Fire Erupts At Army Arena Market In Oshodi, Traders Panic

Traders at the bustling Army Arena Market in Oshodi, Lagos, were thrown into chaos on Tuesday evening after a fire erupted, consuming parts of the market. The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed the incident via its official X account, stating, “There’s a fire outbreak inside Arena Shopping Mall along Agege Motor Road, Oshodi. Men of @LagosRescue are on ground to extinguish the inferno.” Emergency teams rushed to the scene to control the blaze and stop it from spreading to other areas of the market. At the time of reporting, the cause of the fire and the full extent of the damage remained unknown.

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Ondo Amotekun Arrests 39 Suspected Bandits Fleeing Northern Airstrikes

The Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun, has arrested 39 individuals suspected of fleeing northern Nigeria following U.S. military airstrikes. Commander Akogun Adetunji Adeleye said the corps has strengthened security measures to prevent the entry of bandits and terrorists into the state. Adeleye made the announcement while parading 61 of the 100 suspects detained at the Amotekun headquarters in Akure, the state capital. He explained that 50 of the suspects were arrested for disturbing public order, six for kidnapping, two for violating anti-open grazing regulations, and three for gender-based offenses, including rape. “We appreciate the support of all security agencies in the state—the police, civil defence, army, DSS, vigilantes—and the public,” Adeleye said. He gave further details, naming 34-year-old Mustafa and 45-year-old Philip, arrested for kidnapping in the Ofosun Odigbo area. In Isua Akoko, 18-year-old Idris, 20-year-old Ibrahim Abdullahi, and 23-year-old Lawal Idris were apprehended. For rape and assaults on Amotekun officers, suspects included 19-year-old Daniel Ojo, 33-year-old Usman, and 41-year-old Bejide in Isinkan. Arrests for armed robbery included 30-year-old Ola Tunbosun, Ibrahim, and Shahidu in Akure North, Oba Akoko, and Oba Ile.

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Tinubu Confirms New Tax Laws Will Take Effect January 1, Urges Public Support

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s determination to implement the newly signed tax laws, rejecting calls to halt the reforms amid public debates over certain provisions. In a statement released on Tuesday, Tinubu confirmed that the rollout will continue as planned, with some provisions effective from June 26, 2025, and others set to take effect on January 1, 2026. He described the reforms as a historic opportunity to build a fairer, more efficient, and sustainable tax system for Nigeria. Tinubu stressed that the changes are not intended to increase the tax burden on citizens, but to reform the system, improve administration, uphold the dignity of taxpayers, and strengthen trust between the government and the people. “The new tax laws are not intended to raise taxes. They are designed to reset the system structurally, promote harmonisation, protect dignity and strengthen the social contract,” he said. While acknowledging ongoing public discussions and concerns about specific sections of the laws, Tinubu stated that no critical issues had been identified that would justify suspending or reversing the reforms. He cautioned against reactionary decisions, noting that public confidence is built through steady and well-considered policies. The President urged all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, noting that the reform programme has moved decisively into the delivery stage. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to due process and respect for laws duly passed and assented to. Tinubu also assured Nigerians that the Presidency will work closely with the National Assembly to promptly address any challenges that may arise during implementation. “I want to assure Nigerians that the Federal Government will always act in the overall public interest to deliver a tax system that promotes prosperity, fairness and shared responsibility,” he said. The statement was issued in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

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Sheikh Ahmad Gumi Urges US To Build Schools For Herders Instead Of Dropping Bombs

Controversial Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has urged the United States government to invest in schools and basic amenities for herders instead of deploying what he described as a “$2 million bomb.” Gumi argued that many herders lack education and enlightenment, saying they “need deliverance from ignorance.” His remarks came after a video circulated showing a Fulani man who had discovered the barrel of a missile allegedly fired by the US military in an open field. According to Gumi, the man appeared unaware of the dangers posed by unexploded ordnance. Posting on Facebook, he wrote: “Most herdsmen need deliverance from ignorance and themselves, not bombardment. He doesn’t even understand the basic creed of Islam and the serious danger of unexploded bombs. That’s why I built a school for them. Instead of dropping a $2m bomb that can build schools and amenities for them.” The comments followed reports that the US military, acting on orders from President Donald Trump, carried out airstrikes in Sokoto State on Christmas Day. The strikes targeted ISIS and Lakurawa terrorist groups but reportedly missed their intended targets. The Nigerian government confirmed the operation, stating it was a coordinated mission approved by President Bola Tinubu.

