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  • We were forced into armed robbery – teenage cultists

    We were forced into armed robbery – teenage cultists

    Four teenagers paraded by the Lagos Police command for armed robbery on Wednesday have said they were forced into the act.

    Samuel Madeko, 19, Bright Oriaku, 19, Ibrahim Oguntoyinbo, 18 and Babajide Akiola, 16, were arrested on December 28, at the Satellite area of the state for armed robbery and cultism.

    They were said to have dispossessed a road user of his mobile phone, laptop and money during the holiday, as well as robbed one Christ Apostolic Church.

    The teenagers were arrested after residents identified some of the culprits, as their gang members.

    According to the suspects, they were forcibly initiated into the Black Axe confraternity by one Bolaji and another Awala last year.

    The suspects, who claimed they were labourers at a construction site, disclosed that the said Bolaji and Awala usually forced them into armed robbery.

    According to them, their leaders connected them with a certain Pastor Chris who needed bands and furniture to state his own ministry.

    Oriaku told The Nation that they were given the telephone number of the said Pastor Chris, adding that he was aware they were going to steal the furniture and musical instruments.

    He said: “We have gone for several robberies. We usually snatch people’s belongings around 4am on the road. But we did those things out of fear because they were always forcing us.

    “But the truth is that we were not among the group that robbed that day. We refused to follow Bolaji and Awala because we had early morning job at the site.

    “What actually happened was that, our leaders usually come to the site were we work and so, people around used to see them. So, that day that we did not follow them, we heard they robbed a man near the site and collected some things from him.

    “People who saw them and knew they usually come to our site, now pointed at us that we were the ones.

    “We have gone for many operations. We have robbed a church. And the leaders are the ones who usually sent us. The day we went to the church, there was no door and so, we carried the things and took it to them.

    “It was one Pastor Chris who said he wanted to start a ministry and that was how we were sent to steal the things. I am not happy about the life I have lived, I was afraid to report to anyone because they threatened to kill me,” he said.

    16-year-old  Akiola who claimed he was an orphan disclosed that so many children, including 10-year-olds were members of the gang.

    He claimed as a new initiate, he usually played the role of a spy for the group whenever they were going for an operation or a battle.

    Although said he has never killed anyone, Akiola admitted that he had followed the group to a battle against the Eiye confraternity were two persons were shot by Bolaji.

    “I have told the police everything I know. I did not join this group with clear eyes.  I never wanted to join them but everything they will be beating me.

    “They will seize my clothes, my shoes, money and anything I have on me. Samuel usually harassed me anytime he saw me on the road because I refused to join them.

    “It is a normal thing in that area. Even small children of 10 years are Adaba (Senior ranks). I usually seat on the floor whenever they are around.

    “I am the most junior in rank, am a Tendi. After Tendi, you have Fly, where Samuel, Bright and Ibrahim belong and after them you have Adaba.”

    Asked how he was initiated, Akiola said they blindfolded him, slapped him severally and poured dry gin into his eyes.

    “I paid for the initiation. They covered my face; took me to one corner; gave me double slaps like 30 times; trampled on me while I was on the ground and then they poured whiskey in my eyes.

    “For several days I did not get myself. After all the beating and torture they gave me, they now said I should pay N17,000 to Fly or that I should kill somebody.

    “I refused to kill anyone and I told them I do not have the money yet. They told me that the Fly initiation is worse than the Tendi and that I was be taken to a native doctor and that I will die if am not strong enough.

    “They also said they will mix rice and garri and give me to eat. So,after they told me the whole thing, I just made up my mind that I won’t do it.

    “I am not happy that my evil deeds have led me into police custody. I pray that they forgive me so that I will just go to the village and live with my grandmother.

    “My father died last year and I only met my mother last year too but she does not want me. She prefers her children from her current marriage.

    “It was after I went to her and she rejected me that I returned to Lagos and joined the cult so that the bad boys will leave me in peace,” he said.

    According to Madeko who said he was an indegene  of Cross River State, he was initiated in April last year and has followed the group for several robbery operations as well as clashes with rival cults.

    He disclosed that before joining the group, the older boys in the neighbourhood would beat him up, seize his clothes, shoes and even money.

  • Lagos demolishes ‘notorious’ Oshodi market

    Lagos demolishes ‘notorious’ Oshodi market

    BULLDOZERS yesterday roared through Owonifari market within the notorious Oshodi loop, reducing it to rubble.

    Many traders wailed as they watched the demolition ordered by the Lagos State Government in its bid to beautify the area.

    The market comprising over 500 shops, attachments and Kee Klamps, had been in existence for over 38 years.

    The traders have since been relocated to nearby Isopakodowo market in Bolade.

    But many of the traders are complaining that Isopakodowo is not ideal for business.

