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GM LASTMA URGES MOTORISTS TO EXHIBIT ABSOLUTE COMPLIANCE AND UNCOMPROMISING OBSERVANCE OF TRAFFIC REGULATIONS AS THE LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT COMMENCES THE SECOND PHASE OF OGUDU–IFAKO BRIDGE REHABILITATION

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By Ebinum Samuel

 

In steadfast pursuit of its avowed mandate to guarantee the uninterrupted mobility of persons and goods across Lagos amidst the execution of critical infrastructural interventions, the Lagos State Government has announced its full preparedness for the commencement of the second phase of extensive rehabilitation works on the Ogudu–Ifako Bridge in Kosofe Local Government Area, following the successful completion and reopening of the first phase.

 

This second phase, which entails the holistic restoration of the bridge’s expansion joints inbound Lagos Island, is scheduled to extend from Tuesday, 19th August 2025, through Wednesday, 1st October 2025. Conscious of the attendant implications for vehicular circulation, the Government has meticulously designed an execution matrix underpinned by strategically defined traffic diversions, purposefully crafted to mitigate disruption and sustain commuter convenience.

 

The General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, disclosed that motorists commuting along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway/Lagos Toll Gate axis inbound Oshodi and Victoria Island will be subjected to a controlled diversion at the Ogudu–Ifako Bridge. In this regard, vehicular traffic will be streamlined into a single lane approximately 50 metres before the designated work zone, with full access restored 50 metres beyond the construction site.

He elaborated further that motorists destined for Oshodi may advantageously employ the Ojota Slip Road, seamlessly linking to Ikorodu Road inbound Anthony (by Taxi Park).

 

“Motorists bound for Victoria Island may conveniently divert through Ojota Slip Road, merging onto Ikorodu Road inbound Anthony (by Town Planning Way), then connecting to Gbagada and accessing the Third Mainland Bridge inbound Lagos Island. An additional alternative exists via Ikorodu Road inbound Funsho Williams Avenue, affording direct ingress to Eko Bridge en route to Lagos Island.”

 

Moreover, he advised motorists originating from Ikeja and adjoining precincts to traverse through Maryland, connect with Ikorodu Road/Funsho Williams Avenue, and thereafter proceed via Eko Bridge to Outer Marina and adjoining corridors. Alternatively, they may link Ikorodu Road inbound Anthony (by Taxi Park) to Oshodi and pursue their onward destinations.

 

Reasserting the Government’s commitment to ameliorating commuter discomfort, Mr. Bakare-Oki emphasised that LASTMA officers have been strategically deployed across the affected corridors to ensure vehicular fluidity, enforce lane discipline, and guarantee swift operational response to emergencies.

 

He passionately appealed for the unwavering cooperation of road users, stressing that scrupulous adherence to the traffic advisory and unreserved compliance with the directives of LASTMA personnel remain indispensable to the preservation of order during the rehabilitation exercise.

 

“Motorists are profoundly enjoined to exercise patience, prudence, and civic obligation, as the partial closure of the bridge represents a vital component of the State’s overarching traffic management architecture designed to deliver enduring infrastructural dividends for the collective wellbeing of Lagosians.”

 

He disclosed that mini and heavy-duty towing apparatus, together with other requisite road infrastructure, have been strategically stationed along diversion routes and critical intersections within the metropolis to promptly address breakdowns, vehicular mishaps, or other exigencies, while also guiding motorists appropriately.

 

While lauding the commendable cooperation exhibited by motorists and members of the public during the first phase of the rehabilitation works, he urged for continued collaboration and civic discipline throughout the present phase. He further implored the public to promptly report incidents or emergencies before, during and after the period of works via LASTMA’s dedicated hotline: 080000527862.

 

Mr. Bakare-Oki sternly warned that any motorist found contravening traffic laws, indulging in reckless indiscipline, or engaging in the outlawed practice of driving against traffic (‘One-way’) across the State shall be prosecuted expeditiously before the Lagos State Mobile Court.

