Category: PM News

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday handed over recovered N108 million to a company, Greenwich Planet Sun King Nigeria Limited, in Lagos.

The money, handed over in bank drafts, formed part of the funds recovered by the Commission in the course of an investigation into an alleged case of abuse of office, forgery, stealing and diversion involving two former employees of the company.

Investigation revealed that the suspects, Nkechi Gladys Megai, who is currently at large after fleeing to the United Kingdom, and Godson Eze, a former Chief Financial Officer, abused their positions by forging documents, creating fake invoices in the names of the company’s legitimate vendors, and diverting funds through fraudulent transactions carried out over a period of time.

The investigation also revealed that the fraudulent payments ran into several hundreds of millions of naira.

At Wednesday’s handover ceremony, the Acting Zonal Director of the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE I Bawa Usman Kaltungo, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that victims of economic and financial crimes obtain justice and, where possible, recover assets fraudulently obtained from them.

Kaltungo also disclosed that ‘efforts are ongoing to ensure that all persons connected with the fraud, including those who have fled the country, are brought to justice in accordance with the law.’

The company’s legal representatives, while receiving the bank drafts, expressed appreciation to the EFCC for its painstaking investigation, professionalism and commitment to recovering the stolen funds.

They also assured the Commission that the recovered money would go a long way towards mitigating the losses suffered by the company.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has returned N108 million recovered from an alleged fraud case involving two former employees of a Lagos company.

The anti-graft agency announced this in a statement on Friday. It said the money, presented as bank drafts, was recovered during an investigation into allegations of abuse of office, forgery, stealing and diversion of company funds.

According to the EFCC, one of the suspects, Nkechi Gladys Megai, is currently on the run after allegedly fleeing to the United Kingdom. The second suspect, Godson Eze, is the company’s former Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

The commission said the two suspects allegedly forged documents, created fake invoices using the names of the company’s genuine vendors and diverted company money through fraudulent transactions over a period of time.

The EFCC added that the total amount allegedly stolen ran into several hundreds of millions of naira.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Acting Zonal Director of EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, Assistant Commander Bawa Usman Kaltungo, said the commission remained committed to ensuring that victims of financial crimes receive justice and recover stolen assets whenever possible.

He also said efforts were ongoing to arrest everyone linked to the alleged fraud, including those who have fled the country.

The company’s legal representatives, Karren Walters Attorneys, praised the EFCC for its professionalism and thorough investigation. They said the recovered N108 million would help reduce the financial losses suffered by the company.

The EFCC said investigations are still ongoing as it continues efforts to track down all other suspects connected with the alleged fraud.

The 17th edition of the Healing Streams Live Healing Services with Pastor Chris begins today, bringing together billions of participants worldwide for three days of worship, prayer, healing, and spiritual transformation.

The global Christian healing programme is scheduled to commence at 2:00 p.m. (GMT+1) and will be broadcast live on Healing Streams TV, all LoveWorld Networks, and numerous television, radio, and digital platforms across the world.

According to the organisers, participants are expected to connect from homes, churches, Healing Centers, hospitals, workplaces, schools, correctional facilities, and communities across every continent.

To make the programme accessible to a global audience, the live broadcasts will be simultaneously interpreted into multiple world languages and thousands of dialects, allowing millions of viewers to participate regardless of their location or language.

Since its inception, the Healing Streams Live Healing Services have grown into one of the world’s largest Christian healing broadcasts, reaching billions through live and rebroadcast transmissions. The programme has become known for testimonies of healing and restoration, with participants reporting recoveries from various physical, emotional, and health conditions.

This year’s edition is expected to feature healing ministrations by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, President of LoveWorld Nation, alongside worship sessions, faith-building teachings, and testimonies from participants across different countries.

Ahead of the programme, organisers highlighted several testimonies recorded during the March 2026 edition.

Among them is Kamjori from India, who said she was healed of dyspepsia and severe body pain that had affected her daily life for several years after participating in the live service from a Healing Center.

In Germany, Reign testified that persistent breathing difficulties, which had continued despite hospital visits and medication, disappeared during the live broadcast.

Similarly, Grace from Senegal recounted being healed of severe pain on the left side of her body after months of discomfort that had limited her mobility. She said the pain vanished during the healing ministration, enabling her to resume her normal activities.

Organisers said these testimonies reflect thousands of similar accounts documented from previous editions of the programme.