    A trader, Sunday Emmanuel, lamented that he returned his goods to his shop after moving them out.

    Many traders, he said, packed their goods out last week when they learnt that government officials were coming.

    “Most of us packed our goods out of the market but we were later told to return them to our shops. Two days after, law enforcement officials stormed the market. They sealed off the market and arrested our chairman. Nobody was allowed to move close to the market. They scared us with guns and tear gas.

    “A co-trader that deals in electronics also packed his things to his house and that same night, his house got burnt. What should be his fate?” he said.

    A technician, Adefemi Adelana, said he was in debt because some of his customers’ electrical appliances were destroyed.

    He said: “On Saturday as we wanted to pack our things, we were not allowed to. I left my house with the hope of making profit but my hope became dim when I got to the market. The market executives said we were going to the state secretariat tomorrow (today) to discuss the matter but everything changed. I was here on Tuesday and I didn’t see any sign of demolition or any truck or bulldozer. My two shops of 10 years just went like that.”

    Eric Uche, a rookie, said his dream of becoming a businessman has been shattered.

    He said the shop they were given was too small to accommodate all of them, adding: “They gave us two weeks ultimatum. I packed my goods but now, I don’t have a place to go. So many things are going through my mind. How do I start again?” he said.

    Omoniyi Ajide said he was part of the first set of people that started business in the market in 1978.

    Ajide, in his late 60s, said even after the demolition, he still recognised his store.

    “I sell bolts and nut. I came on Saturday to take my goods but since we were not allowed into the market, I returned home. I have been coming to the market with the hope that they will let us in but they didn’t. I brought my key this morning to see if I could get some of my things but everything is gone. I can still recognise my shop among the debris because it is painted white.”

    Ajide said he could not move to where he was given at Isopakodowo because of his age.

    He said: “It is a two-storey building; I don’t know if my legs are strong to climb staircase. We didn’t say we are not moving but the government should provide a good place for us.”

    Another trader, Cynthia Obi, whose electronic shop was demolished, said her children would be forced to stop schooling.

    She said she also packed her goods and returned them when they were assured that the matter would be resolved.

    “We don’t have a sincere government; if we really do, we won’t be giving two weeks to vacate where we have spent all our lives. Some people have not returned from where they travelled for the Yuletide. I don’t have money anywhere. I am not educated but will I watch my children stay at home?” she said amid tears.

    Nathaniel Nduka, who sells drilling and filling machines, said he just returned from Imo State to see to his children’s admission and to celebrate the Yuletide.

    He said: “I was at the market on Saturday but we were not allowed to take anything. I have eight children. I still went to see how I can settle the admission fees for three of my children but now I don’t have money to pay for their school fees. My five shops went like that. I was in my 20s when I started this business in this market. I don’t even know what to do.”

    Akin Adepoyi, who claimed to have been in the market since 1990, accused the government of tricking them.

    He said: “I couldn’t salvage anything but I accept to resume at Isopakodowo market. I got here from Ogun State around 5am, thinking I could get one or two machines but it was impossible. I have five children. They are resuming school next week and I was thinking I would pay their bills after selling some goods. This is bad luck. The shops at Isopakodowo have been allocated to some people. When we went to the said allocated market, they threatened to cut us like woods. It is a two-storey building and we were told it has been rented out. We have been tricked. They should find a better solution. The Isopakodowo market cannot work for us.”

    Former Chairman of the market, Prince Isa Ogunkayode, said most traders couldn’t salvage anything, adding that even those who took few things have nowhere to keep them.

    “I have been sleeping in the mosque for days now to protect my goods. The only thing left is to appeal to the government. We also want a better Lagos; where they said we are going to is no place because we learnt it has been allocated to some people. As I speak, we haven’t gotten a space there. We need to carry everyone along. We plead with the governor to invite us so we can say our minds. We have so many things to say. If they say they want to beautify Lagos, who are we to complain? The market is no more. We are also thinking of a way forward. How can we feed our children? They are aware of the demolition but they won’t want to listen that there is no money. Where they are taking us to cannot accommodate us. I plead with the government to assist us because this is our life.”

  • Lagos shuts ‘notorious’ market in Oshodi

    Lagos shuts ‘notorious’ market in Oshodi

    OWONIFARI market within the notorious Oshodi loop has been shut and traders relocated to the nearby Isopakodowo market at Bolade in the Lagos State government’s bid to sanitise the area.

    The government has also begun the fencing of the set-back on Agege Motor Road, stretching from Ilupeju end of Oshodi to PWD/Ikeja GRA.

    A statement yesterday by Information and Strategy Commissioner, Mr Steve Ayorinde said it was aimed at sanitising and beautifying Oshodi, adding that the government will also transform the Owonifari loop and the bus stop terminals, which have somewhat constituted a menace and an eyesore within the locality.

