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  • Ododo Pledges Continued Support For Religious Harmony

    Ododo Pledges Continued Support For Religious Harmony

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has called on Muslim leaders to promote peace and unity among communities,while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to fostering peace and unity among communities in the state.

    Addressing the Ebira Muslims Peace Initiative’s conference in Okene, Ododo said peace is essential for development and prosperity.

    The conference, themed “Essence of Peace and Unity Among the Muslim Ummah,” was held at Ohinoyi’s Palace in Okene Local Government Area.

    He noted that Kogi State has earned recognition as a model of peaceful coexistence through citizens’ efforts and government strategies,highlighting the government’s efforts to engage stakeholders in building peace.

    Investigator news reports that the meeting brought together Islamic scholars, community leaders, youth groups, and stakeholders from across Kogi State to deliberate on peaceful coexistence and collective responsibility in strengthening societal harmony.

    Ododo commended the organisers for championing a platform that reinforces unity within the Muslim Ummah while also fostering tolerance across ethnic and religious divides.

    He noted that no society grows in an environment of hatred and division. “Peace is the foundation on which we can build prosperity, and unity is the bond that keeps us together as one people.” Ododo said.

    He further highlighted the role of government and religious leadership in securing long-term peace, noting that security is not achieved by force alone but through deliberate relationship-building and inclusive engagement.

    “Our major responsibility is to provide security for our people, and in providing that security you must ensure unity of the land. One of the ways of guaranteeing peace and unity is by deploying non-kinetic methods of resolving issues,”

    “Today we have come to meet with our people and the Islamic leaders to engage them constructively on the need for us to give peace a chance, and hence the unity of our state, our land, and our people, so that we can all sleep with our two eyes closed.”

    “I have just finished a meeting with all Islamic Scholars in Ebiraland and the Kogi Central Senatorial District, of course, we are working on that of the West and the East, then the Christian and Traditional aspect as well. To ensure peace, you must engage all critical stakeholders, and the Chief Imams, Sheikhs, and Ustaz are leaders the people believe in Islam, so we must work with them.”

    “We are happy that we are all ready to give peace a chance in Kogi State.”he said.

    Earlier in his goodwill message, Chairman of the Ebira Muslims Peace Initiative Committee, Ustaz Ismail Obosi Suleiman, stressed the importance of unity among various Islamic sects across Ebiraland.

    He emphasized that while disagreements are natural, hostility is a choice, citing Qur’an 3:103: “Hold fast, all together, to the rope of Allah, and do not be divided.”

    Suleiman called for inter-sect dialogue, focus on shared values, and rejection of political manipulation that seeks to worsen divisions.

    He urged religious leaders to model respectful engagement and promote authentic Islamic teachings to help dispel misconceptions among follower, reaffirming that peace remains the foundation for a prosperous Ebiraland and called on all groups to work collectively toward sustaining unity.

    Investigator news gathered that the One-Day Peace Conference concluded with a renewed commitment by Islamic scholars, government representatives, and community stakeholders to strengthen peaceful coexistence and ensure that Kogi State continues to thrive as a united society.

    Other dignitaries who shared their views on peaceful coexistence are the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land His Royal Majesty Alh Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje and the provost of National Defence College Professor Adam Okene Ahmed

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • LASTMA Warns Against Unlawful Parking, Obstruction Of Access Routes During Cross Over Night.

    LASTMA Warns Against Unlawful Parking, Obstruction Of Access Routes During Cross Over Night.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a zero-tolerance warning to motorists against indiscriminate parking and obstruction of access routes around places of worship and social convergence points during cross-over night celebrations.

    The General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr.Olalekan Bakare-Oki, issued a firm,unambiguous and statewide warning to members of the public particularly motorists against indiscriminate parking and the unlawful obstruction of access routes around places of worship, markets, nightclubs, event centres and other major social convergence points.

    He stated that LASTMA will rigorously enforce traffic regulations to ensure seamless vehicular mobility and public safety. Officers will be positioned at identified flashpoints to prevent congestion and unlawful obstructions.

    The General Manager noted that cross-over night is characteristically marked by an exponential increase in vehicular and pedestrian movements, further exacerbated by loosely coordinated social activities such as carnivals, street jams, roadside festivities and spontaneous celebrations.

    While acknowledging the cultural, religious and communal importance of these activities, LASTMA strongly condemns the abuse of public road infrastructure through its conversion into improvised parking spaces or informal event venues, describing such acts as egregious violations of traffic regulations with far-reaching implications for public safety, emergency response and urban mobility.

