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JUST IN: “I Remain Lagos Assembly Speaker ” — Hon Mudashiru Obasa

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  LAGOS – The impeached speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon Mudashiru Obasa, has declared that he remained the speaker of the House despite his removal by the lawmakers. In an attempt President Bola Tinubu described as a coup, Obasa was removed on January 13, 2025, by 32 out of the 40 lawmakers of the House. He was away in the United States of America when he was removed. Upon his return from vacation to returned to Lagos for the first time after his removal, the lawmaker representing Agege Constituency 1 was welcomed by members and supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) including LG ward Executives, members and stakeholders in the Lagos politics. Addressing journalists during the reception, the ousted Speaker said his removal was unconstitutional and remain so until the process was followed constitutionally. He declared that he is not afraid to be removed and that due process must be followed. He said, “In the whole of Lagos State, let any leader come out that I approached him or her that I wanted to be a governor. To impeach a speaker, the Constitution must be followed. I’m not bothered but with that man who alleged that I took part in the removal of former Speaker Jokotade Pelumi, Deputy Speaker, Funmi Tejuosho and suspended lawmakers due process was followed. “Pelumi was on the floor when he was removed. Likewise, Tejuosho and those that were suspended were in the House and there was no involvement of the police. “But in my case, how can a multitude of Police officers led by the commissioner of police invade the House and another team evade my residence, lock up my children outside the gate of the residence while my wife was inside. “I was Speaker for 10 years, if I’m no longer wanted, from Allah we come and to him, we shall return but you cannot impeach a speaker with a fake mace.” Tribune

Makinde Pays Oyo Workers New Minimum Wage

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  The Oyo State Government, on Friday, paid a total sum of ₦12 billion to the state government workers. In a statement on Saturday, the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, said the money paid is a result of a promise kept by Governor Seyi Makinde on the ₦80,000 minimum wage for the state workers from January 1, 2025. He said, “One of the implications of the new wage is that workers on Grade Levels I to VI now enjoy a minimum of ₦50,000 increment while the salaries of those on Grade Level 17 shoot up by over ₦180,000. “In this same month of January, pensioners are not left behind in the comprehensive welfare. “A minimum pension of ₦25,000 and a 33 percent pension increment for over 40,000 retirees have been approved with immediate effect.” Meanwhile, the commissioner revealed that the state government has abolished the payment of ₦4,000 for retirement forms to further ease financial pressure on those planning to retire. Oyelade added that almost ₦20 million will go back into the pockets of about 4,500 workers who will retire soon.  

Passengers Injured As US-Bound Plane Develops Technical Fault, Returns To Lagos

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  A United Airlines flight, a Boeing 787-8 outbound from Lagos to Washington Dulles, on Thursday, declared emergency and made an air return to Lagos. Having established a return track to Lagos, PUNCH Online gathered that the aircraft crew maintained the emergency transponder code 7700 (Emergency signal) with the control tower till it landed. The aircraft, initially bound for Washington Dulles International Airport with registered N27903, is an over 13-year-old widebody aircraft belonging to the US carrier United Airlines. It had 245 passengers, eight flight attendants, and three pilots on board. Some of those on board reportedly sustained injuries. Videos and pictures from the distressed passengers in the aircraft sent to our correspondent showed that food and passengers’ luggage were scattered, littering the aircraft owing to the shaky nature of the flight. The real cause of the pandemonium is yet to be ascertained as of the time of filing this report but the passengers are of the opinion that it was an engine-related issue. However, only the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau can ascertain the real cause of such incidents. When contacted, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Micheal Achimugu, confirmed the development saying the passengers have been lodged into a hotel as stipulated by the regulatory act. “Yes, it is true, and no problems, the passengers have been lodged into a hotel as stipulated by the NCAA Act,” he said. The airline also confirmed the development in a terse statement, attributing it to “a technical issue.” “Flight UA613 from Lagos to Washington D.C. returned to Lagos to address a technical issue. “After landing safely, the aircraft was met by first responders to address reports of minor injuries to several passengers and crew,” the statement read. Punch

