Partial Lifting of Lockdown: Lagos HoS Announces Opening of Govt Offices

 ... Reels Out Strict Protocols For Staff Ahead Of Resumption

AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola has conveyed the approval of the State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu that all Offices in the State Secretariat, Alausa, as well as other Government Establishments Statewide, be opened for activities with effect from Monday, 4th May 2020.

He said the approval, as contained in a circular issued on Thursday 30th of April, 2020 with the Reference Number CIR/HOS/'20/Vol.1/046, follows an earlier directive given by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr. Muhammadu Buhari on the gradual easing of existing lockdown in Lagos State.

Muri-Okunola said, “It is worthy of note that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had in a Statewide broadcast on Wednesday evening, 29th April 2020, issued some specific directives to Public Servants in the State on modalities for resumption after some weeks of the total lockdown of activities across the State”.

The re-opening of the Secretariat, the Head of Service asserted "would be subject not only to the conditions earlier specified prior to the announcement of the lockdown, vide Circulars Ref. Nos.: CIR/ HOS/ ’20/Vol.1 / 031, 037 and 039 of 3rd, 20th and 22nd March, 2020 respectively, on measures to contain the pandemic, but also on some new protocols as well".

Listing some of the new protocols, the circular stated that officers on Grade Levels 12 and below must continue working from home, unless otherwise directed by their Accounting Officers, with the exception of Frontline Responders and other essential Health Workers, irrespective of Grade, as well as Enforcement Agencies.

The HoS urged Accounting Officers to carry out a Needs Assessment of critical Staff, identify essential Officers and draw up a Flexible Work Roster for Officers on Grade Levels 13 and above, in compliance with the Physical Distancing Principle as stated by the World Health Organisation.

According to Muri-Okunola, sanitisers, as well as washable and reusable facemasks, must be distributed to Officers who are required to wear them in the office and all Public spaces while hand gloves and protective gears should be provided for cleaners. He stressed that non-usage of the items will attract strict penalties.

In addition, the Head of Service instructed all Directors of Administration and Human Resource to ensure that the entire Office Environment is disinfected and kept clean always.

While advising officers in need of medical assistance to do so via consultation through telephone or online in order to minimise and eliminate visits to the Staff Clinic and Hospitals, the HoS implored all sick persons to stay away from the office.

He maintained that all public servants must abide by the 8 p.m to 6 a.m curfew pronounced by Mr. Governor, pointing out that the Secretariat and other Government Establishments would remain shut to members of the public and non-staff who are advised to conduct their affairs through other channels such as telephone, emails and online platforms.

Muri-Okunola also encouraged Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), to ensure adequate personal hygiene by providing liquid soap with running water at all entrances and in toilets for regular and thorough washing of hands.

Two lorries loaded with passengers turned back from Kaduna-Kano border

AgegePulse Magazine

Two vehicles originating from the Kaduna-Kano border and attempting to convey passengers into Kaduna State have been turned back. This follows the interception of several lorries by security operatives at the Kaduna-Kano border on Monday.

In the most recent development, the lorries slipped through the security checks at the border, sneaking in their human cargo concealed behind livestock, motorcycles and other goods.

In a statement on Thursday, Kaduna State Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, said: “We got information that these lorries had come in from the Kaduna-Kano border and had progressed up to Gwargwaji in Zaria LGA. We then proceeded to nab them further along within the same local government.

“The passengers were cleverly concealed behind random goods, motorcycles and animals. Thankfully, once again we have got the better of them, and we have turned them back, in compliance with the Kaduna State Government’s ban on inter-state travel.

“Operatives are actively enforcing the directives at all entry points, and passengers have similarly been intercepted from other routes and escorted out to the borders.”

The ban on interstate travel is one of the measures taken by the Kaduna State Government to curb the spread of COVID 19, and has been vigorously enforced by security agencies at the State’s borders.

From Babatunde Quadri

Lagos Court Officials Under Detention After Extorting Motorist Over Face Mask

AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos Mobile Court



By Monsuru Olowoopejo

It was end of the road for five court officials who were arrested by Inspector-General of Police Monitoring Unit deployed to Lagos and Ogun States for parading themselves as officers of Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Enforcement Agency (Task Force) to allegedly extort motorists and residents over the use of face mask in the state.


Among the five court officials, who were led by one Henry Akintanmi popularly called Spider and deployed to Lagos State Special Offences (Mobile) Court, includes three policemen that were primarily assigned to ensure the safety of lives and property of the five mobile courts and magistrates in the state.


Before the IGP special team led by Police former Public Relation officer in Lagos, CSP Ngozi Braide, arrested the Lagos Mobile Court officials on Thursday, it was learned that the State Government had been inundated with complaints of extortions on Lagos roads by the officials who were said to have allegedly established an illegal Taskforce unit under the Lagos Mobile Court to extort residents in the state.

Henry Taiwo Akintomide

Theguild gathered that the officials often embark on enforcement of traffic law before President Muhammadu Buhari imposed a lockdown on Lagos to contain spread of coronavirus and allegedly arrest several motorists and commercial motorcycle operators popularly called Okada riders and tricycle operators and extort them with the assurance that they were the authentic taskforce responsible for environmental enforcement in the state.


It was learned that the officials, in order to ensure the operations achieve the targeted aim, adopted Taskforce enforcement style and painted their vehicles with a bold inscription of Taskforce on it and move in convoy to arrest and extort motorists that were not familiar with Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Enforcement Agency (Task Force).

Though the operation had been ongoing without the State Government been able to pinpoint the perpetrators inspite of complain from residents Akintanmi, a Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) former officer, and his gang, earlier in the week, stormed Lagos roads and apprehended residents for moving within the state without using a face mask.


It was learned that Akintanmi and four others hide under the pronouncement by the State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, that the use of face mask would be enforced in the state.

Ms Clara, one of the victims extorted for not using a face mask in Lagos, informed the IGP monitoring team, claiming that the officials who extorted her were from Lagos Task Force and appealed for an investigation.

The Guild gathered that after Clara’s complaint, the law enforcement officers accompanied her to the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Enforcement Agency (Task Force) headquarters in Oshodi to identify the perpetrators.

On arrival, the Chairman of Lagos Taskforce, CSP Olayinka Egbeyemi, denied the involvement of his officers and disclosed that since the advent of the dreaded hoodlums, One Million Boys, his personnel had been deployed to different locations to prevent any possible attack on residents.


Egbeyemi said: “We have been manning the entry points of the state during this lockdown. We have not been engaging in any enforcement in Lagos state.

 And some of the places you can find my men now are Agege, Ikorodu, Oshodi, Alakuko, Lekki-Ikoyi, and Berger end of Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. I know that my officers were never involved in any enforcement.”

After leaving the Lagos Taskforce office, our correspondent learned that Clara and members of the IGP team discovered the vehicle that apprehended her within the premises of Lagos State Special Offences (Mobile) Court where the perpetrators were picked by the team.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Bala Elkana, in an interview with our correspondent, said that he was not aware of the arrest made by the Braide-led team in the state.


In an interview with TheGuild, the Public Affairs Officer (PAO), Ministry of Justice, Kayode Oyekanmi, assured our correspondent that he would get back to him after confirmation.

#Covid19: Ogun To Begin Distribution of Palliatives To 20,000 Youths, Says Gov. Dapo Abiodun

...Commends Ooni of Ife

AgegePulse Magazine

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has disclosed the plans of his administration to provide palliatives to twenty thousand youths across the twenty Local Government Areas of the State.

Prince Dapo Abiodun, who made this known at the Arcade Ground, Governor's Office, Oke-Mosan, when he received the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, who came to present two motorised modular fumigators - an initiative of the House of Oduduwa Machine Tools - to the State Government, said that the initiative to give palliatives to youths across the twenty LGAs is meant for the poor and vulnerable youths across the State.

