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ASUU Issues 14-day Ultimatum to FG Over Unresolved Issues

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ASUU Issues 14-day Ultimatum to FG Over Unresolved Issues

The Academic Staff Union of Universities has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government of Nigeria. The union made the decision following a National Executive Council meeting held on Sunday at the University of Abuja. The national president of ASUU, Prof. Chris Piwuna made this known in a copy of strike action he personally signed and made available to our correspondent in Abuja. “ At the National Executive Council meeting held at the University of Abuja on the 28th of September, 2025, the Union decried the neglect of the University system and the government’s consistent refusal to heed to its demands. “Accordingly, ASUU has given the Federal Government of Nigeria an Ultimatum of fourteen (14) days within which to address these issues. If at the end of the fourteen-day ultimatum, the Federal Government fails to address these issues, the Union may have no option but to, first, embark on a two-week warning strike and thereafter, a total and indefinite strike.” Recall that the Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Education set up a committee headed by the permanent secretary of the ministry, Abel Enitan to look into a proposal for ASUU in a bid to ensure stability across universities. At the time of filing this report, the committee has yet to make any decision known to the public. ASUU’s core demands remain largely unchanged: renegotiation of the 2009 agreement, adequate revitalisation funds for univer­sities, settlement of outstanding salary arrears, and sustainable funding mechanisms. Details later

BREAKING: NNPC, NUPRC, NMDPRA Shut As PENGASSAN Begins Strike

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BREAKING: NNPC, NUPRC, NMDPRA Shut As PENGASSAN Begins Strike

The nationwide strike declared by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria on Monday paralysed operations at key oil and gas regulatory institutions, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority. The industrial action, which followed the weekend directive by the union’s National Executive Council, saw members across the country withdrawing their services, effectively shutting down critical agencies that drive Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Our correspondent observed that at the NUPRC headquarters in Abuja, the main gate was firmly locked, leaving several employees stranded outside the premises. Security operatives on duty confirmed that no staff were allowed entry, in line with the strike directive issued by the union. Similarly, activities at the NMDPRA headquarters in the busy Central Business District were completely grounded as workers fully complied with the industrial action. Confirming the situation, the PENGASSAN Chairman in NMDPRA, Tony Iziogba, told The PUNCH that the union had achieved “100 per cent compliance,” effectively restricting access to staff and visitors. He added that his colleagues had also enforced 100 per cent compliance at the NNPCL and other relevant agencies. PENGASSAN said the strike became inevitable after the alleged wrongful dismissal of about 800 workers at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. The union’s directive to halt crude oil and gas supplies to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery has sent shockwaves through the energy sector, with oil marketers warning of severe disruptions in fuel distribution. This move is expected to choke the domestic market, driving up demand and prices. On Sunday, PENGASSAN announced a nationwide strike, instructing all its members in various offices, companies, institutions, and agencies to cease all services starting at 12:01 am on Monday, September 29, 2025. The union also directed members stationed in various field locations to down tools from 6:00 am on Sunday, September 28, and commence a round-the-clock prayer vigil. In a strongly worded resolution signed by PENGASSAN General Secretary, Lumumba Okugbawa, the union accused the refinery of violating Nigerian labour laws and International Labour Organisation conventions by sacking workers for joining the union. It alleged the dismissed workers had been replaced by foreigners. “All processes involving gas and crude supply to Dangote Refinery should be halted immediately,” the resolution declared. “All IOC (International Oil Companies) branches must ramp down gas production and supply to Dangote Refinery and petrochemicals.” The development has heightened fears of fuel scarcity and blackouts, as NNPC remains the sole importer of petrol while the midstream and downstream authority regulates supply and distribution. Similarly, NUPRC is responsible for monitoring crude production and enforcing gas supply obligations to power plants. All eyes are now on Monday’s emergency meeting convened by the Minister of Labour. Whether dialogue can restore calm or whether Nigeria plunges deeper into crisis may depend on the willingness of both sides to compromise.