Speaking ahead of the event, Mr. Olajide Babasola, Head of Media Communications, Ministry of Healing, Health and Social Services, LoveWorld Nation, invited people around the world to participate in the services.

‘This is an open invitation to people everywhere, regardless of nationality, language, or background, and anyone seeking healing, restoration, salvation, answers to prayer, or a deeper encounter with God, to participate in the live broadcasts,’ Babasola said.

He added that the programme offers individuals and families an opportunity to experience the transformative power of Jesus Christ and God’s love.

The Healing Streams Live Healing Services will run over the next three days, with viewers able to join the broadcasts from anywhere in the world through Healing Streams TV and affiliated broadcast platforms.

A high-stakes criminal trial involving alleged forgery and the diversion of N460,750,000 took a dramatic turn this week at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, after the principal defendant failed to appear in court, citing a medical emergency abroad without producing any supporting documentation.

The matter, Inspector General of Police v. Austin Ugochukwu Albert and 2 Others, is being prosecuted by G. T. Nev, Esq. of the Directorate of Legal Services, Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, Abuja, before Hon. Justice I. A. Kala.

At the heart of the case is Mr. Austin Ugochukwu Albert, popularly known as Austin Albert, a Nigerian businessman with interests in, and a Chief Executive Officer of a Dubai-based real estate firm, Loft and Keys Properties LLC. Also joined in the charge is Mr. Jinadu Musbau Olalekan, Head of Finance at a Lagos-based an advisory firm jointly owned by Albert and a female partner who serves as the company’s Chief Executive Officer.

According to the charge sheet, on March 6, 2026, the sum of N460,750,000 was allegedly transferred out of the company’s account domiciled with Globus Bank Plc, without the knowledge or consent of the CEO. The funds were said to have been moved into an account belonging to New Power Energy and Logistics Services.

The prosecution alleges that Austin Albert and the Head of Finance conspired to effect the transfer and further forged the CEO’s signature to authorize it.

A third defendant originally listed, Ms. Ugumanim Okputu Joana Agwu, an Executive Assistant to Albert, had faced a separate count relating to assault. That count was however struck out by the prosecution after it was determined that the court lacked jurisdiction to hear it together with the financial offences.

The offences are brought pursuant to the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, the Miscellaneous Offences Act, and the Criminal Code Act. It must be emphasized that these remain allegations.

None of the defendants has been convicted, and each is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.

Court Proceedings:

When the case was called this week, the courtroom was filled to capacity, but the dock was not. The first defendant, Austin Albert, was absent. Counsel for the 1st and 3rd defendants, Malam Abdul-Hakeem Adio, informed the court that his client had recently undergone major surgery in Dubai. However, no medical report or any documentary evidence was tendered to substantiate the claim.

The prosecution was quick to highlight the inconsistency. G. T. Nev, Esq. reminded the court that at the last adjourned date, the defence had merely stated that Austin Albert was ‘out of the country,’ with no reference to any health challenge.

The sudden emergence of a surgery narrative, he argued, without any proof, raised concerns. In the interest of justice and fair hearing, Justice Kala declined to proceed in the absence of the principal defendant.

The court, exercising judicial discretion, adjourned the matter to October 5, 2026 for arraignment, directing that both remaining defendants, Austin Albert and Jinadu Musbau Olalekan, must be present.

FIDA’s Presence And The Defence’s Position:

In attendance was a delegation from the International Federation of Women Lawyers, Nigeria (FIDA), led by Barr.

Ogechi Abu, with Barrs. Phil Nneji, Chioma Porom, and Kemi Ogunnaike. Also on a watching brief for the norminal complainant is Barrs. OLUNIYI ADEDIJI ESQ, of J – K GADZAMA LLP.

Speaking after proceedings, Barr. Abu stated that FIDA was present ‘to observe proceedings in the case between the Inspector-General of Police and Austin Albert and others.

‘ She noted the amendment of the charge which led to the dropping of the second defendant, and drew attention to the defence’s shifting explanations regarding Austin Albert’s absence.

‘At the last adjourned date, there was no mention of any medical indisposition,’ she said. ‘Today, we are hearing of major surgery, yet without a medical report to show the nature of it to the court.’ Barr. Abu added that FIDA’s interest stems from the fact that ‘the nominal complainant in this case is a female,’ and that the protection of women’s rights falls within the organization’s core mandate.

