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Railway Corporation Law to boost safety – Lagos lawmakers

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Railway Corporation Law to boost safety – Lagos lawmakers

The Lagos State House of Assembly has said it is considering a Railway Corporation bill for a body that would oversee the daily running of the train and related infrastructure in the state.

The Speaker of the Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, the Majority Leader of the House, Noheem Adams and the chairman of the transport committee of the House, Adewale Temitope, made the position known on Wednesday at a stakeholders’ meeting.

According to them, the bill aims to strengthen the state’s transport infrastructure and improve the efficiency in the transportation sector.

In his remarks, Obasa, who was represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Mojisola Meranda (Apapa I), said the stakeholders’ meeting underscored the Assembly’s commitment to participatory governance and transparency.

“Railway transportation is a critical component of modern infrastructure and social service delivery. It supports trade, commerce, and economic growth by providing safe, efficient, and affordable mobility,” he said.

According to her, the bill will empower the proposed corporation to collaborate with public and private partners on effective service delivery.

In his overview of the bill, Hon. Adams, said the proposed law seeks to create a Railway Corporation to oversee the activities of the train services in a bid to improve transportation in Lagos State.

Adams, who is the sole sponsor of the bill, said the corporation is to operate, maintain and develop railway infrastructure as well as liaise with other agencies and stakeholders for effectiveness.

“The bill seeks to put in place a more robust railway transportation system to reduce traffic congestion and improve socio-economic development of the state,” he said adding that it is in the interest of Lagosians as their overall well-being would be improved when it becomes operational.

“The purpose of the bill is to provide sustainable environmental alternative to rural transport.

“Clause 2 of the bill gives it a legal personality while clause 4 establishes the board which comprises of a chairman that has at least 15 years experience in transportation services, the commissioner for Transport and others.

“The functions of the corporation will include managing and maintaining the infrastructure and the daily running of the subsector as well as liaise with other agencies in charge of transportation in the state,” he added.

He said the corporation will have a Managing Director to oversee day-to-day operations with clause 26 establishing the office of an Inspector of Railways tasked with ensuring safety, operational integrity, and regular inspection of trains and tracks.

in his remarks, Hon. Adewale explained that the hearing of the bill which was sponsored by Hon. Adams followed its second reading on the floor of the House.

Adewale said the initiative would strengthen Lagos’ intermodal transport system and help decongest the state’s roads.

“The goal is to make mass transit more efficient and accessible to all Lagosians, ensuring all transport systems are properly connected,” he noted adding that the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) would retain its role as the regulatory body overseeing the state’s transport sector.

The private-member bill contains 28 clauses.

In his contribution, Engr. Festus Todowede, who represented the Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, stressed the need to prioritize passenger safety in the state.

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Lagos Family Property Dispute Turns Violent After Death of Omotayo Ojo

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Lagos Family Property Dispute Turns Violent After Death of Omotayo Ojo

By Ifeoma Ikem

A festering family dispute over property has escalated into a series of violent attacks in Lagos, leaving residents of a contested apartment in fear for their safety.

Mrs. Moyisola Afolagbe (née Ojo), the third child and first daughter of the late Omotayo Ojo, has alleged repeated assaults and destruction of property by her siblings from her father’s other marriages.

According to her account, hostility against her began while her father was still alive, allegedly fueled by the affection and support he showed her. She claimed that tensions worsened after his death in 2019.

Mrs. Afolagbe stated that her late father had given her a particular apartment during his lifetime, assuring her she would not suffer hardship, especially after her husband left the marriage. She said the property became her primary source of livelihood and shelter.

However, she alleged that her siblings had sold off several other family properties and were determined to dispossess her of the apartment allocated to her by their father.
The dispute reportedly turned violent on Nov. 15, 2025, when unknown persons allegedly attacked the building. She said the incident prompted her to petition the Chief Judge of Lagos State and the Commissioner of Police.

Despite the pending legal proceedings, she alleged that another attack occurred on Jan. 21, 2026. During that incident, parts of the building were vandalised, including the walkway and the main gate, which was reportedly removed.

A third attack was said to have taken place on Feb.18, 2026, during which the roof, gates, and sections of the walkway were allegedly dismantled. Residents were reportedly assaulted, and some were allegedly forced to part with money under duress.

Tenants in the apartment complex are said to be living in fear amid the repeated invasions, expressing concern over their safety and uncertainty about further violence.

Mrs. Afolagbe alleged that the attacks were led by a man identified as Mr. Alliu, popularly known as “Champion,” whom she described as a political thug. She claimed he arrived with a group of about 50 men, allegedly brandishing weapons and breaking bottles to intimidate residents.

She further alleged that the group boasted of connections with senior police officers, politicians in Lagos State, and even the presidency, claiming they were untouchable.

According to her, some arrests were initially made following the incidents, but the suspects were later released. She expressed concern that the alleged perpetrators continue to threaten her, making it difficult for her to move freely.

She also disclosed that during a meeting on Feb. 23, 2026, an Area Commander reportedly told her that little could be done because the matter was already before a court of law.

The development has raised concerns about the enforcement of law and order in civil disputes that degenerate into violence, particularly when court cases are pending.
As tensions persist, residents and observers are calling on relevant authorities to ensure the safety of lives and property, while allowing the courts to determine ownership and bring lasting resolution to the dispute.

 

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Adron Homes Introduces Special Ramadan Offer with Discounts and Gift Rewards

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Adron Homes Introduces Special Ramadan Offer with Discounts and Gift Rewards

 

 

As the holy month of Ramadan inspires reflection, sacrifice, and generosity, Adron Homes and Properties Limited has unveiled its special Ramadan Promo, encouraging families, investors, and aspiring homeowners to move beyond seasonal gestures and embrace property ownership as a lasting investment in their future.

