The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Gunmen on 50 bikes kill woman, kidnap six in Kwara community

    Gunmen on 50 bikes kill woman, kidnap six in Kwara community

    • AbdulRazaq, Aliyu renew commitment to stamping out banditry in Kwara, Sokoto

    Gunmen suspected to be bandits in the early morning of yesterday invaded Motokun village, Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State.

    The invaders came on 50 bikes and attacked the village around 6 am.

    The operation, it was gathered, lasted for four hours.

    The Police Commissioner, Adekimi Ojo, confirmed the incident to our correspondent.

    Mr Ojo said: “Matokun village was attacked by bandits on about 50 motorcycles, six people missing, suspected to have been kidnapped.

    “A woman suspected to have sustained gunshot injuries died later.”

    Also, Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq and his Sokoto State counterpart, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, renewed their commitment to stamping out banditry.

    AbdulRazaq stated this in Ilorin at the ‘strategic consultation with key stakeholders of Kwara South convened by the Kwara South Development Initiative (KSDI).

    The governor, who was represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Princess Olubukola Babalola, said security is a collective responsibility, and that the people’s support for the security agencies was vital to wiping out the menace. He urged them to be vigilant to enable them to thwart the criminals.

    READ ALSO: Priscilla Ojo, son reunite with Juma Jux in Tanzania

    “Let us work together to unmask them and keep our communities safe and conducive for growth.

    “Your resilience and commitment have been the bedrock of our shared progress, and I commend you for your leadership role in shaping a vibrant Kwara South. Your dedication continues to inspire us all.

    “Our administration remains steadfast in ensuring equitable development across every part of Kwara State, including Kwara South. We have prioritised infrastructure to unlock economic potential and improve lives,’’ he added.

    Earlier, KSDI’s Convener, who is also the Proprietor, Thomas Adewumi University, Oko-Irese, Irepodun Local Government Area, Dr Johnson Adewumi, hailed the governor for his  performance.

    Adewumi added that “the performance of Mallam AbdulRazaq in six years dwarfs the collective achievements of his predecessors from 1999 to 2019, particularly in the areas of welfare.and infrastructural development. Ilorin which used to be the epicentre of poverty is wearing a new look wherever you turn”.

     Aliyu, spoke in Abuja when he was conferred with the Integrity Transformative Leadership award by The Nigeria First Integrity Group (NFIG), in collaboration with All Progressives Stakeholders Forum (APSF).

    Aliyu, who was represented by the Commissioner for Local Government. Alhaji Ibrahim Adare, also sought cooperation of security agencies, and the people to to rid off banditry.

     Aliyu recalled that recently he distributed 200 vehicles to security agencies for the fight against the banditry.

    Director-General, Nigeria First Integrity Group, Dr Maryam Yunusa Danjaki, described the governor as an epitome of dignity, humility, diligence and courage.

    She explained that the governor was given the award in recognition of his impact in education, infrastructural and human development in the state.

    Danjaki cited the 25 per cent budgetary allocation to education by Aliyu as a testament of his commitment to put the state redeem the state from being educationally backward, stressing that the allocation was above international bench mark and should be commended and emulated.

    This gesture, Danjaki, who is also the National President All Progressives Stakeholders Forum would help to ensure that most out of school children in the state returned to school.

    “There are other areas of human development, including human, infrastructural and agricultural development in the state that the governor has done so well. His life is a testimony of integrity and humility, comparing his achievements with the state’s past governors shows how well he had done for the people of the state.

    “We are happy to identify with him and we pray that other governors in the North will copy from him,” she said.

  • Abuja estate dispute: Document shows contender resigned in 2017

    Abuja estate dispute: Document shows contender resigned in 2017

    A document has emerged showing that real estate investor, Mr. Adrian Ogun, resigned from the board of Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited (JCNL) and Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited (HFAN) in July 2017.

    The letter, dated July 1, 2017, and addressed to Mr. Kojo Ansah, Chief Executive Officer of Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited and Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited, indicated that Ogun withdrew from the companies after disputes over unsettled debts and unpaid development control fees on their land in Kaba, Abuja.

    The letter resurfaced amid claims by Ogun that he founded Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited.

    In a statement refuting FCT Minister, Nyelsom Wike’s assertion on television that the disputed River Park Estate belong to the Ghanaian businessman, Sam Jonah of Jonah Capital, Ogun had alleged that the ongoing ownership tussle over the estate stemmed from disputes with foreign partners over shareholding adjustments made last year, which he claimed were unfavourable to Nigerian investors.

