Residents of Jalingo, the capital city of Taraba State, are expressing heightened concern and anxiety following the recent announcement of a planned power outage by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). The scheduled interruption, set to begin on Friday, January 9, 2026, has particularly alarmed small-scale business owners who rely heavily on a stable electricity supply to maintain daily operations. This development comes barely a month after Jalingo and parts of the neighbouring Adamawa State experienced prolonged blackouts ahead of the yuletide season, causing significant disruptions to both economic and social activities across the region. Many local businesses, households, and institutions are still recovering from the previous power outages, making the timing of this new schedule a major source of stress for residents. According to an official statement from TCN management, the power shutdown is planned to last until Wednesday, January 13, 2026. The exercise aims to facilitate critical infrastructure upgrades, including line stringing works and the energisation of a new 150MVA power transformer at the Jalingo Transmission Substation. The outage is scheduled to commence at 09:00 hours on Friday and conclude at 17:00 hours on Wednesday, during which the Jalingo 330kV Transmission Station will be deactivated, leading to power supply interruptions across multiple areas in the state capital. The announcement has triggered widespread dissatisfaction among residents, many of whom are fearful of repeating the economic hardships caused by previous outages. Small business operators, in particular, have expressed concerns that the planned shutdown could disrupt trade and income generation, further straining households and local commerce. One local business owner, Bala Ande, recounted the difficulties faced during the last power interruption. He noted that many businesses were forced to close due to the prohibitive cost of alternative power sources such as petrol generators. “We all remember the hardships during the previous outage. Many businesses had to shut down because we couldn’t afford fuel for generators, and some don’t even have backup power,” Ande said. Similarly, Madam Esther, a hairdresser based in Jalingo, shared her concerns over the impact on her family’s finances. She lamented that the outage threatens her plans to raise her children’s school fees within the coming week. “I was hoping to meet my children’s school fees obligations soon, but this outage has disrupted those plans,” she explained. Residents are urging relevant authorities, particularly the government, to work more effectively with TCN and the Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) to address the frequent power interruptions caused by maintenance activities. “It’s about time the government collaborated closely with TCN and YEDC to find a lasting solution to these recurrent outages,” Esther added. The Jalingo power outage highlights the ongoing challenges in electricity distribution in Nigeria, particularly in states where commercial activities depend on consistent electricity supply. For businesses and households, planning ahead, investing in backup power solutions, and staying informed about scheduled maintenance are now essential strategies for mitigating economic and social disruption.
The Kano State Fire Service has confirmed the death of two individuals who reportedly fell into wells in two different Local Government Areas of the state, sparking renewed concern over safety around uncovered wells in residential communities. According to the agency, the tragic events occurred in Madobi and Ghari Local Government Areas, where emergency rescue operations were carried out after distress alerts were received by the service’s control unit. In an official statement released by the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Fire Service, ACFO Saminu Yusif Abdullahi, the agency disclosed that its headquarters control room responded to two separate emergency calls involving victims who had accidentally fallen into wells. Incident in Madobi Local Government Area The first rescue operation was recorded at approximately 12:15 p.m. in Kwankwaso town, located within Madobi Local Government Area. The fire service explained that the distress call was received from the Deputy Director of the Fire Service, Rabiu Garba Abdu, who alerted the control room about the emergency. Immediately after receiving the report, a rescue team was deployed from the agency’s headquarters to the location. Upon arrival, the responders discovered that a two-year-old child, identified as Sa’idu Ahmad, had fallen into a well within the community. Despite the swift response and the combined efforts of the rescue personnel, the situation took a heartbreaking turn. The child was eventually retrieved from the well in an unconscious condition. Although all possible efforts were made to revive him, the boy was later confirmed dead. The fire service stated that the remains of the victim were formally handed over to officers at the Madobi Police Division for further necessary procedures. Second Tragedy in Ghari Local Government Area The second incident was reported in Karofawa Yan Kifi village, under Ghari Local Government Area. Firefighters stationed at the Ghari Fire Station were mobilized to the scene following information that an adult had fallen into a well. On reaching the location, the team found a 28-year-old man, identified as Suleiman Sani, who had also accidentally fallen into the well. He was rescued from the well but was found to be unconscious. Sadly, he was later confirmed dead by his parents. Following confirmation of his death, the body was handed over to the Village Head of Karofawa, Alhaji Musa Aliyu, in line with local customs and procedures. Investigations and Safety Advisory The Kano State Fire Service noted that investigations are currently ongoing to establish the exact circumstances that led to both incidents. The agency expressed deep sympathy to the families affected by the tragedies and used the opportunity to remind residents of the importance of safety measures around wells. Members of the public were strongly advised to properly cover wells and ensure adequate protection to prevent accidental falls, especially in areas accessible to children and the general public.
