The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended Simon Peter Oguejiofor, a 29-year-old returnee from Thailand, for allegedly importing 13.30 kilograms of heroin valued at over ₦3.192 billion. The arrest occurred at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos, on October 7.

Details of the Arrest

According to NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi, Oguejiofor concealed the heroin in six backpacks, which were packed into two large suitcases. He had arrived in Lagos on October 5, having left Thailand on October 3 via Qatar Airways, with a layover in Doha. After spending two days in Doha, he contacted the airline to reroute his luggage to Nigeria, attempting to expedite the pick-up process to avoid security checks.

Upon exiting the airport, NDLEA officers intercepted him, and a search of his luggage revealed three empty backpacks in each suitcase, with heroin parcels sewn to all six. The total weight of the heroin recovered was 13.30 kilograms.

In his statement, Oguejiofor disclosed that he was hired for $7,000 to deliver the parcels—two in Lagos and four in Accra, Ghana.

Seizures of Other Illicit Drugs

In addition to the arrest, the NDLEA reported significant drug seizures at three seaports in Lagos. The agency intercepted large consignments of opioids with a combined street value of over ₦22.7 billion, including:

• 32,607,900 pills of tramadol valued at over ₦12.5 billion.
• 1.4 million bottles of codeine-based syrup worth ₦10.2 billion.

These consignments were seized from containers flagged by the NDLEA based on intelligence and were examined in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs and other security agencies between October 7 and October 11.

Additional Arrests

On October 12, NDLEA operatives in Anambra arrested a suspect named Okelue Chidera, 29, with 50,000 tablets of tramadol (200mg) in Onitsha. Meanwhile, in Edo State, operatives raided a cannabis transit point in Aviose, Owan West Local Government Area, recovering 70 bags of cannabis weighing 1,050 kg. Another suspect, Monday Akele, 38, was apprehended on October 11 in Ovia North East LGA with 110 kg of cannabis.

The NDLEA continues its efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse in Nigeria, with a focus on dismantling networks involved in the importation and distribution of illicit drugs.

Lagos residents have voiced concerns over the Lagos State government’s proposed ban on single-use plastics (SUPs) and sachet water, warning that it could lead to significant job losses and disrupt economic activities.

During a stakeholders’ workshop, Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, announced plans to implement the ban by January 2025. Wahab emphasized the need for sustainable guidelines to manage plastic waste, highlighting that materials like styrofoam and single-use plastics take centuries to degrade.

However, the proposal has sparked widespread anxiety among various sectors, particularly manufacturers and retailers, who fear economic instability and job losses. Many water vendors, who rely heavily on sachet water sales for their livelihoods, are particularly apprehensive.

Voices of Concern:

• Akinyemi Bolaji, a Sales Manager at Aremson Water Ltd., expressed deep concern for employment, stating, “The ban will not favor anyone, and it will make thousands of people lose their source of livelihood.” He called for better alternatives to ensure the ban doesn’t adversely affect those in the water business.
• Mrs. Vera Osiyemi, a retail water seller, highlighted the critical role of sachet water in preventing diseases like cholera, questioning the feasibility of the ban. She suggested the government should focus on creating awareness and proper disposal methods instead.
• Mrs. Afusat Ajibola warned that the ban could lead to a cholera outbreak, stating, “If the government eventually bans it, it will result in a serious cholera outbreak.” She advocated for proper waste disposal systems rather than an outright ban.
• Miss Joy Okafor raised concerns about the implications of banning sachet water without addressing the broader waste management issues, emphasizing the need for clean pipe-borne water to be available to the populace.
• Chinedu Eze, a water distributor, expressed uncertainty about the future of his business, saying, “This isn’t just about access to water; it’s about the survival of thousands of us.”
• Dr. Olufemi Adeyemi, a medical doctor, warned that banning sachet water without providing alternative sources of safe drinking water could leave many residents without affordable options. He suggested that the government invest in public water systems to alleviate the reliance on sachet water.
• Mummy Boma, a street vendor, emphasized that selling sachet water is essential for her family’s survival, stating, “Selling pure water helps me feed my children and send them to school.”

Government Response

In response to the backlash, Wahab acknowledged the concerns but reiterated the importance of environmental protection. The Lagos State Government is reportedly collaborating with private sector organizations to provide alternatives to SUPs and is supporting research into new technologies for managing plastic waste.

