Category: News

  • Kogi Govt Denies Sacking 25 Officials, Calls Report ‘Baseless’

    Kogi Govt Denies Sacking 25 Officials, Calls Report ‘Baseless’

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Kogi State Government has dismissed a report claiming that 25 political officials were sacked, describing it as “baseless” and “mischievous”.

    According to the press release signed by the Commissioner for Information andm Communications,Hon Kingsley Fanwo clarified that only one Special Adviser was relieved of his duties, contrary to reports claiming that 25 political officials were sacked.

    The statement reads, “Ordinarily, such blatant falsehood would not deserve a response. However, its circulation in some quarters makes it necessary to set the record straight.

    “For clarity, only one Special Adviser was relieved of his duties, strictly on the basis that his services were no longer required.”

    “No other aide was removed, and certainly not for reasons related to political affiliation or association.

    “It is important to emphasise that the Kogi State Government has no political dispute with anyone”.

    “The administration is committed to separating governance from politics, and its singular focus is the continued development and greatness of Kogi State.”

    “The Government of Kogi State holds Hon. James Abiodun Faleke in the highest esteem and maintains a cordial and productive relationship with the distinguished federal lawmaker, a proud and illustrious son of Kogi State.”

    “We therefore urge the public to disregard the falsehood being spread by individuals whose stock-in-trade is mischief and unnecessary tension. Kogi State remains peaceful, united, and firmly on the path of progress.”he concluded.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Kogi Govt Praises Mangal Cement’s Company For Donation Of Three Security Vans Security Donation

    Kogi Govt Praises Mangal Cement’s Company For Donation Of Three Security Vans Security Donation

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Kogi State Government has commended Mangal Cement Company for its generous donation of three brand-new vans, aimed at enhancing the state’s security efforts.

    In a press release, Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, praised Mangal Cement Company for its commitment to corporate social responsibility and partnership with the government in addressing critical security needs.

    “The donated vehicles will significantly boost the operational efficiency of our security agencies as they work tirelessly to maintain peace and order across the State.”

    “The Government appreciates this timely support, which demonstrates what is possible when the private sector joins hands with the government in pursuit of a safer and more prosperous Kogi State.”

    “We therefore encourage other corporate organisations, business leaders, and stakeholders to emulate this exemplary act by Mangal Cement Company.”

    “Together, through shared responsibility and collaborative action, we can continue to advance the security, development, and collective well-being of our people.” Fanwo added.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Kogi Govt Urges Calm After Deadly Incident In Irunda Community.

    Kogi Govt Urges Calm After Deadly Incident In Irunda Community.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Kogi State Government has expressed condolences to the families of three people who lost their lives in a tragic incident in Irunda community, Yagba East Local Government Area.

    The incident occurred when fleeing bandits were intercepted by residents, leading to a confrontation that resulted in the deaths of two community members and a youth who was protesting.

    In a statement signed by Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the government called for calm and urged the youth to cooperate with security agencies working to contain criminal activities in the area.

    Fanwo,noted that reports available to the Government, shows that some fleeing bandits were intercepted outside Irunda community by residents who made efforts to block their escape route.

    The statement reads, “The criminals opened fire on them, leading to the death of two members of the community, while another sustained gunshot wounds and is currently receiving medical treatment.

     

    Read also:Kogi Govt Cracks Down On Road Obstruction,Warns Truck Drivers.

     

    ‘In reaction to the sad development, some youths took to the streets in protest. When military personnel arrived to restore calm, they were reportedly blocked and attacked by a section of the protesters.”

    “The confrontation resulted in the death of one youth, while several military officers sustained varying degrees of injuries”.

    “His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, has called for calm and urged the youth of Irunda and surrounding communities to cooperate fully with security agencies working tirelessly to contain criminal activities in the area.”

    “He emphasised that attacking security operatives can never resolve insecurity but will only escalate tensions and endanger more lives.”

    “The Governor also appealed to security agencies to continue to exercise the highest level of restraint and professionalism in the discharge of their duties, even under provocation, as the protection of lives remains the ultimate priority.”

    “The State Security Adviser has been asked to coordinate a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to the protest and the actions of the protesters and security agencies, with a view to averting future occurrences.”

    “The Kogi State Government remains unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding all communities across the state.”

    “Governor Ododo has directed an intensified security operation in the area to apprehend the fleeing bandits and prevent further breakdown of law and order.”he submitted

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Kogi Govt Cracks Down On Road Obstruction,Warns Truck Drivers.

