Dangote Truck Crushes three at Badagry Roundabout

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, Lagos — A somber atmosphere has enveloped the Badagry community following a horrific road traffic accident on Monday, February 23, 2026, which claimed the lives of a traffic officer and two commercial motorcyclists. The incident, involving a cement-laden Dangote truck, occurred at the ever-busy Badagry Roundabout, leaving commuters and residents in a state of shock.

The tragedy struck at approximately 9:45 a.m. as the heavy-duty vehicle, reportedly struggling with mechanical failure, careered out of control while approaching the junction. Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing moment the truck ploughed into a Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) official who was actively managing traffic, alongside two motorcyclists waiting for passengers nearby.

“The truck hit the LASTMA staff on official duty and two cyclists waiting to carry passengers,” an official of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Corps (LSNC) reported. The witness added that while the driver attempted to maneuver the vehicle to minimize casualties, the momentum of the cement-laden truck proved too great to avoid the fatal collision.

Following the crash, a combined team of responders from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), LASTMA, the Nigeria Police, and the NSCDC arrived to secure the scene and restore order to the expressway. Mr. Yusuf Sanni, the Unit Commander of the FRSC, confirmed the fatalities and noted that the victims' remains have been deposited at a local hospital mortuary.

The driver of the truck was immediately apprehended by security operatives. CSP Folajimi Agosile, the Divisional Police Officer of the Badagry Police Station, confirmed that the suspect is currently in custody. “He will be arraigned at the Chief Magistrates’ Court after investigations are concluded,” Agosile stated, emphasizing that the police are treating the case with the utmost priority.

This latest incident has reignited a heated debate regarding the safety of articulated vehicles on Lagos roads. Road safety advocates have frequently called for stricter enforcement of vehicle maintenance protocols, particularly for heavy-duty trucks transporting construction materials.

Nationwide Violence Erupts After Army Kills Cartel Kingpin ‘El Mencho’

By: Manoah Kikekon 

MEXICO CITY — Mexico has been thrust into a state of emergency following the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, the infamous leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Known globally as “El Mencho,” the kingpin was killed during a high-stakes military operation in his home state of Jalisco on Sunday, February 22, 2026. 

The aftermath has seen a wave of retaliatory violence, with cartel gunmen paralyzing major cities and forcing the closure of schools and businesses across the country.

The military strike, centered in the town of Tapalpa, triggered an immediate and brutal response. CJNG operatives deployed "narco-blockades," hijacking and torching more than 250 vehicles to seal off highways across at least 20 states. 

In Guadalajara, Mexico’s second-largest city and a 2026 World Cup host, the streets turned into a "ghost town" as residents hunkered down under a "Code Red" security alert. Smoke billowed over the tourist hub of Puerto Vallarta, where panicked travelers were seen sprinting through the airport as gunmen clashed with security forces nearby.

By Monday morning, the impact on daily life was total. Educational authorities in Jalisco, Michoacán, Guanajuato, and several other states officially canceled classes, citing the high risk of crossfire and ongoing criminal activity. 

Foreign governments, including the United States and Canada, issued urgent "shelter-in-place" advisories for their citizens, while major airlines suspended flights to the region due to the security vacuum at local airports.

El Mencho was the architect of one of the world's most militarized criminal organizations. Under his command, the CJNG became a dominant force in the trafficking of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine to the United States. 

The cartel was notorious for its paramilitary tactics, including the use of weaponized drones, improvised mines, and rocket launchers one of which was used to down a Mexican military helicopter in 2015.

The $15 Million Bounty: The U.S. Department of State had long placed a $15 million reward on Oseguera’s head, and in early 2025, the U.S. government designated the CJNG as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.

The operation is being viewed as a significant political victory for President Claudia Sheinbaum. Since taking office, Sheinbaum has faced intense pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to deliver "results" or face potential tariffs and unilateral military intervention. While she has historically criticized the "kingpin strategy" fearing the violent fracturing of cartels that follows this operation, supported by U.S. intelligence, signals a more aggressive stance against top-tier criminal leadership.