Aare Olayinka Segelu Hails Ladoja’s Coronation, Says New Olubadan’s Reign Will Usher Prosperity

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  Governorship hopeful and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Aare Olayinka Segelu, has congratulated His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on his coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. In a statement issued on Sunday, Segelu, a Germany-based businessman and philanthropist, described Oba Ladoja’s ascension to the revered throne as a fulfilment of destiny and a monumental blessing to Ibadanland, Oyo State, and the Yoruba nation at large. He recalled the monarch’s enviable track record as a former Senator and former Governor of Oyo State, noting that his wealth of experience in governance, politics, and business would guide him in his new role as custodian of Ibadan tradition and culture. “Oba Rashidi Ladoja has always been a man of the people, a leader who combines wisdom with compassion. His reign as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland will undoubtedly usher in peace, unity, and prosperity for our land. Ibadan is blessed to have a king whose legacy of service to humanity already speaks volumes,” Segelu said. He prayed for God’s continued guidance, good health, and strength for the new monarch, while urging the people of Ibadanland to rally round Oba Ladoja to ensure a successful and impactful reign. Segelu also expressed confidence that the new Olubadan’s reign would further strengthen Ibadan’s role in Yoruba history and Nigerian politics, describing the coronation as “a new dawn for Ibadanland.”

OLUBADAN: “Your Suffering Has Yielded Progress, Growth – Tinubu Tells Nigerians, As Makinde Presents Instruments Of Office To Oba Ladoja •••Oba Ladoja Demands For Creation Of Ibadan State

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OLUBADAN: “Your Suffering Has Yielded Progress, Growth – Tinubu Tells Nigerians, As Makinde Presents Instruments Of Office To Oba Ladoja •••Oba Ladoja Demands For Creation Of Ibadan State

  IBADAN – THE President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has commended Nigerians for their resilience and patience in the face of recent economic and social challenges, assuring the nation that their sacrifices are not in vain and are already yielding progress and growth. Speaking on Friday at the coronation ceremony of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, held at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan, the President acknowledged the perseverance of citizens through difficult times, while promising better days ahead. “I know the times have been hard, but your suffering is not without purpose. The path we are on is already bearing fruits of progress, and I can assure you that we are laying a solid foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future,” Tinubu said. While addressing the large gathering of traditional rulers, political leaders, and citizens, the President paid tribute to Oba Rashidi Ladoja, describing him as “a monarch of wisdom, peace, and vision.” The president said Ladoja had faced many challenges as governor which led to his removal, adding that he was happy that the former governor was reinstated. “Let me salute the lucky Imperial Majesty, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja Arusa 1st. And all other traditional rulers.” “Today is an important occasion. I am happy to witness the history and your coronation. It is a great honor and moment of history that you ascend the throne of your forebears. It is my honor. “I take this opportunity to salute former governors, Donald Duke, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Gbenga Daniel.” “This moment is not for long speeches. To many of you here present today, I am honored.” “Kabiyesi Oba Rashidi Ladoja is not only a man of immense experience but one deeply loved by his people. His ascension to the throne marks a new era of hope and unity for Ibadanland.” “I have no doubt that under his leadership, Ibadan will witness even greater development,” Tinubu stated. He further reiterated his commitment to working with traditional institutions and state governments to ensure peace, security, and economic revitalisation across the country. Earlier in his remarks, Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, congratulated the newly installed monarch, pledging the full support of his administration to the Olubadan in delivering on his responsibilities. “This occasion is a reminder of our rich heritage and the stability of our traditional institution. Kabiyesi Ladoja is a symbol of continuity and progress.” “The Oyo State Government will stand firmly behind him in promoting peace and development across Ibadanland,” Makinde said. The governor also called on all residents and stakeholders in Ibadan to rally behind the new monarch, adding that unity among the people will fast-track the city’s socio-economic growth. In his acceptance speech, Oba Rashidi Ladoja expressed deep appreciation for development, highlighting the need for renewed commitment to Ibadan’s development. He also used the platform to make a passionate appeal for the creation of Ibadan State out of the present Oyo State for accelerated development. “Your Excellency, I have been inundated with calls by our people to inform you of our demand for Ibadan State, out of the present Oyo State, for accelerated development.” “It will gladden our hearts to see Ibadan State created with your maximum support, Mr. President,” the monarch said. Addressing issues of social concern, the Olubadan vowed to tackle the menace of street urchins (popularly known as area boys) within the city. “We are irrevocably committed to reducing the cases of area boys in Ibadan. Soon, we shall launch a multi-billion Naira Economic Development Programme to revive companies that once thrived here and create jobs for our youths.” Reflecting on his long journey to the throne, the monarch described it as a divine journey, not driven by power or wealth, but by destiny. “It is not by power, influence, connection, or money that we are where we are today. I thank God for guiding me from the starting line as Mogaji in 1992 to this point.” He pledged to be a father to all, irrespective of religion, tribe, or political affiliation, and called on all arms of traditional leadership in Ibadan to join hands in ensuring peace and development. “As Olubadan of Ibadanland, I pledge to promote peace, love, and unity among our diverse peoples. I shall not do it alone, I have the full backing of the Olubadan-in-Council, our local chiefs, and titleholders,” he added. The coronation event was graced by Senator Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, among others. Traditional rulers like the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi represented by Olori Ashley Ogunwusi and His Royal Highness Obalufe of Ife, Oba Adediwura, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, Soun of Ogbomosho, His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Olaoye and the Oluwo of Iwo.

