Two Arrested for Stealing a month old baby

AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State Police Command has arrested one Patrick Mbama ‘m’, 41 years old and Ogechi Chinonso Ekwebele ‘f’, 30 years old, for stealing a month old baby  and selling him to a buyer in Lagos.

AgegePulse learnt that, the suspects were intercepted by Police Officers from Anthony Police Division, on enforcement duty at Anthony Oke pin down point.

The officers stopped a Toyota Sienna SUV carrying 7 passengers. The officers' enquiries fuelled the suspicion that the baby was stolen.

The suspects stated that they were coming from Orlu, Imo State. Further investigations  revealed that the suspects had sold the baby to a childless couple in Lagos.

The childless couples,  Izuchukwu Okafor ‘m’ 51 years old and Cecilia Okafor ‘f’ 40 years old were arrested thereafter arrested after the suspects' confession.

Recovered from the suspects was the baby's original birth certificate and parents names.

The baby’s biological parents have been traced and he would be handed over to his parents today

The suspects are to be  charged to Court.

#Covid19: Pastor Bakare Donates Lagos Church As Isolation Centre

AgegePulse Magazine

Ademola Aderele

Tunde Bakare, Serving Overseer of Citadel Global Community Church, formerly known as Latter Rain Assembly, has donated church halls in Ogun and Lagos states as isolation centres.

In a statement issued by the church, Bakare said it was the church’s way of contributing to the fight against COVID-19 in the country.

The statement read:
We, the Citadel Global Community Church (formerly, The Latter Rain Assembly, hereinafter called the CGCC) offer our heartfelt condolences to the grieving families who have lost loved ones as a result of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. We pray that God will comfort and strengthen those left behind in Jesus mighty name. Amen.

Our community has held daily prayers across electronic channels to unite various households together in pleading for the mercies of God to triumph over judgement, and for Christ to heal the sick and shorten the scope and impact of this plague on Nigeria, and the nations of the earth.

Drawing inspiration from the parable of the Good Samaritan as told by our Lord Jesus Christ, the CGCC launched a campaign #IamMyBrothersKeeper to provide meal support to Lagosians irrespective of faith through the houses of our members. This campaign has already been launched and we encourage others to join us and do the same.

To further spread the mandate given by the Good Samaritan in the parable, the CGCC offers parts of our current Church facilities located at Plot 4 Akilo Road Ogba for the use of the Lagos State Government as an isolation Centre for the treatment of Covid-19 cases. The CGCC Medical Missions shall onboard LASG officials to ensure the best utilization of this space as an isolation centre.

We commend the Lagos State Government and well meaning individuals and corporate bodies for the spirited efforts at controlling the spread of this pandemic in Lagos and by extension in Nigeria. We pray for divine health, wisdom and energy for the leadership of Lagos State and frontline healthcare workers.

We continue to urge obedience to social distancing regulations by the people of Lagos and urge well meaning Nigerians to self organize and fund meal support initiatives to the less privileged members of our communities as part of #IamMyBrothersKeeper campaign.

May God extend mercy to Nigeria and the nations of the earth at this challenging time.

Lagos Considers Switching to Community Management of Covid-19 Cases, as Sanwo-Olu Mulls another Lockdown

…Governor To Police: ‘Confiscate Any Okada Operating, Stop Pedestrian Trekking Into Lagos’

…Commercial Buses Not Complying With Guidelines - Sanwo-Olu

AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State may be in for another round of interminable lockdown of movement and business activities should the residents fail to adhere to the public health guidelines issued by the State Government in response to the fight against the ravaging Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said the State Government would be forced to review terms of easing the lockdown if there was no improvement in the adherence to the guidelines initiated to break the cycle of transmission of the dreaded virus.

The Governor spoke on Saturday during a maiden briefing after the ease of a five-week lockdown imposed by the Federal Government.

Besides, Sanwo-Olu said there will be a change in the State’s isolation strategy in the coming weeks, pointing out that Lagos was transiting towards decentralisation of management of COVID-19 cases, which would lead to the accreditation and incorporation of primary healthcare facilities and private hospitals for the treatment of mild-to-moderate cases of COVID-19 patients.

