LASTMA Seals Nightclub Over Persistent Traffic Violations

The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), has sealed Vaniti Club House on Adeola Odeku Street,

Victoria Island, over repeated violations of the state’s traffic regulations.

The enforcement action, led by LASTMA General Manager Olalekan Bakare-Oki, was carried out by the agency’s Rescue and Compliance Unit, following what authorities

described as the club’s “habitual and deliberate infringement” of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018.

The club was accused of facilitating illegal roadside parking and encroaching upon public highways, actions which have severely disrupted vehicular movement

and endangered public safety.

Bakare-Oki stated, “Despite extensive sensitization efforts—including public enlightenment campaigns, stakeholder engagements, and multiple warnings—the

management of Vaniti Club House has continued to violate traffic laws and undermine the operational integrity of the state’s traffic system.”

He added that the sealing of the club is indefinite and will remain in place until its management fully complies with all existing traffic laws and regulations.

This move comes on the heels of a public warning issued by LASTMA at the weekend, cautioning owners and operators of event centres, nightclubs, and lounges

to stop obstructing traffic or face severe consequences.

Citing the Transport Sector Reform Law, Bakare-Oki emphasized that any obstruction to free movement or activities that jeopardize the safety of road users

are considered serious offences under Lagos law and attract strict penalties.

“This enforcement action is not a one-off. It marks the beginning of a broader and sustained compliance campaign,” he said, noting that the agency is monitoring

other nightlife venues and recreational facilities, especially those located in high-traffic areas like Victoria Island.

The state government reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward individuals, organizations, or businesses that compromise public order and road safety.

LASTMA urged Lagos residents to report traffic-obstructing venues via its toll-free hotline: 0800-00-LASMA (080000527862).

Bakare-Oki concluded, “The Lagos State Government is committed to fostering a safe, disciplined, and efficiently regulated traffic environment as part

of its vision for a world-class, livable urban landscape.”

He also reiterated LASTMA’s collaboration with security agencies and regulatory bodies to sustain the enforcement drive across the state, regardless of

social or commercial influence.

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D’Tigress Wins Fifth Consecutive Afrobasket Title, Tinubu Commends Team

Nigeria’s D’Tigress have cemented their dominance in African women’s basketball, clinching their fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title with a commanding 78-64 victory over Mali.

With a hard-fought victory over Mali in the final on Sunday, the Nigerian side became the first country on the continent to win the championship five times in a row.

The victory also extended Nigeria’s astonishing unbeaten run in the competition to 29 straight games—an unbroken streak dating back to 2015.

President Tinubu has commended the skill, resilience, determination, and teamwork that propelled the team to the fifth consecutive title, and the seventh overall.

He praised the team’s determination to bring glory to the country despite losing the first quarter of the match.

“Your superb performance throughout the competition has made Nigeria proud. Like the Super Falcons, you have inspired our young ladies. You embodied the indomitable Nigerian spirit, the power of unity, and the rewards of hard work.

“By winning the AfroBasket trophy for a record fifth consecutive time, you have written your names in history and shown the world what to expect out of Africa,” the President stated.

President Tinubu also lauded Head Coach Rena Wakama and her technical team for their exemplary leadership and the Nigeria Basketball Federation for their steadfast support.

“The Federal Government and Nigerians will never forget the sacrifices and remain grateful for the highly elevating performances.

“The government and the people of Nigeria celebrate you and assure you of our continued support as you prepare for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup next March.

President Tinubu added, “I look forward to receiving the victorious team and the trophy in Abuja, while wishing you all a safe trip.”

 

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76 Die, Dozens Missing As Migrant Boat Capsizes Near Yemen

At least 76 people have been killed and dozens are missing after a boat carrying mostly Ethiopian migrants sank off Yemen, in the latest tragedy on the perilous sea route, officials told AFP on Monday.

Yemeni security officials said 76 bodies had been recovered and 32 people rescued from the shipwreck in the Gulf of Aden. The UN’s migration agency said 157 people were on board.

The accident occurred off Abyan governorate in southern Yemen, a frequent destination for boats smuggling African migrants hoping to reach the wealthy Gulf states.

Some of those rescued have been transferred to Yemen’s Aden, near Abyan, a security official said.

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UN agency the International Organization for Migration earlier gave a toll of at least 68 dead.

The IOM’s country chief of mission, Abdusattor Esoev, told AFP that “the fate of the missing is still unknown.”

