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.

LASUED: Promotion Scandals and Alleged Administrative Tyranny Rocks Lagos University

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

LASUED 

OTTO-IJANIKIN, LAGOS — A deep-seated crisis is brewing at the Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), as staff members and whistleblowers raise the alarm over alleged systemic corruption, "promotion-for-cronies," and the victimization of senior academics. The institution, led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Bidemi Balikis Lafiaji-Okuneye, is being accused of devolving into a state of "administrative lawlessness."

Internal reports suggest that while deserving veteran staff remain professionally stagnated, a select group of "loyalists" are being fast-tracked through salary grade levels in direct violation of established university statutes and the civil service rulebook.

The most shocking allegations involve the meteoric rise of individuals described as "stooges" of the management. Sources within the university, speaking on the condition of anonymity for fear of professional retribution, revealed instances of unprecedented grade-level jumps.

One specific case involves a staff member in the catering unit, reportedly transferred from Lagos State University (LASU), who was allegedly catapulted from Grade Level 3 to Level 13 in just three years a progression that typically takes decades of service, according to a report by SaharaReporters. 

"We have individuals moving from Level 8 to 13 without mandatory Council approval or even official confirmation letters," a source disclosed. "These people are placed in strategic units like the Center for Diploma Studies to act as the 'eyes and ears' of the VC."

The disparity in treatment has created a toxic work environment. While the inner circle enjoys rapid advancement, the broader workforce is reportedly suffering from financial neglect.

SaharaReporters also highlighted: Arrears Owed: Staff promoted in 2023 are allegedly still waiting for nine months of promotion arrears. Frozen Career Paths: Academic staff due for elevation to the professorial cadre in 2024 and 2025 claim their applications are being deliberately suppressed.

Critics argue that the Governing Council, which is supposed to act as a check on executive power, has been effectively sidelined or compromised. There are growing whispers that council members are "cashing out" from the system, rendering them unable or unwilling to challenge the Vice-Chancellor’s decisions.

Efforts to resolve the crisis through official channels have reportedly proved futile. Staff members claim that appeals to the Lagos State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr. Tolani Sule, have resulted in "pleas" rather than firm disciplinary actions. This has led to a perception among the workforce that the Ministry’s oversight has been entirely compromised.

"It is a display of gross incompetence," one senior staffer remarked. "In LASUED today, the Vice-Chancellor acts as the Management, the Council, and the Commissioner all in one."

With tensions at a breaking point, frustrated workers are now calling on the Visitor of the University, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to save the institution from imminent collapse. The staff are demanding:

The immediate inauguration of an independent visitation panel. A forensic audit of the university’s recent promotion exercises. An investigation into the financial dealings of the Governing Council.

As of press time, repeated attempts to reach Prof. Lafiaji-Okuneye by SaharaReporters for a response to these allegations have been unsuccessful, as calls to her official mobile line went unanswered.

Makoko Demolition Crisis: Lagos Assembly To Meet Community Leaders on Tuesday

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Lagos State Assembly and Demolition in 

LAGOS, Nigeria — In a critical move to address the escalating humanitarian crisis at the Makoko waterfront, the Lagos State House of Assembly has officially invited community leaders to a high-stakes meeting this Tuesday, February 3, 2026.

The invitation follows weeks of outcry and a formal petition submitted by residents who claim a government demolition exercise has spiraled out of control, leaving thousands homeless and resulting in reported fatalities.

According to a letter signed by the Clerk of the House, Olalekan Onafeko, the Committee on Rules and Business will meet with community representatives at 10:00 a.m. at the Assembly Complex in Alausa, Ikeja.

The community leaders have been directed to bring all relevant documents to the Chamber’s Conference Room to facilitate "fruitful deliberations." This meeting represents the first formal window for dialogue after months of sustained unrest in one of the world’s most famous floating settlements.

The core of the community’s grievance lies in a perceived "betrayal" regarding the scope of the demolition. Community chief Francis Samson alleged that while the initial agreement with the state government was to clear structures within 30 metres of high-tension power lines for safety, the bulldozers didn't stop there.

"When the government came, we expected them to clear the 30 metres... but the demolition continued," Samson told PUNCH Metro. "Where they eventually stopped is about 520 metres. The waterfront communities have been destroyed."

Residents claim the expanded demolition zone has wiped out schools, clinics, and ancestral homes that were nowhere near the power line setbacks.

The human cost of the exercise has been devastating. With their wooden homes splintered, many displaced residents primarily fishermen have resorted to living inside boats on the lagoon. Others are squatting in overcrowded structures that have yet to be reached by the task force.

The community reports a harrowing toll: Fatalities: Five deaths have been reported, including three children. 

A local carpenter, Papa Eve Amossou, shared the heartbreaking story of losing his three-week-old daughter. His wife reportedly jumped into the lagoon to escape tear gas fired by security forces; though rescued, the infant was confirmed dead at the hospital. As a fishing-dependent community, the displacement has effectively cut off the residents' primary source of income.

As they head to Alausa on Tuesday, community leaders like Oluwo Felix Fasinu are demanding clarity.

Clear Boundaries: A definitive demarcation of where residents can and cannot build.

