LASG ANNOUNCE PLANS FOR OKOKOMAIKO-SEME ROAD; SEE THE DETAILS
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/06/lasg-announce-plans-for-okokomaiko-seme.html

The Lagos State Government has announced plans to rehabilitate the Mile 2-Okokomaiko Expressway to Seme Border saying the road once connected to Badagry would improve the economy of the State.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, The Lagos State Governor, Mr.Akinwunmi Ambode who spoke during an inspection tour in Ikorodu, Lagos Mainland said his administration is set to ensure residents in sub-urban areas live comfortably well in those areas.
“We are going to do the same thing and make sure that the road we are doing in the Mile 2-Okokomaiko Expressway, we commence the next phase that goes from Okokomaiko to Seme Border. So in that wise, we would have connected Badagry, Ikorodu and Epe with all the neighbouring States and we will improve the economy of Lagos and make sure that all our people that are living in the sub-urban areas are able to live comfortably well in those places and the economy in those areas also improve.
“I just want to appeal to our people to exercise patience as we do this. We are doing it for you. We know that you want more than roads, we are bringing shopping mall to Ikorodu; we are bringing cinema; we are bringing arts theatre and we are also bringing recreational park,” Ambode said.
Speaking further, Ambode said; “What we are trying to send as a message here is that every nook and cranny of Lagos should become economically viable and also economically livable because people should be able to stay where they are and actually earn their own living and income in a very comfortable way and that is the whole essence of this and overall we will be able to grow our GDP and allow more people to enjoy dividends of democracy and also pay their taxes, perform their civic obligations and in a complete circle, that same money gotten from the taxes would be used to continue to renew infrastructure and allow more people to live a comfortable life.
“That is what Lagos wants to do; that is what we are committed to and that is the direction we are going.”

EQUITIES MARKET REBOUNDS AS 21 STOCKS APPRECIATE
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/06/equities-market-rebounds-as-21-stocks.html

The Nigerian equities market yesterday rebounded from 12 day downtrend as 21 stocks appreciated at the close of trading. In summary, the All- Share – Index (ASI) gained 130.81 absolute points, representing a growth of 0.36 per cent to close at 36,947.10 points. Similarly, the market capitalisation gained N47 billion to close at N13.383 trillion. Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, The upturn was impacted by gains recorded in medium and large capitalised stocks, amongst which are Nigerian Breweries, Guaranty Trust Bank, Mobil Nigeria, Zenith Bank and FBN Holdings. Analysts at United Capital said, “This week, we expect investors to hunt for bargains.” The market breadth closed the same, recorded 21 gainers and losers. Japaul Oil recorded the highest price gain of 9.09 per cent, to close at 21 kobo per share. Custodian and Allied Insurance gained 4.92 per cent to close at N5.12, while Eterna appreciated by 4.90 per cent to close at N6.64 per share. Guaranty Trust Bank appreciated by 4.53 per cent to close at N40.40, while Aiico Insurance went up by 3.45 per cent to close at 60 kobo per share. On the other hand, Oando led the losers’ chart by 8.96 per cent, to close at N6.10 per share. Cadbury Nigeria followed with a decline of eight per cent, to close at N11.50, while Presco depreciated by five per cent to close at N71.25 per share. PZ Industries down by 4.81 per cent to close at N20.80, while Sterling Bank shed 4.69 per cent to close at N1.22 per share. However, the total volume traded declined by 39.16 per cent to 314.43 million shares, worth N7.03 billion, and traded in 6,016 deals. Transactions in the shares of Guaranty Trust Bank topped the activity chart with 67.16 million shares valued at N2.68 billion. Sovereign Trust Insurance followed with 33.01 million shares worth N8.89 million, while FBN Holdings traded 19.6 million shares valued at N202.21 million. Diamond Bank traded 17.31 million shares valued at N23.7 million, while Zenith Bank transacted 15.13 million shares worth N385.7 million.

MORE CRISES LINGER AS LAGOS APC SET TO SUE NWC FOR NULLIFYING CONGRESS
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/06/more-crises-linger-as-lagos-apc-set-to.html

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced that it will challenge in court the nullification of the state Congress by the National Working Committee (NWC).
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, Reacting to a report on the purported nullification, the Lagos State APC Assistant Publicity Secretary, Mr Abiodun Salami, said the NWC’s decision was mischievous and an attempt to cause confusion in the Lagos chapter.
Recall that the Lagos State Congress held on Saturday, May 19, 2018, at the party’s secretariat in Acme, Ikeja, Lagos Mainland, where a new executive committee, headed by Alhaji Tunde Balogun, was elected.
Commenting on the development, the APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, was quoted as saying; “the faction loyal to Senator Bola Tinubu, which conducted its ward and local government congresses in 57 local government areas and local council development areas (LCDAs), was overruled by the national leadership. Of course, we overruled those who conducted their congress in 57 local government areas because the constitution only recognises 20 local governments”.
Referring to the Fouad Oki’s factional congress, Abullahi said: “We couldn’t have discountenanced those who conducted in 20 local government areas because that is constitutional. The issue in Lagos is constitutional.”
Meanwhile, Salami said the issue of local government on which the NWC based its decision was not tenable.
More updates to follow.

MAINLAND RESIDENT NARRATES SCARY EXPERIENCE FROM SARS OFFICERS IN YABA
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/06/mainland-resident-narrates-scary.html

The viral condemnations of the operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) over harassment, abuse of human rights and extortion of citizens seems not to be ending soon as some officials of the unit staged another illegal attack on residents in Yaba, Lagos Mainland, today, Sunday, June 3, 2018.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, According to the victim who shared his ordeal on social media, the officers in Gestapo style stopped speedily in front his car making the driver to forcefully apply brake which almost into an accident.
Recounting his ordeal, he said; “These criminals need to be curtailed. Coming back from church today with my 3 brothers, these people suddenly stopped speedily in front our car making us to forcefully apply brakes almost injuring the driver (my brother) in front.
“They suddenly jumped down from the car (4 of them precisely) with guns around Adekunle axis at Yaba. They started requesting we come down insisting we should open our boot and started searching our car without any just cause. Mind you, all these were going on the road.”