"Our promise is that we will continue to provide for as many people as possible. We have decided that our next target is going to our youths because they are also vulnerable. They are not elderly, but many of them are poor and vulnerable, so we have decided that we are going to identify about a thousand youths per Local Government Area across the twenty LGAs, making it twenty thousand youths and we are going to provide palliatives  to them," he said.

Prince Abiodun, while describing the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi as a 21st century Monarch who is passionate about his people, noted that he was glad that the Monarch was able to empower the local economy through the motorised modular fumigator, which was locally manufactured.

Abiodun also disclosed that his administration had been able to flatten the curve of the spread of the virus through the setting up of its emergency operation procedure, incident action plan and its about 300-bed capacity isolation centers.

He added that the State has a high number of ventilators, while adding that his administration was able to purchase 11 ventilators, receive 2 from the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and meet 10 from the facility built by the immediate past administration.

In his remarks, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi disclosed that the virus was indeed real, calling on the people of the State and Country to protect themselves against the spread of the virus.

The Ooni, who noted that the motorised modular fumigators which were locally made would be given to all 36 States, added that he is ready to deliver the fumigators to states across the Federation, but might be forced to ask for help if he meets with any form of obstacle.

Lagos NURTW Boss MC Olu-Omo Loses Mother

 AgegePulse Magazine

 Lagos State NURTW Chairman, Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya, MC OluOmo today lost his mother Alhaja  Abebi Zinat Omotonwo Akinsanya  at early hour of today.

The Lagos NURTW boss disclosed this on his social media handle and it reads:


“Innalilah wahina ilaehi rojiun”

Mother of Mc Oluomo Died

Alhaja  Abebi Zinat Omotonwo mother of the Chairman, NURTW Lagos State Alhaji Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya *MC Oluomo* has passed away at early hour of today.

The aged woman who was true Muslim worshiper until her death passed away peacefully in her residence located at NNPC. She will be buried today in line with Islamic rites at her residence.

The members of the family however appreciate everyone that has been calling to condole with the family since the news filter out.

They appreciate their concern and uses this avenue to inform them that the burial will be attended strictly by family members Only.

We appreciate and understand that there are so many people who would have loved to pay their last respect to our late Mother Alhaja Abebi Zinat Omotonwo but will be unable to do so due to the present ban on large gatherings.

Please phone call or text messages will be appreciated. Thanks for your understanding and Cooperation.

May Allah accepts her soul.

Signed :
MC OLUOMO
MEDIA AND PUBLICITY TEAM

Sarkin Hausawa Speaks Over Attempt to take over Mosalashi Alhaja from Hausa Community by Agege LG

Sarkin Hausawa, Agege Alhaji Musa Mohammed, Dongo Kadai has Spoken Over the issue of an Attempt to take over Mosalashi Alhaja from Hausa Community by Agege LG.

Sarki made this statement through his Social media handle and he wrote:

#AgegePulse Magazine

"Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem.

May the peace and blessings of Almighty Allah continue to be upon Prophet MUHAMMAD (Sallallahu Alaihi Wassalam) and His entire household, Amin".

"My attention was drawn on the issue of our of our mosque( Agege Central mosque popularly known as Moshalashi Alhaja,  since the occurrence of the attack of Lagos state task force on Covid 19 I have instructed the chief Iman, Naibi  and other members of the mosque committee to seal the mosque and strictly follow the order of either local, State or federal government on the closure of the mosque. I have said it  severally in almost all my posts that the Agege Hausa Community is highly responsible and law abiding on  all government policies and we have never been found wanting on any issues and the palace of Sarkin Hausawa of Agege is always in a good and cordial relationship with the local government on every issue not the mosque only, the Chairman in one part is our Chief Security Officer and in  another part is our son and we are always in contact with each other on matters of community affairs.

"I would like to call on the attentions of all the good people of Agege that this is not the period of hassle, confrontations and anger on any matter, we should remember that it is the sacred of all months, the month of forgiveness, the month of serving Almighty Allah utmostly. So, I therefore implored all and sundry to sheath their sword and continue with the act of ibadah that will bring about peace,stability and eradication of the pandemic that shook the entire world.

"I also directed all my subjects to adhere to the local government Chairman directives on the issue of the mosque that violate the laws and local government policies which I believed it is in our favour and also enjoin you all to be peace builder and law abiding people.

"Whoever has any advices or assistance on the issue of our Central mosque should please kindly see the imam or his assistants and if need be they will contact the palace of sarkin Hausawa of Agege on any issues pertaining that. I urged us all to please continue to follow the government guidelines on Covid 19, we should also use this moment of Ramadan to seek forgiveness of Almighty Allah, HIs continuous blessings and mercies not to engage one another on issues that had already been taken care of.

"We prays that may Almighty Allah continue to protect all of us against this pandemic, accept our act of ibadah, forgive our sins known and unknown, put us above the reach of our enemies and evil doers, protect our Faith's and instill the zeal of helping one another into our hearts and continue to let us live peacefully and harmoniously among ourselves, Amin.

"Thank you all and Almighty God will continue to bless  you in all ramifications".

Electricity: Lagos Assembly Charges distribution companies On Regular Power Supply

...demand better deal for constituents during and after the lockdown.

The Lagos State House of Assembly has tasked the power Distributing Companies within Lagos territory, to be more humane in the discharge of their statutory duties, ensuring Lagosians enjoy considerable power supply, within and after the COVID-19 pandemic period.

This charge was made through a Joint Committee of the House constituted by the Speaker, Rt Hon.Mudashiru Obasa to make an oversight visit to the two Distribution Companies; EKO and Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company in order to fine tune means through which people can get power supply, while they comply with the stay at home directives in place.

The Joint Committee which comprised of House Committee on Energy and Mineral resources and; that of Information, Security and Strategy headed by Hon.Folajimi Mohammed with the mandate to visit the distribution networks (DISCO)in Lagos state.

Speaking after the visit, the Joint Committee Chairman Folajimi Mohammed appraised the situation, which necessitated the visit as peoples comfort need to be guaranteed while observing the stay at home order through steady power supply.

"During the COVID-19 period we have seen that there is an order for a lockdown, and this has caused a lot of discomfort to our constituents,to this end we were asked to visit the DISCOs and find out issues as to why there has been insufficient supply of electricity to most parts of Lagos State.



"One thing was pertinent about the meeting, they DISCOs accepted and admitted the flaws, however, they urged that we look at this holistically considering different value chains within the sphere of the departments, so as it is, we can't necessarily put most of the blame on the DISCOs.

"However, we have asked that they give us a road map as to how they want to ensure effective distribution of power to the people.

" I am glad that Ikeja DISCO has honoured the request by giving their words and promised to appoint people who would directly relate with us at the House of Assembly for onward transfer to our constituents whom we represent.

"We can't but appeal to our constituents to be calm at this time ,we understand these are tough times and from the reports and what we have been shown they have actually generated full capacity , but, they still have Infrastructural challenges, so we need to understand that without those infrastructure in place most things would not be done.

"So I would only try to appeal to the people and all constituents to kindly bear with them as they have been looking at the best way to profer solutions to this hardship.

Hon. Tunde Braimoh, the House Chairman on  Information,Security and Strategy in his own submission after the parley noted that it is of essence for the general public to own the available infrastructures as the energy theft is causing people a lot of needless stress.

"Government is about the people we are not just there for aggradisement or grandstanding of being in government,we must be purposefully useful and effective to the people that we serve.

