the victory of our country,” Adedoyin said.

“For us, it is an event we will continue to hold annually so we can bring people together and reconnect with more Rotarians in our various communities who want to know what we do.”

The festival, held in Lagos, featured 14 sporting events, including scrabble, chess, snooker, draughts, ayo olopon, athletics, tug-of-war, volleyball, table tennis, and football.

Rotary Club Victoria Island East emerged as champions in football, while Rotary Club Shomolu won the tug-of-war competition. Revolution Lagos claimed the volleyball title, with Rotary Club Gbagada finishing as runners-up.

In scrabble, Femi Awopetu of Rotary Club Shomolu won gold in the men’s category, while Chinwe Anyanwu of Rotary Club Lekki Novare took the women’s title.

Peter Akpan of Rotary Club Victoria Island East clinched gold in chess, with Johnson Alabi of Rotary Club Shomolu winning the snooker competition.

Ikoyi Metro Rotary Club won the 4×4 relay race, while Faith Godwin of Rotary Club Ikoyi and Arinze Achume of Rotary Club Ikoyi Metro won gold in the women’s and men’s 100 metres dash, respectively.

Chairman of the organising committee, Rotarian Alozie Nsirimobi, said the festival was instituted to help Rotarians monitor their health and drive unity.

“This was instituted to help Rotarians initially monitor their health, as Rotarians who are busy helping communities and others don’t have time to take care of themselves, so we used this for them to have time to exercise and look after themselves. Secondly, so we can also have fun and relax among ourselves,” Nsirimobi said.

“Another very important part is to drive unity as a whole. We believe that sports is one thing that unites us, and we want to drive the message of peace and unity. The theme of the tournament is ‘Sports for service’, we are using sports to serve humanity.”

Rotarian Lukman Olusesi, captain of X-Riders Cycling club, Ijebu Ode, said his team had an exciting time at the festival.

“We are happy we were able to make this journey; we have had an exciting time at this Rotary Festival after missing the last one. Rotary is all about making the world a better place, and we are doing that with cycling. The theme is ‘Riding for Unity’, and we showcased this in the communities,” Olusesi stated.

Since its inception in 2023/2024, Rosfest has grown in bounds, with the vision to encourage healthy living in the Rotary world and beyond through sports.

  

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Norrenberger Opens New Office In Lagos

Norrenberger Financial Group has intensified its push into Nigeria’s competitive asset management market with the opening of a new group office in Lagos, a move the firm said would accelerate asset growth, deepen institutional partnerships and position it among the country’s top five asset managers within five years.
 The office located in Ikoyi marked the group’s formal consolidation in Nigeria’s commercial capital, where the bulk of financial market activity, corporate headquarters and institutional capital pools are concentrated.
 Industry analysts said the expansion underscored the growing importance of physical presence in Lagos for firms seeking to scale in wealth and investment management.

Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Tony Edeh, described the move as a strategic necessity tied to the firm’s long-term ambition to compete at the highest level of Africa’s financial services industry.
 According to him, Lagos represents Nigeria’s largest aggregation of entrepreneurs, corporate entities and institutional investors, making proximity critical for deal execution, client acquisition and faster investment decisions.
 “For a financial-centric group like ours focused on wealth creation, asset management and capital deployment, Lagos is essential,” Edeh said during the opening ceremony, noting that the state’s economy rivals some African sovereign economies.

He added that a stronger Lagos footprint would allow the firm to respond more quickly to market opportunities and align its operations with the pace of Nigeria’s financial ecosystem.
 Group Chairman, Ibrahim Bala, said the expansion was part of a deliberate growth plan aimed at increasing the firm’s asset base and market share in a sector dominated by a handful of large players.
 He disclosed that Norrenberger was targeting a top five position in Nigeria’s asset management space within the next five years, a goal that will require aggressive client acquisition, product innovation and stronger institutional partnerships.

“Lagos is the economic nerve centre of Nigeria. Being here is a critical step in our growth journey and in our commitment to supporting economic development,” Bala said.
  Senior Partner/CEO of KPMG Nigeria, Tola Adeyemi, described the Lagos expansion as a signal of Norrenberger’s long-term intent to compete at scale.
 He said credibility, governance and ethical leadership would remain key differentiators in an industry where investor confidence is closely tied to corporate reputation.

