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Category: News

  • Kogi Food Prices Crash as Governor Ododo’s Policies Take Effect.

    Kogi Food Prices Crash as Governor Ododo’s Policies Take Effect.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Food prices in Kogi State have witnessed a significant decline, thanks to the effective agricultural policies implemented by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.

    According to Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communications, the prices of staple foods have dropped substantially due to increased production and government measures against hoarding.

    Fanwo disclosed that a market survey shows that the price of a 50kg bag of rice, which sold for about ₦85,000 in March, now goes for between ₦62,000 and ₦65,000

    “A medium-sized tuber of yam, previously about ₦2,000, now sells for ₦1,200, while a paint bucket of cassava flakes (garri) has dropped from ₦3,500 to ₦2,400. Prices of maize and corn have also fallen across the state.

    “The crash in food prices is not accidental. It’s the result of structured support to farmers through various agricultural intervention programmes, including ACReSAL, the massive distribution of improved seedlings, and the opening up of rural roads under the RAAMP project,” Fanwo said.

    He noted that the state government has also put in place strong mechanisms to check hoarding by middlemen who attempt to create artificial scarcity.

    “Our policy is clear: no one will be allowed to exploit Kogites by stockpiling foodstuffs. We will continue to monitor markets to ensure availability and affordability,” he added.

    He further observed that the abundant production of staple crops this season has made hoarding unattractive.

    The Commissioner revealed that over one million seedlings of cashew and palm were planted this year alone in Kogi, a development he said could inject over ₦100 billion into the state’s agro-economy within three years.

    Fanwo assured that Governor Ododo remains committed to making Kogi a leading food hub in Nigeria, stressing that agriculture will continue to drive food security, job creation, and economic growth in the state.

    He added that many investors are already showing interest in the state’s agricultural sector.

    “It’s therefore not surprising,” he said, “that Produce for Lagos — an agricultural programme of the Lagos State Government — has chosen to partner with Kogi State for food supply to Lagos.

    “This initiative, backed by a ₦500 billion agribusiness fund, is further proof that Kogi is now at the centre of Nigeria’s food security drive.”he submitted

     

     

     

  • Kogi State Government Brokers Peace In Ajepe Ogbani Sepa Chieftaincy Dispute.

    Kogi State Government Brokers Peace In Ajepe Ogbani Sepa Chieftaincy Dispute.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    The Kogi State government has successfully resolved the tussle for the Ajepe Ogbani Sepa of Osuku chieftaincy stool, appealing for a peaceful resolution of all issues pertaining to the chieftaincy stool.

    Investigator news reports that a meeting was held in Lokoja, presided over by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barr. Salami Momodu Ozigi Deedat.

    Barr. Ozigi Deedat appealed to both sides to maintain peace, stressing that traditional institution affairs must not degenerate into disharmony and conflict.

    He further advised that chieftaincy titles should be given and accepted with honour.

    In their responses, the Makama Dogo and the Ohinoyi of Osuku commended the action and leadership style of the administration of Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State.

    They commended the integrity of Barr Deedat and promised to resolve amicably and live in peace.

    Alh. Hassan M. Ibrahim, the Ozoutogbani of Igu, Justice Danladi Yakubu of Sharia Court of Appeal, Lokoja and other representatives or the Ohimege Igu of Kotonkarfi, HRM Seidu Akawu expressed their profound appreciation as well as satisfaction with the manner the chieftaincy issued has been put to rest.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • NASFAT Ogun Zonal Leadership Hosts Inaugural NEC Meeting.

    NASFAT Ogun Zonal Leadership Hosts Inaugural NEC Meeting.

    Tunde Omoniyi 

    The pace setting global Islamic society, Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT) has successfully concluded its inaugural National Executive Council (NEC) meeting with the Ogun Zonal leadership at the Ijemo Branch in Abeokuta.

    This gathering marked a significant milestone in strengthening unity, accountability, and collaboration across the society’s expanding frontiers.

    Investigator news reports that the NEC meeting is aimed to ensure transparent stewardship,foster collective problem-solving and deepen the bond between NASFAT headquarters, zones, and branches nationwide.

    The Ogun Zonal executives, ably led by Alhaji Asfat, hosted the NEC members with warm hospitality and vibrant participation.

    The interactive session created a forum for open dialogue, innovative ideas, and solutions tailored to the unique needs and aspirations of the zone.

