The Lagos education community has been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of a respected school administrator, Mrs. Ajayi Ikweoku, Principal of Salvation Army Memorial High School, Ojo, Lagos, and her husband during a Sallah holiday visit to Badagry.

The couple was reportedly staying at Prime Garden Hotel along Census Extension Road, Badagry, where they had travelled to celebrate the festive season and meet with friends, family associates, and business contacts.

According to accounts from individuals familiar with the incident, the couple spent part of the evening socializing with friends and associates within the hotel premises. Witnesses reportedly said they shared a light meal and non-alcoholic refreshments before Mrs. Ikweoku excused herself and returned to the couple’s room.

Concern reportedly arose when she failed to return after an extended period and could not be reached by phone. Her husband later left the gathering to check on her. However, he too did not return, prompting growing anxiety among friends and hotel personnel.

Sources indicated that repeated attempts to contact the couple proved unsuccessful. The hotel room was reportedly locked from the inside, further heightening concerns about their welfare.

After several hours without any response, hotel management allegedly initiated emergency procedures. Reports suggest that surveillance monitoring raised alarm after the couple was observed lying motionless inside the room.

Hotel staff subsequently gained access to the room using a spare key and reportedly discovered the husband and wife unresponsive inside the bathroom area. Emergency assistance was sought, but the couple was confirmed dead at the scene.

The circumstances surrounding the deaths remain unclear, and authorities are expected to conduct a comprehensive investigation, including medical examinations, to establish the exact cause of death.

The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the education sector, particularly among students, teachers, parents, and colleagues of the late principal, who was widely regarded as a dedicated educator and administrator.

Residents of Badagry and members of the wider Lagos community have also expressed grief over the development, with many calling for a thorough and transparent investigation to determine the events leading to the couple’s untimely deaths.

As news of the tragedy spread across social media platforms, discussions emerged concerning hotel emergency response systems, public health awareness, and the importance of timely intervention during medical or security emergencies.

At the time of filing this report, law enforcement authorities had not released an official statement detailing the cause of death. Investigations are ongoing.

The Lagosian Magazine extends its condolences to the families, friends, colleagues, and students affected by this heartbreaking loss.Suggested Headline Alternatives:

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The RTIFN’s National Director of Media and Publicity, Musa Abdulrahman, stated this in a statement made available to journalists on Thursday.

Abdulrahman further disclosed that the development is in line with RTIFN’s core mandate—bridging the gap between the citizenry and the government through robust communication and public enlightenment.

According to him, the leadership of RTIFN has decided to appoint key stakeholders to drive the initiative’s objectives forward, saying that the restructuring reflects a deliberate “round peg in a round hole” approach to governance and advocacy.

The statement further disclosed the newly appointed officials as follows:

• Dr Umma Adamu Sani – Appointed as the National Women Leader, RTIFN.

• Dr. Ahmed Chokali – Appointed as the substantive Kaduna State Coordinator.

• Hon. Aisha Sadiq – Redeployed to the position of Deputy Chief Political Strategist.

Speaking on the developments, the Director General of RTIFN, Hon. Ahmed Bala, emphasized that the appointments were strictly merit-based, factoring in the appointees’ proven capacity, leadership competence, and unwavering dedication to the organization’s vision.

He said, “This realignment is part of our ongoing commitment to assembling a premier team capable of navigating the milestones ahead of 2027.

“I charge the newly appointed leaders to lead by example, foster a culture of collaboration, and work tirelessly to ensure that the transformative mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fully realized across all levels.”

Bala also called on members of the organization, stakeholders, and the general public to extend their maximum support and cooperation to the new leadership team as they assume their respective duties.

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Fresh controversy has erupted around the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) following the circulation of an alleged leaked audio recording said to involve former church member, Funke Ashekun, and a network of dissatisfied ex-members allegedly mobilizing against the ministry and its General Overseer, Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya.

The audio recording, now trending across several social media platforms and blogs, has intensified an already simmering dispute involving former associates of the church, online commentators, and supporters of the ministry.

At the center of the storm is Funke Ashekun, a former member of the church who has in recent months emerged as one of the loudest critics of Dr. Olukoya and the MFM leadership. However, the emergence of the alleged recording has triggered a counter-narrative from loyalists of the ministry, who now claim there is an organized effort to damage the reputation of the internationally respected Pentecostal church and its founder.