He continued saying: “Upon questioning their antics, they started to become violent with their words. Upon noticing this, I took the first instance in taking a picture of their car and unfortunately just two of them when they noticed this they attempted to SMASH MY PHONE.”
The victim, however, noted that he and his brothers were saved from the harassment of the officers by residents who had gathered to question the actions of the officers. “When people started gathering, they saw they’ve been overwhelmed and made an escape!
“Nigerians what if it was in the night? What if it was just me or any of my brothers in the car? What if we were not vigilant enough and they planted an illegal material in our car? What if the area was not crowded?”
He concluded saying, “what if God did not intervene!. Please, the police should make sure these people are brought to book and prevented from parading our streets claiming to be working in the interest of justice. WHY WOULD HONEST AND TRUE POLICEMEN BE MOVING AROUND IN PRIVATE VEHICLES CLAIMING TO BE ON PATROL… these questions need to be answered please.”

GUINNESS NIGERIA UNDER-AGE DRINKING CAMPAIGN IMPACTS OVER 5,000 STU
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/06/guinness-nigeria-under-age-drinking.html

In further demonstration of its commitment to the responsible use of alcohol in society, 28 schools in Lagos, Nigeria, have benefitted from an innovative corporate social responsibility project by Guinness Nigeria Plc tagged SMASHED. Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, The SMASHED Project is a live theatre/drama performance delivered to 14 – 17 year olds (SS1 – SS3 students) in government and private schools across Lagos State by professional actors, along with follow-up interactive workshops. The initiative took into consideration the Nigerian culture by engaging young people in a safe and motivational learning environment, enabling them to understand the consequences of underage and binge drinking. Speaking at the event, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Peter Ndegwa, stated that the company’s Underage Alcohol education programme is aimed at reducing the incidence of alcohol related harm amongst young people. “Between the ages of 14 and 17, young people are most vulnerable to different societal burdens such as peer pressure and the need to fit in; this sometimes causes them to make uninformed decisions ,” Ndegwa said. According to him, schools are an important setting for interventions aimed at shaping behaviour among youths because no other community institution has as much continuous and intensive contact with young people. “And this is why Guinness Nigeria decided to implement the SMASHED programme in 28 government and private schools across Lagos state,” Mr. Ndegwa reiterated. He added: “In every country, Diageo works with reputable local organizations to deliver the SMASHED programme as our Diageo Marketing Code restricts us from engaging with persons under the legal purchase age of 18+. As a result, Guinness Nigeria did not interface directly with any of the schools during the implementation of the SMASHED programme as we partnered with Collingwood Learning and Rue 14 Studios in Nigeria to deliver the programme.”

Cool

INEC RECEIVES 166,575 PVCS IN LAGOS, DISTRIBUTES OVER 4,000
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/05/inec-receives-166575-pvcs-in-lagos.html

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Lagos State, on Wednesday, said it received 166, 575 Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) of new registrants and distributed over 4,000 PVCs in a week.
Sam Olumekun, the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, told journalists after a meeting with the Inter Agency Committee on Election Security in preparation for 2019 elections.
Eyes Of Lagos reports that representatives of various security agencies, including Police, Department of State Security (DSS), the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force were at the closed door meeting.
Others were the Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigerian Prison Service, Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, (NSCDC) the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) among others.
“As we speak, we still have about 1.3 million PVCs uncollected since 2015. But for the new CVR (Continuous Voter Registration) that we have been doing since the first quarter of 2017, we have taken delivery of the cards of those who registered in 2017.
“As I speak, we have collected 166, 575 PVCs and in the past one week, we have distributed over 4,000 and we have a balance of about 162, 000 as at Monday.
“People should know that these cards are available at the local government offices of INEC and they should endeavour to collect their cards in preparation for the election,” Mr Olumekun said.
On bringing the cards closer to the people, the commissioner, who urged registered voters to visit the designated councils, said that the process of collection was not stressful.
According to him, considering the volume of the cards, the commission will look for a way of moving into the field to bring them closer to the people.
“We will see how we can tackle this matter, the commission in the state will come up with a formula to improve the collection,” Mr Olumekun said.
He said that the commission had taken delivery of all the PVCs of registered voters in 2017, adding that those registering in 2018 would get theirs before the 2019 general elections.
The REC called on the media, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to mobilise registered voters to obtain their PVCs.
The INEC boss, who noted that the commission would never subvert the will or the rights of the people during elections, said it was ready to deliver a free, fair, credible and acceptable elections.
According to him, electorate should have trust in the commission and shun any form of violence, reminding them that “election is not a war.”
He said that the CVR exercise had been on all the designated centres across the state, assuring that all registered voters would get their PVCs before the polls.
On security, Mr Olumekun said that the commission had been and would continue to collaborate with all security agencies to achieve its mandate in 2019 and beyond.
He said, “Security is critical in any election and that is why we are meeting, interacting and collaborating ahead of 2019 general elections.
“The essence of today meeting is to plan so as not to fail in 2019. This is part of our planning and preparations for the general elections of 2019.
“We discussed preparations of INEC so far, and we sought their (security agencies) collaboration. Of course, they have always collaborated with us in the past and have done so beautifully.
“Election is not an event, rather, we see it as a process and we are doing very meticulous planning for the 2019 general elections and the security agencies have assured us that they are up to the task.”
He said that INEC was carrying all security agencies along to ensure global best practices in the conduct of the 2019 general elections.
Mr Olumekun urged politicians to allow the people to speak through their votes during elections and shun all forms of violence and inducement.

SEE HOW AMBODE MARKED DEMOCRACY DAY IN EPE
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/05/see-how-ambode-marked-democracy-day-in.html

The Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday, Tuesday, May 29, 2018, celebrated Democracy Day with Muslim faithful, saying despite all that had been achieved in the past, Lagos was still a work in progress, and that conscious efforts would continue to be made to further invest in infrastructural development to make life easier for the citizens.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, Ambode, who spoke at a special Ramadan Tafsir and prayer held in Epe, Lagos Mainland, to commemorate the three years of his administration and Democracy Day, justified the massive infrastructural renewal across the length and breadth of the State. He explained that the huge investment in upgrading and providing amenities for the people was part of the greater vision towards making Lagos a smart city.
“Lagosians have seen what we have done in the last three years but like we have said, there is a greater vision to make Lagos a Smart City. So, Lagos is a work in progress and that is why you see a whole lot of infrastructure project going on.
“Every day is a race towards making Lagos a better place for the citizens and that is what we would continue to do in the next 365 days,” he said.
Furthermore, Ambode said the special prayer, which was attended by both political and Islamic leaders from all the five divisions of the State, was organised to appreciate God for His goodness to the State and the feats attained by his administration so far.

