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BREAKING: Auto Crash Claims Six Lives In Ikorodu

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Accident in Ikorodu Lagos

By Akinwale Kasali

Less than 24 hours after a fatal auto crash on Lagos-Epe Expressway claimed the lives of six persons and   injured nine, another auto crash claimed the lives of two persons when a fully loaded Commercial Bus collided with a truck around Idi-Iroko inward Ogolonto axis of Ikorodu Road.

Aside from the dead two passengers, four persons sustained varying degrees of injuries with multiple fractures.

The Commercial Bus involved in the ghastly accident is a Mazda Bus with Registration Number LND 490 SD, and the Truck with Registration Number EKY 121 YJ.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, confirmed that preliminary findings by Security Operatives indicated the crash occurred when the commercial Mazda Bus, recklessly, vying for the right of way along the main Carriageway from the Agric axis, collided with the fast-moving, truck.

According to LASTMA, “one passenger, precariously seated at the doorway of the Mazda Bus, was flung from the vehicle and tragically crushed beneath the Rear Tyres of the truck, leading to instant fatality.

“Two other passengers (a male and a female) were extricated with severe injuries by valiant LASTMA operatives and were immediately conveyed by the Lagos State Ambulance Service, LASAMBUS, to the Ikorodu General Hospital for urgent medical intervention.

“The mortal remains of the deceased were later entrusted to his grieving family by officers of the Nigeria Police Force.

“The Security cover for the coordinated rescue operations by LASTMA. was further reinforced by personnel of the Owutu Police Division.

“To restore unimpeded vehicular movement across the corridor, the accidented vehicles—the commercial Mazda bus and the articulated truck—were meticulously evacuated by LASTMA officials.

Reacting to the incident, the General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and earnestly enjoin all motorists to embrace circumspection, restraint, and civic duty when plying the highways, especially along traffic-congested arteries such as the Ikorodu corridor.

Jandor Hails Tinubu For Putting “People First”

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Jandor and Obasa

The 2023 Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship candidate in Lagos state, Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran has eulogized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his boldness in taking hard decisions for the country in the face of criticism.

The former governorship candidate also known as Jandor made the remark on Tuesday after he paid a courtesy call on the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Mudasiru obasa in Lagos. The visit comes more than five months after he dumped the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP for the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

Jandor, as he’s popular was an ardent  critic of President Tinubu and APC before he defected last March, citing the lingering crisis in the PDP which he said he could no longer cope with.

Speaking after Obasa welcome him to the party, describing his defection as a positive move for APC, Jandor praised President Tinubu for his bold leadership style, adding that his policies are pro-people.

“It takes courage and leadership to introduce such reforms in the face of resistance. The President has once again demonstrated his resolve to put the people first, and I fully align with this vision,” Jandor said

Following his departure form the PDP five months ago, the politician said he cold no longer waste his time in the party, saying his future mattered to him, adding that his move was also strategic political one essential to furthering the collective interst of Lagosians.

He said, “Our story in the PDP was a case of working with perennial political saboteurs but we have resolved to love our future much more than we hate our past.

“After extensive consultations with family, political associates, elder statesmen, supporters, and well-meaning Lagosians who share our vision for a greater and more prosperous Lagos, and in identifying that the primary reason a political party exists is to win elections and ultimately form the government to contribute to the welfare, security and total development of the people, we wish to formally announce that we have decided to join a political party that considers winning for its members as top priority, not minding who is on the ballot.

“We have decided to return to the All Progressives Congress.”

“Before you are quick to remind me of the reasons upon which we left APC in the first place, let me respond with a popular Yoruba adage that says if a woman has not tried two husbands, she probably would not know which is better.

“While in Lagos PDP, you have a leader that will, at every election cycle work against his own party, and willfully dash the hopes of many party members and  . We have chosen the better alternative.

“Our return to the APC is not a decision made lightly. It is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to the progress of Lagos State and our belief that unity among progressives is essential to achieving the collective as aspirations of our people,” he concluded.

“I Did Not Make A Mistake In Choosing You As My Vice President” – Tinubu Writes  To His VP, Shettima

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Vice President Kashim Shettima and Bola Tinubu

By Ayodele Oni

President Bola Tinubu has revealed that his relationship with Vice President,  Kashim Shettima transcends official duties.

According to him, “It is a bridge

across regions and traditions, united in purpose and service.”

Tinubu also said  that he did not regret picking Shettima as his  Vice President, saying his service to Nigeria has been fueled by

passion for democracy, good governance, and economic development. He went on to hail Shettima for justifying his choice of him as his Vice President. “Everyday as Vice President, you have justified that choice”

Tinubu’s heart- warming compliments to Shettima are contained in a tribute personally signed by the President to celebrate his Vice President who turned 59 years Tuesday, 2nd  September, 2025.

