Kano agency unveils ‘Kannywood AbbaCare Initiative’ to support ailing film practitioners

By Grace Idachaba

The Kano State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (KSCHMA) has launched the “Kannywood AbbaCare Initiative” under Gov. Abba Yusuf’s First Healthcare Development Agenda to support Kannywood practitioners, particularly vulnerable members, in accessing healthcare services.

The Executive Secretary of KSCHMA, Dr Rahila Aliyu-Muktar, unveiled the programme during a sensitisation meeting held at the Kano State Censorship Board headquarters in Kano.

Aliyu-Muktar said the initiative was introduced improve access to quality healthcare for practitioners in the film industry.

She said the programme recognises the contributions of Kannywood practitioners to public enlightenment, cultural promotion, and social development.

According to her, the initiative provides a platform for vulnerable industry practitioners to benefit from healthcare support and other interventions offered by the agency.

“Kannywood practitioners play a vital role in shaping positive societal values.

“Through the Kannywood AbbaCare Initiative, we are extending healthcare support to members of the industry and ensuring that vulnerable practitioners receive the care and attention they deserve,” she said.

Aliyu-Muktar added that the initiative aligns with Gov. Yusuf’s vision to build an inclusive healthcare system that caters to all segments of society.

She, therefore, announced the immediate enrollment of eight seriously ill Kannywood members under the agency’s Rapid Response Team (RRT) for urgent medical assessment, treatment, and follow-up care.

“No individual should be denied healthcare because of financial constraints.

“We have therefore, approved the immediate enrollment of these vulnerable members to ensure they receive timely medical attention and necessary support,” she assured.

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary, Kano State Censorship Board, Alhaji Abba Almustapha, commended KSCHMA for prioritising the welfare of Kannywood practitioners.

Almustapha described the initiative as a reflection of the state government’s commitment to the well-being of artists and other stakeholders in the entertainment industry.

He assured the agency of the board’s support in mobilising Kannywood associations to participate in the programme.

The censorship board chief also urged practitioners to embrace the initiative and take advantage of the healthcare opportunities provided through the partnership.

(NAN)

Aguiyi-Ironsi family pays glowing tribute to late Fajuyi 60 years after

By Adeyemi Adeleye

The family of Nigeria’s first military Head of State, Maj.-Gen. Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi has paid glowing tribute to the late Lt.-Col. Adekunle Fajuyi, saying he offered himself as a sacrificial lamb for the unity and integrity of the nation.

Fajuyi was killed on July 29, 1966, alongside Aguiyi-Ironsi, during a military counter-coup in Ibadan.

Aguiyi-Ironsi family, in a remembrance letter to Fajuyi family seen on Friday described Fajuyi’s death as a supreme and heroic price for national unity.

The letter was signed by Amb. (Chief) Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi, a former Minister of Defence and son of the late Head of State.

The family said July 29,2026 would be a solemn occasion to honour a soldier whose sacrifice continues to inspire generations of Nigerians.

“Lt.-Col. Francis Adekunle Fajuyi was a war hero who offered himself as a sacrificial lamb for the unity and integrity of the nation.

“His courage, loyalty and selflessness remain enduring virtues for all Nigerians.

“His sacrifice stands today as one of the most defining moments in our national history,” the family said.

The family recalled that Fajuyi was Military Governor of the Western Region when mutinous soldiers struck during the military counter-coup of July 1966.

According to them, he was abducted alongside Aguiyi-Ironsi in Ibadan.

The family said Fajuyi had an opportunity to save himself but chose instead to remain with his guest and superior officer.

“In a defining moment of conscience, he chose honour over personal safety.

“He refused to abandon his guest and superior officer in the face of grave danger.

“That decision reflected the highest ideals of loyalty, integrity and military brotherhood.” the family said.

They described Fajuyi as a national martyr whose legacy continues to promote unity, courage and selfless service.

The Aguiyi-Ironsi family also expressed sympathy with the late soldier’s family over the enduring pain of the loss.

The family prayed for continued strength, comfort and peace for the descendants of the late military governor.

“We remain deeply grateful for his life and sacrifice.

“We also appreciate Nigerians, institutions and well-meaning individuals who continue to honour his memory.

“Their support demonstrates that the sacrifice of a true patriot is never forgotten.”

The family called on government institutions and military authorities to sustain efforts to preserve Fajuyi’s memory.

They urged custodians of national history to ensure continued recognition and support for the Fajuyi family.

