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Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Warns Against Improper Fuel Storage Amid Scarcity, Supply Challenges

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blacktalker
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In light of the current Petrol scarcity, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has warned the public, particularly motorists, against the indiscriminate storage of fuel in inappropriate locations.

The State Fire Chief, Margaret Adeseye, emphasized the grave dangers posed by storing fuel in unauthorized areas such as vehicle boots, under staircases at home, or within workplace premises, saying such practices,  significantly increase the risk of fire outbreaks, endangering lives, environments, and property.

Adeseye noted that the safety of citizens and their surroundings is paramount to the Lagos State Government, and the recent surge in emergency calls due to preventable incidents is deeply concerning. 

According to her, the Agency is intensifying its safety enlightenment campaign, targeting commercial facilities, public spaces, and grassroots communities.

Adeseye, who stressed that fuel scarcity does not justify illegal or unsafe storage practices, cautioned against repurposing jerry cans used for petrol storage for other flammable liquids and advised motorists, especially those operating commercial vehicles, against storing petrol in their boots.

”Landlords and tenants alike are urged to remain vigilant and prevent the improper storage of fuel on their premises. Filling stations are reminded to discourage customer clustering around dispensing pumps, as such behaviors can escalate into scuffles that may trigger fires. Furthermore, the dispensing of fuel in polythene bags is strictly prohibited.”

”Members of the public are encouraged to report any observed fire outbreaks promptly to the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service through toll-free numbers *767* or *112*, as well as the Lagos Fire Hotline at 0803-3235-891. ”

Rite Foods’ Chairman, Adebola Adegunwa Becomes Asiwaju of Ijebu

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blacktalker
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… As President Tinubu, Governor Abiodun, Awujale of Ijebuland Applaud

Chairman of Rite Foods Limited, Dr. Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa OFR, and his wife, Hajiya Fatima Adegunwa, have been pronounced as the Asiwaju of Ijebu, the Yeye Asiwaju and Arobake of Ijebu, at a ceremony held at the Awujale Pavilion in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

According to a report published in the Punch Online Newspaper on Sunday, April 28, 2024, Adegunwa was reported to have succeeded the late Prof Adebayo Adedeji, a former Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, who died in April 2018.

President Bola Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President, Kashim Shettima, described Rite Foods’ boss, Asiwaju Sulaiman Adegunwa, as a living legend and one of the greatest sons of Africa who should be emulated in his efforts to develop the African continent. 

The President added that Asiwaju Adegunwa radiates a striking personality of immense humility despite his invaluable contributions to business enterprise and the creation of jobs for thousands of Nigerians.

The President said, “As we celebrate the conferment of Asiwaju of Ijebu on Pa Sulaiman Adegunwa and Yeye Asiwaju and Arobake of Ijebu on his wife, we have to recognize that he is a legend of his time. He is one of the greatest sons of Ijebuland and Africa, who has actively contributed to the advancement of industry and enterprise in Nigeria.”

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, was also quoted to have described Adegunwa as an astute business mogul and reputable philanthropist, whose life remained a source of encouragement to others. 

In the governor’s words, “Adegunwa is a source of pride for the state, worthy of emulation by all”.

In his address at the event, the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, who spoke through the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, Dr. Sunny Kuku, stated that the invaluable contributions of Adegunwa and his wife to enhancing the socio-economic development of Ijebuland and Nigeria as a whole, as well as their support and loyalty to the Awujale’s throne made them worthy of the befitting honor.

In response to the well wishes, Asiwaju Adegunwa pledged to remain committed to serving humanity and enhancing socio-economic development across Ijebuland and Nigeria. He expressed gratitude to the Awujale for deeming it fit to honor him and his wife with the chieftaincy titles.

