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The Lagos State Police Command has commenced disciplinary action against officers of the Tactical Unit attached to the Mile 2 Police Station following allegations that they detained four young men and extorted N100,000 from them. The action followed a report of the incident and subsequent attention drawn to the case by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), prompting the Area Commander, ACP Godwin Oti Chike, to investigate the matter. Oti confirmed that he had taken statements from the four victims and identified the officers involved as members of the Tactical Unit attached to the Mile 2 Police Station. He also disclosed that the N100,000 allegedly collected from the youths had been refunded. “I have taken the statements from the boys involved and I have gotten the officers to refund the money to them and the issue has been resolved amicably,” he said. The four young men were reportedly arrested by Tactical Unit officers while returning to their hotel after visiting Festiv...

... CP Fatai urges peaceful participation as election season approaches The Lagos State Police Command has warned youths against allowing themselves to be recruited for political thuggery, electoral violence, cultism, drug abuse and other criminal activities as the country approaches another electoral season. The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, gave the warning during a youth sensitisation walkathon organised as part of activities marking the 2026 International Youth Day celebration. The two-hour walk, which began at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters, Ikeja, passed through Ipodo to Computer Village, bringing together police personnel, youths, members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria, National Association of Students, traders and community leaders. Fatai said the initiative was designed to sensitise young people on their responsibilities as crit...

President Bola Tinubu has charged the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited to eliminate gas flaring and ensure the country’s abundant natural gas resources translate into tangible benefits for Nigerians. Tinubu gave the directive at the State House in Abuja when the NLNG Board, led by its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Adeleye Falade, paid him a visit. The President said ending gas flaring was critical to converting environmental hazards into productive economic assets, while urging the company to prioritise domestic energy needs and affordable supply alongside its international export activities. Tinubu assured the NLNG delegation that his administration would provide the necessary incentives to expand operational capacity and promote growth across the energy sector. Briefing the President, Falade said NLNG had generated more than 150 billion dollars in revenue since inception and paid approximately 47 billion dollars in dividends to its shareholders, includi...

... Company posts US$247.9m collections as Stubb Creek output jumps 29% Savannah Energy PLC has reported a 13 per cent year-on-year increase in cash collections from its Nigerian operations, reaching US$247.9 million in the seven months to July 31, 2026. The British independent energy company, in its unaudited seven-month operational and financial update, said the figure represents an increase from US$219.2 million recorded during the corresponding period in 2025. Savannah also reported a 10 per cent increase in revenue to US$160.6 million, compared with US$146 million in the first seven months of 2025. The company said its average gross daily production across the group stood at 16.3 thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day (Kboepd) during the period, compared with 18.8 Kboepd in the same period of 2025. It expects average gross daily production to exceed 20 Kboepd over the remaining five months of 2026, following the commencement of production from its Uquo 13 well. Production at S...

President Bola Tinubu President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services and other relevant security and intelligence agencies to immediately launch a coordinated operation to rescue victims of the recent mass abduction in Niger State. The President, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, expressed outrage over the abduction and killing of innocent citizens by criminal elements in the state. Tinubu condemned the attack, describing the perpetrators as “enemies of peace and enemies of humanity,” and vowed that those responsible would not go unpunished. He extended his condolences to the families of those killed in the attack, assuring them that the Federal Government would continue to stand with them during the difficult period. The President also assured families of the abducted victims that the government would not relent until their loved ones were brought home safely. Tinubu directed the Ser...

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has been named recipient of the 2026 Global Transformation and Good Governance Prize by the Millennium Excellence Award USA. The award, according to a statement by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, follows a selection process that recognised what the organisers described as Governor Sanwo-Olu’s achievements and the developmental trajectory of Lagos State under his leadership. The honour will be conferred under the Royal Patronage of the Asantehene of Kumasi, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who will personally present the award alongside Her Royal Highness Lady Julia, Queen Consort. The ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C., on Saturday, August 29, 2026, with the red carpet beginning at 2:30 p.m. The Millennium Excellence Awards USA recognises individuals of African heritage and global contributors who have made significant contributions in are...

