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Lagos Reporters, 42 Allen Avenue, Ikeja (2025)

11/10/2025

Breaking News: Umahi Fires Back at Makinde Over Lagos–Calabar Highway Cost, Says Oyo Governor “Misunderstood Technical Details”

–Lagos Reporters

The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has responded sharply to recent comments by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, questioning the cost per kilometre of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project, describing the governor’s remarks as a misunderstanding of technical and engineering principles.

Speaking during an inspection tour of the Keffi Bridge and Nasarawa–Toto Road projects in Nasarawa State on Saturday, Umahi insisted that the cost of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway was carefully computed in line with global standards and should not be reduced to “political soundbites.”

Governor Makinde had, in a viral video on Friday, queried the minister’s estimated figures on the cost of the project one of the flagship infrastructure initiatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration accusing Umahi of “dancing around” the figures.

Makinde said, “These are elementary questions. It makes no sense. A process is ongoing, payment has been made, and you are saying, ‘How has this money been utilised?’ The money is meant for the project and will be paid according to the work done.”

Reacting, Umahi, a former governor of Ebonyi State, said while he considers Makinde “a brother and friend,” it was improper for him to make public accusations on issues requiring technical understanding.

“I heard that my brother and friend, Governor Makinde, said something about the cost per kilometre. I don’t want to join issues with him,” Umahi said. “I think he is an engineer, while I am an electrical engineer they call us ‘elect-elect.’ But this road construction matter, ‘elect-elect no reach there.’”

He added, “I am his senior both in governance and in engineering practice. So, anything he doesn’t understand, he should call me and ask. I have great respect for him, but he should withdraw the statement that I’m dancing around. I never danced around. If he insists, he should come for a debate it’s very important.”

Defending the project’s cost structure, Umahi clarified that there is no ambiguity in determining the cost per kilometre, which must be understood in both estimated and average terms.

“There is no ambiguity in cost per kilometre,” he explained. “Cost per kilometre can be divided into estimated cost, which has elements of variance, and average cost, which is definitive. The estimated cost includes allowances for contingencies and variation of price (VOP), which may not eventually be utilised.”

“When the project is completed, and you remove what you didn’t use such as contingencies and VOP then you have your actual cost,” he added.

The Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, a 700-kilometre expressway linking Nigeria’s commercial hub to the South-South region, has been at the centre of national debate over its cost, route design, and pace of implementation.

Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor developments surrounding the project and the ongoing exchange between both public officials.

11/10/2025

Breaking News: Outrage as FG Grants Presidential Pardon to Convicted Bribe Takers — Farouk Lawan, Former Kano Lawmaker Who Collected $500,000, and Dr. Alanamu, Ex-KwaraPoly Chairman Sentenced to 12 Years

–Lagos Reporters

A wave of public outrage has trailed the Federal Government’s decision to grant presidential pardon to two high-profile corruption convicts former lawmaker Farouk Lawan and Dr. Saadu Alanamu both previously found guilty of receiving bribes in separate corruption cases.

The decision, announced on Thursday after a meeting of the National Council of State, has sparked widespread criticism from anti-corruption advocates and citizens who view the move as a serious setback in the fight against graft in Nigeria.

Lawan, a former member of the House of Representatives and chairman of the ad-hoc committee investigating the 2012 fuel subsidy scandal, was jailed for receiving a $500,000 bribe from billionaire businessman Femi Otedola. The payment was part of the $3 million bribe Lawan reportedly demanded to remove Otedola’s companies from the list of firms indicted in the fuel subsidy fraud investigation.

Similarly, Dr. Alanamu, a former Chairman of the Governing Council of Kwara State Polytechnic, was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment after being found guilty of collecting a ₦5 million kickback from a contractor in exchange for awarding a contract at the institution.

Alanamu’s conviction, delivered by Justice Mahmud Abdulgafar, was upheld by both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court, which dismissed his appeals as “incompetent, misconceived and lacking in merit.”

Before his conviction, Alanamu had been nominated in 2017 to serve on the board of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) but was later dropped following revelations about his involvement in corruption cases.

