Ex-Staff Of First Bank Sentenced To 98 Years in Prison For Stealing N49.3m, $368,000

AgegePulse Magazine

Oreoluwa Adesakin, a former staff of First Bank, has been handed 98 years jail term by Justice Muniru Olagunju of the Oyo State High Court.

Adesakin was found to have committed fraud against her employers to the tune of N49,320,652, and additional $368,203.

The convict was prosecuted by the Ibadan Zonal Office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on 14-count charges, bordering on stealing, forgery and fraudulent accounting.

One of the charges read: “That you Oreoluwa Adesakin, sometime between the months of May 2013 and November 2013, at Ibadan within the Ibadan Judicial Division, whilst being a staff of First Bank Plc stole the sum of N25,974,116 from First Bank Plc MoneyGram Payment Naira Account.”

Adesakin pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

Prosecution counsel, Usman Murtala, presented vital documents and witnesses which nailed the convict.

Justice Olagunju pronounced Adesakin guilty of all the charges.

The judge sentenced her to seven years in prison without an option of fine on each of the 14 counts, which will run concurrently.

Apart from the jail term, the convict is also to restitute the First Bank, through the EFCC, all the money she stole.

The convict was arraigned April 4, 2014, by the EFCC following investigation on First Bank petition dated December 18, 2013.

The bank said Adesakin, a Money Transfer Operator, saddled with the responsibility of effecting payments through Western Union Money Transfer and Money Gram platforms, manipulated accounting and withdrew a total of N49,320,652 and another $368,203 for herself.

EFCC spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, said operatives established that the convict used part of the proceeds to acquire landed properties in different parts of Oyo State.

NERC Issues Order To Discos Suspending The New Killer Tariffs | AgegePulse Magazine

Nigerian Electricity Regulation Commission, NERC has issued an Order to the DisCos suspending the recent review in tariffs for 14 days in line with the FG's agreement with the Labour Union.

During the suspension, all tariffs shall be computed on the rates applicable as at August 31, 2020

Lagos Ready To Deliver 4th Mainland Bridge -Sanwo-Olu | AgegePulse Magazine

 

A major step towards the realisation of the Fourth Mainland Bridge was, today, taken by the State Government with the first stakeholders meeting on Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for the construction and launch of the Bridge’s logo.

Speaking at the meeting, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, described the event as a significant one in the joint effort to change the narrative of the socio-economic development of the State, through the provision of critical infrastructure for sustainable prosperity.

The Governor emphasised that the proposed Fourth Mainland Bridge has been well integrated into the overall Lagos Master Plan in relation to transportation infrastructure, adding that the project allows for the first time, direct access from the large suburb of Ikorodu to the Island and the Lekki Free Trade Zone area.

While noting that the present administration has left no stone unturned in ensuring that the strategic project becomes a reality, Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the State government reactivated the construction of the bridge in October 2019 with the development of a six-step process that will lead to the selection of a suitable concessionaire in line with global best practices.

He emphasised that the stakeholder-engagement and consultation on Environmental and Social Impact Assessment was a precursor to the third step, which will involve issuing a “Request for Proposal” to the six consortia for the presentation of their respective financial proposals and methodologies for carrying out the project.

According to him, “The stakeholders’ meeting was organised to open the project to further inputs, comments, ideas and observations for incorporation into the ongoing social and environmental impact assessment. We hope the meeting would boost the acceptability and implementation ratings of the 4th Mainland Bridge in line with global best practices”.

In her welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Aramide Adeyoye, stated that the meeting was another bold step by the present administration towards ensuring the buy-in of Lagosians into the government project and another fulfillment of the promise of Mr. Governor to adopt inclusiveness as a tool for governance.

She explained that as primary coordinator for the project, the Ministry has arranged a number of meetings with the relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in the State to inform all stakeholders and foster progress on the project.

In his goodwill message, the Minister for Works and Housing and former Governor of the State, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, represented by Dr. Adetunji Adeoye, commended Lagos for the construction of the Fourth Mainland Bridge, adding that the construction will create a lot of activities and job opportunities for residents.

He, therefore, assured the people and government of Lagos State of his unalloyed support towards the construction of the bridge.

The Minister of State for the Environment, represented by Mrs. Oluwatoyin Agbenla, described the Fourth Mainland Bridge as an endearing project to the citizens, which will be executed with the highest levels of environmental sustainability.

The Fourth Mainland Bridge is a 37.4km freeway subdivided into three sections namely Island Section, Lagoon Section and Mainland Section.  It will commence from Abraham Adesanya Roundabout in Lekki through Ajah and Langbasa areas, crossing the Ado Badore Road before arriving at the Lagoon shoreline.

The road crosses the Lagoon via a 4.5km Lagoon Bridge landing between Bayeku and Ijede villages, passing through Ikorodu-Epe expressway to further link Isawo Road and from there to Lagos/Ibadan Expressway.

