PROFESSOR ABAYOMI RECOVERS FROM COVID-19

PROFESSOR ABAYOMI RECOVERS FROM COVID-19

It is with gratitude to God that I announce the recovery and subsequent negative test for COVID-19 of the Honorable Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi.

Following the mandatory isolation, the Commissioner took a COVID-19 PCR test which returned negative yesterday evening. Professor Abayomi is very grateful and humbled by the deep concern shown and expressed by Executive Council members, civil servants, Lagos residents, Nigerians, both locally and in the diaspora, through prayers, messages, phone calls and gifts.

He will be returning to his full duties gradually and remains resolute in delivering the mandate of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, whom he says stood by him steadfastly in these trying times; he sincerely appreciates Mr. Governor's gesture.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, the Incident Commander, is excited by the news and urges Lagosians to realise that COVID-19 is still with us; they should keep obeying the guidelines - washing their hands, wearing face masks and avoiding large gatherings, among others. 

Gbenga Omotoso

Commissioner for Information and Strategy

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AMOTEKUN ARRESTS CATTLE OWNER FOR ASSAULT

AMOTEKUN ARRESTS CATTLE OWNER FOR ASSAULT

 A 38-year-old Isimaila Yakubu, a cattle owner has been arrested by men of the Amotekun Security agency for allegedly assaulting a fellow colleague, Kabiru Usman with a firewood at Sango Market.

It was gathered that the victim was saved by Amotekun men and rushed to a private Hospital, where he is presently receiving medical help.

Yakubu confessed that he hit the victim with a firewood more than 35 times on the leg.

“I was not feeling too well that evening. I was observing prayers when I felt someone behind me. From a far, I heard a voice of a woman, sometime later I heard a male voice.

“Then there was a grab on my throat.

“So I picked up firewood close to me to defend myself.

“I did not touch his head, I don’t know how he got the head injury. I only hit him on the leg because that is how we normally disable cows when we want to kill them.

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KOGI GUBER: SUPREME COURT AFFIRMS YAHAYA BELLO'S ELECTION

KOGI GUBER: SUPREME COURT AFFIRMS YAHAYA BELLO'S ELECTION

The Supreme Court has affirmed the election of Yahaya Bello of the All Progressives Congress winner of the 16 November 2019 Kogi State governorship election. 

VERYCONCERN reports that in a unanimous judgment prepared by Justice Inyang Okoro, the five-member panel headed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Tanko Mohammed, noted that the appeal by Musa Wada and People Democratic Party (PDP) had failed to prove allegations of electoral irregularities.

Wada had sought to overturn the decision of the Appeal Court of 4th July, 2020 affirming the decision of the Kogi State Election Tribunal.

The grounds for the appeal is that the election of Yahaya Bello was in breach of provisions of the Electoral Act owing to the irregularities such as over-voting and electoral violence, among others.

In the judgment read by Justice Uwani Abba Aji, the Apex Court maintained the appellant had failed to prove the allegation of over-voting, as documents tendered lacked evidential value noting they were merely dumped before the court as they were not by the authors-polling unit agents.

Musa Wada had relied on the evidence of PW 19, a forensic expert, to prove his case of alleged over-voting, but to this the court insisted such an evidence should be from those who were on ground during voting.

The Apex Court also noted that the appellant did a poor job of proving ballot snatching.

It stated that tendering documents of 24 polling units of the 729 in the seven local government areas being disputed further dampened the appeal, and as such dismissed same for lacking in merit.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Yahaya Bello of the APC winner of the Kogi State governorship election with 406,222 votes to defeat his main challenger, Musa Wada of the PDP, got 189,704 votes.

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Planned Concession; Unions protest at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport

Planned Concession; Unions protest at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport

Unions in the aviation sector at the Malam Aminu Kano International Aiport, Kano have converged on the airport premises to stage a protest against a concession attempt by the Federal Government.

The staff carrying placards with various inscription moved around the airport premises and singing solidarity songs.

Galaxy tvPlanned Concession; Unions protest at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport

Unions in the aviation sector at the Malam Aminu Kano International Aiport, Kano have converged on the airport premises to stage a protest against a concession attempt by the Federal Government.

The staff carrying placards with various inscription moved around the airport premises and singing solidarity songs.

VERYCONCERN reports that National Union of Air Transport Employees, NUATE, Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals, ANAP and the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association, ATSSSAN, say the action was to prevail on the federal government to have a rethink in a positive direction.

The Chairman of Air Transport Service, Senior Staff Association of Nigeria,ATSSSAN at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, MAKIA Comrade Sama’ila Muhammad Alkali, said the protest was organised to also reject in totality the movement of FAAN Staff to contributory pensions.

He explained that concession poses job loss in the aviation industry and a threat to national security.

Meanwhile, domestic flight  operations were not affected by the peaceful protest as passengers were seen embarking on their busy movement. correspondent King Richard reports that National Union of Air Transport Employees, NUATE, Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals, ANAP and the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association, ATSSSAN, say the action was to prevail on the federal government to have a rethink in a positive direction.

The Chairman of Air Transport Service, Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, ATSSSAN at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, MAKIA Comrade Sama’ila Muhammad Alkali, said the protest was organised to also reject in totality the movement of FAAN Staff to contributory pensions.

He explained that concession poses job loss in the avaiation industry and a threat to national security.

Meanwhile, domestic flight  operations were not affected by the peaceful protest as passengers were seen embarking on their busy movement.

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Heavily Armed Kidnappers Abduct 3 on Kano Highway

Heavily Armed Kidnappers Abduct 3 on Kano Highway 

Heavily armed kidnappers on Monday mounted a roadblock along Falgore Forest in Doguwa Local Government Area of Kano State and abducted three people.

