The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday urged Nigerians to be patient with the government amid the current economic hardship.
Speaking in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, while leading members of the G-5 and other political associates on a condolence visit to Governor Seyi Makinde,
Wike said President Bola Tinubu’s policies were designed to improve the country’s economic situation.
Makinde’s elder brother, Sunday Makinde, passed away on Friday, January 24, 2025, at the age of 65.
Wike was accompanied by former governors Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia) and Samuel Ortom (Benue), as well as Senators Sandy Onor, Philip Aduda, Olaka Nwogu, Mao Ohuabunwa, and Chibudom Nwuche, among others.
The minister acknowledged the difficulties Nigerians were facing but maintained that the government’s ongoing economic policies would yield positive results in due time.
Wike said:“I have always told people to be patient with this government. This country has faced significant challenges in the past, and it’s essential to recognize the progress we’ve made.
“Nigerians often forget where we were and the efforts being put in place to improve our situation.
“We have to give it time. It’s not like a miracle. The policies Mr. President is implementing will have some effects, and people will feel them, but in the end, we will achieve what we want to achieve.”
He assured Nigerians of better days ahead, saying:“Although we may have to endure some hardships now, we should not panic. Mr. President genuinely cares for our country, and I assure you that better days are ahead.”
While commiserating with the Makinde family, the minister expressed deep condolences and emphasized the importance of unity in times of grief.
“In this moment of profound loss, we are here to offer our love and solidarity.
“We stand by our brother, Makinde, in this trying time. Losing a loved one is never easy, and we want to assure him that he is not alone,” Wike said.
Also on Wednesday, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party and former chairman of the party’s Board of Trustees, Bode George, led a delegation of party leaders, including former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, to commiserate with Makinde.
In his remarks to both Wike’s and George’s entourages, Makinde expressed gratitude for their support, acknowledging their solidarity during his time of grief.
He urged them to reflect on the unexpected passing of his brother, emphasising the importance of prioritising physical wellness, especially for those in public office.
It was gathered that many others are considering the move, particularly those in Lagos, following the recent crash in the prices of refined products by the $20bn Lekki-based Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
Already some dealers that used to have the NNPCL logo on their filling stations located around Wawa on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, as well as at Ibafo, still along the busy road, have dropped the name of the national oil firm.
Independent marketers are seeking to achieve adequate product off-take at a cheaper rate, as the deregulation of the downstream oil sector has led to intense competition.
Many filling stations formerly affiliated with the national oil company are now being renamed and rebranded under the ownership of private oil marketers, particularly in Lagos and surrounding states.
It was also learned that more marketers may relinquish their licences with NNPCL due to the reduced loading costs of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) refined by the Dangote refinery, which is currently lower than the landing cost of imported petrol.
The PUNCH reports that a petrol price war was reignited in the sector recently after the Dangote Petroleum Refinery slashed its loading costs to N890 from N950 per litre.
Dealers explained that the rebranding of filling stations is a tactic by the marketers to pick up cheaper products from the Dangote refinery, and other import sources at a cheaper rate.
This assertion was confirmed by the National Publicity Secretary of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Chinedu Ukadike, during an exclusive interview on Tuesday.
A franchise licence in the oil sector refers to an official authorisation granted to an individual or company to operate a business or distribute products under an established brand or system within the oil industry.
This typically involves a contractual agreement that allows the franchisee to utilise the franchisor’s brand, resources, and operational model in exchange for fees or a percentage of revenue.
Ukadike explained that marketers have adopted this new approach because the NNPCL is no longer the exclusive importer and distributor of refined petroleum products.
He said, “Yes, that observation is correct. Some marketers are changing and rebranding. Remember that there was a time NNPCL was the sole distributor and importer of petrol. So, marketers then gave their filling stations as franchises so that they could get products.
“So marketers normally give their companies to NNPCL to be able to have petroleum products. But now that the game has changed, you can even see some marketers now changing to MRS filling stations. Because MRS is now selling cheaper than any other station.