As the proposed ban approaches, many stakeholders remain hopeful for a balanced approach that prioritizes both environmental sustainability and economic stability.

The Police Command in Lagos State has reported the tragic death of a 50-year-old man, identified as Emmanuel, who was allegedly crushed by a moving train on Tuesday. The incident occurred around 9:00 a.m. at the ARENA Shopping Complex area in Oshodi.

SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesperson for the police command, confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday. According to Hundeyin, the man’s younger sister filed a report at the Mosafejo Police Division at approximately 1:33 p.m. She informed the police that she received a phone call indicating that her brother had been struck by a train while walking along the tracks.

A team of detectives visited the scene to gather evidence, and the body was subsequently transported to a public morgue for autopsy. The case has now been referred to the Railway Police Command in Ebute-Metta for further investigation.

Human rights activist and former National Assembly member Shehu Sani has voiced his concerns regarding the Enugu State government’s recent decision to impose taxes on corpses in morgues. The Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESIRS) issued a circular announcing a ₦40 daily tax for each deceased individual not buried within 24 hours.

The directive is in accordance with section 34 of the Birth, Deaths and Burials Law Cap 15 Revised Laws of Enugu State 2004. According to the circular, “the sum of ₦40.00 only is to be paid by owners of a corpse once it was not buried within twenty-four hours. The amount continues to count daily.” Morticians are instructed to collect these payments before releasing the corpses for burial.

In response to the announcement, Sani remarked on X (formerly Twitter), “Taxing dead bodies in Enugu finally means people can no longer rest in peace,” highlighting the absurdity of taxing those who have passed away.

Enugu Government Defends Mortuary Tax

In defense of the Mortuary Tax, Emmanuel Nnamani, the Executive Chairman of ESIRS, explained that the tax was introduced to bolster the state’s revenue generation efforts. He emphasized that this tax had existed in some form for years and is not a new imposition.

Nnamani clarified that the tax is only ₦40 per day, contrasting it with the misleading notion that it was ₦40,000. He stated, “It is an indirect tax paid by mortuary owners, not deceased family members, and it is just N40, not N40,000. Since its introduction, nobody has been denied burying their dead ones.”

He further elaborated that if a corpse remained in the mortuary for an extended period, such as 100 days, the total tax would amount to ₦4,000. Nnamani indicated that the tax aims not only to generate revenue but also to discourage prolonged storage of deceased individuals in mortuaries.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has underscored the importance of marriage counselling in equipping couples with essential knowledge and skills for building stable homes. He made this assertion during the Muslim Family Summit held in Abuja, with Aliyu Modibbo Umar, Special Adviser to the President on General Duties, representing him.

In a statement released by his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima emphasized the need to return to core family values, which he described as fundamental to national development. These values encompass love and mercy between spouses, maintaining harmony and balance in the home, and viewing marriage as a spiritual commitment and act of worship.

Shettima stressed the significance of kindness, good character, and the pursuit of knowledge and guidance, highlighting the family’s pivotal role in shaping individuals and society. He noted that reinforcing traditional family structures is crucial in addressing Nigeria’s pressing social and economic challenges.

“The mission is more than a reality check—it is a guide, steering us towards embracing marriage not just as a worldly institution but as an act of worship,” he explained.

Drawing on Islamic principles, Shettima reiterated that marriage should serve as a source of tranquillity, positioning the family as the cornerstone of moral and social order in society. He called on the Ummah to guide the current generation of couples and expressed optimism about the gathering of scholars and experts sharing best practices rooted in the Qur’an and Hadith.

He further stated that adherence to these teachings could provide solutions to many social issues facing the nation, cautioning that “when we build the family on the wrong foundation, we risk losing everything. But when we raise it upon sound Islamic principles, it becomes a fortress that preserves the values we hold dear.”

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on Nigerian leaders to wisely harness the nation’s abundant resources for its development. He made this statement during the 40th-anniversary celebration of the Methodist Archdiocese of Abuja on Sunday.

