Sokoto-Badagry Highway: 15 Major Benefits of Tinubu’s Ambitious Legacy Project Reviving a 45-Year-Old Vision

By Peter Dansu 

The Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway is rapidly gaining national attention as one of Nigeria’s biggest infrastructure projects with the potential to transform transportation, agriculture, commerce and economic development across several regions of the country.

The highway, which links Northern Nigeria to the Southwest, is being described by many observers as more than just a road project. Analysts say it is a strategic economic corridor capable of opening up rural communities, improving trade and strengthening national integration.

The project is also seen as the revival of a long-abandoned national vision first conceived more than 45 years ago but left uncompleted until the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu revived and commenced construction.

As work progresses steadily across different sections of the corridor, expectations continue to rise over the massive social and economic gains expected from the project.

Below are 15 major benefits expected from the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway:

1. Boosts agriculture by making it easier for farmers to transport produce and farming equipment across regions.

2. Reduces post-harvest losses especially for perishable goods like tomatoes, onions and peppers that often spoil because of poor roads.

3. Connects Northern agricultural hubs directly to Southern markets and export centres, improving food distribution nationwide.

4. Enhances trade and commercial activities between the Northwest and Southwest regions of Nigeria.

5. Cuts travel time for motorists, transport companies and business owners moving goods and services.

6. Opens up rural communities and local economies to fresh investment and business opportunities.

7. Improves transportation and logistics for traders and commercial operators.

8. Encourages tourism growth by improving accessibility to cultural and historical destinations.

9. Creates jobs through construction activities and related economic opportunities.

10. Strengthens national integration by physically linking major economic zones across the country.

11. Introduces modern infrastructure features such as concrete pavement and solar-powered streetlights.

12. Improves security and mobility along the corridor with better access roads and increased development.

13. Revives a long-abandoned national project first conceptualised over four decades ago.

14. Supports Nigeria’s economic expansion goals and aligns with plans to build a one trillion dollar economy through infrastructure investment.

15. Ensures faster and more efficient movement of goods and services across different parts of the country.

Economic experts believe the long-term impact of the super highway could reshape commerce and transportation in Nigeria while positioning several states along the corridor for rapid development.

Supporters of the project have continued to praise the federal government for pushing forward with the initiative despite initial doubts and criticisms surrounding its feasibility.

With visible progress already recorded in some sections, many Nigerians now see the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway as a potential game-changing project capable of driving economic growth, regional connectivity and national development for generations to come.

Why Governor Alia's Infrastructure And Economic Development Footprints Are Winning National Recognition.

By Orseer Mnzughulga 

There are moments in the life of a state when leadership transcends politics and becomes a visible force etched into roads, bridges, livelihoods, investments, and public confidence. In Benue State, the administration of Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, is experiencing one of such defining moments.

The conferment of the "Platinum Best Performing Governor of the Year in Infrastructure and Economic Development 2026" on Governor Alia scheduled to hold today, May 8, 2026, at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja is not merely ceremonial applause. It is a national acknowledgment of visible governance, strategic development, and a bold attempt to redefine the destiny of Benue State within an unusually short period.

Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, as the 6th democratically elected Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has governed with an energy and developmental urgency that many political observers did not anticipate. Within three years, the administration has aggressively pursued infrastructure renewal, economic expansion, urban modernization, and grassroots connectivity in ways that have dramatically altered the public conversation about governance in Benue.

This external recognition of Governor Alia's notable and undeniable imprints on Benue’s infrastructural development is therefore not accidental. It is evidence that the administration’s efforts are being observed beyond partisan boundaries and beyond the borders of the state itself.

For years, Benue's infrastructural conversation was dominated by abandonment, inaccessible rural communities, decaying urban roads, flooding caused by poor drainage systems, and economic stagnation. Citizens had become accustomed to promises that rarely materialized into visible transformation. Yet, within barely three years, the Alia administration is rewriting that narrative through what can best be described as an aggressive infrastructure revolution.

One of the most visible indicators of this transformation is the extensive road development strategy spread across the state.

In Makurdi the state Capital alone, over 37 intra-city road networks have either been completed or are undergoing major reconstruction across strategic areas such as New GRA, Adeke/Achusa, Wurukum, North Bank, and High Level. These roads are not merely asphalt projects, they represent mobility, economic access, urban expansion, and restored public confidence.

Perhaps even more symbolic are the major underpasses completed at High Level in Makurdi and Gyado Junction in Gboko awaiting commissioning. For years, these locations represented congestion, confusion, and infrastructural neglect. Today, they stand as monuments of modernization and urban renewal. The approval for another underpass project in Otukpo further demonstrates a government determined to modernize critical urban centers across the state.

The administration's infrastructural ambition stretches far beyond the state capital. Across Benue's local government areas, construction equipment and development activities have become increasingly common sights. The ongoing construction of the 35-kilometre Obarike Ito–Adum East–Oju Road in Oju Local Government Area is expected to significantly improve transportation and commercial activities in the axis.

In Vandeikya and surrounding areas, the Mbawuar–Bako Tyam–Adikpo–Calaba Road with a spur to Mede-Mbera-Mbaako, covering about 34 kilometres, is steadily progressing.

 

Equally notable are the Akaazua–Muemue–Anhyura–Mbadede Road projects which are enhancing connectivity within rural communities that previously struggled with poor access roads.

Gboko, one of the commercial nerve centres of Benue State and the center of Tiv nation worldwide has also witnessed significant infrastructural attention. Projects such as the rehabilitation of Captain Dawns Road, construction of NKST Anzwar Road, Tser-Adi Road, and Tomatar Road collectively signal a deliberate effort to reposition the town for economic growth and easier transportation.

The story is similar in Kwande, where the Manyam–Unongo–Adikpo Road project covering 22.5 kilometres is ongoing. 

In Agatu and Gwer West, the Obagaji–Okokolo–Agagbe Road spanning 43.5 kilometres promises to open up previously underserved communities. In Ado Local Government Area, the Igumale–Agila Road project is another strategic intervention designed to improve mobility and stimulate commerce.

The Governor Alia administration has also commenced work on the ambitious Oju–Awajir Road traversing Oju, Konshisha, and Gwer East Local Government Areas. Likewise, the Adikpo–Kotiyogh–Vandeikya Road with a spur to Tse Mker continues to enhance inter-community accessibility.

Other notable projects include the Ushongo–Hegha–Gbem Road, Ateku–Ikpenge–Akpagher Road in Gboko, Ityowanye Road in Buruku, Vandeikya–Korinya–Wuese Road, Tsar-Chenge-Abwa-Dagba Road, and Dagba–Adamgba–Chi Road. Each of these projects carries enormous social and economic implications for local populations that had long suffered infrastructural isolation.

What makes the Alia administration's infrastructure drive particularly remarkable is not merely the number of projects but their geographical spread.  Governor Alia's administration is intentional about touching all 23 local government areas through the award of over 50 road projects statewide.

Equally transformative is the reconstruction of the Makurdi–Air Force Base–Renewed Hope Estate dual carriageway section of the Makurdi-Gboko Federal Highway. The ongoing reconstruction of major township roads within Makurdi metropolis, complete with solar-powered traffic lights, solar-powered bus stops, and water pipe reinstatement, reflects a more modern and integrated urban development philosophy.

The reconstruction and rehabilitation of eight roads and water channels within Makurdi metropolis, alongside the reconstruction of Jonah Jang Crescent, further reveal a government deliberately addressing both mobility and environmental challenges simultaneously.

In Gboko metropolis, the ongoing phase one reconstruction of township roads, including 25.3 kilometres of dual carriageway and 5.6 kilometres of single carriageway, is reshaping the city's landscape. The approval of the Nyihemba–Anwase–Abande–Cameroon border road, including three bridges in Kwande Local Government Area, carries even broader economic implications by potentially improving cross-border trade opportunities.

Yet, infrastructure alone does not define sustainable development. What distinguishes Governor Alia's administration is the attempt to align infrastructure expansion with economic empowerment and wealth creation.