The Government, he said, was taken aback, watching residents going about their businesses in the last five days after the ease of lockdown without complying with the public health guidelines despite massive advocacy.

Sanwo-Olu said the crowd observed at various banks and markets across the State flouted the public gathering directive, noting that the Government would not watch while people violate the State’s guidelines towards combating the pandemic.

He said: “As a Government elected to uphold security of its citizens, which include health security, we will not hesitate to review the terms of the easing of lockdown if we do not see an improvement in adherence to our public health guidelines in the next couple of days.

“We will be forced to take a painful decision of bringing the entire system under lockdown if we continue to see evidence that Lagosians are determined to flout the rules.

“As we eased restrictions on movement, we have increased our testing capacity and we are also actively increasing our isolation capacity. Members of the public will also see a change in our isolation strategy in the weeks ahead, as we transition towards decentralisation.

“What this means is that, we will be introducing community management of cases, by accrediting and incorporating primary healthcare facilities and private healthcare facilities for the management of mild-to-moderate cases of COVID-19 patients. However, we will guide this initiative carefully to ensure that it is not done at the expense of the capacity required to handle other medical cases.”

Sanwo-Olu said the State Government’s order restricting the operation of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, had been defied, directing the police to confiscate any commercial motorcycle seen flouting his directive.

The Governor also instructed security personnel to strictly enforce the ban on inter-state movement, directing the police to turn back all pedestrians trekking to Lagos from boundary highways.

The Governor said the task of ridding the State of the ravaging virus must be a collective responsibility and not a task for the Government alone. He advised residents to adhere strictly to the health measures initiated by the Government, stressing that the use of face mask was made compulsory to protect unaffected population from the virus.

Sanwo-Olu said: “We are at a critical point in the management of the COVID-19 pandemic where every citizen of the State needs to take responsibility for their health and wellbeing.

“As citizens, we have a great burden upon us, to behave responsibly. These times demand a lot from us, in terms of actions and behaviours that may not be comfortable. To stay alive and well, we have to abandon old habits and customs, and adopt new ones.”

Sanwo-Olu said the controlled and gradual easing of the five-week lockdown was to strike a balance between the protection of lives and the sustenance of livelihoods.

He praised manufacturing and construction companies for complying with terms of Government’s framework, noting that their activities, in the last five days, had made beneficial impacts on the State economy.

The Governor, however, frowned at a “very low” compliance with guidelines by operators of commercial buses, observing that yellow buses failed to comply with the capacity restrictions outlined in our framework.

He said the Government’s monitoring teams at State and Local Government levels had been working hard to raise compliance levels to 100 per cent.

Sanwo-Olu reiterated his commitment towards strengthening the State’s capacity in combating the pandemic, thanking frontline medical and emergency workers for their sacrifice to the citizens.

The Governor also hailed waste disposal teams for not relenting in their effort to keep the State health despite being vulnerable to being infected with COVID-19.

Human skeleton found in pastor’s house in Ogun

AgegePulse Magazine

Peace Land Estate, Akute, Ogun State was a scene of horror yesterday, as a human skeleton, believed to be that of a woman, was found in a pastor’s house.

According to eyewitnesses, the shocking discovery was made when the owner of the pastor’s house tried to evict him from his flat over late payment of rent.

“The pastor did not pay his rent for a year. The landlady, who was angry with the situation of things, stormed his home with some people in-order to evict him, but were shocked when they discovered a human skeleton inside,” one of the sources revealed.

People in the neighbourhood were attracted to the scene while the matter was quickly reported to the police.

However the suspect, who owns a church, was said to have made some revelations about the skeleton. He alleged that it belonged to his sister. According to him, his parents had just three children – himself and two sisters. He said he lived with them in the flat.

However, for sometime now, one of the sisters named Funmi has not been seen again.

When people asked about her, “he would say she went to the mountain,” said the source.

She, however, allegedly died since 2010 and her body was abandoned in the house.

From the position of the skeleton, it appeared the deceased was kneeling on the ground.

