August 2025 | Page 27 of 31

Lagos State Lists 176 Illegal Estates, Issues 21-Day Ultimatum for Layout Approval

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

The Lagos State Government has identified 176 estate developments as illegal and has issued a 21-day ultimatum to their developers to begin processing layout approvals or face possible sanctions. The affected estates, predominantly located in the fast-growing Eti-Osa, Ajah, Ibeju-Lekki, and Epe corridors, were published in an official document released Monday by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development. According to the Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Engr. Oluwole Sotire, the developments were deemed illegal due to the absence of approved layouts—a mandatory requirement for estate development in the state. “These estates have been operating outside the regulatory framework, compromising the sustainability goals of the T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda,” Sotire stated. Some of the listed estates include Adron Homes, Elerangbe; Aina Gold Estate, Okun-Folu; Diamond Estate, Eputu; Prime Water View Garden, Ikate Elegushi; and Royal View Estate, Ikota, among others. Sotire disclosed that estate owners have been given a 21-day window to submit necessary documentation to the Ministry at the Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, to commence the layout approval process. He emphasized that the action was in line with the Ministry’s statutory responsibility to regulate the orderly development of land and ensure Lagos evolves into a functional and resilient smart city. “This exercise is a routine part of our mandate to prevent uncoordinated growth and promote sustainable urban development,” he added. The Permanent Secretary also urged all developers and real estate operators to register with the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA)—the body tasked with coordinating, regulating, and monitoring real estate activities across the state. The crackdown comes amid growing concerns over haphazard development and environmental degradation in some parts of Lagos, especially within the high-demand real estate zones of Ibeju-Lekki and Epe. Officials say enforcement actions may follow after the ultimatum expires for developers who fail to comply.

Ogbagi Akoko Residents Protest Deplorable Road Conditions, Demand Urgent Government Action

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

By Kamal Yalwa: August 4, 2025 Ogbagi Akoko, Ondo State —Residents of Ogbagi Akoko in Akoko North West Local Government Area of Ondo State staged a peaceful protest on Monday, decrying the worsening condition of the Ikare–Ogbagi–Irun Akoko to Ado-Ekiti Road. The demonstrators, made up of scores of indigenes and community members, marched through major routes in the area carrying placards and banners, demanding swift government intervention. Protesters described the protest as a “collective cry for help,” noting that the dilapidated road has become a daily nightmare for motorists, commercial drivers, and residents. Many lamented the negative impact on economic activities, travel time, and access to healthcare and education. “We are tired of suffering on this road. It’s dangerous, it damages our vehicles, and it is slowing down the growth of our community,” one protester said. In response to the demonstration, the Federal Controller of Works in charge of the project, Mr. Wasiu Owolabi, confirmed that construction work is ongoing on the over 40-kilometre stretch of road. He stated that approximately eight kilometres of the road have been completed so far and appealed for patience from the residents. “We understand the frustration of the people, but work is steadily progressing. We urge residents to bear with the contractors as we work toward the timely completion of the project,” Mr. Owolabi said. The Ikare–Ogbagi–Irun–Ado-Ekiti Road serves as a crucial link between Ondo and Ekiti states and is widely regarded as vital for regional commerce and mobility. Residents say they will continue to monitor the progress and maintain pressure until the road is fully rehabilitated.

People

Lagos Deputy Gov Hamzat: Modern Parenting Style Raising Pampered, Irresponsible Children

