"Badagry is Election-Ready even in 24 Hours": APC Governorship Aspirant Samuel Ajose Declares

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY — In a bold display of political readiness, Mr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose, a leading All Progressives Congress (APC) Lagos State governorship aspirant, has declared that Badagry is prepared for the upcoming general elections, even if the timeline were moved to the next 24 hours.

Speaking on Saturday at a high-level APC Leaders Reconciliation Meeting in Badagry, Ajose emphasized that the Federation is no longer just a partisan stronghold but has garnered cross-party support in its quest for regional development and political inclusion.

The reconciliation meeting, which drew a massive crowd of stakeholders, was described by Ajose as a "homecoming" to consolidate leadership and reinforce unity. He noted that the impressive turnout, despite the meeting being called on short notice, serves as proof of a collective hunger for transformative change.

"When you stand together as one, you are able to demand for what you want and you are able to get it," Ajose told the gathered leaders. "This is the first time in Badagry that every other party not just APC is coming together to form that unit."

The aspirant highlighted that this unified stance is a strategic move to ensure both State and Federal governments recognize Badagry’s political weight, ultimately attracting significant infrastructure and economic development to the area.

Addressing recent adjustments to the 2027 general election dates which saw the presidential vote moved to January 16, 2027, to avoid a clash with Ramadan Ajose reassured supporters of the division's unwavering preparedness.

He asserted that the local machinery is so well-energized that no schedule change could catch them off guard. Furthermore, he predicted a landslide victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that the President "is not going to struggle winning any vote" in Badagry come 2027.

The event saw the attendance of several high-ranking officials, including Hon. Babatunde Hunpe (Badagry Local Government Chairman), Hon. Ibrahim Rauf (Badagry West LCDA), Hon. Ajose Peter Kumayon (Olorunda LCDA), and Hon. Sesi Whingan (Member, House of Representatives). Alhaji Gafar Meyon the LGA Chairman, Hon. Peter Metome the Deputy Chairman, Mrs. Atoyebi the Woman Leader.

Badagry Chairman Hunpe Commiserates with LASTMA, Pledges Rapid Traffic Reforms

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY — In a move combining solemnity with a push for urban renewal, the Chairman of the Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, paid a high-profile condolence and working visit to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) headquarters on Monday.

The visit follows the heartbreaking demise of Officer Rasaki Tajudeen, a dedicated LASTMA operative who lost his life in a tragic incident at the ever-busy Badagry Roundabout. Hon. Hunpe was received by the LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, and the Director of Operations, Mr. Gbejemede Peter.

Describing the late Rasaki Tajudeen as a "committed and selfless public servant," Chairman Hunpe emphasized that the officer paid the ultimate price while ensuring the safety of others. The Chairman extended his deepest sympathies to the grieving family and the entire LASTMA workforce.

In a practical show of support, Hunpe announced that the Badagry Local Government would provide direct assistance to the family of the deceased.

"This loss is felt deeply across Badagry. We are not just mourning an officer; we are honoring a man who stood on the front lines of public order," Hunpe stated.

Turning the tragedy into a catalyst for change, the Chairman used the meeting to unveil a comprehensive reorganization plan for the Badagry Roundabout. The initiative is designed to address the systemic issues that make the corridor a flashpoint for congestion and accidents.

Decongestion: Implementing structured urban mobility to smooth vehicle flow at the gateway corridor.

Commercial Regulation: Strict oversight of transport operations to prevent unauthorized loitering.

Zero-Tolerance for Roadside Trading: Eliminating illegal stalls that obstruct traffic and endanger pedestrians.

Safety Infrastructure: Strengthening the partnership between local authorities and LASTMA to ensure stricter compliance with traffic laws.

Responding to the Chairman's visit, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki lauded Hunpe’s leadership, describing the gesture as a model for inter-agency collaboration. He reaffirmed that LASTMA is fully committed to the proposed reforms, noting that enhanced order at the Badagry Roundabout is a priority for the agency in 2026.