The controversy gained momentum after blogs, including Aunty Adunni Blog and other online platforms, began circulating claims that the leaked audio exposes what they described as a coordinated campaign aimed at recruiting former church members willing to make damaging allegations against the ministry.

Although the authenticity of the recording has not been independently verified, discussions generated by the audio have sparked intense reactions among church members, legal observers, and religious commentators.

Alleged Recruitment Discussions

In the controversial audio, voices identified as Wale Akpeji and another individual named Sola were allegedly heard discussing plans to recruit individuals willing to publicly accuse the church leadership and testify against Dr. Olukoya.

According to interpretations of the recording circulating online, there were references to financial inducements, promises of relocation abroad, and assurances of protection for those prepared to participate in the campaign against the church.

Particularly disturbing to many listeners was an exchange in which Sola allegedly expressed fear about the possible legal consequences of making false statements in court or publicly attacking the church leadership.

The voice identified as Wale reportedly reassured him that Funke Ashekun would guarantee his safety and even arrange overseas travel should legal complications arise.

The leaked audio has since generated heated conversations within Pentecostal circles, with many questioning whether the dispute has moved beyond personal grievances into a coordinated effort to destabilize the church’s image.

Questions Around Wale Akpeji

Adding another layer to the controversy are revelations concerning the background of one of the individuals allegedly heard in the recording, Wale Akpeji.

Sources close to the church leadership claim Akpeji was not originally a committed member of MFM but rather someone Dr. Olukoya personally tried to assist out of compassion and goodwill.

According to a source familiar with the matter, Dr. Olukoya allegedly sponsored Akpeji with financial support intended to help him relocate to Canada for studies and better opportunities.

“Dr. Olukoya saw him as a young man with potential and wanted to help him build a future,” the source alleged. “He was reportedly given over $6,000 to support his relocation plans. Instead of using the opportunity productively, the money was squandered.”

The source further alleged that additional support, including assistance with transportation and work opportunities abroad, was also provided but ultimately mismanaged.

These claims have not been independently verified, and no public response had been issued by Akpeji as of the time of filing this report.

However, supporters of the church argue that the allegations, if true, point to what they describe as “betrayal of trust and goodwill.”

A Growing Media War

The dispute surrounding Funke Ashekun and the MFM leadership has increasingly evolved into a fierce media and social media confrontation.

For months, critics of the church have raised allegations against the ministry and its leadership online, while loyalists have responded by accusing disgruntled former members and bloggers of orchestrating smear campaigns designed to tarnish the image of Dr. Olukoya, one of Nigeria’s most influential Pentecostal leaders.

Observers note that the controversy reflects a broader trend within modern religious institutions, where disagreements, personal grievances, and internal conflicts increasingly spill into digital media spaces, often escalating into public battles capable of damaging reputations and polarizing worshippers.

Within MFM circles, the leaked recording has reportedly strengthened support for Dr. Olukoya among loyal members, many of whom see the controversy as evidence of deliberate attacks against the ministry.

Others, however, argue that the situation underscores the need for transparency, restraint, and careful handling of disputes involving religious organizations and former members.

Calls for Caution and Due Process

Legal analysts and media observers have also urged caution regarding the circulation of unverified audio recordings and allegations capable of influencing public opinion without judicial scrutiny.

Some commentators warn that while social media has become a powerful tool for exposing wrongdoing, it has also become fertile ground for misinformation, manipulated narratives, and emotionally charged campaigns.

As the controversy continues to unfold, many observers believe the matter may ultimately require legal clarification, independent verification of the leaked recording, and more responsible public engagement from all sides involved.

For now, however, the battle between disgruntled ex-members, bloggers, and supporters of MFM appears far from over.

And at the center of the unfolding drama remains one question: Is this a genuine whistleblowing movement by dissatisfied former members, or an orchestrated campaign aimed at bringing down one of Nigeria’s most prominent Pentecostal ministries?

The answer may ultimately determine not only the reputations of those involved, but also how future religious disputes are fought in the age of viral media and digital activism.

The post Leaked Audio Introduces Fresh Dimensions to the Controversy Around MFM and the Disgruntled Ex-members appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

The literary landscape of Lagos State University and beyond, experienced an intellectual awakening over the past month, courtesy of the spectacular launch and run of AJAKAYE STRIDA LITERARY LIMELIGHT. Broadcasting live every Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm on LASU Radio 95.7 FM—rightly dubbed Lively and Solidly Unique—this masterfully curated programme has rapidly established itself as the premier destination for academic enrichment and creative expression.