While the "Lord of the Roosters" is gone, security analysts warn that the victory may be short-lived. The decapitation of the CJNG often leads to bloody internal power struggles or opportunistic invasions by rival groups like the Sinaloa Cartel. Federal Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch who survived a 2020 assassination attempt by the CJNG—is now leading the national effort to stabilize the country and prevent a full-scale civil war between fractured cartel cells.

Mexico Confirms Death of CJNG Kingpin ‘El Mencho’

 By: Manoah Kikekon

El Mencho and the burnt Buss

GUADALAJARA, Mexico — In a seismic shift for global counternarcotics efforts, Mexican security forces have killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, the notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Better known as “El Mencho,” the 59-year-old kingpin was the primary target of a high-stakes military operation on Sunday, February 22, 2026, in the mountain town of Tapalpa, Jalisco. 

His death marks the end of a decades-long pursuit for one of the world's most ruthless drug lords.

The mission, executed by Mexican Special Forces with intelligence support from the United States, turned the picturesque town of Tapalpa into a battlefield. According to the Mexican Secretariat of National Defence (SEDENA), troops were met with heavy resistance from elite cartel gunmen. 

During the exchange, four cartel members were killed on-site. El Mencho was seriously wounded in the fray and reportedly died from his injuries while being airlifted to Mexico City for medical treatment and identification.

The confirmation of El Mencho’s death immediately triggered a violent backlash across western Mexico. CJNG henchmen deployed a "scorched earth" strategy, setting fire to buses and trucks to create narco-blockades on major highways. 

In Guadalajara, the state capital, residents described the city as a "ghost town" as civilians sought shelter. The unrest extended to the tourist hub of Puerto Vallarta, where burning vehicles blocked access to the airport, prompting several international airlines including United and Air Canada to suspend flights.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed the nation via social media, acknowledging the military's success while calling for public order. “There is absolute coordination with the governments of all states,” Sheinbaum stated, urging citizens to remain calm and follow official channels. 

The administration has activated a "Code Red" security alert in several states, mobilizing the National Guard and Army to prevent a total security vacuum as rival factions potentially move to seize CJNG territory.

The fall of El Mencho is being hailed as a historic milestone in the fight against the fentanyl crisis. Under his leadership, the CJNG became a dominant force, pioneering the use of weaponized drones and improvised mines. 

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau lauded the operation on X (formerly Twitter), calling it a “great development for the world.” The U.S. had previously offered a $15 million reward for Oseguera, who was a central figure in the trafficking of synthetic opioids across the northern border.

While the "decapitation" of the CJNG is a tactical triumph, security analysts warn of a bloody succession war. The cartel’s decentralized structure means that regional commanders may now fight for control, or the weakened group could face incursions from its arch-rival, the Sinaloa Cartel. For now, schools remain closed in several Mexican states as the government maintains a heavy military presence to suppress further retaliatory violence.

One Love Group of Friends Gifts Laptops to Tech-Savvy Badagry Youths

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Beneficiaries of One Love Group of Friends free Tech Empowerment Training Program 

BADAGRY, LAGOS– In a significant move to bridge the digital divide and foster grassroots innovation, the One Love Group of Friends has successfully concluded its intensive free Tech Empowerment Training Program for Badagry Youths.

The initiative reached its climax on Saturday, February 21, 2026, with the presentation of high-end laptops to the top ten outstanding participants in Badagry, Lagos State.

One Love Group of Friends 

The program, which has become a beacon of hope for local talent, began with a rigorous selection process. Out of numerous applicants, 50 determined participants were shortlisted to undergo a two-week "tech bootcamp." The curriculum was designed to meet modern industry demands, covering Graphics Design, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Google Workspace, UI/UX Design, and Web Development.

