Makoko: Sanwo-Olu Administration Suspends Waterfront Demolitions Amid Massive Protests

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Babajide Sanwo-Olu 

LAGOS, NIGERIA — In a landmark concession to public outcry, the Lagos State Government, led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has officially suspended the controversial demolition of the Makoko waterfront community. The decision follows weeks of intense protests from residents, civil rights activists, and socio-cultural organizations who decried the exercise as a "humanitarian crisis."

The suspension was formally announced on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, by the Majority Leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr. Noheem Adams. Speaking on behalf of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, Adams directed all government ministries and task forces to halt activities in Makoko, Oko-Agbon, and Shogunro with immediate effect.

The halt comes after a violent week in the historic fishing settlement. Residents and groups like the Ogu General Assembly (OGA) accused the government of "systematic ethnic cleansing" and "unconscionable gentrification." Critics alleged that the clearances, ostensibly for urban renewal and safety, were actually intended to pave the way for luxury real estate developments frequently dubbed "Periwinkle Island" at the expense of the indigenous Egun people who have inhabited the area since the 17th century.

Related News: 

Ogu Group Alleges "Ethnic Cleansing" and Class Warfare in Lagos after Makoko Demolition

The OGA reported that the forced evictions had led to deaths, mass displacement, and the total destruction of livelihoods for the estimated 300,000 people living in the dense waterfront clusters.

Despite the suspension, the state government maintains that its original intent was driven by public safety. Commissioner for Information Gbenga Omotoso confirmed on Wednesday that the suspension was an "agreement" reached with the House of Assembly to lower tensions.

Previously, the government argued that many structures were built dangerously beneath high-tension power lines or encroached on the Third Mainland Bridge corridor. "No responsible government can allow people to live directly under power cables," Omotoso previously stated, citing the risk of catastrophic fires or electrocution in the lagoon.

In a bid to repair relations with the community, the Assembly has promised full compensation for residents whose homes have already been leveled. The Special Adviser to the Governor on E-GIS and Urban Renewal, Dr. Babatunde Olajide, revealed that the state has earmarked $2 million for the "human-faced" redevelopment of the Makoko waterfront.

"We are working on a large water city project to redevelop the community to international standards," Olajide explained. "Enumeration of affected properties is ongoing, and protecting residents' interests remains our priority."

While the suspension is viewed as a victory, civil society groups like the Youth Rights Campaign (YRC) are calling for deeper accountability. The group has demanded the prosecution of security officers involved in the "violent execution" of evictions and the immediate removal of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh.

Badagry Rep. Sesi Whingan Empowers 100 Households with Solar Energy

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Sesi Whingan and Solar Equipment 

BADAGRY, LAGOS STATE — In a major step toward ending the persistent "blackouts" in the coastal city of Badagry, Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan has launched a transformative renewable energy initiative. The Member of the House of Representatives for the Badagry Federal Constituency distributed 100 high-capacity solar inverter kits to residents on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.

The project, executed in collaboration with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), seeks to provide a sustainable "plan B" for families and small business owners who have long struggled with the erratic power supply from the national grid.

The distribution exercise, held at Hon. Whingan's constituency office in Ibereko, targeted a diverse group of beneficiaries across the three local council areas: Badagry Local Government, Olorunda LCDA, and Badagry West LCDA. This wide reach ensures that rural and peri-urban communities alike benefit from the green energy transition.

Each beneficiary received a robust 1.2KW lithium battery-powered inverter system complete with high-efficiency solar panels. Unlike traditional systems, these units are designed for maximum flexibility they can be recharged via sunlight, the public power grid, or even small generators, ensuring households stay powered regardless of the weather or grid status.

Hon. Whingan, represented at the event by Chief Sedegla Pot-Balogun, emphasized that the project is not just about "lighting up homes" but about economic survival.

"Access to stable electricity is the backbone of modern life," Chief Pot-Balogun stated. "Whether it is a student trying to study at night or a tailor needing to meet a deadline, this intervention directly targets the productivity and well-being of our people."

