Author: Dodo Elias Denen

  • Lagos Community Grieves Police Officer Wale Akinlotan’s Sudden Demise; Ilupeju Division To Host Night Of Songs

    Lagos Community Grieves Police Officer Wale Akinlotan’s Sudden Demise; Ilupeju Division To Host Night Of Songs


    The Ilupeju community in Lagos is in mourning following the untimely death of Corporal Olawale Julius Adio Akinlotan, a beloved police officer who tragically collapsed while on active duty. The 27-year-old officer, hailing from Ogun State, reportedly succumbed to a sudden cardiac arrest.

    The heart-wrenching incident unfolded on Monday, November 6, 2023, while CPL Olawale Akinlotan was diligently performing his duties.

    Known for his responsiveness, warmth, and cheerful disposition, Akinlotan was a well-loved figure both within the Ilupeju community and the Lagos Police Command. This has prompted an outpouring of condolences and tributes from residents of the Ilupeju area who seek to honor the memory of the young officer whose promising career was abruptly cut short.

    Late Olawale’s service to the nation began in 2018 when he joined the Nigerian Police Force as a Constable. He initially served at the Isheri Division before working closely with AIG Hakeem Odumosu (Retired) as Lagos State Commissioner of Police, while attached to the Police PRO office in the role of a camera/media man.

    He continued to distinguish himself as a diligent and agile officer when he was assigned to the Ilupeju Division. There, he rose through the ranks to become a Corporal and was appointed as the orderly to the DPO, Superintendent Matilda Ngbaronye.

    Corporal Olawale Akinlotan, a graduate of Mass Communication, was known for his vibrancy, intelligence, and tech-savvy skills, which made him an asset to the Nigerian Police Force. He was not only a dedicated officer but also a prominent ambassador of the Lagos State Police Command.

    The officers and staff of Ilupeju Division, alongside the entire Ilupeju community, are deeply affected by the sudden loss of this young and promising officer. In honor of his memory, a night of songs will be hosted at the Ilupeju Division on Monday, November 13, 2023.

    CPL Olawale Akinlotan leaves behind his grieving father, mother, siblings, and other relatives, who now join the community in mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant.

  • NPF Engages Kogi Stakeholders Ahead Of Gubernatorial Elections, Orders Investigation Into Anyigba Invasion

    NPF Engages Kogi Stakeholders Ahead Of Gubernatorial Elections, Orders Investigation Into Anyigba Invasion

    The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, NPM, has taken proactive steps to ensure a peaceful and secure electoral process in Kogi State in preparation for the forthcoming off-cycle gubernatorial elections on November 11, 2023.

    The IGP’s commitment to a peaceful electoral environment was evident as he convened a significant meeting with key stakeholders in Kogi State, bringing together various segments of society, including political leaders, representatives of political parties, civil society organizations, electoral officials, traditional and religious leaders, youth leaders, and security agencies. 

    The primary objective of this gathering was to foster constructive dialogue, share vital information, and collectively strategize on measures to ensure a free, fair, credible, and peaceful electoral process in the state.

    During the meeting, the IGP called upon political leaders to play a pivotal role in preserving the peace by advocating for a culture of non-violence among their supporters. He emphasized the importance of conducting the electoral process without any form of intimidation or coercion.

    In response to a video circulating on social media that alleged an armed attack on the residence of a key party official in Anyigba, the IGP ordered the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) to take over the case for a comprehensive investigation. The investigation aims to ascertain all parties involved, their respective levels of involvement, and ensure justice prevails.

    The IGP stressed the Force’s commitment to impartiality and neutrality throughout the electoral process and issued a stern warning to candidates and their followers against any form of misconduct or violence during the electioneering process. Decisive action will be taken against any individual found fomenting trouble.

    The engagement with stakeholders and the commitment to a peaceful election underscore the importance of ensuring that the electoral process in Kogi State proceeds without disruptions, violence, or malpractice.