Despite the civil war that has ravaged Yemen since 2014, the impoverished country has remained a key transit point for irregular migration, in particular from Ethiopia which itself has been roiled by ethnic conflict.

Each year, thousands brave the so-called “Eastern Route” from Djibouti to Yemen across the Red Sea, in the hope of eventually reaching oil-rich Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The IOM recorded at least 558 deaths on the Red Sea route last year, with 462 from boat accidents.

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Last month, at least eight people died after smugglers forced migrants to disembark from a boat in the Red Sea, according to the UN’s migration agency.

The vessel that sank off Abyan was carrying mostly Ethiopian migrants, according to the province’s security directorate and an IOM source.

Yemeni security forces were conducting operations to recover a “significant” number of bodies, the Abyan directorate said on Sunday.

On their way to the Gulf, migrants cross the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the narrow waterway at the mouth of the Red Sea that is a major route for international trade, as well as for migration and human trafficking.

Once in war-torn Yemen, the Arabian Peninsula’s poorest country, migrants often face other threats to their safety.

The IOM says tens of thousands of migrants have become stranded in Yemen and suffer abuse and exploitation during their journeys.

In April, more than 60 people were killed in a strike blamed on the United States that hit a migrant detention centre in Yemen, according to the Huthi rebels that control much of the country.

The wealthy Gulf monarchies host significant populations of foreign workers from South Asia and Africa.

AFP

 

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MTN Unveils "Next Afrobeat Star" To Discover, Groom Musical Talents

MTN Nigeria has unveiled a new reality television show called, “Next Afrobeats Star”, to groom musical talents by providing a lifetime opportunity to turn their dreams and aspirations into reality.

Speaking at a news conference in Lagos on Saturday night, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Nigeria, said the show would feature a competition and grooming sessions to discover and elevate the next global icon of Afrobeats.

According to her, the winner of the show will receive a record deal valued at 100,000 dollars, which is N155 million.

She explained that the top four finalists will also be rewarded with deals ranging from 25,000 dollars  to 75,000 dollars, to support the production of their debut projects.

She said: “Tonight, we are not just launching a show, we are launching a dream. A dream that will rise from the streets of Lagos, echo through the valleys of Jos, and reach the furthest corners of Nigeria.

“At MTN, we believe in progress, not just as a brand stance but a purpose. We believe that every Nigerian, regardless of background, location, or education, deserves a chance to be connected, seen, heard, and celebrated.

“That is why we are taking this message to every corner of Nigeria from the bustling cities to the most remote villages so that no youth is left behind, because talent knows no boundaries, and neither should opportunity.

“It is a platform where raw talent meets real opportunity. Where the rhythm of Nigeria meets the reach of the world.”

According to Ikenna-Emeka, the initiative also aligns with the Federal Government’s bold vision to transform Nigeria into Africa’s creative capital.

She said through the Destination 2030 strategy, the government was working to position Nigeria as a leading global hub for creative excellence by the year 2030.

“This vision is about more than economic growth; it’s about cultural pride, global influence, and national identity.

“It is about creating an enabling environment for artistic brilliance, promoting diversity and creativity, and preserving the rich heritage that makes Nigeria unique.”

She called on the youth to embrace the opportunity to make a difference on the global stage.

According to her, the “Next Afrobeats Star” is a bold initiative by MTN Nigeria, in partnership with Ultima Studios and ONErpm.

Also, Temilolu Salako, Senior Manager, Youth Segment at MTN Nigeria, noted that renowned afrobeats producers would be engaged as judges and mentors during the show.

“Today, we’re not just launching a talent search, we are kicking off a movement. The Next Afrobeats Star is more than a campaign. It’s a spotlight.

“It is a microphone, a stage for the next voice that will shake the charts and shape the sound of Nigeria and beyond, and powering this bold journey is a brand that’s all about youth empowerment, creativity, and self-expression, that is MTN Pulse.”

Alexander Uwaifo, known professionally as Andre Vibez, a music producer who is one of the judges for the show, said: “I am excited to showcase my experience in helping to discover the crop of stars in the Afrobeats business.”

Another judge for the show, Femi Ayeni, Chief Executive Officer of Ultima Studios said, “Nigerians should expect that this will be different from other talent shows.”

 

 

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Why We Are Spending N712 Billion On Murtala Mohammed Airport Lagos

   The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has explained that the Federal Government’s decision to spend N712 billion on the renovation of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos is driven by the urgent need to replace decaying infrastructure, expand capacity, and bring the nation’s busiest airport in line with modern global standards.