Members of One Love Group of Friends and Mr. Samuel Kapo 

At the grand finale, the atmosphere was electric as the organizers emphasized that the winners were selected strictly on merit. The ten beneficiaries who walked away with new laptops include: Muftaudeen Muhammed Olawale, Hunye Minasu Joseph, Job Oluwatobi Semawon, Oke Sesupe Deborah, Zinsu Joseph Jesuton, Olopade Mautin, Hunpe Daniel Pesu, Kiki Mawuyon, Tijani Abdulraheem Adebowale, and Gangbe Pemawuton Gabriel.

To ensure these tools don't go to waste, Help Fellows Development Initiative (HFDI) has pledged to provide advanced mentorship and further training for these winners. This follow-up initiative aims to refine their skills from "intermediate" to "expert" levels, ensuring they are ready for the global job market.

Certificate presentation to participants 

Mr. Emmanuel Esien, Managing Director/CEO of ZandexAfrique Technologies Ltd, served as the guest speaker. He addressed the common fear that automation might replace human workers. "AI is not going to take human jobs as we think," Esien stated. "AI is not going to debug or deploy on its own. The AI you use was coded by someone like you; its functions are limited to the abilities the coder provided."

He further encouraged the youth to shift their mindsets, noting that millions are being made through laptops by those who view the device as a portal to global opportunities. He urged the audience to see technology as a partner rather than a competitor.

Laptop presentation to participants 

Mr. Esien used the platform to send a message to local authorities. Speaking to reporters, he stressed that it is "high time the government of Badagry takes IT seriously." He noted that while the talent and skills are present in the region, the lack of an enabling environment remains a major hurdle for digital growth.

Mr. Tunde Ajose, a special guest at the event, challenged the graduates to move beyond theoretical learning. "Knowledge is one thing; application is another," Ajose remarked. He urged the beneficiaries to use their new tools to "change the story of Badagry and your families."

He also made a poignant plea to the organizers to include a "business of tech" module in future editions. According to Ajose, many youths possess world-class technical skills but lack the entrepreneurial knowledge required to convert those skills into sustainable income.

Mr. Akinosi David, a member of the One Love Group of Friends, expressed his joy at the success of the program. "This is the coming together of five friends to give back to society," he said.

In a move that sparked even more excitement, Mr. David announced that employment opportunities would be offered to several participants. He concluded by advising the youth of Badagry to embrace tech as a primary weapon against poverty.

Hunye Minasu Joseph, one of the top ten, admitted to having initial doubts. "With the caliber of people here, I began to doubt myself, but I did my best," Joseph said. "We must understand that the world we live in is tech-oriented."

Another beneficiary, Oke Sesupe Deborah, described the training as "wonderful." She emphasized that the changing landscape of the global economy means that technology is here to stay. "Any opportunity you get should be made use of," she advised her peers.

Mr. Kapo Samuel, the Senior Special Adviser to the Lagos Governor on Student Union Matters, lauded the uniqueness of Badagry's youth. He noted that Badagry is a focal point for the state and the country at large.

"You can't talk about Nigeria today without mentioning Badagry," Samuel stated. He praised the "One Love" initiative, noting that the government is keen on seeing more private-sector collaborations that empower the "most sought-after youths in the country."

Why Samuel Ajose is the Name to Watch in Lagos Come 2027

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Samuel Mawuyon Ajose 

As the 2027 Lagos State governorship race shifts from hushed whispers to high-stakes strategy, the political landscape is being redefined. While veteran heavyweights and household names like Hakeem Muri-Okunola, Femi Gbajabiamila, and Tokunbo Abiru dominate the early headlines, a new force is quietly consolidating power from the coastal flank. 

Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose, a seasoned technocrat and indigene of Badagry, is emerging as the focal point of a historic movement: the "Badagry Awakening."

The Badagry Argument: A Quest for Equity

Funsho Arogundade, Ace journalist and famous columnist with The Sun Newspapers said in an article, "for decades, Lagos has been governed through its five traditional divisions: Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe (IBILE)."

However, a glaring historical imbalance remains—Badagry is the only division yet to produce a governor since the state’s creation in 1967. As 2027 approaches, political observers and grassroots leaders argue that this "unfinished chapter" must finally be closed. Dr. Ajosebhai has become the face of this corrective narrative, positioning his candidacy not just as an ethnic or regional claim, but as a strategic necessity for state-wide inclusion.