Govt Approves N4bn Cash Transfer For Vulnerable Households

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  The Federal Government has approved N4bn for conditional cash transfers to vulnerable households in Nigeria. During the launch of the 2025 Nigeria Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan at the United Nations House in Abuja on Thursday, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof Nentawe Yilwada announced the interventions to address the country’s deepening humanitarian crisis. This move is expected to support at least 10 million displaced households, primarily targeting the most vulnerable members of society. The cash transfer programme is set to begin in February and continue through April, aiming to alleviate the immediate needs of families affected by displacement, particularly in the Northeast. Additionally, the government has approved N2bn in interest-free loans to farmers, specifically those in rural communities, to boost food production and self-sufficiency. “We are prioritizing women, especially widows, pregnant women, and those with disabilities. The experiences of displaced women, particularly those facing pregnancy or disability, are especially challenging. We understand these vulnerabilities and will continue to support those who are most in need,” he said. “The President has approved the Ministry’s plan to begin paying conditional cash transfers to 10 million displaced households between February and April. This initiative aims to support those most in need, particularly vulnerable families affected by displacement,” he added. “Additionally, the government has allocated N2bn to provide interest-free loans to farmers in rural communities. These loans will range from N300,000 to N400,000 per household, helping farmers access necessary resources and linking them to market opportunities. “Furthermore, a N4bn provision has been approved to support vulnerable groups through cash transfers, targeting families affected by natural disasters and other crises. These interventions are part of the government’s broader strategy to alleviate poverty and provide relief to those in urgent need,” the minister stated. He further emphasised the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of internally displaced persons, returnees, and affected communities across Nigeria. The HNRP, he noted, was developed through extensive consultations and is designed to address the humanitarian challenges in Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, and other conflict-affected regions. “We are combining the efforts of humanitarian, developmental, and peacebuilding platforms to ensure long-term resilience and sustainable solutions for these communities,” he added. Highlighting the gender dynamics within these interventions, Yilwada underscored the priority given to female-headed households, who often face greater challenges, including gender-based violence, child marriage, and food insecurity. “Female-headed households experience higher rates of hunger than male-headed ones, and this is where we will focus much of our efforts. Ensuring access to food, water, healthcare, and safety for these women is one of our top priorities,” he added. Head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Trond Jensen provided an overview of the situation, noting that 7.8 million women, men, and children across Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states will require humanitarian assistance in 2025. Punch

179 Oil Theft Incidents Uncovered In One Week – NNPCL

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  The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited says it uncovered 179 incidents of crude oil theft in the past week. The company affirmed that the war on crude oil theft and vandalism rages on as industrywide security collaboration continues to safeguard hydrocarbon infrastructure. A video released by the NNPC shows the incidents recorded between January 11 and 17 across the Niger Delta region, with 29 illegal pipeline connections and 55 illegal refineries reportedly uncovered within the period. “Between the 11th and 17th of January 2025, a total of 179 incidents were recorded across the Niger Delta region, thanks to the coordinated efforts of NNPC Limited’s Command and Control Centre, Tantita Security Agency, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited, Shell Petroleum Development Company Limited Nigeria, Liquefied Natural Gas, Oando PLC, and government security agencies,” the NNPC stated. The state-owned energy firm disclosed that security forces in Bayelsa and Abia States uncovered illegal pipeline connections and swiftly conducted repairs on them. It explained that the crackdown continued as security operatives dismantled illegal refineries producing black-market petroleum products in Rivers and Abia States. It was said that the week also revealed hidden storage sites used for illegal activities in Rivers and other locations in Abia. “Security forces exposed and destroyed these sites. Unfortunately, acts of sabotage led to several oil spills during the week, including a vandalised condensate pipeline and damaged wellheads in Rivers,” it was stated. On the road, security teams reportedly intercepted and seized vehicles loaded with stolen crude oil in Rivers, Bayelsa, and Abia, while wooden fibre boats packed with stolen crude oil were confiscated on the waterways. The company noted that the incidents spanned various corridors: 90 in the Central Corridor, 70 in the Eastern Corridor, five in the Western Corridor, and 14 in Deep Blue Water. A total of 30 suspects were said to have been arrested and handed over to government security agencies for further investigation. The NNPC said its resolve remains unshaken, and the fight against crude oil theft will continue until the menace is eradicated. The PUNCH reports that 128 illegal refineries have been discovered in the first two weeks of the year. Between January 4 and 10, 53 illegal pipeline connections and 73 illegal refineries were uncovered in the Niger Delta. Oil theft has been repeatedly blamed for the country’s inability to meet its yearly oil production targets.

