Category: News

Minister of Works Dave Umahi has allayed fears raised by motorists and observers about water pooling on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, confirming that the project and other key federal road schemes remain on track for completion by 2031.

Speaking Friday after an inspection of sections one and two alongside lawmakers, Umahi responded to criticism about flooding and depressions on the corridor. He clarified that the water seen along the median results from the design’s future railway provision, not a defect.

“The median area spans about 25 meters—essentially another dual carriageway—and was meant for trains,” he explained. Since railway work has not begun, the contractor has been instructed to install drainage within the median and link it to the existing system.

Umahi acknowledged minor depressions may collect rainwater but said corrective actions are underway. “I take responsibility for those slight depressions, and we are fixing them. There is no need for worry,” he stressed.

He rejected speculation that the coastal road might be abandoned, noting significant progress in just two years: “Section one, 47 kilometers with six lanes, is complete—ahead of its three-year timeline. Section two, 55 kilometers, will be largely finished by November.”

Work is advancing on sections three and four in Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Ogun, and Ondo states. Umahi noted that challenging terrain and environmental rules have required redesigns and route adjustments. “Engineering adapts. In some protected forest areas, international regulations block construction, so we create alternative alignments,” he said.

He praised Hitech Construction for continuing work despite delayed payments, calling it a true partnership. “Few companies show such commitment under these circumstances.”

Umahi also reported progress on the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway and other major roads in Kebbi, Oyo, Gombe, and Akwa Ibom. He reaffirmed that all four legacy projects under President Bola Tinubu will meet their 2031 deadline. “These projects will be completed on time. We have reputable contractors like Hitech, Infouest, and CGC,” he concluded.

The Nigerian Air Force has intensified its campaign against insurgents and bandits in the country’s northwest, conducting precise attacks on their hideouts as part of Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 1. These missions, carried out over two days, demonstrate the military’s commitment to eliminating threats and ensuring peace in the region.

According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF’s public relations chief, the airstrikes on June 18 and 19 targeted a confirmed terrorist stronghold within the joint operations area. Intelligence-led operations in Kidandan also resulted in the neutralization of terrorists who were detected moving in the area.

Following the strikes, reconnaissance missions over Fatika and Sabuwa confirmed that no further terrorist activities were taking place. The air force continues to provide aerial surveillance to support ground troops and ongoing operations across the theater.

Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Chief of the Air Staff, has stressed the importance of combining air power with ground operations. “Decisive air power achieves its greatest impact when fully integrated with surface actions,” he stated. The NAF remains dedicated to using intelligence-driven strategies alongside ground forces to eliminate terrorists, safeguard civilians, and restore lasting security in the northwest.

Babafemi Ojudu, a former aide to the president, has raised alarms about potential voter disenfranchisement during the ongoing gubernatorial election in Ekiti State. He reported encountering significant delays at his polling unit due to faulty equipment from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Taking to X, Ojudu explained that despite being the first person in line at his polling station, his biometric details could not be captured even half an hour after accreditation commenced. He described this situation as completely unacceptable and urged INEC to resolve the issue promptly.

According to Ojudu, if the very first voter requires thirty minutes to be processed, it raises serious concerns about how many hours will be needed to handle the hundreds of other voters who are patiently waiting to exercise their democratic rights. He expressed hope that this malfunction is an isolated case rather than a statewide problem, warning that if not addressed immediately, many citizens could be disenfranchised, casting a dark cloud over an election that should inspire confidence and trust. Ojudu called on INEC to act swiftly to rectify the situation.

Jubril Oladapo Gbadamosi, widely recognized as Officer Woos, has strongly disputed reports suggesting his apprehension for drug-related offenses. The Nigerian online personality, through his legal team Versed Attorneys, dismissed the allegations as baseless and damaging to his career and public image.

In a statement released on Saturday, the content creator described the circulating news as fabricated, asserting that it constitutes defamation and a deliberate effort to tarnish his reputation. The reports, which emerged on Thursday, claimed that the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) had arrested Officer Woos for importing a significant amount of bread and brownies laced with cocaine from Mexico.

His legal representatives demanded an immediate and unconditional retraction from all platforms and individuals responsible for spreading the misinformation. They also insisted on a public apology within 48 hours, posted on the same channels where the false statements were originally published.