Speaking at the event, Obasanjo highlighted Nigeria’s vast potential, echoing the message of Methodist Prelate Dr. Oliver Aba, which emphasized the need to appreciate God’s blessings. He pointed out that, like other nations endowed with resources, Nigeria is similarly blessed with fertile land, rivers, crude oil, and other natural wealth.

“God didn’t create Nigeria to struggle,” Obasanjo asserted. “He has given us everything we need; it’s our duty to appreciate Him, especially since many countries lack what Nigeria has.” He urged leaders, clergy, and citizens to pray for the nation’s healing, acknowledging that the current state of the country is not a result of divine neglect but rather the squandering of its blessings.

In attendance was President Bola Tinubu, represented by Nyesom Wike, who commended the Methodist Church of Nigeria for its commitment to social justice, education, and humanitarian efforts. In his goodwill message, Tinubu celebrated the church’s 40-year milestone in Abuja and its 183 years of impactful service in Nigeria.

The President praised the church for its role in promoting peace and unity, calling for continued dedication to addressing national challenges through collective efforts.

In his address titled “Our Appreciation and Gratitude to God,” Methodist Prelate Dr. Oliver Aba emphasized the importance of gratitude even amidst difficulties, drawing from the biblical story of the ten lepers healed by Jesus, of whom only one returned to express thanks.

He acknowledged Nigeria’s challenges and called for divine intervention, urging citizens to remain calm and hopeful: “Nigeria, calm down; there’s light at the end of the tunnel. We have a promised land to look forward to.”

The event also honored several notable figures with the Knights of John Wesley award, including Obasanjo, former President Goodluck Jonathan, and current President Tinubu and his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, among others.

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has expressed deep concern over the ongoing insecurity and socio-economic difficulties affecting the northern region of Nigeria, stating that many people are unable to afford even a single meal each day. This sentiment was shared during a recent community engagement held in Katsina, chaired by Professor Sani Abubakar Lugga, the fifth Wazirin Katsina.

The event, themed “Imperative of Popular Participation in Tackling Socio-economic Challenges Bedeviling Nigeria Through Community Solutions,” aimed to gather community input on addressing these pressing issues.

In a statement to reporters, CNG’s National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, emphasized the need for collective action, stating, “The North is walking with its two legs, hence the need to find a lasting solution.” He highlighted the severe economic conditions, mentioning, “People can no longer afford three square meals. We are not even talking about three square meals; people cannot afford a single square meal per day.”

Charanchi further pointed out that insecurity is rampant in the North and criticized leaders for their inaction. He stated, “The time of lamentation is over as virtually all Nigerians know that the country is bedeviled by serious problems.” He underscored that both leaders and communities must take responsibility to alleviate the current crises.

The CNG is mobilizing community members to participate in addressing issues such as insecurity, economic hardship, corruption, and deteriorating infrastructure in education and health sectors. Charanchi called for community leaders to return to their constituencies and relay the discussions from the engagement to foster local solutions.

He lamented the lack of genuine leadership in the country, contrasting politicians’ focus on winning elections with the need for leaders who prioritize future generations. “A true leader cares about how to secure the next generation,” he noted.

Charanchi’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment of frustration with the current political landscape, asserting that community unity and action are crucial for driving meaningful change. He concluded by urging communities to recognize their role in governance, stating, “Let’s get it right from our constituency.”

Hadiza Isma El-Rufai, the wife of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has stirred up conversation on social media after challenging Senator Shehu Sani over a recent post regarding President Bola Tinubu’s overseas trips.

In his post on X, Sani remarked on how Tinubu’s international travels seem to correlate with rising taxes and prices in Nigeria, stating, “New law of economics; When the President travels out, Taxes and Prices goes up.”

El-Rufai, known for her sharp eye for grammatical errors, quickly responded to Sani’s tweet. She pointed out that he should have written “go up” instead of “goes up,” drawing attention to his wording rather than the content of his message.

This exchange led to a flurry of reactions from netizens, with many finding humor in the situation. Comments included:

• @Aprilkekule: “Whether ‘goes up’ or ‘go up,’ the message is clear…”
• @Northerner∅: “El-Rufai family and Shehu Sani tussle is unmatched. Astaghfurullah! 🤭”
• @belloinuwa: “This could literally start a war 😂😂😂.”
• @imustaphaa: “This one is the same generation thing. I cannot comment on it. I come in peace.”
• @CroBender: “English not his mother tongue 😂😂.”

