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Rhapsody of Realities June 14th 2025, THE POWER OF VISION AND IMAGINATION

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD And Jacob took him rods of green poplar, and of the hazel and chesnut tree; and pilled white strakes in them, and made the white appear which was in the rods (Genesis 30:37) Jacob’s story in Genesis 30 and 31 is a fascinating demonstration of the power of vision and imagination. When Jacob agreed to work for Laban, he was promised cattle as wages. However, Laban repeatedly changed the terms and cheated Jacob. But Jacob, through divine wisdom and creative strategy, turned the situation around. Jacob took rods from green poplar, hazel, and chestnut trees, and peeled white streaks on them to make the white appear. He placed these rods in the watering troughs where the flocks came to drink. As the animals mated in front of the rods, they produced offspring that were exactly what Jacob desired. Later, Jacob no longer needed the rods. He separated the young, spotted, and speckled animals and set them before the stronger cattle. By doing this, he created a vision for the flocks and they produced according to what they saw. Jacob’s method was a demonstration of the creative power of vision. He used his imaginative ability to influence the outcome. When the stronger cattle conceived, Jacob placed the rods before their eyes, ensuring they produced strong, desirable offspring. When the cattle were feeble,he did not use the rods, so the weaker ones belonged to Laban. Over time, Jacob’s flocks grew stronger and more abundant, while Laban’s remained feeble. Jacob’s success was by divine revelation. In a dream, he saw the rams leaping on the cattle as ringstraked, speckled, and grisled. An angel confirmed this vision, saying, “‘…Lift your eyes now and see, all the rams which leap on the flocks are streaked, speckled, and gray spotted…” (Genesis 31:12 NKJV). How important this is! You have the ability to create the future you desire by focusing on what you want to see. Create the vision that you want with your mind. Through the Word and power of the Holy Spirit at work in you, you can create or shape your physical reality. Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, thank you for giving me the ability to see and create my desired future through the power of vision and by your Word. As I use my imaginative ability, inspired by your Spirit, I construct my life in alignment with your divine purpose, with victories and expansion in every area. I’m empowered to impact my world and fulfil my destiny, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY:Genesis 13:14-17And the Lord said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward: 15 For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever. 16 And I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth: so that if a man can number the dust of the earth, then shall thy seed also be numbered. 17 Arise, walk through the land in the length of it and in the breadth of it; for I will give it unto thee. Habakkuk 2:2And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. Ephesians 3:20Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 1 Year Bible Reading Plan :Acts 4:32-5:1-11 & 2 Chronicles 20-22 2 Year Bible Reading Plan :Luke 1:39-56 & Deuteronomy 12 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. I fear no adversary, for Christ has already obtained the victory over every adversary, and my faith in the Word of God is the victory that overcomes the world. I dwell in the victory that Christ wrought for me; thus, I’m no longer subject to any form of fear, limitation, or bondage, for Christ has set me free from sickness, disease, and death. I have the life of God in me. I am born of God. I walk in the fullness of the blessings of Christ. I am propelled, by the sheer force of eternal life. My ever-expanding peace and reign have no end. I am present, constant, and relevant. I am the seed of Abraham. Everything about me expands and extends even unto eternity. I am a tree planted by the rivers of water. I bring forth my fruits and my leaves shall never run dry. I am furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation. Everything required for life and godliness is present in me. There’s order and grace in my life. I will never go down. When men are cast down, I will always be lifted. I am a child of the Most High God — Christ in me, the hope of glory. Christ in me is the manifestation of glory. Lands I didn’t buy, houses I didn’t build, and wells I didn’t dig, are delivered to me for the sake of the Gospel. Christ is my peace, rest, oasis, joy, and life. I am the manifestation of the glory of God, of His grace, His abundance, His wealth, His wisdom, His strength, and His life. In Him I have rest. I am at rest in Christ. I have overcome the world and its limitations. My spirit is open to infinite possibilities, as far as my eyes can see, as much as my heart can contain. The Lord has set