Through the Bureau for Entrepreneurship and Wealth Creation, the government has initiated several programs targeted at employment generation, skills acquisition, and economic inclusion. One of the most ambitious among them is the engagement of 1,450 ad-hoc staff for the Nigeria Fire Extinguisher Control initiative, with prospects for eventual absorption into the Federal Fire Service.

The administration's collaboration with the Office of the Vice President to establish a multifunctional fashion hub demonstrates a recognition that economic growth must also involve creative industries and vocational empowerment. Already, 50 individuals within the fashion industry have been shortlisted for participation.

Similarly, the renovation and rehabilitation of tailoring workshops under Public-Private Partnership arrangements highlight the government's emphasis on practical skills development. The establishment of a modern tech training hub in Makurdi further positions the administration as one attempting to prepare Benue youths for opportunities within the digital economy.

Perhaps one of the most strategic economic decisions by the Alia administration lies in the mining sector. With Benue possessing 34 solid mineral deposits out of over 43 found in Nigeria, the governor has moved aggressively to organize and sanitize the sector.

The partnership with mining consultants, Sound Core, is designed to help the state properly harness mining opportunities while eliminating illegal operations. The rollout of the annual surface rent scheme, projected to generate about N3.5 billion in revenue, indicates a government searching for innovative internally generated revenue sources beyond federal allocations.

The administration's efforts to flush out illegal miners while educating host communities on lawful benefits from mining activities reflect a more structured approach to resource management. The constitution of the Mineral Resource and Environmental Management Committee under the leadership of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice further demonstrates institutional seriousness.

The inauguration of Mining Marshals to protect mineral resources and address conflicts within host communities adds another layer of strategic governance in a sector long plagued by lawlessness and exploitation.

Financial inclusion has also emerged as a major pillar of the administration’s economic agenda through the establishment of Novus Microfinance Bank. Since commencing operations in June 2024 after securing its CBN license, the bank has become an important platform for grassroots financial empowerment.

The engagement of 3,000 Agent Banking Officers across all council wards in the state represents a bold effort to deepen financial access within rural communities. Beyond direct employment, the bank has facilitated BVN enrolment and financial inclusion for over 1,000 customers across the 23 local government areas.

The impact of the bank's lending schemes is already visible. More than 100 nano businesses have accessed loans to sustain and expand their operations. Over 100 students have had their school fees settled through the "My Pikin School Fees Loan" initiative, while more than 300 Benue civil servants have benefited from side-hustle loans to support small-scale farming and agricultural ventures.

Importantly, the bank operates as a fully digitalized institution integrated with NIBSS and Interswitch platforms, thereby positioning Benue within Nigeria’s rapidly evolving financial technology ecosystem.

The significance of all these initiatives is not merely in statistics or project lists. It lies in the broader psychological transformation taking place within the state. Development, when visible and widespread, restores public confidence. It gives citizens a renewed sense of belonging and possibility.

Governor Alia's administration is certainly not without challenges. No government is. The realities of insecurity for decades, economic pressures, inflation, and infrastructural deficits accumulated over decades cannot disappear overnight. However, what appears undeniable is the administration's determination to confront these realities with unusual speed and visibility.

This is why the national recognition bestowed upon Governor Alia resonates beyond politics. It speaks to a growing perception that Benue State is gradually transitioning from a state long associated with unrealized potential into one increasingly identified with active reconstruction and strategic development.

Awards alone do not build roads, create jobs, or transform economies. But they can serve as important affirmations that leadership efforts are visible and impactful. 

In the case of Governor Hyacinth Alia, the "Platinum Best Performing Governor of the Year in Infrastructure and Economic Development 2026" award symbolize more than personal recognition. It reflects the aspirations of a people eager to witness tangible progress after years of developmental frustration.

Indeed, the greatest challenge before the administration now is sustainability.

Expectations have risen, citizens are watching, critics are observing and supporters are hopeful. The momentum already created must not slow down.

For now, however, one reality stands clear: in less than four years, Governor Alia has successfully placed infrastructure and economic development at the centre of governance in Benue State, and the nation is beginning to take notice.

Congratulations to His Excellency Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia and his administration. May there indeed be no slackness. More grace, good health, clarity, and goodwill to His Excellency as the work of rebuilding Benue continues.

Orseer Mnzughulga, Political And Public Affairs Analyst, writes from Makurdi, Benue state.

May 8, 2026.

#thealiamagic #gafforohitty #ohittyisworking #BenueRising #hitmanmedia #TopSecret4GovAlia #viralpost

HANTAVIRUS: Health Law Researcher Olatunde Isaac Warns Nigeria’s Data Protection Law Could Slow Pandemic Research

By Peter Dansu 

Growing global concern over infectious diseases such as hantavirus has triggered renewed debate about whether Nigeria’s data protection laws are strong enough to support rapid pandemic research during public health emergencies.

A health law researcher and Chief Executive Officer of Bioclinix Medical Diagnostic Centre, Isaac Olatunde, has warned that certain provisions in the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 could unintentionally slow down scientific response efforts when speed is most needed to save lives.

Olatunde raised the concern amid increasing international attention on emerging infectious diseases and the urgent need for countries to strengthen outbreak preparedness, data sharing, and medical research systems.

The Nigeria Data Protection Act, signed into law to regulate the processing of personal data, has been praised for improving privacy protection and aligning Nigeria with international standards similar to Europe’s General Data Protection Regulation, GDPR.

However, Olatunde believes the law creates an uneven system during public health emergencies.

According to him, the Act grants special exemptions to government agencies and “competent authorities,” allowing them to process personal data with fewer restrictions during emergencies. While these provisions are designed to support swift government intervention during disease outbreaks, independent researchers are not clearly given the same emergency flexibility.

He warned that such limitations could weaken Nigeria’s overall pandemic response capacity.

“In a public health emergency, delays in accessing data translate directly into delays in analysis and response,” Olatunde said.

“When independent researchers are slowed down by legal constraints while government agencies are not, the overall scientific response becomes fragmented and less effective.”

He explained that during the COVID-19 pandemic, independent scientists and medical researchers played vital roles in epidemiological modelling, diagnostics development, data analysis, and clinical support. Yet, many of them reportedly faced difficulties accessing critical health data quickly enough to contribute effectively at scale.

Olatunde stressed that the issue is not about opposing data privacy protections, but about ensuring a balance between protecting citizens’ personal information and enabling urgent scientific research during emergencies.

He argued that independent researchers working under ethical approval and proper oversight should also benefit from carefully controlled emergency exemptions.

According to him, such safeguards could include mandatory ethical clearance, strict data minimisation policies, anonymisation of sensitive information where possible, and time-limited access tied specifically to officially declared public health emergencies.

Public health experts have increasingly warned that modern outbreak response depends on collaboration between government institutions, universities, laboratories, private researchers, and healthcare organisations. Any legal framework that slows one part of that network, they argue, could reduce the effectiveness of the entire response system.

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission, which is responsible for implementing and enforcing the law, is expected to play a major role in determining how emergency data access is handled during future disease outbreaks.

Stakeholders are now calling for clearer emergency research guidelines that would allow faster access to critical health data during pandemics without compromising personal privacy rights.

Although hantavirus has not emerged as a direct public health threat in Nigeria, experts say the growing global attention surrounding infectious disease preparedness highlights the need for Nigeria to strengthen both its legal and scientific response structures before another major outbreak occurs.

For Olatunde, the message is clear: Nigeria’s readiness for the next pandemic may depend not only on hospitals, laboratories, and surveillance systems, but also on whether its laws can allow science and medical research to move quickly when lives are at stake.

Pendatyo-U-Tiv Reiterates Her Support For Gov. Alia

...Says he deserves to be re-elected in 2027

By Terfa Naswem

PENDATYO-U-TIV, Rt. Hon. Chief (Mrs) Dorothy Mato has reiterated her support for the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for his penchant for development.

She describes Gov. Alia as a man who has placed Benue State on the path of restructuring in various aspects of its existence for the common good, emphasizing the need to give him all the support and votes he needs to win his re-election in 2027.

