Category: Cityscope

  • Sowore cries out over alleged assassination plot, links threats to sustained intimidation campaign

    Sowore cries out over alleged assassination plot, links threats to sustained intimidation campaign

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 10 April 2026 (NPA) — Nigerian activist, journalist, politician and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has warned that revelations of an alleged assassination plot against him confirm a long‑standing pattern of intimidation and violence aimed at silencing dissent.

    In a statement today, Sowore said the disclosure by Harrison Ofoegbu, popularly known as “@IjeleSpeaks2,” was “not an isolated incident” but part of a deliberate campaign to target voices challenging injustice. He recounted past encounters with Ofoegbu, including efforts in 2024 to resist what he described as attempts to eliminate him while in detention, and stressed that such threats are calculated rather than random.

    Sowore linked the latest revelation to his own history of violent attacks, including being shot at close range by police, beaten nearly to death, and the killing of his brother, Felix Olajide Sowore, in 2021. He recalled similar attempts dating back to his student activism at the University of Lagos in the 1990s, when he survived attacks by security forces and cult gangs allegedly mobilised by the military regime.

    “These were not random acts; they were calculated efforts to silence me, to force me into retreat, and to break my resolve as a public conscience and a revolutionary,” Sowore said. He added that the threats have often extended to those around him, reflecting a broader strategy of intimidation.

    While noting that Ofoegbu did not personally disclose specific details of the alleged plot to him, Sowore insisted that repeated attempts on his life remain ongoing. “It is too late. The struggle for total liberation is already in motion. Nothing can stop it,” he declared.

  • Horror in Ogun: Family member kills man with pestle, Police foil secret burial

    Horror in Ogun: Family member kills man with pestle, Police foil secret burial

    ABEOKUTA, Nigeria, 10 April 2026 (NPA) — Detectives of the Ajuwon Division, Ogun State Police Command, have arrested three suspects in connection with the alleged murder of a family member and an attempted secret burial in Akute, Ogun State.

    The suspects — Maureen Okirie (35), Salia Karikari (15) and Jubril Karikari (12) — were apprehended on Thursday, 9 April, following an anonymous tip‑off about suspicious activity. Police officers arrived at the scene and reportedly caught one suspect attempting to bury the blood‑soaked body of Stanley Okirie (38) in a shallow grave.

    According to a statement signed by DSP Oluseyi B. Babasayi, Police Public Relations Officer, Ogun State Command, preliminary examination revealed a severe head injury. Investigations suggest the victim was attacked with a wooden pestle, while relatives conspired to conceal the crime. The suspected weapon has been recovered, and the body deposited at Life Channel Mortuary, Olambe, for autopsy.

    The suspects are in custody and will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran, Abeokuta, for further investigation and prosecution.

    Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, condemned the act as “cruel, inhumane and deeply disturbing,” particularly given the family connection. He stressed that such violence and attempts at cover‑up would not be tolerated, assuring the public of a thorough and transparent investigation.

    Ojajuni urged residents to remain security conscious, report suspicious activities promptly, and continue cooperating with the Police in efforts to rid society of criminal elements.

  • Ogun Police arrest suspect over motorcyclist’s murder in Igbesa

    Ogun Police arrest suspect over motorcyclist’s murder in Igbesa

    ABEOKUTA, Nigeria, 9 April 2026 (NPA) — The Ogun State Police Command has announced the arrest of a suspect in connection with the murder of a motorcyclist in the Igbesa area of the south-western state.

    According to a statement signed by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, detectives from the Igbesa Division arrested Chidi Ebere, male, aged 27, for the alleged killing of a commercial motorcyclist in Igbesa, Ogun State.

    The incident occurred on Wednesday, 8 April 2026, at about 7 a.m. The suspect reportedly boarded a motorcycle operated by the victim, Sunday Ogbu, male, aged 36, and attacked him in an attempt to seize the bike, leading to a violent struggle.

    A witness at the scene raised the alarm, prompting police officers to rush to the location. The victim was rescued and taken to hospital for urgent medical attention but was later confirmed dead by the attending doctor.

    The suspect was apprehended immediately, while the motorcycle and the knife used in the attack were recovered as exhibits. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran, Abeokuta, for thorough investigation and prosecution.

    Reacting to the arrest, the Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, psc, FCSS, MNIPR, condemned the act and assured that justice will be served. He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police.

    The Command called on members of the public can report concerns through the Ogun State Police Command emergency lines: Gateway Shield (Toll-Free): 0800 000 9111. Emergency numbers: 0906 283 7609, 0912 014 1706, 0915 102 7369, and 0708 497 2994.

  • Sanwo-Olu reiterates commitment to legacy projects as Tinubu commissions new developments in Lagos

    Sanwo-Olu reiterates commitment to legacy projects as Tinubu commissions new developments in Lagos

    LAGOS, Nigeria, 8 April 2026 (NPA) — Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reiterated his administration’s focus on making every day count. “Out of the 2,922 days Lagosians entrusted to us, we have spent more than 2,500 working to leave Lagos better than we met it. Along the way, we have been guided by the example of a leader who once governed this state and laid the foundation we continue to build on today,” he said.

