Light at Last: Lagos Governor Set to Commission Badagry West Re-Electrification After 6-Year Blackout

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Babajide Sanwo-Olu and electric tower

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, is scheduled to visit the Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA) on Wednesday,  March 11, 2026. 

The Governor’s mission is to officially commission a landmark re-electrification project designed to restore power to several border communities that have been plunged in darkness for over six consecutive years.

The historic event will be hosted by the Executive Chairman of Badagry West LCDA, Hon. Rauf Ibrahim Kayode (Yemaren). Chairman Yemaren, alongside top state cabinet members and traditional rulers, is prepared to receive the Governor for a ceremony that many residents believe marks the true "independence day" for the local economy.

This ambitious electrification project was executed by the Lagos State Government through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, in a strategic partnership with the **Lagos State Electrification Agency (LASEA). The technical scope of the project is a marvel of local engineering, specifically designed to withstand the unique coastal geography of the Badagry corridor.

Central to the project is the construction of three massive electrical distribution towers that cross the Gbaji Lagoon. This critical infrastructure serves as the backbone for the power supply, linking the mainland grid to the coastal communities. Furthermore, the project involved the extensive rehabilitation of dilapidated power lines and poles along the Gbaji–Seme and Owode–Apa axes.

The significance of this commissioning cannot be overstated. For the past six years, the absence of electricity has acted as a stranglehold on the local economy. Small-scale businesses the lifeblood of Badagry West have crumbled under the prohibitive costs of fueling generators, with many artisans and entrepreneurs forced to close shop entirely.

During this "dark era," the lack of power forced a peculiar and unsustainable dependence on the neighboring Republic of Benin. Residents were often forced to cross the border for basic services, while the local youth, deprived of legitimate economic engagement, increasingly found themselves lured into illegal cross-border activities. This project is expected to reverse that trend instantly.

The scale of the intervention is breathtaking. The project spans a 37.7-kilometer power distribution network, weaving through the heart of the border communities. To ensure stable voltage and prevent the "low current" issues of the past, the Lagos State Government has installed 51 modern distribution transformer substations at strategic intervals.

This infrastructure is not just about lighting up homes; it is a direct investment in the industrial potential of Badagry West. With 51 new substations, the region is now equipped to handle the energy demands of processing plants, cold rooms for the fishing industry, and large-scale hospitality ventures.

While the executive arm provided the funding, community leaders have pointed to the relentless advocacy of Hon. Solomon Bonu Saanu as the catalyst for the project. As the Member representing Badagry Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly and Chairman of the House Committee on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Bonu made the re-electrification of his constituency a top priority.

His role in facilitating state-level intervention has drawn widespread commendation from youth groups and community elders alike. Many residents believe that by restoring power, Hon. Bonu has effectively unlocked the "Tourism Gateway" of Lagos, allowing the ancient town to finally compete as a world-class destination.

Speaking ahead of the Governor’s arrival, Chairman Yemaren described the upcoming commissioning as a "defining milestone" for his administration and the people of the LCDA. He noted that solving the electricity crisis was the single most requested intervention from his constituents since he took office.

"This project represents a major step toward solving the long-standing electricity challenges faced by our coastal communities," Yemaren stated. He emphasized that the return of power would act as a "stimulus package" for local traders, barbers, tailors, and the burgeoning tech-savvy youth population in the area.

Security experts have also noted that the re-electrification will have a secondary, yet vital, benefit: improved safety. Well-lit streets and communities are naturally less conducive to the "illegal activities" that flourished during the six-year blackout. The return of power is expected to aid security agencies in monitoring the border regions more effectively.

The commissioning ceremony is expected to be a "who’s who" of Lagos politics and traditional leadership. High-ranking government officials, paramount rulers from across the Badagry Division, and political stakeholders are expected to converge at the Gbaji-Seme axis to witness the symbolic "switching on" of the lights.

Badagry Chairman Inaugurates Cabinet Member to Drive "Greater Badagry Rising" Agenda

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, fMHR, has officially inaugurated his Executive Cabinet. The high-profile ceremony, held amidst cheers from party faithful and residents, marks a definitive shift toward result-oriented governance in one of Lagos State’s most historic corridors.

