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The establishment of the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology (UAST), Ihugh, in Benue State, is not merely an academic milestone; it is a visionary move with far-reaching impacts for educational advancement, agricultural innovation, technological transformation, and socioeconomic development in Benue State, and Nigeria as a whole.

This bold initiative by the Governor of the State, His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, reflects foresight, inclusivity, equity, and a pragmatic commitment to rural development, and youth empowerment.

The vision of UAST is to become a leading institution in agricultural research, scientific innovation, and technological excellence that addresses local and global challenges in food production, sustainability, and development. It aspires to be a cradle of knowledge and innovation that fuels productivity, and self-reliance, especially in agricultural communities.

Its mission is built around the necessity to provide high-quality education, and research in agriculture, science, and technology; to train skilled manpower that can drive agribusiness, promote rural development, and contribute to national food security and general food sovereignty across the Nigerian nation and the African continent. The university will also prioritize community engagement and the application of research to real-world challenges facing farmers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.

Recall that the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Governor Alia to accompany him to Brazil sometime this year (2025), is a testament that will also add energy to the University, owing to the relevance of the trip. At the invitation of President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva, the President of Brazil, the Nigerian leader, and the Governor, attended a bilateral meeting at the inter-governmental summit of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) and newly developed economies summit, which deeply exposed the Governor to keynote presentations that injected reform ideas of the President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at repositioning the state’s economy with agriculture, playing a crucial role. And the University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology, Ihugh, was also factored into the equation.

This, essentially, has attracted investors to Nigeria, and Benue State in particular – will sure capitalise on the abundant opportunities embedded in the generous journey with Mr. President.

As he (the President), hopes to attract investors to capitalise on Nigeria’s opportunities in agriculture, solid minerals, healthcare, and alternative energy, the University is strategically positioned to key into the framework.

The siting of UAST in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area of the State, opens a new chapter for the host community. Historically rural and agrarian, the community stands to benefit from a range of transformative impacts such as:

Economic Empowerment: The influx of students, faculty, construction workers, and businesses will stimulate local commerce, housing, transportation, and small enterprises.

Job Creation: Immediate employment opportunities in construction, logistics, food supply, security, and administration will lift many families out of poverty.

Access to Education: Proximity to a tertiary institution will inspire local youth to pursue higher education, increasing literacy and professional capacity in the area.

Infrastructure Development: The University’s presence will accelerate the provision of road networks, electricity, water supply, healthcare, and other essential amenities.

Cultural Integration: The influx of diverse people will enhance intercultural exchange and position the host community as a melting pot of ideas and innovation.

The surrounding local government areas – Konshisha, Ushongo, Kwande, Gboko and the northern local government areas of Cross River State – stand to benefit immensely from spillover effects. The emergence of academic and research clusters will open opportunities for:

Satellite campuses and research farms.

Outreach programs focusing on agricultural extension services, training of local farmers, and introduction of modern farming methods.

Market linkages for local produce through university-driven agribusiness hubs.

For Benue State, the Middle-Belt or North Central geo-political zone and Nigeria as a whole, UAST is a strategic weapon in the fight against rural poverty, youth unemployment, food insecurity and national food sovereignty. Known as the ‘Food Basket of the Nation,’ Benue’s economy is heavily reliant on agriculture – the same fate which characterizes the entirety of Northern Nigeria. However, the sector has remained underproductive due to outdated practices and limited access to research-based innovation.

With UAST, the state now has a specialized institution that will:

Conduct climate-smart agricultural research, promote the use of improved seedlings, irrigation, pest control, and mechanized farming;Partner with private sector players and donor agencies in value-chain development and agro-processing. This will diversify the economy, increase internally generated revenue (IGR), and position Benue as an agricultural hub not just by volume, but by value.

On a national scale, the university’s establishment reflects alignment with the Federal Government’s priorities in education, food security, and technological innovation. UAST will:

Provide research-based policy recommendations on food sufficiency and rural development; serve as a training ground for future scientists, engineers, agronomists, and technologists needed to drive national productivity; Mitigate the challenge of over-centralized universities by decentralizing higher education to rural areas; help curb rural-urban migration through job creation and development initiatives tied to the university ecosystem.