    Investigator news gathered that the meeting coincided with the launch of a new NASFAT group at Adeun Spypye, located behind Crescent University, Abeokuta, demonstrating the society’s growing influence,spiritual impact and commitment to spreading beneficial Islamic values.

    The event concluded with renewed dedication to NASFAT’s vision of spiritual upliftment, community service, and inclusive growth. Leaders reaffirmed their resolve to foster harmony, accountability, and excellence that will resonate throughout Ogun Zone and inspire NASFAT globally.

     

     

     

  • Food Security: Lagos State Infuses Support Into Arewa Community Farmers.

    Food Security: Lagos State Infuses Support Into Arewa Community Farmers.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Lagos State is making significant advancements in food security by empowering Arewa community farmers, under the steadfast leadership of Alhaji Shehu Usman Jibril Sampam.

    As the Southwest Coordinator of the Arewa Community, Sampam plays a crucial role in integrating roadside farmers into the state’s comprehensive agricultural programs, reinforcing sustainable local food production.

    The recent initiative at Alapere exemplifies Lagos State Government’s dedication to boosting local food production. By providing farmland and essential infrastructure to Arewa farmers, the state is making a transformative investment in agricultural sustainability and community empowerment.

    Alhaji Shehu Sampam, a prominent member of the Lagos State Market Advisory Committee, has been instrumental in uniting Arewa farmers and perishable food traders.

    His commendation of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu reflects the administration’s inclusive approach, which embraces diverse communities such as Arewa in Lagos’s agricultural development and economic growth plans.

    Central to this success is the visionary leadership of Ms. Abisola Olusanya, the Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Food Security, and Systems. Her innovation, foresight, and genuine compassion for agriculture and food security have been pivotal in facilitating this groundbreaking initiative.

    Ms. Olusanya’s commitment ensures that policies are not only strategic but also deeply attuned to the pressing needs of grassroots farmers, turning bold visions into impactful realities.

    Additionally, civic participation is emphasized as a vital element of long-term sustainability. Sampam encourages farmers and community members to seize the ongoing voter registration exercise, strengthening both governance and agricultural development.

    With Lagos State’s dedicated infusion of resources and Ms. Olusanya’s exceptional leadership, the Arewa community farmers are well positioned to drive food security forward—demonstrating a powerful model of inclusive growth and lasting agricultural prosperity.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • APC Will Decide My Next Move,” Says Lagos Speaker Obasa

    APC Will Decide My Next Move,” Says Lagos Speaker Obasa

    Emmanuel Clement

    Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Dr. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, has clarified his position on his future political plans, dismissing claims that he has declared his next ambition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Reacting to reports that he disclosed his plans during a live appearance on TVC’s programme Beyond The Headlines, anchored by Nifemi Oguntoye, Obasa clarified that he never stated he was running for either governorship or a senatorial seat.

    He explained that, like other members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), his political future would ultimately be determined by the party leadership.

    “As a politician, you must wait for the hierarchy of the party to determine where they want you to go — whether as a lawmaker, governor, or senator,” Obasa said.

    “People should not be misled or try to misinterpret the party’s plans. Let all tension calm down. Our main focus is how to move the country forward. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is making significant progress day by day.”
    Obasa reiterated that he is not retiring from politics, but remains mindful of life after public service.

    “Nigeria is our home, our party is our strength, and those of us in the APC are family members. The APC is getting stronger every day,” he said.

    When asked about his future ambitions, the Speaker replied: “Life is next. So let’s concentrate on living that life.”

    He further stressed that political ambition must be guided by party discipline and respect for leadership decisions.

    “When we talk about politics, you have to be a member of a political party, and as a member, you must believe in the leadership of that party.

    “At some point, you cannot determine what’s next for you on your own. You may aspire to become something, but you still have to respect the party and how it is managed. The leaders will sit down and decide who goes where.

    “So, whether as Speaker, Deputy Governor, Governor, or Senator, it’s all about consultation and engagement with party leaders. As an individual, you must align with the process,” Obasa emphasized.

     

     

  • LASIEC To Conduct Bye-Elections In Ibeju-Lekki And Odi-Olowo-Ojuwoye LCDA

    LASIEC To Conduct Bye-Elections In Ibeju-Lekki And Odi-Olowo-Ojuwoye LCDA

    Emmanuel Clement 

    The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission has announced plans to conduct bye-elections to fill vacant councillorship seats in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government and Odi-Olowo-Ojuwoye LCDA.