    Bakare-Oki therefore admonished motorists to refrain from abandoning vehicles on carriageways, road shoulders, medians, pedestrian walkways and critical access corridors leading to worship centres and social hubs.

    He equally cautioned organisers and participants of carnivals, street parties and other festive activities against blocking highways, inner roads or access routes without lawful authorisation and prior coordination with relevant government authorities.

    Addressing the anticipated traffic challenges, the General Manager disclosed that LASTMA has activated a reinforced traffic management, monitoring and enforcement framework for cross-over night.

    According to him, a corps of trained officers reinforced by rapid response units and advance surveillance teams operating under the ‘LASTMA 24-Hour Night Gangs’ a dedicated initiative inaugurated recently will continue to be tactically positioned to identified flashpoints statewide to ensure seamless vehicular mobility, rigorously enforce parking regulations and swiftly neutralise any unlawful obstructions to traffic flow.

    He emphasised that offenders will be sanctioned in strict compliance with extant traffic laws, without exception.

    Bakare-Oki further appealed to religious institutions, market leaderships, club operators and event organisers to exhibit heightened civic consciousness by making adequate parking provisions, deploying internal traffic control mechanisms and engaging proactively with traffic authorities to prevent congestion spillover onto public roads.

    The Agency also urged residents and visitors alike to cooperate fully with traffic officials, comply with all traffic directives and exercise patience, restraint and responsibility as Lagos ushers in the new year.

    In his words, “Collective compliance remains indispensable to the realisation of a peaceful, orderly and seamlessly managed cross-over night across Lagos State.”

    LASTMA reiterates its unwavering commitment to its statutory mandate of safeguarding lives, maintaining public order on the roads and ensuring efficient traffic movement across the metropolis.

    “In the event of any traffic-related incidents or emergencies, members of the public are advised to contact LASTMA toll-free hotline on 0800 005 27862 for immediate and real-time intervention.”he submitted

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Lagos APC Chairman Ojelabi Denies Candidate Imposition Claims,Cites Party Values.

    Lagos APC Chairman Ojelabi Denies Candidate Imposition Claims,Cites Party Values.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has denied allegations of imposing candidates on its members, saying the selection process was based on consensus

    APC’s State Chairman, Pastor Ojelabi Cornelius stated that what some people describe as imposition is actually a consensus-driven process, recognized by the party’s constitution and guidelines,insisting that the party values loyalty, consistency and commitment.

    He said this on Friday 26, December 2025 during the end-of-year interactive session with the media held at the party’s secretariat on ACME Road, Ogba Ikeja Lagos.

    Ojelabi insisted that the process was fair and merit-based, stating that the continued growth across the country reflects its people-oriented policies and internal cohesion

    The party chairman who was flanked by members of the party leadership while thanking the media for their consistent support over the years during local government, state, and national elections, including the presidential polls,he announced plans to commence an electronic registration of members across the state from January 5 to January 30, 2026, covering all the 245 wards in the 20 local government in the state.

    According to him,existing members would undergo revalidation, while new entrants would complete full e-registration, noting that the exercise is aimed at creating a credible and comprehensive membership database that would ensure that loyal and active members are properly identified and rewarded ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The pastor turned politician also appealed to Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity or party affiliation, to continue to pray for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly as it confronts the challenge of insecurity, stressing that peace and security requires collective efforts of every individual.

    “Without the place of peace and unity,meaningful development cannot take place both in Lagos and Nigeria at large, therefore President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu deserve sustained support from the people.”he said

    Responding to questions relating to local government administration, Ojelabi said a party committee had completed the identification of qualified individuals for cabinet appointments across the wards, adding that announcements on the composition of local government cabinets would be made in the coming weeks as the party has set up a committee to monitor and assess the performance of its elected officials in the state.

    He further assured aspirants who participated in the last local government elections that their nomination fees would be refunded soon, in line with the directive of President Tinubu

    Lending his voice,the party’s spokesman, Mogaji Seye Oladejo opined that’s the e-registration exercise became necessary due to the steady influx of new members, making it imperative to open up the membership drive to accommodate them.

     

     

  • Cleric Urges Couple To Build Home On Love And Faith,Says Marriage Is A Divine Institution.