Critics argue that the government’s decision to pardon the two men undermines judicial integrity and sends a discouraging signal to anti-graft agencies.

“This is a slap on the face of justice and a betrayal of Nigerians’ trust,” said a senior civil society advocate who spoke to Lagos Reporters. “Granting pardon to convicted corrupt officials who went through due judicial process only weakens the fight against corruption.”

The National Council of State, which includes the President, former heads of state, and state governors, is empowered to advise on prerogatives of mercy under the Nigerian Constitution. However, many observers say the council’s decision in this case raises questions about the administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

As Nigerians express anger over the development, anti-corruption groups have called for a review of the pardon list and a clear explanation from the Federal Government on the rationale behind exonerating individuals found guilty of serious economic crimes.

Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor reactions and provide updates as the story unfolds.

10/10/2025

Breaking News: All PDP Lawmakers Dump Party for APC in Ondo Assembly

–Lagos Reporters

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has lost its final foothold in the Ondo State House of Assembly after its last two lawmakers defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

During Thursday’s plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, the Minority Leader, Hon. Olajide Oguntodu (Akure South 1), and his deputy, Hon. Oluwatoyin Daodu (Akoko South West 1), announced their resignation from the PDP and formal defection to the APC.

The lawmakers cited internal crises within the PDP and extensive consultations with their families, constituents, and political leaders as reasons for their decision.

Their exit marks the total collapse of PDP representation in the 26-member Assembly, consolidating APC’s full control of the state legislature.

This development comes just five weeks after two other PDP lawmakers also dumped the party for the ruling APC, a move analysts say further weakens the opposition’s political influence in Ondo State ahead of the next election cycle.

Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor the political realignments and implications of this mass defection for the state’s 2025 political landscape.

10/10/2025

Breaking News: Badagry Council Stops ‘Eze Ndi-Igbo’ Palace Project, Declares Title Illegal in Lagos State

–Lagos Reporters

The Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State has ordered an immediate stop to the construction of a proposed “Eze Ndi-Igbo” palace and any fundraising activities linked to the project, declaring the title “Eze Ndi-Igbo” illegal under Lagos law.

The decision followed growing public concern and social media backlash after reports surfaced that some Igbo residents in the area had initiated plans to build the palace.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Head of Legal Services Unit, Mesewaku M. Stephen, the Executive Chairman of Badagry West LCDA, Hon. Rauf Ibrahim Kayode Yemaren (RIKAY), said the council had suspended all activities connected to the project.

According to the statement, the title “Eze Ndi-Igbo of Badagry West LCDA” has no legal or traditional recognition under the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State, which governs traditional titles and institutions in the state.

“The Council recognises and appreciates the positive influence of the Igbo community in Badagry West LCDA,” the statement read, “but it will not allow any act or title that is alien to the laws of Lagos State to take root. Anything not known to law remains an illegality.”

The council’s action reinforces Lagos State’s long-standing position that titles such as “Eze Ndi-Igbo” have no constitutional or traditional basis within its jurisdiction.

Residents and stakeholders have since praised the council’s swift response, describing it as a necessary step to preserve the traditional structure and legal order in the state.

Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor developments on this issue and provide updates as they unfold.

09/10/2025

Breaking News: APC Disqualifies Major Contender Kayode Ojo Ahead of Ekiti Governorship Primary

–Lagos Reporters

Tension is rising within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State as the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) has disqualified one of the leading aspirants, Engr. Kayode Ojo, from participating in the forthcoming governorship primary election.

The NWC’s decision comes just weeks before the APC governorship primary scheduled for October 27, 2025. According to party sources, the disqualification followed the report of the screening committee, which also barred Hon. Olajumoke Olawuni from contesting.

With the latest development, only two aspirants the incumbent Governor Abiodun Oyebanji and Omolayo Oluremi have been cleared to participate in the keenly anticipated primary election.

Party insiders say the decision has sparked mixed reactions among members and supporters of the affected aspirants, with calls for transparency and fairness in the screening process.

Engr. Ojo, a former governorship aspirant in the 2022 election, was widely regarded as a strong challenger to Governor Oyebanji’s re-election bid before his disqualification.