“He did not run. He did not hide. He chose to stand.

“In that sacrificial decision lay the essence of his greatness.

“His legacy challenges all Nigerians to uphold unity, courage, honour and selfless service,” the letter further read.

(NAN)

GolfX launches maiden outdoor tourney

GolfX successfully launched the 2026 GXT Series with GXT Malayan 2026, the organization’s first-ever outdoor golf tournament, held last June 3 at The Country Club.

GolfX Philippines is Manila’s No.1 premium indoor golf simulator.

The milestone event marked a significant step in the continued growth of the GXT Series, bringing together golfers, partners and members of the golf community for a competitive day on one of the country’s premier golf courses. The tournament was played in a Two-Man Net Best Ball format, producing a highly competitive field and closely contested leaderboard. Emerging as Tournament Champions were Rodel Paderayon and Jenny-Vi Paderayon, who posted a Gross Score of 84 and an impressive Net Score of 59 to capture the inaugural GXT Malayan title.

Finishing as 1st runners-up were JJ Atencio and Jens Knuttel with a gross score of 72 and a net score of 60, while RG Roco and Gie Roco secured 2nd runner-up honors after carding a gross score of 73 and net score of 63.

The low gross trophy was awarded to Jonar Austria and Noel Estrella, who delivered the tournament’s best gross performance with an outstanding score of 67.

The event officially commenced with a ceremonial tee-off featuring representatives from the tournament’s major partners and organizers. Participating in the ceremony were Anthony Louis Guanzon, chief marketing officer of Malayan Insurance; Manuel Dacanay, managing director of TW Steel Philippines; Michael Ray Aquino, vice president for security of Solaire Online; and Kris Etter, golf director and co-founder of GolfX.

GXT Malayan 2026 was made possible through the support of its major sponsors, Malayan Insurance, TW Steel and Solaire Online, whose partnership helped bring the inaugural outdoor edition of the GXT Series to life.

“GolfX was built to be a third space between work and home, built around one shared love: the game. We believe golf should be more accessible, more welcoming, and more connected. Through GXT, we want to create opportunities for people to compete, build relationships, and feel that they belong to a community,” said Stephen Chua, co-founder and President of GolfX.

The tournament represents a major milestone for GolfX and the continued evolution of the GXT Series. Originally established through a growing calendar of indoor tournaments and community-driven golf events, the platform has steadily expanded its reach by creating competitive opportunities for golfers while fostering meaningful connections among players, brands, and industry partners.

The successful staging of GXT Malayan 2026 marks the next phase of growth for the GXT Series as GolfX expands beyond its indoor tournament roots and into larger outdoor golf experiences. More than a competition, the event reflects GolfX’s long-term commitment to growing the game and strengthening the golf community through shared experiences both on and off the course.

Following the successful launch event, GolfX will continue the 2026-2027 GXT Series through a calendar of eleven indoor tournaments across its BGC and San Juan branches. The series will feature monthly tournaments and quarterly championship events designed to provide year-round competitive opportunities while bringing together golfers of different skill levels through a shared passion for the game.

As the inaugural outdoor event of the GXT Series, GXT Malayan 2026 stands as a defining milestone for GolfX and lays the foundation for the continued growth of the platform in the years ahead. Through GXT, GolfX remains committed to building a stronger and more connected golf community while creating valuable opportunities for players, partners, and sponsors alike.

Brands draw line over Brandon Espiritu, Jether Palomo’s ‘halfie’ remarks

A number of local brands have distanced themselves from Filipino-American pageant kings Brandon Espiritu and Jether Palomo over their controversial remarks about foreign residents with Filipino heritage.

A deleted post showed Espiritu and Palomo “pledging allegiance” to their American backgrounds and claiming the Philippines would not be competitive in pageants if not for “halfies” or part-Pinoys like them.

Espiritu finished second runner-up at Mister Supranational 2024, while Palomo was first runner-up at Mister Tourism World 2023, both while carrying the Philippine flag.

The comments drew flak from within and outside the Filipino pageant community, even after the two men issued apologies.

Brands affiliated with either individual released statements to clarify their ties to Palomo and Espiritu and state their positions on the issue.

Primary among them was leading food brand Century Tuna, under which Palomo won the Superbods title in 2024. Century Tuna responds. In an Instagram story, canning giant Century Tuna described itself as a proud Filipino brand operating in over 80 countries and noted how central its Filipino identity is to the company.

