Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the passing of the revered Oba of Badagry, Oba Babatunde Akran (Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I), who joined his ancestors at 89. The governor described his death as a significant loss to Badagry, Lagos State, and Nigeria, praising the late monarch’s nearly 49 years of dedicated service marked by wisdom, unity, and commitment to cultural preservation and development. Sanwo-Olu hailed Oba Akran as a stabilising force, a promoter of Badagry’s heritage and tourism, and a true advocate for progress. He extended condolences to the royal family and people of Badagry, urging them to immortalise the late Oba’s enduring legacy. The governor prayed for strength and comfort for all affected by the loss, noting that Oba Akran’s contributions will forever be remembered and cherished by his people.

Controversy Erupts as Olu of Warri Greets Governor Sanwo-Olu After Female Executive’s Handshake Blocked”

A viral video has sparked widespread discussion after Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, visited Lagos State and was seen greeting Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu with a handshake, contrasting a recent incident where a female executive’s handshake attempt was blocked by his aides. The event took place during the Storytellers Conference at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, with the governor also giving the traditional ruler a tour of the renovated National Theatre in Iganmu.
The footage shows Olu of Warri standing to shake hands with Governor Sanwo-Olu, prompting social media users to comment on the apparent double standard regarding his interactions with men and women. Many pointed out that the king’s aides had previously prevented a woman from shaking his hand, a decision interpreted by some as cultural tradition, while others criticized it as outdated or unfair.
Social media reactions captured the variety of opinions, with some defending the traditional protocol:
tontolofabrics argued hierarchy should be respected, noting the king’s status versus the executive.
defenderofjust cited African customs where kings typically avoid handshakes with women due to traditional beliefs about purity.
Others highlighted perceived inconsistencies:
_ismo99 and Jamesdeyemi pointed out the king shakes hands with prominent officials like the governor but blocks ordinary individuals, especially women.
ashleightatti commented on the irony of cultural traditions intersecting with modern governance and social expectations.
The incident reignited discussions on gender norms, protocol, and respect for traditional authority in Nigeria. It also followed previous highlights of Olu of Warri’s public appearances, including inspecting road projects on a scooter and hosting Big Brother Naija stars Kellyrae and Kassia, who donned Itsekiri-themed attire and posed with the traditional ruler.
This episode underscores the public scrutiny of cultural leaders in modern Nigeria, especially when their actions intersect with official government figures and evolving social expectations. While some praise the adherence to tradition, others call for reconsideration of gendered protocols in public interactions.

LAGOS: NEMA MOBILIZES CCECC TO BUILDING COLLAPSE SITE

The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA has mobilised the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, CCECC to the site of the Great Nigeria House gutted by fire in Marina.

This is in response to the request by the Lagos state Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu for federal agencies to give a helping hand in bringing down the 22 storey building to make way for excavation work.

NEMA's Director, Search & Rescue, Air Commodore Usman Bature and the Agency's Head of Operations in Lagos, Tunde Mohammed led the chinese Company to the site.

Governor Babajide Samwu- Olu on his second visit to the site said no excavation work can be carried out except the building is brought down for the Safety of emergency workers.

The China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation has since mobilised Equipment to site awaiting further directives to commence work.

Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu Orders Demolition of GNI Building and Nearby Houses After Deadly Lagos Island Fire Kills Eight, Triggers Safety Concerns

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has ordered the demolition of the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building and some surrounding structures following the devastating fire outbreak that occurred on December 24 in the Balogun area of Lagos Island. The inferno claimed the lives of eight people—five of whom have been identified—while three victims remain unidentified, and at least thirteen people have been rescued so far.

Speaking during an on-site assessment, the governor declared the area unsafe, directing that all commercial and unauthorized activities around the GNI building must cease immediately. He explained that emergency responders are still carefully combing through the rubble to ensure no one remains trapped, particularly at the rear section of the collapsed structure.

Sanwo-Olu said a comprehensive structural assessment showed that the building was no longer stable, making demolition unavoidable, with some neighbouring buildings also marked for removal in the interest of public safety. He stressed that while the decision is difficult, protecting lives remains the government’s top priority.

The governor assured affected residents and business owners that the Lagos State Government would manage the recovery process responsibly and provide necessary support to families impacted by the tragedy. Meanwhile, investigations into the cause of the fire—which engulfed several floors of the 22-storey commercial building used largely for warehousing—are ongoing, as public concern continues over safety standards in densely populated commercial districts of Lagos Island.

LAGOS STATE GOV. PROMISES TOUGH MEASURES TO PREVENT FIRE OR BUILDING COLLAPSE

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu says he will take tough but necessary decisions to prevent the rising cases of Fire and building collapse in the state.

The Governor stated this while inspecting the Great Nigeria House 22 storey building that was gutted by Fire and collpsed ten days ago.