The APC leadership is yet to release an official statement detailing the reasons behind the screening committee’s decision, but stakeholders are urging calm and unity within the party ahead of the polls.

Lagos Reporters will continue to follow developments in the build-up to the APC governorship primary election in Ekiti State.

09/10/2025

Breaking News: Drama as Passenger Caught Stealing ₦290,000 on Abuja-Bound Plane — Flight Grounded for 20 Minutes

–Lagos Reporters

There was drama aboard an Abuja-bound flight after a male passenger was allegedly caught stealing from another traveler’s luggage, leading to a 20-minute delay before takeoff.

According to eyewitnesses, the suspect reportedly opened an overhead bin and took a bag belonging to a foreign passenger. The white man later raised the alarm when he discovered that his luggage which reportedly contained ₦290,000 in cash was missing.

A female passenger who claimed to have seen the suspect tampering with the overhead compartment immediately pointed him out, prompting the cabin crew to intervene.

The situation caused commotion inside the aircraft as passengers demanded a thorough search. Airport security personnel were later called in, and after searching the suspect, the missing cash was allegedly found in his possession.

The incident, captured in a now-viral video circulating online, showed passengers expressing shock and anger over the attempted theft.

The suspect was subsequently handed over to airport security operatives for further investigation.

While the airline involved has yet to issue an official statement, the incident has once again raised concerns about in-flight security and the need for closer monitoring of passengers’ belongings, especially during boarding and disembarkation.

Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor updates on the case as airport authorities begin investigation into the incident.

09/10/2025

Breaking News:National Council of State Approves President Bola Tinubu’s Nominee, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), as New INEC Chairman

–Lagos Reporters

The National Council of State has approved the appointment of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following the nomination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Amupitan’s nomination, presented by the President during the Council’s meeting on Thursday, received unanimous approval from members after the exit of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who served as INEC Chairman from 2015 until October 2025.

According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Council described Amupitan as “a man of integrity and impeccable character,” capable of strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

President Tinubu, while introducing the nominee, noted that Amupitan who hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State is the first person from the North-Central region to be nominated for the position. He further stressed that the nominee is apolitical and possesses deep experience in law, governance, and corporate leadership.

In line with constitutional procedures, the President is expected to forward Amupitan’s name to the Senate for screening and confirmation.

Born on April 25, 1967, Professor Amupitan is a distinguished Professor of Law at the University of Jos, where he currently serves as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration). He also holds the position of Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council at Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Osun State.

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) since 2014, Amupitan’s expertise spans Company Law, Evidence Law, Corporate Governance, and Privatisation Law. He has previously served as Dean of the Faculty of Law and Chairman of the Committee of Deans and Directors at UNIJOS.

Beyond academia, he serves on several national boards, including the Council of Legal Education, the Governing Council of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, and Integrated Dairies Limited, Vom.

Amupitan is also a respected author with notable publications such as Corporate Governance: Models and Principles (2008), Evidence Law: Theory and Practice in Nigeria (2013), and Principles of Company Law (2013).

With his appointment, Nigerians look forward to a new era of electoral leadership built on transparency, professionalism, and trust.

Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor developments as the Senate commences the confirmation process for Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN) as the new INEC Chairman.

09/10/2025

Breaking News: Nigeria Mourns as Veteran Broadcaster and Diplomat, Dr. Christopher Kolade, Dies at 92

–Lagos Reporters

Nigeria has lost one of its most revered statesmen, broadcaster, and diplomat, Dr. Christopher Kolade, who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at the age of 92.

The family confirmed his death in a statement on Thursday, describing him as a man who lived “an incredible life of faith and service.”

“We are thankful for his incredible life of faith and service, and are grateful for God’s abundant blessings,” the family said.

Born in 1932 in Erin-Oke, Osun State, Dr. Kolade was the son of an Anglican missionary. He attended Government College, Ibadan, before proceeding to Fourah Bay College in Freetown, Sierra Leone, where he earned his higher education.

A pioneer in Nigerian broadcasting, Dr. Kolade rose to prominence as the Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation, where he was celebrated for his professionalism and ethical leadership.