Led by the brilliant and charismatic Host, Ajakaye Rashidat Olamide, alongside dynamic Co-hosts Abiodun Moshood Olowokogbajo and Vincent Hosu, the programme spent the month of April empowering young minds, shaping voices, and dissecting profound literary works. Here is a comprehensive review of the four monumental editions that defined an unforgettable maiden month on the airwaves.

The airwaves crackled with inspiration on the 7th of April during the highly anticipated debut edition of the programme. Setting out with the noble objective of building voices and strengthening the future of literature, the introductory session was a masterclass in literary mentorship. The studio hosted two distinguished academic giants: Dr Abayomi Awelewa of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Dr Funmi Gaji of the University of Ibadan (UI). Together with the hosts, these exceptional scholars shared profound insights into the creative process, offering invaluable blueprints on how to nurture and empower upcoming writers. The session successfully laid the foundation for the programme’s core mission: guiding listeners to striking confidence in academic and creative writing.

The second installment of the programme shifted the spotlight towards critical societal issues through the lens of modern African literature. The team engaged in a rigorous analysis of Kabir Alabi Garba’s compelling text, “The Lekki Headmaster,” focusing heavily on the structural costs of ageing and retirement within the teaching profession. To dissect these themes, the studio welcomed two insightful guest speakers, Daniel Akinrinmola Aroworade and Omotosho Sodiq Babatunde, whose expert contributions, alongside co-host Abiodun Moshood’s sharp studio analysis, sparked intense engagement from listeners. Adding a profound international dimension to the episode, the programme featured a thought-provoking recorded poem by Dr Saloni Chawla from India, which offered a stark reflection on contemporary global tensions. The interactive session saw enthusiastic phone calls from the public, with a listener named Islamiyat emerging as the lucky winner of the maiden call-in recharge card prize.

Intellectual rigor took center stage in the third week as the programme tackled “The Stretch of Decision-Making in Leadership.” This episode was particularly vital for prospective scholars, as it critically explored two major Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) set texts: William Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy “Antony and Cleopatra” and Efua Sutherland’s classic “The Marriage of Anansewa.” Guest speaker Ikechukwu Obi (popularly known as Ikechukwu HOC) brought immense depth, clarity, and brilliance to the studio. The discussion elegantly bridged the gap between classical literature and the contemporary world, demonstrating how these dramatic texts serve as mirrors for modern governance, political strategy, and administrative decision-making.

The final edition of the month was a deeply emotional and motivational session anchored on the theme of “Survival Through Resilience and Adaptation.” The episode commenced on a powerful note with a moving poem on human pain and ultimate survival, delivered by an evocative young wordsmith known simply as Poetry. Building upon this theme, guest speaker Matthias Kolade Adebayo graced the studio to share profound excerpts from the text “The Day My Name Found Air.” In an exemplary display of literary advocacy, Adebayo also beautifully represented and analysed Zuwaira Halilu’s poignant narrative, “The Tale of a Village Girl.” The episode resonated deeply with the audience, prompting a flood of interactive phone calls from listeners who praised the show’s capacity to address the raw realities of human adaptation.

In just four weeks, Ajakaye STRIDA Literary Limelight has proved itself to be more than just a radio show; it is an active catalyst for intellectual transformation. By blending rigorous academic criticism with accessible creative discourse, the team continues to change the narrative surrounding literary education in Nigeria. Do not miss out on the next wave of literary excellence. Set your alarms and join Ajakaye Rashidat, Abiodun Moshood, and Vincent Hosu every Tuesday at 2:30 pm prompt on LASU Radio 95.7 FM as they continue their journey of guiding you to striking confidence in academic and creative writing!

© Abiodun Moshood Olowokogbajo

The post Revolutionising The Airwaves: April’s Literary Triumphs on Ajakaye Strida Literary Limelight, LASU Radio 95.7 FM appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

In his Eid-ul-Kabir message made available to journalists on Wednesday, Sooko Agoriesin congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and across the world for witnessing another season of sacrifice, obedience and devotion symbolised by the holy celebration.

He urged Nigerians irrespective of religious, ethnic and political differences to use the occasion to pray for the peace, stability and progress of the nation, stressing that national development can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity and security.