Officials from the REA, led by Mr. Tanimowo Segun, supervised the technical handover, ensuring that each recipient understood how to maintain the lithium-based systems for long-term use.

For many residents of Badagry, the timing of this solar rollout is critical. With the rising cost of fuel for traditional generators and the continued unreliability of the grid, solar energy offers a "zero-cost" alternative once installed.

Beneficiaries at the ceremony expressed immense gratitude, describing the kits as a "life-changing" gift. Many noted that the 1.2KW capacity is sufficient to power essential appliances like LED bulbs, fans, laptops, and charging stations, which are vital for daily household operations and micro-enterprises.

Unity and Development: Ojelabi Announces New Mini-Stadium for Badagry at Isashi

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Oyefolu Ojelabi 

BADAGRY, LAGOS STATE — In a major move to boost sports infrastructure and regional harmony, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Hon. Cornelius Oyefolu Ojelabi, has announced the construction of a new divisional mini-stadium to be sited at Isashi.

The announcement came during the high-octane grand finale of the maiden Ojelabi Football Competition, held recently at the Lagos State University (LASU) playing field. Ojelabi, a staunch advocate for grassroots development, emphasized that the stadium project is a direct response to the need for modern facilities that can nurture the next generation of football stars in an area famous for producing legends like Sunday Oliseh and Emmanuel Amunike.

Sporting Hotspurs Crowned Champions

The tournament concluded with a thrilling final where Sporting Hotspurs of Ajeromi Ifelodun** defeated the LASU Blazers of Ojo with a 2-0 victory. After a tense, goalless first half, the Hotspurs found their rhythm in the second period, securing the inaugural trophy and a grand prize of ₦1 million.

The runners-up, LASU Blazers, were awarded ₦750,000, while Abiodun Kings of Ato Awori clinched the third-place spot and ₦500,000 after a hard-fought 1-0 win over New Era of Badagry. The competition, which featured 74 teams from across 10 LGAs and LCDAs, was hailed for its zero-violence record over 86 matches.

A Vision for Regional Unity

Addressing a crowd of royal fathers, political leaders, and sports enthusiasts, Hon. Ojelabi stressed that the competition's primary goal was to foster inter-ethnic harmony and peaceful coexistence. He noted that the success of the event proves that sports can be a powerful tool for social stability in the Badagry Division.

"The major objectives were to promote unity and identify talents," Ojelabi stated. "It is gratifying that from the kick-off in November 2025 to this grand finale, not a single incident of violence was recorded."

Expanding the ‘Ojelabi Cup’

Buoyed by the massive community engagement, the APC Chairman pledged ₦20 million for the next edition. He also revealed plans to expand the tournament to cover all local governments and LCDAs within the Lagos West Senatorial District, ensuring more youths have access to talent scouts and professional opportunities.

Furthering the commitment to long-term development, the Local Organising Committee (LOC), led by Mr. Deji Williams, presented a proposal for the Ojelabi Sports Academy (OSA). This academy is envisioned as a multi-sport hub that will provide professional training not just in football, but also in athletics, basketball, volleyball, and tennis.

Strengthening the Badagry Legacy

The decision to site the mini-stadium at Isashi is seen as a strategic step to decentralize sports infrastructure in Lagos. For decades, the Badagry-Ojo axis has been a hotbed for raw football talent, and the new facility is expected to transform the local economy through sports tourism and youth employment.

The event was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including the Lagos State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule, and various members of the State House of Assembly, all of whom praised the initiative as a "blueprint for grassroots empowerment."

Discharged Soldiers Petitions Nigerian Army Over Unpaid Millions and 'Selective' Salaries

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu the Nigeria Chief of Army Staff 

ABUJA — A major welfare crisis is brewing within the Nigerian Army as hundreds of voluntarily discharged soldiers from the Batch B, 2025 cohort have filed a formal petition against the military high command. The ex-personnel are alleging a systemic withholding of their terminal benefits, "discriminatory" salary payments, and the illegal seizure of their discharge certificates.

