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Police Arrest IPO for Tampering with Lagos Teen Sexual Assault Case File

Maryam Aminu

Detectives from the Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, have arrested an Investigating Police Officer (IPO) from Isheri Osun Division for allegedly tampering with critical evidence in the sexual assault case of a teenage student.

The victim, 16-year-old Edozie Michael Chiagozie, was reportedly assaulted anally by a well-known Lagos hotelier, Macdonald Okpara, in late 2023. After confiding in his mother, the teenager reportedly suffered a mental breakdown.

Following the revelation, detectives from Zone 2, acting on the directive of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Adegoke Fayoade, arrested Okpara. However, complications arose when the suspect’s lawyer claimed the case had already been reported to the same Zone for investigation.

Upon retrieving the case file from a Zone 2 unit, investigators reportedly discovered that crucial documents had been tampered with. Missing evidence included a confessional statement from another alleged victim, identified as Balogun, and medical reports from Mirabel Center at the General Hospital, Ikeja.

AIG Fayoade subsequently ordered an expanded investigation, leading detectives from the Zonal Oracle Unit, led by CSP Uba, to storm Isheri Osun Police Station. During questioning, the IPO reportedly admitted to removing key documents from the case file and later produced the hidden statements. One of these contained a second victim’s detailed account of the alleged abuse, supported by documented evidence.

The IPO was immediately detained and is undergoing interrogation to determine who influenced him and whether he received financial inducements.

Meanwhile, detectives reported that during a search of Okpara’s residence in Egbeda, the suspect initially attempted to mislead them by directing them to a different location. However, officers successfully traced his main house. Investigators are also planning to inspect another of Okpara’s properties, a secluded mansion near his hotel in Bucknor, Ejigbo Division, which is said to be heavily restricted.

Further reports allege that when Zone 2 detectives attempted to arrest Okpara at his Empire Hotel, he contacted officers from Ejigbo Police Division, who allegedly deployed armed men to interfere. Instead of assisting in the lawful arrest, the officers reportedly attempted to obstruct the operation, allowing Okpara to escape temporarily.

Sources claim that powerful individuals are working behind the scenes to protect Okpara. Several attempts have allegedly been made to persuade Zone 2 detectives to
offer him a “soft landing.” However, police authorities insist that AIG Fayoade remains committed to ensuring justice is served.

Despite alleged efforts to blackmail detectives with claims of financial demands, the Zone 2 command has maintained its stance on conducting a thorough and transparent investigation.

Police Arrest IPO for Tampering with Lagos Teen Sexual Assault Case File

Maryam Aminu

The IPO was immediately detained and is undergoing interrogation to determine who influenced him and whether he received financial inducements.

Despite alleged efforts to blackmail detectives with claims of financial demands, the Zone 2 command has maintained its stance on conducting a thorough and transparent investigation.

Meanwhile, investigators are expanding their probe to determine if any senior officers within the police force were complicit in shielding the suspect. Detectives are also considering summoning officers from Ejigbo Division to explain their alleged role in obstructing Okpara’s arrest.

AIG Fayoade stated that both Okpara and the IPO remain in police custody. Investigators are optimistic that further questioning will yield more insights into the extent of the cover-up and whether additional arrests will be made.

Youth Minister Backs Swift Passage of Peace Corps Bill

Maryam Aminu

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the swift passage and formal approval of the Peace Corps Bill, recognizing its potential to empower Nigerian youth and foster national development.

Comrade Olawande made this pledge during a courtesy visit from the leadership of the Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN), led by its National Commandant, Dr. Dickson Akoh.

Their discussions focused on the transformative role of the Peace Corps initiative in equipping young Nigerians with opportunities for meaningful contributions to society.

The Minister emphasized the significance of youth-driven programs in promoting unity, fostering cultural understanding, and bridging socio-economic gaps.

“The government is making significant strides toward creating a brighter and more unified future for all. This important legislation aims to enhance international cooperation and promote community development by enabling young volunteers to engage in meaningful service both locally and globally,” he stated.