She commended the court for its cautious approach in adjourning the matter. Responding, defence counsel, Malam Adio, dismissed suggestions that the case involved violence against women.

‘If you look at the entire charge sheet, the common thread is forgery,’ he argued.

‘This matter has nothing to do with violence against a woman.’ On the issue of settlement, Adio disclosed that discussions for an amicable resolution were ongoing between the parties.

‘We came to court today expecting that path, only to be met with an amended charge this morning,’ he said. He expressed optimism that ‘by the next hearing, a resolution may well be in sight.’

What Happens Next:

With the amended charge now listing only Austin Albert and Jinadu Musbau Olalekan as defendants, all eyes will be on the October 5 adjourned date.

The court will expect both men to appear for arraignment, and for the defence to produce the promised medical documentation.

Whether the ongoing settlement talks will yield results before then remains to be seen, a development that FIDA and other court observers say they will be monitoring closely.

Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has reinforced its position as one of the continent’s leading financial institutions after emerging as Nigeria’s Best Bank for Retail and Sustainability Leadership (ESG) at the prestigious 2026 Euromoney Awards for Excellence.

The awards, presented on Thursday, July 17, 2026, at The Peninsula London in the United Kingdom, celebrates banking institutions that demonstrate outstanding financial performance, innovation, customer impact and sustainable business practices.

The double recognition underscores UBA’s leadership in driving sustainable finance while expanding access to innovative banking solutions for millions of customers across Africa.

According to Euromoney, UBA distinguished itself through significant strides in environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance, including the launch of a Green Financing Facility to support households and businesses transitioning to renewable energy, a ?5 billion financing programme in partnership with the Bank of Industry to empower women-owned businesses, and its long-term commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

The publication also highlighted UBA’s efforts to embed sustainability within its operations through the deployment of solar-powered energy solutions across 50 branches and comprehensive ESG capacity-building initiatives that have trained more than 16,000 employees across the Group.

In the retail banking category, Euromoney recognised UBA’s continued expansion as one of Africa’s largest retail banking franchises. The Bank grew its customer base to over 37 million by the end of 2025, while retail revenue more than quadrupled to ?429.5 billion.

The awards also acknowledged UBA’s continued digital innovation, particularly the enhancement of its award-winning AI-powered chatbot, LEO, which became Africa’s first artificial intelligence banking platform to facilitate cross-border money transfers in local currencies through the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS).

Commenting on the recognition, UBA’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, described the awards as a validation of the Bank’s unwavering commitment to creating value for customers while advancing sustainable development across Africa.

‘To be recognised as Nigeria’s Best Bank for both ESG and Retail Banking in the same year sends a powerful message that sustainable banking and commercial success are mutually reinforcing.

‘At UBA, we are committed to financing Africa’s future, supporting businesses and communities, promoting financial inclusion, and delivering innovative banking solutions that improve lives. These awards belong to our customers for their confidence in us and to every member of the UBA family whose dedication continues to make our vision a reality.’

Also speaking on the awards, UBA’s Group Head, Marketing, Brand and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, said the recognition reflects the Bank’s enduring commitment to putting customers at the centre of everything it does.

‘These awards are a powerful affirmation of our Customer First philosophy. Every innovation we introduce, every solution we develop and every investment we make is driven by our desire to create exceptional value for our customers.

‘Whether it is supporting entrepreneurs with access to finance, enabling seamless digital payments, advancing clean energy financing or expanding financial inclusion across Africa, UBA remains focused on delivering meaningful impact. We are honoured that one of the world’s most respected financial publications has recognised these efforts.’

With operations in 20 African countries as well as the United Kingdom, the United States, France and the United Arab Emirates, UBA continues to strengthen its position as Africa’s Global Bank, serving more than 45 million customers through innovative technology, world-class banking services and an unwavering commitment to sustainable development.

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has warned that the commission’s dependence on budget approvals from other institutions could undermine its ability to deliver free, fair and credible elections in 2027.

Amupitan said INEC could not attain genuine independence without financial autonomy, arguing that the current funding arrangement remained a major limitation on its operations and could weaken public confidence in the electoral process.

He spoke on Thursday while delivering a keynote address at the public presentation of Shadows: Protest Essays on Africa’s Most Consequential Country (1999-2023), written by THISDAY Managing Director Eniola Bello, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.

