The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Fire guts recycling site in Lagos

    Fire guts recycling site in Lagos

    Fire yesterday afternoon razed a recycling site which spread to nearby structures on Pipeline Road, Abule Egba, Lagos State.

    The state Fire and Rescue Service said it received a distress call at 1:08 p.m., prompting the deployment of firefighters from the Agege and Abesan fire stations to the scene.

    Preliminary reports indicated that the fire started at an open area used for recycling. The blaze later extended to a nearby residential bungalow and a mini-church in the vicinity.

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    One female reportedly suffered shock during the incident and was attended to by emergency responders. She has been stabilised. No fatalities were recorded.

    Controller-General of the state Fire and Rescue Service, Mrs. Margaret Adeseye, said firefighters contained the fire.

    “The fire has been successfully brought under control, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the incident,” she said in a statement.

    Mrs. Adeseye reiterated the agency’s commitment to protecting lives and property, urging residents to adhere to fire safety regulations to prevent similar occurrences.

  • Insecurity: Gombe bans scrap dealers, begins tenant profiling

    Insecurity: Gombe bans scrap dealers, begins tenant profiling

    The Gombe State government has banned scrap dealers’ activities as part of measures to improve security.

     The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Zubairu Umar, stated this at a news conference yesterday, following the State Expanded Security Council meeting chaired by Governor Inuwa Yahaya.

    Umar said the ban was necessitated by the absence of a central union for scrap dealers and reports of illegal and unwholesome activities linked to the business.

    “We received security reports indicating non-cooperation among scrap dealers, as security agencies could not identify a central union to engage with,” he said.

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    According to him, multiple associations with divergent views operate within the sector, making regulation and monitoring difficult.

    “Because of the unwholesome and illegal activities of some involved, the State Security Council has, with effect from today, banned all Bola-jari (scrap dealers) activities across the state,” Umar said.

    He said the ban would remain until dealers agreed to operate under a unified leadership, register with relevant authorities and relocate to designated locations provided by the government.

    Umar added that anyone caught would be arrested, noting that the police had been directed to enforce the decision.

    In a related development, the commissioner said the state would begin profiling tenants as part of efforts to strengthen internal security.

    “People are coming into the state and taking up residence without proper documentation as to who they are, where they are from and the nature of their visit,” he said.

    Umar said a standard template would be developed by the Ministry of Justice and distributed to house agents, making tenant profiling mandatory.

    He said completed forms would be submitted to the Gombe State Security, Traffic and Environmental Corps (GOSTEC) for record-keeping and security monitoring.

    The commissioner added that the state government was reviewing its security architecture to address emerging threats and sustain peace.

    Meanwhile, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Umar Chuso, said efforts were ongoing to apprehend perpetrators of the recent attack on Pindiga Community.

    Chuso said the attack resulted in the death of two persons, while four others were kidnapped.

    He said the police, in collaboration with other security agencies and local hunters, were working to secure the release of the abducted victims.

    Chuso reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

  • Man arrested for violating eight-year-old girl in Ibadan

    Man arrested for violating eight-year-old girl in Ibadan

    A 27-year-old, Olaitan Oloyede, has been arrested by the operatives of the Oyo State Police Command for sexually violating an eight-year-old girl (names withheld).

    The suspect and survivor are neighbours.

    The crime was discovered when the eight years old girl told her father that she was feeling pain in her private part and that she had been sexually violated by Oloyedee, sometime in October, last year.

    The spokesman of the Command, Ayanlade Olayinka, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, said detectives from Oke Alaro Division took the victim to the hospital for medical examination, treatment, and rehabilitation, after the case was reported there.

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    He added that the survivor is receiving the care and support at an undisclosed location.

    He said the suspect had been arrested, placed in lawful custody, cooperating with the investigation and allowing the police to proceed with further inquiries.

    The Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, Femi Haruna, expressed displeasure over the act

    He said he had directed that the case be transferred to the State CID Gender Desk for investigation, to ensure a thorough and professional handling of the matter.

    “The Command remains steadfast in its commitment to ridding Oyo State of violent crimes and ensuring justice for all victims,” he added.

  • Kidnappers kill victim in Edo

    Kidnappers kill victim in Edo

    Abu Momoh, one of the two brothers abducted last weekend in Auchi, headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area, has been killed by their abductors.

    Late Abu was kidnapped with brother, Ibrahim, a medical doctor, on January 2 at their residence along City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, Auchi, Edo North.

    Their father, Tahir Momoh, who confirmed the killing, said the corpse was discovered on Monday morning.

    He said he has been buried.

    “It is true that he was killed. He is the younger of the two brothers and he has been buried. The elder brother is still with the kidnappers.

    “This is a very sad day for us and we hope that his elder will be released to us,” he said.

    Checks showed that Abu was killed along Orley River, Down City Pride road, Igbira Camp.

    A community source said he was shot dead while trying to escape.

    “I was told that he attempted an escape and he was shot by the kidnappers.”

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    One of the leaders of Auchi community, Abdul urged the police to focus on the Igbira camp due to incessant kidnappings in the area.