“People want where they want to get turnover and return on investment. If you are carrying Total on as a brand name and Total is not giving you petrol products, what is the sense of carrying the name? You have to remove it and get a better alternative. Most of those filling stations (that are changing name), NNPC don’t own them. NNPC only collected them on the franchise.”
Attempts to contact the NNPCL spokesperson, Femi Soneye, for an explanation of why marketers are switching from the company’s brand, proved unsuccessful, as he did not reply to messages sent to his phone.
An oil and gas expert, Olatide Jeremiah, who confirmed the arrangement said marketers used the franchise licence as a method to secure cheaper products from NNPCL which was still importing at the time.
He confirmed that the avenue that provided more revenue was disrupted by the emergence of the Dangote refinery and the inability of the national oil firm to secure an agreement to fix petrol prices with the Lekki-based plant.
Jeremiah, who is the Chief Executive Officer of petroleumprice.ng noted, “Yes, it’s true. It all happened after the subsidy was removed but before the emergence of the Dangote refinery.”
He further narrated, “After the removal and petrol price went up, NNPCL was asked to manage the price and should not be allowed to keep skyrocketing. So NNPCL and the majors were pegging the price at N500 but the landing cost was above the amount. This affected importers and independent marketers who imported fuel. For instance, Petrocam imported and claimed that its landing cost was N700 but the majors and NNPCL were selling at N500 per litre. That is a difference of N200 and was a huge loss.
“So actually NNPCL was subsidising internally and when independent marketers noticed this and were losing sales, they began applying for NNPCL franchise lincence. The marketers paid millions to get the franchise licence because they were loading from NNPCL depot at a cheaper rate.
“NNPCL was the one dictating price for all the majors at that time because of public outcry and they used to buy, till Dangote came in. They also wanted to do the same thing with Dangote to fix the price but the arrangement didn’t work because Dangote wanted to sell to everyone. Its price was better and independent marketers could buy directly.
“The franchise licence was also an avenue to make more profit because some marketers got licence for one of their stations but would transport products to other stations and sell at a higher price to Nigerians. The slot of getting fuel tankers at that time was twice in a month.”
The Chairman of PETROAN in Lagos State, Akinola Ogunyolemi, said most of the outlets are not originally owned by the NNPC.
He said the removal of the NNPCL symbol might mean the end of an agreement or a breach of it by either party.
“These are individual outlets. What they do is that, if an NNPCL contract expires and they are not ready to move forward with them or if they get a juicy offer, they will remove the NNPCL logo. They will rebrand again and put other people’s names. That could be the reason.
“Most of the outlets are not NNPCL-owned. You can have your filling station built and put NNPCL there, with your contract to them. Maybe they could not meet up with your agreement with them, (because they too also have some breach of contract sometimes), you might decide to go and give the station to Mobil or Total. It is yours,” Ogunyolemi said.
Experts also noted that more licenses may still be revoked because the price of imported petrol now costs more than products obtained from the Dangote refinery.
According to the latest data released by the Major Energies Marketers Association, the on-spot cost of landing PMS has reached N910.14 per litre at the ASPM and N910.52 at the NPSC depot.
The document also stated the 30-day average cost of petrol surged to N939.03 per litre.
Meanwhile, fresh details emerged regarding the behind-the-scenes developments that contributed to the reduction in the ex-gantry loading cost of Premium Motor Spirit, commonly known as petrol, sourced from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and a possible reduced retail cost for Nigerians.
The refinery in a statement signed by Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina, said the strategic adjustment is a direct response to the positive outlook within the global energy and gas markets, as well as the recent reduction in international crude oil prices.
“Dangote Petroleum Refinery has reduced the ex-depot (gantry) price of Premium Motor Spirit, commonly known as petrol, from N950 to N890, effective from Saturday, 1st February 2025.
“This strategic adjustment is a direct response to the positive outlook within the global energy and gas markets, as well as the recent reduction in international crude oil prices,” the statement read.