EKEDC Alerts Customers On Potential Cyber Threats

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  The Eko Electricity Distribution Company has issued a public advisory, urging its customers to be more vigilant and proactive in safeguarding themselves against the rising wave of cyber threats. In a statement issued by the company and signed by the EKEDC General Manager, Corporate Communications, Babatunde Lasaki, the company said with the increasing reliance on digital platforms for transactions and communications, cyber attackers have devised sophisticated techniques to exploit vulnerabilities, making cybersecurity awareness necessary for everyone. Lasaki identified common threats that customers should be aware of and how to handle cases such as phishing attacks, social engineering scams, ransomware attacks, and identity theft, among others. He warned that fraudsters often use deceptive emails, text messages, or phone calls to trick individuals into disclosing sensitive information such as account details, passwords, or payment information. He added that cybercriminals do exploit human psychology to manipulate victims into revealing confidential information by impersonating EKEDC officials or posing as family members in distress to extract financial details or payments. Speaking on ransomware attacks, he explained that malicious software is used to lock users out of their devices or files, with attackers demanding a ransom to restore access, saying such attacks often occur when users unknowingly download infected files or click on malicious links. He warned, “Attackers steal personal information, such as National Identification Numbers, bank account details, or passwords, to impersonate victims for fraudulent activities. Hackers exploit reused or weak passwords across multiple accounts to gain unauthorised access to systems and data.” To avoid falling victim, the EKEDC encouraged customers to adopt the best practices to safeguard themselves online. He urged them to always double-check the authenticity of emails, SMS, or calls claiming to be from EKEDC, adding that official communications from EKEDC will never request sensitive information like passwords or PINs. Lasaki also charged them to use strong and unique passwords for online accounts by avoiding the use of passwords that can easily be guessed, such as names, birth dates, or sequential numbers. “Enable multi-factor authentication. Add an extra layer of security to your accounts by enabling MFA, which requires a second form of verification in addition to your password. Keep your devices and applications updated to ensure you have the latest security patches. “Avoid public Wi-Fi for transactions, as public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured and can expose sensitive information to attackers. Use secure, private networks for online transactions. Do not click on unknown links or download unsolicited attachments, as they may contain malware or phishing traps. “As part of its commitment to customer safety, EKEDC has implemented robust cybersecurity measures to protect its digital platforms. Customers are encouraged to report suspicious activity or potential scams involving EKEDC services immediately through official channels,” the statement concluded. Punch

