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LASG REVAMPS LASTMA SPECIAL TRAFFIC MAYOR PROGRAMME, INDUCTS HEAD OF SERVICE AND PERMANENT SECRETARIES

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By Ebinum Samuel

In a landmark move to enhance traffic safety and emergency response mechanisms, the Lagos State Government today unveiled the rebranded Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) Special Traffic Mayor (STM) initiative. The induction ceremony, hosted at the State Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja, formally welcomed the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Shuaheeb Agoro, alongside the Body of Permanent Secretaries, into this visionary programme. The event was chaired by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, in partnership with the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Olawale Musa.The rebranding of the Lastma Special Traffic Mayor (STM) initiative symbolizes the state government’s unwavering commitment to fostering robust partnerships in addressing Lagos’ dynamic traffic challenges.

This initiative is designed to complement the efforts of LASTMA Officers by enhancing traffic management and emergency intervention across the state.Speaking at the occasion, Hon. Sola Giwa highlighted the integral role of public participation in traffic governance. “This rebranding heralds a renewed commitment to empowering citizens and stakeholders to actively contribute to road safety and orderliness. The Special Traffic Mayors will now play a pivotal role in advancing our transportation objectives and fostering a culture of collaboration,” he stated.In his remarks, Mr. Olawale Musa underscored the strategic importance of the initiative in addressing the peculiarities of Lagos’ traffic ecosystem.

He remarked, “The revamped Special Traffic Mayor program aligns seamlessly with our overarching vision of harmonizing public and private sector efforts to mitigate congestion and bolster emergency responsiveness.”Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Olabode Shuaheeb Agoro (Lagos Head of Service) commended the government’s foresight in implementing such a transformative program. “This initiative transcends traffic management; it cultivates a spirit of collective responsibility. I am deeply honored to be part of this groundbreaking endeavor,” he said.The rebranded program is poised to amplify the effectiveness of the Special Traffic Mayors by equipping them with advanced tools, specialized training, and enhanced resources to operate in synergy with LASTMA Officers.

This initiative further cements Lagos State’s status as a trailblazer in innovative traffic management solutions.Distinguished attendees included all Lagos State Permanent Secretaries, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, and the Director of Traffic Advocacy and Special Mayor, Mr. Jimmy Awoyemi. For prompt response to Traffic, Safety and Emergency related issues, pls call Lastma toll – free hotline 080000527862.

Lagos Police Command Bags CRAN Award as Police Command of the Year

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By Ebinum Samuel

The Lagos State Police Command has been crowned Police Command of the Year at the 2024 Annual Lecture and Award Ceremony of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN). The event took place today at the Sheba Events Centre, Ikeja, Lagos.

Under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Olanrewaju Ishola, the command was recognized for its exceptional crime-fighting achievements and innovative policing strategies.Dignitaries at the ceremony included the Minister of Women Affairs, Honorable Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim; the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; the Olowu of Kuta, Oba (Dr) Hameed Adekunle Makama Oyelude; and Lagos Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN.

The Assistant Inspector General of Police, Mr. Adegoke Fayoade, also received accolades for professional policing and integrity at the event.CRAN’s annual awards celebrate excellence in security and law enforcement, and the Lagos Command’s recognition underscores its pivotal role in ensuring safety and justice in Nigeria’s commercial hub.

Police probe death of Edo ex-NLC chair at checkpoint

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The police command in Edo has ordered an investigation into the circumstances that led to the death of a former Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress, Kaduna Eboigbodin at a police checkpoint in Benin City.The command Spokesman, Moses Yamu, said the Commissioner of Police, Umoru Ozigi, gave the order on Wednesday.Sources said the incident occurred when Eboigbodin was driving with his spouse through Upper Sakponba Road on Monday in Benin City.According to a source, the police stopped Eboigbodin and demanded his vehicle particulars, which he provided.

The source said, however, that a discrepancy in the documents sparked a heated argument, as the police were said to have accused him of driving a stolen vehicle.The source said the policemen allegedly ordered him to drive to their station, which Eboigbodin refused, demanding to know his offence.The situation degenerated into arguments and Eboigbodin who had become infuriated, slumped on the spot.

it was gathered that the police officers fled the scene, leaving Eboigbodin’s wife to rush him to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The command spokesman said the Edo State Command of the Nigeria Police received with great concern, news of the death of Eboigbodin, former Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress in Edo.

Yamu quoted Ozigi as saying the police would investigate issues of unprofessional conduct in the incident.

