Ogbori Elemoso Movie: We Did Not Infringe On The Copyright Of Olalere Paimo - Fewchore Studios

Fewchore Studios has denied claims that it unlawfully remade the classic Yoruba film, Ogbori Elemoso.

It insisted that the project is an original historical production developed from independent research and authorised by the Soun of Ogbomosoland.

The clarification follows allegations by veteran Nollywood actor, Chief Olalere Paimo, popularly known as “Eda Onile Ola,” who said his intellectual property was being exploited without consent.

The controversy follows Paimo’s claim that Ogbori Elemoso, a historical Yoruba film produced in the early 1980s, was being remade without his permission.

The film, which earned him national recognition and his chieftaincy title, Are Arobajo of Ogbomoso, is widely regarded as pivotal to his career and the establishment of historical drama in Nollywood.

Paimo had appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, and other prominent Nigerians to intervene in the matter, describing the alleged infringement as an attempt to undermine his legacy.

In a statement, Fewchore said the name and narrative of Ogbori Elemoso refer to Soun Ogunlola, the founder and first king of Ogbomoso, and form part of established history.

“No individual can lawfully claim exclusive ownership over the history of a town or its founding monarch.

“We have not remade or reproduced any film, script, or creative work by Chief Olalere Osunpaimo, nor used any of his proprietary materials.

“The project is an original historical film developed from independent research,” the studio said.

It said any copyright held by Osunpaimo remains limited to his own prior work, none of which has been used or adapted.

Fewchore added that the project is being executed with the permission of the traditional rulers involved.

“Fewchore Studios is executing the project with the express written authorisation of Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomosoland and custodian of its history, to promote Ogbomoso’s cultural heritage, encourage indigene engagement, stimulate cultural tourism, and support long-term socio-economic development through responsible historical storytelling,” it said.

The studio also addressed financial interactions with Paimo, stating that he requested a sum, which was negotiated, and an amount was agreed upon.

meeting later held at his residence resulted in his request for ₦30 million, following which Fewchore Studios offered ₦15 million strictly as a goodwill gift in recognition of his past contributions and interest in the project.

“This was accepted, formally documented in signed minutes confirming it was a gift and not payment for rights or history, with ₦7.5 million paid as an initial instalment in the presence of witnesses,” the studio stated.

Fewchore stressed that Paimo subsequently withdrew from the project following legal correspondence from his representatives.

“Subsequently, following correspondence from Chief Osunpaimo’s legal representatives, alleging copyright infringement and demanding discontinuance, Chief Olalere Osunpaimo withdrew from the agreed-upon production dates and refunded the ₦7.5 million that had been received earlier,” the studio said.

Fewchore reaffirmed its commitment to “responsible Yoruba historical storytelling” and said it conducted the project transparently, “not through coercion, exploitation, or unlawful appropriation.”

Addressing claims of ownership over the title, Fewchore Studios also disputed claims of exclusive rights over the Ogbori Elemoso title, citing official records.

“Contrary to public insinuations, there is no registered copyright or trademark in the name Ogbori Elemoso in favour of Chief Olalere Osunpaimo at the Nigerian Copyright Commission or any trademark registry. Appeals to political or religious figures cannot create rights where none exist in law,” the studio said.

Fewchore concluded that “no individual can claim ownership over a town’s history” and reaffirmed its commitment to “responsible Yoruba historical storytelling” while defending itself against what it described as “false or misleading claims.”

 

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Fela Kuti To Be Honoured At The 2026 Grammy Awards

Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, will be posthumously honoured with a Special Merit Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Grammy Awards.

The Recording Academy’s Special Merit Awards ceremony—recognising recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award, Trustees Award and Technical Grammy Award—will take place on January 31, 2026, during Grammy Week, a day ahead of the main Grammys event.

Announcing the honourees in an Instagram post on Friday, the Recording Academy listed Fela among ten individuals selected for the prestigious recognition, describing him as the “architect of Afrobeat” whose work transformed the genre and influenced generations of artists.

“An architect of Afrobeat, honored for a lifetime of influence. Fela Kuti was a Nigerian musician, producer, arranger, political radical, activist, and the father of Afrobeat. In the 1960s, he created the genre by combining funk, jazz, salsa, calypso, and a blend of traditional Nigerian rhythms,” they wrote.

The Academy further highlighted the global reach of his legacy, noting:

“His influence spans generations, shaping modern Nigerian Afrobeats and inspiring global artists such as Beyoncé, Paul McCartney, and Thom Yorke. His legacy continues to live on not only through music, but through his family and through the Kalakuta Museum and the New Afrika Shrine.”

With this honour, Fela joins a distinguished group of past Special Merit Award recipients, including Whitney Houston, Cher, Paul Simon, Chaka Khan, Carlos Santana, Sylvia Rhone, John Chowning, Eddie Palmieri and Bernie Taupin.