“Skills can be learned and markets will fluctuate, but what endures is character and how institutions conduct business,” Adeyemi said, urging financial firms to prioritise trust as they pursue growth.
 Commissioner for Finance, Abayomi Oluyomi, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the investment reflected private sector confidence in the state’s economic environment and its ambition to evolve into a regional financial hub.
 He noted that financial institutions play a critical role in capital formation, job creation and business expansion, adding that the state government is positioning Lagos as a gateway for international investment through the Lagos International Financial Centre initiative.

  

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NICRAT Activates Skin Cancer Screening Centres For Persons With Albinism

The National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) has intensified efforts to tackle the high burden of skin cancer among persons with albinism by activating targeted screening services in three Nigerian cities.

Through the integration of skin cancer checks and structured referral pathways into its National Preventive Oncology Clinical Services, the institute is seeking to improve early detection and access to care for a group it identifies as particularly vulnerable to the disease.

The Director General of NICRAT, Prof. Usman Malami Aliyu, disclosed this at the launch of the institute’s “Shade the Sun” campaign at the Federal Medical Centre, Ebute Metta Cancer Centre in Lagos.

He described the initiative as an awareness and prevention drive specifically designed for Nigerians living with albinism, noting that their heightened sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation places them at increased risk of developing skin cancer.

According to him, the campaign is being implemented under the National Initiative for Cancer Early Detection, Screening and Coordinated Access to Networked Care, a framework aimed at strengthening prevention strategies, promoting timely diagnosis, improving treatment outcomes, and ultimately reducing cancer-related deaths nationwide.

As part of the intervention, beneficiaries received sun protection kits and were urged to use them consistently and correctly. The NICRAT boss emphasised that protective measures, when combined with routine screening and early care-seeking behaviour, could significantly reduce avoidable complications and save lives.

He also acknowledged the support of key partners, including the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists, the Albinism Association of Nigeria, and the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, as well as the management of the Federal Medical Centre, Ebute Metta, for their collaboration in driving the campaign.

The Vice President of the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists and Consultant Dermatologist at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Dr Ayesha Akinkugbe, said the partnership extends beyond screening to include capacity building for health workers.

She explained that NICRAT supplied protective materials such as sunscreen, long-sleeved T-shirts, wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective glasses, while designated centres in Lagos, Abuja and Kano were equipped with dermoscopes, magnifying lenses, cryoguns and liquid nitrogen to aid diagnosis and minor procedures.

“This programme is running in Lagos, Abuja and Kano,” she said, adding that stakeholders are advocating the creation of a national albinism register to generate reliable data for effective planning and resource allocation.

Also speaking, Consultant Physician and Dermatologist at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Dr Folakemi Cole-Adeife, stressed that early detection remains critical in preventing severe outcomes. She advised persons with albinism to undergo skin examinations at least every six months and to limit exposure to direct sunlight, particularly during peak hours.

“You cannot completely avoid the sun, but if you must go out, you should go prepared and protected,” she said.

Representing the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, Dr Kehinde Ososanya noted that primary healthcare workers across the state are being trained to identify suspicious skin lesions early and refer patients promptly for specialist care. He added that Lagos has 376 primary healthcare centres serving as first points of contact within communities, positioning them as critical entry points for early detection and referral under the programme.

  

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Despite Being Married, Admirers Still Send Me Gifts - Omotola

Award-winning actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde (aka Omosexy) has revealed that her admirers still send her gifts despite knowing she is married. The actress also commended the role of women in Nigeria’s film industry, stating that they dominate key segments and often run multiple businesses alongside their acting careers.

Speaking during an interview on Naija FM 102.7, Omotola underscored the pivotal role women have played in sustaining Nollywood, citing their entrepreneurial drive and capacity to balance diverse ventures.

“Women are the ones who hold this industry, right from the start. Women are the ones who do well for this industry. Women are mostly the producers. Women are the ones who hold Nollywood really,” she said.

The actress added that many female actors combine their film careers with enterprises such as modelling, brand influencing and retail businesses.

“I don’t know any female actor, even small ones who just entered this industry, that don’t get at least like three or four businesses. A lot of the females get businesses. They run different things. Most of them are influencers. They are doing acting, modelling, they have shops.

“You will hear say this one get boutique, that one gets this one, virtually everybody I know gets one or the other. Our job is very intense. You have to be on call. With acting, this is crazy to me. I think the balance must be there”, she said.

She compared the experiences of male and female actors, stating that while men receive admiration, the level of attention women get is more intense.

