Sorrow continues to hang heavily over the Omatu family following the tragic loss of three siblings in a deadly fire incident that occurred on Lagos Island during the Christmas period. The three brothers were among the eight people who lost their lives when a fierce blaze swept through the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building located on Martins Street, Lagos Island, on December 24, 2025. The incident has left relatives, friends, and the wider community in deep mourning. The deceased have been identified as Stephen Onyeka Omatu (50), Casmir Nnabuike Omatu (39), and Collins Kenechukwu Omatu (37). They hailed from Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State and were residing in Lagos in search of improved economic prospects. According to information made available by family sources, the brothers were actively engaged in business activities within the Great Nigeria House before the incident. The commercial facility is known to accommodate multiple offices, retail outlets, and storage spaces, making it one of the busiest business hubs on Lagos Island. Eyewitness accounts revealed that the fire erupted without warning and rapidly spread across different sections of the building. Thick smoke reportedly engulfed the premises, creating panic and severely limiting escape routes for occupants. Several individuals attempted to flee as the fire intensified, but the three brothers were unfortunately trapped within the structure. Their bodies were later recovered after emergency responders succeeded in containing the inferno. The heartbreaking event has once again brought public attention to long-standing issues surrounding fire safety measures, emergency response systems, and building regulation compliance in Lagos’ crowded commercial areas. Over the years, similar incidents in such locations have resulted in repeated losses of both lives and valuable property. People familiar with the Omatu brothers described them as industrious, united, and deeply committed to supporting both their nuclear and extended family members. Since news of their passing became public, condolences have continued to pour in from different quarters, including Anambra State and beyond. In their hometown of Ihiala, various community associations, youth groups, and religious organisations have organised prayer gatherings in honour of the deceased. These groups have also used the occasion to renew calls for stronger enforcement of safety regulations in business premises to prevent future tragedies. A service of songs was held on January 7, 2026, at Jesus the Saviour Catholic Church, Bucknor Ejigbo, Lagos, where mourners gathered to pay tribute to the departed brothers. The family has officially announced that the final burial ceremony will take place on January 14, 2026, in Ihiala, Anambra State. Preparations for the burial are currently underway, with family members arriving from various parts of Nigeria to participate in the funeral rites. Traditional rulers, community leaders, and representatives of several associations are also expected to be present as the brothers are laid to rest in their ancestral home.
In a remarkable development, a man has been pulled out alive from the wreckage of the Great Nigeria House located on Lagos Island, Lagos State, eleven days after the building collapsed. Information gathered revealed that the survivor was discovered on Tuesday afternoon, shocking both emergency officials and residents who had feared that no one remained alive beneath the debris. The incident traces back to Christmas Eve, when the multi-storey structure was engulfed by a severe fire outbreak. The blaze weakened the building’s integrity, and it later collapsed, raising serious safety concerns across the area. Following an assessment of the situation, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, directed that the damaged structure be demolished to prevent further danger to lives and surrounding properties. Even as public attention faded and doubts grew over the possibility of survival, rescue teams refused to abandon the operation. Emergency responders, supported by relevant state agencies, continued methodical search-and-rescue activities at the site, carefully combing through the rubble day after day. Their persistence paid off when movement was detected beneath the debris, leading to the dramatic rescue of the trapped individual more than a week after the collapse. The discovery has been described as extraordinary, considering the length of time spent under the rubble without external assistance. At the time of reporting, officials have not disclosed the rescued man’s identity or medical condition. However, authorities confirmed that rescue operations are still ongoing, as teams continue to examine the site to rule out the possibility of additional survivors. The incident has reignited discussions around building safety standards, fire prevention, and emergency response systems in Lagos, particularly within densely populated commercial districts such as Lagos Island.