A witness, Ado Musa, told journalists that the incident happened around 7am.

He said a number of commuters sustained injuries during the attack, adding that the Hisbah commander of the local government area, Mukhtar Abdulmumin, was among those injured by the gunmen.

Spokesman for the Kano Police Command, DSP Abdullahi Kiyawa, confirmed the incident, saying the police have begun investigation into the incident.

Recall that In July,  VERYCONCERN reports that the Kano state Commissioner of Police, Habu Sani, visited the dreaded forest where he assessed security situation in the area and warned officers stationed there to always maintain high level of security.

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CAMA Law: PDP Urges FG to Focus on Insecurity, Economy

CAMA Law: PDP Urges FG to Focus on Insecurity, Economy

The Peoples Democratic Party has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to face the problems of insecurity and economy and allow religion to thrive in the country.

National chairman of the party, Uche Secondus made the call while inaugurating the national campaign council of the Peoples Democratic Party for the Ondo state gubernatorial election slated for October, 10 2020.

Reacting to the recent presidential assent on the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020, the PDP chairman said the law tend to control religion and should be discouraged.

He said government should rather focus on the challenges bedeviling the country instead of fight those who pray for the progress of the country.

Secondus however urged the governor Makinde led campaign council to ensure that the party wins the October poll while urging the federal government to made the election credible.

Governor Seyi Makinde in his acceptance speech assured the National Working Committee that PDP will win the election.

He promised to provide good leadership that will enthrone Mr. Jegede as the next governor of the Sunshine State.

Member of the one hundred and forty-five campaign council attended the inauguration.

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OYO NSCDC ARREST MAN FOR MURDER IN OGBOMOSO

OYO NSCDC ARREST  MAN FOR MURDER IN OGBOMOSO

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps(NSCDC) Oyo State Command Agro Rangers Squad Ogbomoso Zone has arrested a 27-year-old farmer, Abraham Alamu, for murder.

 The suspect, a  native of Ogbomoso South was arrested after he had escaped from the scene of the offence at Oko Oba, Elega, Orire  Local Government Area where he brutalized the victim  Shuaib Adamu a Fulani man of Elega Village, Ikoyi Ogbomoso for grazing his cattles on his farm.

The Commandant of Corp in Oyo State Iskilu Akinsanya disclosed that the suspect evaded arrest on 21st of August and ran to unknown destination before officers of  Agro Rangers Squad stationed at Ogbomoso tracked him down in the town.

Items recovered from the suspect at the time of the arrest include Carpenter working tools: Scissors, Hammer, Saw, Nail remover, Mosquito net, 3 ATM cards, Two apprentice identification card, cloth, Bible, toothbrush and Purse.

Akinsanya commended residents of Oyo State for providing timely information to the Corps in other to nip crime in the bud while he warned against jungle justice.

He assured the good people of Oyo state of adequate of adequate security in collaboration with sister agencies 

The suspect has been handed over to the Oyo State  Police Command for further investigation and prosecution.

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250 new cases of #COVID19Nigeria

 

250 new cases of #COVID19Nigeria;

Plateau-69

FCT-41

Lagos-21

Delta-14

Kaduna-14

Bayelsa-13

Enugu-13

 Ekiti-11

Bauchi-9

Ogun-8

Edo-7

Oyo-7

Rivers-6

Adamawa-4

Osun-4

Nasarawa-3

Ebonyi-2

Kwara-2

Gombe-1

Imo-1

53,727 confirmed

41,314 discharged

1,011 deaths

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HELICOPTER CRASH: SANWO-OLU VISITS ACCIDENT SCENE, PROMISES RENOVATION OF AFFECTED STRUCTURES

HELICOPTER CRASH: SANWO-OLU VISITS ACCIDENT SCENE, PROMISES RENOVATION OF AFFECTED STRUCTURES

…Governor Commends Emergency, Security Agencies' Quick Intervention 

…Affected Families Appreciate Governor’s Visit

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-olu on Saturday visited the site of the helicopter crash at Salvation Road in Opebi area of the State 24 hours after the incident to assess the damage of the crash. 

Speaking to journalists after looking round the crash site and meeting with the owners of the affected buildings, the Governor promised that Lagos State Government will carry out integrity tests on the buildings and do necessary repairs and assist the affected families.

It would be recalled that a Bell 206 Helicopter, belonging to Quorum Aviation, was traveling in from Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital with two crew members and a passenger before it crashed in between two residential buildings in the Opebi area of Lagos at mid-day on Friday.

Sanwo-Olu also sympathised with the families of the three people that lost their loved ones during the crash and prayed that God will comfort the families of the deceased. 

He said: “I am here to do a real on the spot assessment and I have seen things for myself. We thank God that as painful as the incident might be, the damage was not beyond what we have witnessed. We are pained by the death of the three people on board but we thank God because it could have been worse than that. The affected buildings are residential homes that have citizens living there. As at the exact time the helicopter crash happened, a lot of people were not in the premises and even the elderly people that were around and in their rooms. But as God would have it, nothing in term of fatality happened to people on the ground. So, we need to thank God. If not, fatality may have been a lot more than what we are talking about.

“As you can see the people affected are senior citizens; they are people in their 80s and 70s that I have come to condole with and also thank God for them. We have seen the level of destruction and damages. Tests will be conducted to understand the integrity of the buildings and once that is ascertained today or tomorrow, we will start work with the federal agencies. We will start the reconstruction and renovation of the places affected by the crash; the rooms, walls, tents and ensure that we quickly bring respite to the senior citizens that have been affected.