LASG Commences Computer Based Test For 210 Pupils | AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State Examinations Board has commenced the Year 2020 Entrance Examination (Computer Based Testing version) for 210 pupils seeking admission into Lagos State Model Colleges and Upgraded Junior Secondary Schools.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony of the CBT at the Headquarters of the Board, Old Ipaja Road, Lagos, on Saturday, the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Folashade Adefisayo, restated the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu's administration to achieve a technology-based educational sector in Lagos State, as encapsulated in the T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda.

The Commissioner, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Abosede Adelaja, added that the world is evolving, hence there is a need to move towards the full adoption of Computer Based Test for entrance examinations into all model colleges and upgraded junior secondary schools in Lagos.

She explained that 210 pupils chose the CBT version of the examination this year, noting that there has been a gradual increase over the years in the number of students and parents opting for the CBT since the first exercise took place in 2015 with only 17 candidates.

While maintaining that the examination will be done strictly by CBT next year, Adefisayo pointed out that only 47 pupils will be sitting for the flag-off test, while the remaining 163 pupils would sit for theirs between Monday, 28th  - Wednesday, 30th September, 2020 at the Lagos State Examinations Board.

The Commissioner, therefore, implored the parents and guardians of the primary school pupils to encourage their wards to improve their knowledge of the computer in order to take advantage of many opportunities that would be available to them in the future.

In her words: “I want to implore all parents and guardians to encourage their wards to embrace modern technology because of the incorporation of technology into the school curriculum. The children must acquaint themselves with e-learning and the use of modern gadgets so as to compete favourably with their peers”.

The Commissioner stressed that the admission into Lagos State Model Colleges and Upgraded Junior Secondary Schools in the State would be strictly on merit and urged the pupils to put in their best as only limited space is available for admission, asserting that success does not come by accident but through hard work.

In his remarks, the Director, Lagos State Examinations Board, Mr. Supo Gbadegesin revealed that the wish of the Lagos State Examinations Board is to conduct globally acceptable examinations at all levels, disclosing that there is steady progress in CBT registration and participation in the State due to the efforts of the government in the education sector.

#LASG

#ForAGreaterLagos

Strike Update: Labour suspends strike | AgegePulse Magazine

Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has suspended its planned nationwide strike that would have started today, Monday, September 28, in protest against the hike in pump price of fuel and electricity tariff.

Earlier, there were indications that the Federal Government and NLC might reach an agreement to avert the looming nationwide strike.

The Minister of State, Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo(SAN) tweeted that there was hope the industrial crisis might be avoided.

He stated on his verified Twitter handle(@fkeyamo): “Still negotiating with labour at exactly 12.34am. Some progress have been made. Concrete proposals on the table from both sides.

“Details being worked on by the temporary Secretariat. Gradually moving towards a point of convergence. Let’s hope….”

Furthermore, a source told Vanguard that it is possible the tariff will be suspended for two weeks, but said nothing specific about fuel pump price.

The source also said a joint government/Labour committee will be set up to review the issues within those two weeks.

Vanguard also learned that a communique is being hammered out, an indication that some sort of agreement had been arrived at.

Recall that Vanguard reported that the issue of pump price hike had links with IMF, the World Bank and other international finance bodies Nigeria is indebted to.

Groups Advocate For NLC Nation Wide Strike | AgegePulse Magazine

COMMITTEE FOR WORKERS RIGHTS CWR

COALITION AGAINST CORRUPTION AND BAD GOVERNANCE CACOBAG.

AND

CAMPAIGN FOR CONSTITUTIONALISM AND HUMAN RIGHTS CCHR.

Sunday 27th September , 2020.

PROTEST IS A LEGITIMATE RIGHT.

POLICE SHOULD STOP ARROGATING POWER IT DOES NOT HAVE TO ITSELF.

 

Protest Against hike in the price of petrol ,electricity tariff and bad governance will hold  tomorrow 28th September, 2020 as scheduled.

We wish to reiterate as Organisations that work with Joint Action Front JAF and collaborate with   NLC and TUC that nationwide protests will go ahead as scheduled.

 

Statement credited to the police calling on Nigerians not to embark on any protest or risk arrest can not be to the knowledge of the heirarchy of Nigeria Police. They know better that Nigerians have legal and constitutional rights to peaceful protest which can not be ousted  by the court. 

African Charter on People's Rights and Universal Declaration on Human Rights go beyond the territory of Nigeria, therefore the police should not  arrogate any power it does not have to itself. 

The Police Act and 1999 CFRN as altered clearly spelt out duties of the police and can not go beyond their limitation..

Several conventions of International Labour standards are also clear on the rights of workers.

Convention 95 on protection of wages as well as well as Section 16 (2)d of 1999 CFRN as altered emphasise living wages and illegality of pricing goods beyond the   reach of workers. No wages can be " "living" when basic necessities of life are priced beyond the wages.  

With the inflation rate in the country  , can thirty thousand naira minimum wages sustain any one for two weeks ,not to talk of a month ? Why is the  government deriving   pleasure in placing more burden on Nigerians that are still groaning due to effects of Covid 19 pandemic ? 