    He appealed to Nigerians to remain attentive to the legal process, noting that the matter was before the courts for determination.

    However, the resignation letter dated July 1, 2017, and addressed to Mr Kojo Ansah, the Chief Executive Officer Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited & Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited River Park Abuja, was allegedly written by Mr Adrian Ogun, communicating his stepping aside from the two companies.

    READ ALSO: How CBN rate cut will save Nigeria N1tr, by Rewane

    According to the letter, Ogun’s resignation followed unresolved financial commitments between the parties reached at an earlier meeting on expanse of land at Kabba and River Park Estate.

    In the letter, Ogun asked Jonah Capital to pay outstanding bills owed to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Common Consultants Limited, amounting to over N102 million then. He enclosed pre-signed forms to finalise his resignation from the boards.

    A part of the letter read: “3) You will please accept my immediate resignation from the Board of Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited (JCNL) and Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited (HFAN). Since, “CCL does not have any dealings with JCNL and HFAN” since handover by John Townley Johnson of Houses for African Holdings to JCNL in 2012 (please find attached pre-signed CO2 and CO7 forms for implementation within 28 days). Please can you kindly arrange for Sir Sam Jonah and other directors to sign the CO2 and CO7 forms as soon as possible. Yours sincerely, Adrian Ogun.”

    The developer, Adrian Ogun, also copied Mr Paul Odili of Paulo Homes Limited in his letter.

    The ownership of the estate in Abuja has been under review by the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and an FCT Ministerial Committee, who have visited the site. The matter is also before the courts for determination.

  • Lagos blames illegal construction for Lekki flooding

    Lagos blames illegal construction for Lekki flooding

    The Lagos State government has attributed Tuesday’s flooding in Lekki to infractions such as illegal constructions and indiscriminate disposal of waste.

    Commissioner for Environment, Tokunbo Wahab, gave the explanation in a statement on his X account where he sympathised with affected residents.

    The Nation had reported how floods occasioned by the downpour in the early hours of the day, took over the roads, people’s houses and stores.

    The flood, which saw vehicles enmeshed in water, grounded human and vehicular movement for over seven hours in Victoria Island, Lekki, Ajah and environs.

    Many residents returning from work could not get to their destinations until past 10pm, while some others were on the road till past midnight.

    A lot of the affected residents who took to social media to lament the situation, called on the state government to take steps to address the issue.

    Tokunbo said the state understood and emphasised those affected over the discomfort and disruption caused by the flash floods witnessed in parts of the state.

    He said Lagos, as a coastal city, was naturally vulnerable to flooding, especially during periods of heavy rainfall combined with tidal lock.

    READ ALSO: Priscilla Ojo, son reunite with Juma Jux in Tanzania

    He added: “Despite this, the State Government has continued to invest in drainage infrastructure, regular desilting, and enforcement of environmental laws to minimise flooding incidents and protect lives and property.

    “We must also provide clarity on some of the affected areas. At Kusenla, the challenge is technical: the downstream is about 1.2 meters higher than the invert of the existing drainage, as confirmed by the survey conducted for the ongoing project awarded by the state government at the end of Kusenla road which includes a pumping station.”

    “Around House on the Rock church, the flooding was linked to infractions we highlighted earlier; illegal construction on flood plains and dumping of refuse in drains. These kinds of activities worsen flooding and must stop.”

    “We appeal for understanding and continued cooperation from the public. Keeping our environment clean, refraining from dumping refuse into drains, and avoiding construction on floodplains are vital to achieving a flood-free Lagos.

    “In several of the videos shared yesterday, clear infractions were observed, and @followlasg will ensure that such illegal structures and obstructions are promptly removed.

    “Including those illegal reclamations carried out without the requisite Environmental Impact Assessment Report and the Drainage Clearance.

    “We also wish to assure residents that the flooding was a flash flood in some parts of the state and has since receded this morning. The Ministry remains committed to strengthening our flood management systems, but this effort requires the support and responsible actions of all Lagosians,” he said.

    Similarly, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said there was no cause for alarm about the flooding in parts of Lagos, assuring that its officers were monitoring the situation.

    NEMA’s Southwest Coordinator, Tunde Mohammed, told The Nation that there have been no issues of concern, adding that there was no need to panic.

    “There is no cause for alarm yet. The situation is very much under control and our officers are monitoring closely,” he assured.

  • Two-storey building collapses in Lagos

    Two-storey building collapses in Lagos

    A two-storey building has collapsed at 4, Modupeola street, Mangoro bus stop, Alimosho, Lagos State.

