Two-Storey Building Collapses In Oyingbo, Lagos, 15 Rescued As Search Continues

A two-storey building in Lagos collapsed in the early hours of Monday, leaving an unknown number of people trapped inside. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, through its Director Margaret Adeseye, confirmed the incident. The building, located at 54 Cole Street near Cemetery Bus Stop in Oyingbo, had reportedly shown signs of structural weakness before it gave way. Adeseye said the Sari-Iganmu Fire Station team responded immediately after receiving a distress call around 12:20 a.m. “It is an ongoing rescue involving a two-storey building that had been previously marked as distressed before collapsing on the occupants,” the agency said. Rescue efforts have so far brought 15 people to safety — seven men, four women, and four children — all with varying degrees of injuries. They were taken to the Federal Medical Centre in Ebute-Metta and General Hospital, Odan, on Lagos Island. Rescue operations are ongoing. Building collapses have become a recurring problem in Lagos, often linked to poor enforcement of regulations, substandard construction materials, and inadequate inspections. Notable recent incidents include a luxury high-rise under construction in Ikoyi that collapsed in November 2021, killing at least 42 people, and a four-storey building in Yaba that fell in September 2025, leaving several people dead and trapped.

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Kano Hisbah Cancels TikTokers’ Wedding After Discovering Marriage Was To Avoid Prosecution

The Kano Hisbah Board has called off the proposed wedding between TikTok influencers Idris Mai Wushirya and Basira Yar Guda. A magistrate court had earlier ordered the board to oversee the marriage within 60 days, warning that failure to comply would amount to contempt. The directive came after the Kano State Censorship Board arrested the pair over videos deemed “immoral and demeaning” that went viral online. The clips, which showed a shirtless Wushirya showing affection toward Yar Guda, were found to violate state laws against sexually suggestive and obscene content. Abba Sufi, Hisbah’s director-general, said the board discovered that Wushirya had agreed to the marriage solely to avoid prosecution, not out of genuine affection. Following this revelation, the wedding was canceled, and the case was referred back to the magistrate for further action. “Mai Wushirya admitted he misled the court, claiming he and Yar Guda were in love to evade legal charges,” Sufi said. “As a result, the wedding has been canceled, and the matter returned to the judge for appropriate measures.” The court’s initial order compelling the TikTokers to marry drew widespread criticism, with many arguing it violated personal freedom. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) condemned the directive as “unconstitutional,” stressing that marriage is a voluntary union that cannot be enforced by the state.

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ASITU Appeals To International Bodies Over Demolition Of Igbo-Owned Properties In Lagos

Igbo Town Unions Appeals To International Bodies Over Demolition Of Igbo-Owned Properties In Lagos

The Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) has taken its dispute over the demolition of Igbo-owned properties in Lagos State to the international arena, petitioning the United Nations Human Rights Council, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the ECOWAS Court of Justice. Speaking in Umuahia, Abia State, ASITU National President Chief Emeka Diwe condemned the repeated targeting of Igbo businesses, calling the actions “economic cleansing.” “Nigeria is slowly being consumed by ethnic discrimination and selective justice,” Diwe said, accusing government institutions of failing to uphold fairness and equality. Flanked by members of ASITU’s national executive council representing Igbo communities nationwide, Diwe explained that the international petition followed multiple unsuccessful attempts to engage Nigerian authorities. “We have not lost faith in our institutions, but repeated disregard for our complaints has forced us to seek intervention from regional and international bodies,” he said. Diwe dismissed Lagos State Government’s claim that the demolished structures were built on waterways, calling it a “misleading excuse” masking deeper biases. “These properties were legally acquired and approved by the relevant authorities. Their destruction sends a troubling message to investors: property rights in Nigeria are insecure, and ethnicity seems to determine how justice is applied,” he said. He warned that demolishing legitimate businesses threatens investment, job creation, economic growth, and Nigeria’s reputation as a country governed by law. ASITU also alleged that most demolition notices were served just days before enforcement, leaving owners little time to seek legal remedies, and that authorities ignored valid building permits submitted by traders. “Many of these buildings had permits issued by the same Lagos State Government that later tore them down. This is not law enforcement—it is a deliberate attack on livelihoods and a violation of constitutional guarantees of equality and justice,” Diwe said. While urging affected individuals to remain calm and law-abiding, ASITU encouraged Igbo business owners to invest in the South-East to foster economic independence. “To our brothers and sisters in business, do not lose hope. Let us embrace the philosophy of Aku Ruo Ulo—let wealth return home. Investing in our homeland creates jobs, security, and dignity for our people,” Diwe advised. He emphasized that the association’s demand is not for secession but for fairness, mutual respect, and equal treatment for all ethnic groups in Nigeria.

