Pandemonium broke out on Tuesday night in Lagos residents of Otedola Estate and road users around the vicinity scampered for safety when a gas-laden tanker exploded and resulted in a raging blaze outward of Otedola Bridge in the Omole area of Lagos.

It was gathered that the inferno started at about 8pm when the accident involving a gas tanker led to an explosion with motorists and other road users fleeing in different directions.

Director of Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, disclosed and confirmed that the inferno was being curtailed as it has spread to properties along the road leading to the Otedola bridge.

According to her, “The 30 tonnes DAF Gas Truck with an unknown registration number is on its way navigating the Lagos-Ibadan expressway before an accident resulting in an ensuing explosion accompanied with fireballs in front of a Redeemed Church.”

Adeseye further said, “The resultant fire quickly spread to the church and adjoining bungalow building as well as four different brands of vehicles while it is being mitigated from causing further damage.”

Meanwhile, she added that while firefighting operations were ongoing, there has been no record of casualty, promising further updates to follow.

The chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kogi State, Moses Peter Oricha, has urged the general public, security agencies, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to disregard a purported congress being organised by some individuals claiming to be members of the party later this week.

The alarm comes barely 24 hours after the former Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, joined the party. 

The SDP is being projected as the party of choice for the opposition coalition movement as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party have been weighed down by series of crisis.

Oricha, who disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, noted that certain individuals, whom he described as ghost members, are planning to conduct a congress on behalf of SDP in Kogi State on March 12, 2025.

“It has just come to my notice that some ghost individuals claiming to be members of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, in Kogi State are planning to organise a state congress this Wednesday, 12th March 2025.

“This is not only laughable but criminal in a modern democratic setting. These individuals are not only faceless but are also being sponsored by their paymasters—not just for their selfish interests but also to cause chaos in our party, which we built from scratch.

“The general public should not take these individuals seriously with their caricature of a state congress, which cannot stand the test of time because nobody knows them in SDP Kogi State.

“I have written to the Independent National Electoral Commission, and copied the Department of State Services, DSS, and the Commissioner of Police, urging them to disregard and stop this purported illegal congress, which will never stand the test of time.

“I am the authentic chairman of SDP in Kogi State, and we will not allow intruders who are working hard to destroy our party, which we have built over the years. This congress, scheduled for Wednesday, is null and void and cannot stand,” he said.

Oricha recalled that the congress of the present executive under his leadership, held on April 9, 2022, remains valid under the SDP constitution.

Explaining further, he said: “Any plan to conduct an SDP congress in Kogi State cannot hold. We urge SDP supporters to disregard any such purported plan by this group of disgruntled elements who are enemies of our party.

“To me, these are all ghost individuals who are not members of the SDP. We urge INEC and security agencies to be on high alert. As far as the SDP is concerned, there is no congress taking place later this week or this year until April 2026, in accordance with our party’s constitution.”

Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Information, Strategy, and Security, Ogundipe Olukayode, has dismissed claims that 25 lawmakers are planning to defect from the All Progressives Congress to an unnamed party.

According to Leadership, Olukayode described in a Tuesday statement that the report is “entirely false and without merit.”

“We categorically state that this claim is entirely false and without merit.

“During the recent leadership dispute within the Assembly, a similar report surfaced, suggesting that twenty-seven (27) members were preparing to leave the APC for the Labour Party.

“That claim was also unequivocally refuted, with members affirming their commitment to the party and confidence in resolving internal disagreements through established mechanisms,” he stated.

He emphasized that no APC lawmaker in the Assembly was contemplating defection, reiterating that as progressives, any challenges faced are resolved through democratic and lawful means.

Olukayode further assured that the APC leadership is actively addressing all internal concerns and outstanding issues will be resolved amicably.

He urged those spreading the rumours to desist from misleading the public, stressing that the Lagos Assembly remains focused on its legislative duties of enacting laws and motions that drive the state’s development.

PUNCH Online reports that the Lagos State House of Assembly recently experienced significant leadership changes.

On January 13, 2025, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa was impeached over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office. Mojisola Meranda was subsequently elected as the first female Speaker of the Assembly.

However, on March 3, 2025, Meranda resigned from her position, and Obasa was reinstated as Speaker.

These events have led to internal disagreements within the Assembly, prompting rumours of potential defections.

However, as stated by Olukayode, members have reaffirmed their commitment to the APC and are confident in resolving internal disagreements through established mechanisms.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has raised the alarm over the activities of 58 illegal Ponzi scheme operators defrauding Nigerians under the guise of investment opportunities.

In a statement released on Tuesday by the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the anti-graft agency disclosed that the companies are neither registered with the Central Bank of Nigeria nor the Securities and Exchange Commission, making their operations illegal.

Oyewale noted that the commission has taken legal action against many of the entities, leading to the conviction of five, while another five have pleaded guilty and are awaiting further judicial processes.

He added that other cases are still pending arraignment.

The statement read in part, “In line with its commitment to sanitising the financial space of the nation and providing the investing public with adequate and reliable information, the EFCC hereby alerts Nigerians to the operations of 58 companies posturing as investing entities but defrauding innocent citizens of their hard-earned money.”