Kindly Share:
In a shocking incident in Minneapolis, a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent fatally shot a woman, Renee Nicole Good, during a tense operation in the city. The Department of Homeland Security described Good as a “violent rioter” who allegedly attempted to run over ICE officers. However, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the incident, describing it as “an agent recklessly using power that resulted in somebody dying,” and directed ICE officials to leave the city in strongly worded remarks. This incident occurs as hundreds of ICE agents have been deployed nationwide as part of the White House’s intensified efforts to curb illegal immigration. Minneapolis has become one of the focal points of this nationwide operation, sparking heated debates on law enforcement accountability and civil rights. The Shooting Captured on Video Social media posts from eyewitnesses provide chilling footage of the moment the shooting occurred around 10:25 a.m. local time on Wednesday. From multiple angles, a maroon SUV is visible blocking a residential street in Minneapolis, surrounded by a group of protesters. Law enforcement vehicles and ICE agents are nearby, confronting the woman behind the wheel. The footage shows one agent attempting to open the driver’s side door, while another stands near the front of the SUV. The exact distance between the agent and the vehicle at the time of the shooting remains unclear, and initial video reviews by the BBC could not confirm whether the agent was struck by the car. As the SUV tried to drive off, the agent fired, hitting the vehicle. Three gunshots are audible, and the SUV loses control, crashing into a parked car along the street. Conflicting Accounts and Reactions Former U.S. President Donald Trump, in a post on Truth Social, described the incident as a “vicious” attack on an ICE officer, noting that the officer was seriously injured but survived. Trump further criticized the “Radical Left” for allegedly targeting law enforcement officials and ICE agents daily. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara explained that the driver was initially stationary, blocking Portland Avenue, before she began driving as a federal officer approached her. Meanwhile, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem characterized Good’s actions as attempts to “stalk and impede officers” and described her use of the vehicle as an act of “domestic terrorism.” Noem confirmed that the ICE agent returned fire in self-defense and was treated at a local hospital. Conversely, the Minneapolis City Council released a statement asserting that Good was “caring for her neighbors” at the time of the shooting, highlighting the conflicting narratives surrounding the event. Eyewitness Reports Emily Heller, who witnessed the incident from her home, told CNN that she saw ICE agents confronting protesters and the woman in the SUV. Heller recounted that an agent attempted to open the vehicle’s door, prompting Good to reverse her SUV. She then described the agent stepping in front of the vehicle and shooting at close range through the windshield. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz also pushed back against federal claims, cautioning the public not to accept “propaganda” and promising a thorough investigation to ensure justice and accountability. Top Democratic leaders, including former Vice President Kamala Harris and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, criticized the Trump administration’s narrative. Harris described it as “gaslighting,” emphasizing the need for transparency and due process. Protests Erupt Across the City and Nationwide The fatal shooting prompted protests in several parts of Minneapolis, with residents demanding ICE withdrawal and accountability for the incident. Demonstrations centered near the shooting site, approximately one mile from the location where George Floyd was killed in 2020, an event that sparked global anti-racism protests. Other U.S. cities, including New Orleans, Miami, Seattle, and New York City, also witnessed demonstrations in solidarity. Minneapolis Public Schools announced that classes would be suspended for the remainder of the week due to safety concerns, following reports that federal agents had made arrests outside a local high school. Ongoing Investigations ICE operations in Minneapolis are set to continue, and the FBI has confirmed it will investigate Wednesday’s fatal shooting. Secretary Noem noted that the same agent involved had previously been hit by a vehicle in the line of duty earlier this year, underscoring the dangers faced by federal law enforcement officers. As investigations unfold, the event has reignited debates about law enforcement practices, use of deadly force, and the balance between federal immigration enforcement and community safety.