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The Kano State Police Command has formally decorated 13 senior police officers who recently received promotions to higher ranks within the Nigeria Police Force. The decoration ceremony was conducted during a well-organized event held at the Police Officers’ Mess in Kano, where top-ranking officials of the command gathered to witness the symbolic recognition of the officers’ advancement. The development was made public in an official statement issued on Monday and signed by CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Command. Breakdown of Promoted Officers According to the statement, the promoted officers span multiple senior cadres of the police hierarchy. The list includes: CSP Kiyawa explained that DCP Muhammad Nuhu Digi was elevated from the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police to Deputy Commissioner of Police. Similarly, Musa Akawu, Ahmed Abdullahi, Abdullahi Usman, and Saleh Buba were promoted from Chief Superintendent of Police to Assistant Commissioner of Police. He further noted that seven officers advanced to the rank of Chief Superintendent of Police, while one officer rose from Deputy Superintendent of Police to Superintendent of Police, marking a significant milestone in their professional careers. Commissioner of Police Reacts Speaking during the ceremony, the Commissioner of Police in Kano State, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, congratulated the officers on their well-deserved promotions. He described the advancement as a reward for consistent dedication, hard work, discipline, and professional excellence demonstrated over the years. CP Bakori emphasized that promotion within the police force comes with increased expectations and responsibility. “This elevation represents a call to higher duty. You must continue to uphold integrity, discipline, and professionalism while serving the people with renewed commitment,” he stated. Commendation of Police Leadership The Kano Police Commissioner also commended the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for sustaining reforms aimed at strengthening the Nigeria Police Force. According to him, ongoing reforms and improved welfare initiatives under the current police leadership have contributed significantly to boosting morale and operational effectiveness across commands nationwide. The event concluded with words of encouragement, as the promoted officers were urged to see their new ranks as an opportunity to contribute more effectively to public safety and law enforcement in Kano State and beyond.
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Pastor Chris Okafor, the Senior Pastor of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, was absent on Monday after being formally invited by the police in connection with allegations bordering on sexual offences and conduct capable of disrupting public peace. According to information gathered by LMSINT MEDIA, the cleric was expected to present himself at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Lagos, by 10:00 a.m., following an invitation issued by the police authorities. The invitation was reportedly directed for him to appear before the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the SCID. Earlier, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Adebisi, had disclosed during a briefing on Sunday that the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, had ordered a comprehensive investigation into complaints submitted against the religious leader. The directive, she explained, was part of the police’s responsibility to examine allegations that could affect public order and safety. The complaints, as gathered, are centered on alleged sexual misconduct and other actions said to have the potential to cause unrest if left unaddressed. The police maintained that the investigation would follow due process and be handled with professionalism. However, an officer attached to the SCID, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the case, confirmed that Pastor Okafor did not honour the invitation as scheduled. The officer explained that following the Commissioner of Police’s instruction, the Deputy Commissioner overseeing the SCID had directed the relevant unit to formally engage and debrief the pastor. Despite this arrangement, the expected appearance did not take place throughout the day. “As directed by the CP, the DCP asked that he be debriefed by the unit handling the matter, but he did not come. By the evening, it was clear he would not be attending today,” the officer stated. Further developments revealed that representatives believed to be aides of the cleric had reached out to the police to request more time. A source familiar with the situation disclosed that calls were received from individuals acting on his behalf, seeking an extension and offering assurances that he would make himself available at a later date. “We received communication from his aides asking for additional time and assuring the authorities that he would eventually report. That is the most recent update available,” the source said. Efforts to obtain further clarification from the Lagos State Police spokesperson on Monday did not yield results. Calls and text messages sent to Abimbola Adebisi were yet to be responded to as of the time this report was filed. The matter remains under police review, pending further actions in line with investigative procedures.