The Special Merit Awards ceremony is scheduled to hold on February 1, 2026.

 

 

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How Pastor Chris Okafor Lured Me Out From My Ex-husband With Promise Of Marriage Only To Dump Me And Marry Another Woman - Actress Doris Ogala

A major scandal is breaking out in the Nigerian entertainment industry. Actress Doris Ogala has taken to the internet to accuse Lagos based Pastor Chris Okafor of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracle Ministry of reneging on a marriage promise.

She says the cleric, with whom she began a relationship in 2017, asked her to leave her ex husband with the assurance that they would marry. After nine years, Okafor proposed to another woman, leaving Ogala “shattered.”

Ogala launched a public campaign, granting interviews and posting videos to share her story and seek sympathy. The pastor, perceived as a “ladies’ man,” went ahead and married his partner Pearl, prompting mixed reactions.

Ogala’s legal team, Synergy Law Partners, issued a demand letter dated 16 December, seeking N1 billion in damages for breach of promise. The letter cites introductions to the pastor’s family, public appearances, WhatsApp chats, banking records (including a N45 million transfer) and other evidence as proof of a legitimate expectation of marriage.

According to the lawyers, the public announcement of Okafor’s engagement caused Ogala emotional distress, reputational harm and intense online harassment, including the unauthorized circulation of private photos.

The pastor has been given 21 days to settle before a court suit is filed. As of now, Pastor Chris Okafor and his legal representatives have not commented publicly.

However, the scandal reportedly dampened attendance at his wedding ceremony in Lekki, Lagos, which was attended by only family and close friends. This, however, appears to be just the beginning of the unfolding drama.

Lagos Today Extra! will keep you posted.

 

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Man Sentenced To 22 Years Imprisonment Over N28 Million Property Scam In Lagos Island

A Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja has sentenced a man, Chidi Nwaya, to a total of 22 years’ imprisonment for obtaining N28m by false pretence and stealing in a failed property transaction on Lagos Island.

Justice Modupe Nicol-Clay, delivering judgment on Wednesday, convicted Nwaya on two counts—obtaining by false pretence and stealing—ordering that the 15-year sentence and a separate seven-year term run concurrently.

The judge held that the prosecution proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt, describing the defendant’s conduct as deliberate and deceptive.

Nwaya was arraigned in Suit No. LD/4554C/2017 by the Lagos State Government over a 2012 transaction involving a property located at No. 163A, Adeniji Adele Road, Lagos Island.

The prosecution counsel, Mrs T. Olanrewaju-Daud, told the court that Nwaya falsely represented himself as having authority to sell the family property and induced Anthony Mbachu to pay N28m for its purchase.

The convict was also accused of converting the money to his personal use after the transaction collapsed.

At trial, the complainant, Mbachu, testified that he had known Nwaya for several years and initially related to him as a tenant before discussions for the sale of the property began.

He told the court that Nwaya assured him the family had agreed to sell the property and that he paid the agreed sum in instalments.

Mbachu said a deed of assignment and receipt were prepared and signed by the defendant, but the sale was never completed, and the money was not refunded.

“He told me the family had agreed to sell and that I could pay in bits. I paid a total of N28m; receipts were issued, and documents were prepared, but the property was never transferred to me, and my money was not refunded,” Mbachu testified.

A police officer, ASP Bisi Awotunde, who investigated the matter, told the court that Nwaya admitted collecting money from the complainant, while a receipt showing N28m was recovered during the investigation.

Another prosecution witness, legal practitioner Aloy Ezenduka, testified that he prepared the transaction documents and that Nwaya signed the deed of assignment in his presence.

He added that attempts to verify the title documents later revealed discrepancies.

In his defence, Nwaya admitted receiving money from Mbachu but claimed it was about N14.29m, not N28m.

He testified that the family never intended to sell the property and that the money was later converted to rent. He also claimed that he signed some documents under duress.

In her judgment, Justice Nicol-Clay rejected the defence, holding that the evidence showed the convict knowingly misrepresented his authority to sell the property and deliberately induced the complainant to part with his money.

“Nwaya created a make-believe that the property was for sale despite knowing that his family did not intend to sell,” the judge held.

She added that his failure to refund the money amounted to fraudulent conversion.

The court struck out the third count of forgery after the prosecution conceded that it was not proved.

In sentencing Nwaya, the judge found him guilty of obtaining by false pretence under Section 312(3) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011, and stealing under Section 285(5) of the same law.

The court sentenced him to 15 years’ imprisonment for obtaining by false pretence and seven years for stealing, with both sentences to run concurrently.