“From Monday, we will start rebuilding the damaged structure and also assist in any areas the owners of the buildings need our assistance. We will also assist the senior citizens wherever they need help. We know that the incident has had some impact on them. We will give them whatever support we can give them to reduce their psychological, physical and emotion hardship, which may have been caused by the incident. We would be doing that for them as a government. The whole essence of governance is to ensure that once your citizens are affected like this, government need to rise up.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu also commended all the federal and state agencies for their quick response by moving to the site of the crash shortly after the helicopter crash. “I want commend all our frontline workers, all the emergency staff that turned up yesterday with citizens in the neigbourhood that turned out in large number to help,” he said.

Speaking during the governor’s visit, residents of the helicopter crash site area thanked Governor Sanwo-olu for visiting the crash site, as they thank God that when the helicopter crash landed, there was no fuel in it.

They prayed for Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu, saying his tenure in government will be successful, noting this is the first time something will happen and a sitting Governor in Lagos will make a quick response.

They also thanked several agencies of Lagos State for making quick response to the crash site and clearing it.

In her address, one of owners of the affected buildings, a 77-year old Deaconess Oluwayemisi Oluwole said the repairs promised by the governor should be done quickly for her to be able to move back into her residence.

She said: “I thank God for what happened because there was nobody in the apartment affected by the crash. We thank God that the helicopter didn’t land on top of the house. We thank God that there was no fuel in the helicopter when it landed.

“I hope somebody will come and assess the degree of the damage and that should be done quickly because I have not entered the house since yesterday because I have been banned from entering the house.

“Since yesterday a lot of people came here without observing any COVID-19 protocols. In my house now, I can count 20 face masks on the floor. So, I want to appeal to government to come and help us to sanitise the place. I am very happy that you (Governor Sanwo-Olu) have blood that you know something happened to your subjects and you decided to visit them. Your reign will be sweet in Jesus name.”

Also speaking, Mr. Sesan Kuyoro also thanked several agencies of Lagos State for making quick response to the crash site and clearing it.

He said their response showed the commitment of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration to welfare of the citizens of the State.

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SANWO-OLU DIRECTS SCHOOL RESUMPTION, AS LAGOS RECORDS DECLINE IN POSITIVE COVID-19 CASES

SANWO-OLU DIRECTS SCHOOL RESUMPTION, AS LAGOS RECORDS DECLINE IN POSITIVE COVID-19 CASES

•Tertiary Institutions Resume Sept. 14; Basic Schools, Sept. 21

•Governor Launches COVID-19 Care Pack For Home Treatment

All tertiary institutions in Lagos State are to re-open for academic activities from September 14, 2020. This was the directive by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the 18th state-wide briefing held at the State House in Marina on Saturday.

The Governor also directed the primary and secondary schools across the State to resume on September 21, 2020, but said this date could be subjected to further review in the ongoing modelling of the State’s response to the pandemic.

The re-opening order came six months after all tertiary institutions and basic schools were shut on the order of the Government, following the outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Sanwo-Olu said the decision to re-open the schools was carefully thought through, given the decline in the number of positive cases and the progress recorded in the State’s response. He asked the management of the schools to ensure adherence to the safety guidelines as they re-open their campuses for activities.

Besides, the Governor also permitted the re-opening of recreational centres and social clubs that have registered trustees, but on the condition that they obtain a provisional Safety Compliance Certificate through the registration portal of the Lagos State Safety Commission (LSSC).

He said: “I am pleased to announce that tertiary institutions in Lagos State will re-open from September 14, 2020.  We are also working towards the reopening of Primary and Secondary Schools anytime from September 21, 2020. However, the decision to re-open the basic and secondary schools is not cast in stone and is subject to a review of our ongoing modelling of the State’s response to the pandemic.

“Also, social clubs and recreational centers that have registered trustees have also been permitted to open, on the condition that they have applied for and obtained a Provisional Safety Compliance Certificate through the registration portal of the Lagos State Safety Commission. Restaurants are now permitted to open for in-dining services, but they must ensure the maintenance of a 50 per cent maximum occupancy at any point in time. They must also have obtained a provisional Safety Compliance Certificate.”

Sanwo-Olu said his Government remained sympathetic to the plight of business owners, especially those operating in hospitality and tourism sectors. He said the State Government was still reviewing the permissible opening dates for businesses tourism and hospitality industry, pointing out that there would be concrete decisions on easing the lockdown on tourism businesses before the end of September.

The Governor directed that all event centers, bars, lounges, night clubs, spas, beaches, cinemas, gyms and game arcades to remain shut till further notice.

As Federal Government prepares to re-open international airspace for traffic on September 5, Sanwo-Olu said the State Government had started to work with the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to put adequate measures in place in order to guarantee the safety and well-being of Lagos residents in the light of resumption of international air-travel.

The Governor also ordered civil servants in the State’s unified public service to comply with existing guidelines and roster schedules issued by the Head of Service and the heads of MDAs.

He said: “As a Government, we will continue to keep our citizens informed and updated on the decisions that we are taking in response to the pandemic. We will also continue to ask for your understanding and cooperation. These are challenging times for all of us, and it requires extra levels of patience, sacrifice and understanding.”

Sanwo-Olu said the observed decline in the number of positive cases did not mean the pandemic was over. He urged residents to continue to adhere to the safety guidelines outlined by the health authorities.

“The fact that we have been seeing a gradual easing of the lockdown does not mean that we are now returning to our old way of doing things. The easing you are seeing is the outcome of a careful and deliberate attempt to ensure that livelihoods are not crippled by the overwhelmingly disruptive impact of the virus. It is certainly not an invitation to carelessness or nonchalance,” the Governor said.

The Governor disclosed that the State’s Deputy Incident Commander and Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, had been discharging his duty and responding to treatment, adding that Commissioner remained asymptomatic.