The Police have since arrested the suspect.
In recent times many suspects have been arrested with skulls and other human parts in different parts of Ogun State including Abeokuta and Sango Ota.
Courtesy of Triple A Real

LASEMA Seals Distressed 3-Storey Building, Averts Secondary Incident

... Lagosian's Lives, Paramount to this Administration-DG LASEMA Dr. Oke–Osanyintolu

AgegePulse Magazine

LASEMA today in consonance with Mr. Governor's creed of "Safety of Lives and Property of Lagosians," averted a secondary incident at 7, Sule Close, Ijora badia in Orile axis of Lagos, when it sealed-off a distressed three-storey building.

The ill maintained, distressed building domiciled at 7, Sule Close, Ijora Badia that showed visible cracks on it's walls and pillars, was sealed-off by LASEMA Response Team in conjunction with it's collaborators and other responders from the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning, to save lives of residents incase of a total collapse, while awaiting outcome of it's integrity tests.

The collaborators/Responders included those from the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority, LASPPPA, the Lagos State Material Testing Laboratory, LMTL, the Lagos State Building Control Agency, LASBCA and the Apapa Iganmu Local Council Development Authority, LCDA, Environmental Unit.

Preliminary report by the LASEMA Response Team on the distressed building at 7, Sule Close, Ijora badia following the DG's alert on it's status, has it that, "Upon arrival at the scene of incident, it was discovered that a three storey building is distressed and showing visible cracks on the walls and pillars due to lack of maintenance.

"However, no loss of lives nor injuries were sustained at the scene. LRT, LASPPPA, LMTL and Apapa Iganmu LCDA Environmental Unit are responders at the scene, where all occupants of the said building had been evacuated and the entire building has been cordoned off and sealed to prevent any secondary incident.

This report by the LRT follows the LASEMA DG's earlier alert in the day on the Compromised Building situated at No 7 Sule Close, Ijora Badia in Apapa Iganmu LCDA which states that, "The attention of the agency has been drawn to a building with failing structural integrity at the above address.

"The agency’s response team alongside with LABCA And Lagos State Material Testing Agency will be carrying out a full inspection and additional testing.

"The results will determine whether the building will be allowed to remain standing or whether it will be leveled to ground zero.

"Residents are advised to exercise caution, and where possible, seek alternate lodging until the integrity of the building is determined.

"We are determined to prevent the unfortunate incidence of lives being lost due to unsafe building conditions and are working with all stakeholders to prevent more of the same across Lagos".

COVID-19: Professor Abayomi did not Test Positive, It's Fake News - LASG

AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State Government, through its Ministry of Health, has debunked the reports making the rounds suggesting that the Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi has tested positive to COVID-19, describing the news as absolute falsehood, fabricated by mischief makers.

A statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs in the Ministry, Mr. Tunbosun Ogunbanwo urged the public to disregard the information in its entirety, saying the authors are out to create unnecessary panic and fear amongst the populace.

Ogunbanwo affirmed that Professor Abayomi is hale, hearty and in good health, as he diligently continues to discharge his responsibilities as the Deputy Incident Commander of the COVID19Lagos Intervention Team constituted to battle the deadly virus in Lagos.

The statement implored citizens to desist from disseminating fake news and implored those who seek and share information to rely only on the official and verified communication channels - @followlasg and @LSMOH for COVID19Lagos news.

#LASG
#ForAGreaterLagos
#CovidLASG
#LagosAgainstCovid19

Sports Ministry places late Rashidi Yekini's mother on monthly stipend

AgegePulse magazine

The Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, has placed the mother of late Super Eagles striker, Rashidi Yekini, Alhaja Sikiratu, on  a monthly stipend.

The Representative of the Minister at the donation ceremony, Olaitan Shittu, disclosed this in Ijagbo, near Offa in Kwara on Wednesday, when he donated Ramadan gifts on behalf of the Minister to the aged mother.

The Sports Minister, Mr Sunday Dare, also donated the sum of N50,000 as part of the Ramadan gifts to the aged matriarch on Wednesday.

Shittu explained that it was not the first time the Minister was reaching out to Alhaja Sikiratu Yekini as he was also at Mama Yekini's residence in September, 2019.

Responding, Alhaja Yekini who spoke in her local dialect (Yoruba), thanked the Minister and prayed fervently for him.

"I have been abandoned for a long time and have not seen any help from anyone.