L-R: The Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande and the National Commandant of the Peace Corps of Nigeria, Dr Dickson Akoh issuing a certificate of honour to the Minister.

In his remarks, Dr. Akoh underscored the pivotal role of the Ministry of Youth Development in shaping Nigeria’s future.

He stressed that empowering young Nigerians translates to thriving communities, economic growth, and societal progress.

“We are confident that under your leadership, the Ministry will continue to foster innovative programs that uplift young Nigerians, support their talents, and prepare them to become the leaders of tomorrow,” he said.

Dr. Akoh further highlighted that the PCN, established over two decades ago, has remained self-sustaining, funding its structures and activities nationwide.

He noted that the organization has actively participated in international engagements, sending members to conferences organized by the United Nations and the African Union in countries such as Ghana, Kenya, the United States, Brazil, and Switzerland.

Commending the Minister for his forward-thinking initiatives such as the Youth Bank and Youth Rights Desk, Dr. Akoh described these efforts as crucial to advancing youth empowerment in Nigeria.

In recognition of his dedication, the Peace Corps Council, the highest decision-making body of the organization, conferred upon Comrade Olawande the prestigious title of National Patron, along with all the associated symbols of office.

Ensuring Data Privacy and Protection in Nigeria: The Role of Government Agencies in Compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission

By Dr. Gabriel Akinremi

Introduction: A Digital Age Dilemma

In an era where data has become a crucial asset, ensuring its protection is no longer optional but a necessity. Across the globe, governments are enforcing stringent data protection regulations to safeguard personal information and maintain public trust. Nigeria is no exception.

The enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) in 2020 marked a turning point in the country’s digital governance, providing a legal framework to protect citizens’ personal data.

However, ensuring compliance within Nigeria’s public sector remains a formidable challenge. Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) collect and process vast amounts of sensitive data ranging from national identity records to healthcare and financial information.

Without a structured approach to data protection, the risks of breaches, identity theft, and misuse of personal information increase significantly.

This feature explores how Nigerian government institutions can strengthen their data protection frameworks, comply with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) guidelines, and tackle the challenges that hinder effective implementation

Why Data Protection Matters for Government Agencies

Data breaches have become a global concern, with governments being prime targets. In 2021, South Africa’s Department of Justice suffered a major cyberattack, crippling operations and exposing citizens’ information. Closer to home, in 2022, a breach in Nigeria’s National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) raised concerns about the safety of personal data. These incidents highlight why government institutions must adopt proactive measures to safeguard sensitive information.

For Nigeria, ensuring data security is crucial for national security, public trust, and efficient governance. When citizens are confident that their personal information is handled securely, they are more likely to engage with digital services, boosting government efficiency.

Understanding the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA)

The NDPA provides a comprehensive legal foundation for data protection in Nigeria. It defines the responsibilities of data controllers (entities that determine how personal data is processed) and data processors (those who handle data on behalf of controllers).

Some key provisions of the NDPA include:

Data Subject Rights – Nigerians have the right to access, correct, and request the deletion of their personal data.

Accountability Framework – Organizations, including government agencies, must adopt security measures to protect data.

Compliance Mechanisms – Institutions must conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) to evaluate risks and take corrective actions.

Penalties for Breaches – Non-compliance with the NDPA can result in significant fines and reputational damage.

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) was also established to enforce compliance, investigate violations, and provide guidelines for public and private institutions.

Real-World Data Breach Incidents: Why Compliance is Critical

Nigeria has already witnessed several alarming cases of data breaches that underscore the urgent need for strict compliance with the NDPC guidelines. These incidents highlight the risks posed by inadequate data security measures and serve as cautionary tales for government agencies.

Unauthorized Access to Citizens’ Data (June 2024)

In June 2024, an alarming data breach revealed that unauthorized websites were selling access to sensitive personal and financial data of Nigerian citizens for as little as 100 Naira.