The petition, addressed to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and dated early February 2026, details a series of administrative failures that have left hundreds of veterans in financial limbo since their official disengagement on November 30, 2025.

Allegations of 'Rank-Based' Discrimination

The most explosive claim in the petition involves an alleged disparity in how final payments were handled. According to the veterans, Warrant Officers and above who retired on the same day received their December 2025 salaries and "scarce skill" allowances. However, those ranked Staff Sergeant and below were reportedly excluded from these payments.

"This disparity raises serious concerns under Section 42 of the 1999 Constitution, which prohibits discriminatory treatment," the petition states. "Military principles of uniformity and equity must apply where personnel share the same discharge date and legal status."

Missing 'MAFA' Upfront Payments and Allowances

The veterans are also demanding the immediate release of the Statutory Three-Month Upfront Payment guaranteed under the Mobilisation, Administration and Finance Arrangement (MAFA). Despite being a standard policy for disengaged personnel, the Batch B group claims they have received neither the upfront cash nor their **Terminal Leave Allowance.

The group argues that these funds are "earned entitlements, not privileges," and that the ongoing delay has caused "undue financial hardship" for families transitioning back to civilian life.

60 Days Without Discharge Certificates

Beyond the financial disputes, the ex-soldiers are accusing the Army of "procedural irregularities" regarding their documentation. Over 60 days after their service ended, many claim they have yet to receive their Discharge Certificates or be invited for final documentation.

This administrative bottleneck has severe real-world consequences, as veterans cannot access their Military Pensions, apply for new jobs, or complete civil documentation without proof of their honorable discharge.

Constitutional Grounding for the Petition

The petitioners have anchored their demands on several legal pillars: The Armed Forces Act (Cap A20 LFN 2004): Governing the welfare and disengagement of personnel.

Section 36 of the Constitution: Guaranteeing the right to a fair hearing and administrative transparency.

Section 14(2)(b): Affirming that the security and welfare of citizens is the primary purpose of government.

The group has sent "Information Copies" of the petition to the Honourable Minister of Defence, the Military Pensions Board (MPB), and the Chief of Personnel Management to ensure the matter receives top-level attention.

Awaiting the Army's Response

The Nigerian Army, which has recently emphasized a "Soldier First" philosophy under its current leadership, has not yet issued a formal statement regarding the Batch B petition. 

In previous instances, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has attributed payment delays to "banking system glitches" rather than deliberate withholding by commanders.

Ogu Group Alleges "Ethnic Cleansing" and Class Warfare in Lagos after Makoko Demolition

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

OGA, Makoko and Babajide Sanwo-Olu 

LAGOS, NIGERIA — The Ogu General Assembly (OGA), a prominent socio-cultural organization representing the Ogu (Egun) people, has issued a scathing condemnation of the ongoing demolitions in the Makoko waterfront community. 

In a formal position paper released on February 2, 2026, the group accused the Lagos State Government of "systematic ethnic cleansing" and "unconscionable gentrification," alleging that the state is targeting Ogu-dominated settlements under the guise of urban renewal.

The crisis, which escalated during the 2025 Christmas holiday, has reportedly displaced thousands and resulted in multiple fatalities, including infants. As the Lagos State House of Assembly intervenes to halt the exercise, the OGA is demanding accountability for what it describes as a humanitarian disaster.

Claims of Ethnic and "Class Cleansing"

The OGA alleges that the demolitions are part of a broader pattern to displace indigenous Ogu populations from prime littoral lands to make way for luxury real estate.

“The indigenous Ogu people are being annihilated,” stated Prof. Ṣenayọn Ọlaoluwa, a member of the OGA Steering Committee, while addressing the Lagos State House of Assembly on February 3, 2026. The group drew direct parallels to the 2017 destruction of Otodogbamẹ, a community of roughly 30,000 residents that was subsequently transformed into the high-end Periwinkle Estate.

The Ogu people, who account for approximately 15% of the indigenous population of Lagos State, have inhabited these waterfronts since the 17th and 18th centuries. The OGA argues that dismantling these communities erases centuries of cultural continuity and destroys the livelihoods of fishing families who supply the bulk of seafood to the Lagos metropolis.