"I was hospitalised for few days, some months ago and I did cater for myself despite scarce resources, even last month, I received treatment from the hospital.

"I need help from Nigerians, but this Minister has done very well, especially remembering me in this holy month of Ramadan.

"Since my son died, it has been very tough for me because I do not have any help from people. Rashidi's siblings are not doing well too, so, I was left to struggle for life everyday," Alhaja Sikiratu Yekini said.

Late Rashidi Yekini who died eight years ago in Ibadan after retiring from football, had his professional career span more than two decades and was mainly associated with Vitória de Setúbal in Portugal, but he also played in six other countries besides Nigeria.

Yekini scored 37 goals as a Nigerian international from 58 games and represented the nation in five major tournaments, including two World Cups where he scored the country's first-ever goal in the competition against Bulgaria in the USA 94 World Cup.

He was also named the African Footballer of the Year in 1993.

Items donated include, 50kg bag of rice, 10kg bag of wheat, six tins of Milo as well as the sum of N50,000.

Signed
Media Office to the Minister of Youth and Sports Development

Motorists sleep on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway amid curfew

AgegePulse Magazine

Hundreds of motorists passed the night at the Kara/Berger end of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Monday/ Tuesday, as they were stranded following the enforcement of the curfew imposed on Lagos and Ogun states as well as the Federal Capital Territory by the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.) to limit the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

While some of the motorists lamented spending hours for journeys that should have lasted minutes, others decried passing the night in their vehicles after being stuck in the gridlock that followed the closure of the Berger boundary between Lagos and Ogun states.


PUNCH Metro observed that security agents manned both the inward and outward lanes of the road at Berger.

Police personnel from Lagos and Ogun state commands, officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps, Vehicle Inspection Officers and men of the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps were seen at the checkpoint.

A motorist, Adedimeji Okanlawon, said the policemen at the checkpoint inward Lagos denied him passage despite informing them that he was an essential worker, adding that he had to pass the night in his vehicle.

Okanlawon stated, “I left the office in Arepo around midnight and the road was free until I got to the Sparklight Estate area on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. I initially thought that the gridlock was because the policemen were checking for essential workers, but I became worried when there was no movement for hours.

“I showed him my ID card, but he ignored me; so, I trekked back to where I parked and passed the night in my car. But a lot of people conveying food items, charcoal and other materials, as well as tankers were among those stuck in the gridlock. I saw a lot of motorists sleeping on the road as there was no movement. I left the place at exactly 6.45am.”

Another motorist, Daramola Adebutu, said many people left their places of work late despite being aware of the curfew, adding that the roadblock at Berger spilled over to the Third Mainland Bridge, Alausa and Agidingbi areas of Lagos.

In the Sango area of Ogun State, motorists plying the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway also faced a similar situation as security agents at the toll gate area prevented them from gaining entry into the state.


A motorist, who identified himself simply as Idris, said he and other motorists were left with no option but to drive on the kerb because the policemen had barricaded the regular route.

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Bala Elkana, said, “On Monday, we had issues all over; the roads were shut because of the curfew; and when we shut down non-essential movement, essential workers were trapped in the gridlock. But eventually, we paved a way for them to pass.

“Today (Tuesday), we went around with the Commissioner of Police to assess the situation and the checkpoint at Berger was shifted to a wider area to accommodate more vehicular movement.

Punch

Ikeja Electric Resumes Disconnection, Urges Customers to Pay Bills

AgegePulse Magazine

The suspension earlier placed on disconnection of power supply of its customers has been lifted by Ikeja Electric.

On April 1, 2020, Business Post reported that Ikeja Electric announced that it would not be disconnecting electricity of non-paying customers within its franchise network during the 2-week stay-at-home period enforced by federal government to curb the spread of coronavirus.

The move, according to the Acting CEO of Ikeja Electric, Ms Folake Soetan, was to ensure that “our customers enjoy steady and quality supply throughout this difficult period and beyond. We recognize the fact that electricity supply is critical to our ability to stay safe, clean and indoors.”

Last Monday, President Muhammadu Buhari announced that from May 4, 2020, there would be an ease in the 5-week lockdown in Abuja, Lagos and Ogun States.

