The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Ikorodu

  • One dead, six injured as bus crashes into parked tipper in Lagos 

    One dead, six injured as bus crashes into parked tipper in Lagos 

    A woman was confirmed dead, and six others were severely injured on Sunday after a commercial bus crashed into a stationary tipper truck at Majidun, inward Ogolonto, opposite the MRS Filling Station in Ikorodu.

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) said the crash occurred in the early hours of the day when a Volkswagen commercial bus with registration number EPE 494 XM reportedly suffered sudden brake failure. 

    The vehicle, chartered to convey passengers to a programme in Ogijo, was said to have been travelling at high speed before the driver lost control and crashed into the truck, which had parked by the roadside to purchase diesel.

    LASTMA officials confirmed that the impact killed an adult female passenger on the spot. Five other women and one man sustained severe injuries. 

    The casualties were immediately taken to Benic Special Hospital, while the deceased was handed over to security personnel and transferred to the General Hospital, Ikorodu, for formal documentation.

    According to the LASTMA director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adabayo Taofiq, the operatives had apprehended both the tipper truck driver, who allegedly attempted to flee, and the commercial bus driver. They were subsequently handed over to officers at the Ipakodo Police Division for further investigation.

    LASTMA’s General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed deep sorrow over the fatal crash and extended condolences to the family of the deceased.

    Bakare-Oki cautioned motorists against excessive speeding, stressing that high speed diminishes a driver’s ability to respond to sudden mechanical faults or unexpected hazards. 

    He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to safeguarding lives and promoting safer road habits across the state.

  • Ikorodu residents get N5m grant

    Ikorodu residents get N5m grant

    No fewer than 2,000 residents of Ifelodun Local Council Development Area (LCDA) have benefited from food palliatives and financial aid ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

    The initiative, championed by Council Chairman, Olufemi Okeowo, is part of ongoing efforts to alleviate poverty in the area.

    Speaking during the distribution, Okeowo said the gesture was in line with the council’s commitment to supporting the vulnerable, noting that similar interventions have been sustained for over a year.

    “This edition is special because of the approaching Eid celebration. We expanded the number of supplies to accommodate more beneficiaries,” he said.

    He added that beyond food items, the council has consistently provided monthly stipends to unemployed youths, the elderly, and other indigent residents.

    “We have run this programme for more than 13 months and intend to sustain it beyond the 2027 election, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

    Okeowo reiterated his administration’s focus on infrastructure development and grassroots empowerment.

    Read Also: FG launches $50m in Nigeria wholesale impact fund

    “We are committed to meeting the growing needs of our people by building facilities and supporting them with available resources,” he said.

    The chairman also urged residents to participate actively in the forthcoming local government elections, saying their voices matter in shaping decisions at the grassroots.

    One of the beneficiaries, Habbeeb Awolere, described the exercise as well-organised and impactful.

    “The process ensures the support reaches those who truly need it,” he said.

    Another beneficiary praised the consistency of the programme, describing it as a lifeline for many.

    “Our chairman is doing well. They’ve never failed to distribute every month. It gives us hope,” he said.

  • Police confirm release of Ikorodu kidnap victims

    Police confirm release of Ikorodu kidnap victims

    The two people kidnapped Thursday night at Igbelara in Ijede, Ikorodu, have been released, the Lagos Police Command has said.

    The victims, Wunmi, 38, and Abiola, 42, were released late on Sunday by their abductors, who could not withstand the pressure from security forces.

    The Nation had reported that gunmen who stormed the street located by the Ijede creek whisked away the victims, causing panic in the neighbourhood.

    Residents were said to have been startled by sporadic gunshots from the invaders, said to have kidnapped Wunmi after they didn’t see her husband-their main target.

    As they were leaving the neighbourhood with their victims, they allegedly spotted Abiola driving in with two of his friends, and they singled him out and marched him into the mangroves alongside the woman.

    Confirming their release on Monday morning, the spokesman for the Police Command, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said both victims were unhurt.

    He said their safety was a priority for the police throughout the operation, adding that they were released around 10pm on Sunday.

    “A distress report was received at Ijede Division indicating gunshots in the vicinity of Igbe Creek Side settlement on May 22. Acting swiftly, combined teams of more than 15 police tactical squads, detectives, conventional policemen, vigilantes, hunters and the locals were immediately mobilised to the scene.

    “It was confirmed that the two victims, both residents of Ijede Creek, whose houses are inside the creek, had been attacked and abducted by unidentified hoodlums who fled via the creek and adjoining forest.

    “On the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, a robust and elaborate rescue operation was launched. The rescue teams were strategically deployed in different directions to block all entry and exit points to the surrounding creek and forest, combing the area and exerting significant pressure on the kidnappers. “This coordinated rescue operation led to the successful release of the victims at about 10 pm on Sunday, May 25, 2025.