According to him, insecurity remains a major concern that requires the collective efforts of all citizens, noting that government alone cannot win the fight without the cooperation of the people.

The Yoruba Council Worldwide President therefore appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, community stakeholders, youths and security agencies to work together in supporting ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace and safeguarding lives and property across the country.

Sooko Hassan also expressed support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying Nigerians must rally behind the Federal Government in its determination to combat insecurity and strengthen national unity.

He said, “Eid-ul-Kabir teaches us the values of sacrifice, tolerance, love and obedience to God. At this critical time in our nation, Nigerians must come together as one people and support every genuine effort towards achieving lasting peace and security.

“Insecurity is our collective responsibility. We must support the government, security agencies and community-based initiatives in the fight against criminality. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and together we can build a peaceful and prosperous nation.”

The respected Yoruba leader further urged citizens to avoid actions and utterances capable of inciting violence, hatred and division, while encouraging Nigerians to continue to uphold the values of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.

He prayed for divine blessings, protection and prosperity for Nigeria and wished Muslims a peaceful and rewarding Eid-ul-Kabir celebration.

The post Eid-ul-Kabir: Sooko Agoriesin Urges Nigerians To Embrace Peace, Support Tinubu Against Insecurity appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

A new wave of grassroots transformation is steadily reshaping Mbaitoli/Ikeduru Federal Constituency in Imo State, driven by the purposeful and people-oriented leadership of Hon. Engr. Akarachi Amadi, the federal lawmaker representing the constituency in Nigeria’s House of Representatives.

It is instructive to know that Amadi’s stellar performance is being acknowledged and appreciated by the people of Mbaitoli/Ikeduru who voted massively for his re-election during the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives primary election where he was returned unopposed with the APC ticket — to continue his impactful representation at the Green Chamber

In the APC primary election for the Lower Chamber of the National Assembly held on Saturday, May 17, 2026, at the Federal Constituency, Amadi was declared as the unopposed and consensus winner of the Mbaitoli/ Ikeduru Federal Constituency in Imo State, having emerged as the sole candidate for the constituency.

Announcing the results, the Returning Officer, Dr Paul Ajunwa, stated that Amadi was the sole candidate for the election, saying that he polled 3,537 votes to secure his re-election to the Green Chamber — as the voters insisted that the federal lawmaker has lived up to expectations and should continue to touch the lives of the people through his mega empowerment and remarkable programmes.

Incidentally, what unfolded on Sunday, April 5, 2026 across the Mbaike axis was far more than a routine empowerment programme. It was a bold public presentation of a comprehensive development vision—one that seeks to reposition Mbaitoli and Ikeduru as thriving hubs of economic growth, social advancement, and sustainable community development.

The event, which attracted an impressive gathering of traditional rulers, political stakeholders, youth leaders, community representatives, business figures, and members of the National Assembly, became both a celebration of achievements and a declaration of a bigger future ahead for the constituency.

At the heart of the intervention was a massive empowerment package valued at over N200 million, accompanied by the distribution of 67 transformers and an extensive range of economic support tools including tractors, buses, SUVs, tricycles, motorcycles, generators, sewing machines, grinding machines, and agricultural inputs.

For many residents, it was not merely an exercise in distribution—it was the visible manifestation of governance delivering practical value to ordinary people.

Hon. Amadi made it clear that the initiative was not designed as a fleeting political spectacle or seasonal populism, but as part of a deliberate and structured development agenda targeted at economic inclusion, infrastructure renewal, and long-term prosperity.

According to him, leadership must ultimately be judged by tangible impact on the lives of the people.

“Your trust is my greatest asset, and I will continue to justify it through service, transparency, and results,” he declared.

He stressed further that representation only acquires meaning when it translates into improved living standards, expanded opportunities, and renewed hope for citizens.

“I remain committed to building a future where every voice in our constituency is heard, valued, and represented in every decision I make.”

Empowering Minds Through Education

One of the defining highlights of the programme was the lawmaker’s aggressive investment in education and human capital development.

Hundreds of students currently benefiting from scholarship schemes under his sponsorship were showcased as living proof of a growing commitment to empowering the next generation.

Amadi explained that the scholarship initiative was intentionally structured to reward excellence and break the barriers preventing indigent students from accessing higher education.

