metro
Fire: Lagos asks illegal structures owners around Mandilas Building to vacate
Fire: Lagos asks illegal structures owners around Mandilas Building to vacate
Lagos State Government has given a fourteen-day ultimatum to owners of adjoining structures, and shanties within and around the Mandilas Building recently engulfed by fire to vacate and remove all illegal structures within the area or risk sanctions from the government.
This ultimatum was issued on Monday during a joint enforcement visit to the site of the fire incident by some key government agencies in the built sector.
Those on the visit arefrom the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Lagos State Building Control Agency, LASBCA, Central Business District, Lagos State Task Force, Lagos State Safety Commission, Lagos State Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, among others.
A statement issued by Director, Public Affairs, LASBCA, Olaoye Olusegun, obtained on Tuesday, said the joint enforcement exercise was led by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Olumide Oluyinka.
The illegal occupants were given the option of self-removal of the shanties and attachments within the specified period or pay the government for that service, the statement added.
Dr. Olayinka said that Lagos had recorded accolades from far and near in the area of ease of doing business which according to him was alluded to by a recent publication by Time Out, a British media and hospitality company that publishes guides and magazines as the 19th best city to visit in the world.
While saying that the present state of markets on the Lagos Island is below the standard of what the smart city status of Lagos demands, the commissioner maintained that any attempt to thwart the image and efforts of the state government in this regard would be resisted.
He restated the stance of the state government on zero tolerance for shanties, assuring that all the illegal attachments to buildings on Lagos Island would be removed upon the expiration of the ultimatum.
His words: “Let me also emphasize here that this exercise is not targeted at any group of persons or tribe. What we are saying is that this present administration stands against everything that does not befit the standard of Lagos.
“The cities of London, Dubai, New York, and other developed climes are not known for illegal trading and haphazard development and as such our own must not be different, Lagos must not be messed with, this is the center of excellence and we must portray ourselves as such.”
The commissioner while appealing to community leaders to help prevail on residents of Lagos Island especially those within their sphere of influence promised that the enforcement exercise would be sustained until total sanity is restored to the entire Lagos Island.
He revealed that the present administration wants to further move up the ladder from the present rating by Time Out.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Central Business District, CBD, Mrs. Bola Olumegbon-Lawal, said that the joint enforcement exercise was in line with the THEMESPLUS agenda of the present administration to promote and enhance quality of life for the residents and ensure that the lives and properties of Lagosians are adequately protected.
She reiterated that the state government is saying no to the erection of attachment and extension as well as sale of goods on the walkways, stressing that sanity must be maintained among market men and women on Lagos Island.
Olumegbon-Lawal pleaded with Community Development Associations, CDAs, and political party members to play by the rule by complementing the efforts of government at the grassroots in ensuring that sanity prevails among owners of shops, market men and women alike.
She recalled that the fire incident that engulfed the popular Mandilas Building some days ago could not be easily curtailed by the firefighters due to their inability to gain access to the spot of the fire incident as all the access roads had been blocked by illegal structures and shanties.
While saying that the drive to make money should not be at the detriment of human lives, the Special Adviser revealed that the state government intends to achieve a very organized, serene, and orderly city that would be the pride of everyone.
General Manager of Lagos State Building Control Agency, LASBCA, Gbolahan Oki, an architect, who ordered the immediate demolition of some illegal structures attached to buildings within and around the Mandilas 10-storey structure, said that the 14-day ultimatum took effect from Monday 29th January, 2024.
He informed that property owners who refused to voluntarily remove their illegal structures would pay for such removal by the government upon the expiration of the 14-day grace period, adding that such persons could also face prosecution.
Oki stated, “LASBCA believes in the judicious use of taxpayers’ money; we can’t be wasting government money and resources in reminding people to do what they ought to do ordinarily. If LASBCA or any government agency is mobilized to pull down a structure, the owner of such property will pay for such services by the government.”
He added that the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had invested heavily in infrastructural development, “and we will not allow a few people with personal interests, especially some greedy and desperate developers to thwart the efforts of the government”.
He decried the practice of erecting generators of high capaciy on elevated floors, insisting that all generators placed on any floor other than the ground floor must be removed with immediate effect in the interest of public safety.
Also speaking, the Director-General of Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, attributed the cause of most fire incidents from markets on Lagos Island to fire from generators.
He reiterated the position of the state government to enforce the placement of generators on the ground floor, saying that such development would help reduce avoidable fire incidents within the market environment.
On his part, the Managing Director of Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said that the market owners should be prepared to start paying for the disposal of their wastes.