In a notice today, Ikeja Electric said following the development, it was lifting the suspension on disconnection activities, urging energy consumers to pay their bills.

The electricity distribution firm said the appeal became necessary because of its need to meet some obligations to the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

“As we begin partial lockdown, we use this medium to inform our customers of the need to start paying their bills to avoid power cuts as we have also lifted the suspension of disconnection activities.

“The request is necessitated by the need to meet our obligations to the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), as paying your bills will enable us to meet our financial obligation to the market operators and this will ensure that the country continues to generate power supply,” Ikeja Electric said.

While thanking its customers for their “continued understanding and allowing us to serve you,” the company appealed to consumers to “continue to adhere to all the safety rules of personal hygiene and social distancing.”

Ikeja Electric expressed hope that business activities will gradually return to normal with the partial lifting of the lockdown order by the federal government.

It was learnt that throughout the period of the lockdown, Ikeja Electric focused on increasing supply to its customers.

Business post

How FG Planned To Spend $311m Abacha Loot From US

AgegePulse Magazine

On Monday, May 4, 2020, some  $311 million US Dollars - stolen from the citizens of Nigeria during the Abacha regime - were safely returned to our country from the United States.

These funds have already been allocated, and will be used in full, for vital and decades-overdue infrastructure development: The second Niger Bridge, the Lagos-Ibadan and Abuja-Kaduna-Kano expressways - creating tens of thousands of Nigerian construction jobs and local skills, which can then be useful in future projects.

Part of the funds will also be invested in the Mambilla Power Project which, when completed, will provide electricity to some three million homes - over ten million citizens - in our country.

The receipt of these stolen monies - and the hundreds of millions more that have already been returned from the United Kingdom and Switzerland - are an opportunity for the development of our nation, made far harder for those decades the country was robbed of these funds.

Indeed, previous monies returned last year from Switzerland - some $320 million US dollars - are already being used for the government’s free school feeding scheme, a stipend for millions of disadvantaged citizens, and grain grants for those in severe food hardship.

Without these funds, the fight against Covid-19 would be even tougher.

The latest return is a testament to the growing and deepening relationship between the government of Nigeria and the government of the United States.

Without the cooperation both from the UK Government, the US Executive branch and US Congress, we would not have achieved the return of these funds at all.

For years many countries deemed successive Nigerian administrations as too corrupt, too venal and too likely to squander and re-steal the stolen monies - so they did not return the funds.

Today, US, UK and other jurisdictions have found the partnership with the nation of Nigeria they can finally trust.

The Buhari Administration is committed to - and is enacting - total and zero tolerance to corruption in politics and public administration.

The days when government was seen and used by the political class as their personal ATM to empty are over.

The time of better governance and clean hands in the affairs of state is here to stay.

By Femi Adesina

Lagos Speaker denies contracts scam claims

AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, Monday denied allegations that he was laundering money through contract scams.

Obasa described as “absurd, abusive” and “malicious” the claims that he awarded contracts to himself through companies registered in the names of his father, wife and children.

The allegations, he said, were made by online news medium Sahara Reporters in a publication titled “Exposed: Speaker of Lagos Assembly, Obasa, Awards Contracts to self through Company Registered in son’s name”.

But, Obasa’s counsel, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, in an April 30 letter seen by The Nation, said none of the firms mentioned by the publication had ever been engaged or awarded any contract by the lawmakers.

He demanded that Sahara Reporters publisher, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, retract the story within seven days and apologise, otherwise face a N1 billion defamation lawsuit.

The letter, ‘Demand for retraction of defamatory statements published against and concerning the person of Rt. Hon, Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa and apology for the publication, reads in part:

Pedro said although the lawmakers had already denied the “said false and malicious publication on social media platforms” the online medium repeated the claims elsewhere.

“In your subsequent publication of 25th March 2020 captioned ‘Exclusive: Tinubu, GAC back Lagos Assembly Speaker, Obasa, over suspension of Lawmakers, corruption’ you repeated the same malicious statement concerning our client…” Pedro said.

According to him, the publication had damaged Obasa’s reputation globally.