Furthermore, the University is strategically poised to collaborate with global research institutes and development agencies like the FAO, IFAD, and the African Development Bank in projects that require localized implementation of global ideas.

Governor Alia’s strategic calculus is timely. Many may ask: Why Ihugh? Why not Makurdi or Gboko or any other major town? The answer lies in the multi-dimensional strategic reasoning behind Governor Alia’s decision: Rural Balance and Inclusion: The Governor’s administration is premised on equity, inclusion and even distribution of development. Siting the university in Ihugh sends a powerful message that no community is too small to be transformed.

Agricultural Significance: Ihugh and its environs in Vandeikya, Konshisha, Kwande, Ushongo and the northern local governments of Cross River State, are deeply rooted in farming traditions. Their soil fertility, topography, and climate are ideal for experimental farms, agricultural training, and field-based research.

Geopolitical Strategy: The university’s location in Zone A, ensures geographic equity in educational infrastructure. Makurdi houses the Federal University of Agriculture (now Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University), while Ihugh will now host the state-owned counterpart in the eastern flank of the state.

Security and Accessibility: Ihugh’s relative peace and central location within Vandeikya LGA makes it suitable for academic investments without the risks associated with high-conflict zones.

Community Enthusiasm: The people of Ihugh are known for their educational zeal and hospitality. Their embrace of the university project ensures a supportive environment for sustained development.

To fully harness the potential of UAST, stakeholders must ensure: Partnerships with industries, NGOs, and international bodies to boost innovation and resource mobilization; Curriculum flexibility and vocational training, tailored to modern challenges; Transparency and merit-based appointments in university leadership to be ensured in order to uphold the vision and mission of the institution.

Governor Alia’s decision to establish the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology in Ihugh for the Benue State Government, is a landmark legacy that will echo in the anals of contemporary history for generations to come. It is a clarion call to innovation, empowerment, and rural transformation.

As the foundation has commenced in honest for what could become the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) of West Africa’s agricultural and technological development, all hands must be on deck to support this noble endeavor.

Today, Benue State under the watch of the Executive Governor of the State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, as its dynamic servant-leader, stands at the cusp of a new dawn, and Ihugh is its shining beacon.

The Kebbi Government, has dismissed as false and malicious a video circulating on social media platforms alleging the existence of a hidden Airport in Argungu forest purportedly used for cocaine smuggling.

The dismissal is contained in a statement issued on Wednesday in Birnin Kebbi by Malam Yahaya Sarki, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Gov. Nasir Idris.

Sarki described the viral video as fabricated and baseless, aimed at discrediting the State Government and tarnishing its image.

‘The entire content of the video is false and misleading.

‘There has never been any incident of drug trafficking or illegal airport operations in Argungu Local Government Area or any part of Kebbi,’ he maintained.

He clarified that the only functional airport in the state remains the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport in Birnin Kebbi, adding that Argungu has never had an airport, airstrip, or any related facility.

Sarki further explained that all the names and characters mentioned in the viral clip were fictitious,

He also stressed that no investigation had been carried out by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), or any other security agency to support such claims.

Sarki urged members of the public to disregard the falsehood, describing it as a deliberate attempt to mislead citizens and create unnecessary tension.

‘The Kebbi government under the leadership of Gov. Idris remains committed to transparency, good governance, and collaboration with all federal security and anti-drug agencies,’ the special adviser assured.

Rapper Odumodublvck has addressed the backlash trailing his recent interview with BET Network, where he was quoted as referring to female artists like Bloody Civilian and Smur Lee as ‘Z-list artists.’

During the interview, Odumodublvck spoke on supporting upcoming talents without demanding anything in return.

‘I can help you without taking anything from you, same thing with the girls. I want to be able to give girls deals without having to compromise themselves.

