The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Police advisory

    Police advisory

    The Lagos State Police Command has advised the public, especially those who lost their vehicles to theft or left abandoned around the city to report at Abattoir, Agege and Ijanikin divisions for identification and claims within 14 days.

    Abattoir, Agege Division:Toyota Rav 4 jeep with registration number AGL 940 CJ and light grey Nissan with no BDG 522 CH .

    Read Also: AfDB commits $1.2m to Nigeria Battery Energy storage system feasibility study

    Ijanikin Division: unregistered LT bus;Volskwagen bus with no XF 771AWK and Honda Civic with no JJJ658AT.

  • Two die in homicide incidents

    Two die in homicide incidents

    The Adamawa State Police Command is investigating two incidents of culpable homicide arising from domestic violence in Madagali and Gombi local government areas.

    The incidents led to two deaths.

    The police command said in a statement that the first incident occurred in Pallam District of Madagali Local Government Area, where preliminary investigation has revealed that a confrontation erupted between two co-wives.

    The wives, according to the statement, are Rhoda Anthony, 55, and Victoria Anthony, 36, who are wives of Anthony Pallam.

    According to the statement by police image maker Suleiman Nguroje, “During the altercation, Victoria’s son, Ijai Anthony, 16, reportedly struck his stepmother, Rhoda Anthony, on the head with a piece of wood, causing her to collapse.

    Read Also: NAICOM unveils operational guidelines for Insurtech firms in Nigeria

    “Upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police officer Madagali promptly mobilised to the scene and rushed the victim to Cottage Hospital Madagali, but was later confirmed dead while receiving treatment,” the police stated.

    The police added that the suspect and his mother have been taken into protective custody as investigation progresses.

    According to the police, a separate but similarly tragic incident occurred in Fotta District, Gombi Local Government Area from where the Command received a distress report that one Idi Buba attacked his biological father, Buba Jelli by stabbing him in the neck and back with a knife in the course of a domestic altercation.

    “The victim was immediately rushed to the Primary Health Care Centre in Fotta, where he sadly died while receiving treatment,” the police lamented, adding that the suspect was arrested at the scene and the knife used in the attack recovered to be tendered as exhibit.

    The Commissioner of Police, Dankombo Morris, condemned violence, especially those involving family members, and had instructed that the suspects be arraigned.

  • DSS releases three detainees wrongfully accused of belonging to IPOB/ESN

    DSS releases three detainees wrongfully accused of belonging to IPOB/ESN

    The Department of State Services (DSS) on Tuesday released three persons detained for allegedly belonging to the outlawed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, Eastern Security Network (ESN), accused of involvement in the killing of seven Fulani cattle herders, The Nation has gathered.

    They are Augustine Udemba, Nelson Onyedikachi Udemba, and Ifesinachi Eze.

    The Service is also reviewing more than 20 cases of persons believed to have been wrongfully detained, as a key part of the reforms being initiated by the new Director-General of the secret police, Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi.

    Read Also: Attaining food sovereignty is Nigeria’s target – Shettima

    Abuja-based human rights lawyer, Mr. Deji Adeyanju, who posted these on his verified social media handles, said the trio had been reunited with their families.

    This, he said, included reviewing the cases of those in custody, charging to court where required, and releasing those wrongfully detained.

    While the lawyer did not state if compensation was or would be paid to the released detainees.

    Last week, the DSS DG directed that a businessman who owns a quarry on the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway arrested by the Service since 2022 on the suspicion of kidnapping, be released and paid N10 million as compensation.

  • You’re the backbone of our security, Sanwo-Olu tells police officers’ wives

    You’re the backbone of our security, Sanwo-Olu tells police officers’ wives

    •Lagos governor hosts POWA’s first convention

    Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the Police Officers Wives Association (POWA) as the backbone of the country’s security, whose support to police families have stabilised officers in the discharge of their duties.

    He said this at the POWA National convention in Lagos for the first time. He commended the association for its impact on police families and communities across Nigeria. “You are not just women, not just wives and mothers; you are powerful, elegant, and the backbone of our national security,” he said.

    The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, commended the association, for its welfare and empowerment initiatives, including the recent training of over 1,000 women; expanding microfinance programmes, and launching health and entrepreneurship projects.

    He noted that such interventions not only uplift families within police barracks but also contribute to national unity, peace, and socio-economic stability.