    According to Ayorinde, the Owonifari loop will be transformed into an ultra modern bus terminus with new bus shelters befitting of a structured park in a mega city.

    “The fencing-off of the long stretch of the set-back is being undertaken to assist the Federal Government and the Nigerian Railway Corporation in particular with a view to beautifying it and safeguarding lives along the railway corridor by discouraging street trading and indiscriminate use of the space,” he said.

    Ayorinde said the ongoing fencing-off and beautification of the road set-back from Ilupeju bypass to PWD/Ikeja GRA would constitute the first phase of Oshodi’s transformation. The second phase, he added, would begin from PWD/Ikeja GRA and stretch to Agege/Pen cinema axis.

    Lagosians, he said, should expect a saner and safer Oshodi where traders and commuters can visit and trade.

    The commissioner said the moved traders have been allocated shops within the Isopakodowo, adding that the demolition of the loop is in the interest of the public that expects a world-class bus terminus there.

     

  • Ambode: Lagos will grow despite bleak outlook

    Ambode: Lagos will grow despite bleak outlook

    Lagosians were assured yesterday by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode that the state will grow in leaps and bounds despite  the bleak economic outlook.

    “Despite the bleak economic outlook predicted in many quarters for this year, Lagos State will grow in leaps and bounds.

    “We are determined and, God willing, we shall achieve all-inclusive progress and prosperity,” he said.

    Ambode spoke at the 2016 annual thanksgiving service organised by the state government at the Lagos House in Alausa.

    The annual thanksgiving, usually held on the first Sunday of January, was initiated by the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration. It was held throughout administration of his successor Babatunde Fashola.

    Like in previous instances, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, presided and delivered the sermon.

    Top clerics, including Bishop Mike Okonkwo, His Eminence, the Most Rev. Chukwuemaka Kalu Uche; Pastor Wole Oladiyun, Pastor Wale Adefarasin, Archbishop Adewale Martins, the Most Rev. E.A Ademowo, among others, also prayed for the state.

    Some former governors, including Second Republic Governor Alhaji Lateef Jakande, attended the service. So did top government officials including Deputy Governor Idiat Adebule.

    Bible passages were read by Ambode’s wife, Bolanle; Head of Service Mrs. Olabowale Ademola; Chief Judge Justice Olufunmilayo Atilade; Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Lola. Akande, and Chairman of the Conference of Executive Secretaries of Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas, Mr. Alabi Kolade David.

    Ambode said: “Our youths will become gainfully employed. Our young girls and women will be protected and encouraged to give their best.

    “Our entrepreneurs will experience a boom and our state will work for everyone. We are determined and, God willing, we shall achieve all-inclusive progress and prosperity.”

    Giving the essence of the thanksgiving service, Ambode said: “We are gathered this evening in thanksgiving to the Almighty for the grace to witness the beginning of 2016. This annual thanksgiving has become a tradition where we come together to sing the praise of God for the continuous peace and prosperity of our dear state.

    “This service is an acknowledgment of the overriding power of God in the affairs of men and the need for us to trust in His grace and benevolence as a government and a people.”

    He went on: “The fact that we are gathered here is enough proof that we are covered under the banner of the Lord’s grace and that He surely answers prayers when He is called upon. It is with this abiding faith that we call on Him as we commence another journey in 2016.”

    The governor acknowledged the religious and spiritual leaders in the state for their ceaseless prayers and intercessions for the people and government.

    He specially appreciated Pastor Adeboye and his wife for their commitment to the service of the Lord through persistent exhortations and prayers.

    Pastor Adeboye said despite the predictions for 2016 in the wake of the dwindling oil prices likely to result in loss of jobs, those connected to God can surmount the challenges.

    He said those who seek to prosper in the New Year must take a stand to be closer to God.

  • Thrills and frills of Lagos’s 2016 budget presentation

    Thrills and frills of Lagos’s 2016 budget presentation

    Senior Correspondent  Precious Igbonwelundu writes on the expectations of Lagosians about this year’s budget presented to the House of Assembly by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.

    Drumming and dancing went on almost ceaselessly outside the assembly complex. Security operatives had a hectic time controlling the crowd and ensuring a water-tight surveillance. All these happened on Thursday, December 17. It is one day many Lagosians will not forgot in a hurry. That day Governor Akinwunmi Ambode presented the 2016 budget to the state legislators. The turn-out of the event was like a confirmation of the good rapport between the executive and the legislature.

    In the morning, many besieged the Assembly to have a vantage view of the proceedings. Reporters had a hectic time trying to position themselves for the coverage of the event.The gallery had to accommodate far more than its capacity.