This breach highlighted significant lapses in data security and the need for stricter access controls within government agencies. Had NDPC guidelines been strictly implemented, such unauthorized access could have been prevented.

National Identification Number (NIN) Data Leak (March 2024)

In March 2024, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) faced a major data leak, exposing thousands of National Identification Numbers (NIN). This breach raised serious concerns about how personal data is stored and protected. Strengthening encryption protocols and enforcing strict cybersecurity policies would be essential in preventing similar incidents.

Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) Website Hack (Late 2024)

The Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) suffered a cyberattack in late 2024, compromising its website and exposing vulnerabilities in government-held data.

This breach demonstrated the need for improved digital security policies and reinforced the importance of proactive cybersecurity measures across all MDAs.

In 2024, Nigeria’s data protection authorities fined Meta (formerly Facebook) $220 million for violating local consumer and privacy laws. The case revealed that Meta had collected Nigerian user data without consent, highlighting the need for multinational corporations to comply with national data protection regulations. It also underscored the NDPC’s growing role in enforcing compliance.

The Responsibility of Government Agencies in Data Protection

Government agencies handle vast databases from voter registration (INEC) to tax records (FIRS) and healthcare information (NHIA). With this responsibility comes an urgent need for compliance with NDPC guidelines.

Developing Strong Data Protection Policies

Many Nigerian agencies lack clear data protection policies, leaving room for mismanagement. Ministries must adopt NDPC-compliant data policies that define:

How data is collected, stored, and processed.

The role of Data Protection Officers (DPOs) in overseeing compliance.

Protocols for responding to breaches or cyberattacks.

A policy-driven approach ensures that data privacy is embedded in government operations rather than treated as an afterthought.

Capacity Building and Employee Training

Many data breaches result from human error employees inadvertently sharing sensitive information or failing to recognize cyber threats. Government agencies must invest in continuous training programs to educate staff on:

Best practices in data handling.

How to recognize phishing attacks and cyber threats.

Legal obligations under the NDPA.

Regular training will reduce errors and create a culture of data responsibility across public institutions.

Establishing a Dedicated Data Protection Unit

To ensure compliance, agencies should create dedicated Data Protection Units led by trained officers. These units would:

Monitor data processing activities.

Conduct internal audits to assess NDPC compliance.

Develop quick-response mechanisms for potential breaches.

This model has been successfully implemented in the UK, where government departments employ dedicated data protection officers to oversee compliance.

Dr. Gabriel Akinremi

Challenges in Implementing Data Protection in Nigeria

Despite the legal framework, Nigerian government agencies face significant challenges in enforcing data protection measures:

Limited Technological Infrastructure – Many government offices still rely on outdated digital systems, making data security difficult.

Corruption and Unauthorized Data Access – Cases of officials selling citizens’ data to third parties undermine trust in government data management.

Lack of Awareness Among Citizens : Many Nigerians are unaware of their data rights under the NDPA, making it easier for institutions to violate privacy rules

The Way Forward: Strengthening Nigeria’s Data Protection Framework

To achieve full compliance with the NDPA and NDPC guidelines, thee government must take the following steps:

Increase investment in data security infrastructure.
Mandate annual data protection audits.
Enforce stricter penalties for data breaches.
Enhance public awareness on data rights.
Strengthen collaboration with cybersecurity experts.

Conclusion: A Digital Future Requires Stronger Data Governance

Nigeria’s digital transformation is inevitable, but it must be accompanied by a robust data protection culture within government institutions. Adhering to the NDPA and NDPC guidelines is not just about compliance it’s about protecting citizens’ trust, national security, and the integrity of government services.

By prioritizing policy development, staff training, infrastructure upgrades, and public awareness, Nigeria can build a secure digital ecosystem where personal data is respected and protected.

For government agencies, the message is clear: Data protection is not an option, it is an obligation.

For government agencies, the message is clear: Data protection is not an option it is an obligation.

Cyber Hygiene in Nigeria’s Digital Era: How Ministries Are Battling Cyber Threats

By Gabriel Akinremi, PhD

January 2025

As Nigerian government institutions embrace digital transformation, the need for cyber hygiene has never been more critical.