According to Oyewale, some of the flagged companies include Wales Kingdom Capital, Bethseida Group of Companies, AQM Capital Limited, Titan Multibusiness Investment Limited, Brickwall Global Investment Limited, Farmforte Limited & Agro Partnership Tech and Green Eagles Agricbusiness Solution Limited among others.

The statement added, “Richfield Multiconcepts Limited, Forte Asset Management Limited, (Biss Networks Nigeria Limited, S Mobile Netzone Limited, Pristine Mobile Network), Letsfarm Integrated Services, Bara Finance & Investment Limited, Vicampro Farms Limited, Brooks Network Limited, Gas Station Supply Services Limited, Brass & Books Limited, (Annexation Biz Concept & Maitanbuwal Global Venturescrowdyvest Limited,) and Crowdyvest Limited,

“Others are: Jadek Agro Connect Limited, Adeeva Capital Limited, Oxford International Group and Oxford Gold Integrated, Skapomah Global Limited, MBA Trading & Capital Investment Limited, TRJ Company Limited, Farm4Me Agriculture Limited, Quintessential Investment Company, Adeprinz Global Enterprises, Rockstar Establishment Limited, SU.Global Investment, Citi Trust Funding PLC, Farm Buddy, Eatrich 369 Farms & Food, Globertrot Farmsponsors Nigeria Limited, Farm Sponsors Limited, Cititrust Credit Limited, Farmfunded Agroservices Limited, Adamakin Investment & Works Limited.

“The rest include: Cititrust Holding PLC, Green Eagles Agribusiness Solutions Limited, Chinmark Homes & Shelters Limited, Emerald Farms & Consultant Limited, Ovaioza Farm Produce Storage Limited, Farm 360 & Agriculture Company, Requid Technologies Limited, West Agro Agriculture & Food Processing Limited, NISL Ventures Limited & Estate of Laolu Martins, XY Connect Investment Limited, River Branch Unique Investment Limited, Hallmark Capital Limited, CJC Markets Limited, Crowd One Investment, Farmkart Foods Limited, KD Likemind Stakeholders Limited, Holibiz Finance Limited, Ifeanyi Okpe Oil & Gas Services, Servapps Nigeria Limited, Barrick Gold Mining Company and 360 Agric Partners Limited.”

Oyewale assured the public that the EFCC remained vigilant in monitoring and prosecuting fraudulent investment schemes, warning Nigerians to exercise caution before committing funds to any financial entity not duly registered with regulatory bodies.

“We urge the public to verify any investment opportunity with the CBN and SEC before engaging. The EFCC remains committed to safeguarding the public from predatory operators and ensuring a corruption-free economic environment,” the statement added.

He urged victims of fraudulent schemes to come forward with complaints and assured them that efforts were ongoing to recover funds where possible.

A former chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Barrister John Nwobodo, has stated that it will not be politically proper for the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023, Peter Obi  to deputise a northern candidate in 2027.

Nwobodo, a former governorship candidate of the Accord Party in Enugu State stated this in an exclusive interview with LEADERSHIP in Enugu.

He said instead of deputising a northern candidate in 2027, Obi should forget any presidential ambition.

Nwobodo insisted Obi has really created an impact in Nigeria’s political landscape, saying he does not think the former presidential candidate is a desperate politician who will run for political office at all cost.

“I do not think that it would make political sense for Obi to deputise a Northern candidate in 2027 instead of doing that he should  not run.

“Mr. Obi has really created an impact in the political landscape of Nigeria. I do not think that he is a desperate politician who would run for a political office at all cost” Nwobodo stated.

He, however, warned that it will take extraordinary measures to defeat the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the presidential election in 2027.

Nwobodo said the APC is well entrenched in terms of membership and spread coupled with high network Nigerians in its fold.

“Without pandering to the political sentiments or emotions, it would take extraordinary measures to defeat APC in 2027. I say so because the party is well entrenched in terms of membership and spread coupled with high networth Nigerians in its fold.

“The problem of leadership in Nigeria is not one of the party nomenclature but a deep-rooted problem of lack of patriotism and the negative mindset of most politicians who see politics as a tool for aggrandizement of power and money.

“But returning to the question, I think the only kind of opposition that can wrestle power from the APC is the opposition that would field new breed promoted by an amalgamation or coalition of political parties and a well mobilized citizens. Any political arrangement that favours the old politicians would hit the rock.’ he stated.

Super Eagles Head Coach, Eric Chelle has officially announced his final roster of 23 players for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles selection reflects a blend of experienced internationals and emerging talents, aimed at securing Nigeria’s place in the upcoming World Cup.

The squad features goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali from Chippa United in South Africa and Kayode Bankole of Remo Stars. Both goalkeepers have demonstrated commendable skill and resilience in their respective leagues.

In defence, the roster includes seasoned players such as William Ekong, representing Al-Kholood FC in Saudi Arabia, along with Calvin Bassey from Fulham FC and Olaoluwa Aina of Nottingham Forest, both playing in the competitive English Premier League.