    As Ambode and members of his entourage arrived for the budget presentation, a loud applause reverberated. The governor, who was clad in a flowing agbada, was all smiles as he was ushered into the chambers by Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. Other lawmakers and state officials as well as leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by the state chairman, Chief Henry Ajomale.

    Delivering the 2016 budget speech, Ambode thanked the state lawmakers for their co-operation and dedication in handling the re-ordering of the 2015 budget to meet the aspirations of Lagosians.

    The 2016 budget, tagged: “The People’s Budget”, he said, will promote massive investment in security, transportation,traffic management, physical and social infrastructural development and enhance job creation.

    Ambode said: “We plan to strategically build new infrastructure while we continue to maintain existing ones.Wealth and empowerment creation will receive a lot of attention as we commence the implementation of the employment trust scheme for which we’ll set aside N25b over a four-year period.”

    The government proposed a budget of N662.588 billion, with recurrent expenditure of N278.909 billion and capital at N383.678 billion.

    The state government intends to focus on security, traffic control measures, physical and social infrastructure development.

    Obasa hailed the governor for his efforts to develop the state. He promised the full support of the lawmakers for the growth and development of the state

    The speaker said: “As you all know, our state, Lagos, the Centre of Excellence, has continued to be seen both within and outside country as the very place where good governance is the norm, which readily explains why our state is home to all Nigerians having maintained the status of a mega city.

    “It is, for instance, on record today that even leading members of opposition parties in our country readily attest to the fact that Lagos State remains the positive response point when good governance is being discussed.

    “Here in Lagos State, the three tiers of government – the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary have always been striving to put our people first in all we do. The House of Assembly comprises industrious, brilliant and diligent men and women who are making a difference in their various constituencies.”

    The speaker added that the collaboration between the executive and legislature, which had in no way prevented the lawmakers from performing their constitutional duties, have been to the benefit of Lagos and its people.

    He noted: “This has obviously resulted in the first class opinion that our dear state has attained in our country today, which makes Lagos the symbol of good governance.The recent commissioning and handing over of patrol vehicles, armoured personnel carriers (APCs), gunboats and helicopters to the Nigerian Police and the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) to combat crime in the state among other things is a pointer to this affirmation.

    “Let me therefore assure all Lagosians that the Lagos State House of Assembly shall continue to promote the best practices in the governance of our dear state. You can rest assured that all honourable members of this Assembly shall continue to put you – our people – first in all that we do.”

    When the speaker received the budget proposals, the gallery went up in ecstasy. Traditional rulers, artisans, activists, representatives of community development associations (CDAs), professional bodies, and others could not hide their excitement.

    The speaker spoke further: “In treating this budget, we will not forget that we are trustees for the people. A lot has been done in the area of job creation and economic empowerment of Lagosians, but there is an urgent need to create more opportunities for our people. More jobs will definitely lead to greater economic growth.”

    The speaker equally acknowledged the traffic hiccups in the state. He noted that something needed to be done urgently to ameliorate the situation.

    His words: “We will like to call the attention of the governor to the situation of traffic jams in the state, which I believe the governor is so much aware of and has taken steps to manage since his assumption of office. Though this might not be of his making but an inherited circumstance, we must continue to proffer lasting solutions to it. It is our thought that addressing the issues of traffic in the state will further simplify the ease of movement. We need not be reminded that easy movement of people and goods is pivotal to the development of the economy of any state.” Facing the audience, the speaker recalled that the House organized town hall meetings across all the constituencies in the state to enable the people’s opinion form part of the 2016 budget. He assured them that the outcome of the townhall meetings would form areas of focus for the 2016 budget. This was greeted with a resounding ovation.

    He hailed past leaders of the state, especially the APC national leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and former Governor Lateef Jakande made for their contributions to democracy and for laying a good foundation for the development of Lagos.

    “Let me assure the governor and all our people that my colleagues and I shall promptly and diligently commence work on the 2016 budget just presented to this honorable House and we will ensure that Lagos state occupied the enviable position that has always been reserved for us. We will work diligently for the early passage of the budget so that development work can start in earnest.”

    A chieftain of the People Democratic Party, (PDP) Mr. Tobi Onajobi, hailed the interactive nature of the presentation.

    “I must confess that I am proud to be a Nigerian once again. What we witness shows that there is hope for our country if our leaders can get it right.”

    “I want to particularly commend Speaker Obasa for his strong declaration of support for Governor Ambode that the 2016 budget may succeed. This is instructive.

    “Though I don’t belong to their party, the lessons inherent in what we have seen today must not be lost on our leaders that we must put the people first at all times.”

    Good Governance coalition (GGC) who called on all arms of government to follow the Lagos example.