Eulogizing Gov. Alia as a linchpin for the development of Benue State, Hon. Mato believes that he will continue to propel the state to the realm of people-oriented impact, taking into account the fundamental indices could elicit immeasurable happiness from the people of Benue State.

She appeales to all eligible voters in Benue State to take advantage of INEC's third and final phase of the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise which will resume on 11th May, 2026 and end on 10th July, 2026, and get their voter's card to ensure that Gov. Alia is re-elected in 2027.

Group Commends Reconciliation Efforts Over Property Feud

By Peter Dansu 

A Civil Society Organization, Africa Centre for Good Governance and Corruption Free Communities, has commended the reconciliation efforts among parties over a disputed property in Maitama District of Abuja.

Two flats in the property located at No 1, Mekong Close, has been a subject of litigation in  the last five years. 

The group, through its Convener,Comrade Temitope Olubunmi Joseph, appealed to parties to sheathe their sword and give room for negotiation. 

According to him, going into full litigation will not benefit anybody as it will further waste time and resources of all parties. 

A lawyer, Victor Giwa alongside his client, Cecil Osakwe and an official of the Nigerian Police Force,  Edith Erhunmuuse, were accused of. Illegal ejection of the occupant of the flats. 

The group commended Justice Samira Bature, of the High Court of Justice of the Federal Capital Territory, who vacated the warrant of arrest issued on Giwa. 

According to the group, the decision of the court will further deepen the recociliation efforts by parties. 

Comrade Joseph said, "We have watched with keen interest, proceedings in this matter in the past few years, we commend the efforts of parties to reconcile and have this matter put behind them once and for all. 

"If there are other ways to have issues sorted out, there is no need to waste hard earnedoney in using governor resources on this matter. 

" We commend the Learned Senior Advocates of Nigeria, SAN, Dr Ahmed Raji, and Mr Joe Agi, for their interventions in this matter which has lingered for many years and spread like "wildfire fire" in the courts. 

"We appreciate you Sirs and we do not take your interventions for granted", he said. 

Justice Samira Bature of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), sitting in Maitama, last week issued an arrest warrant against Giwa and a police official, Edith Erhunmuuse.

They were to be arraigned with another defendant, Cecil Osakwe, on a nine-count charge, marked FCT/HC/CR/222/2023, brought against them by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).

They are in charge and accused of engaging in criminal conduct, involving the forceful eviction of occupants and property damage estimated at N300 million.

Why Govt Should Focus More On Women, Art, Craft And Creative Industry - NEWOMCII

By Peter Dansu 

The Nigerian government has been called upon to focus more on women, art, craft and creative industry. 

The National Coordinator of New Dawn for Women and Community Intervention Initiative (NEWOMCII), Hajia Saadatu Adamu Bokane, a  Non-Governmental Organisation, NGO, dedicated to empowering women, youth, and vulnerable communities,  said the country's economy can grow with focus on these areas. 

Hajia Bokane, accompanied by the National Secretary, Mrs Change Osuji, speaking to journalists, ahead of the organisation's National Launch and Book Unveling, slated for Tuesday, April 28, the National Coordinator said NEWOMCII saw a gap that women has the potentials but lack the opportunity, access to resources and information to actualize their potentials. 

According to her, the NGO was registered eight months ago and swung into action August 2025, adding that NGO was conceived by Alhaji Bolaji Raji, the founder and the Chairman of the NGO.

He he said their founder has been involved in charity works before now amd has support for Nigerians privately but felt that he should expand the organisation by coming up with an NGO and that was what led to the establishment of the organisation.

Hajia Bokane said, "He is someone who grew up among aunties, so he acknowleges the role of women in the society. He felt the NGO should be women oriented because women are result oriented. 

"The NGO has two thematic areas, Agriculture and art and creativity.  We felt that that sector of art and culture have been neglected over the years. The contributions of women in  art, craft and creative industry have been so silent for so many years. 

"Nigeria as a nation is supposed to diversify into art, craft and creativity.  There are a lot of funds lying idle in UNESCO and Nigeria is one of the countries contributing to UNESCO and we don't even have the knowlege of what we are supposed to tap into. 

"If we go into the rural areas, even,  before the emergence of white collar jobs, people are training their children and running their daily lives with their indigenous arts and crafts. 

"Women are contributing immensely in that area and most of these women are in the rural areas.  They don't even know how to access facilities and they are contributing silently to the economy. 

" So, we felt that we should touch these categories of people in our society.  If you go deep, back into history, women  are the ones that discovered agriculture. 

"In the two areas of our focus, we have touched about five areas councils in the FCT. We started with FCT because we believed it is the heartbeat of the nation, so, one of our pilot projects kick-started in the FCT.  In the aspect of agric, we have touched a village in Bwari Area Council, where we met women who are into rice and corn farming.  

"They were 45 in number, out of which 20 were widows.  We interviewed them and they said since they started there hasn't been any government intervention and no NGO has ever come to their aid. 

"The only NGO that came only took them to their farms, snap pictures with them and never came back again. We were the first to reach out to them and within 10days, we supplied them with what they needed. They complained of farm implememts to harvest their produce. After providing them with the tools they needed, they were happy and said they've never witnessed that kind of gesture before. 

"We have monitoring and evaluation team, who visited them the second time to ensure that what we supplied to them, they are making good use of it".

She said the organisation also visited a community in Karu, where women were empowered with modern facility to ease their work of art and craft. 

NEWOMCII has been in operation for less than one year and has presence across Nigeria (in all the 36 states + Abuja), and has impactful success stories. 

The organisation focuses on skills development, economic empowerment, and community-based interventions.

Outrage in Lagos as Military Veteran Slams Sanwo-Olu Over Solar Permit Fees

By Peter Dansu 

A wave of criticism has trailed the Lagos State Government’s decision to introduce solar permit fees in housing estates, with Olumayowa Akogun-Abudu launching a fierce attack on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu over what he described as an anti-people policy.

Akogun-Abudu, a military veteran and former aspirant of Lagos State House of Assembly as well as Ojo Local Government chairmanship candidate, condemned the move in a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday, April 23, 2026, to News Peddlers. He argued that the policy targets residents who have turned to solar energy as a survival strategy amid persistent power outages.

Describing the fee as exploitative, he said the government was effectively punishing citizens for finding alternatives to a problem it has failed to solve.

“This solar permit fee is not just bad policy; it is daylight exploitation of Lagosians,” he said. “After years of failing to deliver stable electricity, your government now wants to tax survival.”

He maintained that thousands of residents who invested personal funds into renewable energy solutions did so out of necessity, not luxury, and should not be burdened with additional levies.

Akogun-Abudu also questioned the administration’s priorities, accusing it of focusing more on revenue generation than improving basic services. According to him, the policy reflects a widening gap between governance and the everyday realities faced by citizens dealing with rising living costs and weak infrastructure.

“This is not governance; this is extortion dressed up as regulation,” he added. “Instead of fixing the power crisis, you have chosen to profit from it. No serious government penalizes innovation, self-reliance, and resilience.”

As opposition to the policy grows across Lagos housing estates, he called for its immediate and total reversal, insisting the government lacks the moral standing to impose such charges.

“If you cannot provide electricity, you have no moral justification to tax those who provide it for themselves. This policy must be scrapped completely and immediately,” he said.

He further warned that the political consequences of the decision could be significant, stressing that voters would not forget policies they perceive as burdensome.

“Lagosians are watching. And they will remember.”

Group Asks AGF, DPP to Review Case Against Lawyer, Victor Giwa, Other

By Peter Dansu 

A Civil Society Organization, Africa Center for Good Governance and Corruption Free Communities, has asked the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and the Director of Public Prosecution in the Ministry of Justice, Mr. Rotimi  Oyedepo, to review the criminal case against a lawyer, Barrister Victor Giwa, and two others. 

According to the group, the case began as a civil matter and was turned into a criminal matter by the former AGF, Abubakar Malami, SAN. 

Convener of the group, Temitope Olubunmi Joseph, called for a thorough review of the matter to unravel the truth. 

