The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Property worth millions gone in Abuja restaurant inferno

    Property worth millions gone in Abuja restaurant inferno

    • Fire caused by crackers gut eight rooms, two shops in Kwara
    • Fire destroys 11 shops In Yola shopping mall

    Fire has gutted Ibro Fish, a popular relaxation spot in Abuja

    The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Fire Service said the incident had been brought under control without casualties.

    The Comptroller of the FCT Fire Service Command, Amiola Adebayo, said upon receiving a distress call yestersday around 12:25 a.m, he and firefighters moved to the scene and put out the fire almost an hour later.

    He said the fire was “caused by an object thrown from outside the premises during New Year’s celebrations, which landed on a thatched roof in the restaurant”.

    An inferno caused by firecrackers engulfed has happened behind Sidi Shopping Complex, Aperan Road, Omu-Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area, Kwara State.

    The incident involved a storey building comprising about eight rooms and two shops.

    The fire affected the store in the building.

    Firefighters contained the blaze.

    Spokesperson of the state Fire Service Hassan Adekunle said: “Preliminary investigation revealed that the fire was caused by a firecracker (banger).

    “A boy reportedly threw the firecracker into the store after feeling heat on his hand while playing with it, which led to ignition of combustible materials in the store.”

    Adekunle warned parents and guardians to monitor children and strictly discourage the use of fireworks and firecrackers, especially in residential and commercial environments.

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    Also, fire in the early hours of yesterday destroyed 11 shops in a popular shopping mall in Fallujah. the Adamawa State capital.

    Fallujah, which began to grow rapidly a little over a year ago after traders were relocated there from an older shopping mall being reconstructed by the state government, witnessed the incident as the new year was being heralded.

    A source, Mallam Abubakar Yahaya, a trader at the mall, said the fire started around midnight, just when the neighbourhood, a very commercial hotspot, would otherwise have been in noisy new year’s celebrations.

    According to him, wares in the 11 affected shops were burnt completely as nobody was immediately aware that the fire was on.

    He said local guards and policemen later arrived and mobilised the human efforts that stopped the fire from spreading to other shops in the thickly populated mall.

    The cause of the fire was yet to be determined up to when this story was filed Thursday afternoon, but it is believed to have started from a shop containing secondhand clothes where there might have been an electrical spark.

  • How over 30 gunmen invaded, attacked Police Divisional Station in Ondo community

    How over 30 gunmen invaded, attacked Police Divisional Station in Ondo community

    The calm of New Year’s Eve in Ipele, an agrarian community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, was shattered on Wednesday night when gunmen stormed the town, setting the Divisional Police Station ablaze.

    According to an eyewitness, the attackers—said to be more than 30—invaded Ipele around 10:00 p.m. on motorbikes, firing rifles and detonating explosives at the Divisional Police Station, which was razed.

    The police facility, built in honour of the late High Chief S. E. Dairo, the Olukowajo of Ipele, and inaugurated on October 19, 2016, by former Commissioner of Police, Mrs. Hilda Ibifuro Harrison, was reduced to rubbles.

    Official exhibits, patrol vehicles and motorcycles were destroyed in the inferno.

    As gunshots echoed through the community, doors were flung open and shut abruptly, lights went off, and terrified residents fled their homes into nearby bushes to escape harm.

    One of the residents, who craved anonymity, said: “It was a terrorist attack. The attackers, numbering about 20, came into Ipele community in a commando style and started shooting before attacking the Divisional Police Station.

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    “Many of us had to flee into the bush.The sounds from the attack were terrifying, and no one could withstand it,” he said.

    Another resident, Olorunfemi Oladotun, said: “It was a very critical one. We heard gunshots. They threw dynamites. Nobody died. We thank God for life. Everywhere was scattered.

    “We were not happy about what happened last night (Wednesday), which was December 31, 2025.’’

    President of Owo Youths General Assembly, Comrade Obadaye Temidayo Samson, said: “The news got to us last night that bandits attacked Ipele Police Station. The level of destruction was so much and we condemned it.’’

    He appealed to the government to help them to rebuild the police station and arrest the perpetrators.

    In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police Jimoh Abayomi, described the attack as an assault on the peace and security of the state.

    According to him, preliminary findings indicated that the armed men invaded the station.

    He said the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal had ordered the deployment of more operational assets, including Tactical Teams, Explosive Ordnance Disposal-Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) units, and Police Mobile Force personnel to the area.

    Abayomi, however, added that the situation had been brought under control, while a manhunt for the attackers was ongoing, urging the public to remain calm.

    The police boss, who visited the affected station in the company of other officers of the command, further affirmed that no life was lost and no church was destroyed during the attack.

    He explained that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had held a meeting with the security chiefs – which included the police, the military, the Directorate of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and Amotekun Corps – to get a proper briefing of the attack.