He said the integrity of the portion of the building which is still standing cannot be guaranteed, resulting in the delay in the commencement of excavation to clear the debris.

He instructed the Lagos Building Control Agency to as a matter of urgency clamp down on substandard buildings responsible for the continuous building collapse and Fire disasters.

While commiserating with the families of the victims, the Governor solicited the cooperation of Federal agencies and other multi national companies for technical expertise in bringing down the building for immediate commencement of excavation.

So far, eight bodies have been recovered.

ANTHONY JOSHUA OUT OF HOSPITAL

Heavyweight Boxer, Anthony Joshua has been discharged from Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, late last night after doctors confirmed he was clinically fit to continue his recuperation from home.

This is coming after a tragic road accident that claimed the lives of two of his friends, Lateef Ayodele and Gami Cina, on Monday, December 29th, 2025.

The Ogun and Lagos State governments confirmed this to journalists in a joint press statement issued by the two states and signed by Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso, and Ogun State Special Adviser on Information, Kayode Akinmade.

The governments commiserated with the families of the deceased, describing the incident as “painful and deeply unfortunate”.

They prayed that “Almighty God would grant the souls of the departed eternal rest and give their families and loved ones the strength to bear the irreparable loss.”

According to the statement, Joshua and his mother visited a Lagos funeral home to pay their respects to the deceased whose bodies were being prepared for repatriation.

Governors Dapo Abiodun and Babajide Sanwo-Olu expressed appreciation for public concern and prayers, thanking President Bola Tinubu for his “fatherly support”.

They also commended Lagoon Hospital staff for their quality care, professionalism and dedication.

Anthony Joshua Discharged From Hospital After Fatal Lagos–Ogun Road Crash, Visits Morgue With Mother to Pay Tribute to Friends Killed in Tragic Accident

Nigerian-British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua has been discharged from hospital following the devastating road accident on December 29, 2025, which claimed the lives of his close friends, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele. Joshua, a former world heavyweight champion, was released late Wednesday after doctors confirmed he was clinically fit to continue his recovery at home.

Despite his discharge, official statements noted that Joshua remains deeply affected by the tragedy and is “heavy-hearted and full of emotions” over the loss of his friends. In a show of grief and respect, Joshua and his mother visited a Lagos funeral home on Wednesday afternoon to pay their final respects as the bodies of the deceased were prepared for repatriation.

In a joint statement signed by Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, and Ogun State Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, the Lagos and Ogun state governments extended condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for strength and comfort for their loved ones.

The statement also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for their support throughout the incident, as well as gratitude to members of the public for their outpouring of sympathy.

Additionally, the governments commended the medical personnel at Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, for their professionalism and quality of care in treating Joshua and others injured in the crash, describing their response as exemplary during a painful and tragic moment.

Anthony Joshua’s Family Demands Access After Fatal Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Crash as FRSC Awaits Full Probe

The family of world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has expressed urgent concern over their inability to visit him following a fatal road crash on Monday along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. The accident claimed the lives of two of Joshua’s close friends and team members, Ayodele Kelvin Olu, 36, a Nigerian-British citizen, and Gami Sina, 36, a British citizen.

Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, said the news of the crash came as a “rude shock” and revealed that the family has only been in limited contact with Joshua’s parents, who are also in Nigeria. The family has requested access to see the boxer at the undisclosed medical facility where he is receiving treatment, citing the importance of family support during this critical time.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed that the crash involved a black Lexus SUV, registration number KRD 850 HN, colliding with a stationary truck near the Sinoma axis of Sagamu. Preliminary assessments suggest excessive speed as a potential cause, but the FRSC awaits a full technical investigation to determine the exact circumstances.

Political figures and community leaders have reacted with condolences and calls for improved road safety. The Deputy Head of Mission of the British High Commission, Simon Field, visited Joshua at the hospital, while both Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu are monitoring his condition. President Bola Tinubu has also been briefed and reportedly spoke with Joshua and his mother to convey support and condolences.

Lagos State Government Cancels 2025 Greater Lagos Fiesta Hours Before Kick-Off as Sanwo-Olu Urges Residents to Stay Home, Reflect and Pray Into 2026

The Lagos State Government has abruptly cancelled the highly anticipated 2025 Greater Lagos Fiesta, just hours before it was scheduled to usher residents into the New Year on December 31. The decision, officially approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was confirmed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, barely a day before the event’s kick-off.

Traditionally marked by fireworks, music performances, and large public gatherings across Lagos, the Greater Lagos Fiesta was instead replaced with a call for solemn reflection. Governor Sanwo-Olu urged residents to remain at home and observe the transition into 2026 through personal prayers, asking Lagosians to pray for the nation, the state, and its people.

In his New Year message, the governor emphasized themes of peace, prosperity, productivity, and good leadership, expressing optimism that 2026 would be a better year for Lagos State. He reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to delivering improved governance and working harder in the coming year.

