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A wanted terror kingpin, Kachalla Maidawa, and 35 others, have met their Waterloo during a series of coordinated joint operations by the security forces.

The operations, which involved the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Navy, Department of State Service (DSS), the Police, and highbred forces, were conducted between September 29 and October 4.

The coordinated operations also led to the arrest of 32 criminal suspects, the rescue of 22 kidnap victims, and the recovery of a substantial cache of arms, ammunition, and logistics supplies.

A highly placed military source, who confirmed Maidawa’s death to The Nation on Sunday, stated that the terrorist kingpin and 11 of his foot soldiers were killed in Kogi State.

According to the source, during the onslaught that eliminated Maidawa and his cohort, troops under Operation EGWU EKE ATITE III, in collaboration with personnel of the Nigerian Navy, DSS, Police, and Hybrid Forces, thwarted Maidawa’s plan to attack at Isanlu, in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.

‘During the fierce firefight, troops overpowered the extremists, neutralizing over twelve terrorists, including the dreaded Kachalla Maidawa, who had long terrorized communities across Kogi East and Kwara State,’ the source revealed.

‘Items recovered after the operation include one AK-47 rifle, 400 rounds of mixed ammunition, four motorcycles, three Dane guns, a fragmentation jacket, mobile phones, and other sundry items.’

The source said 34 Artillery Brigade and Operation UDO KA raided Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN) hideouts in Abia and Imo States, arresting several suspects, including the abductor and killer of the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Afikpo.

Revealing successes recorded in other theaters of operation between September 29 and October 4, the source said 1 Brigade in Kebbi State ambushed terrorists along the Salka-Kinke-Makurdi road in Ngaski Local Government Area, killing two and rescuing eight kidnap victims. The troops also recovered seven AK-47 magazines, 180 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and two motorcycles.

The source said, ‘Similarly, in Kaduna State, 11 Field Engineer Regiment and CSI Battalion intercepted several criminal activities, including a ?3 million ransom delivery attempt involving brand-new motorcycles meant for terrorists. Troops rescued the five kidnap victims and neutralized several fleeing bandits during the operations in Giwa and Birnin Gwari Local Government Area.

‘In a related development, two suspected kidnappers were intercepted at Damakasuwa checkpoint in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area with ?1.3 million, while follow-up operations led to the neutralization of two other members of the syndicate who tried to escape during arrest.’

In the North East, the source said, 151 Task Force Battalion killed five ISWAP/JAS terrorists during an ambush at Dipchari in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State. Additionally, 3 Battalion and 24 Task Force Brigade arrested suspected ISWAP logistics and drug suppliers along the Gamboru-Wulgo road, recovering illicit items. Another operation in Monguno led to the arrest of 12 suspects, including a terrorist tax collector, effectively crippling the terrorist intelligence network in the region.

On other military successes in the South East, the source said 34 Artillery Brigade neutralized a notorious foot soldier of an IPOB/ESN commander and recovered one AK-47 rifle, two magazines, and 14 rounds of ammunition.

‘Operations in the South South under Operation DELTA SAFE uncovered and destroyed multiple illegal oil refining sites in Rivers and Bayelsa States, recovering over 2,000 litres of stolen crude oil. Additionally, 14 drug peddlers were arrested by troops in conjunction with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA,’ he said.

In the North Central, the source said troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralized an armed suspect in Benue State and rescued six kidnapped victims in Taraba State.

‘Further arrests of arms suppliers and suspected collaborators were made in Sokoto and Kano States, reinforcing the Army’s proactive stance against insecurity,’ the source said.

A Chinese power generation firm, CCETC, has expressed its readiness to establish a power generation plant as well as an industrial park in Ogun State.

Chairman of the company, Mr Guo Xianda, disclosed this at the weekend during an extensive meeting between his team and the Ogun State governor, at the governor’s office in Abeokuta, pledging the company ‘s readiness to install a 3MW power plant at the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport, Iperu-Ilishan, free of charge, in order to accelerate economic activities at the arena.

The investment pledge comes on the heels of the recent visit of Governor Dapo Abiodun to China, in continuation of his investment drive across the globe.