    Cleric Urges Couple To Build Home On Love And Faith,Says Marriage Is A Divine Institution.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Rev Ehis Edoror,District Superintendent of the Assemblies of God Church Nigeria, Lagos West, has emphasized the importance of respecting the institution of marriage during the solemnization of Holy Matrimony between Ijeoma Aniede and Ifeanyi Simeon held at the Sectional headquarter of the Assemblies of God Church, Ikotun section on Saturday December, 13th 2025.

    Speaking at the ceremony, Rev. Edoror referenced Genesis Chapter 2 vs 24, describing marriage as the oldest institution in the world, and urged the couple to build their relationship on love, peace, and patience.

    In his exhortation,Rev Nwosu implored the wife to submit to her husband and the husband to show unreserved love to the wife in other for them to experience a peaceful and blissful home according to Ephesians chapter 5 verse 22 and 25:

    “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husband as unto the Lord, Husbands love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it”

    The cleric went further to urged the couples to always believe in God in order to overcome their challenges.“Any family without Christ is a family with crisis.We have uncontrolled challenges in our families because of absence of God,for you to succeed, always invite God into your family at all times,” he said.

    The event culminated in exchange of marriage vows and presentation of marriage certificate. Others cutting of wedding cake, nuptial dance and presentation of gifts at the reception.

    Speaking with investigator news during the reception ceremony,the chairman of the occasion,Mr Akajiaku Light urge the couple to hold God first in everything they do.

    ” Every successful marriage lies in the hands of God, therefore they should always commit their ways into God’s hand and God will not fail them.I prayed that God will continually to lead them alright ” he said.

    The father of the bride,Rev Chris Aniede advised them not to allow offences and side talk from friends and family, stating that they should learn on how to sort out things or issues together without involving a third party.

    “My prayers for them is that the almighty God that assisted me in my own marriage and this is 30 years, that same grace will also lead them through ” he submitted.

    Lending her voice, the mother of the bride,Mrs Patricia Aniede stated that she has been longing for this, while thanking God for making it a reality,she prayed that God will not allow them to struggle in their marriage and also give them the grace to succeed.

    The father of the groom,Mr Simeon Chukwu who is so excited expressed gratitude to God almighty for making the day a reality

    He said,” this is what every father is expecting and today God has fulfilled it, wishing them a happy married life.My prayers for them is that God who has started the good work will accomplish it and whatsoever they lay their hands to do,it will be multiply because God has favor them”

    Mr Simeon Chukwu urge them to build their marriage on love, peace and patience, stating that if they have love and patience there will always be peace in their homes.

    Mrs Chinyere Simeon Chukwu (Mother of the groom) urge them to live in peace,understanding and not to allow another person to interfere in their marriage.

    Hon Chukwuemeka P.K. Simeon (Senior brother to the groom)wished them a happy married life, stating that their home would flourish and surrounded by the power of God.

    He went further to pray that they will build and raise children that will contribute positively to the society, while advising them not to seek for their personal gain because marriage is not all about an individual but the couples which requires selfless service.

    When investigator news spoke with the newest couple,the bride formally know as Ijeoma Aniede and now addressed as Mrs Ijeoma Ifeanyi Simeon said that she feels accomplished and fulfilled because God brought peace to her.

    “What attracted him to me is the Christ I saw in him,he lives, talk and everything he does replicate Christ in him. He is someone who listens,teachable,corrects with love and I pray for myself to be a mother, wife and a best friend to my husband and kids”she said

    On his part,Mr Emmanuel Simeon Ifeanyi appreciated everyone who contributed immensely in ensuring that their wedding is a success, while thanking God for giving him a wonderful soulmate that he has always prayed for.

    He said that her zeal and passion for God and to do the work of God including the confidence she has attracted her to him.

    “My prayers for myself is that God will continually grant me the grace to follow his path and do his will always because prayers has always been the key to everything I do in life and I know that he would continue to guide me in this new phase of life “he submitted.

     

  • Kano Thrown Into Mourning As Two Lawmakers Die In Shocking Double Tragedy.

    Kano Thrown Into Mourning As Two Lawmakers Die In Shocking Double Tragedy.

    Felicia Asuquo 

    The Kano State House of Assembly is mourning the loss of two of its members, Hon. Aminu Saad Ungogo and Hon. Sarki Aliyu Daneji, who passed away on Wednesday.

    Investigator news reports that Ungogo, who represented Ungogo Constituency, was the first to be announced dead, with the news breaking via the Special Adviser to the Governor’s Facebook page.

