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Peter Obi Raises Alarm Over Security Checkpoints Causing Traffic Gridlock

January 13, 2026

Former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has expressed serious concern over the increasing traffic congestion caused by poorly positioned security checkpoints across major roads in the country, warning that they now pose a threat to public safety rather than offering protection.

In a statement shared following his travels during the festive season, Obi described the traffic situation on several highways as “distressing,” noting that in many instances, travellers heading to distant destinations were forced to abandon their journeys after spending hours trapped in gridlock.

According to him, the major cause of the congestion is the indiscriminate placement of security checkpoints, particularly at narrow road sections and near construction zones. He described such positioning as counterproductive and irresponsible, as it brings traffic to a complete standstill and imposes unnecessary hardship on road users.

“Security checkpoints are meant to protect lives, not endanger them,” Obi stated. “When their location and operation create prolonged delays, exhaustion, and increased accident risks, then we must re-evaluate how they are being implemented.”

While acknowledging and appreciating the sacrifices and dedication of security agencies, Obi called for greater discretion and flexibility, especially during peak travel periods. He explained that many travellers are already burdened by long distances and poor road conditions, and that additional delays leave drivers fatigued and vulnerable to accidents.

He further warned that extended gridlock forces people who set out early to remain on the road well into the night, exposing them to heightened security risks at a time when insecurity remains a national concern. “Security must never become a source of insecurity,” he emphasized.

Obi advocated a more strategic and humane approach to security operations on highways. He recommended that checkpoints be relocated away from narrow roads and construction areas, that inspections be expedited during heavy traffic, and that security agencies improve coordination to eliminate unnecessary bottlenecks.

According to him, such measures would improve traffic flow without compromising security, protect lives, and make Nigerian roads safer and more efficient for all users.

How Six Family Members Died In Eleme, Rivers State; Police Launch Probe

Suleiman Anyalewechi

January 12, 2026

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Rivers State Police Command on Monday January 12, 2025,said it has commenced investigations to unravel the circumstances surrounding the sudden death of six family members in Ogale community of Eleme Local Council of the State.

The Source reports that the family of six, comprising four children and their parents were discovered dead by Police on Sunday January,11 ,2026 ,after failing to wake up at dawn.

Local witnesses said the incident sent shock waves across the area, with not a few said to be unsettled by the unfortunate development.

According to the Police, the family’s power-generating set was found still running as at the time operatives forced the door to the apartment open.

A statement from the spokesperson for the Rivers police authorities, Grace Irenge-Koko, informed that investigation has been launched to ascertain the exact cause(s) of the deaths.

According to the police spokesperson, preliminary investigations however have tended to suggest power generating fume poisoning as the possible cause of the unfortunate incident.

“The Rivers State Police Command is deeply saddened by this tragic incident. At about 1500hrs on January 11, 2026 ,six members of a family were found dead in a locked room in Ogale, Eleme.

“One Godwin Ogosu reported that his elder brother ,wife ,and children had not woken up from sleep , with the doors still locked.

” Operatives from the Eleme Division forced open the room, and discovered the lifeless bodies,

Monday January 12, 2025.

“Preliminary investigation suggests possible generator fume poisoning, as the generator was reportedly left running indoors”, the police stated.

The statement added that the corpses have been deposited at the Last Home Mortuary, Eleme, for autopsy, while further investigations continue.

This is as the State’s Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, appealed to residents to always ensure they operate power generating sets in well-ventilated areas ,to avoid unnecessary exposure to life-threatening incidents.

Impeachment: Two Rivers Lawmakers Backtrack; Call For Suspension Of Proceedings

Suleiman Anyalewechi

January 12, 2026

Siminalayi Fubara - Governor of River State — Governor Similanayi Fubara

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

In a move perceived as a crack within the ranks of the pro-Nyesom Wike Rivers State House of Assembly, two members on Monday January 12, 2026, made a case for the suspension of the impeachment proceedings launched against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his Deputy, Prof Ngozi Odu by the Lawmakers.

The Source reports that the legislators had, on Thursday, January 8, 2026, voted to commence impeachment Processes against the State Governor and Deputy citing alleged extra-budgetary expenditure, withholding of funds meant for the Assembly Service Commission, and other constitutional and administrative breaches.

But at a media briefing on Monday, the duo of Honourables

Sylvanus Nwankwo,sthe House Minority leader representing Omuma state constituency and Peter Abbey, representing Degema state Constituency, urged their colleagues to temper justice with mercy, and halt the ongoing impeachment processes in the overall interest of peace and stability of Rivers State.