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago05 mins

An educator and child development advocate has raised concerns over what she describes as the growing trend of pampering children rather than raising them with discipline and responsibility, warning that this parenting approach could have long-term societal consequences. In a widely shared commentary, the educator highlighted alarming patterns observed in schools and homes, where children are increasingly shielded from basic responsibilities such as house chores, meal preparation, and personal discipline. “We now see 8-year-olds who don’t lay their own beds, 10-year-olds who are served food but never clear the table, and teenagers who cannot cook simple meals because domestic staff handle everything,” she said. The educator, who works closely with students across age groups, warned that the failure to instill responsibility in children today will likely result in a generation ill-equipped to face the challenges of adulthood. According to her, some students are now growing up entitled, lazy, and lacking basic life skills. She cited examples such as children addicted to television, parents who bribe teachers or register their children in ‘miracle centres’ for exam success, and an overall culture that discourages discipline but embraces shortcuts. “Some children go to expensive schools but perform poorly because they are not taught discipline or work ethic at home. Instead of reading, they stay up watching TV, sometimes with their parents,” she stated. The educator also criticized parents who place emphasis on luxury and appearance while neglecting intellectual and moral development. “We buy them designer clothes but won’t spend money on books. We outsource all chores to maids, drivers, and nannies. At this rate, what future are we preparing them for?” She stressed that many of the values that helped older generations succeed—hard work, discipline, and resilience—are no longer being taught in many modern households. Quoting a popular Hausa proverb, “Ka so naka, duniya ta ki shi” (If you favour your child too much, the world will reject him), she urged parents to reconsider their approach. The educator warned that there are only two outcomes for children raised without discipline: the pain of regret or the pain of correction, adding that discipline is non-negotiable in a child’s long-term development. She concluded by urging Nigerian parents to instill responsibility, encourage learning, and prepare their children for a competitive and demanding world. “No amount of wealth can protect an undisciplined child from failure,” she added. Experts Urge Reassessment of Parenting Approaches In light of the warning, several child psychologists and educators are calling on Nigerian parents to adopt more balanced parenting approaches that combine love with responsibility, structure, and consequences. “Raising responsible children is not about harshness. It’s about guidance, structure, and accountability,” said Dr. Femi Ogundele, a child behavior specialist based in Lagos. “If we fail at parenting, we fail the nation.

We Slept Like Sardines: Inmates Lament Hellish Conditions in Ogun Correctional Centres

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago08 mins

In a chilling testimony, a 50-year-old former inmate identified only as Idris has described his two-year ordeal at the Ibara Correctional Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, as “nothing but hell.” His story sheds light on the harrowing reality of life behind bars in Nigeria’s overstretched and under-resourced correctional facilities. “We slept in hundreds, like packed sardines in a room that was supposed to accommodate twenty people,” Idris said, narrating the conditions he endured while awaiting trial. “We battled skin rashes, head lice, bedbugs—and eventually, some inmates developed mental disorders.” Idris was arrested in the aftermath of a cult clash near the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secretariat in Abeokuta. Mistakenly caught in the chaos while attempting to greet an old friend, he was shot, hospitalized for a month, and later charged with attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms. “I was shot, I shot at many people also, but I was overpowered,” he admitted, recounting his eventual transfer from hospital to police custody and later to court. His situation reflects a broader crisis in Nigeria’s correctional system. Overcrowded and Overlooked Despite a 2019 rebranding of the Nigerian Prisons Service to the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS)—a move aimed at rehabilitation rather than punishment—overcrowding and neglect remain rampant. According to 2025 statistics, 81,287 inmates are currently held in Nigerian correctional facilities. Of this number, 53,178 are awaiting trial, many for non-violent or minor offenses. In Ogun State alone, the Ibara facility, designed for 700 inmates, now holds 1,468. Similarly, the Oba correctional centre, with a capacity of 850, houses 999 inmates. Conditions are grim. Idris’ cell was located next to the prison kitchen, intensifying the heat and congestion. “The food is terrible. Rice is served only twice a week. Other days, it’s garri and beans. Eat too much soup, and you end up with a disability—we called it Sapa ti mu mi lepon,” he said, referring to extreme hunger-related ailments. We Died of Ulcers, Measles and Madness’ Access to healthcare in the prisons is abysmal. According to Idris, many inmates died from treatable conditions like ulcers or lost their sanity due to diseases like measles. “They give only paracetamol. In serious cases, your family must foot the bill,” he revealed. “Two people ran mad from untreated measles.” Correctional Centres Now Breed Criminals – Ex-Inmate Rather than reform, Idris believes prisons now function as training grounds for hardened criminals. “Some people enter for minor theft and come out as armed robbers. Those convicted of capital crimes take them under their wings, and they return to society worse than they went in,” he said. He called for alternatives like community service for minor offenses, decrying how trivial crimes lead to prolonged incarceration and deeper criminal entrenchment. Inmates Plead for Amnesty Ayomide Olagoke, another inmate at Ibara Correctional Centre and a master’s degree holder in Banking and Finance, echoed the call for reforms. Speaking during his convocation ceremony, where he earned a degree in theology from the West African College for Christian Missions, he urged the government to act. “We are reformed and deserve a second chance. People are dying every day. Husbands and wives are locked up for up to nine years awaiting trial. What becomes of their children?” he asked. Chief Judge, Controller Raise Alarm Ogun State Chief Judge, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has also decried the appalling state of the correctional facilities. During a recent visit to Sagamu Correctional Centre, she noted that inmates were forced to stand or sit due to lack of space. “Some inmates have been awaiting trial since 2013—12 years in custody without conviction,” she lamented. Ogun State Controller of Corrections, Abioye Adesina, confirmed the persistent overcrowding despite repeated decongestion efforts. He appealed to Governor Dapo Abiodun for more operational vehicles to improve logistics. Reforms Exist Only on Paper – Legal Expert Legal practitioner and law lecturer Ogaga Ediru criticised the implementation of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act 2019, saying its decongestion measures are largely ignored. “Section 12 of the Act mandates urgent action once a facility exceeds capacity. But in practice, nothing is done,” Ediru said. He warned that overcrowding severely impacts hygiene, nutrition, healthcare, and facilitates disease outbreaks. “Section 23 of the Act mandates proper healthcare for inmates, yet overcrowding renders this provision ineffective,” he added. Ediru blamed the sluggish pace of justice for the crisis, noting that many inmates are locked up for minor offenses longer than the law allows. He advocated for systemic reforms, including: “We must treat criminal justice reform as a national emergency. Until then, correctional centres will remain congested warehouses of human despair,” he concluded. Source: By DAILY POST Staff WriterAbeokuta | August 4, 2025

