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Tag: Lagos

  • Lagos issues traffic advisory for APC primaries

    Lagos issues traffic advisory for APC primaries

    The Lagos State Government has issued a traffic advisory to aid free movement during the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries scheduled to hold on Saturday, May 10.

    The Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said this in a statement made available to NAN on Wednesday in Lagos.

    According to Osiyemi, motorists will not be able to access ACME Road from Adeniyi Jones, Lateef Jakande and ACME Crescent end.

    “The entire stretch of ACME Road will be closed off to vehicular movement during the primaries.

    “Consequently, motorists are to use the following alternative routes: those coming from Adeniyi Jones are to link Aromire to access Allen Junction and continue their journeys.

    “Similarly, motorists coming from Allen are advised to use Aromire to link Ladipo Oluwole and access Guinness to reach their intended destinations.

    “Motorists coming from Akilo Road will also be able to connect Wemco Road, link Lateef Jakande, or continue onto Omole to complete their journeys,” he said.

    He advised members of the public to plan their movement ahead of Saturday.

    “If you do not have any urgent or necessary business around the ACME Road axis, please consider avoiding the area to ease movement and reduce congestion.

    “Officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority will be on ground to manage vehicular movement along the affected corridors,” he said.

  • Ex-presidents, govs, others to attend Clark’s tribute, prayer in Lagos

    Ex-presidents, govs, others to attend Clark’s tribute, prayer in Lagos

    Former presidents, governors, traditional rulers, eminent Nigerians are expected to attend a tribute and prayer for the Niger Delta leader, late Chief Edwin Clark slated for Thursday in Lagos.

    This is contained in a statement by Mrs Baroong Tony-Uranta, on behalf of the Organising Committee, Lagos Tributes for Clark on Tuesday.

    Clark, who was the leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) and Ijaw National leader, passed on in February at 97 years.

    According to the committee, the tribute for the deceased will be attended by Clark’s widow, associates and friends, celebrating the life and times of late Niger Delta leader.

    “The event is being put together at the instance of EK Clark’s widow, Dr (Mrs) Abisola Shodipo-Clark in collaboration with associates of the Niger Delta leader.

    “This is in recognition of the huge network of friends and associates of the former federal Commissioner of Information and second Republic Senator, who served the country from Lagos in the 70s and 80s respectively.

    “The event expected to host eminent Nigerians, statesmen and women, including leaders of ethnic nationalities and the Civil Society from across Nigeria, will hold at the Lagos Sheraton Hotels, Ikeja from 2.00 p.m. on Thursday.”

    Highlights of the programme include a short tribute lecture on True ‘Federalism and Resource Control in Nigeria’ to be delivered by Prince Fafaa Dan-Princewill.

    According to the statement, the Songs of Praise and Prayers will be conducted by The Trinity House led by a renowned Christian Leader in Nigeria, Pastor Itua Ighodalo.

    The statement, however, listed some key associates and political leaders invited to the occasion to include, former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and wife of Chief Emeka Anyaoku.

    Others are, the Chairman of PANDEF, Godknows Igali, acting leader of Afenifere, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, General. Ike Nwachuckwu(rtd), Obong Victor Attah, Dr Kalu Idika Kalu, Sir Kensington Adebutu, Chief Nike Akande, Chief Maiden Ibru.

    “Chief Goodie Ibru, Chief Wale Babalakin, governors of the six Southwest states, key traditional rulers in the Southwest and prominent Niger Delta leaders and groups in Southwest, among others,’’ the committee said.

    The statement further said Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo, Chief Paxy Alakeme, High Chief John Odeyemi, Mrs Barong Uranta, Mr Olumide Ajayi and Veteran Olawale Okunniyi, would serve as officials of the organising committee.

    “The widow of the deceased will be the Chief Host,” it added.

  • Lagos to host first European Bank office in West Africa

    Lagos to host first European Bank office in West Africa

    Lagos has been selected as the location for the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development’s (EBRD) first office in West Africa, marking a significant step in the bank’s expansion into sub-Saharan Africa.

    The announcement was made during a courtesy visit to the State House in Abuja by Ambassador Gautier Mignot, Head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS. Nigeria became the EBRD’s 77th shareholder in February, following the bank’s gradual extension into Africa, as approved by its Board of Governors in 2023.