    Sanwo-Olu said the group’s efforts deserve national recognition, particularly at a time when security challenges require holistic, community-based responses.

    “The theme of this conference, Unlocking POWA Potential and Transformational Leadership, is timely and thought-provoking,” Sanwo-Olu noted, urging the association to continue fostering collaboration with government institutions, civil society, and community stakeholders to ensure sustainability and wider impact.

    Highlighting the often-overlooked role of families in national security, Sanwo-Olu said the emotional and logistical support provided by POWA members enables officers to serve with confidence and dedication. “There is no man, no policeman, no Commissioner, no Inspector-General without you. You make them whole,” he stated.

    The governor urged participants at the conference to sustain the spirit of unity, resilience, and innovation that has defined POWA over the decades, emphasising that the strength of the association lies in its resolve to build stronger families and safer communities.

    According to Sanwo-Olu, Lagos would continue to partner POWA, especially in areas such as women empowerment, youth development and public safety.

     The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, said POWA was a vital but often unsung strategic pillar that supports the morale and emotional strength of officers.

    Represented by the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Zone 2, Adegoke Fayoade, Egbetokun praised the association for evolving from a welfare-based group to a dynamic body driving transformational leadership, family stability, youth mentorship and economic empowerment across police communities.

    “Over the decades, POWA has moved beyond hospital visits and charity work to implement skill acquisition programmes, educational support, and health initiatives-making it a beacon of resilience and progress in the security ecosystem,” he said.

    Read Also: New dawn for Nigeria’s secret police

    IGP Egbetokun highlighted three key strategic roles of POWA: as a support pillar during crises, a socio-economic influencer through cooperatives and training centres, and a bridge between the police institution and civil society.

    He said POWA’s outreach efforts help improve public perception of the police, foster trust, and promote community development.

    POWA President, Dr. Elizabeth Egbetokun, re-echoed the association’s renewed commitment to growth, leadership and community development.

    She described the convention as a platform that unites wives of serving and fallen police officers to reflect, grow, and explore opportunities for empowerment especially for  widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of the police community.

    Egbetokun said the theme of the conference was chosen to inspire members to rise to their highest capabilities, explaining that transformational leadership is rooted in shared vision, innovation, trust, and transparency.

    Highlighting the association’s achievements under her leadership, Dr. Egbetokun noted that POWA has conducted empowerment programmes across several states.

    Over 3,000 women, widows, orphans, and physically challenged persons have benefited from these initiatives. Items distributed include sewing machines, ovens, grinding machines, wheelchairs, and starter packs. These efforts, she said, align with her administration’s three-point agenda: Education for Development, Quality Health Care Delivery, and Better Life for All.

    “Let this convention be a spark for transformation as we strive together to build a stronger, more empowered POWA,” she added.

    Also at the event were Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; representative of the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hazmat; Commissioner of Police (CP) Olohundare Jimoh; Commander 9 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Olawale Oyewole, Commander Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, Commodore Paul Nimmyel and other dignatories.

  • Gunmen open fire on Amotekun corps attempting rescue of seven abducted farmers in Ondo

    Gunmen open fire on Amotekun corps attempting rescue of seven abducted farmers in Ondo

    •Abductors reduce ransom to N20m

    Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, has confirmed that three of its operatives sustained serious injuries during a gun battle with suspected kidnappers who recently abducted seven farmers.

    The farmers were reportedly seized over the weekend while working on their farmland in the Itaogbolu axis of Akure North Local Government Area.

    The victims were said to have been harvesting palm fruits when the assailants struck.

    According to family sources, the kidnappers have contacted them and are demanding a N100 million ransom for the release of the abductees.

    Read Also: How bio technology can tackle Nigeria’s food crisis, by clerics, experts

    Addressing reporters yesterday in Akure, the state Commander of Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed that his men came under heavy gunfire during a rescue launched to free the kidnapped farmers.

    “We caught up with the kidnappers on Tuesday, but they opened fire on us. Three of my men were severely injured and almost killed in the process,” Adeleye stated.

    He also said the operatives engaged the assailants in a fierce gun duel in a forest and that the corps remains determined to secure the safe return of the victims.

    “We are hot on their trail and will not rest until the farmers are rescued. We are camped in the bush; that is where we sleep. By God’s grace, we will get them out,” he assured.