 

 

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Alimot Adetoro Presents N6.81 Billion Budget For Eti-Osa LGA

    The Chairman of Eti-Osa Local Government, Mrs Alimot Adetoro, has proposed a N6.81bn budget for the 2026 fiscal year, with a focus on road rehabilitation and drainage projects aimed at addressing persistent flooding across the council area.

Presenting the proposed budget to the Eti-Osa Legislative Council, Adetoro said the spending plan prioritises infrastructure development as a critical response to environmental and mobility challenges confronting residents.

She explained that poor road networks and recurring flooding in several parts of Eti-Osa informed the administration’s decision to channel significant resources into comprehensive drainage construction and the rehabilitation of strategic roads.

According to the chairman, the infrastructure-focused budget is designed to deliver long-term solutions that will enhance free movement, reduce flood-related hazards and improve the overall quality of life in the area.

Adetoro added that improved roads and drainage systems would also stimulate economic activities, protect the environment and strengthen community resilience against climate-related challenges.

The proposed budget, which she described as people-focused and development-driven, also includes provisions for environmental sanitation and waste management reforms to promote a cleaner and greener Eti-Osa.

She urged members of the Legislative Council to give the proposal timely consideration and approval, noting that the budget represents a social contract aimed at delivering visible and measurable benefits to residents across the local government area.

 

 

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How Reckless Driver Killed Lawma Sweeper Along Meran Road

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has confirmed the death of a Lagos Waste Management Authority operative in a road traffic incident along Meran Road, inward Iyana Ekoro axis of Alimosho local government area.

In a statement released on Saturday via the agency’s official X account, signed by Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, LASTMA said the female operative “was conscientiously engaged in her lawful environmental sanitation duties” when she was struck by a blue Ford commercial bus (BDG 495 YH) that was “recklessly and unlawfully reversing on the expressway.”

“The vehicle forcefully rammed into the unsuspecting LAWMA sweeper who was carrying out routine roadside cleaning. The severe impact, particularly to the head region, proved instantly fatal,” the statement said.

LASTMA officers on active traffic surveillance duties “swiftly mobilised to the scene upon receipt of the distress report,” the statement added:

“The driver had absconded from the crash site in a desperate attempt to evade accountability. Officers immediately pursued the fleeing vehicle, successfully apprehended the driver and escorted him and his vehicle back to the scene of the incident.”

The apprehended driver and the vehicle “were subsequently handed over to security men from the Meiran Police Division for comprehensive investigation and prosecution in accordance with extant laws,” the agency said, noting that the timely intervention also “averted a potential breach of public peace, as the suspect was on the verge of being subjected to mob action by enraged members of the public.”

The remains of the deceased were “respectfully evacuated from the scene by LAWMA officials using an official LAWMA vehicle for further necessary procedures,” LASTMA added.

Expressing deep anguish over the incident, LASTMA General Manager Olalekan Bakare-Oki described the loss as “both distressing and preventable,” extending “heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, colleagues and loved ones of the fallen LAWMA operative. We fervently pray that Almighty God grants them fortitude and divine strength required to endure the irreplaceable loss.”

Bakare-Oki condemned the act of reversing on an expressway, stressing it “constitutes a serious traffic offence and a blatant contravention of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018,” and warned motorists against “reckless, unlawful driving practices which continually result in needless fatalities and public sorrow.”

He also commended the “vigilance, courage and swift response of LASTMA Officers involved in the incident, particularly for ensuring the suspect’s apprehension and preventing his escape from justice.”

It can be recalled that a similar incident occurred a few days ago, in which a truck collided with four other vehicles, leaving two dead and three others critically injured. Bakare-Oki said the driver of the Silo Mixer Truck “absconded from the scene upon realising the gravity of the incident.”

 

 

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Bible Society Of Nigeria Donates Over N2 Million Worth Of Bible And Other Materials To Lagos Seminary

The Bible Society of Nigeria has donated copies of the Holy Bible and theological books to the Baptist College of Theology, Agbowa, Ikorodu, Lagos, as part of efforts to support Christian education.

The materials donated included scholarly editions such as Bibles in Greek and Hebrew, an English dictionary, and a synopsis of the four Gospels.

Speaking at the event on Wednesday, the General Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of BSN, Pastor Samuel Sanusi, said the society’s objectives include Bible translation, publication, distribution, scriptural engagement, and fundraising.

“Our objective is to translate the Bible, publish, distribute, organise programmes, and fundraise. But that aspect of organising programmes is actually scriptural engagement.

“I want people to engage with the Scriptures. And now we have come to this seminary. This is where pastors are being trained and equipped for the ministry,” Sanusi said.

He disclosed that BSN partners with the German Bible Society to equip seminaries with scriptural resources, noting that many institutions struggle to stock their libraries due to high costs.