The Minister gave this explanation in a statement issued on Sunday, following the Federal Executive Council’s recent approval of the transformation project.

After the Federal Executive Council meeting on Monday, the FG approved airport projects worth N919.10bn in total.

He described the package as “massive infrastructural upgrades” across key gateways, especially the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. 

He explained that MMIA, International Terminal 1 will be stripped to the carcass and fully rebuilt, with all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems replaced—an award to CCECC that also covers Terminal 2 works (apron expansion, access roads, bridges and associated infrastructure).

However, justifying the huge amounts earmarked for these projects, the minister explained, “To further enunciate our plans for the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, let me further clarify the approval we secured from the Federal Executive Council Meeting last week.

“There are two international terminals in Lagos. Terminal One is that old building directly facing the long stretch of road leading to the airport, built and commissioned in 1979 by the Obasanjo-led military regime. It has two wings known as Wing D and Wing E. Terminal Two is the new building on the right-hand side as you drive into the airport, started by President Jonathan’s government with a Chinese loan, completed during President Buhari’s government (with the loan), and made operational during President Tinubu’s first one month in office,” the statement partly read.

Keyamo noted that Terminal One has fallen into a state of disrepair, becoming unfit for modern aviation demands.

He noted, “Due to years of neglect and because the traffic over time quadrupled beyond its capacity, the building and facilities at Terminal One became totally decrepit. We have been engaged in some patch jobs over the years just to make it a bit presentable.

“Now, shorn of all the rhetoric, what we simply want to do is to totally strip down that building, including the entire roof (leaving only the carcass), then re-design/reconfigure it and build a brand-new airport for the nation to meet modern, international standards that can also cater for the increased traffic. Both Wings D and E would be affected.”

On Terminal Two, he revealed plans for expansion and correction of long-standing design flaws that inconvenience travellers.

“As for the new Terminal (Two), we got approval to expand the building and the apron (where aircraft park for boarding and disembarkation) in order to accommodate more aircraft, including wide-body aircraft. That is not all; we are constructing two new independent ring roads in and out of the airport (one for departure and one for arrival) and a bridge that will take travellers directly to the upper floor of Terminal Two departure lounge, instead of lifting our luggage the escalators when we are departing. It is a design error we intend to correct”, Keyamo explained.

He also highlighted the integration of advanced technology into the redesigned airport, aimed at bringing it up to global standards.

The minister stressed that the initiative will be funded entirely through domestic resources.

“We have also introduced smart solutions to the new designs in order to deliver a smart airport to Nigerians that can compete with any airport in the world. In all, Nigerians will be proud of what we are going to deliver. And take note, this will not be done by a loan from anywhere, but by the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, which is one of the gains made from the removal of subsidies.”

To ensure public accountability, Keyamo said stakeholders will be invited to monitor the progress of the project when it begins.

“As the work progresses, we will be inviting the press, civil society groups, members of the National Assembly and interested Nigerians on regular tours of the facility to monitor the extent and quality of work. It is part of our national heritage and we should all rightly be interested in the final outcome”, he noted.

He also urged the public to make global comparisons in airport project costs for better perspective.

“I will also encourage our compatriots to simply google the cost of most modern airports built around the world in the last few years (including those in Africa like Angola, etc.) and you will agree with me that the Bureau for Public Procurement that scrutinised and fixed the final cost of this project did a fantastic job for the nation”, the minister noted.

In conclusion, Keyamo pointed to underused facilities in other cities and invited Nigerians to watch a video presentation of the proposed revamp.

“And as a final word, it is important to tell Nigerians that we also have brand-new terminals in Kano, Abuja and Port Harcourt. However, presently, they are all underutilised due to the traffic that is less than thirty per cent of their capacities.

“For further explanation and transparency, we have produced a video (which I attach hereunder) that graphically explains the proposed works upon which we are embarking. I hope you find it useful,” the statement concluded.

 

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Lagos Taskforce Clears Agege Under-Bridge, Impounds 55 Vehicles

In a bold effort to decongest traffic and restore sanity to the Agege underbridge area, the Lagos State Taskforce, has cleared illegally parked vehicles and impounded 55 commercial transport units during a major enforcement operation.