In his words; “Exactly three years ago today, by God’s grace we took oath of office at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) and today is also Democracy day. In celebrating today, I decided that the best way is to come together with my Muslim brothers and sisters and share word of prayers with them through this special Tafsir to appreciate God for the success of the journey so far.
“For me, there is nothing more to say than to give thanks. I thank God and I also appreciate you all that our prayers have been answered. What we have done and still doing in Epe, Badagry, Ikorodu, Ikeja and every other part of the State will continue and we pray that God will give us the grace to do more for the people.”
In his remarks, Chief Imam of Lagos, Alhaji Sulaiman Oluwatoyin Abou-Nollah represented by Sheikh Tijani Gbajabiamila commended Governor Ambode for the transformation and development witnessed in the State in the last three years, saying one good turn surely deserves another. “We appreciate our Governor who has been doing well in the last three years for the State and we pray that the second term will be a success. There is a saying that one good turn deserves another and we pray that that is how it will be,” he said.

NNPC STRATEGISES TOWARDS LONG-TERM SURVIVAL
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/05/nnpc-strategises-towards-long-term.html

The management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said it has perfected strategies to ensure its prosperity in the face of the changing dynamics of the global oil and gas industry. This even as the group managing director of the corporation, Dr. Maikanti Baru, admitted that the tremendous changes at play in the petroleum industry landscape globally behooved oil companies to, as a long-time survival strategy, adapt to the changes for efficiency, growth and profitability. Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, According to a statement release by group general manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, yesterday, Dr. Baru disclosed this at the NNPC first quarter 2018 Top Management Steering Committee (Steerco) meeting held at the NNPC Towers in Abuja, weekend. The statement quoted the GMD as saying that, “The changes we are seeing in the industry over the last few years call for some action on our part. This is because as a business concern, we don’t live in isolation in the industry and therefore, we must act now.” Meanwhile, NNPC’s management position is coming on the heels of industry stakeholders’ demand for President Muhammadu Buhari to assent to the petroleum industry governance bill (PIGB). Thus raising doubt as to the preparedness of the corporation’s management to key into the transition the PIGB is proposing to bring to the Nigerian oil and gas sector. The bill, if assented, will change the operational structure of an NNPC and make it focus more on core business transactions and profitability. However, while the nation await the President assent to the bill, the statement from the corporation disclosed some of the strategies considered by the management at the said meeting included reviewing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), setting realistic targets for immediate sign-off, as well as spending items capable of improving the organization’s bottom-line. “Today, we are reviewing the mission and vision of the corporation and have also ventured into renewable energy and power sectors,” Dr. Baru stated. Also speaking at the meeting, chief operating officer, Downstream, Engr. Henry Ikem-Obih, said a lot of work had been done towards getting NNPC on the same pedestal with its peers. In his opening remarks at the occasion, the convener of the meeting and Group General Manager, Corporate Planning & Strategy Division, Mr. Bala Wunti, said the essence of the Steerco meeting was to review performance, redefine expectations, identify areas of improvement and implement actionable items that would boost efficiency, and conversely, high profitability.

SEE THE LAGOS MAINLAND COMMUNITIES RAVAGED BY FLOOD
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/05/see-lagos-mainland-communities-ravaged.html

Following the heavy downpour witnessed in Lagos, Friday, May 25, 2018, some Lagos Mainland residents were affected by the rainfall.
Communities such as Ojota, Ketu, Bariga, Ikeja, Ogba and Ikorodu all witnessed heavy flooding due to the heavy rainfall which lasted for several hours.
According to Eyes Of Lagos findings, the flood was caused as a result of drainages blocked majorly with plastic wastes.
“Many motorists were forced to park their vehicles as others forced their way through the flood. Commuters who were trapped due to the flooding had to trek to their place of work,” .
Meanwhile, the flood led to a heavy traffic gridlock around Maryland, Anthony, Oba Akran and Agric in Ikorodu with several road users trapped in the gridlock.
Recall that a similar scenario played around few days ago when it rained for about an hour with residents stuck in a gridlock that lasted for more than four hours in some parts of the Lagos Mainland.
The development has however led to a call to the government from residents who believe its high time a lasting solution is found on flooding in the State.

RECRUITMENT: POLICE SHORTLIST 37,062 FOR EXAMINATION
Source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/05/recruitment-police-shortlist-37062-for.html?m=1

The Police Service Commission has shortlisted a total of 37,062 candidates for examination in the ongoing Police recruitment exercise. This is out of a total of 133,324 applicants who were earlier shortlisted for screening. Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, The examination is scheduled for Friday, May 25 at Computer Based Test Centres all over the country in the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The spokesperson of the Police Service Commission, Ikechukwu Ani said, “This is the next level of the recruitment exercise which began with physical and document screening on May 7, 2018. “Successful candidates from the screening exercise have been contacted through sms and emails to attend the computer based examination in various centres.
Candidates who are yet to receive any invitation are required to check at the State Police Command Headquarters for the date, venue and time for the examination or the Police Service Commission portal,www.psc.org.ng. “Candidates are required to come with their biometric and data capturing slip to the examination slip. They will not be allowed to enter the examination hall with electronic devices such as spy eye glasses, telephone hand set, calculator, wrist watches and camera. “Persons not invited for the examination or who do not have the biometric and data capturing slips are advised to stay away from the examination centres.”
6,000 candidates are expected to be recruited at the end of the exercise.

27 NIGERIA, W/AFRICAN MIGRANTS RESCUED OFF BRAZIL COAST
Source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/05/27-nigeria-wafrican-migrants-rescued.html?m=1


A boat with 27 migrants from West Africa was rescued off the coast of northern Brazil, officials from the state of Maranhão said on Sunday. Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, The state government said a fishing boat came upon the drifting vessel with 27 people aboard, including migrants from Senegal, Nigeria, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Cape Verde, along with two Brazilians. Some were suffering from dehydration. Brazilian newspaper Folha de S. Paulo, citing a federal police officer, said both rescued Brazilians were arrested for human trafficking. The official, according to Folha, said the migrants paid to be illegally transported to Brazil.
Federal police did not immediately comment on the matter. Brazil’s navy said in a statement it had opened a probe, but did not comment on arrests. The boat had been at sea for five weeks, said Folha, citing the federal police.