With the Lagos-Badagry Expressway undergoing various rehabilitation phases, including the Mazamaza Bridge works, the synchronization between local government and state traffic authorities is seen as vital for the safety of millions of commuters.

Filmmaker Tunde Kelani Slams Facebook "Reel Piracy" of His Classics

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Tunde Kelani 

LAGOS — Renowned veteran cinematographer and cultural icon Tunde Kelani, popularly known as TK, has voiced his outrage over the unauthorized fragmentation of his cinematic masterpieces. The 78-year-old filmmaker took to social media to condemn the growing trend of digital creators cutting his classic films into short clips for Facebook reels to trigger monetization payouts.

Kelani, whose career has been dedicated to the preservation of Yoruba culture through the lens, described the act as "wickedness" and a blatant destruction of artistic integrity.

The alarm was raised after several of Kelani’s most celebrated works including Saworoide, Agogo Eewo, Ti Oluwa Nile, and Thunderbolt (Magun) surfaced on social media platforms in "bits and pieces." These films are widely regarded as the gold standard of Nigerian cinema, celebrated for their complex storytelling and deep cultural roots.

"A film is a complete story, not fragments for quick views to make quick money illegally," Kelani stated. "This is wrong! Cutting our films into unauthorized reels and posting them online is not promotion. It is piracy and the destruction of our cultural work."

The rise of Facebook’s "Performance Bonus" and "In-Stream Ads" has created a desperate scramble for engagement, leading many users to bypass copyright laws. While some uploaders argue they are "promoting" the films to a younger generation, Kelani dismissed this as a facade for theft.

Under the Nigerian Copyright Act, creators hold the exclusive right to distribute and adapt their works. The unauthorized sharing of these snippets constitutes copyright infringement, an offense that can lead to significant fines, damages, or even imprisonment.

Kelani emphasized that a film is intended to be experienced as a holistic body of work. By reducing grand epics to "scattered snippets," the narrative depth and cultural context are stripped away, leaving only hollow clickbait.

The filmmaker urged the public to desist from supporting these unauthorized channels and instead engage with Nigerian cinema through legal, authorized platforms. His outcry highlights a growing tension between traditional filmmaking and the "fast-food" consumption habits of the social media era.

Outrage as Police Detain Makoko Activists Caleb Dosugan and Simeon Iroko

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Caleb Dosugan and CP Olohundare Moshood Jimoh

LAGOS — Tensions in the historic Makoko waterfront community in Lagos State, have reached a breaking point following the detention of prominent activists Caleb Dosugan and Simeon Iroko. The duo, who have been at the forefront of resisting mass demolitions in the area, are currently being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (State CID), Panti.

The announcement was made on Thursday, February 26, 2026, by Ayo Ademiluyi, Esq., Lead Partner at Newworth Public Interest Law Bureau. The legal firm has issued a stern 24-hour ultimatum to the Nigerian Police Force for their unconditional release.

From Reporting a Crime to Being Detained

The circumstances surrounding the arrest have sparked allegations of "policing for the highest bidder." According to the statement from Newworth Law Bureau, the activists had attempted to report a violent stabbing incident at the Adekunle Police Station.

A local resident was allegedly attacked by agents working in tandem with "compromised" traditional rulers (Baales) who are reportedly supporting fresh demolitions in the community. However, in a shocking turn of events, the activists who went to the station as complainants—were treated as suspects. The case was abruptly transferred to State CID Panti, where Dosugan and Iroko were subsequently detained.

"The attempt of Caleb and his comrades to report the stabbing... turned 'complainant' into 'suspect' as the matter was moved by the fatcat Baales to State CID Panti," the statement read.

