Court Fixes June 22 For Judgement On The Murder Of Sound Engineer David Imoh At Lekki

Justice Ibironke Harrison of the Lagos State High Court sitting at Igbosere has fixed June 22, 2026, for judgment in the trial of commercial motorcyclist

Dahiru Ayuba and five others accused of killing sound engineer David Imoh.

The judge adjourned the matter on Tuesday after counsel for both the prosecution and defence adopted their final written addresses.

Imoh was allegedly lynched and burnt to death on May 12, 2022, at NITEL Junction, Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, following a dispute over a N100

transportation fare balance with a commercial motorcyclist.

The 37-year-old was reportedly attacked by a mob and set ablaze during the incident.

The defendants — Dahiru Ayuba, Susan Moses, Chigozie Anthony, Christopher Dauda, Joseph Tella and Sunday Azi — were arraigned on October 20, 2022, on a six-count charge bordering on conspiracy, murder, attempted murder and infliction of grievous harm, preferred by the Lagos State Government.

At the resumed proceedings, the court granted applications by defence counsel seeking extension of time to regularise their final written addresses, which

had been filed out of time.

Counsel for the first defendant, A.O. Idowu, told the court that his client’s address, dated April 17, 2026, urged the court to dismiss the prosecution’s

case and acquit him.

Similarly, counsel for the second defendant, Steven Eluwa, said his address, dated February 16, 2026, asked the court to discharge and acquit his client

on the grounds that the prosecution failed to prove the case beyond reasonable doubt.

“In response to the prosecution’s address, we filed a reply on points of law dated May 4, 2026. We urge the court to discharge and acquit the second defendant,”

he said.

Counsel for the third defendant, Sylvester Effiong, whose address was filed on March 30, 2026, also urged the court to resolve all issues in favour of

his client and discharge her.

Olayinka Lawal, counsel for the fourth defendant, argued that evidence before the court showed that some defendants testified they did not see his client

at the scene of the crime.

He also challenged the prosecution’s claim that all defendants made confessional statements, adding that the police failed to investigate his client’s

alibi.

“When the fourth defendant was arrested, he stated that he was with one Mr Elias, but neither the police nor the prosecution investigated that claim,”

Lawal submitted.

Counsel for the fifth defendant, Yusuf Temilola-Nurudeen, argued that none of the prosecution’s six witnesses directly implicated his client in the alleged

offences.

“The video evidence tendered by the prosecution did not feature the fifth defendant. The only allegation is that he took active part, but in what exactly?”

he said, urging the court to acquit him.

He also asked the court to expunge parts of the testimony of the fourth prosecution witness.

Counsel for the sixth defendant, A.O. Olayinka, urged the court to deem her address, dated March 3, 2026, as properly filed and to discharge and acquit

her client.

In response, the Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr Bajide Martins, urged the court to convict the defendants, submitting that the evidence before the

court established their involvement in the mob attack.

“My Lord saw the witnesses and observed their demeanour,” he said.

After hearing the submissions, Justice Harrison adjourned judgment until June 22, 2026.

At the arraignment, the prosecution had alleged that the defendants unlawfully caused Imoh’s death by beating him and setting him ablaze.

They were also accused of attempting to murder Frank Olatunji and keyboardist Philip Balogun, who were reportedly assaulted during the incident.

All six defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.

During the trial, Balogun, one of the victims, told the court that he sustained injuries to his head and ear and was hospitalised for five days at the

Federal Medical Centre, Yaba, and Evercare Hospital.

He added that he is still receiving eye treatment in Ikeja.

The witness identified the second defendant as one of his attackers and alleged that the third defendant, Susan Moses, pointed out where Imoh was hiding

before he was dragged out and attacked.

  

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Lagos Clears Pension Obligation To 668 Retirees With N1.126 Billion

The Lagos State Pension Commission has cleared another batch of retirement benefits for former public servants, extending a pension reform programme that

Nigeria’s commercial capital has used to position itself as one of the country’s more consistent administrators of post-service welfare obligations.