Notably, the government did not disclose the specific reason behind the sudden cancellation, sparking mixed reactions on social media. While some residents praised the move as thoughtful and sensitive amid recent tragedies, others criticised the timing, arguing that cancelling the event less than 24 hours before commencement negatively affected planners, vendors, and businesses relying on the festivities.

The cancellation has added to ongoing public debate about governance decisions, crisis response, and the balance between celebration and reflection during challenging times in Lagos and Nigeria at large.

BREAKING: Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has ordered the immediate evacuation of residents and businesses around the fire-ravaged 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building.

British Envoy, Lagos and Ogun Governors Visit Anthony Joshua After Fatal Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Crash That Killed Two

British and Nigerian officials have paid condolence and hospital visits to heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua following a fatal road accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway that claimed two lives. The Deputy Head of Mission of the British High Commission, Simon Field, visited Joshua at a Lagos hospital where he is receiving treatment, alongside Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who personally supervised his medical care. The crash involved a Toyota Lexus conveying Joshua and three others, resulting in the deaths of Ayodele Kelvin Olu, a Nigerian-British citizen, and Gami Sina, a British national. President Bola Tinubu was briefed on the incident and conveyed condolences to Joshua, his family, and the bereaved families. Authorities have ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, while Joshua is reported to be in stable condition.

Eyo Masquerades Assault Residents During 2025 Lagos Festival, Videos Spark Social Media Outrage

The 2025 Eyo Festival in Lagos turned violent as videos circulated online showing Eyo masquerades assaulting residents with staves during street processions. One clip showed four men in traditional white regalia attacking a man, while another captured residents throwing objects at masquerades. Social media users condemned the incidents, questioning the excessive use of force and lack of crowd control. Some speculated the victim may have breached traditional taboos, but others criticized the response as extreme. The festival, the first since 2017, had earlier welcomed dignitaries including President Bola Tinubu and Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu Orders Demolition Of 25-Storey GNI House After Massive Fire Outbreak On Lagos Island

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has ordered the demolition of the 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) House located on Martins Street, Lagos Island, following a devastating inferno that engulfed the building on Wednesday night. The directive was issued on Thursday during the governor’s on-the-spot assessment of the incident scene as firefighters continued efforts to fully extinguish the blaze.

According to Governor Sanwo-Olu, preliminary findings revealed that the high-rise building, originally constructed for office use, had been illegally converted into a warehouse where highly inflammable materials were stored across several floors. He explained that the misuse of the structure significantly worsened the fire, making firefighting operations extremely challenging despite the early arrival of emergency responders and deployment of aerial ladder equipment.

The fire reportedly started from the fourth and fifth floors before rapidly spreading to upper levels around 8:00 p.m., intensified by the combustible contents inside the building. Sanwo-Olu disclosed that a committee led by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Gbenga Oyerinde, has been set up to determine the safest and fastest method to demolish the weakened structure within days, noting that parts of the building had already suffered partial collapse.

The governor confirmed that no fatalities were recorded, although between seven and ten people sustained injuries and were taken to hospitals by the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA). He also warned residents and businesses against storing flammable materials in residential and office buildings, especially in crowded market areas, stressing that enforcement and fire safety advocacy would be intensified during the dry harmattan season.

Meanwhile, officials of the Federal Fire Service stated that firefighting efforts were complicated by the close proximity of surrounding buildings and uncertainty over the contents of the affected structure. Over ten nearby buildings were impacted by the fire, with at least two severely damaged. Emergency agencies including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, LASEMA, Nigeria Police Force, FRSC, Federal Fire Service and LASTMA remain on ground managing the situation.

Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu Condoles Victims Of Great Nigeria House Fire, Visits Balogun As Emergency Agencies Battle Inferno

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating fire outbreak at the Great Nigeria House located in the Balogun area of Lagos Island, describing the incident as painful and distressing for victims and business owners affected by the disaster. The governor conveyed his condolences in a statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, December 25, 2025.

Sanwo-Olu disclosed that he personally visited the Balogun axis to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the damage caused by the inferno, stressing that the magnitude of loss suffered by traders and occupants could not be fully conveyed through written reports alone. According to him, witnessing the aftermath firsthand provided a clearer understanding of the pain, destruction, and economic setback faced by those impacted.

The governor commended firefighters, emergency responders, and relevant agencies for their swift and coordinated response, noting that their courage and dedication helped contain the blaze and prevented it from spreading to nearby buildings. He acknowledged that their timely intervention saved lives and reduced what could have been an even more catastrophic incident in the densely populated commercial hub.

Sanwo-Olu assured affected individuals that the Lagos State Government would continue to assess the situation and provide necessary support to victims as recovery efforts progress. Reaffirming the resilience of Lagos residents, he stated that the state has always demonstrated strength in moments of adversity and expressed confidence that the affected community would recover.