Kindly Share:
Business activities remain at a standstill in Balogun Market, Lagos Island, as traders continue to express frustration over the prolonged closure of shops and blocked access routes following the fire outbreak at the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building on December 24, 2025. Several traders operating within the busy commercial hub say the Lagos State Government’s continued sealing of shops and restriction of movement have left them financially stranded, barely able to cater for their families. The tragic fire incident claimed the lives of eight individuals, including three members of the same family — Stephen Onyeka Omatu, Casmir Nnabuike Omatu, and Collins Kenechukwu Omatu. Despite the intervention of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the fire has not been fully extinguished, raising safety concerns within the area. As a result, hundreds of shops across the multibillion-naira Balogun business district remain closed, disrupting daily trade and economic activities. When observers visited the market recently, clusters of traders were seen holding discussions, mourning the deceased, and sharing concerns about their uncertain future. Traders Count Losses as Businesses Remain Shut One of the affected traders, Martin Amalos, disclosed that his shop had remained sealed since December 25, 2025. According to him, the situation has severely affected his ability to provide basic necessities for his household. He explained that he trades in children’s clothing and the incident occurred during what should have been a peak sales period. With his shop inaccessible, he said he had exhausted his savings and now struggles daily to survive. Another trader, Oduloye Bimpe, described the closure as sudden and lacking any form of government support. She lamented that traders arrived at the market only to find their shops locked without prior assistance or alternatives. She questioned the lack of intervention measures, noting that many traders have dependants relying solely on daily sales for survival. While acknowledging safety concerns, she argued that the affected building should have been demolished by now to allow business activities to gradually resume. Families Plunged Into Hardship A fabrics dealer, Maduabuchukwu Ifeakomili, stated that many traders have been pushed into severe hardship due to the shutdown. He emphasized that most Balogun traders depend on daily income and cannot afford extended business closures. He appealed to the state government to reopen unaffected sections of the market and other sealed areas to ease the suffering of traders. According to him, several residents were also rendered homeless after their homes were sealed following the incident. Ifeakomili revealed that he had to borrow ₦12,000 just to feed his family, highlighting the growing desperation among affected traders. He further urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to order the demolition of the damaged building to prevent further delays. Government Defends Closure Over Safety Concerns Reacting to the complaints, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotosho, explained that the government’s decision was based strictly on public safety considerations. He warned that the 25-storey GNI building could collapse at any time, posing serious danger to anyone within a 100-metre radius. According to him, prioritizing human lives over economic activity remains the government’s foremost concern. Omotosho added that the area had only been shut for about two weeks, yet reports had emerged of individuals entering the site during the fire to retrieve goods and never returning. He stressed that the government’s actions were not driven by insensitivity but by the need to prevent further loss of life, noting that over ten buildings were affected by the incident. Condolences From Anambra State Governor Meanwhile, Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the devastating GNI building fire. He described the incident as deeply tragic and extended sympathies to all affected parties.