    Vice President Kashim Shettima, who received the delegation, welcomed the development as a major boost to Nigeria’s investment climate and international partnerships. He described the move as a clear endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms.

    “This is a strong signal of confidence in the President’s bold policy decisions and in Nigeria’s attractiveness to foreign investors,” Shettima said in a statement issued by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha.

    The Vice President also praised the EU for its consistent support, especially its humanitarian and stabilization work in the crisis-affected Northeast. He expressed optimism about deepening cooperation in trade, investment, and youth development.

    “You are our natural partners. We share not just geography but a deep cultural and historical connection,” Shettima noted, adding that Nigeria is entering a new era of economic openness and reform.

    He cited the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the exchange rate as evidence of the administration’s commitment to removing barriers to investment.

    Welcoming the EBRD’s entry into Nigeria, Shettima said the opening of the Lagos office is both symbolic and strategic. “This sends a clear message: Nigeria is open for business,” he said.

    He also acknowledged the EU’s support in Borno State, saying, “We will always stand by those who stood by us during our most difficult times.”

    Ambassador Mignot emphasized the importance of a strong relationship with Nigeria in today’s challenging global landscape. He said the EU views Nigeria as a key strategic partner and remains committed to supporting development goals, gender equality, and the UN Charter.

    Separately, Shettima also welcomed a delegation from South Korea’s Asia Economic Development Committee (AEDC), which proposed a partnership in areas such as solar technology, electric vehicle production, and advanced IT for security.

    Speaking during the delegation’s visit to the Presidential Villa, Shettima affirmed Nigeria’s readiness for collaborations that support the administration’s industrialization drive and enhance citizens’ quality of life.

    AEDC Chairman Mr. Yoon Suk-hun said their visit aimed to explore investment in Nigeria’s technology and energy sectors, stressing that the goal was not just profit, but technology transfer and development.

    The South Korean delegation included key figures from AEDC and the Founder of AMMASCO Group, Alhaji Mustapha Muhammad.

  • Why complaints against LASTMA reduced drastically – GM

    Why complaints against LASTMA reduced drastically – GM

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) said its call centre has received more 5,000 calls since its inauguration on July 9, 2024.

    The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, gave the figure in an interview in Lagos.

    Bakare-Oki said that the calls included feedback on happenings on the roads and performance of LASTMA officers at various traffic hotspots.

    He said that the calls were promptly attended to, adding that the centre had 10 officers ready to attend to calls.

    According to Bakare-Oki, the toll-free line operates daily from 8.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m.

    “The LASTMA call centre has been yielding positive results.

    “We are using this medium to inform Lagos residents especially the motoring public, to continue to leverage on this digital toll-free line to reach us on information about traffic congestions, accidents or misbehaviour of our officers on the road.

    “We prioritise the feedback; the number again is 080000527862, and its toll-free,” he told NAN.

    The LASTMA boss said that apart from the call centre, Lagos residents could visit the authority’s physical complaint centre domiciled at its head office and operating from Monday to Friday every week.

    “They can reach us through our lingual franca which is English.

    “Also, we accommodate our mother tongue which is Yoruba. Those that cannot speak Yoruba or communicate in English can reach us via pigin,” he said.

    He advised the motoring public to prioritise safety.

    “They should adhere strictly to all traffic rules and regulations.”

    On misbehaviour of LASTMA officers on the road, the general manager said that it had reduced drastically.

    According to him, complaints about misbehaviour of LASTMA officers has drastically reduced in the past eight months.

    “Reports given against my men were seriously investigated and for any confirmed to be substantial, all involved were punished.

    “They faced the consequences of their misbehaviour. The drastic reduction is also as a result of massive training and re-training of my men.

    “Apart from engaging consultants, we do internal training that comes on a weekly basis.

    “All these are to rebrand and reposition the agency for a more efficient service delivery to Lagos residents,” he said.

  • UPDATE: 5 dead, 15 rescued in Lagos building collapse

    UPDATE: 5 dead, 15 rescued in Lagos building collapse

    Emergency responders have recovered five dead bodies and rescued 15 others alive at the  rubble of a three-storey building that collapsed at Ojodu-Berger area of Lagos.