How Obasa Offended Lagos GAC Elders

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  LAGOS – Days after his removal as Lagos Speaker, fresh facts have emerged over what led to the impeachment of Rt Hon. Mudashiru Obasa. City People, gathered that part of Rt Hon. Mudashiru Obasa’s offence was how he repeatedly showed scant regard for the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos APC leaders especially, the leadership of the Governors Advisory Council, which is the highest advisory council in Lagos State. The group set up by Pres. Bola Tinubu years back, is called The Governing Advisory Council (GAC). These are top politicians in APC who determine what happens in Lagos. They comprise of Elders of APC who provide direction for the party and usually step in, to solve difficult issues concerning the party positions. They not only determine how Lagos is run, they get consulted when it comes to major decisions like party positions. They are immensely powerful and influential. And they play an advisory role to the Governor and his Deputy. That is why GAC has been described as the highest decision making body in Lagos as far as governance is concerned. Members are major stakeholers of the party within Lagos State and their main function is to oversee the affairs of the party in the state. That was why the group stepped in during the recent face-off between the Governor and the former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa. They are about 25 in number, headed by Elderstatesman, Prince Tajudeen Okusi. 2 members are dead. One is Pa. Akinsanya Sunny Ajose who died a few days ago. There is also late Chief Mrs. Kemi Nelson, the former APC Deputy National Woman Leader who was also a member. Before her death, she was the only female amongst the GAC members. But right now, the body has been expanded to include key players like Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, the wifie of Pres. Bola Tinubu, the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Otunba Harry Ajomale (former Lagos APC Chair), Prince Abiodun Ogunleye (ex-Deputy Gov to Tinubu), Cardinal James Odunmbaku, Otunba Bushira Alebiosu, Omooba Murphy Adetoro, Sen. Anthony Adefuye, Alhaji S.A. Seriki, Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Bashorun (former SSG, Lagos, Prince Rabiu Oluwa (former Island Club President), Alhaji Mutiu Are, Dr. Yomi Finnih, Alhaji Mutiu Are, Alhaji Musiliu Obanikoro, Otunba Muyiwa Sosanya, Alhaji Tunde Balogun, Mr. Wale Edun, Otunba Femi Pedro. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu & his Deputy, Femi Hamzat are also valuable members. The leader of the Council is Prince Tajudeen Olusi (MON, OON). He is 88 and well respected. He is a seasoned politician in Lagos who many politicians don’t joke with. He is an elderstatesman who is full of wisdom. He has produced no fewer than 3 generations of politicians in Lagos State. That is why his name is big in Lagos politics. Just mention Prince Tajudeen Olusi, to many Lagos politicians and you will be told how powerful and influential Papa is, politically, in the scheme of things in Lagos. He is well respected. He has earned his spot. He has paid his dues. He has been involved in Politics since age 13. And he is one of the Elders of the ruling party, APC. He is one man Pres. Tinubu does not joke with. After he received his Certificate of Victory from INEC in Abuja, in 2023 he brought the Certificate back to Lagos to show Pa Olusi who blessed him just before the elections. This time around he wanted Baba to again bless his new role as the President of Nigeria. That is how important Papa Olusi is to him. On account of his remarkable role in Lagos politics, City People, visited Prince Tajudeen Oluyole Olusi at his Lagos home a few years back to drink from his well of wisdom. We were expecting to see one big man who many people will be grovelling around and worshipping him like a god, but we were shocked to meet a humble, easy going man who had no airs around him. He is tall and slim. He is a man who is still very active and highly cerebral even at 88. Despite his age, he does not use a walking stick, neither does he wear glasses. He is quick to stand up to pick things for himself and we found him to be a resipository of information on Lagos history and politics, having been part of the recent history of Lagos. His power of recall is superb. And he still cracks jokes. He has a robust sense of honour. He is a team player and listens to others. For instance, after we were ushered into his presence, we met him casually dressed and we pleaded with him to change into an outfit he can take photos and videos with. He immediately obliged us. He stood up and went in to change, not minding that we were far younger than him. Let’s tell you more. Prince Tajudeen Oluyole Olusi (MON, OON) is a Prince of Lagos, who is passionately committed to the development of the Lagos royal house and the preservation of Lagos’ cultural heritage. His father Alayeluwa Oba Sanusi Matiku Olusi, was once an Oba of Lagos. Prince Olusi was shortlisted for the throne of Lagos in 1964 and 2003. He was, at a time, the Secretary to the Lagos Royal House and the Lagos Aborigene Society. Presently, he is the head of the Akisemoyin ruling house. Prince Olusi was a Councilor under the Action Group (AG), the party led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, in the Lagos Town Council between 1962 and 1965 and was reelected-in 1965 before the military truncated the democratic regime in 1966. He represented Lagos in the Federal House of Representatives from October 1979 – 1983. He was re-elected in 1983 before the military overthrew the sitting government again. At a time, he served in the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture. He was Lagos State Honorable Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Tourism between 1994 and 1996. Prince Olusi was the Lagos … Read more

Oyo Govt Distributes N20m Grants To Victims Of Market Fire Outbreaks

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  IBADAN – The Oyo State Government has declared that it will continue to support residents of the state to rise above poverty and move into prosperity by catering to their welfare and empowering them to be self-sufficient. Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun, gave this indication at the weekend, when her Ministry kick-started the distribution of N20 million livelihood support grants for victims of market fire outbreaks. According to the commissioner, the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration has continued to match its words with action by giving priority attention to bettering the lives of residents and supporting them to be economically buoyant through different means. Balogun noted that the beneficiaries of the grants, drawn from Gbaremu, Sango, Oke-Itunu and Oranyan markets, where fire outbreaks wreaked havocs on businesses, have benefited from the N20 million grant approved by the governor. She added that the event was just the first phase and that victims of fire outbreaks in other markets would also be reached by the intervention, adding that apart from supporting the victims, the government has also put together training sessions for market women on how to prevent and mitigate fire outbreaks in markets. She said: “Basically, this event is just another dimension of the usual way the Oyo State Government shows concern for the welfare of the residents of the state. “You are all aware that a couple of months back, there was a spate of fire incidents across the length and breadth of the state. We observed through our findings that it was not only the direct victims that were affected economically; that each of the victims has a minimum of 10 to 20 dependents that they are responsible for. “So, this tells us that those incidents had far-reaching economic implications. So, the government of Governor Makinde, being a welfarist government, decided to see how it can support all these victims to bring them back to economic viability. “We want them to resume to their level of self-sufficiency and to enable them to take care of other people depending on them for succour. As a result of this, our governor put aside other things and gave this an expedited approval and gave us a reasonable amount to be given to all the victims of the fire outbreaks. “This is just the first phase of the intervention. “We are not just trying to get them back on their feet but also ensuring that these incidents are prevented. One of the ways we are doing this is that we are putting together training sessions for women in the state on how to mitigate and prevent fire outbreaks in our markets. “This government is keen on empowering citizens to enable them to be self-sufficient and that is what this programme is all about. “In this first tranche, we have been able to disburse N20m to the beneficiaries and it is going to be an ongoing thing. We will ensure that all other people in all other markets that were affected will also be reached out to.” Also speaking, a former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, described the Governor Makinde-led administration as a government of the masses. “We are giving these grants to victims of market fire outbreaks to support them to make a living. You can all see that this is a government of the masses. It is always ready to assist our people. “We have to give thanks to God, Governor Seyi Makinde and the commissioner for organising this programme.” Similarly, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Babatunde Tijani, noted that the governor sympathised with the victims and decided to support them because his administration is pro-people. Responding on behalf of the market associations, the Iyaloja of Ibadan North Local Government, Chief (Mrs) Borode Omotayo Bolaji, also commended the government for the timely intervention. She said: “It is a great thing to me, because I was not even expecting up to that amount at all. “Also, it was not only our market that was given money, other markets were also given. We really appreciate what the governor has done for the victims. “The N5m has dropped into the account of the person representing my own market and it will be disbursed any moment from now.” The event had in attendance market leaders and top government functionaries.