Sanwo-Olu, at the briefing, launched a COVID-19 Care Pack, which contains medications, hand sanitizer, face masks and handy medical equipment that could be used to check temperature.

The Care Pack is to be given to those who have been confirmed positive of the COVID-19 free of charge and who prefer home-based care.

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GOVERNOR SANWO-OLU COMMISERATES WITH FAMILIES OF HELICOPTER CRASH

GOVERNOR SANWO-OLU COMMISERATES WITH FAMILIES OF HELICOPTER CRASH

Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-olu has commiserated with families, friends and associates of the victims of the unfortunate helicopter crash in Opebi, Lagos.

In a condolence message signed on his behalf by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile on Friday, Governor Sanwo-Olu promised that his Government would work with all the relevant Federal Government agencies to unravel the remote and immediate cause of the accident so as to prevent a re-occurrence in the future.

The Governor advised residents of Opebi and its surrounding to go about their business peacefully saying, “there is nothing to fear as men and officers of the State emergency services were promptly deployed to the scene of the crash and they had brought everything under control.  

The environment is also safe and secure.”

The Governor prayed that God would grant the deceased eternal rest and grant the families they left behind the fortitude the bear the irreplaceable loss.

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PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH FAMILIES OF HELICOPTER CRASH VICTIMS

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH FAMILIES OF HELICOPTER CRASH VICTIMS 

President Muhammadu Buhari commiserates with families, friends and associates of victims of the Bell 206 helicopter operated by Quorum Aviation which crashed Friday into a building in Opebi, Lagos State.

Special adviser to the president on media and publicity, Femi Adesina in a statement, said while the nation awaits report of investigation into the accident by aviation regulatory agencies, the President prays that God will console the bereaved families, grant peace to the souls of the dead and speedy recovery for the injured.

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WE WILL CONTINUE TO SUPPORT MNJTF, PRESIDENT BUHARI ASSURES

WE WILL CONTINUE TO SUPPORT MNJTF, PRESIDENT BUHARI ASSURES

Despite being at what he calls “the low ebb of resources caused by COVID-19 and fallen oil prices, President Muhammadu Buhari says Nigeria will continue to provide support for the Multinational Joint Task Force based in N’djamena, Chad Republic.

The President spoke Friday at the State House, Abuja, while receiving Ambassador Mamman Nuhu, Executive Secretary, Lake Chad Basin Commission and Head of Mission, MNJTF.

Special adviser to the president on media and publicity, Femi Adesina in a statement explained that President Buhari assured that despite paucity of resources, security of Nigeria and that of her neighbors must have pride of place.

He said he will consult with all the relevant officials, to tack necessary steps to end insecurity with Lake chad basin.

Ambassador Nuhu gave the President updates on the proposed recharge of Lake Chad, which he said was one of the priorities of Lake Chad Basin Commission, informing him that the governments of China and Italy were of great support, adding that positive action will commence soon.

The Envoy also commended countries which have contributed troops to MNJTF, adding, that kinetic military approach alone would not eradicate insurgency, adding that emphasis must also be placed on the root causes, particularly poverty.

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ARREST OF SUSPECTED ARMED ROBBER/MURDERER

ARREST OF SUSPECTED ARMED ROBBER/MURDERER 

Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping unit of Bayelsa State Command has unravel the mystery behind the disappearance of one Isreal Francis 24 years, on 15 August, 2020.

The deceased was declared missing on 16 August 2020. The Anti Kidnapping team reasonably suspected one Temitope Sunday who was seen with the deceased before his sudden disappearance.

Upon interrogation the suspect confessed to have robbed the deceased of his motorcycle and other valuables, killed him and dumped his corpse in a bush at Toru-Orua, Sagbama Local Government Area. 

The suspect  confessed to have conspired with one Mubashiru Isa and one other to commit the crime, he led the Anti kidnapping team to the bush where the remains of the deceased were recovered. The Motorcycle was also recovered from Mubashiru Isa. 

Investigation is ongoing.

SP Asinim Butswat 

Police Public Relations Officer 

Bayelsa State Command.

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Chadwick Boseman Dies At 43 After 4-Year Battle With Cancer

Chadwick Boseman Dies At 43 After 4-Year Battle With Cancer

Actor Chadwick Boseman, who played Black icons Jackie Robinson and James Brown before finding fame as the regal Black Panther in the Marvel cinematic universe, died Friday of cancer, his representative said. He was 43.

Boseman died at his home in the Los Angeles area with his wife and family by his side, his publicist Nicki Fioravante told The Associated Press.

Boseman was diagnosed with colon cancer four years ago, his family said in a statement.

"A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much," his family said in the statement. "From Marshall to Da 5 Bloods, August Wilson's Ma Rainey's Black Bottom and several more — all were filmed during and between countless surgeries and chemotherapy. It was the honour of his career to bring King T'Challa to life in Black Panther."

Boseman had not spoken publicly about his diagnosis.

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160 new cases of #COVID19Nigeria

 

160 new cases of #COVID19Nigeria;

Plateau-44

Lagos-27

Katsina-18

Edo-15

FCT-14

Ondo-10

Oyo-9

Kwara-6

Abia-4

Nasarawa-4

Kano-3

Ekiti-2

Kaduna-2

Kebbi-1

Ogun-1

53,477 confirmed

41,017 discharged

1,011 deaths

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MC Oluomo speaks on Task Force/motorists fracas

MC Oluomo speaks on Task Force/motorists fracas

Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Lagos State Council, Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya (aka MC Oluomo) has called on the union members to remain calm.

