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SCOAN: There was cause for concern when I received radio message – witness tells Court

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Why Court remanded Lagos Chief, Ikuforiji

 

 

A Lagos High Court, Igbosere on Thursday heard that there was cause for concern (panic), when a witness, Alaba Yahaya Haruna, received a radio message that an aircraft was flying on low altitude, at Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), before the building collapsed. The witness, who is an Assistant Commissioner of Police, disclosed this in his testimony yesterday at the ongoing trial of the Registered Trustees of SCOAN and four others, over the collapsed building on September 12, 2014, that killed 116 people.

Also sued are two engineers: Messrs Oladele Ogundeji and Akinbela Fatiregun, and their companies, Hardrock Construction and Engineering Company and Jandy Trust Limited. Aside SCOAN’s one-count charge, the other defendants are facing 110 counts of involuntary manslaughter. SCOAN was charged on a one-count charge of building without approval brought against it by the Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), following the dismissal of its no-case submission on March 8, 2016. Haruna who was being cross examined by Lagos State counsel, Dr Babajide Martins, before Justice Lateef Lawal-Akapo said when he got the radio message, it showed that it caused concern. He told the court that he was in his office when he got the message from his patrol team who observed an aircraft flying low over a Synagogue Church Earlier the witness in his testimony had told the Court that there was no panic when he received the radio message, that a plane was flying low.

He said, ” I was in my office when I got the message, before I got to the scene, they said the building had collapsed. There was no report of panic that plane was flying low. ” Haruna further told court that the Inspector General of Police set up panel to look into the incident. ” Police at SCID Panti also carried out investigation in this matter. We had commenced preliminary investigation before Panti carried out their own investigation. I don’t know if the police has concluded their investigation on the collapsed building.”

At the last adjourned date , Haruna, Area Commander of the Eastern Ports Command, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, told court that he was the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Ikotun Egbe Police Station, Lagos, at the time the building collapsed. Led in examination-in-chief by SCOAN Trustees counsel, Mr Oluseye Diyan, the witness said, “On that fateful day on September 12, 2014 at about 12:30 hours, there was a radio communication from the police control room at Ikeja that they were receiving calls from the public of an aircraft flying at low altitude over the church. I was directed by the Area Command to confirm the incident and monitor the aircraft’s activities. “I wanted to go out and direct my men to watch out for the aircraft when I received another report of an airplane flying at a very low altitude. I went outside but I couldn’t see it, by that time it had gone. I received a call later from Inspector Lucky Ugbaja, stationed at the church, that one of the church’s buildings had collapsed.” According to him, the radio room had earlier radioed the Police Airport Command to confirm whether it was carrying out any activity in the SCOAN vicinity. Haruna said when he arrived at the church’s premises there was a large crowd and the few policemen there were trying to manage the situation.

More onlookers kept trooping in and the crowd spilled to the roads outside the church, causing serious traffic gridlock. “We were overwhelmed,” Haruna told the judge, adding that he called for more policemen, which was provided. He said his men cordoned off the scene in an attempt to restrict entrance to only those who could assist the church members and other worshippers in the rescue operation. According to him, the floors of the collapsed building were lying one on the other “and the church members and others at the scene were engaged in rescue operations. “Those I met there were SCOAN worshippers, they were bringing out so many people from under the rubble. Most of the victims were alive. Some were injured, some were not. “Later the Red Cross, Life Savers, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) arrived and joined us in the rescue.”

The witness stated that the LASEMA General Manager complained of difficulty in gaining access to the scene of the collapse because of the crowd and that the journalists in his entourage were denied access, following which he apologised and ordered his men to let the journalists in. He said the rescue mission lasted about seven days. Meanwhile Justice Lawal-Akapo, has adjourned the matter till October 4, for continuation of trial.

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How Adron Homes Transform Shimawa into Ogun State Premier Real Estate Hub

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How Adron Homes Transform Shimawa into Ogun State Premier Real Estate Hub

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sahara Weekly Reports That Shimawa, a once tranquil and little-known town in Ogun State, has emerged as the premier real estate location in the region, thanks to the transformative efforts of Adron Homes. This metamorphosis has redefined the town’s identity, making it a beacon of modern living and investment opportunities.