NiMet Issues Thunderstorm and Flood Warning Across Nigeria

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

Abuja | August 4, 2025 — The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a nationwide alert warning of widespread thunderstorms and heavy rainfall beginning Monday, heightening concerns over potential flash floods in several states. In a three-day weather forecast released on Sunday in Abuja, NiMet said the country is entering a critical phase of the rainy season, with increased risks of flooding and severe weather events. According to the forecast, northern states including Adamawa, Taraba, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kano, and Katsina are expected to experience morning thunderstorms on Monday, with conditions worsening later in the day. “There is a high possibility of flood occurring over parts of Adamawa, Taraba, and Bauchi states during the forecast period,” NiMet warned. In the North Central region, light morning rains are expected in Benue, Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), followed by heavier showers by afternoon across Plateau, Kwara, and neighboring states. Southern states are also likely to see significant rainfall. NiMet forecast cloudy skies and light morning showers in Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Anambra, Abia, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Lagos, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa. More intense and widespread rainfall is expected later in the day, with a flood watch in effect for Oyo, Ogun, Edo, and Delta. Tuesday and Wednesday Outlook For Tuesday, thunderstorms are expected to continue across the northern belt, notably in Taraba, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Kaduna, and Zamfara, with moderate rains likely later in the day. The central region, including Abuja, will see intermittent rainfall, while persistent showers are forecast from Lagos to Calabar in the south. NiMet has flagged Anambra, Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom as high-risk areas for flooding. By Wednesday, morning thunderstorms are forecast for Taraba and Kaduna, followed by scattered storms and moderate rain across Borno, Bauchi, Gombe, Jigawa, and Kano. Central states are expected to experience widespread afternoon rains, while intermittent showers are likely in the south, particularly in Lagos, Rivers, Bayelsa, and Cross River. Bayelsa faces the highest flood risk mid-week. Safety Advisory NiMet has urged residents to take precautionary measures: The agency also advised airline operators to obtain airport-specific weather briefings to ensure safe flight planning. Nigerians are encouraged to stay informed through official NiMet platforms for real-time updates.

Petrol Price Hits ₦945/Litre at NNPC Stations Amid Soaring Global Oil Prices Petrol Price Hits ₦945/Litre at NNPC Stations Amid Soaring Global Oil Prices

Marketers Shun Local Refineries as Fuel Imports Surge, Dangote’s Monopoly Fears Grow