    Mr Ibrahim Farinloye, Coordinator, Lagos Territorial Office of the National Emergency Management Agency, confirmed the figures to NAN on Sunday in Lagos.

    Farinloye said the five recovered bodies included two adult males and three females, while those rescued alive included six adult females and nine adult males.

    According to reports, rescue operation is still ongoing.

  • Police debunk Lagos explosion claims

    Police debunk Lagos explosion claims

    The Police Command in Lagos State has debunked claims circulating on social media regarding an alleged explosion incident in the state.

    The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, Olohundare Jimoh, dismissed the report in a statement on Saturday by the command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin.

    Jimoh clarified that no explosion occurred anywhere in Lagos State on Friday, April 19.

    “The Command in Lagos State confirms that no explosion incident was recorded in any part of the state,” he said.

    The Commissioner of Police explained that the viral video online is from an earlier explosion on April 11 at a CCTV shop in Computer Village, Ikeja.

    That incident remains under investigation, according to the police.

    He added that proactive measures have been implemented to ensure sufficient police presence and maintain a safe environment for businesses and daily activities.

    Jimoh urged residents to go about their lawful activities without fear or panic.

    He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

    The CP also advised bloggers and social media users to avoid spreading false information that could incite fear or public anxiety.

    According to him, the command remains dedicated to preserving peace and order throughout Lagos State.

  • Police refute Boko Haram arrest claims in Lagos, label report as fear-mongering

    Police refute Boko Haram arrest claims in Lagos, label report as fear-mongering

    The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed claims that Boko Haram suspects were arrested in the state, calling the report false and aimed at inciting public fear.

    On Thursday, Kumar Sanda, head of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in Lagos, allegedly claimed that thousands of suspected Boko Haram members had been apprehended in the city. “If I mention the number of Boko Haram members we’ve arrested in Lagos State, it would be hard to believe. But we’ve arrested thousands,” he reportedly stated.

    In response, police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin issued a statement on Friday saying Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh immediately ordered an investigation into the claims. According to Hundeyin, the investigation found no evidence of any Boko Haram presence or arrests across the state.

    The statement emphasized that leaders and workers in the trailer park areas mentioned in the original report confirmed that no such individuals were seen or detained there.

    “To verify the claim, surveillance officers, the Lagos State Police Intelligence Department (SID), and other police units were dispatched to the specified areas. No arrests or sightings of Boko Haram members were reported anywhere in Lagos State,” the police said.

    Hundeyin condemned the report as entirely false and designed to stir panic, assuring residents that there is no cause for alarm. He urged the public to ignore the rumor and continue their daily activities without fear.

     

  • Protest erupts at APC stakeholders meeting in Lagos

    Protest erupts at APC stakeholders meeting in Lagos

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders’ meeting in Ojokoro LCDA, Lagos State, ended in chaos on Monday over alleged imposition of a chairmanship candidate.

    NAN eports that the meeting began peacefully at 7, Ijaoye Street, at 4:00 p.m. before aggrieved members stormed the venue in protest.

    Protesters chanted “Ole!” (thief), “We can’t take it”, and accused Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, of imposing a candidate from Agege on Ojokoro residents.

    Other chants included ‘Who knows Sanusi?’, ‘Obasa can’t control us from Agege’, and ‘We won’t allow a stranger rule us here’.

    Speaking after the disruption, one of the protesters, Mr Olusegun Akinoso-Olawaye said the meeting aimed to ratify an imposed candidate with no ties to the council.

    He stressed that a chairmanship aspirant must reside in Ojokoro, have worked for the party and actively participated in council politics.

    He warned that imposing an outsider with no electoral history in Ojokoro would have negative consequences.

    “We are here to reject imposition. All aspirants deserve a fair contest to prove their political relevance,” Akinoso-Olawaye said.

    He noted there are at least 18 aspirants for the chairmanship, all of whom had supporters present at the protest.

    Mrs Bola Ojetayo, another protest leader, lamented that party leaders often prioritise personal interests over the will of the people.

    She said the protest aimed to prevent installation of an unfamiliar figure as the next council chairman.