Addressing the newly appointed officials, Hon. Hunpe didn't mince words. He characterized the appointments not as political rewards, but as a "call to service." Under his "Greater Badagry Rising Agenda," the Chairman emphasized that the next phase of his administration will be defined by tangible dividends of democracy delivered across all ten wards of the local government.

One of the highlights of the Chairman’s address was the emphasis on the democratic nature of the appointments. Hon. Hunpe revealed that the selection of the Secretary to the Local Government (SLG), Supervisors, and Special Advisers followed a transparent, inclusive process within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

"The nomination of our Executive Cabinet members was not done in secrecy," Hunpe declared. "Every ward had the opportunity to nominate credible candidates, ensuring that the final list reflects the collective voice of Badagry." This grassroots approach aims to ensure that every corner of the local government feels represented at the decision-making table.

The Chairman issued a clear warning to the new team members: complacency will not be tolerated. He noted that the challenges facing the residents require active partners rather than "passengers." By urging them to take full ownership of their portfolios, he set a high bar for innovation and accountability.

"Your appointment is not a trophy to display but a tool to deploy in solving the challenges facing our people," Hunpe stated. He challenged the cabinet to move beyond the four walls of their offices and engage directly with the residents to understand their evolving needs.

The legal framework for the new administration was solidified as the Legal Officer, Kehinde Popoola, administered the oath of office. The leadership structure sees Mr. Benjamin Adagba stepping in as the Secretary to the Local Government (SLG), while Mr. Taiwo Towolawi takes on the pivotal role of Chief of Staff.

The supervisory roles cover a wide spectrum of governance, from Mr. Kayode Segrenu (Political Affairs) and Mr. Ajape Kamorudeen (Works & Infrastructure) to Prince Akran Seyon (Tourism & Culture). The inclusion of portfolios like Mr. Hunyinsode Moses (ICT & Innovations) and Alhaja Risikat Padonu-Hassan (Senior Citizens & Social Services) reflects a modern, multi-generational approach to local governance.

With 2026 being a critical year for digital transformation, the appointment of an ICT and Innovations supervisor highlights Hon. Hunpe’s vision to modernize Badagry. This aligns with his charge to the cabinet to "introduce innovative ideas" that can streamline revenue collection and improve public service delivery.

Furthermore, the appointment of Alhaja Bamidele Layode over Market & Revenue suggests a strategic focus on boosting the local economy. In an era where local governments must look inward for sustainability, the Hunpe administration is clearly positioning itself to maximize its economic potential.

In a poignant moment during the ceremony, Hon. Hunpe appealed to political leaders within the region to prioritize unity. He argued that energy wasted on internal friction is energy stolen from the development of the town. "When we are united, the people win; when we are divided, everyone loses," he noted, echoing the sentiments of many who wish to see Badagry flourish as a tourism and trade hub.

The Council Manager, Mrs. Mary Abosede Olusanya, lauded the Chairman’s inclusive governance style. She reminded the appointees that the civil service and the political arm must work in lockstep to achieve the administration’s goals. Her remarks underscored the necessity of collaborative effort in executing the "Greater Badagry Rising" roadmap.

The administration also inaugurated a large team of non-cabinet Special Advisers to provide niche expertise. These include Mr. Sejiro Ekundayo (People With Disability), Mr. Sottin Christopher (Investment & Wealth Creation), and Mr. Moses Opa (Information). This diverse advisory body ensures that marginalized groups and specialized sectors have a direct line to the Chairman’s office.

The significance of the event was reflected in the caliber of attendees. Notable figures present included Hon. Bonu Saanu Solomon (Lagos State House of Assembly), and representatives for the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Ibrahim Layode. Their presence signaled a strong alignment between the local government and the state-level leadership.

Also in attendance were APC Apex leaders led by Chief M.Z. Ogunbiyi and the APC Badagry LGA Chairman, Hon. Gafar Meyon. Traditional rulers and well-wishers added a touch of cultural prestige to the event, reinforcing the community’s backing of the new cabinet.

As the ceremony concluded, the expectations of the Badagry residents are at an all-time high. With a full cabinet now in place, the "Greater Badagry Rising" agenda has moved from a vision on paper to an active mission on the ground.

