2025 | Page 66 of 145 | Trendbrio.com

News

Pen Cinema Accident: Hon. Taiwo Olasunkanmi Sympathizes with Victims, Commends Rescue Agencies

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago13 mins

Following the accident that occurred today at the Pen Cinema Bridge in Agege, Hon. Taiwo Olasunkanmi Samuel, a chairmanship hopeful for Agege Local Government, has expressed sympathy for the survivors and gratitude to God that no lives were lost. The incident involved a fully loaded truck that fell off the bridge onto two empty buses parked underneath. Hon. Olasunkanmi also commended the swift response of officers from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Trek Africa Newspaper reports. Speaking with pressmen, the empathetic politician, fondly known as TOS, said:“I am grateful to God for sparing us from sorrow today in Agege. This incident could have brought untold pain to families, friends, and the entire Agege community, but mercy said no.” He further extended his sympathies:“I want to especially sympathize with the truck driver, who sustained major injuries, the survivors with minor injuries, and the drivers of the damaged vehicles. May God grant them a full and speedy recovery.” Hon. Olasunkanmi praised the quick intervention of Lagos State’s emergency response agencies, saying:“I thank our ever-active first responders — LASTMA, under the leadership of Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, and LASEMA — for their prompt arrival at the scene. Their swift action saved us from greater tragedy. Thank you very much.” According to a press release by LASTMA, preliminary investigations suggest that the truck driver, who suffered serious fractures to both hands, lost control of the vehicle while navigating the Pen Cinema Bridge. The truck subsequently plunged from the bridge, crashing onto two commercial buses stationed below. LASTMA officers, responding promptly, successfully extricated the severely injured driver and handed him over to officers from the Elere Police Division. He was then rushed to the General Hospital, Ile-Epo, for urgent medical attention.

Lagos Taskforce Arrests 52 Suspects During Clean-Up Exercise on Lagos Island

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

In a determined effort to rid the metropolis of environmental infractions, criminal elements and enhance public safety, the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences (Enforcement) Unit carried out a routine enforcement and clean-up operation in the early hours of Saturday, 26th April 2025. The operation which commenced at approximately 12:35 a.m., was led by the Chairman of the Agency, CSP Adetayo Akerele, and targeted key areas including Lekki, Ikoyi, Falomo Bridge, Eko Hotel, and Ligali Ayorinde. These areas had been flagged through numerous complaints and distress calls indicating the presence of street urchins, miscreants, hooligans, pickpockets, and other suspected criminals, especially during late hours. During the raid, a total of fifty-two (52) suspects comprising fifty one (51) males and one (1) female were apprehended. The Agency successfully restored order and sanity to all locations visited. Speaking on the outcome of the operation, the Chairman issued a stern warning to criminal elements, stressing that the Agency would not relent in its commitment to ensuring the environmental decorum and security of lives and property across the State. “We will continue to sustain these enforcement exercises until every part of City is free from criminal activities,” Akerele said. “Those who choose to engage in acts that threaten the serinity and security of resudents should desist immediately or face the full weight of the law.” According to the Akerele, the exercise forms part of an ongoing strategy to conduct routine enforcement operations at least bi-weekly, aimed at gradually eliminating criminal activities and safeguarding law-abiding residents and businesses in the area. All suspects arrested during the operation will be charged to court accordingly. The Lagos State Taskforce remains committed to ensuring a safer, cleaner, and more secure environment for all Lagosians. Gbadeyan AbdulraheemDirector, Public AffairsLagos State Taskforce