The interaction highlights the ongoing tensions between Sani and the El-Rufai family, stemming from their historical political rivalry. Despite both having been part of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Sani’s differences with El-Rufai led to his eventual defection to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), where he contested the 2019 elections but lost to the APC candidate Uba Sani, the current governor of Kaduna.

Former lawmaker Shehu Sani has challenged Rotimi Amaechi, the former Minister of Transportation, to lead the type of protest he has called for in response to Nigeria’s current economic hardships. This came after Amaechi expressed his disappointment over the lack of visible protests from Nigerians, especially the youth, amidst rising fuel prices and the high cost of living.

During an interview with ABN TV, Amaechi, who is also a former Governor of Rivers State, shared his surprise at the calm reaction from Nigerians despite hyperinflation and worsening economic conditions. He had expected more public demonstrations, stating, “I expected more agitation, especially from the youth. I thought we would see protests in the streets, but it seems people are not expressing the kind of anger I expected.”

In response to these remarks, Shehu Sani, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), called on Amaechi to take the lead in organizing the protest himself, remarking, “His Royal Highness Hon Rotimi should organise and lead the kind of protest he wants or wishes to see.”

Amaechi’s comments also drew criticism from Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, who accused him of inciting violence. Matawalle condemned Amaechi’s rhetoric, calling it “reckless and irresponsible” and suggesting that such statements could threaten national peace and stability. He further emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s government is working to address the country’s challenges through reforms, and exploiting the situation for political gain is harmful to national progress.

It was an emotional night filled with sorrow and tears as friends, family, and associates gathered to eulogize the late Richard Tallen, son of former Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen. The requiem mass and night of tributes, held on Saturday in Abuja, were part of the funeral proceedings for Richard, who passed away on October 6.

During the tributes, Olufolake Abdulrazaq, wife of Kwara Governor and Chairperson of the Nigerian Governors Wives’ Forum, spoke of Richard as a loving and purposeful gentleman whose memory would live on through the lives he touched. She emphasized the importance of supporting the family during this painful period, noting that his death had left a significant void.

Hajiya Titi Abubakar, wife of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, also offered words of comfort, reminding the gathering that Richard had left behind a good legacy and that his passing, though painful, was part of God’s plan.

Prof. Mary Lar, widow of Chief Solomon Lar, encouraged the youth to live lives worthy of emulation, as Richard had done, while Prof. John Opara, Founder and CEO of CSS Group of Companies, echoed the sentiments of deep loss and admiration for the life Richard had lived. Despite being just 41 years old, his achievements and impact on those around him were profound.

Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has suspended his Special Adviser on Salary and Pensions, Alhaji Bashir Ado, following an alleged premature announcement regarding the ₦70,000 minimum wage. The suspension was confirmed in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Malam Bala Ibrahim, on Saturday in Dutse.

The suspension follows the circulation of a statement in the media claiming that the governor had approved a ₦70,000 minimum wage for workers, which the government found “embarrassing and premature.” Ibrahim clarified that the governor has not yet made any decisions, as the committee responsible for reviewing the minimum wage, headed by the Head of State Civil Service, has not completed its assignment or submitted its report.

In response to the incident, Governor Namadi has set up a committee, chaired by the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Bello Abdulkadir, to investigate the source and motives behind the statement. The committee, which includes the Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports, and Culture, Sagir Musa, and other officials, has been given two weeks to submit its findings.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed the death of Faisal Makarfi, son of former Kaduna State Governor, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, in a tragic auto crash along the Kaduna-Kano highway on Saturday. The Kaduna State Sector Commander, Kabir Nadabo, confirmed the accident to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday.

According to Nadabo, the accident occurred at Lambar Zango along the Zaria-Kaduna Highway at around 6:15 p.m. The crash involved a KIA vehicle traveling from Zaria to Kaduna, which somersaulted after its front right tire detached. Three men were in the vehicle, including Faisal, who was fatally injured.

Nadabo revealed that Faisal was transported to an undisclosed hospital in Kaduna by his father’s arrangements, where he was later pronounced dead. Two other individuals involved in the crash remain unconscious.

