OYO Gist

Lagos govt announces 18-week maintenance of Mazamaza Bridge starting January 19

by hassan January 17, 2026

written by hassan

Comprehensive 18-Week Rehabilitation of Mazamaza Bridge on Lagos-Badagry Expressway Announced

The Lagos State Government has unveiled plans for an extensive maintenance project targeting the Mazamaza Bridge, a critical infrastructure on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway. This essential repair work is slated to commence on Monday, 19 January 2026, and will span approximately 18 weeks.

Details of the Maintenance Schedule and Impact on Traffic

According to a recent statement from Oluwaseun Osiyemi, the Commissioner for Transportation in Lagos State, the maintenance initiative will involve phased repairs across the entire length of the bridge, affecting both inbound and outbound lanes. The project is expected to conclude by 28 May 2026.

During this period, motorists should anticipate lane closures and potential delays. Commuters are strongly encouraged to adjust their travel plans and consider alternative routes to minimize disruption. This proactive approach aims to ensure safety and maintain traffic flow despite the ongoing works.

Significance of the Mazamaza Bridge and Infrastructure Upkeep

The Mazamaza Bridge serves as a vital artery connecting Lagos to the neighboring Badagry region, facilitating the movement of thousands of vehicles daily. Regular maintenance of such infrastructure is crucial to prevent deterioration that could lead to costly repairs or safety hazards. Recent studies indicate that well-maintained bridges can reduce accident rates by up to 30%, underscoring the importance of timely interventions.

Recommendations for Commuters and Stakeholders

In light of the scheduled maintenance, transport authorities recommend that drivers utilize alternative corridors such as the Lekki-Epe Expressway or the Third Mainland Bridge where feasible. Additionally, public transport users should anticipate possible schedule adjustments and plan accordingly.

Local businesses and logistics companies are also advised to factor in potential delays in their operations to avoid disruptions. The Lagos State Government remains committed to enhancing road safety and infrastructure resilience through such strategic maintenance programs.

January 17, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News

Yar’Adua’s son, Ibrahim takes third wife two years after marrying ex-CG’s daughter as second wife

by hassan January 17, 2026

written by hassan

Ibrahim Yar’adua Welcomes Third Wife, Expanding His Family

Ibrahim Yar’adua, son of the late Nigerian President Umaru Musa Yar’adua, has recently entered into marriage with his third wife, Faiza. This development follows two years after his union with his second wife, Amira, who is notably the daughter of Muhammad Babandede, the former Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).

Marriage Timeline and Family Growth

In 2018, Ibrahim Yar’adua married his first wife, Saratu Sodangi, a practicing lawyer. Since then, his family has grown with the addition of Amira in 2021 and now Faiza, marking his third marriage. This pattern reflects a continuation of polygamous traditions that remain prevalent in various Nigerian cultures.

Contextualizing Polygamy in Modern Nigeria

Polygamous marriages, while less common in many parts of the world, continue to be culturally significant in Nigeria. According to recent studies, approximately 30% of Nigerian men in certain regions practice polygamy, often as a symbol of social status and family expansion. Ibrahim’s marriages align with this cultural framework, illustrating the ongoing relevance of such traditions among prominent families.

Notable Connections and Social Influence

Each of Ibrahim’s marriages has linked him to influential Nigerian families. His second wife, Amira, connects him to the former leadership of the Nigeria Immigration Service, highlighting the intertwining of political and social networks. These alliances often play a role in consolidating influence and fostering relationships within Nigeria’s elite circles.

Looking Ahead

As Ibrahim Yar’adua continues to build his family, his personal life remains a subject of public interest, reflecting broader societal conversations about tradition, modernity, and family structures in Nigeria. His marriages underscore the dynamic nature of cultural practices and their adaptation in contemporary Nigerian society.

January 17, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News

Court sentences man to d3ath for m8rder of 9-year-old boy in Akwa Ibom

by hassan January 17, 2026

written by hassan

Akwa Ibom High Court Sentences Man to Death for Killing Nine-Year-Old Student

In a landmark ruling on Friday, the High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, handed down a death sentence to 38-year-old Anwanga Effiong Udofia for the brutal murder of a nine-year-old pupil from Lutheran Primary School, Itoko, located in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area.