It noted that the price revision reflects the ongoing fluctuations in global crude oil markets, as highlighted in the refinery’s statement on 19th January, when a modest increase was implemented due to the previously rising international crude oil prices.
Brent crude, the international benchmark, was traded at $76.76 per barrel on Tuesday, marking a reduction of $4 from $81 per barrel recorded in early January.
While this assertion is totally accurate, marketers in the downstream sector informed our correspondent that a pricing competition between Dangote, the NNPCL and some marketers contributed to the decision to reduce its petrol costs.
This fresh pricing war started about a week ago after the NNPCL and some major marketers secured an alternative source to import refined products at a cheaper landing cost compared to Dangote’s price.
Recall that The PUNCH reported last Friday that the national oil firm and other marketers in the downstream oil sector imported more than 633 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) and Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) in January 2025 despite the production of these commodities domestically.
A marketer said, “We had noticed for some weeks that Dangote and private depot prices were at the same level unlike before when there was a N20 difference. So we found out that some people are sourcing cheaper products outside the country and that’s why they are going head-on with Dangote. Those depots didn’t want to get out of business and that was why they had to do it to be more competitive.”
Another source who confirmed the development said the concerns expressed by bulk buyers operating at a loss of N31.02 per litre or a total loss of N310,159,109.59 made Dangote senior executives hold a meeting.
The source noted, however, that despite the reduction in output, the refinery continues to maintain a steady profit, demonstrating its ability to adapt and remain financially successful.
He said, “The price reduction from Dangote was somehow inevitable because there were serious complaints and concerns from their buyers. This made Dangote senior executives to meet on Friday between 4 and 5 pm to discuss. What has happened is basically the effect of deregulation in the downstream sector and Nigerians should expect more pricing war between competitors in the sector.”
The Federal Government has approved N452bn for the construction and rehabilitation of 14 major roads across the country, as part of the Renewed Hope Administration’s comprehensive infrastructure initiative.
The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, made the announcement following the 23rd Federal Executive Council meeting at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, on Tuesday.
Umahi explained that these projects span several states, and the funding will be used to expedite their completion and improve nationwide connectivity.
Among the approved projects is the N22bn Agaie-Katcha-Baro Road in Niger State, which will be handled by Messrs GR Building Construction Limited.
Cross River State’s Odukpani Junction and the central section of the Calabar–Ikom–Ogoja Road will undergo rehabilitation with an N26.335bn contract awarded to Samatech.
Other projects include the N10.89bn Ajaokuta-Ajibo/Iyana-Mosa Road in Ogun State, the N9.33bn Inoma-Iyaka-Abaji section of the Ibaji-Odulu-Ajibu Road in Anambra, and the N14.37bn Umuahia Ituano-Ikot Ekpene Road, awarded to Messers Heartland Reckon Construction Company.
Additional road projects include the N33.42bn Kaduna-Jos Road (Phase 1), N11.81bn Yola-Fufure Road, and N13bn Ijebu-Ibutita-Ebe Road in Ogun State, among others.
Umahi also noted that N30bn would be allocated to the Lagos–Ibadan Road project to finalize the Lagos-bound stretch.
Furthermore, the government approved an N7bn rescoping plan for the AK Bypass, to be handled by Ghitto Construction Limited.
The FEC also approved several water infrastructure projects aimed at bolstering water supply in Abuja and its surrounding areas.
Umahi emphasised that these projects reflect the government’s commitment to improving the nation’s infrastructure and connectivity.
He further clarified that the Lagos-Ibadan Road requires an additional N30bn to complete its Lagos-bound section, and he promised that all outstanding road projects would be closely monitored to ensure timely completion.
Elon Musk’s Starlink has already transformed global internet access, but now it’s taking connectivity a step further. The latest innovation—Direct-to-Cell—enables standard iPhones and Android phones to make calls from anywhere on Earth, without requiring additional hardware.