    According to a statement today, three projects that will make a real difference in the lives of Lagosians were commissioned by President Bola Tinubu, represented by Senate President Chief Godswill Akpabio.

    Sanwo-Olu, hailed for landmark initiatives such as the Lagos Blue Rail Line and the modernisation of public primary and secondary schools, noted that the Ojota-Opebi Link Bridge marks a major step forward for mobility in the city. “For years, this corridor has been one of the busiest and most difficult parts of our transport network. This new connection will ease congestion, shorten travel time, and make daily life less stressful for thousands of people,” he explained.

    The Lagos Geographic Information Service Building moves the state further away from outdated, paper-based systems, introducing greater transparency and efficiency in land administration.

    The Bola Ahmed Tinubu Administrative Complex consolidates key government services in one location, improving coordination, speeding up service delivery, and creating a better working environment for public servants.

    “These projects reflect how we approach governance. We focus on real problems and deliver practical solutions. What matters most is results that people can see and feel,” Sanwo-Olu said.

    He expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the projects, from engineers and contractors to public servants who remained committed from start to finish.

    “There is still more to do, and we are not slowing down. In the time we have left, we will keep building and keep working to improve the quality of life for every Lagosian. I am proud of what we have achieved so far, and grateful for the support of Mr President, whose leadership and reforms continue to make a real difference, not only in Lagos, but across Nigeria,” the statement concluded.

  • Edo Governor Okpebholo condoles Deputy over mother’s passing at 95

    Edo Governor Okpebholo condoles Deputy over mother’s passing at 95

    BENIN CITY, Nigeria, 8 April 2026 (NPA) — The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has extended his condolences to the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, following the death of his mother, Mrs Esther Imaguomwanruo Idahosa, who passed away on 8 April 2026 at the age of 95.

    In a statement, Governor Okpebholo described the loss of a mother as deeply painful, regardless of age, noting that it leaves a void that cannot be filled. He said he shares in the grief of his Deputy and stands with him during this difficult time.

    The Governor praised the late Mrs Idahosa for living a remarkable life defined by love, sacrifice, strength, and devotion to her family. He added that her legacy would endure through the values she instilled and the lives she touched.

    Governor Okpebholo prayed that Almighty God would grant the Deputy Governor, his family, and all who mourn her the strength and courage to bear the loss, while also praying for the peaceful repose of her soul.

    “On behalf of the Government and the good people of Edo State, I want my Deputy and his family to know that they are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” the statement concluded.

  • Fuel tanker fire contained in Zaria, one injured

    Fuel tanker fire contained in Zaria, one injured

    KADUNA, Nigeria, 8 April 2026 (NPA) — The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed a fuel tanker fire at a filling station in Sabon Gari Local Government Area of Zaria, Kaduna State.

    The incident, which occurred at about 10:00 a.m. on 7 April 2026, involved a truck transporting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at Prestige Filling Station in the Dogarawa area.

    According to NEMA, preliminary reports indicate that the tanker driver sustained injuries and was promptly evacuated to a nearby hospital for treatment.

    Following the alert, NEMA’s Kaduna Operations Office coordinated with relevant stakeholders, including fire service units, local authorities, and the National Orientation Agency (NOA), to ensure a swift and effective response.

    Emergency responders, including personnel of the Federal Fire Service, worked alongside other agencies to contain the blaze and prevent further escalation. NOA officials also carried out public sensitisation, urging residents and business owners to remain calm and adhere to safety directives.

    As of the time of this report, the fire has been successfully contained, with normalcy gradually returning to the affected area.

    Residents and business operators have been advised to remain vigilant and comply strictly with safety guidelines issued by the authorities.

    NEMA stated that it will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.

  • Scheduled preventive maintenance at Omotosho Transmission Substation, power outage expected

    Scheduled preventive maintenance at Omotosho Transmission Substation, power outage expected

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 8 April 2026 (NPA) — The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced a scheduled preventive maintenance exercise at the Omotosho Transmission Substation.

    The work will take place today, 8 April 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the 150MVA 330/132/33kV transformer and the 44/40MVA 132/33kV transformer.

    According to a statement issued by Ndidi Mbah, General Manager (Public Affairs), the exercise is necessary to investigate and rectify a fault affecting the remote operation of the secondary breaker on the 150MVA transformer. In addition, annual preventive maintenance will be carried out on the 44/40MVA transformer and its associated equipment.

    As a result, the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) and the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) will be unable to offtake power through the Weewood, Igbotako, Rubber Estate, Igbokoda, and Ode-Aye 33kV feeders during the period.

    TCN has apologised for any inconvenience caused to electricity consumers in the affected areas.