    Adeleye emphasised that no fatalities were recorded during the shootout and reassured the public of Amotekun’s commitment to combating kidnapping and other criminals across the state.

     The abductors have reduced the ransom to N20milion, according to a source.

  • Human traffickers make $245b yearly, says Fed Govt

    Human traffickers make $245b yearly, says Fed Govt

    •25,642 victims rescued, 11,406 arrested, 750 convictions secured

    •Beware of sex trafficking schemes, NAPTIP warns Nigerains

    •Police burst 10-man syndicate in Niger

    The Federal Government has said human traffickers make $245 billion yearly.

    The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, while quoting data from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) report, said $169.9billion of the huge illic-it cash was from sexual exploitation, and $75.9billion from forced labour in the private sector, including domestic servitude. 

    He stated these in Abuja yesterday at the 28th National Stakeholders Consultative Forum to commemorate the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons with the theme: “Human Trafficking is Organised Crime-End the Exploitation”.

    Fagbemi, however, noted  that efforts by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) had led to the rescue of 25,642 victims and arrest of 11,406 suspected traffickers.

    He added that 750 convictions had been secured since NAPTIP’s inception.

    Fagbemi, while stating that human trafficking could not be addressed in isolation, called for joint efforts to combat the menace.

    He said human trafficking affects the country’s national security negatively because Nigeria is a source, transit and destination country for trafficking.

    Read Also: Stranded Nigerian miners in CAR arrive Embassy

    He said: “Human trafficking is organised crime and transnational as it is planned and carried out by groups in a structured manner. It is a deeply coordinated criminal enterprise, and the prima-ry goal of the perpetrators is economic gain from the exploitation of others, irrespective of who the victim is.

    “Human traffickers attempt to insulate both their leadership and membership from detection, sanction, and prosecution through their organisational structure. This crime can be local, na-tional or transnational and constitutes threats to persons and their families, Communities and nations. It is affecting our national security negatively as Nigeria is a Source, Transit and Desti-nation country for trafficking.’’

    Director-General of NAPTIP, Binta Bello, said traffickers entrap victims through loan-for-sex trafficking schemes.

    She said through the scheme, unsuspecting women are deceived by fraudulent online loan offers.

    According to her, “These women, often in desperate need of financial assistance, are trapped in cycles of exploitation when they are coerced into prostitution, or other forms of sexual exploi-tation under the pretext of repaying these non-existent debts. This method preys on economic vulnerability and is facilitated largely through unregulated digital platforms”.

    She explained: “Upon arrival in foreign countries, victims are stripped of their freedoms and subjected to forced labour or sexual exploitation. These deceptive tactics not only exploit the ambition and dreams of our youth but also undermine legitimate labour migration and interna-tional academic exchange”.

    The operations of a 10-man human trafficking syndicate has been bursted by the Niger State Po-lice Command, rescuing 36 youths of various countries such as Senegal, Cote d’Ivoire, Mali, Burkina-Faso and Guinea who were without documents.

    The syndicate specialises in international human trafficking of unsuspecting victims to various locations through false pretence as they act as travel agents.

    The suspects who were non-Nigerians were Sokou Doumbia, Thiarno Balbe, Hashimu Dauda Ko-lo, Usman Doumbia, Musa Konate, Lamine Watara, Racine Diouf, Adamu Zarbu, Alhassan Konde, Dango Aminatu.

    According to the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Superintendent of Police Abiodun Wasiu, the suspects were arrested about 12.30pm on July 18, based on credible intelligence re-ceived of their activities on 123 Quarters, Minna.

    He said the suspects were discovered to be indigenous in various neighbouring West African Countries and could basically speak in French, except their Nigerian collaborator, Hashimu who provides accommodation for the syndicate in Minna.

    Abiodun said that the suspects had claimed they had come to Nigeria for an online business adding that all suspects and the victims have been transferred to the Interpol for further investi-gation and other necessary actions.

  • Fake taskforce official arrested for extorting motorists in Lagos

    Fake taskforce official arrested for extorting motorists in Lagos

    A 35-year-old man, Idowu Adesina, has been arrested by operatives of the Lagos State Taskforce for impersonating an official of the agency and extorting unsuspecting motorists along the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway.

    The suspect, whose address is listed as No. 13 Ijegun Road, Ikotun, was apprehended at the Cele Bus Stop area by plain-clothed officers of the Taskforce during a routine patrol.