Min of Agric partners NDLEA on alternatives to illicit drugs, rehabilitation of drug users

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By Ebinum Samuel

 

As Marwa meets Kyari on areas of collaboration to enhance food, national security

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari has assured the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency of the readiness of his ministry to support ongoing drug control efforts by NDLEA especially in the areas of creating alternatives for illicit drug producers and provision of agricultural opportunities for drug users undergoing rehabilitation to prevent them from relapse.

Sen. Kyari gave the assurance in his response to the remarks by the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) who led some members of his management team into a meeting with the minister and top officials of the ministry in Abuja on Thursday 14th August 2025.

Marwa had told the minister that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu has food security and national security as part of its focus adding that “we really cannot tackle national security without adequate attention to drug control because they are interlinked.”

He said the visit was to seek collaboration between NDLEA and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security as part of ongoing efforts to surmount the challenge of drug scourge facing the country. He noted that out of the 14.3 million drug users in Nigeria, 10.6 million of them abuse cannabis alone, making the psychoactive substance the most commonly abused in the country.

“As you know, cannabis is not only smoked, it is also eaten. They make soup with it. They mix it with hot drinks to produce monkey tail. They take it in all kinds of forms. Every week, we make arrests. And still, they keep at it, because there’s so much money in the business. And so, we sat down and reflected and felt that there’s a more permanent solution to this, especially with the growers of cannabis.

“So, we have decided to create another platform called Alternative Development, which seeks to persuade cannabis growers to change from growing cannabis, which is illicit to something legitimate and licit. This will give them at least a legitimate source of income. They will be able to sleep with their two eyes closed. Instead of always in fear of arrest by NDLEA, they will live respectable lives with their families and their communities.

“The Alternative Development project has secured the buy-in of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs and they are willing to encourage us. But for us to tell cannabis growers, please, don’t grow cannabis, grow something else there has to be incentives for them to agree. I’ve actually had a meeting with some cannabis growers and discussed this idea with them. The fact that they agreed to come and meet me without the fear that they are being tricked so that we arrest them, was a positive sign. And we sat and had an engagement and I’ve also sent a delegation to their communities.

“This is where we need the support of the ministry to give them some inputs, seedlings, tractors, water, fertilizers, chemicals, and others. So, we looked at the possibility of getting them to grow food crops including artemisia annua plant that can fetch the country $100 billion annually. They call it sweet wormwood. The derivative is used for the treatment of malaria. We consulted with IITA, they actually confirmed that they have grown samples across the country. They have done some trials. And it seems to have a very positive outlook.

“With a $100 billion possible income to the country, if this is fully tapped, we’ll suggest that this is probably one of the areas of pharmaceutical crops that would be given to these cannabis growers to farm in addition to other licit crops.”

He said the other area of collaboration is the assimilation of persons coming out of NDLEA rehab facilities into agricultural programmes and projects that will give them livelihood and prevent them from relapse. “Now, when our children, come to us for treatment and rehabilitation, because of drugs, we treat them, and they become normal people, responsible, after the treatment. Then you throw them back again into the same environment where they got into drug abuse, they will relapse.

“So, we thought that within the scheme of this esteemed ministry, if you can assist us so that at the end of their rehabilitation they can be assimilated into some of your agricultural programmes with whatever incentives go with them so that they can be gainfully engaged.”

In his response, the minister agreed that there is a direct correlation between drug abuse and other forms of criminality, noting that if nothing is done urgently by all stakeholders the country may be breeding criminals instead of the next generation of leaders.

“So, we should join hands and this is the collaborative effort that President Tinubu has already mandated us to do in terms of not only achieving food security, employment, job creation, but improvement of livelihood, inclusivity of youth and women in agriculture, access to capital and credit, and so on and so forth.

“I would like to express our commitment to this alternative development initiative. Then, on the issue of your rehab centres, we will work with you so that those being treated can get some livelihood support in terms of tools and other things. We’re willing to partner with you on the excellent work that you’re doing”, the minister assured.

The meeting agreed to set up a technical committee that will work on the details of the collaboration.