Officer Woos, who transitioned from content creation to bread manufacturing in 2025, has yet to receive any official confirmation or denial from NAFDAC or the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) regarding the alleged arrest. Despite the silence from authorities, the comedian is taking a firm stance to protect his integrity.

Architect Audu Sule Katagum, who previously served as the deputy governor of Bauchi State, has passed away at the age of 69. The news of his demise was confirmed by Lukman Abubakar, a media aide to former Governor M. A. Abubakar, in a statement released to the public.

The former deputy governor, also known as the Wazirin Katagum, died in the early hours of Saturday, leaving behind a legacy of service to his community, the state, and the nation. Lukman Abubakar expressed profound sadness over the loss, noting that Katagum dedicated his life to public service.

In the statement, Lukman prayed for the forgiveness of the deceased’s shortcomings and asked Allah to grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. He also extended condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the late politician, urging them to find strength during this difficult time.

Announcements regarding funeral arrangements will be made available in due course. Katagum is survived by his wife, children, and other relatives.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has outlined ambitious plans for the Omi Eko Project, forecasting a dramatic cut in travel durations for daily commuters. He emphasized that this initiative would not only enhance urban mobility but also spur economic growth throughout the state.

During a meeting with a European Investment Bank (EIB) delegation led by Vice President Ambroise Fayolle at Lagos House, Marina, the governor shared his vision. He expressed gratitude for the EIB’s backing, calling the project a game-changer that will elevate living standards and overhaul the state’s transport network.

The Omi Eko Project is a cornerstone of the administration’s THEMES+ agenda, specifically targeting transportation and traffic management. Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos’s role as Nigeria’s commercial hub, attracting investments in tech, finance, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The project aims to weave together road, rail, and water transport into a seamless integrated system.

With about one-third of Lagos covered by water, the governor stressed the strategic importance of maximizing waterways as a viable transit alternative. The Omi Eko initiative, meaning ‘Water of Lagos’, will deliver modern, climate-resilient water transport infrastructure, including upgraded ferry terminals, safer navigation channels, and enhanced commuter services.

Sanwo-Olu revealed that journeys currently lasting up to two hours could be slashed to between 40 and 45 minutes once the project is completed. He praised the EIB, the African Development Bank, and other partners for their support in building a sustainable, efficient transport system. The governor also emphasized the need to diversify transportation options to ease pressure on existing road and rail networks.

He welcomed the EIB’s growing investments in Nigeria’s SME sector, describing small and medium enterprises as vital to economic growth. Referring to the recently concluded Lagos Investment Summit, Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the state’s commitment to turning investment pledges into tangible benefits.

Earlier, EIB Vice President Ambroise Fayolle announced that Nigeria became the bank’s largest African operational market in 2025, with total lending reaching €550 million. This underscores the deepening partnership between Nigeria, the European Union, and the EIB. Fayolle also revealed a €200 million facility with the Development Bank of Nigeria to support digital and green investments by MSMEs, as well as a financing agreement with Wema Bank to improve credit access for underserved businesses while promoting environmentally sustainable practices.

Regarding the Omi Eko Project, Fayolle called it a flagship EU initiative in Lagos, funded by the EIB, the European Union, and the French Development Agency (AFD). The project will finance modern ferry terminals and electric boats to enhance water transport, aiming to reduce congestion, improve environmental sustainability, and provide more efficient commuting options. Fayolle reiterated the bank’s commitment to projects that drive economic growth, environmental resilience, and improved living standards across Nigeria.

To strengthen ties and explore further sustainable development opportunities, the EIB delegation will visit selected projects in Lagos, including those supported through its collaboration with the Bank of Industry.

Isaac Fayose, the sibling of former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose, has leveled serious accusations against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) during the ongoing Ekiti governorship election. In a video posted on his X account on Saturday, he claimed that the electoral body is distributing uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to members of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Fayose alleged that INEC is facilitating a scheme whereby unclaimed PVCs are handed over to APC supporters. He further stated that the APC is paying non-indigenes 20,000 naira each to use these cards to vote in favor of the party. The key contenders in this election are the incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the APC and Oluwole Oluyede representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In the video, Fayose expressed frustration, saying: “No opposition party can win election in Nigeria. Look at what INEC is doing in Ekiti. INEC is handing APC the voters cards that weren’t picked up. APC are now paying non-indigenes N20k to use those voters cards to vote for APC.”