According to them, although there is a plethora of impeachable offences committed by the Governor and his Deputy, the House should, in the interest of the long-suffering people of the State, explore other veritable options to resolve the issues at stake outside the impeachment corridor.

The two members of the House noted that their stand is principally informed by an avalanche of pleas and interventions from well-meaning elders , leaders and stakeholders of the state .

“We have called this press conference to appeal to our colleagues to temper justice with mercy and to see how we can resolve this matter, without resorting to the impeachment option.

“That is why we are here this morning to appeal to the conscience of our fellow colleagues. Having listened to some many pleas, calls from our elders and leaders ,both within and outside the state ,we are pleading for leniency.

” We are begging, calling on our colleagues to reconsider their steps ,and see how this matter can be resolved amicably , even though the Governor ,and his Deputy have infringed on the Constitution ,We are therefore appealing to our colleagues to reconsider our stand.”

“We know that he Governor Fubara has infringed on parts of the constitution ,but we are human beings , susceptible to mistakes ,and we as members of the 10th Assembly are pleading with our colleagues to reconsider the option in place”,the concerned law makers stated .

In the same vein ,they urged the Governor, to urgently take steps towards de-escalating tension and misunderstanding by way of ensuring that there are no further constitutional breaches.

Edo Court Sends Protesters, Including AAU Students To Jail, Refuses Bail Application

Ayodele Oni

January 12, 2026

Ekpoma Residents Protest Incessant Kidnappings and Killing.

By Ayodele Oni

A Benin City High Court in Edo State has ordered the remand of 52 suspects arraigned in connection with a protest in Ekpoma last Saturday.

The High Court, citing lack of jurisdiction, ordered that all the suspects should be remanded at Ubiaja Correctional facilities till February.

The suspects, including, students of Ambrose Alli University, (AAU) Ekpoma, Edo State were on Monday arraigned at the Edo State High Court, sitting in Benin City for their involvement in a violent protest at Ekpoma, Esan West local government area of the State on Saturday.

Residents of Ekpoma had embarked on the protest over incessant kidnappings and killings as many victims were abducted from their residence and ransoms demanded.

The protest turned violent as several shops were looted and the Palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma vandalised.

It was gathered that the suspects were arrested at various locations in Ekpoma.

Many of the students said they were sleeping inside their hostels when they were arrested at about 3am.

They were driven in a black maria to Benin City, the Edo State capital where they were arraigned.

At the court premises, relatives of the victims were seen loitering around and looking worried.

A man, whose two sons were arrested and gave his name Abdulsalam, said his children never participated in the protest.

The suspects were arraigned through an Exparte Motion filed by Police Counsel, P. O Odion.

Presiding Judge, Justice Wlliam Aziegbemi, said he lacked jurisdiction and asked Counsel representing the defendants to file bail application at the Ubiaja High Court.

He remanded the suspects to the Ubiaja Correctional Centre and adjourned the case to February 26th, 2026 for hearing.

I Have Nothing Personal Against Malami – Olukoyede EFCC Chairman Insists

Suleiman Anyalewechi

January 12, 2026

Ola Olukoyede - EFCC Chairman — Ola Olukoyede, EFCC Chairman

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC Ola Olukoyede has informed that he did not initiate the probe and subsequent prosecution of former Attorney General and Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami ,but inherited same. He inherited the file of the case.

This is as he dismissed claims suggesting that the former late President Mohammadu Buhari’s Minister of Justice is being politically witch-hunted using the Commission as a tool.

The EFCC Chairman’s comments are coming against repeated accusations from Malami that the anti-graft agency under Olukoyede is pursuing both a personal vendetta and a politically orchestrated smear campaign against him.

The Source reports that in the aftermath of his declaration of interest to contest the Governorship seat of Kebbi state in 2027, Malami who is married to one of Buhari’s daughter, has been facing a litany of probes and court actions from EFCC’ and other security agencies including the latest from the Department of State Service DSS over alleged discovery of a large quantity of arms cache at his Kebbi residence.

Particularly, Malami had alleged that his ordeal may not be unconnected with the role he played in setting up the Justice Ayo Salami-led panel that allegedly indicted the EFCC’ chairman over some wrong doings while serving as the Secretary of the anti-graft agency between 2020 and 2023.

According to the former Minister of Justice, the EFCC Chairman who is not happy with the said indictment is now pursing a personal vendetta against him.

But speaking on Channels Television programme ” Politics Today, the EFCC boss insisted that the probes and prosecutions are not being driven by any personal motives , neither are they politically motivated as being alleged by Malami

Abubakar Malami in Court — Abubakar Malami

” I am yet to see the facts ,he ( Malami) wants to bring out to buttress that claim ,if he actually said that . I don’t understand . We carry out our investigation in the most professional way.