PSC Acquires Portal For Police Recruitment

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By Ebinum Samuel

 

Following the successful meeting with representatives from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, yesterday in Abuja, the Police Service Commission is set to decentralise Police recruitment and allow recruitment desk officers from the states play key roles during the 2025 recruitment exercise.

The Commission, according to a press statement signed by the spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani, will also ensure that all the stakeholders, the Ministry of Police Affairs, the Nigeria Police Force and the Federal Character Commission will have access to the portal for inclusiveness and transparency. It will also help prevent corruption and nepotism in the system.The Commission wishes to announce that the newly acquired Recruitment portal which will serve for recruitment of both its staff and all categories of Police Officers is now ready and will be deployed during the period of such recruitments.

 

The Commission yesterday held for the first time, a consultative meeting with the primary beneficiaries of its recruitment exercise – officers in incharge of Recuitment from the 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory where far reaching decisions were taken on how best to improve and consolidate efficient, transparent, accountable and equitable recruitment in the country.

 

To give effect to this development, the Commission will dedicate this new Portal to ensure a successful and inclusive recruitment for both the Commission personnel and that of the Nigeria Police.

 

The public is by this statement advised to note that going forward Police recruitments will be done using this Commission’s recruitment portal with state Officers playing significant roles.

 

The portal is expected to be opened immediately the Commission is ready to commence the 2025 recruitment exercise.

 

Commission Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd mni said the Commission is happy to partner with the State Desk Officers who are the immediate beneficiaries of Police recruitment to ensure that the interests of all parties are protected.

 

He noted that the Commission will continue to do its best to give the nation a Police Force it will be proud of.

DSS captures ex-Shekau fighter reportedly behind deadly Kwara, Niger attacks

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Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have apprehended a notorious bandit leader said to be responsible for multiple deadly attacks in Niger and Kwara states.

 

The suspect, Abubakar Abba, also known as Mamuda, was reportedly arrested in Wawa, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State and moved to Abuja for further interrogation.

 

Security analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed on Thursday that Mamuda, a feared gang leader had long terrorised communities in the Kainji axis, where he allegedly orchestrated a string of kidnappings, killings and raids.

 

Investigations revealed that Mamuda previously belonged to the Boko Haram faction led by the late Abubakar Shekau before shifting operations to the North West, and later to Niger and Kwara states, where he entrenched himself in banditry.

According to security sources, his capture followed months of sustained intelligence operations aimed at dismantling high-profile criminal networks across the region.

 

 

Police Recruitment: PSC Move To Stop Corruption, Meets With State Governments

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By Ebinum Samuel

 

The Police Service Commission today, Thursday August 14th 2025 met with representatives of the government of the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory to fine tune preparations for an improved, transparent and credible 2025 Police Recruitment. The Commission, according to the spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani, will be recruiting Cadet ASPs and Constables.

 

The Stakeholders Consultative Meeting with theme “collaborative approach for a transparent and equitable Police Recruitment Process was held at the Parry Osayande Auditorium of the Commission in Abuja.

 

Addressing the Meeting, the Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd mni, informed the state representatives that the Commission will fully work with the State governments to ensure a transparent and equitable recruitment process adding that they should be prepared to protect their quota and avoid hijack of the exercise in their states.

 

DIG Argungu said the Commission has decided to eradicate connivance and resist trading/purchase of slots adding that special consideration will not be allowed to supplant merit and equity. “We want to stop corruption in the system and open up the exercise to promote healthy competition and equitable spread.

He told the Meeting that the Commission will want constructive and impactful partnership with state governments to curb corruption in the process.

 

Justice Paul Adamu Galumje, retired Justice of the Supreme Court and Honourable Commissioner representing the Judiciary told the Meeting that the Commission was established for equity and fairness in Police Recruitment and operations and will henceforth ensure that no body is allowed to hijack the forthcoming recruitment . “We will rely on you to confirm that those to be recruited are from your states”.