Kindly Share:
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has granted bail to former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), in connection with an alleged ₦9 billion money laundering case instituted by the Federal Government. The ruling was delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite, who admitted Malami to bail in the sum of ₦500 million, pending the commencement of his trial. As part of the bail conditions, the former justice minister is required to present two sureties, each standing for him in the same financial amount. Justice Nwite specifically ruled that the sureties must be property owners within Maitama, Asokoro, or Gwarimpa, all located within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. The court further directed that all property documents submitted by the sureties must undergo verification by the Deputy Chief Registrar of the Federal High Court. In addition, the sureties are mandated to submit sworn affidavits of means to confirm their financial capacity. The court also placed strict travel restrictions on Malami. He is required to submit all international travel documents, including his passport, to the court registry and must not leave the country without explicit judicial approval. Furthermore, both Malami and his sureties were ordered to submit two recent passport photographs each. Prior to meeting the bail requirements, the former Attorney General had been remanded at the Kuje Correctional Facility. Justice Nwite extended the same bail conditions to Malami’s son, Abdulaziz Malami, his wife, and Hajia Asabe Bashir, an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, all of whom are standing trial alongside him. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) filed a 16-count charge against Malami, his son, and his wife, bordering on alleged money laundering offences amounting to ₦9 billion. During the proceedings, the presiding judge issued a stern warning to legal practitioners and litigants involved in the case. He cautioned them against attempting to influence the court or seeking personal favours, emphasizing that judicial independence would be strictly upheld. In a statement released after the court session, the EFCC disclosed that Justice Nwite made it clear that any display of leniency by the court should not be misinterpreted as weakness. He stressed that the rule of law would be applied firmly without compromise. Justice Nwite later scheduled February 17 as the date for the commencement of the trial. Addressing members of the bar and parties to the case, the judge emphasized that professionalism must guide all court interactions. He stated that lawyers best serve their clients by offering competent legal representation rather than attempting inappropriate engagements with the court. According to him, any effort to undermine his integrity or cast aspersions on his judicial role would be strongly resisted.
Kindly Share:
Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have taken into custody a 35-year-old woman, identified as Modupeola Bamisade, over her alleged involvement in a large-scale online gadget fraud estimated at over ₦500 million. Investigations revealed that the suspect reportedly operated as an online gadget vendor, focusing mainly on Apple products such as iPhones, iPads, and related accessories. According to police findings, she attracted buyers by advertising these items at highly reduced prices, sometimes offering discounts of up to 50 percent, a strategy that convinced many unsuspecting individuals to patronize her business. Sources within the police command disclosed that the suspect leveraged the influence of popular social media personalities to promote her sales campaigns. These influencers shared promotional content on their platforms, which helped her reach a wide audience across different parts of the country. Many customers reportedly made payments after seeing the endorsements, believing the offers were genuine. However, after payments were made, the promised gadgets were allegedly never delivered. Victims were said to have received repeated excuses ranging from shipping delays to logistical issues. In some instances, the suspect allegedly staged fake delivery attempts, including calls from individuals posing as dispatch riders, only for no delivery to occur. A police source explained that the suspect had been running the operation for an extended period and had reportedly defrauded more than 100 individuals. During questioning, she allegedly admitted to using influencers as a major channel to reach potential buyers and convince them to trust her offers. Her arrest reportedly followed a formal complaint by one of the influencers who began to notice repeated customer complaints regarding undelivered products. Growing suspicion led the influencer to alert law enforcement authorities, which triggered an investigation and subsequent arrest. Following the arrest, several alleged victims reportedly visited the police command to identify the suspect. One complainant narrated how she transferred ₦1 million for an iPhone after being assured it was available. She claimed that after payment, the suspect confirmed the phone had arrived and would be delivered shortly, but continued to give conflicting explanations over time. Law enforcement officials have reiterated that online fraud involving electronics often thrives on unrealistically low prices. They emphasized that buyers should be cautious and verify sellers thoroughly before making payments, especially when transactions involve large sums. Security agencies have repeatedly warned Nigerians about the rise in digital scams, including fraudulent online sales, fake investment platforms, and impersonation schemes. Similar warnings were previously issued by the Ogun State Police Command concerning the growing sophistication of internet-related fraud activities.
