Lagos Police Intercept Truckload of Military Camouflage and Illicit Drugs

By: Manoah Kikekon 

IKEJA, LAGOS – In a significant intelligence-led operation, the Lagos State Police Command has intercepted an unregistered MAN diesel truck laden with 47 sacks of military camouflage uniforms and 80 cartons of substances suspected to be illicit drugs.

The operation, which took place over the weekend, led to the arrest of four suspects as the truck was being transported out of Lagos toward the South-Eastern region of Nigeria. The breakthrough comes amidst heightened concerns regarding the proliferation of military-grade gear, which has been increasingly linked to criminal elements and bandits across the country.

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, addressed the press on Tuesday at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja, detailing the precision of the operation. He confirmed that the Anti-Kidnapping Unit tracked the vehicle from the Lekki-Epe axis before intercepting it at a critical exit point.

“You can see the large quantity here. These bags contain Army military camouflage,” Commissioner Fatai stated while showcasing the recovered items. “We received information and swung into action. The vehicle conveying the sacks was intercepted while moving out of Lagos State, and those carrying them were arrested.”

The police have confirmed the arrest of four primary suspects, including the logistics manager, Ifeanyi Ogbeanyi (45); the truck driver, Ezugu Chukwuma (38); the motor-boy, Chinedu David (29); and a delivery agent, Ndidiamaka Emeka (43). Preliminary investigations suggest that a fifth individual, identified as "Anthony," who allegedly organized the shipment, is currently being sought by authorities.

According to reports, the syndicate allegedly attempted to influence the operation by offering a substantial bribe to the officers, which was categorically rejected.

While the Commissioner allayed fears of an immediate threat to residents within Lagos, he acknowledged the wider national security implications. “It does not pose any form of threat to Lagos State because the items were being moved out. However, considering the trend of events in the country where we have seen bandits wear military uniforms, who knows what they want to do with this? Nobody could tell,” he noted.

The Command has confirmed that investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the uniforms, the exact nature of the suspected narcotics, and the intended recipients. Detectives are also working to unmask the broader network behind the illegal shipment, emphasizing that the command remains committed to intelligence-led policing to curb the influx of contraband.

CHF Appoints Damassoh Japhet as Digital Platforms & Web Systems Lead for Cultural Hangout Festival

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Damassoh Japhet Setonji at CYID Training Centre in Badagry 

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM – Africa Multicultural & Heritage Promotion Ltd (AMHP), the organizers behind the international event Cultural Hangout Festival (CHF), has officially announced the appointment of Damassoh Japhet Setonji as the festival’s new Digital Platforms & Web Systems Lead.

As the Cultural Hangout Festival continues to scale its operations as a premier bridge between African heritage, the diaspora, and global economic opportunity, the appointment of Setonji marks a strategic pivot toward enhancing the festival’s digital footprint. A seasoned web developer and the founder of Netblend Digital, Setonji brings a wealth of expertise in user-focused web solutions and brand systems to the CHF leadership team.

In his new capacity, Japhet Setonji will be responsible for the end-to-end management of CHF’s digital infrastructure. This includes the architecture of user experience, event registration systems, diaspora engagement interfaces, and online visibility strategies designed to support the festival’s multi-city programming across Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

"As CHF continues to grow across borders, the strength of our digital platforms becomes critical to how we engage the world," said Aihawu Victor, Founder & CEO of AMHP and the Cultural Hangout Festival. "Japheth brings a rare combination of creativity, technical depth, and strategic thinking. His work is not just about building websites, but about creating digital systems that enable participation, connection, and opportunity at scale. This aligns strongly with our vision of using culture and innovation as tools for global engagement and development."

The Cultural Hangout Festival has rapidly evolved into more than a celebration of music and art; it has become a vital platform for cross-border collaboration, trade dialogue, and diaspora inclusion. By integrating robust digital systems, AMHP aims to ensure that participants, regardless of their location, can access the festival’s resources, network with industry stakeholders, and contribute to cultural exchange initiatives.

Setonji’s expertise in digital strategy is expected to streamline the festival's ability to facilitate international connections, ensuring that the platform remains accessible, efficient, and user-centric for its diverse global audience.

E-KOH Initiative, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Lagos Governorship 2027, Ashe Gabriel,

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Obafemi Hamzat and Gabriel Ashe 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a move to bolster support for the 2027 gubernatorial aspirations of Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, the E-KOH Initiative has officially appointed Hon. Ashe Gabriel as the Coordinator for the Badagry Local Government Area.

The appointment, which takes immediate effect, is seen as a significant step in the initiative’s mission to consolidate its presence at the grassroots level across Lagos State. As the incumbent Deputy Governor, Dr. Hamzat has recently been named the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus candidate for the 2027 Lagos governorship election, sparking a surge in campaign momentum.

The appointment letter, signed by the Convener and Director-General of the E-KOH Initiative, Comrade Badmus Olawale (Liberty), and the General Secretary, Hon. Esther Ojo, underscores the trust placed in Hon. Gabriel’s ability to mobilize and lead.