He spoke in reaction to a fracas between the Lagos State Taskforce on Environmental Sanitation and commercial motorists that led to the ‘death’ of a bus conductor, Wasiu Kolawole.

Akinsanya, who spoke through the council secretary, Comrade Seyi Bankole, warned drivers not to take the law into their hands.

He said the union leaders were investigating the situation.

Bankole attended to the union members, who came to the union headquarters to protest the killing of their member.

He assured the protesters the police the authorities would fish out the culprits among the officers and made them face the law.

“We have confidence in the leadership of Commissioner of Police (CP) Hakeem Odumosu and the Taskforce Chairman, Yinka Egbeyemi to do justice on the issue at hand.

“CP Odumosu does not condone the harassments of members of the public not to talk of the union by police officers.

“We know the Taskforce Chairman, Egbeyemi did not direct the officers to harass our members. We also know that some of those officers are just being overzealous but no leader will watch his followers being molested and harassed for doing their daily job. At the union level, we maintain a good relationship with all police formations especially the Taskforce.

‘’Whatever issues the officers on the fields have with our members, they should inform us and we will act swiftly on them. Going to impound their vehicles daily and subjected them to heavy fines is unfair,” he said.

Akinsanya appealed to Odumosu to order release of corpse of Kolawole to the union members.

“I learnt the police Public Relations Officer (PRO) said the conductor is not dead. Let him disclose the hospital he was taken to for us to visit him.

‘’The police should release those arrested with their buses. They were there to protest the “killing” of their colleagues before they were arrested,” he said.

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SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES AFDB PRESIDENT, ADESINA ON RE-ELECTION

SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES AFDB PRESIDENT, ADESINA ON RE-ELECTION

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has congratulated the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr Akinwunmi Adesina, on his re-election for a second term in office.

Governor Sanwo-Olu in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile on Thursday, said Adesina’s re-election is a testimony to his hard work, dedication and commitment to the growth and development of the Africa continent.

Sanwo-Olu, who described Adesina as a good ambassador of Nigeria and Africa, said the AfDB President deserved to be re-elected having distinguished himself during his first term in office as the head of the international organisation.

The Governor also appreciated and commended President Muhammadu Buhari and those who played crucial roles in the re-election bid of the former Nigerian Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, as President of AfDB.

He said: “On behalf of my family and the people of Lagos State, I want to congratulate Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina on your re-election as the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB). Your re-election is well-deserved. 

“Having proved yourself as a good administrator and technocrat in different public offices at national and international levels in the last 30 years, I am confident that your re-election will bring more development to the Africa continent as you supervise the affairs of African Development Bank for another five years.”

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Why I killed another person immediately I escaped from prison – Suspected serial killer, Sunday Shodipe reveals!

Why I killed another person immediately I escaped from prison – Suspected serial killer, Sunday Shodipe reveals!

 

Sunday Shodipe, the suspected rapist and serial killer said he killed a woman immediately he escaped from Police custody on the 11th of August before his re-arrest on the 23rd at Iwo Road, Ibadan.

He is allegedly responsible for the killing of at least, three women during the COVID-19 lockdown according to report.

He made the confession of him killing one Funmilayo Oladimeji after he escaped from Police cell in Mokola, Ibadan when he was paraded alongside 32 other suspects by the Commissioner of Police in the State, Mr Joe Enwonwu.

Mr Shodipe said;

“After escaping from Mokola, I needed to appease the god and that was why I went to Akinyele to kill the woman. Blood gushed out and I recited what Baba always said I should recite, mentioning his name. I disappeared as usual.”

The Police Commissioner confirmed the death of the woman who was promptly rushed to the University College Hospital in the state capital but she died eventually.

He also confirmed that Sunday Shodipe will now be kept in a correctional facility.

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EFCC Arrests 15 Suspected Internet Fraudsters In Lagos

EFCC Arrests 15 Suspected Internet Fraudsters In Lagos

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Lagos Zonal Office, have arrested 15 suspected internet fraudsters in the Lekki area of Lagos State.

The suspects are: Sunday Okpe; Taiwo Adelagun; Obarakyo Tega; Fasuyi Oladapo; Mark Adedeji Kuju; Adelakun Kehinde Adewunmi; Temitope Gabriel Onore, Christopher Blessed and Aniche Ezenwa Francis.

Others are: Abiodun Godspower Odion; Abiodun ThankGod Omoh; Raji Ayo Sheriff; Adeogun Babatunde, Olusesi Razaq Demola and Kole Adetoyinbo.

.

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The suspected internet fraudsters were arrested on August 15, 2020 at Ayo Babatunde Crescent and James Adejumo areas of Lekki, Lagos State, following intelligence received from concerned members of the public on their criminal activities.

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221 new cases of #COVID19Nigeria

 

221 new cases of #COVID19Nigeria;

Plateau-60

FCT-33

Kaduna-26

Rivers-18

Lagos-17

Enugu-9

Kwara-9

Ondo-9

Nasarawa-6

Gombe-5

Anambra-5

Delta-4

Abia-4

Imo-3

Edo-2

Ogun-2

Oyo-2

Osun-2

Bauchi-1

Kano-1

53,021 confirmed

40,281 discharged

1,010 deaths

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Is sex a responsibility in a relationship?

Is sex a responsibility in a relationship? 

 

For the sake of this question let's say that we are talking about a married couple. If one person wants sex and the other doesn't, what is the correct course of action?

1. Have sex anyway, whether you want it or not. It is your duty.

2. Have a talk about what is going on and why the spouse does not want sex. If you resolve the problem, then have sex.

3. Just accept that your spouse does not like sex and do without.

4. Just accept that your spouse does not like sex and have an outside lover.

5. Seek counseling to determine if there are issues that keep the spouse from wanting sex considering that 90% of sexual desire comes from the mind and attitude.