Kindly Share:
Residents and road users in parts of Meiran, Lagos State, were thrown into confusion and fear on Wednesday following a violent confrontation involving hoodlums in the area. According to information gathered by LMSINT MEDIA from several eyewitnesses, the disturbance occurred around Kabowei Bus Stop in Meiran at approximately 1:00 pm. Although the clash caused widespread panic, there were no confirmed reports of fatalities as a result of the incident. The sudden outbreak of violence disrupted normal activities in the area, forcing motorists and pedestrians to seek immediate safety. Several drivers reportedly abandoned their vehicles along the road, choosing personal safety over property as the situation escalated. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as groups of young men ran through the road, some allegedly wielding axes, causing residents and commuters to flee in different directions. The presence of dangerous weapons heightened tension, making it impossible for vehicles to move freely through the area. A resident who identified himself simply as Segun narrated his experience to LMSINT MEDIA, explaining how he was compelled to leave his car behind and hide in a nearby building until the violence subsided. According to him, the confrontation started directly in front of a popular food spot near Meiran Bus Stop. Upon noticing several individuals armed with axes chasing another group, he decided it was unsafe to remain inside his vehicle. Segun stated that attempting to drive through the disorder could have exposed him to serious danger. He added that many other motorists also pulled over and parked their cars by the roadside to allow the situation calm down. After some time, when normalcy returned, he was able to go back and retrieve his vehicle. Another resident, Moses, also shared his account of what allegedly sparked the violent encounter. He explained that the issue began after some youths reportedly collected ice cream from a vendor and declined to pay for it. Moses said the seller demanded payment, but instead of complying, the youths allegedly threatened him. Feeling unsafe, the vendor contacted some acquaintances who later arrived at the scene to confront the boys. The situation reportedly escalated when about five individuals produced axes, leading to widespread panic and disorder. Despite the frightening nature of the incident, LMSINT MEDIA could not independently verify whether anyone sustained injuries during the clash. Attempts to obtain an official statement from the Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, proved unsuccessful, as calls and messages sent on Wednesday were not returned. Although it has not been established whether the violence was linked to cult activities, similar incidents involving young men chasing one another with weapons such as cutlasses and firearms have been recorded in different parts of Lagos in recent times. In a related incident last year, youths suspected to be cult members reportedly disrupted a masquerade festival in the Orile Iganmu area of Lagos State, where at least three people were shot dead. This recurring pattern has continued to raise concerns among residents about public safety in parts of the state.
Kindly Share:
The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has issued a strong caution in the ongoing N8.7 billion money laundering case involving former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami. Justice Emeka Nwite, who is presiding over the matter, warned that no individual connected to the case should attempt to make personal contact with him outside the courtroom. The warning was delivered on Wednesday during proceedings relating to the bail applications filed by Mr Malami and his co-defendants. The former AGF is being tried alongside his wife, Asabe Bashir, and his son, Abdulaziz Malami, over allegations bordering on large-scale financial misconduct. While addressing the court, Justice Nwite made his position on judicial conduct clear, stating that personal familiarity would not influence his decisions. He emphasized that any form of private approach to him concerning the case would not be tolerated. According to the judge, the integrity of the judiciary must remain intact, stressing that the law would not be compromised under any circumstance. He further clarified that his calm demeanor during court sessions should not be mistaken for vulnerability or leniency. Justice Nwite directed his remarks to all parties involved in the trial, including prosecutors from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), defence lawyers, and the defendants themselves. He urged them to understand the strict standards by which the court operates. He cautioned that any attempt to undermine his reputation or influence the judicial process would be firmly resisted and appropriately addressed. The judge reiterated his warning multiple times, underscoring the seriousness of his message. Mr Malami, who served as Nigeria’s Attorney-General from 2015 to 2023 during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, is facing a 16-count charge. The charges relate to the alleged laundering of approximately N8.7 billion. According to court documents filed by the EFCC, the defendants are accused of retaining proceeds believed to have been derived from unlawful activities. The allegations also include the acquisition of assets reportedly linked to funds of suspicious origin. Following arguments on the bail application, the court granted bail to each of the defendants. The bail conditions require a sum of N500 million per defendant, along with two sureties of equal value. Justice Nwite further ordered that the sureties must present verifiable properties located within Maitama or Gwarinpa areas of Abuja as part of the bail requirements. The judge issued his stern warning immediately after delivering the bail ruling, restating that neither lawyers nor litigants should attempt to gain unauthorized access to the court. He reminded all parties that courts differ in approach and temperament, noting that not every judge operates in the same manner. He advised that legal matters should be handled strictly through proper representation and due process. On the same day, in a separate decision, Justice Nwite granted an interim forfeiture order requested by the EFCC. The order covers 57 properties suspected to be connected to the alleged unlawful transactions involving Mr Malami. The forfeiture order followed an ex-parte application presented by EFCC counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, and was approved by the court pending further proceedings.
