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Tinubu Vows to Tackle Land-Grabbing Crisis Behind Benue Killings

MAKURDI, Nigeria — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed to address the issue of land-grabbing, which is suspected to be at the root of the recurrent killings by suspected armed herdsmen in Benue State, head-on. During his visit to Benue State following the gruesome massacre of more than 200 individuals at Yelwata last Friday, Tinubu emphasized his administration’s readiness to bring peace to the region. He also announced the creation of a peace-seeking committee comprising former state governors and two influential traditional rulers. The violent attacks left several homes burnt and displaced hundreds of residents, many of whom have now found refuge in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps. While speaking at a town hall meeting in Makurdi, the President stressed that he came to listen to the people and help them find lasting peace, calling it essential for development. “We were not elected to conduct burials or raise orphans. We are here to foster peace,” Tinubu declared. “If this is about land-grabbing, we must confront it. Nigeria has enough land for everyone. We need to share, coexist, and foster joy and prosperity. That’s the path to lasting peace.” He referenced Nigeria’s national anthem to reinforce unity: “Though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand.” Formation of Peace Committee Tinubu directed the establishment of a committee of elders to propose a sustainable solution to the conflict. This committee, he said, would include former state governors, non-indigenes, and the paramount rulers of the Tiv and Idoma communities — the Tor Tiv and the Och’Idoma. “Let us set up a strong council of elders. I will invest in peace. We will turn this challenge into progress,” Tinubu said, stating that the group would convene in Abuja. Before the town hall, Tinubu visited the survivors of the Yelwata massacre who are receiving treatment at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital. “Though I couldn’t reach Yelwata due to rain and poor roads, I reviewed the damage through video footage. We will rehabilitate and rebuild that area.” The President demanded answers from the Inspector General of Police on the failure to make arrests. “Why haven’t any of the killers been arrested? IGP, where are the arrests? These criminals must face justice,” Tinubu ordered. He also tasked the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) with intensifying surveillance and collecting actionable intelligence to apprehend the perpetrators. Local Leaders React Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue thanked President Tinubu for being the first sitting president to visit the state in response to insecurity. “Your visit, despite our tears and pain, gives us hope. We believe this is the beginning of true peace for our people,” he said. Governor Alia also advocated for the creation of state police, suggesting that the Federal Government should work out an implementation framework to alleviate concerns about the idea. Tor Tiv, HRM Orchivirigh Prof James Ayatse, made an emotional appeal to the President, urging him to address the real cause of the crisis. “This is not a farmer-herder clash. It is a deliberate, well-orchestrated genocide and land takeover by herder-terrorists,” the monarch said. He warned that politicizing the crisis had hindered effective response and accused some politicians of hoping the situation would worsen for political gains. “All we ask is for peace in Benue, so our people can return to farming and feed the nation.” He referenced Tinubu’s past success in resolving similar crises in Kwara’s Kaiama and expressed confidence in his ability to replicate such resolution in Benue. Humanitarian Crisis in Nasarawa Following the Yelwata massacre, over 3,000 displaced persons have sought refuge in Nasarawa State. They are now scattered across four IDP camps: Kadarko, Agyaragu, Idadu, and Kpata. Mr. Benjamin Akwash, Director-General of the Nasarawa State Emergency Management Agency (NASEMA), confirmed the development, revealing the agency had already distributed relief materials to some of the victims prior to the attack. According to him, the IDP population includes: Akwash added that the agency was still compiling accurate headcounts to finalize plans for further distribution of aid. An assessment of the camps revealed dire conditions, particularly in Agyaragu, where women and children sleep on bare floors and lack access to food and medical care. “We left everything behind because of this brutal attack,” lamented Mary Iyorhe, an IDP at Agyaragu. Other displaced women shared their plight, complaining about hunger, poor sanitation, and mosquito infestations, which have prevented them from sleeping.

