Lagos

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Residents of Surulere Community in Amikanle, near the Command area of Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State, have been thrown into distress after suspected landgrabbers invaded the neighbourhood and destroyed multiple properties.

According to a report t a Nigerian newspaper, the Punch, homeowners said the attackers, widely known as Omo Onile, stormed the community on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. They allegedly demanded payments ranging from N15m to N25m from property owners. Those who failed to comply reportedly had their buildings pulled down.

Findings revealed that at least 50 structures have been affected. The demolished properties include residential houses, shops, and perimeter fences.

Residents explained that the invaders arrived in large numbers. They claimed to be acting on court documents from the Federal Housing Authority, authorising them to collect renewal fees. They also threatened to demolish any structure whose owner refused to pay.

One of the children of an affected landlord, identified simply as Oluwafewa, alleged that security personnel accompanied the group during the operation, which lasted about two weeks. He said the development left many families devastated.

“The thugs asked the landlords to obtain a form, which cost N100,000. Then they demanded an initial payment of N5m, with N10m to be paid later. They charged different prices for different houses.

“Some said they were asked to pay N25m, but they demanded N15m from my parents,” he said.

When asked if the group identified those backing them, he replied, “They are working for no one. They are Omo Onile, and they claimed they own the estate. The FHA has told them to desist, as it didn’t authorise any demolition.”

A visit to the area showed heavy damage across the community. Policemen were seen seated in a corner with patrol vehicles parked nearby, while some of the hoodlums remained around demolished structures.

Another resident, who spoke anonymously, alleged that violence accompanied the invasion. He said one individual was assaulted for recording the incident.

“They beat someone who was filming them on the day they first invaded our community. They nearly destroyed the man’s phone. They really dealt with us,” he said.

A different resident claimed the issue had persisted for years. He recounted how his uncle lost property under similar circumstances a decade ago after failing to meet the financial demand.

“My uncle lost his property to them 10 years ago. The matter has existed for years, and I don’t think there is any solution in sight. That was how they came about 10 years ago and demanded N5m from my uncle. He didn’t have the money to give them, and he forfeited his house,” he said.

Angered by the destruction, residents organised a peaceful protest last week. They gathered in front of the affected buildings with placards, calling on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other leaders to intervene.

One protester said, “They mounted our buildings and removed the roofs. We have been to many offices to lodge complaints, but no help has been offered. At this point, we don’t know what to do.”

An official of the Federal Housing Authority, who spoke anonymously, described the demolition as illegal. The official said personnel sent to monitor the situation were chased away.

“They were impersonating. The FHA didn’t send the thugs. We were told about the incident by the residents. We have written to the Commissioner of Police and even the Lagos State Taskforce to that effect. We also sent our officials to the scene, but the thugs chased them away,” he said.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Abimbola Adebisi, said she was unaware of the incident but promised to make inquiries. She did not respond to subsequent calls or messages seeking updates.

The situation has left many residents counting losses and calling for urgent government intervention to halt further demolitions.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Nigerian Army Finance Corps (NAFC) held a vibrant valedictory parade on Friday to honour ten of its retiring senior officers, marking the end of their distinguished service.

The event, held at the Nigerian Army School of Signals Parade Ground in Apapa, Lagos, was praised by the Special Guest of Honour, retired Major General Kamal Ishola Yusuf. He described it as “one of the most colourful and dignified” ceremonies of its kind, highlighting the military’s role in upholding tradition as the backbone of its discipline and identity.

The retirees honoured were Major Generals KI Yusuf, AA Fayemiwo, J Mohammed, RN Ochei, MO Ihanuwaze, M Galadima, SA Gumel, and Brigadier Generals EA Obona, AS Maikano, and MK Baba-Mallam.

In his speech, Major General Yusuf expressed thanks for divine protection during their service and commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, for his support. He also acknowledged the efforts of Major General TT Sidick, the Chief of Accounts and Budget (Army), in organizing the successful event.

The ceremony drew a wide array of guests, including serving and retired officers, former army chiefs, commanders, industry leaders, bankers, and the families of the retirees.

