Fire: Ban smoking, Lagos govt tells market, sawmill leaders - Newstrends
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Fire: Ban smoking, Lagos govt tells market, sawmill leaders

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Fire: Ban smoking, Lagos govt tells market, sawmill leaders

The Lagos State Government has called on market leaders to urgently place a ban on smoking in all market places, especially around sawmills and plank markets in the state.

This is with a view to controlling the frequency of fire outbreaks in markets in the metropolis.

Recall that the State Fire and Rescue Service recently disclosed that fire consumed properties worth over N17.49 billion between January and November 2024.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ sensitization coordination and community response on disaster programme put together by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in Lagos, on Tuesday, the Chief Fire Officer, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Olukotun Odunayo, revealed that 1749 fire calls were recorded between January and November 2024.

Odunayo attributed most of the market fire that occured in Lagos to lack of knowledge of what disaster management is all about.

He revealed that managing disasters such as fire starts with knowing what to do and how to organise those around to fight the fire before it spreads.

He explained that fire that can cause colossal damage to property starts from small source before spreading to other areas.

He revealed that interactions with victims at incident scenes revealed that plank market fire mostly started from cigarette smoking or sparks from a faulty electricity connection.

“A big fire can start from ashes from a discarded cigarette or sparks from faulty electricity connection when there is a sudden surge in power supply. This often occurs at night. And when it happens victims result to prayers rather than action because they lack knowledge of what to do.

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“I want to encourage market leaders to embark on an intensive sensitization campaign for traders in different markets. Traders should know what they need to do in case of emergency.

“Leaders should also ban smoking at market places, especially sawmills and plank markets,” he added.

Odunayo explained that the state recorded a total of 1749 fire calls in the last 11 months, adding that most of them were avoidable incidents.

Also speaking, Engr. Jamiu Badmus, Executive Director, Safety Advocate, called for increased sensitization campaign in communities.

Badmus also wondered why gas stores and filling stations were allowed to be sited within residential areas.

He urged relevant government agencies to discourage setting up of gas stations or shops in highly residential concentrated areas for safety reasons.

According to him, most residents are not aware of what to do in the event of fire, adding that most victims result to prayers rather than action.

“This is because they have little or no knowledge of what to do when confronted by such situation,” he said.

In her address to flag off the campaign, the Director General of NEMA, Mrs Zubaida Umar, recalled that aside losing properties worth N17.49 billion, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) had also stated that, property worth N104.9 billion were also saved within the period.

This, she said, is according to data obtained from both the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA).

The NEMA boss further recalled that road traffic accidents ranked highest with a record of 46 vehicular incidents and 32 truck/tanker incidents recorded in the state in the same period.

She stated that the meeting provided opportunities to share perspectives, ideas and experiences on fire disaster management, which according to her has become a pressing issue, particularly in Lagos State given its rapid urbanization and population growth.

“Fire disaster management is a viral aspect of overall disaster management and as such we must address it with urgency and clarity,” she added.

 

Fire: Ban smoking, Lagos govt tells market, sawmill leaders

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Aisha Achimugu Denies Sanwo-Olu Link, Speaks on EFCC Case, $13m Forfeiture Battle

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Lagos socialite Aisha Achimugu
Lagos socialite Aisha Achimugu

Aisha Achimugu Denies Sanwo-Olu Link, Speaks on EFCC Case, $13m Forfeiture Battle

Businesswoman and founder of Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Ltd, Aisha Achimugu, has strongly denied claims that her wealth is linked to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, insisting she is a self-made entrepreneur who built her business empire from 2001.

She made the clarification during an interview with Channels Television on Monday, amid ongoing public scrutiny of her finances and a legal battle with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Achimugu said her entrepreneurial journey began long before she became widely known, stressing that her success was achieved through years of private sector work and legitimate business activities.

“I started my business in 2001. My background is a decent family. My late husband was the MD of PPMCC. I met him in the course of the work. I actually met him doing business in NNPC,” she said.

When asked directly whether her wealth was linked to Governor Sanwo-Olu or any influential associates, she firmly denied the allegation, stating: “Not at all.”

Public Attention After Grenada Birthday Celebration

Achimugu first came under intense public attention in January 2024 after hosting a lavish seven-day 50th birthday celebration in Grenada.

The event attracted prominent Nigerian entertainers, business leaders, and political figures, including Governor Sanwo-Olu, sparking widespread speculation about the source of her wealth.

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She, however, maintained that her connections to high-profile individuals are a result of her professional standing and not political influence or financial dependence.

EFCC Arrest and $13m Forfeiture Order

In April 2025, the EFCC declared Achimugu wanted over allegations of money laundering before she was later arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

By March 2026, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted a final forfeiture order of $13 million allegedly linked to her company, a ruling she is currently appealing.

The court, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, held that the EFCC had proven the funds were proceeds of unlawful activity.

Her company has since filed an appeal, with the case still ongoing in court.

“I’m Not a Bank” — Achimugu Rejects Claims

Reacting to the forfeiture allegations, Achimugu declined to go into full detail due to the ongoing litigation but strongly denied possessing such funds.

“My house was raided. Only $50,000 and N13 million belonging to my mom was found in my house and my personal belongings,” she said.

“I don’t know where Nigeria got the impression that I have $13 million in my house. I’m not a bank. I won’t keep $13 million in my house.”

Oil Block and Business Operations

On claims surrounding her company’s oil block, Achimugu said it was acquired through a transparent and competitive bidding process in the oil and gas sector.