    “Nigeria is facing difficult challenges, but I think if our government can get it right, things can be much better as demonstrated today by the Lagos House of Assembly,” he said.

  • RRS arrest two suspected traffic robbers

    RRS arrest two suspected traffic robbers

    Operatives of the Lagos State Rapid Response Squad (RRS) at the weekend nabbed to alleged traffic robbers in the Ajah area of the state.

    The suspects, Odunayo Mustapha, 22, and Adedayo Akinjola, 22, were said to be part of a gang which uses motorcycle to terrorise motorists along the Lekki -Ajah Expressway.

    The Nation gathered that they were arrested after they had snatched a mobile phone from their victim and fled.

    It was learnt that while they were fleeing on the motorcycle, RRS bikers on patrol pursued and caught them.

    According to police sources, the suspects admitted to have carried out to previous operations.

    Odunayo, identified as the gang leader, claimed that financial difficulties lured him into robbery.

    “We were three that left home in search of victims. On getting to Ajah opposite a shopping mall, where traffic is usually hectic, we sighted a woman in a car holding a phone.

    “Then, I alighted from the motorcycle while my two other members stood by on the motorcycle. I forcefully collected the phone from her and mounted the motorcycle, then we zoomed off.

    “While on the run, we sighted the RRS men chasing us with brand new power-bike, later, they outran us but one of us disembarked and escaped with the stolen phone before we were arrested,” he said.

    Continuing, Odunayo who claimed he was a native of Ogun State, blamed his predicament to lack of formal education.

    He claimed he came to Lagos some years ago to fend for himself and started working as a cart pusher, but the little proceed he realised from the job couldn’t sustain him.

    “That is why I chose to be robbing innocent members of the public with Okada for easy maneuvering after operation”, Odunayo revealed.

    “Our first operation was carried out by the three of us in Ajah. We collected one Techno phone from our victim. It was sold to one Mallam Hassan by Adedayo, and I was given N2,500.

    “The second operation was not successful and the third one was this one that led to our arrest”, he revealed.

    Adedayo, the second suspect said he was an apprentice at an Aluminium workshop before taking to traffic robbery.

    According to him, the motorcycle they used belong to the third suspect who fled.
    Narrating how the hoodlums were arrested, the police said their attention was draw by the victim’s scream.

    “We were able to intercept the fleeing robbers when their victim, a young lady, screamed that her mobile phone had been snatched. “Immediately, we gave the fleeing suspects a chase which led to the arrest of two of them while the third suspect later identified as Lekan made away with the stolen phone”

    Confirming the development, the state command’s spokesman, Joseph Offor, a DSP, said efforts are on to arrest the third suspect.

    He warned criminals to either repent or relocate from Lagos, adding that the command will not tolerate any format of lawlessness in the state henceforth.

  • Lagos residents complain of incessant use of fireworks

    Lagos residents complain of incessant use of fireworks

    Some residents of Lagos on Friday expressed bitterness over the incessant use of fireworks, which they alleged, were causing them sleepless nights during the New Year celebration.

    The residents in separate interviews told NAN that it was a violation of their fundamental human rights for some people, under the guise of celebrating the New Year, marred their own peaceful family time.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), however, reports that the Inspector General of Police, Mr Solomon Arase, had ordered the ban on the use of fireworks and any form of carnival during the Yuletide.

    Mrs Opeyemi Awosika, a banker and resident at Abule-Egba, a suburb of Lagos, said that the fireworks prevented her from gaining access to her street when she got home at 9 p.m.

    “I got to my street at about 9.00 p.m. and the noise from the fireworks, especially the knockout, was so much and deafening that I had to park my car and called my gate man before I could gain access,’’ she said.

    Another banker and a resident of the same area, Mr Oladapo Adeniji, said that he had to call the boys, using the fireworks, to order before they allowed him drive peacefully to his gate.

    “But no sooner than I had passed than they started throwing the fireworks again.

    “I am not saying they should not celebrate but it is wrong when they use their celebration to disturb the peace of others,’’ Adeniji said.

    A lady, who simply gave her name as Madam Agnes and resides at Oke-Odo, another suburb of Lagos, also said that she the threatening noise from the fireworks prevented her from attending a planned crossover vigil.

    “I had planned to attend a church for the crossover service but I had to change my mind when I started hearing the sounds of the fireworks.

    “At first, I thought it was gunshots because it was very loud but I later discovered that it was firework.

    “This made me to change my mind and I told my children that we should do our prayers indoor as it is dangerous to go in the midst of fireworks,’’ she said.

    Mr Michael Abiri, a lawyer who resides at Agege area of Lagos, told NAN that the use of knockouts had reduced when compared to 2014 Yuletide.

    He, however, advised the police to ensure that it enforced the law banning the sales of fireworks in the state.

