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Category: Lagos Update

  • Taskforce nabs 21 illegal street traders in Lagos

    Taskforce nabs 21 illegal street traders in Lagos

    The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit (Taskforce) has arrested 21 suspected street traders during an operation to clear illegal trading in the state.

    The taskforce’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Mr Abdulraheem Gbadeyan, confirmed the development in a statement on Thursday in Lagos.

    Please Read: Echoes of ‘iya shukudi’ in Trade fair Demolitions

    He said the enforcement was carried out at Iyana-Iba and Ojo areas along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.

    According to him, the exercise was part of the agency’s ongoing clean-up drive against street trading, illegal ticketing, unauthorised road blockages, and unapproved bus stops.

    Gbadeyan said the team visited Iyana-Iba and adjoining roads where traders had resumed selling on the newly constructed roads, obstructing traffic and defacing the environment.

    He added that 21 suspects, including 15 males and six females, were arrested, while their goods and wares displayed on the roads were seized.

    Normalcy, he said, had been restored to all affected areas following the enforcement exercise.

    Read Also: The ShopRite Empty Shelves Video: Critical Economic Analysis

    Gbadeyan noted that all suspects would be prosecuted, while the confiscated items would be forfeited in line with the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Laws of 2017 and Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018.

    The taskforce chairman, CSP Shola Akerele, warned traders against displaying goods on highways and walkways, as such acts obstruct traffic flow and cause congestion.

    Gbadeyan also urged street traders, unathorised revenue collectors, and operators of unauthorised bus stops to desist or face the full weight of the law. 

  • Police clear gridlock on Third Mainland Bridge as residents protest Oworonshoki demolition

    Police clear gridlock on Third Mainland Bridge as residents protest Oworonshoki demolition

    Says CP Jimoh directed the use of minimal force to disperse the crowd

    Residents of Oworo turned out in large numbers, early on Monday to protest the decision of the state government to carry out massive demolition of their houses without adequate notice or compensation, leaving many families displaced.

    The Police Command in Lagos State says normalcy has been restored on the 3rd Mainland Bridge following a protest staged by residents of Oworo over demolitions in their area.

    The command Deputy spokesperson, DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi made this known in a statement on Monday in Lagos.

    He said that the protesters had blocked the section of the bridge near Iyana Oworo Bus Stop, obstructing movement from the Island to the Mainland.

    Oluseyi said that upon receiving the information, the Commissioner of Police(CP), Mr Olohundare Jimoh, swiftly moved to the scene alongside detachments of the Mobile Police Force, Tactical Units, and Police Mobile Force personnel.

    “His presence was to ensure immediate engagement, de-escalation, and the protection of lives and property.

    “CP Jimoh personally interfaced with the protesters in a bid to understand their grievances and persuade them to vacate the bridge, ” he said.

    The image maker said that when the commissioner appeal failed and the road remained blocked, he ordered the use of minimal force to disperse the crowd.

    “Despite his appeals, the protesters remained adamant, resulting in continued blockage of the busy route and worsening the distress of commuters, including reports of sick individuals trapped in traffic who required urgent medical attention.

    “In the interest of public safety and to avert further breakdown of law and order, CP Jimoh directed the use of minimal force to disperse the crowd.

    “Barricades erected by the protesters were dismantled, traffic obstructions were cleared, and the free flow of vehicles was restored without any loss of life, ” the spokesperson said.

    According to Oluseyi, the command reassures the public of its neutrality and unwavering commitment to maintaining law, order, and peace across the state.

    He called on residents to always channel their grievances through lawful means while assuring that the police remained dedicated to protecting the rights of all citizens.

  • Sanusi accepts outcome of Ojokoro LCDA APC primary

    Sanusi accepts outcome of Ojokoro LCDA APC primary

    Mr Mobolaji Sanusi, a chairmanship aspirant has accepted the outcome of the APC primary election in Ojokoro LCDA, Lagos state.