Club World Cup 2025: Real Madrid Held to 1-1 Draw by Al Hilal in Opening Match

Spanish football giants Real Madrid opened their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 campaign with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Al Hilal on Wednesday evening. The match saw the Saudi Pro League champions, Al Hilal, dominate the early stages, applying consistent pressure and creating promising chances to grab the opening goal. However, it was Los Blancos who broke the deadlock. Young forward Gonzalo Garcia completed a well-constructed team move, finding the net to give Real Madrid the initial lead. Al Hilal responded before halftime. A moment of defensive carelessness from Raul Asencio, who lost possession and resorted to tugging Marcos Leonardo’s shirt inside the box, forced the referee to award a penalty kick. Ruben Neves, the former Wolverhampton Wanderers star, confidently converted from the spot, sending goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois the wrong way to level the score. Real Madrid had a golden opportunity to snatch victory when they were awarded a penalty in the second half. But midfielder Federico Valverde saw his effort expertly saved by Al Hilal’s shot-stopper, Bono, ensuring both sides shared the points in the Group Stage of the Club World Cup 2025.

Transfer Update: Why Premier League Clubs Are Reluctant to Sign Victor Osimhen

Recent reports have revealed that several Premier League clubs are hesitant to pursue a deal for Napoli forward, Victor Osimhen. Despite being at the heart of transfer rumors for the past two summers, Osimhen has not secured a major move to England. During his time across the past three seasons with Napoli and Galatasaray, the Nigerian international has recorded an impressive 85 goals and 17 assists in 112 appearances. Last summer, Osimhen came close to joining Chelsea. However, the transfer fell through due to unresolved personal terms with the club. The 26-year-old striker has also attracted interest from top English sides like Arsenal and Manchester United. Although he was on loan at Galatasaray last season, Osimhen is actively pursuing a permanent switch ahead of the new campaign. Speaking on The Athletic Football Podcast, British football journalist David Ornstein acknowledged that Premier League teams are monitoring Osimhen. However, he disclosed there are a few critical issues keeping them from making a move. Clubs are reportedly concerned about the striker’s temperament and overall profile. Osimhen has had confrontations with various coaches throughout his career, including Finidi George, Luciano Spalletti, and Rudi Garcia, which raises red flags for potential suitors. Additionally, English clubs are reluctant to match his current wage demands. Osimhen currently earns approximately €200,000 net weekly and is not open to reducing that amount. Considering England’s high taxation rates, a club would need to pay over €300,000 gross weekly to meet his salary expectations—an amount that most Premier League sides find difficult to justify.

Tinubu Orders Inclusion of Past Benue Governors, Nasarawa’s Sule in Newly Formed Committee of Elders

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated the inclusion of all former governors of Benue State, as well as the sitting Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, in the newly formed Benue Committee of Elders. This development was made known on Wednesday through a post shared by Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle. Providing details from President Tinubu’s directive, Sunday Dare—who was part of the presidential team that visited communities affected by the most recent tragic attacks—disclosed that the President had instructed Governor Hyacinth Alia to embrace all key players in the state. Tinubu advised Alia to adopt a non-partisan and inclusive approach, acting as a father figure to every citizen of the state, regardless of political affiliations or ethnic backgrounds. Additionally, President Tinubu encouraged the Benue populace to unite and support government efforts to achieve enduring peace in the region. The directive follows a devastating attack in Yelewata village, where over 200 individuals lost their lives, with many others suffering injuries and forced displacement. The President stressed the critical role that traditional rulers must play in restoring peace. He emphasized their collaboration with the Benue State Government in sustaining law and order. Furthermore, he urged Governor Alia to allocate land specifically for ranching, identifying it as a solution to one of the main factors fueling the prolonged conflict. According to Tinubu, the restructured Benue Elders Committee, now expanded to include all previous state governors and Governor Sule of Nasarawa, will serve as a vital advisory and mediatory body to strengthen the peacebuilding process in the state.

President Tinubu’s Visit to Benue: Key Highlights and Directives After the Yelwata Tragedy

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu visited Benue State on Wednesday in a show of solidarity with the grieving communities affected by the recent killings in Yelwata, located in Guma Local Government Area. The violent incident, which claimed hundreds of lives, drew nationwide condemnation and concern over the region’s security. During his visit, President Tinubu engaged with major stakeholders in the state to discuss actionable responses and to offer federal support in addressing the escalating conflict. Presidential Orders and Appeals During the Benue Visit In a decisive response to the security crisis, President Tinubu issued several directives during a town hall meeting with the Benue State Governor and high-ranking security officials: The visit by the President has been viewed as a significant gesture of empathy and responsibility, with citizens hoping that the directives will translate into practical steps towards ending the cycle of violence in the state.