This allegation has sparked concerns about the integrity of the electoral process in Ekiti State, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the matter. The video, which has gone viral, shows Fayose demonstrating what he describes as a widespread manipulation of uncollected PVCs.

Members of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Osun State, alongside leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), have publicly accused the state government of intentionally fomenting tensions over the administration of local government areas. Addressing a press conference in Osogbo on Friday, Barrister Adegoke Ogunsola, speaking on behalf of the party, claimed that the government had misrepresented a recent Federal High Court ruling in a way that could provoke public unrest.

Ogunsola explained that the lawsuit, initiated by reinstated APC chairmen and councillors on September 12, 2025, aimed to clarify the start date of their tenure under Osun State laws. He noted that the court dismissed the case on June 15, 2026. According to him, the dismissal does not equate to an endorsement of the local government elections allegedly held on February 22, 2025, as the state government and its allies have been asserting. He stated, “The dismissal of the suit does not validate the so-called election results. Yet, the state government and its supporters immediately took to the streets, instigating unnecessary crises by claiming that the court ruling legitimizes the sham election.”

The APC leaders also criticized Governor Ademola Adeleke’s call for police protection for individuals he considers elected council officials, describing the move as embarrassing and a threat to public order. Ogunsola revealed that the Federal High Court judgment is under appeal, with a stay of execution application filed on June 16, 2026, and served on all relevant parties, including the police. He emphasized that those seeking to take over the councils were not parties to the suit and that no relief was granted in their favor. He urged the police not to enforce the judgment given the pending appeal.

Ogunsola quoted a portion of the court ruling that stated, “No matter the interruptions or interjections in the tenure of the elected public officer after subscription to the oath of office and oath of allegiance, the expiration date of the said tenure remains the same as per the Constitution or the statute.” He argued that this implies the February 2025 local government elections and subsequent swearing-in were null and void, a matter now before the Court of Appeal. The APC leaders called on residents to remain peaceful while warning that any breakdown of law and order resulting from the government’s actions would be its responsibility.

The Social Democratic Party has refuted rumors that its candidate for the Ekiti State governorship election, Isaac Adebayo Alade, has dropped out of the race. The party clarified that Alade remains firmly on the ballot for the June 20, 2026 poll.

In a statement issued on Friday, SDP National Publicity Secretary Araba Rufus Aiyenigba dismissed the withdrawal claims as fabricated and aimed at misleading voters. He attributed the false report to a faction loyal to the party’s expelled former chairman, Shehu Gabam.

“The National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe, and the National Working Committee assure the public that the SDP is listed on the ballot. Ambassador Isaac Adebayo Alade is the validly nominated candidate recognized by INEC and remains a strong contender,” the party said.

The Independent National Electoral Commission has confirmed that all preparations are complete for Saturday’s election. INEC recently listed Gombe as the rightful national chairman of the SDP on its portal.

Yinka Oyebode, the Special Adviser on Media to Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed confidence that the upcoming governorship election will witness a significant number of voters at the polls. He also anticipates that the electoral process will be remarkably peaceful, setting a new standard for the state.

Speaking to media executives in Ado Ekiti, Oyebode credited the expected peaceful atmosphere to the governor’s inclusive approach, which allowed all political parties to campaign freely across the state. He contrasted this with past elections marred by violence, often stemming from restrictive measures imposed by previous administrations.

“The governor treated every citizen of Ekiti as part of a single family, ensuring equal rights and opportunities regardless of political leanings, religion, or culture,” Oyebode stated. He argued that election-related violence typically arises from opposition frustration in a hostile environment, which this administration has consciously avoided.

Oyebode highlighted the impressive 91% collection rate of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) as evidence of growing civic engagement. He noted that no political party has reported being hindered from campaigning, a stark contrast to previous elections. “All signs point to a smooth, violence-free exercise tomorrow,” he concluded.