The group described the charge filed against Victor Giwa and others as a witch hunt. 

The group said, "This is supposed to be a civil matter; the question we should ask is, at what point did it turn into a criminal matter. 

"We know the Honorable AGF Fagbemi and the newly hardworking DPP, Oyedepo, are yet to turn their minds to looking at the matter critically. 

"We are using this medium to call on them to revisit this matter and call for a fresh investigation. 

"The last administration in the ministry led by Malami used his office to intimidate and harass Giwa and his client, Cecil Osakwe, over a property owned y Osakwe, located at No. 1, Me Long Close, Maitama, Abuja.

"We plead with the AGF to once again look into the matter and order a fresh investigation, so as not to punish an innocent person".

Justice Samira Bature of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), sitting in Maitama, issued an arrest warrant against Giwa and a police official, Edith Erhunmuuse.

They were to be arraigned with another defendant, Cecil Osakwe, on a nine-count charge, marked FCT/HC/CR/222/2023, brought against them by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).

They are in charge and accused of engaging in criminal conduct, involving the forceful eviction of occupants and property damage estimated at N300 million.

The convener said the eviction being complained of for which they were charged was ordered by a court. 

"Without the order of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, the eviction could not have been carried out", he said. 

Court Dismisses Suit Against Retired Supreme Court Justice, Others, Over School Ownership

By Peter Dansu 

Justice A.|. Ityonyiman of rhe High Court of Justice of Benue has dismissed a suit brought by Isaac Ochenjele and three others, claiming the ownership of a school, Livingstone Academy, Anmoda Road, Oglweu in Ohinmi Local government Area of Benue state. 

The court dismissed the suit in the ground that sufficient argument amd credible evidence were not made to substantiate their claims as the owners of the school. 

Apart from Ochenjele, also joined as co-plaintiffs are Mrs. Deborah Durojaiye, Mercy Ochejele and Livingstone Academy Anmoda Oglewu Limited.

Defendant in the suit are Justice James Ogebe (Rtd), Abu Isah Noah, Alex Edeoja, Ejelekwu Ochinta and Ogah Idoga.

The plaintifs had prayed the court for the following reliefs: A declaration that the Plaintiffs are the beneficial owners of the Livingstone Academy, Anmoda Road, Oglewu.

A declaration that the action of the Defendants in breaking into the Plaintiffs’ school premises on September 9, 2024 and forcefully taking over the operations of the school, changing the locks to the offices, collecting, students school fees, and dissipating the resources of the school is unlawful and amounts to trespass.

An order of perpetual injunction restraining the Defendants, whether by . themselves, their privies, agents or any other person claiming through them or acting on their behalf or prompting or purporting to so act or howsoever, ) from interfering with, breaking into or otherwise disturbing, obstructing or forcefully taking over the Plaintiffs/Applicants’ ownership, possession and management of the school known as Livingstone Academy located at Anmoda Road, Oglweu in Ohinmi Local government Area. 

An order for the Defendants to pay to the 4th Plaintiff (Livingstone Academy) the sum of N5,035,000.00 (Five Million and Thirty-Five Naira only) and also account for all other monies they collected as school fees and for any other reason from the students of the 4th Plaintiff from September 9, 2024, when they forcefully took over the administration of the school to September 19, 2024, when the Police dislodged them from the school and the sum of N100,000,00.00 (One Hundred Million Naira only) being damages for the Defendants’ trespass on the school premises from 

The Plaintiffs had argued that Late Pastor Samuel Ochenjele at his lifetime, established the Livingstone Academy Anmoda, Oglewu in Ohinmi Local Government Area at its present location.

They told the court that the late pastor acquired the land on which it is located, built the school premises, and started the school as a co-educational institution. 

"That he sought and was granted Phases 1, Il and III approval by the Benue State Ministry of Education to operate as a fully registered secondary school. That he appointed James Durojaiye as the Assistant School Administrator who later became the Administrator, and also appointed the him as the Principal, and the 3rd Plaintiff  (Mercy Ochejele) 

as the Bursar. That they have been running the school smoothly and peaceably until September 9, 2024 when the 2nd to 5th Defendants rudely interrupted the peace and tranquility of the school by forcefully breaking into the school during the absence of the school Administrator and the Principal. 

"That they seized money, receipts and other documents of the school from the 3rd Plaintiff and evicted her out of the schoo! premises, changed the locks to all the offices, and began to dissipate the resources of the school and also extorted school fees in cash from the students to the tune of Five million, Thirty Five Thousand Naira only", the Plaintiffs argued. 

The defendants led by a retired Supreme Court Justice, James Ogebe, disproved the arguments of the, plaintiffs. 

They also argued that allegation of forcefully taking over the school, thereby destroying property worth millions of naira was false. 

After listening to Counsel that represented parties in the suit, the court dismissed the case of the plaintiffs, saying that they have failed to prove their claims before the court. 

The court held, "I have carefully considered the arguments proffered by the parties. The Learned Senior Counsel is making a case of the locus standi of the 4th Plaintiff to present this suit. His contention is that 4th Plaintiff is not Livingstone Academy established in 2001, 21 years before the 4th Defendant was incorporated. That the 4th Plaintiff did not exist during the lifetime of late Pastor Samuel Ochenjele and remains totally unknown to the deceased. That only a party with a substantiated legal right has legal authority to seek a remedy for the breach or injury to that legal right vide Thomas v. Olufosoye [1986] 1 NWLR (pt. 18) 669 @ 689-690 paras H-F. 

"That the 4th Plaintiff failed to reflect in its pleading and evidence its legal right to seek declarations, injunctions and damages in this suit against the Defendants and therefore lacks the focus standi to institute and maintain this suit". 

The court further held, "To begin with, late Pastor Samuel Ochenjele from whom the Plaintiffs draw their breath and strength, died in the year 2020.The 4th Plaintiff was incorporated in the year 2022 - see Exhibit P12. The supposed ‘alter ego’ of 4th Plaintiff died two years before the birth of the 4th Plaintiff. The 1st -3rd Plaintiffs are not shown to be either directors or shareholders. How then can they draw from the fountain of the preincorporation contract? | have my doubts whether that claim can avail the Plaintiffs. 

"Additionally, paragraph one of the amended claim, introduced the 4th Plaintiff as a company with RC No. 1921788 carrying on the business of rendering educational services including the Livingstone Academy Anmoda, Oglewu. The school being one of the services rendered by the 4th Plaintiff cannot be fused together with the 4th Plaintiff. In effect, it cannot stand on equal footing with the person or body rendering the said service and | so hold. 

"The thrust of the arguments of the defence on the issue is whether the 4" Plaintiff with her status as in Exhibit P12, has the legal right or authority to seek a remedy for the breach or injury to that legal right. That only a party with a substantiated legal right has the legal authority to seek a remedy for the breach or injury fo that legal right. 

"The law is that for a person to have focus standi to institute an action, he has to show that he has special interest, that the interest is not vague, or intangible, supposed or speculative, or that it is not an interest which he shares with other members of the society. He also has to show that such interest has been adversely affected by the act or omission which he seeks to challenge - 

‘It is also trite law that the standing will only be accorded a party who shows that his civil rights and obligation have been or, are in danger of being violated, or adversely affected by the act complained of.  

"By paragraph 10 of the amended claim, the 4th Plaintiff is not shown to be one of the family members of late Pastor Samuel Ochenjele. It is a company whose interest is being agitated in this suit. The interest of the 1st - 3rd Plaintiffs as family members of late Pastor Samuel Ochenjele, is alien to that of the company. | have my doubts whether the 4th Plaintiff can make a case of interference in the interest and rights of the late Pastor Samuel Ochenjele family as a total stranger. The upshot of my reasoning is that the 4th Plaintiff does not have the locus to institute this suit. In consequence, the name of the 4th Plaintiff is hereby struck out". 

The court said the Plaintiffs have not pleaded and led evidence on all material issues which they have to prove, and where they have led evidence, such evidence is manifestly unsatisfactory, and have therefore not made out a prima facie case.