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Tompolo Dismisses Alleged 21-Day Ultimatum To Federal Government Over Nnamdi Kanu

Tompolo Dismisses Alleged 21-Day Ultimatum To Federal Government Over Nnamdi Kanu

The Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, Government Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo, has dismissed reports alleging that he gave the Federal Government a 21-day ultimatum to release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. In a statement issued by his media consultant, Paul Bebenimibo, Tompolo described the viral claim as false, mischievous, and an attempt by detractors to tarnish his reputation. “We wish to state clearly that High Chief Government Ekpemupolo did not author or approve the said publication. It is the handiwork of mischief-makers determined to discredit him because of his uncompromising fight against illegal crude oil activities in the Niger Delta. Their efforts will continue to fail, as Tompolo remains committed to ending oil theft and pipeline vandalism,” the statement read. Tompolo reaffirmed his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and expressed full support for the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He also reiterated his endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term, emphasizing his confidence in the government’s developmental drive. The statement urged the Federal Government, the media, and the public to disregard the fabricated report, stressing that it does not represent Tompolo’s position or any official statement from his office.

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Wale Edun Elected Unopposed As Nigerian Boxing Federation President

Wale Edun Elected As New Nigerian Boxing Federation President

Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has been elected unopposed as the new President of the Nigerian Boxing Federation (NBF). The election, which took place on Saturday at the Package B Indoor Sports Hall of the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, saw Edun receive all twelve (12) votes cast by delegates. A respected economist and ardent supporter of sports development, Edun expressed his commitment to implementing reforms that would reposition boxing and restore its lost glory in Nigeria. “The focus will be on building structures that nurture talent, strengthen institutions, and ensure that Nigerian boxing regains its rightful place both nationally and internationally,” he said. The contest for the Vice Presidency was more competitive, with Hon. Omonlei Imadu, representing the South-West zone, defeating his North-Central rival, Mighty Mike, by eight votes to four. Imadu, who has championed numerous grassroots boxing programs across the country, described Edun’s election as a new beginning for the sport. “It’s a new dawn for Nigerian boxing. The Honorable Minister’s passion for the sport has been evident through his years of support for grassroots initiatives. Together, we will work tirelessly to realize his vision for the sport’s revival,” he stated. Imadu also applauded the National Sports Commission, led by Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, for conducting a transparent and credible election process.

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NECO Launches London Exam Centre To Expand Access For Nigerians Abroad