The latest disbursement, announced during the 114th Batch Retirement Bond Certificate Presentation Ceremony in Lagos over the weekend, covered 668 retirees

owed accrued pension rights from before the state adopted the Contributory Pension Scheme in 2007.

LASPEC said N1.126bn was released under the exercise, underscoring the Lagos State Government’s effort to sustain pension payments despite mounting fiscal pressures and rising living costs.

For Lagos, the payments form part of a broader strategy to maintain confidence in a pension framework designed to reduce the delays and funding gaps that

have historically plagued retirement administration in many Nigerian states.

Director-General of LASPEC, Babalola Obilana, said the latest batch reinforces the government’s commitment to protecting the welfare and financial security

of retired workers.

“The 114th batch joins the growing number of retirees who have received their benefits, reinforcing our promise of financial security to public servants,”

Obilana said.

Nigeria introduced the contributory pension system as part of wider reforms aimed at replacing the largely unsustainable defined benefits model under which governments frequently accumulated unpaid pension liabilities. Under the revised framework, employers and employees contribute to retirement savings accounts

managed by licensed pension fund administrators.

Implementation has varied widely across Nigeria’s 36 states, with several still grappling with unpaid pension arrears, delayed remittances and administrative

bottlenecks. Lagos, however, has consistently sought to distinguish itself through periodic retirement bond disbursements and a more structured pension

management process.

Obilana described the state’s pension framework as one of the most efficient in the country, attributing the performance to coordination between LASPEC,

pension fund administrators, annuity service providers and other stakeholders involved in benefit processing.

The state has increasingly relied on scheduled retirement bond payments to settle obligations owed to workers who retired before the contributory system

came into effect. Those accrued rights remain a major challenge for many subnational governments already strained by weak revenues, rising debt servicing

costs and inflation-driven expenditure pressures.

Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, benefits from one of the country’s strongest internally generated revenue bases and has continued to channel resources towards infrastructure, transportation, healthcare and pension administration as part of broader governance reforms.

The latest payout comes at a time when inflationary pressures continue to squeeze household incomes across the country, leaving many retirees particularly exposed to rising costs of food, housing and healthcare.

Analysts say consistent pension payments are becoming increasingly significant as economic reforms, including subsidy removals and currency liberalisation, continue to reshape consumer spending and living conditions nationwide.

LASPEC also said it has intensified capacity-building programmes for pension desk officers, directors and administrative staff across ministries, departments

and agencies to improve efficiency in pension documentation and processing.

  

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Accident On Third Mainland Bridge Claims The Life Of A Woman, Others Seriously Injured

One adult female has died while four other passengers sustained serious injuries in a head-on collision involving two Toyota Sienna buses on the Third

Mainland Bridge, Lagos, on Tuesday.

The crash occurred near Iyana-Iworo in the early hours of the day.

Head of Public Affairs of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency,  Mr Olawale Afolabi, confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria.

Afolabi said the two vehicles involved were fully loaded commercial buses.

He added that the injured victims were immediately evacuated to a nearby trauma centre for urgent medical attention.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that reckless driving by another Toyota Sienna triggered the crash, resulting in a head-on collision between the two

vehicles,” he said.

He explained that LASEMA’s Tiger Squad from the C3 Command was activated at about 7:26 a.m. and arrived at the scene around 8:00 a.m. to coordinate rescue

and recovery operations.

According to him, LASEMA personnel worked alongside officers of the police and the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority to secure the scene, manage

traffic, and clear the wreckage.

The Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, described the crash as preventable and urged motorists to strictly adhere to traffic regulations.

He warned against excessive speeding, dangerous overtaking, and poor lane discipline, stressing the need for caution on major highways and cooperation

with traffic managers.

NAN

 

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YABATECH Rewards 157 Staff Members With N11.85 Million For Excellence And Professionalism

Yaba College of Technology has rewarded 157 staff members with N11.85m in recognition of their dedication, effectiveness, professionalism and outstanding service delivery.