  • Free Medical Outreach Benefits Lepers’ Community In Lagos

    Free Medical Outreach Benefits Lepers’ Community In Lagos

    Approximately 100 families and individuals affected by leprosy received vital support through a free medical outreach organized by God’s Love Ministries in collaboration with The Fount of Love Foundation at the Alabarago Lepers’ Community in Ojo, Lagos over the weekend.

    This significant intervention marked the first of its kind for the community, which is home to marginalized citizens grappling with illnesses and malnourishment. Despite its close proximity to Alaba International Market, Africa’s largest electronics market, the lepers’ community has struggled with poverty and inadequate access to healthcare.

    A dedicated team of doctors led by Pastor Maria Olatunji, the Coordinator of God’s Care Ministries, provided medical care, essential drugs, food items, and personal protective equipment to the residents.

    During an interview with journalists at the outreach, Pastor Maria Olatunji emphasized that the initiative aimed to demonstrate compassion and address the urgent healthcare needs of a vulnerable population.

    “We wanted to help people who have nothing to give in return. When I heard about this lepers’ community, I was deeply concerned, even though I was not in the country at the time. I made it my mission to visit this community at the next opportunity I had in Nigeria.”

    Olatunji further called on the business community, local government, and nearby residents to support the lepers and attend to their needs. She expressed disappointment that these marginalized citizens lived amidst the thriving Alaba market without adequate care or attention.

    “Alaba International Market is a billion-dollar market, and it is disheartening that a neighboring lepers’ community is neglected. The business moguls in Alaba could contribute to improving the welfare of these residents with their wealth,” she urged.

    In addition, Olatunji highlighted the potential health and environmental threats that the lepers’ community posed to the Alaba market and surrounding areas, emphasizing the importance of addressing their basic needs and living conditions.

    Mrs. Shola Onyekweli, the Founder of The Fount of Love Foundation, revealed her organization’s decade-long commitment to assisting the lepers’ community. She explained that they had constructed a borehole and provided generators to address water supply challenges in the community.

    Onyekweli, emphasizing the need for broader support, expressed the aim of empowering the community through various initiatives. These included offering grinding machines, perfumes, and other items to enable residents to earn income, fostering a culture of value addition and entrepreneurship.

    The Head of the Medical Team, Dr. Gift Osakue, shared observations from the medical checks conducted during the outreach. He noted that many residents had multiple infections and ailments. In addition to leprosy, the community’s unsanitary living conditions contributed to residents’ health issues, including malnourishment and skin infections, particularly among children.

    Dr. Osakue emphasized the need for government intervention to provide proper medication for lepers and improve healthcare access for the residents.

    This compassionate initiative demonstrates the commitment of organizations and individuals to address the immediate healthcare and humanitarian needs of marginalized communities in Nigeria.

  • CONFIRMATION AS IGP: Ibadin Identifies The Task Before Egbetokun

    CONFIRMATION AS IGP: Ibadin Identifies The Task Before Egbetokun

    Following the recent confirmation of Dr. Kayode Egbetokun as the substantive Inspector General of Police (IGP) by the Police Council, Nigerians have celebrated his appointment. In particular, Mr. Matthew Ibadin, a prominent security practitioner and the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Badinson Security Limited, commended the IGP’s ingenuity while offering recommendations for his tenure.

    Ibadin, in a press statement issued in Lagos, praised the IGP for the successful three-day police conference and retreat held in Owerri, Imo State, which brought together high-ranking police officers, including Deputy Inspectors General of Police, Assistant Inspectors General of Police, Commissioners of Police, and Heads of Strategic Units in the Nigeria Police Force. He described the event as one of the best conferences and retreats for senior police officers in the history of the Police Force.

    In his statement, Ibadin emphasized the need for redefining the roles of the Spy Police and the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC). He called for their enhanced participation in crime fighting and intelligence activities. He argued that these organizations should not remain redundant and should play more recognizable roles, especially in investigation and other related activities.

    Furthermore, Ibadin recommended that certain police services be commercialized to increase the financial strength of the Police Force. He suggested remodeling the Police Printing Press with modern printing machines to offer commercial printing services to the public. He also advised that individuals requiring the personal protective services of Mobile Policemen should pay for these services.