Ministries and agencies are increasingly reliant on digital platforms to deliver public services, yet many remain vulnerable to cyber threats such as phishing, ransomware, and data breaches. The consequences of these vulnerabilities extend beyond operational disruptions they pose serious risks to national security and public trust.

This feature explores the state of cyber hygiene in Nigerian ministries, shedding light on notable cyber incidents, best practices from proactive ministries, and the road ahead for strengthening cybersecurity in government institutions

The Cybersecurity Challenge: A Digital Landscape Under Siege

In 2024, Nigerian ministries faced escalating cyber threats. One of the most significant attacks occurred in December when the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) suffered a security breach that disrupted its online services.

Cybercriminals potentially gained access to sensitive economic and demographic data, raising concerns over data manipulation and national security.

Similarly, reports from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) highlighted a spike in Remote Access Trojan (RAT) attacks on government institutions. These stealthy malware programs enable hackers to control infected systems remotely, compromising sensitive information. Additionally, Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks have frequently targeted ministries, overwhelming their networks and rendering crucial public services inaccessible.

These cases reveal the alarming reality: Nigeria’s public sector is under digital siege, and inadequate cyber hygiene practices are exposing ministries to potentially devastating attacks.

Case Studies: Ministries That Are Getting It Right

While the threat landscape is daunting, some Nigerian ministries have made commendable strides in enhancing cyber hygiene.

Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy

This ministry has been at the forefront of cybersecurity advocacy, actively promoting cyber hygiene across government institutions. Through its partnership with NITDA, the ministry launched mandatory cybersecurity training for civil servants, ensuring that government employees can identify and respond to phishing attempts, malware, and other cyber threats.

Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)

As the custodian of sensitive taxpayer information, FIRS has prioritized cybersecurity by implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) for its online tax filing platforms. Additionally, the agency has adopted strict endpoint security measures, requiring employees to use encrypted devices and virtual private networks (VPNs) when accessing government databases remotely.

Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)

CBN has enforced robust cybersecurity policies to protect Nigeria’s financial infrastructure. The bank regularly conducts penetration testing simulated cyberattacks designed to uncover vulnerabilities in its digital systems. Moreover, it has mandated regular security audits across all financial institutions under its supervision, reinforcing a culture of proactive cybersecurity.

These ministries exemplify how strategic investments in cyber hygiene can significantly reduce exposure to cyber threats.

However, a broader commitment across all government institutions is needed to achieve nationwide digital resilience.

Obstacles to Effective Cyber Hygiene in Nigerian Ministries

Despite clear benefits, many government institutions struggle to implement strong cybersecurity measures. Key challenges include:

Limited Awareness and Training: Many civil servants lack basic cybersecurity knowledge, increasing the likelihood of falling victim to cyberattacks.

Inconsistent Policy Enforcement: While Nigeria has established cybersecurity policies, enforcement across ministries remains uneven.

Budget Constraints: Funding for cybersecurity infrastructure is often inadequate, leaving ministries reliant on outdated and vulnerable systems.

Weak Endpoint and Network Security: Many government agencies do not have strong firewalls, intrusion detection systems, or data encryption protocols, making them easy targets for hackers.

Without addressing these fundamental challenges, Nigerian ministries will continue to struggle against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

The Way Forward: Strengthening Nigeria’s Cyber Hygiene

To secure Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, government institutions must adopt a multi-pronged approach to cyber hygiene:

Nationwide Cybersecurity Training for Civil Servants

Government workers should receive regular cybersecurity education to recognize phishing attempts, secure sensitive data, and follow best practices for digital security.

Mandatory Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Across Ministries

Every government digital service should require MFA to prevent unauthorized access, reducing the risk of password-related breaches.

Enhanced Network and Endpoint Security

Ministries should invest in firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and end-to-end encryption to protect sensitive government communications.