    “The released victims have been reunited with their families. All police tactical teams, squads and other detectives in collaboration with the vigilantes, hunters and locals mentioned are currently combing the creek and the adjoining forest to apprehend the kidnappers to prevent further attacks on residents and bring them to justice.

    Read Also: Police arrest suspected kidnappers, others ‘terrorising’ Ogun communities

    “The Lagos State Police Command commends the bravery of its officers and cooperation of the local vigilantes, hunters, and community members whose swift response was instrumental to the success of the operations despite the difficulties encountered in accessing the area, which by all standards pose a danger to security and safety of the residents living inside this creek and forest in the affected areas.

    “The Command further reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents of Lagos State. Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and security conscious at all times, most especially the residents residing inside the Ijede Creek and other difficult terrains in the forest around the area.

    They should report any suspicious activities to the Police Division or Police tactical squads deployed for their safety in the area or the nearest police station or via the Command’s emergency lines: 08063299264 or 08065154338.”

  • Police hunt Ikorodu kidnappers, comb creeks

    Police hunt Ikorodu kidnappers, comb creeks

    Operatives of the Lagos Police Command and vigilante members in Ikorodu have commenced operation to rescue two persons kidnapped at Igbelara in Ijede, The Nation has learnt.

    Gunmen on Thursday night stormed the community and successfully abducted a 38-year-old woman identified simply as Wunmi, and one Abiola, 42.

    The Nation gathered that the woman was kidnapped from her residence by the gunmen suspected to have targeted her husband while Abiola, said to have driven to the area with two others, was spotted by the criminals on their way out and dragged along.

    Crying out for help on the social media, Abiola’s brother lamented that no concrete efforts were made by the police to pursue the kidnappers’ whose torchlight, he claimed could be seen at the time of their arrival.

    He said the kidnappers took the victims through the swamps at the end of the street, lamenting that his aged mother might not survive the trauma.

    Confirming that several police teams had visited the scene, the man however claimed they refused to go deep into the creek and remained at its edge.

    In a video posted on social media, the man said:“This is my brother’s car. He was kidnapped on this street. According to information, the kidnappers went with him through the forest. Police have been here since last night without any results. They just stand at the edge of the forest, no one is entering.”

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    The video which has been trending across social media platforms however generated mixed reactions with many cautioning the man for divulging too much information about his elder brother.

    Others told him the police were already searching for the victims as they were seen in neighbouring bushes and surroundings including Tazan.

    A police source who confirmed the incident, told The Nation that rescue efforts commenced the same night in collaboration with vigilantes and local hunters.

    “Yes, two people were kidnapped and we are already working towards rescuing them. The man accusing the police of not doing anything is probably expecting that we will divulge vital information but that is not possible.

    “At least, he acknowledged that he saw so many police teams at the scene, that’s to show him we are not sleeping. Work is going on behind the scenes and special tactical squads have since been deployed,” said the source.

  • 530 Ikorodu youths trained on tech skills

    530 Ikorodu youths trained on tech skills

    No fewer than 530 unemployed youths in Ikorodu, Lagos State, have been equipped with essential tech-driven skills aimed at enhancing their employability in today’s competitive job market.

    The initiative, held at the Eko Job Centre in Owutu, Ikorodu, was part of the Industry Insider Series programme.

    It was organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment in partnership with GIZ SKYE (Skills Development for Youth Employment).

    The programme, which began on May 15, will span eight months across 15 sessions.

    Participants will benefit from expert-led training sessions delivered by seasoned professionals across diverse industries.

    Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Mr Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Olayinka Adebayo Wasiu, explained that the job counselling session was designed to equip participants with practical tools such as CV writing, job-readiness strategies, digital literacy, and exposure to the fast-evolving tech ecosystem.

    According to him, this training will boost the confidence of unemployed youth, enabling them to apply for jobs more effectively, speak professionally, and manage workplace challenges. Employers are more inclined to hire candidates who are well-prepared and exhibit workplace readiness.

    Read Also: 15 missing UTME candidates found in Imo, reunited with families — Police

    The Commissioner reiterated Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and social inclusion, which remain key pillars of the T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda of the current administration.

    “Social inclusion and youth empowerment fall under the purview of the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment. We are gathered here because we believe in your potential, and with the right skills, guidance, and support, you can transform your lives and contribute meaningfully to the growth of our communities and the nation,” he added.

    Ajigbotafe also acknowledged the valuable support of GIZ SKYE towards the renovation of the Owutu Job Centre, describing the collaboration as a reflection of the Ministry’s strategic focus on leveraging partnerships to drive innovation and capacity development.

    He encouraged participants to remain disciplined and make the most of the opportunities provided through the programme, noting that the skills and knowledge acquired would serve as powerful tools in enhancing their career prospects.