The President wrote: “Today, September 2, 2025, presents me with another unique opportunity to celebrate you, my brother, partner, and Vice President, as you mark another birthday.

“Since we embarked on this journey, united by the shared vision of building a more prosperous nation, your courage, sense of duty, tenacity, determination, and belief in Nigeria’s greatness have remained unshaken.

“You served the people of Borno, your home state, excellently as Governor for eight years and later as Senator representing Borno Central in the National Assembly.

“In both roles, you showed that leadership is service, not privilege, even in the face of immense challenges.

“However, your service to Nigeria, fueled by your passion for democracy, good governance, and economic development, has been even more remarkable.

“I deeply appreciate your vibrancy, loyalty, partnership, and support as my deputy. In choosing you then as a partner, I selected competence and other qualities that Nigeria could depend on.

“Every day, as Vice President, you have justified that choice by strengthening our work, bringing fresh perspectives, and upholding our commitment to Nigerians. Your dedication reassures me that I did not make a mistake in choosing you as my deputy.

“Together, we have begun to lay the foundations of the Renewed Hope Agenda. From securing new global partnerships across the Atlantic to driving food security and investment reforms at home, your partnership has been integral to our success.

“In the months ahead, as we unlock new trade corridors and deliver more schools, hospitals, and jobs, our partnership will continue to yield results that Nigerians can see and feel.

“We must continue to work towards the full realisation of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which will foster prosperity in the country and enhance the living standards of our people.

“Our relationship transcends official duties. It is a bridge across regions and traditions, united in purpose and service. You remind us of what is possible when Nigeria comes first — an example worthy of emulation by those who aspire to lead.

“On this occasion of your 59th birthday, I heartily wish you renewed vitality, wisdom and more years of impact.

Happy birthday, Kashim, and many happy returns!”

NIMASA DG To Staff: Perform Or Get Out

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NIMASA Performance Bond

The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dayo Mobereola has read the riot act to employees who are fond of slowing down the agency’s wheel of progress.

It’s either they conform or be held “accountable” for their action, he said at the recently concluded strategic retreat aimed at cascading the Presidential and Ministerial priorities for the maritime and blue economy sector across all levels of the Agency.

The retreat ensured that staff deliverables are directly aligned with the vision of the Federal Government and the supervising Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

Also, departmental and unit heads signed Performance Bonds with the Executive Management, signaling a strong commitment to accountability and measurable outcomes.

Addressing the staff, Dayo Mobereola, emphasized that the present administration is focused on a performance-driven civil service.

“The signing of this bond is not symbolic; it is binding,” Dr. Mobereola stressed. “Every Head of Department and Unit must cascade the outcomes and expectations from this retreat to their subordinates without delay. Anyone found creating bottlenecks or under-performing will be held accountable.”

The Performance Bonds, he noted, represent a formal pledge to deliver measurable results in line with the Agency’s Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and the broader mandate of repositioning the maritime sector for growth.

The retreat also featured robust discussions, peer reviews, and strategy sessions designed to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s maritime sector, ensuring that NIMASA continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the nation’s blue economy agenda

Marafa Declares War On Tinubu, Accuses President Of “Use and Dump”

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Senator Marafa

Kabiru Marafa, an ally of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dumped him and the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC .

Worse still, the former senator representing Zamfara state has also vowed to work against the president in the next election in 2027 by “deducting one million” votes from whatever Tinubu gathers in the upcoming election in two years time.

Marafa, was until lately a strong supporter of the president, but alleged that he has been marginalized in the APC, saying the reason why he’s in politics is to be in government so that he can help his people.

The senator spoke on Monday on Channels Television programme, Politics Today, stressing that he would ensure that Tinubu is punished in the election, for using and dumping him, after he worked for the president in the 2023 election.

He also accused the president of focusing on the south, particularity Lagos , where he hails from, whereas he has abandoned the north.

Marafa: “I’m going to assure you something today. I’m going to deduct one million out of Mr. President’s votes that he got in 2023. Mark my words. I’m going to do it. I would work for it and by the special grace of God, I’m going to win that.

“Now, whether somebody said that I’m paperweight, I’m a lightweight; whatever I’m, 2027 is going to determine who is a paperweight.”

He explained that the struggle to ensure that the president is not returned to office, has started, saying his people are with him on this project.

“And again, let me tell you. In 2023, just to tell the level at which our politics have come up today. Because of the heavy disenchantment of the people, all people, anybody that you can call substance in Zamfara State, we’re on one side.