The government has been  clever in their choice of words which is alien to our constitution. 

The government has no intention of making workers comfortable, hence they stick to the use of  " minimum wages" as against "living minimum wages" which the Constitution stipulates. Is that not bad governance on its own when the government deliberately uses words that are not in conformity with the Constitution to deceive workers ? 

How many rank and file of Nigeria Police Force can afford to buy fuel and pay electricity tariff conveniently from his legitimate  income?

How many workers and toiling masses can afford the daily transport fares?

Prices of stable foods that are delicacies of common man have all made nonsense of the meagre thirty thousand naira  wages.

It's a known fact that the wages and welfare benefits been presently enjoyed by the police are as a result of agitation/Protests of    NLC, TUC, JAF, CWR, DSM, CACOBAG, LASCO , CACOBAG , CDHR , UAD , CCHR , CLO  and other

Civil Society organisations.

The Police are expected to provide protection for the protesters and not  intimidate ,harrass  or give any unlawful order.

Baboon can no longer be working while monkey will be chopping.

We call on all Nigerians to join the  peaceful protests and should not be fearful of any threat of arrest. 

Comrades in the legal profession are on ground and very ready to protect all Nigerians. Our Statutory books can not be twisted to satisfy whims and caprices of the government. 

Whoever holds power today derives it through the people and should for no reason infringe on  the people rights to express their feelings through peaceful assembly/protests.

 It's the legitimate rights of citizens to protest peacefully against bad governance, harsh economic condition and misplaced priorities of Government. 

Peaceful protests continue tomorrow Monday 28th September, 2020 as scheduled and will continue until the government reverses the price of petroleum and electricity tariff to what they were before the inconsiderate and inhuman increase.

People United can never be defeated.

Construction of HealthCare Centre, We'Re Fulfilling Our Campaign Promises, Says Egunjobi

 

 #AgegePulse Magazine

The Executive Chairman of Agege Local Government, Alhaji Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi (JP) today laid foundation for the construction of a Primary Health Centre in Ajegunle Community, Ward 'G', Agege local government

At the event, the council boss reiterated his commitment to ensure that residents and people of the local government area continue to enjoy dividend of democracy.

"This is part of my campaign promises to provide adequate healthcare facility to enable residents in Agege Community easily access quality healthcare delivery at all times." Egunjobi said.

According to him, when completed, it will serve over four communities in that Ajegunle, Darocha and others in the area.

Gov. Sanwo-Olu Charges Real Estate Agents On International Best Practices |AgegePulse Magazine

 

... Engages Stakeholders At LASRERA Maiden Conference

...Lauds SA Toke Benson Over Initiative

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday charged practitioners in the real estate sector to ensure that international best practices are observed in order attract direct/ indirect  investment  from foreign countries to the State.

He emphasised the need to create a home ownership model that will help address the deficits observed in housing market in the State.

The Governor stated this during a Policy Roundtable organised by the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority, ( LASRERA) with key stakeholders in the real estate sector and captains of industries.

He said the State Government was ready to bridge the gap by partnering the private sector and working with stakeholders to ensure people have access to viable home services.

Sanwo-Olu also disclosed that there would be introduction of legislations that would help curb bad behaviors among tenants and property owners.

 The Policy forum organised by the Agency is to ensure that sanity is brought to the real estate sector in the State as they are key drivers to the actualisation of the T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda of the present administration. 

The Governor noted that apart from facilitating business relationships between people, the  Sector also employ across the State as the real estate sector contributes in no small measure to the State GDP through their activities, hence the determination of his administration to provide the right ambience for the practice of real estate.

According to the Governor “This Present Administration intends to make the Real Estate Market the best in adhering with international practices in terms of Real Estate Regulations. A Sector that conforms with global practices where Real Estate professionals will see the profession as an avenue of contributing continuous investment to the economy of the State Government through the Sector”.

Governor Sanwo-Olu therefore implored real estate practitioners  to support the State Government in its drive to bring sanity to the property sector by salvaging the present situation within the profession and provide the best service to prospective accommodation seekers within and outside the country. 

The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on housing, Mrs Toke Benson- Awoyinka while addressing participants at the event noted that the stakeholders’ forum is in recognition of the importance which the State Government attaches to the involvement of stakeholders in the property market especially as it relates to decision making process. 

The Special Adviser noted that the LASRERA portal is a bank where registered practitioners in the real estate sector are stored and can be easily accessed by anyone noting that this will reduce the activities of fraudulent practitioners as the Agency would not compromise on making sure due process is followed in the registration process.

According to her “The reason for always emphasizing registration with the real estate practitioners/property developers is to provide protection for citizens from imposters, fraudsters and reduce sharp practices associated with some unauthorized individuals who are not registered members of any association in Lagos State or Nigeria”.

Benson-Awoyinka also stated that the LASRERA portal will help to maintain a cordial relationship between the agency and real estate practitioners in line with global best practices. 

She stated that this will make it easier for potential customers who are willing to either buy or sell property to do so without any fear as they are dealing with licensed practitioners.