‘The last time a Nigerian girl was number one on the chart, I think it was probably me. I’ve gone number one with two girls, Smur Lee and Bloody Civilian, and they were not A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H artists – they were Z artists. But yes, they went number one. That’s to show you that girls out there, you can do your thing without compromising,’ he said.

His remark sparked widespread criticism online, with many calling him out for seemingly belittling the mentioned female artists.

In response, Odumodublvck clarified the statement on X, explaining that his words were exaggerated and not meant to discredit anyone.

‘BLOODY IS NOT A Z LIST ARTIST. NEITHER ARE THE NAMES I CALLED.

Z WAS JUST AN EXAGGERATION TO AMAZING FEMALE ARTISTS LIKE SMUR LEE, KENKÉ and VALENTINO, WHO ARE MAKING A NAME FOR THEMSELVES. – THE MACHINE.’

Nigeria and its Nordic partners have pledged to deepen their collaboration across green energy, digital technology, health, and agriculture.

They also agreed to forge partnerships that promise sustainable impact for years to come.

They made this known at the conclusion of Nordic Nigeria Connect 2025 Business Forum held last week in Lagos under the thematic: ‘Forging Partnerships for Sustainable Impact’.

Organised by the Nordic Embassies in Nigeria and their Trade Offices, the forum, which was the fourth edition, provided a platform for government leaders, innovators, and private sector executives to explore collaboration across four critical sectors: green energy, digital technology, health innovation, and sustainable agriculture.

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy Dr. Bosun Tijani, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Samuel Egube, Enugu State Deputy Governor Ifeanyi Ossai, State Secretary for Trade and Investment for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Denmark H.E. Lina Gandløse Hansen and Deputy Minister for International Trade in Finland H.E. Jarno Syrjälä were part of dignitaries who attended the event.

Other significant Nordic dignitaries present included H.E. Johan Frisell, Deputy Director-General and Director for Africa at the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs; Ambassador of Finland to Nigeria, H.E. Sanna Selin; Ambassador-Designate of Sweden to Nigeria, H.E. Anna Westerholm; Ambassador of Denmark to Nigeria, H.E. Jens Ole Bach Hansen; and the Ambassador of Norway to Nigeria, H.E. Svein Baera.

There was a drama in the National Assembly on Wednesday when the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) walked out on the House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies during an investigative hearing.

The drama unfolded when the Committee, chaired by Hon. Oboku Oforji, convened a session to examine JAMB’s 2023-2024 budget performance, implementation, remittances to the Federation Account, and bank statements.

The Committee had invited the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, to appear in person and present the documents.

However, the Registrar sent a Director, Mr. Muftar Bello, to represent him.

The atmosphere became tense shortly after the session began. When it was time for introductions, the JAMB representative insisted that members of the press should leave the meeting, claiming that the documents he was to present contained ‘sensitive information.’

The committee, however, objected to the demand, maintaining that its proceedings were public and that it was within its constitutional powers to determine how its sittings were conducted.

The JAMB official became visibly agitated and, in an unexpected turn, stood up, directed his team to follow and walked out of the session, leaving members of the committee stunned.

Angered by the action, the committee immediately directed the Clerk to summon the Sergeant-at-Arms to arrest the JAMB representative but he had already left the premises.

Reacting to the incident, Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Oboku Oforji, described the walkout as ‘unfortunate and unacceptable,’ stressing that the legislature would not tolerate acts of disrespect or attempts to obstruct its oversight duties.

‘We wrote three consecutive letters to the Registrar of JAMB requesting these documents. To our surprise, the Registrar failed to appear, and instead sent a former Director of Finance and Accounts, who claimed the committee was out to embarrass them. That is very unfortunate,’ Oforji said.

He added that the committee’s intention was not to witch-hunt any government agency but to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.

‘Our responsibility is to make sure that all agencies under our watch are accountable to Nigerians. We have no intention whatsoever to witch-hunt anyone,’ he stated.

The committee has given JAMB until next Tuesday for the Registrar to appear in person with his management team to present the requested documents.