The programme featured a formal pulling-out parade, a march-past, and group photographs. Attendees were later hosted to a reception at the Command Finance Office, featuring music, comedy, cultural displays, and refreshments.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has strongly criticized the Federal Government’s plan to spend $1 billion (approximately ₦1.5 trillion) on modernizing the Apapa and TinCan Island Ports in Lagos, labeling the continued neglect of other major ports as “economic sabotage.”

In a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday, Obi accused the government of perpetuating a dangerous “economic imbalance” by excessively concentrating infrastructure investments in one region.

He warned that this policy sidelines critical maritime hubs in other parts of the country, specifically naming the ports in Warri, Port Harcourt, Calabar, and Onne.

The former Anambra State governor argued that equitable development of ports across the nation’s geo-political zones is essential for enhancing productivity, creating jobs, and stimulating regional economic growth that could lift millions out of poverty.

“While any effort to improve efficiency and embrace technology in our maritime sector is commendable, such an initiative must be guided by accountability, transparency, and fairness,” Obi stated.

“The Lagos modernisation project, though laudable, underscores a troubling trend of concentrating major national infrastructure in one region.”

Obi emphasized that for Nigeria to build a truly robust national blue economy, its growth must be inclusive, actively involving every region.

He also used the opportunity to call for broader reforms in the sector, including curbing corruption, streamlining bureaucracy, and implementing a paperless port system to boost global competitiveness.

Concluding his remarks, Obi urged the Tinubu administration to adopt principles of fairness and equity in its infrastructure policies.

“If prudently managed, the Lagos modernization project could serve as a model for national maritime transformation,” he conceded.

“But Nigeria must rebuild with justice, integrity, and a vision that turns us from a consuming nation into one driven by production and shared prosperity.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Kano State Police Command has apprehended two men linked to a case of armed robbery and attempted murder that took place in Lagos State.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna, confirmed the arrest in a statement released on Saturday.

According to him, “The Kano State Police Command has achieved a significant breakthrough in a recent case of armed robbery and attempted murder, thanks to its robust intelligence and community collaboration.

“On September 11, 2025, the command’s tactical operatives, acting on intelligence, arrested two suspects at Na’ibawa Quarters, Kano. They are: Mathew Adewole, 25, of Na’ibawa Quarters, and Mukhtar Muhammad, 31, of Unguwa Uku Quarters, Kano.”

Haruna explained that during questioning, one of the suspects, Adewole, admitted to attacking a Lagos resident identified as Lil-Kesh at Bera Estate, Chevron, on August 19, 2025. The victim reportedly suffered severe injuries, including a deep cut on the neck.

“The suspect forced the victim to transfer N2,120,000 from his account via mobile phone to Mukhtar Muhammad’s account,” the police spokesman added.

He further stated that in compliance with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the Command had been intensifying its intelligence operations while also strengthening community policing and security partnerships to counter criminal groups.

The suspects have since been transferred to the Lagos State Police Command for further investigation and possible prosecution.

Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, praised the officers for their professionalism and acknowledged the support of residents.

He assured the public that the police would continue to work with other security agencies to sustain safety across the state.

“The command remains committed to maintaining law and order, working closely with other security agencies and stakeholders to ensure a coordinated approach to combating crime,” the statement noted.

Armed robbery has continued to pose a major security challenge in Nigeria, often cutting across state borders.

The Kano Command had earlier reported the arrest of three suspected robbers linked to a case in Abuja where a stolen vehicle was recovered.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Yoruba Conservative group has issued a directive demanding its members remove all non-Yoruba political campaign posters sighted across Lagos, denouncing their presence as a “disrespect to Yoruba natives.”

In a strongly-worded statement released today, the group declared that non-indigenes should be barred from contesting political office in Lagos State altogether.

The group argues that the principle of reciprocity justifies this stance, claiming other Nigerian states like Anambra, Kano, and Kaduna already restrict major political offices to their own indigenes.

“It is a disrespect to Yoruba natives for foreign posters to flood its street,” the statement asserted.

“If anyone want[s] to contest, let them go to their various state to do that… But you can’t do that on our soil because you won’t also allow us to do the same on your soil.”