"The supply of electricity power is one of the basic yearnings of our people because electricity remains the most important innovations of humanity in the last one thousand years and nobody  can joke with the importance of electricity.

That is why we have to come out to interact with the EKODISCO having inundated with a series  of complaints about; no electricity supply,excessive billings,outright disconnection and all of that and we need to be more sympathetic or empathetic rather to the plight of the people in this pandemic situation because people cannot go out to work,economic power is low and of course staying at home too should be as comfortable as possible and without electricity that will be a mirage.

That's why we are out here to interact with the Managing Director of EKODISCO and we have had a very useful discussion with him.

"He had been able to let us know what efforts they have been doing and I can say by and large they have been very altruistic and public spirited in their mode of operation.  I just need to appeal to our people to understand them because they too have a lot of limitations.

The Commissioner for Energy and Mineral resources Mr Olalere Odusote who was present at the two parleys enjoins Lagosians to comply with the stay at home order and remain safe, assuring that all their issues with power supply are being handled seriously by the state government.

"The people should be rest assured that the state government would continue to work with the electricity distribution companies,to ensure that their power supply is not adversely affected by any actions that the government is taking during the pandemic,especially due to restriction of movement.

"Electricity companies are committed to continue in carrying out their services as well as they have been carrying it before the pandemic .

"The Lagos state government will continue to support the distribution companies,Lagosians are enjoined to stay at home, if you don't have any essential business outside of your home,stay at home because the more you stay the less likely it is that you could contract or be infected with any COVID.

"Lagosians are urged not to worry about electricity supply because that is being taken care of as well as it was before the COVID and perhaps even better." Said Odusote .

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer EKODISCO Mr.Adeoye Fadeyibi, gave a clear cut view of how things are in the sector urging people to know that they are also with them in the situation at hand.

"I think estimated billing itself is something that is pressure on the system as a whole,so I think one of the things that we have done significantly which you can see is the ramp up metering. "The MAP initiative has been a good thing and try and just increase the number of meters that we install into the system to close the gap.

" Lagosians like to have the right information so when you look at it and look at our customer base it is probably more than 80 percent that has been metered already, so when you look at the remainder that we have is to continue to try and get this metering in place and also to get the distribution transformers metering done.

The Chairman Ikeja Electric Mr Kola Adesina,appreciated the fact that the lawmakers think of the vulnerables and poor masses in the society.

"Seeking solution for life during and after COVID is quite commendable, as an organisation we are quite aligned with the Honourable members and we would do everything humanly conceivable to ensure that not only we have light but we have light in a steady manner.

"The charge in energy will be made available but more importantly we would want our people to conserve energy, when you are not using any appliance please switch them off,that way you preserve the electricity but if you go beyond what you require and start to use electricity beyond your need then you are likely to cause system failure and the feeder will trip and you won't have electricity.

"So whenever you are not in a room or the house please  switch off appliances, that way, light can be made readily available to Majority of our people.

COVID-19: How LASG Taskforce Shuts Down Party, Arrested Guests at Abule-Egba

AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State COVID-19 Taskforce, on Wednesday, arrested more than 50 fun-seeking youths who had attended a party at 84, Parks and Gardens, Idi-Oparun Bus Stop, opposite Abattoir at Abule Egba, Lagos in violation of the lockdown, public gathering and social distancing directives of the Federal and State governments.


Speaking on the incident, the General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Mrs. Dolapo Fasawe, maintained that it is no longer business as usual in the State and anyone who disobeys government directive will be made to face the repercussions.

In her words: "Our joint taskforce team responded to a tip-off this afternoon and surprisingly met many youths having fun at a birthday party in total disregard of the government order. It shouldn't be difficult for us to obey simple instructions and adhere strictly to safety precautions, so as to timely flatten the curve of the ravaging pandemic".

While noting that the party venue has been sealed and party attendees as well as organisers arrested by the police for further investigation and profiling, Fasawe observed that the pandemic has united residents and encouraged citizen participation in terms of information sharing on issues of mutual interest.

The General Manager disclosed that a nightclub at VGC, using a Pharmacy Store as a cover up, was sealed on Monday as a result of information sharing from concerned citizens, adding that the war on the Coronavirus pandemic can only be won through the collective efforts of all, as everyone has a part to play as stakeholders.

Dr. Fasawe, however, appealed to parents and guardians to keep watchful eyes on their wards and charged them on staying away from unlawful gatherings, reiterating that all hands must be on deck to ensure that there is no hidden place for flagrant violators.

On his part, the Director-General, Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola expressed shock that despite the enlightenment and advocacy of the government on social distancing and public gathering, some people can still devise means to gather and merry when lives are being lost across the globe.

He decried the insensitivity and indifference of youths to their health as well as the direct and indirect consequences of their despicable behaviour.

While warning facility owners not to allow their places to be used for unlawful social gathering, Mojola maintained that the State will not hesitate to sanction owners who defy government orders and directives for pecuniary gains.

The Director-General further asserted that all stakeholders were effectively carried along and sensitised on the zero-tolerance of the State government to large gatherings at this crucial period.

COVID-19: SANWO-OLU SUSPENDS OKADA OPERATIONS, ANNOUNCES NEW MEASURES TO EASE LOCKDOWN

    …Businesses, Markets, Malls Get 6-Hour Operation Time

    ...Public Transport Vehicles Must Not Carry Above 60 Per Cent Of Full Capacity

AgegePulse Magazine

Ahead of the Monday expiration of the lockdown imposed by the Federal Government on Lagos State, Ogun State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lagos State Government has introduced strict framework for movement and re-opening of businesses.

The set of new guidelines, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said in his ninth briefing at the a State House in Marina, are to safeguard the gains which the State had made in the past four weeks in the fight against the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

‪From next Monday, Sanwo-Olu said the State Government will be implementing the dusk-to-dawn curfew announced by President Muhammadu Buhari last Monday as part of the phased measures to reduce risk of contagion of the COVID-19 disease among the residents and to consolidate on the response strategy deployed to combat the pandemic.‬

The Governor announced that the State public officers from level 1 to 12 should remain and work from home unless otherwise directed by their Accounting Officers, saying the Accounting Officers of various Ministries would carry out needs assessment of other critical who are need to report to work.

He said: "For those on Grade Levels 13 and above, Accounting Officers will carry out a Needs Assessment of critical staff, identify essential officers and draw up a Flexible Work Roster in compliance with Social Distancing principles. The Head of Service will provide further details via a circular."

The Governor’s new framework made fundamental changes to public transportation system and business dealings at corporate offices, local markets and malls.

All passenger buses are not permitted to load to full capacity, Sanwo-Olu ordered in the new guidelines. All commercial vehicles, the Governor said, must carry maximum of 60 per cent of full capacity and their drivers must use face mask and observe other prescribed hygiene tips.

The Governor also suspended the operation of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, across the State, with the exception of those used for courier and logistics purposes.

Sanwo-Olu directed the drivers of tricycles (Keke NAPEP) operating in unrestricted areas not to carry more than two passengers per trip and the passengers must keep appropriate distance.

Besides, food handlers at public eateries and restaurants have been mandated by the State Government to wear masks and hand gloves at all times, especially during the preparation and serving of foods.

Only take-out meals and delivery services will be permitted at eateries and restaurants, Sanwo-Olu ordered, warning that in-dining services will not be allowed at the moment.

The Governor said all businesses that will re-open next week must operate between the hours of ‪9am to 3pm‬. The new directive on business operating hours affects all corporate firms, banks, malls and local markets.

He said: “Following the culmination of the second phase of the lockdown on Lagos, Ogun and the FCT, and the nationwide address by President Muhammadu Buhari, it has become imperative for me to address our residents and to share a broader framework for the implementation of the President’s directives here in Lagos.