Under the scheme, students from Mbaitoli/Ikeduru who score above 200 in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations are offered sponsorship opportunities to study in public universities across Nigeria.

For many families struggling with economic hardship, the initiative has become a lifeline and a pathway to social mobility.

“Education remains the greatest weapon against poverty,” Amadi noted. “We made a promise that every student who scores above 200 in JAMB will have the opportunity to pursue university education under our scholarship programme anywhere in Nigeria.”

Stakeholders at the event acknowledged that the initiative is already changing educational aspirations across the constituency and restoring confidence among young people about their future.

Lighting Up Communities, Powering Economic Growth

Beyond education, the lawmaker unveiled one of the most ambitious rural electrification interventions seen in the constituency in recent years.

The deployment of 67 transformers across the 63 autonomous communities within Mbaitoli/Ikeduru is expected to significantly improve electricity access, boost local businesses, enhance learning environments, and stimulate economic activity.

Describing electricity as the backbone of modern development, Amadi said the intervention was designed to revive productivity and improve quality of life across rural communities.

“Electricity is not a luxury—it is a necessity for development. When power improves, businesses flourish, students learn better, and communities become economically stronger.”

Communities across Atta, Amaimo, Uzoagba, Mbieri, Eziama, Ikeduru hinterlands, and surrounding areas are expected to benefit from phased installations and rehabilitation of power infrastructure under the initiative.

Driving Economic Inclusion and Youth Empowerment

Recognising the economic realities confronting many families, Amadi also rolled out a constituency-wide transport and enterprise support initiative aimed at empowering commercial operators, traders, artisans, and unemployed youths.

Through the distribution of buses, motorcycles, tricycles, and other mobility tools, the programme seeks to reduce transportation challenges while simultaneously creating employment and income-generating opportunities.

Small-scale entrepreneurs are also expected to benefit from grants, vocational support, and equipment distribution targeted at turning skills into sustainable livelihoods.

Observers described the empowerment model as strategic and forward-looking—one that prioritises self-reliance over dependency and productivity over handouts.

Visible Projects, Visible Leadership

The empowerment programme is only one component of a much broader development framework already unfolding across Mbaitoli/Ikeduru.

Hon. Amadi highlighted numerous completed and ongoing projects spread across the constituency, including the construction and renovation of over 20 classroom blocks in communities such as Atta, Amaimo, Umudim, Ifakala, Obazu Mbieri, Umunoha, Nkwo Orji axis, and beyond.

Other interventions include primary healthcare centres, solar-powered boreholes, rehabilitation of town halls, skill acquisition centres, and the increasingly celebrated “Light Up Mbaike” rural electrification project.

Community leaders present at the gathering testified that many of these interventions are already improving access to education, healthcare, and social infrastructure at the grassroots level.

A Lawmaker with Legislative Substance

Beyond constituency projects, Amadi’s legislative footprint is also beginning to attract attention at the national level.

The federal lawmaker disclosed that he has sponsored 38 bills currently at different stages in the National Assembly, underscoring his commitment to combining effective lawmaking with practical constituency development.

For him, representation must bridge the gap between policymaking in Abuja and realities on the ground back home.

He projected confidently that by the end of his tenure, every community within Mbaitoli/Ikeduru would have at least one visible project directly connected to his stewardship.

A New Standard for Constituency Representation

The event also drew high-profile dignitaries including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, represented by Hon. Abubakar; former Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim; Imo State APC Chairman, Hon. Austin Onyedebelu; commissioners, lawmakers, and prominent business leaders.

Speaking on behalf of the Speaker, Hon. Abubakar praised the intervention as a model of responsive and people-centred representation consistent with the true expectations of democratic governance.

For a constituency long challenged by infrastructural deficits, youth unemployment, limited electricity access, and economic pressures, the scale of the interventions has begun to redefine public expectations of leadership.

Indeed, the message emerging from Mbaitoli/Ikeduru is becoming increasingly unmistakable: representation can no longer be measured merely by speeches, motions, or appearances on the floor of parliament. It must now be measured by roads built, classrooms renovated, businesses empowered, students educated, communities electrified, and lives transformed.

And in Hon. Engr. Akarachi Amadi, many residents believe they are witnessing a new generation of leadership—one determined not merely to occupy office, but to leave behind visible footprints of progress, prosperity, and enduring development.