SENATOR DINO MELAYE GRANTED BAIL
Source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/05/senator-dino-melaye-granted-bail.html?m=1


The trial judge in the gun-running allegation against the Senator representing Kogi West, Dino Melaye, has granted the bail application in his favour.

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, Justice Nasir Ajana, who ruled on the bail application before a Lokoja High Court on Thursday (today) in Lokoja, based his ruling on the conviction as submitted by the defense counsel, Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN) to the effect that the continued incarceration of Senator Melaye will jeopardise his health condition, which he said was “deteriorating.”

He also said that there was nothing to show that the applicant would jump bail if granted.

Ajana therefore admitted Melaye to bail, with one surety for N10m.

The embattled senator was not in court, as he was still on hospital admission in Abuja.

ONE DEAD IN THIRD MAINLAND BRIDGE TRUCK ACCIDENT
Source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/05/one-dead-in-third-mainland-bridge-truck.html?m=1

Information reaching us yesterday at Yesterday has it that there was a heavy traffic gridlock on Third Mainland bridge for motorists driving to connect Lagos Mainland through Adekunle – Oworonshoki axis.

Eyes Of Lagos learnt that the heavy traffic in the axis was due to an accident involving a truck and a commercial bus which occurred moments ago. According to reports, the accident claimed the life of one person.

Presently, the heavy traffic has built up in the axis as the officials of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) battle to remove the affected vehicles off the road to ease traffic flow.

Eyes Of Lagos cannot independently verify the cause of accident as at press time.

More updates to follow.

HERE’S WHEN AMBODE WILL RELOCATE POPULAR MILE 12 MARKET TO IKORODU
Source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/05/heres-when-ambode-will-relocate-popular.html?m=1


The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode has disclosed that the traders in the popular Mile 12 market located in Ketu, Lagos Mainland, relocated to a new market at Imota before the end of the year.

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, According to Ambode, the first phase of the project, to accommodate 1,500 shops, has reached 75 % completion stage and would be delivered before the end of 2018.

“We have seen what is going on as to our commitment to make this place a regional market. The first phase is 75 percent completed. The major challenge has been accomplished, though we still have some things to sort out, but, we are over the hurdle,” Ambode who spoke through the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Adebowale Akinsanya, said.

He added that; “What remains is to keep going, speed up and with the commitment of this government, we should be able to complete this project by September and, hopefully, by the end of the year, all the different markets in Mile 12 will be able to move here, and it will be a one-shop-centre for everybody.”

Ambode further noted that adequate provisions have been made in the new market to avoid the challenges which the present Mile 12 Market and other markets in the area constituted to the environment, saying at least 70 meters of buffer zone had been created between the proposed Ikorodu-Itoikin-Epe road expansion project and the market to prevent interface.

DANGOTE RANKS AMONG 75 WORLD’S MOST POWERFUL PEOPLE
Source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/05/dangote-ranks-among-75-worlds-most.html?m=1

Nigeria’s foremost entrepreneur, Aliko Dangote has been ranked among 75 most powerful persons on the planet, ahead of the Vice President of the United States of America, Mike Pence. Eyes Of Lagos reports gathered, According to the Forbe’s latest 2018 ranking of the World Powerful people, Dangote ranked among world leaders like Xi Jinping, the Chinese President, Vladimir Putin the Russian President and Donald Trump, the President of the US, all of whom were ranked first, second and third respectively. Dangote was ranked 66th most powerful person in the world ahead of Mike Pence, the Vice-President of United States ranked 67 and Qamar Javed Bajwa, the highly influential Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan who ranked 68. The Africa’s richest man is the only Nigerian on the list and one of the only two Africans who made the list with the other being the Egyptian President, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who was ranked 45th most powerful. Dangote, it would be recalled was the only black man who made the list apart from President of the United States, Barack Obama, in the 2016 ranking released in 2017 and was listed at number 71 just above the then American presidential contender, Donald Trump, who was listed at number 72. Dangote is the chairman of the Dangote Cement which produces 44 million metric tons annually across the African continent and still plans to expand and increase its output by 33 per cent by 2020. According to the Forbe’s rich list, Dangote as at March 2018 had an estimated net worth of $14.1 billion and ranked among the 100 richest in the world and the richest in Africa, a position he has held for almost a decade. Dangote reached the peak in 2014 when he came 23rd richest in the world and in 2013 surpassed the Saudi-Ethiopian billionaire Mohammed Hussein Al Amoudi by over $2.6 billion to become the world richest person of African descent.

LAGOS DOLES OUT N5.22BN EMPLOYMENT TRUST FUNDS TO 6,462 BENEFICIARIES
Source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/05/lagos-doles-out-n522bn-employment-trust.html?m=1

Lagos State Government on Thursday said a total of 6,462 residents with proven business ideas have so far benefited about N5.22billion from the Employment Trust Fund (ETF) designed to grow the economy and create jobs through provision of credit facilities with minimal interest. Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, Speaking at the annual ministerial press briefing in Lagos the state’s Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Mrs Uzamat Akinbile-Yussuf said the amount so far disbursed constituted a huge part of the total N5.98billion approved for 8,229 beneficiaries since it began disbursement in 2017. The ETF is an initiative of the present administration in the State through which N25billion is earmarked to be disbursed over a period of four years to provide entrepreneurs, artisans, traders and others with capital to boost their businesses thereby reducing unemployment and increasing wealth among the people. While reeling out loan disbursement activities of the fund, Akinbile-Yussuf said: “In fulfillment of the Lagos State Government’s mandate, the Fund has now disbursed N5.22billion to 6,462 beneficiaries, out of the approved loans totaling N5.98billion for 8,229 beneficiaries received. She said in the period under review, the board of ETF approved loans totaling N627,053,826.15 for 643 beneficiaries under the batch four of the scheme, while in batches five, six, seven and eight, N924,696,671.00, N979,704,570.31, N443,859,457.60 and N1,013,485,058.69 were respectively disbursed to 5, 813 beneficiaries. “For batch one of 2018, the Board approved loans totaling N492,798,560.90 for 1,753 beneficiaries (44 Small and Medium Enterprise (SME), 1,306 Medium Enterprise (ME) and 403 MES). The successful applicants have been contacted to meet the conditions that precede the disbursement of their loans,” she said. Akinbile-Yussuf said as part of efforts designed to encourage start -ups in innovation and technology, the State Government launched innovation-driven enterprise program tagged “Lagos Innovates” where access to high quality infrastructure, learning and networks were provided, adding that the projection was to cement the place of Lagos as the leading destination for start-ups in Africa. She said the government, through the Lagos State Employability Support Project, has also firmed up plans to produce 10,000 skilled persons within three years to cater for demand in key sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, construction, entertainment, garment making and tourism and hospitality. “In addition, the project will place at least 6,000 trained persons in jobs and upgrade the equipment and improve the curriculum at two of Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB’s) Colleges,” she said.