6. Evaluate what you are doing when asking for or initiating sex. Is it done with the idea of having a wonderful intimate experience or is it just to get your orgasm out of the way? Have you ever asked what the other spouse likes, wants or needs?

7. Some other option. Stay connected for more updates about this on VERYCONCERN

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Customs Impound Contraband Goods Worth N79M in Kano and Jigawa States

Customs Impound Contraband Goods Worth N79M in Kano and Jigawa States 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kano/Jigawa Area Command said it has intercepted various contraband goods with total Duty Paid Value of about N79, 573,37

This was made known to newsmen on Tuesday in Kano by the Area Comptroller, Nasiru Ahmed at the Commands headquarters.

According to him, the command intercepted four trailers loaded with 1,842 bags of smuggled bags of fertilizers with Duty Paid Value of N13,815,00.

Ahmed also revealed that about 1,608 Bags of foreign rice (50KG) each with Duty Paid Value of N35,996,688 were also confiscated within the period under review additionally to foreign 113 bags of foreign sugar (50KG) with N2, 461,705 DPV.

Other items seized include 567 Jerrycans of foreign vegetable oil (25) litters concealed in a 2 by 20 containers, 53 bales of of second hand clothes, 278 compressed blocks of Indian Hemp as well as 20 units of of vehicles used as means of conveyance, totalling N79,573,372, with 15 suspects in custody in connection to the various smuggling.

Nasir lamented that the communities along Babura axis in Jigawa state have become notorious in allowing their towns to be used by smugglers.

Hence, he called on community leaders in the area to rise up to the challenge and cooperate with the Customs to checkmate the activities of those who are into the illegal business who uses their area as safe routes and hiding places.

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OPERATION HAIL STORM: AIR TASK FORCE ELIMINATES KEY ISWAP LEADERS, SCORES OF FIGHTERS IN MASSIVE AIR STRIKES AT KIRTA WULGO AND SABON TUMBUN IN BORNO STATE

OPERATION HAIL STORM: AIR TASK FORCE ELIMINATES KEY ISWAP LEADERS, SCORES OF FIGHTERS IN MASSIVE AIR STRIKES AT KIRTA WULGO AND SABON TUMBUN IN BORNO STATE

Coordinator, Defence Media Operations Major Gen. John Enenche says,  the Air Task Force of Operation LAFIYA DOLE has taken another major scalp off the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) elements operating in the Island settlements of the Lake Chad in the Northern part of Borno State. 

Enenche in a statement said the onslaught occurred  in massive simultaneous air strikes executed under the subsidiary Operation HAIL STORM at Kirta Wulgo and Sabon Tumbun 2, settlements on the fringes of the Lake, where several key ISWAP leaders and scores of their fighters were killed.

He said, the missions were conducted on the heels of credible Human Intelligence (HUMINT) reports indicating that some ISWAP leaders and fighters had relocated to Sabon Tumbun due to the impact of the recent air strikes at the nearby Island settlement of Tumbuma Baba. 

He  said the Air Task Force dispatched an enhanced force package of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fighter jets and helicopter gunships to attack the 2 locations scoring devastating hits leading to the elimination of several of the terrorists.

Prominent terrorist leaders, including Abu Imraana, ISWAP Naval Commander, as well as Mallam Ibrahim and Mallam Abba, are believed to be among the many ISWAP casualties.

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LIKE POLIO, WE CAN DEFEAT COVID-19, PRESIDENT BUHARI DECLARES, LAUDS ALIKO DANGOTE, BILL GATES, EMEKA OFFOR, OTHERS

LIKE POLIO, WE CAN DEFEAT COVID-19, PRESIDENT BUHARI DECLARES, LAUDS ALIKO DANGOTE, BILL GATES, EMEKA OFFOR, OTHERS

President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed optimism that African countries can defeat the coronavirus pandemic, in the same manner, it eradicated the Wild Polio Virus on the continent.

President Buhari spoke at the formal certification of the Wild Polio Virus eradication in the African region during the virtual session of the 70th World Health Organisation (WHO) regional committee for Africa.

He recalled that shortly after assuming office in May 2015, he  made a pledge to Nigerians that he would not bequeath a polio-endemic country to his successor a reason for the concerted effort geared at ending the disease in the country. 

The President assured the global community that Nigeria will sustain the momentum and leverage on the lessons learnt from polio eradication to strengthen her health system, especially primary health care, and prioritize health security.

He said Nigeria used data systems, community engagement and innovative technology to monitor and predict the occurrence of polio outbreaks, adding that these same skills and tools are being used to fight COVID-19 and the multi-country outbreaks of Circulating Vaccine Derived Polio Viruses.

PresidentPresident Buhari, who described the achievement as a truly historic moment, commended President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa and Chairman of the African Union, under whose leadership, Africa crossed the finishing line.

He recounted that the journey to eradicate the virus dates back to 1996, when Nelson Mandela of blessed memory launched the Kick Polio out of Africa campaign.

The President further commended the decades of hard work and resilience of health workers and volunteers across the region, such as WHO, UNICEF, Rotary International, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Aliko Dangote Foundation, United States Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, GAVI, USAID, European Union, Emeka Offor Foundation, the Japanese and German Governments, numerous NGOs and faith-based organizations who provided the required support and leadership.

In a remark, Chairman, Aliko Dangote Foundation Aliko Dangote urged governments across Africa to increase their budget allocations to the healthcare sector, to help ensure improved basic healthcare for the people.