Tinubu Visits Victims of Benue Massacre at Teaching Hospital

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a visit to the victims who survived last Friday’s tragic attack in the Yelwata community, located in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. According to LMSINT MEDIA, the president landed in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, on Wednesday. Upon arrival at the Tactical Air Command of the Nigerian Air Force Base in Makurdi around 12:58 pm, he proceeded directly to the hospital. Following the hospital visit, President Tinubu departed for the new Banquet Hall at the Benue State Government House. There, he was scheduled to meet with key stakeholders across the state in response to the series of violent incidents that have claimed many lives. In anticipation of the president’s arrival, the Benue State Government declared a public holiday to honor his visit. The president’s visit came after the violent assault on the Yelwata community, which reportedly resulted in the death of over 200 people, leaving many others with injuries. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attackers arrived early in the morning and split into three separate groups. This strategy allowed them to attack the community from various entry points. Locals at the scene stated that the assailants began shooting in different directions, creating confusion and overwhelming the efforts of community security personnel.

Oby Ezekwesili Criticizes Benue Government Over Student Parade for President Tinubu in the Rain

Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has expressed strong disapproval of the Benue State Government for organizing a student parade under poor weather conditions to welcome President Bola Tinubu. President Tinubu recently visited Makurdi, the Benue State capital, in response to the tragic incidents involving armed herders in Yelwata, a community within Guma Local Government Area, as well as other affected regions across the state. Ahead of his arrival, a group of students was seen lined up along the roadside in Makurdi, under rainfall and unfavorable weather, to receive the President. Reacting to this, Ezekwesili voiced her concern about the welfare of these children, particularly noting that some of them could belong to families that have been victims of the herdsmen violence. Through a post on her official X (formerly Twitter) account, she stated: “The most painful part is that among these children could be some from families who are currently grieving their loved ones—yet they are made to stand under the rain to give a warm welcome to those who have shown absolutely no concern for them.” She continued by highlighting a deeper issue in Nigeria’s leadership system: “These acts reflect why Nigeria’s self-centered political class feels no pressure to correct their harmful behaviors and the poor governance that follows. They act like citizens are broken and subdued. But will this always be the case?” Ezekwesili concluded by affirming hope for change: “No. Because there remains one factor that these politicians constantly fail to consider—especially when they are intoxicated by the influence and privileges of public office.”

Benue Pupils Allegedly Made to Cheer President Tinubu Under Rain During Visit Meant for Condolence

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent trip to Benue State on Tuesday has stirred widespread backlash after reports claimed that schoolchildren were allegedly made to stand in the rain to welcome him. Tinubu’s visit was initially scheduled as a sympathy mission to console victims of the brutal attack in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area, where suspected herdsmen had reportedly killed over 300 people. However, rather than being a solemn condolence mission, the President’s presence seemingly transformed into a political showcase, as crowds lined major routes in Makurdi carrying banners adorned with images of President Tinubu and Governor Hyacinth Alia. These signs were said to display messages that hinted at support for a second-term campaign. Although the Benue State Government declared a public holiday across the state to mark the visit, reports emerged that students from public schools were mobilized to participate in the reception. Many were reportedly soaked under heavy rainfall while standing for hours to welcome the President. Footage from the event swiftly circulated on social media, drawing massive criticism from Nigerians. “This is nonsense. If my child were there, I would go pick them up,” commented Ogwuche Anderson Paul. “Why should parents even let their children go to school today when a public holiday was declared?” questioned Felix Shaibu. “What a country,” lamented Anthony Q Da Singer. “No be child abuse be this?” wrote Boaz Jachin in outrage. The criticisms intensified when a previously shared directive from Francis U. Ngutswen, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Groups Mobilization, resurfaced online. The memo had encouraged political support groups to attend the welcome parade in large numbers. The message stated: “At the instance of our dear Governor, His Excellency Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Leader of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State, kindly mobilize massively to give a rousing welcome to our President… A colourful shoulder-to-shoulder procession from the Airport to Wurukum Roundabout and down to Government House, Makurdi, is expected.”