 

DIG Taiwo Lakanu rtd, fdc, LLM, Honourable Commissioner representing the Police in the Commission said the new Management is committed to reinvent a recruitment process that will produce the best Nigerian youths for the Nigeria Police of our dream. He gave glowing tributes to Mr. President for his magnanimity in approving the recruitment exercise and noted that this rare opportunity will not be taken for granted.

 

Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission spoke on the Commission’s commitment to establish state offices to effectively carry out its constitutional mandate. He appealed to State Governments for support.

 

The Meeting agreed on need for regular stakeholders consultative meeting as the Representatives of the state governments pledged their cooperation and support.

Photos: Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. MB Marwa (Rtd) CON, OFR decorating promoted senior officers of the Agency with their new rank of Assistant Commander General of Narcotics (ACGN) during a brief ceremony at the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday 13th August 2025.

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Drug war: Why President Tinubu ‘ll continue to strengthen NDLEA – NSA Ribadu, AGF Fagbemi

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By Ebinum Samuel

 

Commend Marwa’s leadership as Agency empowers strategic commands, formations with 48 new vehicles

It’s a milestone made possible by the President’s strategic support, says Marwa

 

The National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has said that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will continue to strengthen the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) because of its strategic value to the success of the country’s national security architecture.

The NSA stated this in his remarks at the commissioning of 46 new vehicles distributed to strategic commands and formations of NDLEA on Wednesday 13th August 2025 at the Agency’s national headquarters in Abuja where he also commended the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) and his team for their sustained commitment, discipline and energy in transforming the NDLEA into a result-oriented force against one of the most destabilising threats to Nigeria’s national well-being: illicit drugs.

In his words, “I commend the Chairman, General Mohamed Buba Marwa, for his discipline, commitment, and transformative leadership. Under his watch, NDLEA has become a result-oriented force addressing the grave threats posed by illicit drugs that undermine our national security, social stability, and public health.

“This event is not just about commissioning vehicles, without the mobility to swiftly reach danger points, intercept traffickers and move resources where they are most needed, our fight is severely constrained. The link between drug trafficking and insecurity is systemic. Criminal gangs thrive on drug profits, Insurgents and armed groups fund their activities with it. Countless young Nigerians fall victim to addiction, with devastating consequences for families and communities.

“This is why the renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu prioritizes drug control as a pillar of our national security strategy. The President’s unwavering support through funding, inter-agency cooperation, and policy alignment has directly enabled today’s milestone.

“These vehicles will be deployed nationwide to amplify NDLEA’s operational presence, strengthen deterrence, and ensure that no trafficker escapes justice. As the lead agency for drug control, arrest, seizure, and investigation and prosecution, NDLEA will continue to receive the full backing of the Office of National Security Adviser, which will also coordinate its efforts with other security and regulatory agencies, including the National Police Force, Nigerian Customs Service, NAFDAC.

He challenged NDLEA officers to view the commissioning as a call to action: to do more, remain vigilant, act within the law and uphold the highest standards of professionalism. ““The NDLEA is not only building lives, but also restoring dignity and shaping national policy. In light of the pandemic, this commissioning is a call to action. Use these resources responsibly, act within the law, and remain vigilant.”

In his welcome address, the Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA said the event is symbolic of the continuous effort to reposition the Agency as a modern, efficient and respected organization as well as a reflection of the sustained commitment of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to equipping institutions that stand on the front line of the country’s national security and public health.

“To that extent, today’s event is a milestone, as NDLEA is now counted among a distinguished group of security and drug law enforcement agencies around the world that are not only visible in their operations but equally respected and making impacts”, Marwa noted.

He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his unwavering and strategic support for the Agency. “The procurement of these vehicles was made possible by the fiscal backing of this administration, which continues to demonstrate strong resolve in addressing the root causes of insecurity and social dislocation. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the President has prioritised national stability, institutional reform and the safety of every Nigerian life. That trust motivates us to deliver even more”, he stated.