Kindly Share:
A High Court in Kebbi State, sitting in Birnin Kebbi, has handed down a death sentence to three individuals after finding them guilty of armed robbery and criminal conspiracy. The presiding judge, Justice Hassan Shehu Kuwa, convicted Abdul Mohammed, Surajo Umar, and Aliyu Abdullahi following a full trial in which the prosecution successfully established its case against them. The defendants were tried on a nine-count charge relating to armed robbery and conspiracy. Court records show that the three men were arraigned on November 17, 2023. The charges were filed under Sections 1(2)(a) and 6(b) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, 2004, alongside Section 304 of the Kebbi State Penal Code Law, 2021. The prosecution team was led by Barrister Farida Muhammad, who serves as a Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions at the Kebbi State Ministry of Justice. During the proceedings, the prosecution presented eight witnesses to substantiate the allegations. Among those who testified were Hamza Dandare, a retired banker; Aminu Garba Dandiga, a former commissioner; and Aisha Sahabi Tamba. Their testimonies detailed the circumstances surrounding the robbery and the involvement of the accused persons. Several exhibits were also tendered and admitted by the court. These included a cutlass, a rubber shoe, a plasma television set, cash amounting to ₦2.85 million, a black cap, as well as confessional statements made by the defendants. The confessions were documented in both Hausa and English languages. While delivering judgment, Justice Kuwa stated that the evidence presented by the prosecution was reliable, coherent, and firmly supported by the material exhibits before the court. He noted that the testimonies of the prosecution witnesses aligned with one another and remained unchallenged throughout the trial. According to the judge, the defence failed to discredit the prosecution’s case. The defendants neither called witnesses nor presented exhibits in their defence, choosing instead to rely solely on oral denial of the allegations. Justice Kuwa held that the prosecution had successfully proved the charges beyond reasonable doubt. Based on the strength of the evidence and the applicable laws, the court found the three defendants guilty on all counts. Consequently, the court sentenced Abdul Mohammed, Surajo Umar, and Aliyu Abdullahi to death, as stipulated by law. Following the pronouncement of the sentence, counsel to the defendants, Barrister C.C. Ojun, appealed to the court for leniency. He urged the judge to consider earlier cases where death penalties had been commuted to life imprisonment. In response, Justice Kuwa maintained that the punishment prescribed by law for the offence was mandatory. He explained that the court lacked the discretion to alter the sentence, adding that any appeal for mercy could only be directed to the Governor of Kebbi State, Dr. Nasir Idris, who holds the constitutional authority to grant clemency.