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A Special Offences and Domestic Violence Court sitting in Ikeja has sentenced Olawale Faleti, a former Director in the Lagos State education sector, to two years and five months in prison for unlawfully converting ₦48.9 million belonging to Access Bank Plc. The judgment was delivered on Monday by Justice Rahman Oshodi, who found the 64-year-old guilty on five separate counts of theft following prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Court Finds Sustained Financial Misconduct While delivering the ruling, Justice Oshodi stated that the offence was not accidental but involved a continuous and intentional pattern of withdrawals. The court noted that Faleti repeatedly accessed funds without lawful approval, even though he had no authority to operate the account in question. According to the judge, the defendant’s actions showed clear intent, as the withdrawals continued over time instead of being a single occurrence. Absence of Remorse Influenced Sentencing The court further observed that Faleti failed to demonstrate sincere remorse and did not fully accept responsibility for his conduct throughout the trial. Justice Oshodi emphasised the importance of protecting public confidence in the financial system, stating that banks play a crucial role in economic stability and must be shielded from fraudulent practices. He warned that individuals who attempt to exploit financial institutions should expect firm legal consequences. Reduced Sentence but Mandatory Jail Term Although the court acknowledged that Faleti had no prior criminal record, it ruled that imprisonment was unavoidable due to the gravity of the offence. A 20 percent reduction was applied to the maximum statutory sentence of three years, considering the partial repayment already made by the convict. As a result, Faleti was handed two years and five months’ imprisonment on each count, to run concurrently. Prison Term and Repayment Order The court ordered that the prison sentence would take effect from January 5, 2026. It also directed that Faleti’s biometric information and personal records be entered into the Lagos State Judiciary offenders’ database. In addition, after accounting for the ₦3 million already refunded, the court ordered Faleti to pay the remaining ₦45.9 million to Access Bank Plc. The bank was instructed to officially notify the court once full repayment has been completed. How the Fraud Occurred During the proceedings, EFCC prosecutor Ahmed Dambuwa explained that the defendant had taken advantage of unauthorised access to an Access Bank credit card. The card was designed to permit withdrawals of not less than ₦43,000 per transaction. However, a technical system error during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020 allowed Faleti to withdraw far larger sums. Investigators revealed that the malfunction enabled cumulative withdrawals amounting to approximately ₦48 million over a defined period. Breakdown of the Transactions The charges detailed that Faleti converted: All the funds were confirmed to be the property of Access Bank Plc. Applicable Law The offences were found to be in violation of Section 287(1)(a) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015, which criminalises theft and unlawful conversion of property.
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A devastating boat accident in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State has resulted in a rising death toll, as emergency officials confirm that more victims have been recovered from the water. According to the latest update, the number of confirmed deaths has increased from 25 to 29 following the discovery of additional bodies. The tragic incident has continued to draw attention as rescue teams intensify efforts to locate those still unaccounted for. The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YSEMA) disclosed that among the 29 deceased persons recovered so far, 24 victims were residents of Nguru Local Government Area, two were from Yusufari Local Government Area, while three bodies were identified as coming from Gurin in Jigawa State. This breakdown highlights the wide impact of the incident across neighboring communities. Emergency responders confirmed that 12 individuals were successfully rescued and later discharged after receiving medical attention, while three survivors were admitted for treatment. Out of those hospitalized, two have since been discharged, leaving medical teams to continue monitoring recovery outcomes. Despite the progress made, eight persons remain missing, and search operations are still actively ongoing. Local divers, volunteers, and emergency personnel are working together to comb the waterways in hopes of locating the remaining victims. In response to the tragedy, the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar, has directed the immediate activation of the agency’s Maiduguri Operations Office. This move enables the deployment of a specialized Emergency Response Team to reinforce ongoing rescue activities in the affected area. A statement released by NEMA confirmed that the deployed team will collaborate closely with the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency, alongside other relevant bodies, to strengthen coordination and improve the effectiveness of the search-and-rescue mission. Mrs. Umar expressed profound condolences to families who lost loved ones in the accident. She reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to working alongside state emergency agencies, local emergency committees, trained divers, and community volunteers until the rescue operation reaches a conclusion. Additionally, the NEMA Director-General used the opportunity to once again urge riverine communities to adopt strict safety practices during water transportation. She emphasized the importance of avoiding boat overloading and ensuring that life-saving equipment is worn at all times to reduce the risk of future tragedies. As rescue operations continue, authorities maintain their appeal for cooperation from local residents while reaffirming their dedication to saving lives and improving water transport safety across vulnerable regions. Contact Information ? Email: [email protected] Stay Updated Stay informed and ahead of the curve.Follow LMSINT MEDIA on WhatsApp to receive real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Never miss an important headline—join today.