The governor, who led a powerful economic team from Ogun State to China, had engaged numerous investors on partnerships and collaborations in different areas of investments, raging from tech, energy and manufacturing, among others.

According to Mr Guo Xianda, the company based in Jiangsu, China, already has a substantial investment footprint in Nigeria and Africa, with over 250MW projects operating in Nigeria, and is now seeking to expand its operations further across Africa, with its capacity standing in excess of 5,000MW for distribution.

Xianda stated that the interest of the group in Ogun State covers power generation and distribution, investment in a dedicated state transmission network, and the establishment of an Industrial Park that will attract more Chinese manufacturers to Ogun State.

Responding, Governor Dapo Abiodun thanked the group for bringing such strategic investment opportunities to Ogun State.

According to him, ‘The company will strategically focus on three fundamental areas of intervention, namely: strengthening power generation and distribution within the state, investing in the State’s transmission network, and establishing an Industrial Park that will attract more Chinese manufacturers to the state while integrating power projects.’

Meanwhile, the Governor is scheduled to take the team on an inspection tour of the ongoing distribution infrastructure and power project currently being executed by Sahara and Powergen, as part of efforts to secure reliable energy supply across the state.

The Democratic Patriots of Africa (DPA) has commended the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, over ongoing reforms in the ministry.

The organisation said the reforms are ‘a clear testimony to his competence, patriotism, and transformative spirit.’

The group particularly commended reforms in the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), which has led to the clearing of over 200,000 passport backlog and the fact that passport processing timelines have been drastically reduced, bottlenecks removed, and digital solutions introduced to improve accessibility and restore public trust in government institutions.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday, Country Representative of DPA, Ayobami Adeyemi also commended President Bola Tinubu for establishing Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

He noted that the establishment of NELFUND has reduced the number of school dropouts and increased enrolment of students in tertiary institutions in the country.

Adeyemi said the minister has redefined public service in Nigeria with results-driven reforms, particularly in passport processing.

He said that Tunji-Ojo modernised the Nigeria Immigration Service with technology-driven solutions to enhance border security and ease passport issuance.

He said: ‘Hon. Bunmi Tunji-Ojo is a visionary, an astute reformer, and a thoroughbred administrator who has redefined public service in Nigeria. Through innovation, diligence, and an unyielding commitment to excellence, he has demonstrated that leadership is about results, not rhetoric.’

He added: ‘The Nigeria Immigration Service has been overhauled with innovative technologies that modernised passport issuance and enhanced border security.

‘The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has been strengthened to boost internal security and rapid response to threats. The Correctional Service is witnessing humane reforms and modernisation, while the Federal Fire Service has been equipped with modern tools to protect lives and property.’

He also commended President Bola Tinubu for entrusting such a sensitive ministry to a capable hand.

‘We must appreciate His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his foresight in appointing Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. By entrusting such a critical ministry to a passionate and capable reformer, the President has once again shown his commitment to meritocracy and good governance,’ he said.

President of NFSAN, Faith Istifanus, also commended President Tinubu for far-reaching reforms across key sectors, particularly in education and internal security, noting that the student community is especially impressed with the performance of Tunji-Ojo.

According to her, passport processing, which previously took months, can now be completed within 24 hours, a development she attributed to the minister’s reform-driven leadership and the commitment of the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap.

As Nigeria commemorates 65 years of Independence, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s national broadcast stands as a powerful reaffirmation of our shared journey-from the dreams of our founding fathers to the bold reforms shaping our future.

His message is one of pride, resilience, and renewal. As a fellow member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a candidate seeking to serve, I find inspiration in his words-and responsibility in the work that remains.

Honouring Our Legacy, Grounding Our Future

President Tinubu’s tribute to Nigeria’s founding heroes-Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and others-reminds us of the ideals that gave birth to our nation. Their vision of a united, prosperous Nigeria leading the black race is not just history-it is a call to action.

Yet, as we celebrate their legacy, we must also confront the realities that have tested it. Governance missteps, institutional weaknesses, and missed opportunities have challenged our progress. As leaders, we must honour the past not only with reverence but with realism.