The staff received their rewards at the second edition of the Annual Distinguished Service Lecture and Awards held at the multipurpose hall of the institution.

Two members of staff emerged as the best overall staff, each receiving N1m; 10 staff members emerged overall best staff in schools and units, each getting N250,000; while 147 staff members across departments won N50,000 each.

Mrs Okanlawon Mutiat of the Rectory unit emerged as the overall best non-teaching staff, while Dr Ogunyemi O. I. of the School of Engineering was adjudged the best teaching staff.

The 10 overall best staff in schools and units were Dr Olujoke Asekere of the School of Liberal Studies, Dr Olayemi Wasiu of the School of Agricultural Technology, Dr Olaniyi Oluseyi of the School of Environmental Studies, Dr Ogundipe Olubunmi of the School of Science, and Dr Ogunyemi O. I. of the School of Engineering.

Other overall best staff are Mrs Okanlawon Mutiat of the Rectory unit, Idowu Ibrahim of the Library unit, Moses-Jumbo Margaret of the Registry unit, Aluko Salaudeen of Works and Services, and Adebisi Abosede of the Bursary unit.

Speaking, the Rector, YABATECH, Dr Ibraheem Abdul, said the reward was to appreciate committed staff while motivating them to continue to render excellent service to the institution.

He said, “We honour our dedicated staff who have distinguished themselves in their respective fields through commitment, effectiveness and efficient impact on institutional performance and image, professionalism and outstanding service delivery.”

The event also saw the presentation of Lifetime Achievement Awards to the Chairman, Lagos State Governance Advisory Council, Tajudeen Olusi; pioneer Rector of the college, Majekodunmi Okufi; and retired Chief Judge of Lagos State, Ishola Olorunnimbe.

The Rector said the three honourees were awarded for their enduring contributions to education, governance, leadership and national development.

Abdul said, “We celebrate three eminent Nigerians whose exemplary leadership has left indelible footprints in their respective spheres of influence.

“Their outstanding contributions embody excellence, resilience, integrity, and lasting impact. By celebrating these distinguished personalities, we are not only recognising their remarkable efforts but also setting a high standard for others to emulate.

“Their recognition today reinforces our collective belief that true leadership is measured by service, vision, and the positive transformation of society.”

The award recipients, in their separate remarks, appreciated the college management for the honour, enjoining that such award ceremonies should continue as a way to encourage people to be more devoted to service to humanity.

Former Governor of Lagos, Raji Fashola, delivered the guest lecture titled “Institutional Reform and Entrenching the Culture of Excellence in Public Service,” where he stressed that institutions must always have in place accountability systems and transparency mechanisms to ensure excellence and curb corruption.

Represented by ex-Rector, Lagos State Polytechnic, Dr Oluremi Olaleye, the former minister promoted the imperative of a servant leadership model in institutions.

He noted the need for structural reforms in accordance with the dynamism of the world, but stressed that such transformation would be efficiently carried out if staff are regularly exposed to capacity training.

In implementing institutional reforms, Fashola, however, said leaders have to grapple with typical “resistance to change, capacity deficit, corruption and discontinuity in political leadership.”

Chairman, Governing Council, YABATECH, Prof Funso Afolabi, stressed that continuous reforms in institutions were expedient owing to rapid socioeconomic transformation and increasing public expectations.

Afolabi, represented by a member of the governing council, Ebenezer Akinbolade, also stressed the need to sustain a system of excellence as a defining culture within the public service.

Afolabi said, “Institutional reform is not merely about policy adjustments or administrative restructuring. It is about a fundamental rethinking of values, accountability frameworks and service delivery mechanisms.

“It demands leadership that is visionary, transparent, and resolute. It requires a workforce that is not only competent but also driven by integrity and a commitment to the common good.”