KATSINA CENTRAL MOSQUE CHIEF IMAM DIES AT 95
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/05/katsina-central-mosque-chief-imam-dies.html

The Chief Imam of the Katsina Metropolis Central Mosque, Imam Muhammad Lawal is dead.
Aged 95, Lawal died on Sunday, May 6, after a protracted illness.
The family spokesman, Alhaji Mohammed Ahmed, who confirmed the death to Eyes Of Lagos, said that their father died after a prolong sickness.
Ahmed said that the deceased had been the chief Imam of Katsina for the past 41 years.
He disclosed that the deceased left behind four wives, 27 children and several grand children.
The Funeral prayer was conducted at the premises of Katsina Central Mosque and the deceased was later buried at Dantakum burial ground in Katsina metropolis according to Islamic rites.
Meanwhile, the Emir of Katsina, Alh Abdulmumini Kabir and Gov. Aminu Masari have described the death of the Chief Imam as a great loss to Katsina people and the Islamic world.
They prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive him all his sins and grant his family the fortitude to bear the irriparable loss.
Eyes Of Lagos reports that thousands of people including Gov. Masari and the Emir as well as prominent Islamic scholars attended the funeral prayer.

BEWARE! FEMALE RESIDENTS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO LEAVE THEIR HOMES IN IKORODU ON TUESDAY; SEE WHY HERE

source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/05/beware-female-residents-are-not-allowed.html

The female residents in Ikorodu community, Lagos Mainland, has been asked to stay indoors on Tuesday, May 8, 2018, by the traditional leaders in the community due to the annual Oro festival scheduled to hold same day.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, In a letter signed by the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabir Shotobi, and addressed to the chairman of the management boards of the Ikorodu town hall the monarch said female residents should stay indoors and avoid moving around the community to ensure the peaceful celebration of the annual festival.
“This is to notify you of the above-mentioned festival which is slated for Tuesday, 8 May 2018, according to tradition all females are forbidden to be seen outside their homes or move around the town on this date which is Oro Day,” the letter read.
The monarch added that: “Your cooperation towards the success of the festival will be appreciated. Thank you in anticipation and God bless.”
Over the years, the traditional festival has been celebrated twice every year with only the male residents allowed to move freely across different parts of the community.
During the festival, females stay indoors as oral history has it that Oro must not be seen by women and non-participating people

SWISSTRADE SPENDS N368M ON ROAD CONSTRUCTION IN ANAMBRA
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/04/swisstrade-spends-n368m-on-road.html

The Swisstrade Securities Nigeria Limited, a leading manufacturer of armoured security doors, said it spent N368 million for road construction in Anambra as party of its Corporate Social Responsibility.
The Chief Executive Officer of the company, Dr Mike Ezeaju in an interview with newsmen, said the road was just an example of the corporate social responsibility project executed by the company.
“In Anambra, Awgbu town, for example, we constructed 3.7 kilometers of nylon-tarred, high quality road at the cost N368 million naira.”
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, He said that the company chose to spend such amount on the road because of the effect it has on the people and the economy of the state.
“The roads were so bad that market women and men fall short of bringing their products to market for sale.
“By fixing the road, the economy of the benefitting localities, the state and by extension that of Nigeria are being lifted. “
He said that the company had also executed other cooperate social responsibility projects in the same state and as well states of the federation.
“In the same state also, we constructed ultra modern, very large school buildings, and have thus far awarded scholarships to 63 students, males and females.
“In Lagos also, we are collaborating with the local police to refurbish a divisional office and fix many of their operational vehicles.”
Ezeaju said that the corporate social responsibility projects were borne by company’s innate desire to impact meaningfully to the growth of the Nigerian economy and enhance the welfare of the citizens.
The CEO said that the Swisstrade main positive impact was on the labour industry and the environment.
Ezeaju said that the company promoted cleanliness and total friendliness of environment.
“We employ hundreds of staff and all our staff are tax-abiding, just like the company we run.
“Unlike others, we do not regard Nigeria as a dumping ground by bringing in sub-standard products.
“Swisstrade is the world’s number one armoured Steel Security door company with an eye on quality.”
He noted that the company giant leap to the top in armoured steel door manufacturing became an immediate success with great satisfaction from the public and consumers alike.
“Having studied the foundational and operational principle of the company, customers vouched for its ability to assess the needs of the market and its capacity to produce doors of the highest quality in accordance with international standards.”

CYNTHIA MORGAN SUED OVER UNPAID RENT AND TAX EVASION; LANDLORD TO KICK HER OUT
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/04/cynthia-morgan-sued-over-unpaid-rent.html

Eyes Of Lagos source close to the owner of the apartment where the singer currently lives told Saturday Beats the amount she owed, which tallies with the information on the court papers.
“Ever since she moved into the apartment as a tenant, the owner of the building has described her as a nightmare.
At a point, the owner of the house didn’t even know who was staying in the flat because every day, new faces showed up at the apartment and they would leave the gate open at odd hours.
Young scary looking boys with different hair colours come around and they smoke in the compound.
They disturb the couple living in the flat upstairs, who have been complaining that they can’t even let their kids play in the compound because of the type of people they see around.
Cynthia Morgan sued over unpaid rent, tax evasion; landlord to kick her
She has owed waste bills for over a year. They always play loud music at odd hours of the day. Funnily enough, the man who lives upstairs is a popular celebrity designer.
His wife always complains that her home help sweeps cigarette butts everywhere all the time. Cynthia Morgan decided at a point that she was going to be recording in her room.
When the noise was too much, the owner of the house had to talk to her about it. She has been given quit notice. The six months grace period is up and she was meant to have moved out last month. She is flat broke.
She owes N1.3m. She was also served court papers for not paying up to N3.584m in tax,”the source said.

cc: lalasticalal , seun , mynd44

BUSINESSDAY EDITOR MIRACULOUSLY ESCAPES DEATH IN IJORA
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/04/businessday-editor-miraculously-escapes.html


But for the prompt intervention of a street hawker, the Ijora end of Lagos Mainland would have been thrown into a tragic accident on Tuesday, April 24, 2018.
Eyes Of Lagos reports that, According to BusinessDay’s Editor, Anthony Osae-Brown, who narrated his near-death experience at the railway crossing in Ijora, he was few seconds away from driving into the path of a moving train.
In a post shared via his Facebook page, Anthony stated that: “Was a few seconds away from death this morning. These bars at the rail crossing near Nigeria Breweries, Ijora remained open when a train was approaching.
“A woman carrying something on her head on the other side of the road was waving at me to stop. I stopped, thinking she wanted to go across the road. As soon as she crossed I decided to move. That was when the train passed. She was actually warning me about the approaching train.”