Reform with Empathy: Progress That Touches Lives

President Tinubu’s administration has made bold choices, including removing fuel subsidies, unifying exchange rates, and restructuring fiscal policy. These reforms are yielding results:

GDP growth of 4.23%

Inflation down to 20.12%

Non-oil revenue surpassing #20 trillion

These are impressive strides. The President also recognises the human cost-rising unemployment, food insecurity, and economic anxiety- and he is working assiduously to address these concerns with compassion and targeted policies.

We’re also aware that President Tinubu is working on policies that translate macroeconomic gains into tangible improvements in education, healthcare, and job creation.

Economic Milestones: From Momentum to Maturity

The President’s 12 economic milestones reflect a nation in motion. From a 411% revenue surge to a trade surplus and more substantial reserves, Nigeria is regaining its financial footing. But sustaining these gains requires more than celebration-it demands strategic continuity.

Tax compliance, diversification, and anti-corruption efforts must be deepened. Oil production gains must be shielded from volatility. And our fiscal health must be anchored in transparency. I will advocate institutional reforms that protect these achievements and expand their reach to every community.

Security and Stability: Beyond the Battlefield

President Tinubu rightly salutes our armed forces for reclaiming communities and restoring peace. Yet, persistent insecurity in parts of the North and Southeast reminds us that military success must be matched by social healing. IPN will always support community-based peacebuilding, intelligence reform, and rehabilitation programs that foster lasting security.

Youth and Innovation: Investing in Nigeria’s Greatest Asset

The President’s initiatives-NELFUND, Credicorp, YouthCred-are empowering young Nigerians with access to education, credit, and digital tools. Yet youth unemployment remains a pressing concern. It is necessary to prioritise vocational training, startup incubation, and public-private partnerships to unlock youth potential and drive inclusive growth. And that is why I will salute the President for the tuition-free education in technical colleges recently ordered by President Tinubu. It is indeed commendable.

Productivity and Patriotism: Turning Vision into Value

President Tinubu’s call to ‘farm our land,’ ‘build factories,’ and ‘patronise Made-in-Nigeria goods’ is a rallying cry for national self-reliance. This vision must be supported by enabling policies, including those related to land access, infrastructure, and market linkages.

As a nation, we need to build a productivity framework that empowers SMEs, strengthens agriculture, and fosters local manufacturing.

A Shared Mandate: From Reform to Renewal

President Tinubu’s broadcast is more than a speech-it is a blueprint for national transformation. As a member of the APC and a candidate dedicated to service, I wholeheartedly embrace this vision and strive to deepen its impact.

Nigeria at 65 is not just about turning corners. It is about building bridges-between policy and people, between promise and progress.

Bringing It Home: Progress You Can Feel

As we celebrate Nigeria’s 65th Independence, I want all the citizens-sons and daughters of Ondo North Zone – to know that the reforms championed by President Tinubu are not just national headlines-they are fundamental changes that you can feel in our communities.

From increased federal allocations that support our local schools and clinics to new infrastructure projects that improve our roads and market access, the Renewed Hope Agenda is reaching our doorsteps.

It is expected that these gains will be deepened right here-by advocating youth employment programmes, expanding access to credit for small businesses, and accelerating rural development. Together, we will turn national progress into local prosperity.

Let’s write the next chapter together, not just in statistics, but in the lived experiences of every Nigerian.

The Emir of Hadejia and Chairman of the Jigawa Council of Chiefs, Dr. Adamu Abubakar Maje, has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating condition of primary schools within his domain, describing the situation as ‘worrisome and unacceptable.’

The royal father stated this after paying an unscheduled visit to several primary schools in Ayama District of Auyo Local Government Area, where he observed dilapidated classrooms, absence of desks for pupils, and shortage of teaching materials.

Dr. Maje lamented that many pupils were forced to sit on bare floors while learning in leaking or cracked classrooms. He urged Governor Umar Namadi to embark on similar surprise visits across the state ‘to see things for himself and boost the morale of hardworking teachers.’

He disclosed that the emirate council would compile a detailed report on the state of education in the area and forward to the government for urgent intervention.

The Emir also appealed to parents and guardians to play active roles in school monitoring and support, rather than abandoning everything to the government.

Responding, the Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Prof. Haruna Musa, admitted that the challenges were ‘a product of decades of accumulated neglect’ which could not be fixed overnight.