“There will be a dusk-to-dawn curfew ‪from 8pm to 6am‬ daily. This means that we expect all Lagos residents to stay in their homes in these hours, except those in essential services.

“All commuters are mandated to wear face masks at all times, sanitise with alcohol-based sanitizer or wash their hands with soap and running water before and after of every trip. All motor parks and garages must avoid overcrowding. Social distancing is required for passengers queuing up to board buses.

“All buses should be loaded to a maximum of 60 per cent of full capacity. No standing allowed in all BRT and LBSL bus operations. All air- conditioning systems in public transport systems must be switched off.

“Commercial Motorcycles, popularly known as Okadas, are to suspend their operations statewide, except for those motorcycles used for courier and logistics purposes. Tricycles (Kekes) operating in unrestricted areas, must not carry more than two passengers per trip and must ensure appropriate social distancing is maintained between passengers.”

In addition, the Governor announced the restriction of operating hours of water transportation companies to the period ‪between 6am and 6pm‬ daily.

He said under no circumstance should vehicles carrying food items have more than seven passengers.

All public and private schools from primary level to tertiary education must remain closed, Sanwo-Olu directed. He said online classes and lessons that had already been started must continue until further notice.

The Governor added that businesses will be allowed to operate within “Controlled Easing Phase” framework, clarifying that the expiration of the lockdown was not a directive for the full reopening of the economy.

“It is a gradual and controlled easing of the lockdown. We will continue to monitor the public health situation; the economic impact of the lockdown and always adjust our responses accordingly,” the Governor said.

The Governor acknowledged the role of banking sector in sustaining the economy, urging banks to open all their branches and offer full complement of their services to the public. He, however, said banking operations must fall within the stipulated hours of ‪9am to 3pm‬, adding that banks’ managements must ensure regular cleaning and decontamination of their ATM machines and devices regularly used by the public.

He said: “Companies that choose to operate within this Controlled Easing Phase are to operate ‪between 9am and 3pm‬. They are also directed to operate at a maximum of 60 per cent of their staff capacity. Some non-essential workers can continue to work online and remotely from the office. Online and work-from-home arrangements are highly encouraged to continue as much as is practicable.

“All entertainment centres, such as event centres, cinemas, arcades, bars, casinos, day clubs, nightclubs and beaches shall remain closed till further notice. Swimming pools, gyms, barber-shops, Spas, beauty salons, and all public parks, including those in private and residential estates, will continue to remain closed for another two weeks in the instance, at which point we will review and advise on the permissible opening date for these establishments.”

Sanwo-Olu said the Government’s whistleblower channels would be fully opened to report companies that would flout the new directives. He said whistleblowers would be guaranteed full protection and their identities will be kept strictly confidential.

The Governor also announced that he would inaugurate a Committee on Thursday, which will comprise representatives of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Private Transport Operators, Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA), Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), and the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget.

The committee, he said, will be charged with the responsibility of communicating the new State Government’s framework to their members for ease of implementation and compliance.

Super Eagles Star, Sly Doles Out Ramadan Food Packs To 200 Households In Agege

AgegePulse Magazine

Nigerian professional football Star, Sylvester Emeka Igbonu, Sly Tata has doled out Ramadan Food Packs to over 200 Muslim faithfuls in Agege as part of measures to improve food security in his community during this Holy month of Ramadan.


The Agege born FC Dynamo Moscow attacking midfielder in a brief chat with AgegePulse Magazine, said that, "Ramadan is an auspicious month of spiritual joy and blessings. It is also a key month in which we should go even further to help those most in need".

"it's imperative to assist our people by providing quality food items, especially during this precious month when the rewards of giving are multiplied". Says, providing food for needies should be seen as a privilege and a blessing.



"My prayer to Almighty God at this holy month of Ramadan is to end this global pandemic corona virus disease soon, while enjoined all Nigerians to adhere to habit of regular handwashing, keep social distancing and use of facemasks as directed by the Government to stop the community transmission of the disease". Sly Tata concluded.



Recall, the CEO/Chairman of K&M Classic Event Centre, Sylvester Igbonu recently distributed economic stimulus package for about 200 indigents and the most vulnerable citizens in his community, Agege to cushion the effect of stay at home order in Lagos.



Segun Adesina, head Committee on Ramadan Food Package disclosed that, the food pack includes a range of essential staple items ( Semolina, Macaroni, wheat, spaghetti and Noddles) is designed to alleviate poverty pains in our dear community and to meet a Households/family’s nutritional needs for this month of Ramadan.

Non-medical face mask made of clothes does not prevent COVID-19 – NAFDAC warns

AgegePulse Magazine

 Fikayo Olowolagba

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has made clarifications on the use of non-medical face masks to stop the spread of Coronavirus.

The agency in a statement made available on its official Twitter page, said face masks which include self-made or commercial masks or face covers made of clothes does not prevent spread of diseases but reduces chances.

It advised Nigerians to perform a simple test to know if the mask is protective.

The statement in part reads: “Simple test: If wearer can put off a flame from a cigarette lighter that is placed in front of the wearer, the mask is protective enough.”

According to NAFDAC, “Barrier face masks do not prevent you from contracting disease but, they have been found to contribute to reduce spread of infections when used widely in conjunction with other measures. Such measures include social distancing, not touching the face, eyes or mouth, washing of hands with soap for 20 secs or use of alcohol based hand sanitizers.”

Dailypost

How Fire Gutted NNPC's Petrol Station in Yaya Abatan

AgegePulse Magazine

When LASEMA officials received a distress call on Monday 27th April, 2020 at about 1:00pm  concerning a fire outbreak at NNPC petrol station located at Yaya Abatan bus stop off college road. This led to the activation of the Agency's emergency response plan.

CAUSE:
Upon arrival of the Agency's officials at the incident scene, it was gathered that a tanker with 33,000 litres of diesel caught fire while discharging its contents into an underground tank.

RESPONSE: The Agency's response team personally coordinated by the DG/CEO Lasema as well other emergency responders jointly fought and subsequently extinguished the flames at about 4:49pm.

LOSS/SALVAGE:
No casualty nor fatality was recorded. However, about 30 vehicles were affected. The combined effort of the emergency responders led to the salvage of properties and buildings nearby.

RESPONDERS AT THE SCENE;The Honorable Commissioner Of Special Duties ENG Tayo Bamgbose-Martins, The Chairman Ifako Local Govt Apostle Toba Oke
Lagos State Fire Services, Federal Fire Service, NEMA, RRS, NSCDC.

RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Continuous sensitization and advocacy on fire safety measures should be embarked upon by relevant Government Agencies.
2. Installation of fire extinguishers at both public and private domains should be encouraged.
3. All petrol stations in the state should install at least one  fire hydrant in their domain.
4. Onlookers and members of the public are to stay safe by keeping away from the flames and observe social distancing while freeing the responders to carry out their work unhindered.

Lockdown: See President Buhari Full Address

ADDRESS BY H.E. MUHAMMADU BUHARI, PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA ON THE CUMULATIVE LOCKDOWN ORDER OF LAGOS AND OGUN STATES AS WELL AS THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY ON COVID- 19 PANDEMIC AT THE STATE HOUSE, ABUJA
MONDAY, 27th APRIL, 2020

1. Fellow Nigerians

2. I will start by commending you all for the resilience and patriotism that you have shown in our collective fight against the biggest health challenge of our generation.

3. As at yesterday, 26th April 2020, some 3 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been recorded globally with about 900,000 recoveries. Unfortunately, some 200,000 people have passed away as a result of this pandemic.