NECO Launches London Exam Centre To Expand Access For Nigerians Abroad

The National Examinations Council (NECO) has officially launched a new examination centre in London, United Kingdom, marking a major step in its global expansion strategy to offer credible assessment opportunities for Nigerians living abroad. The new centre, unveiled during the Education Matters Conference UK 2025, was established in partnership with Barnfield Education Ltd. NECO’s Registrar and Chief Executive, Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, said the initiative was created to assist Nigerian students and adult learners in the UK who, for various reasons, were unable to complete their secondary education or obtain equivalent qualifications. “Our aim is to provide credible and accessible examination opportunities for Nigerians in the diaspora, in line with the Federal Government’s policy on inclusivity and global engagement,” Wushishi stated in a release signed by NECO’s Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Azeez Sani. He described the establishment of the London Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) centre as a significant milestone in NECO’s effort to extend its global reach. Wushishi added that the council now conducts examinations in seven countries, including Saudi Arabia, with new centres awaiting approval in Egypt and Burkina Faso. According to him, the London centre will empower Nigerians abroad, promote national pride, and enhance international recognition of NECO certificates, which are already accepted by several universities across the UK — including Birmingham City University and Leeds Trinity University — as well as institutions in the United States, Canada, India, China, and Russia. In his goodwill message, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, applauded NECO for the move, describing it as a vital step toward ensuring that “no Nigerian child, at home or abroad, is left behind.” He noted that the initiative aligns with the Ministry’s mission to strengthen educational collaboration with the Nigerian diaspora community. The Director of BEP Education and NECO’s UK partner, Dr. John Ibanga, said the new centre would serve as an alternative route for Nigerian students in the UK who face barriers within the British education system, particularly those unable to earn the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE). “Many Nigerian children encounter limitations in the UK education system that hinder their academic progress. This new NECO SSCE centre offers a recognised and credible alternative for both young learners and adults pursuing academic or vocational advancement,” Ibanga explained. During a visit to the Nigerian High Commission in London, Prof. Wushishi briefed the Mission on the establishment and accreditation of the centre, reaffirming that the UK remains a strategic base for expanding educational opportunities for Nigerians abroad. The Head of Political Affairs at the Mission, Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, commended NECO’s move as “a timely and commendable initiative” consistent with Nigeria’s commitment to educational inclusivity and diaspora engagement. “The Mission will continue to work closely with NECO to advance Nigeria’s educational and developmental goals in the United Kingdom,” Abu-Obe assured.

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Fabio Wardley: Give Oleksandr Usyk Directions to Ipswich — Bring His Belts and Let’s Get This On