Kindly Share:
Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has expressed deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences following a tragic fire outbreak that claimed the lives of three brothers of Anambra origin in Lagos State. The unfortunate incident occurred on December 24, 2025, at the Great Nigeria Insurance House, located on Martins Street, Lagos Island, turning what should have been a festive Christmas Eve into a moment of profound grief for many families. The three victims, who were brothers and businessmen operating within the affected building, were identified as Mr. Steve Onyeka Omatu (40), Mr. Casmir Nnabuike Omatu (39), and Mr. Collins Kenechukwu Omatu (37). They are members of the Omatu family from Uzoakwa Community in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State. In a statement released to journalists in Awka by the Governor’s Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, Governor Soludo described the incident as devastating and extended his sympathies to the bereaved families and all those affected by the inferno. According to the statement, the governor lamented that the fire disaster abruptly turned a season meant for celebration into a night of unbearable pain and loss. He noted that the scale of destruction and the human toll of the incident had left many families heartbroken and struggling to come to terms with their losses. Governor Soludo expressed particular anguish over the death of the three Anambra sons, describing them as hardworking and industrious individuals who were only engaged in legitimate business activities to support their families. He emphasized that their passing was not only a personal tragedy for their immediate relatives but also a painful loss to Anambra State as a whole. The governor prayed for divine comfort and strength for the affected families, urging them to remain resilient in the face of the irreplaceable loss. He also offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed. In addition, Governor Soludo called on relevant authorities to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the fire outbreak. He stressed the importance of putting effective safety measures in place to prevent similar incidents in the future, particularly in densely populated commercial areas. The statement further revealed that the governor commended the swift and coordinated response of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Lagos State Fire Service, and other emergency responders who worked tirelessly to rescue victims and bring the situation under control. Governor Soludo also used the opportunity to advise Anambra residents living in Lagos and other parts of the country to always place the value of human life and personal safety above the recovery of property or goods during fire emergencies.
Kindly Share:
This report documents a concluded investigation and release procedure, relying strictly on official institutional statements. Every detail presented reflects verified actions and the confirmed legal standing of the individuals involved. The Kwara State Police Command has officially confirmed the release of six members of a community vigilante group who were previously detained by operatives of the Nigerian Army during a transit operation through Edo State. This confirmation came after the completion of a comprehensive investigation, documentation, and identity verification exercise carried out by the police authorities. According to an official statement released on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the arrest occurred in early December 2025. The vigilante operatives were intercepted along the Auchi–Ikpeshi Road, located within Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, while en route on official duties. The police spokesperson disclosed that following the initial military interception, the individuals were formally transferred to the Kwara State Police Command on December 31, 2025, for proper investigation and profiling in line with established security procedures. Further clarification from the command revealed that the six men were travelling in a patrol vehicle owned by Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State at the time they were stopped by soldiers. This detail became a central focus during the verification stage, as authorities sought to determine the legitimacy of their movement and operational mandate. The handover to the police was reportedly coordinated by the Brigade Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Brigadier General N. N. Rume. The transfer was carried out strictly for investigative purposes, ensuring that due process was followed and that inter-agency collaboration remained intact. Upon concluding its review, the Kwara State Police Command established that the individuals are bonafide members of a recognised vigilante outfit operating in partnership with approved security agencies. Their activities were confirmed to be part of ongoing community-based efforts aimed at combating banditry and other related criminal threats within affected regions. Police findings indicated that no criminal activity or unlawful conduct was linked to the six vigilante members. As a result, they were cleared of all suspicions and subsequently released. The individuals were handed over to their respective group leaders after the conclusion of the investigation, marking the end of the matter. In a closing remark, the Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, reiterated the command’s dedication to effective collaboration among security agencies and community-driven security initiatives. He stressed, however, that all vigilante and auxiliary security groups must continue to operate strictly within the framework of the law, ensuring accountability and respect for established regulations at all times.