Justice Ityonyiman concluded, "It therefore follows that with the variation in the evidence with pleadings, and failure to back up the pleadings with credible evidence on the invasion of the school, the case of the Plaintiffs is on a sticky wicket. The effect is that the Plaintiffs have no case, and indeed have not made out any, against any of the Defendants to warrant any confrontation or defence thereto. in Progressive Action Alliance v. INEC [2009] All FWLR (pt. 478) 260 @ 317 paras G-H, it was decided: “A defendant need not prove anything, if the plaintiff has not succeeded in establishing his case prima facie in order that the necessity to confront the case may so arise. Aromire v. Awoyeni [1972] 2 SC 7, Adeleke v. Inyanda [2001] 13 NWLR (pt. 729)..

"The suit is therefore a cul-de sac. In other words, Plaintiffs have not proved their claim on the preponderance of evidence. The claim must therefore fail. It fails and it is hereby dismissed."

Jir Commends Gov. Alia For His Impactful Governance

... Assures Mzough U Kase Of His Support 

By Terfa Naswem 

Benue State Honourable Commissioner for Transportation, Power and Renewable Energy, Hon. Joseph Ter Jir has commended the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for his impactful governance. 

He made this known yesterday during a courtesy visit by Mzough U Kase (NKST), Classis of Genyi, Yandev, Gboko, Benue State to him at his office in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

Jir eulogized Gov. Alia for given him appointment as commissioner and pledges his unswerving loyalty to Alia, and to ensure he delivers on him promises to reposition Benue State for the common good.

Benue State Honourable Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Hon. Alumo Orpin commended Mzough U Kase for honouring Hon. Jir by paying him such a glamorous visit. He urged them to remain steadfast in their faith and God in Heaven will grant their hearts desires.

The leader of Mzough U Kase delegation, Atese Salome Aor said the visit was to appreciate Hon. Jir for the good work he is doing and ensuring that  Alia's good governance is felt by the people of Yandev, Gboko and Benue State by extension.

In her words of encouragement, she stressed the need for Hon. Jir to always seek knowledge and wisdom from God like King Solomon did.

She appealed to Hon. Jir to support Mzough U Kase in Genyi to execute some of the projects they are currently working on which will pave way for their religious activities to be carried out effectively and also empower them through employment with the state government.

In his response, Hon. Jir appreciated them for the words of encouragement and promised to continue to support the work of Christ Jesus through the church and will give them the support they need for the execution of such projects in the near future. 

The Chairman, Yandev Development Association (YDA), Makurdi Branch, Engr. Akever Emmanuel Ternenge was overwhelmed by the visit and assured them that he will continue to deliver progressive leadership to Yandev community in Makurdi and beyond.

Court Orders Firm, Others To Maintain Status Quo On Disputed Wuye Property

By Peter Dansu 

The Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Gwarimpa, has ordered parties to maintain status quo in a dispute over a property located at Plot 859A, Cadastral Zone B03, Wuye District, FCT, Abuja. 

The property, measuring approximately 70,000m2 is subject of litigation in two suits (SUIT NO. FCT/HC/GWD//49/2026 and SUIT NO. FCT/HC/CV/216/2026) between a property firm, Goldenbird Investment Limited (Claimant) and Promiseland Building and Construction Limited (1st defendant) and Lawrence Emmanuel and the Federal Capital Territory Administration, who are 2nd and 3rd defendants, respectively. 

In SUIT NO. FCT/HC/CV/216/2026, between Promiseland Building and Construction Limited & 2 Ors V. Goldenbird Investment Limited & Anor., the court, presided over by Hon. Justice Lesley N. B. Wike, , ordered parties to maintain status quo after Counsel to the Plaintiff, Dr. Lilian Ojimma, complained to the court that despite the pendency of the matter before the court, that Promiseland Building & Construction, aided by officers and men of the Nigeria Police and other agents and thugs, forcefully took possession of the land, and commenced construction of fence and other building activities on the land as well as marketing the property to subscribers. 

In the statement of claim filed by O. C. Ali, Esq., dated January 22, 2026, the Claimant stated that it was granted a lease of 50 years on the land in 2007 by the Federal Capital Territory Administration and for which it has complied with the terms and paid ground rent and all necessary fees imposed by government. In addition, the company paid compensation to the natives/indigenes on the land before it took possession in 2007 and has put the land to the permitted and approved use since then without any incident. 

The claimant stated that sometime in 2025, the Ministerial Vetting team of the Federal Capital Development authority (FCDA) commenced a process of Vetting/verification of documents issued to Parks Operators and the Claimant duly complied and submitted all its documents for vetting/verification. The claimant also stated that FCDA had claimed that the essence of the exercise was to sanitize Green Areas in conformity with the Abuja Master Plan and the Parks and Recreation Policy that requires development of not more than 18% of development of the total land area. That while the exercise was still ongoing, the FCT Minister, without due process, sub-divided the plot and granted to Promiseland and its sister companies, who forcefully took possession of part of the land and started development activities thereon, while suits filed by the parties are pending.

In the process of taking over possession of the land for private estate development, Promiseland destroyed properties developed on the land by the claimant with due approval from the Department of Development Control. While the suit by Promiseland lays claim to the land based on the recent allocation by the FCT Minister, the Claimant in its case, prayed the court for an Order directing the eviction of the 1st and 2nd defendants, their workmen, agents and privies or any occupant at their instance on property. 

The claimant also prayed the court for an order of perpetual injunction preventing the defendants (including their agents, workmen and privies) or any occupant at their instance from further interfering with the Claimant’s legal, beneficial, equitable interest and peaceful possession of the land. The claimant also prayed for an order of perpetual injunction restraining the 3rd Defendant from perfecting any title to plot 859A, Bo3, Cadestral Zone, Wuye measuring approximately 70.000m2 or any party thereof in favour of the 1st and 2nd Defendant. 

The Claimant said as an investment company in Nigeria, it invested into the Federal Capital Territory development in 2007, when the company applied for the Allocation of a recreational land/green area for management and development.

The Claimant further stated that upon approval of its application, the claimant executed a Deed of Sub-Lease of Recreational Facilities /Parks with the Abuja Metropolitan Management Agency, Federal Capital Territory Administration, dated the 10th day of July 2007.  The FCDA Administration completely jettisoned the vetting exercise it initiated and the unexpired lease on the land that was designed as Green Area under the Abuja Master Plan and granted the land to private companies for residential purpose. 

The company, through its Counsel, stated that: "The Claimant avers that the Deed of Sublease and letter of intent granted to the Claimant title over Plot 859A, Bo3 Cadastral Zone, Wuye District, and FCT Abuja, measuring approximately 70,000m’ for 50 years. "The Claimant avers that the company immediately took over possession of the land and paid full compensation to all the indigenes and natives resident in the land, to be permitted to fall trees and develop the land in compliance with Government directives and that their unexpired term of lease right over Plot 859A, Bo3 Cadastral Zone, Wuye District, and FCT Abuja, measuring approximately 70,000m’ stands at 31 years at the time of instituting this suit. 

"The Claimant avers that the entire Plot 859A, Bo3 Cadastral Zone, Wuye District, FCT Abuja measuring approximately 70,000m’ is currently preserved and developed by the claimant as a Green Area and operated under the name Golden Bird Park, the usage features an event center wherein a temporary Marquee has been erected on the land, and gazebos.” 

"The Claimant avers that the company successfully applied for building approval to develop the entire park inclusive, (Plot 859A) and same was approved on the 6th August 2015 and 25th August 2016 by the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council, Development Control department.” 

The Claimant avers that their interest and possession of Plot 859A, Bo3 Cadastral Zone, Wuye District, and FCT Abuja, measuring approximately 70,000m2 is valid and that the forceful entry of the 1st and 2nd Defendants and their workmen, agents and privies into Plot 859A, Bo3 Cadastral Zone, Wuye District, FCT Abuja measuring approximately 70,000m’ amounts to trespass to land. 