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Fubara Reassigns Christopher Green As Rivers Attorney General In Cabinet Shake-Up

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reorganised his cabinet, leading to the appointment of a new Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. In the reshuffle, Christopher Green was reassigned from the Ministry of Sports to head the Ministry of Justice. He will serve as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice while temporarily retaining responsibility for the Sports Ministry until a replacement is named. The position became vacant after the exit of former Attorney General Dagogo Iboroma, SAN, whose removal followed a Supreme Court ruling that brought legal closure to the political crisis in the state. The apex court judgment nullified the appointment of commissioners screened and confirmed by the Victor Oko-Jumbo-led three-member House of Assembly, leaving several cabinet positions vacant and disrupting the State Executive Council. The ruling has reportedly worsened tensions between the executive and the House of Assembly, making it difficult for the governor to forward new nominees for legislative screening. To avoid governance gaps, Governor Fubara opted for an internal reshuffle, reassigning existing commissioners to maintain administrative continuity across key ministries. The changes were confirmed in a statement by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Honour Sirawoo, who said the decision was taken in the interest of stability and effective governance while political and legislative issues are being addressed.

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British Deputy Head Of Mission Visits Anthony Joshua After Deadly Lagos–Ibadan Expressway Crash

British Deputy Head of Mission Simon Field has visited world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua in hospital following a deadly road accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. A statement from Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, confirmed that Field met Joshua and held discussions with Governors Abiodun and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as British officials continue monitoring the situation. “The British High Commission was formally notified of the accident. Officials are in contact with the hospital and the Ogun State Government. The Deputy Head of Mission, Mr. Simon Field, visited the hospital and met with Anthony Joshua and the two governors. The families of the deceased have also been contacted through the High Commission,” the statement said. The crash, which occurred around midday on Monday, involved a Toyota Lexus carrying Joshua and three others. Two occupants, Ayodele Kelvin Olu, 36, a Nigerian-British citizen, and Gami Sina, 36, a British citizen, died in the accident. Governors Abiodun and Sanwo-Olu visited the hospital to oversee Joshua’s care, staying for several hours. Abiodun said, “As soon as I was informed, I headed straight to the hospital and was later joined by the Lagos State Governor. We both took charge of the situation, oversaw Anthony Joshua’s care, and remained at the hospital for over seven hours.” Other senior officials, including Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and National Sports Commission Director-General Bukola Olopade, also visited Joshua. The Ogun State Government confirmed that Joshua is stable and receiving appropriate medical attention. President Bola Tinubu was briefed on the incident and spoke with Joshua, his mother, and Governor Abiodun, offering condolences and prayers. Quoting the President, Abiodun said, “This immense tragedy has cast a deep shadow over this season. These are very difficult moments, and we must stand firm, united, and encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny.” Authorities have launched a full investigation into the crash, with the Ogun State Government promising to release findings once the probe is completed. Updates on Joshua’s condition and other developments will be shared as necessary.