    The seats became vacant following the deaths of Councillor Oluwakemi Rufai of Ward C in Ibeju-Lekki and Councillor Zainab Shotayo of Ward H in Odi-Olowo-Ojuwoye LCDA.

    Addressing stakeholders and newsmen on Thursday 11, September 2025,LASIEC Chairman, retired Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile,who was represented by Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Samson Ajibade stated that the Commission would uphold fairness, transparency, justice, and accountability in the conduct of the elections to further strengthen democratic practice in the state.‎‎

    Justice Okikiolu-Ighile while extending condolences to the bereaved families, friends, and political associates of the deceased councillors explained that the forum was convened to deliberate on the conduct of the bye-elections with input from key stakeholders noting that their demise created a vacuum that must be constitutionally filled for effective representation.‎‎

    On his part, LASIEC Commissioner in charge of Media, Publicity, and Voter Education, Chief Akim Durojaiye Oluwo, confirmed that the chairmen of the affected councils had officially notified the Commission of the deaths.

    While acknowledging that LASIEC is still handling post-election litigations from the July 12 council polls, he urged political party leaders to mobilize their members for the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) to strengthen the electoral process.‎‎

    Speaking on the framework for the elections, Mr. Abeeb Aileru, Chairman of Political Contact, said Section 28(3) of the Constitution provides that notice of a bye-election must be issued not later than 14 days before its conduct.

    He outlined sixteen steps that will be strictly followed, including issuance of notice, publication of election guidelines, meetings with political parties, release of nomination forms, validation of candidates, security arrangements, display of the voter register, conduct of the election, and issuance of Certificates of Return.‎‎

    Similarly, Mrs. Oluwakemi Ademusire clarified that Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees the existence of local governments and mandates that vacant positions be filled when they occur.

    While the law stipulates that bye-elections be held within 30 days of a vacancy being declared, she noted that precedents show slight delays do not invalidate the process.

    She emphasized that LASIEC remains committed to conducting a credible poll in due course.‎‎

    During the question-and-answer session, Accord Party Chairman in Lagos, Mr. Dele Oladeji, expressed dissatisfaction with the July 12 local government elections and questioned the credibility of upcoming bye-elections under the same arrangements.‎‎

    Responding, LASIEC Commissioner Hon. Oladele Adekanye defended the Commission’s record, stating that the July 12 polls were fair by all standards, and advised aggrieved parties to seek redress at the election tribunal rather than at the forum.‎‎

    Also speaking, LASIEC Commissioner Prince Adewale Ojora maintained that the July 12 elections were among the best ever conducted by the Commission.

    He pledged intensified sensitization in the affected wards to encourage voter participation and urged political parties to mobilize their members to fulfill their civic responsibilities.‎‎

    The stakeholders’ forum had in attendance the Lagos Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), representatives of political parties, traditional rulers from Ibeju-Lekki and Odi-Olowo-Ojuwoye, security agencies, and the media.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • First Lady,Oluremi Empowers 500 Women In Kogi With N25 Million Grants.

    First Lady,Oluremi Empowers 500 Women In Kogi With N25 Million Grants.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has empowered 500 women in Kogi State with N25 million grants through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI)/Tony Elumelu Foundation Women Economic Empowerment Programme.

    Investigator news reports that each beneficiary received N50,000 to boost their small-scale businesses.

    Senator Tinubu, who was represented at the event by the First Lady of Kogi State, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, said the programme was designed to support women traders and entrepreneurs who are working hard daily to sustain their families and uplift their communities.

    “This is not a loan. It is a grant and a seed of renewed hope to help you recapitalise your existing businesses. It is my firm belief that when you empower a woman, you empower a household, a community, and indeed, a nation,” she said.

    The initiative, made possible through a N1 billion donation from the Tony Elumelu Foundation to the Renewed Hope Initiative, will directly benefit 18,500 women nationwide. Under the scheme, 500 women in each of the 36 states and the FCT will receive N50,000 each.

    At the Kogi State launch, some of the pre-selected beneficiaries were presented with their grants in Lokoja as 500 women beneficiaries received grants, totaling N25 million.

    Senator Tinubu commended the Tony Elumelu Foundation for its generosity, expressing hope that such acts of kindness would inspire more contributions towards women empowerment across the country.

    She also appreciated the support of the Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and his wife, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, for their commitment to the success of the Renewed Hope Initiative in the state.