The primary focus now shifts to the first 100 days of this new cabinet. Residents are eager to see how the diverse team will tackle infrastructure, youth unemployment, and the preservation of Badagry’s unique cultural heritage.

Army Slams SaharaReporters as ISWAP Video Confirms Deadly Base Attacks

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Attacked Nigeria military base and SaharaReporters

MAIDUGURI — A fierce war of words has erupted between the Nigerian military and the media outlet SaharaReporters, as the army authorities launch what has been described as a "malicious campaign" to discredit the platform and its founder, Omoyele Sowore.

The dispute centers on the reporting of a catastrophic week in Borno State, where over 100 Nigerian soldiers are believed to have been killed in a series of coordinated strikes by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). While the military initially dismissed the reports as "exaggerated" and "distorted," new visual evidence released by the insurgents appears to corroborate the grim details provided by the newspaper.

The friction intensified after SaharaReporters exclusively reported that simultaneous attacks on four military bases in Konduga, Mainok, Jakana, and Marte on March 5 and 6, 2026, resulted in over 40 soldiers dead.

In a rebuttal, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for Operation Hadin Kai, claimed the reports ignored the "gallant efforts" of troops and insisted that no bases were overrun. However, the narrative shifted on Monday when ISWAP released a lengthy propaganda video showing:

Indiscriminate Fire: Heavily armed militants breaching the perimeter of Nigerian military camps.

Large Caches of Looted Arms: Dozens of seized military vehicles, motorcycles, and thousands of rounds of ammunition being inventoried by the terrorists.

Arson: Visual proof of military gun trucks and armored tanks being set ablaze within the camps.

Despite official attempts to downplay the losses, the human cost of the last seven days has become impossible to ignore. Among the high-ranking officers confirmed killed in action are:

Lt. Col. SI Iliyasu: Commanding Officer, 222 Battalion (killed in Konduga).

Lt. Col. Umar Farouq: Commanding Officer, 101 Battalion (killed in Kukawa).

Major Ibrahim Mairiga and Major Segun Amusan.

Sources within the frontline units expressed frustration with the top brass, alleging that the military is "deceiving the public" while failing to provide air support during these prolonged assaults. "Over 50 soldiers have been buried so far, and dozens remain unaccounted for in the bushes," a military source told reporters.

In a troubling twist, insiders have alleged that top military officers have engaged social media influencers to embark on a smear campaign against Omoyele Sowore and SaharaReporters. The campaign reportedly aims to malign the credibility of the outlet to prevent further leaks regarding the true state of the insurgency.

"They are using paid voices to say we are demoralizing the troops, but the truth is the troops are demoralized by the lack of equipment and the silence of the authorities when our colleagues fall," a source noted.

The conflict, which has claimed over 100,000 lives since its inception, appears to be entering a more lethal phase. Reports from Sambisa Forest and Ngoshe indicate that the terrorists have consolidated their grip on several local government areas, utilizing a "clearance" strategy that involves simultaneous strikes on multiple fronts to stretch military resources thin.

As of Tuesday morning, the Nigerian Army has yet to issue a fresh statement regarding the ISWAP video or the mounting list of fallen senior officers.

Boko Haram Terrorists Overrun Military Base, Killing Soldiers and Civilians

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

KUKAWA — A wave of coordinated terror has once again swept through Borno State as suspected Boko Haram terrorists launched a devastating assault on a military base and civilian community in Kukawa town on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

The attack, described by security sources as "highly sophisticated," resulted in an unconfirmed number of fatalities, including both Nigerian Army personnel and local residents. The insurgents reportedly utilized heavy weaponry and explosives to overpower the base, which is situated approximately 150 kilometers from the state capital, Maiduguri.

In a pattern that has become alarmingly frequent in the North East "Hadin Kai" theater of operations, the terrorists focused their aggression on military hardware and logistics. Eyewitnesses and military sources confirmed that the gunmen:

Torched Armoured Tanks: Several military vehicles and tanks were set ablaze after the base was overrun.

Looted Ammunition: Large quantities of "unquantifiable" arms and ammunition were carted away by the retreating militants.