Anthony said that there was no official of Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) close by to control motorists from driving into the path of the approaching train; “there was no red flag waving NRC official to warn me that the train was approaching”.
He noted further that: “The bars that was supposed to close when a train was approaching remained open. I was close to committing a government induced suicide. The criminal negligence of the NRC and the government that owns them almost cost me my life.
“This country sometimes makes you sad. A road safety official later told me that the railways bars are bad. The Security officials knew that they are bad but they do not care to put someone there to warn motorists of approaching trains. Just grateful to be alive. I hope the NRC will act now before they kill someone at the crossing.”

PMB APPROVES APPOINTMENTS OF EXECUTIVE SECRETARY NHRC, OTHERS
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/04/pmb-approves-appointments-of-executive.html

Following their confirmation by the Senate, President Muhammadu Buhari, has approved some appointments, including that of Mr Anthony Okechukwu Ojukwu, as the executive secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, This is contained in a statement by the permanent secretary, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Olusegun A. Adekunle. The appointments include that of executive secretary, National Human Rights Commission, Mr. Anthony Okechukwu Ojukwu who is from Imo State from the South East geopolitical zone for an initial term of five years. Mr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa from Ondo State in South West was appointed Non-Executive Director, Niger Delta Development Commission for initial term of four years, while Hon. Chika Ama, Nwauwa from Imo State in the South East was appointed Non-Executive Director, Niger Delta Development Commission for initial term of four years. Others are Mr. Nwogu N. Nwogu from Abia State in the South East who was appointed Non-Executive Director, Niger Delta Development Commission for initial term of four years and Professor James Momoh from Edo State in the South South who was appointed Chairman, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission for initial term of five years. He said the appointments take immediate effect.

AGEGE LG BOSS REACTS TO NDLEA KILLING OF COUNCIL WORKER
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/04/agege-lg-boss-reacts-to-ndlea-killing.html

ollowing the crisis at the Agege Local Government, Lagos Mainland, which led to the death of one civil servant, identified simply as Samuel Koro-toe yesterday, Tuesday, April 24, 2018, the Executive Chairman of Agege Local Government, Hon. Ganiyu Egunjobi has aired his displeasure on the incident.
The council boss who condemned the actions of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) said the situation was a major slap on the authority of local government and the Lagos State Chapter of NULGE.
Egunjobi told Eyes Of Lagos that the incident was disgraceful and embarrassing stressing that the agency officers are supposed to accord him respect when he intervened in the issue failed to do so.

He also noted that his administration will ensure legal action is taken against the perpetrators of the act.
“There is a sitting government in Agege and we will not open our eyes and watch some unguided and trigger-happy law enforcement officers turn our community into a state of anarchy,” Egunjobi said.
He added that: “Agege is governed by a constitution and that constitution empowers the executive chairman as the Chief Security Officer of the entire area to take necessary legal actions whenever the lives of any inhabitants of the area is threatened.
“This uncontrolled attitude of the NDLEA officers is becoming too much in our premises. I think they have bitten more than they can chew and necessary actions will be taken against them.”
It was recently reported, the death of Samuel after a drunk official of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) hacked him to death with a machete.
The deceased before his death was a staff of Alimosho Local Government, Lagos Mainland, had attended the ongoing 40th year celebration of Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) holding at the premises of the Agege LG.
During the celebrations, some allegedly drunk NDLEA officers whose office is situated in the council premises fired sporadic shots into the air. The actions of the drunk officers reportedly drew indignation from the council’s staff members, particularly NULGE executives who protested against the vile act.
The reaction infuriated the NDLEA officers and they reportedly went overboard shooting sporadically. One of the officers eventually attacked Koro-toe with a machete.

GOV AMBODE SEEKS MORE INVESTMENT IN MALARIA PREVENTION
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/04/gov-ambode-seeks-more-investment-in.html

Wife of the governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode on Wednesday said high death rate associated with Malaria infection is unacceptable, appealing for more investment in malaria prevention, as well as greater funding for malaria control in endemic countries. She stated this when her pet project, Hope for Women in Nigeria Initiative (HOFOWEM) , distributed over 3000 insecticide-treated nets, at Makoko community, Yaba LCDA, as part of activities to mark 2018 World Malaria Day. Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, Mrs. Ambode emphasized that a situation where a child dies every two minutes from malaria around the world is unacceptable, adding that an alarming global average of 400,000 deaths annually, according to WHO accounts. She submitted that efforts should be geared towards a robust prevention of the scourge, with wide-spread use of nets, in-door spraying with insecticide and preventive treatment of expectant mothers. According to her, ‘We cannot fold our arms and allow malaria to continue to ravage our society. This epidemic has claimed too many lives, whether in our country, Africa or the world in general. Thank God it is not a disease without prevention or cure, and since it has both, the easier way out is to prevent it.

POLICE BURSTS SYNDICATE WHO SPECIALIZES IN MANUFACTURING FAKE FOREIGN CURRENCIES IN MUSHIN
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/04/police-bursts-syndicate-who-specializes.html

The operatives of the Lagos State Police Command announced the arrest of the leaders of a syndicate who specializes in manufacturing fake foreign currencies in Mushin, Lagos Mainland, today, Monday, April 23, 2018.
According to the Police, the leaders of the gang, Chukwu Emeka Okafor and Oyemuchi Nwoko were apprehended with the fake foreign currencies in the community.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that the syndicate uses various forms of chemicals to mint foreign currencies such as American Dollars, Pound Sterling, Euro, Franc among many others.
“The suspects confessed belonging to a 419 syndicate headed by one Kapo Alhaji who resides in Akala, Mushin community,” the Police said.

