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Court Strikes Out Case Against Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project

April 3, 2025

Flag-off of the 700 km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project

By Akinwale Kasali

Indigenes of Okun-Ajah Community, Eti-Osa Local Government Area, Lagos State, and other property owners around there, are set to appeal the suit against the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project following the verdict of Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court, Lagos, who struck their case out.

Justice Aluko ruled that the suit, marked FHC/L/CS/1488/2024, lacked jurisdiction.

Consequently, he transferred the case to the Lagos State High Court as the appropriate court to hear the case.

The plaintiffs in the suit are Chief Saheed Olukosi (Akogun of Okun-Ajah Community), Noibi Issa Afolayan, Yussuf Odunuga Sulaiman, Olufemi Fasehun and Adeola Tokunbo, all representing Okun-Ajah Community and other Concerned Property Owners at Okun-Ajah Community.

The defendants/objectors are the Minister, Dr. Dave Umahi; Olukorede Keisha; Federal Ministry of Works & Housing; Attorney-General of Lagos State; Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development; Surveyor-General of Lagos State; General Manager, Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority; General Manager, Lagos State Building Control Agency and Hitech Construction Limited.

The plaintiffs, through their lawyers, A.O. Ajiboye and E. C. Okorie, had asked the Court to stop the project on several grounds.

They sought the following reliefs: “An order to set aside acts of encroachment on their landed properties, setting aside designs, plans of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road on their parcels of land.

“An order restraining the first to the third and ninth defendants from encroaching, trespassing and diverting the construction of the Lagos – Calabar Coastal Road into their land.”

The plaintiffs also made claims for damages for acts of trespassing on the land in dispute.

But the defendants/objectors urged the court to strike out the suit for lack of jurisdiction.

“Specifically, the first, second, third and ninth defendants/objectors in their separate preliminary objections filed through their lawyers Prof. J.O. Olatoke, (SAN), Y.A.H. Ruba (SAN), Roy U. Nwaeze (SAN) and Ibukun Fasoro, asked the court to strike out or dismiss the suit for want of jurisdiction.

The defendants/objectors premised their preliminary objections on seven grounds, supported by a paragraph’s affidavit.

Following the defendants/objectors’ preliminary objections, the plaintiffs filed a counter affidavit of 11 paragraphs.

Delivering a ruling on the arguments submitted by parties, Justice Aluko held that: “Coming from the foregoing, the issues in the two NPO of the first to third defendants and that of the ninth defendant are resolved in favour of the objectors against the plaintiffs.

Counsel to the plaintiffs made an alternative submission in his written address urging the court not to strike out this suit if the court finds that it lacks jurisdiction to adjudicate over the case.

“Counsel urged the court to transfer this suit to the State High Court instead of striking it out.

“I agree with Counsel on this request as this court possesses the needed power and jurisdiction to accede to such prayer.

“This court is fortified under Section 22(2) of the Federal High Court Act which provides thus: ‘No cause or matter shall be struck out by the court merely on the ground that such cause or matter was taken in the court instead of the High Court of a State or of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja in which it ought to have been brought, and the Judge of the court before whom such cause or matter is brought may cause such use or matter to be transferred to the appropriate High Court of a State or at the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja in accordance with Rules of Court to be made under section 44 of this Act.”

“The Objections of the first to third and ninth defendants/objectors are therefore sustained. This court has no jurisdiction to adjudicate over the subject matter in this case.

“Pursuant to section 22(2) of the Federal High Court Act, this suit is accordingly transferred to the Lagos State High Court as the appropriate court for adjudication,” he held.

Akpoti-Uduaghan: INEC Declares Recall Petition Unconstitutional

Ayodele Oni

April 3, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

There is a twist in the recall process of Kogi Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has declared that the petition failed to meet the constitutional threshold required for such a process.

The Electoral body made this disclosure on Thursday afternoon in a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle.

“The petition for the recall of the Senator representing the Kogi Central Senatorial District has not met the requirement of Section 69(a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended),” INEC wrote.