    “May Allah forgive Hon. Aminu Saad Ungogo, state assembly member representing Ungogo Constituency of Kano State,” Adam wrote.

    Barely an hour later, the passing of Daneji, who represented Kano Municipal Constituency, was confirmed by the Director of Media at the Kano Government House.

    In a Facebook post, he wrote: “Innalillahi wa inna ilaihirrajiun. Hon. Sarki Aliyu Daneji, member representing Kano Municipal at the Kano State House of Assembly, died today, an hour after the death of his counterpart.”

    The double tragedy has sent shockwaves across Kano, with condolences pouring in from government officials, colleagues, and residents.

    Details surrounding the circumstances of their deaths remain unclear.

    The lawmakers were serving their constituencies at the Kano State House of Assembly until their demise.

     

     

     

     

     

  • Jakande Launches Projects,Pledges Continued Development In Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA.

    Jakande Launches Projects,Pledges Continued Development In Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Executive Chairman of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, Hon. Seyi Lawal Jakande, has commissioned several community projects, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving the lives of residents.

    The commissioned projects include roads, a football arena, and other infrastructure developments aimed at enhancing the quality of life in the local government area.

    In his keynote speech, Jakande emphasized the administration’s focus on healthcare, education, infrastructure, youth development, and community welfare.

    He highlighted notable achievements, including a free medical outreach, provision of free eye medical care, and support for education through initiatives like the pre-GCE qualifying exams and tech boot camps.

    “This occasion serves as a symbol of our collective vision and commitment. It is a testament to accountability, partnership, and tangible progress. Over the past few months,our mission has been resolute: to offer practical solutions to the urgent needs of our community. We have dedicated ourselves to enhancing healthcare, education, infrastructure, youth development, and community welfare.”

    “Our development trajectory continues to align with our HEWA Agenda, and we are proud of our modest achievements. In the health sector, we constructed a primary healthcare center at Kayode, procured a fully-equipped ambulance for emergencies, and organized a free medical outreach in partnership with Eko Club Atlanta, serving over 1,000 residents. Currently, we are providing free eye medical care with glasses and medications to nearly 1,000 residents in partnership with the Precious sight foundation UK.”

    “In education, we conducted pre-GCE qualifying exams for 1,000 students and provided GCE forms and registration for 250 indigent students. Our summer tech boot camp has equipped 60 young minds with essential digital skills, and our “Back to School, Back to Pocket” initiative has provided free school bags, complete exercise books, and stationery to pupils in all primary schools. ”

    “Furthermore, we have improved the free school ride program, sponsored a spelling bee competition, and launched the “One Day Chairman” program to enhance civic engagement among our youth. Additionally, the tertiary indigent students are not left behind, we are giving out  bursary awards to 250 tertiary students who have shown a good performance and dedication in their academic pursuit.”he said

    The Chairman went further to outlined some ongoing projects, such as road and drainage reconstruction, installation of solar-powered lights and CCTV cameras, and empowerment programs for youths and women.

    “In works and infrastructure, we constructed and rehabilitated boreholes across all wards to ensure access to clean water. Road and drainage reconstruction is in progress at Akala, Adedoja, Igbarere, Ashaoku, Damengoro to Shokunbi, Industrial crescent, Oladipo Shonde, and Ade Akinsanya Streets.”

    “Our installation of solar-powered lights and CCTV cameras enhances security, while a brand-new generator we procured ensures uninterrupted council operations. Our solar charging stations have empowered youths as kiosk administrators as well as providing reliable power access to residents”Jakande stated.

    Speaking on the constructed modern 5 A-side football pitch, Jakande said,”For youth and sports development, we constructed a modern 5-A-side football field to provide a safe environment for recreation and talent development.”

    “We have successfully completed the Chairman’s Cup, engaging 50 teams and 800 players across five categories. We hosted the inaugural SJ Football Competition in celebration of Nigeria’s independence on the 1st October and we sponsored the DFA Women’s League to support gender balance and we have included people with disabilities in our annual sports fiesta.”

    He further disclosed the formation of a joint security task force comprising police divisions, the OTEC team, vigilantes and hunters to tackle crime in the area.

    In agriculture and community development, the chairman said the council sustained its discounted agricultural produce scheme and sponsored World Food Day 2025. He also noted that the council supported Isese Day celebrations as part of efforts to promote cultural heritage and peaceful coexistence.

    Jakande emphasized the importance of community involvement in sustaining the projects and expressed gratitude to stakeholders and residents for their support.