Fabio Wardley: ‘Give Oleksandr Usyk Directions to Ipswich — Bring His Belts and Let’s Get This On!’ Fabio Wardley has called out undisputed heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk after stunning Joseph Parker with an 11th-round stoppage victory at The O2 Arena in London on Saturday night. The dramatic win — one of the biggest upsets in recent British boxing history — makes the Ipswich-born fighter the mandatory challenger for Usyk’s WBO title, one of four belts currently held by the Ukrainian star. Wardley, who began his career as a white-collar boxer with no amateur background, has defied expectations to rise through the ranks unbeaten. Now, after dethroning Parker, he is set for the biggest opportunity of his life. “I haven’t sat down and dissected him yet, but that’s a job for next year,” Wardley said after the fight. “It’s a wild one when you piece it all together, but I’m the next one up. I’ve got big broad shoulders, so that’s fine by me — I’ll carry the pressure. But I’m something different. We’ve thrown all the usual guys at him, our top dogs. Let me have a crack and see where we end up.” Wardley’s performance against Parker shocked many, as he weathered early pressure before finishing strongly to claim the WBO Interim title and earn a shot at Usyk. The 30-year-old previously sparred with Usyk in Ukraine and now believes the full-circle moment has arrived. “That’s been the goal for years — the dream fight,” Wardley said. “One of the best to ever do it, all the marbles on the line. I’m not planning on going there to say, ‘Thanks for having me.’ When that bell goes, Usyk’s going to have to work for it.” Wardley is hopeful the fight can take place in early 2026, whether in the UK or abroad. But if he has his way, Usyk won’t have to travel far. “Tell Usyk to turn up — give him the directions to Ipswich!” Wardley joked. “I’ll give him my postcode. He can find me in the garden; I don’t care. Just bring the belts and let’s get this on!” The victory cements Wardley’s remarkable rise from the small halls of Suffolk to world title contention. Reflecting on his journey, he credited his setbacks for shaping him into the fighter he is today. “All the bumps in the road built me,” he said. “People said I was just a white-collar guy who wouldn’t make it. But that built resilience. When I’m in that ring, I believe in me. It’s been a wild ride — and it’s nowhere near finished.” With his victory over Parker, Wardley has positioned himself on the doorstep of boxing greatness. The only question now is whether Usyk will defend his belts against the hungry Brit — or vacate the WBO title to avoid him.Fabio Wardley: ‘Give Oleksandr Usyk Directions to Ipswich — Bring His Belts and Let’s Get This On!’ By John Dennen | Sunday, October 26, 2025 | London, UK Fabio Wardley has called out undisputed heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk after stunning Joseph Parker with an 11th-round stoppage victory at The O2 Arena in London on Saturday night. The dramatic win — one of the biggest upsets in recent British boxing history — makes the Ipswich-born fighter the mandatory challenger for Usyk’s WBO title, one of four belts currently held by the Ukrainian star. Wardley, who began his career as a white-collar boxer with no amateur background, has defied expectations to rise through the ranks unbeaten. Now, after dethroning Parker, he is set for the biggest opportunity of his life. “I haven’t sat down and dissected him yet, but that’s a job for next year,” Wardley said after the fight. “It’s a wild one when you piece it all together, but I’m the next one up. I’ve got big broad shoulders, so that’s fine by me — I’ll carry the pressure. But I’m something different. We’ve thrown all the usual guys at him, our top dogs. Let me have a crack and see where we end up.” Wardley’s performance against Parker shocked many, as he weathered early pressure before finishing strongly to claim the WBO Interim title and earn a shot at Usyk. The 30-year-old previously sparred with Usyk in Ukraine and now believes the full-circle moment has arrived. “That’s been the goal for years — the dream fight,” Wardley said. “One of the best to ever do it, all the marbles on the line. I’m not planning on going there to say, ‘Thanks for having me.’ When that bell goes, Usyk’s going to have to work for it.” Wardley is hopeful the fight can take place in early 2026, whether in the UK or abroad. But if he has his way, Usyk won’t have to travel far. “Tell Usyk to turn up — give him the directions to Ipswich!” Wardley joked. “I’ll give him my postcode. He can find me in the garden; I don’t care. Just bring the belts and let’s get this on!” The victory cements Wardley’s remarkable rise from the small halls of Suffolk to world title contention. Reflecting on his journey, he credited his setbacks for shaping him into the fighter he is today. “All the bumps in the road built me,” he said. “People said I was just a white-collar guy who wouldn’t make it. But that built resilience. When I’m in that ring, I believe in me. It’s been a wild ride — and it’s nowhere near finished.” With his victory over Parker, Wardley has positioned himself on the doorstep of boxing greatness. The only question now is whether Usyk will defend his belts against the hungry Brit — or vacate the WBO title to avoid him.Fabio Wardley: ‘Give Oleksandr Usyk Directions to Ipswich — Bring His Belts and Let’s Get This On!’ By John Dennen | Sunday, October 26, 2025 | London, UK Fabio Wardley has called out undisputed heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk after stunning Joseph Parker with an 11th-round…

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Madagascar’s New Regime Revokes Citizenship Of Ousted President Andry Rajoelina

Madagascar’s New Regime Revokes Citizenship Of Ousted President Andry Rajoelina

Madagascar’s new government has revoked the citizenship of former president Andry Rajoelina, a move announced in a decree published Friday, ten days after he was ousted in a military coup. The decree bars Rajoelina from running in future elections. It cites his acquisition of French nationality in 2014, which under Malagasy law automatically nullifies Malagasy citizenship. The order was signed by Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, and images of the decree have circulated widely in local media. Rajoelina, 51, had faced previous controversy over his dual nationality, which came to light ahead of the November 2023 elections. Despite opposition calls to disqualify him, he won the polls that were boycotted by rival parties. Earlier this month, Rajoelina fled Madagascar after Colonel Michael Randrianirina, head of the army’s CAPSAT unit, refused to carry out orders to suppress ongoing youth-led protests. Rajoelina later said he went into hiding for his safety. Colonel Randrianirina was sworn in as transitional president on October 14, promising new elections within two years as the country navigates a renewed political crisis.

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