Details of the Tragic Incident

The heartbreaking event took place on December 6, 2016, in Nung Oku Akpasima village within Ibesikpo Asutan. The victim, Aniekan Idongesit Edet, a Primary Five student, was attacked while on his way to school. Court documents reveal that the accused, a resident of Itoko Village, chased the young boy wielding two machetes, eventually overpowering him and inflicting fatal wounds.

Eyewitness Account

A close friend of the deceased, who was a Primary Four student, provided a chilling testimony about the morning of the attack. He recalled, “As we were heading to school, I saw Anwanga carrying two machetes-one tucked into his trousers and the other in his hand-and smoking Indian hemp. He began chasing Aniekan, who fled into the bush near the school. I don’t know what happened after because none of the teachers had arrived yet.”

Discovery of the Victim

The following day, children gathering firewood stumbled upon Aniekan’s lifeless body. He was found lying in a pool of blood, still dressed in his school uniform. One of his hands was severed, and a deep machete wound was visible on his neck, confirming the violent nature of the attack.

Legal Proceedings and Verdict

Udo was formally charged with murder under Section 326(1) of the Criminal Code, Volume 2, Laws of Akwa Ibom State. Throughout the trial, the prosecution presented four witnesses and submitted five pieces of evidence to substantiate their case. The defendant also took the stand to testify in his defense.

After careful consideration, Honorable Justice Archibong Archibong ruled that the prosecution had established guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The judge pronounced, “I hereby find the defendant guilty as charged and sentence him to death by hanging. May the Lord have mercy on your soul.”

Community Impact and Justice Served

This verdict brings closure to a case that has deeply affected the Itoko community for nearly ten years. The tragic loss of a young, promising life underscores the importance of justice and the rule of law in Akwa Ibom State.

Court sentencing man to death for murder of 9-year-old boy in Akwa Ibom

January 17, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News Technology

Nigeria Grants Satellite Broadband Licences to Amazon’s Project Kuiper, BeetleSat, and Satelio

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 17, 2026

written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

Nigeria has officially granted seven-year satellite operating permits to Amazon’s Project Kuiper, BeetleSat, and Satelio, paving the way for the provision of non-geostationary satellite broadband services in the country from 2026.

The licences were issued by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) as part of efforts to deepen broadband penetration, enhance competition in the telecoms sector, and expand internet access across the country, particularly in underserved and remote communities.

With the approval, the three satellite operators will be allowed to deploy low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite infrastructure to deliver high-speed internet services nationwide. The move positions them as new competitors to existing satellite broadband providers, including Starlink, which commenced operations in Nigeria in 2023.

According to industry observers, the entry of Project Kuiper—Amazon’s satellite internet initiative—alongside BeetleSat and Satelio is expected to intensify competition in Africa’s largest telecom market, potentially leading to improved service quality, wider coverage, and more affordable pricing for consumers.

The NCC said the decision aligns with Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan, which seeks to achieve universal broadband access by leveraging emerging technologies, including satellite connectivity, to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas.

Satellite broadband services are considered critical for regions where terrestrial infrastructure such as fibre-optic cables and mobile base stations are either unavailable or too costly to deploy. The new licences are therefore expected to significantly improve connectivity for schools, healthcare facilities, businesses, and households in hard-to-reach locations.

The seven-year operating window will allow the licensed companies to roll out their networks, build local partnerships, and support Nigeria’s broader digital economy goals, including e-commerce, digital education, and remote work.

With these approvals, Nigeria further strengthens its position as a key market for next-generation connectivity solutions in Africa, as the country continues to attract major global technology and satellite operators seeking to tap into its large and growing digital population.

