The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Two injured in twin tanker explosion in Mokwa

    Two injured in twin tanker explosion in Mokwa

    Two persons have sustained injuries following a twin petrol tanker explosion on Tuesday night at the sawmill area of Mokwa local government area in Niger State.

    It came two weeks after the tanker explosion in Essa Community in Katcha local government area that left over 40 dead. 

    The Niger Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Aishat Saadu, confirmed the incident. 

    Read Also: 35 die in Niger tanker explosion

    According to her, the explosion happened while two tankers were transloading fuel from one to another.

    She explained the victims, who suffered varying degrees of injuries, have been taken to the hospital and are receiving treatment.

    Saadu added that FRSC personnel promptly cordoned off the area to prevent further danger and to control traffic flow.

  • Wanted Sowore yet to report – Police

    Wanted Sowore yet to report – Police

    Lagos Commissioner of Police, CP Jimoh Moshood, on Wednesday said activist, Omoyele Sowore, was yet to report after he was declared wanted for allegedly plotting to instigate public unrest and obstruct major roads in the state. 

    Moshood, who spoke during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme, dismissed reports that the Inspector General of Police had issued an order against Sowore.

    He described such claims as “misinformation”, adding that he acted within the powers granted to him under the Constitution.

    According to the Commissioner, intelligence reports indicated that Sowore had allegedly mobilised supporters to block the Third Mainland Bridge, an action he said could have endangered lives and disrupted economic activities in Lagos.

    “I have the constitutional power to maintain public safety and public order within Lagos State. When someone is mobilising thousands to march on the Third Mainland Bridge, which is critical to the country, I cannot allow that,” he said.

    He explained that the police moved to disperse the gathering, using what he described as minimum force, adding that a vehicle fitted with loudspeakers and a generator, allegedly meant for the planned protest, was recovered, while 13 suspects were arrested.

    Read Also: Sowore reacts as police declare him wanted

    Moshood stressed that no request for a peaceful protest was submitted to the command and added that Sowore went into hiding during the protest.

    “He has gone into hiding. His lawyer sent a message indicating he would report at the State CID in Panti but he has failed to show up. We will do everything within the law to get him arrested, investigated, and prosecuted,” he stated.

    The Commissioner insisted that the declaration of Sowore as wanted was lawful and necessary to prevent what he described as an attempt to create unrest in Lagos.

    He also stated that the police are prepared to maintain law and order across the state and warned that the Third Mainland Bridge or any other critical national infrastructure would not be allowed to be used for protests.

  • Kidnappers kill seminarian after 95 days in captivity 

    Kidnappers kill seminarian after 95 days in captivity 

    Emmanuel Alabi, one of the students of Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ivianokpodi, Estako East local government area, who was abducted on July 10, 2025, has been killed. 

    Gunmen struck at the minor seminary and abducted three students, Japhet Jesse, Joshua Aleobua, and late Alabi.

    Jesse managed to escape while Aleobua regained freedom on November 4 while Alabi was shot dead.

    It was gathered that Alabi was shot dead in an attempt to escape after spending over 90 days in the kidnappers’ den.

    A statement by Catholic Diocese of Auchi and signed by Assistant Director of Communications, Fr. Linus Imoedemhe, was silent on how Alabi died.

    Read Also: Army neutralises two kidnappers in Plateau

    The statement by Bishop of the Diocese of Auchi, Most Rev. Gabriel Dunia, expressed deep pain and sorrow over the loss of the young seminarian.

    It said Bishop Dunia called on security agencies to intensify efforts toward protecting the lives and property of all citizens and cautioned political leaders against turning a blind eye on the worsening insecurity situation in the nation.

    Bishop Dunia urged them to prioritise the safety and well-being of the people over political ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.

    According to the statement: “The Catholic Diocese of Auchi invites all the faithful and people of goodwill to join us in praying for the repose of the soul of Emmanuel Alabi, and for the peace, healing, and security of our people and land.

    “The Diocese of Auchi remains committed to the values of faith, peace, and justice, trusting in God’s infinite mercy to bring comfort to the bereaved family, the seminary community, and all those affected by this tragedy.

