News
2027: Tinubu’s re-election bid gets major boost
*Forum backs Hamzat for Lagos governorship
The second- term of the Nigerian president, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, got a boost as another Lagos group declared its support for him.
The group, the Lagos State Prominent Indigenes Forum (LSPIF), at a political summit held in Surulere, Lagos, also endorsed the current Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Kadiri Hamzat, as its preferred candidate for the office of Lagos State Governor in the 2027 gubernatorial election.
In a motion moved by Chief Adesunbo Onitiri, Convener, and seconded by Dr Lanre Tawry- Coker (PhD), at the occasion, the Forum emphasised that Hamzat had served Lagos with distinction, demonstrated competence, integrity and dedication to public service, and possesses the vision and experience required to build on the achievements of previous administrations, while advancing the interests of all Lagosians.
Towry-Coker said, “Hamzat has the experience, character and capacity to provide purposeful leadership for Lagos State. I, therefore, wholeheartedly second the motion and urge this distinguished gathering to adopt it unanimously.” The motion was thereafter put to the House and was unanimously adopted by acclamation.
Onitiri, addressing members of the Forum, drawn from five Divisions of Lagos State, said, “Today is not just another political rally. It is a gathering of history, a gathering of destiny, ready to move Lagos and Nigeria forward.
“Today is a gathering of proud sons and daughters of Lagos State who have come together with one purpose, to reaffirm our unity, strengthen our resolve, and prepare for victory in 2027.
“For the first time, an indigene of Lagos State, President Bola Tinubu, is leading our great nation. This is a moment we must cherish, protect, and strengthen—not for personal gain, but for the continued progress, stability, and development of Nigeria.
“This election is more than politics. It is about continuity, experience, leadership, and our collective vision for a stronger nation.”
He stressed the Forum was to unite indigenous Lagosians and encourage greater participation in the democratic process while continuing to contribute to the growth of the State and the nation.
Onitiri pleaded passionately that every indigene of Lagos State should take active interest in politics and never again regard politics as something dirty or meant for a select few.
“Politics is the instrument through which societies allocate opportunities, make decisions, and share resources. If we choose to stand on the sidelines, we leave our future, our interests, and the destiny of generations yet unborn in the exclusive hands of others.
“We must therefore participate not only by voting, but by organising, leading, contesting, supporting worthy candidates, and contributing positively to the democratic process.
“The future of Lagos belongs to those who are willing to help shape it.” No election is won at a rally. Elections are won through organisation, mobilisation, voter participation, and commitment at the grassroots, Onitiri added.
He stressed the need for continued advocacy for the inclusion and meaningful participation of indigenous Lagosians in governance and public service.
As we support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we equally reaffirm our belief that Lagos State should continue to benefit from the talents, experience, and contributions of its indigenous citizens, he concluded.
Among dignitaries at the Summit are: the Director-General, Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat Campaign Organisation, Musiliu Obanikoro; Mrs Wonu Folami, Alhaja Fehintola Okunola, Alhaji Olagbaiye, former Permsec; Chief Jaji; former deputy governors of the state, Princess Adefulire Orelope and Mrs Sarkah Sosan; Sen Ashafa; H E Bode Oyedele, among others.
Obaloluwa Darasimi
The Olowu of Kuta Kingdom, Osun State, His Royal Majesty Oba Hameed Adekunle Makama Oyelude, Tegbosun III, has congratulated the Olowu of Owu Abeokuta, Ogun State, His Royal Majesty Oba Saka Adelola Matemilola, Olúyálọ̀ Ọ̀tílẹ́ta VII, on the occasion of his coronation anniversary.
In a congratulatory message, Oba Oyelude described the celebration as a testament to God’s grace and the remarkable leadership that has characterised the reign of the Olowu of Owu Abeokuta since his ascension to the throne.
The revered monarch commended Oba Matemilola for his unwavering commitment to promoting peace, unity, cultural heritage and sustainable development in Owu Abeokuta, noting that his reign has continued to attract admiration and respect across Nigeria and beyond.
Oba Oyelude prayed that Almighty God would grant the Olowu of Owu Abeokuta many more years in good health, divine wisdom and renewed strength to continue providing purposeful leadership for the people of Owu Abeokuta and contributing meaningfully to national development.
He wished the Olowu of Owu Abeokuta a joyous coronation celebration. He reaffirmed the enduring bond of brotherhood among traditional rulers committed to preserving the rich Yoruba cultural heritage, fostering peaceful coexistence and advancing the development of their respective communities.
The Olowu of Kuta further expressed confidence that the reign of the Olowu of Owu Abeokuta would continue to usher in greater peace, progress and prosperity for Owu Abeokuta, while inspiring future generations through exemplary traditional leadership.
*No fatalities recorded as LASEMA, LASAMBUS, LASTMA, others ensure safety, restore traffic flow
Obaloluwa Darasimi
The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), in collaboration with other emergency stakeholders, successfully responded to and cleared three separate road incidents that occurred in the early hours of Saturday at Olupese Bus Stop, Aswani Bus Stop, and Oba Ogunji Road.