This latest twist in the recall saga comes barely a week after INEC initially accepted the petition, following the submission of contact details and addresses by the petitioners.

INEC’s sudden rejection of the petition raises questions, especially, considering that just days ago, the Commission confirmed it had moved to the verification stage to determine whether the petition had the support of more than 50 per cent of the 474,554 registered voters in Kogi Central Senatorial District.

In its statement on March 26, INEC announced that the petitioners had rectified earlier deficiencies by providing their contact information, which led to the Commission notifying Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and proceeding with scrutiny of the signatures.

However, Thursday’s announcement suggests that the petition has failed at this critical stage, though INEC has yet to provide details on the specific shortfall.

This development is likely to fuel further speculation that the recall effort was politically motivated.

Tinubu Flags Off First Ever Niger Delta Sports Festival, In Uyo

Ayodele Oni

April 3, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

The first Niger Delta sports festival has kicked off in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State with President Bola Tinubu declaring it open.

The president commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for initiating the first-ever Niger Delta Sports Festival, describing it as a groundbreaking event that will harness youth potential, foster unity, and drive community development in the region.

Speaking at the festival’s opening ceremony President Tinubu, represented by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Alhaji Shehu Dikko, lauded the NDDC for its vision in using sports as a tool for peacebuilding and economic growth.

“The Niger Delta Sports Festival will not only discover new talents but also contribute to grassroots sports development and national security.”

NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, announced that bidding was open for the next edition of the festival.

Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, emphasised the festival’s potential to drive national development, urging young athletes to seize the opportunity to showcase their talents.

“With strong backing from the Federal Government and regional stakeholders, the Niger Delta Sports Festival is set to become a catalyst for youth empowerment and regional progress.”

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, proposed a rotational hosting system among states in the region.

Aiyedatiwa, charged Team Ondo to bring home laurels at the ongoing Sports Festival in Uyo.

The Niger Delta Sports Festival, promoted by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), is taking place in Akwa Ibom State from April 1 to 9, 2025, with participating states from the Niger Delta region.

Governor Aiyedatiwa commended the NDDC management for organizing the competition, emphasizing its potential to promote grassroots sports and engage the region’s youths.

He also expressed gratitude to the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for hosting the event, describing the atmosphere at the venue as electrifying.

During the ceremony, Governor Aiyedatiwa interacted with members of the Ondo State contingent, urging them to make the state proud by winning laurels.

Sack of Imo Chief Judge For Age Falsification, Disgraceful – Uzodimma

The Source

April 3, 2025

Justice Theresa Chikeka and Hope Uzodimma

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has recalled the disgraceful circumstances which led to the sack of the immediate past Chief Judge of Imo State, Justice Theresa Chikeka.

The Governor spoke Wednesday evening, April 2, 2025, when he swore-in the Honourable Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu as the Acting Chief Judge of the State pending confirmation by the National Judicial Council, NJC.

Uzodimma, also, at same ceremony, swore-in two new Commissioners as members of his Cabinet- Professor Bernard Ikegwuoha and Dr (Mrs.) Chioma Egu.

They were sworn-in at the Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Owerri in the presence of officials from the Three Arms of Government and critical stakeholders from the State.

Justice Chikeka was sacked by the NJC after she was investigated and indicted of age falsification.

Speaking after he administered the oath of office on the Acting CJ, the Governor reiterated his commitment to ensuring a most dependable and responsible judiciary in Imo State. He, also described as disgraceful the manner Chikeka was removed from office by the NJC, and the events that followed thereafter. He, therefore, warned against a repeat of the “dishonourable incident where a Chief Judge is suddenly removed from office for such an ugly indictment of age falsification.”

He disclosed that the incident provoked his Government to collaborate with the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) for a record check to ensure that all Judges appointed by Imo State Government have clear and clean records that will not lead to any form of disrepute by any mandate given to any of them.

The Governor noted that the appointment of Justice Nzeukwu in Acting capacity followed a “painstaking review and findings of the JSC, and in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

He therefore charged the JSC to expedite action that will help in producing a substantive Chief Judge for the State.