The brand expressed disappointment in Palomo’s words on identity and heritage, stressing that they did not reflect the brand’s values.

“We believe that being Filipino is not measured by where one is born, the language one speaks, or one’s pedigree,” Century Tuna said. “It is shared by every Filipino, at home and around the world, equally and without exception.”

The brand noted Palomo’s apology and his acceptance of accountability, ending by reiterating its commitment to celebrate the Filipino “in all our diversity, from every region, language, and walk of life.”

Cutting ties

More brands affiliated with Espiritu also spoke up after his controversial comments circulated, with some opting to cut ties with the pageant king.

Men’s grooming and skin care brand Camou clarified that it has had no connection to Espiritu since 2024, disavowing support for and disassociating itself from his recent actions.

Chavit Singson cries political harassment in arrest for cyberlibel

Former Ilocos Governor Chavit Singson refused to name the complainant in the cyberlibel case filed against him, but said: ‘Whoever he is, he is a bad person.’

In an exclusive interview over Bombo Radyo Laoag on June 11, Singson said the complainant had once asked for his help, and ‘I helped him but still turned against me.’

Giving a hint on who was behind the cyberlibel case, Singson said the fight (against corruption) will not last long because the Ombudsman has spoken and has pointed to (former House Speaker Martin Romualdez) and that it will file cases against him.’

‘Romualdez has said he will not go down alone because it was the DPWH and the Executive who are responsible. Meaning it’s (President) Marcos. They are partners there,’ he said.

‘But what happened? Did the Ombudsman act on it? Charges were filed by me, but nothing happened.

Was there an investigation? No. Martin did not pursue it either, and Marcos did not respond. That means they are all together. We have been deceived. Our government has deceived us because our problem is the government itself,’ Singson said.

‘That is what we must do: catch the mastermind thieves. They are already turning against one another and exposing each other. The end is near,’ he said.

He also said those who are defending the thieves are accomplices of the thieves.

‘Watch the (Senate) hearings. Whoever hides the truth is an accomplice. Help bring the truth out. Let us help one another because our country is in terrible condition,’ he said.

Singson also pointed out that the Philippines has P19 trillion in debt.

‘We pay P2 trillion every year. We can no longer get out of debt. Everything has been borrowed, so it can be stolen. That is the truth, and we must uncover it,’ he said.

‘They want anyone who speaks about the P19 trillion debt to be charged. The case against me is meaningless. That is how thieves behave-they file cases against everyone who exposes them.

Anyone who attacks them is branded as an enemy because they are involved in the theft. Look into it yourselves, and you will find out who the real thieves are.

He said the case they filed against him is not a serious offense, but wondered why the plunder case he filed is not being acted on.

‘I posted bail, and that’s over. But the plunder case we filed against them is still there. Why do they not want to investigate it? Because everyone would be implicated. Let them open it. They have no evidence against me, like the blatant stealing that they themselves committed. Let us stay united. We will win because the truth is on our side and we have God’s mercy.

‘Justice will eventually catch up with everyone who has betrayed our country. Do not be afraid. The thieves will eventually be caught,’ he said.

Singson also said people should ‘look at those who are jumping ship and who are obsessed with money.’

Singson called on the people ‘not to be afraid, as we will eventually win the fight.’

Singson said, ‘Greed is always everyone’s downfall. They are too greedy. No matter how much they earn, it is never enough for them. Give it back to the people because that wealth was given by the Lord to help the people.

Volunteer lawyers backing up House impeach team

Instead of the ‘bloodbath’ she claimed she was eager for when she was first impeached last year, Vice President Sara Duterte now seems to prefer a ‘bubble bath,’ based on her response to the charges, a private prosecutor in her imminent trial said on Thursday.

Veteran litigator Lorna Kapunan, one of the 10 volunteer lawyers who will assist the 11-member House prosecution panel, supported a statement by the prosecutors’ spokesperson, Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, who said that the defense strategy was to evade a hearing of the case against the first Philippine Vice President to ever be impeached twice.

‘If we remember, she said before, to quote a previous maybe longtime statement, that there would be a bloodbath that would occur. But where is that bloodbath? What I can see, personally, is that it is a bubble bath, not a bloodbath,’ Kapunan said during a news conference.

Adiong earlier said that Duterte’s reply to the articles of impeachment did not contain any rebuttal or evidence against the charges but consisted only of rehashed arguments about the alleged lack of due process.

The core impeachment complaints against her in February 2025 and in May 2026 are substantially the same-culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption, bribery, and high crimes.

Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro, the head of the House prosecution team, introduced Kapunan, a litigator for 48 years, and other private volunteer lawyers to reporters.

‘All annexes!’

Kapunan noted that Duterte’s defense team submitted on June 1 a ‘very thick reply’ to the articles of impeachment that was made so by numerous annexes that were attached.

‘What were those annexes? Annexes that aren’t new, annexes that she filed in the Supreme Court, annexes that she filed in the House committee on justice. All annexes!’ she said. ‘But if you look at her answer, there was really no allegation, no statement as to what [evidence] they will present.’

‘If you had evidence, why are you afraid to submit your answer?’ Kapunan added. ‘I would have thought that the Vice President was more courageous and more transparent, since her spokesperson and defense team said they were very much ready.’

Speaking in Davao City after the first impeachment case was submitted to the Senate in February last year, Duterte said her defense team’s preparations were in full swing, despite not wanting a trial to proceed.

‘But I told them that I truly want a trial because I want a bloodbath,’ she said, without elaborating.

That trial was aborted when the Supreme Court ruled in July 2025 that her impeachment then was unconstitutional for violating the one-year bar against multiple impeachment proceedings against the same official.

A month later, she said she still ‘wanted a bloodbath.’ This time she elaborated. ‘It means,’ she said, ‘that I wanted the prosecution and the defense to show their pieces of evidence so we can see everything. But unfortunately, that won’t happen for now.’

Need not reply

Last Monday, the prosecution team led by Luistro submitted a manifestation, telling the Senate Impeachment Court that there was no need for them to reply to Duterte because she did not address the material allegations, and chose to stick to technicalities to seek a dismissal of the impeachment case.

However, Luistro said she expected Duterte’s team had still prepared evidence to counter the charges.

Duterte’s second impeachment was supported by 257 House members who voted in favor of adopting House Resolution (HR) No. 989 containing the articles of impeachment. There were 215 who supported the first impeachment case last year.

The trial is set to begin on July 6.

Private lawyers

At Thursday’s news conference, Luistro said Kapunan and the other private lawyers would provide legal assistance to the House prosecutors for free. She said there were many others who wanted to volunteer.

‘They believe in the mandate of transparency and accountability,’ Luistro said of the volunteers. ‘They support the mandate of the Constitution, and that is the ultimate and sole reason why they are joining the public prosecutors in this impeachment trial.’

The private lawyers were drawn from several of the country’s top law firms-Kapunan and Castillo Law, which also fielded Sonya Margarita Benemerito Castillo, Deanna Melissa Lorenzo Singian, Lino Chris Kapunan, and Bettina Zamora; Pecabar Law, represented by F Marforth Fua, Erwin Matib, Justine Anne Lamarca, and James Bryan Ibrahim Alih; and SaLiGal Law with Amando Ligutan, who previously served as counsel for a group of complainants that filed an impeachment complaint against Duterte.

They are expected to enter their appearance on June 15, according to Luistro, when the House prosecution team submits its pretrial brief containing the summary of evidence and witnesses for the trial.

‘We are confident in the private prosecutors who are helping us, because they are known as outstanding lawyers, or what we call as abogado de campanilla,’ Luistro said.

Needing refreshers

The House prosecution panel is composed of lawyers who have not been practicing for some time.

‘It’s been a while since they litigated, so they need to be refreshed on the current rules of procedures, among others,’ said Fua, who was described as a ‘straightforward and no-nonsense litigator’ by his firm. ‘We are here to see to it that they get the necessary support.’

Kapunan said ‘very serious legal issues’ that strike at the heart of accountability were at stake in the impeachment trial.

‘That is why I’ve committed my time, and my law firm’s time, to assist the public prosecutors here in their very worthwhile cause, which is the issue of public accountability,’ she said.

Holding Duterte accountable for alleged wrongdoing will not be an ‘easy task,’ Ligutan said.

‘But it is a task that we do not take lightly,’ he said. ‘This is a solemn obligation that we have to the Filipino people to exact accountability, even from the highest officials of the land.’

Win: Still 16 to convict

The specific charges against Duterte include alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds, amassing unexplained wealth disproportionate to her lawful income as a public official, failing to disclose all her assets and contracting an assassin to kill President Marcos, first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former Speaker Martin Romualdez.

Duterte’s conviction will need 16 votes from the 24-member Senate, which has been rocked in a leadership dispute between Senate President Pro Tempore and acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, and Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, who is still clinging to the Senate presidency.