She insisted that her business operations are legitimate and based on structured investments rather than political connections or influence.

“My Wealth Is Not Political” — Achimugu

Addressing her relationships with political figures, Achimugu said her access to influential individuals has often been misunderstood.

“I have always had access to power and governance. I’m a known Nigerian. I have friends, and I have done well,” she said.

She added that Governor Sanwo-Olu’s presence at her birthday event was incidental, noting that he was among several invited guests.

“I’m an entrepreneur and business owner. Having to know those who will increase my portfolio is very important to me. It is not about Governor Sanwo-Olu at all,” she added.

Aisha Achimugu Denies Sanwo-Olu Link, Speaks on EFCC Case, $13m Forfeiture Battle

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10 Killed as Gunmen Ambush Military-Escorted Convoy in Ghana, 21 Suspects Arrested

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Gunmen Ambush Military-Escorted Convoy in Ghana

10 Killed as Gunmen Ambush Military-Escorted Convoy in Ghana, 21 Suspects Arrested

Armed attackers have ambushed a military-escorted civilian convoy in northern Ghana, leaving at least 10 people dead and triggering a major security operation that has led to the arrest of 21 suspects, according to the Ghana Armed Forces.

The incident occurred on the morning of April 27, 2026, at Binduri in the Upper East Region, when unidentified gunmen opened fire on a convoy carrying about 140 civilians travelling from Bawku to Bolgatanga under military protection.

The attack was described by security officials as a coordinated assault in a region already affected by long-standing insecurity and recurring communal tensions.

The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that troops escorting the convoy immediately returned fire and successfully repelled the attackers during the exchange.

In the confrontation, seven of the attackers were killed, while three escorted civilians also lost their lives. One additional civilian sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical attention.

Security authorities said the total confirmed death toll from the incident stands at 10, combining both civilians and attackers involved in the ambush.

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Following the attack, soldiers launched a pursuit operation targeting fleeing suspects in the area. During the operation, one suspect was tracked to a mosque, where security personnel recovered a G3 automatic rifle, two loaded magazines, and 176 rounds of ammunition.

An initial statement from the Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that 10 suspects were arrested shortly after the attack and were assisting with investigations. However, a later update indicated that the number of arrested suspects had risen to 21, all currently in police custody.

Security agencies have since intensified operations in surrounding communities, with joint military and police teams conducting sweeps to locate additional suspects believed to be involved in the ambush.

Authorities have urged residents in the area to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing security operations as investigations continue.

The attack is linked to the long-running Bawku conflict, which has seen repeated outbreaks of violence tied largely to chieftaincy disputes between the Kusasi and Mamprusi groups.

The region has experienced cycles of violence over the years, resulting in curfews, heavy military deployments, and increased protection for civilian movement along key routes.

Due to the persistent insecurity, civilians travelling along the Bawku–Bolgatanga corridor are often required to move under military escort to reduce the risk of attacks.

The latest ambush underscores continuing security challenges in the region despite sustained military presence and ongoing peace efforts. Authorities say investigations are still ongoing, with further updates expected.

10 Killed as Gunmen Ambush Military-Escorted Convoy in Ghana, 21 Suspects Arrested

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Police Reject ₦100m Bribe, Arrest Two Over Stolen Railway Materials in Nasarawa

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Police Reject ₦100m Bribe, Arrest Two Over Stolen Railway Materials in Nasarawa

Police Reject ₦100m Bribe, Arrest Two Over Stolen Railway Materials in Nasarawa

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have rejected a ₦100 million bribe and intercepted about 60 tonnes of vandalised railway materials in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, during a major intelligence-led operation against infrastructure vandalism.

The operation was carried out by the Force Intelligence Department Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS) following credible intelligence, which led to the arrest of two suspects on April 9, 2026.

The suspects, identified as Chisom Goodnews (32) and Ahmed Adamu (22), were arrested while allegedly transporting stolen railway materials concealed inside a trailer truck.

Police said the intercepted items included railway tracks and sleepers, which were hidden under sacks of groundnut shells in an attempt to evade detection during transportation.

According to preliminary investigations, the truck was conveying the stolen materials from Bauchi State to Ilorin, suggesting an organised network involved in the movement of vandalised railway infrastructure across states.

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The probe also revealed that the driver of the trailer was allegedly paid ₦2.5 million to transport the stolen railway components, pointing to a structured criminal arrangement behind the operation.

Security sources further stated that investigations are ongoing to uncover a wider syndicate believed to be responsible for the theft and distribution of railway materials for illegal resale.

During the interception, the suspects reportedly attempted to offer a ₦100 million bribe to the operatives in order to secure their release and allow the truck to pass.

However, the officers rejected the offer and proceeded with the arrest and seizure of both the suspects and the loaded truck.

The Nigeria Police Force said the rejection of the bribe demonstrates the professionalism and integrity of the operatives involved in the operation.

The Force also confirmed that the trailer truck used in transporting the stolen materials has been recovered, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the criminal network.

Investigators believe the case is part of a broader pattern of organised vandalism targeting critical national infrastructure, particularly railway assets that are often stolen and sold as scrap metal.

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, commended the officers for their conduct, describing their actions as a reflection of discipline, professionalism, and commitment to national security.

The suspects are expected to be prosecuted upon completion of ongoing investigations.

 

Police Reject ₦100m Bribe, Arrest Two Over Stolen Railway Materials in Nasarawa

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