    “May the soul of Emmanuel Alabi, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”

  • Woman kidnaps self, collects N5m from husband

    Woman kidnaps self, collects N5m from husband

    A 27-year old woman, Chioma Success Ezebie, has been arrested by operatives of the Edo State Police Command for kidnapping herself and collecting N5 million ransom from her husband.

    Chioma had abducted herself and her three years old son on October 27 and made one Martins Chidozie, 23, called her husband that they have been kidnapped.

    Her husband, Paul Adaniken, reported to the police and the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit launched a full-scale cyber analysis and intelligence-led operations that led to the victim’s cousin, Osita Godfrey, 33.

     Police said Godfrey, who was earlier believed to be assisting with information, was found to be complicit in the crime.

    Edo Deputy spokesman, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said Osita’s confessional statement led to the arrest of the Chioma.

    Read Also: Vandalism: FCT NSCDC to prosecute offenders according to stringent laws

    Ikoedem said Chioma was discovered to have conspired with her accomplices to stage her own abduction in order to extort money from her husband.

    Ikoedem said: “All suspects have made useful confessional statements, ransom of N5,000,000 recovered and the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation and onward prosecution.

    “The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, Monday Agbonika, has commended the officers of the New Etete Division for their swift and tactical response, which led to the unraveling of this deceitful act. He also warns residents to desist from acts capable of undermining public peace while emphasizing that the Command will continue to deploy intelligence and technology-driven strategies to combat crime in all forms.”

  • I’m committed to LASU’s development, says Makanjuola

    I’m committed to LASU’s development, says Makanjuola

    The newly appointed member of the Lagos State University (LASU) Governing Board, Mr Bode Makanjuola, said he is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, servant leadership, and impactful governance.

    The council will be headed by Babatunde Ogala, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN); while Oluseyi Badmus, Bode Makanjuola, Mojisola Tolagbe Taiwo, Shaffudeen Amuwo, and Rafiu Adisa Ebiti will serve as members. Others are Kofo Durosimi Etti, Farouk Gumel, Adenike Akanbi, Biodun Hundeyin and Remi Desalu.

    Makanjuola, the Chief Executive Officer of Caverton Offshore Support Group, said he is honoured to be appointed as a member of the council.

    Read Also: LASU Professor recounts rise from lab assistant to Dean ahead inaugural lecture

    “This appointment represents a huge honour and privilege to serve an institution that plays a pivotal role in shaping the futures of the students, faculty, and the broader community,” he said.

    He thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for the trust and confidence placed in him just as he looks forward to contributing to LASU’s continued pursuit of academic excellence, innovation, and inclusive growth.

    He hailed the leadership and staff of LASU for their warm reception and unwavering dedication to the university’s mission.

    He also praised his family, mentors, friends and colleagues for their encouragement and support.

  • ‘Agency handles 400 abuse cases monthly’

    ‘Agency handles 400 abuse cases monthly’

    The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has said that it handled an average of 400 cases of abuse monthly, with the majority of survivors being women.

    DSVA Executive Secretary of the Agency, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, stated this during a training themed “Mainstreaming Sexual Harassment Prevention in the State Public Service” held yesterday. She said the figure reflects only a fraction of the problem, as many cases of domestic and sexual abuse remain unreported.

    Vivour-Adeniyi explained that through the agency’s toll-free line, referrals, and walk-ins, over 8,693 survivors have been provided with services in the past year. She noted that the DSVA works closely with the Public Service Office and the Office of the Head of Service to integrate sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) prevention and response mechanisms into the public sector.

    “We are mainstreaming SGBV prevention in the public service and encouraging officers to see themselves as mandated reporters. If they see something, they should say something, so that we can do something. It’s also important to amplify the state government’s zero tolerance for all forms of sexual and gender-based violence, including workplace harassment,” she said.

    Read Also: Vandalism: FCT NSCDC to prosecute offenders according to stringent laws

    Mrs Vivour-Adeniyi reaffirmed the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration’s dedication to creating a safe and just society where every resident can live free from violence. She also encouraged survivors and witnesses to continue speaking out, stressing that “every report helps us protect more people and hold perpetrators accountable.”

    Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Establishments and Training, Mrs. Olubusola Abidakun, commended the DSVA for its commitment to fostering an inclusive and safe work environment. She described sexual harassment as “a violation of human rights and an assault on the values that hold public institutions together.”

  • Regina Daniels’ mum claims daughter funded Nwoko’s election

    Regina Daniels’ mum claims daughter funded Nwoko’s election

    The mother of Nollywood actress Regina Daniels, Rita, yesterday claimed that Ned Nwoko’s political rise was largely fueled by Regina’s fame and financial support, including an alleged $50,000 contribution to his campaign funds.

    Rita’s comments came after the reported arrest of her son, Sammy.

    She said: “Ned had no money; Regina was the one who supported his election. She gave him $50,000 and used her fame to help him win after he had failed three times.”

    Rita’s statement follows a series of explosive accusations made earlier by Regina, who cried out on Instagram alleging that her family members were being harassed and unlawfully arrested on the senator’s orders. Regina claimed her siblings had been detained and accused Nwoko of branding her a “drug addict.”

    Read Also: LASU Professor recounts rise from lab assistant to Dean ahead inaugural lecture

    “My big brother and big sister have been arrested. My baby sister might be arrested soon as well until I return to rehab, according to him (Nwoko). You said I’m a drug addict, me, I use am rob body sir! What other name can you call me?” Regina wrote.

    Her brother also weighed in, posting a fiery response directed at Senator Nwoko: “You’ve lost all the respect. If you ask he go say she came for my money. You came for her fame! Transaction successful. Case closed! She made you a senator… now na drug lord ba? Regina will destroy and tarnish your image! You should be prosecuted for domestic violence!”

  • NSCDC operatives arrest five kidnappers

    NSCDC operatives arrest five kidnappers

    Five kidnappers operating as syndicates have been arrested by operatives of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) along Zaria/Kano Expressway.

    The kidnappers were rounded up following the order of the Commandant General of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps,  Prof. Ahmed Audi, that the area should be cleared of bad eggs and other criminal elements.

    Intelligence gathered by Commandant General Special Squad indicated that the syndicates have engaged in extortion, thefts, kidnapping for ransom along Kaduna, Zaria, and Kano State axis.

    The Special Intelligence Squad Commandant, Appolos Dandaura, said the gang attacked one Sani Ahmad while driving along Zaria to Kano. According to him, the gang flagged down Ahmad on the account that there was danger ahead.

    The victim was compelled to stop his vehicle, unaware that he was in the hands of kidnappers, who robbed him of his valuables and maltreated him.

    Ahmad said he is a journalist and was on the said day, travelling with his friend, Mallam Haruna, his wife and child when the unfortunate incident happened.

    “After insisting that I stopped the car, they invaded my vehicle and picked my travelling bag, took 2 IPhones 12 Pro max, Techno Camon 40 pro and compelled me to transfer N300,000 through my Opay Account to an Opay account 9026238691 with the name Abdullahii Lawan Garba which was provided by one Ibrahim Abubakar after firing a gun to threaten my life,” he said.

    Read Also: Vandalism: FCT NSCDC to prosecute offenders according to stringent laws

    Dandaura, however, gave the names of the suspected kidnappers as Ibrahim Abubakar Garba, Umar Fulani, Aliyu Mohammed, Murtala Salisu and Imrana Hassan,  all male and have volunteered statements admitting their individual involvement in the crime.

    He said items recovered from them as exhibits are six mini Smart phones, 1 IPhone 12 Pro max, 1 Techno Camon 40 Pro similar to the ones stolen from the victim at gun point, but already sold to Imrana Hassan. Others are First Bank, Guarantee Trust Bank and Opay ATM cards, 1 Samsung Galaxy A15, 1 Infinix X6531B, 1 Itel keypad phone, Wrist Watches, Ear pods, Bangle, Rings and many other personal belongings.