    Community leaders and Political stakeholders present at the occasion praised Hon Jakande continuity-driven governance, likening it to his late father’s legacy of swift service delivery.

    Among those who spoke include the immediate Past Executive Chairman,Hon Ajala  Rasak,Hon Lekan Fatodu(DG  Lagos State sports commission),Hon Cornelius Ojelabi ably represented by the State Secretary who led 18 members of the State Exco to the occasion,LGA Party Chairman;Mr Tumkaz;NYCN State Coordinator,Engr Adigun;Prince Abiodun Ogunleye; Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun (GAC Member); Oba Fatai Aileru (Olu of Mushinland) among others.

    Speaking with newsmen, the immediate Past Executive Chairman,Hon Ajala Rasak stated that the modest achievements recorded by Hon Jakande’s administration is a welcome development that gladdens his heart and that of the youths that constitutes 55% of the local government.

    ” I well pleased with the purpose leadership, passion and commitment to governance that Hon Jakande has demonstrated within his first 100 days in office and given the support and role he played when he was my Voice Chairman and now that he is at the helm of affairs,he has done excellently well.”he said.

    He went further to assure the residents of more developmental projects in the coming year “Today we are celebrating modest achievements,by this time next year,we shall be celebrating giants stride through the execution of various elephants projects that would spread across the 9 political wards in Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA ”

    The Director General, Lagos State Sports Commission,Hon Lekan Fatodu applauded the Executive Chairman for doing an exceptional and great developmental projects that are rooted and potentially profitable and rewarding for the community especially the youths.

    Fatodu said “When we have a community that is peaceful and united,we must understand that their is a role that sports is playing to direct wrong ideology into the right ideology so as to shape talents in such a way that it can turn to socio economic benefits not to individuals who are involved in sports but to the community in general ”

    “We have seen young people who would have gone into the wrong place but because of the sports infrastructure being provided by the local government and leadership by Hon Seyi Jakande,we have come to realize that talents is identified, nurtured, repositioned for greater things,so the Sports Commission is a saying a big thank you to Hon Jakande for keeping the feat and also we encourage him to more in this trajectory.”

    Lending his voice,the Lagos State Coordinator National Youth Council of Nigeria,Engr Adigun Olalekan Ibrahim said that the commissioning of the sports complex is a tactical demonstration, purpose empowerment of engaging young people of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA.

    Adigun who is also the Chairman of all Chairmen National Youth Council of Nigeria said,”one of the fastest making economic machine in the country is sports and football is something that drives the youth and what the Chairman has done is to build the stadium for the greater youths of young people people in Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye so that together we can build, create and develop youths to be like the Osimhen,Jay Jay Okocha,Iheanacho and the likes and because the Chairman believes in the strength and energy of young people,it must be converted into a purposeful engagement and empowerment for them.”

    He went further to commend the Chairman for building the sports edifice within his six months into office, organized ICT trainings to over 500 youths, organized the sports fiesta that accommodated over 10,000 youths and scholarships bursary to university students in Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA.

    The State Secretary of All Progressive Congress, Lagos State,Dr Adeola Jokomba who led 18 members of the State Exco to the event representing the State Chairman,Hon Cornelius Ojelabi thanked the Chairman for not putting the party into shame as he has made the party and the good people of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA proud.

    He went further to sensitize the residents of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA on the importance of securing their permanent voters card PVCs, while appealing to the people to continually support the Chairman,Hon Jakande,Mr Babajide Sanwo Olu, Executive Governor of Lagos State and the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu so that more dividends of democracy would be greatly seen in the local government.

    Earlier, the Head of Department for Works and infrastructure noted that the projects are not just structures but game changers for the community, thereby boosting connectivity service and quality of life.

    He commended the Chairman for putting up such edifice, praying that God will continually grant him more wisdom to pilot the affairs of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA, while urging the residents of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye to always pray for the administration.

    Highlight of the event was the commissioning of the sports complex, assisted by the former chairman,Hon Ajala,his mom (former wife of the Executive Governor) Mrs Jakande and Prince Abiodun Ogunleye; Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun (GAC Member).