Tributes Pour In as Nigeria Celebrates Uncle Sam Amuka-Pemu at 90

Federal Government, Governors, Nobel Laureate Soyinka, and Media Giants Honour Iconic At a grand celebration hosted at the Eko Hotel and Suites Convention Center in Lagos, Nigeria’s political and media elite paid heartfelt tributes to the legendary founder of Vanguard Newspapers, Chief Sam Amuka-Pemu—popularly known as Uncle Sam—on the occasion of his 90th birthday. The ceremony drew dignitaries such as President Bola Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, Osun State Governor Senator Ademola Adeleke, former governors James Ibori, Donald Duke, Aremo Segun Osoba, Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, and other iconic figures in the media landscape. FG Hails Sam Amuka-Pemu as Guardian of Democracy Representing President Tinubu and the Federal Government, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, described Amuka-Pemu’s legacy as eternal. According to him, Uncle Sam’s name is embedded in Nigeria’s conscience and symbolizes unwavering commitment to truth and national unity. “We are gathered to honour a true titan—a man who stood as the moral compass of Nigeria during turbulent times. Uncle Sam’s voice has guided Nigeria’s democracy from dictatorship to liberation,” said the Minister. Minister Idris continued by portraying Amuka-Pemu as a walking monument of Nigerian journalism whose influence spans major publications like Daily Times, Sunday Punch, The Punch, and Vanguard. He emphasized that Uncle Sam co-founded The Punch in 1971 with the late Olu Aboderin and founded Vanguard in 1983, both established during politically sensitive times. “He is more than a journalist—he’s a custodian of Nigeria’s democratic journey and an unwavering advocate of press freedom,” Idris added. The Minister concluded by celebrating Uncle Sam as the oldest active journalist in Nigeria, urging current and future journalists to uphold his legacy of fearless and principled reporting. Delta State Governor Oborevwori Calls Him a National Treasure Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Monday Onyeme, echoed similar sentiments, declaring Amuka-Pemu a symbol of national excellence and integrity. According to Oborevwori: “Your contributions as founder of Vanguard and co-founder of The Punch have shaped Nigerian journalism. Through your Sad Sam column, you brought courage and wit that influenced millions.” He hailed Uncle Sam’s adherence to ethical journalism, saying his work has deeply influenced Nigeria’s civic consciousness. Osun Governor Adeleke Prays for Longevity Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, visibly delighted at the event, led celebratory Yoruba praise songs and offered heartfelt prayers for Uncle Sam’s continued life and health. “We celebrated together last year. And today, we celebrate again at 90. By God’s grace, we shall continue to celebrate you at 91, 92, even 100,” Adeleke said. Osoba: “Uncle Sam Is Complex but Extraordinary” Chairman of the event’s organizing committee and former Ogun State governor, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, described the celebrant as a “complex and difficult” individual but deeply principled. Recalling their long friendship and professional journey, Osoba shared anecdotes of trying to convince Amuka-Pemu to