    “It is an infringement on a person’s fundamental human rights when a person’s celebration is disturbing the other. That is unlawful,’’ he said.

    According to Abiri, it is when the sale of fireworks is curbed that there will be no more demand for it.

    “The defiant users of fireworks should be arrested and prosecuted,’’ he said.

    The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Joseph Offor, however, told NAN that the state police command made some arrests.

    He promised to make the numbers of arrests it made public in due course.

  • Ambode and Lagos’ roads to prosperity  

    It is no longer news that Lagos is the fastest growing mega city in the world. It is currently expanding at about five percent a year and is projected to achieve meta-city status by the year 2020. A recent study reveals that over 25,000 people, from across the world, move into Lagos on a daily basis. This is what makes Lagos a melting pot. The presence of people from diverse walks of life is partly responsible for the prosperity of Lagos. It is ironic however, that this has also brought a huge pressure on the state as its sheer human population puts serious pressure on its infrastructure and resources.

    Without a doubt, Lagos roads suffer significantly as a result of the city’s recent phenomenal growth in population. The sheer number of vehicles, of various categories, that ply Lagos roads on a daily basis is second to none in the whole of Africa. The pressure that that these vehicles daily exert on roads across the state makes them easily susceptible to wearing out before long. This is why successive governments in the state spend quite a fortune on roads rehabilitation and maintenance.

    It is, however, not only the sheer size of Lagos that affects its infrastructure, the topography equally poses a major challenge to sustainable infrastructure in the state, especially roads. Many road projects are subject of massive soil replacements after series of seismological tests that has enormous cost implications for the projects. Other challenges of road maintenance in the state includes the lack of ownership of infrastructure that is, vandalization of road furniture and public utilities by indiscriminate dumping of refuse on roads and drainages, activities of roadside mechanics and carwash operators and axle overload on inner-city roads.

    In our society, there is arguably no achievement that boosts good assessment of a government than construction and rehabilitation of roads. It is in the light of this reality that the Ambode administration has, in the last six months embarked on massive road rehabilitation and maintenance across the state. For the administration, which actually came on board in the thick of the rainy season, road rehabilitation is a necessity. In Lagos, the rainy season often has serious implications for human and vehicular movement.  Since significant portions of the roads have been largely damaged by the rains, the Ambode administration came up with “Operation fix all potholes”, which is geared towards ridding all roads of potholes to enhance a hitch free vehicular movement. By defying the prolonged rainy season in its road rehabilitation’s quest, the administration has disregarded a universally held belief that road maintenance work is seldom done during the rains.

    Through this process, over 300 roads have been improved across the state. These include Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, Mongoro-Cement-Dopemu under bridge axis, Ijaye road, Moses Adedayo Street, Ojodu, Oba Akran Avenue, Ogba, Charity/Olayiwola/Olaniyi road network, Abule Egba, Ipakodo-Ijede road, Isaro road, Ikorodu, Ikotun-Ijegun road, Okekoto axis, Agege, Epe-Ijebu -Ode road, Odumola-Poka/College road junction axis, Ado road, Ajah, Obalende bridge descent inward NIPOST,  Lekki-Epe expressway, Elemoro-Abijo axis,   Billings way, Oregun,  Ashabi Cole street, Alausa, Abdul Ouadri Adebiyi street, Magodo Ph II among others. This is aside major rehabilitation works that had been done on the recently commissioned Ejigbo-Ikotun road, Moshalasi-Ayobo road, ACME road among others.

    Meanwhile, it is imperative to emphasize that the exercise covers and favours every division, senatorial district as well as Local Government Council Areas in the state. This is in furtherance of the vision of Governor Ambode to operate an all-inclusive government. Ambode’s idea of an all inclusive government is one in which “no one or segment of the society, irrespective of colour, race, faith, status, ability or disability is left behind”. It is, however, important to stress that the palliative works being carried out on some strategic roads across the state are not meant to provide permanent solution but temporary relief for Lagos residents pending the setting in of dry season, when real asphalt works will be applied to the depressed surface. Considering the level of work done so far on the roads, in addition to several on-going commitments such as the newly commissioned Mile 12-Ikorodu BRT lane and busses, it is expected that significant improvement will soon begin to take place in road transportation across the state.

    Of late, the rate at which roads are being rehabilitated in the state has been impressive.  Expectedly, this has attracted widespread commendations from far and near and has convinced the citizenry that with Ambode, Lagos is, indeed, in safe hands. One positive impact of on-going road repair across the state is employment generation. For instance, it has been estimated that over 815 jobs for both skilled and unskilled labour have been generated by the on-going road rehabilitation exercise in the state. In the same vein, some of these road projects have also increased the capacity of Lagos residents to create wealth. For instance, it has been observed that, among others, business enterprise and other socio-economic activities have significantly picked along the newly commissioned Ikotun-Egbe road as well as the new improved Ayobo-Ipaja road. This is against the backdrop of the massive infrastructural renewal that has taken along the axis.