He added: In the circumstance, it is our client’s instruction and we hereby demand of you, within 7 days of receipt of this letter a retraction of the said false, malicious and defamatory publication against our client through your online publication, social media platforms and three (3) National Newspapers circulating in Nigeria.

“You are also to tender a written unreserved apology to our client for the publication. TAKE NOTICE that, if you fail, refuse or neglect to meet our client’s humble  request within the stipulated number of days, we have his further instruction to commence a legal action against you and your organization for the malicious defamatory publication and to claim N1,000,000,000.00 (One Billion Naira) damages.”

Sanwo-Olu Delays Resumption of Civil Servants, as Lockdown Directive Expires

…Markets to open for three days weekly in alternation

…Governor releases numbers for whistleblowers to report erring companies

AgegePulse Magazine

The five-week lockdown imposed by the Federal Government on Lagos State and two other states to combat Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) will be eased on Monday (tomorrow), but Lagos State Government has asked all its civil servants not to resume for work immediately.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in a briefing on Sunday at the State House in Marina, said the delayed resumption of the State’s workforce is a deliberate attempt to prevent a development that may lead to a crowding of people on the roads and public places.

Only emergency workers and those on essential duties will be allowed to work on Monday, the Governor said.

Sanwo-Olu said the State’s civil service offices would be re-opened for business on Tuesday, but only officers from Grade Level 15 and above would be required to be in the office. If any junior-ranked officer must be at work, the Governor said the Accounting Officer of the Ministry must give clearance to the officer.

Sanwo-Olu said: “In amending the work guidelines earlier issued, which stopped members of the public service from Grade Level 1 to 12 from going to work; we have had to review this position and we are extending the directive to all civil servants, regardless of level. All civil servants must stay away from work on Monday.

“On Tuesday, only officers from Grade Level 15 and above have express permission to come to work. All other essential officers that may need to be at work will be informed by the Accounting Officer of each Ministry as may be required.

“From Monday on, there will be curfew from 8pm to 6am and all movement within these hours are prohibited, except for people on essential services, which are agro-products, petroleum products, relief materials and food supplies.

“We want to use this as a demonstration of our commitment to gradual easing of the lockdown. We do not want people to rush out tomorrow and see the easing of the lockdown as an attempt to believe that the spread of the pandemic is all over.”

As part of the moves by the State Government to prevent crowding in public places, the Governor directed all markets to open for three days weekly in alternation. Food markets across the State are to be opened only on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 9am to 3pm.

Non-food markets, Sanwo-Olu directed, shall only open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays within the stipulated hours. He said all traders must put on face mask and provide hand sanitizers in their markets.

It is compulsory for any resident that must be in public places to face mask, the Governor said.

Also, banks and other private firms must open businesses with 60 per cent of staff strength, while also operating within the hours of 9am and 3pm. The Governor enjoined the privately-owned companies and manufacturing firms to arrange for the transportation of their essential staff that would be at work.

Gov. Sanwo-Olu, however, extended the operating hours for eateries and restaurants from 9am to 7pm, due to Ramadan fasting. But the Governor said restaurants and eateries must not allow their customers to eat-in. Food must not be served, only take-away packs and delivery, Sanwo-Olu directed.

All regulations initiated by the State Government must be strictly adhered to by public and private companies and members of the public, the Governor warned.

He urged members of the public to report any erring company to the Government through the State’s whistleblowing policy. Sanwo-Olu gave out three hotlines through the which whistleblowers can report those flouting the State’s guidelines. The numbers are: 09010513197, 09010513198, 09010513199.

Earlier on Sunday, Gov. Sanwo-Olu held a virtual meeting with 40 traditional rulers and 57 local council chairmen across the State, discussing the State Government’s guidelines on easing the lockdown. The Governor urged monarchs and the council chairmen to disseminate all advocacy messages and guidelines to residents in their domains, stressing that the grassroots must be adequately informed on regulations initiated to ease the lockdown.

“Today, I had a useful discussion with 40 paramount traditional rulers in the State and 57 LGA chairmen. I am satisfied with suggestions coming out of these meetings. It is really about collaborative efforts and using these leaders as champions to disseminate all information and advocacy to the grassroots,” the Governor said.