The Claimant prayed the court for the following reliefs; A declaration that by virtue of the Letter of Intent dated the 3rd July, 2007 and 10th September, 2014 and the Deed of Sublease executed between the Claimant and the 3rd Defendant on the 10th day of July 2007, the Claimant possess a 50 years lease right over Plot 859A, Bo3 Cadastral Zone, Wuye District, FCT Abuja, measuring approximately 70,000m2 with an unexpired term of 31 years still valid and subsisting and that “by the virtue of the title documents in their possession issued by the 3rd Defendant and physical occupation of Plot 859A, Bo3 Cadastral Zone, Wuye District, FCT Abuja measuring approximately 70,000m’ since the year 2007, the Claimant has valid title for the possession and development of Plot 859A, Bo3 Cadastral Zone, Wuye District, FCT Abuja”. 

𝐋𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐞 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐬 ₦𝟏𝟓𝟎,𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐚𝐭 𝐈𝐒𝐄𝐅 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐞𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐝𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐲

By Peter Dansu 

Students from several senior secondary schools across Badagry gathered on Wednesday for the 2026 Spelling Bee Competition organised by the Isaac Sewanu Educational Foundation (ISEF), an initiative aimed at promoting academic excellence and strengthening interest in education among young learners in the area.

The keenly contested competition, held at Badagry Grammar School in Badagry, Lagos State, brought together some of the brightest students who showcased impressive spelling abilities and strong command of the English language.

At the end of the highly competitive rounds, Lagos State Model Senior College, Kankon emerged as the overall winner, clinching the star prize of ₦150,000. Ikoga Senior Grammar School secured the first runner-up position and went home with a cash prize of ₦100,000, while the host school, Badagry Grammar School Senior, finished in third place and received ₦50,000.

Speaking during the event, the organiser and initiator of the programme, Mr. Isaac Sewanu, said the competition was inspired by his passion for education and his commitment to supporting academic development in Badagry. He emphasized the importance of education, discipline and hard work, noting that spelling competitions help students improve their vocabulary, confidence and overall academic performance, while also commending participating schools for encouraging their students to engage in educational contests that strengthen learning beyond the classroom.

According to him, the initiative is designed to motivate students to pay greater attention to their studies while also creating opportunities that reward academic diligence.

He noted that the cash prizes were introduced as a way to further encourage students to pursue excellence in their academic pursuits.

Mr. Sewanu also expressed optimism about the future of the programme, stating that the foundation hopes to expand the competition and introduce more educational empowerment initiatives that will benefit students across Badagry and beyond.

The event attracted teachers, school administrators and supporters of education who commended the foundation for its efforts in promoting learning and intellectual development among secondary school students in the community.

Jir, Kwaghgba Attend Buruku Day Celebration

By Terfa Naswem 

Earlier today, the Benue State Commissioner for Transportation, Power and Renewable Energy, Hon. Joseph Tet Jir with the Chairman of Benue State Internal Revenue Services (BIRS), Hon. Joseph Kwaghgba attended BURUKU DAY celebration 2026.

The event was organised by Buruku Development Association in conjunction with Buruku Traditional Council held at Tombo Community Secondary School, Buruku LGA, Benue State.

He expressed delight for the organisation of the event, stating that such an annual event reunites the people of Buruku and beyond which is the recipe for development and fostering peace and unity against all odds.

Hon. Kwaghgba reinstated his commitment to the progress of Buruku where he is married. He commended the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for the appointments he gave in Buruku and the good work he is doing for the development of Benue State.

He gave cash donation in support of the association's projects they intend to execute and assured them of his support in the near future.

Agah Has The Concomitant Of Leadership To Represent Mata State Constituency

By Terfa Naswem 

As Mata State Constituency searches for a representative that has the concomitant of all-inclusive representation, the searchlights point at Hon.  Dr. Daniel Tordue Agah; a man whose penchant for progress and development is top-notch.

Mata State Constituency is seriously begging for attention as it has over the years suffered so much infrastructural deficits and the empowerment of constituents being neglected.

Just like Benjamin Rush (1745–1813) who was a foundational American leader, physician, and social reformer whose leadership philosophy was deeply rooted in Enlightenment rationalism, Christian benevolence, and civic republicanism. Dr. Agah follows his footsteps not only as a social reformer but also enlightenment rationalism, Christian benevolence, and civic republicanism. He believes that the people of Mata State Constituency need to be placed on the trajectory of development through these cardinal points which he has the concomitant to do them but needs to be elected to represent the people of Mata at the Benue State House of Assembly, BSHoA where he'll have the wherewithal for all-inclusive representation through his probity and prudence. Just like Rush, Agah's approach to leadership emphasized moral integrity, education, and the proactive, often aggressive, pursuit of public good, viewing representative leadership as a duty to improve society, reform institutions, and foster human potential.

Those from Mata State Constituency of Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State who have not registered as members of All Progressives Congress (APC) should do so for them to be qualified to vote for him in the forthcoming direct primaries.

If they don't have voters cards too, they should go to the nearest INEC office and register to obtain theirs so that they will vote for Dr. Agah after he wins his primary election on the platform of APC.

Jir Extols Gov. Alia For Repositioning Benue

... Calls on supporters to get their voters' cards, APC e-registration membership cards

By Terfa Naswem 

Benue State Commissioner for Transportation, Power and Renewable Energy, Hon. Joseph Ter Jir extols the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for repositioning Benue State on the trajectory of unprecedented development.

He is extremely impressed with the tremendous impact Gov. Alia is making on the people of Benue State, stating that those who are hellbent on propelling activities that will impinge on the progressive roadmap of Gov. Alia for Benue State will never succeed.

It is incontrovertible that since 1999, Benue State has never witnessed this kind of development which hitherto was only in the illusions of Benue indigenes. Hon. Jir notes that Alia is not a neophyte in progressive leadership and has surmounted most of the impediments in his government which made the completed and ongoing projects possible.

In ensuring that Gov. Alia continues with his good work for Benue State, Hon. Jir appeals to supporters of Alia who don't have voters' cards to go to the nearest INEC office and register to obtain theirs so that they will be able to reelect Alia.

Since the new electoral law has made emphasis on direct primaries and consensus, expunging delegates participation, he urged supporters of Alia to register as All Progressives Congress (APC) members through e-registration which is expected to continue after the congresses are completed.

He said if they obtain their APC e-membership cards, they will be qualified to participate in the direct primaries to give Alia the go-ahead as the candidate of APC for his reelection including others.

FCT High Court Strikes Out Joinder Motion Of Firm Adversely Affected By Exparte Order

By Peter Dansu 

Justice Othman Musa of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory has turned down a request by a firm, EOD Lagos PFM Limited to be joined as a party in a Lagos property dispute pending before the court. 

The firm has been adversely affected by the order of the FCT High Court sealing up the premises, at Plot No A Block 12, Lekki Peninsula Scheme, Lagos State,  where it carries out it's business activities. 

Officials of the  court sealed up a property located at Lekki Peninsula Scheme, Lagos, following an Exparte Order granted by Hon. Justice Othman Musa of the FCT High Court. 

The sealed up property houses various business entities including Angelos, Café, Zevis, Pharmaceuticals, EOD PFM Ltd, Lord of Hosts Miracle Church, who have been carrying on their various businesses in the premises for several years. 

Following the Exparte Order granted by court to seal up the property, the firm applied to be joined in the suit pending before the FCT High Court with Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/4636/2025 between Mr. Henry Orabuchi V Police and Others but the court turned down the application. 

Upon hearing the application for joinder vide Motion No. M/402/2026, the Court on February 19, delivered a ruling refusing to join the interested party in the suit or vary the Order to exclude the area where their business is located. 

In its motion, EOD PFM Ltd had prayed the court to be joined or vary the order of the  court to exclude the area where its business  premises in the property is located but the court dismissed the motion. 

Also, the court awarded a punitive damage of N500,000.00 against the party for bringing the motion before the court. 

The court was not swayed by the facts showing that the tenant that brought the motion for joinder operates its business on a piece of land that is clearly distinct from the portion of the reclaimed land claimed by the plaintiff or the fact that the affected tenant had been out of business since the Lagos property was sealed up in December, 2025 in line with the Exparte Order of the FCT high Court. 