Boardroom Gravitas Meets Grassroots Appeal

"Unlike typical political aspirants who rely on loud rallies and spectacle, Dr. Ajose’s rise is built on a foundation of professional excellence and quiet diplomacy. As the CEO of the Levitikal Group, he has spent over 15 years navigating the complexities of construction, real estate, and strategic enterprise," Arogundade said.

"His experience presiding over high-level boards has earned him a reputation as a "systems engineer" in governance," he added.

Sources indicate that Ajose has been conducting "listening tours" across all 57 LGAs and LCDAs, bridging the gap between the Lagos elite and the everyday citizen.

Philanthropy and Party Loyalty

Dr. Ajose’s influence is further bolstered by his significant contributions to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Recently, his Samuel Ajose Foundation made headlines for donating logistics materials to party secretariats across the state to support voter registration. 

His ability to mobilize resources including a reported ₦10 million support package to each chairmanship candidate in the Badagry division during local polls—demonstrates a deep-seated commitment to the party’s grassroots structure that few can ignore.

Why the Timing Favors a Technocrat

The 2027 election will take place at a critical inflection point for Lagos. With challenges ranging from border trade complexities and climate vulnerability to urban congestion, the electorate is increasingly leaning toward leadership that understands policy over politics. 

Dr. Ajose’s background in Geography (B.Sc. from the University of Ilorin) and his tenure in infrastructure development place him in a unique class of aspirants who view the governor’s office as a management role rather than a political trophy.

The Quiet Movement for a Loud Outcome

In the complex theater of Lagos politics, momentum is often gained in the shadows before it hits the spotlight. By focusing on inclusion and competence, Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose is reframing the 2027 conversation. 

If the APC’s unwritten doctrine of rotational balance holds true, the Badagry corridor may finally have its day. As the "Power Chessboard" takes shape, the move toward Ajose reflects a desire for a Lagos that expands its geography without diminishing its legendary excellence.

Badagry LG Chairman Babatunde Hunpe Honored with Doctorate

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Hon. Babatunde Hunpe 

BADAGRY, Lagos — Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, fMHR, has been conferred with an Honorary Doctorate in Strategic Leadership and Public Resources Management by the Chartered Institute of Public Resources Management and Politics (CIPRMP), Ghana. 

This landmark recognition, which includes his induction into the Institute's 2026 Hall of Fame, underscores his three-decade-long journey of excellence in Nigerian public service and legislative governance.

The award ceremony, held at the Chairman’s office in Badagry, was led by Dr. Babatunde Newton, the Institute’s 2nd Vice-President (Academic), alongside Engr. Mike Shey Phillips and Mrs. Victoria Olanrewaju. During the presentation, the Institute lauded Hon. Hunpe’s trajectory as a model of integrity and disciplined execution, citing his transition from local administration to high-level state and federal roles.

The CIPRMP, an international body established in 1995, noted that Hon. Hunpe’s leadership stands as a "beacon of hope" for West African public administration. His career highlights include: Special Adviser on Rural Development: Under Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (2011–2015). Special Adviser on Environment: Under Governor Akinwunmi Ambode (2015–2019). Federal Legislator: Representing Badagry Federal Constituency in the 9th National Assembly (2019–2023).

The Institute’s governing council emphasized that this Honorary Doctorate is not merely a title but a recognition of transformative contributions. Since assuming office as the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government in July 2025, Hunpe has aggressively pursued a vision of tourism revitalization, infrastructure development, and economic inclusion.

"Hon. Hunpe is an exceptional leader whose over three decades of service reflect a rare combination of strategic vision and unwavering integrity," remarked Dr. Babatunde Newton.

In his acceptance speech, Hon. Hunpe expressed profound humility, noting that international recognition from a Ghanaian-based institute was both "amazing and inspiring." He dedicated the award to the people of Badagry, pledging to use the platform to further elevate the community’s socio-economic status.