  • Girl, 3, needs N20m for second heart surgery

    Girl, 3, needs N20m for second heart surgery

    The family of Mr and Mrs Ogunbayo, residents of Lagos, needs N20 million for the second heart surgery of their daughter, Nabeelah Toronto Ogunbayo, in India.

    Nabeelah, who hails from Abeokuta Local Government Area of Ogun State, a few months after birth, was afflicted with an ailment, which her parents discovered eight days after her naming ceremony .

    Physicians say the baby needs a second cardiac surgery.

    To this end, her father, Mr Saheed Ogunbayo, has appealed to well-meaning citizens for assistance to save his daughter, who is battling a severe heart condition and requires a second-stage surgery in India.

    Mr Ogunbayo further explained that the ailment has caused them to visit several hospitals in Abeokuta, and Lagos.

    After tests and consultations, at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, she daughter was referred to India.

    Nabeelah underwent the first  heart surgery; awaiting the second in March.

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    He added that the family spent almost N24 million during the previous trip, adding that each of the three members of the family, who are required to accompany the little girl to India, will pay N900, 000 for flight tickets. He, therefore, appealed to Nigerians to help them.

    “We have exhausted everything we have to ensure that our daughter survives the health challenge

    He said any one willing to assist the family could send their donations to:

    Account Name: Ogunbayo Saheed Atanda

    Bank: First Bank A/C no.: 3065754576

    Mr Ogunbayo expressed his hope that with support, his daughter will live a healthy life.

    He can be contacted on 08025760444.

  • Gunmen abduct monarch, youth Corps son in Kwara community

    Gunmen abduct monarch, youth Corps son in Kwara community

    Gunmen yesterday invaded the king’s palace in Aafin community, Ile Ere District of Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State and abducted the monarch, Oba Simeon Olaonipekun and his son Olaolu, who is undergoing his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme.

    The eight armed men stormed the palace about 8pm, amid shooting, forced their way into the building.

    A source told reporters that the assailants appeared to have come for the monarch and his wife.

    “I noticed some strange movements outside around 8:00pm and alerted those inside. We began locking doors and switching off lights. But once they realised this, they started shooting.

    “The gunmen broke down the palace doors with their weapons and demanded to see the king.

    “They gained entrance and he came out. They were also asking for his wife Felicia, but she had been hit by a bullet in the arm,” he said.

    “There were about 10 of us in the palace at the time. We had come to spend the holiday with the king. After they left, we rushed the wife to the hospital that same night,” he said.

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    He noted that the community vigilante group could not repel the attackers, as only two members were on duty and were overpowered by the gunmen’s firepower.

    “The vigilantes could not do much because they were just two on duty. The leader of the attackers spoke very good English and they came straight to the palace. They did not attack any other place in the town,” said the source.

    He said the incident was reported to several police formations, including the Owu Isin and Ijara Isin divisions, as well as the joint local security network in Ikosin, while neighbouring traditional rulers were also alerted.

    As of the time of filing this report, there was no information on contact with the abductors. The community appealed to the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the monarch and his son.

    The state police command has not confirmed the incident.

  • RTEAN Lagos chair felicitates Nigerians

    RTEAN Lagos chair felicitates Nigerians

    The Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Lagos State Branch has extended his New Year’s greetings to Nigerians.

    Speaking during an interview with reporters at the body’s state Secretariat in Akesan, the Chairman, Alhaji Comrade Samsondeen Ajala Kaosara, described the new year as a privilege by Almighty God, urging Nigerians to remain prayerful and place God first in their activities.

    Kaosara congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi, as well as the Senate President, Senators, Members of the House of Representatives, Ministers, and other government officials.

    He commended President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that RTEAN members had begun to enjoy its benefits.

    According to him, the distribution of CNG vehicles to RTEAN under the leadership of the National President, Alhaji Musa Muhammed Maitakobi, and gradual reduction in food prices are signs of progress. He also praised the Federal Government’s efforts in addressing national security challenges.

    The chairman called on Nigerians to remain patient and focused, assuring them that conditions would continue to improve. He reaffirmed that RTEAN members nationwide are 100 percent in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid.

    Kaosara extended new year’s greetings to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his Deputy Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, and members of the State Executive Council. He prayed for divine wisdom, strength, and continued mercy upon them, assuring that RTEAN Lagos remains fully supportive of the state government.

    Read AAlso: RTEAN hails Lagos Speaker Lasbat-Meranda

    He also conveyed his best wishes to all traditional rulers (Obas) in Lagos State, advising them to continue to uphold dignity, peace, and unity within their communities.

    Addressing RTEAN members in Lagos State, the Chairman expressed deep appreciation to all Executive Council members, past and present, for their unwavering support, cooperation, and loyalty, which he said have contributed greatly to his success as State Chairman.