    Dignitaries in attendance included Prince Abiodun Ogunleye; Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun (GAC Member); Oba Fatai Aileru (Olu of Mushinland); Dr. Adeola Jokomba, Secretary to the Lagos APC party who led 18 members of the state Exco to represent the state party chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi; Hon. Kehinde Ajinni; MHR Hon. Deji Jakande; Hon. Nurain Akinsanya; Dr Mrs. Ayoola (Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor); Hon. Lekan Fatodu; Mrs. Beatrice Tugbobo; Apostle Odele “Pawpaw”; and the LGA Party Chairman, Mr Tunkaz,Ex Footballers among others.

    The pitch hosted the grand finale of the Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Sports Fiesta Season 4, where Odi-Olowo FC defeated Alakara FC 4–2 to claim the trophy for the third consecutive time.

     

     

     

     

     

  • Ikeja’s Better Days:AKOD Unveils ₦13.9bn Budget For 2026.

    Ikeja’s Better Days:AKOD Unveils ₦13.9bn Budget For 2026.

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    The Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), has presented the Year 2026 Appropriation Bill, themed “Budget of Better Days 1.0,” to the Ikeja Legislative Council.

    The budget,totaling ₦13,923,882,601.48, focuses on people-centered development and fiscal discipline.

    Presenting the budget, Comrade AKOD explained that the 2026 budget proposal is the outcome of broad consultations, including community stakeholders’ engagement and a budget retreat, aimed at ensuring inclusiveness, transparency, and alignment with the developmental needs of the people of Ikeja.

    He disclosed that the total budget size for the 2026 fiscal year is ₦13,923,882,601.48.

    According to him, Recurrent Expenditure stands at ₦7,350,523,690.96, representing 52.8% of the budget, and is targeted at effective administration, personnel welfare, and seamless service delivery.

    While Capital Expenditure is projected at ₦6,573,358,910.52, accounting for 47.2%, and is designed to drive visible and sustainable development across the Local Government.

    AKOD went further to outline the sectoral distribution of the capital expenditure, stating that 26.8% is allocated to Works and Infrastructure, 7.09% to Education, 4.08% to Environment, 4.80% to Health, while 5.03% is earmarked for other human capital development sectors, including youth empowerment, women development, and social welfare programmes.

    He emphasized that the Budget of Better Days 1.0 is people-focused and development-driven, assuring that his administration remains committed to fiscal discipline, accountability, and value-for-money in the execution of all projects and programmes.

    Responding,the Councillors, led by the Leader of the House, Hon. Ogunseye Rasheed Adisa, commended the Chairman for the clarity and people-oriented nature of the budget and pledged to fast-track the vetting and approval process in the interest of the people of Ikeja Local Government.

    Present at the budget presentation were the Vice Chairman, Hon. Abisola Omisore; the Management Staff led by the Council Manager, Mrs. Juliana Taiwo Odubeko; the Head of Department, Budget, Dr. Anita Yemisi Razak.

    Others are Heads of Departments and Units of the Local Government; as well as party leaders and members of the Ikeja LGA Executive Committee led by the LGA Chairman, Alhaji Adekunle Dally-Adeokun, and his Vice Chairman, Prince Oluranti Olufon.

    Also in attendance were APC Apex Leaders, including Chief Funso Ologunde, Apostle Olowoporoku, and a host of other respected party leaders. The event was further graced by the presence of the Lagos State APC Assistant Legal Adviser, Barrister Ladigbolu.

    Investigator news reports that the presentation shared commitment of unity to delivering good governance and sustainable development for the benefit of all residents of Ikeja.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Ejigbo LG Chairman,Aare TAT Presents ₦12,905,971,987.45,Budget of Renewed Hope And Accountability.

    Ejigbo LG Chairman,Aare TAT Presents ₦12,905,971,987.45,Budget of Renewed Hope And Accountability.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Executive Chairman of Ejigbo LCDA, Lagos State,Aare Taoheed Adebayo Taiwo on Monday 15, December 2025, formally presented the Year 2026 Appropriation Bill of ₦12,905,971,987.45 to the 6th Legislative Council at the Ejigbo LCDA Legislative Chamber, Lagos.

    The proposed budget, aptly tagged “Budget of Renewed Hope and Accountability is aimed at consolidating development gains while repositioning the local government for sustainable growth and improved service delivery.

    The presentation was made before the House, ably led by the Leader of the Legislative Council, Hon. Oluwaseyi Shobande, in the presence of other honourable members, top management staff, and political stakeholders in the local government.

    In his address,Aare TAT expressed profound appreciation to the Legislative Arm for its consistent support and cooperation since the inception of his administration, noting that such synergy remains critical to democratic governance.