Led by the chairman of the Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, the operation targeted long-standing traffic disruptions caused by commercial vehicles — including Danfo, Korope, and tricycles (Keke Marwa) — which had turned the Agege roundabout along Ogba Road into an illegal parking hub.

The enforcement, which also extended to Ogba, Iju, and Ishaga roads, followed surveillance by the agency’s Monitoring Unit and reports submitted through its “See Something, Say Something” platform. Dozens of vehicles obstructing the free flow of traffic were removed, bringing immediate relief to motorists and residents in the area.

Speaking during the operation, CSP Akerele condemned the habitual recklessness of commercial drivers, describing traffic gridlock as a man-made problem.

“Traffic logjam is not natural, not created by God, but a product of human recklessness. We will not tolerate or surrender to any form of indiscipline on our roads,” he said.

The Taskforce boss emphasized that the clean-up marks a significant shift in Lagos State’s traffic enforcement strategy, aimed at reducing travel time, improving safety, and upholding road laws. 

He reiterated the agency’s commitment to sustaining operations that promote traffic order and discipline across the state.

“We urge all motorists and commuters to comply with traffic regulations. Our roads must remain safe and motorable for everyone at all times,” Akerele added.

According to the agency, a total of 55 vehicles — including Danfo, Korope, and Keke Marwa — were seized during the operation. The drivers of the impounded vehicles are set to be charged in court for various traffic offenses.

According to the director, press & public affairs of taskforce, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the Lagos State Taskforce has vowed to continue its crackdown on illegal parking and other road offenses in its ongoing bid to keep Lagos traffic flowing.

 

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Nollywood Star Actress Omotola Odunsi Dies At 31

Nollywood has again been thrown into mourning following the death of actress Omotola Odunsi.

Omotola’s death was confirmed by her colleague, Akinola Akano, popularly known as Segbowe.

Segbowe posted an emotional tribute on his Instagram page on Thursday.

He shared screenshots of his last chat with Omotola, where she told him she was feeling better after being unwell.

“Motola! Strange but I tried checking on you at the wee hours of that morning.

“You said you were FINE & BACK! This is a rude shock, Omotola! Journey well, sister. God be with your family,” Segbowe wrote.

Though the cause of her death has not been officially disclosed, her sudden demise has shocked many in the Nollywood community.

Veteran actor Odunlade Adekola, under whose mentorship Omotola trained, also confirmed her passing in a short but emotional Instagram story post:

“Jesus Christ. RIP Omotola.”

Ashabi Simple, actress and mother to singer Portable’s child, recalled their recent meeting on a movie set and expressed disbelief:

“You’re one of the best actors I’m rooting for… You laboured and didn’t wait to reap. Most of your wishes didn’t even come true. GOD, we can’t question you. Death is deep.”

Omotola Odunsi began her Nollywood journey in 2018 after successfully auditioning for Odunlade Adekola Films Production (OAFP). She left her job as a credit officer in a state-owned bank in 2019 to pursue her passion for acting full-time, with her family’s support.

She graduated in 2023 and featured in a number of well-received Yoruba films, including: Lisabi: The Uprising, Officer Adaeze, Amonata, Ayanmo Ire, Ifedayo, Ajanaku, Darkness, Dagogo, Doctor Adunni, President Kuti, Folagbade

Omotola Odunsi was widely admired for her emotional range, on-screen presence, and dedication to her craft. Her passing is a significant loss to Nollywood, particularly the Yoruba film industry.

 

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Second Semester Exams At Risk As Striking Workers Shut LASU

The second-semester examinations of undergraduate students at the Lagos State University (LASU), scheduled to begin on Monday, August 4, may not hold following the indefinite strike embarked on by the university’s workers.

The industrial action, which began on Thursday, July 31, has already crippled both academic and non-academic activities at the institution.

Findings on Friday indicated that the examinations could only proceed as scheduled if something dramatic happened over the weekend that would prompt the suspension of the strike.

All members of staff of the university and its affiliate campuses (LASUCOM and LASU Epe Campus) downed tools last Thursday to protest poor welfare and other unresolved issues with the management.

In a letter to the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, dated July 31, 2025, the leadership of the four unions in the institution vowed not to call off the strike until all their demands were met.

Operating under the auspices of the Joint Action Committee, which comprises the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, SSANU, Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, NASU, and National Association of Academic Technologists, NAAT, the unions stated that the decision to embark on the indefinite industrial action was reached at an Emergency Congress of the committee.