    The cause of the incident, which occurred around 6pm, was not immediately known. Government officials have launched a probe into the incident.

    The Lagos State Emergency Management Authority (LASEMA) and other first responders got to the scene in good time and rescued a trapped victim and five others from the rubble.

    READ ALSO: How CBN rate cut will save Nigeria N1tr, by Rewane

    The five who were rescued were taken to a private hospital in the neighbourhood. The trapped victim, who had a fracture and bruises, was taken to Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) Surgical Emergency by the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS). He arrived the hospital in a stable condition and was immediately admitted for further treatment.

    The 44-year-old patient lives at 10,Olabode street, Alimosho.

  • Lagos targets textile waste with circular fashion initiative

    Lagos targets textile waste with circular fashion initiative

    The Lagos State Government has restated its commitment to combating textile and fashion waste through circular fashion practices as part of activities marking the 2025 World Clean Up Day.

    The event, themed “Tackling Textile & Fashion Waste Through Circular Fashion,” was held at NECA House, Ikeja, to address the rising threat of textile waste and the importance of transforming discarded fabrics into valuable resources.

    Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, said the state is determined to reposition textile waste as an economic asset rather than an environmental hazard.

    “What you see as waste today is actually the beginning of another life. Circular fashion ensures that what could have gone to landfills is repurposed, recycled, or transformed into products that add value,” he explained.

    Read Also: BOI to unlock funding for cotton, textile, garments sector revival

    He added that the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) are collaborating with manufacturers to reduce both solid and chemical waste from the fashion industry.

    He also cautioned that the indiscriminate disposal of dyes and chemicals from textile production threatens soil health, food security, and public safety.

    Guest speaker and CEO of Mateen Lander Limited, Sidikat Folami, described textile waste as one of the largest yet least recognised contributors to Nigeria’s landfills.

    She said her company is pioneering textile recycling in Lagos by decongesting dumpsites and processing discarded fabrics into raw materials for new products.

    However, Folami stressed that the lack of incentives for textile waste collection remains a major challenge to scaling the initiative.

    “Unlike plastics, where collectors rush to pick bottles, very few people buy or collect textiles. Without proper motivation, waste keeps ending up in landfills, forcing sustainable brands to mix virgin materials with recycled ones,” she said.

    She urged young artisans to embrace zero-waste design and align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals to tap into global opportunities.

    LAWMA’s Executive Director, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said Lagos dumpsites are already overstretched, making textile diversion an urgent necessity.

    “Our two dumpsites are filled. That is why we are linking textile waste generators with off-takers to ensure recycling. Waste should not be seen as useless; it can create jobs and livelihoods if properly managed,” he added.

    For some artisans, the benefits of circular fashion are already evident. Fashion designer Temitope Oladele shared that her business became more efficient after she began collaborating with textile collectors.

    “Before, I generated waste almost every week, but now, giving my scraps to collectors has reduced the pile. Sometimes I even discover useful materials in what I thought was waste, saving me money on fabrics,” she said.

    Oladele appealed to the government to expand textile collection points across markets and workshops, noting that the move would cut costs for artisans, create new income streams, and improve the city’s environment.

  • Why bold, pragmatic Tinubu deserves Nigerians’ support, second term – Group

    Why bold, pragmatic Tinubu deserves Nigerians’ support, second term – Group

    The Hope Alive Initiative has called on Nigerians to rally behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and ensure his re-election, stressing that his bold, pragmatic reforms have saved the nation from economic collapse and placed it firmly on the path of recovery and prosperity.

    In a statement on Wednesday by its Director of Press, Ernest Omoarelojie, the group stressed that Nigerians’ support for the President is reinforced by the latest National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report, which showed a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth in the second quarter of 2025, among other variables, confirming that Tinubu’s economic policies are working and already delivering tangible benefits.

    The group recalled that before Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, Nigeria’s economy was sinking under the weight of wasteful subsidies, multiple exchange rates, dwindling foreign reserves, inflationary pressures, and widening fiscal deficits that drained investor confidence and deepened poverty.

    “This administration’s courageous steps of removing the petrol subsidy, unifying the foreign exchange market, consolidating fiscal policy, and introducing social interventions were difficult but necessary to stabilise the economy.

    “Now, Nigerians are beginning to see the gains. The economy expanded by 4.23 percent in Q2 2025 compared to 3.48 percent the previous year, while industry surged by 7.45 percent and agriculture grew by 2.82 percent, boosted by investments through the National Agricultural Development Fund.

    “Foreign reserves have risen to $42 billion, the naira has stabilised, and inflation has declined steadily for six months, with projections for single-digit inflation by 2026,” the group noted.