“Male actors too dey try, but I don’t think it’s as intense as the women,” she said. “Women get admirers. Men too get admirers wey dey help them, but women have more”, she added.

Omotola also shared her personal experience, revealing that she continues to receive gifts and assistance from admirers despite being married.

“Me, wey be married woman sef, I know how many people don dash me things. Asin women and men not be just men, women and men just see me, just say, ‘Oh, I’m sending you this, they don dash me car before sef”, she said.

However, she emphasised that her husband remains secure in their marriage, describing him as the most secure person she has ever met.

“My husband is the most secure. How you go marry Omosexy and you no go Dey secure. My husband is the most secure human being you will ever meet. The most secure, you know, no shaking,” she concluded.

  

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Pastor Kingsley Lashes Out At Ministers That Criticize His Tattoo, Says They Are Biased

Founder of David Christian Centre, Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo, has responded to backlash over his recent Bible-inspired tattoo, expressing feelings of insult

over comments from some ministers.

The cleric had sparked controversy with a video showing him getting a tattoo of John 3:16 in Roman numerals, “III: XVI,” on his body.

Okonkwo claimed that only a few ministers understood his decision, while others reacted out of “religious bias.”

He criticised pastors who questioned his actions, arguing that spiritual authority and understanding vary among ministers, and not everyone is qualified

to criticise others.

“On my tattoo issue, only one or two ministers were grounded and sound enough to understand it. Most of them are just religious people,” he said.

“They said, ‘Tattoo is not a sin, but is it expedient? Why did you post it? Why must you do it?’ That is stupid talk, and I am insulted,” he added.

The pastor cited other Christian leaders with tattoos, including Joyce Meyer and Max Lucado, to justify his action.

“Am I higher than Joyce Meyer? She had a tattoo at eight years old. Am I higher than Max Lucado? He got his tattoo at 70,” he noted.

He explained that he shared the tattoo publicly due to his personal calling and constituency.

Okonkwo emphasised that individual styles and choices shouldn’t be judged, stressing that people should be free to make their own decisions without affecting

others’ faith. 

“I posted it because my own position, my own calling, my own constituency requires that. Even Peter said he could not understand Paul. In Christianity,

there are different flavours. It is not only your style that matters. You don’t want to wear shoes—so what? I want to wear shoes. How does that affect

anybody’s faith?” he said.

  

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Why I Stopped Paying Tithes To Churches - Toke Makinwa

Media personality Toke Makinwa has revealed why she stopped paying tithes to churches, citing concerns about the wealth of religious institutions and the needs of struggling individuals.

In a conversation with Chude Jideonwo, Makinwa questioned the practice of giving money to churches that already possess wealth, while many people struggle to survive.

“I kinda stopped paying tithes to the church because all the churches I know are rich, and I decide that I’m not doing that anymore”, she said.

According to her, she now directs her support to hospitals, maternity wards, and individuals with urgent needs.

“I started thinking, if I have money and someone tells me they need it to pay rent, why should I pass it into a building that’s already rich.

“I would rather give my tithe to strangers who tell me their actual needs. The church is built. The pastors have money. Let’s help people the church cannot reach.

“Every church is building. Every Sunday, there’s a building fund envelope. You guys have so much money and it’s not taxed. It’s a business, if we are going to be real. Because if that pastor dies today, either his wife or his child becomes the next pastor,” she said.

Jideonwo also expressed concerns about the unintended harm caused by religion, including “post-traumatic church syndrome.”

Reflecting on her past experiences, Makinwa recalled handing over her entire brand endorsement deals to her church, seeking blessings.

“Ten years ago, I didn’t touch one naira from an endorsement deal; I carried it all into the church. Now, I give where it directly helps someone in need.”

                     

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Child Custody Case: Sophia's Lawyers Warn Davido, Fans Against Online Intimidation

A law firm representing Sophia Momodu, the estranged lover of Afrobeats star Davido, has cautioned the singer and his supporters against making public statements that could compromise the ongoing child custody case.

Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors condemned Davido’s social media posts, which criticised their partner, Ebelechukwu Enedah, representing Momodu for mentioning his deceased son during court proceedings.

The firm emphasised that the matter is sub judice and should be decided by the court alone, warning that attempts to intimidate legal practitioners could undermine the rule of law.

Davido had expressed frustration over the remarks, stating that mentioning his deceased son was a “lowest blow” and announcing his decision to withdraw the custody case, which sought joint custody of his daughter Imade.