4. The health systems and economies of many nations continue to struggle as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

5. Nigeria continues to adapt to these new global realities on a daily basis. Today, I will present the facts as they are and explain our plans for the coming months fully aware that some key variables and assumptions may change in the coming days or weeks.  

6. Exactly two weeks ago, there were 323 confirmed cases in 20 States and the Federal Capital Territory.

7. As at this morning, Nigeria had recorded 1,273 cases across 32 States and the FCT. Unfortunately, this includes 40 deaths.

8. I am using this opportunity to express our deepest condolences to the families of all Nigerians that have lost their loved ones as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is our collective loss and we share your grief.

9. Initial models predicted that Nigeria will record an estimated 2,000 confirmed cases in the first month after the index case.

10. This means that despite the increase in the number of confirmed cases recorded in the past two weeks, the measures we have put in place thus far have yielded positive outcomes against the projections.

11. The proportion of cases imported from other countries has reduced to only 19% of new cases, showing that our border closures yielded positive results. These are mostly fellow Nigerians returning through our land borders. We will continue to enforce land border arrival protocols as part of the containment strategy.

12. Today, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has accredited 15 laboratories across the country with an aggregate capacity to undertake 2,500 tests per day across the country.


13. Based on your feedback, Lagos State Government and the FCT with support from NCDC have established several sample collection centers. They are also reviewing their laboratory testing strategy to further increase the number of tests they can perform including the accreditation of selected private laboratories that meet the accreditation criteria.

14. Several new fully equipped treatment and isolation centres have been operationalised across the country thereby increasing bed capacity to about three thousand.

15. I commend the State Governors for the activation of State-level Emergency Operation Centres, establishment of new treatment centres and the delivery of aggressive risk communication strategies.

16. Over 10,000 healthcare workers have been trained. For their protection, additional personal protective equipment have been distributed to all the states.

17. Although we have experienced logistical challenges, we remain committed to establishing a solid supply chain process to ensure these heroic professionals can work safely and are properly equipped.

18. In keeping with our Government’s promise to improve the welfare of healthcare workers, we have signed a memorandum of understanding on the provision of hazard allowances and other incentives with key health sector professional associations.

19. We have also procured insurance cover for 5,000 frontline health workers. At this point, I must commend the insurance sector for their support in achieving this within a short period of time.

20. Nigeria has also continued to receive support from the international community, multilateral agencies, the private sector and public-spirited individuals. This support has ensured that critical lifesaving equipment and materials, which have become scarce globally, are available for Nigeria through original equipment manufacturers and government-to-government processes.

21. The distribution and expansion of palliatives which I directed in my earlier broadcast is still ongoing in a transparent manner. I am mindful of the seeming frustration being faced by expectant citizens. I urge all potential beneficiaries to exercise patience as we continue to finetune our logistical and distribution processes working with the State Governments.


22. Our Security Agencies continue to rise to the challenge posed by this unusual situation. While we feel deeply concerned about isolated security incidents, I want to assure all Nigerians that your safety and security remain our primary concern especially in these difficult and uncertain times.
23. As we focus on protecting lives and properties, we will not tolerate any human rights abuse by our security agencies. The few reported incidences are regrettable, and I want to assure you that the culprits will be brought to justice.

24. I urge all Nigerians to continue to cooperate and show understanding whenever they encounter security agents. Furthermore, for their protection, I have instructed that the personnel of all the security agencies be provided with the necessary personal protective equipment against infection.

25. As we continue to streamline our response in the centers of Lagos and the FCT, I am gravely concerned about the unfortunate developments in Kano in recent days. Although an in-depth investigation is still ongoing, we have decided to deploy additional Federal Government manpower, material and technical resources to strengthen and support the State Government’s efforts, with immediate effect.

26. In Kano, and indeed many other States that are recording new cases, preliminary findings show that such cases are mostly from interstate travel and emerging community transmission.

27. Drawing from these, I implore all Nigerians to continue to adhere strictly to the advisories published by the Presidential Task Force and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.

28. These include regular hand washing, physical distancing, wearing of face masks/coverings in public, avoidance of non-essential movement and travels and avoidance of large gatherings.

29. Fellow Nigerians, for the past four weeks, most parts of our country have been under either Federal Government or State Government lockdown. As I mentioned earlier, these steps were necessary and overall, have contributed to slowing down the spread of COVID-19 in our country.

30. However, such lockdowns have also come at a very heavy economic cost. Many of our citizens have lost their means of livelihood. Many businesses have shut down. No country can afford the full impact of a sustained lockdown while awaiting the development of vaccines.

31. In my last address, I mentioned that Federal Government will develop strategies and policies that will protect lives while preserving livelihoods.

32. In these two weeks, the Federal and State Governments have jointly and collaboratively worked hard on how to balance the need to protect health while also preserving livelihoods, leveraging global best practices while keeping in mind our peculiar circumstances.

33. We assessed how our factories, markets, traders and transporters can continue to function while at the same time adhering to NCDC guidelines on hygiene and social distancing.

34. We assessed how our children can continue to learn without compromising their health.

35. We reviewed how our farmers can safely plant and harvest in this rainy season to ensure our food security is not compromised. Furthermore, we also discussed how to safely transport food items from rural production areas to industrial processing zones and ultimately, to the key consumption centers.

36. Our goal was to develop implementable policies that will ensure our economy continues to function while still maintaining our aggressive response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These same difficult decisions are being faced by leaders around the world.

37. Based on the above and in line with the recommendations of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, the various Federal Government committees that have reviewed socio-economic matters and the Nigeria Governors Forum, I have approved a phased and gradual easing of lockdown measures in FCT, Lagos and Ogun States effective from Monday, 4th May, 2020.

38. However, this will be followed strictly with aggressive reinforcement of testing and contact tracing measures while allowing the restoration of some economic and business activities in certain sectors.

39. Furthermore, new nationwide measures are to be introduced as follows;
a. There will be an overnight curfew from 8pm to 6am. This means all movements will be prohibited during this period except for essential services;
b. There will be a ban on non-essential inter-state passenger travel until further notice;
c. Partial and controlled interstate movement of goods and services will be allowed for the movement of goods and services from producers to consumers; and
d. We will strictly ensure the mandatory use of face masks or coverings in public in addition to maintaining physical distancing and personal hygiene. Furthermore, the restrictions on social and religious gatherings shall remain in place. State Governments, corporate organisations and philanthropists are encouraged to support the production of cloth masks for citizens.

40. For the avoidance of doubt, the lockdown in the FCT, Lagos and Ogun States shall remain in place until these new ones come into effect on Monday, 4th May 2020.

41. The Presidential Task Force shall provide sector specific details to allow for preparations by Governments, businesses and institutions.
42. In respect to the above guidelines, State Governors may choose to adapt and expand based on their unique circumstances provided they maintain alignment with the guidelines issued above.
43. To support our businesses and traders, the monetary and fiscal authorities shall deploy all the necessary provisions needed for production to continue and thus, jobs restored.

44. These revised guidelines will not apply to Kano State.

45. With regards to Kano, I have directed the enforcement of a total lockdown for a period of two weeks effective immediately. The Federal Government shall deploy all the necessary human, material and technical resources to support the State in controlling and containing the pandemic and preventing the risk of further spread to neighboring States.

46. I wish to once again commend the frontline workers across the country who, on a daily basis, risk everything to ensure we win this fight. For those who got infected in the line of duty, rest assured that Government will do all it takes to support you and your families during this exceedingly difficult period. I will also take this opportunity to assure you all that your safety, wellbeing and welfare remain paramount to our Government.

47. I will also recognise the support we have received from our traditional rulers, the Christian Association of Nigeria, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and other prominent religious and community leaders. Your cooperation and support have significantly contributed to the successes we have recorded to date.