    Kaosara further extended appreciation to the Tricycle Owners and Drivers Association of Lagos (TODA – Keke Elese Meta) and members of NAMORAL (Okada Riders) for their cooperation and commitment.

    He advised transport operators to fear God, exercise patience, obey Lagos State traffic laws, and take good care of their families.

    He commended Maitakobi for his leadership, guidance, and support to RTEAN Lagos State. He prayed that Almighty Allah would continue to bless and protect him and his family.

    The chairman also extended New Year greetings to his family, his wife, and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, declaring that 2026 shall be a year of joy, peace, and prosperity.

  • 8 killed, 11 injured in Lagos-Ibadan Expressway crash

    8 killed, 11 injured in Lagos-Ibadan Expressway crash

    Eight persons died and 11 others sustained varying degrees of injuries in a road crash that occurred yesterday at the NASFAT turning point on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.

    The Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement (TRACE) corps spokesman, Babatunde Akinbiyi, who confirmed the accident in Abeokuta, said the crash, involving a Mazda bus and a Volvo truck, occurred at about 3pm .

    He said: “An eyewitness said the truck attempted a U-turn towards Ibadan when the speeding Mazda bus rammed into it.

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    “Twenty-one people were involved; eight died, while 11 were injured. Two adult males escaped unhurt.”

    Akinbiyi said rescue operations were conducted by TRACE, the Police, FRSC and the Ogun State Emergency Management Agency (OSEMA).

    Four injured victims were taken to the State Hospital, while seven others were treated at FAMOBIS Hospital, Lotto.

    The wrecked vehicles were taken to RCCG Police Station, while the deceased were deposited at the morgue.

  • Foundation empowers young entrepreneurs

    Foundation empowers young entrepreneurs

    • By Aishat Ahmed

    The MajmolQueen Foundation, a humanitarian initiative founded by Hajia Majeedah Ashimi Idris, has empowered young entrepreneurs.

    The beneficiaries went home with cash grants, equipment, and vital business knowledge to help them grow sustainable livelihoods.

    The empowerment programme, which benefited over 20 small business owners, took place at Crescent Schools, 1004 Estate, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    It featured the disbursement of grants and tools worth millions of naira, alongside a business seminar focused on ethical entrepreneurship and access to interest-free funding.

    Hajia Ashimi Idris, a registered nurse, philanthropist, and an author of Towards A Successful Marriage, is based in the United States but continues to give back to the Nigerian society through her foundation.

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    Representing the founder, the Ashimi family was led by Alhaji Tajudeen Olubunmi Ashimi, who praised his daughter’s compassion and commitment to uplifting underprivileged individuals. He described the foundation’s empowerment initiative as a rare act of kindness that should be emulated by government and private organisations.

    He recounted the founder’s long-standing generosity and strong family values, noting that she has always supported relatives and others morally and financially. He urged beneficiaries to use the support judiciously and invest it meaningfully in their businesses.

    Ustadh Aleem Farouk, popularly known as Al-Egbawi, alongside Dr Lukman Lanre Seriki, an auditor with Alternative Bank, provided practical and ethical guidance on building sustainable businesses.

    Dr Seriki spoke extensively on business discipline, character, and trust, stressing that these values are crucial for accessing informal and interest-free funding from friends, family, and suppliers. He warned against misusing business capital, describing diversion of funds as a major risk that can destroy credibility.

    He further explained that startup capital differs across ventures, noting that while some businesses require substantial investment, others can begin with minimal funds, skills, and basic tools, especially when run from home.

    Ustadh Al-Egbawi emphasised Islamic ethics in business, reminding participants that Islam encourages trade but strictly forbids dishonesty, deception, and interest-based transactions. He warned against misrepresentation of goods, sale of faulty products, and hiding defects from buyers.

    He also cautioned Muslim entrepreneurs against neglecting their religious obligations for business pursuits, stressing that honesty, transparency, and trustworthiness attract Allah’s blessings.

  • Chief of Naval Staff assures return to fishing activities in Lake Chad

    Chief of Naval Staff assures return to fishing activities in Lake Chad

    The Chief of Naval Staff (CoNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has pledged to secure Lake Chad and its surrounding waterways, enabling the resumption of fishing and other socio-economic activities in the northeast. 

    Speaking in Maiduguri during a working visit to Naval formations in the Lake Chad Basin, Abbas emphasized the importance of synergy between the military and other security agencies to end the war and secure the region. 

    “Our joint military action with security agencies and the Civilian JTF in the Lake Chad and its shores will enable fishermen and farmers resume their economic activities by securing the Lake and dozens of waterways that serve many communities in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states,” he said.