Related News: 

Lagos Government is Carrying out “A Calculated Annihilation” of Ogu People in Deceptive Makoko Demolitions

Ogu General Assembly Honors Late Akran of Badagry, Urges Unity in Succession

The Human Cost: Deaths and Displacement

According  the OGA and civil society reports, the "violent" execution of the demolitions has led to heartbreaking casualties. Reports indicate that Epiphany Kpenassou Adingban, a five-day-old infant, died following tear gas exposure. Another three-week-old baby girl, Morenikeji Amossou, reportedly drowned after her mother slipped into the lagoon while fleeing security operatives.

The group cited the death of 70-year-old Albertine Ojadiklunọ, attributing it to the extreme stress and trauma of losing her home.

As of late January 2026, the OGA claims over 3,000 homes, five schools, two clinics, and four places of worship have been razed.

Displaced residents, including the elderly and newborns, have reportedly been forced to sleep in open-air canoes, exposed to the elements and rising health risks.

Inconsistent Boundaries and "Land Grabbing"

At the heart of the dispute is the scope of the demolition. While the state government initially cited a 30-meter safety setback from high-tension power lines, community leaders and lawyers, including Jiti Ogunye, allege the clearance expanded arbitrarily.

Reports suggest that in some areas, the demolition reached 520 meters inland, affecting zones with no proximity to power infrastructure. The OGA argues this "creeping" expansion confirms that "public safety" is merely a pretext for land grabbing.

Government Response and Assembly Intervention

In response to the mounting pressure, the Lagos State House of Assembly, led by Majority Leader Noheem Adams, ordered an immediate halt to all demolitions in Makoko, Oko-Agbon, and Shogunro on Tuesday.

The state government has attempted to pivot the narrative by announcing a $10 million (approximately ₦15 billion) "Water City" regeneration project. Special Adviser Olajide Babatunde emphasized that the government has "no plan of wiping off Makoko" and that the community is a vital part of Lagos history. He further promised:

Compensation: Verified homeowners will receive palliatives and relocation stipends.

Modernization: The $10 million fund is earmarked for floating structures and shoreline improvements.

Demands for Justice 

The Ogu General Assembly remains skeptical, calling for a permanent cessation of hostilities and a "dignified resettlement plan" that preserves community cohesion. Their demands include:

1. Immediate withdrawal of armed security personnel.

2. Full compensation for property loss and the families of the deceased.

3. A guarantee that the Ogu people will not be displaced for elite luxury developments.

"Lagos State cannot build a megacity on the bodies, blood, and tears of its most vulnerable residents," the OGA concluded.

Trump Vows Legal War Against Trevor Noah After Viral Grammys Epstein Joke

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Trevor Noah and Donald Trump 

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump has reignited his feud with Hollywood, threatening a massive lawsuit against comedian Trevor Noah following a controversial joke during the 68th Annual Grammy Awards. The President took to Truth Social early Monday to blast the ceremony as "virtually unwatchable" and "garbage," specifically targeting Noah’s monologue that linked him to the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The legal threat stems from a quip Noah made while presenting the Song of the Year award to Billie Eilish. Referring to Trump’s long-standing interest in acquiring Greenland, Noah joked:

"That is a Grammy that every artist wants almost as much as Trump wants Greenland, which makes sense… because Epstein’s island is gone, he needs a new one to hang out with Bill Clinton."

In a late-night digital broadside, Trump vehemently denied ever setting foot on Epstein’s private Caribbean island, Little Saint James. "Noah said, INCORRECTLY about me, that Donald Trump and Bill Clinton spent time on Epstein Island," Trump wrote, adding that while he "can’t speak for Bill," he himself has never been "anywhere close" to the location.

Labeling the South African comedian a "total loser" and a "talentless dope," Trump warned that his legal team would be seeking "plenty of money" in damages. He even compared Noah to late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, whom he frequently mocks for "low ratings."