accept the birthday celebration. “We argued fiercely, but he finally agreed—on the condition that the event be informal and filled with music. That’s Uncle Sam—calm outside but intensely strong-willed,” Osoba revealed. He also praised Amuka’s courage in the military era, highlighting his satirical writing that often criticized military excesses without fear. “He once described the military as the most privileged class in Nigeria—getting everything free, including the company of ‘attack trade’ girls. Yet, he was never arrested. That’s the fearless Sad Sam we all knew,” Osoba recalled. Soyinka: “He’s the Master of Ambush” Professor Wole Soyinka, Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate, described Uncle Sam as deceptively calm but incredibly cunning in journalistic tactics. “Sam is the real master of ambush—soft on the surface but relentless in his storytelling. I can only toast to his health and thank him for the brilliance he brought to Nigerian journalism,” Soyinka said. Reflecting on their early days in media, Soyinka recalled a vibrant group of journalists like Peter Pan and Sad Sam, who shaped Nigeria’s intellectual and democratic space. Aigbogun: “I Never Saw That Complex Side” Frank Aigbogun, a former Editor of Vanguard Newspapers, gave a touching account of his first encounter with Uncle Sam in 1984. He recalled how he was asked a single interview question about a book he was reading. “After that, he simply said, ‘If what I heard about you is true, we want you here.’ I started in August, and worked with him for 14 years. I never encountered the complex side people speak of,” Aigbogun said. He concluded by lauding Uncle Sam as perhaps the finest journalist still active in Nigeria. A Lesson in Leadership and Generosity – Aigbogun’s Recollection Frank Aigbogun, former Editor of Vanguard Newspapers, shared a deeply personal story about Uncle Sam’s unmatched generosity and leadership. Reflecting on a pivotal moment in his early career, he recalled how Amuka-Pemu sent him to the UK to cover the elections of Margaret Thatcher—his very first international assignment. “It was my first time visiting the United Kingdom,” Aigbogun said. “Uncle Sam handed me the key to his personal apartment.” Soon after, Aigbogun found himself thrust into the editor’s chair at a very young age. He said Uncle Sam showed unwavering belief in his capabilities. “Every day, he would tell me, ‘Frank, have you ever seen a day when newspapers don’t have front page stories?’ I replied, ‘No.’ Then he told me, ‘The best editor is the one who knows what not to publish.’ That line echoes in my head to this day.” According to Aigbogun, this philosophy shaped his entire career. Uncle Sam often emphasized that while many people can publish stories, the real strength lies in deciding what not to run with—an editorial discipline only the best possess. Amuka-Pemu’s Humility and Originality Stand Out – Adetiba Veteran journalist and pioneer editor of Vanguard, Mr. Muyiwa Adetiba, emphasized that humility and uniqueness define Uncle Sam’s character. “I’ve known Uncle Sam for nearly five decades. Generosity is one of his most remarkable traits. Back in the Punch days, if you complimented his shirt, he would literally take it off and give it to you,” Adetiba said. He added that his admiration goes beyond