    He was reportedly caught in the act, harassing motorists and demanding bribes under the false pretence of enforcing traffic violations, including driving against traffic and other related offences.

    According to Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, Director of Public Affairs, Lagos State Taskforce, Adesina is believed to be part of a larger criminal syndicate operating along the busy expressway, notorious for intimidating road users and tarnishing the image of the legitimate Taskforce.

    Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, who confirmed the arrest, said the agency will intensify efforts to root out impersonators and restore public confidence in the Taskforce.

    He issued a stern warning to those involved in impersonation or illegal traffic enforcement to desist or be ready to face the full weight of the law.

    Read Also: Lagos taskforce arrests six fraudsters over phone scam in Lagos

    “In this dispensation, the Lagos State Taskforce is committed to making the metropolis uninhabitable for environmental and criminally minded detractors. We are determined to restore sanity and public trust by ridding the highways of fake officials and individuals that are out to cause pain to motorists,” Akerele said.

    He further urged residents to support the agency’s campaign against criminality through the “See something, say something” initiative by reporting suspicious activity.

    Following his arrest, Adesina was arraigned before a court where he pleaded guilty to the charges.

    The court ordered that he be remanded to a correctional facility pending further legal proceedings. The case has been adjourned to August 27, 2025.

  • NRC warns against fraudulent train ticket booking platforms

    NRC warns against fraudulent train ticket booking platforms

    The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has warned passengers against patronising fraudulent and unauthorised online booking platforms soliciting train ticket payments through personal bank accounts.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday, the NRC management said it had observed the activities of scammers using fake booking sites to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.

    The chief public relations officer of the corporation, Callistus Unyimadu, who signed the statement, stressed that the fake platforms are not affiliated with the NRC.

    He advised passengers not to make payments to personal or unverified accounts for train bookings.

    Read Also: NRC debunks viral video of train fire, says incident happened three years ago

    “For the avoidance of doubt, the only authorised online booking platforms for NRC train services are Warri-Itakpe Train Service (WITS) at https://nrc-fane.ng, Abuja-Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) at https://nrc.tps.ng and Lagos-Ibadan Train Service (LITS) at https://nrc.gsds.ng,” the statement read.

    Passengers were further urged to verify all booking platforms through the NRC official website www.nrc.gov.ng or by contacting its customer service centres.

    Unyimadu added that the management is working with security agencies to track and prosecute those behind the fraudulent sites, assuring passengers of the corporation’s commitment to their safety and satisfaction.

  • 10,000 trucks registered as Lagos call-up system takes off

    10,000 trucks registered as Lagos call-up system takes off

    The Chief Executive Officer of Call-up Technology, Timi Koleolu, the company responsible for implementing the Lagos Call Up System (COLOPS), has said that more than 10,000 trucks have been registered ahead of the system’s take-off.

    He said all the necessary hardware, command centres and enforcement mechanisms have been put in place to ensure the smooth running of the system, which is designed to prevent traffic gridlock along the Lekki port corridor.

    Mr. Koleolu, who spoke in a televised interview, explained that the launch followed months of consultations with stakeholders, test runs and registration exercises. “Everything is in place,” he said. “We have been doing a lot of test runs. We have tested the system in very real-life scenarios, and we are satisfied with the results. Registration is ongoing, and we have over 10,000 trucks that are already registered and ready to go.”

    He added, “What is most important is that all the stakeholders are ready. We can be ready as operators, but if the people are not ready, then we will have problems. That is why the engagements we did took time. We carried everybody along. All the unions, residents’ associations and users are now on board.”

    The CEO assured residents of the Lekki corridor that the system would reduce travel time to the ports and ease movement on the busy axis. “When there is no traffic, the journey from the junction to the port should take about 20 minutes,” he said. “But we all know that sometimes people spend two or three hours on that stretch. With COLOPS, we believe we can cut down that travel time significantly because we will be able to control the volume of trucks on the road at any point.”

    Read Also: Lagos begins electronic call up on Lekki-Epe corridor

    According to him, the system is fully automated and tamper-proof. “Even I cannot go into the system and start changing things,” he said. “If a truck does not have a valid call-up number, it will not be allowed into the port. There is hardware installed at the gates to stop any attempt to bypass the system. The penalty for non-compliance is heavy. Nobody wants to waste diesel and waste time.”