    It also cited the 173 percent increase in manufactured goods exports, a 44.3 percent rise in Nigeria’s trade surplus, and the acceleration of major infrastructure projects including 13 key roads, the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, and the $3.02 billion Port Harcourt–Maiduguri rail line, adding that power generation and distribution improvements are complementing these projects, laying the foundation for sustainable growth.

    On social protection, the group noted that more than ₦330 billion has been disbursed through Conditional Cash Transfers to over 8 million households, while the Nigerian Education Loan Fund has provided over ₦80 billion to more than 400,000 students.

    “With these developments, it is clear that Nigeria is on the march to reclaim its position as Africa’s largest and most resilient economy.

    Read Also: With God’s help and in Tinubu’s spirit, Nigeria will triumph

    “The aggregate GDP, now ₦100.73 trillion (up from ₦84.48 trillion the previous year), reflects a tectonic shift toward a more diversified and sustainable economy.

    “We commend President Tinubu and his economic team for steering Nigeria away from collapse and towards sustainable prosperity.

    “The Poverty Exit Plan unveiled by Vice President Kashim Shettima, anchored on infrastructure, financial inclusion, and agricultural transformation, offers a clear pathway to lifting 40 to 50 million Nigerians out of multidimensional poverty within the next decade,” the group emphasized.

    These achievements, according to the group, show that Nigeria is no longer on the brink but steadily reclaiming its place as Africa’s largest and most resilient economy.

    It urged citizens to look beyond partisan distractions and support Tinubu’s second term to consolidate these gains, stressing, “Continuity is crucial. The progress we are witnessing today is only the beginning.

    “Nigeria’s transformation will only be secured if we sustain the reforms and resist attempts to derail them.

    “President Tinubu has proven his capacity to lead with courage and vision. He deserves our support and a second term”.

  • FCC warns MDAs against recruitment rule violations

    FCC warns MDAs against recruitment rule violations

    The Federal Character Commission (FCC) has warned Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) against violating recruitment rules, stressing that all appointments in the public service must reflect fairness, equity, and inclusivity.

    The Acting Executive Chairman of the Commission, Hon. Kayode Oladele, said in a statement issued in Abuja that the guidelines are constitutional safeguards designed to promote Nigeria’s unity and stability.

    “The 1999 Constitution and the FCC Act place on the Commission the duty to promote, monitor, and enforce compliance with the principles of fairness in appointments. In line with this, no MDA is permitted to issue letters of appointment without first obtaining the Commission’s Certificate of Compliance,” Oladele stated.

    The Commission reiterated the recruitment rules, which include: Vacancies must be identified cadre by cadre and spread equitably after a joint meeting with FCC, All vacancies must be advertised in at least two national newspapers, with six weeks minimum for applications, online and hard-copy submissions are both accepted, no application or processing fees shall be charged, Only qualified candidates should be shortlisted, on a State-by-State basis, with deliberate inclusion of women and persons with disabilities.

    Oladele added that while public training institutions such as the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Centre for Management Development (CMD), and Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN) may be engaged to conduct aptitude tests, recruitment exercises must not be outsourced to private consulting firms.

    Read Also: FG sets September deadline for MDAs to conclude 2024 project procurement

    Connecting the guidelines to the administration’s vision, Oladele emphasized that the FCC’s enforcement role directly supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “The Renewed Hope Agenda is clear about fairness, equity, and inclusivity in governance. By ensuring equal opportunities in the federal service, we are making every Nigerian feel a sense of belonging, which is critical to our national unity,” he said.

    He further warned against abuses of the system, stressing that the Federal Character principle cannot be used to smuggle in unqualified candidates. “The best and most competent from each state must be considered. This is how fairness and merit can coexist under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Oladele affirmed.

    Oladele concluded that these measures are about more than recruitment. They are about stability and justice.

    “When fairness guides our appointments, when no part of the country feels excluded, we are reducing grievances and strengthening cohesion. That is the true spirit of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he concluded.

  • Man allegedly kills 65-year old relation over land in Anambra 

    Man allegedly kills 65-year old relation over land in Anambra 

    A 45-year old man has been arrested for allegedly killing his 65-year old relation, Joseph Dike over purported family land dispute in Awka-Etiti, in Idemli South local government area of Anambra state.

    The suspect, Okwuchukwu Ezimuo, was said to have struck the deceased on the chest during a brawl in Umunocha village in the area.

    The deceased was reportedly rushed to the hospital where he was confirmed dead.