According to Iyamu, the CP wishes to use this medium to commiserate

with the widow, family, friends and associates of the deceased over the loss and pray for the repose of his soul.

“The CP noted the cordial working relationship existing between the Police, Civil Society Organisations, NLC and all critical stakeholders in the state and has, therefore, directed the immediate investigation into the incident.

“The Command remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice prevails in every situation,” Yamu said.

NAN

POLICE ACADEMY ADMISSION SCREENING: PSC CHAIR SAYS ANY CANDIDATE NEGOTIATING TO PAY MONEY FOR CONSIDERATION SHOULD BE DISQUALIFIED, INSISTS IT MUST BE ON MERIT AND RESPECT FOR EQUITY

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By Ebinum Samuel

The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd, mni today, December 4th 2024 led a strong delegation of the Management team of the Commission to the Police Academy Wudil Kano to supervise the commencement of the 2024 Post JAMB admission processes into the higher Institution. The team included DIG Taiwo Lakanu rtd, fdc, Honourable Commissioner in the Commission.The PSC Chairman who also took a studied tour of the facilities in the Academy directed that any candidate for admission into the University caught trying to compromise the process should be disqualified.DIG Argungu warned that any candidate negotiating to pay money for consideration should be weeded out.He said the exercise must be protected to run on merit, fairness and equity. The PSC Chairman who noticed some complaints on the functionality of the computers in some of the centres directed that the systems should be quickly rectified or changed. He commended the Commandant of the Academy, AIG Abubakar Sadiq for his innovative initiatives especially for the current post JAMB screening.

The PSC Chairman said the Commission will ensure the Academy is run on merit and fairness and that accountability and Transparency must be their watchword.DIG Argungu said the PSC team was in the Academy for the common good of the ongoing post JAMB computer based tests. ” We are here as Stakeholders and I have noticed that the exercise is going on smoothly, there is progress in the process and the Commission will sustain it for the good of the Institution”.The Chairman inspected the facilities in the Academy including the Moot Court , the Clinic, Library, Lecture theatre and screening centres.Ikechukwuu Ani, the Commission’s Head, Press and Public Relations, confirmed that the Commandant, AIG Sadiq said the Academy was prepared for the exercise and would ensure there was no hitches.

He told the visiting delegation that the computer test was transparent as the candidates immediately on submission of their answers will receive a computer generated result. He said before leaving the examination hall, the candidates will be able to know their scores.

14, 480 arrested over 2.4million kg illicit drugs seized by NDLEA in 10 months – Marwa. House of Reps Committee assures Agency of more support

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By Ebinum Samuel 

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) has said that 14, 480 suspected drug traffickers were arrested between January and October 2024 in connection with the seizure of 2.4 million kilograms of assorted illicit drugs seized by the anti-narcotics agency at seaports, airports, land borders and communities across the country. Marwa stated on Wednesday 4th December 2024 while briefing members of the House of Representatives Committee on Narcotic Drugs who were on oversight visit to the national headquarters of NDLEA in Abuja.

He said with the record of work done by the agency in the past 10 months, “we can say with certainty that we are on course to beat the performance of the previous three years.” According to him, “between January 1 and October 30, 2024, we recorded 14, 480 arrest of drug offenders, including 15 drug barons. Within the same time, we have been able to secure 2,867 convictions in court. This is far more than what we have achieved in each of the past three years. Our seizures in 10 months amounted to 2.4 million kilograms of illicit drugs, which also surpassed last year’s record. We successfully located and destroyed 547, 378 kilograms of cannabis plantations. Similarly, our drug demand reduction figure is on the positive side. In the past 10 months, the agency counselled and rehabilitated 6, 655 drug users. In the breath, we conducted a total of 3, 064 awareness campaigns and sensitisation lectures in schools, motor parks, worship centres, work places and communities, among others, which reached 1, 327, 181 people.” He cited the largest single heroin seizure of 51.90kg in the history of the agency at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in February; securing life imprisonment sentences for some notorious drug traffickers; arrest of most wanted drug barons in Lagos and the recent passage of the NDLEA Act amendment bill as some of the milestones of the Agency in 2024. While commending the lawmakers for their support in the outgoing year, Marwa urged them to remain steadfast so that the Agency can achieve more. “In the past three years, we have harnessed and maximised the limited resources at our disposal to achieve impressive results.