    Additionally, Ibadin called for companies and multinationals operating in Nigeria to allocate a percentage of their budget for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to fund police activities. He encouraged the citizenry to show appreciation to policemen working under difficult conditions, particularly those on the highways.

    Ibadin proposed that the IGP initiate periodic stakeholders’ conferences where members of civil society can interface with the police to volunteer relevant security information. He also recommended that private investigators be engaged in investigation activities, provided they are licensed in accordance with the Police Act of 2020.

    Acknowledging the dedication of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, Ibadin emphasized the critical role of the police in a country. He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to create a special intervention fund for the Nigeria Police and insisted on prioritizing the welfare of police personnel. He emphasized the need for operational vehicles, tracking devices, bulletproof jackets, 24-hour lighting at police stations, laptops, and enhanced funding for the police.

    Regarding promotions within the Police Force, Ibadin urged the IGP to eradicate the special promotion syndrome and incorporate these changes into the Police Act during any amendment processes.

    Mr. Ibadin’s recommendations reflect his extensive experience in private security and his commitment to enhancing the Nigeria Police Force’s effectiveness and welfare.

  • NIMASA To Set Up Blue Economy Information Desks At Nigerian International Airports

    NIMASA To Set Up Blue Economy Information Desks At Nigerian International Airports

    Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, and the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, OFR.

    The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), under the purview of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, is taking significant steps to establish Blue Economy information desks at all international airports in Nigeria. This initiative gained momentum following a productive discussion between the Honorable Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, and the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, OFR.

    The introduction of Blue Economy desks at the ports of entry, which include international airports, is poised to foster inter-ministerial collaboration in harnessing the vast potential within the Nigerian maritime sector. The primary objective is to raise awareness of a functional intermodal transport system and promote tourism, among other critical elements of a burgeoning maritime nation.

    This strategic move seeks to bridge the gap between the aviation and maritime sectors, creating a synergy that will facilitate the growth of the Blue Economy in Nigeria. By setting up these information desks, NIMASA aims to provide passengers and visitors at international airports with valuable insights into the maritime sector’s immense potential and its role in the nation’s economic development.

    The Blue Economy information desks at these ports of entry will play a pivotal role in enhancing public awareness, fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, and driving economic growth in Nigeria.

    The Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, along with NIMASA, is committed to promoting the sustainable development of the nation’s maritime sector and capitalizing on its numerous opportunities.

    This initiative represents a critical step toward realizing the full potential of Nigeria’s maritime sector and aligning it with international best practices in Blue Economy development.

  • NPF Issues Strong Warning Against Name-Dropping, Unlawful Activities

    NPF Issues Strong Warning Against Name-Dropping, Unlawful Activities

    The Nigeria Police Force has expressed deep concern over recent reports of individuals who have been operating as middlemen, falsely claiming to be negotiators on behalf of individuals in police custody. These individuals, posing as intermediaries, have exploited the names of high-ranking police officers, including the Inspector-General of Police, to intimidate and coerce others.

    In a press release issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Nigeria Police Force strongly encourages all Nigerians to exercise vigilance and discernment when approached by anyone using the names of senior police officers. Such actions not only erode trust in the police force but also pose a significant threat to the integrity of the justice system.

    The press release further emphasizes the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to maintain high standards and principles. The Force sternly cautions any members within its ranks who may be tempted to collude with these middlemen, compromising the standards of the Force. Any officer found engaged in such activities will face severe consequences. The Nigeria Police Force maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards actions that could tarnish its reputation or compromise the administration of justice.

    The release concludes by reaffirming the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. It urges all Nigerians to have faith in the justice system and to report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities, using the already published contacts. The cooperation and vigilance of the public are considered essential in preserving the integrity of the police force and the justice system.

    The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its mission to ensure that justice is served and that the actions of a few individuals do not undermine the trust of the Nigerian people in their law enforcement agencies.