The Governor used the occasion to call on

all Judicial Officers in the State to see their mandate as a sacred one.

“You must do only those things that would be acceptable to both God and man. Always discharge your duties with the fear of God and bring justice and equity to the people of Imo State,” he advised.

To the new Acting Chief Judge, the Governor entrusted him to bring dignity back to the service and prayed God to protect and guide him in his new office.

Addressing the new Commissioners, Governor Uzodimma reminded them that they were appointed to come and add value to the system, and urged them to do just that.

He noted that rejigging of the system helps in ensuring that the people are served better, and encouraged them to work with their colleagues to serve Imo citizens well.

In his acceptance remarks for the job of Acting Chief Judge of Imo State, Justice Nzeukwu expressed gratitude to the Governor and the Judicial Service Commission for finding him worthy for the appointment, and assured that he will not betray the confidence reposed on him.

He acknowledged that the Judiciary has been grappling with the issue of corruption in many spheres but maintained that under his watch in Imo State as the Acting Chief Judge such era was over.

“We want to send out a message loud and clear that it cannot be business as usual.The time has come to restore the confidence of the populace in the judiciary by truly ensuring that the judiciary indeed becomes the last hope of the common man,” Justice Nzeukwu averred.

He however expressed optimism that the future of judiciary in Imo State is bright and appealed to the judiciary staff to be patient and “resist the temptation of being controlled by people, money or past experiences.”

Also speaking on behalf of the newly sworn- in Commissioners, Prof Ikegwuoha who had earlier served as a Commissioner for Education, thanked the Governor for, “the distinct privilege” of appointing them to serve in his Executive Council.

He promised that they will persistently work to uplift the single reason why they were appointed.

The Deputy Governor of Imo State, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, his deputy, Rt. Hon Amara Iwuanyanwu, Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmos Iwu, Chief of Staff, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, Members of the Imo State expanded Executive Council, Clerk of the House, Barr Chinelo Emeghara, senior judicial officials from Imo State, members of the Judicial Service Commission, and key stakeholders such as Chief Tony Chukwu, witnessed the swearing in ceremony.

Govt Calls Natasha’s Assassination Allegation “Reckless’

Akinwale Kasali

April 2, 2025

By Akinwale Kasali

The Governor Kogi State Government has reacted to the allegation of a planned assassination of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan leveled against the Governor and the former Governor of the State, Yahaya Bello, by the suspended Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan representing Kogi Central Senatorial

It described the statement as malicious and reckless.

Akpoti-Uduaghan had, on Monday, alleged that if anything happens to her, the Senate President, Godswill Obot Akpabio, Bello and the Kogi State Government should be held responsible.

However, a statement issued by the State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, stated that: “The attention of the Kogi State Government has been drawn to the reckless, malicious, and utterly false allegations made by the suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in her verified Facebook Page, in which she claims that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, former Governor Yahaya Bello, and the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, should be held responsible if anything happens to her.

“This is yet another desperate and calculated attempt by an incurable liar and serial manipulators to mislead the public, incite unrest, and present herself as a victim after deliberately violating the ban on political gatherings imposed by the state government to maintain law and order. Her statement exposed her plans to use her visit to stir trouble and violence in Kogi Central Senatorial District. We will not allow any part of the state to go up in flames nor permit killing of innocent souls by the actions of the suspended Senator.

“Although she has since deleted the post after realising what the lie would cost her, we have a screenshot of it which was saved before she deleted the post. Her actions since the early hours of today (Tuesday) have confirmed the authenticity of the security report that certain elements were planning to foment trouble in Kogi Central.

“Let it be categorically stated that Governor Ododo absolutely has no interest in the political theatrics of the suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Her baseless allegations are nothing but a feeble attempt to stir unnecessary controversy and cover up her blatant disregard for the law. She has once again proven that she has no respect for rules and the laws.

“Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has consistently demonstrated a pattern of lawlessness, using lies and deceit as her tools of political engagement. The recent disturbances in Kogi State, orchestrated by her defiance of the state’s security directives, have further confirmed her status as a security threat to the people of the State.”