Guests reported to have attended the elaborate event included the Ogun State Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele; former President Olusegun Obasanjo and his wife, Bola; former governors of Ogun State, Ibikunle Amosun, Segun Osoba, and Gbenga Daniel, who is currently representing Ogun East at the Senate. Others were the Minister of State for Health, Dr Tunji Alausa; the Secretary to Ogun State Government, Tokunbo Talabi; paramount rulers of Yewa and Egbaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle and Oba Adedotun Gbadebo respectively, among others.

DR. Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa OFR, is a Nigerian businessman, philanthropist, and former chairman of Sterling Bank Plc. He is the founder and chief executive officer of Essay Holdings Limited; Parent Company of Rite Foods Limited., the beverage giant with award-winning brands in its portfolio. 

He is a member of the Board of Directors of Thai Farm International Limited, a Nigeria-based company that focuses on the production and processing of cassava. Last year, he celebrated his sixty years of business trajectory while stepping down from active business activities.   He is the founder of Sulaimon College of Education, Ososa, Ogun State, Nigeria amongst other non – for – profit initiatives.

Japan Tobacco International Nigeria Celebrates Workers’ Day with Commitment to Excellence, Innovation, Equity

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blacktalker
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Japan Tobacco International Nigeria, JTI, has felicitated its workforce across the globe on the 2024 International Workers’ Day, praising their steadfastness, pursuit of excellence, and innovation, which has engendered the company’s growth trajectory.

The company, which is a member of JTI Worldwide with personnel in over 130 countries across the world, has attained excellence in its employee experience strategies and won the prestigious ‘Top Global Employer’ award for 10 consecutive years including regional certifications in Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific, North America, and the Middle East.

With this year’s International Workers’ Day theme: ”Social Justice and Decent Work for All,” JTI Nigeria is committed to creating a working environment that enables brilliant people to be creative and nurture the best possible culture that embraces diversity and individual development thereby allowing them to reach their full potential.

The company’s sustainability target is to be a certified employer of choice every year in at least 60 locations, by focusing on talent management, rewards, and empowerment. JTI Nigeria offers long-lasting careers with inspiring prospects and promotes gender equality in its operations. 

This is why it set up the platform, TogetHER- an Employee Resource Group (ERG) that helps foster women’s empowerment and equal opportunities. It is a safe environment to talk, challenge, and grow on our journey towards gender equality.

The General Manager of JTI Nigeria, Thomas Adams, said as a company that operates in line with global best practices, JTI delivers on its objectives of making progress in improving employees’ well-being, supporting greater diversity and inclusion wherever it operates, and giving its personnel an equal opportunity to develop their career.

He stated that while JTI is a relatively young company, it operates at the forefront of the tobacco industry with its employees at the core of its mission, and this is responsible for its certification as a “Great Place to Work” 

PROFESSOR IBIYEMI OLATUNJI-BELLO’S EDUCATIONAL AND CAREER TRAJECTORIES: SETTING THE RECORDS STRAIGHT*

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blacktalker
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Our attention has been drawn, in the last few days, to various essays in the media space, written either in commemoration of the 60th birthday anniversary of Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, which held on 23rd April, 2024, or to celebrate her successful career trajectory as a professor of Physiology and the 9th substantive vice chancellor of Lagos State University. 

Reading through some of the essays, we couldn’t help but observe a few errors and inconsistencies in her educational and career profiles, versions that ostensibly were innocently lifted from an unidentified online resource.

While the vice chancellor expresses gratitude for all well-intentioned works in her honour, she wishes that clarification is made on the inaccuracies in her profile, as follows:

i.  Her name is “Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello” NOT “Professor Ibiyemi Bello” or “Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji” as published on some platforms;

ii. As against the narrative that “She attended Anglican Girls Grammar School in Surulere, Lagos, between 1970 and 1974 and Methodist Girls’ High School, Yaba, Lagos, between 1974 and 1979 for her junior and senior secondary education, respectively”, she infact attended Anglican Girls Primary School, Surulere, from 1970 to 1974 and then Lagos Anglican Girls Grammar School, Surulere, between 1974 and 1979. She then proceeded to Methodist Girls High School, Yaba, and Lagos State College of Science and Technology, Ikosi Campus where she did her “A” levels in 1982, after which she gained admission to the University of Ibadan in the same year;