January 17, 2026 0 comments

Oyo LG Chairmen Praise Makinde’s Inclusive Leadership On 58th Birthday, Felicitate Christians On Christmas

Breaking News

Makinde Visits Oloka Community, Pledges Security, Infrastructure and ₦5m Compensation to Affected Families

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 17, 2026

written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has visited the Old National Park located in Oloka community, Orile Local Government Area of Ogbomosho, where he made far-reaching commitments aimed at improving security and living conditions in the area.

During the visit, Governor Makinde assured residents that his administration would address the security challenges confronting the community by deploying adequate security presence to protect lives and property. He also pledged the construction of an access road to improve connectivity, alongside the installation of solar-powered street lights to enhance safety, especially at night.

In addition, the governor promised the provision of a borehole to ensure access to clean and safe drinking water for residents of Oloka community.

Governor Makinde also announced a compensation package for families affected by recent tragic incidents in the area. He pledged the sum of ₦5 million to each family that lost a loved one, describing the gesture as part of the government’s commitment to standing with the people in their time of grief.

Beyond financial support, the governor further promised to sponsor the education of the wards of the affected families through the university level, assuring them that their children’s future would not be cut short by the unfortunate loss of their parents.

The visit was received with appreciation by community leaders and residents, who described the governor’s intervention as timely and reassuring. They expressed hope that the promised projects and security measures would bring lasting peace and development to the area.

Governor Makinde reiterated his administration’s resolve to ensure that no community in Oyo State is left behind in terms of security, infrastructure and social support.

January 17, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News Oyo State

Oyo Journalist Alleges Unlawful Police Raid on Home, Says Errant Officers Identified for Disciplinary Action

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 17, 2026

written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

A journalist based in Oyo State has narrated a harrowing ordeal involving alleged unlawful conduct by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, claiming that armed officers stormed his residence without a warrant, traumatising his wife and two-year-old child.

In a detailed account shared on X (formerly Twitter), the journalist, identified as Ayoola (popularly known online as @ogbeniayoola), alleged that on Tuesday, January 13, 2025, officers from the Anti-Cybercrime Unit of the Eleyele Police Headquarters forcefully entered his home while heavily armed.

According to his account, about 15 armed policemen allegedly let themselves into his house uninvited, questioning him about his source of income, ownership of a car, and the occupations of his neighbours. Despite identifying himself as a journalist, he said the officers dismissed his explanation and insisted on entering his apartment.

He further alleged that the officers ordered his wife, who works as a web and product designer, to dress up before they forcibly entered the apartment while brandishing AK-47 rifles, pump-action guns, pistols and other weapons.

The journalist claimed that after entering the apartment, the officers questioned the authenticity of journalism awards displayed in his home, suggesting he may have fabricated them to disguise himself. He said the officers insisted on searching his apartment and demanded access to his mobile phone. When he resisted, he alleged that the officers threatened him with their weapons — all in the presence of his wife and young child.

Fearing for the safety of his family, the journalist said he eventually complied. The officers reportedly searched his phone for evidence of internet fraud but found nothing. They later returned his phone and left the premises.

He also alleged that it was after the incident that he learned several other homes in his estate were similarly raided, with some residents allegedly arrested unlawfully.

“My family has not been the same since this experience. We are deeply traumatized and now feel unsafe in our own home,” he wrote, describing the incident as a serious violation of privacy and due process.

In a follow-up post, the journalist disclosed that senior police authorities had responded to the allegations. According to him, officials from the Nigeria Police Force headquarters in Abuja, alongside the Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer, have reportedly identified the officers involved in the raid.

He stated that assurances were given that the erring officers would face disciplinary action in line with police regulations, adding that investigations into the incident were ongoing.

As of the time of filing this report, the Oyo State Police Command has not released an official public statement detailing the outcome of the investigation or confirming specific sanctions against the officers involved.

The incident has sparked renewed public debate on police conduct, unlawful searches, and citizens’ rights, with many Nigerians calling for greater accountability and adherence to due process in law enforcement operations.