The State Government added: “She deliberately violated the state government’s ban on political gatherings, which was put in place to prevent security breaches and maintain peace. Instead of respecting the law, she chose to incite chaos, disregarding the safety and stability of the state. When confronted with the consequences of her actions, she resorted to her usual tactics of playing the victim and fabricating baseless accusations against respected leaders of the state and the nation.

“The people of Kogi State and Nigerians at large should see through her deceptive ploys and reject her attempt to manipulate public perception with outright lies. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is not a victim; she is an instigator of disorder who thrives on spreading falsehoods to gain public sympathy.

“The Kogi State Government will not be blackmailed or intimidated by the antics of a desperate politician who has built her political career on falsehoods. We remain committed to upholding law and order and will take all necessary steps to ensure that no individual, no matter how highly placed, is allowed to breach public peace with impunity. The building tension and cloud of violence hanging on Kogi Central wouldn’t have been necessary if Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had complied with the position of the state government and cooperated with security agencies. She would be held responsible if her actions result in any violence in Kogi Central or any part of the state.”

Group Applauds Tinubu For Kyari’s Sack, Calls for Probe Into Fake Refinery Projects

Akinwale Kasali

April 2, 2025

By Akinwale Kasali

President Bola Tinubu has been applauded for the sack of Mele Kyari as the Group Chief Executive Officer, GCEO, of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL.

The Energy Reforms Advocates, ERA, showered encomium on President Tinubu for taking such a bold and decisive decision.

A statement on Wednesday by Abdulkadri Isah, ERA’s President, described the move as a courageous step toward reforming Nigeria’s oil sector and tackling entrenched corruption.

He said Kyari’s removal would allow a full investigation into alleged fraudulent refinery projects under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

“The dismissal of Mele Kyari signals a new dawn in our nation’s commitment to eradicating corruption in the oil and gas sector. We commend President Tinubu for demonstrating the political will to confront these challenges head-on,” Isah said.

He urged the newly appointed leadership of the NNPCL to prioritise an audit of past projects and ensure accountability in the sector.

“The probe into fake Refinery projects must be swift and thorough. Nigerians deserve to know how billions of dollars were allocated to non-existent or uncompleted projects while the country continued to rely on fuel imports,” he stated.

ERA called on relevant anti-corruption agencies to support the process, warning that failure to expose past mismanagement would hinder any meaningful reform.

“This investigation should not end with a change in leadership. There must be consequences for those who mismanaged funds and deceived Nigerians. The government must set a precedent that corruption will no longer be tolerated,” Isah added.

The group also expressed optimism that under a fresh leadership, the NNPCL could regain public trust and reposition itself as a driver of economic growth.

“With competent leadership, the NNPC can finally fulfill its mandate. We expect reforms that will boost local refining capacity, attract investment, and ultimately reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products,” the statement read.

Kyari’s removal was part of a broader shake-up of NNPCL’s Board. Former Shell Executive, Bashir Bayo Ojulari was appointed the new GCEO and Ahmadu Musa Kida as non-executive Chairman.

The restructuring aligns with the Government’s vision of revitalising the oil sector and increasing Nigeria’s crude oil production and refining capacity.

Again: PDP Loses Another Lawmaker To LP In Abia

Suleiman Anyalewechi

April 2, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Abia State Peoples Democratic Party PDP, on Wednesday, April 2 , 2025, expressed optimism that it will emerge stronger from the ashes of its present tribulations.

The Party’s message of hope comes against the backdrop of the defection of yet another of its State Lawmakers, Hon Collins Ugochukwu, to the ruling Labour Party, LP, on Wednesday .

The defection of the Legislator representing Isiala Ngwa North State Constituency, is coming on the heels of the cross- carpeting of Hon Lucky Nweke Johnson to same LP about a week ago.

Before then however, three others had, at once, jumped ship earlier in the year, a situation that relegated the PDP from its imposing stature, to a minority in the Legislative body.