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Fresh details have continued to surface following the killing of Mr. Igwe Akuma Akwu, a former President-General of the National Association of Ohafia Students (NAOS), whose death has sent shockwaves across Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State. Mr. Akwu, a young community leader and native of Ndi Uma compound in Okon-Aku, Ohafia LGA, was reportedly shot dead by unidentified gunmen on Friday, January 2, 2026. His killing triggered widespread anger among residents, leading to unrest and the destruction of several properties within the community. In response to the incident, the Abia State Police Command confirmed that some suspects had been taken into custody. The police further disclosed that two tactical units were immediately deployed to the affected area to restore calm and prevent further breakdown of law and order. However, emerging information from the late Akwu’s social media activity has revealed that his death may not have been entirely unexpected. Records show that three days before his assassination, he publicly alerted both government authorities and security agencies about threats to his life and the safety of members of his community. In a detailed post dated December 30, 2025, Mr. Akwu recounted a series of troubling incidents he had endured over time. He stated that in January 2025, he was allegedly attacked and severely beaten by individuals he described as thugs working on behalf of a powerful figure. He further disclosed that his Toyota Corolla vehicle was set on fire on October 28, 2025, claiming that those responsible openly boasted of having strong connections within government circles. These events, according to him, created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity around his family and community. Adding to the gravity of the situation, Mr. Akwu also revealed in the same post that his five-year-old cousin went missing following one of the reported attacks. He expressed deep concern over the incident and suggested that it was part of a broader pattern of intimidation. Towards the end of his message, the former student leader openly warned that his life could be in danger, particularly due to the information he had made public. That message has now gained renewed attention following his death. Meanwhile, the tragic incident has drawn reactions from human rights organizations, traditional leaders, and youth groups, all of whom have appealed for calm while urging authorities to ensure a comprehensive investigation. One of such responses came from the Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy & Development (FENRAD). In a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday, the group’s Executive Director, Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of everyone connected to the killing. According to him, there is a pressing need for a reassessment of how security agencies respond to reported threats and early warning signs. He emphasized that ignoring such alerts often results in avoidable tragedies. FENRAD also demanded accountability for any form of negligence or institutional failure that may have contributed to the inability of security agencies to protect the deceased, stressing that justice must be served to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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Fresh violence has reportedly erupted in Plateau State as armed men launched a deadly attack on a rural settlement, leaving several residents dead and many others wounded. At least seven individuals were confirmed dead following the invasion of Bong village, located in Doemak District of Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area, Plateau State. The assailants are suspected to be Fulani bandits, according to local authorities. The Executive Chairman of Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area, Christopher Audu Manship, verified the incident through an official statement released on Sunday. The statement was issued on his behalf by the Director of Press and Publicity, Danaan Cletus Sylvanus. According to the council leadership, the attackers allegedly singled out Christian residents within the community during the assault. In addition to the confirmed fatalities, several other villagers sustained injuries of varying severity. The chairman further disclosed that the destruction caused by the attack was extensive, with residential buildings and valuable properties estimated to be worth billions of naira reduced to ruins. Reacting to the incident, Manship expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and condemned the violent act in strong terms. He assured residents that the local government was actively collaborating with relevant security agencies to ensure that those responsible for the killings are identified, apprehended, and prosecuted. “The chairman is profoundly disturbed by the killing of innocent citizens and has intensified cooperation with security operatives to guarantee that the offenders face justice,” the statement read. A resident of the affected village, Lawrence Dogari, also corroborated the attack. He disclosed that beyond the fatalities already recorded, numerous villagers suffered injuries, while the whereabouts of some community members remain unknown. “At this time, more than seven deaths have been confirmed. Many people were wounded, and a number of residents are still missing,” Dogari stated. The incident adds to the growing concerns over recurring insecurity in Plateau State, as rural communities continue to experience violent incursions despite ongoing security efforts. Contact Information ? Email: [email protected] Stay Updated Stay informed and ahead of the curve.Follow LMSINT MEDIA on WhatsApp to receive real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Never miss an important headline—join today.