Oil Theft in Niger Delta: Stakeholders Demand Probe of JTF Commanders from Obasanjo Era to Present

Stakeholders, activists, and environmental experts in the Niger Delta have made a strong call for the investigation of all past and current Joint Task Force (JTF) commanders and operatives, from the tenure of former President Olusegun Obasanjo up to the current administration, over alleged complicity in crude oil theft within the region. The JTF is a coalition of Nigeria’s security agencies including the military, police, and DSS, tasked with addressing issues such as militancy and oil-related crimes in the oil-rich Niger Delta. However, insiders assert that despite its mission, oil theft continues unabated because senior security personnel are reportedly safeguarding major oil criminals while only arresting petty offenders. Stakeholders who spoke to Saturday Vanguard claimed that these high-level criminals operate using large containers and ships, smuggling crude directly from export terminals, while the low-level “bunkerers” use jerrycans in the creeks. They further alleged that corrupt security personnel leak operational information to these syndicates. Bunkerers Now Use Women, Children to Evade Arrest Security reports have revealed an alarming strategy adopted by bunkerers — using women and children as human shields in their illegal refining camps. This tactic is employed to discourage security operatives from engaging due to fear of harming innocent lives. An anonymous source disclosed that this approach has become a standard practice. The Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, confirmed receiving such a report during a meeting with traditional leaders and local government officials. Governor Diri expressed concern, noting that soldiers often withdraw when they encounter children and women during raids. He urged community leaders to report these incidents to help combat the escalating menace. Advocate Demands Holistic Probe of JTF Roles Saviour Akpan, Executive Director of the COMPPART Foundation for Justice and Peace Building, highlighted that the fight against oil theft lacks effectiveness. He emphasized the need for a covert and impartial investigation of every JTF commander since Obasanjo’s administration. Akpan referenced public allegations made by Senator Adams Oshiomhole and former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, both of whom openly accused law enforcement officers of colluding with oil criminals. According to Akpan, unless these accusations are properly addressed, oil theft will persist indefinitely. Conspiracy Between Security Agencies and Oil Cartels — NDPC Zik Gbemre, Coordinator of the Niger Delta Peace Coalition (NDPC), lamented that small-time oil thieves are often prosecuted while the masterminds remain untouched. He noted that large vessels involved in oil theft are rarely traced back to their financiers, and those arrested are usually foot soldiers who get lenient sentences or fines, allowing the real perpetrators to escape justice. He further exposed how local diesel producers — often called “kpofire” operators — flood the market with unregulated diesel, undercutting prices and attracting patronage from legitimate marketers. Gbemre alleged that even billion-naira security surveillance contracts have failed to stop this fraud because too many parties benefit from it — including compromised oil company workers, security forces, and surveillance firms. Gbemre accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of lacking the political will to hold military officers accountable, noting that many personnel even lobby to be posted to the South-South region due to the lucrative nature of illegal oil deals. Small-time Criminals Punished, Big Players Shielded In Akwa Ibom, enforcement against artisanal refineries has led to some arrests. Yet, the trend shows that the more authorities clamp down, the more emboldened the perpetrators become. For instance, on February 23, 2024, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Forward Operating Base Ibaka intercepted eight suspected oil thieves aboard the MV Jasmine. The vessel reportedly carried 30,000 liters of suspected crude in Geepee tanks. The suspects lacked the necessary permits and were handed to the EFCC. Likewise, on April 3, 2024, the commanding officer of NNS Jubilee, Commodore Abubakar Umar, paraded nine suspects caught at a remote offshore wellhead. Convictions are rare; however, on January 13, 2025, the Federal High Court in Calabar sentenced MT New Angel and Edi Eurolink Distribution to fines of ₦10 million for unauthorized petroleum trading. Leaked Intelligence and Intimidation Undermine Anti-Theft Efforts Environmental activist Morris Alagoa, Deputy Director of the Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN), pointed out that security operatives often leak information to oil criminals. He recounted how a traditional ruler’s attempt to report criminal activity was compromised, leading to threats on his life. Alagoa referenced the role of Tompolo, the head of Tantita Security Services, who has been working to prevent illegal refining. However, he stated that military personnel who initially act upright often get corrupted over time. Until security agencies are held to account and transparency becomes a standard in enforcement, Alagoa warned, the cycle of oil theft will continue unabated. Exposing Military Complicity at Oil Terminals Continuing his remarks, Alagoa recalled an eye-opening revelation from the 2013/2014 Bayelsa Security Summit on Illegal Bunkering and the Nigerian Economy. During the event, where he and Alabo Nengi James served as panelists, a high-ranking naval officer disclosed that senior officials in the military, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), and oil companies were complicit in under-reporting crude volumes at export terminals. Despite the presence of Joint Task Force (JTF) commanders and top military personnel at the summit, the naval officer openly criticized their roles, drawing attention to systemic corruption in the oil sector’s oversight and operations. “Spoons in the Creeks, Drums at the Terminals” Using a vivid metaphor, the officer compared the scale of theft: local bunkerers in the creeks were likened to “stealing with spoons,” while massive operations at export terminals equated to “stealing with drums.” This stark contrast illustrated how small-scale local theft pales in comparison to the industrial-level fraud at official terminals. Until Nigeria adopts a comprehensive strategy to confront oil theft holistically—both at the grassroots and institutional levels—the crisis will continue unchecked. Alagoa stressed that issues like fuel scarcity also contribute to the persistence of bunkering. He noted that kerosene, a vital resource for low-income Nigerians, remains largely inaccessible, and even urban dwellers struggle to refill cooking gas. According to economists, supply-demand imbalances fuel the illegal trade. In the Niger Delta, this harsh reality often

John Terry Expresses Frustration, Names Three Clubs Chelsea Must Catch in Title Pursuit