 

 

 

 

 

How Adron Homes Transform Shimawa into Ogun State Premier Real Estate Hub

 

 

 

 

Adron Homes’ strategic initiatives have played a central role in Shimawa’s transformation. By developing numerous estates with state-of-the-art amenities, Adron has set new standards for residential living. These estates are equipped with modern infrastructure, including well-paved roads, reliable water supply, and efficient drainage systems, enhancing the quality of life for residents. The real estate has sold out four estates in shimawa over 10 years and is currently selling five different estates in shimawa.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

List of Adron Homes Estates In Shimawa

 

Treasure Park and Gardens Estate Phase 2 (City of David)

 

Treasure Park and Gardens Estate Phase 3 (Capetown)

 

Treasure Park and Gardens Estate Phase 3 Extention (Jerusalem City)

 

Treasure Park and Gardens Estate Phase 4 (Jerusalem Extention)

 

Treasure Park and Gardens Estate Phase 5 (City of God)

 

 

 

 

 

Adron Homes has introduced a range of affordable housing solutions that cater to different income levels. This inclusivity has attracted a diverse population, fostering a vibrant community. The availability of affordable, yet high-quality housing options has made Shimawa an attractive destination for both first-time homebuyers and seasoned investors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The influx of new residents and businesses has spurred economic growth in Shimawa. Adron Homes’ developments have created numerous job opportunities in construction, real estate management, and ancillary services. This economic activity has not only improved the standard of living for many but has also positioned Shimawa as a hub for business and commerce in Ogun State.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adron Homes’ commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-friendly initiatives. Green spaces, parks, and recreational areas have been incorporated into the estates, promoting a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. These efforts have not only beautified the town but have also contributed to the well-being of its residents.

 

 

Shimawa’s transformation has caught the attention of investors, both local and international. The town’s strategic location, coupled with Adron Homes’ high-quality developments, has made it a prime investment destination. This influx of investment is set to further accelerate Shimawa’s growth and development.

 

 

Adron Homes places a strong emphasis on community building. Regular events, social gatherings, and initiatives to foster a sense of community have been integral to the company’s approach. This focus on community has created a welcoming and cohesive environment, making Shimawa not just a place to live, but a place to thrive.

 

 

The transformation of Shimawa into Ogun State’s best real estate location is a testament to Adron Homes’ vision and dedication. By providing affordable housing, fostering economic growth, promoting sustainability, and building a strong community, Adron Homes has set Shimawa on a path to continued success and prosperity. As a model of modern urban development, Shimawa stands as a shining example of what strategic planning and investment can achieve.

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Aare Bashir Fakorede Distance self from Land Grabbing Allegations, Calls for Proper investigation

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Aare Bashir Fakorede Distance self from Land Grabbing Allegations, Calls for Proper investigation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sahara Weekly Reports That The Property and Oil mogul, Aare Bashir Fakorede has openly debunked a land-grabbing allegation levelled against him by some unscrupulous elements using some section of the media to malign his persona.

 

 

 

 

Aare Bashir Fakorede Distance self from Land Grabbing Allegations, Calls for Proper investigation

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recently, this unscrupulous elements have been in the news with their recent land-grabbing fiasco with the Oni-Orisan chieftaincy family of Lagos Island and Epe after they took thugs and police to beat family members who own the landed property situated at Oju-Ota, Oko-Orisan Epe Lagos, which Aare Bashir Fakorede acquired from the family in 2016, with a family-issued receipt, official gazette from the Lagos state on the 28th of June 2007, deed of assignment, Joint Venture agreement between his property development company and the family, survey plan among other documents to show he acquired the land.

 

 

 

 

 

Aare Bashir Fakorede Distance self from Land Grabbing Allegations, Calls for Proper investigation

 

 

 

 

 

Few days ago, the court Sheriff, acting under the writ of execution granted by Hon. Justice I. O. Harrison in suit number: M/762/11 on the 25th of April,2024, where the Honourable Justice reevaluated the court judgement which authenticates the Oni-Orisan as the rightful owner of the land. The court empowered the claimant to take possession of the land which they went to do on the 12th of July 2024, in the company of the court’s deputy Sherrif, Adeyemi Adeyinka and Adebayo Moshood and some policemen, where all encroaching erected structures were removed while they erected a notice boards which clearly stated the original owners according to the court judgement. In a reprisal attack, armed thugs and security personnel removed the erected court notice boards strategically placed on the land among other things. While many onlookers condemned this actions, legal experts tagged the act as a deliberate contempt of court by undermining the declaration of a competent court of jurisdiction.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Monday the 22nd of July, the family and its representative visited the land on the intelligence that some armed thugs and security personnel were stationed on the land. The family visited the AIG zone 2 office where they reported the case which they envisaged might likely lead to the disruption of public peace. The Zone 2 command attached some policemen with the family to go to the land to ascertain the authenticity of the claim of the armed thugs and security personnel stationed there. When the police and the family got to the land, they were immediately overpowered and attacked by thugs who inflicted various degrees of injury on them. They injured 2 family members and 3 policemen who were dressed in mufti. They also seized the mobile phones of one of the family members and threw it in the water to cover their tracks while they also abducted Chief Mrs Modupe Oni-Orisan, who is the head of the Oni-Orisan Chieftaincy family alone with two other members. One of them escaped while two were held captive for hours before the intervention from the police which led to her release. The Area commander requested that they return with the abducted women to the station which led to the apprehension of two of the thugs currently in police detention.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aare Bashir Fakorede disclosed that out of 15.360 hectares owned by the family, he legally acquired 7 Acres of land from the Oni-Orisan Chieftaicy family who owns the landed property according to family history and a judgement from a court of competent jurisdiction.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Oni-Orisan Chieftaincy Family has petitioned the police to do a proper investigation and also called the attention of the AIG Zone 2 AIG Durosimi to wade into the lingering issues.