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The Ondo State Police Command has apprehended a middle-aged woman and her adult son following allegations that they planned to use a minor for a suspected money ritual in the Ile-Oluji community of Ondo State. The suspects, identified as a 53-year-old woman named Maria and her 28-year-old son, Adewale, were taken into custody after security operatives uncovered information linking them to an alleged ritual plan involving a 10-year-old boy. According to information obtained by LMSINT MEDIA, the woman reportedly worked together with her son to arrange the ritual act. Investigations revealed that the duo allegedly sought the assistance of a local herbal practitioner, with the intention of using the young boy for ritual purposes aimed at financial gain. A police source disclosed that the arrest was made possible through timely and reliable intelligence received by officers attached to the SWAT Tactical Team. The operatives acted swiftly after receiving the report, preventing the alleged act from being carried out. The source further explained that the operation was triggered by a tip-off from a vigilant member of the public who noticed suspicious activities in the Ile-Oluji area. Upon receiving the alert, security personnel immediately mobilized and moved into the area to verify the information. The coordinated response by the police resulted in the successful arrest of both suspects. The minor, who was allegedly at risk of being used for the ritual, was safely rescued during the operation and is currently under protection. Police authorities have not released further details as investigations are ongoing. However, the incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies. Contact Information ? Email: [email protected] Stay Updated Stay informed and ahead of the curve.Follow LMSINT MEDIA on WhatsApp to receive real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Never miss an important headline—join today.
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Several African nations have taken firm reciprocal actions against the United States following visa and travel restrictions imposed by the administration of President Donald Trump. Mali and Burkina Faso are the most recent countries to restrict the entry of American citizens, citing the principle of reciprocity after visa limitations were placed on their nationals. The announcements were made separately by the foreign ministers of both countries, confirming that United States passport holders would now face the same treatment their citizens encounter when attempting to enter the US. With these developments, the number of African countries that have imposed visa bans or entry restrictions on Americans has increased to four. Earlier, on June 6, 2025, Chad officially suspended the issuance of visas to United States citizens. The decision was described as a direct response to visa restrictions earlier imposed on Chadian nationals by the US government. Chadian President Mahamat Deby made the announcement through his official social media channels, explaining that the suspension aligned with international diplomatic norms based on reciprocity. According to him, the move was not merely administrative but rooted in protecting the country’s dignity and national pride. Similarly, on December 25, 2025, Niger announced a complete halt to visa issuance for US citizens and barred American nationals from entering the country. In its official communication, the Nigerien government stated that the suspension was total, indefinite, and applied to all categories of visas for United States citizens. Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister, Karamoko Traore, also confirmed his country’s position in a statement released on a Tuesday. He explained that Burkina Faso’s action followed recent US measures that restricted entry for Burkinabe citizens. According to him, the government had decided to apply equal visa conditions to American nationals in response. Mali echoed the same stance in its official statement, stressing that the decision was in direct alignment with the actions taken by US authorities. The Malian government stated that American citizens would now be subject to the same requirements and conditions imposed on Malian nationals seeking entry into the United States, with immediate effect. Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, and Niger share common geopolitical characteristics, including being landlocked West African countries with a shared history of French colonial rule. The diplomatic tension stems from Proclamation 10998 issued on June 4, 2025, which became effective on June 9, 2025. Under this proclamation, the United States suspended entry for immigrants and non-immigrants from twelve countries. These countries included Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Later, on December 16, 2025, President Trump expanded the scope of the travel ban, increasing the number of affected countries to nineteen. The restrictions also extended to travel documents issued by the Palestinian Authority. Nationals of the affected countries were barred from entering the United States unless they were already in the country with valid visas or qualified for specific exemptions. These exemptions applied to categories such as diplomats, students, athletes, and lawful permanent residents. According