Explaining the incidents in a press statement signed by the Head, Public Affairs, LASEMA, Afolabi Olawale, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, the three incidents were successfully managed.
On the Oshodi incident, LASEMA explained that the rear tyre of a truck conveying granite got stuck in a pothole. This obstructed vehicular movement inward Oshodi.
LASEMA’s Eagle Response Team was deployed to the scene to remedy the incident, with the response team diverting traffic.
According to LASEMA, “The Agency’s heavy-duty equipment, Super Metro, was deployed to recover the truck. Preliminary investigation revealed that the poor state of the road contributed to the incident. No loss of life or injury was recorded.”
Recovery operations were ongoing as at press time, with traffic management sustained to minimise disruption.
Explaining the incident at Aswani Bus Stop, inward Iyana Isolo, a Sienna car with registration number ABJ-515DQ was said to have collided with an oncoming truck of unknown registration at Aswani Bus Stop. The impact caused the truck to swerve and get stuck on a culvert, leading to obstruction.
Though no fatalities were recorded, three persons — two adult females and one adult male — sustained injuries.
“LASEMA’s LRT, in conjunction with LRU Medics, LASAMBUS, Nigeria Police, and LASTMA, provided immediate medical attention. The injured were stabilised and transported to hospital for further treatment. Traffic was diverted, and a private tow truck was engaged for vehicle recovery,” the statement stated further.
On Oba Ogunji Road, LASEMA disclosed that a concrete mixer truck belonging to the Ministry of Environment and a green Volkswagen bus with registration number FKJ 424KA were involved in a collision.
“ Preliminary findings attributed the cause to overspeeding by the Volkswagen bus. No fatality or injury was recorded.
“LASEMA’s LRT secured the scene, carried out on-site mechanical repairs on the mixer truck, and subsequently moved both vehicles off the roadway using the Agency’s tow truck. The Volkswagen was handed over to the owner at the scene. The roadway was cleared and fully reopened to traffic. Operation concluded,” the statement stated further.
Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu commended the professionalism and promptness of all responders.
He also urged motorists to drive responsibly, avoid overspeeding, and report road defects to relevant authorities.
“The Sanwo-Olu administration remains committed to zero tolerance for loss of life on Lagos roads. The synergy between LASEMA, LASAMBUS, LASTMA, Police, and other stakeholders ensured that these incidents were managed with minimal impact. We will continue to invest in equipment, training, and rapid response to safeguard Lagosians,” Oke-Osanyintolu stated.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) said 12 adult males have been rescued alive from the building collapse in Ajuwon, Ogun State.
However, one adult female, a 75-year-old man, and a baby were confirmed dead, following the vertical collapse of the 3-storey building.
Ajuwon is a border town between Lagos and Ogun states.
According to a statement by the Head, Public Affairs, LASEMA, Afolabi Olawale, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, following the incident, the Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, directed LASEMA to assist the efforts of the Ogun State government.
According to Oke-Osanyintolu, LASEMA, in collaboration with the Ogun State Government officials, led by the Hon. Commissioner for Works, Eng Ade Olayinka Akinsanya, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Nigeria Police Force, the Amotekun Corps, and other relevant stakeholders, are currently at the scene of the incident for the rescue and recovery operations.
“Our joint rescue teams have successfully rescued 12 persons alive from the rubble, while the bodies of three victims have been recovered. Search and rescue operations are still ongoing, as we remain committed to ensuring that every trapped victim is accounted for.”
The agency further disclosed that preliminary structural assessment also revealed that the adjoining bungalow was severely compromised by the impact of the collapse, “and now poses a significant safety risk.
“Consequently, the building will be carefully demolished to prevent a secondary collapse and safeguard emergency responders as well as residents within the area.”
When our reporter visited the scene Tuesday afternoon, LASEMA officials were present with their heavy rescue equipment to support ongoing rescue and recovery operations.
Speaking on the intervention, Oke-Osanyintolu noted that the action of the Lagos State Government reflects its commitment to the principle that disaster knows no boundaries.
“By extending operational support beyond state lines, Lagos is setting a benchmark for regional solidarity and integrated emergency management across Western Nigeria*and the nation at large.
“This magnanimous gesture underscores the Governor’s vision of Lagos not just as a Centre of Excellence, but as a First Responder State with the capacity, compassion, and political will to support sister states in times of distress. It aligns with international standards on mutual aid and cooperative disaster governance.”
The Permanent Secretary, LASEMA, extended the agency’s deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wishes a speedy recovery to all affected.
“We also commend the bravery of all first responders working tirelessly on the ground.”
He stated further that Lagos remains committed to partnering with the Federal Government, NEMA, and all South-Western States to build a safer, more resilient region for all citizens.
The operation is now at ground zero, with responders excavating below the foundation level to ensure no victim remained trapped before the operation is concluded.
As at Tuesday afternoon, search and rescue operations were still ongoing.
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