Chelsea icon John Terry has voiced his frustration over the current state of the club, outlining three Premier League powerhouses he believes the Blues must overtake to rejoin the title race. The former Chelsea and England captain, known for his passionate connection to the west London club, expressed his deep desire to see Chelsea return to winning major honors. Terry stated that, while he maintains hope, the club still has significant progress to make under new manager Enzo Maresca before realistically challenging for the Premier League crown. “I feel frustrated because I want to see Chelsea lifting the biggest trophies again,” Terry said during an interview with The Mirror. He continued by acknowledging the gap between Chelsea and three leading English clubs. “Are we close? Not yet. I think it will take a few more years before we’re ready to fight for the Premier League title again. Right now, we must catch up with Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal before we can seriously compete.” Terry also emphasized the importance of experience and success when it comes to signing elite players: “Winning brings experience. If top talents — a world-class striker or goalkeeper — are being pursued, I know exactly which club I would choose. That’s what Chelsea needs to aim for.” His comments arrive just days before the kickoff of the FIFA Club World Cup, where Chelsea are placed in Group D, facing teams like ES Tunis, Flamengo, and Club León. Fans will be hoping for a solid performance from the Blues on the international stage.

Israel: Iranian Missile Strikes Kill Two, Damage Homes in Tel Aviv

Two individuals have lost their lives following a series of missile strikes launched by Iran, which reportedly hit Tel Aviv in four separate waves. According to the Jerusalem Post, one Israeli woman succumbed to injuries sustained during the Iranian attacks on Saturday. Another fatality occurred during the fourth wave of the missile barrage. Reports indicate that multiple residential structures in Tel Aviv suffered extensive damage from what were described as Iranian ballistic missiles. Emergency response teams were seen combing through the wreckage, searching for any survivors trapped beneath the rubble. As previously covered by LMSINT MEDIA, Iran initiated coordinated missile strikes across various regions in Israel from Friday night into the early hours of Saturday. Images circulating on social media platforms depicted homes either completely obliterated or suffering partial structural collapse due to the attack. Israel’s national emergency medical services confirmed that 21 people were being treated and evacuated after one of the rockets hit Israel’s central coastal plain. It is important to recall that, prior to this latest assault, Israel’s military had conducted numerous airstrikes targeting Iranian facilities in what appears to be an ongoing escalation between the two nations.

Iran’s Retaliation Against Israel Is Just the Beginning – Fani-Kayode Reacts

Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has reacted to the recent ballistic missile strike launched by Iran against Israel, describing it as merely the start of what’s to come. This development follows Iran’s massive deployment of missiles and drones, aimed at Israeli territories, in what Tehran has called the initial phase of a forceful reprisal to previous Israeli airstrikes on Iranian soil. According to credible reports from LMSINT MEDIA, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) had recently carried out multiple coordinated air assaults targeting Iranian sites. In a post shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday, Fani-Kayode remarked that the United States misled Iran into believing that peace negotiations were still ongoing, while Israel quietly advanced its military agenda. “The Islamic Republic of Iran has finally retaliated by launching a coordinated missile and drone offensive against Israel. This is only the beginning,” he wrote. Fani-Kayode further condemned the Israeli strikes, labeling them unjustified acts of aggression that breached international norms. “The assault on Iran was unprovoked and represents a blatant breach of international law. It is, without doubt, an act of war,” he stated. He emphasized that Israel’s actions went beyond defense, highlighting that civilians—including women, children, and top Iranian scientists and officials—were targeted and killed. “Within the past year, Israel has launched operations against Gaza, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and now Iran,” Fani-Kayode pointed out. He also argued that Israel’s latest military actions occurred while Iran was still engaged in diplomatic talks with the U.S., suggesting deception on the part of the Americans. “America lulled Iran into a false sense of security while Israel prepared for military escalation. This makes the U.S. complicit in the operation, regardless of its denials,” he asserted. Fani-Kayode challenged the global narrative that justifies Israel’s actions as self-defense, asking why Iran’s right to retaliate is not recognized similarly. “If Israel has the right to defend itself after perceived threats, does Iran not have the same right after being directly attacked?” he questioned. He warned that Iran’s counteroffensive is only the beginning, predicting further escalations that could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the region and possibly beyond. “Iran must and will retaliate more forcefully. This initial response is just the beginning. Before this ends, the Zionist state may cease to exist,” he warned. Fani-Kayode concluded by criticizing world powers who support Israeli aggression, calling them enablers of tyranny. “Those who support these Israeli aggressions, thinking power is always right, are mere cowards. The same monster they support today will eventually consume them,” he added.