Regular Cybersecurity Audits and Compliance Checks

Institutions should undergo routine security assessments to identify vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with Nigeria’s Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) and the National Cybersecurity Policy.

Establishment of Dedicated Cybersecurity Units in Ministries

Each ministry should have a cybersecurity team responsible for monitoring threats, responding to incidents, and enforcing cyber hygiene best practices.

Conclusion: Building a Cyber-Resilient Government

As Nigeria deepens its digital transformation, cyber hygiene must become a priority for all government institutions. The rise in cyberattacks targeting ministries highlights the urgent need for proactive security measures. By investing in training, enforcing strong authentication methods, and securing digital infrastructures, Nigerian ministries can safeguard sensitive data and maintain public trust in government services.

Cyber threats will continue to evolve, but with the right strategies, Nigeria’s public sector can stay ahead of the curve, ensuring a safer digital future for all.

Armed Men in Civil Defense Uniforms, Thugs Invade Lagos Hotel, Cart Away Generator, Valuables

Maryam Aminu

In a shocking incident, about 15 masked armed men dressed in Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) uniforms, accompanied by suspected thugs, invaded Seafortunes Hotels Limited in Ago Palace Way, Lagos, subjecting staff and guests to hours of torture before carting away a generator set and customers’ valuables.

The attack, which took place in the early hours of last Sunday, saw the armed group storm the hotel around 4 a.m., shooting sporadically before forcefully breaking into rooms and dispossessing guests of their belongings.

Reports indicate that they demanded to see the hotel’s owner, but when they could not find him, they proceeded to dismantle and remove the hotel’s giant generator with the aid of a heavy-duty crane.

Speaking on the incident, the hotel’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Nwukwa Okechukwu Fortune, recounted the terrifying ordeal.

“At about 4 a.m., I received a distress call from one of my customers, informing me that masked armed men had invaded my hotel. They laid down my staff and security personnel before heading to the generator room, dismantling it, and eventually carting it away with a heavy-duty truck. They also manhandled a neighbor whose car was obstructing access to the generator room.”

According to Fortune, CCTV footage from the hotel captured about 30 attackers, 15 of whom were wearing NSCDC uniforms while the rest were touts.

He identified one of the perpetrators as Nicholas, a diesel dealer, who had an unresolved business dispute with the hotel’s former manager, Mr. Ogbonna.

Fortune explained that the hotel was previously leased to Ogbonna, who was responsible for monthly remittances. However, after Ogbonna failed to meet his financial obligations, he was disengaged. Following his exit, creditors including Nicholas began demanding payments for debts allegedly incurred by Ogbonna.

“Nicholas sold diesel worth N3 million to Ogbonna, who failed to pay him before he was disengaged. Despite informing Nicholas that the hotel had changed management, he insisted that the hotel owed him.

He petitioned the Area E Police Command, and I was invited. I cooperated with the investigation, and we even facilitated Ogbonna’s arrest. However, Nicholas failed to show up in court when summoned as the principal complainant.”

Six months later, armed men stormed the hotel, allegedly under Nicholas’ directives, to seize the generator.

“The attackers claimed to be police officers from Area E Command, which allowed them easy access. They ordered everyone to lie face down, asked for the owner’s whereabouts, and then proceeded to the generator room, which Nicholas pointed out to them. They lifted the generator into their truck and fled, firing sporadically as guests and staff scattered. Some guests lost valuables, while others left without paying their bills.”

Fortune revealed that after the attack, Nicholas was eventually arrested and led police officers to the location of the stolen generator. He also disclosed the identities of the alleged NSCDC officers involved.

“The police recovered the generator, but an officer from the Civil Defense Corps later intervened, pleading for negotiations.

He promised to present the officers responsible, but when we arrived at the station, we discovered that Nicholas had already been released.”

When contacted, NSCDC Lagos spokesperson, Seun Abolurin, denied knowledge of the incident, stating:

“If such an incident occurred, we have no report of it at our state headquarters. People impersonate security agencies frequently. If the hotel management reported the case to the police, they should also write to us.”

