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Folarin Kehinde

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𝐎𝐬𝐮𝐧 𝐋𝐆 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐬: 𝐀𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐤𝐞 𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐬, 𝐦𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐏𝐂 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐛𝐢𝐝

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has issued a directive urging all residents, including politicians, to stay away from local government secretariats to prevent further bloodshed and protect public assets.

This, he said, is in response to the violent clashes triggered by an alleged illegal takeover attempt by sacked APC chairmen and councillors.

Adeleke disclosed this in a message in he posted on his official X account on Monday evening.

“Following reports of a failed illegal takeover bid of local government councils in Osun by the sacked APC Chairmen and councillors, I hereby direct all Osun residents, including politicians across all political divides, to stay away from the local government secretariats to protect public properties and avoid further bloodshed,” the governor stated.

The directive comes as tensions remain high, with workers under the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees withdrawing their services across the state, effectively leaving the council secretariats under lock and key.

“This has become necessary, especially as the council secretariats are expected to be under lock and key due to the withdrawal of service announced by workers of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) across the state,” he added.

Expressing grief over the casualties resulting from the crisis, the governor extended his condolences to the families of those affected.

“I equally condole families of victims of the APC illegal takeover bid and chaos unleashed across the state by the APC and their hired thugs.

“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lost five members, with several others wounded. Two of those members are from Iragbiji, Boripe local government.

“Another two were killed at Ola Oluwa Local Government. Another one was lost at Ikire. We must stop further bloodshed,” his statement further noted.

According to the governor, in his bid to restore order and ensure safety, the governor directed security agencies to take full control of all local government secretariats.

“I have directed security agencies to take charge of all local government secretariats, and I hereby assure residents of Osun of their safety and protection of lives and properties,” he affirmed.

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Business

BREAKING: Airtel increases data, call rates

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Airtel Nigeria, the country’s second-largest telecom operator, has revised its data pricing structure, implementing a tariff adjustment of up to 50 per cent, according to details published on its website on Monday.

The price revision, which affects various data bundles, aligns with ongoing industry concerns over escalating operational costs.

While the company has yet to issue an official statement, the move underscores the broader push among telecom operators for a tariff review to cushion the impact of inflation and forex volatility.

Beyond data adjustments, the operator with over 56 million subscribers had also increased voice call tariffs over the weekend.

A senior Airtel official, speaking with The PUNCH on Monday, confirmed the development, emphasising that the adjustments were necessitated by rising costs.

“Yes, we have updated data prices today, and they are available on our website. However, the increase is not up to 50 percent,” the official clarified.

In its revised price list, Airtel assured customers of continued affordability, stating, “Whatever your data needs are, we have a plan for you. Our fast, affordable, and reliable internet experience will keep you connected anytime, anywhere. To get started, Dial *312#.”

The revised daily and weekly data plans include N50 for 40MB valid for 1 day, N100 for 100MB valid for 1 day, N200 for 200MB valid for 3 days, N350 for 1GB valid for 1 day, N350 for 350MB valid for 7 days, N500 for 750MB plus 1GB YouTube Night and 200MB YouTube Music/Spotify valid for 7 days, N500 for 1GB plus 1GB YouTube Night and 50MB Socials valid for 7 days, N500 for 2GB valid for 2 days, and N1500 for 5GB valid for 7 days.

Similarly, MTN, Nigeria’s largest telecom provider, has also adjusted its data and call tariffs in line with the NCC’s approval.

The revised pricing, implemented over the past week, has seen customers paying more for calls, SMS, and internet usage.

The latest increases come as telecom operators grapple with inflation, foreign exchange volatility, and the rising cost of network expansion.

While the adjustments aim to support long-term service improvements, subscribers may face increased financial pressure as communication costs rise.

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Niger Republic bars Nigerians with ECOWAS passport

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Republic of Niger has begun enforcing restrictions on Nigerians traveling with the ECOWAS passport, barring entry for those without a valid international passport.

This move follows the country’s recent withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States alongside Mali and Burkina Faso.

Despite maintaining an open border with Nigeria, new immigration measures are being implemented at crossings such as Illela (Nigeria) and Konni (Niger). Cross-border traders and commuters now face difficulties as Nigerien authorities refuse to recognize the ECOWAS passport as a valid means of identification.