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ONDO 2020: APC CHIEFTAIN DENIES INVOLVEMENT IN VIOLENCE PLAN

ONDO 2020: APC CHIEFTAIN DENIES INVOLVEMENT IN VIOLENCE PLAN

A chieftain of All Progressives Congress in Ondo state, Isaac Kekemeke has denied being involved in the plan of engaging hoodlums to intimidate opposition parties and their supporters in the coming gubernatorial election.

Isaac Kekemeke whose video where he boasted that Governor Yahyah Bello will be bringing thugs to support NURTW chieftains in the state to intimidate and ensure victory for APC said he was only joking with his political supporters and did not really meant any of the words.

He, however, tendered apology to those who may have misinterpreted him saying he his a man of honour who will not indulge in any form of violence.

He said come October 2020, APC will win the election without involvement of hoodlums or electoral malpractices.

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Femi Fani-Kayode, a former minister of Aviation has apologised for insulting a journalist as 'stupid'

Femi Fani-Kayode, a former minister of Aviation has apologised for insulting a journalist in Calabar, Cross River State capital, last week.

The apology of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP chieftain comes barely a day after he remained defiant, oiling his ego over the unfortunate outburst wherein he described the media practitioner as being very stupid.

A question by the journalist, Eyo Charles, attached to one of the national dailies, on who was bankrolling his tours across states of the federation necessitated the outburst. He had vowed yesterday not to apologise for his verbal attacks despite criticism that greeted it when a video clip of what transpired surfaced online.

But in a statement this morning, the former minister said he regretted using the word stupid and have withdrawn it after being advised to do so. He also denied sending one of his security aides to interrogate the journalist.

“I met with my advisors & I wish to say the following. I hereby withdraw the word “stupid” which I used in my encounter with a journalist in Calabar. I have many friends in the media who I offended by losing my cool & using such words. I hereby express my regrets for doing so,” the PDP chieftain said.

“I do however wish to state categorically that no threat of physical harm was ever made to the journalist in question and neither did I send anyone to threaten him. Anyone that says otherwise is lying and I challenge them to bring the proof.

“I would never seek to physically harm a journalist. For the last 30 years I have defended & worked with journalists & fought for the right of freedom of expression. I am also very close to many in that profession. I would be the last to seek to disparage those that are honorable and noble within its ranks.

“I hope that this will assuage the pain and anger of anyone that was hurt or offended by this ugly episode. I have now put this matter behind me and moved on. Now my tour of the South continues. Moving to another state today!” he added.

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252 new cases of #COVID19Nigeria

 

252 new cases of #COVID19Nigeria;

Plateau-50

Enugu-35

Rivers-27

Lagos-26

FCT-18

Kaduna-18

Ekiti-10

Kano-10

Taraba-9

Anambra-8

Edo-8

Oyo-8

Delta-7

Ogun-6

Abia-5

Bayelsa-5

Ebonyi-1

Osun-1

52,800 confirmed

39,964 discharged

1,007 deaths

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NECO Invigilator, Driver Escape Death As Container-Laden Truck Crashes Into School Bus.

NECO Invigilator, Driver Escape Death As Container-Laden Truck Crashes Into School Bus.

A truck allegedly chased by policemen crushes a school bus at Agbalajobi along Wempco Road, Ogba, Lagos on Monday.

LAGOS – An official of National Examination Council (NECO) (name withheld) and a driver, Lateef Showomi, conveying her to a centre where students were sitting for their West African Senior School Certificate examinations, escaped death by the whiskers, when a truck carrying 40-footer container of goods rammed into the school bus with Registration No. LSR 655XN.

The incident happened at about 12:30 p.m. at Agbalajobi Bus Stop, Wempco Road, Ogba, Lagos.

The drivers of the truck, the school bus and other eye-witnesses blamed the accident on two traffic policemen whom they said were chasing the truck for undisclosed offence.

It was gathered that the MAN Diesel truck carrying raw materials meant for Boulus Enterprises, made a U-turn at Agbalajobi bus stop, on Wempco Road and heading towards Boulous Enterprises Limited, when the two policemen on motorbike chased and double-crossed the truck.

It was further gathered that in an attempt to avoid hitting the policemen, the driver veered off and crashed into the bus moving almost side-by-side with his truck.

According to VERYCONCERN, the driver of the truck said he was coming from Abuja with raw materials for the Boulous Company.

He explained that as soon as he made a U-turn and started heading to his destination which was already a stone throw from the scene of the accident, two police men on motorcycle started chasing him.

“They were flagging me down and trying to ride in front of my truck. As I was avoiding knocking the bike down with the policemen, the accident happened,” Mustapha lamented.

Corroborating Mustapha, Lateef Showomi, the driver of the Hiace school bus with Registration No. LSR 655 XN marked ‘Educational’, told  VERYCONCERN that he was driving towards the junction connecting Omole and Agidingbi on Wempco Road, when he saw the truck driver making a U-turn.

“I stopped to enable the driver turn. As soon as the driver completed turning, he moved on the right lane while I drove on the left lane. Immediately, I saw two policemen overtook us and were forcing the truck driver to an abrupt stop. It was while he was avoiding knocking them down that he veered off his lane and rammed into my bus. We were only two in the bus. The other is a supervisor with NECO. I was conveying her to the examination centre,” Showomi narrated.

Also, a male eye witness who did not disclose his name said he was standing near the scene of the accident when it occurred.

“The policemen simply caused the accident. The truck driver made a U-turn here at the bus stop in my presence. I don’t know why they should be going after him. I did not see any sign prohibiting vehicle turning. As soon as he turned, the policemen on motorcycle sighted him and chased the truck. It was on motion when they were forcing the driver to stop and rode in the front of the truck. It was while avoiding ramming into the police bike that he veered off his lane and dragged the bus with the container on the truck.”

