Business

Hoodlums take advantage of Lagos-Ibadan Expressway gridlock, attack motorists, cart-away valuables

Published

8 years ago

August 3, 2016

Robbers have cashed in on the unending gridlock on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway with many motorists and passengers being dispossessed of their valuables.

Motorists revealed that gunmen attacked them as the gridlock intensified due to the rehabilitation of the road by Julius Berger Plc.

Some victims said the robbers attacked Lagos-bound vehicles held up in the traffic and stole phones and money, among other valuables.

A motorist, Aborishade Osanyin, said the hoodlums operated at about 8pm on Sunday.

He said, “They targeted exotic cars in the traffic. They harassed the owners and collected their valuables.

“The robbers are suspected to be hoodlums hiding under the Kara Bridge. Some motorists managed to reach the police, but the robbers had a field day for about 20 minutes.”

A commuter, who did not identify himself, described how the robbers operated.

“Some of them wore masks and had guns. They took the side of the long bridge where Julius Berger is rehabilitating and attacked vehicles in the gridlock. They shot into the air as they moved from one vehicle to the other. It was scary; some people jumped out of their vehicles and ran away,” he said.

The commuter said when policemen, who had received information on the robbery, arrived at the scene, they started shooting into the air to scare off the robbers.

He said the hoodlums escaped into the surrounding bushes.

It was learnt that policemen attached to the Warewa Police Division, Ogun State, and the operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, and the Isheri Police Division, Lagos State, responded to the situation.

A policeman in the team told PUNCH Metro that no arrest was made.

He said, “The hoodlums have hideouts in the area. When they sighted the police patrol vehicles, they took to their heels. The most important thing was to stop the robbery, which we did. We were able to assure the motorists driving into Lagos that the robbers had fled and that they were safe.”

Similarly on Tuesday, the robbers were said to have blocked the Multichoice end of the expressway attacking motorists in the resultant gridlock.

The Commander, RRS, ACP Olatunji Disu, said the police dislodged the robbers on Sunday.

He said, “The RRS patrol team and the Isheri division went after the robbers. We were able to dislodge them.”

Meanwhile, Julius Berger Plc, the Redeemed Christian Church of God and the Mowe Unit of the Federal Road Safety Corps have started work on alternative roads to decongest gridlock on the expressway.

One of the alternative routes, which had been made available for use, opened up from the Warewa end to the Kara end of the expressway.

The FRSC Mowe Unit Commander, Assistant Corps Commander Oludare Ogunjobi, said the alternative roads would be accessible to only cars while heavy-duty trucks would use the expressway.

One of our correspondents, who visited Warewa around 2pm on Monday, observed that motorists had been plying the alternative route to link the Berger area of Lagos.

A motorist, Joseph Adewale, while commending the initiative, called on the contractor to speed up work on the expressway.

He said, “For the past six weeks, the expressway has been a nightmare because of the gridlock. At about 9pm on Sunday when I was returning from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, there was traffic on the long bridge. I spent almost two hours there. With this alternative route, I hope the traffic will ease. The construction on the expressway should be completed on time.”

Another driver, Simeon Peter, appealed to the FRSC to be at the spot at all times to ensure order on the road.

“If there is no one to control the traffic, the aim of providing this alternative will be defeated,” he added.

PUNCH Metro learnt that the RCCG created two alternative routes at the Ibafo, Ogun State end of the expressway to ensure a free flow of vehicular movement.

One of the church’s engineers working on the road, Mr. Abioye Olujimi, said a barrier would be mounted at the entrance of the road to prevent trucks.

He said, “We are 95 per cent through with the routes. What remains now is to spread asphalt on it. Over 2,000 vehicles had used the roads today and I assure you that the expressway will soon be free. The alternative roads are strictly for small vehicles, while heavy-duty trucks will use the bridge.

“There is going to be a barrier across the roads to prevent trucks from coming in. We are through with the black spots at Car Park C and NASFAT. We are also working on the ones at Mountain Top and in front of Ara Hall in Ibafo. We want to evacuate about two-third of the vehicles on the expressway through these alternative routes.”