The letter, signed by Prof. Ibrahim Bakare (Chairman, ASUU-LASU), Sylvester Idowu (Secretary, ASUU-LASU), Oluwaseyi Lawal (Chairman, SSANU-LASU), and Waheed Majekodunmi (Secretary, SSANU-LASU), and titled “Notice of Indefinite Strike Action”, reads in part: “Sequel to the decision reached at the Emergency Congress of the Joint Action Committee of the Lagos State University Staff Unions (ASUU-LASU, SSANU-LASU, NAAT-LASU & NASU-LASU) that an indefinite strike action should commence effective from Thursday, July 31, 2025, we write to notify you that the indefinite strike action has commenced in Lagos State University. The strike action will remain in force indefinitely until all the demands of staff members are met by the appropriate authorities.

“Consequently, all members of staff of the University and its affiliate campuses (LASUCOM and LASU Epe Campus) are hereby directed to withdraw their services and vacate their official duty posts with immediate effect. While we thank you for your kind gesture and support always, please accept the assurances of the unions’ kindest regards.”

 

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Five Killed, Five Seriously Injured In Car Accidents Along Lekki-Epe Expressway

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has confirmed the death of five people in two separate accidents that occurred along the Lekki-Epe Expressway on Thursday.

This is just as five other passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries in the crashes.

According to a statement by the LASTMA spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, on Thursday, the first accident occurred at the Abijo Bus Stop along the expressway when a van crashed into a stationary construction company’s equipment.

He stated, “The first catastrophic incident unfolded during the early hours of the day at the Abijo Bus Stop, precisely under the pedestrian bridge on the inward Epe corridor, where a Mitsubishi pick-up van bearing registration number AKD 733 JM, travelling at an exceedingly perilous speed, lost control and crashed into a stationary Craneburg Construction Company equipment, lawfully parked.

“The colossal impact resulted in the instantaneous death of four occupants (three males and one female) whose bodies were recovered lifeless at the scene of the accident.

“Demonstrating their operational dexterity and swift emergency response capabilities, LASTMA operatives successfully rescued three additional female occupants from the wreckage and handed them over to officers of the Eleko Division of the Nigeria Police Force for onward transfer to nearby medical institutions for urgent care and further evaluation.”

Taofiq stated further that another road crash at the Frajend Group area inward Bogije along the expressway led to the death of a driver who rammed into a stationary truck.

“The devastating collision resulted in the immediate death of the SUV driver, while two other passengers, grievously injured and entrapped within the crushed vehicle, were meticulously extricated by LASTMA personnel after a laborious and delicate rescue operation.

“Upon successful recovery, both survivors were immediately placed in the custody of officers from the Elemoro Police Division, who ensured their prompt conveyance to medical facilities for life-saving intervention,” the spokesperson added.

Reacting through Taofiq, the LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased, while warning motorists and drivers of the dangers of speeding.

“We stand in solidarity with the bereaved families during this moment of unspeakable loss and anguish. It is our earnest prayer that the Almighty grant them the strength to bear these irreparable losses.

“These deeply saddening occurrences serve as grim reminders of the catastrophic consequences that stem from the wilful violation of established speed regulations.

“The Lagos State Government has made substantial investments in traffic control infrastructure, ranging from road signage and speed limiters to high-visibility furniture, to mitigate such disasters,” Bakare-Oki said.

He urged members of the public to report traffic-related emergencies, obstructions, or accidents through LASTMA’s dedicated toll-free hotline: 0800 00 527 862.

 

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Nigeria And Ghana Hold Talks Over Anti-Nigerians Slogan

    The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has appealed for calm, following calls by some Ghanaians for the deportation of Nigerians from the country.

A statement on Thursday by her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Magnus Eze, said she spoke during a joint press conference with Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Ablakwa, in Accra, on Wednesday.

She said the viral videos depicting protests had raised concerns in Nigeria, prompting President Bola Tinubu to dispatch her as a special envoy to assess the situation firsthand.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu said, “We are here in the Republic of Ghana on a fact-finding mission as special envoy of President Bola Tinubu as a result of recent disturbances that have made the rounds in Nigeria.

“We are pleased to note that things are rather calm here. Since we arrived, I haven’t seen people burning tyres in the streets or carrying placards everywhere calling for Nigerians to be deported.”