A Broken Promise? The Sanwo-Olu Connection

This detention comes just weeks after a high-profile meeting between Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Caleb Dosugan, the Coordinator of the 'Freedom in Makoko' movement. In late January 2026, the Governor reportedly appealed for an out-of-court settlement regarding the numerous lawsuits filed by the community against the Lagos State Government.

Despite the Governor's public overtures for peace and a "stellar judgment" delivered by Honourable Justice Ogazi in favor of the residents, activists claim there has been zero follow-up communication. Instead, the community alleges that the government has resumed demolitions under the radar, targeting the dwellings of the urban poor.

The Looming Legal Battle

The Newworth Public Interest Law Bureau has condemned the actions of the State CID, accusing the police of waging a "war of calumny" against the citizens they are sworn to protect.

The bureau’s demands are clear: Immediate Release: Caleb Dosugan and Simeon Iroko must be freed within 24 hours. Legal Action: Failure to comply will result in a comprehensive legal suit against the Lagos State Government, State CID Panti, and the Nigerian Police Force.

As of Thursday morning, global outcries against the "brutally repressed" protests in Makoko continue to mount, with residents and international observers calling for an end to the displacement of one of Africa’s most iconic floating settlements.

16-Year-Old Girl Arraigned for Razor Blade Attack Over Boyfriend Dispute

By: Manoah Kikekon

Victim and courtroom 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — A teenage romance took a violent turn in the historic town of Badagry as a 16-year-old girl was hauled before a Chief Magistrates’ Court on Monday, February 23, 2026. The defendant is facing criminal charges after allegedly attacking a 15-year-old rival with a razor blade in a heated dispute over a boyfriend.

The minor, whose identity remains protected under the Child Rights Law, pleaded not guilty to charges of threat to kill and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace.

The prosecution, led by Friday Mameh, detailed a chilling account of the events that transpired on the night of February 20 at approximately 9:00 PM. According to court records, the confrontation occurred at the Khalakuta Jegba Quarters in Badagry.

The court heard that the defendant, driven by allegations that the 15-year-old victim had "snatched" her boyfriend, allegedly used a razor blade to slash the complainant's face. The prosecution argued that the motive was to disfigure the girl to force her to end the relationship.

"The defendant used a razor blade to cut the face of the complainant so that she would leave her boyfriend for her," Mameh told the court, adding that the violent outburst created significant "pandemonium" and panic within the neighborhood.

The police stated that the victim sustained visible injuries during the scuffle, leading to the defendant’s immediate arrest. The teenager is being prosecuted under Sections 230 and 168 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015, which address threats to life and disorderly conduct.

If convicted, the minor could face serious rehabilitation measures, as the law takes a stern view of violent assaults involving weapons like razor blades, regardless of the perpetrator's age.

Presiding Chief Magistrate A. J. Aina, while considering the gravity of the assault and the age of the defendant, granted bail in the sum of N1 million.

The bail conditions include: Two sureties in like sum. One surety must be a civil servant not below Grade Level 12.

The court has adjourned the matter until March 30, 2026, for mention. The case serves as a stark reminder of the rising concerns regarding juvenile delinquency and the violent resolution of interpersonal conflicts among teenagers in urban centers.

NAN

2027 Re-election: TVT Unveils Zonal Coordinators, Sets Stage for National Leadership

 By: Manoah Kikekon

ABUJA — The momentum for the 2027 presidential cycle has shifted into the tourism and hospitality sector as the Tourism Vanguard for Tinubu (TVT) – 2027 officially unveiled its Zonal Coordinators on Tuesday. The move signals a structured, industry-led mobilization effort to secure a second term for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

The announcement was made public by the Convener of TVT–2027, Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, who emphasized that the movement is a broad-based coalition of stakeholders, industry leaders, and practitioners committed to "continuity and sustained national progress."

To ensure effective grassroots engagement across Nigeria's six geo-political zones and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the TVT has appointed seasoned industry veterans to lead the charge. These coordinators are tasked with mobilizing practitioners from state to local government levels.