    As part of efforts to reduce unemployment, the Ministry has established five Job Centres across the state’s Ibile divisions, namely Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe, providing unemployed graduates with access to career guidance, counseling, and training programmes geared towards improving their employability.

    Speaking on the sidelines, a facilitator, Sunkanmi Olanrewaju, said the training was designed to help participants understand the tech industry and the wide range of opportunities it offers.

    He emphasised that technology is not limited to people from specific academic backgrounds, adding that anyone can transition into tech with the right mindset and training.

    The goal, he noted, is to help participants acquire relevant skills and begin their journey in the tech space.

    One of the participants, Adebola Adetiloye, expressed excitement about the programme, describing it as a valuable opportunity.

    He said the training would boost his confidence, prepare him for the job market, and provide him with practical skills to compete effectively.

    Adetiloye hailed the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment for the initiative, adding that it empowers young people and gives them a sense of direction in their career paths.

  • JUST IN: Two dead, two injured in Ikorodu truck accident 

    JUST IN: Two dead, two injured in Ikorodu truck accident 

    A tragic road accident involving two containerised trucks—one loaded and the other empty—occurred earlier today at Powerline near Cele Bus Stop, Ita-Oluwo, Ikorodu. 

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed that two people lost their lives, while two others were rescued with injuries and rushed to the General Hospital, Ikorodu, for treatment. 

    Eyewitness accounts and preliminary investigations suggest the loaded container truck suffered brake failure while allegedly attempting to evade a pursuing revenue collector.

    The mechanical failure triggered a catastrophic chain reaction, leading to a collision with other vehicles and damage to nearby structures. 

    Emergency responders, including LASTMA, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Lagos Fire Service, and personnel from the Nigerian Army’s 174 Battalion, swiftly arrived. LASTMA officials cordoned off the area with caution tape to facilitate rescue efforts and ensure the safety of bystanders. 

    LASTMA General Manager Olalekan Bakare-Oki expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery. Efforts are ongoing to clear the accident site and restore normal traffic flow.  

  • 300 Ikorodu residents empowered with N15m

    300 Ikorodu residents empowered with N15m

    In a remarkable effort to uplift the lives of Ikorodu residents, philanthropist, Hon. Abdulkareem Shittu, has launched a transformative empowerment programme in the Ikorodu Local Government Area of Lagos State.

    This innovative initiative provides zero-interest loans to marginalised groups, offering them renewed hope and the chance to create a brighter future.

    At the programme, 300 beneficiaries were empowered with N50,000 each, zero-interest loans for marginalised groups, empowerment of market traders, artisans, students, and widows, improved economic opportunities and financial stability, inspiration for community development, and social responsibility.

    According to Shittu, the programme extends support to market traders to enable them to expand their businesses and equip artisans, students, and widows.

    He said: “I am committed to making a positive impact in the lives of our people. This empowerment program is a testament to my dedication to Ikorodu’s growth and development.”

    Read Also: Eight youth entrepreneurs win Sanwo-Olu’s N10m business grant

    He further affirmed his commitment to Ikorodu’s growth and development. He stated that his leadership inspires a sense of community, fostering a ripple effect of kindness and social responsibility.

    Some of the beneficiaries appreciated Shittu for his support to the less privileged in society.

    A trader, Mrs. Adeola Olugbodi, said the loan would help her expand her business and provide for her family.

    Another beneficiary named Oyedele said: “This support has lifted a weight off my shoulders, allowing me to focus on my craft.”

    While Monsurat Akanji, a widow, said she would be able to cater for her family.

  • Ministry sensitises Ikorodu residents on housing allocation

    Ministry sensitises Ikorodu residents on housing allocation

    Lagos State Government has assured Ikorodu residents of the state-owned housing estates of transparency in allocations of homes.

    Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, during a Stakeholders’ Forum organised for residents of Lagos State Government-owned housing estate in Ikorodu Division, stressed the need for residents to follow guidelines in their allocation letter, as this will serve as a guide to them.

    The event brought together residents, government officials, estate managers and other stakeholders to discuss issues and explore solutions.

    Akinderu said the forum is organised to enlighten the residents on the workings of the state government and also direct the residents properly to the department to approach in case of any complaint or observation on any issue that concerns the estate.

    Akinderu, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing, AbdulHafis Toriola, said the forum is not to witch-hunt any resident, but to enlighten them and remind them of their responsibility as home owners.

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    “We are thrilled with the success of the forum and the commitment shown by stakeholders. We look forward to continued collaboration and improvement in the living conditions of our housing estates. Your feedback on issues germane to the development and growth of the estate is highly welcome, as the ministry is there to serve the residents,” he said.

    Toriola added that the crucial goal of the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration was to develop a conducive community with proper infrastructure, comparable to modern cities and habitable for Lagosians.