  • Customs FOU Zone A Make Seizure Of Imported Rice, Others Worth Over ₦1.2b, Arrest 9 Suspects In October

    Customs FOU Zone A Make Seizure Of Imported Rice, Others Worth Over ₦1.2b, Arrest 9 Suspects In October


    AC Adewale Egunjobi
    …As Comptroller Ejibunu vows to make remaining 2023 tough for smugglers

    In a significant operation aimed at curbing illegal activities and safeguarding the nation’s economy, the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service has announced the seizure of a substantial cache of items. These 14,574 seizures, valued at N1,241,777,700 in duty paid value, includes 17 vehicles, foreign parboiled rice, Indian hemp, and other illicit goods.

    Acting Controller of the FOU Zone A, Hussein Ejibunu, disclosed these findings during a press briefing held in Lagos on Tuesday. The operation’s primary goal is to prevent revenue loss due to various infractions such as under-valuation, under-payments, and incorrect classification. Notably, the unit successfully collected N115,456,534.94 following the issuance of demand notices to defaulters.

    Ejibunu provided a detailed breakdown of the seized items, emphasizing the magnitude of their efforts. “We were able to seize a total of 7,381 units of 50kg foreign parboiled rice from smugglers, equivalent to nearly thirteen trailer loads of rice,” he revealed.

    Additionally, the customs unit confiscated seventeen vehicles from smugglers attempting to evade duty payments.

    The Acting Controller further noted the interception of 593 jerrycans, totaling 14,825 liters of premium motor spirit (petrol). Due to the volatile nature of this product, it was safely disposed of in accordance with established procedures.

    Other seizures included 657 pieces of used tires, 167 parcels of Indian hemp (equivalent to 202 kilograms), 39 bales of second-hand clothing, 100 packs of tomato ketchup, 4 units of used motorcycles, 600 cartons of GIV soap, and 730 sacks of hide and skin concealed in a 1×40 container, totaling 5,033 pieces.

    Ejibunu called on well-meaning and patriotic Nigerians to continue supporting the FOU Zone ‘A’ with credible information that can aid in the fight against economic sabotage. The Acting Controller emphasized that their commitment to tackling smuggling and illegal activities remains unwavering.

    Nine suspects have been arrested in connection with these seizures, with the dedicated efforts of seizing officers were AC Adewale Egunjobi and SC Johnzmaco Akabuisi were instrumental in this operation.

    Ejibunu highlighted the importance of cooperation and synergy in combating such activities, reinforcing the unit’s determination to make life difficult for smugglers during the upcoming yuletide season and beyond.

    He also lauded the Intelligence Unit of the Command for their excellent work, emphasizing the importance of consuming local products to strengthen the nation’s economy.

    The FOU Zone ‘A’ remains resolute in its mission to protect Nigeria’s economic interests and ensure that the law is upheld.

  • Unity Bank MD Tasks Students On World Savings Day Training

    Unity Bank MD Tasks Students On World Savings Day Training

    The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Unity Bank Plc, Mrs Tomi Somefun has charged parents to take greater responsibility in supporting early child adoption of Banking and savings culture as the bedrock for forging sustainable wealth creation for Nigerian Child.

    Mrs. Titilayo Abraham, the representative of the MD/CEO of Unity Bank Plc, Mrs. Tomi. Somefun facilitating a financial literacy training at Kabayi Secondary School, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, as part of the activities to mark 2023 World Savings Day

    Somefun gave the charge while facilitating training for students of Kabayi Secondary School, Mararaba, Nasarawa State as a part of activities to mark this year’s World Savings Day.

    “The government and parents must make it a priority to start nurturing Nigerian Child for financial responsibility, savings culture and investment, This is the best approach to raising a generation of financially literate society with individuals who are disciplined, wealth creators to drive social and economic changes,” Somefun said.

    Some Unity Bank representatives and a cross section of the participants of the World Savings Day training

    Represented by the Group Head, Customer Engagement, Unity Bank Plc, Mrs. Titilayo Abraham, Mrs. Somefun also advocated for government-backed initiatives that aim to encourage parents to commit to inculcating a savings culture in their children.