78 GRADUATE WITH FIRST CLASS AT UNIVERSITY OF MAIDUGURI
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/04/78-graduate-with-first-class-at.html

The University of Maiduguri on Monday said it produced 78 First Class graduates for the 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 academic sessions.
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Ibrahim Njodi, made the disclosure at a pre-convocation press conference in Maiduguri.
Mr Njodi said 17,895 graduates would be conferred with various degrees and certificates during its 23rd combined convocation ceremony scheduled for Saturday, April 28.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, He explained that 3,527 students were graduands of the Post Graduate School programmes comprising of 56 Ph.D graduates; 570 Masters Degree graduates and 2,901 Post Graduate Diploma graduands.
Mr Njodi added that the statistics of the undergraduates showed that 8,643 graduands would be awarded degrees, 7,278 of the number were from the regular programmes, 573 from affiliated colleges and 714 were Distance Learning programmes.
He disclosed that 5,725 graduates would receive diploma certificates, adding that 106 and 102 graduates would receive awards for the 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 academic sessions, respectively.
The vice chancellor disclosed that three lecturers would also be conferred with the title of “Emeritus Professor”, for their outstanding performance and contributions to the development of the university.
“We remain committed and resilient to excel in our academic pursuit inspite of the challenges posed by the insurgency.
“The university continued with its services and achieved significant feat in the past nine years,” he said.
Mr Njodi disclosed that the university with the support of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), United States Agency for International Development (USAID), corporate organisations and philanthropists executed viable projects in the school.
He explained that the projects were designed to provide an enabling teaching and learning environment, as well as research, to enhance academic excellence.
He listed the projects to include Senate Complex Building, Mega House, Veterinary Centre and Instructional Technology Centre.
Mr Njodi added that the projects were completed and billed for inauguration as part of activities lined up for the convocation ceremony.
According to him, the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC); Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) and a philanthropist, Muhammadu Indimi, pledged to execute various projects in the university.
Mr Njodi lauded the Borno State Government, stakeholders, security agencies and members of the public for their support to the University.

I deserted army because I was owed nine-month salary - Nigerian Soldier
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/04/i-deserted-army-because-i-was-owed-nine.html

A dismissed soldier, Bello Kasimu, arrested for impersonating the Nigerian Army (NA) at the weekend claimed he deserted the force after his salary was owed for nine months.

Kasimu, who was dismissed in 2015 after he was absent without leave (AWOL) for several months from his place of deployment at the northeast, was paraded together with six others arrested for similar offences.


The others are Taiwo Ayomide, Ale Michael, Adetileyin Segun, Olarewaju Yusuf, Ibrahim Isa alias Malaika and Ibrahim Abdullahi.

Kasimu claimed he only wore army uniform the day he went to 81 Division headquarters to find out what was delaying the money.
He said: “I was in the army but was dismissed in 2015. I was dismissed because I fled from my posting in Bauchi. I ran away because I was not paid salary for nine months. I was working without salary and so, I took permission to go and sort the salary issue out.

“But when the leave expired, I did not go back. I was tired because I still haven’t received salary. I did not want to continue working without payment. So, when I was dismissed, I still wanted to get my money. So, I wore the uniform to 81 Division to allow me access. I did not use it to extort anyone and I was not wearing it.”

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, According to the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Maj.-Gen. Enobong Udoh, Kasimu paraded himself as a serving personnel and escorted trucks to various parts of the country.

Udoh, who was represented at the parade by the Commander 9 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Moundhey Ali, said Kasimu was arrested at Flower area of Ikorodu on April 17 by troops of 174 Battalion.

He said the suspect wore camouflage Tees at the point he was caught, adding that a fake military identity card, mobile phone, court affidavit, Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card and a brown wallet were recovered from him.

He said: “Similarly, on April 17, troops of 35 Artillery Brigade Alamala Barracks, Ogun State arrested an impostor, Taiwo Ayomide at Ademola Hotel, beside Yasmin Mosque Sagamu. The suspect, a resident of 46, Ojumile Street Sagamu, was dressed in military camouflage and was extorting money from unsuspecting citizens.

“Items recovered from him include identity card, camouflage uniform, green beret and a military belt. Five other suspects were arrested by troops of 9 Brigade while on Operation Checkmate in different parts of Lagos.

“The troops recovered army batch, camouflages tees, a dagger kings, Royal Ranger identity card, a Lieutenant rank, two army letters of recommendation, among others.”

METERING: NERC SEEKS N200BN FACILITY FROM CBN FOR MAP KICK-OFF
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/04/metering-nerc-seeks-n200bn-facility.html

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) said it has commenced discussions with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on the provision of a N200 billion loan facility to support the steady operation of its new regulation designed to ensure that electricity consumers in the country have access to meters within the next three years. The proposal now awaiting approval of the CBN will enable operators of the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) Regulation have access to a single digit interest loan that will enable them provide meters and recoup their fund within 10 years. NERC Commissioner of Finance & Management Services, Mr. Nathan Shitti disclosed this to Eyes Of Lagos exclusively. According to the Commissioner, NERC decided to approach the CBN to provide a backup so as to guarantee the investors access to loan interest funds that sustain the programme. Speaking on how they sold the idea to CBN he said, “What we told CBN was that we need their support for the MAP operators in terms of provision of a loan facility of about N200 billion. The facility is expected to be given at a single digit interest rate. “We asked for that amount because our analysis shows that there is a gap of over 4 million meters in the market, and at an average of N50,000 per meter that will amount to N200billion required. “However, we have not heard from CBN but we are optimistic that they will make the facility available,” he said. Eyes Of Lagos recalls that the CBN had in 2015 under the NESI Stabilization Strategy Scheme provider a similar window to the Distribution Companies (DisCos) to access a N213 billion facility to enhance their operations, recent report shows that only N158.7 billion has so far been accessed by the operators. The NERC had approved a regulation that provides for the supply, installation and maintenance of end-user meters by other parties in late last month as part of efforts to ensure that electricity customers in Nigeria have access to meters. The regulation which took effect from April 3, 2018, according to the Commission expected to fast track a closure of the metering gap and encourages the development of independent and competitive meter services in the electricity industry. Earlier while speaking as a panelist at the meeting, with the theme, “Can Meters Save NESI?,” Mr. Shitti said the MAP scheme was introduced to address the issue of lack of liquidity which had hindered the Distribution Companies (DisCos) effectively providing meters to consumers. While stressing that meters alone cannot save the NESI as the industry is plagued with numerous challenges, Shitti stated that the Commission introduced the MAP after due consultations with stakeholders. “We do not want to over emphasise the issue of metering as we know that even when you meter every customer there would be situations were by there are leakages in the system. “We also believe that this will create opportunity for new investors who will come in with fresh funds into the industry to help solve the challenge of liquidity, what we are trying to do with this scheme is to ensure that the industry is able to access cheap funds that can help it grow and as well providing qualitative products. “We believe that this scheme is going to resolve the issues so we went and did serious consultations with various the stakeholders and consumers, as well as meter manufacturers in Nigeria as well as financiers (including Banks). “As a matter of fact greater part of our consultation was with the financiers because we realized that a proper structuring of the regulation to make room for funding is paramount. So we asked the banks to give us the framework that can make the structure work, because whether you like it or not Nigerians do not trust the DisCos there are evidences of this, so no investor will be willing to put in their funds without a proper structure of recovery. We therefore did not want to tie the scheme to the DisCos so we have to come out with something that can guarantee that the investors can recoup their investment,” he stated.