‘Failure to do so will compel the committee to take necessary actions in line with the powers vested in us under Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended,’ the chairman warned.

Other members of the committee also reacted angrily to the development, describing JAMB’s conduct as a blatant show of disrespect to the National Assembly and, by extension, to the Nigerian people.

Member representing Andoni/ Opobo-Nkoro federal constituency, Hon. Awaji-Inombek Dagomie Abiante said the walkout amounted to contempt of Parliament. He described the incident as ‘most unfortunate,’ warning that it set a dangerous precedent for accountability in governance.

‘If JAMB can walk out on a committee of the National Assembly, it means they no longer see themselves as accountable to Nigerians. Oversight is a constitutional duty. When an agency refuses to answer questions about public funds, Nigerians have every reason to suspect something is wrong,’ Abiante said.

The lawmaker added that JAMB’s posture raised doubts about the transparency of its financial dealings, recalling previous controversies over unremitted or missing funds in public offices.

‘We have heard of instances where snake or something swallowed money. So probably a bigger swallow may have happened, and they have not prepared themselves for the autopsy. It’s unfortunate. And if this is what we call democracy, I do not understand where we are headed. We have institutions that have chosen not to be responsible to other arms of government, especially one that is constitutionally mandated to ensure public resources are not wasted,’ he added.

Member representing Southern Ijaw federal constituency of Bayelsa State, Hon. Rodney Amboiowei, also faulted JAMB’s request for a closed-door session, insisting that it contradicted the principles of transparency expected of public institutions.

‘Public funds must be accounted for in the open. It is not JAMB’s right to dictate that a parliamentary session be held behind closed doors. This is how agencies get lawmakers into trouble. Nigerians deserve to know how their money is spent,’ he said.

The member representing Brass-Nembe Federal Constituency of Bayelsa, Hon. Marie Enenimiete Ebikake questioned the identity of the official who led JAMB’s delegation, expressing dismay that the Registrar failed to attend the hearing in person.

She maintained that as a major revenue-generating agency, JAMB must be held accountable for its finances and operations, noting that the committee expected the Registrar to appear personally at the next session.

‘It’s even more embarrassing that the man who walked out was not the Registrar. We don’t even know who he is. We simply asked them to introduce themselves and they refused. For all we know, he could have been impersonated. Nigerians want to know what JAMB is doing with their money. The Registrar must appear before this committee by Tuesday to explain,’ Ebikake said.

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, yesterday warned that any attempt to induce voters before or during the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State would be resisted and curtailed.

Speaking at the first consultative meeting with members of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), Amupitan urged Nigerians-especially political actors-to unite in combating the menace of vote buying as a way of restoring integrity to the electoral process.

He said the commission was working closely with relevant law enforcement agencies, particularly the anti-graft agencies, to stop vote buyers from contaminating the electoral process.

‘Security agents cannot afford to create an environment that allows vote buyers to operate during the Anambra election,’ he said.

‘Together, let us combat vote buying, uphold the values of democracy, and work relentlessly for the credibility of our elections. The path ahead may be challenging, but if we stand united, there is nothing we cannot achieve.’

The INEC boss said that following a week-long comprehensive readiness assessment conducted across Anambra State, the commission was confident of its full preparedness for the polls.

According to him, INEC recently conducted a mock accreditation exercise in 12 selected polling units across six local government areas of the state, using the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) to test-run its facilities and readiness.

Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal has said African leaders are tackling challenges of climate change, by ensuring people are safe, securing the economy and its ecosystem and making sure no state or community is left out.

He said our commitment to a just transition is clear, and rooted in the belief that no one should be left behind in the journey towards a low-carbon and climate resilient future, with Nigeria aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 while ensuring access to modern energy by 2050.

He spoke at the first West African Science Service Centre on Climate change and adapted land use International Conference and Just Energy Transition 13C-JET in Abuja, with the theme: ‘Sustainable Climate Resilience and Just Energy Transition in Africa.’ .