Civil Rights Group Warns Tinubu Over RSIEC Appointments, Urges Senate to Reject Nominees

A Nigerian civil advocacy group, the Centre for Reform and Public Advocacy, has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu lacks the constitutional authority to appoint officials for the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) tasked with overseeing local government elections. In light of this, the group has urged the Nigerian Senate to withhold confirmation of the President’s nominees for the role of Chairman and members of the Rivers electoral body. According to the group, the 1999 Nigerian Constitution exclusively empowers state governors to make such appointments, and allowing the President’s nominees to be confirmed would represent a serious constitutional violation. Furthermore, the group threatened to pursue legal action against the Senate if it proceeds with the approval of the President’s choices. In a formal letter sent to the Senate President and acknowledged by his office on June 17, the organization maintained that there is no vacancy at RSIEC. It emphasized that the current members were duly appointed and their tenure remains valid. The letter, which was signed by Barrister Kalu Agu Kalu, the Head of the Legal Unit of the Centre, emphasized that President Tinubu does not possess any constitutional or statutory mandate to appoint officials for any State Independent Electoral Commission, including Rivers State. The letter further reads: “We are a non-profit, pro-democracy, human rights, anti-corruption and public interest advocacy organization in Nigeria.In line with our mandate, we wish to bring to your attention that there is no vacancy in the RSIEC.This correspondence is in response to President Tinubu’s recent letter seeking Senate approval for the appointment of a Chairman and six members to RSIEC.It is important to highlight that Sections 197 and 198 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) clearly place the power to appoint RSIEC officials in the hands of the Governor of Rivers State, subject to confirmation by the Rivers State House of Assembly.The RSIEC is currently active and fulfilled its last constitutional responsibility during the October 5, 2024 Local Government Elections, although the results were later nullified by the Supreme Court.Furthermore, Section 201(1)(2) outlines the procedure for removing any RSIEC official. At present, no resignation or removal has been confirmed.” The group questioned the basis of President Tinubu’s move, highlighting that the existing RSIEC officials’ tenure is still active, and there has been no formal resignation or official notice of dismissal. It concluded by urging the Senate to stop any action aimed at confirming the President’s appointees, stating: “Should the Senate proceed with the confirmation process despite this warning, we will initiate a legal injunction within two days to prevent this constitutional breach.We trust that sound judgment will prevail to avoid unnecessary litigation and misuse of public funds.”

Miyetti Allah Commends Tinubu for Promoting Peace in Benue State

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his intervention and prompt visit to Benue State, aimed at fostering peace and stability in the troubled region. In an official statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, the association’s National President, Alhaji Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, praised the President’s decisive move and extended gratitude to federal authorities and security forces for their swift actions in quelling tensions in the affected communities. “We sincerely appreciate President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, for his immediate intervention and personal visit to Benue,” the statement read. “We also acknowledge his bold stance in encouraging both political and traditional leadership in Benue to embrace peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding.” Othman-Ngelzarma emphasized that this gesture is expected to contribute significantly to restoring enduring peace not only in Benue but across the country. He offered heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian government, the people of Benue, and all affected citizens nationwide for the tragic loss of lives and destruction of properties in the wake of recent conflicts. Speaking on behalf of MACBAN, Othman-Ngelzarma reaffirmed the group’s dedication to national unity and peaceful living among Nigeria’s diverse ethnicities. “As the national body representing Fulani cattle breeders, MACBAN stands firmly for peace and harmonious relationships among the over 300 ethnic groups in Nigeria,” he stated. He also reiterated that as a key contributor to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the cattle-rearing sector has a vested interest in national unity and stability. Furthermore, the MACBAN president urged political, religious, and community leaders to encourage reconciliation and collaboration between farming communities and pastoralist groups in the state. He stressed the need to put an end to rhetoric that fuels division and undermines national cohesion. “We call on all stakeholders—traditional, political, and religious—to stop propagating narratives that trigger disunity and instead promote mutual tolerance,” he concluded.