  

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Gunmen Storm Wedding Party In Ikotun, Kills Bride's Father And Hypeman

There was pandemonium on Saturday after a yet-to-be-identified father of a bride and a hypeman, identified simply as Victor, were shot dead by suspected cultists on Governor’s Road in the Ikotun area of Lagos State.

It was gathered that the incident occurred on Oviawe Street in the community shortly after a wedding ceremony had been concluded and guests had moved to an after-party.

According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants stormed the venue while the celebration was still ongoing, as guests scampered for safety.

A resident who identified himself simply as Tosin said Victor was entertaining guests when the attackers struck.

He said, “They were holding an after-party after the wedding ceremony was held at an event centre on Governor’s Road. It was during the celebration that the gunmen entered their midst and opened fire indiscriminately.

“This made everyone present run for their lives. They then went straight to Victor, dragged him outside onto the street and started hitting him with dangerous weapons.”

Another resident, who did not want his name mentioned due to the sensitive nature of the incident, said the bride’s father, who was uncomfortable with the attack, decided to intervene and was shot in the process.

“When the gunmen were beating Victor, the bride’s father rushed to the spot to intervene and plead for him. It was in the process that the gunmen shot both of them. They died on the spot.”

The incident threw the community into confusion, as residents and business owners rushed indoors.

The source further disclosed that the attack might not have been directly connected to the wedding but could be linked to ongoing rival cult clashes in the community.

“This area has been experiencing cult-related issues for some time. It is possible that the attackers were trailing someone or targeting a rival, but innocent people ended up as victims,” the source added.

Speaking about one of the victims, a resident who preferred to be called Steve, said Victor was a known person in the community.

“I was inside when my wife told me that something had happened outside. When I got outside, I was told Victor was involved in the incident. It was later that I realised that he was someone I usually see on our street. He has a small stature.”

As of the time of filing this report, the identities of the bride’s father and the attackers had yet to be ascertained.

When contacted on Monday, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command confirmed the incident.

“The matter is being investigated; it will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, today unfailingly,” she said.

The incident adds to the number of cult-related activities in the community and the state as a whole, even as the state Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, continues to engage stakeholders on curbing its occurrence.

  

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Heineken To Host UEFA Champions League semi-final Watch Party

Heineken will host an exclusive UEFA Champions League semi-final watch party in Ilubirin, Lagos this week, bringing together top executives of Nigerian Breweries, business leaders and football fans for both second-leg matches as Ademola Lookman bids to become the first Nigerian to reach the Champions League final since John Obi Mikel in 2012.

The event, staged under Heineken’s global “Fans Have More Friends” campaign, follows a run of activations across Port Harcourt, Aba, Owerri and Abuja for earlier knockout rounds. Organisers say the Lagos event will be the most premium edition yet, combining match viewing with music, interactive games and networking in a setting described as football meeting lifestyle.

Portfolio Manager for Premium Beer at Nigerian Breweries, Maria Shadeko, said the experience would grow in proportion with the tournament.

“As the competition gets bigger, the experience also gets better. From the first round of activations, we have seen how people connect through football. For the semi-final second leg, we are creating a more premium setting that brings together football, lifestyle and meaningful connections,” she said.

She added that the Lagos event would also serve as a preview of what to expect ahead of the Champions League final on May 30.

“This is not just about watching football. It is about sharing moments, building relationships and giving fans a feel of what to expect as we approach the final,” she said.

On the pitch, both semi-final ties remain finely poised. On Tuesday (today), Arsenal host Atletico Madrid after a 1-1 draw in the first leg, with Lookman seeking to help the Spanish side reach the final. The Nigerian forward’s progress is expected to create divided loyalties among Lagos fans, given Arsenal’s strong following in the country.

On Wednesday, Bayern Munich host Paris Saint-Germain after a 5-4 first-leg victory for the French club, with a single goal separating the sides heading into the return fixture.

Shadeko said the nature of the ties reflected what the campaign was built around.

“These are big moments in football. Fans may support different teams, but they still come together to enjoy the game. That shared experience is what ‘Fans Have More Friends’ is all about,” she said.