     He said many persons have been abducted within the vicinity.

    “I think it’s time the police beam a searchlight on the Igbira community in Auchi as the number of kidnapping around that area is alarming.

    “The problem is these boys don’t want to work but are looking for easy money. The earlier their criminal activities are halted, the better for Auchi and other communities around that area.

    “The government should also take action so that the people can see that they are important,” he stated. 

  • Lagos showcases public-private partnership as a model for security funding

    Lagos showcases public-private partnership as a model for security funding

    The Lagos state government has projected the Lagos State Security Trust Fund as a viable model of public-private partnership in security funding, saying sustained collaboration with corporate donors has strengthened security governance and operational effectiveness across the state.

    The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Fund, Dr Ayodele Ogunsan, made this known in a New Year statement in which he commended donors and corporate partners for their support throughout 2025.

    Ogunsan said the contributions received over the period went beyond financial assistance, reflecting trust, shared responsibility, and collective commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and the economic stability of Lagos.

    According to him, the partnership between the government and the private sector has enabled the Fund to strengthen the capacity of security agencies, improve logistics, and respond more effectively to evolving security needs across the state.

    The statement, issued on behalf of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Board of Trustees, management, and staff of the Fund, described the public-private collaboration as a sustainable approach to security funding in Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre.

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    The statement noted that the Governor has acknowledged the role of corporate organisations and donors in supporting security architecture in Lagos, noting that the partnership has delivered measurable impact and positioned the state as a reference point for collaborative security funding.

    Ogunsan said the Fund would, in 2026, focus on consolidating gains recorded in the past year, deepening existing partnerships, and attracting new donors who share the vision of a secure, resilient, and investor-friendly Lagos.

    He added that emerging security realities require innovation, sustained support, and continued cooperation between the public and private sectors.

    “We are confident that through continued collaboration, we can sustain the gains recorded and respond effectively to emerging security challenges in the year ahead,” he said.

  • 55-year-old man arrested for allegedly impregnating teenager in Ondo

    55-year-old man arrested for allegedly impregnating teenager in Ondo

    A 55-year-old man, identified as Ademola Joshua, has been arrested for allegedly engaging in incest and sexually abusing a 15-year-old girl, resulting in pregnancy, in Ondo State.

    Joshua was reportedly apprehended by local vigilantes at Ilara-Mokin in Ifedore Local Government Area of the state on Sunday, before being handed over to the police.

    Confirming the arrest in a statement on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, said the suspect was arrested over an alleged case of incest and sexual abuse involving the teenager.

    Abayomi said the incident was reported to the Command on January 4, 2025, by one Adewale, who disclosed that the suspect had been engaging in unlawful sexual activities with the minor.

    “The complainant (Adewale) said the crime was uncovered during investigations into the cause of the teenager’s pregnancy.

    “Upon receipt of this disturbing report, the case was immediately referred to the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Unit of the Command for discreet and thorough investigation,” the statement read.

    He added that the suspect is currently in custody and will be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.

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    However, the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, has reaffirmed the commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of women and children, stressing that perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence would face the full weight of the law.

    CP Lawal noted that the arrest aligns with the policing vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, which prioritises gender-sensitive policing and accountability.

    While commending members of the public for their timely and courageous reporting, the police boss urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to provide credible information to aid swift intervention and enhance community safety.

  • Gunmen demand N200m ransom for kidnapped brothers in Edo

    Gunmen demand N200m ransom for kidnapped brothers in Edo

    Kidnappers, who abducted two brothers, Ibrahim and Tahir Abu, in Auchi, Estako West Local Government Area, have demanded a ransom of N200million.

    Father of the victims, Momoh Tahir, said the kidnappers contacted the family to demand the ransom yesterday.

    Tahir stated that the ransom had been reduced to N100million.

    Speaking in a telephone interview, Tahir said the abduction of his children had been difficult for the family.

    He said: “They have been in touch with us since they were kidnapped.They asked for N200 million but we were able to negotiate N100 million. We are still hoping that further discussion will lead to reduction of the ransom demanded.

    “It’s a trying period for the family but I pray that they will come back home safely.”

    Both brothers were abducted on Friday while returning from work.

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    One of them is a medical doctor.

    Edo Police spokesman, Eno Ikoedem, said security operatives had been combing the bush since the incident occurred.

    She said: “Yes, this unfortunate incident was brought to the attention of the state Police Command on January 2, 2026 about 8:30pm.

    “Upon receipt of a distress call reporting the kidnapping of two brothers, Abu Ibrahim and Abu Tahir, on City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, Auchi, the Divisional Police Officer, Auchi Divisional Headquarters, was immediately deployed to the scene and subsequently mobilized operatives in collaboration with vigilantes, Forest Guards, and Community Safety Partnership Volunteers who are well conversant with the forest terrain.

    “Aggressive search and rescue operations within the forest have been ongoing since last night, and the Command assures the family and the general public that no stone will be left unturned to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.”

  • Police recover diverted N18m cement, truck in Ibadan

    Police recover diverted N18m cement, truck in Ibadan

    The Oyo State Police Command has arrested three suspects in connection with the alleged diversion of a consignment of cement in Soka, Ibadan.