The law firm’s statement read, “Our attention has been drawn to statements chiefly engineered by a Nigerian Afrobeat artiste, via social media, directed at our partner arising from her professional conduct in a custody matter presently pending before a court of competent jurisdiction in Lagos State.

“Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors will deploy every lawful measure available to it to resist any attempt to intimidate counsel or undermine judicial proceedings.

“Those who engage in conduct calculated to interfere with the administration of justice will be met with the full consequences provided by law,” the statement partly read.

Davido’s decision to withdraw the case has sparked reactions, with the singer stating that he never sought full custody and was disappointed with the turn of events in court.

  

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Lagos RCCG Province Inaugurates Community-Focused Projects

The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Lagos Province 28, has inaugurated several projects aimed at repositioning the province for improved worship experience and greater community impact.

According to a statement from the church, the projects include a generator house, solar-powered poles, and an ultra-modern LED altar background fitted with new equipment and television screens.

The province also dedicated new video cameras to strengthen its media unit and enhance service delivery.

The Pastor-in-Charge, who doubles as the Assistant Pastor-in-Charge of Region 63, Bola Orekoya, was quoted in the statement as saying that the projects were executed to position the church for more impact, attract more worshippers, and win more souls.

He noted that the province was committed to aligning with the RCCG Vision 2032, which targets winning 40 million souls before 2032.

Orekoya urged Christians to love one another, stressing that dedication to God must remain unwavering despite challenges.

The statement read, “The province of the latter glory, known for excellence also dedicated brand new video cameras to make the media more effective and service delivery friendly, as the church services will now be beamed live on various social media platforms.

 “Pastor Bola Orekoya, the pastor in charge of the province who also doubles as the assistant pastor in charge of Region 63, said the overall objective of putting this equipment in place is to position the church for more community impact, attract more worshipers and souls to the kingdom of God.

“He also said his province is doing everything possible towards ensuring proactive compliance with RCCG vision 2032, which centres on winning 40 million souls between now and 2032.

“Pastor Orekoya, a quintessential leader who believes in total commitment and dedication to the things of God, even in the midst of storms and any distractions said Christians should love one another just as Christ love us the commissioning the legacy projects was rounded up with a special service tagged Turning point which attracted several worshipers.”

  

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Deaths Of Nollywood Production Team Mates In Lekki: Police Arrest Two Suspects

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a suspect in connection with the deaths of two Nollywood production crew members found lifeless inside a parked vehicle at a movie location in Lekki, Lagos.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abimbola Adebisi, told newsmen that the suspect was a member of the production team who allegedly delivered food to the deceased before they were discovered unresponsive.

“One suspect has been arrested. The suspect was the one who delivered food to the victims in the vehicle. Investigation is still ongoing,” she said.

The victims — lighting director Ekemini “GeeTee” Imeh and his associate, Ayodeji Walter Odediran — were found dead on Saturday, February 7, within the premises of Evercare Hospital Lekki, which was being used as a filming location.

According to a police source, the two crew members arrived early at the set to install lighting equipment ahead of shooting. After completing the setup, they reportedly entered a tinted Nissan vehicle parked within the premises to rest while awaiting further production activities for a film said to be directed by former Big Brother Naija housemate, Boma.

“At about 11am, a production staff member delivered breakfast to them inside the vehicle. The air-conditioning was on, and both men appeared relaxed at the time. Subsequent calls to their phones went unanswered. After filming wrapped up around 8pm, they were found lifeless in the vehicle,” the source said.

The source added that both men were reportedly foaming at the mouth, with one showing blood stains around the nose and lips.

Another police source disclosed that the matter was initially reported at the Maroko Police Station, while CCTV footage from the premises is being reviewed as part of ongoing investigations.

“The bodies have been deposited in a morgue for autopsy and toxicology examinations,” the source added.

Adebisi confirmed that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further probe, noting that investigators are working to determine the exact cause of death.

Until his death, Imeh was the Chief Executive Officer of a lighting company and was known for his work on major productions, including King of Boys, as well as music videos for artistes such as Davido.

The incident comes days after gospel artiste Matthew Ogundele, popularly known as Segun Praise, and three of his crew members were found dead inside a music studio in the Abraham Adesanya area of Ajah, Lagos State.

  

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Truckers Protest Over Extortion And Brutality By Lagos Officials

Truckers in Lagos have cried out over alleged harassment, brutality and extortion by operatives of the Lagos State Taskforce and other traffic enforcement agencies. Members of the umbrella union of truckers, Nigerian Union of Haulage Truck and Trailer Drivers, on Monday, staged a peaceful protest.