He informed that LAWMA would soon commence the enforcement of the usage of waste bins attached to each of the shops on Lagos Island, adding that shop owners would be encouraged to cultivate the habit of sorting their wastes.
metro
‘We Don’t Know What Else to Do’ — Mother Begs for Release of Abducted Children
‘We Don’t Know What Else to Do’ — Mother Begs for Release of Abducted Children
A distraught mother in Kaduna State, Dominic Tina, has appealed to Nigerians and security agencies to help secure the release of her two children, who were reportedly abducted in Rimi Kamazou about seven weeks ago.
Tina made the emotional appeal in a social media post, saying her family desperately needed assistance to secure the children’s safe return.
According to a report published by Linda Ikeji’s Blog on October 19, 2026, the mother shared photographs of her children, including an image she said was sent to the family by their abductors.
The photograph reportedly raised fresh concerns about the children’s situation as their family continued to seek help to bring them home.
In her appeal, Tina expressed frustration over the prolonged ordeal, saying her family no longer knew what else to do.
She wrote: “My family don’t know what to do again, please help me reshare. We desperately need assistance.”
The children’s abduction has left their mother and other family members in distress, with the appeal aimed at attracting public attention and possible assistance from relevant authorities.
However, details surrounding the abduction, including the identities of the suspected kidnappers, their possible demands and the latest condition of the children, could not be independently verified from the information available.
It was also unclear whether security agencies had made any breakthrough in efforts to secure the children’s release.
The case underscores the anguish experienced by families whose loved ones remain in captivity for extended periods and the urgent need for coordinated efforts to locate abducted persons.
Tina’s appeal has called attention to her family’s desperate search for a resolution, as hopes remain that the children will be reunited with their loved ones.
The relevant security authorities are urged to investigate the reported abduction and take appropriate steps to facilitate the children’s safe return.
EDITORIAL NOTE: Newstrends.ng could not independently verify the latest status of the case before publication. Further confirmation should be sought from the family or the Kaduna State Police Command.
‘We Don’t Know What Else to Do’ — Mother Begs for Release of Abducted Children
metro
‘I Never Asked Them to Abandon Loved Ones’ — Obi Clarifies Diaspora Remarks
ABUJA — The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has denied asking Nigerians living abroad to abandon their relatives at home, insisting that his comments about financial assistance were misrepresented by political opponents.
Obi issued the clarification on Tuesday in a statement titled “My Message Has Been Twisted”, posted on his X account following widespread reactions to his remarks at a town hall meeting with Nigerians in Manchester, United Kingdom.
The former Anambra State governor said he appreciated Nigerians in the diaspora who worked hard and made sacrifices to support their families in Nigeria, stressing that their contributions remained essential to millions of households.
“I deeply appreciate Nigerians in the diaspora who work tirelessly and make enormous sacrifices to support their families back home,” Obi said.
He noted that money sent home by Nigerians abroad helped relatives pay school fees, hospital bills, rent and feeding expenses, adding that their sacrifices deserved recognition and respect.
“Their patriotism and sacrifices deserve our profound respect. I never asked them to abandon their loved ones,” he stated.
Obi explained that his concern was the economic situation forcing millions of Nigerians to depend on relatives abroad to meet their basic needs, rather than having access to decent jobs and essential services at home.
READ ALSO:
- FG Confirms Ebola Case in Abuja, Identifies 44 Contacts
- Breaking: Afenifere Leader Pa Fasoranti Dies at 100
- Army Major, Soldiers Killed in ISWAP Ambush in Yobe State
- Chaos in Abeokuta as Algerian Fans Attack Coach, Vandalise Stadium After Rangers Defeat
“My concern is that Nigeria should not remain a country where millions depend on relatives abroad for basic survival,” he said.
According to the NDC candidate, Nigeria needs a system that provides employment opportunities, affordable healthcare, quality education and the conditions necessary for citizens to support themselves and their families.
“Our goal must be to build a nation that provides jobs, affordable healthcare, quality education, and economic opportunities for its citizens,” he added.
Obi accused unnamed political opponents of distorting his message, maintaining that his argument was directed at the underlying causes of poverty and economic hardship rather than the willingness of Nigerians abroad to help their relatives.
“Political opponents may twist my message, but the truth remains clear: I am not asking Nigerians abroad to abandon their families. I am advocating for a Nigeria that will no longer abandon its own people,” he said.
The clarification followed controversy over comments Obi made during a town hall meeting with diaspora supporters in Manchester on Sunday.
In a video of the engagement that circulated widely on social media, Obi urged Nigerians living in the United Kingdom to reject requests for money from people at home and encourage them to support leaders capable of improving the country’s economic conditions.
“You have people at home in Nigeria today who are begging you for money. Tell them no!” he said.
Obi argued that financial assistance from relatives abroad could provide immediate relief but would not resolve the wider economic problems forcing many Nigerians to seek help.
He linked the situation to concerns about governance, corruption and economic hardship, urging Nigerians in the diaspora to use their influence to encourage greater political accountability at home.