Similarly, Lagos State Police spokesperson, David Hundeyin, said he would investigate the matter. However, a police source at Ago Palace Police Station, who spoke anonymously, confirmed that the case had been reported but said investigations were still ongoing to determine whether the perpetrators were genuine NSCDC officers.

Meanwhile, Fortune lamented the financial losses incurred due to the attack.

“They destroyed the generator, damaged property, and disrupted business operations for a whole week. Customers lost their money, and sales from that day could not be accounted for. This has wrecked the business significantly,” he said.

Police investigations are ongoing to ascertain the identities of all those involved in the attack.

RMAFC Partners with NASDRA to Launch Space Technology-Driven Revenue Optimization Initiative

Maryam Aminu

In a bold move to modernize Nigeria’s revenue generation framework, the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has launched the implementation of the Presidential Initiative on Revenue Optimization and Digitalization through space technology.

The initiative, undertaken in collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASDRA), underscores the government’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology to boost national revenue.

Speaking at the launch event at the RMAFC headquarters in Abuja, the Commission’s Chairman, Dr. Muhammed Bello Shehu, reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to innovative revenue mobilization strategies.

He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda prioritizes economic recovery through enhanced revenue generation, particularly by identifying new revenue streams.

“We stand at the threshold of a new era where innovation, creativity, and collaboration drive economic growth and progress,” Dr. Shehu stated.

“Traditional revenue generation methods are no longer sufficient to meet the evolving needs of our nation. As key stakeholders, we must embrace technology to unlock new opportunities for economic growth and development.”

He emphasized the importance of a strategic, technology-driven approach to revenue mobilization, stressing that efficient collection, accountability, and proper utilization of resources are crucial for national development.

The Director General of NASDRA, Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju, highlighted the transformative potential of space technology in revenue generation.

He noted that with advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and space innovation, Nigeria could generate up to $50 billion annually while also strengthening national security.

Earlier, the Federal Commissioner representing Bauchi State in the Commission and Acting Chairman of the Mobilization and Diversification Committee, Engr. Muhammed Sani Baba, reiterated the significance of the initiative.

He called for the support of all stakeholders to ensure its successful implementation, aligning with President Tinubu’s directive to modernize revenue collection and utilization for national growth.

The event also featured a technical session led by NASDRA, showcasing how space science and technology can be leveraged to curb revenue leakages and create new revenue streams for the country.

By embracing cutting-edge technology, RMAFC and NASDRA are charting a new course in revenue optimization, positioning Nigeria for a more prosperous and sustainable economic future.

Historic Visit Signals New Dawn for Peace Between Bassa and Egbura Communities

Maryam Aminu

In a significant step toward reconciliation and peace, representatives of the displaced Bassa community in Toto Local Government Area (LGA) of Nasarawa State visited their ancestral land on Monday, January 27, 2025.

The visit marks a crucial milestone in the gradual return of peace to the region after years of communal crisis.

The delegation, consisting of traditional rulers, elders, youth leaders, and other key stakeholders, toured several villages, including Toto, Shishingenishi, Ugya Hogumba, Kuwa Bakete, Turunku, Kanyefu, Sofiyo, Gbawodi, and Mazhaga.

Their presence was met with warm reception from the Egbura, Gbagi, and other local tribes, symbolizing a renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence.

Speaking on behalf of the Bassa community, the delegation reaffirmed their dedication to fostering harmony and rebuilding relationships.

Citing the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind,” the community emphasized that forgiveness and dialogue are the only sustainable paths toward lasting peace.

“We recognize that rebuilding our communities and restoring peace in our local government is a collective effort that requires forgiveness, dialogue, and collaboration,” the statement read.

The Bassa community expressed appreciation for the efforts of Nasarawa State Governor Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, particularly for establishing a committee to facilitate the return of displaced Bassa people.

They urged both Bassa and Egbura communities to support the committee’s work and uphold the spirit of reconciliation.