    Kogi Govt Cracks Down On Road Obstruction,Warns Truck Drivers.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Kogi State Government has issued a stern warning to truck drivers and vehicle operators against road obstruction, vowing to impose severe penalties on defaulters.

    The warning follows an incident at the Nataco area of Lokoja, where a tanker driver blocked the highway, causing a gridlock and hardship to motorists.

    In a statement signed by Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the government described the action as unacceptable and an act of sabotage against the free movement of people and goods.

    According to the Commissioner, the reckless action resulted in an avoidable gridlock,where a tanker driver blocked the highway following a disagreement with another driver, thereby causing hardship to motorists and other road users.

    The statement reads, “The Kogi State Government considers such behavior unacceptable, especially at a time when traffic is expected to increase during the Yuletide season.”

    “Blocking a major highway for personal or commercial disputes is an act of sabotage against the free movement of people and goods, and it will no longer be tolerated.”

    “We hereby issue a stern warning that any truck driver or vehicle operator who deliberately obstructs the road will face severe penalties under the law.”

    “Security agencies and relevant transport authorities have been directed to immediately clear any obstruction and ensure that those responsible are apprehended and prosecuted.”

    “The Government remains committed to ensuring smooth, safe, and uninterrupted movement across the state, and we urge drivers and other road users to conduct themselves responsibly and resolve disputes without endangering public order.”

     

     

     

  • Reckless Driving Claims Lives Of Police Officer, Scavenger In Lagos

    Reckless Driving Claims Lives Of Police Officer, Scavenger In Lagos

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    A tragic accident occurred at Ilubirin inward Simpson, Lagos Island, claiming the lives of a police officer and a scavenger.

     

    Investigator news reports that the driver of a Toyota Camry vehicle, MUS 885 JA, was speeding when he lost control and veered off his lane, striking the victims.

    LASTMA personnel stationed around the Ilubirin axis swiftly intervened, cordoning off the accident zone to ensure safety and prevent further complications.

    The driver attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended by LASTMA personnel and handed over to the police.

    The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, who visited the accident scene in a sober and reflective mood, commiserated deeply with the families, colleagues and communities affected by the tragic incident.

    He lamented the needless loss of lives and described the event as a painful reminder of the consequences of reckless driving.

    Mr. Bakare-Oki went further to admonished motorists generally to adhere strictly to government-approved speed limits and to maintain the highest standards of road discipline.

    He reiterated that speed violations remain one of the leading causes of avoidable road fatalities.

    The General Manager reaffirmed LASTMA’s unwavering commitment to continuous public enlightenment on road safety protocols, urging all road users—particularly drivers—to adopt safer driving habits in order to prevent future tragedies.

    Investigator news gathered that the accidented vehicle was professionally evacuated by LASTMA operatives to forestall secondary accidents and restore normalcy to traffic flow in the corridor.

     

     

     

  • Abule-Ado Crash: LASTMA Condoles Family Of Federal Firefighter,Vows To Crack Down on One-Way Driving.

    Abule-Ado Crash: LASTMA Condoles Family Of Federal Firefighter,Vows To Crack Down on One-Way Driving.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has expressed its deepest condolences to the family of a Federal Fire Service officer who lost his life in a tragic road accident at Abule-Ado.

    The incident occurred when a commercial motorcyclist riding against traffic collided with the firefighter, who was attempting to cross the expressway.

    According to eyewitnesses, the motorcyclist was speeding and riding against the approved direction of traffic, leading to the fatal collision.

    A Shacman truck, (with registration number: JJJ 919 YK) which was heavily laden with sand, was unable to brake effectively and crashed into the firefighter, resulting in his death.

    Investigator news reports that LASTMA personnel responded promptly to the incident, cordoning off the area and ensuring the safety of other road users.

    The motorcyclist responsible for the incident fled the scene, while the driver of the Shacman truck also abandoned the vehicle and escaped.

    The remains of the late Firefighter were respectfully evacuated by his colleagues from the Federal Fire Service using an official ambulance deployed from the Trade Fair Complex.

    Following effective scene management, LASTMA Officials handed over the impounded truck to designated security personnel for comprehensive investigation and further legal procedures.

    In a condolence message,the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, has extended his deepest sympathies to the bereaved family, praying that Almighty God grants them the strength and fortitude to endure this irreplaceable loss.

    He assured the family of LASTMA’s support during this deeply distressing period.

    Lamenting the persistent and dangerous practice of driving against traffic across Lagos, the General Manager issued a stern warning to motorists and commercial motorcyclists emphasising that such reckless conduct has repeatedly resulted in needless tragedies and immeasurable anguish.