The PDP, even after losing control of the State’s seat of power post-2023 polls, still was in the driver’s seat in the House with 13 law makers out the 24-Member House.

The ruling LP had 11, while the All Progressive Congress, APC, had, and still has one Lawmaker.

But with the spate of defections since this year, with five of its Lawmakers joining forces with the LP, the PDP has now strangely become the minority with just eight Legislators.

Hon Ugochukwu’s defection was officially announced by the Speaker, Rt Hon Emmanuel Emeruwa, during plenary on Wednesday.

Just like others before him in the defection train, Hon Ugochukwu cited the sterling performance of Governor Otti and the need to give him all necessary support as major reasons for signing for the LP.

Instructively, both Ugochukwu and Johnson are from the same Isiala Ngwa axis with the Governor who, by now, will surely be exuding a sense of conquest with the twin defections.

But in a statement on Wednesday, the State Chairman of the PDP, Comrade Abraham Amah, while urging calm among members described the defections as a lesson, rather than a setback.

According to t him, the latest defection did not come to the State Working Committee, SWC, as a surprise as they had pre-knowledge of the plan.

He noted that the party is very much aware of the underlying factors of the spate of defections.

However ,he noted that the party, having learnt its lessons, will henceforth ensure stringent screening exercises before handing out its tickets for elections.

The PDP Chairman blamed the present ugly situation on the mistakes of handing party platform to those who were only driven by selfish political interests.

He expressed the hope that the party will see the departure of these Lawmakers and others as an opportunity to reinvent and reposition itself.

“We must now channel our energy towards the road ahead. The signs are clear; there are strong indicators to a better tomorrow.

Do not be discouraged. We shall overcome these challenges and rise up stronger than ever” Amah noted.

DSP Barau Donates N16 Million To Families Of Hunters Killed In Edo, Confirms More Arrest

Ayodele Oni

April 2, 2025

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin — Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin

By Ayodele Oni

Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, has confirmed that more arrests have been made in connection with the killing of travellers at Uromi, in Edo state.

He spoke on Wednesday when he visited Bunkure local governments area of Kano State to sympathise with the families of the 16 travellers who were killed in Uromi, Esan North East LGA of Edo State.

The Deputy President of the Senate met the families of the victims, who hailed from Bunkure, Kibiya, Rano and Garko areas, at the At-Taqwa Mosque in the Sabon Fegi area.

Barau was joined by the Minister of State of Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, the Managing Director of the North West Development Commission (NWDC), Prof Abdullahi Shehu Ma’aji, and other dignitaries.

The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Deputy President of the Senate, Ismail Mudashir, revealed that Barau reassured the families of the deceased hunters that the perpetrators would be brought to book.

In addition to the 14 suspects, he said security agents had nabbed two more persons in connection with the killing of the hunters.

He announced the donation of N1m to each of the families of the 16 deceased hunters, totalling N16m.

The Deputy President assured that he would sponsor a motion on the matter when the Senate resumes later this month.

“I’m here to sympathise with you over the tragic incident that led to the death of 16 of our brothers last Thursday. May Allah grant them Jannatul Firdaus and quicken the recovery of those injured.

“I was worried when the incident happened. I had to call the state governor, security agencies and all stakeholders involved.

“They swung into action, and so far apart from the 14 people who have been arrested, two more suspects have been nabbed. The state governor, who visited my house in Abuja, has assured me that government will support you.

“We will not take it lightly. We will ensure that the culprits are brought to book and face the wrath of the law.”

Speaking on behalf of the families, the Chief Imam of the area, Sheikh Zainul Abidina Auwal, thanked Senator Barau for his efforts in ensuring justice and described him as the leader needed for the country’s development.

Edo Killing: Senator Dickson Cautions Against Reprisal Attack

Ayodele Oni

April 2, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

The Senator representing Bayelsa West Senatorial district, Seriake Dickson, has warned that killing of some Hausa travellers in Edo state should not be used to criminalize or demonize any group of Nigerians,

He also cautioned against ethnic profiling or reprisal attacks, saying “That was why, when I was governor, even at the height of herdsmen crisis, we insisted on law and order, and made sure that Bayelsa State was safe and free for everyone subject to the laws of the state.”