The leadership noted that the selection was made "in recognition of your commitment, leadership qualities, grassroots mobilization capacity, and dedication to the vision and objectives of E-KOH INITIATIVE in supporting the emergence of Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat as the Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the continued progress of Lagos State."

As the new LGA Coordinator, Hon. Gabriel is tasked with an extensive mandate that includes coordinating all E-KOH Initiative activities within Badagry, fostering relationships with community and youth leaders, and implementing programs that resonate with the local populace.

In his reaction to the appointment, Ashe expressed his unwavering commitment to the cause. "I will make sure I play my part to ensure that KOH emerges in Badagry," he stated, signaling a robust campaign approach for the region.

The role places Ashe at the forefront of the Badagry political landscape, with responsibilities including: Grassroots Mobilization: Connecting with supporters, women’s groups, and youth organizations to broaden the movement's reach.

Organizational Expansion: Strengthening the structural integrity of the E-KOH Initiative at the ward and local levels.

Strategic Communication: Promoting the policies and vision of Dr. Hamzat popularly known as "KOH" to ensure the electorate is well-informed on his agenda for a "Greater Lagos."

Reporting and Feedback: Acting as a bridge between the local community and the state leadership.

Uthman Awesu Inducted as Chartered President of Rotaract Club of Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Rtr. John Mautin James the president Rotaract of Ajara, Rtr. Halilu Senu Awesu the DRR District 9111, Olanrewaju Awesu the Chartered president Rotaract Club of Badagry, Rtr. Festu Pedepo Kusa past president Rotaract Club of Ajara.

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a landmark development for youth-led humanitarian efforts in Lagos State, the Rotaract Club of Badagry was officially chartered on Sunday, June 21, 2026. The historic inauguration ceremony, held at the Ajara Rotaract Club fellowship venue, marked the beginning of a new chapter for community development and leadership training in the Badagry region.

Uthman Olanrewaju Awesu the Chartered president of Rotaract Club of Badagry 

During the event, Olanrewaju Awesu was formally installed as the Charter President, signaling a commitment to fostering positive change through the Rotary principle of “Service Above Self.”

Addressing the assembly of Rotaractors, guests, and community supporters, President Awesu emphasized that the chartering of the club is more than a mere formality; it is a declaration of intent to serve.

Chartered members of Rotaract Club of Badagry and the president 

“Today is not just a ceremony. It is the birth of a new family committed to Service Above Self,” Awesu stated during his inaugural address. “We are here to make a difference in our community. To my fellow Charter Members, today we make a promise a promise to learn, to serve, and to lead with integrity. Let us wear our pins with pride, because each pin represents responsibility.”

President Awesu further extended an open invitation to the youth of Badagry to join the club, describing it as a vital platform for young people to contribute to their communities and build a better society. He noted that the club’s operations would be guided by the "7 Areas of Focus" of Rotary International, with a heavy emphasis on friendship and fellowship.

The induction was graced by the District Rotaract Representative (DRR) for District 9111, Rtr. Awesu Halilu Senu, who himself hails from Badagry. He highlighted the strategic importance of this new club, noting that it effectively breaks the geographic monopoly of service organizations in the area.

“Before now, we only had one Rotaract Club from Morogbo to Seme, which is the Rotaract Club of Ajara,” the DRR explained. “This is now an avenue to have more clubs in Badagry to further carry out more community services. As Badagry youths who intend to be leaders, you should join the Rotaract Club, where you will get the right training and connections.”

The successful chartering of the club was attributed to the collaborative efforts of several key mentors and sponsoring bodies. President Awesu expressed profound gratitude to the District leadership, his sponsor Club President, Rtr. James John, and the members of the Rotaract Club of Ajara for their unwavering support in making the vision a reality.

The Rotaract Club of Badagry is now officially part of the global network of young leaders dedicated to solving pressing community challenges. 

Cultural Hangout Festival Engages CBAAC on the Road to FESTAC ’77 @ 50

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Mrs Aisha Adamu Augie and Mr. Victor Aihawu 

LAGOS, NIGERIA – Mr. Victor Aihawu, the pioneer of the Cultural Hangout Festival (CHF), has held a strategic meeting with the Director-General of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization (CBAAC),Mrs. Aisha Adamu Augie, to explore collaborative pathways for promoting African culture and diaspora engagement. In preparation for the 50th anniversary of the landmark Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC ’77), the conversation was around preserving African heritage.

The high-level discussion centered on a pressing question for modern Africa: How can we ensure that our stories, traditions, and cultural identities remain vibrant and relevant in an era of rapid globalization?

FESTAC ’77 remains the largest Pan-African festival in history, a month-long celebration in 1977 that brought together thousands of artists, performers, and intellectuals from 55 nations to Lagos. As the world approaches the 50th anniversary of this historic event, both Aihawu and Augie emphasized the need to move beyond mere commemoration.