She attributed the calm to the Ghanaian government’s intervention, adding that the fears raised by the videos seemed to have subsided upon assessment of the actual situation.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu reiterated the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and Ghana, cautioning against the spread of inciting content that could escalate tensions between citizens of both countries.

She disclosed that her delegation had met with Ghanaian officials, community leaders, and individuals involved in the situation to ease tensions.

She also called for the institutionalisation of the Nigeria-Ghana Joint Commission to promote stronger bilateral relations and citizen-to-citizen engagement.

In his remarks, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ablakwa, said the government was engaging both Ghanaian citizens and the Nigerian community to address concerns and maintain peace.

“The Ghanaian government will ensure that everyone in the country, citizens and non-citizens, is protected,” he said, adding that residents must also be law-abiding and avoid divisive actions.

He stated that the viral videos were not a true reflection of the situation and disclosed that he had met with the Nigerian accused of attempting to form a kingdom in Ghana, clarifying that territorial intentions were not the motive.

Ablakwa recalled past episodes of diplomatic strain between the two countries, including Ghana’s Aliens Repatriation Order and Nigeria’s 1983 “Ghana Must Go” expulsion, stressing the need for both nations to learn from history and manage relations carefully.

“Regardless of our shared history, if these things are not managed well, it will take us back to certain dark occurrences in our history,” he said.

 

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Ilaje Community Rejects The Renaming Of Street After Sunny Ade

The Ilaje community in the Bariga area of Lagos State has vowed to resist the renaming of Ilaje Street after the music legend, King Sunny Ade, accusing the local council authority of attempting to erase its historical identity.

Last Friday, the immediate past Chairman of the Bariga Local Council Development Area, David Kolade Alabi, announced the renaming of several streets, including Ilaje Street, as part of efforts to honour notable figures.

However, the move has sparked intense backlash both on the streets and online, where critics allege it reflects ethnic bias and a disregard for local history.

Protesters from the Ilaje community took to the streets on Wednesday, demanding a reversal of the name change, arguing that the council’s decision undermined the cultural and historical heritage of their people.

The President General of Egbe Omo Ilaje Worldwide, Raphael Irowainu, condemned the renaming as a “calculated attempt to decimate” the Ilaje people in Lagos State.

“It was a calculated attempt by the political elites and some Yoruba ethnic groups to erase the historical and cultural involvement of the Ilaje people in the creation of Lagos State.

“The Bariga community was founded in 1948 by our great-grandfathers. The entire place was like a forest. They were the ones who made the road before the state government took over later,” Irowainu said.

He further alleged a pattern of targeted and deliberate marginalisation of his people in the state.

He said, “On March 7, the Lagos State Government, in connivance with some persons, went to another Ilaje community and demolished the area.

“A monarch in Oworo sent people to demolish parts of Ilaje in Oworonshoki. Go to Majidun, and you will hear a similar story. These are calculated events to erase and decimate the Ilaje people.”

Highlighting the group’s historical significance, Irowainu added, “The Ilaje are among the three early settlers of Lagos State —alongside the Awori and Ijebu.

“We are not strangers. We are Yorubas just like any other Yoruba. Ilaje is a recognised sub-ethnic group in Yorubaland.”

He also questioned the rationale behind honouring King Sunny Ade in an Ilaje territory when other areas could be named after the revered music icon.

He said, “They now want to rename Ilaje Street to King Sunny Ade Street, when we have Ondo Street in Ebute Meta. Why not rename that one if they truly want to honour him? This is a war against the Ilaje people.”

Disclosing that the community had already filed a petition against the decision, Irowainu threatened legal action, arguing that the LCDA lacks constitutional authority to rename streets.

“If it requires going through legal means, we will do it. Even the so-called LCDA is illegal.

“The constitution recognises only 20 local governments—not LCDAs. It’s only the local governments that have the power to rename streets, and even at that, there must be consultation with the affected communities,” he maintained.

The former council chairman, who initiated the renaming, had defended the decision, saying it was meant to celebrate individuals who had brought global recognition to Bariga.

“As an administration, we took our time to reflect on a number of our people who have put the name of our local council out on the global map through their respective God-given talents and crafts,” David had stated.

 

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Lagos PDP Faults The Renaming Of Streets In The State

The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has faulted the recent renaming of streets in some local government areas of the state.

The recent renaming of streets and public landmarks in the state has sparked angry reactions  and  protests,

Reacting in a statement on Thursday in Lagos, the PDP Vice-Chairman (Lagos Central), Mr. Hakeem Olalemi, who advised the ruling party to tread carefully, alleged that the remaining targets are a section of society.