“Some of the materials we brought here are very expensive, and if you go to some seminaries, their libraries are empty. So how do we equip these upcoming ministers to be grounded in the Word? That is why we partner with the German Bible Society,” he added.

Sanusi said the donated materials, valued at over N2 million, were given to support seminaries that might not otherwise afford them.

“We have many missionaries and seminaries in Nigeria who have no access to these materials. What we have given here is valued at well over N2 million,” he said.

The Principal Assistant Registrar of the Baptist College of Theology, Rev. Adegbola Ojo, expressed appreciation to BSN, saying the donation would enhance the quality of training at the institution.

“It is going to add value to our training and increase the volume of quality resources in our library that our students and faculty members will make use of,” Ojo said.

Also speaking, the college librarian, Mrs Omodele Owolabi, said the Bible remained central to theological education, noting that the donated materials would support students studying Hebrew and other biblical languages.

“They study Hebrew from the 200 level to the final year. These materials will be very useful because not every student can afford to buy them,” she said.

 

 

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Mental Health: We Admit 30 New Patients Every Day - Medical Director, Yaba Psychiatric Hospital

The Medical Director of the Federal Neuro-psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Lagos, Dr Olugbenga Owoeye, has revealed that the hospital’s emergency unit receives between 25 and 30 new patients every day in 2025.

 He further stated that on clinic days, which run on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, the 535-bed facility attends to between 400 and 500 patients.

Owoeye, who disclosed this in an exclusive interview with PUNCH Healthwise, attributed the threefold increase from previous years to increased awareness, reduced stigmatisation of mental health conditions and decreased fear of seeking treatment at psychiatric facilities occasioned by the hospital’s regular public education programmes and social media presence.

“In our emergency, on a daily basis, we see close to 25 to 30 new cases. Before, it used to be like seven to 10, but there has been a kind of increase,” he said.

The medical director further noted that the hospital, formerly stigmatised with the derogatory nickname “Yaba Left,” has transformed its public image through awareness campaigns and improved facilities.

“People are no longer afraid or concerned to come to the hospital. Before, they used to call us Yaba Left, but now, people feel free to drive in. You can see the hospital is cool, it’s serene, and it’s neat,” Owoeye said.

He stated that while there was 100 per cent hospital admission in 2025, the industrial action by resident doctors and the Joint Health Sector Unions had affected service delivery at the hospital. While resident doctors had resumed, JOHESU members remained on strike, preventing the facility from operating at full capacity.

Despite the challenges, the hospital recorded minimal mortality rates, losing fewer than three patients throughout the year.

“People don’t really die from mental illness. In the whole of this year, we didn’t lose up to three patients on admission. Unlike in some hospitals that record it almost every day,” Owoeye said.

He further revealed that one in four Nigerians suffers from one form of mental illness or another.

According to the outgoing President of the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria, Mr Taiwo Obindo, over 60 million Nigerians currently suffer from mental illnesses.

Rendering an account of his stewardship between 2021 and 2025, the FNPH MD said, “This administration set out to transform the hospital into a one-stop mental healthcare facility of international standard, capable of addressing all aspects of mental health without the need for patients to seek care abroad.”

He added his administration focused on strengthening clinical governance, infrastructure development and modernisation, staff welfare and capacity building, creation of a safe, functional and aesthetically pleasing work environment, adoption of technology to enhance real-time service delivery and attraction of grants and donations to support research activities.

As a result, Owoeye said, “The hospital has been adjudged one of the top-performing healthcare institutions in the country following official assessments by the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria and performance index studies conducted by relevant oversight bodies.”

He further noted that the promotion of research and ethics in the past four years has earned the hospital a formal accreditation as a Health Research Ethics Centre by the National Health Research Ethics Committee of Nigeria.

The MD stated that staff and patient welfare remained a central priority, noting that financial assistance was given to critically ill staff members, while the hospital improved provision of safe, hygienic, therapeutic environments and subsidised quality meals for patients.

The medical director praised the federal government’s commitment to mental health, noting that Nigeria now has 10 neuro-psychiatric hospitals compared to seven before President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

“Before this administration of our president, Ahmed Bola Tinubu, we used to have seven psychiatric hospitals. Now, we have 10 neuro-psychiatric hospitals in Nigeria. So, meaning that in another two years, we will have an additional three or four, which will make mental health services accessible to people,” he stated.

Owoeye commended increased budgetary allocations to mental health institutions, which have enabled infrastructure development projects across the sector.

He disclosed that the federal government recently completed a 100-bed nursing student hostel facility for the hospital’s College of Nursing Sciences, which specialises in psychiatric nursing education.

“The federal government just built a 100-bed nursing student hostel facility for us. It’s completed now with all the equipment inside. We are just waiting for the commissioning,” he said.