“The road to FESTAC '77 @ 50 is not only about remembering a historic event,” said Aihawu. “It is also about asking how culture can continue to connect people, strengthen communities, and contribute to Africa's future.”

The meeting highlighted the critical role that cultural platforms like the Cultural Hangout Festival play in this ecosystem. Beyond providing entertainment, these platforms serve as vital spaces for people to reconnect with their roots, share experiences, and build lasting relationships across borders.

The dialogue underscored a shared philosophy: culture is not just a relic of the past it is a cornerstone for the future. Mrs. Augie, who has been widely praised for repositioning CBAAC as a dynamic Pan-African heritage hub, and Mr. Aihawu agreed that cultural identity heavily influences how young people see themselves and how nations project their soft power through tourism and the creative economy.

“We often celebrate culture through food, fashion, and entertainment, but culture is also a powerful tool for education, tourism, business, and community development,” Aihawu noted during their engagement.

While the meeting served as an initial exploratory session rather than a formal signing of commitments, it marked a significant step toward a unified approach to cultural development. 

The discussions reflected a mutual understanding that the legacy of FESTAC can only be sustained through synergy between government institutions, cultural practitioners, and the global diaspora.

Court Remands Omoyele Sowore to Kuje Prison in Cybercrime Trial

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Omoyele Sowore 

ABUJA, NIGERIA – The legal battle surrounding human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, took a dramatic turn on Monday, June 22, 2026, as the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered his immediate remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre.

Presiding Judge Mohammed Umar issued the remand order following a high-stakes hearing, where he also dismissed an application filed by Mr. Sowore seeking the judge's recusal from the ongoing cybercrime trial on grounds of alleged bias.

The charges, brought forward by the Department of State Services (DSS), stem from an August 2025 social media post in which Mr. Sowore allegedly labeled President Bola Tinubu a “criminal.” The prosecution contends that these posts, made on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, violated Section 24 of the amended Cybercrimes Act of 2024. State counsel, Akinkolu Kehinde (SAN), argues that the statements were knowingly false and intended to incite public disorder.

Mr. Sowore, who has maintained a plea of "not guilty," has consistently characterized the prosecution as an attempt to stifle free speech and intimidate political opposition.

The atmosphere surrounding the trial has been increasingly volatile. On June 16, 2026, Justice Umar revoked Mr. Sowore’s bail and issued a bench warrant for his arrest after the activist failed to appear for a scheduled defense hearing. While the prosecution labeled his absence a "delay tactic," Mr. Sowore’s team countered that he had previously arrived at the court on June 15, only to find the judge absent without official notice.

In his latest court appearance on June 22, Mr. Sowore was represented by new legal counsel, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika (SAN), who has filed a motion seeking to stay the execution of the bail revocation and the bench warrant.

For now, Mr. Sowore remains in custody at the Kuje Correctional Centre. Justice Umar has adjourned the proceedings until Wednesday, June 24, 2026, when the court is expected to hear the new defense application regarding the status of his bail.

Jubilation in Oyo as Kidnapped Family Regains Freedom After Sunday Igboho’s Ultimatum

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Sunday Igboho 

IGBOHO, OYO STATE — The sleepy town of Igboho in the Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State erupted in cheers and celebration this weekend as a kidnapped family, including a pregnant woman, her children, and a sibling, regained their freedom. The emotional homecoming occurred shortly after Yoruba activist Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, issued a decisive two-hour ultimatum to local community leaders regarding the abduction.

The incident, which had left the community in a state of heightened anxiety for several days, reached a dramatic turning point on Saturday. Residents were seen in viral social media clips singing and dancing as the victims returned to the safety of their homes.

The release followed a stern, public warning issued by Igboho during a meeting with community representatives and local leaders. Visibly frustrated by what he described as a growing wave of insecurity, kidnappings, and brutal killings in the region, Igboho did not mince words.

In a viral video capturing the confrontation, the activist criticized the alleged failure of local stakeholders to curtail criminal elements within their midst. He specifically addressed rumors of ransom negotiations that turned deadly, referencing the tragic murder of a victim’s relative who had attempted to deliver payment.

“The person who brought the ransom, you still killed him and spared only one person,” Igboho stated during the meeting. “Let this be the last time such a thing will happen.”

Setting a firm boundary, he added, “I am Sunday Igboho. I am calm because my fathers asked me to be calm with you. I give you people two hours to release the woman, her children and her sibling... If I don’t see them within the next two hours, we will face each other.”

The abduction had reportedly involved demands for a multi-million naira ransom, initially set at N300 million before being reduced to N150 million. The family’s ordeal had fueled widespread outrage, with many residents pointing to a pattern of recurring attacks on locals.

While the community celebrates the return of the captives, authorities are still working to piece together the full circumstances of the release. The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed that they are in possession of the viral footage and have launched a formal investigation into the security threats and the broader allegations of organized kidnapping syndicates operating in the area.