    Presenting the budget, the Executive Chairman stated that the 2026 fiscal year represents a consolidation and advancement phase, designed to deepen service delivery, strengthen institutions, and ensure prudent management of public resources in line with best practices in public finance.

    According to him, the budget framework is strategically aligned with the administration’s SHIELD Agenda, which prioritises Security, Healthcare, Infrastructure, Education and Youth Development, Environmental Sustainability, Local Economic Empowerment, and Digital Governance as the pillars for sustainable growth and inclusive development in Ejigbo LCDA.

    Aare TAT went further to state that the budget underscores his resolve to translate policies into measurable outcomes, strengthen institutions and deepen transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.

    Presenting the financial details,Aare TAT stated that the total proposed budget for 2026 stands at ₦12,905,971,987.45 comprising ₦6,061,814,528.09 for recurrent expenditure and ₦6,844,157,459.36 for capital expenditure.

    He noted that significant attention has been given to security and public safety, with planned investments in solar-powered street lighting to deter crime and improve night time safety, strengthen community-based intelligence structures, peace-building mechanisms, and enhanced collaboration with security agencies and invest in rapid response system so as to guarantee a safer environment for residents and businesses.

    The Council boss assured residents that his administration’s SHIELD agenda would be implemented more vigorously as he disclosed that his administration would place strong emphasis on the rehabilitation and equipping of Primary Health Centres, deploy modern diagnostic technologies so as to improve accuracy and efficiency, guaranteed access to essential drugs, expansion of maternal and child health programmes, community immunisation drives, and free antenatal and postnatal services for vulnerable residents.

    “These interventions will improve life expectancy, reduce preventable deaths, and enhance productivity.”he said.

    Highlighting achievements recorded within the short period of his administration, Aare Taiwo opined that environmental management and education remains a core priority, with planned interventions in waste evacuation, desilting of drains, erosion control, sanitation campaigns, and greening and beautification projects aimed at promoting a healthier and more resilient Ejigbo, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to human capital development, with provisions for school renovation, free examination preparatory programmes, vocational and technical skills training, ICT partnerships, and structured youth empowerment and innovation initiatives, noting that his objective is to nurture globally competitive, digitally fluent and socially responsible youths.

    The proposed capital programme also focuses on infrastructural modernisation, including the construction and rehabilitation of roads, drainage expansion and flood-control measures, extension of public lighting, renovation of public schools, and the upgrade of community and civic facilities across the LCDA.

    The council boss also highlighted local economic development and empowerment, revealing plans for soft grants and micro-support schemes for traders and artisans, strengthening of market infrastructure, support for small and medium enterprises, and improved digital revenue systems to boost Internally Generated Revenue without placing additional burden on residents.

    Emphasising transparency and efficiency, he stated that the administration would continue to expand digital governance initiatives, including automated revenue collection, digital service platforms, enhanced institutional communication, and increased citizen participation in governance.

    The chairman assured the market leaders,religious leaders, CDA executives, and residents that all sectors of their requests would be addressed, while calling on members of the Legislative Council to give the bill timely and patriotic consideration.

    Responding,Hon Oluwaseyi Shobande, legislative leader, assured that they would promptly review and start implementing the budget.

    He commended the chairman for the early presentation of the budget to the house.

    Earlier, before the presentation,a minute silence was observed to honor one the administrative staff who passed away after a brief illness.

    Highlight of the event was the presentation of the budget to the leader of the 6th Legislative Council.

    In attendance at the event include the Vice Chairman, Hon Ambibola Nicholas Ike,APC LGA Chairman, Alhaji Kasumu, security agencies of the Nigeria Police, Civil defense, Neighborhood Security Watch, immigration and DSS

    Others are executives of CDC led by Prince Jelili, religious leaders, market leaders,NYCN, APC ward and local government executives and Councilors from Isolo LCDA .

     

     

    Hon Oluwaseyi Shobande, leader of Ejigbo LCDA legislative council,(Ilamoshe Ward),Aare Taoheed Adebayo Taiwo (Executive Chairman Ejigbo LCDA)
    Deputy leader,Hon Taiwo Idowu(Aigbaka Ward)and Aare TAT
    Majority Leader,Hon Ifatumise Adedoyin Adefioye(Ailegun Ward)and Aare Taiwo
    Deputy Majority Leader, Hon Akeem(Ifoshi Ward) and Aare Taiwo
    Chief Whip,Hon Fatai Bello(Fadu Ward) and Aare Taiwo
    Hon Olabisi Rukayat, Deputy Chief Whip and Councilor representing Oke Afa and Aare Taiwo
  • Bandits Attack Kogi Community, Four Killed, 13 Abducted

    Bandits Attack Kogi Community, Four Killed, 13 Abducted

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Kogi State Government has confirmed an attack by suspected bandits on Ayetoro Kiri community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, resulting in the death of four assailants and the abduction of 13 persons.