iii. The narrative that “She proceeded to the University of Texas at San Antonio, Health Science Centre, San Antonio, United States of America, between 1994 and 1998” is also inaccurate. Instead, her sojourn to the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio in the US in 1994 was for a 6-month research training in the institution;

iv. Additionally, the version that “She was as an assistant lecturer at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, and rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the first professor of physiology of the institution in 2007” is also flawed. What is correct, however, is that Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello rose through the ranks from Assistant Lecturer (1988-1991), Lecturer II between 1991 and 1996, Lecturer I from 1996 to 1999, Senior Lecturer (1999 – 2005), Associate Professor between 2005 and October 1, 2007, all in the College of Medicine of the University of Lagos, Idiaraba. *She assumed duty as the first Professor of Physiology in Lagos State University College of Medicine on the 2nd of October, 2007.*

Members of the general public and especially our respected media friends are to please take note of the foregoing to avoid profilferating the flawed narratives in future.

For full details of the profile of Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, please visit https://ibiyemiolatunjibello.com/about-me/.

Ibadan Excited as  Mouka’s Brand Ambassador, Sola Sobowale Graces Justrite’s Store Opening

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blacktalker
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Mouka, Nigeria’s leading manufacturer of mattresses, pillows, and beddings, has expanded its distribution network within the Oyo state metropolis. With the opening of the grand Justrite outlet in the Eleyele area of Ibadan, consumers now have another avenue to experience and purchase Mouka products in a modern and serene atmosphere.

As a special guest,  Mouka’s Brand Ambassador, Sola Sobowale, graced the official opening of the Justrite store. 

After the ribbon cutting ceremony by the management of Justrite Superstores, Dr Ayodele Aderinwale (Chairman), Mrs. Oluwatosin Aderinwale (CEO), and Mrs Omoboye Fejeke (Executive Director, Operations), on Tuesday, 15th of April 2024, consumers trooped into the store to see the impressive assortment of Mouka products.

The Mouka activation area within Justrite Eleyele’s premises attracted both the young and the old. Sola Sobowale was the star attraction, signing autographs and taking pictures with her fans at the Mouka stand. 

Shoppers did not leave empty-handed, as they received various Mouka-branded gifts courtesy of the company.

Mouka’s National Retail Manager, Mrs Chinwe Remi-Lawal, spoke about the event and shared her thoughts on the impressive store opening ceremony.

”At Mouka, we are committed to adding comfort to lives by providing top-quality sleep solutions. To achieve this, we also need the support and commitment of our trade partners to ensure our products are readily available at every nook and cranny in every state of the federation. 

”For this reason, we create mutually beneficial and lasting relationships with our partners. Their journey of growth gives us pride as we see ourselves as part of their organization. 

”Justrite is a trusted and outstanding partner of Mouka. We marvel at the heights they have accomplished over the years, evident in what we have witnessed today. The scope of Mouka’s presence here reflects the bond we have established with the Justrite management.”

Mrs. Remi-Lawal extended an invitation to those living around Eleyele to visit the Justrite store for a better sleep experience with Mouka.

Mouka is Nigeria’s most widely distributed bedding brand, with over 3,000 branded outlets nationwide. The company is also a proud member of the Dolidol International Group, with its head office in Morocco. 

Its innovative portfolio includes products such as the Royal Luxury Pillow Top mattress for a 5-star sleep experience; Mouka Bio Pillow, made with biocrystal technology for stress relief; and the Wellbeing Hybrid mattress with an orthopedic half and semi-orthopedic half made for couples with different mattress preferences to enjoy quality sleep together.