    Some party leaders reportedly described Sanusi as an imposed candidate. In a statement on Sunday, he said he accepted the party’s final decision without further contest.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that APC Electoral Committee Chairman, Mr Babatunde Ogala, SAN, declared Oluyemisi Rosiji winner of Saturday’s primary at the APC Secretariat.

    Fifty-five of the 57 expected APC chairmanship candidates for the July 12 Lagos Local Government elections emerged from the party’s just-concluded primaries.

    Sanusi, a leading aspirant in Ojokoro, disputed the announced 21-2 vote tally, calling it “outrageously concocted” and lacking credibility.

    He said he participated in the primaries to secure the party’s mandate to run for Ojokoro LCDA chairman.

    “The score of 21-2 is outrageously concocted. But I accept it. It is absolutely fine by me.

    “I did not lose the APC ACME Secretariat primary. Those responsible for the laughable score will face their conscience, forever,” he said.

    However, Sanusi pledged loyalty to the party. “The party has spoken, and that’s final. We’ve moved from complaint to reality,” he said.

    He reaffirmed his commitment, saying he would contribute to the party’s success going forward, in spite of the outcome.

    Sanusi, former MD/CEO of Lagos State Signage & Advertisement Agency (LASAA), insisted the result wasn’t due to a lack of qualification or leadership experience.

    He revealed that 12 out of 18 LCDA leaders, including a key woman leader, had endorsed him as the consensus candidate.

    Sanusi expressed gratitude to supporters, especially the Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, for his steadfast support.

    “To him and my thousands of supporters: we have not lost,” Sanusi said, offering reassurance.

    He added, “Ojokoro has been denied the chance to have a competent, credible, and tested leader for the next four years.”

  • Impeachment: Lagos Assembly offers the olive branch

    Impeachment: Lagos Assembly offers the olive branch

    The  Lagos State House of Assembly has pledged harmonious relationship with the executive arm of government.

    The Chairman, House Committee on Information, Mr. Stephen Ogundipe (APC- Oshodi/Isolo I) ,made the pledge in an interview with journalists on Monday in Lagos.

    Mr. Ogundipe  made the pledge following the impeachment of Mr Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker on Monday.

    A total of 32 out of the 40 lawmakers ,at an emergency plenary, impeached Obasa via voice votes  over alleged gross misconduct.

    The Assembly subsequently elected and swore in  Deputy Speaker ,Mrs Mojisola Meranda (APC-Apapa I) to replace Obasa.

    READ ALSO: Air Peace Air fairs: Keyamo lashes out at FCCPC

    The House also suspended the Clerk of the Assembly, Mr Olalekan Onafeko,indefinitely during the plenary.

    Ogundipe said under the new Speaker, the Assembly would ensure the executive arm of government ,led by Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu,,  enjoy the support of the legislature.

    The lawmaker said a good  relationship between the executive and legislature was necessary to achieve  the  development goals of the  current administration in the state.

    According to him, the new Speaker has shown commitment and passion to collaborate with other arms of government, especially the executive, for the success of the administration .

    READ ALSO: Kano Emirate Tussle: Kingmaker appeals Court of Appeal judgement

    “Today,  there was a change of leadership in the Lagos State House of Assembly as the former  Speaker, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, was removed and his former  deputy ,Mrs Mojisola Miranda ,was  elected as new Speaker.

    “There is no division in the House over the development .All members have pledged allegiance to the new Speaker, Mrs  Mojisola Meranda , and she has since settled down in office.

    “She has assured of legislature’s  harmonious working relationship with the executive and that all hands must be on deck to ensure continued  development  of  the state,” Ogundipe said.

  • MAN Calls on Governor Sanwo-Olu to Address Industrial Shutdown in Lagos State

    MAN Calls on Governor Sanwo-Olu to Address Industrial Shutdown in Lagos State

    The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called on the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to urgently intervene in the recent closure of several factories by the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO). 

    MAN described the action as unjust, ill-timed, and detrimental to the manufacturing sector.

    According to a statement issued by the association, LASWARCO sealed factories over allegations of non-payment of exorbitant water abstraction fees, which reportedly exceed N100 million per company. 