    According to the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo,who was a guest on News Central Television on Monday, said local hunters in the community courageously resisted the attack, engaging the bandits in a fierce gun battle.

    Fanwo explained that the sustained onslaught by bandits in neighbouring Niger and Kwara States has pushed criminal elements towards Kogi State, noting that the state government had already marshalled a coordinated security architecture to counter such threats, although the affected area still requires additional reinforcement.

    He disclosed that 13 persons were kidnapped during the incident but assured that hunters and other security operatives are currently on the trail of the fleeing bandits within the forest, with ongoing efforts aimed at rescuing the abducted victims.

    “We are quite hopeful that the kidnapped persons will be rescued,” Fanwo said.

    Investigator news reports that troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and personnel of the Kogi State Police Command have been deployed to the community, with the Department of State Services (DSS) providing intelligence support.

    Fanwo also appealed for air support from the Nigerian Air Force to complement ongoing ground operations and strengthen the security response.

    “The Governor of the State, His Excellency Alh Ahmed Usman Ododo is engaging the service chiefs with the aim of ensuring an air raid of the forest by the Air Force to support the ground duel of the Army, Police and local hunters”, he said.

    Commending the bravery and patriotism of the local hunters for rising to the occasion, the Commissioner reassured residents that the government remains firmly in control of the situation.

    He stressed that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo remains resolutely committed to the protection of lives and property across Kogi State, assuring Kogites that the government is steadily winning the battle against criminal elements.

    “Their movement has been restricted with our security network. What they are doing now is to attack soft targets like churches.

    “We have come up with measures to tighten the security around the state. We are grateful for the cooperation of security agencies and our local hunters. We are winning the battle already”, he assured.

     

     

     

     

  • Truck Rams Into Vehicles On Lagos-Ibadan Expressway,3 Family Members Killed.

    Truck Rams Into Vehicles On Lagos-Ibadan Expressway,3 Family Members Killed.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    A devastating multi-vehicle collision occurred at Secretariat inward Otedola Bridge, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, claiming the lives of three family members.

    The victims, a father, mother, and child, were trapped in one of the vehicles involved in the accident.

    Preliminary investigations revealed that the incident involved three vehicles (Audi, Toyota Camry & Toyota Corolla) initiated when a heavily loaded truck travelling at excessive speed violently struck one of the vehicles from the rear.

    The impact caused the vehicle to lose control, colliding with two additional moving vehicles thereby triggering the fatal chain-reaction accident.

    Investigator news reports the truck driver fled the scene, leaving the victims to face the consequences.

    LASTMA, along with other emergency agencies, responded quickly to the incident, rescuing two survivors and taken them to the hospital for treatment.

    Security personnel from the Isheri Olowora Police Division provided vital protection and operational support throughout the rescue operation while Lastma personnel evecuated the accident vehicles from the main carriage way to avoid another secondary accident.

    The multi-agency response also involved coordinated efforts from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), LASAMBUS, SEHMU and the Lagos Fire & Rescue Service reflecting a unified commitment to life-saving intervention and traffic safety.

    Reacting,the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki expressed profound sorrow over what he described as the “unbearable and irreplaceable loss of an entire family.”

    He prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved relatives and urged them to summon fortitude amidst their unimaginable grief.

    The General Manager also extended heartfelt wishes for the swift and complete recovery of the injured victims commending the rapid and coordinated efforts of all emergency responders at the scene.

    While lamenting the preventable nature of the incident, Mr. Bakare-Oki reiterated LASTMA’s warning against reckless speeding particularly by drivers of articulated and heavily loaded trucks.

    He emphasized that excessive speed remains one of the most lethal contributors to road fatalities and urged motorists to exercise extreme caution, adhere strictly to speed regulations and cultivate defensive driving practices along highways.

    Bakare-Oki went further to assured Lagosians that LASTMA remains steadfast in enhancing traffic surveillance, enforcing regulations, and collaborating with security and emergency agencies to prevent recurrence of similar tragedies.