According to him, the present administration under Governor Namadi has intensified efforts through massive construction and renovation of classrooms under both the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) intervention and state-funded projects.

‘Recently, over 300 projects were advertised for tender under the 2023 UBEC intervention. Tender opening was conducted last week, and contract awards are now in progress,’ he said, adding that preparations for the 2024 phase are already underway.

Musa, however, decried what he described as the ‘unpatriotic attitude’ of some communities who vandalise school infrastructure.

‘In many places, people remove iron windows, doors, roofing sheets-even chairs. Worse still, when minor damages occur, instead of fixing them, communities wait for government intervention. By the time we become aware, the damage has escalated,’ he lamented.

Akinlalu community in Ife North Local Government Area of Osun State wears a gloomy look. The mood is a combination of fear, grief, and deafening silence. The tense atmosphere is following the invasion of the community by operatives of the Amotekun corps who shot and killed unarmed residents at the market square.

The Nation recalled that masked Amotekun officials last Tuesday invaded the epicenter of the community, the market square via the palace and started shooting indiscriminately. Four people, including three family members were killed in the process while 11 others sustained injuries.

It was learnt that the Amotekun corps had on Monday, arrested a suspected thief at Aba-Oba village via Akinlalu but he later overpowered them and snatched a gun from them.

Infuriated by the development, the Amotekun corps on Tuesday invaded the community to create fear and make the community produce the stolen rifle.

When our correspondent visited the town on Friday,the once lively town had become a shadow of itself. Bereaved families sat mournfully, while others spoke in low tones.

There were uncontrollable tears in the house of Aro of Akinlalu, Chief Kamorudeen Oyebamiji who lost his three children in the attack.

Two children of his younger wife were killed while a child of his elder wife was gruesomely killed during the invasion.

Chief Kamorudeen said ‘the hooded Amotekun corps killed my three children in a single day. Two of them were shot while the other was hacked to death when he was trying to escape from the scene. They must bring those corpses.’

Another bereaved man, Nurudeen Adeabo, showed The Nation pellets of the bullets fired at his house located close to the market by Amotekun officials during the attack.

He disclosed that ‘they killed one of my sons here. Check the walls in my house, they are riddled with bullets. My daughter, who is a nursing mother was shot on her thigh, while my son who is a graduate had his hand broken with the axes used on him. I was equally assaulted by the officials with a gun butt. They came to the town wearing masks.’

A resident , who identified himself simply as Sola also disclosed that ‘a 45-year-old Akeeb Odefunke who had a stroke was also hacked by men of Amotekun during the attack. A pepper seller at the market was shot but still receiving treatment at the hospital.

‘All these attacks happened in the heartbeat of the community, the palace, market square, Oke-Ola junction and Seriki’s compound. There were several others that sustained minor injuries scattered across hospitals in our community and Ipetumodu. They fired several shots at a primary school in the market area. It seemed those Amotekun people perpetrated the invasion under the influence of drugs.’

Also speaking, the head of the youths, Musbau Adeboye, berated the state government and Governor Ademola Adeleke for keeping mum since Tuesday when the incident occurred, noting that the attack was a callous one.

He explained that ‘On Tuesday morning, when the Ife North Commander of Amotekun informed me that a thief escaped from his boys and snatched away their gun on Monday, I told him that I will organise youths to give them intel on how to arrest them.

‘But minutes later, they struck, maimed and killed people of our community. I was surprised. This is barbaric. Many were in a pool of blood when I entered the town. They first left after the attack but returned a few minutes later to carry the corpses and others who sustained gunshot wounds to Osogbo.

‘It is unfortunate that Governor Ademola Adeleke has not said anything since the incident occurred. The youths are bitter about the incident. Amotekun turned themselves into militants.’

Speaking with The Nation on Friday, the Alakinlalu of Akinlalu, Oba Oluwabusola Oloyede, demanded justice for the slain residents denying the claim of Amotekun that those killed were bandits and hoodlums.

He explained that when the incident occurred, he contacted the Osun State House of Assembly Deputy Speaker, Akinyode Oyewusi and they visited the Amotekun headquarters in Osogbo to secure the release of those that were arrested and the corpses of the slain victims during the invasion of the town.