Lagos To Host International Fire Safety Conference in June, 2024

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blacktalker
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Lagos is gearing up to host its inaugural International Fire Safety Conference 1.0 from June 25th to 27th, 2024, at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island.

A statement signed by the Director, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, says the conference with the theme: “Stakeholders Collaboration: A Panacea to Incessant Fire Disasters in Lagos,” aims to bring together various stakeholders to address the increasing incidents of Fire disasters in the State.

Adeseye notes that over the years, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has seen distress calls rise significantly, from 1,195 in 2021 to 2,537 in 2023, resulting in substantial casualties and property losses.

Recognizing the need for a fresh approach, she opines that the Fire conference will feature workshops, seminars, panel discussions, networking, and expos.

According to the Fire Boss, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will inaugurate the event, emphasizing the importance of leveraging cutting-edge technology to propel Lagos into a 21st-century economy.

“This conference will serve as a catalyst for the proactive measures to mitigate fire disasters and protect our communities.

“On a final note, the conference pledges not to be merely another talk-shop; rather, it commits to implementing policies and resolutions derived from the forum to address fire safety effectively”, Adeseye adds”

Dangote Cement Export of Clinker, Cement Increase By 87.2 Pecent

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blacktalker
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S&P Identifies Dangote Refinery as Major Driver of Nigeria’s Economic Recovery

Management of Dangote Cement Plc has revealed that the company dispatched seven ships of clinker- from Nigeria to Ghana and Cameroon and that the export, for the first quarter of 2024 increased by 87.2 per cent at 264kt.

While the company commissioned 10 of the 17 Alternative Fuel Projects across the Group, the local demand for cement, in the same period under review in Nigeria increased significantly by 26.1 per cent to 4.6Mt and the overall group volume rose by 12.3 per cent to 7.0Mt, for the first quarter of 2024.

Chief Executive Officer, of Dangote Cement, Arvind Pathak, in his comments on the first quarter results, said: “During the quarter, we intensified our emphasis on exports, dispatching 7 ships from Nigeria to Ghana and Cameroon. As a result, our Nigerian exports surged by 87.2%, reflecting our commitment to expanding our presence in regional markets and capitalising on our export-to-import strategy.

We continue to prioritise innovation, cleaner energy transition, and cost leadership towards achieving our vision of transforming Africa and building a sustainable future”.

The company recorded a Group revenue of N817.4 billion, even as profit after tax inched, up by 2.9 percent to N112.7 billion. Earnings per share closed the quarter at N6.68 representing an increase of 3.7 percent. As part of its sustainability programme, Dangote Cement commissioned ten of the 17 Alternative Fuel Projects across the Group.

Chief Executive Officer, of Dangote Cement, Arvind Pathak, in his comments on the results, said, “Driven by an uptick in economic activities, our Nigerian operations witnessed a strong rebound, with volumes up 26.1 percent to 4.6Mt in the quarter. Similarly, our pan-Africa operations continued an upward trajectory, with volumes up 3.1 percent to 2.7Mt, buoyed by increased sales in Zambia and Congo. Despite elevated cost pressures, increased borrowing costs, and a further currency weakening, our first-quarter results reflect our commitment to navigating challenges effectively.”

He added, “Group revenue more than doubled to ₦817.4 billion, while Group EBITDA rose 66.6 percent to ₦309.5 billion. Profit After Tax was up 2.9 percent at ₦112.7 billion. These results underscore our ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic business environment while delivering value to our stakeholders.

We continue to prioritise innovation, cleaner energy transition, and cost leadership towards achieving our vision of transforming Africa and building a sustainable future”.

Dangote Cement is Africa’s leading cement producer with 52.0Mta capacity across Africa. A fully integrated quarry-to-customer producer, Dangote Cement has a production capacity of 35.25Mta in Nigeria.  Obajana plant in Kogi state, Nigeria, is the largest in Africa with 16.25Mta of capacity across five lines;  Ibese plant in Ogun State has four cement lines with a combined installed capacity of 12Mta; Gboko plant in Benue state has 4Mta; and  Okpella plant in Edo state has 3Mta.