Outlining his priorities for the new four-year term, Owoeye emphasised complete digitalisation of hospital operations, including full deployment of electronic medical records supported by an uninterrupted power supply.

He highlighted plans to enhance manpower training, noting that the hospital currently trains over 70 resident doctors under the supervision of approximately 25 consultant psychiatrists.

“We are going to enhance and upgrade our training to produce more psychiatrists, to produce more psychiatric nurses, and to produce more occupational therapists,” he stated.

On infrastructure, Owoeye revealed that the hospital’s outpatient clinic under construction will feature over 36 consulting rooms, enabling multiple patients to see doctors simultaneously.

“By the time our outpatient clinic is fully completed, it will be the best of its kind in Nigeria. We are going to have over 36 consultancy rooms in that building alone,” he said.

The medical director also announced plans to launch Nigeria’s first comprehensive telepsychiatry centre, allowing patients to download an app and connect with doctors remotely.

“You don’t need to come to the hospital to access us. All you need to do is download our app, and then connect with us. You can see your doctor through your phone, and your doctor can see you through the gadget in front of the doctor,” Owoeye explained.

On staff management, Owoeye emphasised excellent relations between management and workers, noting regular promotions and annual recruitment to offset the impact of medical professionals migrating abroad.

“The relationship between the staff and management has been excellent. All their welfare packages, all their promotion will come regularly. And then we’ll also make sure that we recruit on a yearly basis so that those who are leaving the country will not affect the service,” he stated.

He explained that the hospital employs new staff annually to replace those who emigrate, ensuring adequate staffing levels despite the “Japa syndrome.”

“If we employ 10 staff now, and three leave, we’ll have seven. Next year we’ll employ another 10. Five leaves, we’ll see up to five. So we’ll be up seven, making 13. That’s the way we’ll be operating on a yearly basis. The Japa syndrome has not really affected our hospital,” Owoeye said.

The medical director called on the media to continue supporting efforts to fight mental health stigmatisation and promote awareness that mental illness is treatable like any other medical condition.

Culled from the Punch Newspapers 

 

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Sanwo-Olu Hosts 2025 Christmas Carol Of Nine Lessons In Ikeja

Themed ‘The Reign of the Messiah’, the 2025 Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons  was held at Lagos House, Ikeja, to celebrate the birth and reign of Jesus Christ. The event was hosted by the Lagos state government.

The event, which is the 19th edition, was attended by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Also in attendance were the First Lady, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, and his wife, Oluremi; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa; Head of Service, Mr Bode Agoro; Chief of Staff, Mr Tayo Ayinde; members of the State Executive Council; serving and former public office holders; and political, religious and traditional leaders, among others.

The First Lady read the ninth lesson, while Hamzat, his wife and Obasa read the eighth, seventh and fourth lessons, respectively. They wished Lagos residents Merry Christmas.

Speaking at the event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ibrahim Layode, commended the state government for sustaining the tradition of the Christmas carol in its commitment to religious harmony.

He said the theme of the Christmas carol speaks deeply to the joy, peace and divine upliftment that Jesus brought to the lives of the people, stating that it was a moment of rejoicing, thanksgiving, worship and adoration.

“As is customary to us in Lagos State, we are gathered again not merely for music or ceremony, but for worship, reflection and proclamation of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.

“As we move through the scriptures and songs tonight, we are not just reciting ancient history; we are tracing the footsteps of a King. From the first promise in Eden to the humble manger in Bethlehem, and finally to the eternal throne, we see a King unlike any other. He is a King who reigns not with an iron fist, but with a heart of grace; a Messiah who brings peace to the restless and hope to the weary.

“Often during Christmas, we focus so much on the ‘Baby in the Manger’ that we forget the ‘King on the Throne.’ Tonight is about celebrating the fact that the child born in Bethlehem is the Prince of Peace who still rules today and the Messiah who has come to save humanity.

“Whether you have had a mountain-top year or a difficult one, we hope these lessons and carols remind you that there is a Messiah who is in control, who loves you, and whose kingdom will never end.”

In his address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Adewunmi Ogunsanya, acknowledged President Bola Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for initiating the Carol of Nine Lessons tradition, which he said has endured over the years.

He also commended the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, and their spouses for their continued support of the ministry and its programmes, as well as the religious leaders for the vision and spiritual leadership. He also praised the choir and the instrumentalists, saying they truly brought the spirit of the season down.

The annual Carol of Nine Lessons remains one of Lagos State’s key end-of-year spiritual gatherings, reinforcing the themes of unity, faith and hope during the Christmas season. This year’s event was enriched by special ministrations from the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) Choir, the Pacelli School of the Blind, as well as gospel artistes Kent Edunjobi and Kenny St Brown, whose performances added colour and deep spiritual meaning to the celebration.