January 17, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News

VIDEO: Petrol Tanker Overturns, Spills Fuel and Damages Mercedes Benz SUV at Akala, Ibadan

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 17, 2026

written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

On Friday, a petrol tanker lost control and overturned at Akala, Ibadan, dumping its contents and damaging a nearby vehicle in a dramatic incident captured on video.

The footage circulating online, including a video shared online, shows the aftermath of the accident, with fuel spilling across the roadway and the tanker lying on its side. A black Mercedes Benz SUV was struck and badly damaged during the incident.

According to the video, the owner of the Mercedes, a visibly agitated woman, confronted the tanker driver at the scene, demanding that he replace her damaged vehicle. The exchange was emotive as onlookers gathered, with the woman insisting that the tanker operator accept responsibility for the loss of her car.

The crash led to temporary traffic slowdowns as motorists and residents stopped to see what had occurred. Emergency responders and recovery teams were not immediately visible in the available footage.

Watch the video here:

No official statement has yet been released by the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYOSTMA), police, or fire service regarding the cause of the accident, any injuries, or subsequent actions taken.

As of publication, it is not clear whether the tanker driver has agreed to compensate the owner of the Mercedes, or if the matter will be handled through insurance and legal channels.

OYOGist observes that incidents involving heavy vehicles continue to raise concerns about road safety in and around Ibadan, particularly in high-traffic areas like Akala.

January 17, 2026 0 comments

“Gen Musa’s appointment is a clear message of intent” – Analyst hails Tinubu

Breaking News Security

FG Warns States Against Entering Peace Deals With Bandits

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 16, 2026

written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

The Federal Government has cautioned state governments against negotiating peace agreements with bandits, warning that such arrangements are deceptive and undermine national security efforts.

The warning was issued by the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, during an interview in which he expressed concern over the growing tendency of some states to engage armed groups in dialogue as a means of restoring peace.

According to Musa, experience has shown that bandit groups often exploit peace talks to regroup, rearm, and expand their criminal activities, rather than genuinely abandon violence. He stressed that agreements reached under such circumstances rarely lead to lasting peace and can weaken coordinated national security operations.

The defence minister noted that while dialogue is an important tool in conflict resolution, it should not be misapplied in situations involving criminal elements whose primary motive is profit through violence, kidnapping, and terror. He emphasized that banditry is a criminal enterprise and must be treated as such.

Musa further explained that allowing individual states to strike separate deals with bandits creates gaps in the country’s security architecture and sends conflicting signals to security agencies on the ground. He called for a unified, intelligence-driven approach to tackling insecurity across the country.

The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening military operations, improving intelligence sharing, and working with state governments to restore peace without compromising the rule of law.

The warning comes amid ongoing security challenges in parts of northern Nigeria, where bandit attacks, kidnappings, and communal violence have continued to threaten lives and livelihoods.

January 16, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News

Hellen Ati from Kenya appeals to Davido as 13-year-old girl who claims to be his daughter demands DNA test

by hassan January 16, 2026

written by hassan

Hellen Ati, Linked to Cubana Chiefpriest, Urges Davido to Embrace Alleged Daughter Amid DNA Test Demand

Hellen Ati, known as the socialite connected to Cubana Chiefpriest, has publicly reached out to Nigerian superstar Davido regarding a sensitive family matter. She is appealing to the singer to accept and care for Anu, a 13-year-old girl who is insisting on a DNA test to confirm her paternity.

Background of the Claim

According to Hellen, she encountered Davido over a decade ago, and their brief relationship led to the birth of Anu. The young girl has since been seeking acknowledgment from the artist, prompting the call for a DNA test to establish biological ties.

Public Appeal on Social Media

Hellen Ati took to the comment section of Anu’s Instagram profile to make a heartfelt plea to Davido, urging him to consider adopting the girl regardless of the test results. This public interaction has drawn significant attention, highlighting the complexities of celebrity paternity disputes in the digital age.

Hellen Ati appeals to Davido as 13-year-old girl demands DNA test — Hellen Ati’s public appeal to Davido regarding Anu’s paternity claim.