Kindly Share:
The outrage surrounding the recent United States military action in Venezuela and the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro has continued to intensify across diplomatic and academic circles. In Nigeria, the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), alongside several respected foreign policy authorities, has openly criticized the move, describing it as a troubling example of rising imperial influence by dominant global powers and a threat to international stability. According to the experts, the action allegedly approved under the administration of former US President Donald Trump raises serious questions about the future of global order and respect for international norms. They warned that such unilateral interventions weaken the foundations of global peace and could encourage similar actions by other powerful states. These concerns were expressed during a Special Roundtable Discussion organized by the NIIA, titled “Matters Arising from US Interventions in Venezuela.” The forum focused specifically on the implications of the reported US invasion of Venezuela and the capture of President Maduro. Among the notable participants were Professor Eghosa Osaghae, Director-General of the NIIA; Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, Chairman of the Institute; Professor Adele Jinadu, a Political Science scholar and Non-Resident Fellow at the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD); Dr. Femi Otubanjo, Research Professor at NIIA; and Mr. Remi Ajibewa, a former Director of Political Affairs at ECOWAS. Other contributors to the dialogue included Ambassador Joe Keshi, a former Permanent Secretary at Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Dr. Rita Agu of the NIIA; international policy expert Femi Ojumu; foreign affairs analyst Kayode Komolafe; and public policy commentator Magnus Onyibe. Collectively, the experts criticized what they described as the promotion of the ideology that “might is right.” They cautioned that such a mindset could establish a dangerous international precedent, where powerful nations feel justified in violating the sovereignty of weaker states. According to them, this could encourage other influential countries such as China, Russia, or North Korea to adopt similar approaches in resolving international disputes. The speakers strongly emphasized the need for strict adherence to international law, particularly principles relating to national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-interference in the internal affairs of independent states. They argued that ignoring these principles could destabilize global diplomatic relations and undermine international institutions. Despite their criticism, the experts acknowledged that the situation also offers important lessons, especially for developing nations and African countries. They stressed the need for governments to manage internal affairs responsibly, prioritize the welfare of citizens, and institutionalize good governance practices. According to them, strong internal systems remain essential for protecting national sovereignty in an increasingly aggressive global environment. “We Are All at Risk” — NIIA Director-General Leading the discussion, Professor Eghosa Osaghae questioned whether the events in Venezuela represented a modern version of imperialism. He warned that countries in the Global South, particularly those in Africa, could be vulnerable to similar interventions if global power dynamics continue on this path. Osaghae dismissed the belief that physical distance or geographic location offers protection from such actions. He argued that imperial influence does not depend solely on proximity, noting that interventionist policies can affect nations regardless of their location.
Kindly Share:
Ibadan — The Oyo State Government has announced the suspension of a traditional ruler in Atisbo Local Government Area following allegations connected to unlawful mining operations within his domain. The monarch affected by the decision is the Sobaloju of Ofiki, Jacob Adefabi, who was reportedly sanctioned over actions believed to contravene established mining regulations in the state. According to an official statement released by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media, Mr. Moses Alao, the suspension followed alleged violations of Executive Order 001 of 2023, a directive enacted to regulate mining activities across Oyo State. The statement explained that the traditional ruler was accused of encouraging unauthorised access to government-designated assets, including protected forest reserves under state control. It was further alleged that consent letters were issued to mining firms without the required approvals, thereby enabling mining operations in restricted areas. Executive Order 001/2023 specifically outlines procedures and approvals required before any form of mineral exploration or extraction can take place within the state. The government maintained that the alleged actions undermined these regulations and posed potential risks to environmental protection and community welfare. Authorities stated that the suspension was implemented as a safeguard aimed at protecting public interest and ensuring due process during investigations. A separate letter issued by the Director of Chieftaincy Matters in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, A.M. Olajire, confirmed that the monarch was directed to vacate the palace of the Onito of Ito with effect from January 5, pending the conclusion of an ongoing probe. The letter clarified that the measure was precautionary and intended to preserve the credibility of the investigation process. It also instructed the suspended chief to completely disengage from all mining-related dealings and avoid any actions that could obstruct investigative efforts. In addition, the monarch was ordered to remain accessible to authorities and cooperate fully with the investigation team assigned to examine the allegations.