... Group seeks legislative documents, questions controversial provisions in amendment Bill CAPPA's Executive Director Akinbode Oluwafemi The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has filed a Freedom of Information request with the National Assembly, demanding comprehensive legislative records on the National Tobacco Control Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The demand comes amid concerns by public health stakeholders that proposed amendments could weaken Nigeria’s tobacco-control framework and create regulatory openings for tobacco and nicotine companies. In the request dated August 13 and addressed to the Clerk of the Senate, CAPPA asked for certified copies of the Senate and House of Representatives Votes and Proceedings covering every stage of the Bill’s consideration. The organisation also requested the dates of each legislative stage, names and constituencies of sponsors and co-sponsors, records of divisions or recorded votes, relevant committee reports, ...

AIG Akpanudom urges improved healthcare access, NHIS coverage for police personnel The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex, Lagos, AIG Simeon U. Akpanudom, has called for regular medical checks for detectives and improved access to quality healthcare for police personnel. Akpanudom made the call when the Force Director of Medical Services, AIG Nkechi Eze, and her team paid a working visit to the FCID Annex, Alagbon, Ikoyi, Lagos. According to a statement issued and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, FCID Annex, Alagbon, ASP Mayegun Aminat, during the visit, the team inspected the medical facilities at the Annex and discussed measures to improve healthcare services and the welfare of personnel, particularly detectives who require regular medical attention. The AIG stressed the importance of prioritising the physical and mental well-being of police officers, noting that their health was essential to efficiency, ...

CP Bakori warns against corruption, extortion as commanders get fresh directives The Kano State Police Command has unveiled a strategic security roadmap aimed at strengthening crime prevention, intelligence gathering and police visibility across the state. The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, announced the measures during a strategic meeting with Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders, Squadron Commanders and Heads of Departments at the Police Headquarters, Bompai, Kano. The meeting reviewed the security situation in the state and assessed the performance of the various operational formations, according to a statement by the staye Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa. CP Bakori commended the commanders and their personnel for sustained crime prevention, prompt response to emergencies and efforts to strengthen community engagement and public trust. He directed all commanders to intensify proactive operations against criminal elements and prevent any...

... Six suspects arrested as police launch probe into missing newborn The Ogun State Police Command has dismantled an alleged baby factory at Abaren Village, Mowe, rescuing two pregnant women and four children while arresting six suspects in connection with suspected human trafficking and illegal adoption activities. The operation, carried out by operatives of the Mowe Division on Monday, followed sustained intelligence on activities allegedly taking place at the facility located on Toluwalase Street, Abaren Village, via Gbarinmole. The command, in a statement by the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Oluborode Opeyemi, said the two rescued women, identified as 23-year-old Ilesanmi Foluke, who is seven months pregnant, and 20-year-old Ejekwa Melody, who is eight months pregnant, were found at the facility during the raid. Four children, comprising two boys and two girls, were also rescued. The suspects arrested were Florence Glory Ogbona, 58; Magdalene Julius, 63; Chidike ...

IGP Disu: Their sacrifice will not be in vain The Nigeria Police Force has honoured 10 officers of the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) who lost their lives while battling suspected bandits in Kebbi State. A memorial service was held on Monday at the Force Headquarters in Abuja in honour of the officers, who were killed during an encounter with a heavily armed group of suspected bandits along the Rafin Makuku axis of Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State on August 10. Senior police officers, colleagues and relatives of the deceased gathered at the ceremony to pay tribute to the fallen personnel and honour their courage, service and sacrifice. The officers were part of a police team that confronted the armed group, which was moving between Zamfara and Kebbi states. Speaking at the memorial, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, described the deceased as gallant officers who paid the supreme price in the service of the nation. Disu expressed condolences to the ...

Gombe-born teenager beats contestants from 132 countries, wins N120m prize Maryam Ibrahim Dan’Azumi President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Maryam Ibrahim Dan’Azumi of Gombe State for emerging winner of the women’s category at the 46th King Abdulaziz International Qur’anic Competition in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised Maryam for her exceptional mastery of the Holy Qur’an and outstanding performance at the prestigious international competition. Maryam reportedly defeated competitors from 132 countries to clinch the top prize of 300,000 Saudi Riyals, equivalent to about N120 million. President Tinubu described the achievement as a source of national pride, saying Maryam had placed Nigeria prominently on the global stage through her dedication to Qur’anic memorisation, recitation, Tajweed and scholarship. The President also celebrated Maryam’s elder sister, Hajara Ibrahim Dan’Azumi, who wo...