 According to the Special Adviser, the portal is in accordance with the T.H.E.M.E.S agenda for the present administration which is “Making Lagos a 21st Century Economy”, noting that the portal will not fail in its responsibility  to the people and investors  for adequate  protection  of lives, properties and investment. 

The  Commissioner for  Finance, Dr Rabiu Olowo, who spoke on financial Transparency and Governance in the Real Estate Development, stated that the  State Government recognizes the role which a transparent Real Estate industry would play in creating a competitive, efficient and flexible business environment for business in the State.

In his word, Transparency becomes a  fundamental factor in the efficient functioning of Real Estate Market,,because it will facilitate decision making and coordinates the actions of Market participants.

Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Moyosore Onigbanjo(SAN), Spoke on sensitizing the public on the Regulatory role of the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA),which he said it is very important to enforcement of laws and regulations on the Real Estate Sector in the State. He said that the Law which is been review by the State Government will standardize and sanitize Real Estate Business in the State and also protect investors while boosting Market confidence in the Sector. 

The Chairman, REDAN, Lagos Branch, Mr Bamidele Onalaja,who spoke on On/Off plan Development, said that the initiative of Lagos State Government  creating Lagos State Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA) will regulate the Built Sector in the development process of the Real Estate Industry. 

He said that  Real Estate Developers  should follow the approval Building plan from the State Government in order to avoid risks  and also appreciated the State Government for identifying with the Real Estate Sector in the State.

Another, speaker at the Event is the  Founder, Pison Housing Company, Dr Roland Igbinoba spoke on collating data on Property Transactions, he observed that real estate data must be collated for public investment. He emphasized that investors in the sector need to have the necessary data to enhance investment.

He said collation of data will bring an enabling environment for investments in the State.

At the end, Gov. Sanwo-Olu, others commended the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on housing, Mrs Toke Benson- Awoyinka for her passion in bringing sanity, transparency and accountability to real estate business in Lagos

Sad: Nigerian Army Colonel Bako Dies In Boko Haram Ambush | AgegePulse Magazine

Colonel D.C. Bako, one of the commanders of Operation LAFIYA DOLE of the Nigerian Army in Borno State has died in an ambush staged by Boko Haram.

According to the Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 7 Division, Ado Isa, Bako was killed on Sunday 20 September at about 10 a.m

He was killed as he led a patrol to clear Boko Haram terrorists from Sabon Gari-Wajiroko axis near Damboa.

His patrol team was trapped in an ambush set by the terrorists.

Ado Isa described Bako as a gallant and fine war hero.

Until his death Bako was the commander of Sector 2 Operation Lafiya Dole

His death re-ignited social media calls for the removal of service chiefs, who have overstayed in office.

A security consultant and ex-armoured crewman of the Nigerian army, by the Twitter name of Mazi Okay, described Bako as an Iroko.

“Iroko has fallen, a very big blow to Nigeria’s fight against Boko Haram insurgency.

“Col Bako until his death this morning was the greatest of all time since the beginning of the war against boko haram.

“A man who crushed and destroyed all Boko Haram cells and networks around Yobe”.

"Move back from rail tracks” – Amaechi begs Agege traders | AgegePulse Magazine

By Lateef Idris 

The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has urged Lagosians trading along the rail line to move far away from the rail tracks as it is unsafe for them.

 

The former governor of Rivers State made this call after assuring Nigerians that the Lagos-Ibadan Standard Guage Rail line should be ready by December.

Amaechi was on his monthly routine inspection tour of the project, from Ebute-Meta in Lagos, in company of other management staff of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to Ibadan, Oyo State capital.

According to the minister, a market at Agege encroached into the rail line and started giving way after sighting the rail coming.

“As for people trading along the rail line, please move far away from the tracks. It is unsafe to peddle around the tracks. We saw a market at Agege encroaching into the rail line. As soon as we start running, they have to give way,” he wrote on his Twitter after the inspection.

On what next after the project, the minister said that apart from Ibadan to Kano rail line, the ministry had sent to the cabinet for approval of the award of two railway contracts.

According to him, the contracts are Port Harcourt – Onne -Maiduguri; Kano-Maradi Railway and Lagos to Calabar.

LagosPanorama

Sports: Amiens sign Agege-Born Nigeria and Genk forward, Odey | AgegePulse Magazine

 

The Agege born Nigeria international has teamed up with the Stade de la Licorne outfit temporary in his quest to enjoy more game time.

Ligue 2 side Amiens have announced the signing of Stephen Odey on a season-long loan from Belgian First Division A side Genk.

The 22-year-old centre-forward arrived at the Luminus Arena outfit in the summer of 2019 but has struggled to establish himself with the club.

 Odey only featured in 11 league games for the Blue and White in his debut campaign with Hannes Wolf’s men

In his quest to enjoy more game time, the Nigeria international has teamed up with the Unicorns until the end of the season.