The remarks generated mixed reactions, with some interpreting them as a call to stop sending money to struggling relatives, while others viewed them as an appeal to address the structural causes of poverty.
Obi’s latest statement seeks to clarify that distinction, emphasising that he values diaspora remittances but wants Nigeria to become a country where families can meet their basic needs without depending on financial assistance from abroad.
The controversy comes as political parties and prospective candidates intensify engagement with Nigerians at home and in the diaspora ahead of the 2027 general election.
‘I Never Asked Them to Abandon Loved Ones’ — Obi Clarifies Diaspora Remarks
metro
Breaking: Afenifere Leader Pa Fasoranti Dies at 100
Breaking: Afenifere Leader Pa Fasoranti Dies at 100
AKURE, Ondo State — Nigeria has lost a prominent elder statesman and pro-democracy advocate, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the national leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, who died on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at the age of 100.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, announced the death in a statement, describing Fasoranti as a respected leader whose life was marked by integrity, wisdom and selfless service to Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria.
The governor said the late Afenifere leader provided guidance on critical issues affecting governance, justice and national development, adding that his counsel and fatherly leadership would be greatly missed.
Aiyedatiwa also extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom and residents of Ondo State over the loss.
Fasoranti, who celebrated his 100th birthday on May 11, 2026, was one of the influential figures in Yoruba politics and a prominent disciple of the late nationalist and political leader, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Born on May 11, 1926, in Uso, Ondo State, Fasoranti built a career in education before becoming deeply involved in politics and the struggle for democratic governance in Nigeria.
A trained educationist, he taught at Ondo Boys’ High School and later served as principal of Oyemekun Grammar School and Iju-Itaogbolu Grammar School. He also established educational institutions, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School and Akure High School.
His commitment to education remained an important part of his legacy, alongside his involvement in public service and political development.
READ ALSO:
- Chaos in Abeokuta as Algerian Fans Attack Coach, Vandalise Stadium After Rangers Defeat
- Nollywood Mourns as Actress, Beauty Queen Tenia Abraham Dies at 32
- FG Challenges World Bank’s 124% Debt-to-Revenue Warning, Cites Rising Income
Between 1979 and 1983, Fasoranti served as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State under the administration of the late Governor Michael Adekunle Ajasin. His political outlook was strongly influenced by Awolowo’s progressive philosophy and its emphasis on education, social welfare and good governance.
Fasoranti later emerged as the leader of Afenifere following the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya. Under his leadership, the organisation remained an influential voice in debates on Yoruba interests, national unity, restructuring and the future of Nigeria’s federal system.
He was also associated with the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a pro-democracy movement that opposed military rule and demanded the restoration of democratic government. His role in the struggle placed him among the prominent voices advocating constitutional rule and political accountability during Nigeria’s years of military dictatorship.
Throughout his public life, Fasoranti consistently expressed views on governance, justice, equity and the need for a more balanced federal structure. His interventions in national affairs made him a reference point for political leaders and members of the Yoruba community.
Following news of his death, tributes began pouring in from political leaders and public figures.
Ogun State Governor and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Dapo Abiodun, described Fasoranti’s death as a significant loss to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria. He praised the late elder statesman’s contributions to democratic development and his commitment to justice, equity and good governance.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had also celebrated Fasoranti’s 100th birthday in May, joining other prominent Nigerians in recognising his contributions to public service and the country’s political history.
Fasoranti’s death marks the end of a century-long life that spanned Nigeria’s colonial period, independence, military rule and the return to civilian democracy.
His legacy is expected to endure through his contributions to education, public administration, Yoruba political affairs and the campaign for democratic governance.
As the family, Afenifere and the wider Yoruba community mourn his passing, the late elder statesman will be remembered for his long-standing involvement in public life and his advocacy for justice, accountability and national development.
Breaking: Afenifere Leader Pa Fasoranti Dies at 100
-
metro3 days agoOyo Baby Trafficking Scandal: Mother, Doctor Arrested Over Alleged ₦2m Sale of Infant
-
News3 days agoAkpabio Under Fire as Senators Move to Secure His Return as Senate President in 2027
-
Sports3 days agoLamine Yamal Shines as Barcelona Thrash Real Betis 5-2
-
metro3 days agoKano: Soldiers Kill Two Kidnappers, Rescue Victim, Recover ₦10m
-
metro2 days agoNAFDAC Probes Corps Member’s Death at Enugu Camp as Fake Drug Claims Emerge
-
Africa3 days agoNairobi Mother Says Husband Abandoned Her During Childbirth, Paid Dowry for Another Woman
-
Politics2 days agoBuhari Feared Tinubu Presidency, Resisted Pressure to Back Him – Baba-Ahmed Claims
-
metro2 days agoOgun House Fire Horror: Husband Arrested After Wife Dies Following Domestic Dispute