 

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"The World Happened To Me", Davido Apologizes To Fans Over Missed Concert

Grammy-nominated singer Davido has apologised to fans after failing to appear at a scheduled performance in Lagos, blaming the development on difficulties in sourcing aviation fuel.

The artiste, whose real name is David Adeleke, was billed to headline a performance alongside Zlatan Ibile at a popular club, Secret Place, in Ikate Elegushi on Sunday as part of its fifth anniversary celebration.

However, Davido did not show up, prompting reactions from fans who had gathered for the event.

In a post shared afterwards on his Instagram story on Monday, the singer explained that logistical challenges linked to fuel shortages disrupted his travel plans, forcing a reschedule.

“The world happened to me yesterday. These wars around the world have really started penetrating. Finding fuel was a problem yesterday to even fly. Everything had to be rescheduled,” he said.

He apologised to fans who turned up for the show, assuring them that he would make it up to them.

“To my fans that pulled up… sorry I missed it. We’re going to run it back again soon,” he added.

The development comes amid wider global concerns over fuel supply disruptions, particularly affecting the aviation sector, with rising costs and shortages impacting flight schedules in several regions.

Davido also congratulated the organisers of the event, reiterating his support while promising a future appearance.

  

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Inclusive Education: Prudential Zenith Life Brings Succor To Atunda Olu School For The Physically And Mentally Challenged

    Prudential Zenith Life Insurance has completed the renovation of a convenience facility at the Atunda Olu School for the Physically and Mentally Challenged

in Surulere, Lagos. The project underscores the company’s commitment to inclusive community development and the provision of specialised infrastructure

to support the daily requirements of vulnerable groups.

This is contained in a statement issued by the firm. The Chief Commercial Officer of Prudential Zenith Life Insurance, Oluwatosin Adebayo-Yusuf, during

the formal inauguration ceremony, said, “The project goes beyond infrastructure, representing a meaningful investment in the well-being of the students

and building resilient communities.”

“Creating supportive environments for all individuals, particularly those with special needs, is of paramount importance to our corporate mission,” she

added, noting that the renovation reflects a broader focus on health, dignity, and equal opportunity for every child.

“This intervention will have a significant positive impact on our students’ daily lives and their overall learning experience,” expressed the school’s

management in a statement of gratitude.

“We are dedicated to championing initiatives that uplift communities and promote inclusivity, reaffirming our role as a responsible corporate citizen dedicated

to making a lasting difference,” Adebayo-Yusuf concluded.

The newly enhanced facility is designed to deliver a secure, hygienic and accessible setting for students, ensuring that their daily needs are met with

dignity while they pursue their education.

  

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Lagos Central APC Senatorial Aspirant Olumide Kola-Lawal Steps Down For Incumbent Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun

An aspirant for the Lagos Central Senatorial District seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Olumide Kola-Lawal, has withdrawn from the race in support of the incumbent, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun.

Kola-Lawal said the decision was in compliance with the party’s consensus arrangement and in line with its rules and discipline. He, however, maintained that his withdrawal was voluntary and not the result of coercion.

Addressing journalists in Lagos, the aspirant urged his supporters to rally behind the APC and Eshinlokun ahead of the 2027 general elections. He also called on them to support President Bola Tinubu, the party’s governorship candidate and other APC flag bearers.

He described his decision as “not a retreat from service, but a reaffirmation of commitment to unity, discipline and the greater good of the party.”

Kola-Lawal explained that his ambition, which crystallised in February 2025 after consultations and reflection, was driven by a desire to serve rather than personal interest. He noted that over the past year, he undertook multiple visits from the United States to Nigeria to engage stakeholders across the Lagos Central Senatorial District.

According to him, the consultations spanned all 13 local governments and local council development areas, covering over 90 electoral wards, alongside town hall meetings and engagements with community leaders.

He said the process deepened his understanding of leadership as service rooted in listening and inclusiveness.