We can do more, and we are rearing to do more if given adequate resources. So, I will have to implore you not to relent or become weary of your oversight in ensuring that we are 100 percent mobilised in all our operations. We have come a long way, from an agency that was grossly emasculated due to a lack of resources to a government organ that is now up and doing.” “We are only a short distance away from attaining full strength to achieve all our set objectives that will make Nigeria safe from the scourge of illicit drugs. Pushing us to reach that watershed is very much in your power to do. While we thank you immensely for bringing us this far with your support, we look forward to more of that support that will put us on a pedestal where we will be sufficiently funded to work at our optimal best”, the NDLEA boss added. In his remarks, Chairman of the House Committee on Narcotic Drugs, Hon. Abass Adigun commended the leadership and personnel of the Agency for their dedication to duty despite the often-challenging circumstances under which they operate. “As we conduct our oversight responsibilities, I assure you of our committee’s unwavering support in ensuring that the NDLEA remains adequately equipped to fulfil its mission. This includes advocating for improved funding, modern tools, and a conducive working environment for all staff”, the lawmaker assured.

ARGUNGU CALLS FOR ADEQUATE FUNDING FOR POLICE INTELLIGENCE, INVESTIGATIONS AND PROSECUTION ACTIVITIES

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By Ebinum Samuel

Says there must be public accountability and Transparency of the activities of Investigative unitsThe Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd, mni, has called for adequate funding for intelligence, investigations and prosecution activities of the Nigeria Police Force by the Federal Government.DIG Argungu also said the Government must ensure public accountability and Transparency of all the activities of Investigative Units.He spoke at a Panel Conversation on Police Leadership and Police Accountability organised for Civil Society Representatives, Policy Makers, Academia, Leadership of the Nigeria Police Force and International Partners by CLEEN FOUNDATION. The PSC Chairman’s paper was titled “National Summit on Police Accountability: Reviewing External , Internal and Stakeholders Accountability Strategies and Mechanism of the Nigeria Police Force/Service”.

He said the Deputy Inspector General of Police incharge of FCIID should establish an internal public complaints and feedback system, adding that the Investigators must be open and transparent in their dealings and must be accountable to the people at all times.DIG Argungu also noted that there should be ethics for Police detectives, Investigators and that it must be enforced for professionalism. He called for strict measures against Officers of the Nigeria Police Force found in violation of human rights of citizens. The PSC Chairman said individual Police Officers connected to the act of torture which is purely a strict liability offence contrary to Anti-torture Act, 2017 must be dealt with accordingly. The Commission spokesman, Ikechukwuu Ani disclosed that DIG Argungu also called on the Federal and State Governments to review the current passive and obsolete criminal justice system at their various levels adding that it should be done in line with the current globalisation, computerization and Nigerian environment.

He recommended the establishment of the FCT Police as Pilot Scheme to be called Metropolitan Police of FCT, Abuja just like the Namibian Metropolitan Police in Windhoek, the capital of Namibia.According to him , certain ranks of Police Officers such as Constables to Chief Superintendents should be deployed to their locality to operate stressing that members of the community should also be involved in the fight against crime and criminality in order to get to the root of the problem and “find lasting solution”.

AigbojAig-Imoukhuede Highlights Deepening Nigeria,France Business Relations

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Minister of Finance (second right), and others at one of the meetings of the France-Nigeria Business Council in Paris, France…recently.Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, President of the FranceNigeria Business Council (FNBC) and Chairman of Access Holdings PLC, has highlighted the deepening ties between the two nations, emphasising the transformational steps taken under the leadership of President Emmanuel Macron to foster bilateral partnerships.Aig-Imoukhuede spoke at the inauguration of Zenith Bank’s operations in Paris, which he attended as the leader of African banks and Nigerian businesses in France.

Thelaunch, which was also graced by other bank chief executives and captains of industry, represented a pivotal moment in Nigeria-France relations.Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Aig-Imoukhuede commended President Macron’s vision and dedication, which enabled Nigerian banks to establish foothold in France in just six years—a feat that took the UK over five decades. This milestone, he noted, exemplifies France’s commitment to engaging with Nigeria as a strategic economic and cultural partner.Aig-Imoukhuede delivered a memorable statement that resonated with attendees: “Over 13 years ago, Jim Ovia, then CEO and now Chairman of Zenith Bank, set the pace for Access Bank to open in the UK. Today, Access Bank has set the pace for Zenith Bank to open in France.”This symbolic evolution not only underscores the dynamism of Nigerian banks, but also highlights the synergy between Nigerian and French leadership in cultivating mutual opportunities.