Part-Time Parliament Will Cripple Nigerian Democracy – Senate Insists on Full Compensation

Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu has firmly dismissed any suggestion that lawmakers’ salaries should be affected by economic cost-cutting measures, particularly proposals for a part-time legislative system in Nigeria. In a recent appearance on Channels Television, Adaramodu stated unequivocally that adopting a part-time National Assembly would be detrimental to Nigeria’s democracy. He argued that legislative operations play a vital role in sustaining democratic governance and warned that part-time service would translate to “part-time democracy.” “If the parliament is on part-time, then it means democracy is on part-time. There is no democracy that derides its parliament and thrives,” he said. Representing Ekiti South Senatorial District under the ruling party, Adaramodu emphasized that the 109 senators and 360 House of Representatives members carry the burden of both lawmaking and public representation. Beyond legislative duties, they are also expected to provide oversight and serve as accessible representatives of their constituencies. He highlighted the frequent interaction between lawmakers and the citizens, stating that parliamentarians are often called upon for assistance in community and personal matters. “We go home almost every time, and we are the ones they call when a baby is born for naming ceremony support. When someone is building a house, they look to us for help,” Adaramodu explained. He questioned the logic behind paying part-time lawmakers the same as full-time ones if the structure of the parliament were to be changed, implying such a move would not truly lead to financial savings. “If we are on part-time, can’t the same amount of money be paid to part-time legislators?” he asked, further underlining that the legislature remains the most accessible arm of government to Nigerians. Adaramodu concluded that any attempt to weaken the legislature through part-time engagement is a direct threat to democratic stability in Nigeria.

Presidency Debunks Claims of National Honour Award to Aisha Yesufu by Tinubu

The Nigerian government has officially addressed the rumors claiming that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu conferred a national honor on well-known activist Aisha Yesufu. Temitope Ajayi, who serves as the Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Media and Publicity, clarified the matter on Friday. According to an earlier report by LMSINT MEDIA, President Bola Tinubu had conferred national honors on several distinguished Nigerians, including notable rights advocates, during a recent ceremony held on Thursday. Among those honored was Shehu Sani, a renowned activist and a former member of the Nigerian legislature. However, Aisha Yesufu, a vocal critic of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was not among the recipients. Known for her steadfast opposition to the current administration, she has consistently stated that President Tinubu is not her legitimate leader. Yesufu has long expressed her allegiance to the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi. She supports the policies and values that Obi promotes, arguing they represent the change Nigeria urgently needs. She has also been an outspoken critic of the Tinubu-led government whenever the opportunity arises. Furthermore, Aisha Yesufu maintains that Peter Obi was the true winner of the 2023 presidential election. She believes the election outcome was manipulated in favor of the APC and its candidate, Bola Tinubu. The confusion began when a certain “Aisha Yesufu” was listed among those receiving national honors. A user on X (formerly Twitter) tagged the Bring Back Our Girls campaigner, claiming: “It’s your own Aisha Yesufu. It is a reward for years of supporting the APC. You have Tinubu to thank. Buhari ignored you despite voting and supporting him. But Tinubu has rewarded you. Thank him and stop being an ingrate.” In a sharp and dismissive response, Aisha Yesufu replied: “God forbid!It can never be this Aisha Yesufu. Thank you.” To clear the air, Temitope Ajayi took to X to state: “The story on a viral list of national honours featuring the name of Aisha Yesufu and others credited to the Leadership newspaper is fake news. It should be ignored.” He emphasized that no additional honors were granted by President Tinubu beyond those he mentioned in his Democracy Day address delivered at the National Assembly.