He later transitioned into the corporate world, becoming the Chief Executive and later Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, where he was widely respected for driving corporate governance reforms and upholding integrity in business practices.

Dr. Kolade also served Nigeria with distinction as High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, further cementing his reputation as a model of diplomacy, discipline, and public service.

Throughout his long career, he remained a strong advocate for transparency, ethics, and youth development values that defined his legacy in both public and private sectors.

As tributes continue to pour in from across Nigeria and abroad, Dr. Kolade is being remembered not just as a diplomat or business leader, but as a moral compass in a nation often in search of integrity.

Lagos Reporters joins millions of Nigerians in mourning the passing of this icon of leadership, whose life of service continues to inspire generations.

08/10/2025

Breaking News: Sanwo-Olu Unveils 420 New Housing Units in Badagry — Says Project Will Benefit Over 2,000 Lagosians

–Lagos Reporters

In a major push to expand affordable housing in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, unveiled 420 new home units at the Lagos State Housing Estate, Ajara Phase 1, Badagry.

The newly completed estate, according to the state government, will significantly boost Lagos’ housing stock and provide accommodation for over 2,000 residents, in line with the governor’s promise to deliver modern and affordable homes to Lagosians across all divisions of the state.

Speaking ahead of the commissioning, the Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, told reporters that the project comprises 420 apartments in a mix of one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units, built to meet the needs of both middle and lower-income earners.

“The completion of the Ajara Phase 1 Housing Estate is another fulfillment of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s pledge to complete all ongoing housing projects and ensure every Lagosian has access to decent, affordable accommodation,” Akinderu-Fatai said.

He noted that the project would not only address Lagos’ housing deficit but also stimulate local economic activities within the Badagry area by creating jobs and supporting ancillary businesses.

The Commissioner expressed gratitude to subscribers and residents for their patience and trust in the Sanwo-Olu administration throughout the project’s construction period.

“We appreciate our subscribers for their understanding and continued support. For those interested in acquiring units, please visit the Estate Department of the Ministry of Housing at Block 3, Alausa Secretariat. The Ministry does not engage agents in selling any of its housing units, and prospective buyers should beware of swindlers,” he cautioned.

The Ajara Badagry Housing Estate is one of several projects under the Sanwo-Olu administration’s Greater Lagos Housing Initiative, aimed at bridging the housing gap and ensuring inclusive urban development across the state.

Lagos Reporters gathered that more housing estates are expected to be commissioned in the coming months as part of the state’s commitment to reducing the housing deficit and improving living standards for Lagos residents.

08/10/2025

Breaking News: Tinubu Deploys Full Army Brigade to Kwara as Kidnapping, Banditry Escalate

–Lagos Reporters

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the deployment of a full army brigade to Kwara State as part of renewed efforts to combat the alarming rise in kidnapping and banditry across the state.

The large-scale military operation, according to government sources, will focus on flushing out criminal elements operating in Kwara South and Kwara North, particularly in forest areas that have become notorious hideouts for kidnappers.

According to the Kwara State Government, heavy military equipment and personnel have already begun moving through Oke-Ode and Babanla communities in Ifelodun Local Government Area, with the operation extending to Edu and Patigi LGAs regions that have witnessed repeated attacks and abductions in recent months.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who confirmed the development in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, on Wednesday, expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu and the military hierarchy for the decisive intervention.

“We will not spare any resources in support of the military, DSS, police, and other security agencies as they work to strengthen the security of lives and properties,” the governor said.

“We are upbeat that this operation, as part of Operation Fasan Yanma, will eliminate all forms of threats in affected areas in Kwara South and Kwara North. I thank the president and the security agencies for the efforts so far. We just need to double our efforts to save the people.”

Governor AbdulRazaq revealed that his government had earlier briefed President Tinubu on the worsening security situation during the president’s recent visit to Jos, stressing that the federal response was both timely and reassuring.

The governor also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Chief of Army Staff, and the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2nd Division for their coordinated roles in the renewed offensive against criminal gangs.

“We are confident that the Brigadier General A.A. Babatunde-led army brigade will succeed in this important task and clear the entire areas,” he added.