The FRSC, Mowe Unit Commander, Ogunjobi, urged motorists to avoid driving against traffic.

He said his men would always be on the ground to ensure smooth flow of traffic, adding that any motorist caught violating traffic law would be dealt with.

He said, “Small vehicles are advised to use the alternative roads. No motorist should drive against the traffic. Whoever is caught will be prosecuted. The violators will be made to undergo psychiatric tests because no normal person will drive against the traffic. FRSC officials will be on the ground to enforce compliance.”

Efforts to speak with Julius Berger were abortive as of the time of filing this report on Tuesday.

Business

FIRSTBANK’S DECEMBERISSAVYBE LIGHTS UP LAGOS WITH DAVIDO CONCERT

Published

5 hours ago

December 26, 2024

Sahara Weekly

FIRSTBANK’S DECEMBERISSAVYBE LIGHTS UP LAGOS WITH DAVIDO CONCERT

By Farouk Mohammed

Once again, FirstBank has reaffirmed its position as a champion of arts, culture, and entertainment through its annual DecemberIssaVybe initiative. This year, the bank brought music lovers an unforgettable Christmas Eve experience with the Davido Live in Lagos concert, held at the iconic Eko Hotel Convention Centre. As part of the initiative, the event was a highlight of the festive season, delivering joy, excitement, and unmatched entertainment to thousands of fans.

Delivering Exclusive Experiences

True to its legacy, FirstBank ensured its customers and followers had the chance to enjoy this spectacular event through ticket giveaways across its social media platforms. By engaging with fans on Instagram (@firstbanknigeria) and Facebook (First Bank of Nigeria Limited), the bank seamlessly connected with its audience, creating opportunities for them to witness one of Nigeria’s biggest stars perform live.

Through its First@arts initiatives like these, FirstBank continues to elevate the entertainment experience for its stakeholders, positioning itself as more than just a financial institution but a lifestyle enabler. The bank’s efforts underscore its commitment to bringing premium opportunities to its customers, creating memorable moments for families and individuals alike.

Davido: The Highlight of DecemberIssaVybe

On Christmas Eve, the atmosphere at the Eko Hotel Convention Centre was nothing short of electric as Davido, the Afrobeats superstar, delivered an exhilarating performance. With hits like “Feel,” “Unavailable,” “FUNDS,” and “Dami Duro”, the audience was immersed in a musical journey that celebrated Nigerian creativity and artistry. The energy was infectious, as fans sang along to every lyric, making the concert an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

For many, this was their first time seeing Davido live, and FirstBank made it possible, proving once again its dedication to supporting the arts and providing access to world-class entertainment.

The Spirit of DecemberIssaVybe

The DecemberIssaVybe initiative is not just about music; it’s about community, homecoming, and shared joy. Designed to resonate with Nigerians, both at home and in the diaspora, the initiative creates opportunities for family bonding and cultural connection during the festive season. Events like Davido’s concert, the Calabar Carnival, and Flytime Fest have all contributed to making the 2024 edition of DecemberIssaVybe truly extraordinary. Through DecemberIssaVybe, FirstBank continues to demonstrate its commitment to enriching the lives of its customers by providing access to premium events and creating platforms that celebrate the essence of Nigerian culture.

More Than Banking: A Commitment to Community

FirstBank’s impact goes beyond providing financial services—it’s about enabling memorable experiences. By supporting events like the Davido Live in Lagos concert, FirstBank strengthens its bond with customers, enhancing its role as a catalyst for joy and togetherness during the festive season.

With its steadfast support for the arts and entertainment industry, FirstBank also contributes to the economic empowerment of the value chain, showcasing its leadership in promoting culture, music, and creativity in Nigeria.

Stay Connected, Stay Vibing

For those who experienced the magic of Davido’s concert and other DecemberIssaVybe events, the memories will remain cherished. For those who missed out, FirstBank offers more opportunities to join the excitement. Stay tuned to its social media platforms—Instagram (@firstbanknigeria), Twitter (@FirstBankngr), and Facebook (First Bank of Nigeria Limited)—for updates, contests, and more exciting opportunities.