Lagos Records N4 Trillion Annual Losses Due to Traffic Gridlock, Implements New Tanker Regulation Strategy

The Lagos State Government has announced that the city endures financial losses of roughly ₦4 trillion annually as a result of severe traffic congestion. This disclosure was made by the Special Adviser on Transportation to the Governor, Mr. Sola Giwa, during an exclusive interview broadcasted on TVC News. Giwa pinpointed uncontrolled parking habits and the disruptive presence of tankers and articulated lorries on major logistics routes as the primary drivers of this recurring challenge. Government Introduces E-Call-Up System for Tanker Regulation In response, the state administration has introduced a new Electronic Call-Up (E-Call-Up) system, set to be fully enforced from Monday, June 16, 2025. This digital platform is targeted at managing the operations of tankers and heavy-duty vehicles using the Lekki-Epe logistics corridor. According to Giwa, truck operators transporting goods into Lagos will now be mandated to register and schedule their movement through this E-Call-Up system. The platform aims to systematically coordinate the flow of these vehicles, eliminate haphazard roadside parking, and minimize traffic bottlenecks across the affected areas. Pre-Booking and Tracking Features to Streamline Traffic Operators of tankers must upload their Authority to Load (ATL) documents and pre-reserve parking spaces before entry into the city. The E-Call-Up system will also capture essential data regarding cargo movements and trip schedules, offering vital support for logistics management and regulatory enforcement. To accommodate this new policy, the Lagos State Government has approved seven dedicated truck terminals along the Lekki-Epe route. These parks will feature restrooms, cooking areas, electricity, and other essential amenities to enhance driver comfort and improve productivity. Giwa emphasized that this regulatory shift is the result of over two years of consultations with stakeholders. The measure aligns with the government’s larger objective of transforming the transportation network and fostering a sustainable urban mobility framework in Lagos.

Aiyedatiwa Seeks Ondo Assembly Approval for 12 New Commissioner Nominees

Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Governor of Ondo State, has formally requested the State House of Assembly to approve a list of twelve individuals nominated for commissioner roles. This request arrives four months after Governor Aiyedatiwa took the oath of office on February 24, 2025. In a formal statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the governor submitted the names to the Speaker of the House, Olamide Oladiji, emphasizing the need to strengthen the state cabinet, which currently has only two confirmed commissioners alongside several special advisers. Governor Aiyedatiwa made the nominations in line with the authority granted under Section 192 (1 & 2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). He expressed confidence in the Assembly’s prompt review, stating: “I respectfully submit the underlisted commissioner-nominees for your valued assessment and endorsement by the Honourable House. Swift confirmation of this request would serve the best interests of our beloved state.” The nominated individuals include respected technocrats and professionals from diverse sectors. The full list comprises: Earlier this year, on January 15, 2025, Governor Aiyedatiwa dissolved the existing cabinet in preparation for his administration’s formal inauguration. Notably, two key officials were retained: Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo, and Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowunmi Isaac.

Rivers Political Tension: Fubara Pays Another Visit to Wike, Seeks Peaceful Resolution

The suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has once again visited the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in a bid to mend their strained political relationship. According to verified information obtained by LMSINT MEDIA, Fubara visited Wike at his personal residence in Abuja on Monday. A close source, who preferred anonymity, confirmed the meeting to Daily Post, clarifying that a circulating image of the duo was outdated. “That photo is not recent, but I can confidently tell you that the governor visited the Minister this Monday,” the source stated. This visit appears to be another deliberate effort by Fubara to reconcile with his predecessor and ease the mounting political tension in Rivers State. Background of the Crisis Fubara’s governorship began on a contentious note shortly after taking office in 2023, following disagreements with Wike concerning political influence and resource control in the state. This power struggle soon extended to the Rivers State House of Assembly, leading to a division within the legislative body, with members aligning with opposing factions. Federal Government Intervention On March 18, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu suspended Governor Fubara for six months and imposed a state of emergency in Rivers State. As a precautionary response to threats from militant groups in the Niger Delta region—who vowed to sabotage oil facilities—the President appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as Sole Administrator to maintain law and order during the period. Despite his suspension, Fubara has actively pursued peaceful resolutions. He has held private meetings with President Tinubu in London and Lagos, and also reached out to Wike on multiple occasions. In a recent development, Wike referred to Fubara as his “son” and emphasized the need for him to engage with other key political actors in Rivers State to ensure a total resolution of the crisis. However, there have been no confirmed reports of Fubara initiating dialogue with other prominent figures in the state as the suspension enters its third month.