This development could change the way we think about mobile networks. Picture yourself deep in a remote jungle, out at sea, or hiking in a desert—all places where cell towers are nonexistent. Thanks to Starlink’s expanding satellite infrastructure, soon you won’t have to worry about losing signal ever again.
No New Devices Needed—Just Your Smartphone
Unlike traditional satellite phones, which require bulky equipment and specialized SIM cards, Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell service works with any LTE-enabled smartphone. This means that if your phone can connect to a 4G network, it will be able to tap into Starlink’s satellites for calls, text messages, and eventually, even data services.
A report to the FCC confirms that Starlink has already tested its service on leading smartphone brands, including Apple, Samsung, and Google. The results? Crystal-clear calls from urban centers to isolated regions, proving that satellite connectivity can seamlessly integrate with existing mobile networks.
A Lifeline for Emergencies and Everyday Use
While this advancement is great news for travelers and adventurers, it’s also a potential game-changer for emergency responders and people in rural areas with unreliable service. Current satellite phone systems often come with severe limitations—restricting users to pre-set messaging formats or requiring expensive, dedicated hardware.
With Starlink’s system, users can send fully customizable messages using their preferred apps. This flexibility could make all the difference in an emergency, allowing for clearer communication than ever before.
What’s Next for Starlink’s Satellite Calling Service ?
Starlink plans to roll out its Direct-to-Cell service as part of a commercial package, though pricing details are still under wraps. But Musk’s ambitions go far beyond simple voice calls. According to the FCC filing, Starlink is already exploring satellite-powered web browsing, IoT integration, and enhanced voice communication.
The broader impact? This technology could bridge the connectivity gap in underserved regions, giving people in rural communities the same access to reliable, high-quality mobile service as those in major cities.
A Future Without Dead Zones?
For those accustomed to flawless fiber-optic internet, Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell service may not seem like a huge leap. But for the billions of people still struggling with patchy coverage, this innovation could be life-changing.
Elon Musk’s vision of a fully connected world is inching closer to reality. Whether you’re working remotely from the mountains, sailing across the Pacific, or simply living in a rural area with poor reception, Starlink’s satellite connectivity could redefine mobile communication as we know it.
Defaulting Officers Risk SanctionsThe Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has raised serious concerns about the unwarranted and unethical practice of transfering ongoing cases and misusing of public office by certain officers and individuals. He stressed that these practices which undermine investigations and diminish public confidence in the Force, will no longer be tolerated.
The IGP has emphasized that transparency, professionalism, and accountability must remain the guiding principles of policing. In line with this, he has directed all supervising officers and personnel, particularly those in investigative units, to handle cases with diligence and integrity. He further warned that any officer found engaging in indiscriminate transfers of case files or misusing their office will face strict disciplinary actions. The recurring practice of transferring cases still under investigation between formations without authorization has been deemed unacceptable. Such actions create unnecessary delays, impose undue burdens on parties involved, and waste resources. The IGP has categorically stated that cases should be investigated within the jurisdiction where alleged offenses occurred unless expressly approved by his office. Equally concerning is the misuse of police authority in civil disputes, particularly in matters of land ownership.
The IGP has reminded officers that the police have no jurisdiction over purely civil matters unless there is an underlying criminal element, and even in such cases, investigations must be overseen by the State Commissioners of Police, who will be held accountable for the process and outcome. The filing of frivolous or malicious petitions aimed at harassment or intimidation is another issue the IGP has vowed to address. Moving forward, all petitions submitted to the police must now include a declaration confirming their authenticity and genuineness, and stating that the complaint has not been submitted to any other law enforcement agency or, if it has, that it has been withdrawn before involving the police. Petitioners found to have filed frivolous petitions will be made to face the appropriate sanctions for giving false information to the Police.