Destroyed Infrastructure: Community buildings and military shelters were razed to the ground during the hours-long occupation.

"These terrorists have been regrouping again," a frontline source told SaharaReporters. "They took over the base for hours without air support, burning everything they couldn't carry."

The Kukawa incident is part of a broader, more lethal surge in insurgency activity across Borno State this month. Only days prior, simultaneous attacks were launched on four other military bases in Konduga, Mainok, Jakana, and Marte.

These coordinated strikes have taken a heavy toll on the Nigerian Army's leadership. Among the fallen is Lieutenant Colonel SI Iliyasu, the Commanding Officer of the 222 Battalion, who was reportedly killed alongside his men during an ambush in Konduga. Reports indicate that over 40 corpses of soldiers have been recovered from these recent battlegrounds.

The violence has not been restricted to the military. In Ngoshe (Gwoza LGA), a community that had recently seen residents return under a government resettlement program, terrorists slaughtered over 100 civilians and abducted more than 300 women and children.

The assault on Ngoshe, which also targeted an IDP camp, has forced thousands to flee once again, casting a shadow over the "Safe Resettlement" promises made by the state government.

Security analysts warn that the recent "deadly cooperation" between Boko Haram factions and ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) is significantly raising the stakes. The use of drone technology and nocturnal precision suggests that the insurgents are shifting from tactical raids to a more strategic campaign to control key border corridors near Chad and Niger.

Re-Bat Movement Badagry Division Begins Mobilization Tour with "Vision 2030"

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

OJO, LAGOS — The political landscape of the Badagry Division has witnessed a significant surge in momentum as the Re-Bat Movement launched a high-powered mobilization tour across the Ojo Local Government Area. Aimed at fortifying the grassroots foundation for the 2027 presidential re-election of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the movement is positioning itself as the definitive vanguard for political transformation in the region.

The delegation, led by Whejiepon Anthony the movement’s leadership, engaged with a series of influential All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwarts, including Hon. Sule Tolani Akibu (Lagos State Commissioner for Tertiary Education), Hon. Surajudeen Emir (representing Ojo Constituency II), and Hon. Segun Ege (representing Ojo Constituency I).

Central to the movement’s mission is the newly unveiled Vision 2030. This strategic roadmap seeks to elevate Badagry Division from a mere electoral voting bloc to a formidable, unified political rallying point within Lagos State. By amplifying the "Asiwaju Mandate" with renewed vigor, the Re-Bat Movement aims to secure Badagry’s reputation as an impregnable fortress for the APC.

During the visit, the group stressed that the time for "passive support" is over. The movement is now focused on a "bold and unapologetic" promotion of the President’s achievements to ensure a seamless victory in the next election cycle.

The tour received significant validation from the Lagos State House of Assembly members. Hon. Surajudeen Emir, Chairman of the House Committee on Services, expressed enthusiastic support for the movement’s energy.

“Re-Bat Movement is the future of Badagry Division,” Hon. Emir declared.

He challenged the group to focus on sustainability and unity, pledging his confidence in their ability to expand the movement’s reach beyond traditional boundaries.

Similarly, Hon. Segun Ege, Chairman of the House Committee on Housing, reaffirmed his commitment to the "Asiwaju Project." Despite a packed legislative schedule, Ege encouraged the delegation to dominate the grassroots mobilization space while ensuring a harmonious relationship with the existing party structure.

Hon. Sule Tolani Akibu, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, lauded the initiative as a timely intervention. He emphasized the importance of bringing more young people into the political fold through strategic engagement rather than coercion.

Akibu advised the movement to maintain "patience and strategic discipline," noting that leadership requires the ability to take on increasing responsibilities as the 2027 campaign draws closer. He assured the delegation of his continued mentorship and future collaboration.

The mobilization tour has been hailed by political observers as a masterstroke in regional alliance-building. By aligning the various interest groups under the Re-Bat umbrella, the Badagry Division is signaling a rare level of political synergy.

As the movement continues its "Vision 2030" sensitization, the message to the opposition is clear: the Badagry Federation is organized, energized, and ready to lead the charge for a Tinubu landslide in 2027.