Resettlement: If relocation is mandatory, residents are pleading for a riverside location that allows them to continue their fishing profession.

Compensation: Redress for structures destroyed outside the originally agreed-upon 30-metre safety zone.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Strategy, and Security, Stephen Ogundipe, has yet to comment on the developing situation.

Badagry Local Government Denies ₦200 Daily POS Levy: "It Is Unauthorized and Misleading"

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

POS operator used to illustrate the story 

BADAGRY, LAGOS STATE — The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, has officially debunked viral reports suggesting that Point of Sale (POS) operators in the area would be subject to a new daily levy of ₦200. The council describes the claims as unauthorized, stressing that no such directive was ever issued by the local administration.

In a press statement released on Monday, February 2, 2026, through his Chief Press Secretary, Augustin Kriko, Hon. Hunpe addressed the concerns raised by POS operators. The rumors had gained traction following a letter from a representative of the operators, Arebi Oluranti Zechariah, which expressed deep worry over the potential financial burden on small businesses.

Hon. Hunpe was categorical in his denial, stating that the information did not originate from any official council communication channel. "For the avoidance of doubt, I wish to categorically state that no such levy emanated from, nor was it authorized by, the Badagry Local Government, the Office of the Chairman, or the Revenue Committee," the Chairman noted.

He further clarified that no circular or internal approval had been signed regarding a daily fee for POS businesses. He urged the public and the business community to disregard any claims of an impending ₦200 charge, labeling the information as "misleading."

The Chairman highlighted that his administration is committed to fair and lawful revenue collection, specifically aligning with the Nigeria Tax Act 2025. Hon. Hunpe recently participated in the Tax Reform Summit 2025: The Lagos Implementation Roadmap, where the focus was on eliminating multiple taxation and harmonizing levies across the state.

"Our commitment is to people-centered revenue administration," Hunpe said. "We are working strictly within constitutional frameworks to ensure that our local businesses are supported rather than stifled by illegal or excessive fees."

To ensure transparency and professionalism in tax collection, the local government has constituted a new Revenue Committee. The team is headed by Mr. Sunday Agosu, an experienced retired council treasurer, and includes other qualified professionals who understand the delicate balance of local taxation.

Hon. Hunpe, drawing on his experience as a former federal lawmaker, emphasized that any new levy must undergo a rigorous legislative process. This includes public engagement with community leaders and representatives of relevant trade associations before any policy is implemented.

The Chairman pointed out the irony of the rumored levy, noting that his administration has been actively working to expand the POS sector. During his first 100 days in office, the local government empowered 100 citizens with POS machines and start-up capital to promote financial inclusion.

"It would be insensitive and counterproductive for the same administration to introduce or impose any levy that would undermine their sustainability or threaten their means of livelihood," Hunpe argued. He reiterated that his administration views POS operators as vital partners in providing essential services to underserved areas of Badagry.

Badagry Local Government continues to value the role of small-scale financial services in supporting the local economy. The council’s stance is that revenue administration should foster growth, not hinder it. By maintaining an open-door policy for consultation, the government aims to build a collaborative environment for all legitimate enterprises.

Gen. Muhoozi’s Social Media Blunders Ignite Tensions Over Bobi Wine Hunt

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

General Muhoozi Kainerugaba

The political landscape in Uganda shifted from the streets to the digital frontlines this week as General Muhoozi Kainerugaba sparked a diplomatic firestorm. 

On Friday, the General who serves as the president’s presumptive heir shocked observers by announcing on social media that the Ugandan army would suspend all cooperation with the U.S. Embassy in Kampala.

However, in a move that has become a hallmark of his online presence, Muhoozi deleted the post just an hour later, claiming he had been "fed with wrong information." This erratic digital diplomacy has left international observers wary and local tensions at a breaking point.

Meanwhile, the man at the center of the military’s crosshairs, Bobi Wine (Robert Kyagulanyi), remains in hiding following a presidential election he describes as "blatant theft." Despite President Yoweri Museveni securing a seventh term, Wine’s influence appears undiminished. 

From an undisclosed location, Wine taunted the military on Monday, stating, "The whole army is looking for one person but they have failed to find me. That means they’re not as strong as they tell you." He further urged his followers to resist through all legal means, challenging the government's branding of his movement as an "outlaw" organization.

The rhetoric from the Museveni camp has turned increasingly violent. General Muhoozi recently boasted about his forces killing 30 supporters and arresting 2,000 others since the election, even issuing a direct threat to "hunt down and kill" Wine. 

While Muhoozi took responsibility for a recent raid on Wine’s home an event Wine's wife says resulted in her assault he continues to dismiss the opposition leader with derogatory labels, calling him a "baboon" and a "terrorist." These inflammatory comments, often posted and then deleted, have raised serious concerns regarding the professional conduct of the military leadership.

As the hunt for Bobi Wine intensifies, the atmosphere in Uganda remains incredibly fragile. Civil society groups and citizens fear that any direct physical harm to Wine could serve as a flashpoint for widespread civil unrest. With the General’s "tweet-and-delete" strategy creating a sense of instability at the highest levels of command, the international community is closely watching to see if the war of words will escalate into further bloodshed on the ground.