Force spokesman, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi disclosed that the IGP has urged members of the public to submit complaints and petitions directly to the appropriate Police Commands, Divisions, or Units rather than to the IGP’s office, except in cases requiring review, appeal, or special intervention. He also stressed the importance of avoiding framing civil disputes as criminal matters to manipulate police intervention. As part of his commitment to professionalism, the IGP reassures Nigerians of the Force’s dedication to upholding transparency and accountability. He calls on citizens to trust the police to deliver justice and to report any unethical practices through appropriate channels. Any officer or individual found misusing the name or authority of the IGP will face severe consequences, including prosecution where necessary.
The Police Service Commission has been inaudated with calls, messages and reports on the status of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, in the aftermath of the Commission’s decision, directing all serving Police Officers who have served for 35 years or attained the age of 60 years to proceed on immediate retirement in line with the nation’s existing laws.According a statement signed by the Commission’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, it stated that it does not have the Constitutional powers to determine the appointment or exit of the Inspector-General of Police.
It says that the Police Service Commission is one of the Federal Executive Bodies established under Section 153(m) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended. By virtue of Paragraph 30, part 1 of the third schedule to the Constitution and clause 6 (1) of the Police Service Commission (Establisment) Act, 2001, the Commission is charged with the responsibilities of appointment, promotion, dismissal and exercising disciplinary control over persons holding offices in the Nigeria Police Force (except the Inspector General of Police).
The law is clear on the mandate of the Commission and it does not extend to the Inspector General of Police who is an appointee of Mr. President with the advice of the Police Council. The Commission at its 1st Extraordinary Meeting of the 6th Management Board on Friday 31st January 2025, only considered and took decision on the regularisation of date of First appointment of CADET ASPs/Inspector Force Entrants.
This has nothing to do with the Inspector General of Police or his office. The Commission at the Meeting passionately revisited its decision of 27th and 28th of September, 2017 and came to the conclusion that the early decision that Force Entrants should have their Cadet date of appointment in the Force against the date of enlistment, in its intent and purpose contradicted the principles of merger of service in the Public Service “and it is in violation of Public Service Rule No. 020908 (i & ii) which provides for retirement on attainment of 35 years in service or 60 years of birth” It therefore set aside the earlier decision. The Commission wishes to state that it is comfortable with the size of the powers which the Constitution has bestowed on it and is not interested in shopping for more powers that obviously are not backed by law.
It notes that it has maintained a close and complementary working relationship with the Inspector General of Police in the overall interest of the Nigeria Police Force.The Commission will continue to support the Police Force to achieve its Constitutional mandate of providing security and maintaining law and order across the nation.
The Federal Government has indicated that electricity tariffs will be increased in the coming months as part of efforts to attract private investment into the power sector.The government, however, said that the planned increase needed to be balanced by subsidies for less-affluent electricity users.Bloomberg quoted the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Energy, Olu Verheijen, as giving this hint at the Africa Heads of State Energy Summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where Nigeria presented a $32 billion plan to expand electricity connections by 2030.
Verheijen emphasized the need for a “cost-efficient but cost-reflective tariff” model that ensures the sector generates sufficient revenue while safeguarding low-income consumers.“One of the key challenges we’re looking to resolve over the next few months is transitioning to a cost-efficient but cost-reflective tariff,” she said. “So the sector generates revenue required to attract private capital, while also protecting the poor and vulnerable.”The move follows last year’s approval of a threefold increase in tariffs for Band A customers. It also comes amid growing pressure from Nigeria’s financially strained electricity distribution companies, which have been pushing for a tariff structure that better reflects the true cost of power supply.
The Nigeria Police Force hereby refutes, in clear and unequivocal terms, the baseless and misleading claims recently attributed to Mr. Omoyele Sowore alleging that the tenure of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, is illegal. Such claims are entirely unfounded and seek to undermine the legitimacy of the IGP’s appointment as well as public confidence in the Nigeria Police.