The group explicitly rejected the concept of “One Nigeria” in the context of political participation within states, stating: “If ONE NIGERIA doesn’t work in your own state, then it shouldn’t work in my own state too. You can’t reserve your resources for yourself and come to share in my own. That’s impossible!”

According to the statement, the Yoruba Conservative has already taken steps to enforce this vision.

They claim to have “consulted some top Lagos Politicians to stop giving a political ticket to non Yoruba” and have “sent letters of resignation to some foreigners holding political positions in Lagos to resign and vacate the seat as he or she is occupying a post meant for Yoruba people.”

The group dismissed comparisons to diverse democracies like the UK or US, insisting Lagos should only be compared to other Nigerian states where, they allege, a Yoruba person would not be allowed to contest and win.

“Therefore why should I say YES to you in my own state?” the statement questioned.

While describing themselves as “peace loving people,” the group issued a stark warning: “If you come to us in [a] violent manner, be rest assure[d] you will face the unforgivable consequences.”

This declaration highlights rising tensions over indigene-settler politics and access to political power within Nigeria’s diverse states, bringing a controversial and exclusionary stance to the forefront in Lagos.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A recent analysis of how medical professionals are spread across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has uncovered some striking differences in the number of doctors available to meet the needs of the country’s growing population.

Leading the pack is Lagos, the nation’s bustling commercial center, boasting an impressive 7,385 doctors. Following closely is the FCT with 4,453 doctors, and then Rivers, which has 2,194 doctors.

Other notable states include Enugu with 2,070 doctors, Oyo with 1,996, and Edo with 1,777, all of which highlight the correlation between urbanization and the demand for healthcare services.

These areas tend to attract more healthcare workers, drawn by the opportunities in metropolitan settings.

However, the report also sheds light on a troubling disparity in healthcare professional availability across different states.

While southern and southwestern states generally enjoy a better doctor-to-population ratio, the northern and northeastern regions are facing a significant shortage of medical personnel.

Taraba, situated in northeastern Nigeria, has the fewest doctors, with only 201, which raises serious concerns about the challenges of providing adequate healthcare in that area.

Other states like Yobe (275 doctors), Adamawa (280 doctors), and Kebbi (273 doctors) further illustrate how the distribution of medical staff is heavily tilted towards more urbanized and economically prosperous regions.

Among the states with lower doctor counts, Zamfara (267 doctors), Jigawa (255 doctors), and Gombe (485 doctors) also highlight a significant gap in healthcare access.

This uneven distribution means that many areas in Nigeria, especially in the north and rural regions, are struggling to deliver quality healthcare services to their communities.

In contrast, southern states like Akwa Ibom (888 doctors) and Abia (829 doctors) show a more favorable situation, underscoring the ongoing challenges in achieving equitable healthcare access across the country.

By Abdulhamid Abdullahi Aliyu

A wave of emotions swept through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Tuesday, March 4, as 144 stranded Nigerians returned home from Libya. Some wept as they stepped onto Nigerian soil, clutching their few belongings, while others sighed in relief after months of hardship in the North African country.

The returnees—mostly women and children—arrived aboard a chartered Boeing aircraft at exactly 4:45 p.m. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) facilitated their homecoming in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and other key stakeholders. Officials swiftly processed them, ensuring they underwent the necessary procedures for reintegration into society.

Among the returnees were 100 women, 8 men, 26 children, and 10 infants—individuals who had left Nigeria seeking a better future, only to find themselves ensnared in a nightmare. Libya, once viewed as a gateway to Europe, has become a dangerous trap for migrants. Many face forced labor, sexual exploitation, kidnappings, and inhumane detentions, with little hope of escape.

NEMA and its partners have worked tirelessly for years to bring stranded Nigerians home. At the airport, officials from the Nigeria Immigration Service, the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), the Department of State Services (DSS), Port Health Services, and the Nigeria Police Force were on the ground to facilitate their return. The returnees underwent biometric registration, medical screening, and psychological counseling before being transported to the Igando IDPs Resettlement Center for reintegration programs.