He said: ‘Nigerian Climate Change Act provided the legal ambition, while the Pioneer Green Bond Programme demonstrated how innovative finance can drive sustainable development.

‘We believe we must address climate change. Nigeria is a trusted partner in strengthening climate science capacity. Together we are building a foundation for a resilient, low-carbon future.

‘In Nigeria, we have been able to develop a curriculum for climate change and environment in our schools, primary, secondary and tertiary institutions. So we are taking climate change very seriously and this must be done at the heart of our educational curriculum. The world is watching Africa, even though we are not major contributors of global warming, yet our resolve for the part of the solution remains firm and stable. Africa is ever ready to serve as an activist of a new energy paradigm building on equity, innovation and resilience’.

Speaking, the Executive Director of WASCAL, Professor Emmanuel Wendsongre Ramde revealed that the aim of the conference is to share knowledge, showcase innovations and catalyse collaborations, stating that WASCAL is specialized in providing comprehensive solutions to the threat poised by Climate change, adding that the organisation performs those services through capacity building as well as Research and Advisory services

Stakeholders in the education sector have urged teachers in the country to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) for future-ready education system.

They made the call during the Train the Trainer-Teacher’s summit 2025 at the weekend in Abuja.

Speaking at the summit, gender advocate, Hansatu Adegbite, underscored the need for teachers to integrate technology into their teaching practices to maintain relevance in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

She noted that the future of education depended on how effectively educators adapt to technological advancements and leverage them to enhance learning outcomes.

The keynote speaker noted that AI tools can help teachers personalise instruction, automate administrative tasks, and foster creativity among students, thereby creating a more engaging and efficient learning environment.

Adegbite, who is also the Executive Director, Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ), urged teachers to view AI not as a threat but as an enabler that can empower them to deliver better results.

Speaking on the theme, ‘Deconstruct the old, define the new’, the gender advocate challenged educators to rethink traditional teaching methods and embrace innovative strategies that align with the realities of the digital age.

She highlighted the critical role of AI and technology in the future of education and the need for teachers to learn and adapt to these changes.

She noted that deconstructing old models of education does not mean discarding foundational values but rather reimagining how those values can be expressed through modern tools and approaches.

The Convener, Train the Trainer Teachers Summit, Dr Onyekachi Onwudike-Jumbo noted the collective responsibility of teachers, parents, and schools in educating children.

She emphasised the importance of a standardised education system that provides equal opportunities for all students.

Onwudike-Jumbo encouraged participants to take action and collaborate to improve the educational system.

Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Aisha Garba underscored the need for educators to leave a lasting impact and celebrates the ongoing efforts to improve education.

Represented by the Director, Social Mobilisation, UBEC, Dr. Ossom Ossom, the executive secretary highlighted ongoing reforms introduced by the commission, including sharing best practices, and empowering teachers to improve learning outcomes.

She announced plans to train 875,000 teachers and introduce digital pedagogy in learning environments.

‘This initiative aims to equip teachers with the necessary skills to enhance classroom learning and ensure they can add value to the educational process,’ the executive secretary added.

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal (AVM)Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has said air power pressure would be on terrorists such that they won’t have the time to plan attacks.

Aneke said the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) under his watch would keep the insurgents running without time to think or plan, assuring that he would lead a versatile, disciplined, and lethal service.

‘I use the word lethal in a professional sense because a man running from you will not have the time to plan to hurt you,’ he said.

A statement Wednesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the CAS gave the assurances during his confirmation before the National Assembly.

Ejodame said the Air Chief stressed that his leadership would be anchored on training, technology, safety, and strategic innovation, emphasising that ‘true military power is not measured by brute force but by superior intellect and adaptability.’

‘The new CAS vowed to build an Air Force that responds swiftly, strikes precisely, and acts intelligently across all spectrums of military operations, a force defined not only by strength, but by precision, professionalism, and purpose,’ said the DOPRI.