“There is nothing personal in this matter. If Nigeria is to move forward, all of us must agree that this fight must be fought without being partisan.

“And that is what I want Nigerians to understand and to agree with us. The investigation of this man (Malami) predated me in the office . A lot of you don’t know that. Yes. I Inherited the investigation file.

“The only thing I did was to ensure that the investigation was carried out in a very professional ,and thorough manner.

“It has been under investigation for almost two and a half years. That file was opened long before me. I Inherited it.

“For the past two years that I have been in the office, we have been painstakingly carrying out the investigation, trying to establish some of these offences and all of that . Not until I was convinced that we had a watertight case we began prosecution.

“So there is nothing personal about it ,. I don’t understand the issue of persecution and all of that . There is nothing.personal about it” Olukoyede maintained.

The anti-corruption commission Chairman also denied allegations that he seeking to settle a personal score with Malami over his alleged indictment .

” Let me put this matter to rest once and for all. Now, those who claim I was fraudulently or criminally indicted by the panel ( Justice Ayo Salami-led panel) ,the onus is on them to publish the report for people to see .

“Don’t forget that the panel was set up in 2020, and I think they rounded off their activities in early 2021. And between 2021 and 2023, when the new Government came into office, the former Attorney General was in office.

“I am very sure he had access to the report. Why was the report not published for two years , while he was in office? Why was it that after an investigation was opened, and charges were about to be filed, he now came to the public to say it was persecution because of the report of the panel .

“For me, I have not seen the report of the panel. I won’t speak on what I cannot lay my hands on. That is number one.

Olukoyede noted that he was not the main subject matter of the panel’s investigation ,but the then Acting Chairman of the Commission.

However, he informed that he, as the Secretary , alongside about seven others were invited by thr panel to offer some clarifications.

Awujale Stool: 95 Candidates Jostle For Throne

Akinwale Kasali

January 12, 2026

By Akinwale Kasali

The Fusengbuwa Ruling House in Ijebu Ode has announced that not fewer than 95 people, consisting of 94 Princes and one Princess are jostling for the vacant stool of the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebu land in Ogun State.

The nomination meeting was presided over by the Chairman of the ruling house, Otunba Abdulateef Owoyemi; his deputy, Prince Adedokun Ajidagba; and the Vice Chairman, Prof. Fassy Yusuf.

The Secretary to the Ijebu Ode Local Government, Abiodun Oke, and some other local government officials were present as observers.

Some of the contestants

include Giwa Abiodun Onanuga, husband of a former Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Mrs Yetunde Onanuga; Dr Kunle Hassan, a renowned ophthalmologist and founder of Eye Foundation Hospital and Otunba Fatai Arowolo of Aron Construction, among others.

The only female contestant is Oluwakemi Onanuga, a lawyer.

The Awujale stool became vacant in July last year following the demise of the 91-year-old Oba Sikiru Adetona, who reigned for 65 years.

The contestants at the nomination meeting were represented by two of their relatives.

One of the relations moved the motion for the nomination, while the other seconded it, after which the family registered the nomination as accepted.

The family head of Fusengbuwa, Owoyemi, lauded family members for conducting themselves peacefully and ensuring that nothing untoward occurred that could jeopardise the nomination process.

Owoyemi said that, just as the Ifa oracle had foretold, the family was working across the board to ensure that whoever would assume the vacant Awujale stool would further take Ijebu land to greater heights.

The family head and former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria said, “We thank God that what we have feared so much has finally come and gone peacefully.

“We have successfully, peacefully and harmoniously nominated our candidates, 95 of them. It is now left in the hands of the kingmakers to do a very good job conscientiously and pick one of them as the next Awujale.

“The Fusengbuwa family has done a lot of traditional research through the Ifa oracle to guide us on what should be done, and we have no doubt that the kingmakers are going to select the person that the Almighty God himself has appointed. We believe that, by God’s grace, in the next one month, we should have the next Awujale.”

Owoyemi also said that the contestants had earlier signed an agreement to accept the outcome of the selection process and not pursue litigation, adding that the family expected each contestant to abide by the agreement.

He further said that the ruling house believe the government would do the right thing and “pick for the family the Awujale that has been foretold would make Ijebu land the biggest and greatest. We believe God will guide them aright.”

Lagos Governor, Sanwo-Olu, Mourns Passing Of Akran of Badagry

Akinwale Kasali

January 12, 2026

By Akinwale Kasali

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has mourned, and commiserated with the people of Badagry and Lagos State over the passing of the Akran of Badagry, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, Paramount Ruler of Badagry Kingdom and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

The respected Monarch died at the age of 89 after a brief illness.