“The Lagos PDP is hereby rejecting in totality the renaming of streets by some council chairmen. We should not erase history because of politics.

“It is against the spirit of unity in diversity, and it will certainly affect the image of the state as a cosmopolitan state.

“We should be seen to be promoting unity and not to give the wrong impression to non-indigenes in the state.

“We have various ethnic nationalists in our state, who have contributed immensely to the development of our state, hence the reason why some streets were named after them initially.

“This current action by some council executives should be reconsidered. Most of the streets affected were bearing Igbo names before and this leaves  so many questions in the heart of non Indigenes,.”

Describing the street renaming as totally unconstitutional, Olalemi said that the decision and consequent reactions showed that some leaders failed to consult widely.

“The APC should, as a matter of fact, revert to the status quo.

“If the steps were not reversed, the party could seek legal redress in court in order to preserve the identity of Lagos State as a cosmopolitan state.

“We cannot erase history in the name of politics. The ruling party should know that this renaming of streets arbitrarily can lead to riot, unrest and serious chaos if care is not taken,” he said.

Human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, has also recently condemned the change of street names as unconstitutional.

 

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Federal Government Approves N145 Billion Electrification Project For Unilag, Others

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Thursday approved ₦145 billion for electrification projects in eight federal universities and one teaching hospital.

The Council also approved the sum of ₦68.7 billion for solar power for some rural communities and agricultural clusters that remain off-grid.

The two strategic electrification projects are targeted at expanding access to clean, renewable energy across Nigeria’s educational and rural agricultural sectors, in line with the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, speaking shortly after the FEC meeting, said the approved projects are part of a deliberate shift toward sustainable energy delivery, aimed at reducing dependence on the national grid while promoting development, innovation, and inclusivity.

Giving the breakdown of the projects, the Minister said the first major approval is for the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) of solar hybrid power systems under the Energizing Education Programme (EEP), to be executed by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

This initiative targets eight federal universities and one teaching hospital and is funded through the Special Intervention Window of the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund.

According to Adelabu, the total cost of this component is ₦145 billion, which is inclusive of 7.5% Value Added Tax (VAT). Implementation is scheduled for completion within 7 to 9 months.

“This is a major milestone in the transformation of our tertiary education infrastructure,” the Minister said.

“It will significantly lower energy costs, reduce reliance on diesel generators, and provide a clean, stable source of power to support learning, research, and healthcare delivery.”

The Minister disclosed that the beneficiary institutions under this new phase are:

University of Lagos (UNILAG), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), University of Ibadan (UI), University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, and Federal University, Wukari (Taraba State).

The Minister said the others are to be confirmed upon project kickoff.

This project builds on earlier World Bank-supported phases that delivered solar mini-grid systems to institutions such as the University of Abuja (3MW), UNN (12MW), University of Calabar (8MW), and the Nigerian Defence Academy (2.6MW).

The second approval covers the rollout of solar-powered infrastructure in Agricultural Centres of Excellence, also under the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund and implemented by the REA.

According to the Minister, this phase targets rural communities and agricultural clusters that remain off-grid.

With a total contract value of ₦68.7 billion, inclusive of VAT, this component is expected to be delivered within three months. It is designed to power homes, agro-processing units, cold storage systems, and small rural enterprises, boosting productivity and rural economies.

“The goal here is not just lighting homes, but energizing agriculture, creating jobs, and enabling value addition right in the communities,” Adelabu said.

Both interventions, the Minister stressed, reflect the Tinubu administration’s resolve to make access to reliable electricity a key driver of inclusive development.

He added that the projects will serve as models for scaling renewable energy adoption across other sectors, particularly education, health, and agriculture.

“These approvals reaffirm our commitment to bridging the energy access gap, ensuring no Nigerian is left behind as we transition toward a cleaner, more sustainable, and economically viable power sector,” Adelabu added.

 

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Your Borrowing 10 Times Worse Than Buhari - ADC Tells Tinubu

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the Tinubu administration over what it called fiscal vandalism, saying the president is borrowing far more than his predecessor, Late Muhammadu Buhari, and placing Nigeria on the edge of a financial disaster.

This was contained in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi.

According to him, the ADC said President Tinubu’s government has borrowed more in two years than Buhari did in eight, warning that the country’s total debt could hit ₦200 trillion before the end of 2025.