According to him, ‘upon our visit to Amotekun headquarters, their boss confirmed to us that he was the one who ordered the invasion, having instructed them to first visit the palace. However, they never came to the palace but rather attacked innocent residents at the market square. Four people were killed while nine people were injured during the attack. One of the injured victims died this morning.’

He implored the youths to remain calm and put their trust in the state government to bring the erring Amotekun corps to justice.

‘I want to equally state that my people never laid ambush for anyone, the people that were killed are not bandits and hoodlums as claimed by Amotekun, the people they shot and also killed were attacked at the market square and their homes close by.’

One of the leaders of the community, Olamide Babarinde, disclosed that the Amotekun corps are still threatening to invade the community again if they continue to address newsmen about the incident.

‘I want to urge the state government to come to our aid. they should bring these Amotekun corps to book to serve as a deterrent to others. This matter should not be allowed to be swept under the carpet.’

A civil society group, Dialogue 365 led by Comrade Waheed Saka, described the attack as barbaric and unjust, saying ‘It is unfortunate that the state government turned deaf ears to our outcry when Governor Ademola Adeleke appointed former SARS leader, Isaac Omoyele as the commandant of Amotekun. He was indicted by #EndSARs panel for several extrajudicial killings. He was recommended for demotion.

‘In 2022, he killed three family members in Ede, the unfortunate incident forced him to retire from the Nigerian Police force, Adeleke appointed him as his Chief Security Officer, which we kicked against, thereafter, he was appointed as the Corps Commandant of Amotekun.’

He continued, ‘You cannot appoint a killer ex-police officer indicted by government panel in their report as head of an outfit like Amotekun and not witness this kind of brutal killing. Imagine, Amotekun hacked residents to death.

‘We are demanding immediate arrest of Omoyele who ordered the attack and his killer squad who killed women and children at the market square.’

Also, a popular guber aspirant, Bola Oyebamiji expressed his condolences to the people of Akinlalu, over the tragic killings of their beloved, describing the incident as regrettable, praying for the repose of the departed souls as well as strength for the bereaved families to bear the painful losses.

He appealed to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to investigate the unfortunate and gory incident.

In a gesture of love and compassion, The Apostolic Church Nigeria (TACN) Prison and Hospital Ministry has reached out to over 200 residents of the Lagos State Vocational and Rehabilitation Centre, Majidun, Owutu, Lagos, with food items, clothing, baby supplies, and educational materials.

The outreach, which took place at the centre’s premises, saw children, youths, and adults, gather with joy and admiration as church members distributed the relief packages.

Beyond the gifts, the church also adopted some of the children, pledging continuous support with food and educational resources to make life more meaningful for them.

Speaking at the event, Pastor Isaac Ogunrinola, Coordinator of the Prison and Hospital Ministry, described the visit as timely, coinciding with Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day celebrations.

Represented by Elder Tunde Adebisi, Secretary of the ministry, he said the gesture was part of the church’s decision to make the Majidun centre a special project.

‘Our coming here is auspicious because it allows us to share the refreshing spirit of independence with you in our own little way,’ he said.

Ogunrinola, added, ‘This ministry is committed to fulfilling the golden commandment-love your neighbour. We are here to let you know that Jesus Christ cares for you, regardless of your condition, and that He can set you free. As Scripture says, ‘Whom the Son sets free is free indeed.”

Quoting Luke 21:13-‘And it shall turn to you for a testimony’- Ogunrinola, encouraged residents of the centre to see their placement not as the end of the road but as a chance to rediscover purpose.

‘Once you were nobody, but by being here, the Lord is turning you into somebody for His glory, to fulfil destiny and live a life useful to yourself, to society, and to God,’ he said.

The outreach was marked not only by the distribution of material items but also by words of encouragement, prayers, and a reaffirmation of the church’s commitment to ministering hope, dignity, and the love of Christ to vulnerable people in society.

The once-peaceful community of Frontline Estate, Agbara, in Olorunda LCDA, Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos State, has been plunged into fear and uncertainty, as residents accuse land grabbers, allegedly backed by armed policemen, of laying siege to their properties despite possessing legitimate Federal Government land titles.