Aneke’s confirmation followed his nomination by President Bola Tinubu in accordance with Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act, Cap A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.With this confirmation, he legally succeeds Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, joining other Service Chiefs as a member of the Armed Forces Council.

Lawmakers at the confirmation session praised AVM Aneke’s depth of experience, operational leadership, and intellectual grounding.

They particularly commended his tenure as Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, where he improved strategic airlift capability, strengthened joint operations, and enhanced the

NAF’s responsiveness in complex security environments. His leadership in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations was also lauded for its critical role in shaping Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts and internal security outcomes.

Beyond the individual merit of his appointment, AVM Aneke’s confirmation carries constitutional and strategic significance. Constitutionally, it reinforces the principle of civilian oversight in military leadership and underscores the National Assembly’s role in ensuring transparency and democratic accountability within the Armed Forces. Strategically, it marks continuity and confidence in a leadership transition aimed at consolidating NAF’s modernisation drive, expanding airpower projection, and deepening civil-military trust.

A scholar and strategist, AVM Aneke is a graduate of the United States Air War College, Montgomery, Alabama, and holds multiple advanced degrees, including Master’s degrees in Strategic Studies, International Affairs and Diplomacy, and Political Economy and Development Studies. With more than 4,300 flight hours across several aircraft types, he stands among Nigeria’s most accomplished pilots and forward-looking airpower professionals.

The confirmation session was witnessed by key dignitaries, including the Honourable Minister of Defence, Dr Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and the Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, Senator Basheer Lado. As he assumes office, AVM Aneke’s message to Nigerians is clear: the Nigerian Air Force under his command will be swift in action, precise in strike, and intelligent in execution, a force built not merely for power, but for purpose, protection, and progress.

A group of tenants in the Ijero area of Ebute-Meta (West), Lagos State, have taken their landlord and the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) to court over what they described as an unlawful eviction and demolition of their residence.

The nine tenants filed a suit before the Magistrate Court in Yaba, accusing LASBCA and the estate of the late Razak Apara – along with Rasheed, Kehinde, Fatai, and Sueba Folashade Apara – of violating their fundamental rights to shelter and fair hearing.

They also petitioned the Lagos State Commissioner of Police and the Divisional Police Officer of Iponri Division, alleging unjust and inhuman treatment.

According to court documents, the dispute began after LASBCA issued a quit notice on October 10, 2025, to occupants of a 10-room bungalow located at 24 Ijero Street, Ebute-Meta (West), citing structural distress, cracked walls, and a tattered roof. The agency gave the residents seven days to vacate.

A follow-up notice, dated October 21, 2025, ordered the immediate sealing and demolition of the property.

Counsel to the tenants, Mr. Solomon Fasanmi, argued that the eviction violated the Lagos State Tenancy Law of 2011 and due process for property recovery.

‘Even where a building is marked unsafe, there are established procedures the government must follow. Due process cannot be ignored in a democracy,’ Fasanmi stated, describing LASBCA’s actions as unconstitutional, oppressive, and a breach of his clients’ right to dignity under the 1999 Constitution.

He urged the court to restrain the agency and the defendants from executing the demolition order.

One of the tenants, Ustadz Muiz Subair, said the notice came without prior warning.

‘They came early in the morning and pasted a seven-day notice, claiming the bungalow was distressed. How can a bungalow be distressed when it’s not even a storey building?’ he asked.

Subair appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene, describing the rising cases of forced evictions in Lagos as alarming.

‘Rent in Lagos keeps increasing, yet tenants are being rendered homeless by state officials,’ he lamented.

Responding to the allegations, Mrs. Adetoye Aderinsola, District Head of LASBCA, Ebute-Meta (East), denied any wrongdoing, saying the agency acted in the public interest.

‘A bungalow can be distressed if not properly maintained and if there are visible cracks. The building in question showed signs of structural weakness, and our actions followed standard procedure,’ she explained.

She also dismissed claims that LASBCA acted on behalf of the property owner, saying, ‘I’m hearing that for the first time. There is no truth to it.’

The case is currently before the Yaba Magistrate Court for hearing.