‘Can INEC truly be independent without financial autonomy? If we are serious about strengthening our institutions and conducting free, fair and credible elections, then financial autonomy is essential,’ Amupitan said.

The INEC chairman explained that although the Constitution provides for the commission’s funding through the Consolidated Revenue Fund, the provision does not guarantee genuine financial independence because INEC remains subject to the regular appropriation process.

‘The Constitution places INEC’s funding on the Consolidated Revenue Fund, and many believe that is sufficient.

‘However, experience has shown that as long as INEC remains subject to the normal appropriation process and depends on budgetary approvals by other institutions, genuine financial independence remains difficult,’ he said.

Amupitan said INEC’s responsibilities extend beyond conducting elections, noting that the commission also oversees voter registration, the registration and monitoring of political parties and the maintenance of the national register of voters.

He added that INEC conducts federal and state elections and supports local government elections in certain respects, making greater operational and financial autonomy essential to the effective discharge of its mandate.

‘For these reasons, there is a strong case for giving INEC greater operational and financial autonomy to improve efficiency and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process,’ he said.

Amupitan, however, stressed that the responsibility for credible elections does not rest solely with INEC. He identified political parties, security agencies, the media, civil society organisations and citizens as critical players in Nigeria’s democratic process.

‘When we talk about strengthening institutions, there are several institutions involved in the conduct of elections.

‘Most times, people think only of the Independent National Electoral Commission, but beyond INEC, we also have the media, the security agencies, civil society organisations and, indeed, the Nigerian people.

‘The health of our democracy is reflected in the strength of this wider institutional framework,’ he said.

The INEC chairman called for cooperation among all stakeholders to ensure that the 2027 general elections are peaceful, free, fair and credible.

‘Therefore, if we truly want the 2027 elections to be free, fair, credible and peaceful, all these institutions must work together,’ Amupitan added.

Addressing concerns over the appointment of INEC’s leadership, Amupitan said the Constitution contains safeguards requiring the President to appoint the commission’s chairman and national commissioners in consultation with the Council of State and subject to confirmation by the Senate.

He noted, however, that the effectiveness of constitutional and legal safeguards often depends on the conduct of those entrusted with implementing them.

‘Sometimes, however, the issue is not the law itself but those who operate it,’ he said.

The Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) has urged industry players to embrace artificial intelligence and innovation, insisting technology will redefine, not replace, the future of advertising.

The call was made at the opening of the association’s 53rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Congress in Lagos, where advertising professionals, regulators, government representatives and marketing communications stakeholders gathered to discuss the future of the industry amid rapid technological change.

Held at Providence Hotel, Ikeja GRA, the two-day conference is themed ‘AdVolution: The End of Advertising as We Know It and How to Win What Comes Next,’ focusing on the growing influence of artificial intelligence, changing consumer behaviour, emerging technologies and evolving creative business models.

The AGM began on Thursday with a members-only business session featuring the AAAN President’s stewardship address alongside committee reports outlining the association’s activities, achievements and strategic priorities.

The association also inducted three new agencies-JT Agency, Purple Stardust Limited and Omnifique Options Limited, into its membership, a move aimed at strengthening collaboration and expanding Nigeria’s advertising and marketing communications ecosystem.

Opening the conference on Friday, AAAN President, Lanre Adisa, said the industry’s biggest threat was not technological disruption itself but the failure of agencies to evolve alongside it.

He stressed the importance of investing in talent development while equipping professionals with the skills to leverage emerging technologies without losing the creative ingenuity that defines effective advertising.

‘The greatest challenge facing the industry is not change itself, but the risk of failing to adapt alongside it,’ Adisa said, urging agencies to build capabilities that combine technology with human creativity.

Delivering the keynote address, Chief Executive Officer of Big Cabal Media, Tomiwa Aladekomo, argued that although artificial intelligence is reshaping the advertising landscape, it cannot replace the originality, intuition and cultural understanding that human creatives bring to campaigns.

He challenged agencies to focus less on technology itself and more on the unique value they deliver to clients, describing AI as a powerful tool that should complement, not substitute, creative thinking.

Also speaking, Dr. Meksley Nwagboh, Division Head, Brands and Communications at Fidelity Bank Plc, described the ongoing transformation as an opportunity for agencies to rethink value creation in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

According to him, consumers now demand authenticity, relevance and meaningful brand experiences, making it imperative for agencies to blend technology, data and human judgement to produce impactful campaigns.

Representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, described the conference theme as timely, noting that while technology continues to transform industries, creativity remains an inherently human strength.

A panel discussion featuring senior executives from Guinness Nigeria Plc, Spice 360, Digisplash Limited, 7even Interactive and Visa Nigeria examined how agencies can remain competitive in an AI-driven era.

The panelists agreed that while artificial intelligence can improve efficiency and streamline creative processes, strategic thinking, innovation and human insight remain indispensable in building lasting connections between brands and consumers.

The 53rd AAAN AGM and Congress will conclude with the AAAN Gala and Awards, where outstanding individuals and organisations will be honoured for their contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s advertising industry.

The Nigerian Army has listed killing of four suspected kidnappers, rescue of three kidnapped victims and arrest of eight suspects among the recent achievements of its troops in coordinated operations across Kogi and Kwara.

This is contained in an operational report of Operation Savannah Shield made available on Tuesday.

In Kwara, the troops ambushed suspected kidnappers at a crossing point along Jonloji village in the riverine area of Kaiama Local Government of the state.

The report said the troops neutralised four kidnappers, rescued one abducted victim and recovered one pump-action gun, four motorcycles and N64,000 cash.

It said the rescued victim was evacuated to the General Hospital, Kaiama, for medical attention.

The report also said that troops at Forward Operating Base, Egbe, rescued two kidnap victims abducted on July 21 at Ruga Mascaru in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi.

According to the report, the victims were safely reunited with their families after the kidnappers fled on sighting the troops.

The report added that in Plateau, troops arrested three suspects accused of attempting to rape a 12-year-old girl in Bokkos Local Government Area and handed them over to the police.

‘Troops also intervened in a clash between a farmer and a herder over alleged destruction of farmland, arresting the farmer and evacuating the injured herder for treatment,’ it said.

The report further said that the troops foiled an armed robbery attempt along the Hawan Kibo-Rafin Sanyi road in Riyom Local Government Area after engaging the criminals, who fled the scene.

It added that troops in other operational theatres, including Operations Fansan Yamma, Hadin Kai and AA II, sustained offensive operations and routine patrols without recording significant incidents.

Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has called for sweeping electoral reforms, warning that the increasing influence of money politics and the imposition of consensus candidates by political parties pose serious threats to Nigeria’s democracy.

Falana made the remarks on Thursday while delivering the keynote address at the 8th annual lecture of PenPushing Media held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Abeokuta.

Falana in his lecture themed, ‘Restoring Electoral Integrity: The Path to Good Governance and Public Accountability.’

The senior lawyer stressed that electoral integrity must begin with transparent and credible party primaries, insisting that political party members should be allowed to freely choose their candidates rather than having aspirants imposed through consensus arrangements.

He criticised the growing use of consensus candidacy, particularly within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, describing the practice as a setback to internal democracy that encourages plutocracy and political manipulation.

While acknowledging that the Electoral Act permits both direct and consensus primaries, Falana argued that democratic principles are better served when candidates emerge through votes cast by party members.

Falana also raised concerns over the increasing monetisation of Nigeria’s electoral process, citing reports that governorship aspirants allegedly spent between ?20 billion and ?30 billion during recent party primaries.

Referring to comments credited to the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, he questioned the legitimacy of such huge campaign expenditures.

‘If you are spending between ?20 billion and ?30 billion on a primary election, how much are you going to spend in the actual election?’ Falana asked.

He maintained that such levels of spending could hardly come from legitimate sources, warning that they fuel corruption, undermine electoral credibility and weaken public confidence in democratic governance.

Falana further cautioned against attempts to weaken Nigeria’s multi-party democracy through the deregistration of political parties or the exclusion of opposition groups from the political process.

Drawing lessons from developments in other African countries, he warned that suppressing opposition voices often creates conditions capable of destabilising democratic institutions.

He urged the government, political parties and other stakeholders to embark on comprehensive electoral reforms aimed at strengthening internal party democracy, reducing the influence of money in politics and promoting transparency, accountability and credible elections.

Meanwhile, founder of PenPushing Media, Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to ethical journalism and the fight against fake news.

He said the annual lecture has continued to grow in quality and relevance since its inception, describing the 2026 edition as another milestone in the organisation’s efforts to promote responsible journalism.