    He urged all road users to obey directional signs and comply strictly with government-approved speed limits as an essential civic responsibility towards preserving human life.

    Investigator news gathered that LASTMA has reiterated its unwavering commitment to promoting safety, enforcing traffic laws, and fostering a more disciplined and responsible motoring culture throughout Lagos State.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • APC Unveils Schedule For Kogi LG Election,Pledges Transparent Process.

    APC Unveils Schedule For Kogi LG Election,Pledges Transparent Process.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State has released the schedule of activities for the upcoming Local Government Elections, assuring aspirants and party members of a free, fair, and transparent process.

    Addressing journalists in Lokoja, APC Chairman Hon. (Dr.) Abdullahi Bello emphasized the party’s commitment to upholding the guidelines set by the APC and the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC).

    He stressed that every aspirant will be given a level playing ground, and complaints and clarifications will be handled openly throughout the exercise, stressing that,as a party of inclusiveness, he is encouraging all interested members to participate without fear or intimidation.

    Bello expressed appreciation to party members and citizens for their support for Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration, attributing the government’s achievements to their cooperation and solidarity.

    “The successes recorded so far are a direct result of the love and commitment of our members who have stood firmly with the leadership,” he stated.

    The APC Chairman reaffirmed the Ododo’s administration focus on delivering dividends of democracy across the state, irrespective of political affiliations, emphasizing that Kogi State is “one family and one people.”

    As the election approaches, Bello urged aspirants and supporters to conduct themselves peacefully, warning against acrimony and bitterness.

    “At the end of the process, there will be no victor and no vanquished. The people of Kogi State will be the ultimate winners,” he said.

    The party called for vigilance, unity, and adherence to its ideals as preparations intensify ahead of the polls.

    The scheduled activities align with SIEC’s official timetable for the elections.

     

     

     

     

     

  • Kogi East Elites Forum Slams Senator Karimi Over Comments On Governor Ododo

    Kogi East Elites Forum Slams Senator Karimi Over Comments On Governor Ododo

    Emmanuel lkpeama the 

    A political interest group, the Kogi East Elites Forum, has criticized Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West, for his recent comments at the 2025 Kabba Day Celebration, calling them “unguided” and threatening to the state’s peace and unity.

    In a statement, the forum’s spokesperson, Alhaji Abubakar Yakubu Rajab, distanced Kogi East from any plans to oust Governor Usman Ododo from office in 2027, contrary to Karimi’s claims.

    The group labeled Karimi a “deceptive agent” and urged Kogites to disregard his statements.

    “As a federal lawmaker, Karimi is supposed to be mindful of his utterances and not say or do anything to overheat the polity. ”

    “The people of Kogi East are not dullards; we clearly know what is good for us and what is good for Kogi State as a whole.”

    “In furtherance of this admonition, Kogites should be wary of deceptive agents like Karimi ahead of the 2027 general elections because he is positioning himself for his own interest, not the interest of the good people of Kogi West and Kogi State.””the statement reads.

    The Elites Forum reaffirmed its support for Governor Ododo, citing his exceptional leadership, humility, and administrative acumen.

    They highlighted his achievements, including free education, infrastructure development, and efforts to combat insecurity.

    “The forum would like to make it abundantly clear to Senator Karimi that his statements are mere figments of his imagination, as Kogi State is now resolute and united behind His Excellency, Ahmed Usman Ododo, and President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, come 2027.”

    “Our Governor has displayed the highest level of humility, responsiveness, and exceptional administrative acumen”

    “Through his resilience, the Governor is working to establish industrial parks and free trade zones to catalyze industrialization; the airport project design has been completed in record time; the ongoing construction of an international market in Lokoja will boost commercial activities and generate employment for our teeming youths”

    “His landmark introduction of free education; revitalization and equipping of primary health care centers across the state; prompt payment of salaries to civil servants and pensions to retirees; scholarships to students in tertiary institutions; infrastructure development in roads, water, and educational sectors; and his sincere fight against insecurity is second to none.”they stated.

    The group urged President Bola Tinubu to ignore Karimi’s divisive tendencies, emphasizing that the Senatorial Districts in Kogi State are not at odds.

    They also called on the people of Kogi State to ensure Governor Ododo completes his constitutional tenure of eight years.

     

     

  • Soludo Unveils N757.88 Billion Budget To Anambra Assembly.

    Soludo Unveils N757.88 Billion Budget To Anambra Assembly.