The timing of the joke is particularly sensitive. Just days before the ceremony, the Justice Department released over three million pages of investigative files related to the Epstein case. While the documents contain thousands of references to various high-profile figures including both Trump and Clinton Trump has maintained that his past association with Epstein ended long before the financier's criminal convictions.

During the broadcast, Noah seemed unfazed by the potential fallout. Acknowledging the audience's audible gasps, he reminded the crowd that 2026 marks his sixth and final year as the host. "I told you it's my last year! What are you going to do about it?" he teased from the stage.

The conflict with Noah was just one flashpoint in an evening defined by heavy political messaging. Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny, who made history as the first Spanish-language artist to win Album of the Year, used his platform to deliver a searing critique of federal immigration policies.

"Before I say thanks to God, I’m gonna say: ICE out!" the rapper declared during his acceptance speech, referencing calls to abolish or reform Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Throughout the night, several other artists, including Billie Eilish and Kendrick Lamar, were seen wearing "ICE out" pins or making statements against the current administration's border crackdowns.

The 2026 Grammys also marked a significant turning point for the industry, as it was the final year the awards were broadcast by CBS. Following the merger of Paramount and Skydance Media, analysts have noted a shift in the network's editorial direction under new leadership. Trump appeared to cheer this transition on social media, suggesting CBS was "lucky" to be rid of the programming.

Ikorodu Monarchs Back Badagry’s Samuel Ajose for Lagos Governor 2027

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Samuel Ajose andHRM Oba Abd’Kabir Adewale Shotobi 

IKORODU, LAGOS STATE — In a historic bridge-building exercise, the traditional rulers of Ikorodu Division have formally "adopted" Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose (SMA), a prominent governorship aspirant from the Badagry Federation, as their "son." 

The endorsement took place during a high-profile courtesy visit to the palace of the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, HRM Oba Abd’Kabir Adewale Shotobi, on Friday, January 31, 2026.

The visit, which brought together first-class monarchs from across the Ikorodu Division, was described by the delegation as a strategic engagement to foster unity between the different divisions of Lagos State. While the 2027 governorship election remains on the horizon, the monarchs emphasized that the meeting was centered on the principles of equity, transparency, and inclusive governance for all Lagosians.

A Royal Welcome and the ‘IBILE’ Bond

Receiving the delegation, Oba Shotobi referenced his long-standing relationship with the late Akran of Badagry, expressing his condolences to the people of the Badagry Federation. In a profound gesture of solidarity, the Ayangburen declared, "We have adopted you as our son in Ikorodu," a statement that underscores the growing alliance between the Ikorodu and Badagry divisions.

The monarch noted that Lagos must continue to adhere to its IBILE principles an acronym representing the five administrative divisions: Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos [Eko], and Epe. He stressed that the state’s leadership should reflect the diversity of these regions, ensuring that no single division is left behind in the quest for development.

 Shared History and Vision for 2027

Speaking on behalf of the gathered traditional rulers, the Ranodu of Imota Kingdom, HRM Oba Mudashiru Ajibade Bakare Agoro, highlighted the historical and developmental ties between Ikorodu and Badagry. He noted that a leader emerging from either division would be uniquely positioned to understand the needs of underserved communities.

"All of us present here today are indigenes of Lagos State... we have accepted you," Oba Agoro stated, signaling a departure from traditional divisional silos in favor of a more unified political front.

Dr. Ajose’s Mission: Engagement, Not Campaigning

Responding to the royal fathers, Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose clarified that the visit was not an official campaign launch but a vital step in his "consultation tour" of traditional institutions. As a business expert and native of Badagry, Ajose explained that his aspiration is rooted in a desire to ensure that all parts of the state have a voice in the Alausa Government House.

"Our visit today is intended for engagement and awareness," Dr. Ajose said. "It is to formally introduce myself to the royal fathers who are the custodians of our culture and stakeholders in the Ikorodu Division."

Breaking the ‘Badagry Capacity’ Myth

The delegation included several political heavyweights, including former federal lawmaker Hon. Bamgbose Huntoyon. Huntoyon introduced Dr. Ajose as an expert in business and a true son of the soil, noting that the governorship bid was partly inspired by public discourse questioning whether Badagry could produce a governor for the state.