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago08 mins

Lagos | August 4, 2025 — Despite the commencement of fuel supply by the $20bn Dangote Petroleum Refinery, petroleum marketers in Nigeria have resumed large-scale importation of refined products, relying on foreign sources for over 70 per cent of the nation’s petrol needs in May and June. This was revealed in fresh data from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), which showed that 71.38 per cent of Nigeria’s Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) consumption during the two-month period was sourced from imports, while only 28.62 per cent came from local refining, predominantly the Dangote refinery. The figures were presented to the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) for June 2025 and obtained by The PUNCH on Sunday. Out of 3.25 billion litres of PMS consumed in May and June, 2.32 billion litres were imported, while 927 million litres came from local production. In May alone, 43.22 million litres were imported daily, compared to 34.10 million litres per day in June. Despite Dangote’s refinery contributing about 15 million litres daily, imports remain the dominant supply source — a development that raises critical questions about the viability of local refining amid heavy investment in domestic capacity. Marketers Spend N2.1tn on Fuel Imports With an average pump price of ₦905 per litre, marketers spent an estimated ₦2.1 trillion on fuel imports during the two months under review. Lagos State topped the list of fuel consumption, with 205.66 million litres trucked out, followed by Ogun (88.69 million litres) and the FCT (77.5 million litres). Other major consumers included Oyo, Delta, and Kano, indicating higher demand in densely populated and industrialised areas. In contrast, states like Jigawa (9.4 million litres), Yobe (11.7 million litres), and Ekiti (15.3 million litres) recorded the least truck-out volumes. Imports Dominate Other Fuel Segments Similar import dominance was noted across other fuel types. Over 99 per cent of Aviation Turbine Kerosene (ATK) and Household Kerosene (HHK) were imported. Diesel imports also increased from 7.3 million litres/day in May to 8.7 million litres/day in June, despite a slight uptick in local production. Notably, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) was entirely imported, with zero local output recorded in both months. Dangote Pushes for Fuel Import Ban Amid the surge in imports, Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, has urged the Federal Government to include refined petroleum products in the list of banned items under the ‘Nigeria First’ policy. Speaking at the Global Commodity Insights Conference co-hosted by NMDPRA and S&P Global, Dangote said continued importation undermines domestic refining and discourages investment in the sector. “The Nigeria First policy should apply to petroleum products. Fuel importation is killing local refining,” Dangote said, calling for deliberate protectionist policies similar to those in the US, Canada, and the EU. Stakeholders Reject Monopoly Push However, his call has drawn strong opposition from industry stakeholders who fear it could create a monopoly. Chinedu Ukadike, National Publicity Secretary of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), warned that banning imports would hurt independent marketers and reduce competition. “If Dangote wants to dominate, let it be through cheaper pricing, not by eliminating competition,” Ukadike said. “Despite being locally refined, Dangote’s PMS isn’t the cheapest.” He also criticised the high port and lifting charges imposed on marketers sourcing from the refinery, many of which are denominated in dollars — counterproductive to easing foreign exchange pressures. Similarly, Billy Gillis-Harry, President of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), insisted Nigeria should maintain a free market. “No company should dominate the downstream sector in a free economy. Importation actually stabilises supply,” he said. Cheaper Imports Undercut Dangote Sales According to Jeremiah Olatide, CEO of PetroleumPrice.ng, importers have managed to land petrol at lower costs than the Dangote refinery’s ex-depot rate, leading to reduced demand for locally refined fuel. “Eighty per cent of private depots sold below Dangote’s price in July. This forced Dangote’s refinery into a supply slump,” Olatide said, noting that importers ramped up supplies in June ahead of Dangote’s August 15 fuel roll-out. He predicted significant changes in Nigeria’s fuel market post-August, as players brace for a power tussle between importers and local refiners. Experts Warn Against Ban, Advocate Market Diversity Prof. Dayo Ayoade, an energy law expert at the University of Lagos, cautioned against banning fuel imports, saying it would undermine energy security and contradict international trade laws. “We can’t rely solely on Dangote. That would create a monopoly, which is unacceptable for national and energy security,” Ayoade said. He called on the government to incentivise the development of other refineries and support a more competitive energy sector before considering restrictions on imports.