48. I will urge you all to please continue to create awareness on the seriousness of the coronavirus among your worshippers and communities while appealing that they strictly comply with public health advisories.

49. I also thank the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the Presidential Task Force for all their hard work to date. Through this collaboration, I remain confident that success is achievable.

50. I also wish to thank corporate organisations, philanthropists, the UN system, the European Union, friendly nations, the media and other partners that have taken up the responsibility of supporting our response.



51. And finally, I will thank all Nigerians again for your patience and cooperation during this difficult and challenging period. I assure you that government shall continue to take all necessary measures to protect the lives and livelihoods of our citizens and residents.

52. I thank you for listening and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria

#Covid19: Ooni Donates Motorised Modular Fumigators in Oyo

Arole Oodua & Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II on Saturday donated two locally-fabricated modular fumigators to the Oyo State government to assist the state in its effort to contain the spread of the novel Coronavirus.

Received by the state governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde yesterday at the Agodi government house in Ibadan, Ooni Ogunwusi said the donations were his contribution's towards assisting the state in the fight against the pandemic in the state.

A statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Makinde, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the governor received the donations, while also appreciating the monarch for his kind gesture towards the state.

The governor maintained that the fumigators would assist the state a lot in its bid to curtail the spread of coronavirus in the state.

“As his subjects, we are glad to receive Kabiyesi the Ooni here at the government house today. We are happy with the fumigators he donated to us, because they will assist us in the fight against COVID-19.

“Kabiyesi came from an enlightened and business background. So, he understands how the economy works and the multiplier effect of things like this. So, I am not surprised at all.” Makinde said.

The Ooni said “We have come to Oyo State to donate two modular fumigators to our forward-looking governor, who we are very pleased with. And we will continue from there.

“Coronavirus knows nobody. It is a leveller and we should all come together to fight it.

“From my business background before I became king, I had a fabricating yard and we came up with a technology of converting liquid to fog and it is very uncommon in Nigeria the way we fumigate. So, we decided to make it 100 per cent home-grown modular fumigator.

“It can be mounted at the back of any truck. We came up together with a lot of youths that are very agile to see how we can look at the opportunity from the disadvantage of the COVID-19 that is all over the world.

“That was why we came up with this initiative that will be useful post-COVID-19. It is useful in construction industry for anti-dust; useful during large gathering because we know our system and culture. We like to gather.”

It will be recalled the Ooni was on Thursday in Osogbo where he donated two fumigators to Governor Isiaka Oyetola having  on Tuesday and Wednesday fumigated the ancient city of Ile-Ife and its environs including Modakeke against the pandemic Coronavirus disease with his newly invented locally made fumigators supported by drones provided by FST Drone Services Company owned by Mr Larinde Williams.

Ooni, the Natural Head of the Oduduwa rsce globally who doubled as Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria(NCTRN) promised to continually contribute his quota towards the development of the country, saying the fumigators invented by him and manufactured in his palace is a modular motorized machine that can be mounted on the back of any truck.

Lockdown: LASG Impounds 20 Vehicles...Scales Up Enforcement Order

AgegePulse Magazine

Worried by non-compliance with the lockdown order by motorists, especially interstate commercial transporters, Lagos State Government on Saturday scaled up its enforcement of the lockdown directive by impounding 20 vehicles and several motorbikes for violation.

The enforcement team, comprising operatives of the State Task Force, LASTMA, officers of the Nigeria Police Force and personnel of the Ministry of Transportation, enforced the order on Ikorodu Road, Ojota, Jibowu, Ebute-Metta, Otto and Iddo corridor among other places.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Toyin Fayinka, who led the operation, said the enforcement was effected on the order of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to stem the increase in the flagrant disobedience of the lockdown directive issued by the government to curb the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic in the State.

He said, “The enforcement team intercepted and impounded about 20 vehicles and 15 motorbikes for being on the road without having cogent reasons or collecting necessary movement permit forms from State authorities as required”.

“Some of the impounded vehicles included interstate commuter buses belonging to some transport companies located at Jibowu on Lagos/Ikorodu road. Others are IVECO truck, Volvo truck, KIA Salon car, Siena Space bus as well as Commercial Danfo buses among others”, he added.

Fayinka noted the State Government's concern about non-compliance with the lockdown order, warning residents to obey the stay-at-home directive, embrace social distancing and personal hygiene to support the government efforts at curbing the spread of the highly contagious virus.

The Special Adviser expressed worry that Lagos State recorded as much as 80 confirmed cases in one day, stressing the need to strengthen enforcement of the stay-at-home order in the interest of the public.

He, however, solicited the total support and cooperation of the residents to win the fight against COVID-19 in order to avert the looming danger inherent in the further spread of the deadly disease, assuring that the State Government would not relent in its house to house testing to further prevent community-based spread.

Frowning at the involvement of some law enforcement agents in the violation of the lockdown directive, Fayinka reiterated that the State government would not hesitate in enforcing the law on any individual or group that attempts to frustrate the on-going efforts to contain the spread of the killer disease.

The Special Adviser reiterated that the enforcement exercise was going to be a continuous exercise, adding that any vehicle impounded for violating the order would not be released until after the lockdown period.

Other top government officials involved in the operation included the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Oluseyi Whenu, LASTMA General Manager, Engr. Olajide Oduyoye and Director of Transport Operations in the State, Engr. Afeez Toriola among others.

Pick Your Deceased Corpses For Burial Sanwo-Olu to Lagosians

...Gives Two Weeks Ultimatum For Pick Up

...Orders Release Of 209 Correctional Inmates

AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Saturday said the state's mortuaries are getting filled and congested, urging owners of corpses in the state morgues to pick them for burial in line with the protocol established in the management of COVID-19 in the country.

The governor who is the Chief Incident commander of COVID-19 pandemic in the state revealed this while giving the eighth update in the series on the management of the novel coronavirus in the state, saying owners of the corpses have two weeks to claim them or risk mass burial by the government.

Sanwo-Olu stated emphatically that the corpses were not those killed by COVID-19, maintaining that corpses of those that died during Lenten period left unburied as a result of Christian faith coupled with the current lockdown resulted in the congestion at state the mortuaries.

The governor added that inter-state movements for burials will not be tolerated, saying the state borders had been toughened to restrict those not providing essential services from entering the state.

Sanwo-Olu said, “Still on this matter of essential movement, I would like to speak concerning funerals. One of the outcomes of this lockdown is that many families and households have had to postpone funeral plans for loved ones who have passed away before or during this period.

“As you might know, many Christian denominations do not carry out funerals during the Lenten Season. Funerals are typically kept on hold during this period, and scheduled for the period immediately following the end of Lent.

“Unfortunately, this year, the Covid-19 Lockdown coincided with the end of Lent, which caused many families and households to further suspend or put off funeral plans.

“Because of this inability to hold funerals, occasioned by the restrictions on movement, the mortuaries in Lagos State are now full and in urgent need of decongestion. Let me make it clear at this point that these are not Covid-19 deaths.

“The mortuaries in Lagos are not full because of Covid-19 deaths – the total number of Covid-19 deaths in Lagos as at today is 20; the only reason the mortuaries are full at this time is because funerals are not being held, and have not been held for most of the last two months.’’

He appealed to all Lagosians who have the corpses of their loved ones in the mortuaries, to please go ahead and schedule these funerals, saying funerals are on the list of activities exempted from the lockdown restrictions.