Gatchalian said in a statement on Wednesday that the required two-thirds vote ‘is a constitutional mandate and unaffected by any internal Senate leadership arrangement or dispute,’ citing Article XI, Section 3(6) of the 1987 Constitution.

According to Gatchalian, there are currently 22 members over whom the Senate has jurisdiction. The two others are Sen. Ronald ‘Bato’ dela Rosa, who has been declared a fugitive from justice for evading an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court, and Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, who is detained without bail for plunder in connection with the flood control corruption scandal.

For Duterte, the Senate crisis reflects the leadership of the President himself.

‘The chaos and lack of direction in our country reflect the kind of leadership we have in the Palace and in our administration,’ Duterte said on Wednesday.

‘Everyone recognizes the direction of a leader-when there is no direction, no vision, people really end up going their separate ways. That is what we are seeing, not just in the Senate, but across the entire country,’ she added.

Duterte called on the Senate to set aside their differences and determine their priorities, including their constitutional duties.

Why Ruger has been missing from music scene – Record label

The record label of Nigerian singer Michael Adebayo Olayinka, popularly known as Ruger, has revealed why he has been missing from the music scene.

The label explained that the ‘Bounce’ singer stepped back from music while dealing with personal and legal matters.

The statement claimed that an ex-girlfriend filed a lawsuit against the artiste, accusing him of causing ’emotional distress’ and seeking damages.

He explained that he has been away from the music scene due to a legal dispute involving a former partner, according to a statement released by his record label.

Providing details about the situation, the label said the legal case contributed to Ruger’s absence from the spotlight in recent months.

The statement partly read, ‘Ruger was caught up in a series of personal challenges after someone he dated decided to sue him for alleged ’emotional distress,’ and ‘damages.’

According to the label, the legal matter affected the singer’s activities and partly explains why fans have not seen much of him on the music scene recently.

Despite the setback, the record label confirmed that Ruger is preparing to make a return as the statement disclosed that the singer is expected to resume his music career and reconnect with fans in August.

The announcement comes amid growing curiosity among fans about the reason behind Ruger’s absence and when he would release new music.

MasterChef Nigeria: Favy rises above the pressure, wins ‘immunity pin’

The MasterChef Nigeria kitchen transformed into a bakery this week as the contestants faced a daunting White Apron Challenge that pushed them far beyond their comfort zones.

With no elimination on the line, the challenge instead offered something equally valuable, the coveted ‘Immunity Pin’.

To put the home cooks to the test, MasterChef Nigeria welcomed renowned pastry chef Tosan Jemide, who travelled all the way from Australia to share his expertise. Chef Tosan is celebrated across the continent and holds the record for creating the tallest cake in Africa.

For contestants more comfortable with savoury dishes than sponge cakes, the challenge immediately sparked nerves. Their task was to recreate Chef Tosan’s cake recipe while also decorating their creations. Just when they thought they had enough on their plates, the judges introduced a surprise twist: every contestant had to decorate a cookie as an additional challenge.

As the pressure mounted, emotions began to boil over. Favy suffered a major setback when her cakes toppled over in the oven. The devastating moment triggered a panic attack and left her questioning whether she could continue. However, with encouragement from the judges, she regrouped, adapted her approach and found a creative way to work with what remained of her bake.

Meanwhile, Isabella’s challenge unravelled when an error in her measurements resulted in a mixture that resembled soup rather than cake. Disappointed and frustrated, she even considered presenting nothing to the judges. Ultimately, she chose to persevere and plate the best version of what she had. Unfortunately, the judges were not impressed with the outcome.

Even the usually calm and collected David found himself overwhelmed during the cake-decorating stage. Struggling with the intricate finishing touches, he experienced a rare meltdown before receiving guidance and encouragement from the judges to keep pushing forward.

Loye entered the challenge, admitting that baking was far outside his comfort zone. Despite his nerves, he managed to stay focused and successfully presented the judges with a fully decorated cake, proving that determination can sometimes be just as important as experience.

After tasting and judging all the bakes, the judges rewarded resilience, adaptability and perseverance.

In a result that perfectly captured the spirit of the challenge, Favy was named ‘Dish of the Day’. Despite her early disaster, she refused to give up, demonstrated remarkable composure under pressure and delivered a bake worthy of the top honour.