Dangote Distributes Food to Victims of Fire Disaster

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

Representative of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Bello Dan Musa, supported by the Taraba State officials at the flag-off of the rice distribution exercise donated by the Foundation in Taraba State. Victims of inferno, physically challenge and poor families are some of the beneficiaries of the Aliko Dangote Foundation’s rice distribution exercise in Taraba and Jigawa State. A statement from the company’s spokesman, Anthony Chiejina, said 500 bags of rice and 100 mats were distributed to the victims of fire disaster at Batakashi Community in Garki Local Government Area of Jigawa State. Penultimat week, a late-night fire outbreak had ravaged Batakashi village, destroying more than 45 houses, 35 silos, and scores of livestock, leaving behind widespread devastation and displacement. In his remarks, the acting Executive Secretary, Jigawa Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Muhammad Murtala, said the Aliko Dangote Foundation brought 40,000 bags of 10kg rice for distribution to the poor and vulnerable people in Jigawa State. He thanked the ADF for what he described as a timely intervention. Some of the residents, expressed delight over the gesture, praying God to reward the donor abundantly. One of beneficiaries, Mr Umar Abdullahi, said the Foundation had brought succor to the community which was afflicted by an inferno recently.Another beneficiary, Mr Usman Auwal, expressed delight over the gesture, saying since the occurrence of the tragedy, the community has never been the same. He commended the Aliko Dangote Foundation and Jigawa Government for their support to the community, and prayed for peaceful coexistence between the people. The Chairman of the Garki Local Government Area, Mr Adamu Kore, who flagged off the distribution of the commodity, praised the Foundation for its support. Mr.Kore said that the palliative would ease the hardship of the people of the community who were affected by the fire incident. “We are very delighted over the Aliko Dangote Foundation’s support and Jigawa Government’s assistance, because the donation had brought soccor to hundreds of families, not only in Jigawa but across the country in general,” Kore said. Similarly, the Foundation has donated 20,000 bags of 10kg rice to the Taraba State government for vulnerable persons. The representative of the Foundation, Bello Dan Musa, presented the bags of rice to the 16 Local Government Council chairmen, cabinet members of the Taraba State government. Mr. Dan Musa said the Chairman of the Aliko Dangote Foundation is committed to given back to the society, and especially to the poor and vulnerable persons. The Government was represented by the Chairman Taraba State Palliative Committee, Alhaji Saleh Sa’ad.Over one million familes are expected to benefit from the Aliko Dangote Foundation’s Annual National Food Programme.

I’m Not Joining Atiku’s Coalition – Yobe State Governor

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago12 mins

Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has firmly denied claims that he is joining the opposition coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. This clarification was made in a statement issued on Saturday in Damaturu, the state capital, by Alhaji Mamman Mohammed, Director-General of Press and Media Affairs. According to DAILY POST, a viral text message had alleged that Buni, along with four other APC governors, had finalized plans to defect to the opposition PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections. In response, Mohammed dismissed the report as a baseless fabrication, describing it as a product of unfounded imagination with no connection to reality. He stressed that the author of the viral message had never been close enough to Governor Buni to make any credible prediction about his political intentions. “Buni is not just an ordinary member of the APC; he is a pillar of the party. APC runs in his veins,” Mohammed stated. He further highlighted Buni’s key roles in the party’s development, notably his service as a two-term National Secretary and as the Chairman of the convention committee, emphasizing that any notion of him abandoning the party is purely speculative. Mohammed concluded that the false report likely stemmed from the wishful thinking of those who admire Buni’s political prowess and would prefer to have a leader of his caliber within their ranks.

Bayelsa Government Condemns Shooting at Political Rally Linked to Wike Loyalists

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

The Bayelsa State Government has expressed strong dismay over the shooting incident that occurred during a political rally organized on Saturday by the NEW Associates, a group allegedly loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike. In a statement issued Saturday night by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Obiuwou Koku-Obiyai, the government called on the Inspector-General of Police and the state police authorities to immediately investigate and uncover those responsible for the violence. The government noted that the shooting appeared premeditated, especially as the rally’s organizers had previously warned that “the good, the bad, and the ugly” would attend the event. It questioned why a gathering expected to be peaceful turned violent, leaving several individuals reportedly injured. The statement urged law enforcement agencies to launch a thorough investigation and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice. Highlighting that the rally violated electoral guidelines set by the Electoral Act and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the government also pointed out that the event was held at the camp ground of a religious organization. It warned political groups against dragging religious institutions into partisan politics and desecrating sacred places of worship, stressing that any religious organization found breaching the law would face sanctions. The government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and protecting the lives and property of all residents in Bayelsa State.