    Confirming the incident, Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga said the suspect was arrested by Operatives attached to the Nnobi Police Divisional Headquarters.

    He said investigation has commenced.

    According to him: “Anambra State Police Command Operatives attached to the Nnobi Police Divisional Headquarters has arrested one Okwuchukwu Ezimuo, male, aged 45 years, over the death of his relative on an alleged family land dispute in Awka-Etiti.

    “Preliminary information reveals that in the evening of September 22, 2025 the deceased, one Joseph Dike, male, aged 65 years, collapsed after being struck on the chest by the suspect during a quarrel in Umunocha Village, Awka-Etiti.

    “Following the incident, the victim was immediately rushed to the hospital where he was confirmed dead by a Medical Doctor on duty. 

    “The scene of the crime was visited and relevant evidence, including photographs was taken. 

    “The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu urged residents to seek peaceful resolution to disputes and avoid violence at all times. 

    “He further directed that the Case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Awka, for discreet investigation to unravel the full circumstances surrounding the incident.”

  • Three soldiers get life jail for arms racketeering in Borno

    Three soldiers get life jail for arms racketeering in Borno

    • Soldier arrested for faking own kidnap, demanding N20 million ransom from own family
    • From Duku Joel, Maiduguri and Emma Elekwa, Onitsha

    Three soldiers have been sentenced to life imprisonment and other jail terms by a special court-martial in Maiduguri, Borno State for their involvement in a major arms and ammunition racketeering.

    Also, the Police in Anambra State have arrested a 38-year-old soldier for allegedly staging his own kidnap to extort N20 million from his family.

    The command spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, who made this known this yesterday, said the suspect, Samuel Ekezie, was arrested in Rivers State, following a tip off.

    He said preliminary investigation showed that the suspect had sent a text message to his family, demanding the ransom for his supposed release.

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    The soldiers were found guilty of multiple offences, including theft, unlawful dealing in ammunition, and aiding the enemy, the Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relation 7 Division Nigerian Army, Maiduguri,  Lt.-Col. Haruna Mohammed Sani, said.

    The sentences were handed down by the Special Court-Martial (SCM) convened by the 7 Division of the Nigerian Army.

    Sgt. Rapheal Ameh, Sgt. Ejiga Musa, and Lance Corporal Patrick Ocheje received life imprisonment, while Corporal Omitoye Rufus was sentenced to 15 years in prison.

    All four pleaded guilty to the charges, which fall under the Armed Forces Act.

    According to the court, the illegal trade of weapons and ammunition directly endangered troops, jeopardised military operations, and undermined national security.

    The four soldiers, according to the statement, were charged for various counts with the convictions.

    The statement explained: “Sgt. Rapheal Ameh, an armourer with the 7 Division Garrison, was found to have conspired with other individuals to pilfer ammunition from the Division’s armory.

    “He collaborated with two members of the Nigeria Police Mobile Force (PMF) to smuggle weapons concealed in bags of beans to Enugu and Ebonyi states. Investigations revealed that Sgt. Ameh received over 100 bank transactions between July 2022 and June 2024 as payment for his illicit activities.

    “Sgt. Ejiga Musa, an armourer with the 195 Battalion, stole and sold an AK-47 rifle and a large quantity of ammunition with the help of Lance Corporal Patrick Ocheje and a PMF inspector.

    “He received over N500,000 for the weapons. His scheme was uncovered when he attempted to sell ammunition to another police inspector.”

    Lance Corporal Patrick Ocheje was also found guilty of aiding the sale of weapons. He received 20 rounds of PKT ammunition from Sgt. Ejiga Musa for sale to terrorist groups. He was also convicted of stealing an AK-47 rifle belonging to a fellow soldier.

  • 28 suspected internet fraudsters nabbed in Kwara

    28 suspected internet fraudsters nabbed in Kwara

    • •EFCC recovers seven exotic cars
    • Form Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

    Personnel of the Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday arrested 28 suspected internet fraudsters in Ilorin, Kwara State.

    The arrests followed credible intelligence linking the suspects to cybercrime across the state capital, it was gathered.

    Read Also: Army recovers 10 AK-47 rifles, five bombs, 36 hand grenades from terrorists

    The suspects were picked at Tanke, University Road, Oshin, and Agbabiaka areas.

    An EFCC source said “during the sting operation, seven exotic cars, including the latest model Toyota Corolla and a Lexus, two motorcycles, as well as expensive phones and laptops believed to be tools of the suspects’ illicit trade, were recovered from them.

    “The suspects would be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of the ongoing investigations,” the source added.