Over the past several months, families and property owners in the estate have reported a series of disturbing incidents, including the arrival of armed thugs and uniformed policemen who issue threats, paste possession notices, and order residents to vacate their legally acquired homes.

Residents raise alarm

Community leader, Mr. Taiwo Okulaja, told The Nation that the land was lawfully acquired from the Federal Government decades ago under the Sites and Services Scheme, with many allottees holding official Certificates of Occupancy (C of O).

‘We are legitimate allottees of the Federal Government’s sites and services scheme in Agbara. Many of us bought our lands directly from the government and were duly issued allocation papers. Some of us even secured Certificates of Occupancy. Yet today, we are being harassed and threatened on our own land,’ Okulaja lamented.

According to him, petitions have already been sent to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. The community submitted documents to Mrs. Margaret Odejobi, a Director in the ministry, who referred them to the Federal Controller of Housing at the Federal Secretariat, Lagos.

‘We dropped our documents in early August 2025, but we are yet to receive any concrete response,’ Okulaja added.

A history of disputes

A retired civil servant, who facilitated the sales of the land, said the Frontline Estate land dispute is not new. He recalled that years ago, the Bankole and Atanbala families also laid claim to the land, sparking years of contention. Eventually, property owners entered into an out-of-court settlement, paying ?250,000 each to resolve the matter.

But to their dismay, the crisis resurfaced six months ago.

‘Over 100 armed policemen and thugs stormed our estate claiming to represent Agbara Estate Limited. They pasted possession notices, citing a court judgment against the Federal Government dating back to 2008,’ recounted Mr. Uwa Dominic, another resident.

Fear, uncertainty, siege

Since then, homeowners say they have lived under constant fear, with alleged thugs patrolling the neighborhood daily. Families are worried about losing their investments and, in some cases, the only homes they have ever known.

Pastor Abayomi Ogungbade, another community leader, appealed for urgent government intervention.

‘This is not just about land; it is about our lives, our families, and our future. If the government fails to act, innocent citizens who legally bought land from the same government will lose everything.’

Agbara’s Dual-State Complexity

One of the key sources of confusion is Agbara’s peculiar position as a community spanning both Lagos and Ogun States. However, several legal rulings have clarified jurisdictional boundaries.

A Composite Survey Plan (No. MISC 2847), drawn by the Surveyor-General of Lagos State, Joseph O. Agbenla, on September 25, 2013, identified 181.303 hectares of Agbara land as part of Lagos State. This position has been upheld in multiple rulings, including: Justice H. O. Oshodi’s ruling (2013) confirming Lagos State jurisdiction; Justice Yetunde A. Adesanya’s ruling (2014) at the Lagos High Court, Badagry Division; Justice A. C. Shokunbi’s ruling (2024) at the Ogun State High Court, which struck out a case for lack of jurisdiction and Justice Ogundare’s judgment (2023) reaffirming the Lagos survey plan.

Most recently, a Federal High Court judgment delivered on November 20, 2024, by Justice Y. Bogoro (Suit No. FHC/L/CS/2627/2023) directed the Lagos State Commissioner of Police and other authorities to recognise the Agbara-Lagos community’s rights under the Constitution and the Police Act.

Despite these rulings, Agbara Estate Limited, allegedly parading an Ogun State-issued Certificate of Occupancy, continues to lay claim to land located squarely within Lagos State, worsening tensions.

The ordeal of Frontline Estate residents highlights the growing menace of land grabbing in Lagos State, where legitimate landowners are increasingly threatened, despite possessing government-backed titles.

For now, the community waits anxiously, uncertain whether their homes will stand the test of law or fall under the weight of contested claims, armed intimidation, and delayed government response

Residents argue that the issue can be resolved administratively, citing similar interventions in Magodo and Oko-Afo, where government veto power ended land disputes.

They warn that the menace of land grabbing in Lagos is worsening, especially when ‘omo onile’ cartels connive with corrupt officials to secure questionable judgments.

For now, Frontline Estate residents wait anxiously, calling on the Federal Government to defend its own allocations and prevent them from losing everything they have worked for.