**The Akran of Babagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I**

Akran’s death marks the end of a 48-year reign, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Lagos State.

According to the palace, medical experts pronounced him dead, and traditional rites for his burial have commenced.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described Akran’s passing as a significant loss to Badagry, Lagos State, and Nigeria, citing his remarkable impact as a respected traditional ruler.

He said the late monarch, who ruled for nearly 49 years, was known for his wisdom, cultural preservation, advocacy for Badagry’s development, and selfless service. The governor commiserated with the people of Badagry and the family of the monarch.

“On behalf of my wife, the government, and people of Lagos, I commiserate with the people of Badagry, the deceased’s family, friends, associates, and traditional institutions on the transition of the paramount ruler of Badagry Kingdom and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Babatunde Akran, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I.

“The death of Akran is a great loss to the people of Badagry, and he will be greatly missed. As a traditional ruler, he made positive impacts during his lifetime and contributed meaningfully to the growth and development of his community, Lagos State, and Nigeria. Akran left a lasting legacy as the custodian of Badagry’s traditions, customs, and cultural heritage. He promoted peace, unity, and development, while fostering tourism and cultural exchange nationally and internationally.”

The Lagos State Governor urged the people of Badagry, the monarch’s family, and associates to work towards immortalising his legacy, and prayed for God’s comfort for the royal family and the people of Lagos State.

The Akran of Badagry ascended the throne on April 23, 1977, and served for 48 years, overseeing peace, unity, and development across Badagry.

A former teacher and journalist, he also held several leadership positions, including membership of the Lagos State Judicial Service Commission and roles as Grand Patron, Patron, and President of various social, charitable, and professional organizations.

Akran Of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi Is Dead

Akinwale Kasali

January 12, 2026

By Akinwale Kasali

The revered Monarch of Badagry Town, the Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi has died.

The First Class King in Lagos State died Monday at the age of 89 Years.

The Traditional burial rites for the Traditional Ruler has started.

One of the Chiefs who claimed anonymity said:

“We lost a great King who dedicated his life and time to the wellbeing and prosperity of his people”.

The Akran of Badagry died after a brief illness, one of the Palace Chiefs stated.

The Akran was one the oldest reigning kings in Nigeria. He spent 48 years on the throne

The passing of the monarch marks the end of a remarkable reign of over 50 years on the throne, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Lagos State.

According to the Palace, the Akran was pronounced dead by medical experts, and traditional rites for his burial have gradually commenced.

Residents of Badagry who are currently mourning the loss of their revered Monarch, described his death as a heavy blow, noting that the town has lost not just a king but a father figure whose wisdom, counsel and presence brought reassurance in moments of uncertainty.

The Late Monarch attended St. Gregory’s College, Obalende, Lagos and later graduated from King’s College.

He joined the Postal Telegraph Department in 1926, where he worked until 1947.

Following his father’s passing in 1946, Akran was appointed head of the Jegba quarter in 1948 and later ascended as the Akran of Badagry in 1950.

Kidnappings: Edo Postpones School resumption In Central Senatorial District

Ayodele Oni

January 12, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

Resumption of primary and secondary schools in Edo Central senatorial district has been out on hold.

This follows escalation of banditry in the area, especially Ekpoma, which has triggered mass protest in the community last weekend.

Students of the Edo State University, Ekpoma, earlier scheduled to resume academic activities also on Monday have been advised to stay away.

Edo State Ministry of Education announced the postponement of resumption date for primary and secondary schools in the Edo Central.

In a press statement Monday, signed by Emmanuel Paddy lyamu, Commissioner for Education, the ministry informed the general public, particularly parents, school heads, and proprietors, that the resumption of all public and private schools in Edo Central Senatorial District for the Second Term of the 2025/2026 academic session has been postponed until further notice.

All schools in the State resumed a new term on Monday 12, 2026.

Giving reasons for the shift in date, the statement said: “This is to enable us address some exigency to improve the welfare of our children. The new date of resumption will be duly communicated to the public in due course.

“Parents, guardians, and all education stakeholders within Edo Central Senatorial District are kindly requested to take note of this development and comply accordingly.”

Meanwhile, resident of Ekpoma have confirmed Citing military helicopter in the area on Monday, as the state government moved to curtail Incessant Kidnappings in the area

Governor Monday Okpebholo was also reported to have temporarily relocated to Ekpoma to monitor security situation in the community.

The Edo State Police Command refuted claim making around on the social media that one of its stations was set ablaze by irate youths.