Alhaji Mansur Abdullah, a trader who frequently travels between the two countries, confirmed the development.

He said, “I believe there is a move to abolish the ECOWAS passport as a means of traveling here; they have started harassing us if we are entering the country.

“Some of our people are being turned back home. We learnt that there is a new passport being issued now to everyone coming to Niger Republic to replace the old ECOWAS passport.

“Some of our people are getting scared of the aftermath of all these issues, which have started to affect our business and trading activities”

According to a source in Taiwan, a state in Niger Republic, border officials have started turning back individuals relying solely on the ECOWAS passport.

“Some of our people have already been sent home. The authorities insist on their own national passport, making it difficult for traders and travelers,” he explained.

Abubakar Isa, a commercial driver on the Illela-Konni route, alleged that security officials in Niger have begun exploiting the situation to extort travelers.

“They demand between 5,000 to 10,000 CFA before allowing those with an ECOWAS passport to pass. If you can’t produce Niger’s new identification document, they take you to their office and pressure you to pay a bribe..

“Once they stop either the vehicle or motorcycle at their border, they take you to their office and make the demand for the passport, which they know we don’t have, they then collect money as bribe before you can be allow to go, “ he added.

A trader in Illela, Alhaji Nuhu Abubakar, confirmed that Niger’s withdrawal from ECOWAS has had no immediate impact on trade or movement across the border.

He said, “We have continued our normal activities as usual, and there is no sign of an impending closure.

“The border remains open on both the Nigerian and Nigerien sides. We’ve heard rumours that the military junta in Niger is considering restricting motorcycle movement between the two countries, but for now, nothing concrete has been decided.”

Although official communication from the Nigerien government is yet to confirm a complete ban on ECOWAS passports, affected travellers fear that the situation could worsen, disrupting trade and movement across the border.

When contacted on Monday, Head of Communication ECOWAS Commission, Joel Ahofodji., said the regional bloc was unaware of Niger Republic’s policy to bar ECOWAS passport holders.

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Police declare singer Portable wanted

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Ogun State Police Command, on Monday, declared controversial singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as “Portable,” wanted for his involvement in a violent attack on government officials carrying out their lawful duties.

This was contained in a statement by the spokesperson of the state police command, Omolola Odutola, and made available to journalists on Monday.

Odutola said that on February 5, 2025, at about 1000 hrs, three officials from the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Ota Zonal Office; TPL Onabanjo Abidemi, TPL Raymond Lateef and TPL Ridwan Oyero Akinlesi were conducting an enforcement exercise at Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu Ota, when they encountered an elderly man, later identified as Portable’s father, at Odogwu Bar in the area.

She said, “Upon identifying themselves and requesting the approved building plan, the father informed them that his son was unavailable.

“However, moments later, Portable, armed with a firearm and other weapons, and led a gang of nine thugs in a violent attack on the unarmed officials.

“The enforcement officers sustained various bodily injuries but managed to escape and reported the incident to the Ota Area Command, which subsequently escalated the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further action.

“Nine accomplices were arrested, but Portable fled the scene and has since gone into hiding.”

She added, “Multiple formal invitations were sent to him, requesting his presence at the Ogun State Police Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta, which he deliberately ignored without cause or legal representation.

“Following his repeated evasion, the Ogun State Police Command has obtained a valid court order declaring him wanted.

“Members of the public are strongly advised to assist the police by providing any valuable information that can lead to his immediate arrest. Anyone found aiding or harbouring the suspect will face legal consequences.

“For any relevant information, kindly report to the nearest police station or contact the Ogun State Police Command through its official communication channels or police public relations department.”

Two weeks ago, the police had arraigned nine proteges of the famous singer before a Magistrate Court sitting in Isabo, Abeokuta, for allegedly assaulting officers of the Ota Zonal Planning office of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.

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JUST IN: Katsina Governor, Radda Empowers Women With Goats

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Katsina State, Governor Dikko Radda has announced his administration’s launch of a goat-rearing initiative.

The project, which has N5.4 billion set aside for it, aims to support 3,610 women across the state’s 361 wards.