Ibrahim, a public affairs analyst and commentator, contributes this piece from Abuja

The post Hon Akarachi Amadi: Redefining representation through impact and development appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

Former South African President Thabo Mbeki has attributed the country’s economic decline to leadership failures rather than undocumented African migrants, cautioning against rising anti-immigrant sentiment across the nation.

Mbeki made the remarks at the AUDA-NEPAD @25 High-Level Business Breakfast held in Cape Town on Thursday, where he addressed concerns over unemployment, economic stagnation, and increasing hostility toward foreign nationals.

He noted that South Africa experienced significant economic growth between 1994 and 2008, reaching an average growth rate of about six percent, but said the decline that followed from 2009 could not be linked to undocumented migrants.

According to him, shifting blame to immigrants distracts from the real causes of the country’s economic challenges, insisting that those responsible for policy and governance failures were avoiding accountability.

Mbeki argued that continued scapegoating of migrants only deepens divisions while ignoring structural issues affecting the economy. He maintained that Africa’s history of solidarity during South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle still shapes migration patterns, making it unrealistic to expect Africans to stop moving to the country despite tightening immigration policies.

He warned that the spirit of continental unity that was strong 25 years ago was gradually weakening and urged South Africans to address economic and governance challenges more constructively.

Meanwhile, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema also weighed in on the issue, rejecting claims of xenophobia and describing recent violence against foreign nationals as criminal activity rather than ethnic hatred.

In comments shared via Sky News on X, Malema argued that attacks on migrants were driven by “extortionists and criminal networks,” accusing authorities of failing to address underlying socio-economic problems.

He further said South Africans themselves account for the majority of violent crimes in the country, challenging narratives that blame foreign nationals for insecurity.

Malema also accused political actors of exploiting anti-immigrant sentiment to divert attention from deeper governance and economic issues.

His remarks come amid ongoing debates over migration, unemployment, and security in South Africa, where tensions involving foreign nationals have continued to draw regional concern.

The post Mbeki Blames South Africa’s Economic Decline on Leadership, Warns Against Scapegoating Migrants appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

Former Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi, has disclosed that he persuaded former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to approach President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a handshake during the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican in May 2025.

Fayemi made the revelation during an interview on Edmund Obilo’s YouTube channel, explaining that Obi initially hesitated over concerns that the gesture could be misinterpreted in Nigeria’s political space.

The encounter between Tinubu, Obi and Fayemi had earlier attracted public attention after presidential aide Bayo Onanuga shared photographs of the meeting on social media platform X on May 18, 2025, noting that Fayemi encouraged Obi to greet the President after spotting him among world leaders.

Speaking on the incident, Fayemi said both he and Obi attended the papal inauguration as Catholics and were seated close to President Tinubu’s delegation after arriving from a breakfast meeting with Cardinal Lazarus.

He explained that the moment of interaction began when Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, who was part of Tinubu’s delegation, approached them to exchange pleasantries.

According to him, he then suggested that Obi accompany him to greet the President, but Obi initially resisted, expressing concern that the action could be politically misconstrued.

Fayemi said he reassured Obi that the gesture was appropriate, noting that both of them were Nigerians at an international religious event and that the President was representing the country.

He added that Obi eventually agreed, and both men proceeded to greet Tinubu.

Fayemi recounted that upon greeting the President, he welcomed him to the Vatican, while Tinubu responded humorously by saying he should be the one offering the welcome as leader of the Nigerian delegation.

He further stated that Obi also exchanged pleasantries with the President, acknowledging his position as Nigeria’s leader, and that the brief interaction remained cordial and light-hearted.

The former governor said the exchange ended shortly afterwards as Tinubu proceeded to other engagements at the Vatican.

When asked if the handshake marked their first direct interaction since the 2023 presidential election, Fayemi said he could not confirm but noted that the two political figures did greet each other at the event.

Fayemi and Obi, both Catholics and Papal Knights, had previously attended the inauguration of Pope Francis in 2013 while serving as governors.

President Tinubu’s presence at the Vatican ceremony was earlier described by him as part of Nigeria’s representation at a global religious gathering, underscoring unity and diversity within the country.

The post Fayemi Reveals He Persuaded Peter Obi to Greet Tinubu at Vatican Meeting appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Emergency Management Department (FEMD) has advised residents living near waterways and flood-prone areas in Abuja to relocate, following continued heavy rainfall and rising flood risks across the territory.