Article continues below

“Amiens SC and KRC Genk have reached an agreement for the Stephen Odey buyout loan,” read a statement from the club website.

“ Odey, Aged 22, a regular player at Yidi Praying Ground, Ajegunle, Agege, and has also featured many times at the Street Soccer game of Elephant Club Competition in Lagos, is therefore joining Amiens SC for the 2020/2021 season and will wear the number 9. Welcome, Stephen.”

He will link up with Ghana’s Emmanuel Lomotey, Senegal duo of  Moussa Konate, Amadou Ciss, the Democratic Republic of the Congo pair of Nathan Monzango and Chadrac Akolo, Ivory Coast’s Cheick Timite, Morocco’s Driss Khalid, Cameroon’s Aurelien Chedjou and Mali’s Molla Wague.

The forward burst into the limelight during his time with Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) side MFM.

Odey was MFM’s top-scorer in the 2015–16 NPFL season and remains the all-time highest scorer for the club.

The Agege born football star's eye-catching performances earned him a move to Swiss club FC Zürich, where he scored 12 goals in 45 league games during his two-year stay.

The striker then signed for Genk in 2019 and will now continue his development with Amiens.

Culled from Goal.com

LASRERA Parleys Real Estate Developers To Enhance Reputation of Estate Practitioners | AgegePulse Magazine

In order to sanitize and Strengthen operations of the Real Estate Market, the   Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Housing, Mrs. Toke Benson -Awoyinka on Thursday met with Chief Executive Directors of Real Estate Developers in the State to seek their buy-in into the implementation of the mandate of the Agency.

The meeting which was held at The George Hotel, Ikoyi, was to deliberate on the housing sector being one of the components of the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in achieving a Lagos State 21st Century Economy and also to curb the rate of reported and increasing cases of fraudulent practices in the Real Estate Sector across the State.

 She said the need to tackle several fraudulent practices within the Real Estate Sector necessitated the upgrading of the Department under the Ministry of Housing to an Agency, Lagos State Real Regulatory Authority (LASRERA).

Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka stated that currently, the Real Estate Regulatory Authority Bill is before Lagos State House of Assembly for review, stressing that the Stakeholders in the Industry will be invited for their contributions into the bill at the appropriate time.

 

The Special Adviser said that the acts of fraudulent practices by some Real Estate Developers in the State  has discouraged genuine investors in the industry especially from outside the Country.   

 She acknowledged the fact that Chief Executive Officers of Companies play important roles in Lagos especially in facilitating business relationships between people selling or buying, leasing or renting of landed property.

‘’Bringing prospective buyers and sellers of  properties together and managing their expectations, thereby making both parties come into agreement during the transaction processes being carried out, while contributing in no small measure to the economic growth and development of Lagos State. She stated. 

The Special Adviser said, the Real Estate Developers must work with the Agency to enhance the integrity and reputation of the property market which is the vision of the State Government and the passion of Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for the housing sector. 

 She maintained and stated that, it is worthy to note the Real Estate is the Oil of Lagos State and that greater opportunities abound in the Industry through the confidence and trust of clients during business transactions.

 Mrs. Toke Benson- Awoyinka appealed to the Real Estate Developers in the State to join hands with LASRERA to curb fraudulent and sharp practices perpetrated by some unscrupulous people in the Sector. 

"Every Real Estate Practitioner / Property Developer should register with the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority LASRERA to assist the Agency in building a robust database for practitioners in the Sector and accessibility by members of the public who would want to engage their services in renting, buying and selling of property," the Special Adviser reiterated. 

In response, the Developers noted with enthusiasm their joy in the State bringing them together and appreciating the need being long overdue to regulate and sanitize the Sector. They however pleaded with Government on the need to provide complimentary infrastructure being roads and electricity, to mention a few, in order to reduce the cost of developments while making it more affordable and accessible to the people. They also mentioned and requested that the Agency creates a “one stop desk” where issues around government processes can be resolved within the Agency to make their dealings with government seamless!!

Teachers To Get Reward On Earth As Sanwo-Olu Pledges 20 Cars To Outstanding Teachers

AgegePulse Magazine

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-olu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to reward excellence service delivery in the Lagos State Post Primary teaching service, pledging 20 cars to deserving teachers across the six Education Districts in the State.

The Governor made this pledge during the Virtual training of teachers tagged Eko Educators Webinar Performance Series 3.3, noting that teachers are key change agents who will be remembered for shaping future generation of leaders.

He went further to advice teachers to embrace technology in improving the quality of teaching which ultimately makes them great teachers, indeed.

“This is the era of technology and it is working well for us. Technology has become a very strong tool that we cannot do away with in our everyday lives. With technology, we can think locally and act globally”, he said.

He added that great teachers are always remembered for the lives they shape, deriving satisfaction in their students becoming role models to be proud of.

Also, the Commissioner for Education, Mrs Folasade Adefisayo, emphasized that most critical to the success of any school system is the quality of teaching and learning which is exhibited in the quality of teachers  with a multiplier effect on our children.