    A major driving force of the Ambode administration is poverty eradication and sustainable economic growth through infrastructure renewal and development. To sustain current gains, the state government has continued to maintain and actively create an enabling environment for both the people and corporate entities to thrive. This is why the infrastructure development programme being promoted by the administration is very vital. Benefits, strategic to the state economy, which the government will get from on-going road projects, for instance, include a strategic response that addresses the infrastructure gap occasioned by the 34-year surge in population; government’s plan for tourism; open access to the 250 million strong market on the West African sub-region; potential to create job, and improvement in property value.

    Despite the relative success that have been achieved thus far in the area of road construction and rehabilitation in the state, government is not resting on its oars. New projects are being envisaged as captured in the 2016 budget. Therefore, considering the level of work done so far on our roads, in addition to several on-going commitments, it is expected that significant improvement will take place in road transportation across the state in the New Year. The implication of this is that the New Year would usher in greater prosperity for Lagos residents because it is a well acknowledged reality that improved infrastructure invariably improves the quality of life of the people.

    • Ogunbiyi is of the Features Unit, Ministry of Information and Strategy,  Alausa, Ikeja

  • Expert calls for database on job creation in Lagos

    Ex-President, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Debo Famuyibo has stressed the need for database on job creation as well as data on the jobless in Lagos State.

    Speaking yesterday during a public hearing on a bill to create Employment Trust Fund by the Lagos State government, he said the data base should cover both the formal and informal sector of the state’s economy.

    Famuyibo observed in section eight of the proposed law that there should be accurate database for the Fund, saying that would make it sustainable.

    He spoke at a stakeholders forum on the proposed law tagged: ‘Employment Trust Fund Bill, 2015’ at Lateef Jakande Auditorium, Alausa Ikeja.

    He said that section nine which is meant for the sources of fund should be explicit, saying: “It is important to be clear on percentage from companies, employees and that dedicated percentage should be specified from payees.”

    He explained that some other sources that should be tapped to get fund included unclaimed dividends which according to him, “is an honey pot sitting untouched.”

    Speaking on the occasion, the Executive Secretary of CIBN, Anthony Arabameh said there should be adequate database on employment to achieve the desired result.

  • Seven reasons that show Lagos is working under Ambode

    Seven reasons that show Lagos is working under Ambode

    As Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s administration clocks seven-months, Commissioner for Information and Strategy Steve Ayorinde, in this interview with Precious Igbonwelundu, highlights seven reasons why the administration is working.

    Security: As Nigeria’s economy suffers a near recession due to the falling oil prices, with 27 states out of 36 states in the country needing bail-out funds to offset salary arrears, Lagos has been witnessing an unprecedented influx of people from far and near, thereby putting pressure on social infrastructure and security. Crime rate naturally increased momentarily but Governor Ambode rose to the occasion with an unprecedented donation of assets worth about N4.8bn to the Nigeria Police. With three patrol helicopters, two gun boats, drones, patrol vehicles and powerbikes, Armoured Personnel Carriers, bullet-proof vests and other security gadgets while also rebranding the Rapid Response Squad as the “good guys” with insurance schemes against incidentals, Ambode’s gesture has returned confidence to Lagosians and investors alike. He has taken the state’s Security Trust Fund to a new height and has smartly shifted the burden of responsibility in terms of policing Nigeria’s most-populated and prosperous state to the Police, which is no longer expected to offer excuses of being ill- equipped.

