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EndSARS: Gov Abiodun appeals for calm, urges protesters to allow implementation of planned police reform

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4 years ago

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Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, Tuesday once again appealed to the youth and #EndSARS demonstrators in the state to be peaceful, calm and civil in their conduct and not allow the lofty idea behind the protest to be hijacked by hoodlums and self-serving people. On the other hand, the Governor also enjoined the security agencies to always exercise great restraint and avoid use of force in managing peaceful protests.

In a statement in Abeokuta, Prince Abiodun, through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Kunle Somorin, identified with the objectives of the protest against law enforcement agencies brutalising the citizens, insisting peaceful protest is a legitimate way of showing grievances against perceived high-handedness or injustice with any system.

This was the reason why he has ensured that all the demonstrators arrested in the wake of the protest in Ogun State have been released, including the three suspects that were arraigned in court and remanded in a custodial centre on 12 October 2020, following his instruction to the State’s Attorney-General that Ogun State would not press the charges against them. In addition, the State will facilitate investigation into any act of brutality of citizens by law enforcement agencies, compensation of the victims, identification and holding the erring law enforcement officer accountable.

He, however, pleaded with the youths that conduct capable of breach of public peace and safety may also lead to undesirable outcomes that run counter to the reason for the protest in the first instance. The youth should allow the planned reform of the police, starting with the immediate disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and other measures already announced by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Ogun State Government will continue to maintain keen interest in the planned police reform and ensure that the desired and lasting changes that make will Nigeria Police a professional, people-centred, and responsive public institution that operate within the ambit of the law are achieved. The statement continued.

“We as elected officials are elected to serve the people. We derive our mandate from their consent and are obliged to defend their rights at all times. Their welfare and security are the primary purpose we are in Government. Besides the mandate of the electorate, I am also a father and can relate to the pain of brutality or harm being inflicted on innocent youth, particularly by public institution charged with the responsibility of protection of life and property.

“On this issue, people’s voices have been heard loud and clear all over the nation and even beyond and the government at various levels, particularly the federal government, have listened and initiated a number of steps that demonstrate commitment to fulfilling the yearnings of Nigerians. I therefore plead with our youth to please bring an end to the protests that sometimes lead to stampedes and accidents and allow the process of the planned reform to progress. Reform and development can only happen in an atmosphere of peace and security”, Governor Abiodun concluded.

E-signed
Kunle Somorin
Chief Press Secretary to Ogun State Governor

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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Tragedy and Accusations: Lagos Hospital Denies Rejecting Dying Pregnant Woman Over N500,000 Deposit

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5 minutes ago

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April 4, 2025

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Tragedy and Accusations: Lagos Hospital Denies Rejecting Dying Pregnant Woman Over N500,000 Deposit

Tragedy and Accusations: Lagos Hospital Denies Rejecting Dying Pregnant Woman Over N500,000 Deposit

Lagos, Nigeria – A storm of controversy has erupted following the tragic death of a pregnant woman, Kemi Folajimi, after her husband accused a private hospital in Ibeju-Lekki of refusing to treat her due to his inability to pay an upfront N500,000 deposit.

The grieving husband, Akinbobola Folajimi, made the claim in a heartbreaking viral video that has since sparked outrage across social media. In the footage, Kemi, visibly weak, sat inside a car while her desperate husband pleaded for her to stay strong.

“My goodness! Kemi, look at me. Stay strong; think about your kids, please!” he cried out.

Folajimi later alleged that after being turned away by As Salam Convalescent Centre, they rushed to a general hospital in Epe, but his wife tragically passed away before she could receive treatment.

“The doctor told me to deposit N500,000, and I begged him to start treatment while I ran around for the money. But they drove us out like we were nothing,” he wrote online.

Hospital Founder Fights Back, Denies Allegations

Amid the uproar, Dr. Rauf Salami, founder of As Salam Convalescent Centre, has strongly denied the accusation, calling it a complete misrepresentation of events.

“At no point did we demand any money from the family. The woman arrived in critical condition, having already convulsed twice at home. After examining her, we immediately referred her to Epe General Hospital, which was better equipped to handle her case,” Salami explained.

He further clarified that Kemi was not a registered patient at the facility and had never visited before the day of the incident.

“We did not even transfer her from the wheelchair she was brought in with. Within minutes, we advised the husband to seek urgent help at a bigger hospital. The claim that we refused to treat her over money is completely false.”

Public Outrage and Calls for Accountability

The viral video has led to widespread condemnation of private hospitals allegedly prioritizing money over human life, with many calling for stricter healthcare regulations. Some social media users demanded a full investigation into the incident, arguing that healthcare facilities should not turn away patients in distress, regardless of financial constraints.