Additionally, they acknowledged the critical role played by the military and other security agencies in ensuring the safety of the visiting delegation.

They called for continued engagement with security forces and support from international organizations to fast-track the resettlement and reconciliation process.

The visit has set the stage for the next crucial phase the full return of displaced Bassa people to their ancestral homes.

The community eagerly awaits an official announcement of a return date, viewing it as the beginning of a new chapter in their journey toward lasting peace and development.

As the Bassa and Egbura communities take this bold step towards healing, their shared commitment to peace signals a hopeful future for Toto LGA one built on mutual respect, unity, and progress.

“We are for peace!” the statement concluded.

Lagos Hotelier Arrested Over Alleged Sexual Abuse of Teenage Boys

Maryam Aminu

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested the owner of a popular hotel in the Bucknor, Isheri Osun area of Lagos over allegations of sexually abusing multiple teenage boys.

The arrest follows a complaint by the family of a 16-year-old secondary school student, who reportedly suffered severe psychological distress after revealing he had been assaulted.

According to the victim’s family, the teenager confided in his mother before the New Year, stating that he and four other students had been lured to the hotel under the pretense of participating in a TikTok event.

He alleged that the hotelier, identified as Macdon, sexually assaulted them and threatened them with death if they disclosed the incident.

Shortly after making this confession, the student began displaying signs of mental distress, prompting his parents to seek both spiritual and medical intervention. His father, Edozie Christian, a trader at Ladipo Auto Spare Parts Market, reported the case to the police at Isheri Osun Station, where the boy provided a statement. Another student later corroborated the allegations, telling detectives that Macdon had repeatedly assaulted them and offered ₦5,000 as hush money.

Medical examinations conducted at the Mirabel Centre, a sexual assault referral facility, reportedly confirmed signs of abuse. However, the teenager’s condition worsened, leading his family to seek further treatment at a psychiatric hospital, where he was diagnosed with trauma.

Initially, police efforts to apprehend Macdon were unsuccessful, as he allegedly avoided arrest while his lawyer engaged with law enforcement.

The case was subsequently transferred to Zone 2, Onikan, Lagos. Reports indicate that some influential individuals attempted to obstruct the investigation, leading to delays in the suspect’s arrest.

Upon learning of these developments, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Adegoke Fayoade ordered a team of detectives to apprehend the suspect. When confronted, the teenager, still experiencing psychological distress, reportedly pointed at Macdon and identified him as his abuser.

Further investigations revealed inconsistencies in police records and medical reports, raising concerns about possible tampering with evidence.

The police have assured the public that a thorough investigation is ongoing, and the suspect remains in detention pending further inquiries.

Kogi NAPWPD Holds End-Of- Year Get-together For PWDS

By Ishaq Dan-Imam, Lokoja

The members of Kogi State Chapter of the national association of persons with physical disabilities (NAPWPD), held a get-together at the state rehabilitation Centre in Lokoja, on Saturday, where hordes of persons with physical disabilities across the state had a PWDS family dinner.

The PWDS provided the assorted meals from their pockets, while the best female cooks among them displayed their cookery to the admiration of guests and fellow-PWDs.

The visibly excited members were served assorted meals, with musical interludes, to herald the beginning of a new year amid growing concerns on their poor living conditions, as persons with special needs in the State struggle to make ends meet amid economic depression.

It was a colourful Saturday event where the grandeur of NAPWPD membership as well as its glorious achievement came to the fore, while gaily dressed PWDS were fed to satiety, as many devoured the sumptuous meals, Chicken and pile of fries with a voracious appetite. They sang songs of praises and gratitude to God for keeping members alive in spite of the myriad of challenges of livelihood in a depressed economy.

In a laconic speech laden with convictions and hopes, Kogi State chairman of NAPWPD, Comrade Destiny Hassan Sule, decried the ‘pathetic plight’ of NAPWPD members in the State in regard to poverty, homelessness, illiteracy, unemployment, food inflation, family rejection, the lack of mobility aids and absence of inclusive transport system, which highlight the burden of disability on members, with the increasing economic difficulties faced by NAPWPD members among other challenges of life.