LASTMA Nabs One-Chance Syndicate Operating With Commercial Bus

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  LAGOS – In the ongoing crackdown on criminal operations targeting commuters, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) apprehended a notorious One-Chance syndicate that employed a painted commercial bus (KSF 56 XL) to rob unsuspecting passengers of their valuables. The arrest transpired near a Conoil filling station along Funsho Williams Avenue in Surulere, Lagos, following an incident involving a female passenger, Miss Bibian Emelifonwu, who fell victim to the syndicate’s treachery while en route to work this morning. Recounting her ordeal, Miss Emelifonwu disclosed that she boarded the bus and sat beside a male passenger holding a nylon bag in the front seat next to the driver. Under the pretext of opening the front door beside her, the man surreptitiously leaned on her and deftly removed her phone from her bag. Having successfully executed the theft, the criminals heartlessly ejected her from the moving vehicle onto the highway. Fortunately, a vigilant team of LASTMA officers overseeing traffic in the area witnessed the incident. They swiftly pursued the fleeing bus, ultimately apprehending the driver, identified as Mr. Toyib Ogunjobi, while his accomplices—the conductor and another passenger—managed to escape. During interrogation, Ogunjobi admitted to leading a three-man syndicate, which included the owner of the bus. He revealed that their modus operandi involved enticing passengers with low fares on the Costain-Ojota route, stealing their belongings, and forcibly ejecting them from the vehicle while in motion. Ogunjobi further confessed that the syndicate generated between ₦250,000 and ₦300,000 daily by selling stolen phones and valuables. He also disclosed that similar One-Chance operations are proliferating across Lagos State, illustrating the pervasive nature of this criminal enterprise. Seven stolen phones, comprising models such as Techno Pop, Samsung AZZ, Intel A623, Techno Spark, Techno Pounoir, and Samsung devices, were recovered from Ogunjobi during his arrest. He also admitted that the vehicle’s owner was actively involved in the operation. •GALAXY TV

(Pictures)EFCC Auctions Forfeited Vehicles Online Monday

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  The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has announced the e-auction of some forfeited vehicles to the public. The commission noted that the exercise is slated to take place on Monday, January 27, 2025, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, as it’ll be conducted online. Also, the exercise is spread across 16 lots with auctioneers in Abuja, Edo, Kwara, Sokoto, Kaduna, Lagos and Kano states. Interested persons can go through the official web addresses provided for each lot. A check by PUNCH Online revealed that some vehicles are still open to bids while some others have closed, as the vehicles have varying bidding amounts. According to a tweet via its X handle on Monday, the commission said the e-auction will be done according to the EFCC (Establishment) Act, 2004, Public Procurement Act, 2007 and the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery & Management) Act. “The General Public is hereby notified that the @officialEFCC through its appointed Auctioneers will conduct e-Auction of the under-listed vehicles that are subject to final Forfeiture orders in accordance with the EFCC (Establishment) Act, 2004, Public Procurement Act, 2007 and the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery & Management) Act, 2022,” the tweet partly read. Punch  

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