The Governor allayed the fear of residents on movement, urging them to keep to the hygiene tips. He said the State had opened a dedicated isolation centre for health and emergency workers infected in the line of duty.

Sanwo-Olu said the State will be embarking on aggressive testing in community, noting that the Government had collected 3,000 samples that were yet to be tested due to global shortage of reagent used for molecular testing.

He said: “We have 3,000 samples collected but we have not been able to carry the test because of global shortage of reagent for molecular testing. We are hoping that some of the reagents will be supplied tomorrow and Tuesday.

“We made order for more reagents because of cases we have seen and it would not be out of place to see positive cases in the range of 20 per cent out of the 3,000 samples collected. We are improving the capacity of our isolation facilities in preparation to take care of more patients.”

Starting from Tuesday, the Governor directed the release of all vehicles seized for flouting the lockdown to their owners free of charge. The vehicles in this category include those seized not later than April 14.

Sanwo-Olu said all decisions taken by the State Government were adopted in the belief to protect all residents from the ravaging pandemic.

“We will continue to do our very best and maintain high level of transparency in the disbursement of resources donated towards the fight against COVID-19,” the Governor said.

NURTW ROLLS OUT OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES TO MEMBERS

AgegePulse Magazine

It is no longer news that the whole world is currently fighting a war that is unlike the conventional war. The most challenging thing about this "health war" is that it can not be seen, has no cure yet and is no respecter of social status, age or gender. The number of confirmed cases sadly keep rising locally and globally.

The Chairman, Lagos State Chapter of NURTW, Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya, MC OluOmo, stated in a press release.

"Sadly, this strange ailment keeps claiming lives of the patients and those treating them. Quite inspiring are some retired medical professionals who came out of retirement to help save lives, the efforts of the health care workers during this period will forever linger in our hearts. You are all truely our HEROES.

"Our hearts goes out to the families of those lost to this pandemic and to those currently battling to survive the 'unseen enemy', we wish them safe and quickest recovery.

"As transporters who convey Lagosians from all walks of life every day to their respective destinations, we understand the value of service delivery in a complex state like ours hence, the need to roll out new guidelines to our members in order to protect them and their esteemed passengers.

"We are using this medium to appeal to all our Union members, drivers in particular, to please strictly follow the directives of the State and Federal governments, National Centre for Disease Control(NCDC) and World Health Organisation(WHO) in order to stop the avoidable spread of the virus.

"In order to work in synergy with the Lagos State Government directives, the NURTW Lagos State Council has set up  a Task Force Unit to arrest any driver/ Union member that violates or go against the guidelines below:

1. The NURTW state Secretariat will operate at 60% staff capacity forthwith. The staff members that are to resume at the office will be duly communicated.

2. The Secretariat will operate between 9am to 3pm daily.

3. Only motor park chairmen and park attendants are allowed to resume at their respective motor parks for now, this is aimed at reducing crowd at the motor parks.

4. Operational time is between 8am to 7pm daily, no excuse will be entertained from any driver caught operating after the this time.

5. All passengers MUST put on their face mask. Failure to use it, such passenger should not be allowed into their vehicles.

6. Tricycle Owners and Operator’s Association of Nigeria “TOOAN”(Maruwa operators) are to abide by the Lagos state government's directive of carrying two (2) passengers at a go.

7. Drivers and their bus conductors are to ensure the practice of social distancing by operating at 60% loading capacity.

Finally, The NURTW Lagos State Council have set up  a task force to menitor and arrest any union member and driver that violate or against the guidelines above.

Let us all support the efforts of the State government in fighting this pandemic by adhering strictly to the above guidelines and many more that had been given by the authorities.

We wish you sound health as you go about your respective operations.

Stay safe, Stay healthy and Stay alive, Akinsanya Concluded.

COVID-19: Dokpesi, daughter-in-law, six other family members test positive

The founder of DAAR Communications Plc, High Chief Raymond Dokpesi and his daughter-in-law along with six members of his family have tested positive for coronavirus.

This is coming three days after his son and Chairman of the board of the company, Raymond Dokpesi Jnr, also tested positive for the virus.

A test conducted by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) on the Dokpesi family came out positive for eight members of the family.

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.