In statement signed by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Spokesman, it says that IGP Egbetokun’s appointment is firmly grounded in law, specifically PART III, Section 7 (6) of the Police Act, 2020 (as amended). This provision explicitly states that “The person appointed to the office of the Inspector-General of Police shall hold office for four years.” Moreover, his appointment was duly ratified by the Police Council, and he has received the requisite confirmation letter from the Presidency, validating his tenure from October 31, 2023, to October 31, 2027, in line with the provisions of Section 8A of the executive bill passed which amended the Police Act, clearly stating that “Any person appointed to the office of Inspector-General of Police shall remain in office until the end of term stipulated in the letter of appointment in line with the provisions of section 7(6) of this Act. The amendment aims to provide stability and continuity in the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force, enabling the IGP to implement long-term plans and policies without fear of abrupt termination. This change is expected to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the police force in maintaining law and order in the country.
It is crucial for members of the public to be aware that IGP Egbetokun’s status as the 22nd Indigenous Inspector-General of Police is both legally and procedurally sound. The Nigeria Police Force views Mr. Sowore’s unfounded assertions as an attempt to erode public trust and foster confusion regarding the force’s leadership. Dissemination of inaccurate information, particularly about the IGP’s standing, has the potential to compromise the security framework of our nation and impede our collective efforts to ensure peace and order.
The Nigeria Police hereby cautions individuals and groups against perpetuating such unfounded narratives that can mislead the public and jeopardize national security. We urge all citizens to focus on objective discussions that advance our shared mission of safeguarding lives and property, rather than indulging in disinformation that may undermine the significant strides we continue to make in maintaining public safety.
In a resolute and uncompromising enforcement initiative designed to restore traffic discipline and facilitate the unhindered movement of vehicles, operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have apprehended 125 recalcitrant commercial buses and 48 privately owned vehicles for flagrant violations, including unauthorized parking and severe road obstructions. This sweeping crackdown was executed across notorious gridlock-prone corridors such as Idumota, Ijaye Street, Martins, Ereko, Nnamdi Azikiwe by Tom Jones, Ebute-Ero, Oyingbo, Ijora, Adeniji Adele, and Iddo.
This rigorous enforcement underscores LASTMA’s unwavering commitment to eradicating chronic traffic congestion and mitigating reckless road practices, particularly among commercial transport operators and private motorists who flout established regulations. A significant number of the offenders were caught engaging in perilous maneuvers, such as driving against traffic (one-way) and executing hazardous reversals from Iddo to Idumota to pick up passengers—reckless actions that have precipitated multiple road accidents and senseless loss of lives.
Spearheading this decisive operation was the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, acting under the strategic directive of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa. The initiative specifically targeted unauthorized garages that have long served as catalysts for intractable gridlocks, inflicting undue hardship on commuters and residents alike.
Reaffirming that this crackdown represents an ongoing and sustained effort, Mr. Bakare-Oki emphasized its alignment with the overarching vision of the Lagos State Government to optimize the efficiency of the metropolis’ transportation infrastructure.
“The state government remains resolute in its enforcement of traffic regulations and the restoration of order on our roads. The proliferation of illegal garages and indiscriminate obstructions by both commercial and private vehicles continues to be a formidable impediment to our goal of achieving seamless mobility within Lagos,” he asserted.
These stringent enforcement measures serve as an unequivocal warning to all road users that flagrant disregard for traffic laws will no longer be tolerated.
“Our ultimate objective is to cultivate a transportation ecosystem that is safe, orderly, and highly efficient for all road users. This enforcement drive represents a pivotal step toward actualizing that vision,” Mr. Bakare-Oki reiterated.
He further highlighted that notorious congestion hotspots such as Iddo to Idumota, Oyingbo, Ebute-Ero, and the Adeniji Adele roundabout have been perpetually plagued by illegal parking and the proliferation of makeshift garages—an issue that must be decisively addressed.
“The indiscriminate operations of commercial bus drivers not only obstruct vehicular movement but also constitute a grave hazard to pedestrian safety. LASTMA’s intervention is imperative to dismantle these bottlenecks and facilitate seamless traffic circulation in these critical locations,” he added.