The burial of Faisal Makarfi is scheduled to take place at 10 a.m. today at the Sultan Bello Mosque, Unguwar Sarki, Kaduna.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima expressed the federal government’s commitment to reversing Nigeria’s unemployment crisis during the launch of Nasarawa State’s Human Capital Development Strategy Document and Gender Transformative Human Capital Development Policy Framework in Lafia on Saturday.

Shettima emphasized that the staggering unemployment rate, growing informal sector, and low labor force participation must be addressed under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He noted that the Human Capital Development (HCD) Programme is designed to empower Nigerians with globally competitive skills, enabling them to excel both domestically and internationally.

He highlighted the need to break cycles of unplanned high fertility rates, maternal and child mortality, and low life expectancy. Shettima also pointed out the importance of improving the nation’s education system and equipping the workforce with skills suited to the 21st-century economy.

Nasarawa State’s commitment to HCD was praised as a leading example for other regions. Shettima assured that the blueprint for human capital development would bring socio-economic growth and improve lives across the country.

Senator Ahmed Wadada added that Nasarawa State is setting a strong foundation for HCD in Nigeria, emphasizing that education remains the cornerstone of human development.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State announced on Saturday that the new minimum wage for workers in the state would be ₦73,000. He made this declaration during the flag-off of his campaign in Ondo town for the upcoming November 16 governorship election, where he is running as the candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Aiyedatiwa highlighted that the new minimum wage is part of his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of workers and ensuring they enjoy the dividends of democracy. He emphasized the importance of re-electing him to continue the progress his administration has made.

He also noted several initiatives over the past 10 months, including approving over ₦1 billion to clear land for agriculture, constructing rural roads, and improving the state’s security to support farmers and enhance overall safety. Aiyedatiwa praised the collaboration between the state’s security agencies and Amotekun in achieving a more secure environment.

Godfrey Okoye University (GOUNI), Enugu, has announced that the minimum qualification for its lecturers will be raised to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, effective from the 2025-2026 academic session. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Christian Anieke, made the announcement during a “Spiritual Retreat” for academic and senior administrative staff on Friday.

Prof. Anieke instructed lecturers with lower degrees to upgrade their qualifications or be prepared to step down from their roles. He emphasized that this decision aligns with the National Universities Commission’s guidelines, and further directed that graduate assistants would no longer be permitted to teach classes without a qualified lecturer present.

The vice chancellor also stressed the importance of mentorship while warning against its abuse and stated that lecturers missing classes would no longer be tolerated. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. MarySylvia Nwachukwu, expressed concern about low attendance by lecturers during the first week of resumption and promised stricter supervision to address absenteeism.

During the retreat, Rev. Fr. Liberatus Isife, the guest speaker from the university’s Department of Philosophy and Religion, emphasized the importance of effective knowledge transfer for the success of educational institutions

Dr. Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, has condemned the alleged statement by former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, calling for protests from Nigerians. In a statement by Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, Matawalle criticized Amaechi’s remarks, labeling them as reckless and irresponsible.

Amaechi is reported to have urged Nigerian youths to rise in protest against the government’s policies. In response, Matawalle accused him of inciting violence and undermining national peace and stability. He urged Amaechi to desist from making inflammatory statements, especially at a time when President Bola Tinubu is actively working on reforms to address the country’s challenges.

Matawalle stressed that the government is committed to protecting the peace and security of all Nigerians and warned against any attempts to destabilize the nation through incitement. He called on Amaechi to support the government’s efforts to move the country forward, rather than engaging in divisive rhetoric.

Faisal Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, the son of former Kaduna State Governor and Senator Ahmed Makarfi, tragically died in an auto accident on Saturday, October 12, 2024. The accident occurred on the Kaduna-Zaria highway, and Faisal was rushed to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead. His father, Ahmed Makarfi, was reportedly present at the hospital.

Faisal was a civil engineer by profession. He attended Kaduna International School and Adesoye College in Offa, Kwara State, for his secondary education. He then pursued both his undergraduate and master’s degrees at the University of Greenwich in London, where he was also enrolled for a PhD program at the time of his death.

This marks the third tragic death of a prominent Nigerian in a short span, following the loss of Pauline Tallen’s son and Fatima Kyari, daughter of the NNPC’s Group Managing Director, Mele Kyari.