    “We must not sell our seat to outsiders. A stranger cannot come and lead us in our own home.

    “Leaders can’t sit elsewhere and decide for us. Someone in Agege shouldn’t determine Ojokoro’s leadership,” Ojetayo said.

    In response, Mr James Owolabi, a former House of Representatives member.and APC stalwart in Ojokoro, urged protesters to remain peaceful and avoid violence.

    Owolabi, who represented Ifako-Ijaiye Federal Constituency, acknowledged the concerns and affirmed their right to protest within the party.

    “You have a voice in the party. Express yourselves peacefully without violence,” Owolabi advised.

    Other APC leaders present included Mr Jelili Oseni, council chairman, and Ipoola Omisore, a former Lagos Assembly member.

    Also in attendance were Alh. Amosu Aminu, Chief Oriyomi Olaogun, and Mr Akindele Aremu, among others.

    The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has scheduled the local government elections for July 12.

  • Lagos fixes date to hold Local Govt. polls

    Lagos fixes date to hold Local Govt. polls

    The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has scheduled the state council election for July 12.

    Mr Tope Ojo, LASIEC’s Head of Public Affairs, made this announcement on Friday in Lagos.

    He revealed that the election for 57 council chairmanship positions and 376 councillor seats will take place on July 12. If necessary, a re-run will occur on July 19.

    Lagos State comprises 20 Local Governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

    The election date was chosen to avoid a leadership vacuum in the state’s councils.

    LASIEC’s notice confirmed that the election will include 20 Local Governments, 37 LCDAs, and 376 wards.

    With the current local government administration nearing its end, LASIEC has ramped up efforts for a smooth election process.

    The commission has officially launched the electoral process with the release of the Notice of Election.

    Political parties must visit the LASIEC headquarters to obtain nomination forms for their candidates.

    Ojo confirmed that a meeting with all registered political parties is set for Tuesday.

    “The Election Guidelines will be published on April 17,” Ojo added.

    According to him, campaigns and rallies will start on April 18 and end on July 9.

    Nomination Forms for “substituted” and “only candidate” submissions must be submitted between June 18 and June 25.

    LASIEC Chairman, Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile (rtd), assured a fair and level playing field for all political parties.

    He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to holding a free, fair, inclusive, and credible election.

    Okikiolu-Ighile encouraged political parties and aspirants to strictly follow the electoral timetable.

  • LASG seals 13 markets over health hazards

    LASG seals 13 markets over health hazards

    In a bid to promote environmental cleanliness and safeguard public health, the Lagos State Government has sealed 13 markets across the state for persistent violations related to illegal waste disposal.

    This was disclosed by the state’s Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, in a statement on his X handle on Friday.

    Wahab said that the enforcement actions are in line with the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law of 2017, aimed at ensuring responsible waste management and maintaining public order.

    Notably, Ketu and Mile 12 markets were sealed last night due to consistent violations, including the improper disposal of waste on roads, medians, and highways.

    These actions have been deemed necessary to restore cleanliness and public safety in these busy commercial areas, according to Wahab.

    The Lagos State government emphasized that market stakeholders must take full responsibility for proper waste management going forward to avoid further disruptions.

    Wahab stated, “These enforcement actions are necessary to safeguard public health and restore order to our public spaces.”

    Below is the full list of markets that have been sealed:

    Erukan Market, Mile 12
    Oja Oba Market, Ketu
    Owoseni Tundas Market
    Oba Ogunjobi Market, Mile 12
    Shops Owners (BRT Terminal), Mile 12
    Mile 12 Bus Stop Shops
    Ketu Terminal Market (6 plazas)
    Ifesowapo Shop Owners Market, Mile 12
    Demurin St Plaza Shops, Ketu
    The Occupant, 6 Demurin Road, Ketu
    Ifelodun Market, Ketu
    Ibadan Unit 1 Park (in-between Babajide Sanwo-Olu Market and Ikosi Fruit Market)
    Ketu Tipper Garage
    The Lagos State government called on residents and market stakeholders to collaborate in building a cleaner, safer, and more responsible Lagos. The enforcement is part of ongoing efforts to ensure the city remains livable and sustainable for all.