The deployment marks one of the most significant military interventions in Kwara in recent years and signals a renewed determination by the Tinubu administration to restore peace and security across volatile parts of the country.

Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor developments as the new army brigade commences operations across Kwara’s troubled zones.

08/10/2025

Breaking News:Outrage as Former APC National Secretary Iyiola Omisore Uses Party Broom to Flog Supporters During Governorship Declaration

–Lagos Reporters

There has been widespread outrage after a video surfaced showing former National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Iyiola Omisore, using a broom the official symbol of the APC to flog some of his supporters during his governorship declaration event in Osun State.

In the video obtained by Lagos Reporters, Omisore was seen holding a broom and striking several of his supporters who had gathered to cheer him during his official declaration to contest the 2026 Osun State governorship election under the APC.

The bizarre incident, which has since gone viral on social media, has drawn sharp criticism from political observers and party members, many of whom described Omisore’s action as “disrespectful,” “demeaning,” and “a mockery of the APC’s symbol of unity and progress.”

Eyewitnesses at the event said the crowd initially thought the senator’s action was a joke, but were shocked as he continued using the broom on those around him, even as chants of “Omisore! Omisore!” filled the venue.

A youth leader from the party, who spoke to Lagos Reporters on condition of anonymity, said the act was “unbecoming of a leader seeking to govern a state,” adding that such conduct “shows poor judgment and lack of respect for supporters.”

“You don’t use the same broom that symbolizes our party’s unity to humiliate people who came to support you,” the youth leader said. “It sends the wrong message about the kind of leadership he intends to offer.”

As reactions continue to trail the video, some political analysts have called on the APC national leadership to caution Omisore, stressing that such behavior could damage the party’s image ahead of the Osun governorship race.

Senator Omisore, a former deputy governor of Osun State, is yet to publicly respond to the viral footage or issue any statement regarding his actions at the event.

Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more reactions emerge from party officials and stakeholders.

08/10/2025

Breaking News: CAC Withdraws National Youth Council of Nigeria’s Registration — Sets Up Interim Committee to End 18-Year Leadership Crisis

–Lagos Reporters

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has announced that the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has officially withdrawn the registration certificate of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), citing long-standing governance irregularities and persistent leadership crises.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry on Wednesday, the CAC, in a letter dated October 6, 2025, informed the government that the withdrawal followed a comprehensive investigation into the Council’s affairs, which revealed serial violations of both the NYCN Constitution and the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), 2020.

The CAC stated that the action was taken under Sections 8(1)(c) and 8(1)(d) of CAMA 2020, following findings that the NYCN had failed to maintain proper governance structures amid an 18-year leadership crisis that has crippled its operations.

“Upon a detailed review of the Council's records and governance practices, the Corporate Affairs Commission found serial violations of both the NYCN Constitution and the provisions of CAMA 2020, particularly Sections 833 and 834,” the statement read.

As a result, the CAC has de-recognized all existing claims to trusteeship, leadership, and management within the organization and has constituted an Interim Management Committee (IMC) to oversee and manage the affairs of the Council for one year, effective October 6, 2025.

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development, in its response, expressed full support for the CAC’s decision, describing it as a necessary step toward restoring unity, legitimacy, and institutional integrity within the Council.

“As the supervisory authority over the National Youth Council of Nigeria, the Ministry acknowledges the legal authority of the Corporate Affairs Commission under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020, and takes due cognizance of this development,” the Ministry stated.

The Ministry also called on all youth stakeholders, organizations, and partners affiliated with the NYCN to cooperate fully with the Interim Management Committee during the ongoing restructuring process.

“This exercise is aimed at restoring the Council to its founding ideals and ensuring it functions as a credible and inclusive voice for Nigerian youth,” the statement added.

The CAC’s move marks a historic intervention in the troubled leadership of the NYCN, which has, for nearly two decades, been plagued by multiple factions and legitimacy disputes that have hindered youth representation at the national level.

Lagos Reporters will continue to track developments as the Interim Management Committee takes charge of the Council’s affairs.

Lagos Reporters

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