Comrade Sule says members of the association can only make progress in the society with increased disability advocacy for enhanced financial inclusion through collective efforts, as he urged the members to suggest new ideas that could move the association and its members to greater heights, while Kogi NAPWPD plans to make the yearly get-together bigger and attractive to its members and other disability clusters in the State.

“We in the EXCO believe that a tree cannot make a forest, and that makes it expedient for us to work together in unison to achieve our common purpose of mutual love as a progressive group of the downtrodden who suffers the most of the leadership failures in our society.

“We owe it a duty to ourselves, to love, support and engrain ourselves with entertainment, refreshments and counseling to make ourselves happier, while we take stocks of the events that affect us in the previous year with a stronger hope for better years ahead.

“I urge all of us to be our brothers keepers as we renew hope for a better and prosperous tomorrow as we strive to keep the ideals of NAPWPD Nigeria alive with greater optimism,” Destiny said.

The national treasurer of NAPWPD, Mr. Daniel Ibrahim Arome, who represented the national President, Comrade Mohammed Ridwan Abdullahi, at the event, said the Kogi State chapter of NAPWPD had become a shiny example to other state chapters for being the first to break even with the end-of-year get-together to drink and wine together in a spirit of love and togetherness.

Arome said the national Secretariat of NAPWPD Nigeria was proud of the ‘laudable’ Get-together initiated by the Destiny Hassan led exco in the State, adding that Kogi NAPWPD members are a force and the first to be reckoned with such milestone.

“This achievement is a testimony to your hard work and we celebrate this milestone as we urge NAPWPD members across Nigeria to be consistently strong and united behind their leader as we crave for socio-economic improvement in our lives, and NAPWPD leadership at the national level is working hard with the state leaderships to change the narrative of neglect and despondency in the lives of persons with physical disabilities in Nigeria.

“The national President sends his regards and best wishes to Kogi NAPWPD on this auspicious occasion, while looking forward to supporting your initiative in the best possible way.”

There were goodwill messages from the state JONAPWD Chairman, Hon. Solomon yahaya, a Lokoja-based PWD medical practitioner, Dr Samuel Alhassan, and a PWD-friendly police officer, Mr. Abel Osemwingie Isaac, from Edo state who is a popular friend of PWDS in the State and married to a female PWD activist, Mrs Deborah Waniko, the state NAPWPD Secretary, and staff of Kogi State office for Disability Affairs, (KOSODA) among other dignitaries who graced the colourful event.

Police Arrest Lagos Lawyer for Forgery of Documents

Maryam Aminu

The Nigeria Police Force has apprehended Barrister Chinwe Onuoha, a Lagos-based lawyer, over allegations of document forgery to secure a bank facility.

The arrest took place on January 22, 2025, in Ikorodu, Lagos State. Barrister Onuoha is accused of forging a lease agreement for a property located at Teachers Estate, Ikorodu, which she reportedly submitted to the Bank of Industry to obtain a loan for her pure water production business.

Officers of the Special Fraud Unit (SFU), who conducted the operation, disclosed that the lawyer had repeatedly ignored invitations to answer the allegations. After several failed attempts to secure her presence, the SFU tracked her down to Ikorodu.

According to an eyewitness, the lawyer tried to flee into a court premises to evade arrest but was intercepted by security personnel at the gate and subsequently apprehended on the road around 7:30 p.m.

The Commissioner of Police for the Special Fraud Unit, Ayo Omodeinde, confirmed the arrest.

He stated that the complaint, filed in June 2024, alleged that Barrister Onuoha forged a lease agreement, including the signatures of her landlady, Ngozi Uzoma, and a witness, Titilayo Opeyemi. The forged document was then allegedly submitted to the Bank of Industry to obtain the loan.

“She is currently in our custody for interrogation, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the facts of the matter,” said Omodeinde.

The case has sparked public interest as authorities continue to investigate the allegations.