 

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Markets Along Igando And Ikotun Roads Evacuated By Environmental Enforcement Team

The Lagos State Government on Saturday cleared roadside markets along the Ikotun–Igando Road in Alimosho Local Government Area (LGA).

Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, reported this in a post on his official X account, accompanying it with a video showing enforcement raid clearing trader encroachments and waste from Ikotun and Igando markets to reclaim roads and enforce sanitation laws via Project WISE and PSP teams.

“Earlier today, 20th December 2025, our joint enforcement team conducted an operation across Ikotun Main Market, Igando Market, and other roadside markets along the Ikotun–Igando Road,” Wahab said.

“The exercise involved dislodging recalcitrant traders who had encroached on road setbacks and walkways, and addressing improper waste disposal and other nuisance activities in violation of Lagos State sanitation laws.”

Wahab added that the operation was jointly executed by Project WISE (led by Mr. Bayo Oladeji) and PSP Services (led by Mr. Tunde Sulaiman).

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government recently urged all residents to participate in the state’s waste-to-wealth initiative to promote a circular economy. This initiative aims to reduce the amount of waste ending up in landfills, encourage the reuse of waste and promote recycling of waste for a sustainable environment.

Making the call during a television talk show, Wahab emphasised the importance of building a waste management culture that all residents must adopt for proper environmental sanitation.

Officials are visiting various areas across the state every Thursday, including Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island and Epe for the Trash for Cash initiatives, which involves giving cash to residents for their waste or collecting waste directly.

The government plans to establish permanent collecting points where residents can exchange their trash for a reasonable amount of cash, to discourage illicit waste disposal on roads, setbacks, medians, open spaces and canals.

The commissioner explained that the government was transitioning from the linear waste system of pick and drop, which is unsustainable and environmentally unfriendly, to a system where waste is viewed as a resource that can be converted into energy.

According to him, over the past two years, the government has been actively promoting partnership with local and global stakeholders to convert waste into compost fertiliser or recycled plastics.

“Companies such as Lafarge are already using waste to generate power, and the state is exploring other innovative ways to repurpose waste materials,” he added.

Wahab said the government signed a concession agreement with a company called Zoom Lion to convert 4,000 tonnes of daily waste into wealth, with 55 per cent of waste to compost fertiliser and recyclables.

The efforts have significantly reduced the amount of waste ending up in landfills, leading to the decommissioning of certain landfills like Olososun, Ikeja and Soluos 3, Igando.

He reiterated that the government banned cart-pushers across the state and introduced the waste-to-wealth initiative in their place. According to him, it is essential for everyone to embrace the broader vision of a clean, safe, flood-free, and sustainable Lagos.

 

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Lagos To Generate 250 Billion Dollars From Waste-To Wealth Initiative

The Lagos State Government and other key stakeholders have intensified their commitment to environmental initiatives, aiming to tap into Nigeria’s $250bn green economy potential.

During the 6th Lagos Waste Forum held in Lagos, leaders from the public and private sectors converged to discuss strategies for transforming waste into a driver of economic resilience.

According to a statement, the SWEEP Foundation NG organised the event, with support from UNIDO, the European Union, and Coca-Cola Nigeria, under the theme ‘The Power of Nigeria’s Waste Economy’.

The Special Adviser on the Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasised the state’s strategic role in Nigeria’s circular economy. He noted that while the city generates massive waste, it also offers a goldmine for innovation.

“Lagos generates vast quantities of waste, but within this challenge lies a significant opportunity, one realised through structure, innovation, and entrepreneurial intelligence,” the Governor’s representative stated.

He further explained that agencies like the Lagos Waste Management Authority, under the leadership of the Managing Director, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, are building an integrated framework. He said this framework “positions Lagos as a hub of circular economy innovation.”

A representative of the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance provided a breakdown of the sector’s financial promise. The representative cited the Federal Government and UNDP’s Imagine Nigeria report, which identifies a green economy potential of up to $250bn.

“Circularity is not just an ecological necessity but a strategic pathway to jobs, innovation, and environmental protection,” the FBRA official noted. The alliance highlighted that Nigeria produces 32 million tonnes of waste annually, with Lagos alone generating N18bn in recycling value in 2021.

The President and CEO of SWEEP Foundation NG, Obuesi Phillips, described dumpsites as emerging “waste mines.” He advocated for the creation of a Ministry of Waste Resources and a dedicated Green Bank to offer single-digit interest loans to waste-to-wealth entrepreneurs.

The Ogun State Commissioner for the Environment, Dr Ola Oresanya, delivered the forum’s lecture, stressing the need for evidence-based interventions. He urged governments to move beyond mere policy declarations to achieve sustainable environmental results.

“Solutions must be guided by research, innovation, and evidence-based interventions tailored to Nigeria’s local contexts,” Oresanya said. He also called for a technically skilled environmental workforce across all levels of government.