Through recent investments, Dangote Cement has eliminated Nigeria’s dependence on imported cement and has transformed the nation into an exporter of cement serving neighbouring countries.

In addition, the company has operations in Cameroon (1.5Mta clinker grinding), Congo (1.5Mta), Ghana (2.0Mta clinker grinding and import), Ethiopia (2.5Mta), Senegal (1.5Mta), Sierra Leone (0.5Mta import), South Africa (2.8Mta), Tanzania (3.0Mta), Zambia (1.5Mta).

LASU SENIOR STAFF CLUB CELEBRATES VC, PROF. OLATUNJI-BELLO AT 60

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blacktalker
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…President of LSSC Describes heras Compassionate and Humane

The President, Executives and members of the Lagos State University Senior Staff Club, LSSC, on Friday, 26 April 2024, hosted a party in honour of the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, on the occasion of her Diamond Jubilee birthday.

The party was held at the premises of the club, after close of work with former presidents of the club, elders, the president, executives,  members, associate members, and others in attendance.

The President of the club, Mr Tajudeen Fashola, in his address on the occasion, eulogised the personality of the Vice Chancellor. He described her as the quintessential patroness of the club, friendly, compassionate, and humane.

He wished her long life, many great years of accomplishment, prosperity, and sound health.

A cake in honour of the Vice Chancellor was cut to celebrate her as well as a toast to good life, while the Dean, School of Transport and Logistics, LASU, Prof. Charles Asenime prayed for the Vice Chancellor. 

Meanwhile, it was a double celebration as members of the club, born in the month of March and April, were also celebrated. The second cake was cut and toast to good life done to the admiration of the celebrants present. The birthday celebration of members of the club is a monthly tradition, hosted last Friday of every month.

The evening was full of fun, with the in-house Disco Jockey of LASU Radio 95.7 FM, Flexxy on the Wheel of Steel, dishing out great tunes. A member of the club, Dr. Abisoye  Bamgbose, spiced up the evening with a fun game that some members took part in.

There were free recharge cards, courtesy of the club, which some members and guests, won as part  of the side attraction, and the winners openly wished the Vice Chancellor well on her 60th birthday.

EPE PLOT FINDER: STAKEHOLDERS MULL COLLABORATION BETWEEN REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS, GOVERNMENT TO COMBAT LAND GRABBING

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blacktalker
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….They also seek professional integrity at the inauguration of the Epe Plot Finder’s new office.

Stakeholders in the Real Estate Industry have urged professionals in the sector to work closely with the Federal and Lagos State Governments to combat the activities of land grabbers and uphold the integrity of the profession. 

President of the Estate, Rent and Commission Agents Association of Nigeria, ERCAAN Godwin Alenkhe, said this when he led a delegation to inaugurate the Epe Plot Finder’s new office, a symbolic stride towards redefining the way to conduct business in the environment.

He called on members in the Epe Division Zone to continue to collaborate and support each other for the advancement of the industry while also maintaining strong and cordial relationships with other branches, relevant government agencies, as well as the media for collective success. 

He also advised officials of the organisation to be committed to professionalism, transparency, and integrity in all its dealings.

Chairman of the Association, Epe Division Zone, Ayodele Olayinka, said the occasion was not only celebrating a physical expansion but also a symbolic stride towards redefining the way to conduct business in the ever-evolving landscape.

”Today marks a momentous occasion for Epe Plot Finder and the real estate industry in our great city, Epe. As we gather to inaugurate the new office, we are not only celebrating a physical expansion but also a symbolic stride toward redefining the way we conduct business in this ever-evolving landscape.

”Let me emphasize that the Epe division zone of ERCAAN covers two Local Governments: Epe Local Government and Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Areas, and three LCDAs: Eredo, Ikosi-Ejinrin, and Lekki Local Council Development Areas. 