Her reward? The coveted Immunity Pin gives her a powerful advantage in the competition moving forward. Next week, the competition intensifies as the home cooks face another demanding challenge. With the stakes getting higher and the field becoming stronger, who will rise to the occasion and who will crumble under the pressure?

Matawalle sure of more North’s votes for Tinubu

Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle has expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will record a stronger electoral performance in the North in next year’s presidential election.

Matawalle said President Tinubu remains politically strong, especially in the Northwest and continues to enjoy the confidence of many residents due to his administration’s efforts in addressing insecurity and driving development.

In a statement yesterday by his Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, the minister said no amount of propaganda, misinformation, or politically- motivated attacks would distract the President from delivering on his mandate.

Matawalle said the achievements of the Tinubu administration would continue to resonate with Nigerians, who, according to him, are witnessing improvements in security, livelihoods and economic opportunities.

He accused some opposition elements, particularly in the Northwest, of spreading false narratives and exaggerating security challenges in an attempt to undermine the achievements of the Tinubu administration.

According to him, critics of the government have deliberately ignored progress made in tackling insecurity while focusing on isolated incidents to create fear and political tension.

Matawalle argued that the opposition was uncomfortable with what he described as visible gains in the fight against insecurity and ongoing developmental efforts across the country.

The minister commended security agencies for their dedication and sacrifices in defending the nation, noting that many personnel have paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.

He said the Tinubu administration had adopted a more coordinated and intelligence-driven approach to combating insecurity, particularly in the Northwest states of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna and Kebbi.

According to him, the strategy has led to the neutralisation of several notorious bandit leaders and the destruction of criminal hideouts across the region.

The minister also said the Renewed Hope Agenda was producing positive results in key sectors, including security, infrastructure, agriculture, social investment and economic reforms.

He highlighted the federal government’s interventions in North, including road rehabilitation projects, support for agricultural value chains, food security initiatives, investments in rail and energy infrastructure, and programmes aimed at empowering youths and women.

Crew of aircraft that landed on the road in custody

The four crew members of the private aircraft that landed on a road near Asaba Airport, Delta State on Wednesday are currently in the custody of security agencies, Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister Festus Keyamo(SAN) has revealed.

Keyamo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria(SAN), also announced the suspension of the suspension of the licence of the operator of the aircraft by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority ( NCAA ).

He explained that the detained crew of the aircraft are cooperating with relevant agencies in the investigations of the incident.

He said the ministry was alarmed that the crew only notified Air Traffic Control about the aircraft’s return to Lagos while already airborne.

In a post on his X, the minister described the incident as a matter of grave safety and regulatory concern, vowing that relevant agencies will enforce strict sanctions on the infraction and crew’s non – compliance.

The post reads: ‘I have received reports of the private aircraft that conducted a missed approach at approximately 07:43 am local time this morning whilst attempting to land at the Asaba airport and ended up landing on a concrete road still under construction in the Ogwashi-Uku area, near Asaba.

‘Happily, eyewitnesses at the scene indicate that all occupants safely exited the aircraft and were transported to Asaba by road. The aircraft had four crew members on board, and there were no injuries to them.

‘I am also informed that the aircraft subsequently departed the location at approximately 11:02 GMT and returned to Lagos without obtaining the requisite regulatory approval. I also understand that Air Traffic Control was notified only after the aircraft had become airborne. In other words, the aircraft had no clearance to take off again.

‘We view this incident as a serious breach of Regulations and security, and the following actions have been taken:

‘Upon its arrival in Lagos, the NCAA immediately grounded the aircraft pending the outcome of its investigation.

‘The NCAA has placed the flight under regulatory review while it conducts further inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the occurrence and the subsequent unauthorised departure of the aircraft.

‘The NCAA is coordinating with relevant aviation stakeholders, including the operator and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

‘The NCAA has suspended the operator’s permit for Non-Commercial flight (PNCF).’

The NCAA will also review all operational, airworthiness, maintenance, and flight-related records as part of its statutory responsibilities and will take further enforcement action in accordance with applicable aviation regulations.

‘I have also spoken to relevant security agencies, and I have been assured that the crew are in their custody and they are assisting them with their investigation.”

According to preliminary information, the aircraft was unable to access the airport’s runway but managed to land safely on an unfinished road.

In line with its statutory responsibilities, NCAA will undertake a thorough review of all operational, airworthiness, maintenance, and flight-related records associated with the aircraft and operator, and will not hesitate to impose further enforcement actions as may be warranted under the applicable civil aviation regulations.