2027: Abia Opposition Faces Major Gamble Contesting Governor Alex Otti – Transport Union President Cautions

The President of the Cooperative Motor Union in Abia State, Mr. Chukwuma Azode, has cautioned that any political figure planning to challenge Governor Alex Otti in the 2027 gubernatorial election is engaging in a high-risk political move. Azode made this declaration on Thursday during a Two-Million Man March held in support of Governor Otti’s administration. The massive event, spearheaded by various transport unions, celebrated the governor’s extensive efforts in revamping road infrastructure across Abia State. Speaking at the rally, the motor union president emphasized that Governor Otti’s administration has achieved milestones significant enough to discourage any credible opposition. “Given the tangible developments under His Excellency’s leadership, I don’t believe any reasonable contender should consider running against him,” Azode said. He further asserted that the seat of leadership is practically secured for Otti through 2031, suggesting that anyone with intentions of contesting in 2027 should abandon the idea entirely. “Judging by what is evident on ground, His Excellency deserves to complete two terms in office. Hence, any opposition gearing up for 2027 is embarking on a dangerous path,” he noted. Azode stated unequivocally that Abians, particularly members of the transport sector, stand united behind Governor Otti and will continue to endorse his leadership. He said the solidarity march reflected the unwavering support of motor unions across the state for the current administration. “Our rally here today symbolizes our full endorsement of Dr. Alex Otti for the next gubernatorial tenure,” he concluded. The march saw participation from individuals across various political divides, highlighting the governor’s broad appeal. In a related comment, Victor Azubuike, Chairman of the Abia State Tricycle Operators Union (ASTOPU), praised the administration’s road projects, noting that transport workers in Aba have been among the primary beneficiaries of the improved road network under Otti’s leadership.

Swift Action by Kwara Firefighters Prevents Major Inferno in Ilorin

A significant fire outbreak was successfully averted in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, thanks to the prompt intervention of the Kwara State Fire Service on Thursday night. The fire incident was reported at Alfa Olorunkemi compound, situated behind the Kwara State House of Assembly, within the Asa Dam area. A critical transmission line carrying 33kVA current collapsed and came in contact with a plastic overhead water tank, triggering a fire within a compound housing three units of 3-bedroom apartments. According to Hassan Adekunle, the Public Relations Officer of the Fire Service, the emergency occurred around 9:12 PM. In a statement released on Friday in Ilorin, he explained that the fire crew quickly responded to the scene. “Upon arrival, the team found the fire had originated from a residential building consisting of multiple three-bedroom apartments. The cause was identified as a fallen 33kVA transmission line that landed on a plastic water tank, leading to a sudden fire outbreak,” he stated. The firefighting team commenced operations immediately, attempting to control the blaze and minimize property damage. However, their efforts were initially hampered by the active electrical supply from the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), which posed a serious hazard. Recognizing the danger, Hassan Adekunle promptly contacted the IBEDC control room, requesting a shutdown of the affected power feeder. Once power was disconnected, the firefighters managed to fully extinguish the fire and stop it from spreading to other areas of the compound. The Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Prince Falade John, praised the quick and coordinated response by the firefighting crew. He emphasized the importance of safety awareness, advising residents and builders to avoid constructing buildings too close to high-voltage power lines, due to the risk it poses to both lives and infrastructure.