“In line with the provisions of the Electoral Act and the consensus framework adopted by our great party, I have decided to suspend my campaign forthwith,” he said.

Kola-Lawal pledged loyalty to the APC and expressed support for Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, as well as Eshinlokun’s return to the Senate.

He urged his supporters and associates to remain committed to the party, stressing that the movement they built transcends individual ambition and remains anchored on shared values and collective vision.

“This is not the end of the journey, but a step in a larger path of service,” he added.

  

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RCCG Is Not Affiliated To APC - Pastor Adeboye, As Pressure Mounts On Church To Drop Oluremi Tinubu From Pastorate

As pressure continues to mount on the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) to drop the wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Pastor Oluremi Tinubu from its pastorate, The General Overseer of the church, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has stated that he would not bow to pressure to remove her as an ordained pastor of the church. He also debunked the claim that the RCCG has a link to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), stressing that the church is not affiliated to any political party. The cleric also gave reasons why he took part in political protests in the past, saying it was in obedience to the directives of the Christians Association of Nigeria (CAN).

Pastor Adeboye made these known while addressing the congregation at the church’s monthly Holy Ghost Service, held at Redemption City (formerly Redemption Camp), located at KM 46, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Mowe, Ogun State.

Adeboye said suggestions that RCCG was linked to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) were unfounded, noting that members of different political parties freely worshipped together.

He dismissed claims that the church was aligned with any political party, insisting that it remains a place of worship open to all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation.

According to the revered cleric, Mrs. Tinubu was ordained as an Assistant Pastor in the RCCG more than a decade ago, long before her husband, President Bola Tinubu, indicated an interest in contesting for the presidency.

Adeboye added that her ordination followed the full process required by the church and stressed that she has not violated any of its doctrines or guidelines.

“She was properly ordained many years ago, long before the political journey of her husband to the presidency began,” he said.

He added that the RCCG would not bow to external pressure demanding her removal as a pastor.

Adeboye further noted that the church operated on established spiritual and procedural principles and would not take decisions based on political sentiment or public agitation.

He maintained that the First Lady remained in good standing within the church and had continued to serve in her pastoral capacity.

“Some people are saying RCCG is an APC church. I just smile. In RCCG, you will find a governor from the Peoples Democratic Party sitting down with a governor from the Labour Party, APC, and APGA. By the special help of God, we are representative of the whole nation, and that is what we will continue to be,”

he said.

The cleric stressed that while politicians are welcome in the church, the altar is not a platform for political expression.

“If you saw one governor among us today dancing and you were expecting he would be called forward to say something, we don’t do that. But if you come to

worship with us, you are welcome. Our duty is to pray for everybody,” he added.

On Nigeria’s political future, Adeboye offered a spiritual perspective on the 2027 presidential election, stating that the outcome is already determined

by God.

“The one that will rule has been decided by God before we were born. He knows the end from the beginning,” he said, urging Nigerians to remain focused

on prayer and their personal responsibilities.

Addressing his past involvement in public protests, Adeboye explained that his actions were in obedience to directives from the Christian Association of

Nigeria (CAN).

“That was because the then chairman of CAN asked all Christians to go out for a peaceful protest. If he talks tomorrow and asks me to march, I will,” he

said, adding that he operates under the authority of CAN on national Christian matters.

He also clarified that he does not see himself as a spiritual father to all Nigerian Christians, describing himself strictly as the leader of RCCG.

“I don’t want to be the father of all Christians in Nigeria. I am certified as being the father of RCCG, and that is enough assignment for me,” he said.

Adeboye further urged members of the church to avoid engaging in criticism or political disputes involving fellow believers, assuring them of his continued

support and protection.

“I will not allow any outsider to dictate to me how to deal with my own children. Even if you make a mistake, I will not allow an outsider to tell me what

to do with my own children. I will defend you against anybody, any blogger or whatever who may say anything against you.

“If anybody is criticising any of us, don’t join them. Don’t allow them to use you for politics.”

  

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