    Commandant Dandaura said further investigation is been conducted on the case and all suspects would appear before the Court of competent.

    He warned travellers to be wary of late night movements along the axis, noting that criminal minded persons are on rampage to extort innocent citizens of their valueables, especially as the Yuletide season is very close.

  • WARDC, CRR unveil online hub to empower adolescent girls, women on SRHR

    WARDC, CRR unveil online hub to empower adolescent girls, women on SRHR

    In an age where the internet often shapes how young people learn about their bodies, the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC) has taken a bold step to provide safer, accurate, and youth-friendly access to information on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).

    In partnership with the Center for Reproductive Rights (CRR), WARDC has launched the National SRHR Hub for Adolescent Girls and Women (AGW), an online platform called SRHR Naija Hub, aimed at creating a digital safe space for young women and girls to access information, resources, and support services on sexual and reproductive health.

    The web-based platform, unveiled during a recent event in Lagos, also featured a live demonstration that drew excitement from participants, including persons with disabilities. Many described the hub as a timely intervention to address misinformation and the growing risks young people face online.

    Speaking at the launch, the Acting Executive Director of WARDC, Dr. Princess Olufemi-Kayode, described the hub as a collaborative initiative designed to empower adolescent girls and women with accurate, accessible, and inclusive SRHR information.

    “The SRHR Naija Hub is not just a website, it is a safe space and a movement toward dignity, autonomy, and informed choice. It offers peer-led education, digital resources, legal support, and referral pathways for SRHR services. For WARDC, this is a strategic investment in the next generation of feminist leaders.” She said. 

    Dr. Olufemi-Kayode explained that the platform was developed in close collaboration with youth advocates, health professionals, and community stakeholders to ensure it meets the real needs of adolescents and young women across Nigeria.

    Participants at the launch hailed the initiative as a major step in addressing the challenges of misinformation about sexual and reproductive health.

    One of them, a Social Work student at the University of Lagos, Kehinde Oyagha, noted that many young girls often rely on the internet for answers but end up encountering misleading or harmful content.

    “Many girls, especially preteens, are naturally curious, but because of the internet, they often access wrong or harmful information about their bodies. This leads to digital abuse and miseducation about reproductive health.” Oyagha said. 

    Oyagha called for a more interactive approach, where young girls can learn from one another through online mentorship and peer education.

    “We want a space where girls can learn from each other’s experiences, almost like a mini mentorship programme,” she said, adding that social media can play a powerful role in changing perceptions.

    “If influencers talk about these issues, consent, contraceptives, and health, it normalises the conversation,” she added. “We also need collaboration with government and health professionals to make youth-friendly centres visible and accessible.”

    With the launch of the SRHR Naija Hub, WARDC and CRR are leveraging technology to bridge the information gap, empowering adolescent girls and women to make informed choices and advocate for their rights in a digital age where misinformation often thrives.

  • Fuel station, properties destroyed in Saki

    Fuel station, properties destroyed in Saki

    A petrol station, valuables and pick up van were among properties destroyed when a sudden fire broke out at Ago-Omoluabi area, Saki, Oyo State.

    The incident, according to witnesses, occurred on Monday leaving petrol attendants, passersby and other residents to scamper for safety as the fire rages.

    It was gathered that residents were alerted to the scene of the incident following a thick smoke  noticed enveloping the sky around the scene of the incident.

    Efforts of the residents and passersby to put the fire under control proved abortive as the fire raged like harmattan wind.

    Read Also: Federal Fire Service to deploy technology assets to combat fire incidents

    It, however, took the swift intervention of the men of the State Fire Service that prevented the inferno from spreading to the nearby buildings and properties 

    Confirming the incident,  the Special Adviser to the Governor  on fire reform/ Chairman Fire Services Agency, Moroof Akinwande, said no life was lost to the incident except the destruction of the fuel station, pick up van and other valuables.

    He, urged the public to be conscious of fire and emphasized the importance of having extinguishers in their respective buildings particularly the filling station which fire risk is very high in order to prevent fire escalating when incident occurs

    He also commended the efforts of the police and other security sister agencies in arresting the situation.