    She trained the students on the importance of savings and how to cultivate good financial habits that will lead to a rewarding and financially secure future.

    A cross section of participant of World Savings Day training at Ted Spectacular School, Barnawa Kaduna.

    The training, which was aimed at imparting the skills and knowledge of savings among the students, was also held across 31 other secondary schools across Nigeria, with Unity Bank’s representatives facilitating the training aimed at encouraging students to embrace savings culture from an early age.

    World Savings Day is celebrated on October 31 every year and it is intended to promote the importance of savings while increasing public awareness on the importance of savings.

    This year’s World Savings Day, observed on October 31st, 2023 was themed “Conquer your Tomorrow” to emphasize the role of savings in a financially secure future.

    Some of the participants of World Savings Day training at Cedars Schools, Awka

    In Nigeria, the Central Bank of Nigeria, Banker’s Committee and Money Deposit Banks in concert with Junior Achievement Nigeria, coordinates the activities for World Savings Day to engage the participation of Pupils and Students across primary and secondary schools nationwide.

  • Navy Ship BEECROFT Thwarts Stowaway Attempt On Container Vessel NATAL

    Navy Ship BEECROFT Thwarts Stowaway Attempt On Container Vessel NATAL


    The Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT’s patrol team has once again demonstrated its commitment to maritime security by successfully preventing eight stowaways from embarking on an illegal voyage aboard the Container Vessel NATAL, which was en route to Abidjan.

    In a display of remarkable vigilance, the patrol team boarded the vessel at Lagos Anchorage on November 3, 2023, at approximately 0840 hours, following reliable intelligence.

    The team, under the leadership of Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, Commander NNS BEECROFT, took swift and precise action to apprehend the eight stowaways who had concealed themselves inside the vessel’s rudder compartment. Their intervention ensured that the individuals were not subjected to life-threatening conditions during the extended voyage or exposed to other security risks associated with unauthorized access to such facilities.

    The individuals were identified as follows: “Jerry Benjamin 22 years old, Ben Tony 19 years old, Victory Ekemele 16 years old, Ike Destiny, 17 years old, all hailing from Delta state, Ebuka Solomon 25 years old, Christian Eze 26 years old both originating from Enugu state, James Vincent, 25 years old, from Edo state, David Abamiyo 27 years old from Ondo state”

    In accordance with established protocols, the stowaways were seamlessly handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) for further necessary actions.

    This successful operation reflects the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Navy in carrying out its constitutional role and underscores the dedication of the Nigerian Navy under the esteemed leadership of Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff. Their focus on ensuring a secure maritime environment contributes to creating a conducive atmosphere for legitimate business operations, which, in turn, fosters the economic prosperity of the nation.

  • Inspector General of Police Redeploys CP Mohammed Barde Ahead of Imo Gubernatorial Election

    Inspector General of Police Redeploys CP Mohammed Barde Ahead of Imo Gubernatorial Election

    In anticipation of the upcoming gubernatorial election in Imo state, scheduled for November 11, 2023, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has made a strategic decision to redeploy the Commissioner of Police (CP) Mohammed Barde from his current post in the state to the Force Headquarters for a special duty assignment.

    This pivotal development underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Police Force to maintain the highest standards of impartiality and lawfulness throughout the electoral proceedings. It is essential to clarify that the redeployment of CP Mohammed Barde should not be construed as an indictment of his performance, but rather as a part of a broader strategy to enhance security measures, enhance transparency, and safeguard the integrity of the electoral security management.

    The IGP has made it abundantly clear that his primary objective is to provide a secure environment for all participants in the electoral process, including political parties, candidates, and the general public. The police force, along with other security agencies, is committed to ensuring that all stakeholders cooperate and adhere to the law, thereby fostering a smooth and successful election while preserving the democratic principles that underpin our nation.

    This move signifies the dedication of the Nigerian Police Force to promoting peace, security, and the sanctity of the rule of law. It is a proactive measure aimed at reassuring the public and political actors of the force’s commitment to delivering a free, fair, and credible electoral process in Imo state.

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