In refusing the application, the Court held that the company did not file a ‘statement of defence’ in the suit even where the Affidavit demonstrated the company’s interest in the property and how the Exparte Order has affected their business. 

The award of cost of N500,000.00 against an innocent tenant whose business premises has been sealed up by the Exparte Order of Court granted without jurisdiction, does not serve the interest of justice in any way.

The Hon. Court has no jurisdiction to grant the Exparte Order and has not demonstrated any inclination to equity and fairness in discharge of judicial duty.

The plaintiff had alleged that his fundamental Rights as guaranteed under Sections 34, 35, 36, 37, 41, and 44 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), and Articles 9 and 14 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act, have been breached. 

He claimed that he purchased 3,000 square meters of reclaimed land situated at the back of Plot No A Block 12, Lekki Peninsula Scheme, Lagos State from the Landlord, Mr. Emecheta Elvis Eze, which has nothing to do with the premises where the business entities are located.

 The plaintiff filed the suit to shield him from honouring invitation of the Nigeria Police Force, following a Petition against him by Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, (lawyer to Mr. Emecheta) over Mr.

Henry's conduct that amounts to criminal trespass, damage to property and threat to life. 

In the fundamental Rights suit filed by the law office of Chikaosolu Ojukwu, SAN, on behalf of the plaintiff, it was argued that the Police Invitation infringes on his fundamental Rights and is aimed at compelling him into relinquishing his lawful proprietary and contractual rights over the 3,000square meters of reclaimed land behind the sealed up property.

In his Exparte application before the Court, Ojukwu urged the Court to grant an Exparte Order to seal up the Lagos property.

The court presided over by Justice Musa granted the Exparte Order on November 24, 2025 to seal and secure the entire property, including the reclaimed land at the back of the property measuring 3,000 square meters 

He also ordered the immediate stoppage of all construction works, activities, actions, or steps on the said property while ensuring that no person, authority, or entity howsoever described is permitted access to or entry upon the property pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit pending before the court.

Following the order of the court which was supposed to have been vacated, having elapsed, on December 30, 2025,, all the occupants of the property and their workers were forcefully chased out of their business premises and the property was sealed up by people who introduced themselves as officers of the FCT High Court, from Abuja. 

All efforts by the various business owners to explain to the FCT Court officials that their business premises is different  from the 3,000square meters of the  reclaimed land upon which the plaintiff claim is predicated, met stiff resistance as they were forcefully pushed out of the premises without being allowed any opportunity to remove anything from there.

The institution of this case in FCT Abuja and the grant of the Exparte Order suggests a grand and calculated scheme orchestrated to cause mischief and hardship on the Landlord of the Premises and the innocent occupants who have been deprived of access to their business premises. The Business owners are not parties to the alleged agreement between Mr. Henry Ugonna Orabuchi, and Mr. Elvis Emecheta, over the 3,000 square meters of the reclaimed land behind their business premises and are not parties to the fundamental rights enforcement suit. 

The Exparte Order of the FCT High Court over the Lagos property is a manipulation and abuse of judicial process using the instrumentality of the judiciary itself (FCT High Court) which has occasioned great hardship and injustice on the business owners and Landlord.

Igbo Ministers Commission condemns killing of Ondo traditional ruler, urge Yoruba to unite with Igbos against common enemy

By Peter Dansu 

Igbo clerics, under the umbrella of  Concerned Igbo Ministers Commission, have condemned the killing of an Ondo State monarch, Oba Kehinde Falodun.

Oba Falodun, the Alagamo of Agamo in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, was shot dead on Wednesday by gunmen who invaded his palace. 

Reacting to the development, the Concerned Igbo Ministers Commission, in a statement signed by Rev Tony Uzor Anthony, warned that the 'Jihad' Nnamdi Kanu foretold has spread to Yorubaland in the South-West.

The Igbo monarchs urged the Yoruba to to unite with the Igbos to fight a "common enemy".

The religious leaders expressed regrets that Nnamdi Kanu's warning about spread of Islamic jihad to the South ob Radio Biafra was ignored by the authorities and instead used as evidence to convict of terrorism.

"The concerned Igbo Ministers Commission expresses profound sorrow and outrage over the cold-blooded assassination of His Royal Majesty, Oba Kehinde Falodun, the Alagamo of Agamo Community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.

"This respected traditional ruler was slaughtered in his own palace on February 18, 2026, by suspected Fulani terrorists (commonly referred to as bandits) who invaded his domain. Eyewitness accounts describe armed men speaking Hausa, operating in the exact pattern of the marauding Fulani jihadist elements that have terrorized communities across Nigeria for years. We extend our deepest condolences to the grieving family, the people of Agamo, the entire Ondo State, and the broader Yoruba nation. No community deserves such barbarity.

"Yet, as Concerned Igbo Ministers  who have sworn to defend life, liberty, and justice — we cannot remain silent on the preventable nature of this tragedy. Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the Supreme Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has for over a decade issued clear, prophetic warnings about the systematic Fulani jihadist agenda to overrun Nigeria, seize ancestral lands, and impose Fulanization through terror. Those warnings, broadcast on Radio Biafra and played in open court, were not “hate speech” — they were accurate intelligence ignored at Nigeria’s peril.

"The very judge who presided over Mazi Kanu’s case and handed him a life sentence on trumped-up terrorism and treason charges — Justice James Omotosho, an indigene of Ondo State — now watches these same Fulani terrorists strike at the heart of his own community. While IPOB and the global Igbo family mourn this loss, we must state plainly: had Justice Omotosho and Yoruba political leaders prioritized justice by facilitating the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, this monarch would likely still be alive today," the statement said. 

According to the clerics, Kanu's voice is the only force the truly terrifies the sponsors of the jihadists in government. 

"His continued illegal detention has emboldened these terrorists, allowing the jihad he repeatedly exposed to spread from the Middle Belt into the South-West. The blood of Oba Kehinde Falodun cries out from the ground in Ondo State — a direct consequence of the injustice meted out to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu," the clerics added. 

The Concerned Igbo Ministers Commission demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from the Sokoto Medium Correctional  facility, and an international investigation into the Fulani terrorist network operating with impunity across Nigeria.

The clerics also urged Yoruba leaders, including South-West governors and traditional rulers, to publicly join the call for Kanu’s freedom and end the dangerous narrative that positions Igbo people as their enemy.

They equally called on the United States government and the international community to exert diplomatic pressure on Nigeria to end this cycle of selective justice and state-sponsored insecurity.

"Concerned Igbo Ministers will not stand idly by while our kith and kin in Nigeria are hunted like animals. The time for political games is over. Release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu now — the security and survival of every Nigerian community, Yoruba, Igbo, and beyond, depends on it.

Biafra’s light will continue to expose darkness. Justice delayed is justice denied — but justice for Nnamdi Kanu is peace for Nigeria."

Only courage can save Igboland - Activists tell Igbo monarchs to speak with one voice

By Peter Dansu 

A coalition of pan-Igbo self determination groups have urged Igbo traditional rulers and political leaders to abandon complicity and speak out with courage against the marginalization and oppression of Igbos in the country.

In a joint statement on Friday, the self determination groups - American Veterans of Igbo Descent, AVID, Ambassadors for Self-Determination, and Rising Sun Foundation — declared that only courage, and not cowardice, can save Igboland.

The statement was in reaction to the action of an Enugu State traditional ruler who openly asked President Bola Tinubu to immediately release leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu or return him to Kenya, where he was abducted before his extraction to Nigeria in 2021.

The traditional ruler, Dr Lawrence Agubuzu, the Eze Ogbunechendo of Ezema Olo Kingdom in Enugu State, 

made the demand during the 2026 National Traditional and Religious Leaders Summit on Health held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, on February 17.

"Bring this man (Nnamdi Kanu) out. If we don’t want him in Nigeria, return him to Kenya or London where they took him from.

“Please do something about this. We cannot make progress in this country if we don’t tell ourselves the truth," the monarch told the President.