to the US administration, the policy was part of broader efforts to strengthen immigration controls and tighten entry standards for security and regulatory reasons. In another proclamation dated December 16, 2025, and effective from January 1, 2026, eight additional countries were added to the list. These included Burkina Faso, Laos, Mali, Niger, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, and Syria. Furthermore, twenty countries were placed under a partial ban that limited the entry of both immigrants and non-immigrants starting January 1, 2026. Among the affected nations was Nigeria, alongside Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Nigeria Not in the Same Category as Sahel Nations – Experts Diplomatic analysts have described the responses by Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, and Niger as legitimate exercises of national sovereignty. A former Nigerian Consul to Cameroon, Ambassador Rasheed Akinkuolie, stated that both Mali and Burkina Faso had every right to take reciprocal measures against the United States by restricting entry for American citizens. He noted that relations between the US and the two countries were already strained, adding that American citizens were unlikely to travel to regions facing security challenges and ongoing insurgency. Akinkuolie also pointed out that Nigeria’s situation differs significantly. According to him, Nigeria maintains strong strategic ties with the United States, particularly in the fight against terrorism. He explained that Nigeria relies on international cooperation, including US support, to combat the Boko Haram insurgency, which makes reciprocal bans impractical. He further emphasized that Nigeria seeks foreign investment and maintains diplomatic flexibility, making it difficult to take actions that could strain relations with major global partners. Speaking on the issue, the Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Professor Eghosa Osaghae, said Mali and Burkina Faso acted based on what best suited their national interests. He explained that the international system operates under established conventions, laws, and diplomatic protocols that guide how countries respond to bilateral and multilateral issues. Osaghae stressed that Nigeria’s diplomatic posture cannot be compared with that of its West African counterparts. He noted that Nigeria’s relationship with the United States differs significantly from those of Mali, Niger, or Burkina Faso, especially regarding security cooperation and foreign policy objectives. According to him, Nigeria’s foreign relations are driven by national interest, and the country has clearly defined its diplomatic options. He added that Nigeria has consistently pursued partnerships and friendly relations worldwide rather than adversarial engagements. The NIIA Director-General concluded by stating that while reciprocity remains a valid principle in diplomacy, it should be applied in a way that produces mutually beneficial outcomes rather than escalating tensions. 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A retired Nigerian Army officer, Major Toye Akinlade (rtd), has instituted a legal action against the Nigerian Army alongside two senior-ranking officers, accusing them of official misconduct, abuse of authority, unlawful redeployment, and compelling him to remain in active duty even after he formally tendered his resignation. The matter, filed before the National Industrial Court sitting in Abuja, is referenced as Suit No: NICN/ABJ/379/2025. In the suit, Akinlade is urging the court to affirm that his resignation became effective immediately upon acknowledgment by the appropriate authorities and that every directive, posting, or disciplinary step taken against him afterward was illegal, unconstitutional, and a violation of his fundamental rights. The named respondents in the action include the Nigerian Army, Colonel Samson O. Okebukola, and Colonel D. O. Ehicheoya. According to court filings obtained by reporters, Akinlade disclosed that despite submitting a written resignation dated November 11, 2025, addressed to the Chief of Army Staff and copied to relevant military offices, he was allegedly redeployed without consent and subjected to disciplinary procedures that he claims lacked due process. Among the seven reliefs presented for judicial determination, the claimant is seeking a declaration that his resignation letter legally took effect from the date it was received by the respondents and that any subsequent exercise of command authority over him was null. He is also asking the court to invalidate a query dated December 12, 2025, which was allegedly issued following the directive of the third respondent after his resignation had already been submitted. Akinlade insists that the query holds no legal standing and should be set aside entirely. In addition, the former officer is contesting a letter of displeasure served on him, which reportedly imposed sanctions such as reprimand and admonishment. He maintains that the punishment was enforced without the constitution of a Board of Inquiry or investigative panel, contrary to established military administrative procedures. Court documents reveal that the disciplinary letter was allegedly issued “without any inquiry or investigative process establishing wrongdoing against the Applicant.” Through an affidavit supporting his claims, Akinlade