  • Lagos unveils Ikorodu development plan

    Lagos unveils Ikorodu development plan

    • By   Okwy lroegbu-Chikezie & Ayanwale Islamiyat

    Lagos State government has launched an ambitious development master plan for Ikorodu that will expand modern infrastructure and ensure the efficient delivery of services for residents, including water, sanitation, energy and transportation.

    The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, said the government has goals that include a vision for a safer, cleaner and more competitive modern area.

    According to him, the government is determined to develop the area in phases exploring Ikorodu’s  greenfield, waterway and lagoon front potential to drive economic growth, improve the quality of life and make the plan  an attractive  investment destination in Lagos State for the next 20years.

    “Today we are gathered for the launch of the Ikorodu Sub-Region Master Plan, which aims to enhance the community. This plan includes public presentations regarding the construction of roads and water systems to improve the lives of residents.”

     This presents numerous opportunities, such as government-approved housing. The community must take this chance seriously as unapproved construction is not allowed. Let us work together to develop our community and create a better future,” he said.

    He said the development of Ikorodu public transit system will be supported with infrastructural development that can cope with population growth.

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    “More so they are many benefits of the approval that ensures that buildings are constructed according to legal and safety standards, preventing potential hazards and protecting the rights of residents. Government approval considers factors like urban planning and environmental impact, helping to ensure that new developments are sustainable and integrate with existing infrastructure. Properties that have undergone government approval are often seen as more valuable due to their compliance with legal and safety standards. Government approval can ensure that housing developments provide benefits to the local community, such as access to public amenities and transportation,” he said.

    The  Ayangburen of Ikorodu Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, expressed gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for the launch of the Ikorodu Sub-Region Master Plan.

    He said: “Your commitment to improving the lives of our community is commendable. As we witness these significant developments, we remain committed to your vision and pledge our support in making this plan a reality. May your efforts continue to be blessed with success and prosperity.”

  • Ikorodu council chair distributes 2,000 food packs to households

    Ikorodu council chair distributes 2,000 food packs to households

    Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government Area of Lagos, Wasiu Adesina, has distributed 2000 food packs to vulnerable households and urged Muslims to imbibe the spirit of giving.

    Adesina distributed the packs during the eighth edition of the annual Ramadan Lecture organised by the Iradatulahi Islamic Society of Nigeria (IRADAT), Ikorodu, at the local government secretariat.

    The lecture had the theme: “Believe in the doctrine of Allah”.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the food packs contained rice and garri.

    Beneficiaries were selected across the wards and from different groups like artisans, market women and youths.

    According to the chairman, the idea is to alleviate the suffering and cushion the effect of petrol subsidy removal on Ikorodu residents, especially those who were fasting.

    “This is the eighth Ramadan Lecture in Ikorodu Local Government, we give all glory to Almighty Allah.

    “This is a platform where sermons and teachings of Islam will be a lesson to all.

    Read Also: Man, expectant woman abducted in Ikorodu

    “This time, we have taken additional step to distribute food packs to not only the vulnerable but also other members of the public,” he said.

    The chairman reeled out some of his achievements in his second term in office, including distribution of 3kg gas cylinder to 1,000 residents and construction of boreholes in all the wards in Ikorodu Central.

    He also mentioned the construction of drainage systems, distribution of exercise books to pupils in all the primary schools, construction perimeter fencing, as well as computer units for training teachers and students at Salvation Army Primary School.

    Earlier, Imam Shakirudeen Orilobamise, Missioner of IRADAT, appealed to Muslim faithful to give alms to the poor and vulnerable in the society to alleviate suffering and eradicate poverty.

    Orilobamise also urged those who were fasting to desist from anything evil but be submissive, pray and follow the principles of Islam, so God can show mercy on Nigeria.

    He prayed for God’s guidance on the council boss for a successful tenure and appealed to beneficiaries to make use of the lessons learnt at the lecture.

    “My prayer is for God to lead the chairman in his policies to successfully steer the affairs of council. I want to appeal to our Muslim faithful not to go back to their sins because the essence of fasting is for forgiveness,” he said.

    Also, former Lagos State Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Lanre Balogun, said the council chairman had performed well and lived up to expectation.

    He said that the chairman had done so by meeting the needs of the people and projecting the agenda of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Also, Alhaji Waheed Animashaun, the LGA party chairman, said the kind gesture was a testament that the chairman was a man of the people.

    Chairman, Community Development Committee, Elder Wole Ogunjimi, applauded the chairman and urged him to do more.

    Mrs Victoria Kolawole, a beneficiary, called on the chairman to make the distribution of food packs a quarterly affair, so that a lot of people could also benefit.

    Others also thanked the council boss for the gesture and warned beneficiaries not to sell the food packs.