Context and Wider Implications

Cases involving paternity claims against high-profile figures have become increasingly common, with DNA testing serving as a crucial tool for resolution. In 2024, over 70% of such disputes in Nigeria have been settled through genetic testing, reflecting a growing reliance on scientific evidence in family law.

This situation also underscores the emotional and social challenges faced by children born from unacknowledged relationships, emphasizing the importance of responsible parenthood and public figures’ roles in addressing such claims compassionately.

January 16, 2026 0 comments

Breaking News

Retired Kogi Judges Cry Out Over Years Of Govt Neglect, Urge Immediate Payment Of Entitlements

by hassan January 16, 2026

written by hassan

Kogi State’s retired judicial officers have openly criticized the state government for neglecting its constitutional duties concerning their post-retirement entitlements.

Ex-judges from Kogi State have expressed profound dissatisfaction over the extended postponement and outright refusal by state officials to fulfill their legally guaranteed retirement benefits, despite having stepped down from the bench several years prior.

These former judicial officers, who retired between 2021 and 2023 after many years of committed service to the judiciary and public administration, reveal that the failure to receive their pensions, gratuities, and allowances-rights enshrined in the constitution-has caused them considerable financial distress and emotional hardship.

In a comprehensive press release issued on Thursday, the retirees accused the Kogi State Government of willfully ignoring constitutional mandates and statutory provisions that safeguard the welfare of retired judicial personnel.

Constitutional Rights and Judicial Welfare at Stake

They stressed that these benefits are not optional privileges but essential rights intended to preserve the dignity, independence, and well-being of judges after their retirement.

All necessary documentation and verification procedures related to their entitlements have been duly completed. However, multiple formal appeals and petitions directed to various government offices, including the Governor’s office, have been met with either silence or inaction.

The Irony of Neglecting Those Who Upheld Justice

This disregard is especially disheartening considering these former judges once championed justice and constitutional order, yet now find themselves deprived of the protections guaranteed by the very laws they enforced.

“It is a cruel paradox,” one retired judge commented. “Those who devoted their lives to upholding the rule of law are now denied the legal protections that should secure their retirement.”

Outstanding Benefits and Their Impact

The unpaid dues include gratuities, medical and security allowances, and statutory vehicle provisions, all explicitly outlined in regulations governing the welfare of retired judicial officers.

The retirees condemned the government’s persistent neglect as not only unjust and disrespectful but also detrimental to public confidence in the judiciary and the state’s commitment to fairness.

Notable Retirees Affected

Among those impacted are Hon. Justice Sunday Omeiza Otu (Rtd), Hon. Justice Olorunfemi Richard Olorunju (Rtd), former Chief Judge Hon. Justice John Bayo Olowosegun (Rtd), and former President of the Customary Court of Appeal Hon. Justice Yunusa Musa (Rtd).

Others include Hon. Justice Esther O. Haruna (Rtd), Hon. Justice Andrew Alaba Omolaye-Ajileye (Rtd), Hon. Justice Olutimehin Samuel Obayomi (Rtd), and Hon. Justice Elias Adem Egwu (Rtd).

Urgent Appeal to State Leadership

The retired judges have made a direct appeal to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, urging swift intervention to release all outstanding payments and resolve the matter promptly.

They cautioned that ignoring retired judges not only jeopardizes their personal welfare but also threatens the judiciary’s integrity, undermines judicial independence, and discourages serving judicial officers.

Restoring Dignity and Upholding the Rule of Law

In conclusion, the retirees appealed to the state government’s sense of justice and constitutional responsibility, emphasizing that timely payment of their benefits would restore their honor and reaffirm Kogi State’s commitment to constitutional governance and the rule of law.

Recent data from the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics indicates that delayed pension payments have become a widespread issue affecting over 30% of retired public servants nationwide, highlighting the urgency for systemic reforms in states like Kogi.

Similar challenges have been reported in neighboring states, where retired judicial officers have resorted to legal action to claim their entitlements, underscoring the critical need for government accountability and respect for constitutional provisions.

January 16, 2026 0 comments

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