The former Bayelsa state Governor in a statement, added “Those who profile Nigerians according to ethnic group, and criminalise and insult whole tribes are inviting the Rwandan experience which I always preach against.

“We must isolate and punish criminals wherever they are found and whoever they are. In Nigeria, everyone has a right to freedom of movement and should be protected. Everyone has the right to go about their business and feel safe while doing so.

“I call on all leaders to de-escalate tensions and work for unity and mutual coexistence of all Nigerians founded on justice and respect for the rights of all citizens as guaranteed by the Nigerian constitution and laws.”

Dickson who also commended the Edo State governor, “my brother”, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his proactive measures, called on the state government and security agencies to investigate the matter and prosecute those responsible, just as he recommends compensation for the families of the victims.

“I am saddened by reports of the killing of 16 northern travellers in Edo State, and I condemn it in very strong terms. It is unacceptable and condemnable for even one person to be killed, let alone sixteen, in a single occurrence.

“It is also very painful that this unfortunate incident occurred during the Holy month of Ramadan when Muslims mark the end of the fasting period with festivities, travelling across to celebrate with friends and families.

“I had earlier sent out congratulatory messages to felicitate with all Muslims following the successful completion of the Ramadan fast. In respect of this sad incident, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.

“While I commend the Edo State Governor, my brother, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his proactive measures and the steps he has taken, I call on the State Government and the Nigerian security agencies to thoroughly investigate this matter and hold those responsible to account.

“I also call for the prosecution of those responsible and urge compensation for the families of the victims.

“I must also commend my brothers, Governor Yusuf of Kano State and Senator Barau, the Emir, the Sultan of Sokoto and other Northern Leaders for their statements, calling for calm, and I join in that call, urging that those responsible for this horrible act should face severe punishment.”

Ondo Renews Ban On Night Operation By Okada Riders

Ayodele Oni

April 2, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Amotekun bursts syndicate which specialized in duping intending foreign travellers

As part of efforts to curtail insecurity in Ondo State, the State Government has placed a ban on Okada riders from 8pm to 5am, failure which will result to seizure of such motorcycles and prosecution of the rider.

This order comes into effect from Wednesday, 2nd April, 2025.

Commandant of Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye announced this while parading 61 suspected criminals involved in kidnapping and other nefarious activities in the state on Wednesday.

“We are re-emphasizing the initial order made by the government of Ondo state that, effect from Wednesday, 2nd April, 2025, from 8pm to 5 am any Okada seeing shall be seized indefinitely.

“We say unequivocally that, anyone found guilty will surely be dealt with.”

However, government also gave seven days ultimatum to all unregistered vehicles to do the needful else such vehicle(s) will be impounded and Confiscated.

“All unregistered vehicles plying our roads are given just seven days to do so, else, such vehicle will not be spared “

Adeleye emphasized that government of the state remains head-bent in making the state a safe haven for the residents and warned all miscreants to take their pallets and vacate the state before its too late.

Sixty one suspected criminals that were arrested by operatives of the Security Network in connection with alleged kidnapping, attempted murder, armed robbery and abroad travelling fraud were paraded.

Adeleye told newsmen that 28 syndicates out of the suspects were nabbed for allegedly kidnapping and duping some Ghanians and Nigerians who were planning to travel to foreign countries like Australia for greener pasture.

The Amotekun Commander disclosed that the victims, who were held hostage at a camp in Oda town, near Akure, were cajoled by the travelling agency syndicates that they would be helped to travel abroad but on getting to Akure for documentation, they were held hostage.

According to the Security chief, the 28 suspected human traffickers were arrested following a tip-off from one of the Ghanaian victims who escaped from the captivity.

Adeleye also warned against influx of criminal elements in the state forests disguising as hunters, saying nobody without the State Government’s permission would be allowed to enter forests in the state.

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