The Benue State Police Command has intensified its campaign against youth-related crimes with the launch of the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV) office in the state. A statement signed by the state Police Public Relations Office,  DSP Orchia Aondongu said t he initiative was unveiled during a Stakeholders’ Youth Dialogue organised as part of activities marking the 2026 National Youth Day, bringing together student unions, youth associations and other youth-focused organisations across the state. The dialogue, led by the Police Management Team, provided a platform for young people and the Police to discuss challenges affecting their safety, wellbeing and participation in building peaceful communities. Discussions focused on the need to tackle electoral thuggery, cultism, cyberbullying, drug and substance abuse, violence and other forms of criminality capable of exploiting young people and threatening peace in the state. CP Cletus Nwadiogbu The Commissioner o...

The Enugu State Police Command has launched a campaign against political and digital thuggery, urging young Nigerians to reject manipulation by political actors and use their influence to promote peace, democracy and responsible citizenship. The campaign was launched by the Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, during a Police–Youth Dialogue held at the Senior Police Officers’ Mess, Agbani Road, Enugu, as part of activities marking the Nigeria Police Force International Youth Day 2026. Speaking during the interactive session, Giwa urged youths to resist attempts by politicians and other actors to exploit them for violent or criminal purposes, stressing that young Nigerians have a crucial role to play in strengthening democracy and national security. He warned youths against using digital platforms for incitement, intimidation, harassment and other forms of criminality, urging them instead to channel their energy and influence into constructive civic participation, innovation a...

Reject political thuggery, cultism, cybercrime, violence - Disu The National President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Chief Mrs. Mutiat Olufunmilola Disu, has urged Nigerian youths to reject political thuggery, cultism, cybercrime, hate and violence, warning them not to allow politicians to exploit their energy and future for selfish ambitions. Mrs. Disu gave the warning at the International Youth Day 2026 – National Youth Leadership & Security Initiative organised by the Nigeria Police Force, where she challenged young Nigerians to embrace peaceful democratic participation and become responsible leaders in their communities. Speaking from the perspective of both a mother and a leader closely connected to the police family, the POWA President said she was particularly worried about youths being manipulated into believing that violence was a pathway to political relevance or power. “Your future is too valuable to be rented out. Do not allow anyone to use your yout...

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested five suspected telecommunication vandals and recovered a truckload of suspected stolen iron rods in the Ibeju-Lekki area of the state. The arrests are part of the Command’s intensified operations to curb the vandalism and theft of critical infrastructure across Lagos. The suspects — Mohammed Shaibu, 26; Musa Zakari, 29; Abdullahi Bala, 22; Salisu Musa, 18; and Yahuza Bala, 20 — were allegedly caught stealing iron poles meant for the construction of telecommunication masts. According to a statement issued on Saturday by state PolicePublicRelationsOffice, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the suspects were arrested while allegedly conveying the stolen iron rods in a truck. They are currently in police custody, while the case is being investigated at the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Yaba. The Command said discreet investigation was ongoing to apprehend other fleeing suspects and determine the full extent of the alleged criminal activities. ...

By Seye Oladejo, Lagos APC Chieftain There is a point at which political criticism ceases to be constructive opposition and becomes a comedy of contradictions. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar may have crossed that line with his latest position on fuel subsidy. Atiku has reportedly declared that if elected President, he would restore the petrol subsidy and ensure that whoever allegedly stole the money saved from subsidy removal refunds it. One cannot help but ask: is this the same Atiku Abubakar who, not too long ago, supported the removal of fuel subsidy? Indeed, Atiku had previously described subsidy removal as inevitable and supported the policy during the 2023 presidential campaign, while criticising the manner in which the Tinubu administration implemented the reform. Today, with the 2027 presidential contest taking shape, the same policy has apparently acquired a completely different meaning. This is not merely a change of mind. It raises a fundamental question about the cons...

Seye Oladejo By Seye Oladejo, Lagos APC Chieftain There is a new and important reality unfolding in Nigeria’s governance landscape: local governments are gaining greater fiscal autonomy at precisely the time when the federation’s revenue picture has improved significantly. This convergence presents both an opportunity and a test. For decades, local governments have complained that their responsibilities at the grassroots were not matched by adequate financial resources or sufficient control over their allocations. The constitutional and judicial push towards local government financial autonomy has therefore been welcomed as a potentially transformative development. At the same time, the significant increase in allocations from the Federation Account has expanded the financial space available to the three tiers of government. The question Nigerians are entitled to ask is simple: Where is the corresponding impact at the grassroots? More money must translate into more development. Autonom...