Sutcliff, Ottawa Police, NAS Praise KOHCTS 2025 as Box2Box Crowned Champions

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Sutcliff, Ottawa Police, NAS Praise KOHCTS 2025 as Box2Box Crowned Champions Box2Box Academy were crowned champions of the Kick Out Hate Crime Tru Sports – Ottawa Soccer 2025 on Saturday, an event Mayor of Ottawa Mark Sutcliff, the Ottawa Police Service (OPS), and the National Association of Seadogs (NAS) Long Island Deck Ottawa hailed as a shining example of sport uniting communities against hate. Hosted by the Canadian Hope Transformation Initiative (CHTI) at the Ottawa Technical Secondary School Field, the tournament brought together youth, law enforcement, and community groups to promote inclusion, bridge divides, and foster safer neighbourhoods. Founded and organized by Emmanuel Tobi, CHTI created the tournament to encourage positive engagement between diverse community members. “Soccer is a universal language,” Tobi said. “We want people from all walks of life to share the field and work toward a community free from hate.” In a letter read before kickoff, Mayor Mark Sutcliff hailed the event as a model for building bridges. “This tournament provides a valuable platform for fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and youth while promoting social integration,” Sutcliff said. OPS Chief Eric Stubbs, represented by Sergeant Barmark Anvari, commended CHTI’s leadership and reaffirmed OPS’ commitment to community safety. Outgoing Capoon of the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrate Confraternity), Long Island Deck Ottawa, Dabere Collins Ameachi, called the cause “noble” and aligned with NAS’ mission to fight social ills and support humanitarian work. On the pitch, Box2Box edged Cameroon’s Top Strikers of Ottawa 4-3 on penalties after a tense goalless final. Earlier, they beat OPS 2-1, while Top Strikers secured second place with a 2-1 win over OPS, who finished third. Box2Box claimed the golden trophy, while Top Strikers took silver. In a friendly match, Team CHTI, led by Tobi, defeated NAS 4-1 on penalties after a goalless draw. Both teams received medals. Organizers say the tournament’s true victory lies in the bonds formed between youth, communities, and first responders — proving soccer’s power to build a safer, more inclusive Ottawa.

Ademola Lookman Hands Atalanta Transfer Request

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago06 mins

Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has handed the club a formal transfer request, the player said Sunday. Lookman made the announcement with a statement posted on Instagram. The 27-year-old said the request was made “after many months of broken promises and what I feel has been poor treatment towards me as both a human being and as a professional footballer. “Sadly I feel I have no choice but to speak out for what I believe is right and I feel that enough is enough,” he said. He said in the statement that it had already been decided that it was the “right time” for him “to move on and experience a new adventure.” He said he and the club ownership had been “in agreement” that now was the right time for a transfer, and that the club agreed to let him leave if a fair offer was made. He said an offer did arrive but now the club was not sticking to its end of the agreement. “Despite now receiving an offer in alignment to what I believe had been discussed, sadly the club are blocking the opportunity for reasons I do not understand,” he said. “Over the past three years at Atalanta. I’ve given absolutely evrything. Not just as a footballer, but as a person. I’ve always worn the shirt with pride and tried to represent this club and the city of Bergamo with heart, passion and dedication. “I came here with the hope of helping this special club grow and together, we’ve created memories that stay with me forever. Winning the Europa League and standing shoulder to shoulder with my teammates that night in Dublin celebrating with our fans was one of the proudest moments of my career so far. It still gives me goosebumps thinking about it. “Atalanta, and especcially its supporters, have become a part of me. This place has felt like home from the moment I arrived, and I’ve always tried to repay that love-even in moments where things haven’t been easy behind the scenes. “That’s what makes writing this so hard. I have loved every moment but feel that now, after three wonderful years in Bergamo, it is the right time to move on and experience a new adventure. There have been numerous clubs approach Atalanta in the past and I have previously always stayed loyal. However, myself and the ownership of the club have been in agreement that now is the right time and the club were clear with me that if a fair offer come in they would allow me to move. “As a result and after many months of broken promises and what I feel has been poor treatment towards me as both a human being and as a professional footballer, sadly I feel I have no choice but to speak out for what I believe is right and I feel that enough is enough. I can confirm I have now handed in a formal transfer request. “Even throughout the extremely difficult moments I’ve endured, many of which have remained private and confidential. I have always tried to put the club, the fans and the team first and hoped it would not get to this, but I unfortunately feel there is now little choice. “To the fans -the heartbeat of this club -I want to say this: I’m truly sorry it’s come to this. I hope you can understand this incredibly difficult situation. It’s simply about standing up for what I believe is fair and right. The support you have always give me has been incredible and the bond we have created together is special. “I hope to work together with the club to find an amicable solution for all parties as soon as possible,” the forward stated.