  • Rainstorm damages newly built Kugbo Bus Terminal, causing traffic disruption in Abuja

    Rainstorm damages newly built Kugbo Bus Terminal, causing traffic disruption in Abuja

    ABUJA, Nigeria, April 8, 2026 (NPA) — A heavy rainstorm on Tuesday afternoon damaged parts of the Kugbo Bus/Taxi Terminal in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), just weeks before its scheduled commencement of operations.

    The storm, which began around 3:30 p.m., tore off sections of the terminal’s roof and scattered debris across the Abuja–Keffi Expressway, leading to severe traffic congestion. Witnesses reported scavengers collecting pieces of the roof and other materials deposited on the road.

    Mr Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, confirmed that the rainstorm also caused minor damage to the Nyanya pedestrian bridge and nearby buildings. He emphasised that preliminary reports indicated no injuries or vehicle damage.

    FCT Minister Nyesom Wike directed security personnel to secure the site, restore traffic flow, and prevent disorder. Olayinka assured that immediate repairs would be undertaken to restore the terminal.

    The Kugbo terminal is one of three newly constructed facilities — alongside Mabushi and the Central Business District (CBD) — inaugurated in June 2025 to improve commuter safety and convenience. Designed by Planet Project Ltd., the Kugbo and Mabushi terminals are expected to process over 10,000 passengers daily and accommodate 120 buses and taxis for both intercity and intra-city travel. Each terminal is projected to employ at least 100 workers.

    Although completed and inaugurated last year, the terminals have yet to begin operations due to management approval requirements. On March 27, Minister Wike announced that the Federal Executive Council, under President Bola Tinubu, had approved a Public-Private Partnership arrangement for the Mabushi and Kugbo terminals, paving the way for their imminent launch.

  • Ogun Police smash transnational fraud ring, rescue nine foreign nationals

    Ogun Police smash transnational fraud ring, rescue nine foreign nationals

    ABEOKUTA, NIGERIA, April 7, 2026 (NPA) — The Ogun State Police Command has recorded a breakthrough with the rescue of nine foreign nationals and the arrest of two suspects linked to a transnational fraud syndicate. Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit stormed a hideout in Owode Egba after receiving actionable intelligence from INTERPOL. At the location, officers freed Maclaud Owusu, a 40-year-old Ghanaian national, along with eight others who had been unlawfully confined. The suspects, identified as Stephen Kwame and Abubakar Sulaimon, were arrested at the scene.

    Investigations revealed that the syndicate specialised in luring foreign nationals, particularly from Ghana, to Nigeria under the false promise of facilitating travel to Europe. Once in Nigeria, victims were deceived, confined, and their mobile phones were used to contact relatives to extort money. Owusu was defrauded of ₵31,000 before police intervention.

    The rescued victims have been provided with immediate assistance, with Owusu already reunited with his family. Efforts are ongoing to reconnect the remaining victims with their loved ones. Authorities confirmed that the suspects will face charges in court once investigations are concluded, while accomplices are being tracked down.

    DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, Police Public Relations Officer, in a statement today, praised the swift tactical response of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and highlighted the synergy with international law enforcement agencies. Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the professionalism of the operatives and reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for criminal syndicates, assuring that such networks will be dismantled.

    The Command urged citizens, especially those pursuing international travel, to exercise caution and verify the authenticity of agents to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes. Members of the public are encouraged to provide timely and credible information to the Police through the Ogun State Police Command emergency lines: Gateway Shield (Toll-Free): 0800 000 9111; Emergency numbers: 0906 283 7609, 0912 014 1706, 0915 102 7369, and 0708 497 2994.

  • Oyo Police arrest additional suspected kidnapper, recover weapon

    Oyo Police arrest additional suspected kidnapper, recover weapon

    IBADAN, NIGERIA, April 7, 2026 (NPA) — The Oyo State Police Command has arrested another suspected kidnapper in its ongoing crackdown on violent crimes, particularly kidnapping for ransom, across the state.

    The Command announced that the suspect, believed to be linked to a notorious kidnapping syndicate earlier apprehended with an AK-47 rifle around Ikoyi-Ile, was arrested on April 5, 2026, at about 16:50 hours. Operatives attached to the Ikoyi-Ile Division, acting on credible intelligence and sustained follow-up operations, successfully apprehended one Taye Adamu at Iluju Village.

    According to a statement issued on April 6, 2026, by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), the suspect confessed during interrogation to involvement in several kidnapping and violent criminal activities in the area, providing investigators with useful leads.

    The Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, has directed that the suspect be transferred to the State Anti-Kidnapping Squad for discreet and comprehensive investigation. He also confirmed that efforts are underway to track down other fleeing members of the gang.

    Acknowledging the collaborative efforts that led to the arrest, CP Olugbenga expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for his leadership and support in combating violent crimes. He commended the operatives for their professionalism and resilience, and thanked members of the public for their cooperation, which he described as instrumental to the Command’s successes.

    The Commissioner reiterated that public support and timely information sharing remain critical to achieving a safe and secure Oyo State. He assured residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to sustaining operations aimed at eradicating kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.