Each beneficiary will receive four goats, comprising one male and three females, to kick-start their goat-rearing business. Additionally, one large-scale farmer from each ward will receive 50 goats.

Governor Radda, a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), announced the initiative during a launch event at Dan-Nakolo in the Daura Local Government Area.

“This moment marks not only a significant milestone in our agricultural journey but also a transformative step toward achieving our ambition of making Katsina State a leading hub for livestock production in the northern region and across our great nation, Nigeria.

“The Goat Rearing Initiative which cost N5.7 billion is designed to empower local farmers, especially women groups, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and community level committees by providing them with the resources, training, and support they need to rear goats successfully.

“We will implement training programs for our people, equipping them with skills necessary to engage in effective breeding practices. This program will cover essential aspects such as animal nutrition, health management, and sustainable farming techniques.

“We’ll not only invest in infrastructure but also provide access to affordable financing to facilitate the growth of goat rearing business.

“I have always believed in our strength lies in our ability to harness the vast agricultural potentials that our state has to offer.

“About 40,000 heads of goats have been earmarked for distribution to successful beneficiaries which were selected purely by the community level committee across the 361 wards of the state.

“We have not allowed any personal interest in the interference in the selection process of these beneficiaries.

“each ward will have 10 women and one large scale farmer. Each beneficiary from the women group will be given four heads of goats, one male and three females, and one large scale farmer will be given 50 heads of goats.

“This year, the government is establishing a goat farm in Rimi local government of the Katsina senatorial zone for the purpose of genetic improvement, high milk and manure. This will also serve as a multiplier for goat production, breeding and animal husbandry as well as a training centre,” he revealed.

“The Goat Farming Initiative program is a beacon of hope for our agricultural sector, and I’m excited to witness the remarkable transformation it will bring. Today, together we can push our state to the forefront in livestock production, improving not only the economic landscape, but also the spatial firebreak of our communities.”

A similar initiative was done by Kano Governor Abba Yusuf, another member of the APC, in January. A statement from the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, had said that the program involves the distribution of livestock to women across the 44 Local Government Areas of the state.

Each beneficiary of the Kano government empowerment received three small goats.

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JUST IN: “Men Mount” – Davido attacks APC, Police CP as violence erupts in Osun

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Afrobeat sensation David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has publicly criticized the Osun State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Abba, amid the ongoing political unrest in the state.

Osun State, currently governed by Davido’s uncle, Governor Ademola Adeleke, has been embroiled in heightened tensions between members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC). The crisis stems from attempts by sacked local government chairmen, who were elected under the APC, to reclaim their positions despite court rulings that removed them from office.

Over the weekend, Governor Adeleke held a press conference urging President Bola Tinubu to intervene and restrain his Minister, Gboyega Oyetola, from allegedly using security forces to reinstate the dismissed chairmen. The governor emphasized that any grievances should be addressed through legal appeals rather than forceful takeovers.

The situation escalated on Monday, February 17, 2025, when gunfire erupted across multiple local government secretariats. The dismissed chairmen and their supporters attempted to forcefully reclaim their offices, facing strong resistance from PDP members.

Amid the unfolding chaos, Davido took to his X (formerly Twitter) handle to call out the Osun State police chief, accusing him of failing to uphold justice and the rule of law.

In a series of strongly worded posts written in a mix of English and Pidgin, the singer lambasted the commissioner, warning him against partiality.

“Mr Commissioner, respect the rule of law!!! You are not madder or crazier than us!! Make we all kuru mad!! MEN MOUNT WALAI TO KRF!!! I will post you every day everywhere, Mr man!!! Try me, fucker,” he wrote.

In another post, he continued, “Mr Umar Abba, Osun State Commissioner, you are a disgrace to your children!!! Game on, FUCKER!!!! All of us go mad together!! Werey!!! Mr Commissioner, we die here.”

Davido’s outburst has further intensified discussions surrounding the political crisis in Osun, drawing widespread reactions from the public and stakeholders. As tensions continue to rise, all eyes remain on the state authorities and federal intervention to restore order.

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BREAKING: Lagos Assembly Plenary Suspended Indefinitely after DSS invasion

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Following today’s invasion of the Lagos State House of Assembly by officers of the Department of State Services, plenary at the Assembly has been suspended indefinitely.