While explaining the importance of the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking to national security, Marwa said “We know from both intelligence and experience that drug abuse and trafficking are central to many security challenges in the country. The link is undeniable: kidnapping, armed robbery, insurgency and cult violence are all fuelled by illicit substances. Drug trafficking emboldens perpetrators, strips away moral restraint and replaces hope with recklessness. No serious approach to national security can ignore drug control, and this is why we pursue our mandate with focus, determination and the results are there to show.”

He noted that in just two years of President Tinubu’s administration, the NDLEA has achieved significant results. “We have arrested 40,887 drug offenders, including 45 drug barons leading to the seizure of over 5.5 million kilograms of assorted illicit substances, all recovered from our streets, communities, warehouses, border routes and ports nationwide, with 704.445 hectares of cannabis farms, hidden deep in forests, destroyed. We have equally secured the conviction of 8,682 traffickers and kingpins alike, ensured their assets forfeitures to the Federal Government through the court process, thus sending a clear message that drug crimes attract legal consequences.

“Equally important is the fact that 24,173 drug users have been treated and rehabilitated in our 30 rehab centres located across the country while 8,698 War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitisation activities aimed at preventing people from going into substance abuse were carried out in schools, worship centres, work places, motor parks, and communities among others within the same period. These clearly created a fair balance between our drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts.”

He said the achievements of the past two years reflect both the resilience of the Agency’s personnel and its growing capacity. While noting that the fight against illicit drugs is far from over, the NDLEA boss said the “illicit drug economy continues to evolve, exploiting vulnerable youths, porous borders and sometimes complicit actors. To remain effective, our response must also evolve – with sharper intelligence, stronger community engagement and, critically, improved mobility and logistics.”

In his remarks, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN commended President Tinubu for making the achievements recorded by the leadership of Marwa at the NDLEA in the past two years possible. According to him, “Without an understanding President, it would be very difficult to have this type of gathering today. So, my first appreciation goes to him. There is a very, very close nexus between drug trafficking and all the crimes that we have.

“The Chairman has chronicled some of the effects of these illicit drugs. They embolden criminals. And when the thing wears off, then you discover that they are just ordinary mortals like you and I. And that is why attention ought to be given to this fight against illicit drugs. And when I follow NDLEA activities; the arrests, the fights they put on, you know, I’m always very happy. The credit, of course, goes to the leadership by Gen Marwa.

This is not your first time of doing this. You have done it elsewhere and you are doing it again. I’m always very pleased.

“And you know, of course, my position when it comes to NDLEA, whenever we are asked to showcase our report card, I’m very quick to say put NDLEA first. This is what you have done. So, I’m happy about what you are doing. And the morale of the staff you are boosting is very important. If there is no morale booster, you can’t get anything done.”

Also speaking, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa said “the NDLEA has consistently demonstrated courage, professionalism and resilience in confronting the threats posed by drugs and substance abuse in very challenging circumstances. The procurement of these operational vehicles is therefore a significant boost to the Agency’s operational response capability and overall effectiveness in the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse. It is my firm belief that this investment will translate to greater deterrent to those who seek to profit from this destructive trade.”

In his goodwill message at the occasion, the Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun congratulated President Tinubu for putting the likes of Marwa in positions of leadership in various agencies. He said the event is a testament to Marwa’s leadership style and belief in Nigeria.

“Today marks a remarkable event in our lives. BPP is a worthy partner of NDLEA. The vehicles you see today were thoroughly done through due process. In fact, I am going to say NDLEA, for me, is an example for other agencies of government. So, I congratulate the entire management of NDLEA for leading the way. We can testify to you that these vehicles have gone through standardizations and they are meant for fit, for purpose.

A total of 38 SUVs were distributed to Zonal Commands, Strategic Commands and State Commands across the country while 10 sedan cars were given to 10 directorates.

No fewer than 15 newly promoted Commanders of Narcotics (CN) were decorated with their new rank of Assistant Commander General of Narcotics (ACGN) by the NDLEA boss at the end of the ceremony.