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Rotary International District 9112 launches its coastal restoration initiative by planting 1,000 coconut trees in Lagos

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In a bid to promote its mission of improving the environment, Rotary international District 9112 on Sunday kicked off an environment-saving intervention tagged: Coastal Restoration Initiative at Westside Beach, Okun, Ajah, Lagos, where 1000 coconut trees were planted along the coastal shores of the Atlantic Ocean.

 

Speaking at the event,  the Governor of Rotary International, District 9112 Rotarian  Femi Adenekan said the “initiative is conceived to save the environment as well as reduce the adverse effect of the climate change.”

 

According to him; “the environment is one of the main focus areas of Rotary International. We need to consciously come to the realization that we need to save our environment. We need to save ourselves. So that in the future, those that will come after us will have life.”

 

“People assume that the world belongs to them. They have forgotten that they are just tenants on the surface of the earth. If you try to change nature, nature will react, which is the reason we are having a lot of environmental damage in the world. Some of wrong human activities, such as throwing plastics and other items into water or where it ought not to be is causing us environmental challenges. If we don’t take care of our environment, the environment will react and take us out of the surface of the earth,” He said.

 

 

The chairman of the District 9112 Tree Planting Committee, Rtn. Gboyega Bada recommended the adoption of an “Every Rotarian Plant a Tree Every Year” policy and also indicated plans for Rotary International District 9112 to propose a Private Bill to the Lagos State House of Assembly  to enable all Lagos Residents plant a tree every year for the next five years to address the challenges of climate change.

 

Rtn Bada stated that the vision of Rotary District 9112 on Tree Planting is to achieve a safer and cleaner environment by planting 10,000 seedlings of Coconut, Mango, Breadfruit, Avocado and other ralated crops that have economic, health and environmental benefits.

 

The event was well attended by Stakeholders in the Private and Public Sectors. Pan African Towers Ltd, Tolaram Group, Azeez Amida Foundation, Telenoetica Ltd, amongst others were well represented.  Past District Governor Tunji Funsho led other Rotary Leaders to give their support. The DG’s wife Rtn Tayo Adenekan, the District Governor elect Rtn Lanre Adedoyin, General Manager of Lagos State Coconut Development Authority, Dapo Olakulehim and Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency, Club Presidents and Rotarians from the 73 Clubs graced the occasion.

 

 

Also speaking at the event, one of the Guest Speakers, the world acclaimed horticulturist, Mr. Andrew Vale of Tolaram Group and The Lagos Free Zone, highlighted the importance of trees, saying; “planting trees improves air quality, reduces air pollution, and illnesses from air pollution. More so, plants produce oxygen and provide shelter, medicine, and many more.”

 

In his own special remarks, Chairman, LUFASI Park and DG Coconut Naija, Dr. Desmond Majekodunmi, said; “the basic fact about the environment is that whatever you sow, you shall reap. The environment will always treat you, the way you treat it.”

 

It is of note that the vision of District 9112 on tree planting for this year is  to achieve a safer and cleaner environment through the planting of 10,000 seedlings of coconut, mango, breadfruit, avocado and other related crops that have economic, health and environmental benefits.

 

The event was witnessed and supported by main stakeholders in the industry, agencies and partners which included, Mr Dapo Olakulehin, General Manager, Lagos State Coconut Development Authority (LASCODA), Mr Andrew Vale of Tolaram Group, Channel Scott from Pan African Towers, Azeez Amida Foundation, Telenoetica, The Legend Lifeskills Foundation, Etam Avitat, Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) , presidents and members of various Rotary Clubs in District 9112 amongst others.

 

Rotary leaders who witnessed the event are PDG Tunji Funsho, PDG Kamoru Omotosho, PDG Omotunde Lawson amongst others.

 

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