On Monday, February 17, police officers were stationed at the complex’s gate and some officers of the DSS also invaded the Assembly.

This led to a crisis with the DSS personnel clashing with some staff of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Crisis started after the former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa was impeached while on a trip to the United States of America. He was immediately replaced by Mojisola Meranda, his deputy.

Elected as the first female speaker, Meranda has been the Lagos Speaker since January 13, but the situation went awry following the growing rumour that Obasa was to be reinstated as Speaker.

The leadership of the House of Assembly also announced that the incident which occured at the complex and the invasion by security operatives would be investigated and findings from the proces submitted to President Bola Tinubu and the Director General of the DSS

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BREAKING: Lagos Police Commissioner Removed as Speakership Crisis Heightens

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the appointment of Olohundare Moshood Jimoh as the new Commissioner of Police for Lagos State.

This decision, announced on Monday, comes as tension continues to rise in the Lagos State House of Assembly.

CP Jimoh, who was previously the Commissioner of Police at the Ports Authority, Eastern Ports, will replace Ishola Olanrewaju Olawale as Lagos State’s top police officer.

The change in police leadership comes just hours after heavily armed operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Police stormed the Lagos Assembly complex.

Leading reporters reports that security forces sealed off the offices of the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and Clerk of the House.

In response, the Lagos Assembly convened and passed a vote of confidence in Speaker Mojisola Meranda, after which they suspended the plenary indefinitely.

The crisis follows the recent impeachment of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. Obasa, who was outside the country when he was removed from office, has since challenged his impeachment in court, arguing that it was unlawful.

It is believed that the transfer of the Lagos Police Commissioner may be connected to the ongoing crisis, as the state government attempt to restore order.

According to a statement from the PSC, CP Jimoh brings a wealth of experience to his new role. A native of Kwara State, he previously served as the Force Public Relations Officer and later held key positions such as Deputy Commissioner at the Airport Police, Deputy Commissioner of Finance and Administration, and Deputy Commissioner of General Investigation.

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BREAKING: Lagos Assembly Takes Fresh Action on Speaker Meranda, Shuts Down Plenary

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Lagos State House of Assembly has passed a vote of confidence in Speaker Mojisola Meranda.

The development comes amidst speculation about her possible resignation as leader of the House.

The Assembly have also decided to suspend plenary indefinitely.

The decision came after Oladipo Ajomale, a lawmaker representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency 2, moved a motion to reaffirm trust in Meranda’s leadership. Speaking during Monday’s session, Ajomale emphasized that Meranda was elected according to the Nigerian Constitution and other relevant laws.

“We have chosen you as our Speaker because we believe in your leadership. It is important to make it clear that this decision was made by elected members of the House,” Ajomale stated.

He then called on his colleagues to publicly affirm their confidence in Meranda by raising their hands and standing in agreement. In a video which has gone viral, all members supported the motion.

Following this vote of confidence, the Assembly announced an indefinite suspension of plenary.

Earlier in the day, heavily armed operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian police stormed the Assembly complex. The security forces sealed off the offices of the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and the Clerk of the House.

The tension follows the recent impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa, the former Speaker. Obasa, who was out of the country at the time of his removal, has since challenged his impeachment in court, claiming it was unlawful.

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Lagos Assembly: Security operatives locks out Speaker, Meranda

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Operatives of the Department of State Security (DSS) and the police stormed the Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday morning, sealing the offices of Speaker Mojisola Meranda, her deputy, and the clerk of the House.

According to reports, armed security personnel took control of the Assembly complex in Alausa, Ikeja, around 10 a.m., restricting movement and frisking passersby.

Speaker Meranda and her convoy arrived at the premises at approximately 11:15 a.m.

The security operation follows a legal challenge by former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who was impeached on January 13, 2025.

Obasa has filed a lawsuit contesting his removal, arguing that the sitting which led to his impeachment was unconstitutional.

In his suit, Obasa contends that the Assembly convened during recess without proper authorization. He is seeking an expedited hearing to determine the legality of the current leadership and prevent a legislative crisis.

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