Other notable attendees included the Special Adviser on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Titi Oshodi; the Executive Director of Circular Economy Innovation Partnership, Natalie Beinisch; and UNIDO Field Coordination and Gender Expert, Emem Umana.

The forum concluded with participants pledging to prioritise financing, technology adoption, and community engagement. The stakeholders agreed that these pillars would accelerate Nigeria’s transition to a resource-efficient and climate-smart waste ecosystem.

 

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Five Vehicles Burnt As Petrol Tanker Burst Into Flames Along Epe-Ijebu-Ode Expressway

No fewer than five vehicles were razed in a fire incident that occurred on Wednesday along the Epe–Ijebu-Ode Expressway in the Eredo Local

Council Development Area of Lagos State.

 It was gathered that the fire began when a 45,000-litre tanker conveying diesel lost control and fell on its side.

 The fall reportedly caused the tanker to spill its contents on the road before it was engulfed in flames.

 The impact of the blaze was said to have destroyed four other vehicles that were parked along the road.

 Eyewitnesses confirmed that at about 1:50 a.m., a fully loaded tanker plying the expressway suddenly lost balance, fell, and burst into flames, causing

widespread destruction.

 Several vehicles on the road were completely razed as the inferno spread rapidly.

 Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service,

Shakiru Amodu, disclosed that the tanker, with number plate KWK 833 SK, was conveying diesel when it fell while climbing a hilly part of the expressway.

 He identified the vehicles destroyed in the inferno as a Mazda car, a Nissan car, a Honda Accord car, and a Toyota Hilux, in addition to the tanker.

 “The incident happened at about 2 a.m. We received a distress call and upon arrival at the scene, discovered that a 45,000-litre tanker loaded with diesel

had fallen and spilled its contents on the road before being engulfed in fire.

 “Firefighters were able to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to other areas. Four vehicles parked along the road, as well as the tanker,

were razed. No life was lost in the incident,” Amodu said.

 

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How Lagos Provost Bagged 3-Year Jail Term For Forgery

A Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja on Wednesday convicted and sentenced the provost of Adonai Advanced Institute of Management, Samson Orijugo, to three years’ imprisonment for forging a notification of result on the letterhead of Lagos State University.

Justice Modupe Nico-Clay convicted Orijugo on a two-count charge of forgery, holding that the prosecution proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

The court found that Orijugo, in 2015 at Badagry, forged a notification of result issued to a student, John Chibuzor Okoro, using LASU letterhead to falsely represent that Adonai Institute was affiliated with LASU.

Orijugo was arraigned on December 2, 2021, pleaded not guilty, and the trial began on March 8, 2022.

The prosecution, led by Mrs T. Olanrewaju-Daud, called three witnesses and tendered seven exhibits, while Orijugo testified in his defence.

In her judgment, Justice Nico-Clay held that the notification of the result tendered before the court was issued by the convict and was forged.

She relied on evidence establishing that Adonai Institute had no affiliation with LASU, contrary to the representations made to the student and his mother.

The first prosecution witness, Patience Okoro, the student’s mother, testified that Orijugo introduced himself as the provost of a Benin Republic-based institution affiliated with LASU.

She said he issued her son a notification of result on LASU letterhead after completing his studies.

Okoro told the court that she met Orijugo on May 12, 2012, in a commercial bus while returning from Iyana Oba Market.

According to her, Orijugo spoke about Adonai University, gave her flyers, and claimed the institution was affiliated with LASU.

Okoro explained that she expressed doubts because she was a LASU graduate and had never heard of such an affiliation, but Orijugo insisted that the university was one of the best in the Benin Republic and affiliated with LASU.

Okoro later visited Orijugo’s residence with her son, where he showed them transcripts translated into English on LASU letterhead.

Okoro further testified that she made independent enquiries at the Federal Ministry of Education in Abuja, where officials said the school was recognised but were unaware of any English or French sections.

 

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Driver Flees As Truck Runs Into Commercial Vehicles In Alimosho

Two persons have been confirmed dead, while three others sustained injuries following a multiple-vehicle collision at Iyana Meiran in the Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State.

The accident, which occurred on Meiran Road near the Primary Health Centre, involved a silo mixer truck, a commercial minibus and four tricycles.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Taofiq Adebayo, stated that preliminary findings indicated that the silo mixer truck, allegedly driven at high speed, suffered brake failure, lost control and rammed into the vehicles.

The impact, according to the agency, led to severe damage, with several commuters trapped in the wreckage.

“Preliminary security findings revealed that the tragic occurrence was triggered by a Dangote Silo Mixer Truck, which, while being operated at an inordinately high speed, suffered a sudden brake failure and consequently lost control.