The event coincided with broader engagements during President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to France, where business leaders from both nations, including Aliko Dangote and Roosevelt Ogbonna, CEO of Access Bank, convened under the auspices of the FranceNigeria Business Council. French industry heavyweights like Patrick Pouyanné of Total Energies and Bernard Arnault of LVMH joined their Nigerian counterparts in exploring avenues to strengthen economic and cultural exchanges.As the President of the France-Nigeria Business Council, Aig-Imoukhuede reinforced the Council’s role as a catalyst for partnerships that harness the enterprising spirit of Nigeria and the industrial expertise of France.

The Council continues to bridge gaps and foster collaborations in key sectors such as energy, technology, and sustainable development.“France must seize this Nigerian moment,” Aig-Imoukhuede urged, reiterating the unique opportunity for France to engage with Nigeria as it emerges as a global economic powerhouse.The launch of Zenith Bank in Paris and the strengthened relations it symbolises, herald a new chapter in the partnership between France and Nigeria—one that promises shared growth, innovation, and resilience.

Access Holdings PLC

Access Holdings Plc is a leading multinational financial services group that offers commercial banking, lending, payment, insurance, and asset management services.Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, Access Holdings operates through a network of more than 700 branches and service outlets, spanning three continents, 23 countries, and 60+million customers.Access transitioned into a holding company to drive rapid growth and become a fullscale ecosystem player offering interconnected services across customer needs.Established in 2022, Access Holdings Plc consists of the Access Bank Group; Access Pensions; a Payment and Switching Services Company; a Digital Lending Company, and an Insurance Brokerage Company. The banking vertical serves its various markets through four business segments: Retail, Business, Commercial and Corporate, and has enjoyed what is it arguably Africa’s most successful banking growth trajectory in the last eighteen years, becoming one of Africa’s largest retail banks by customer base and SubSaharan Africa’s largest bank by total assets.Access Holdings strives to deliver sustainable economic growth that is profitable, environmentally responsible, and socially relevant, helping customers to access more and achieve their dreams.

Veteran Journalist, Stakeholders, Others Raphsodize AIG Zone 2, Fayoade Over Refusal Of Satanic Offer

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By Ebinum Samuel

The outpouring of encomiums and eulogies by Nigerians on police officers in zone 2, Lagos, led by AIG Adegoke Fayoade, gets its boost this week with more Nigerians commending the police for refusal to accept monetary offer of N174M from a self-confessed internet fraudster .Coming on the heels of eulogies showered on the officers by the chairman of the Police Service Commission, PSC, retired DIG Hashimu Argungu, a veteran Journalist, Alhaji Abubakar Musa, stakeholders in security matters and others have joined well-meaning Nigerians to give praises to AIG Fayoade and his officers. Musa who is also a media consultant to retired IGP (Prince) Aliyu Ibrahim Atta, said he’s not surprised that policemen under Fayoade refused the bribe. According to him, Fayoade has done it in several places he has served. He said, “The good side of AIG Adegoke Fayoade in policing is his integrity in the discharge of his duties Fayoade is a man that does not compromise no matter whose horse is gored, Fayoade has his name and family name to protect . The AIG came out clean as DPO Victoria Island Division of the Nigeria Police Force years back when some unscrupulous police officers were enticed with money.

As DCP in charge of SCID, Yaba, Lagos, where fingers are pointed at some officers as being corrupt, Fayoade came out clean” “As CP in charge of Armament at the Force Headquarters where prospective seekers of firearm licenses tempt the officers with money, Fayoade came out clean. And so also at the Lagos State Police command Headquarters as CP he came out clean and now he cannot be tempted with money at the Zone 2 Zonal Headquarters as AIG” said Musa.A crime analyst, Mr Sunday Igunbor told Newstower.ng that Fayoade is a role model to the average policeman or woman. According to him, Fayoade,right from his days at Ilupeju police station, has for several times demonstrated that he’s a man of honour and probity. Igunbor cited an instance when some junior officers at Ilupeju police station extorted the sum of Ten Thousand Naira ( N10, 000) from an Indian.

The crime analyst confirmed that not only were the bad police men who extorted the Indian punished, but were made to refund the money to the victim Also Commending the AIG, security stakeholders in Ogun state disclosed that they were not surprised when they heard of the news. “This is obvious.This is not strange.We know him.We are very confident in him, AIG Fayoade Adegoke, the game changer. He has always been like that .A very cool headed officer of repute. He did the same thing when he was the CP of lagos You can imagine how he successfully see to the end of persistent kidnapping in lagos state .Do you know how much million of dollars the man would have collected if he had been a corrupt officer? AIG Fayoade Adegoke is an absolute god fearing officer who believes in nothing than the life after death”He does not not believe in material things .He believes everything will end one day for every man.