The squad also welcomes Bruno Onyemaechi from Olympiacos in Greece, Bright Osayi-Samuel of Fenerbahce in Turkey, and the Czech Republic-based defender Igoh Ogbu from SK Slavia Prague, who all contribute diverse experiences to the backline.

The midfield is fortified by prominent talents such as Wilfred Ndidi of Leicester City and Alex Iwobi from Fulham FC, both known for their tactical intelligence and playmaking abilities.

They are joined by Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium), Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA), and Joseph Ayodele-Aribo of Southampton FC, adding depth and creativity to the midfield. Notably, home-based midfielder Papa Daniel Mustapha of Niger Tornadoes also makes the final squad, reflecting Chelle’s commitment to integrating local talent.

The attacking front boasts a formidable lineup featuring the likes of Victor Osimhen, currently playing for Galatasaray FC in Turkey, and Samuel Chukwueze of AC Milan in Italy, both of whom are pivotal in their clubs’ attacking strategies.

Also included are Ademola Lookman of Atalanta FC and Victor Boniface of Bayer Leverkusen in Germany, alongside Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France), Sadiq Umar of Valencia FC in Spain, and Tolu Arokodare from KRC Genk, Belgium.

The Super Eagles will face group C leaders Rwanda in a crucial match scheduled for Friday, March 21, in Kigali. This will be followed by a home game against the Zimbabwe Warriors at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, set for four days later. The Super Eagles aim to secure vital points in these encounters to enhance their chances of qualifying for the World Cup.

List Of 23 Super Eagles For Rwanda, Zimbabwe Games

Goalkeepers:
– Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa)
– Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania)
– Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars)

Defenders:
– William Ekong (Al-Kholood FC, Saudi Arabia)
– Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK, Turkey)
– Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos FC, Greece)
– Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England)
– Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England)
– Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia Prague, Czech Republic)

Midfielders:
– Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England)
– Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium)
– Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA)
– Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England)
– Joseph Ayodele-Aribo (Southampton FC, England)
– Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes)

Forwards:
– Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy)
– Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray FC, Turkey)
– Ademola Lookman (Atalanta FC, Italy)
– Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)
– Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France)
– Sadiq Umar (Valencia FC, Spain)
– Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)
– Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium)

The House of Representatives has instructed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to mandate internet service providers to block access to all websites that host pornographic and obscene content.

Naija News reports that the directive also mandates the NCC to compel all internet service providers to prevent access to such content without delay.

The motion, sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, an All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker from Katsina State, was debated and passed during Tuesday’s plenary session.

While presenting the motion, Tafoki highlighted that cyber pornography had become a growing global issue and that Nigeria had yet to take sufficient measures to address it.

He emphasized that Nigeria is a “highly religious country” where major faiths prohibit nudity and obscene content.

Tafoki further pointed out that several nations across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East had enacted strict laws banning pornography.

Citing warnings from psychologists and sociologists, the lawmaker stressed the potential dangers of pornography, stating that it could lead to adultery, prostitution, and addiction.

“Renowned psychologists and sociologists around the world have issued stern warnings on the psychological, sociological, and mental consequences of viewing pornographic content,” he said.

Following a voice vote conducted by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the motion received widespread support from lawmakers.

The House also instructed the NCC to impose penalties on any internet service provider that fails to comply with the directive.

The House of Representatives has directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to immediately halt the implementation of its newly introduced ATM transaction charges and the removal of free withdrawals for customers using other banks’ ATMs.

Naija News reports that this decision was reached on Tuesday after lawmakers adopted a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Marcus Onobun (PDP, Edo).

The House insisted that the policy be suspended until the relevant committees engage with the apex bank.

While presenting the motion, Onobun highlighted that the CBN recently amended its guidelines under Section 10.7 of the CBN Guide to Charges by Banks, Other Financial, and Non-Bank Financial Institutions.

He explained that the new policy increases ATM withdrawal fees and eliminates free withdrawals for customers using ATMs outside their bank, thereby adding to the financial burden of Nigerians.

According to him, Section 10.7 of the guide was last reviewed in 2019, reducing ATM withdrawal charges from ₦65 to ₦35 per transaction.

He stated, “According to this new policy, customers withdrawing from their bank’s ATMs will continue to enjoy free withdrawals. However, a fee of ₦100 per ₦20,000 withdrawal will be applied to customers from other banks transacting at ATMs within bank premises.”

He further noted, “Similarly, customers from other banks using ATMs located outside the bank’s premises, such as malls and marketplaces, will be charged ₦100 plus an additional ₦500 surcharge.”

Onobun expressed concern that Nigerians are already struggling with multiple economic challenges, including inflation, rising fuel prices, increased electricity tariffs, and excessive banking fees, all of which are reducing disposable income and negatively affecting citizens’ financial well-being.

He warned that “the imposition of additional ATM withdrawal charges will further discourage financial inclusion, especially for low-income earners, contradicting the CBN’s financial inclusion agenda.”

The lawmaker also pointed out that despite the banking sector recording substantial profits, consumers continue to face excessive charges without any significant improvement in service quality or banking infrastructure.

“The government’s role includes protecting citizens from exploitative financial practices that could worsen economic hardship,” he concluded.