‎JUST IN:  Makinde Presents Instruments Of Office To Ladoja As 44th Olubadan(PHOTOS) ‎

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‎JUST IN:  Makinde Presents Instruments Of Office To Ladoja As 44th Olubadan(PHOTOS) ‎

  ‎IBADAN – History was made on Friday at the ancient Mapo Hall in Ibadan as Governor Seyi Makinde officially presented the staff and instruments of office to former Governor of Oyo State, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. ‎The installation of Oba Ladoja’s installation and coronation held at the historic Mapo Hall, Ibadan. ‎The epoch-making coronation ceremony, attended by dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, had President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in attendance. ‎Speaking while presenting the staff of office, Governor Makinde described Oba Ladoja’s ascension as “a fulfillment of destiny and a continuation of Ibadan’s proud cultural heritage.” ‎He noted that the installation of the new monarch was not just a traditional exercise but also a unifying moment for the people of Ibadanland. ‎Details shortly… ‎

Olubadan: Alaafin, Soun, Gbenga Daniel, Amosun, Oluwo, Other Dignitaries Arrive Mapo Hall for Ladoja’s Coronation

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Olubadan: Alaafin, Soun, Gbenga Daniel, Amosun, Oluwo, Other Dignitaries Arrive Mapo Hall for Ladoja’s Coronation

Prominent dignitaries from across South West and Nigeria are currently gathered at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, for the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I. The historic event has attracted eminent personalities, political leaders, traditional rulers, and captains of industry. Among those already in attendance are former governors of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and Otunba Gbenga Daniel, as well as Senator Sharafadeen Alli, representing Oyo South Senatorial District. The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye; Onpetu of Ijeru, Oba Sunday Oyediran; Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; and Owa Abokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup have also arrived to join other prominent traditional rulers at the ceremony. The wife of the Ooni of Ife, Olori Ashley Ogunwusi, is also at the venue, alongside the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Dauda Akinola, and members of the Olubadan-in-Council. Deputy governor of Oyo State, Barr. Bayo Lawal; former deputy governor of Oyo State, Amb. Taofeek Arapaja; former First Lady of Oyo State and one of the wives of the new Olubadan, Mrs Mutiat Ladoja; members of the House of Representatives from Oyo State, members of the Olubadan-in Council, traditional rulers, executive members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Representatives of professional bodies, are also on ground to honour the new monarch. The coronation proceedings are ongoing, featuring cultural displays, traditional rites, and prayers. Thousands of indigenes and well-wishers continue to troop into Mapo Hall, as Ibadan celebrates the formal installation of Oba Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Urgent Need for Oyo State Government to Stop Annual Textbook Changes in Schools

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Urgent Need for Oyo State Government to Stop Annual Textbook Changes in Schools