    MAN criticized the move, stating that it undermines ongoing negotiations and agreements reached between the association and LASWARCO, including plans for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) set to commence in January 2025.

    READ ALSO: Tax Reform Bills: The North Must Modernise Anyhow

    “This action is both inappropriate and disruptive,” said Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director General of MAN.

     “It comes at a time when manufacturers are already grappling with a harsh economic environment characterized by unsold inventory, high borrowing costs, and rising energy expenses.”

    MAN noted that the closure of these factories poses a significant threat to the state’s economy, including potential job losses and a decline in investor confidence. The association highlighted that manufacturers nationwide are already burdened with over N1.2 billion in unsold goods, borrowing costs of over 30%, a 250% increase in energy expenses, and multiple taxes and levies from various tiers of government. 

    The association further warned that the imposition of excessive water abstraction fees by LASWARCO could set a troubling precedent for other states, exacerbating the challenges faced by private businesses.

    MAN has urged Governor Sanwo-Olu to direct the reopening of the affected factories to allow for a logical resolution of the ongoing discussions. 

    The association emphasized the importance of concluding the MoU to establish a fair and sustainable framework for addressing water-related fees.

    “We appeal to the Governor to act decisively to protect the manufacturing sector, safeguard jobs, and promote a business-friendly regulatory environment,” Ajayi-Kadir added.

    As manufacturers await action from the Governor, MAN expressed hope for a swift resolution to prevent further disruptions and safeguard the livelihoods of thousands of workers.

  • EFCC Rejects Sanwo-Olu’s Legal Challenge Over Alleged Arrest Plans

    EFCC Rejects Sanwo-Olu’s Legal Challenge Over Alleged Arrest Plans

    The guilty is always afraid. That explains the current judicial play being simulated by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu who has sued the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against any future trial in the event that any evidence of stealing is found against him.

    According to the Nigerian constitution state governors and the president of the country are immune from criminal prosecution while in office.

    Further to this however, Mr. Sanwo-Olu has sued the EFCC to insist that even if evidences of stealing are found against him, he should not be tried for the theft after his term of office.

    Miffed by this affront on the performance of its duties, the EFCC has asked a Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss the case filed by Babajide Sanwo-Olu, which challenges potential investigations and arrest plans after his tenure. 

    The anti-corruption body described the governor’s claims as speculative, arguing that they lack legal merit.

    Sanwo-Olu, in his lawsuit, sought several declarations to protect his fundamental rights. 

    Among his requests, he asked the court to affirm his right to privacy and prevent any perceived harassment or intimidation by the EFCC during or after his term as governor. 

    He alleged that political opponents might use the agency to orchestrate his arrest based on unfounded corruption allegations.

    In its response, the EFCC maintained that no investigation or arrest threats had been made against Sanwo-Olu. 

    The agency clarified that it follows due process in all cases, using official channels for communication and investigation. The EFCC further argued that Sanwo-Olu’s concerns are hypothetical and intended to mislead the court.

    The case, initially filed in June, was updated on October 31. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik has scheduled the next hearing for November 26. 

    There are indications that the suit may be withdrawn before the adjourned date.

  • Minimum Wage: Lagos Approves N85,000

    Minimum Wage: Lagos Approves N85,000

    The governor of Lagos state, Babajide Sanwoolu has approved N85,000 as minimum wage for civil servants in the state.

    This is in line with the federal government’s approval of N70,000 as minimum wage in Nigeria.

    Governor Sanwoolu made this announcement on Channels TV last night in an interview session.

    This move comes as a great relief to workers with the Lagos state government as it goes a long way to ameliorate the current spiraling inflation and cost of living crisis.

    While announcing the new wage, the governor cautioned that this should not be misconstrued as competing with any state government but a reflection of the socioeconomic realities of Lagos state.