“And there’s Dauda, who has never been in politics except in 2023, was able to secure victory against all of us. Four former governors, how many senators? How many members of the House of Representatives? This is the same type of sentiment that people canvassed at that time, that who’s Dauda? Dauda cannot do anything. Dauda is this, Dauda is that.

“Now, the only election that we’re able to win was that of Mr. President and courtesy of the message that we took to the people that Mr President promised that he was going to change the reward system of the APC.

“Because people were not happy with the tail end of Buhari’s government. He promised that he was going to eradicate the concept of monkey dey work, baboon dey chop. Only for him to entrench it, institutionalized it and it became the state policy of the APC,” he stated.

Marafa, the magazine reports, is among some northern leaders who have recently declared war on the president, after they accused him of marginalisation and nepotism.

Jonathan Mourns  Fmr. IGP Arase, Describes Him As Reform-minded Officer

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Solomon Arase and Goodluck Jonathan

Former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, has expressed sadness on the passing of former Inspector-General of Police, Dr.  Solomon Arase. He described Dr Arase as a committed patriot and accomplished law enforcement officer who served the nation with honour and dignity.

The former President who stated this in a condolence message to the Arase family, also applauded the late former Police boss for the reforms and intelligence-led policing he introduced during his time in service.

Dr. Jonathan who appointed Arase as IGP, stated: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Solomon Arase, former Inspector General of Police and someone I came to know as a committed patriot, a distinguished public servant, accomplished law enforcement officer, and a man of great integrity.

“Mr. Arase served our nation with honour, intelligence, and quiet dignity. As Inspector General of Police during my administration, he brought to the Nigeria Police Force not only decades of experience, but also a reform-minded approach and a genuine concern for public safety and human rights.

The former President further described his tenure as IGP as one marked by a clear commitment to “improving police-community relations, intelligence-led policing, and internal discipline within the Force.” According to him, Arase led with a steady hand and contributed immensely to strengthening national security during a critical period in our nation’s history.

“Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Arase will be remembered for his integrity, humility, and intellect. Even in retirement, he continued to demonstrate his commitment to nation-building, particularly through his leadership as Chairman of the Police Service Commission.I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and the entire Nigeria Police Force and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. May his soul find eternal rest,” he also stated.

The statement was signed on his behalf by his Spokesperson,

Ikechukwu Eze

Niger Governor, Bago, Sacks Commissioners For Poor Performance

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Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State

By Akinwale Kasali

Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has joined the bandwagon of Governors who have relieved their Commissioners of duties.

The Niger State Governor  relieved his Commissioners and Special Advisers of their positions over their inability to implement the administration’s policy and programs effectively.

Bago, however, retained the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Chief of Staff, CoS, and other Principal Officers in his administration.

The Governor announced the decision to strip the Commissioners and Special Advisers of their position during the State Executive Council, SEC, meeting which took place at the Council chamber on Monday.

It would be recalled that similarly, the Governor of Ebonyi and Benue State did same weeks back.

I Am Now Fighting For My Political Future In Rivers State – Wike Laments

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Nyesom Wike
Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has described, as unprecedented, the number of Rivers State indigenes being empowered by the All Progressive Congress, APC, Federal Government.

At his monthly media interactive session on Monday, September 1, 2025, Wike the immediate past Governor of Rivers state and a Peoples Democratic party PDP chieftain , expressed the fear that the APC has now become a potent threat to his political structure  and control in the State going by its rapid in-road.

The Source reports that the APC which is solidly backed and promoted by Wike himself, despite professing to be a PDP member, swept last Saturday’s Local Council Polls in the State.

The ruling party at the centre won 20 out of the 23  Local Government Areas of the state,  including Wike’s home council- Obio/Akpo, in an exercise which not a few have described as  “pre-arranged” between the FCT Minister and the APC

The PDP, the acclaimed party of Wike was “allocated” three of the local Governments during the election which all other parties boycotted .

“I have a problem as a member of PDP. Do you know why? What is going on now is unprecedented in the history of Rivers State.

“I have never witnessed the level  of massive empowerment ongoing in the State from the Federal Government. In fact, I have never seen any state in the country with more empowerment in terms of political appointments than Rivers state.

The situation is now a problem for me as a member of PDP. Since the history of Rivers, be it military or civilian administrations, the State has never recorded the kind of massive empowerment as it has done under the present President Tinubu’s regime.

So, it has become a threat to me now because the people are leaning towards the APC, as demonstrated during the just concluded local council election.

“Even when you are preaching, the people will ask you what you are actually preaching.  APC is a threat to me, whether PDP likes it or not.

“However, the only thing going for me at the moment is that my people still have confidence in me as a leader.