As students resume to schools in all public and private primary and secondary schools in Oyo State on Monday, I am writing to draw attention to a pressing issue affecting parents, students, and the education system in Oyo State: the frequent and unnecessary annual changes to school textbooks, especially by private school owners. While schools may justify this practice as a means to update curricula or align with new standards, it places an undue financial burden on families, undermines sustainability, and does not always translate to improved educational outcomes. Each academic session, parents in Oyo State are compelled to purchase new sets of textbooks for their children, even when the content of these books differs only marginally from previous editions. This practice is particularly challenging for low- and middle-income families who struggle to afford these recurring costs. For example, a single textbook can cost between ₦5,000 and ₦15,000, and with multiple subjects, the expenses quickly become overwhelming. This financial strain often forces parents to prioritize basic needs over education, potentially impacting students’ access to essential learning materials. Moreover, the constant change in textbooks contributes to waste, as older editions are discarded despite being reusable. This practice contradicts efforts to promote sustainability and efficient resource use. It also raises concerns about transparency, as some schools may be influenced by publishers or other stakeholders to adopt new textbooks unnecessarily, potentially prioritizing profit over educational quality. Encouragingly, several other Nigerian states have already taken decisive steps to curb this issue, offering models Oyo State could emulate. For instance, Imo State has prohibited annual replacements, mandating textbooks for a minimum of four years in both public and private schools. Edo State similarly requires reuse for at least four years, while Ogun State enforces a six-year cycle before any changes, with sanctions for non-compliance. Enugu State reviews and approves textbooks for three-year periods, and Benue State has abolished non-transferable customized books to promote handover from seniors to juniors. These policies not only alleviate parental burdens but also foster resource efficiency and consistent learning. While the Oyo State Government has a responsibility to intervene and regulate this practice, I propose the following measures: – Standardize Textbook Usage: The government should establish a policy mandating schools to use approved textbooks for a minimum period (e.g., 3–5 years) unless significant curriculum changes justify updates. – Strengthen Oversight: The Ministry of Education should monitor schools to ensure compliance and investigate cases where textbook changes appear driven by commercial interests. – Promote Reuse and Affordability: This will encourage schools to implement textbook recycling programs and provide subsidies or free textbooks for indigent students. – Engage Stakeholders: Involve parents, teachers, and education experts in reviewing textbook policies to ensure they prioritize student welfare and learning outcomes. By addressing this issue, the Oyo State Government can alleviate the financial burden on families, promote equitable access to education, and foster a more sustainable learning environment—much like its neighboring states. I urge policymakers to act swiftly to regulate textbook changes and prioritize the interests of students and parents. Thank you for providing a platform to highlight this critical issue. I hope this letter sparks meaningful discussion and actions. Alhazan Abiodun Rilwan is the Deputy Director, Information Archives in Oyo State Ministry of Information, Ibadan.

Oyo College of Nursing Launches 4 New Faculties

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Oyo College of Nursing Launches 4 New Faculties

  The Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences, Eleyele, Ibadan, has inaugurated four new Faculties designed to meet the growing demand for nursing education and actualise the collegiate status of the institution The inauguration held on Tuesday, marked a significant step in nursing education at the institution, elevating former Departments of Nursing, Midwifery and Public Health within the College to standalone faculties of Medical Surgical; Maternal & Child Health; Public Health and Community Care, and Psychiatric and Mental Health. The Provost of the College, Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi, said this elevation, recognizes the college’s long-standing contributions to nursing education and the growing demand for its programs. She asserted that the new framework in the college marks a significant milestone for the institution and the nursing profession in Nigeria. Dr. Owolabi, therefore, urged the new deans of faculties to work assiduously towards the attainment of world-class products from the college. She appreciated the Heads of Departments, who are now Deans of faculty, for their effectiveness and commitment to the progress of the college. While commending the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration, the Provost said the institution had initiated steps to commence degree programmes in collaboration with the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso She challenged the deans of faculties to foster nursing education, stressing that the different courses offered must be a tool for advancing the healthcare profession. She added, “This development is expected to foster growth and expansion of the nursing program in the College, benefiting both the college and the broader healthcare sector in Nigeria and globally.” The Pro-Chancellor, LAUTECH, Prof. Ayodeji Omole, in his keynote address, described the inauguration as a historic and groundbreaking development. He praised the Oyo State College of Nursing’s bold step to infuse new faculties and departments into its academic system. He explained that the College’s bold restructuring filled a long-standing gap in Nigeria’s nursing education, particularly among Colleges of Nursing in the country. “With this inauguration of new faculties, the College will witness a turning point in nursing education and practice,” he said. Commending the Provost for her doggedness, he said that Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi has redefined resilience as an administrator. He reaffirmed LAUTECH’s commitment to supporting the college’s dream to award degree programmes so as to align with global standards and best professional practices.

FG Orders Immediate Repairs of Damaged Shagamu-Benin Bridge

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FG Orders Immediate Repairs of Damaged Shagamu-Benin Bridge