 

The company stated that the Ramadan campaign, running from January 20th to April 6th, 2026, is designed to help Nigerians build long-term value and stability through accessible real estate opportunities. The initiative offers generous discounts, flexible payment structures, and meaningful Ramadan-themed gifts across its estates and housing projects nationwide.

 

Under the promo structure, clients enjoy a 30% discount on land purchases alongside a convenient 36-month flexible payment plan, making ownership more affordable and stress-free.

 

In the spirit of the season, the company has also attached thoughtful rewards to qualifying payments. Clients who pay ₦200,000 receive a Provision Hamper to support their household during the fasting period, while those who pay ₦400,000 receive an Automated Prayer Mat to enhance their spiritual experience throughout Ramadan.

 

According to the company, the Ramadan Promo reflects its commitment to aligning lifestyle, faith, and financial growth, enabling Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to secure appreciating assets while observing a season centered on discipline and forward planning.

 

Reiterating its dedication to secure land titles, prime locations, and affordable pricing, Adron Homes urged prospective buyers to take advantage of the limited-time Ramadan campaign to build a future grounded in stability, prosperity, and generational wealth.

 

This promo covers estates located in Lagos, Shimawa, Sagamu, Atan–Ota, Papalanto, Abeokuta, Ibadan, Osun, Ekiti, Abuja, Nasarawa, and Niger states.

 

As Ramadan calls for purposeful living and wise decisions, Adron Homes is redefining the season, transforming reflection into investment and faith into a lasting legacy.

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INSECURITY: Zamfara State Adopts Colombia’s Strategic Model to Tackle Insurgency and Banditry

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INSECURITY: Zamfara State Adopts Colombia’s Strategic Model to Tackle Insurgency and Banditry

 

In a significant move to address rampant terrorism, insurgency, and banditry, the Zamfara State Government has completed a thorough examination of Colombia’s strategic communication framework, particularly its non-kinetic approaches to conflict resolution. This initiative aims to adapt successful strategies from Colombia to the specific security challenges faced in Zamfara.

 

A delegation, led by Governor Dauda Lawal, recently returned from an exchange program in Bogotá, Colombia, where they focused on the demobilization strategy employed during the conflict with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The goal of this initiative is to harness lessons learned from Colombia’s experiences to restore economic stability in Zamfara and promote safe, unhindered movement for its citizens.

 

Governor Lawal emphasized that the Colombian model presents an adaptable framework suitable for addressing multifaceted security threats. It highlighted that relying solely on kinetic military operations is inadequate for achieving enduring peace. Colombian authorities utilized extensive media campaigns that treated communication with as much gravity as military action itself. The integration of radio, television, and localized community messaging effectively built credible alternative pathways for peace, rather than resorting to propaganda.

 

One cornerstone of Colombia’s success was its use of testimonials from demobilized combatants. These former guerrillas shared their personal journeys tales filled with disillusionment, fear, and a longing for family either anonymously or openly, demonstrating the tangible benefits of embracing peace. Such human narratives struck a deep chord with active combatants contemplating their futures, providing a powerful counter-narrative to abstract governmental messages.

 

The Colombian strategy was meticulously crafted to deliver targeted messages to diverse audiences. Active fighters were informed about demobilization procedures and available reintegration programs, while families received emotionally resonant appeals concerning separation and reunion. Communities were prepared to accept former combatants, and the general public was engaged with collective narratives that framed peace as a national endeavor.

 

In regions of rural Colombia, where state presence was minimal, community radio stations broadcasting in local dialects became pivotal for disseminating messages of peace. The Colombian government recognized the importance of amplifying the voices of influential figures such as religious leaders, respected community elders, and former combatants effectively overcoming the trust deficit that often undermines state-led messaging in conflict zones.

 

Governor Lawal recognizes that while the Colombian model offers valuable insights, it cannot be adopted without modification. The banditry in Zamfara is characterized by diffuse, loosely connected groups with varied motivations, including economic survival, revenge, and criminal enterprise. Consequently, media strategies must be finely tailored to resonate with these distinct segments of the population.

 

In light of the challenges posed by limited literacy and infrastructural gaps in various parts of Zamfara, the government is considering primary communication channels that are accessible to the community. These might include local FM radio broadcasts, announcements made in mosques, megaphones in markets, and audio messages via WhatsApp. Where trust in the state is lacking, the most effective messengers might be former bandits who have renounced violence, along with revered Islamic scholars, traditional leaders, and respected community elders whose voices carry weight and credibility.

 

Furthermore, the Colombian experience illustrates the potential of media to counteract recruitment efforts by showcasing positive alternatives. By highlighting successful youth, vocational training programs, and stories of hope, campaigns in Zamfara aim to outshine the narratives portrayed by armed groups. Such initiatives must confront the allure of banditry by honestly portraying the fear, trauma, and ultimately tragic outcomes associated with a life of violence.

 

As Governor Lawal aptly stated, “The Colombian strategy reveals that communication is not merely soft power; it is a crucial component of hard strategy. A bullet can end a fighter’s life; a well-crafted message can create a pathway to peace for countless individuals.”

 

In our ongoing battle against banditry, media campaigns represent a means to connect with those who cannot be reached through force alone individuals caught in conflict, those coerced into violence, and disillusioned youth who joined armed groups not out of conviction but circumstance.

 

The Zamfara Government is committed to adapting these valuable lessons into local languages and cultural contexts, with the intent of protecting its citizens and fostering long-lasting peace throughout the state.

 

INSECURITY: Zamfara State Adopts Colombia's Strategic Model to Tackle Insurgency and Banditry

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