narrated that after raising objections and seeking redress concerning the disciplinary measures, he was redeployed from Jos to Zaria, a move he described as inconsistent with accepted Army protocols. He stated clearly in his affidavit:“That the Applicant, being dissatisfied with the excesses and abuse of official authority exercised by the 2nd Respondent without adequate supervision from superior command, submitted his resignation letter.” Despite his resignation, Akinlade alleged that he was ordered to resume duty at Basawa, Zaria, and continued to be treated as an active officer, a situation he described as unlawful, coercive, and oppressive. The claimant further accused military authorities of denying him medical leave after he reportedly collapsed during official duty and required hospitalization. He disclosed that medical evaluations showed his diastolic blood pressure dropped to 60, and argued that the refusal to permit him adequate medical rest amounted to a tortious violation of his rights. As part of his reliefs, Akinlade is requesting the court to declare that his resignation “took effect immediately upon receipt by the Respondents, thereby terminating his service with the 1st Respondent.” He is also asking the court to compel the Nigerian Army to process and release his pension and service entitlements, noting that he had served the institution for over a decade. Additionally, he seeks permission to retrieve personal belongings from his last official residence. Beyond declaratory reliefs, Akinlade is demanding ₦50 million in damages for alleged unlawful restriction, psychological trauma, and infringement of his constitutional rights, alongside ₦1 million as litigation costs. In his written submission before the court, the retired major emphasized that resignation from military service remains a constitutionally protected right, stressing that “military service is voluntary and cannot be equated to modern-day servitude.” He relied on Section 306 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which states that a resignation becomes effective once the written notice is received by the authority to whom it is addressed. He therefore urged the court to rule that upon receipt of his resignation letter, the respondents became legally barred from further compelling him to perform military duties or subject him to internal disciplinary mechanisms. As of the time of filing this report, the National Industrial Court has not yet scheduled a hearing date for the matter. Contact Information ? 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The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has weighed in on the growing conversation surrounding prophetic declarations and their influence, following a controversial prediction connected to Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign. During a recent church programme held at the RCCG Redemption City, Pastor Adeboye addressed the congregation on the importance of spiritual wisdom and discernment when reacting to prophetic messages. He expressed concern about the increasing circulation of dramatic and questionable prophecies, urging believers to be cautious rather than emotionally driven by every spiritual claim they encounter. Although no names were directly mentioned in his address, Adeboye’s comments clearly alluded to a prophecy that gained significant attention ahead of the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco. The prediction, widely attributed to Primate Elijah Ayodele, reportedly advised that Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman should be excluded from Nigeria’s squad if the team hoped to succeed in the competition. The prophecy quickly spread across social media platforms, with many interpreting it as a warning of potential failure or poor performance should the Atalanta forward be selected. The message sparked mixed reactions among football fans and faith observers, adding to the long-standing debate about the role of prophecy in sports. Contrary to those expectations, events on the pitch unfolded differently. Ademola Lookman played a decisive role in Nigeria’s AFCON campaign, scoring the match-winning goal in the Super Eagles’ 2–1 opening victory against Tanzania. He followed that performance with another standout display against Tunisia, where he found the net once and provided two assists in a thrilling 3–2 win that confirmed Nigeria’s qualification for the knockout stage. Reflecting on the situation, Pastor Adeboye shared his reaction upon encountering the prophecy. He explained that he found the outcome ironic, considering how the events played out on the field. He told the congregation that he laughed after reading a statement suggesting that Nigeria could only win if a specific player was dropped, only for that same individual to score the decisive goal after being selected. According to him, the outcome served as a reminder that God’s glory can manifest beyond human expectations. While emphasizing that genuine prophecy remains an important part of Christian faith, Adeboye cautioned against blindly accepting every declaration labeled as divine. He highlighted that true spiritual breakthroughs come through authentic divine guidance, not through exaggerated or attention-seeking proclamations designed to stir public reaction. Drawing from biblical principles, he advised believers to show respect