Rhapsody of Realities June 18th 2025, THROUGH HIM, WE ALWAYS PREVAIL

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD And Asa cried unto the LORD his God, and said…help us, O LORD our God; for we rest on thee, and in thy name we go against this multitude. O LORD, thou art our God; let not man prevail against thee (2 Chronicles 14:11). There’s a remarkable story of war in the days of Asa, king of Judah. The Bible tells us in 2 Chronicles 14:9 that Zerah the Ethiopian came against Judah with an army of a million men and three hundred chariots. That was an overwhelming force. But Asa didn’t cower in fear; instead, he went out to face them, setting the battle in array in the valley of Zephathah at Mareshah. Then Asa did something inspiring; he cried unto the Lord his God for help! Though vastly outnumbered, he knew he needed a miracle, and his trust was in the Lord. He recognized that numbers meant nothing to God. His confidence was in the Name of the Lord. He said, “…in thy name we go against this multitude. O LORD, thou art our God; let not man prevail against thee” (2 Chronicles 14:11). What an audacity of faith! Asa understood that life is controlled from the spiritual realm, so, he looked beyond the physical advantage of the enemy and saw the Lord as his help. This is the mindset you must have at all times. No matter the opposition, the power, influence or wickedness of the adversary; greater is He that is in you than Satan and his cohorts put together. They may appear formidable, but they are weak, and you’re strong. Their words are empty, but yours are full of divine authority. The result of Asa’s prayer was extraordinary. The Bible says, “…the LORD smote the Ethiopians before Asa, and before Judah; and the Ethiopians fled” (2 Chronicles 14:12). They fled despite their overwhelming numbers, and Asa and his men pursued them all the way to Gerar, utterly overthrowing them. The Bible says they could not recover themselves because they were destroyed before the Lord and His host. Asa and the people of Judah carried away great spoils (2 Chronicles 14:13). The victory was total; read 2 Chronicles 14:14-15. The fear of the Lord fell upon their enemies, and Judah prospered. Our God is great. So, when you face challenges, don’t be moved. Focus on Him. He is your help, and through Him, you always prevail. Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, you’re my strength and my victory. I stand firm in faith, declaring your Word, knowing that all power belongs to you. Thank you for always causing me to triumph in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY2 Corinthians 2:14Now thanks [be] unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. Romans 8:37Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 2 Chronicles 14:13-15And Asa and the people that [were] with him pursued them unto Gerar: and the Ethiopians were overthrown, that they could not recover themselves; for they were destroyed before the LORD, and before his host; and they carried away very much spoil. 14 And they smote all the cities round about Gerar; for the fear of the LORD came upon them: and they spoiled all the cities; for there was exceeding much spoil in them. 15 They smote also the tents of cattle, and carried away sheep and camels in abundance, and returned to Jerusalem. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 7:54-8:1-8 & 2 Chronicles 31-32 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 2:8-20 & Deuteronomy 16 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I live a life of faith. I’m not moved by what I feel, see, or hear. I am only moved by God’s Word. The presence of the Holy Ghost in my life gives strength to my spirit, soul, and body. I am replenished and built up by the Word. I walk in the full benefits of the salvation that Jesus Christ wrought for me, including health, peace, prosperity, and all-round success. Every day of my life is full of God’s glory, beauty, excellence, and grace. Every day God loads me with great benefits. In His favor my horn is exalted. I live above infirmities and the harsh elements of this world because the One who lives in me is greater than he that’s in this world. Nothing and no one can hurt or come against me successfully, for I have the unconquerable life of God. Satan and the powers of darkness are under my feet; therefore, I have nothing to fear. The impulses of fear have been completely disabled from my life. Irrespective of the situation, I’m bold and courageous, speaking the Word in faith. Everything connected to me is infused with eternal life and divine energy. Everything about me exudes the life of Christ; therefore, my health does not fail, rather, it is ever radiant and ever flourishing. There is no failure in my body systems; no heart failure, no kidney failure, no lung failure, no liver failure. All the organs and systems of my body are functioning perfectly well. There is perfect soundness in my body. I’m seated with Christ, far above all principality, power, might, dominion and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come! I’m exalted with Him in glory; I know who I am: chosen, royal and peculiar! My life is the expression and manifestation of the glory and righteousness of Christ. Therefore, I am superhuman! I have the life of Christ at work in my spirit, soul, and body. I walk in supernatural strength, supernatural health, supernatural supply, and supernatural abilities every day. My progress is unstoppable because I cannot be limited by sickness, disease, or the negativities of the ordinary life. As Jesus is above all things, so am I. The Holy Spirit has beautified my life. He