Mrs. Adefisayo appreciated Lagos State teachers for their continual self development in addition to the government efforts in their development. 

She commended TESCOM board for the idea of the Virtual training, which she said was doing well for the progress of the Education Sector and Lagos State at large.

She noted that as the pandemic was winding up, teachers are expected as locus paretic to put in their best in bringing up the children who might have gone through different degree of trauma during the pandemic.

The Chairman, Teaching Service Commission, Mrs.  Elizabeth Olabisi Ariyo, while welcoming Governor Babajide Sanwo -olu during the Webinar series, said that the Webinar was a conscious effort of the Commission in improving teaching styles, optimize the teaching profession, turn around the life of our children, and ultimately, impact on our future.

She noted that the Webinar has initiated Post Primary School Teachers in Lagos State to be prepared and proactive in teaching and learning to meet the challenges of the 'new normal'.

"The platform portends to address teachers' wellness and wellbeing, update them with trending facts to update their teaching skill, and has had notable distinguished personalities of interest in the public service and society at large to discuss issues".

She appreciated the magnanimity of Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu for approval of the Teachers’ Exit Replacement programme with over 1,000  new appointees , the Retrospective Course approval for over 700 Teachers which had lingered since  2013,  Digital training of all Post-Primary Schools Teachers on Microsoft Teams platform, varying Digital Virtual trainings exposing our Teachers to be digital complaint, various Capacity enhancement of Teachers in Lagos State and a host of others which has up scaled and enhanced proper integration of TESCOM in the "new normal"

While appreciating the Governor for his visionary leadership and role model, the Chairman urged Teachers and other participants to be attentive and ensure active participation in the course of the session.

The Permanent Secretary, TESCOM, Mrs. Toyin Awoseyi, while applauding the presence of Mr. Governor on the Webinar, affirmed that this was an attestation to the priority placed on Teachers and the Education Sector and opined that to whom much is given, much is expected.

The facilitator, Mr. Fela Durotoye, CEO, Gemstone Group, delved extensively on the topic “The Making of a Great Teacher in the Centre of Excellence”, emphasizing the importance of striving to become ‘’great teachers’’.

 

 “As important as teachers are, teachers cannot be remembered, but great teachers cannot be forgotten”, he added.

EFCC Arrests Brothers, Three Others For Alleged Internet Fraud | AgegePulse Magazine

 

Operatives of the the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibadan zonal office, have arrested two pairs of brothers : Ayoola Timilehin, Olusola Timilehin, and Oladayo Fayemi, Tolulope Fayemi and three others suspected to be internet fraudsters.

They were arrested at their hide out on Wednesday, September 9, 2020 at Alaka, Elebu area of Ibadan, Oyo State.

The other three suspects arrested with them are Temitope Kumuyi, Babatunde Oyelakin and Olanrewaju Ibrahim. They are all between 20 and 30 years age range.

The suspects were arrested based on intelligence linking them with opulence without any identifiable means of livelihood. Items recovered from them, include: four cars, laptops, exotic phones and a stamp bearing the identity of the bursary section of Queensland University's School of Medicine, Australia.

They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

LASRERA Team Meets Lagos Chief Judge, Demands Special Court For Real Estate Practitioner

AgegePulse Magazine

From left, Hon Justice Femi-Adeniyi, Hon Justce Dabiri, the Chief Judge of Lagos, Hon Justice Kazeem Alogba, Special Adviser to the Governor on Housing, Toke Benson Awoyinka and Titilayo Omorodion, Dir. Admin LASRERA

In order to stem the tide of fraudulent practices in the real estate business and also ensure speedy trials of erring real estate agents in Lagos State, the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority, LASRERA, has called for the collaboration of the Judiciary in providing designated judges solely responsible for the handling of real estate related matters. 

The Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Housing, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka made the request on Tuesday when she led some principal officials of the Agency to the office of the Chief Judge of the State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba during a Courtesy visit. 

Benson-Awoyinka said that for Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA) to effectively enforce the Law guiding activities in the sector in Lagos State in form of misconducts, complaints or petitions from the public against persons or organisations within the Sector, there is need for a assigned Courts and designated Judges to see to all Real Estate Matters in order to fast Track/Speedy hearing of Real Estate Matters/Issues in such Courts.

She appealed to Honurable Chief of the State to consider the Agency’s request due to the huge and incessant acts of fraudulent and quackery practices by some Real Estate Practitioners and the need to expedite hearings on matters that affects real estate businesses in the State.

 In her words, "the Courts will  accelerate the dispensation of all matters/ issues in relation to real estate and ensures that victims get justice within a reasonable time and refunded accordingly especially if the perpetrators are culpable, adding that the properties of the culprits might be confiscated and sold to offset the payment already made by the affected victims."

 Benson-Awoyinka also added that the introduction of Foreclosure  by the State Government would help decongest  and expedite the liquidity of Mortgage assets.   

 According to her," The State  Government needs to sanitize real estate transactions so as to conform to the global practices and also to attract  investments in the Sector while also increasing the soci-economy of the State. 