HOW POLICE FOILED ROBBERY ATTEMPT IN IYANA – IBA
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/04/how-police-foiled-robbery-attempt-in.html

The operatives of Rapid Response Squad (RRS) attached to the Lagos State Police Command have revealed how they foiled a robbery attempt by a four-man gang along the LASU – Iyana Iba expressway last Thursday.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, According to the Police, the suspects abandoned a hijacked commercial bus better known as danfo with a gun and six passengers whom they had held hostage while in transit.
The four robbers who boarded the bus heading to LASU – Iba route from Iyana Ipaja hijacked the bus from the driver immediately one of the passengers alighted at Diamond Estate, Isheri, Lagos.
According to the bus driver, Sherrif Dada; “At around 11:00 p.m on Thursday, after returning from a chartered trip to Sango, my conductor and I went straight to our usual route at Egbeda to make some more money before the closing for the day. We saw lots of passengers at Egbeda Bus Stop who were heading to Igando.”
He continued the narration that: “We picked the passengers and we dropped the first passenger at Diamond Estate Bus Stop. Just after leaving the Bus Stop, one of the passengers, four guys in their 20s brought out a gun and told me to stop.
“Just after pinning the gun to my head, the other robbers began to ransack the passengers particularly, a lady suspected to be carrying a handbag and her Infinix Note 4 android phone. The robbers began a struggle with the lady to dispossess her of her belonging but the lady refused to surrender her bag to the gun-wielding bandits.
“It wasn’t quite long my conductor escaped that they threw me down on motion after sighting an RRS patrol vehicle chasing them. They felt I was not fast enough.”
It was however learnt that upon sighting the RRS officers, the robbers abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby bush for cover. The Police then led a search for the robbers before they were apprehended.
While parading the suspects at the Command’s headquarters in Ikeja, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr Imohimi Edgal said items recovered from the bus include a locally made gun and an Android mobile phone, which they collected from one of the passengers.
He added that both the danfo bus and the mobile phone were handed over to their owners at the RRS Headquaters in Alausa, Ikeja.
Commenting on the development, the Police PRO, SP Chike Oti said “Lagos is not a safe zone for any criminal to operate, if they risk it, we will get them.”

CUSTOMS OFFICER KIDNAPPED DURING CLASH WITH SMUGGLERS
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/04/customs-officer-kidnapped-during-clash.html

A Customs officer, Rasheed Abdulsalam, attached to the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Lagos was, last Saturday, kidnapped after a fierce clash with notorious smugglers.
Some of his colleagues also sustained varying degrees of injuries in the bloody anti-smuggling operation that occurred at night around Gateway Hotel, Ota, Ogun State.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, Confirming the incident, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Joseph Attah, said plans were afoot to rescue the abducted officer, even as he described Sango Ota axis of Ogun State as a den of smugglers.
It was learnt that the Customs operatives, upon receipt of intelligence report on smugglers movement, left their Federal Operations Unit headquarters at about 9:10pm on Saturday. They were accompanied by some soldiers in a bus and a Toyota Hilux van that was driven by the kidnapped officer, Abdulsalam.
But unknown to them, the smugglers had laid an ambush just after the popular ShopRite retail store, which is also very close to a filling station along the busy Lagos-Abeokuta expressway.
Considering the delicate nature of the environment, the anti-smuggling operatives, on running into the smugglers, could not shoot because a tanker was discharging petrol at that time and any incendiary material could throw the entire vicinity into a ball of fire.
“They also didn’t want any stray bullet to hit anyone. So, they exercised restraint.
“That location made it very difficult for our men to fire a single shot. The smugglers pelted their vehicles with petrol and just looking for how the area will be set ablaze and swell the number of casualties. But they didn’t succeed.
“Sensing danger, our men found a way to escape from the vicinity but not without picking one the buses used in smuggling”, Attah explained.
An eyewitness who craved anonymity said the Customs operatives all ran away towards the toll gate to make good their escape and in the process, sustained injuries as the smugglers remained on the offensive.
But Abdulsalam was not as lucky as the smugglers swooped on him while he tried to assist the second driver who drove the bus. He was eventually abducted and his colleagues only got to know when the dusts settled and he was nowhere to be found.
As at the time of filing this report, the Customs management is in the dark as no staff has communicated with Abdulsalam, neither have his abductors opened any communication channel whatsoever.
A family member said his colleagues have joined them (family) in the search for the kidnapped officer, even though no one has a clue on where he might be.
“His colleagues decided to embark on private search. The family also got involved by calling the Ogun State Police Commissioner who directed that efforts should be made to look for him. Family also called the Customs PRO who got in touch. It is really a worrisome situation. It has been 48 hours of hell for us. We don’t even know what to think”, a family source lamented.
The Customs Spokesman, Attah, called on the good people of Sango Ota to join the Service in its anti-smuggling efforts by disassociating from smugglers and providing useful information on their nefarious activities.
“That area is notorious for smuggling. They see it as a way of life and their birthright. But we know they have some good people there. These good people should speak out against smuggling. It is a condemnable business. It is economic sabotage. They should stop supporting criminals.
“We’ve lost our men in this vicinity. Some have been wounded. Now an officer has been kidnapped. He was doing his legitimate duties. He is a human being and has families and friends. They must be going through a harrowing experience right now. But we are not deterred. Nothing will be spared to find and rescue him. We will continue to battle smugglers. They’re economic saboteurs”, Attah stated.