Kayode-Adedeji also welcomed Falana’s offer of collaboration with PenPushing Media, expressing confidence that the partnership would further strengthen the platform’s commitment to balanced and credible reporting.

He reiterated that the organisation would never compromise its reputation by spreading false information, noting that its dedication to truth and professionalism has earned it the trust and support of several distinguished Nigerians.

‘We have made it a policy that we will never spread fake news. We are known for truth, and we will maintain that position. We will not deviate from it,’ he said.

A viral video clip of Arise TV Morning show claiming that there were violent attacks and razing of some motor parks in Osogbo, Osun State for ‘two consecutive days’ has ended up being a fake news.

The newscaster claims in the video that violence, allegedly orchestrated by NURTW members loyal to the All Progressives Congress, raged in the motor parks throughout Monday and Tuesday, July 21 and 22 respectively. It also shows a fire scene which must have been deceitfully embedded in the video by whoever generated it to give an impression that fire was set on some of the parks.

Shocked by the wrong report, the Osun State Police Command invited journalists on Wednesday morning to visit all the motor parks so the public would be availed of the truth to avoid unnecessary tension among residents of the state.

The command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, led the press crew which included this reporter to the motor parks across Osogbo. Drivers, commuters and traders alike in and around the motor parks were seen going about their normal businesses. They also debunked the rumours that there were disturbances in the parks.

The fact-finding team’s first port of call was the Stadium Motor Parks. The park was calm without any sign of recent fracas. The vulcanizer at the park, Olawale Olagunju, and others spoken with said the garage has ever been peaceful.

Olagunju, who spoke in Yoruba Language, said: ‘Nobody burned down this park. I’m always here, nobody set any fire here. Either yesterday or any day, nobody burnt anywhere here. There wasn’t any fighting or crisis here. I’ve always been here. So, there’s no truth in the report.’

Another resident of the area whose shop is behind the garage said the park has always been peaceful and said there was no iota of truth in the report of violence.

The team moved from there to Ilesa Garage, Osogbo where the NURTW members and commuters were seen in joyous mood and the traders in the garage spoken to denied knowledge of any disturbance.

One of the traders who also spoke in Yoruba, Mrs Matthew, said: ‘There wasn’t even a smoke, let alone fire. There was nothing like that. Nobody fought here. No anywhere was burnt. If anywhere was burnt, you too would have seen the traces.’

From Ilesa Garage, the team moved to Aregbe Garage which was bubbling with activities. Traders in the garage also denied occurrence of any such incident. Madam Oluwatoyin simply said ‘This is Aregbe Garage, nothing happened here at all.’

The last garage visited by the team was the Old Garage at the center of Osogbo. The place was also calm and the Police Armored Personnel Carrier and patrol vehicles stationed there since the NURTW’s Monday protest in the area to maintain peace were seen on ground.

Adebayo Adeyinka who spoke with the journalists said: ‘There is no problem in this place. We are selling our market normally. Nobody has created any crisis here at all. No fire here o. You can see that everything is normal here. We are okay here at Old Garage, Oju Irin. It was only protest that took place here on Monday and police came to settle it immediately.’

At the end of the exercise, PPRO Ojelabi spoke with the journalists to assure residents of the state that there was no any iota of truth in the report by the television station. He urged all to go about their normal businesses and warned purveyors of fake news to desist from creating unnecessary tension.

Ojelabi, while speaking with the press, said: ‘This visit was necessitated by what we heard yesterday going round that some parks have been set on fire within the state. We’ve gone round the parks and we’ve seen that there is nothing of such. Presently we are at Old Garage, Oju-Irin. As you can see, nothing of such. There is no sign of fire anywhere, not to talk of setting anywhere ablaze. Everywhere is beautiful. The people are going about their lawful business.’

However, Ojelabi urged all transport workers in the state to remain peaceful and that they should always use appropriate channels to resolve any grievances when they occur.

‘My message to transport workers is that they should remain peaceful and if there are any grievances, they should go to the appropriate authorities to settle the differences. There are rules and regulations guiding parks management. So, they should follow the rules and let peace reign.

‘To those who are spreading falsehood and misleading information, they should be very careful. The Cybercrime Act is still very active and we are going to make use of it against those spreading falsehood,’ the PPRO warned.