EFCC Receives Petition Against Mele Kyari Promises Swift Investigation

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago14 mins

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has received a petition from a coalition of lawyers and civil society groups against the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari. The petition, submitted on Friday, follows recent protests by the “Concerned Citizens Against Corruption” at the Federal Ministry of Justice in Abuja, where demonstrators called for a thorough probe into Kyari’s leadership and NNPCL’s transactions over the past five years. Similarly, on Wednesday, another group of lawyers under the banner of “Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law” marched to the Ministry of Justice to formally petition the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF). Following this, the group also submitted a parallel petition to the EFCC. Receiving the petition on behalf of the EFCC chairman, Ola Olukoyede, the commission’s spokesman, Dele Oyewale, assured the petitioners that the issues raised would be thoroughly investigated.“The issues raised in the petition will be looked into and addressed,” Oyewale stated. The petition accuses Kyari of monumental fraud, tax evasion, economic sabotage, and abuse of office during his tenure from July 2019 to February 2025. Led by Asika Raymond, the Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law alleged that Kyari, in collusion with certain contractors and consultants, inflated the costs of refinery rehabilitation projects, notably the Port Harcourt Refinery, where $1.5 billion was allegedly spent despite an initial $1 billion estimate for the rehabilitation of three refineries. The petition also highlights allegations of crude oil diversion, opaque financial transactions under the guise of “pipeline security” at a suspicious rate of 80,000 barrels per day, and irregularities in the $5 billion AKK Gas Pipeline Project. Further concerns were raised regarding fuel subsidy fraud during the COVID-19 pandemic when NNPCL reportedly increased petroleum imports, contrary to global trends of reduced fuel consumption. The petition questions the transparency of crude-backed loans worth $21.565 billion secured by NNPCL since 2019, alleging that the terms were unfavorable to Nigeria, ceding financial benefits to oil traders. Kyari is also accused of authorizing massive, undocumented spending on oil exploration projects without clear feasibility studies or demonstrated economic returns. The lawyers urged the EFCC to conduct a forensic audit of all payments made to consultants and contractors from 2019 to 2025, recover misappropriated funds, and collaborate with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to investigate suspected cases of tax evasion.

Tompolo Backs Tinubu for Two-Term Presidency Calls for Political Stability

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has voiced strong support for President Bola Tinubu to serve two full constitutional terms, totaling eight years, before Nigeria elects a new leader in 2031. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, the Ibe-Ebidouwei of the Ijaw Nation and Grand Patron of the PBAT Door-2-Door Movement 2027, described Tinubu as a seasoned leader capable of taking Nigeria to greater heights.“Tinubu is a good person. He has the experience to do everything and carry this country to a higher level,” Tompolo said, emphasizing that the president’s four-year mandate, with the possibility of re-election, should be respected. He drew parallels with former President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight-year tenure, urging against any actions that could cause political instability. “We don’t want anybody to cause problems. He should be allowed to complete his two constitutional terms, then we will vote for another person to take over in 2031,” he added. Tompolo also revealed plans to launch a nationwide campaign, including visits to northern states, to rally support for Tinubu’s second-term bid.“We will do our part, even go beyond our boundaries to the northern part of Nigeria to talk to our brothers and compatriots so that he will get a second tenure,” he said. He noted that traditional rulers across the region have already endorsed Tinubu’s re-election, expressing confidence that national support would ensure the president’s continued leadership. Addressing concerns over possible unrest, Tompolo dismissed claims that any group could monopolize violence, calling on all Nigerians to back Tinubu’s administration.“We are appealing to everybody, and by the grace of God, everybody will support us,” he stated. On the Rivers State Political Crisis Commenting on the political tensions in Rivers State, Tompolo expressed optimism about the resolution of the dispute between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.Describing their relationship as that of a “boy and Oga,” he predicted a peaceful resolution, affirming, “The duly elected governor of Rivers State is coming back.” Tompolo disclosed plans to travel to Abuja soon to meet with President Tinubu and Wike to mediate in the ongoing crisis.“Our president is someone who has been protecting democracy for a very long time. There is no way he will truncate it,” he said, highlighting Tinubu’s longstanding commitment to democratic values. Tompolo’s comments come amid rising political activity as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, positioning him as a key advocate for Tinubu’s continued leadership and for fostering stability, particularly in Rivers State.