    He said command centres have been set up along the corridor to respond swiftly to any problem that may arise. “If there is a breakdown or a barrier causing delays, our teams will be on the ground to respond immediately,” he said. “We also have customer service offices in the area so that users can get help quickly.”

    Mr. Koleolu dismissed fears that the take-off might be shifted again. “We are very excited and we are ready,” he said. “All the stakeholders are ready, and the system is in place. We are confident that this launch will be successful.”

  • You’re backbone of our security, Sanwo-Olu tells police wives

    You’re backbone of our security, Sanwo-Olu tells police wives

    Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) as the backbone of the country’s security, whose unwavering support to police families has stabilised officers in the discharge of their duties.

    He said this at this year’s POWA National convention, held in Lagos for the first time, just as he commended the association for its transformative impact on police families and communities across Nigeria. “You are not just women, not just wives and mothers; you are powerful, elegant, and the backbone of our national security,” he said.

    The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, commended POWA for its welfare and empowerment initiatives, including the recent training of over 1,000 women in Lagos, expanding microfinance programmes, and launching health and entrepreneurship projects.

    He noted that such interventions not only uplift families within police barracks but also contribute to national unity, peace, and socio-economic stability.

    Founded in 1964, POWA has evolved into a formidable support system for police officers’ families, championing causes like education, health, skill acquisition, and community development. Sanwo-Olu said the group’s efforts deserve national recognition, particularly at a time when security challenges require holistic, community-based responses.

    “The theme of this conference, Unlocking POWA Potentials and Transformational Leadership, is timely and thought-provoking,” Sanwo-Olu noted, urging the association to continue fostering collaboration with government institutions, civil society, and community stakeholders to ensure sustainability and wider impact.

    Highlighting the often-overlooked role of families in national security, Sanwo-Olu said the emotional and logistical support provided by POWA members enables officers to serve with confidence and dedication. “There is no man, no policeman, no Commissioner, no Inspector-General without you. You make them whole,” he stated.

    The governor urged participants at the conference to sustain the spirit of unity, resilience, and innovation that has defined POWA over the decades, emphasising that the strength of the association lies in its collective resolve to build stronger families and safer communities.

    According to Sanwo-Olu, Lagos would continue to partner with POWA, especially in areas such as women empowerment, youth development and public safety.

    In his keynote address, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, said POWA was a vital but often unsung strategic pillar that supports the morale and emotional strength of officers.

    Represented by the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Zone 2, Adegoke Fayoade, Egbetokun praised the association for evolving from a welfare-based group to a dynamic body driving transformational leadership, family stability, youth mentorship and economic empowerment across police communities.

    “Over the decades, POWA has moved beyond hospital visits and charity work to implement skill acquisition programmes, educational support, and health initiatives-making it a beacon of resilience and progress in the security ecosystem,” he said.

    IGP Egbetokun highlighted three key strategic roles of POWA: as a support pillar during crises, a socio-economic influencer through cooperatives and training centres, and a bridge between the police institution and civil society.

    He said POWA’s outreach efforts help improve public perception of the police, foster trust, and promote community development.

    In her welcome address, POWA President, Dr. Elizabeth Egbetokun, re-echoed the association’s renewed commitment to growth, leadership and community development.

    She described the convention as a platform that unites wives of serving and fallen police officers to reflect, grow, and explore opportunities for empowerment, especially for widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of the police community.

    Dr. Egbetokun said the theme of the conference was chosen to inspire members to rise to their highest capabilities, explaining that transformational leadership is rooted in shared vision, innovation, trust, and transparency.

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu, ALGON president hail Alabi’s achievements in Bariga

    Highlighting the association’s achievements under her leadership, Dr. Egbetokun noted that POWA has conducted empowerment programmes across several states.

    Over 3,000 women, widows, orphans, and physically challenged persons have benefited from these initiatives. Items distributed include sewing machines, ovens, grinding machines, wheelchairs, and starter packs. These efforts, she said, align with her administration’s three-point agenda: Education for Development, Quality Health Care Delivery, and Better Life for All.

    “Let this convention be a spark for transformation as we strive together to build a stronger, more empowered POWA,” she added.

    Also at the event were Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; representative of the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hazmat; Commissioner of Police (CP) Olohundare Jimoh; Commander 9 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Olawale Oyewole, Commander Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, Commodore Paul Nimmyel and other dignitaries.