Ondo Police Arraign Cross-Dresser, Two Others Over Alleged Homosexual Acts

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The Ondo State Police Command on Thursday arraigned a 23-year-old cross-dresser and content creator, Taiwo Austine, before an Akure Chief Magistrate’s Court over alleged involvement in homosexual activities.

 

Austine appeared in court alongside two other defendants — Haris Abubakar, 25, and Matthew Ogwu, 32 — on a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy and homosexuality.

 

Prosecutor, Inspector Abayomi Jejeniwa, told the court that the defendants, along with others still at large, were arrested in Akure last month following investigations that allegedly linked them to homosexual acts. He further alleged that between April 15 and 17, 2025, the accused engaged in conduct described as “unnatural for human beings.”

 

According to the charge sheet, the trio conspired to commit a felony — homosexuality — contrary to Sections 516, 214, and 215 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State, 2006. Ogwu was also accused of attempting to engage in such an act.

 

The defendants pleaded not guilty.

 

Following the plea, the prosecutor requested a trial date to enable him to present two witnesses and prepare his case. Defence counsel, A.W. Lawoye, applied for bail on liberal terms, arguing that the allegations had yet to be proven.

 

Magistrate B.A. Alphonso adjourned the case to August 11 for bail consideration and ordered that the defendants remain in police custody until then.

Marwa calls for collective action against drug abuse, cultism, banditry

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  By Ebinum Samuel   Rallies parents, traditional, religious and community leaders to support government efforts    Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) has called for collective action involving families, religious and community leaders to stem the tide of substance abuse, cultism and banditry among Nigerian youths. Marwa who made the call while delivering the keynote address at a seminar organized by the Ijebu Ode Council of Olorituns in Ijebu Ode, Ogun state on Saturday 9th August 2025 themed “Dangers of drug abuse, cultism and banditry among youths”, noted that collective responsibility must be embraced by all stakeholders to curb the menace of the inter-linked social vices of illicit drugs, cultism and banditry. He said the triple threat of cult-related violence, rampant abuse of drugs and illicit substances, and the challenge of banditry across various regions, is a reality that must be dealt with decisively. “While these issues may appear distinct, they are intricately connected, feeding one another in a cycle of destruction that must be broken if our society is to thrive. Cultism, once largely confined to tertiary institutions, has insidiously spread into secondary schools and neighbourhoods. What began as secret gatherings has transformed into violent confraternities, often manipulated by political or criminal interests. These groups lure young people, often under the guise of brotherhood, protection or empowerment, into a world of fear, violence and premature death. Tragically, the hands of many of our youth have been stained with the blood of their peers, all for false promises of belonging and power.” According to the NDLEA boss, “It is projected that the number of people using drugs will increase by 40% in Africa. When they say Africa, I want us to think of Nigeria, because Nigeria has one of the highest drug use prevalences in the world.” He however said that despite the projection by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), all hope is not lost. “As a nation and as communities, we still possess the power to reverse this trend”, he assured. “The first step is collective responsibility. Parents, religious institutions, traditional rulers, educational authorities and community leaders must rise with one voice against these vices. The family unit must be strengthened as the first point of moral instruction, while schools should be safe spaces that promote discipline, mentorship and awareness. “We must also invest in youth development by creating opportunities for education, entrepreneurship, skills acquisition and sports. Idle hands, as we know, are the devil’s workshop. When our young people find purpose and meaning, they are less likely to seek false validation from cults or drugs”, Marwa stated. Dwelling on how the NDLEA is responding to the challenge, Marwa said “we have intensified our war against drug trafficking and abuse.Nationwide raids have led to significant seizures and arrests, which we share weekly on our official channels. “In the past 54 months, we have arrested 67, 345 traffickers, including 95 barons, and 12, 415 of them are presently serving various jail terms. The barons we have arrested are not anonymous people in society. They include big business people and socialites—some of them have chieftaincy titles—and also government officials, including those tasked with maintaining law and order. That tells how deeply the rot had eaten into the fabric of our society. “Within the period, we have seized more than 11.2 million kilograms of assorted illicit drugs and destroyed 1,572 hectares of cannabis farms mostly in Southwest States where some people are cultivating cannabis on a large scale, utilising land that should have been used for other cash crops for illicit crops. “We are also scaling up our Drug Demand Reduction programmes, including school outreaches, community sensitisation and rehabilitation initiatives. We have within the same period conducted 11,584 sensitisatioin lectures in schools, work places, woship centres, motor parks, palaces of traditional rulers and communities, while 27, 187 drug users have been treated and rehabilitated through our 30 rehab facilities across the country in addition to thousands of others who have benefitted from the psychosocial support services provided on our tollfree helpline: 080010203040.” While challenging other stakeholders, he said “we cannot do it alone. We need communities like Ijebu-Ode to partner with us, to speak up, to report suspicious activities and to support our advocacy drives. “Moreover, security architecture must be enhanced at the grassroots level. Local vigilante groups, properly trained and coordinated, can serve as the eyes and ears of the community, working closely with law enforcement agencies to disrupt cult gatherings and prevent violent incidents. “We must rekindle the moral and spiritual fabric of our society. We must remind our youth that there is dignity in labour, pride in learning and honour in integrity. The path to greatness is not paved with shortcuts of violence and drugs, but with hard work, vision and purpose.” He commended the Council of Oloritun for organizing the seminar and the choice of the theme. “Your commitment to community and youth development is clear, and I encourage other councils across Nigeria to emulate this initiative. Let us rise as one people to rescue our children, secure our streets and restore the values that once defined our land”, he added. In his welcome address, Chairman of the Council, Chief Adebisi Adeola Alausa commended Marwa for accepting the Council’s invitation. “Your presence today reflects our shared commitment to safeguarding the future of our community and our nation. We are gathered here not merely as individuals, but as a united front, as traditional leaders, government officials, parents, educators, and most importantly, our youths, to confront challenges that threaten the very fabric of our society. The issues we address today, the drug abuse, cultism, and banditry, are not distant problems” Chairman of the occasion, Senator Lekan Mustapha describe different approaches Marwa as a visionary leader based on his past records of performance as military governor of Borno and Lagos as well as his transformation of NDLEA into reckoning both locally and internationally. “That you honoured our invitation shows your passion for the job, the safety and protection of our youths from drug and other vices”, he added. Marwa seized the opportunity of his presence in Ijebu Ode to pay the family of the late Awujale of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Adetona, a condolence visit