‘" The Real Estate Business has always being good investment that needs the State Government to act as a gatekeeper because people seek for accommodation either to rent, buy or sell around the World." the Special Adviser emphasized. 

 The Special Adviser said that the efforts of the State Government in the housing sector  is aimed at curbing the rate of reported and increasing cases of fraudulent practices in the Real Estate Sector across the State.

  She informed that Lagos State Estate Agency Regulatory Law, Cap L28, Laws of Lagos State, 2015, provides for the establishment of the Lagos State Regulatory Authority. (LASRERA) which is to regulate the practice of Real Estate Agency in the State so as to identify persons eligible to be licensed as Real Estate Practitioners and provides for the issuance and renewal of Permits annually.

 Benson-Awoyinka maintained that the Agency has the responsibility of collating a database  of Real Estate Practitioners/ Property Developers  and Agents thereof.

She assured residents of the State that the State Government remains committed to provision of protection for all residents of the State especially when there are perceived cases of fraudulent activities in the Real Estate Sector. 

 While responding, Honourable Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba pledged that the State Judiciary will support in the fight against fraudulent dealings in the Real Estate Practice in the State.

He described the request of the Agency for designated Courts to fast track the issues/ matters of the dubious activities of some fake Practitioners in the Sector as a welcome development just as he also promised to assign judges to handle such cases within some jurdicition in the State.

He used the ocassion to also clarify that the Lagos State Judiciary has not stopped Bankers Order in the course of dispensation of justice but would expect due process be followed in seeking such orders.

He ended by giving a strong commitment to the Agency in its efforts to sanitize the industry as well as its pursuit of relief and quick dispensation of justice to the people. He thanked the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Housing for seeking such collaborations amongst the two arms of Government which will further enhance the objectives of the Agency!!

LASG Vows to Halt Activities of Land Grabbers | AgegePulse Magazine

Urges Property Owners To Perfect Title Documents

The Lagos State Government has advised all legitimate land and property owners in the State to perfect all title documents pertaining to their lands and property, saying this will help put land grabbers at bay and ensure easy administration of justice in the event that such assets are forcefully taken.

The Coordinator of the Lagos State Special Taskforce on Land Grabbers, Mr. Owolabi Arole, gave this advice, noting that undocumented and incomplete transactions, as well as untidy property documentation, make it difficult for any property forcefully taken to be retrieved through legal means.

He said, “a large chunk of the land grabbing cases are fraught with issues of improper and incomplete legal documentation and such issues cause a delay in getting justice for rightful owners of the land.”

“These issues, however, have not deterred us from carrying out our mandate and getting justice for rightful owners of the land from unscrupulous elements who forcibly encroach and dispossess real owners of their property”, Arole said.      

He affirmed that the task force has continued to pursue its mandate to reduce the activities of persons or corporate entities, who intimidate and forcefully claim the property of other residents.

Arole noted that the task force has, since its inauguration, received over 2,300 petitions bordering on land grabbing and related issues, while it has treated and concluded 600 cases, made 35 arrests and is presently working on 1,500 petitions.

While urging citizens whose lands have been forcefully taken not to take laws into their hands, the Coordinator advised them to report such incidents to the Special Taskforce on Land Grabbers for remedial action.

Arole warned land grabbers to desist from their illicit trade, stressing that the State government will, through the task force, bring the full wrath of the law on anybody caught forcibly taking another person’s land.

“Lagos State government, through the Lagos State Property Protection Law 2016, set up the task force to address the incessant activities of land grabbers in different parts of the State because the trend was stifling commercial activities and preventing prospective investors from carrying out business activities in Lagos”, the Coordinator explained.

Reiterating that the law prohibits forceful entry and illegal occupation of landed property, as well as violent and fraudulent conduct, Arole vowed that his task force will confront the menace of land grabbers and ensure a stop to their illicit trade.

BENEFICIARIES LAUD LAGOS FIRST LADY FOR SPONSORING TRAINING ON AQUACULTURE

AgegePulse Magazine

Participants at the special training on Aquaculture and its value chain organised by Office of the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, in collaboration with the State’s Ministry of Agriculture, have lauded the wife of the Governor for her initiative to encourage farming and contribute to the country’s food security drive.

Speaking at the training organised for members of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), civil servants and representatives of some groups, the beneficiaries expressed their views that the training was worth their while and also equipped them with the skills to go into commercial fish farming.

The three-day training, held at the Cooperative College Training Room and Agriculture Development Authority Complex, Oko-Oba, Agege, from August 31 to September 2, 2020, is the first batch of the programmes lined up by the Office of the First Lady to train people in fish farming, poultry and crops in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture.    

A participant, Mrs. Adeola Rotinwa stated that she benefited immensely from the training about fish farming and its value chain, saying “I really appreciate the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu for giving us the opportunity to learn about the fish farming value chain. We have learned so far, how to create fish hatchery, how to smoke fish, drying, selling and exporting fish, among others".