“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is deeply concerned by the Tinubu administration’s dangerous obsession with borrowing. What Nigerians are witnessing, following the approval of a fresh $21 billion in foreign loans, is nothing short of a calculated decision to mortgage the country’s future just to cover up the failures of today.

“Under President Buhari, Nigeria borrowed an average of N4.7 trillion per year, and even that caused widespread concern. But under President Tinubu, borrowing has jumped to N49.8 trillion per year. In just two years, this administration has borrowed more than ten times what Buhari borrowed in the same timeframe,” the statement read in part.

The statement revealed that at this pace, Nigeria’s total debt could go beyond ₦200 trillion before the year ends.

“We are heading straight into a financial crisis, and those leading the country don’t seem to know how to stop. They keep borrowing money instead of finding smarter and more careful ways to fix the economy.”

According to the statement, some say Tinubu borrows less in dollars than Buhari, but that’s misleading.

“This is because the naira has crashed, the loans now cost Nigeria much more. Tinubu’s foreign borrowing is about ₦25.5 trillion a year far higher than Buhari’s ₦2.2 trillion. This shows we’re sinking deeper into debt due to poor economic decisions,” it added.

The ADC accused the National Assembly of failing in its duty to protect Nigerians by rubber-stamping every loan request without asking tough questions.

“This constant borrowing without a clear plan or real results means future generations will pay for debts they didn’t benefit from. Despite all the loans, roads are bad, schools lack funding, hospitals are poorly equipped, and electricity is still unreliable. Nigerians want to know: what are these loans really for? Yet, the National Assembly keeps approving them without asking tough questions or defending the people,” the statement added.

“While other countries are working to reduce their debts, the APC keeps borrowing more. Even after the naira was devalued, which should have slowed borrowing, the government used it as a reason to take more loans.”

The ADC is calling for full details of all loans taken in the last 10 years, including how much was borrowed, interest rates, repayment plans, and where the money went.

The party also urged President Tinubu to stop the reckless borrowing and focus on real reforms by using funds wisely and spending responsibly.

According to the ADC, borrowing to cover poor policies must stop.

 

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US Warns Canada Over Palestinian State Recognition

Donald Trump has threatened Canada after it moved to recognise a Palestinian state, reacting to Mark Carney’s announcement by saying that signing a US trade deal would now be “very hard”.

The Canadian prime minister said on Wednesday that if the Palestinian Authority promised to meet certain conditions, including demilitarising and holding elections without Hamas, Canada would join France, the UK and other allies in formally recognising a state of Palestine at the UN general assembly in New York in September.

Portugal said on Thursday it was also considering recognition, and Germany said such a move should come at the end of talks on a two-state solution.

Trump, who had appeared to give tacit approval to the UK prime minster, Keir Starmer, for Britain’s own declaration earlier in the week, has since reacted to the growing movement toward recognising Palestine by doubling down on his support of Israel’s position, saying that doing so “rewards Hamas”.

“The level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable,” Carney said in his announcement. He said the leader of the Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abbas, had assured him it could meet the goals he had laid out, but acknowledged that “much has to happen before a democratic viable state is established”.

“The deepening suffering of civilians leaves no room for delaying coordinated international action to support peace, security and the dignity of human life,” Carney said on Wednesday.

Israel has been accused of refusing to allow international organisations to bring aid into Gaza, where dozens of people have starved to death in recent days, with images of emaciated children horrifying the world.

Trump, however, reacted to Carney’s decision by posting on social media: “Wow! Canada has just announced that it is backing statehood for Palestine. That will make it very hard for us to make a Trade Deal with them.”

With many of his supporters increasingly opposing Israel’s war in Gaza, Trump previously criticised the UK’s plan to grant recognition as “rewarding Hamas”, telling journalists on Air Force One that the US was “not in that camp”. Trump also said: “You’re rewarding Hamas if you do that. I don’t think they should be rewarded.”

Trump’s latest broadside at Canada comes amid other attempts to use tariffs as leverage over the domestic and foreign policies of other nations.

He has promised to raise tariffs on Brazil to 50%, linking it to the prosecution of his ally, former president Jair Bolsonaro, and recently threatened 15% additional tariffs on India for buying Russian oil, having fallen out with Putin over the war in Ukraine.

Thursday’s announcement of a US trade deal with Thailand and Cambodia also followed Trump’s demand that the two sides end the military skirmishes that broke out last week.

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