    The Nation reports that the CoNS’s visit aimed to assess operational requirements of troops in the Lake Chad region, comprising Chad, Cameroon, Nigeria, and Niger Republic. He revealed that the military joint action targets Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists, denying them access to the Lake and waterways. 

    “Beyond securing the Lake, our efforts will revive economic activities and improve the lives of communities affected by the insurgency,” Abbas added.

    He inspected the Maiduguri Naval Base construction and met with Governor Babagana Zulum to discuss security efforts. He also visited the Baga Naval base, emphasizing the military’s commitment to restoring peace in the region.

    The Chief of Naval Staff’s assurance has raised hopes for the thousands of displaced fishermen and farmers in the Lake Chad region, who have been forced to abandon their livelihoods due to the Boko Haram insurgency. 

    The Lake Chad, once a thriving source of fish and livelihood for millions, has been a hotspot for terrorist activities, making it imperative for the military to intervene.

    Vice Admiral Abbas’s visit to the region underscores the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to securing the Lake Chad and its surrounding waterways. 

    The Maiduguri Naval Base, currently under construction, is expected to enhance the Navy’s capabilities in the region, providing a strategic location for monitoring and securing the Lake Chad.

     Governor Babagana Zulum, who met with Abbas, praised the military’s efforts and assured the government’s continued support in the fight against insurgency.

    The Lake Chad region, which spans across four countries, has been plagued by Boko Haram’s terrorist activities, resulting in significant displacement, hunger, and economic hardship. The military’s renewed efforts aim to restore peace, stability, and economic prosperity to the region.

    The success of the operation is expected to have a ripple effect on the local economy, enabling the revival of fishing, farming, and other socio-economic activities, improving the lives of communities in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states.

  • NAB urges Aiyedatiwa to intervene in Ondo state disability agency leadership crisis

    NAB urges Aiyedatiwa to intervene in Ondo state disability agency leadership crisis

    The Nigerian Association of the Blind (NAB), Ondo State chapter, has called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to take urgent action over what it described as worsening leadership and administrative challenges at the State Agency for the Welfare of Persons with Disabilities.

    In a letter to the governor, a copy of which was obtained by The Nation, NAB said the state’s disability community was facing unrest due to alleged poor leadership and unresolved internal conflicts within the agency.

    The association recalled a meeting with Governor Aiyedatiwa on September 3, during which assurances were reportedly given that concerns raised by persons with disabilities would be addressed.

    However, NAB lamented that the same individual accused of mismanaging the agency remains in charge, a situation it said continues to fuel dissatisfaction and unrest among the disability community.

    “Surprisingly, she is still the one manning the leadership of the Agency for the Welfare of Persons with Disabilities in Ondo State, causing unrest among us, which we are not happy with,” the letter stated.

    The association also raised concerns over the handling of funds released for the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities, alleging that part of the N9 million approved by the state government was mismanaged.

    “Recently, sir, you released N9 million for the Disability Day, but surprisingly, this same person and her cronies decided to siphon the money released by you,” the group alleged.

    It, however, commended the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Seun Osamaye, for reportedly intervening to ensure the funds were applied for their intended purpose, including the empowerment of at least 120 persons with disabilities.

    Despite this intervention, the association said some beneficiaries were yet to receive their payments, a situation it noted had further heightened tension within the disability community.

    The group also alleged that an incident at the agency nearly claimed the life of one of its members, describing the development as deeply troubling.

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    “This did not make us happy at all. Are we going to continue to be silent till death? No, Mr Governor, save us from this ungodly woman who wants to rule us,” the letter read.

    According to the association, activities at the agency have virtually stalled due to leadership disputes, resulting in disunity among disability clusters and weakening their collective voice.

    It warned that the situation had made persons with disabilities appear marginalised and inferior in the eyes of both the government and the wider society.

    As part of its demands, the association called for the immediate dissolution of the agency’s board before the end of the year, stating, “As we are writing to you, the agency is in shambles, unplanned, and lacks direction.”

    The group also appealed to the governor to approve its nominee, Adenibuyan Monday, as chairman of the agency’s board, stressing that the request was based on the principles of “rule of law, justice, integrity, and equal representation” within the disability community.

  • GNI building fire: LASEMA asks family members to register missing persons

    GNI building fire: LASEMA asks family members to register missing persons

    The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has responded to concerns expressed in certain quarters regarding persons reported missing following the recent fire incident at the Great Nigeria Insurance building on Martins Street, Lagos Island.

    In a terse e-statement, signed by the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, the agency advised the family members to register their concerns at the Complaints Unit of the agency, where details would be carefully received and a consolidated list of reported missing persons compiled.

    Despite reports in certain quarters that the search had ended, Oke-Osanyintolu assured that “Search and recovery operation is ongoing.”