“But the  reality on the ground is that APC is now a big threat to me in Rivers State”, the FCT Minister stated

The Source further reports that after partnering with the quartet of ex-Governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi ,Victor Okezie Ikpeazu, Seyi Makinde, and Samuel Ortom of Enugu ,Abia ,Oyo and Benue states respectively, to assist President Tinubu against their Party’s Presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar during the 2023, Wike has remained the greatest beneficiary of their common sweat.

Apart from being the only one among them that was given a plum job as  FCT Minister, his State, as he affirmed is truly reaping bountifully from the collective struggle, with most others picking the crumbs.

2027: “Fielding Peter Obi For President In 2027 Will Be A Disaster, Destroy PDP”, Wike Says

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Nyesom Wike and Peter Obi

By Akinwale Kasali

Nyesom Wike, Minister, Federal Capital Territory, FCT, has warned that opposition Party, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, risks self destruction if it attempts to bring back former Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Peter Obi, to the PDP fold.

Wike said it will be disastrous for the PDP if it has failed to learn from past mistakes that cost it dearly in the 2023 General Elections to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

He recalled that he and other Party Leaders had repeatedly cautioned against allowing both the Presidential Candidate and the National Chairman of the PDP to come from the North, a move he insisted was unjust and politically suicidal.

He made this assertion on Monday during a Media Chat.

He said, “From day one, I told my colleagues, PDP, you are shooting yourself. If you allow what is going on to continue, you’ll pay. And what did I say? You cannot have the presidential candidate at the same time as the National Chairman of the party,” Wike said.

The two -term former Rivers State Governor accused the PDP of “stealing” both positions and ignoring calls for fairness and balance, a decision he argued contributed to the party’s loss at the polls.

“It is better now you have stolen the presidential ticket—and again stole the national chairman. I said it will purge you. And it really purged them. I have no regret for it,” he declared.

Wike insisted that the Presidency must rotate back to the South to ensure equity and political stability.

According to him, the PDP’s arrogance and refusal to heed internal warnings have left the party weakened and vulnerable.

He also dismissed talks of Obi’s possible return to the PDP, describing the move as dangerous and hypocritical.

“To what? Bringing Obi to where? You want to kill the party? Obi that was abusing the party, saying it is rotten—so the party is now good enough for him? Ambition can make people even go to Satan’s house,” Wike said.

The Minister stressed that such a decision would further erode the party’s credibility and destroy any remaining ideological foundation.

“If you want to destroy this party, dare it—bring Obi. There’s no way he will come back just because of ambition. No more ideology, no longer principle,” he added.

Wike maintained that he stood by his long-held position that equity, justice, and zoning remain the only viable path for the PDP to regain national relevance.

Lagos Auto Crash Claims Six Lives, Injures Nine

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Lagos Motor Accident

By Akinwale Kasali

The fatal auto crash that occurred on Lagos-Epe Expressway has claimed no fewer than six lives. Nine others sustained various degrees of injuries.

The six deceased passengers include: Two Males, Three Females, and One Child, while the nine injured persons included three males and six females.

However, four persons escaped unhurt during the accident that occurred on Monday at the Ibeju bus stop along the Lekki–Epe Expressway.

The injured persons were conveyed to Federal Medical Centre, FMC, Epe, and Hammond Hospital, while the deceased bodies were deposited at the FMC Epe Mortuary, pending when their families would identify them.

The victims were promptly attended to by the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, rescue team from Corridor 13 and Zebra 46, Ibeju-Lekki Unit Command, with support from the Nigeria Police Force, NPF, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, and Lagos Neighborhood Safety Corps, LNSC.

Corps Commander Kehinde Hamzat, Lagos Sector Commander, confirmed the tragedy, with preliminary investigations revealing that the crash was caused by speeding, route violation, and dangerous driving.

Hamzat, in a statement by the Sector Public Education Officer, Route Commander Oluwadamilola Jayeola, sympathized deeply with the families of the victims and reiterated the Corps’ consistent warning that speeding and reckless driving remain the leading causes of avoidable crashes on Nigerian highways.

He reiterated that the Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed, has repeatedly warned that “speed thrills but kills.”

The Lagos Corps Commander urged all drivers to imbibe a culture of patience, discipline, and defensive driving, noting that overspeeding not only endangers the life of the driver but also those of innocent passengers and other road users.

Hamzat further charged motorists to adhere strictly to traffic regulations, avoid speeding, and maintain maximum concentration while driving, particularly during the Ember Months.

He emphasized that crashes during these months are not linked to witchcraft or supernatural forces, but to human recklessness, poor judgment, and failure to adopt defensive driving habits.

The Sector Commander also commended the swift intervention of other responding agencies, stressing that road safety is a shared responsibility requiring strong collaboration.