The newly appointed Zonal Coordinators are:nSouth East: Hon. Atuloma Onyekachi

South West-Mr. Talabi Jamiu

South South-Dr. Piriye Kiriyamo

North East-Mr. Bello Muhammed Gwagwada

North West-Malam Isiya Salihu Shinkafi

North Central-Mr. Jonathan Justin Akem

FCT-Alh. Ahmed Mohammed Sule

These strategic anchors will drive consultation, advocacy, and stakeholder sensitization, ensuring that the tourism ecosystem remains united in its support for the "Renewed Hope" agenda.

Beyond the regional appointments, Hon. Apata revealed that the group is entering a "phase of institutional strengthening." Later this weekend, the TVT–2027 plans to formally unveil its National Central Working Council (NCWC), alongside the National Patron and National Matron.

This forthcoming reveal is expected to consolidate the organization's leadership structure and reinforce its readiness for a coordinated nationwide campaign. The TVT aims to act as a bridge between the political landscape and the hospitality industry, fostering a "unity of purpose" among professional bodies.

The TVT’s mandate is deeply rooted in sector-driven mobilization. By aligning the interests of hospitality practitioners with the national vision, the group hopes to create a formidable support base for the President.

"The journey toward 2027 is one of strategic organization, collective responsibility, and shared commitment," the statement noted. "Together, we move forward with purpose and determination."

Court Grant FG Request for Suspects linked to Bello Turji Tried in Absentia

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Bello Turji 

ABUJA — In a major boost to the Federal Government’s crackdown on banditry, a Federal High Court in Abuja has granted leave for the prosecution of five suspects linked to the notorious terror kingpin, Bello Turji, to proceed in their absence.

Justice Emeka Nwite issued the order on Tuesday following an application by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF). The move follows the repeated failure of the defendants to appear for trial, despite a standing bench warrant for their arrest issued earlier this year.

The defendants, identified as Musa Muhammed Kamarawa, Abubakar Hashimu (alias Doctor), Bashir Abdullahi, Samuel Chinedu, and Lucky Chukwuma, are facing an 11-count terrorism charge. The Federal Government alleges these individuals formed the backbone of Turji’s logistics network, providing everything from heavy weaponry to basic survival items.

According to court documents, the suspects allegedly supplied: Military Hardware: A gun truck sourced from Libya for approximately N28.5 million. Logistics: Military and police uniforms, camouflage, boots, and building materials for forest camps. Medical Aid: Treatment for gunshot wounds sustained by Bello Turji during an attack on Tungar Kolo Village. Supplies: Illicit drugs (including cannabis and penta injections) and food items to camps across Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kaduna states.

The prosecution counsel, David Kaswe, informed the court that the defendants have remained untraceable despite multiple adjournments. Invoking Section 352(4) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, Kaswe successfully argued that the trial must proceed to ensure justice is not derailed by the suspects' evasion.

The case has seen a turbulent timeline. It was initially struck out in July 2025 due to a lack of diligent prosecution when the lead counsel was on an official assignment abroad. However, it was re-listed in December 2025 after the Federal Government filed a meritorious application to reopen the terrorism charges.

"We have been unable to trace the defendants... today makes the third time without the defendants appearing in court," Kaswe stated while moving the oral application for the trial to continue in absentia.

The charge sheet paints a grim picture of the sophisticated supply chain fueling insecurity in Northern Nigeria. Beyond the five immediate defendants, the charge includes Bello Turji himself, along with Aminu Muhammad and Sani Lawal, who all remain at large.

Testimony from a protected witness earlier in the trial detailed how childhood friendships were exploited to facilitate the purchase of high-grade military equipment from neighboring Niger Republic and Libya.

Justice Nwite has adjourned the matter until April 13, 2026, for the continuation of the trial. This ruling sends a clear signal that the Nigerian judiciary is prepared to bypass stall tactics in high-profile national security cases.