Agbara Estate Limited Responds

Speaking with The Nation, an official of Agbara Estate Limited, Mr. Adeniya Olalekan, insisted that the land belongs to them.

‘Agbara Estate acquired the land during the Mid-Western era, and it was revalidated when Ogun State was created. The Federal Government was only allowed to use the land temporarily during road construction. The Ministry of Works has no constitutional authority to issue C of Os,’ he argued.

He dismissed residents’ claims of encroachment, adding: ‘Agbara Estate is not a land-grabbing entity. We are simply reclaiming our property. A Supreme Court judgment already supports our ownership.’

When asked about possible out-of-court settlement, Olalekan maintained that Agbara Estate would ‘take possession’ of its land.

The Bigger Picture

The Frontline Estate saga reflects a wider problem in Lagos and Ogun States: the menace of land grabbing. Experts say weak inter-agency coordination and conflicting court judgments leave genuine buyers vulnerable.

As families wait anxiously, the question remains: will government step in like in the Magodo land dispute or leave residents to fight powerful private interests on their own?

Team Brazil by Claure Group surged to pole position in a thrilling qualifying session ahead of the E1 Lagos GP presented by FirstBank, as the world’s first all-electric raceboat Championship makes history this weekend with its debut on the African continent.

The tropical waters of the Lagos Lagoon are hosting the pioneering race series, marking a major milestone for Nigeria as it continues to build its reputation as a global destination for world-class sporting events.

The dramatic qualifying session ended with Team Brazil by Claure Group securing the top spot, ahead of Team Rafa and Aoki Racing Team, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown tomorrow.

The two points awarded to Team Rafa for second place in qualifying sees Rafael Nadal’s E1 team reclaim the Championship lead from Team Brady by a single point. The NFL legend’s team suffered technical difficulties which ended their hopes of challenging for pole position.

The Championship battle hangs in the balance and a win tomorrow could prove decisive as Team Brady fights to defend its crown.

Rodi Basso, founder and Chief Executive Officer of E1 said: ‘The warm welcome we have received in Lagos has been incredible. The people and passion of Nigeria has made this historic E1 Lagos GP presented by FirstBank possible, and I feel a great sense of pride that we have made racing here a reality.

‘Our ambition is to build a motorsport legacy in Africa. This weekend’s race is just the beginning and today’s qualifying sessions have provided a thrilling taste of what’s to come on race day tomorrow.’

Sunday’s race is expected to draw thousands of spectators to the waterfront as excitement builds across Lagos. African football icon Didier Drogba and his partner Gabrielle Lemaire, instrumental in bringing E1 to the continent, will attend to support his team, Team Drogba Global Africa, as the Championship continues its groundbreaking journey.

Championship Standings: Team Rafa – 136 pts, Team Brady – 135 pts, Aoki Racing Team – 125 pts, Team Blue Rising – 114 pts, Westbrook Racing – 82 pts, Team AlUla Championed by LeBron James – 79 pts, Team Drogba – 66 pts, Team Brazil by Claure Group – 51 pts and Team Miami – 32 pts.

Osun State governor, Ademola Adeleke has dispatched a top level government delegation to Akinlalu over recent killings involving the Amotekun security outfit.

A statement by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed confirmed that Adeleke has ordered a full investigation into the matter.

He commiserated with all those who lost loved ones in the tragic incident and prayed to God to comfort them.

His words: After receiving the preliminary report, further briefings were presented to the Deputy Governor by the security team with a State Security council meeting now scheduled for Monday to further deliberate on the issue and other emerging security threats in the state.

‘Adeleke has vowed to dig into the root of the fatal encounter between the people of the town and the Amotekun security service, directing that a high powered delegation of government and service chiefs will visit the affected town after the scheduled state security council meeting on Monday.

‘Those expected on the delegation include the Special Adviser on Security Matters to the state governor, the Commissioner for Information, the Commissioner for political affairs, the Commissioner for Transportation, the Attorney General of the State, the Special Adviser on Legal Matters to the governor and service chiefs of the various security agencies.

‘I am a rule of law Governor. This matter is being investigated and any infraction will be dealt with within the context of the law. I have ordered a security council meeting on this incident and others such as fears of spill over from Kwara banditry attacks.’