Insecurity and Global Conflicts May Worsen Food Inflation in Nigeria – LCCI Alerts

The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has raised concerns that persistent insecurity and escalating global tensions may further aggravate food price inflation across Nigeria. Speaking in Lagos on Tuesday, the Director-General of LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, highlighted these risks in reaction to the recently published May inflation report, which shows a slight decrease in the country’s headline inflation rate. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s inflation rate declined slightly to 22.97% in May 2025, down from 23.71% recorded in April. Dr. Almona interpreted this as a marginal but welcome improvement, noting that it breaks the pattern of continuous inflation growth over past months. She credited the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) efforts—such as interest rate hikes and liquidity tightening—as contributing factors to the modest decline. However, she cautioned that these improvements might not last if deeper structural threats are not addressed. She emphasized that the escalating farmer-herder conflicts in the Middle Belt, as well as recent flooding events, are likely to negatively impact food production and harvesting throughout the year. In addition, she pointed out that global conflicts, including the prolonged war between Russia and Ukraine and ongoing unrest in the Middle East, have disrupted international logistics and food supply chains. “These factors can severely impact harvest output and cause further disruptions in supply chains,” Almona warned. “Rising oil prices, caused by geopolitical instability and trade disputes, may also increase the cost of importing fuel and other critical products.” She emphasized that these combined shocks could significantly threaten food security and trigger heightened food inflation, especially in Q3 and Q4 of 2025, which are pivotal in Nigeria’s economic cycle. Dr. Almona urged the Nigerian government to intensify its efforts to tackle security challenges, strengthen agricultural infrastructure, and enhance policy collaboration between key economic sectors. She called for a coherent mix of fiscal and monetary reforms, particularly in the oil and gas sector, which has in the past helped slow fuel price surges.

Lagos Government Orders Demolition of RCCG Church Building After Nearby Collapse Incident

The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) has issued a demolition order for a parish building of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in the Somolu area after it sustained structural damage from a neighboring building collapse. According to Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) reports, several church members narrowly avoided tragedy when the adjoining construction site gave way on Monday. Worshippers were inside the church building when the incident occurred but escaped unharmed. During a follow-up visit to the site on Tuesday, LASBCA officials not only reinforced the demolition directive but also ordered the immediate evacuation of occupants from the damaged building. A notice affixed to the church wall confirmed that the structure had developed severe defects due to the impact of the fallen building. A third notice served by LASBCA demanded the building’s demolition within seven days. The official statement read: “Please refer to the contravention notice with Ref. LASBCA /SML/25/PCA/CN/091 dated June 16, 2025, served on the structure above address. This office has observed that you have not complied with the instruction contained in the notice. Notice is hereby given that if the said infraction is not removed within seven days from the date of this notice, the said infraction/unauthorised or distressed building shall be demolished and the cost of such demolition recovered from you.” In an interview with LMSINT MEDIA Metro, Parish Pastor Daniel Ojo expressed deep concern about how the demolition would disrupt the church’s ongoing activities. He also revealed that there had been previous worries regarding the speed and quality of the neighboring construction project. “We can no longer have services here. We were supposed to have a service today, but we can’t meet,” Pastor Ojo said. “There was a bungalow, and some of our members were there. They had to relocate because someone bought it and pulled it down. Within a few days, excavation began, and before long, a new building emerged. Without being an engineer, we were already questioning how fast the work was progressing.” Ojo added that finding a temporary venue for worship would be extremely difficult due to the industrial nature of the Somolu area. “Getting a location or an event hall for services temporarily is very difficult because Somolu is an industrial area. Also, if we move far away from here, we will lose our members. This is a family church.” A nearby trader, who requested anonymity, shared with LMSINT MEDIA Metro how the construction workers narrowly avoided death. According to her, the laborers managed to flee just as the building began to fall. “The construction workers escaped death because none of them was at the bottom of the building. They were all at the top, and when the building collapsed, they all fled for survival.” When contacted, a person identified as Adekomi Adeniyi, whose contact appeared on the official demolition notice, verified that the notice was indeed issued by LASBCA. However, he did not reveal his official role. “After we cleared the rubble of the collapsed building, we checked if it had affected the church building, which is why we issued the notice,” Adeniyi said.