Killings in North Central: Govt has failed us –MBF

Boko Haram Attack Kills 14 in Borno State Several Others Missing

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago08 mins

At least 14 people have been killed and four others injured following a brutal attack by Boko Haram insurgents on three farming communities in the Gwoza area of Borno State on Saturday. Several residents remain unaccounted for as search efforts continue. According to Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South in the Nigerian Senate, the insurgents stormed the villages of Pulka, Bokko, and Kirawa at a time when displaced persons were beginning to resettle after years in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. “According to the local government chairman, the victims had gone to their farms to cut wood and clear land in preparation for farming when Boko Haram militants attacked and killed 14 people. Their funerals have already been conducted,” Senator Ndume said. He noted that the full extent of the attack is still being assessed, as military personnel were deployed to the area shortly after the incident.“So far, four people who sustained injuries have been taken to the hospital, and we are awaiting more detailed information,” he added. Ndume lamented that the attack occurred just as life was beginning to return to normal in the area, with government efforts aimed at facilitating the safe return of displaced communities. Warning Signs Ignored The senator also recalled that Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, had earlier issued a warning about the growing threat of Boko Haram in three key areas: the Timbuktu region of Lake Chad, the Mandara Mountains, and the Sambisa Forest in Gwoza. “I believe that if urgent action isn’t taken in these areas, Boko Haram will continue to grow stronger, just like what happened in Chad under the late President Idriss Déby,” Ndume warned. He further noted that recent crackdowns on Boko Haram by neighboring countries — Chad, Niger, and Cameroon — have pushed the insurgents to refocus their attacks on Nigerian soil, particularly targeting Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states. Ndume expressed grave concern over the evolving threat, stating that Boko Haram militants are now not only targeting farmers but also driving entire communities from their homes — citing recent cases in Sabongari, Wajir, and Dambuwa. “What I keep stressing is that this crisis can be brought to an end — but only if we take it seriously and act decisively,” he concluded.Boko Haram Attack Kills 14 in Borno State, Several Others Missing At least 14 people have been killed and four others injured following a brutal attack by Boko Haram insurgents on three farming communities in the Gwoza area of Borno State on Saturday. Several residents remain unaccounted for as search efforts continue. According to Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South in the Nigerian Senate, the insurgents stormed the villages of Pulka, Bokko, and Kirawa at a time when displaced persons were beginning to resettle after years in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. “According to the local government chairman, the victims had gone to their farms to cut wood and clear land in preparation for farming when Boko Haram militants attacked and killed 14 people. Their funerals have already been conducted,” Senator Ndume said. He noted that the full extent of the attack is still being assessed, as military personnel were deployed to the area shortly after the incident.“So far, four people who sustained injuries have been taken to the hospital, and we are awaiting more detailed information,” he added. Ndume lamented that the attack occurred just as life was beginning to return to normal in the area, with government efforts aimed at facilitating the safe return of displaced communities. Warning Signs Ignored The senator also recalled that Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, had earlier issued a warning about the growing threat of Boko Haram in three key areas: the Timbuktu region of Lake Chad, the Mandara Mountains, and the Sambisa Forest in Gwoza. “I believe that if urgent action isn’t taken in these areas, Boko Haram will continue to grow stronger, just like what happened in Chad under the late President Idriss Déby,” Ndume warned. He further noted that recent crackdowns on Boko Haram by neighboring countries — Chad, Niger, and Cameroon — have pushed the insurgents to refocus their attacks on Nigerian soil, particularly targeting Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states. Ndume expressed grave concern over the evolving threat, stating that Boko Haram militants are now not only targeting farmers but also driving entire communities from their homes — citing recent cases in Sabongari, Wajir, and Dambuwa. “What I keep stressing is that this crisis can be brought to an end — but only if we take it seriously and act decisively,” he concluded.