Author: TheLagosianMagazine

By Peter Omopo Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing it as an assault on the rule of law and democratic principles. In a statement issued on Friday through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku called on the Federal Government and the Kaduna State Government to release El-Rufai ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations. The former vice president described the development as “cruel, unjustifiable, and deeply troubling,” warning against the use of state institutions to intimidate perceived political opponents. Atiku, a chieftain of the African Democratic…

By Peter Omopo The Federal Government has commenced the implementation of a 30-day visa-free entry policy for Rwandan nationals visiting Nigeria. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) announced the development in a statement issued on Friday, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda. According to the statement signed by the NIS Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, the policy grants Rwandan citizens visa-free access into Nigeria for lawful activities such as tourism, business and official engagements for a period not exceeding 30 days. The immigration service explained that the move is in reciprocation of Rwanda’s…

By Peter Omopo The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into allegations that its operatives assaulted medical workers during a controversial operation at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) in Akwa Ibom State. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, sparked widespread condemnation from medical professionals, civil society groups and members of the public, with many accusing the anti-graft agency of excessive use of force and abuse of power. Four hospital staff members, including the Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Prof. Effiong Ekpe, were reportedly arrested during the operation. Witnesses alleged that the EFCC…

By Peter Omopo Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, on Friday paid glowing tribute to his late mother, Mrs. Rose Diri, describing her as a virtuous woman whose legacy of love and kindness continues to inspire many. The governor spoke during the 13th memorial service held in honour of the late matriarch at Ayamasa in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, Governor Diri said mothers occupy special places in the hearts of their children because of the care, warmth and sacrifices they make. He noted that his late…

By Peter Omopo The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has called on African countries to strengthen financing structures and improve payment systems to unlock the continent’s vast gas potential and drive sustainable energy growth. The appeal was made by the Executive Vice President, Gas, Power and New Energy, Mr. Olalekan Ogunleye, during a strategic roundtable organised by the African Oil and Gas Coalition at the ongoing Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda. Speaking at the session themed “Gas without Cash: Breaking the African Monetisation Deadlock,” Ogunleye said Africa must move beyond identifying challenges and focus on developing practical…

By Peter Omopo The Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Gbenga Daniel, has challenged Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, to a live television debate over issues surrounding the 2027 Ogun East Senate race. Daniel threw the challenge during an interview on TVC’s “Beyond The Headlines” on Thursday, stating that any refusal by the governor to honour the invitation would be seen as an admission of defeat. The former Ogun State governor urged the programme’s host to arrange a joint appearance involving both political figures without delay. According to him, the debate would provide an opportunity for both sides to openly…

By Peter Omopo Justice D.I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, has remanded social media influencer and self-styled relationship therapist, Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, popularly known as Blessing CEO, over an alleged N36 million fraud. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) disclosed the development in a statement posted on its official X handle on Friday. According to the anti-graft agency, the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the EFCC arraigned the defendant on a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and stealing to the tune of N36 million. The commission alleged that Blessing CEO…

By Peter Omopo The Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), Ajah Mega Axis, has announced plans to hold its 2026 Mega Musical Concert on May 24, 2026, as part of efforts to seek divine intervention in personal, national and global challenges while celebrating God’s faithfulness. The programme, themed “Sing Praises to God,” is scheduled to take place at the auditorium of MFM Lagos Region 28, Adoro, opposite GTCO, Ajah, Lagos State. According to the Mega Regional Overseer, Pastor Enojiasun Irabor, and the Chairman of the MFM Ajah Council of Regions, Pastor Gideon Shonde, the concert is designed to serve…

By Peter Omopo Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has approved the extension of health insurance coverage to retirees in the state under a newly introduced Ogun State Retirees Health Insurance Scheme (OGRHIS). The initiative, according to a statement issued by the state Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, is aimed at ensuring that retired public servants continue to enjoy access to quality and affordable healthcare services after leaving active service. Onasanya disclosed that the state government has approved the payment of N17.4 million monthly for retirees’ health insurance premiums, noting that beneficiaries would enjoy full insurance coverage without making any…

By Peter Omopo The All Progressives Congress (APC) has postponed its House of Representatives primary election for the 2027 general elections to Saturday, May 16, 2026. The party announced the adjustment in a statement issued on Friday, noting that all other previously scheduled primary election dates remain unchanged. According to the revised timetable released by the party, the House of Representatives primaries will now hold on Saturday, May 16, while the Senate primaries are scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026. The APC also confirmed that the State House of Assembly primaries will take place on Wednesday, May 20, followed by…