    • Roads: One of Ambode’s greatest assets is that he listens and is very responsive. He inherited a state whose inner roads were in a very bad shape. In an election year, road infrastructure tends to suffer since attention is usually given to political campaigns. The rains also compounded the woes in a state that is already below the sea level. There were complaints and they got to Ambode. Rather than fret, however, he responded swiftly, first through Operation Zero Tolerance for Potholes across the states and then by reconstructing hitherto abandoned roads. He has fully delivered the Ayobo-Ipaja Road and Ikotun-Ejigbo Road. Brown Street at Oshodi is half-way done; while a lane of the Okota-Ago Palace Way is ready for use this week, preparatory to its full completion in February 2016. More than 300 roads have already been repaired and rehabilitated across the states through the Public Works Corporation, thereby easing off traffic. Nowhere is neglected, from Akilo Road in Ogba to Opebi Road in Ikeja and then all the way down to Oyinkan Abayomi Drive in Ikoyi, Ambode’s “roads to greatness” are visible. Together with the 57 Local Council Development Areas, a total of 114 inner roads – two per LCDA -has been awarded for completion next year and to crown it all, the governor has approved the construction of flyover bridges at two of Lagos’ most problematic traffic zones – Ajah and Abule Egba.
    • Economy: One key antecedent of Governor Ambode is the fact that he was instrumental to the frog-leap of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue from a paltry N600m to N6bn while he was Accountant General. And so, a competent manager of resources is expected of this Fulbright scholar. In seven months, he has sufficiently demonstrated his mettle in this regard, by first restructuring the state’s exposure to commercial banks, thereby saving the state about N3bn monthly in debt servicing. He has re-jigged the Lagos Internal Revenue Service to do away with multiple taxations but expand the tax net instead so that those hitherto not captured will be brought on board. He has sent to the House of Assembly the Employment Trust Fund Bill through which the newly created Ministry of Employment and Wealth Creation will administer a yearly N6.3bn intervention soft loan to stimulate to economy, sustain small businesses and create jobs. Lagos Global, the office saddled with investment drive in the state has demonstrated capacity in making Lagos the bride to which every global investment suitor is attracted. Ambode has paid more than N11bn in pension arrears and benefits to retirees and has streamlined the issuance of Certificate of Occupancy to land owners. And in ending the year, the governor practically wowed Lagos with a budget proposal of N665.588bn with a capital to recurrent ratio of 58:42 that proposes N383,678bn for capital expenditure. No other state; not even the Federal Government, has been this proactive with capital expenditure ratio in their budget forecast.
    • BRT Expansion: Social infrastructure has always defined the success of successive administrations, particularly in Lagos State. Ambode is on a smooth ride here with the commissioning of Bus Rapid Response (BRT) extension from Mile 12 to Ikorodu. Through the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Ambode in November commissioned a project that included the widening of the 13.5km road with two additional lanes and the placing of BRT lanes in the middle of the road with over 400,000 passengers now being transported daily on the more than 400 brand new, high-capacity buses (which residents now joyfully call Ambode’s Buses) which now ply the corridor from Ikorodu to CMS.
    • Street Lights Project: When words filtered out that Governor Ambode might not approve the staggering N500m for Christmas decoration contract this year since the economy is such that requires prudent management, many thought he would be seen as not keeping faith with his promise of continuity. But it has turned out that not only is the governor a prudent manager of resources, he is also getting his priorities right. He encouraged corporate players like banks to beautify Lagos with Christmas decorations as their own Corporate Social Responsibility while he chose to focus on an enduring beautification project for Lagosians – to light up the city-state. And to fulfill his promise, the Lagos metropolis has been lit up in the past week with Ambode’s street light project brightening up major parts of the metropolis from Victoria Island to Ikoyi, all the way down to Third Mainland bridge, down to Alapere, Berger and Ikeja-Ogba environ.
    • One Lagos Fiesta and inclusive government: One of the campaign promises of Governor Ambode is to run a government of inclusion and bring governance back to the people. He demonstrated this in September when he flagged off his quarterly town-hall meetings that saw him render account of his stewardship directly to the people. He has promised that the town-hall meetings will move from one senatorial district to another in order to constantly feel the pulse of the electorates. But the governor has added to the layer in this yuletide season by expanding the erstwhile Lagos Countdown Concert to a five-day, five-venue all-inclusive celebration tagged One Lagos Fiesta. Rather than have it in one day and at the Bar beach as was previously the case, Ambode has creatively decentralized the concept of fun, entertainment and culture. Each division in Lagos – Epe, Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja and Lagos Island – are now experiencing simultaneous end-of-the-year merriments with local as well as popular artistes sharing the state. Even politicians, traditional rulers and every stakeholder are now taking ownership of the project in their zones. ‘One Lagos’ has since become the buzzword all over town with the governor, who has now finally taken up residence in his official Alausa, Ikeja abode, personally witnessing the flag-off of the fiesta on Sunday at the Agege stadium where the Ikeja zonal fiesta is holding.
    • Healthy Lagos, healthy workforce: Governor Ambode recognizes that health is wealth and here is one area where his impact is being felt in spite of the huge challenges occasioned by the influx of people from other states and neighboring countries on Lagos hospitals. The governor has improved on healthcare facilities in the state by injecting additional 46 ambulances to the existing pool with an additional 14 new ambulance points thereby bringing existing ambulance points to 25 all in a bid to reduce maternal mortality and tackle emergencies. The governor has brought peace to the lingering crisis within the medical circle. He has stopped the contentious casualisation the medical doctors who were employed some years ago as casuals in the state civil service. of workers by regularizing the employment status of But he’s also aware of the need for a healthy and motivated workforce which is why he has also extended the Accident Insurance Policy for its workforce to cover accidents recorded outside working hours.