  The Federal Ministry of Works has announced urgent intervention on the damaged deck of the Benin-bound section of the Shagamu-Benin carriageway, assuring road users of a swift and lasting solution. In a statement signed by Special Adviser (Media) to the Minister of Works, Uchenna Orji, on Tuesday, the ministry said it is actively following up on repairs and has dispatched a team of engineers to the site. “The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has directed immediate dispatch of a team of engineers to the location of the damaged bridge at the border of Edo and Ondo States of the Shagamu-Benin carriageway,” the statement said. According to the ministry, the affected bridge, which has a double carriageway, suffered a visible puncture on the Benin-bound side within one of its five spans. “In line with the proactive approach to interventions by the Renewed Hope administration of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu GCFR, urgent action has been initiated on the damaged section of the bridge, and it will take a maximum period of 45 days after concrete works for vehicular movement to resume on that section of the carriageway to allow the concrete to mature. It would be recalled that a similar incident occurred on one of the spans in the past, and it was repaired with dispatch,” the statement added. The ministry attributed the damage to age-related deterioration, noting that the Shagamu-Benin bridge was constructed in 1981. “The damage being noticed on the said bridge is age-related deterioration. Bridges are susceptible to having their structures undermined as a result of old age. The Shagamu-Benin bridge was built in 1981, and the bridge deck is ageing. The life span of a bridge can vary significantly based on several factors, including the materials used, environmental conditions, traffic loads, and maintenance practices. This overtime causes issues like punctures, cracks, corrosion, or structural weakness.” Umahi assured us that a permanent solution is underway, using full deck reconstruction using innovative engineering technology. “The Minister of Works assures that a permanent solution is underway for the Shagamu-Benin bridge, which is to remove the entire deck slab of the two sets of bridges in Ondo and Edo States, which are all within the same location, and rebuild the deck slab through innovative engineering technology. “He apologises to the road users for the inconveniences they have suffered or will suffer during the period of the rehabilitation work. He assures that the Federal Ministry of Works shall work with the Federal Road Safety personnel to maintain traffic on one carriageway of the bridge during the period of the rehabilitation to avoid motorists getting stuck in a traffic jam. He states that Mr. President is intervening on over 30 bridges’ rehabilitation nationwide in 2025 alone, and this rehabilitation will happen urgently.” He also acknowledged the individual who raised the alarm about the bridge damage, urging the public to appreciate the administration’s efforts in revamping Nigeria’s road infrastructure. “The Minister of Works thanks the content creator who raised the alarm on the damaged section of the bridge. He notes the content creator’s preconceptions over the modest efforts of the Renewed Hope administration to transform the road infrastructure and expand the transportation ecosystem to stimulate progressive national economic growth but urges him and others with such mindsets to know that the Renewed Hope agenda of revolutionising road infrastructure nationwide is on course and the mission of revitalising and strengthenening the inherited deteriorating federal road architecture is making significant progress across the board.” Umahi further reiterated President Tinubu’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s transport sector, describing the Renewed Hope projects as a catalyst for economic growth. “The minister reiterates the unwavering commitment of Mr. President in transforming Nigeria’s transport sector and positioning it for sustainable economic prosperity. His initiative to construct the Renewed Hope legacy projects in addition to the inherited ongoing road projects is a bold and broad vision to expand the nation’s road network, which is a catalyst for overall development, including healthcare, education, tourism, regional integration, industrialisation, and various other economic activities that will raise the nation’s human development index.

Oyo Varsity Allays Fear After Fire Guts Radio Studio

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Oyo Varsity Allays Fear After Fire Guts Radio Studio

    The management of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo State, has called for calm after a fire incident rocked a radio studio located on the university’s campus. It was earlier reported that the incident occurred on Monday and led to the loss of studio equipment. According to reports, the fire was triggered by an electrical surge from the studio’s air-conditioning system. The blaze quickly spread through the facility before firefighters arrived to contain it. Confirming the incident, the Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, Maroof Akinwande, in a statement on Tuesday, said firefighters led by PFS 11 Makinde quickly responded to the call. “When they arrived, the studio was engulfed in flames and smoke. They managed to stop the fire from spreading to other areas. “No casualty was recorded, and we were able to save property worth millions of naira,” Akinwande stated. He advised the public to always have fire extinguishers and use them properly to stop small fires before they spread. Reacting to the incident in an exclusive interview with our correspondent, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Olufemi Atoyebi, corroborated that no casualty was recorded in the incident. He added that only a few items were affected, contrary to reports that equipment worth millions was destroyed. “The radio station is a training station and not for commercial purposes. When the fire started, we called in our fire service operatives, who helped us to put it out. “All the equipment is intact, just a few wires were affected, and we have fixed everything, and we are almost back on air. “It’s not a major thing that can cause panic because the scene is far from residential buildings and the school is on holiday, so there are no students around,” Atoyebi said. PUNCH Metro had reported a similar fire incident that happened on August 16, after a fire incident rocked the Fresh FM studio in Ibadan, Oyo State capital. The Group Head of Corporate Affairs, Fresh FM Nigeria and Yinka Ayefele Limited, Samson Akindele, confirmed the fire outbreak in a statement.   Punch  

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