“You can hold or attend funeral ceremonies in Lagos State as long as you comply with the requirements that we have outlined, as follows: The total number of persons at the funeral, including officiating religious leaders, must not exceed 20; Physical distancing must be maintained at the funeral ceremony; All attendees/mourners must use masks and ensure they wash their hands after the ceremony.
                                                                   
“There must be no receptions or parties to accompany these funerals; rest assured that as long as these directives are fully complied with, funerals will be allowed and encouraged to take place.

“If we are unable to see a decongestion of the mortuaries across the State in the next two weeks, the Lagos State Government will be compelled to carry out mass burials to achieve this. We do not want to be forced to do this, which is why we are asking for your cooperation in this regard.’’

The governor said in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Section 212 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) he had ordered the release of 209 inmates remanded in various correctional centres in the state.

“This was done in part to decongest correctional centres in view of the Covid-19 Pandemic; and is part of a larger effort to bring lasting reform to the administration of criminal justice in the country.

The beneficiaries of this release order are the following; above 60 years of age; less than 6 months to go on their sentence; have served 75 per cent of their sentence; those serving time for misdemeanours and minor offences; and those with physical and mental health issues.’’

He said the use of face masks are now compulsory in public places in Lagos State, saying failure to use masks in public will attract sanctions and penalties.

He added that “as at midnight yesterday April 24, 2020, Lagos State had a total of 670 confirmed cases of Covid-19, an increase of 291 cases since the last time I addressed you, on Monday April 20. What this means is that we have seen a 76 per cent increase in our number of confirmed cases within four days, an average of 70 cases daily.

These numbers demonstrate the following: One, that we are now firmly in the community transmission phase of this pandemic in Lagos; Two, that our strategy of ramping up testing especially within local communities is working, and, Three, that this is not the time for us to relax or to slow down in the efforts we are making to break the chain of transmission.’’

The Governor also enjoined Muslims to follow strict the government directives with regard to congregational prayers during the month of Ramadan

Lagos to Produce over 8,000 Beneficiaries of Conditional Cash Transfer Soon

… Trains LG Officials on Grassroots Data Collection

AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Mrs. Yetunde Arobieke on Friday disclosed that over 8,000 beneficiaries of the Conditional Cash Transfer of the Federal Government would soon emerge from the State.

She made this disclosure while speaking at a 4-day training session organised for some officials of selected Local Government Areas across the State on collection and collation of data for prospective beneficiaries of the scheme.

Arobieke explained that the Conditional Cash Transfer Programme, also known as Household Uplifting Programme (HUP), was aimed at bridging the poverty line in the State and providing means for the poor masses that would be independently engaged for productivity.

The aims and objectives of the initiative, according to Arobieke, are to “reduce poverty, prevent the vulnerable from falling further down the poverty line, build resilience to withstand shocks and risks, enhance human capital, promote sustainable livelihoods and protect households from shocks”.

The Commissioner expressed the belief that the programme would further complement the efforts of the State Government at reducing poverty, empowering the residents by producing wealth creators who would continue to increase the economic prosperity of the State and contribute their quota to national development.

In her words, "This programme has a lot of strong economic implication and spill-over effects on the populace because it affects the entire eco-system, such that beneficiaries would not only be able to feed their families but would also be able to save money for capital intensive projects".

Arobieke maintained that the State Government would put a structure in place to ensure that the beneficiaries do not only get the financial aid from the Federal government but also invest the grant into profitable ventures that would safeguard return on investments.

She, therefore, pleaded with Lagosians to cooperate with the enumerators across the various Local Government Areas in the State by providing true and correct information to the officials.

"What we have observed over time is that when programmes like this come up, residents usually provide false information about themselves and this had disqualified several persons from some beneficial initiatives similar to this in the past, which is why l am pleading that information to be provided should be such that gives true and verifiable details”, she added.

The Commissioner charged the officials of the various LGAs at the training programme to liaise with Royal Fathers, CDAs and CDCs and other opinion leaders in their various domains about the programme so that members of the communities could be mobilised to embrace the initiative.

She also implored the Budget Departments at the Local Government levels to liaise with the State Budget Ministry to generate registers, take records of households and individual beneficiaries approved and complete all other necessary processes before the actual disbursement of the cash.

Lateef Raheem: My Extraordinary Aide, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Reveals

A good and decent man has gone.

AgegePulse Magazine

My Chief Security Officer, Alhaji Lateef Raheem, has passed and his death cuts severely. Lateef reported for work on Monday feeling a bit under the weather, he went home to rest. We spoke on Wednesday by phone. He was in fine spirits and was looking forward to resuming work. I felt nothing but profound shock, and then the emptiness of deep loss when I was awakened early Friday that my most trusted security aide had died and that I would never see him again.

 I did not know the Wednesday conversation would be our last. The pain of his loss is acute.

Lateef passed away during the early morning of Friday, April 25,  he was buried later that day in accordance with islamic rites.

The 51 year old Lateef unexpected death apparently was due to complications from diabetes and high blood pressure. Lateef was a person of strong and resilient character. He never sought special treatment or favor despite his years of loyal and excellent service to me. He never took his work or his valued position as my aide for granted. He knew I relied on him and trusted him explicitly.

But Lateef never tried to take selfish advantage of his important position. He was forthright and honest to a fault. This man was one who completely focused on his job and doing it to the best of his ability. He did everything with care and devotion.

Lateef made sure everything worked well. He was smart, active and always on alert. He was indeed a rarity as a professional and more so as a person. He never complained or even let it be known that he had these medical conditions. He was committed to giving his all to his work.

Raheem was not a boisterous or extravagant personality. He was understated but so very kind and considerate to others. He spoke quietly and was not a man of many words. Yet, undergirding that gentle mien was a tough, firm and solid personality. Lateef was a topnotch police officer.

I met Lateef in early 1999 when he was seconded to me by the police during the campaign for the governorship election in Lagos. He stood faithfully beside me during the rigours of the primaries and campaign. He helped me weather the storm. I quickly understood that he was an exceptional person and officer whom I wanted to be with throughout the rest of my political journey.

We remained together during my two-terms as governor of Lagos. We have been together since then.

Wherever I was, you could be sure Lateef was nearby making certain of my security and that all was working properly and efficiently.

As head of my security, Lateef had a permanent seat in my vehicle. Whenever I saw him there, I felt assured and relaxed. Now, I will look to his seat but not see him. I will miss him because that was truly his seat. Over the years, Lateef became more than my chief security officer. He became a partner, a trustworthy friend. In the car, we talked and exchanged views and ideas. His counsel was sound and valuable. We shared so much. Notwithstanding his unflinching professionalism, he was such a pleasant person to be with. He was a devout Muslim who often reminded me it was time for us to observe Salat.

When he joined me, Lateef was a Corporal with school certificate. Because of his thirst for knowledge and personal improvement, he subsequently acquired a university degree. He did not stop there. He kept growing. When he passed, Lateef had risen to the level of Assistant Superintendent of Police. To say I will miss Lateef is to understate my feeling for him and what our relationship had matured into. Someone may have to fill his position but they can never truly take his place for Lateef was one-of-a-kind.

Lateef dedicated his life to a cause, our progressive cause. He believed Nigeria could become better and that government had a vital role to play in enhancing security and prosperity so that the lives of the people might improve. He was a true patriot. We must continue to push to make the progressive dream we shared become our reality.

My deepest condolences are with his wives and children. With his passing, they have lost a caring husband and father. May Almighty Allah comfort them, indeed, comfort all of us at this moment. May Almighty Allah give us strength and guidance that we may live lives of dedication to the public good and compassion for our fellow man. May He grant the soul of Lateef eternal rest and admit him into Aljanna Firdaus.