The Public Relations Officer of the state Police command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, in a statement described the information as false, misleading, and reckless.

According to her, “The command wishes to categorically state that no Police facility or station was affected by fire in Ekpoma.

“The viral claims are entirely untrue and calculated to misinform the public, generate panic, and undermine public confidence.

“The actual incident occurred on Sunday, 11th January, 2026, at about 1130hrs, when electricity supply was restored by the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) and a spark reportedly emanated from one of the shops within the Powa Shops area of Ekpoma Division, igniting a fire that spread across several adjoining shops.

“Swift intervention by Police personnel in collaboration with members of the public helped to contain and extinguish the fire, preventing further escalation.

“Although the value of properties damaged is yet to be ascertained, no life was lost.

“The Command strongly condemns the deliberate spread of false information by individuals and content creators who, in their desperate pursuit of social media relevance, propagate unverified and sensational narratives.

“This is capable of causing public panic, economic disruption, and security threats, highlighting that such reckless misinformation does not only mislead the public but also diverts emergency resources, damages institutional credibility, and may trigger avoidable unrest.

“Members of the public are therefore advised to always verify information from credible and official sources before sharing.

“The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, reassures residents of Ekpoma and the general public that the security situation remains calm and fully under control.

“He urges citizens to remain law-abiding and to disregard all unverified social media reports capable of inciting fear or confusion.

“Members of the public are encouraged to rely on the Command’s official communication channels for accurate information through.”

PH Visit: “We Will Not Tolerate Blackmail Against Our COAS – Nigerian Army Decries False Reports

Akinwale Kasali

January 12, 2026

COAS- Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu visit to 6 Division Nigerian Army — COAS. Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu visit to 6 Division, Nigerian Army

By Akinwale Kasali

The Nigerian Army Headquarters has alleged an outright misrepresentation of facts on the recent visit by the Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, to 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt Barracks by Sahara Reporters.

The Army said the headline “Nigerian Army Chief Raises Alarm over Rising Pipeline Vandalism in Niger Delta”, by Sahara Reporters is misleading, malicious and should be disregarded.

It added that it is also important to unequivocally state that the COAS did not express concern or raise any alarm in any quarter on alleged rising cases of pipeline vandalism as portrayed in the misleading account.

A statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director, Army Public Relations, said: “For the records, the COAS, while addressing troops on Friday, 9 January 2025, at 6 Division, Port Harcourt, said: “Your job here is very key to protecting critical national infrastructure, and once you do that job very well, it will impact positively on the economy of the country.”

The Army Chief stressed that, “So you need to take your job very seriously, be disciplined, committed and dedicated to the mandate of this Division. While you do that, be assured I will take care of your welfare issues, which are topmost priorities as captured in my Command Philosophy.

“Some of the challenges raised by your commanders were addressed immediately; for instance, the issue of accommodation. We have approved the construction of additional accommodation, the renovation of certain quarters and the completion of some ongoing projects.”

He added: “Once this is done, it will go a long way in mitigating some of the accommodation challenges that are here.”

Shaibu maintained that, “In terms of quality education for your children, that is all being looked into and in turn, we expect you to do your job conscientiously. So listen to your officers; they will guide you and lead you right.”

The COAS while fielding questions from the press revealed, “Normally, I go round various Divisions to see officers and men, interact with them and ensure their combat readiness. So I am here in the 6 Division area of responsibility for my maiden operational visit to see what the troops are doing, to look at their challenges and see how we can address them headlong so that they can go about doing their jobs seriously.”

He further assured that some of the challenges raised during the visit would be promptly addressed.

“I have looked at some of the challenges they have raised; some were addressed immediately, while others will be addressed immediately we get to Abuja.” He further said, “I want you to continue to do your jobs conscientiously. Your jobs around here involve the protection of critical national infrastructure, which impacts our economy, so once you do your job very well, everything will be fine.”

Anele added that furthermore, it is important to restate that media houses whose stock in trade is to arm-twist narratives to project their adversarial posture are hereby enjoined to check the veracity of their facts before placing them in the public domain. For clarity, the COAS did not raise alarm over rising cases of pipeline vandalism as reported.

It added that Parameters on ground, security-wise, indicated a commendable security efforts at checking the menace of oil theft and pipeline vandalism across the region.

These efforts have significantly led to sustained exploration activities in the oil and gas sector, in the interest of the nation’s economy.

The Nigeria Army said Members of the public are called upon to disregard such subtle but futile attempts at downplaying security efforts that are yielding positive results across the region.

“Additionally, the good people of the region are urged to continue to provide credible intelligence on the activities of economic saboteurs in their domain to security agencies for prompt response”, the statement reads.

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