”I urge ERCAAN members in the division to adhere strictly to the association’s code of ethics. We must work closely with the State Government and ERCAAN, both at the state and national levels to combat the activities of land grabbers and uphold the integrity of our profession. 

”We must continue to collaborate and support each other for the advancement of our industry while also maintaining strong and cordial relationships with other branches, relevant government agencies, and the media for our collective success. 

”To Epe Plot Finder, I advise a commitment to professionalism, transparency, and integrity in all dealings.

Olayinka while urging professionals to adhere strictly to the code of ethics of the practice, encouraged members of the public to patronise only registered agencies for their real estate needs to ensure their investments are secure and legitimate.

In his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of Epe Plot Finder, Muyideen Uthman, restated the commitment of the organisation in adherence to the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and consumer protection as an affiliate of the premier regulatory body in the industry.

Uthman, who is also the Public Relations Officer of the Association, Epe Division Zone, noted that the new office will not only facilitate transactions but also foster relationships built on trust, knowledge, and a shared vision for success.

”Our affiliation with ERCAAN, the premier regulatory body in the industry, ensures that we adhere to the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and consumer protection. We cannot but adhere strictly to the ethics of the profession to serve and satisfy our clients.

”By choosing to work with us, you are not only securing your investment but also contributing to the growth of our industry. Together, we can create a transparent and trustworthy environment where dreams of homeownership, investment, and entrepreneurship can flourish without fear or uncertainty. 

”As we embark on this new chapter, I implore all ERCAAN members to be proactive and transparent with clients to build and maintain trust. Let us work together to redefine the real estate landscape and create a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

”Thank you, and welcome to the new office of Epe Plot Finder, he concluded.”

AGEGE LOCAL GOVERNMENT GIVES TRADERS, SCAVENGERS, OTHERS FIVE DAYS TO VACATE RAIL TRACKS

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blacktalker
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The Agege Local Government in Lagos State has issued a five day eviction notice to traders, scavengers and illegal occupants of railway lines.

Its Executive Chairman, Alhaji Ganiyu Egunjobi, gave the ultimatum on Friday, April 26th at a public enlightenment on the ultimatum.

The warning came as the Council held an enlarged stakeholders’ meeting with some community members on March 17, ahead of the planned demolition of illegal structures in the area.

According to Egunjobi, efforts have been made to create enough awareness for the illegal occupants of railway lines.

He said the Council is embarking on the demolition of shanties in the area to ensure the security of lives and property within the community.

“It has always come to our notice that hoodlums are using the avenue to attack and rob passersby of their phones and personal belongings.

“We are not on a witch-hunt that’s why we are creating time and avenue to reach out to the people concerned to evacuate the premises before enforcement and demolitions,” he said.

Also, the Council’s Deputy Director of Health, Taofeek Bankole charged beggars, traders and miscreants to evacuate the railway line before the enforcement of the order.

Bankole advised them to hearken to the government directive to avoid stiffer punishment.

“We have created and organised enough enlightenment to educate the people involved about the security challenges we are facing along the rail corridor.

“We are sanitising the area from the miscreants and hoodlums who pose a threat to the residents.

“We have given them five days to leave the area no matter what business transactions they are into; after the deadline, anyone arrested will face the wrath of the law,” he said.

It will be recalled that, the Lagos State Commissioner for Establishments, Training and Pension, Mr Afolabi Ayantayo had, during a stakeholders meeting, said that information had been received on various criminal activities along the rail corridor.

He said shanties were harbouring criminals who were attacking passers-by and residents at night.

”Government has invested a lot of money on the rail project and we don’t want anybody to sabotage our efforts or deface the infrastructure,” he said.

The enlightenment was carried out by security personnel from the Police Rapid Response Squad (RRS), the state ‘Kick Against Indiscipline’ (KAI) and other local security outfits.

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