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AVIATION: FG WILL NOT SELL AIRPORTS - AVIATION MINISTER

AVIATION: FG WILL NOT SELL AIRPORTS - AVIATION MINISTER

The concession of Nigeria's major airports is in an advanced stage, even as the country's airspace looks to reopen for international travel on 29 August.

Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika said it was important to opt for concession rather than an outright sale to keep Nigeria's critical assets and avoid the mistakes of the past as in the case of the sale of NITEL, among others.

VERYCONCERN reports that the Minister made this submission while appearing before the Senate Joint Committees on Finance and National Planning for its Public Hearing on the Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper.

Mr Sirika told the Senate Joint Committee that 29th August is scheduled for the resumption of international flights from the Abuja and Lagos International Airports, while a day later the Enugu Airport will be reopened.

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321 new cases of #COVID19Nigeria

 

321 new cases of #COVID19Nigeria;

Lagos-98

FCT-34

Kaduna-30

Nasarawa-25

Benue-21

Plateau-17

Rivers-15

Adamawa-11

Ogun-11

Enugu-9

Edo-8

Delta-7

Ekiti-7

Gombe-5

Ebonyi-4

Bayelsa-3

Kano-3

Ondo-3

Cross River-2

Imo-2

Kebbi-2

Niger-2

Abia-1

Bauchi-1

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BIAFRA AGITATION CRISIS: Our men Killed Four Persons, Not 50 - Enugu CP

 BIAFRA AGITATION CRISIS: Our men Killed Four Persons, Not 50 - Enugu CP.

The Police Command in Enugu State says four persons were confirmed dead during security agencies and members of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) clash on Sunday in Enugu.

Briefing newsmen on the incident on Sunday, the state’s Commissioner of Police, Mr Ahmed Abdurrahman, said that police arrested five IPOB members involved in the clash, which started at the early hours of Sunday.

Abdurrahman said that the civil unrest caused by the mayhem disrupted human and vehicular activities for hours in the Enugu-Abakaliki Road precisely within the Emene community in the outskirt of Enugu metropolis.

He said that the Department of State Security (DSS) went on a covert operation in a particular location in Emene early Sunday morning; but they were overwhelmed and two of their officials abducted by the IPOB members

According to him, the DSS have to call in the police for their rescue; and the police have to call in the Nigerian Army and Nigerian Air Force to quell the escalating mayhem quickly.

He maintained that many arrests were made in connection to the violence soon the culprits will be made to face the law.

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ONDO 2020: PDP ACCUSES APC OF RIGGING PLAN

ONDO 2020: PDP ACCUSES APC OF RIGGING PLAN

Peoples Democratic Party has accused All Progressives Congress of planning to rig the October 10 election in Ondo state.

This was made known at a press briefing held at the party state secretariat at Alagbaka in Akure the state capital.

Addressing newsmen, the state chairman of PDP, Fatai Adams said the ruling APC has concluded plan to deploy hoodlums to intimidate voters before and during the election process.

PDP leadership charged security operatives and independent national electoral commission to deploy every necessary means to ensure October election is free of hooliganism which should be conducive for all participating political parties to operate.

Adams said PDP as a political party that believe in rule of law will never engage any illegal means to win the coming gubernatorial election.

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LAGOS STATE COMISSIONER FOR HEALTH, PROF. AKIN ABAYOMI TESTS POSITIVE FOR COVID-19

LAGOS STATE COMISSIONER FOR HEALTH,  PROF. AKIN ABAYOMI TESTS POSITIVE FOR COVID-19

Subsequent to close contact with persons feeling unwell and testing positive for the COVID-19 infection, the Honorable Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, has tested positive for the virus. Professor Abayomi became aware of his status following the required testing protocol of contact tracing procedures.

However, he is doing well with no symptoms. Adhering to the protocol of the homebased strategy in Lagos State, the Honorable Commissioner will be isolating in his home for the next 14 days but will continue to discharge his duties both as the Deputy Incident Commander of the Incident Command System for COVID-19 and most especially, as the Honorable Commissioner for Health. 

Our prayers are with him and his family during his period of isolation.

Gbenga Omotoso 

Commissioner for Information and Strategy

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How I escaped from police detention – Oyo ‘serial killer’

 

Sunday Shodipe, a 19-year-old man accused of involvement in the rape and murder of some female residents in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, has narrated how he escaped from police custody.

Mr Shodipe, on Sunday, addressed journalists on how police negligence gave him the opportunity to run away.

Newsmen earlier reported that he escaped from custody over a week ago. He was, however, recaptured on Sunday.

The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, in a statement signed by the force spokesperson, Frank Mba, said the notorious suspect was re-arrested in Bodija area of Ibadan.

He also warned against “any form of complacency on the part of the operatives of the Oyo State Police Command, stressing that all hands must be on deck to bring the case to a positive and successful closure.”

But speaking on how he escaped, Shodipe said he ran away from Mokola police custody where he was detained when he was ordered to take his bath by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO).

VERYCONCERN learnt that the suspect said he jumped the fence when the police officer asked to monitor him was not paying close attention.

“The new female DPO asked Officer Funsho to allow me to take my bath. He cautioned me not to try to escape but I managed.

“I escaped when I saw him discussing with another person. I climbed the borehole pole and jumped the fence. The people living in the area saw me when I escaped but they did not raise any alarm,” he narrated.

This newspaper reported that no fewer than three female residents in Akinyele area of Ibadan were raped and killed during the coronavirus lockdown.

More such cases were reported across Nigeria.

Following public outcry, the government vowed to implement strict action against rape. Some states in the country have passed laws on incarceration, life imprisonment and death as punishment for rape.

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