Business

Don’t Return Fuel Subsidy Through Dubious Means, Group Tells NNPCL’s Mele Kyari

Published

11 hours ago

December 26, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Don’t Return Fuel Subsidy Through Dubious Means, Group Tells NNPCL’s Mele Kyari

The Afenifere Mandate Forum (AMF) has cautioned the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) against re-introducing fuel subsidy through dubious means, citing the regime’s notorious history of corruption.

The group emphasised the need for transparency going forward, urging the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) not to make payments to NNPCL’s foreign partners in the name of subsidy.

In a statement signed by its President, Otunba Davies Folorunsho, the group said the fuel subsidy regime was embroiled in corruption, with allegations of fraudulent payments and inflated subsidies.

Folorunsho said Mele Kyari, the Group CEO of NNPCL, was at the centre of the controversy, with reports of the company importing toxic fuel from Malta.

He noted that this not only perpetuated corruption but also endangered the health and safety of Nigerians.

However, Folorunsho said the he removal of fuel subsidy has been a significant step towards economic recovery, saving the country billions of dollars that were previously spent on subsidizing petrol prices.

“In 2022 alone, subsidies gulped $10 billion, leaving the state oil company NNPC with nothing to remit to the treasury,” he added.

“Fuel subsidy were not only financially ruinous but also largely regressive, benefiting mostly car-owning urbanites and those who could afford petrol-powered generators.

“As a result of the subsidy removal, the financial burden on the government has been significantly reduced, freeing up more funds for critical infrastructure and social programs.

“Additionally, government revenue has increased, smuggling has decreased, and the risk of adulterated fuel has been mitigated. The removal of fuel subsidy has also paved the way for a more sustainable energy ecosystem, encouraging the use of alternative energy sources and reducing Nigeria’s reliance on fossil fuels.

The group urged the NNPCL to maintain transparency in its operations and avoid re-introducing fuel subsidy through the backdoor.

“We believe that the removal of fuel subsidy is a step in the right direction, and we urge the government to continue on this path towards economic recovery,” Folorunsho said.

Business

Adron Homes Celebrates Christmas with Customers, Reaffirms Commitment to Bridging Nigeria’s Housing Deficit

Published

16 hours ago

December 26, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Adron Homes Celebrates Christmas with Customers, Reaffirms Commitment to Bridging Nigeria’s Housing Deficit

As the world embraces the joy and warmth of the Christmas season, Adron Homes and Properties, Nigeria’s foremost real estate company, has extended heartfelt greetings to its esteemed customers while reaffirming its commitment to addressing the nation’s housing challenges.

In a message of gratitude and celebration, Adron Homes expressed deep appreciation to its customers for their trust and loyalty throughout 2024. The company highlighted its unwavering dedication to making incredible housing affordable for all Nigerians, in line with its mission of reducing the country’s housing deficit.

“Christmas is a time to celebrate family, unity, and gratitude,” the statement read. “As we reflect on the year, we are proud to have played a role in making homeownership a reality for thousands of Nigerians. Our vision is clear—to bridge the housing deficit by providing affordable, luxurious, and secure homes for all, regardless of income level.”

Adron Homes has continued to lead the real estate industry by implementing innovative solutions that make homeownership accessible, including flexible payment plans and cost-effective housing models tailored to meet diverse customer needs.

As part of its Christmas and end-of-the-year celebration, the company has launched a special festive promotions ‘Lemon Friday’ aimed at encouraging more Nigerians to join its growing community of homeowners.

“We remain committed to transforming dreams into reality. This is not just about building homes; it’s about building futures and creating opportunities for families to thrive in a space they can call their own,” the statement added.

Adron Homes extended warm wishes to all Nigerians and its global customers, urging them to embrace the season’s spirit of love and hope. “May your homes be filled with peace, joy, and prosperity this Christmas and beyond.”