The SMA Campaign Team, led by Dr. Mesewaku and Director-General Mr. Ahmed Salami, has signaled that this visit is just the beginning. The team plans to visit traditional rulers in the Ikeja, Epe, and Lagos Island divisions to further their message of "Total Inclusion."

A Commitment to Stability and Continuity

During the deliberations, the monarchs also expressed their unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, crediting his leadership with the stability Lagos has enjoyed over the decades. 

They maintained that any candidate seeking to lead Lagos must be prepared to build upon this foundation while ensuring that "equity and transparency" remain the hallmarks of their administration.

IKORODU, LAGOS STATE — In a historic bridge-building exercise, the traditional rulers of Ikorodu Division have formally "adopted" Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose (SMA), a prominent governorship aspirant from the Badagry Federation, as their "son." 

The endorsement took place during a high-profile courtesy visit to the palace of the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, HRM Oba Abd’Kabir Adewale Shotobi, on Friday, January 31, 2026.

The visit, which brought together first-class monarchs from across the Ikorodu Division, was described by the delegation as a strategic engagement to foster unity between the different divisions of Lagos State. While the 2027 governorship election remains on the horizon, the monarchs emphasized that the meeting was centered on the principles of equity, transparency, and inclusive governance for all Lagosians.

A Royal Welcome and the ‘IBILE’ Bond

Receiving the delegation, Oba Shotobi referenced his long-standing relationship with the late Akran of Badagry, expressing his condolences to the people of the Badagry Federation. In a profound gesture of solidarity, the Ayangburen declared, "We have adopted you as our son in Ikorodu," a statement that underscores the growing alliance between the Ikorodu and Badagry divisions.

The monarch noted that Lagos must continue to adhere to its IBILE principles an acronym representing the five administrative divisions: Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos [Eko], and Epe. He stressed that the state’s leadership should reflect the diversity of these regions, ensuring that no single division is left behind in the quest for development.

 Shared History and Vision for 2027

Speaking on behalf of the gathered traditional rulers, the Ranodu of Imota Kingdom, HRM Oba Mudashiru Ajibade Bakare Agoro, highlighted the historical and developmental ties between Ikorodu and Badagry. He noted that a leader emerging from either division would be uniquely positioned to understand the needs of underserved communities.

"All of us present here today are indigenes of Lagos State... we have accepted you," Oba Agoro stated, signaling a departure from traditional divisional silos in favor of a more unified political front.

Dr. Ajose’s Mission: Engagement, Not Campaigning

Responding to the royal fathers, Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose clarified that the visit was not an official campaign launch but a vital step in his "consultation tour" of traditional institutions. As a business expert and native of Badagry, Ajose explained that his aspiration is rooted in a desire to ensure that all parts of the state have a voice in the Alausa Government House.

"Our visit today is intended for engagement and awareness," Dr. Ajose said. "It is to formally introduce myself to the royal fathers who are the custodians of our culture and stakeholders in the Ikorodu Division."

Breaking the ‘Badagry Capacity’ Myth

The delegation included several political heavyweights, including former federal lawmaker Hon. Bamgbose Huntoyon. Huntoyon introduced Dr. Ajose as an expert in business and a true son of the soil, noting that the governorship bid was partly inspired by public discourse questioning whether Badagry could produce a governor for the state.

The SMA Campaign Team, led by Dr. Mesewaku and Director-General Mr. Ahmed Salami, has signaled that this visit is just the beginning. The team plans to visit traditional rulers in the Ikeja, Epe, and Lagos Island divisions to further their message of "Total Inclusion."

A Commitment to Stability and Continuity

During the deliberations, the monarchs also expressed their unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, crediting his leadership with the stability Lagos has enjoyed over the decades. 

They maintained that any candidate seeking to lead Lagos must be prepared to build upon this foundation while ensuring that "equity and transparency" remain the hallmarks of their administration.