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US Immigration Authorities Move To Deport Nigerian Criminal Ibrahim Tunde Ijaoba

US Immigration Authorities are preparing to deport Nigerian national Ibrahim Tunde Ijaoba following his conviction for multiple serious crimes, including armed robbery, drug trafficking, and aggravated assault. ICE described Ijaoba as an undocumented immigrant who became involved in organised criminal activity and was a former member of the Bloods, a notorious street gang recognised for violent crime in the US. “Ibrahim Tunde Ijaoba is a criminal illegal alien from Nigeria and former member of the Bloods — a notoriously violent street gang. He entered illegally and then racked up an extensive rap sheet that includes convictions for aggravated assault on a police officer with a firearm, assault and aggravated assault, armed robbery, obstruction of justice, drug sales, and escaping police custody. He has a final removal order and awaits deportation in ICE custody,” the agency said. ICE confirmed that Ijaoba remains in its custody as deportation proceedings continue, though details about when he entered the US or where his crimes occurred were not disclosed. No timeline for his removal has been provided. Under US immigration law, non-citizens present illegally who commit serious offenses, including aggravated felonies, are subject to deportation once criminal proceedings are complete. Ijaoba’s case falls within this framework. The Bloods gang, originating in Los Angeles, is linked to violent crime and drug trafficking across the country. US authorities often cite gang affiliation when pursuing criminal charges or immigration enforcement actions. The deportation announcement comes amid heightened US immigration enforcement targeting undocumented migrants with criminal records, prioritising public safety in cases involving violent crime. ICE did not state whether Nigerian authorities have been notified of Ijaoba’s pending deportation, a standard step under international protocols. No immediate response was available from Nigeria’s government or its Washington mission. Ijaoba will remain in ICE custody until deportation arrangements are finalised.

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Tyson Fury Breaks Silence on Anthony Joshua’s Car Crash

Anthony Joshua’s long-time rival Tyson Fury has paid tribute to the two men tragically killed in a horror car crash in Nigeria. Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, both integral members of Joshua’s team, lost their lives when the SUV they were travelling in with Joshua smashed into a stationary truck on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Makun yesterday. Local police told Daily Mail Sport that Joshua escaped with only ‘minor’ injuries, but sources close to the fighter fear they could be more severe than publicised. Former heavyweight champion Fury has now taken to social media to pay tribute to Ghami and Ayodele. ‘This is so sad,’ wrote the Gypsy King on Instagram. ‘May God give them a good bed in heaven.’ Fury’s tributes came only minutes after he teased his own return to the ring in 2026 – despite insisting he was retiring from the sport for good last January. The 37-year-old posted a picture of himself alongside his sons Prince and Johnboy with the trio wearing shirts bearing the message: ‘I’m back. Fury. My legacy. Old School.’ A long-awaited bout between Joshua and Fury, the two elite British heavyweights of the past decade, had been mooted for 2026 following the former’s victorious return to the ring over Jake Paul. But those hopes, Daily Mail Sport understand, now hang in the balance after video footage captured at the scene of the crash showed the boxer grimacing in pain as he was helped away from the wreckage. Matchroom Boxing, Joshua’s management team,shared a tribute to Ghami and Ayodele on Monday night. It read: ‘It is with the deepest and most profound sadness that we confirm, following a road traffic accident in Lagos, Nigeria earlier today, the death of Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Lateef’ Ayodele. ‘Both were close friends and integral members of Anthony’s team. ‘We respectfully ask that space and privacy be given to the families at this time while they process this truly shocking and devastating news.’ Earlier on Monday night officials in Nigeria confirmed to the Daily Mail that Joshua was ‘awake and conscious and had spoken with his family’ after the 36-year-old had been pulled from the wreckage of the crash. A spokesperson for the Ogun state government said: ‘Anthony Joshua and another passenger were immediately evacuated to a specialised medical facility in Lagos. ‘Following comprehensive clinical assessments, doctors have confirmed that both patients are stable and do not require any emergency medical intervention at this time. A full medical team has been assembled and will continue to monitor them closely. ‘Anthony Joshua is conscious and has been in communication with his family. ‘The Governments of Ogun and Lagos States are closely monitoring the situation and will ensure that the affected persons receive the best possible medical care. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident have also commenced. ‘We appreciate the concern shown by members of the public and kindly request privacy for Anthony Joshua and his family at this time.’  

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