    Its Police Public Relations Officer, Ayanlade Olayinka, a Deputy Superintendent, in a statement said the goods, concealed in a Dangote Cement truck were allegedly stolen and diverted.

    He said the goods sold to Durodola Ifeoluwa, 29, and Nafisat Moruf, 31, of Ibadan have been recovered.

    He said the goods were intended for Adewole Area, Ilorin, Kwara State before the diversion.

    The suspects were truck driver, Usman Jubril, 26, along with the two alleged receivers, have confessed to the crime.

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    Olayinka added in a statement: “The truck and 900 bags of cement, valued at N18 million, were recovered and secured at the police station.

    He said the suspects would be charged to court upon the completion of the investigation.

    “The Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, Femi Haruna, commended the timely intelligence and swift response of the operatives and expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his leadership in strengthening intelligence-led policing across the country,’ he added.

    The PPRO said Haruna reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting property, ensuring accountability, and bringing offenders to justice.

  • Lions District Governor launches hunger relief projects

    Lions District Governor launches hunger relief projects

    International Lions Clubs,  Adelaja Adeleye has kicked off the organisation’s Global Service Week in Lagos, focusing on hunger relief across the communities within the district 404B3.

    At the event held in the house of Past District 404B3 Governor (PGD) Bolarinwa in Akowonjo, Lagos, over 500 less-privileged, including people living with disabilities, received foods and other essential items,

     Adeleye said the Week is a Lions International initiative in which members  unite in service, carrying out impactful projects in their communities in line with the global causes. “It is indeed inspiring to know that as we serve here today, millions of Lions are doing the same in different parts of the world,’’ he said.

    According to him, Lions Clubs International has over the years taken hunger relief as one of the core projects with local clubs worldwide organising food drives, feeding programmes, and sustainable food initiatives to combat food insecurity as part of their commitment to serving communities.

    “Hunger remains one of the most pressing challenges facing our communities. In many homes, families struggle to put food on the table. Children go to school hungry, and vulnerable members of society face uncertainty about their next meal. We cannot close our eyes to this reality. This is why Hunger Relief is one of the core global causes of Lions International, and why the Week is so important., ‘‘he said.’

    “The January Global Service Week calls on every Lion, every club, and every district to rise in unity and compassion — to translate our motto “We Serve” into tangible action. Whether through food distribution, community kitchens, school feeding programs, partnerships with food banks, or innovative local initiatives, every act of service counts,”  Adeleye said.

    He stressed the need for all clubs under the district to participate actively and visibly in this week of service. “Let our projects be impactful, well-coordinated, and inclusive. Let us reach the hungry with dignity, empathy, and love. Beyond the distribution of food, let us also spread hope — the assurance that someone cares and that no one is forgotten.

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    “I also encourage collaboration and partnership. When clubs work together, when we engage community stakeholders and align with relevant agencies, our impact is multiplied. This is how Lions continue to make a difference — not just in numbers, but in lives changed,” Adeleye added.

    Welcoming the members and beneficiaries to the hunger relief programme, Committee Chairperson, Adetokunbo Adedamola, said the gathering was not just an event, but a purpose rooted in compassion, service, and the shared belief that no one in the communities should go to bed hungry.

    She added: “As Lions, responding to this challenge is not optional—it is central to who we are and why we serve. Through this cause, Lions across the globe are united by a single mission to nourish lives and strengthen communities.

    “For the 2025–2026 Lions Year, District 404B3 has set a clear and measurable goal—to provide nutritional support to vulnerable persons across Ota, Abeokuta, Ibadan and Lagos axis. These beneficiaries include families, widows, elderly, and individuals whose daily realities are shaped by economic hardship. This program is not a one-day gesture; it is a reflection of our district’s long-standing commitment to community service. Lions Clubs has over the years implemented impactful hunger relief initiatives that address immediate food needs while also contributing to improved health, social stability, and community development. Meaningful impact is never achieved alone.’’

  • Foundation donates food items to Lagos residents

    Foundation donates food items to Lagos residents

    A non-governmental organisation (NGO), Kinxanders Foundation has distributed food and essential items to Ifako/Ijaye, Lagos residents to mark the Christmas and New Year’’s celebrations.

    The distribution, which took place at The African Church Cathedral attracted beneficiaries, including the elderly, widows, widowers and persons living with disabilities, who gathered at the venue as early as 9 a.m. to participate in the exercise.

    Items distributed included bags of rice, cooking oil and other basic household necessities aimed at easing economic hardship among vulnerable groups in the community.

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    The founder/Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, Jenifer Yeside Akinremi, said the initiative was part of the organisation’s efforts to support the vulnerable, particularly during festive periods.

    She noted that the foundation focuses on assisting people living with disabilities, the aged and other disadvantaged groups, adding that the organisation would continue its community-based interventions aimed at improving the welfare of beneficiaries.

    The foundation has been involved in similar interventions across the state, providing food items, clothing, footwear and educational support for children, as well as assistance to widows and elderly persons.