A god fearing and very professional in the discharge of his duties.From the mouth of all of us in security peace and development, an OLUKOLU , BALOGUN and ONIKOSI initiative, we commend him for his good work. We appreciate him for being god fearing and salute him for being professional. He should Just keep the flag flying . signed byAlh Onikosi Abdul Rasaq Olayiwola , Cordinator of Security Peace and Development”Eulogizing AIG Fayoade, a Staff Nurse, Ms Yetunde Kenshiro said, “the man, Fayoade is changing the narratives of the public perception of the personnel of the police force.

“With officers like Fayoade and his men in zone 2 who refused to take bad money, it’s obvious that the war on corruption is gradually becoming a reality because the police in any nation plays significant role in fighting corruption and other malfeasance”It would be recalled that early last week, elated Chairman of Police Service Commission, PSC, retired DIG Hashimu Argungu swirled his moustache with complacent smiles and disclosed that the refusal of Fayoade-led officers to accept that “handsome” sum of money and the refusal of policemen in Bayelsa state to accept sixteen million Naira bribe is a testimony that the PSC zero tolerance for corruption is working.Also commending the AIG, Mr Kehinde Folarin, a member if the Police Community Relations Committee, PCRC, said the erroneous impression held by the public against the police as an organization, is been proven wrong by the activities and conduct of some police officers. “AIG Adegoke Fayoade is one of the few iconic and quintessential top cop we now have in the force. He’s not pretending to be honest,sincere and fair to all” Folarin said.

LASTMA FEMALE ELITE CORPS COMMENCES YULETIDE TRAFFIC SENSITIZATION CAMPAIGN

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By Ebinum Samuel

The program prioritizes educating road users on the significance of compliance with traffic laws, discouraging reckless driving, and maintaining discipline to avert accidents and alleviate congestion on Lagos roads.At the official launch, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to ensuring smooth vehicular movement across the metropolis.“The Yuletide season is synonymous with festivity, but it also heralds increased road usage.

This campaign aims to reinforce motorists’ obligations to prioritize safety, thereby reducing accidents and traffic disruptions,” he stated.The Female Elite Corps, a highly trained cadre within LASTMA, will execute the campaign through dynamic roadshows, community interactions, and dissemination of educational materials across key traffic hotspots, including Ikeja, Surulere, Epe, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, Agege, Lekki, Egbeda, Obalende, and Apapa. Furthermore, motorists and commuters will receive real-time updates and compliance tips via LASTMA’s digital platforms, ensuring seamless communication throughout the campaign.The initiative underscores pivotal traffic regulations such as: strict observance of traffic signals and road signage, abstinence from driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics, adherence to lane discipline and prohibition of one-way driving and Ensuring vehicles are roadworthy prior to undertaking any journey.

Hon. Giwa encouraged motorists to cooperate fully with LASTMA officials and report traffic violations through the agency’s toll-free helpline, 080000527862.He urged all road users to embrace responsible driving habits, fostering a safer, more harmonious holiday atmosphere for all residents and visitors in Lagos.

HOT GIST ! Lagos Taskforce Sacks Two Officers For Stealing Phones

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The Lagos State Taskforce has dismissed two of its officers, Fatai Yusuf (42) and Hammed Garuba (38), for theft during a recent raid on a hotel in Gowon Estate, Ipaja of the state.

It was gathered that the hotel was suspected to be a hub for drug users and traffickers.According to a statement from the Taskforce’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the officers were caught on CCTV cameras stealing mobile phones from the scene of the operation, compromising the integrity of the raid.However, a thorough investigation by the agency’s Disciplinary Committee led to their termination, and both officers now face legal action for theft.CSP Adetayo Akerele, Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, strongly condemned the officers’ actions, reaffirming the agency’s unwavering commitment to maintaining professionalism, accountability, and integrity in its operations.

The statement read, “The Lagos State Taskforce operates on principles of discipline, equity, and justice. Any action that compromises public trust or the agency’s credibility will be dealt with decisively,” he warned.“The Taskforce’s crackdown on drug hotspots continues, with 43 suspects arrested during a subsequent operation in Gowon Estate.”Akerele noted that Illegal drug hideouts and shanties were demolished as part of efforts to deter criminal activities in the area.Meanwhile, in an earlier operation, 53 drug peddlers and users were apprehended and have since been remanded at Badagry Correctional Centre following their court arraignment.