    Onyebuchi Onwuchekwa 

    Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has presented a N757.88 billion budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly.

    The budget, titled “Changing Gears 3.0: Solution Continues”, focuses on consolidating legacy projects and driving economic transformation.

     

    The proposed budget represents a 24.1% increase over the 2025 budget of N606.99 billion. Recurrent expenditure is projected at N162.6 billion, while capital expenditure stands at N595.3 billion, accounting for 79% of the total budget size.

    Soludo emphasized that the budget is anchored on the five pillars of his manifesto: Security, Law and Order; Infrastructure and Economic Transformation; Human Capital and Social Agenda; Governance and New Value System; and Environmental Sustainability.

    According to the governor, the 2026 budget reflects his administration’s intensified focus on execution, with capital expenditure projected at ₦595.3 billion (79% of the total budget) and recurrent expenditure at ₦162.6 billion (21%). This marks a year-on-year growth of 26.3% in capital expenditure and 16.6% in recurrent expenditure.

    The budget deficit is estimated at ₦225.7 billion, or 29.8% of the total budget, and is expected to be financed, if necessary, through hybrid options, including potential privatisation proceeds, increased internally generated revenue (IGR), and concessionary borrowing primarily for bankable projects.

    “Since the beginning of this administration, we have not borrowed to finance budget deficits, and depending on the pace of execution in 2026, we may still not need to borrow,” Soludo said.

    Highlighting sectoral priorities, the governor noted year-on-year increases in key areas: Administrative Sector (12.2%), Economic Sector (26.7%), Social Sector (31.4%), Education (46.9%), Health (13%), and Infrastructure Investments (27.7%).

    He said the increases reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening human capital, boosting economic growth, expanding critical infrastructure, and enhancing the well-being of Ndi Anambra.

    Soludo said at least 70% of the 2026 budget is allocated to security, law and order, infrastructure, economic transformation, and human capital development, underlining their importance to the state’s long-term development trajectory.

    Governor Soludo presenting the 2026 budget at the Anambra State House of Assembly

     

    On infrastructure, the governor stated that the government would continue its transport revolution, including building and dualising strategic roads, bridges, and flyovers, expanding mass transit systems, developing new jetties, and acquiring boats for safer waterway transport. A Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model is also being explored for the state’s rail master plan.

    The governor went further to outline plans for the development of three new cities: Awka 2.0, Greater Niger, and the Aerotropolis/New Industrial-Commercial City, with the construction of the Anambra Mixed-Use Industrial City commencing in 2026 as a signal of the next phase of industrial transformation.

     

  • Again,Bandits Abducts  11 Residents In Kwara.

    Again,Bandits Abducts  11 Residents In Kwara.

    Tunde Omoniyi.

    Bandits have struck the Isapa community of Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, abducting 11 residents. 

    The gunmen, numbering more than 20, stormed the community with a large herd of cattle on Monday, firing shots indiscriminately.

    An elderly woman was reportedly hit by a stray bullet during the incident.

    Speaking with newsmen,a community leader, who spoke under anonymity confirmed the incident.

    He said that 11 people were abducted, with seven victims belonging to the same family. The kidnapped victims include a pregnant woman, two nursing mothers, and several young children.

    Investigator news reports that identities of the abducted individuals have been identified as: Talatu Kabiru (Female, 20), Magaji (Male, 6), Kande (Female, 5), Hadiza (Female, 10), Mariam (Female, 6)

    Others included ‎Saima (Female, 5), a housewife, Habibat, a housewife, Fatima Yusufu, a pregnant woman, Sarah Sunday (Female, 22), Lami Fidelis (Female, 23, nursing mother), and Haja Na Allah (Nursing mother).

    Eyewitness accounts had it that the attackers moved through parts of the town, leaving bullet holes in walls and doors.

    Expended AK-47 shells were found scattered across the community after the gunmen fled. ‎Police authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the incident.

    The latest attack on the Isapa community comes about two weeks after gunmen struck the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, an area in the same LGA.

    They kidnapped 38 members of the church, while others reportedly died during the assault. However, the abductees have been released.

    It was reported how panic and tears swept through CAC as terrorists stormed a branch of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), killing three worshippers and abducting several others, including the pastor.

    According to sources, the attackers invaded the church during a meeting and immediately opened fire, sending worshippers running for cover.

    Three members were reportedly shot dead on the spot before the assailants seized an unspecified number of people.

    The attackers reportedly escaped through bush paths that connect Eruku to neighbouring communities, leaving residents in panic and confusion.