"I am deeply honored," Hunpe said. "This recognition inspires me to continue delivering purposeful, transformative leadership. I pledge to remain committed to excellence and integrity, ensuring that our community continues to grow, prosper, and thrive under a vision-driven administration."

The Chartered Institute of Public Resources Management and Politics, Ghana, plays a pivotal role in shaping corporate governance and public policy across member nations like Nigeria, Côte d'Ivoire, and Kenya. By inducting leaders like Hon. Hunpe into its Hall of Fame, the Institute aims to foster a culture of accountable statesmanship.and professional excellence within the African continent.

The 2026 induction cycle has focused on leaders who have demonstrated "field-proven" success in managing public resources amidst the evolving economic challenges of the West African sub-region.

Epstein-Barak Connection: How Israeli Spy Tech Was Marketed During Nigeria’s Boko Haram Crisis

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Jeffrey Epstein and Boko Haram 

New revelations have surfaced detailing a calculated effort by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak to capitalize on Nigeria’s national security struggles. Investigations into released U.S. Department of Justice emails suggest the pair viewed the Boko Haram insurgency not as a humanitarian tragedy, but as a "perfect" opening to sell high-end surveillance technology and gain a foothold in Nigeria’s oil and logistics sectors.

A "Strategic Opportunity" Amidst Conflict

The investigation, spearheaded by Drop Site News and reported by Al Jazeera, highlights a chilling 2014 exchange. As Nigeria grappled with the kidnapping of the Chibok schoolgirls and escalating terror attacks, Epstein emailed Barak regarding the regional unrest, asking, “Isn’t this perfect for you?” Barak’s response was reportedly pragmatic: “You’re right in a way. But not simple to transform it into a cash flow.” Despite the complexity, the duo allegedly moved forward, leveraging Barak’s military and political pedigree to market "field-proven" security solutions systems often refined during operations in Palestinian territories.

From Gaza to Nigeria: Biometrics as Counterterrorism

The financial trail reveals that in 2015, Barak invested $15 million in FST Biometrics, a firm founded by former Israeli military intelligence chief Aharon Ze’evi Farkash. The company’s flagship "Basel" system was originally designed to monitor movement at the Erez crossing in Gaza.

Under the guise of counterterrorism, this technology was reportedly funneled into Nigeria. Key highlights of the expansion include: Babcock University: The sale of biometric surveillance equipment marketed to "filter away all unwanted persons." National Infrastructure: By 2020, the World Bank engaged the Israel National Cyber Directorate and a Barak-linked startup to help shape Nigeria’s national cyber framework.

Security as a Gateway to Oil and Ports

The influence of Epstein and Barak extended far beyond digital walls. Documents suggest that security cooperation served as a "Trojan horse" for entering Nigeria’s lucrative maritime and energy sectors.

Epstein allegedly acted as a high-level broker for DP World, the Dubai-based logistics giant. He reportedly facilitated talks between the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and DP World chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem. The goal? To acquire strategic port assets in Lagos and Badagry.

Note: Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem resigned as chairman of DP World on February 13, 2026, following renewed scrutiny over his historical ties to Epstein.

High-Level Political Access in Abuja

The level of access secured by the duo within the Nigerian government was significant. In 2013, Barak attended a cybersecurity conference in Abuja designed specifically to facilitate private meetings with then-President Goodluck Jonathan.

Following these high-level dinners, Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems moved forward with a controversial internet surveillance project in Nigeria. This project proceeded despite vocal opposition from some Nigerian lawmakers concerned about privacy and foreign overreach.

The Global Fallout

These findings are part of a massive document leak detailing Epstein’s web of influence among global financiers and intelligence figures. While Ehud Barak has since expressed "regret" over his association with Epstein claiming he was unaware of the extent of Epstein’s crimes until 2019 the records show a partnership that continued long after Epstein’s 2008 conviction.

For Nigeria, the revelations raise uncomfortable questions about how national crises were utilized by foreign actors to embed surveillance state technologies into the country's core infrastructure.