Yet, for many, homecoming is bittersweet. Aisha, 27, left Nigeria two years ago with dreams of a better life. Instead, she found herself trapped in Libya, forced to work under exploitative conditions just to survive. Holding her two-year-old son close, she said, “I don’t know where to start. I sold everything to travel. Now, I’m back with nothing.”

To help returnees like Aisha, the IOM, in partnership with NEMA and other agencies, provides reintegration support, including vocational training, business grants, and psychosocial counseling. These programs are essential in helping them rebuild their lives and find new opportunities at home.

This latest evacuation is part of an ongoing effort to rescue Nigerians from Libya’s brutal realities. Over the years, thousands have been repatriated, yet the cycle of irregular migration persists. Despite continuous awareness campaigns, human traffickers still lure young Nigerians with false promises of a better life abroad.

Experts argue that while evacuation efforts are commendable, the real solution lies in addressing the root causes of migration—unemployment, poverty, and lack of opportunities. Without viable alternatives at home, many will continue to take desperate risks.

Relief and uncertainty filled the air as the returnees settled into the temporary resettlement center. Some saw their return not as a failure but as a second chance. “I just want to find a way to care for my son,” Aisha said. “I don’t regret coming back. At least I am alive.”

The mission of NEMA and its partners is clear: to help returnees rebuild their lives. But for Nigeria, the bigger challenge remains—creating a future where its youth no longer feel compelled to risk everything for an uncertain journey abroad.

Abdulhamid Abdullahi Aliyu—an NYSC serving corps member, writes from the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC) in Abuja.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a notorious 59-year-old drug baron, Ogbonnaya Kevin Jeff, at his hideout in Lagos after 17 years on the run.

The arrest followed an Interpol red notice and intelligence from South Korea’s National Intelligence Service.

NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) disclosed that Jeff, a key figure in an international drug trafficking syndicate, had been smuggling illicit drugs worth billions of naira into South Korea.

His arrest on February 12, 2025, led to the recovery of multiple passports, Korean visas, and illicit substances at his residence.

Jeff, who previously served a one-year prison term in South Korea in 2007, continued his operations remotely, recruiting couriers and laundering drug proceeds through electronics imports.

He is wanted in South Korea for multiple drug trafficking offences, with two arrest warrants issued by the Seoul Central District Court in 2024.

Marwa reaffirmed NDLEA’s commitment to dismantling drug networks and ensuring Nigeria is not a haven for drug cartels.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu called on the AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) to prioritize the establishment of a Combined Maritime Task Force to enhance security in the Gulf of Guinea.

He made the call at the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa.

He also offered Lagos as the potential host city for the task force’s headquarters.

In his address, delivered by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, President Tinubu reiterated the urgent need for such a task force to safeguard the region.

This comes as Nigeria signed an agreement with the AU to provide Strategic Sea Lift Services for peace support operations, humanitarian efforts, and personnel movement.

Under this agreement, Nigeria’s Navy will offer a vessel for the operations on a cost-recovery basis.

Key figures such as Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Badaru Abubakar, and Naval Chief, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, were present at the signing ceremony, alongside AU officials, including Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security.

President Tinubu also praised the AUPSC’s decision to upgrade the Nigerian National Counter-Terrorism Centre to a Regional Counter-Terrorism Centre and to renew the mandate of the Multinational Joint Task Force addressing terrorism in the Lake Chad region.

Additionally, President Tinubu expressed concern over the escalating instability in Libya, linking it to the worsening security situation in the Sahel, and urged the Assembly to support efforts aimed at restoring order in Libya.

He also highlighted security challenges in countries undergoing democratic transitions, including Sudan, Mali, and Niger.

The Nigerian leader showed strong support for the establishment of an African-led credit rating agency (ACRA), which would provide fairer and more transparent assessments of African economies.

He further backed the Africa Financing Stability Mechanism (AFSM) to support member states in addressing financial vulnerabilities and fostering economic resilience.

This initiative, designed to provide financial stability and support long-term development goals, has gained significant traction in recent AU discussions.

President Tinubu concluded by commending the progress made on the African Standby Force and urged the AU to adopt the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for its operationalization.