  • 10 Killed In Lagos Road Accident As Commercial Bus Crashes Into Stationary Truck

    10 Killed In Lagos Road Accident As Commercial Bus Crashes Into Stationary Truck

    Tragedy struck in the early hours of Wednesday along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway when a commercial bus ran into a stationary truck, killing 10 passengers, including three children.
    The accident occurred near Abule-Osun, heading towards Iyana-Iba.
    Three passengers miraculously survived the crash and were immediately rushed to the hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.
    The incident reportedly took place at around 2:15 a.m. on October 2, 2024.
    An eyewitness, Anthony Ogah, recounted the heartbreaking event, explaining that the bus, a Toyota Sienna with registration number BDG 342 FS, was fully loaded with passengers travelling from the eastern part of Nigeria.
    The bus, allegedly speeding, rammed into the back of a parked SHACMAN truck that had no visible registration number.
    The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyitolu, confirmed that excessive speeding was a primary factor in the fatal accident.
    “Further investigations revealed that the truck, which was laden with granite, was parked on the road shutting down about half of the carriageway, while the Toyota Sienna on top speed, unknowingly crashed into the parked truck from behind.
    “Unfortunately,10 passengers lost their lives to the unfortunate incident, while three were critically injured.
    “One out of the two initial surviving female adults of the crash later died. The dead passengers include; three male adults, four female adults, two female children and one male child.
    “The female adult, and the two rescued children, fortunately, survived the crash after receiving immediate medical attention from Lagos State Ambulance Service, LASAMBUS at the incident scene before they were subsequently, taken to Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, Ikeja for further treatment.
    “Emergency responders, including LASEMA and officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, promptly rescued the injured passengers,” Oke-Osanyitolu stated.
    Emergency responders, including personnel from LASEMA, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Nigerian Police, and the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit (SEHMU), quickly arrived at the scene to manage the situation.
    SEHMU officials evacuated the bodies of the victims to the mortuary.

  • Sanwo-Olu reopens rehabilitated Ojota-Maryland link bridge

    Governo Babajide Sanwo-Olu reopened the rehabilitated Odo Iya Alaro (Ojota-Maryland link) bridge on Monday, marking a significant step toward easing persistent gridlocks in the area.
    Mr Sanwo-Olu said the rehabilitation aligned with the administration’s commitment to ensuring adequate traffic management and ease of transportation.
    The governor urged citizens to take responsibility for protecting the infrastructure.
    Mr Sanwo-Olu warned against removing newly installed manhole covers, threatening prosecution for those caught doing so. He explained that the new manholes were made of fibre.
    “The newly replaced manholes are now made of fibres and not metals, so this makes them useless to whoever takes them. Let the manholes be. They are there to protect human beings so that they do not fall off the bridge.
    “They are there for safety. Anyone caught removing the manholes from the bridge will be prosecuted,” said the governor.
    The governor commended stakeholders involved in the project’s early completion, which took 54 days instead of the planned 90 days.
    Olufemi Daramola, the governor’s special adviser on infrastructure, explained that the rehabilitation included installing new expansion joints and remedial works, making the bridge motorable and ready for use.
    “The project was completed ahead of schedule to ease the suffering of road users in the corridor,” stated Mr Daramola. “The rehabilitation of the Odo Iya Alaro Bridge is a significant step towards improving traffic management and transportation in Lagos state.”

  • Sanwo-Olu Orders Reopening Of Lagos Discount Market, Ounje Eko

    As part of efforts to ameliorate mass suffering arising from the economic policies of the Tinubu government, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has directed that the Sunday market Ounjè Eko with 25% cut in prices should return on Sunday.
    According to a post on X by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, his Agric and Food Systems counterpart, Abisola Olusanya, disclosed this to the media in Lagos on Wednesday.
    “Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed that the Sunday market Ounjè Eko with 25% cut in prices should return on Sunday.
    “Agric and Food Systems Commissioner Abisola Olusanya tells the media – all is set. Lagosians, are you ready?”his post read.
    The markets which first opened in March and ended after some weeks, offer Lagos residents a 25% discount on staple food items like rice, beans, gari, bread, eggs, tomatoes, and pepper.
    The markets were opened at 27 locations in Ikeja; six in Lagos Island; nine in Ikorodu; five in Epe; and 10 in Badagry divisions.