The fire outbreak, which reportedly started on the upper floors of the multi-storey Great Nigeria Insurance House, disrupted commercial activities around Martins Street and raised concerns over the safety of goods stored in the building, which is widely used for warehousing clothing materials. Officials from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that several floors were affected, though no casualties had been recorded as of the latest update.

Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, as emergency teams remain on ground to ensure safety and prevent further incidents. Business owners and workers in the area continue to await a clearer assessment of losses amid fears of significant material damage.

Nigerian Man on Death Row in Saudi Arabia Could Be Freed After $570,000 Raised by Seyi Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, Diaspora

Suleimon Olufemi, a Nigerian man on death row in Saudi Arabia for over 20 years, may soon be released following the payment of $570,000 as blood money (Diyya). Funds were raised by Nigerians in the diaspora, Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Seyi Tinubu, and a GoFundMe campaign. NIDCOM confirmed that diplomatic engagement and payment of Diyya pave the way for his possible release, emphasizing fairness and Nigeria-Saudi Arabia relations. The case had drawn attention from Amnesty International, which urged President Tinubu’s intervention.

#Nigeria #SaudiArabia #DeathRow #SuleimonOlufemi #DiasporaSupport #SeyiTinubu #BabajideSanwoOlu #NIDCOM

NIDCOM Rebuts Amnesty International, Confirms $570,000 Blood Money Paid to Secure Release of Nigerian on Death Row in Saudi Arabia

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has countered claims by Amnesty International over the prolonged detention of Suleimon Olufemi, a Nigerian who has spent more than 20 years on death row in Saudi Arabia, insisting that critical facts were omitted from Amnesty’s narrative. NIDCOM disclosed that Olufemi’s death sentence was converted after the victim’s family agreed to accept blood money under Saudi Arabia’s Sharia-based legal system.

According to the commission, following years of diplomatic engagements involving Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian Embassy in Saudi Arabia, the victim’s family demanded $570,000 in compensation. NIDCOM said the funds were successfully raised through a coordinated effort involving Nigerians in Saudi Arabia, private donors, and supporters, including contributions from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Seyi Tinubu during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

NIDCOM confirmed that the full amount has been paid into a designated account and that Nigerian authorities are awaiting final approval from Saudi officials to secure Olufemi’s release. While acknowledging Amnesty International’s advocacy role, the commission accused the organisation of failing to assist during the critical fundraising stage and urged it to present factual and balanced accounts. NIDCOM expressed optimism that Olufemi, who has consistently maintained his innocence, will soon regain his freedom after more than two decades in prison.

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#NIDCOM
#SaudiArabia
#HumanRights

Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu Swears In Speaker Obasa’s Son As Agege Chairman, Warns Against Division And Urges Inclusive Governance

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has sworn in Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa, son of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, as the substantive Chairman of Agege Local Government. During the ceremony at Lagos House, Ikeja, the governor cautioned the new chairman against divisive leadership, urging him to embrace inclusive governance and focus on grassroots development that delivers tangible benefits to residents. Sanwo-Olu emphasised discipline, performance, visibility, and compassion as core leadership values, amid opposition claims that the succession was a carefully orchestrated political arrangement following the resignation of former chairman Tunde Azeez on health grounds.

Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu Swears In Speaker Mudashiru Obasa’s Son As Agege Chairman, Warns Against Divisive Leadership And Urges Inclusive Grassroots Governance

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has officially sworn in Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa, son of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, as Chairman of Agege Local Government. During the ceremony held at Lagos House, Ikeja, the governor cautioned the new chairman against divisive tendencies and stressed the importance of inclusive, people-centred governance at the grassroots. Sanwo-Olu emphasised discipline, accountability, and performance as core leadership values, while acknowledging concerns raised by opposition parties over the circumstances surrounding Obasa’s emergence following the resignation of former chairman Tunde Azeez due to health reasons.

Lagos Police Commissioner Jimoh Accused of Plotting to Influence Court Judgment in Sowore’s “Wanted” Case

Fresh allegations have surfaced accusing the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh, of attempting to improperly influence a pending Federal High Court judgment in a fundamental rights suit filed by activist Omoyele Sowore. Sources told SaharaReporters that after Justice Musa Kakaki reserved judgment in the case challenging Sowore’s “wanted” declaration, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria raised concerns over alleged behind-the-scenes moves by the police commissioner, including seeking political intervention from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The allegations have sparked anxiety within legal circles, with civil rights advocates warning that any interference by security officials threatens judicial independence and the rule of law. Sowore maintains that the police action violated his constitutional rights, while the police insist the declaration was based on intelligence reports related to a protest in Lagos.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu hosts APC governors in Lagos state dressed in Eyo Masqurade style