In response to this initiative, residents and business owners have expressed strong approval, acknowledging its profound impact on easing daily commutes and revitalizing commercial activities.
LASTMA has assured the public that this operation will be systematically extended to other areas afflicted by unauthorized parking and related infractions.
The General Manager urged all motorists to adhere strictly to traffic regulations and cooperate with authorities to avoid punitive measures. Additionally, he called on the general public to actively contribute to maintaining order by promptly reporting abandoned or broken-down trailers and trucks to LASTMA via the agency’s toll-free hotline: 080000527862
In a resolute and uncompromising enforcement initiative designed to restore traffic discipline and facilitate the unhindered movement of vehicles, operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have apprehended 125 recalcitrant commercial buses and 48 privately owned vehicles for flagrant violations, including unauthorized parking and severe road obstructions. This sweeping crackdown was executed across notorious gridlock-prone corridors such as Idumota, Ijaye Street, Martins, Ereko, Nnamdi Azikiwe by Tom Jones, Ebute-Ero, Oyingbo, Ijora, Adeniji Adele, and Iddo.
This rigorous enforcement underscores LASTMA’s unwavering commitment to eradicating chronic traffic congestion and mitigating reckless road practices, particularly among commercial transport operators and private motorists who flout established regulations. A significant number of the offenders were caught engaging in perilous maneuvers, such as driving against traffic (one-way) and executing hazardous reversals from Iddo to Idumota to pick up passengers—reckless actions that have precipitated multiple road accidents and senseless loss of lives.
Spearheading this decisive operation was the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, acting under the strategic directive of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa. The initiative specifically targeted unauthorized garages that have long served as catalysts for intractable gridlocks, inflicting undue hardship on commuters and residents alike.
Reaffirming that this crackdown represents an ongoing and sustained effort, Mr. Bakare-Oki emphasized its alignment with the overarching vision of the Lagos State Government to optimize the efficiency of the metropolis’ transportation infrastructure.
“The state government remains resolute in its enforcement of traffic regulations and the restoration of order on our roads. The proliferation of illegal garages and indiscriminate obstructions by both commercial and private vehicles continues to be a formidable impediment to our goal of achieving seamless mobility within Lagos,” he asserted.
These stringent enforcement measures serve as an unequivocal warning to all road users that flagrant disregard for traffic laws will no longer be tolerated.
“Our ultimate objective is to cultivate a transportation ecosystem that is safe, orderly, and highly efficient for all road users. This enforcement drive represents a pivotal step toward actualizing that vision,” Mr. Bakare-Oki reiterated.
He further highlighted that notorious congestion hotspots such as Iddo to Idumota, Oyingbo, Ebute-Ero, and the Adeniji Adele roundabout have been perpetually plagued by illegal parking and the proliferation of makeshift garages—an issue that must be decisively addressed.
“The indiscriminate operations of commercial bus drivers not only obstruct vehicular movement but also constitute a grave hazard to pedestrian safety. LASTMA’s intervention is imperative to dismantle these bottlenecks and facilitate seamless traffic circulation in these critical locations,” he added.
In response to this initiative, residents and business owners have expressed strong approval, acknowledging its profound impact on easing daily commutes and revitalizing commercial activities.
LASTMA has assured the public that this operation will be systematically extended to other areas afflicted by unauthorized parking and related infractions.