and wisdom when dealing with prophets who are genuinely sent by God, while also being mindful that not everyone claiming prophetic authority speaks under divine instruction. He clarified that his message was not aimed at individuals seeking relevance through self-promotion. Pastor Adeboye also used the opportunity to clarify his own spiritual office. He stated clearly that he does not identify as a prophet but as a pastor, explaining that while God may speak to him occasionally, his primary calling remains pastoral leadership. He added that the message shared during the programme was one that many listeners would remember. His remarks come at a time when discussions around faith, prophecy, and sports continue to intensify in Nigeria, especially during high-pressure tournaments such as the AFCON, where emotions and national expectations often run high. Meanwhile, Primate Elijah Ayodele has defended his earlier statements, insisting that his comments were taken out of context. He maintained that the prophecy should be assessed based on the overall outcome of the tournament rather than isolated matches, urging the public to consider the broader picture before drawing conclusions. Contact Information ? Email: [email protected] Stay Updated Stay informed and ahead of the curve.Follow LMSINT MEDIA on WhatsApp to receive real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Never miss an important headline—join today.
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The Lagos State Government has officially set up a Technical Recovery and Demolition Committee to oversee the controlled demolition of the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Building, which was severely damaged by fire on Lagos Island. The move comes as emergency operations continue to stabilize the precarious structure, ensuring public safety and mitigating further risks. This decision follows a second inspection of the site by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on January 2, 2026, according to an update released by the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (LSFRS). The newly established committee, led by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, is tasked with creating and executing a meticulously planned demolition strategy for the GNI Building and its surrounding environment. Authorities emphasized that the demolition process would prioritize the safety of emergency personnel and the general public. Current Status of the Fire-Damaged GNI Building Officials have reported that the site remains highly unstable due to extensive debris and structural compromise caused by the fire. In a statement signed by LSFRS Controller General Margaret Adeseye, the area was described as “extremely sensitive and volatile,” with large volumes of rubble still present. She highlighted that intermittent fire pockets continue to smolder within the debris. These fires are fueled not by the building itself but by combustible materials such as textiles, clothing, and stored goods that were buried under the rubble. Accessing these hotspots requires specialized technical planning and careful execution. “These materials are deeply buried, and handling them demands extreme caution and professional expertise,” the statement read. Authorities further clarified that while these smoldering pockets do not immediately threaten neighboring structures, uncoordinated debris removal could trigger additional collapse due to the weakened foundation. Some debris currently provides unintentional structural support, making precision critical. Adherence to International Disaster Response Standards The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that all ongoing operations align with international disaster response protocols, emphasizing responder safety above all else. Experts noted that incidents of this magnitude could take weeks or even months to fully resolve, depending on structural assessments and safety requirements. The affected market and surrounding areas remain completely closed to the public, with access strictly limited to authorized personnel. Additionally, an information desk has been set up at the site to assist families, traders, and other stakeholders with inquiries. Casualties and Search Operations Preliminary reports indicate eight fatalities, with five victims identified and three yet to be identified. Fortunately, 13 people were rescued alive. Search operations continue in debris sections deemed safe, as emergency teams work to ensure no additional victims remain trapped. Fire Safety Violations and Structural Risks Investigations have revealed significant fire safety violations within the GNI Building, including: These hazardous conditions can cause spontaneous combustion and severe heat accumulation even in the absence of an external ignition source. Public Assurance and Continued Emergency Operations Controller General Margaret Adeseye reassured Lagos residents that emergency and recovery operations will continue until all risks are completely neutralized. “All actions are deliberate, professional, and driven by safety considerations. Operations will continue until ground zero is fully assessed, and the incident is conclusively resolved,” she stated. Residents are urged to continue observing safety regulations and avoid the affected areas to allow emergency responders to conduct their operations efficiently.