Culled from Asiwaju Bola Tinubu Ambassadors Group

COVID-19: Area boys demand ‘settlement’ before evacuation of suspected coronavirus patients

...My people in Okobaba are ignorant –CDC chair

...Lagos slums shame COVID-19 orders

AgegePulse Magazine

RESIDENTS of Willoughby Street, Okobaba, a thickly populated slum community located in the Ebute-Metta (East) axis of Lagos State were relieved with the sight of a siren-blaring ambulance from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) which was in their community to fetch three suspected coronavirus patients for treatment.

What was seen as a respite soon turned to apprehension and commotion by the time urchins took over the scene, holding the three suspected COVID-19 patients hostage and preventing the NCDC officials from gaining access into the building housing them.

They insisted money must be paid to them either by the patients or the NCDC officials before they would allow the evacuation exercise and the commencement of the required test and treatment. They chorused, “E fun wa lowo wa” (give us our money) to the amazement of onlookers. The stand-off could not be broken since neither of the parties from whom money was being demanded was ready to part with any. The caregivers left without the suspected victims.


However, The chairman of the Lagos Mainland Local Government Community Development Committee, Alhaji Quadri Tajudeen, attributed the action of the hooligans to lack of adequate knowledge about COVID-19.

According to him, the primary focus of the people living in the slum is more on what to eat than wellness.

He said: “The people in the slum are focused on what to eat’ they are not considering death. We need to step up sensitisation campaign in the grassroots, especially now that Lagos Mainland has the highest number of COVID-19 cases in the state. We need to let our people know that testing positive for COVID-19 is not a death sentence.

“If the hoodlums have adequate understanding about what COVID-19 is all about and how it could be prevented, they would have allowed the NCDC to go with the three suspected cases rather than demand for money from them. If the victims too were aware that they have greater chances of surviving the pandemic, no matter the level of resistance by the area boys, they won’t listen to them.

“The area boys felt it was a case of the police arresting the suspected patients hence the resistance they put up. Our number one challenge in the slum is non-compliance with the social distancing order because many of them have the notion that COVID-19 is a scam. They believe it is not real. But with more sensitisation campaign, this mindset will change.

“Meanwhile, it is not only those that live in the slum that do not believe that COVID-19 is real. Many Nigerians feel the same way, too. They feel it is only afflicting the high and the mighty. This is as a result of low literacy level. We have been embarking on enlightenment campaign to get them informed.

“Poverty and hunger play a major role in our lives. Someone once told me that Nigerians were battling ‘corona-hunger’ and not coronavirus. You can see the extent of hunger in the land but at the same time, life is important. It is only when you are alive that you can think of feeding.

“Many people defy the stay-at-home and the social distancing orders because of hunger. They need to feed. Even the hoodlums that stopped and demanded money from the NCDC officials did so out of hunger, not realising the implication of their action for the entire community. But I am glad to inform the public that one out of the three patients has voluntarily reported to the NCDC, the other male, a Hausa, after giving his blood sample, left for Kano State, while the third person, a woman, has fled the community.”


Vanguard

Egunjobi Embarks on Free Distribution of Face Masks in Agege

AgegePulse Magazine

...donates 1000 pieces to Area G Command, Ogba

Following the Lagos State government directives on compulsory enforcement of use of face mask effective next week, as part of preventive measures to combat the pandemic corona virus disease in Lagos.

Agege local government under the leadership of of Alhaji Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi has embarked on free distribution of Face masks in Agege.

AgegePulse learnt that the face masks were produced by Agege Local Government Vocational Training Centre of Education Department.

Speaking during the visit to Area G, Command, the Director of Education, Agege Local government, Mr. Clement Abimbola said that "the council chairman, Egunjobi  has directed us to produce over 10,000 Pieces of washable face masks to be distributed freely to Agege residents to complement the efforts of the State government in producing protective mass face masks for Lagosians".

Receiving  the face masks on behalf of Area Commander, Area G, ACP, Ibrahim Zungura,  the CO, Jonathan Egwami appreciate the council chairman for extending generosity and protect guild in curbing the spread of Covid 19 to Nigeria Police Force, Area G, Command, Lagos State.

Chief Security Officer of Agege Local Government, Alhaji Babatunde Atiku, Asst. Director Mr. Quadri Tajudeen,  Mr. Sefiu Esan, Mr. Fafuluyi Olugbenga amongst others were all present at the presentation.

Tinubu's Chief Security Officer, Lateef Raheem is Dead

AgegePulse Magazine

Nigeria’s All Progressives Congress national leader Bola Tinubu on Friday lost his chief security officer Lati Raheem at early hour of today.

The cause of his death is still unknown.

Lateef Raheem, fondly called Alhaji Lati had been on Tinubu’s team for over 20 years and was the only aide still left from his time as governor of Lagos state from 1999 to 2007.

He will be buried according to Muslim rites on Friday, the first day of Ramadan, which is the holiest month of the Islamic calendar.


Guardian

Ramadan: Egunjobi Advises Muslim Faithful To Obey Govt. Directives

AgegePulse Magazine

By KAZEEM AKANDE

Alhaji Ganiyu Egunjobi, the Executive Chairman, Agege Local Government Council, Lagos, has urged Muslim Faithful to adhere to government directives on COVID-19 during the Ramadan period to prevent spread of the pandemic in the state.

Egunjobi gave the advice in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday in Lagos.

According to him, Muslim Faithful should adhere strictly to all directives from the government during this Ramadan period to curtail further spread of the virus.

“I am not a nominal Muslim, I practise, but no religion, not even Islam subscribe to suicide or attempted suicide.

“We cannot continue to press the self-destruction button in the name of worshipping God,” he said.

The chairman said the local government had shut down the popular Alhaja Mosque in Agege, to prevent spread of the pandemic among the worshipers and residents as a whole.

Egunjobi said that such action had prevented the possible spread of the virus among the over 300 worshipers in the mosque.

“We recently made the headlines for leading a team of the council officials to shut down a mosque in the area where worshippers defied government’s ban on congregational worship amid the Coronavirus after they viciously attacked officials of the State’s Taskforce on the COVID-19.

“It was an unfortunate incident that if we had let go and failed to rise up to the occasion as a grassroots government, it has dire consequences which would hurt public policy in a great deal.

“It was quite appalling, a clear breach of government’s order, and to add insult to injury they attacked officials of the State’s Taskforce on COVID-19.

“We all know the state government has the capacity to deal with the situation but because mischievous bigots, ethnic jingoists and misguided elements among us may use the moment to fuel crisis.

“So, it required local solution and we stepped into the breach,” he said.

According to him, the council met with Sarkin Hausawa, and other stakeholders before we moved to the place, chased everybody out of the mosque, fumigated it, which I personally did and locked it up.

Egunjobi said that the council was trying to disabuse the mind of the people from erroneous belief that Coronavirus was the sickness of only the rich.

“I do tell those who insist on having religious gatherings and congregational worships that we cannot be more catholic than Pope.

 Pope suspended all religious ceremonies from catholic mass to funeral in Vatican.

“The grand zero of Islam, Saudi Arabia, the authorities called off all year-round lesser hajj, Umrah, suspended congregational prayers of all forms and shapes in all the country’s mosques except the Grand mosque, Haram in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina where there are strict restriction on the number of worshippers while prayer outside the two holy mosques are prohibited,” he said.

He said that before the lockdown, the council had been carrying out aggressive sensitisation across all the nooks and crannies and stakeholders, but the compliance was nothing to write home about.

The chairman said that according to Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, (NCDC) there was only one case of Coronavirus victims in Agege, adding that this was not to say that the people were doing the right things.

It was reports that Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has reportedly urged its citizens to look out for the crescent moon on Thursday, April 23 and report their findings to moon sighting committees set up specifically for the purpose.