The truckers, who gathered at The PUNCH headquarters, said the protest was triggered by the alleged assault of one of their members during a night operation in an industrial area of Ikeja on Saturday— an incident they claimed nearly cost him his life.

Carrying placards bearing the photograph of their injured colleague, Comrade Prince Ogunkanmi Adekunle, the protesters displayed messages such as, “Lagos State Government help us, we are dying oo!” and “Enough of trailer drivers’ brutality.”

Speaking to PUNCH Metro on behalf of the union, the National Chairman, Okunola Omogbolahan, accused operatives of the Lagos State Task Force, the Vehicle Inspection Office and the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority of targeting truck and trailer drivers for extortion under the guise of enforcement.

According to him, the alleged harassment had persisted for years, resulting in the deaths of several drivers.

“We are here to complain about task force brutality and harassment. They almost took the life of one of our members. We thank God he is still alive, and that is why we want this matter escalated,” Omogbolahan said.

“This has been happening for many years. Many truck and trailer drivers have suffered, and we have buried several of them. We have come together to say enough is enough.”

He maintained that members of the union were law-abiding citizens striving to earn a living.

“We are not criminals. We work overnight because of the nature of our job, yet we are treated like offenders even when we have committed no wrong,” he added.

Recounting the incident that allegedly sparked the protest, Omogbolahan said Adekunle was attacked around 1.30am on Saturday while resting inside his truck near the Guinness gate in Ikeja, where he was waiting to load goods.

“He was inside his truck when someone knocked on the door. Before he knew what was happening, the person forced his way in and attempted to seize the key. When the driver stepped down to ask questions, he was attacked,” he alleged.

He further claimed that the operatives often arrived in buses or Hilux vans, sometimes accompanied by suspected hoodlums, and would beat up drivers before towing their vehicles.

“They don’t initially state any offence. They come around midnight, beat up the driver and seize the truck. When you get to Alausa, they accuse you of illegal parking and demand between N600,000 and N700,000 for offences you did not commit,” he alleged, adding that drivers were typically parked within industrial zones and not obstructing major roads.

Narrating his experience, Adekunle said he mistook the man who knocked on his door for a traffic marshal.

“When I opened the door, he jumped inside and started dragging my key. I shouted ‘thief’ because I didn’t recognise him. They beat me up and hit me with a gun. They took my vehicle to their office in Alausa and detained me,” he said.

He further alleged that officers fired shots to disperse other drivers who attempted to intervene.

“They later returned my key and vehicle that same night after seeing the extent of my injuries,” he claimed.

Another driver, Ojewole Samuel, alleged that some private company security personnel colluded with enforcement operatives to target truckers parked near their premises due to limited parking space.

“Many companies in Ikeja do not provide adequate parking for trucks. Drivers are left waiting outside, and we believe some security men alerted the task force. Their goal appears to be extortion, not orderliness,” he alleged.

Samuel claimed that some drivers were forced to pay cash and surrender fuel before their trucks were released.

“In one night, they can make between N100,000 and N150,000. A driver told us he paid N30,000 and was made to sell 60 litres of diesel before his truck was released, even though he was not blocking traffic,” he said.

The protesters said they turned to the media after repeated complaints to authorities allegedly yielded no results, warning that they would seek legal redress if the situation persisted.

Responding to the allegations, the Director of Press and Public Affairs of the Lagos State Task Force on Environmental and Special Offences, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, said he was unaware of the incident.

“I am hearing this for the first time. There are many individuals impersonating our officers. We need to be certain that those involved are genuinely from the Lagos State Taskforce,” he said.

Abdulraheem urged the aggrieved drivers to file a formal complaint at the agency’s headquarters, adding that efforts were ongoing to clamp down on impersonators.

However, when contacted, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, declined to respond over the phone, stating that official inquiries should be channelled through his office or the ministry’s Public Relations Officer.

“I don’t know who I’m speaking to. You can’t just call me on the phone and expect that I’ll have a conversation. I don’t know the person I’m speaking to; you must be introduced as somebody I know. Do you understand?

“I can’t just pick up my phone and start getting this. The appropriate thing to do is to contact my PRO, or you can visit my office. I can’t just pick up the phone and start talking to someone I’ve never spoken to before,” Osiyemi said in a telephone conversation with our correspondent.

 

Culled from the Punch 

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