“We also learnt how to have a cooperative and collaborate to form a business, either to sell fish or to sell the fingerlings. I thank the Office of the First Lady and the Ministry of Agric for this opportunity and we are also praying that going forward, they will assist in empowering us to take this fish farming value chain to the next level of feeding the nation”, Rotinwa said.

Another participant, Mrs. Olajumoke Saliu said the training was an eye-opener in terms of the opportunities inherent in fish farming.

In her words, “So far, we have learned how to do the fish farming from fingerlings to table fish among others. They have taken us through the process and even told us that when you have the fish, there is a way you can add more value to it, whether locally or internationally such as making fish fillet, making fish snacks, and making canned food with fish without preservatives”.

“We are learning how to do it the organic way and also giving us value that we can also add to people at our own ends. It is a big privilege. We want to thank the Office of the First Lady and the First Lady especially, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu. She is impacting lives because this is not just about the people being trained as they will go out, create more jobs and reach out to others. This is a total package that we are grateful for. This is what we will surely take to the next level to impact positively on the food security within our nation and State,” Saliu said.

Apart from the training, participants were also tutored on accessing the agric fund of the Lagos State Agro-Processing, Productivity Enhancement and Livelihood Support (APPEALS), which is a World Bank assisted project.

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#ForAGreaterLagos

LASEMA Commences Reconstruction of Opebi Helicopter Crash Site | AgegePulse Magazine

 

... As Governor Sanwo-Olu keeps Promise Under 48 Hours

In keeping with the promises of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of less than 48 hours ago, LASEMA has commenced post-disaster reconstruction of the Opebi Helicopter crash site of Friday. 

Reconstruction of the affected fence and buildings at 14 and 16, Salvation Road, Opebi in ikeja by the crashed helicopter commenced Monday morning, following Mr. Governor's pledge, made in company of Hon. Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Engr. Omotayo Bamgbose-Martins and the DG/CEO of LASEMA, Dr. Oluwafemi Damilola Oke-Osanyitolu on Saturday 29th August, 2020  during a hands-on visit and post disaster assessment of the crash site. 

It would be recalled that Governor Sanwo-Olu on Saturday commended LASEMA, other emergency responders and security agencies for their swift response when a Bell 206 Helicopter, belonging to Quorum Aviation, traveling into Lagos from Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital with two crew members and a passenger crashed in-between two residential buildings on Salvation road in Opebi area of Lagos mid-day on Friday, killing two out of it's three passengers instantly, and leaving the third critically injured.

During inspection of the Opebi helicopter crash-site on Saturday to assess the extent of damage caused by the crash, Governor Sanwo-Olu who sympathised with families of the deceased three during the crash, prayed for God to comfort their families and promised that Lagos State Government will conduct integrity tests on the affected buildings within a hundred metres radius and do necessary repairs to assist the affected families by restoring normalcy as quickly as possible. 

 

Said he, “I am here to do a real on the spot assessment and I have seen things for myself. We thank God that as painful as the incident might be, the damage was not beyond what we have witnessed. We are pained by the death of the three people on board but we thank God because it could have been worse than that. The affected buildings are residential homes that have citizens living there. As at the exact time the helicopter crash happened, a lot of people were not in the premises and even the elderly people that were around and in their rooms. But as God would have it, nothing in terms of fatality, happened to people on the ground. So, we need to thank God. If not, fatality may have been a lot more than what we are talking about.

“As you can see the people affected are senior citizens; they are people in their 80s and 70s that I have come to condole with and also thank God for them. We have seen the level of destruction and damages. Tests will be conducted to understand the integrity of the buildings and once that is ascertained today or tomorrow, we will start work with the federal agencies. We will start the reconstruction and renovation of the places affected by the crash; the rooms, walls, tents and ensure that we quickly bring respite to the senior citizens that have been affected".

Thereafter, the Governor restated his commitment to Lagosians, pledging to commence the reconstruction of the crash site from today, when said; “From Monday, we will start rebuilding the damaged structure and also assist in any areas the owners of the buildings need our assistance. We will also assist the senior citizens wherever they need help. We know that the incident has had some impact on them. We will give them whatever support we can give them to reduce their psychological, physical and emotional hardship, which may have been caused by the incident. We would be doing that for them as a government. The whole essence of governance is to ensure that once your citizens are affected like this, government need to rise up.”

Still speaking on the incident, Governor Sanwo-Olu commended all the federal and state agencies for their quick response and speedy intervention by moving to site of the crash shortly after the helicopter crash. “I want commend all our frontline workers, all the emergency staff that turned up with citizens in the neigbourhood that turned out in large number to help,” he said.

Commenting today, at commencement of reconstruction of the disaster area, the DG/CEO, LASEMA, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu explained further, that beyond the conduct of integrity tests and impact assessments on the affected buildings and entire disaster area within 100 metres radius, immediate response of LASEMA to directives of Mr. Governor, has already started yielding results as journey of quick restoration to normalcy, has commenced with the clearing and reconstruction of the incident site.

#ForAGreaterLagos