The warning came after a flooding incident early Friday morning affected a residential building in Mabushi District during an overnight downpour.

In a statement, FEMD spokesperson Nkechi Isa said floodwater submerged the ground floor of a one-storey building located at 22 Anthony Ikem Street, behind Blue Cabana Hotel in Mabushi.

The agency explained that it received an emergency alert at about 3:00 a.m. and immediately deployed its Search and Rescue Team to the scene.

According to FEMD, two flats on the ground floor were completely flooded up to window level, forcing emergency responders to manually evacuate water after a generator powering a pumping machine malfunctioned.

Although no casualties were recorded, several household items, food supplies, and important documents belonging to residents were destroyed in the incident.

Acting Director-General of FEMD, Abdulrahman Mohammed, appealed to residents in vulnerable locations to relocate as the rainy season intensifies, warning that continued habitation in such areas poses serious risks.

He also called for the clearing of blocked drainage systems and the removal of structures obstructing natural water channels, noting that such obstructions remain a major cause of recurring flooding in parts of the FCT.

The agency further warned that illegal structures along waterways and poor drainage maintenance have continued to worsen flood situations in the territory.

In recent years, several Abuja communities have experienced repeated flash floods during peak rainy seasons, with authorities attributing the situation to rapid urban expansion, inadequate drainage infrastructure, and encroachment on natural water paths.

The post FCT Urges Residents in Flood-Prone Areas to Relocate as Heavy Rains Trigger Flooding in Abuja appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

By Jimmy Fatunbi

Former Ekiti State governor Kayode Fayemi has disclosed how he persuaded Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, to greet President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the inauguration ceremony of Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican in May 2025.

Speaking during an interview on Edmund Obilo’s YouTube programme released on Thursday, Fayemi said Obi was initially reluctant to approach the president because he feared the gesture could be politically misinterpreted in the media.

The meeting first became public after presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga shared photographs from the event on X on May 18, 2025. According to Onanuga, Fayemi had spotted Tinubu among world leaders at the ceremony and encouraged Obi to accompany him in greeting the president.

Fayemi’s latest account largely confirmed that version of events but added that Obi hesitated before eventually agreeing.

Recounting the incident, Fayemi said he and Obi attended the papal inauguration as devoted Catholics and had earlier shared breakfast with Cardinal Lazarus before heading to the venue. They were reportedly seated four rows behind Tinubu and his delegation.

According to Fayemi, the moment that prompted the interaction came when Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, walked over from the presidential section to exchange greetings with them.

Fayemi said he then suggested that they should also extend courtesy to the president despite political differences.

However, Obi reportedly expressed concern that photographs or reports of the handshake could be manipulated politically. Fayemi said he encouraged him to overlook such fears, stressing that Tinubu was representing Nigeria at the Vatican even though he is Muslim attending a major Catholic event.

He recalled telling Obi that it was appropriate to acknowledge the president’s presence and role as leader of the Nigerian delegation.
Fayemi said Obi eventually agreed, and the two approached Tinubu together.

On getting to the president, Fayemi welcomed him to the Vatican and thanked him for honouring the occasion. Tinubu, according to Fayemi, responded jokingly that as leader of the Nigerian delegation, he should be the one welcoming them instead.

Obi then reportedly acknowledged Tinubu’s status as president, thanking him for attending the event on behalf of Nigerians, even though they were not officially part of his delegation.
Fayemi said the exchange was cordial and brief before both sides continued with their activities at the inauguration ceremony.

When asked whether it was the first public handshake between Obi and Tinubu since the fiercely contested 2023 presidential election, Fayemi declined to speculate, simply noting that “they shook hands there.”

Both Fayemi and Obi are prominent Catholics and Papal Knights, honours bestowed by the Vatican on distinguished members of the Church. The two politicians had also attended the inauguration of Pope Francis in 2013 while serving as governors.

Tinubu later told journalists that his participation at the Vatican reflected Nigeria’s spirit of unity despite religious and political differences. Addressing members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria who accompanied him, the president said Nigeria’s diversity should be used as a source of prosperity and stability rather than division.

The photographs of the meeting generated mixed reactions online, with supporters of both Tinubu and Obi debating the political significance of the encounter and revisiting issues surrounding the 2023 presidential election.

The post Obi, Fayemi Meet President Tinubu at the Vatican appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.