    The First Lady went further to reaffirm her commitment to advancing women’s economic independence through initiatives that strengthen households, communities, and the nation at large.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Imo 2027: Charter Of Equity Not Automatic – APC chieftain Egbuladike

    Imo 2027: Charter Of Equity Not Automatic – APC chieftain Egbuladike

    By Chigozie Uzosike, Owerri 

    The first interim state chairman of All Progressive Congress in Imo State, Chief Romanus Egbuladike on Monday noted that the much talked about Charter of Equity in Imo political space is to ensure equitable distribution of power and fairness.

    He insisted, “The charter of equity is good and brings justice. It has to be made clear that it’s not automatic. Power is not given, it is taken. If Owerri zone will clinch the office of the governor come 2027, it has to work with other zones like Orlu and Okigwe.

    They will also make sure they field the best of her candidate. Imo citizens are interested in voting for a credible candidate irrespective of where the person comes from”.

    Nobody is going to carry the governor to any zone. The Charter of Equity does not deny other zones from exercising their political franchise”.

    Charter of Equity is not a constitutional issue, it’s for peace to reign. Owerri zone must build their bridges by working with other zones. Owerri zone must field sellable and marketable candidate for the office of the governor”.

    He described as distraction and dead on arrival the ongoing coalition against the president of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He made this known while speaking to newsmen in Owerri. He said, “In 2013, we had coalition of political parties under the National Merger Committee that saw about five political parties that lost their identities and formed All Progressive Congress and the party won the election and took over power from People’s Democratic Party’s sixteen years leadership”.

    He said the coalition cannot hold water because it is not properly done and it is not all inclusive. Tinubu is just two years in office.

    His reforms are begining to have possible impact on the citizens. You can see that the prices of foodstuffs are going down, they are not skyrocketing”. Reforms come with peace, let’s give the president chance to concentrate on bringing good governance to Nigerians”.

    “With the way, they are talking about coalition, it is as if Tinubu has stayed for twenty years.

    He is just two years in office. Let’s allow him finish his term. If they are forming coalition in two years of Tinubu government, it means that what they are looking for is either personal or they do not have the interest of the country at heart”.

    Egbuladike, who is a founding member of APC in 2013, lauded the Governor of Imo state, Senator Hope Uzodimma for the completion of Awo-Omamma junction-Okwudor road in Oru-East LGA with state of the art street lights. He urged the governor to increase the economic activities of the area by magnanimously approving the reconstruction of the 2.5km road, known as Nickben road that connects from Eziawo 1 Awo-Omamma -Amiri-Attah road that has gone bad.

    He applauded the governor and the outspoken and bold house member of Oru-East state constituency, Hon. Chigozie Nwaneri for refurbishing the water project at Umudaraocha community called Daraocha water project which has brought relief to the community members”.

    He commended the governor for the payment of 104,000 minimum wage. “That bold pronouncement has made other state governments to kickstart the recent increments and enhancement of workers salary”.

    Egbuladike appreciated the governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma for his efforts in appointing sons and daughters of
    Awo-Omamma into his administration.

    He urged the governor to ensure that the appointment goes round the four political wards so that according to him, the appointments are not lopsided in one ward, calling it Awo-Omamma in entirety”.

    He hinted that the governor has broken records of other governors with visible infrastructure especially road network.

  • 24th CRMI International Conference: Shettima, Ugwuoke, Cardoso, Edun, Push For Home-Grown Risk Solutions.

    24th CRMI International Conference: Shettima, Ugwuoke, Cardoso, Edun, Push For Home-Grown Risk Solutions.

    Emmanuel Clement

    Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima has called on the African Union (AU), African Development Bank (AfDB), and Afreximbank to support the efforts of the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria (CRMI) in tackling the growing wave of global risks confronting Africa.

    Speaking at the 24th International Conference of CRMI in Lagos, the Vice President, represented by the Technical Adviser to the President on Economic and Financial Inclusion, Dr. Nurudeen Zauro, emphasized the need for strengthened continental collaboration in addressing risks ranging from climate change and cybersecurity to pandemics, terrorism, and disruptive technologies.

    “For over two decades, the Institute has been a beacon of foresight, resilience, and preparedness,” Shettima said. “Risk management is not just a profession—it is a discipline of national importance.

    The establishment of the Federation of African Risk Management Association marks a historic milestone, positioning Africa to address risks on its own terms.”

    The Vice President reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to risk mitigation, noting ongoing initiatives such as #SheIsIncluded, launched in January 2025, to support Nigerian women’s inclusion and resilience in economic participation.