In the statement jointly signed by Dr. Sylvester Onyia, AVID, Chief Evans Nwankwo, Ambassadors for Self-Determination, and Dr. Maxwell Dede, Rising Sun Foundation, the activists commended the monarch, Agubuzu, urging all traditional rulers in Igboland to emulate him. 

The statement read, "The American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), Ambassadors for Self-Determination, and Rising Sun Foundation—wish to send a clarion call to the conscience of Igboland.

"We unequivocally commend His Royal Majesty Eze Agubuzu of Enugu for his unflinching courage in telling President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to his face what other Igbo traditional rulers have been too weak, too compromised, or too cowardly to say: Release Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu immediately, or return him to Kenya.

"Let it be known that HRM Eze Lawrence Agubuzu and HRM Eze Chukwuemeka Eri are currently the only monarchs who have publicly understood the depth of the pain, injustice, and anguish inflicted upon our people by the illegal detention of Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. While Fulani herder murderers are pampered, Yoruba agitators walk free, and the Nigerian state continues to show contempt for Igbo humanity, the majority of Igbo kings and chiefs—including the Obi of Onitsha and Eze Cletus Ilomuanya—remain silent. Their silence is complicity; their inaction is betrayal."

The activists declared that the crowns and titles of the traditional rulers are worthless if they cannot speak up and protect their subjects.

"We ask plainly: What are the titles and crowns of these so-called leaders worth if they cannot stand for the lives, liberty, and dignity of their own people? AlaIgbo cannot survive leaders who place personal comfort above collective justice.

"We therefore call on all Igbo traditional rulers to abandon cowardice, abandon complicity, and speak with one voice. The time for half-measures, whispers, and veiled statements is over. Step up boldly for Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, or step aside and make room for leaders who will. History will not forgive those who chose silence while our people suffered injustice.

"The courage of HRM Eze Agubuzu and HRM Eze Chukwuemeka Eri demonstrates that moral authority, not fear of Abuja, is what preserves a people’s dignity. Let all Igbo leaders take note: the era of self-serving silence is over. AlaIgbo demands justice, leadership, and courage—now," the statement added.

Lagride Deploys New Fleet Under $100m UBA-Backed ‘Drive To Own’ Scheme; Targets 3,500 Vehicles

BY JUMOKE OWOOLA

Lagride has deployed a new set of vehicles under its Drive To Own programme, marking a significant milestone in its plan to expand structured pathways from professional driving to long-term vehicle ownership for captains.

Drive To Own is a performance-led initiative designed to reward captains who consistently meet measurable standards, including service quality, safety, compliance, ride completion, customer feedback, and overall operational discipline on the platform. The programme is backed by a $100m facility from United Bank for Africa (UBA), supporting Lagride’s plan to scale responsibly with strong governance and clear accountability, with a target of deploying 3,500 vehicles as the programme expands.

Lagride’s Drive To Own $100m partnership with UBA was launched in December by Chief Diana Chen, Chairman of Lagride, and Oliver Alawuba, Group Managing Director and CEO of UBA. The programme is already delivering tangible outcomes as the rollout progresses.

Speaking at the event, Mildred Ekanem, Executive Director of Lagride, said the deployment reflects Lagride’s commitment to building sustainable livelihoods while improving service standards for customers across Lagos.

“Drive To Own is built on structure and measurable performance,” Ekanem said. “This deployment is proof that when captains commit to a standard, the platform will commit to them in return. With UBA as a key partner and a strong financial backbone behind the programme, we are building a credible ownership engine that strengthens service quality and expands opportunities for captains over time. Our ambition is clear: scale responsibly and reach a deployment target of 3,500 vehicles as the programme grows.”

Ekanem added that the programme’s approach is driven by verifiable performance records generated through Lagride’s rental framework, which provides consistency and accountability for both the platform and its financial partners.

“Access to finance at this scale requires trust and data,” she said. “The rental period created a disciplined operating framework that produced the performance history needed for this model to be supported with confidence.”

UBA described the partnership as a practical example of enterprise finance enabling asset ownership through responsible, trackable performance.

Babatunde Ajayi, Head of Business Banking at UBA, said, “UBA is proud to partner with Lagride on Drive To Own because it is a structured model with clear accountability. The $100m facility backing this programme reflects our confidence in a framework that combines performance data, governance, and a pathway to asset ownership. This programme reflects what banking should be in the modern African economy: practical, inclusive, responsible, and forward-looking. It shows that when institutions trust people, and people honour that trust, progress becomes inevitable. This is how finance should work—enabling real enterprise, supporting livelihoods, and scaling opportunity responsibly.”

One of the beneficiaries, Aminu Ganna, a Lagride captain, described the moment as a turning point for captains committed to building stable futures through the platform.

“This is bigger than receiving a car. It is proof that the work we do every day can lead to ownership,” Aminu Ganna said. “Drive To Own gives captains hope and a clear path forward. For those of us who take the standards seriously, this is the opportunity we have been waiting for.”

The Drive To Own deployment event brought together Lagride captains, UBA representatives, and members of the media, featuring programme remarks, the official deployment moment, and a media briefing outlining the standards and expectations that underpin Drive To Own.

Lagride reiterated that Drive To Own will remain strictly performance-led, with continued eligibility dependent on professionalism, safety, compliance, vehicle care, and reliability.

Iworo FM 96.3 Marks One Year in Grand Style, Bags Major Broadcasting Awards

By Peter Dansu 

Nigeria’s foremost indigenous radio station, Iworo FM 96.3, on Saturday, February 7, 2026, rolled out the drums to celebrate its first anniversary in a colourful ceremony that drew traditional rulers, political leaders, religious clerics and members of the community.

The glamorous event, held in Iworo and its environs, had in attendance the Oniworo of Iworo Awori Kingdom, Oba Dr Oladele Friday Kosoko, the Chairman of Olorunda Local Council Development Area, Hon. Ajose Peter Kumayon, alongside other royal fathers, Christian and Muslim leaders, and prominent stakeholders.

Activities kicked off with a thanksgiving session, where organisers and guests expressed gratitude to God for the journey so far, acknowledging the challenges faced since the station’s establishment in 2025 while celebrating the resilience that has kept it growing.

Speaking at the event, Oba Kosoko described Iworo FM as a blessing to the community, noting that the station has boosted development and brought Iworo Kingdom into national recognition.

According to the monarch, the radio station has not only amplified the voice of the people but has also attracted attention and progress to the area through its consistent and quality programming.

Iworo FM is a good initiative that has attracted development to the community. It has placed Iworo Kingdom on the national map, all thanks to the amazing and laudable work of the management. Within one year, there has been tremendous progress in the operations of this radio station. I am glad to see the improvements and also congratulate the people of Iworo for having an investment like this, the monarch said.

A major highlight of the celebration was the presentation of prestigious broadcasting awards to the station by 1423 Communications in recognition of its growing influence in the media space.

The station was honoured as the Fastest Rising Indigenous Radio Station in the Badagry Iworo axis and Best Radio Station in Breaking News Coverage Across the Interlands.

Representing the communication firm, the presenter said the awards were based on close monitoring of the station’s performance and its positive impact within a short period.

Iworo FM deserves all the accolades it is getting because it has done exceedingly well for the community and Lagos State as a whole. These awards are the result of careful observation of the station’s operations and activities. It is indeed marvellous, the representative stated.

Receiving the awards on behalf of the station, Oba Oladele Friday Kosoko, who also serves as the Board Chairman, expressed deep appreciation and reaffirmed his commitment to taking the station to greater heights.

We are very happy with this award. It shows that we are being watched, and to be considered for these laudable awards means a lot to us. I will continue to show commitment to this radio station and will do even more as we move forward in the coming years, he said.

The anniversary celebration was further spiced up with raffle draws, where lucky participants went home with items such as electric fans, bags of rice, clothing materials and other food supplies, adding excitement and goodwill to the historic occasion.

With its first year marked by growth, community impact and industry recognition, Iworo FM 96.3 appears firmly positioned as a rising force in indigenous broadcasting across Lagos State and beyond.