“The runaway truck forcefully rammed into a commercial minibus, popularly referred to as ‘Korope’ (EPP 541 YF), as well as four tricycles (Marwa): KTU 360 QN, LND 444 QL, LSR 444 QN, and EKY 122 QP.

“The violent impact culminated in extensive destruction, trapping commuters amid mangled vehicles and twisted wreckage,” the statement partly read.

Adebayo added that LASTMA officials, with the assistance of passersby, rescued three critically injured victims from the crushed vehicles and immediately evacuated them.

According to him, LASTMA officials immediately cordoned off the entire corridor and instituted comprehensive traffic control and diversion measures to ensure the safety of responders and forestall secondary collisions.

He further stated that security operatives from the Meiran Police Division were also alerted, with the Divisional Police Officer leading officers to the scene to provide security during rescue and recovery operations.

The driver of the Dangote mixer truck, however, reportedly fled the scene after the crash, while the remains of the two deceased victims were handed over to the police, who conveyed them from the scene with an ambulance.

Reacting, the General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

 Bakare-Oki urged motorists, especially operators of heavy-duty vehicles, to ensure that their braking systems and other critical components are in good condition before embarking on any journey.

He also warned against speeding, noting that mechanical negligence and excessive speed remain major and avoidable causes of fatal road crashes in the state.

“He reiterated the Agency’s unwavering commitment to the preservation of lives and property on Lagos roads and re-emphasised the critical obligation of all motorists, particularly operators of heavy-duty and articulated vehicles, to ensure that their braking systems and other vital mechanical components are thoroughly inspected and certified roadworthy before embarking on any journey.

“Mr Bakare-Oki further admonished drivers to adhere strictly to government-regulated speed limits, stressing that mechanical negligence and excessive speeding remain persistent and avoidable causes of fatal road crashes.

“LASTMA once again appeals to all road users to exercise utmost caution, prioritise vehicle roadworthiness and uphold traffic regulations in the collective interest of public safety across Lagos State,” the statement added.

 

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Detty December Boxing Tournament: "Why Fighting In Lagos Means Everything To Me" - British-Born Nigerian Heavyweight, Lawrence Okoli

British-Nigerian heavyweight contender Lawrence Okolie says fighting in Lagos carries deep personal meaning as he prepares to make his African debut at Chaos in the Ring II on Sunday, December 21.

The two-weight world champion and WBC number one heavyweight contender will headline his first professional fight on African soil when he faces Ghanaian powerhouse Ebenezer Tetteh at the Detty December Festival Grounds in Lagos.

“Fighting in Lagos means everything to me,” Okolie said.

“This is where my family is from. This is the dream. Under the Detty December lights, I’m putting on a show you won’t forget.”

Born in London to Nigerian parents, the 33-year-old Okolie won the WBO cruiserweight title in 2021 with a sixth-round knockout of Krzysztof Glowacki, successfully defended the belt, and later captured the WBC bridgerweight world title before moving up to heavyweight.

Standing in his way is Tetteh (23-3, 20 KOs), a rugged Ghanaian veteran known for his durability and knockout power. Tetteh recently went seven hard rounds with British heavyweight contender Dillian Whyte and has vowed to push Okolie into a gruelling test.

The event, broadcast live worldwide on DAZN, is being staged by former world champion turned promoter Amir Khan and Ezekiel Adamu, CEO of Balmoral Group Promotions, following the success of the inaugural edition in October.

“This card is here to make a statement,” Dr Adamu said.

“Africa is ready to host the biggest nights in world boxing, and Chaos in the Ring II is proof.”

Khan added, “I’ve fought all over the world, but this Lagos card is special. Okolie headlining in Africa for the first time, a stacked heavyweight lineup, and Detty December behind us, we are giving fans a night they’ll never forget.”

The co-main event features towering French heavyweight Tony Yoka (14-3, 11 KOs), the 2016 Olympic super-heavyweight gold medallist, who faces German veteran Patrick Korte (23-5-1, 19 KOs) in a ten-round contest as Yoka seeks a return to world title contention.

The undercard includes two all-Nigerian six-round bouts with Basit Adebayo (9-0, 4 KOs) facing Sikiru Shogbesan (23-3-1, 10 KOs), and Isaac Chukwudi (5-3-1, 3 KOs) versus unbeaten puncher Raheem Animashaun (18-0, 12 KOs).

Further action sees Ghanaian super middleweight Elvis Ahorgah (15-4, 13 KOs) take on rising British star Harley Benn (9-2, 1 KO), while unbeaten prospects Shiloh Defreitas (6-0, 3 KOs) and Taye Fajimi (10-0, 4 KOs) clash in a compelling matchup.

The night also features a four-round women’s contest between Nene Joy Ojo (2-1, 2 KOs) and unbeaten Sandra Darkwah Boateng (5-0).

 

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