Saudi Arabia executes 17 people in 3 days

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Saudi Arabia has executed 17 individuals in just three days, according to reports from state media on Monday the country’s fastest rate of capital punishment since March 2022, when 81 people were executed in a single day.

 

The Saudi Press Agency confirmed that two Saudi nationals were executed on Monday for what were described as “terrorist crimes.” This came on the heels of 15 other executions over the weekend, mostly involving foreign nationals convicted of drug-related offenses.

 

Thirteen of them were convicted of smuggling hashish, and one was executed for trafficking cocaine.

This brings the total number of executions in the kingdom so far this year to 239.

 

The figure includes 161 executions for drug offences and 136 foreign nationals, based on an AFP tally of official data.

 

If the current trend continues, Saudi Arabia could surpass its 2023 record of 338 executions, the highest since public tracking began in the early 1990s.

 

Human rights organisations have expressed deep concern.

 

Jeed Basyouni of Reprieve noted that most of the recent executions involved foreign nationals and related to hashish smuggling.

 

She described the surge as alarming, especially at a time when many countries are moving toward decriminalising cannabis-related offences.

Analysts link the spike in executions to Saudi Arabia’s intensified “war on drugs,” which began in 2023. Many of those now being executed were arrested shortly after the campaign launched and have since completed legal processes.

 

After a three-year moratorium on executions for drug-related crimes, Saudi Arabia resumed the practice in late 2022.

 

Authorities insist the death penalty is carried out only after all appeals are exhausted and argue it serves as a deterrent to crime and helps maintain national security.

 

However, activists argue that the growing use of capital punishment contradicts the kingdom’s efforts to project a modern and progressive image under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 reform programme.