Meanwhile, Salami expressed frustration over the backlash, admitting that the controversy had deeply affected him.

“People have even advised me to sue the husband, but I have left everything in God’s hands. My integrity speaks for itself, and those who know our hospital will vouch for us,” he said.

A Systemic Healthcare Failure?

While the blame game continues, some experts have pointed to deeper issues plaguing Nigeria’s healthcare system, including poor emergency response infrastructure, inadequate funding for public hospitals, and the unaffordability of private medical care.

The Federal Ministry of Health has yet to comment on the controversy, but the incident has once again raised critical questions about the accessibility of quality maternal healthcare in Nigeria.

For now, Kemi Folajimi’s death remains a tragic reminder of the life-or-death consequences tied to Nigeria’s struggling healthcare system.

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EPE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CHAIRMAN CELEBRATES AARE ADETOLA OLANIYI EMMANUEL-KING AT 50

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13 hours ago

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April 3, 2025

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*EPE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CHAIRMAN CELEBRATES AARE ADETOLA OLANIYI EMMANUEL-KING AT 50

 

I am delighted to extend my warmest felicitations to you, Aare Adetola Olaniyi Emmanuel-King, the Chairman and CEO of Adron Group, on your 50th birthday. This milestone is a testament to your remarkable life’s journey, marked by outstanding achievements and contributions to our community and the nation, Nigeria.

As a renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, your commitment to making affordable housing accessible to many Nigerians is truly commendable. Your innovative approach and dedication to this cause have made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals and families.

Your steadfastness in pursuing your vision, despite challenges, is a shining example of your perseverance and passion. Your legacy continues to inspire and motivate others to strive for excellence and make a positive difference in their communities.

As you celebrate this special day, I wish you continued good health, wisdom, and success in all your endeavors. May this new chapter of life bring you joy, happiness, and fulfillment.

Please accept my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes on your 50th birthday.

*Signed*

*Hon. (Princess) Surah O. Animashaun FHTI*
*The Executive Chairman, Epe Local Government*

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Transforming Oshodi-Isolo: Why Otunba Kehinde Oloyede Deserves President Tinubu’s Handshake

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1 day ago

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April 3, 2025

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OSHODI-ISOLO LOCAL GOVERNMENT CHAIRMAN, OTUNBA KEHINDE OLOYEDE DESERVES PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU’S PRESIDENTIAL HANDSHAKE FOR HIS OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE IN OFFICE

By Frank Albert Jnr.
The leadership of Otunba Kehinde Oloyede as the Executive Chairman of Oshodi-Isolo Local Government has been marked by exceptional achievements, setting a new standard for local governance. His three and a half years in office have been transformative, addressing critical infrastructural and social needs of the community.
Notable Accomplishments of Otunba Kehinde Oloyede:
Infrastructure Development: Nearly 55 roads have been constructed within three years, significantly improving connectivity within Oshodi-Isolo communities.
Clean Water Access: Over 45 streets have been equipped with water projects, ensuring residents have access to clean and safe drinking water.
Quality Education: An ultra-modern primary school has been built at St. Paul Primary School, Mafoluku, enhancing the educational infrastructure for young learners.
Student Support: The administration has provided free school rides, uniforms, bags, and books, making education more accessible and convenient for students.
Healthcare: Construction of a well-equipped primary healthcare center is ongoing, aimed at improving healthcare services for residents.
Youth Empowerment & Development: Several skill acquisition and employability training programs have been initiated in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), creating opportunities for young people.
Community Support: Three comprehensive palliative programs have benefited over 30,000 households, providing relief to vulnerable residents.
Party Welfare: Monthly stipends are provided for party executives, demonstrating a commitment to party welfare and leadership.
Otunba Kehinde Oloyede, popularly known as Kendoo, has consistently demonstrated a leadership style grounded in progress, accountability, and a deep sense of responsibility towards the people of Oshodi-Isolo. His administration has successfully rekindled faith and hope in local government administration, proving that with the right leadership, grassroots governance can be impactful and transformative.
Given his remarkable performance, it is imperative that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recognizes and encourages such excellence by establishing a yearly federal evaluation initiative for local government chairmen. This initiative would serve as an incentive for local government administrators across Nigeria to improve their performance and ensure better service delivery to the citizens.
Otunba Kehinde Oloyede is undoubtedly one of the best-performing local government chairmen in Nigeria, and his dedication to public service deserves national recognition, including a presidential handshake from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Transforming Oshodi-Isolo: Why Otunba Kehinde Oloyede Deserves President Tinubu’s Handshake

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