    He also stressed the importance of community-based early warning systems for floods and droughts, microinsurance schemes, and social protection for farmers as tools for building resilience and national prosperity.

    Speaking at the conference themed, “Global Risks, Local Solutions,” the President/Chairman of CRMI’s Governing Council, Kelvin Ugwuoke, underscored the importance of adopting homegrown strategies in addressing global disruptions such as climate change, cyber threats, pandemics, food insecurity, and the implications of artificial intelligence.

    “We are witnessing risks driven by climate change, cyber threats, Artificial Intelligence, and geopolitical conflicts such as the Russia–Ukraine war, which have direct consequences on food security and economic stability,” Ugwoke said. “Our mandate is clear: to develop home-grown solutions that help Nigeria and Africa withstand and prosper amid global uncertainties.”

    Ugwuoke who also serves as Executive Director, Risk Management at Fidelity Bank Plc, also disclosed that a bill is currently before the National Assembly to formally entrench risk management into national policy, underscoring CRMI’s advocacy for stronger integration of risk principles in both public and private sector decision-making.

    Also speaking at the Conference, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, represented by Dr. Blaise Ijebor, Director of Risk Management at the CBN, commended CRMI’s leadership in advancing risk management in Nigeria.

    “Global risks do not respect borders. Our reforms are designed to integrate risk awareness into financial planning, ensuring economic stability amid evolving uncertainties,” he stated.

    Similarly, Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, represented by Permanent Secretary Raymond Omachi, highlighted the necessity of recent policy reforms such as fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification. “Risk management is not about predicting the future, but preparing for it. The future will not be defined by the storms we face, but by the solutions we craft together,” he said.

    The 24th International CRMI Conference convened policymakers, business leaders, and experts to deliberate on localized strategies for addressing global risks. It reinforced Nigeria’s leadership role in advancing risk management as a critical tool for economic stability, resilience, and sustainable development.

    Investigator news reports that the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria (CRMI), established by Act No. 39 of 2022 and founded on March 29, 2000, is the national professional body for risk management in Nigeria. The Institute promotes best practices, education, research, and advocacy in risk management across industries.

    Through its flagship Chartered Risk Manager (CRM) certification, professional training, and Mandatory Continuing Professional Education (MCPE), CRMI sets the national standard for excellence in risk management and supports a community of professionals dedicated to advancing the discipline.

  • Kogi Commissioner,Fanwo Charges Ododo Grassroots Assistants To Propagate Gov’s Giant Strides.

    Kogi Commissioner,Fanwo Charges Ododo Grassroots Assistants To Propagate Gov’s Giant Strides.

    Emmanuel Clement

    The Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, has urged Ododo Grassroots Assistants across Mopamuro Local Government Area to sensitize the people on Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s policies and programs.

    Fanwo emphasized that the Governor is making significant strides in the development of Mopamuro and Kogi State as a whole.

    The Commissioner, who told his audience that the Governor is “GYB’s best gift to Kogi State”, even as he urged them to lead the mobilisation for support of Governor Ododo’s policies, insisting that Mopamuro is beginning to see the “landmark signature of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo”.

    “Massive work is about to commence at the College of Education (Technical), Mopa. This is a demonstration of the commitment of the Governor to the development of Mopamuro Local Government and Kogi State as a whole.

    “The Mopa Township Road is ongoing and we’re expecting more good news in the educational sector in Mopamuro before the end of the year.

    “I urge you to propagate all these good works and also support the Governor and officials of the government at all levels”, he said.

    In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Cultural Integration, Hon. Moses Sunday David thanked the Commissioner for appointing over 20 grassroots assistants across Mopamuro, saying the gesture is the first in the history of Mopamuro by any appointed official of government.

    The Special Adviser to the Governor urged the Assistants to be dedicated to their duties and be loyal to the Governor as he is doing a marvelous job in Mopamuro and across the State.

    The Coordinator of the Group, Hon. Dare Elega thanked the Commissioner for the initiative, calling on the Assistants to reciprocate the gesture by giving their full support to the Governor.

    He thanked the Commissioner for the prompt payment of the Assistants salaries which has also helped them to discharge their duties.

    In a related development, Fanwo met with Ward Chairmen of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Mopamuro, commending them for their unflinching support for Governor Ododo.

    He urged them to continue supporting the Governor and the President, saying that the party will be taken to the promised land.