The General Manager urged all motorists to adhere strictly to traffic regulations and cooperate with authorities to avoid punitive measures. Additionally, he called on the general public to actively contribute to maintaining order by promptly reporting abandoned or broken-down trailers and trucks to LASTMA via the agency’s toll-free hotline: 080000527862LASTMA Clapdown On Traffic Violators, Impounds 125 Commercial Vehicles, 48 Private Cars In a resolute and uncompromising enforcement initiative designed to restore traffic discipline and facilitate the unhindered movement of vehicles, operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have apprehended 125 recalcitrant commercial buses and 48 privately owned vehicles for flagrant violations, including unauthorized parking and severe road obstructions. This sweeping crackdown was executed across notorious gridlock-prone corridors such as Idumota, Ijaye Street, Martins, Ereko, Nnamdi Azikiwe by Tom Jones, Ebute-Ero, Oyingbo, Ijora, Adeniji Adele, and Iddo. This rigorous enforcement underscores LASTMA’s unwavering commitment to eradicating chronic traffic congestion and mitigating reckless road practices, particularly among commercial transport operators and private motorists who flout established regulations. A significant number of the offenders were caught engaging in perilous maneuvers, such as driving against traffic (one-way) and executing hazardous reversals from Iddo to Idumota to pick up passengers—reckless actions that have precipitated multiple road accidents and senseless loss of lives. Spearheading this decisive operation was the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, acting under the strategic directive of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa. The initiative specifically targeted unauthorized garages that have long served as catalysts for intractable gridlocks, inflicting undue hardship on commuters and residents alike. Reaffirming that this crackdown represents an ongoing and sustained effort, Mr. Bakare-Oki emphasized its alignment with the overarching vision of the Lagos State Government to optimize the efficiency of the metropolis’ transportation infrastructure.
“The state government remains resolute in its enforcement of traffic regulations and the restoration of order on our roads. The proliferation of illegal garages and indiscriminate obstructions by both commercial and private vehicles continues to be a formidable impediment to our goal of achieving seamless mobility within Lagos,” he asserted. These stringent enforcement measures serve as an unequivocal warning to all road users that flagrant disregard for traffic laws will no longer be tolerated. “Our ultimate objective is to cultivate a transportation ecosystem that is safe, orderly, and highly efficient for all road users. This enforcement drive represents a pivotal step toward actualizing that vision,” Mr. Bakare-Oki reiterated. He further highlighted that notorious congestion hotspots such as Iddo to Idumota, Oyingbo, Ebute-Ero, and the Adeniji Adele roundabout have been perpetually plagued by illegal parking and the proliferation of makeshift garages—an issue that must be decisively addressed. “The indiscriminate operations of commercial bus drivers not only obstruct vehicular movement but also constitute a grave hazard to pedestrian safety. LASTMA’s intervention is imperative to dismantle these bottlenecks and facilitate seamless traffic circulation in these critical locations,” he added. In response to this initiative, residents and business owners have expressed strong approval, acknowledging its profound impact on easing daily commutes and revitalizing commercial activities. LASTMA has assured the public that this operation will be systematically extended to other areas afflicted by unauthorized parking and related infractions. The General Manager urged all motorists to adhere strictly to traffic regulations and cooperate with authorities to avoid punitive measures. Additionally, he called on the general public to actively contribute to maintaining order by promptly reporting abandoned or broken-down trailers and trucks to LASTMA via the agency’s toll-free hotline: 080000527862
Human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore has been detained indefinitely by the Nigeria Police Force after rejecting the bail conditions set for his release.
Sowore was summoned for questioning over his exposé on alleged police extortion in Lagos but refused the bail terms, which required him to present a level 16 civil servant as a surety and surrender his international passport.
The activist described the conditions as “illegal” and a violation of his fundamental rights. His indefinite detention has sparked public outcry and renewed calls for transparency in police practices.
The activist announced his decision via his X handle, saying, “I refuse to participate in any arrangement that undermines my personal integrity.”
His legal counsel, Femi Falana (SAN), supported his position, citing a Court of Appeal ruling in Dasuki v. Director-General, S.S.S., which declared such bail conditions unconstitutional.
Falana argued that involving public servants in bail arrangements is contrary to civil service rules and undermines anti-corruption efforts.
Sowore is being held at a police facility in Abuja, formerly used by the now-disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
“I’d rather remain in custody until this joke is over,” Sowore declared.
The activist’s confrontation with the authorities comes amidst ongoing campaigns by the Take It Back Movement to end police extortion and unlawful roadblocks across the country.