Nigeria Ends Era of Roadblocks JRB Launches New Tax Rules

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Wale Edun 

ABUJA — In a major move to streamline revenue collection and boost the ease of doing business, the Joint Revenue Board (JRB) has officially banned the use of roadblocks for tax collection across Nigeria. This landmark decision coincides with the unveiling of the Presumptive Tax Regulations by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun.

The ban aims to end the disruption of commercial activities and the harassment of transporters and entrepreneurs by unauthorized or aggressive tax collectors. According to the Executive Secretary of the JRB, Olusegun Adesokan, the new framework ensures a coordinated approach that allows businesses to operate without interference while fulfilling their fiscal obligations.

A key highlight of the new regulations is the protection of Nigeria’s smallest economic players. The framework explicitly exempts nano and small businesses with an annual turnover of ₦12 million and below from these taxes.

For other businesses operating in the informal sector that exceed this threshold, a simplified 1% tax on turnover has been introduced. This "Presumptive Tax" is designed to be fair, easy to calculate, and inclusive, providing a clear pathway for informal traders to transition into the formal economy.

During the launch, Minister Wale Edun emphasized that these reforms are critical to achieving the President’s ambitious goal of a $1 trillion economy by 2030. He noted that Nigeria’s GDP grew by over 4% in the final quarter of 2025, with the government now eyeing a 7% growth rate in the near term.

“These regulations ensure transparency, fairness, and economic inclusion,” Edun stated. “They formalize a pathway for small businesses to grow and eventually enter the formal economy, contributing to sustainable national growth.”

To prevent abuse of the new system, the Minister announced that tax administration will now be strictly monitored across federal, state, and local government levels. A dedicated Ombudsman will oversee the implementation to ensure that collectors adhere to the "no-roadblock" policy and that the rights of taxpayers are protected.

Supreme Court Sounds Alarm Over Judge’s Use of Fake AI Generated Judgments

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Ai App and India Supreme Court 

NEW DELHI — In a landmark case that has sent shockwaves through the global legal community, the Supreme Court of India has taken a stern stance against the use of artificial intelligence in the judiciary. The apex court warned that judicial decisions based on fabricated, AI-generated precedents constitute "misconduct" rather than a simple legal error, signaling a new era of accountability for the digital age.

The controversy erupted after a junior civil judge in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, delivered a ruling in a property dispute in August 2025. To justify the decision, the judge cited four specific legal precedents. However, upon closer inspection, it was revealed that none of those cases actually existed they were entirely "hallucinated" by an AI tool the judge had used for legal research.

The case originally moved to the Andhra Pradesh High Court, where the judge admitted this was her first time using AI. She claimed she believed the citations were genuine and had no intent to deceive the court. While the High Court acknowledged the citations were "non-existent," it remarkably upheld the ruling, arguing the error was made in "good faith" and that the underlying legal principles applied were still sound.

However, the Supreme Court was far less forgiving. A bench comprising Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe stayed the execution of the lower court’s order on February 27, 2026, expressing deep institutional concern over the integrity of the adjudicatory process.

"We must declare that a decision based on such non-existent and fake alleged judgments is not an error in decision-making. It would be a misconduct and legal consequence shall follow," the Bench stated in its order.

The Indian case is not an isolated incident but part of a growing global trend of "AI hallucinations" in courtrooms. In 2025 alone, over 500 cases of AI-generated fabricated content were documented in U.S. courts. These tools often generate realistic-looking citations complete with party names, volume numbers, and page references that appear indistinguishable from real law without verification against official databases.

The Supreme Court has now issued formal notices to the Attorney General of India, the Solicitor General, and the Bar Council of India to examine the broader implications of AI in the workforce. Senior advocate Shyam Divan has been appointed as amicus curiae (friend of the court) to assist in establishing strict guidelines.

This ruling is being hailed as the first of its kind worldwide to establish that a government judicial officer can be held liable for professional misconduct due to unverified AI use. It underscores a vital lesson for professionals in every sector: ignorance of AI limitations is no longer a valid legal defense.

The Supreme Court has scheduled a comprehensive review of the matter for March 10, 2026, where it is expected to provide a framework for the responsible use of technology in the judiciary to protect public trust in the legal system.