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Ogun Police Arrest Father, Son Over Illegal Firearm Possession

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Ogun Police Debunk Kidnap Allegation, Confirm ‘Suspects’ as Serving Officers on Official Duty

Operatives of the Quick Response Squad, QRS Ogun State Police Command, have arrested two suspects, a father and his teenage son, for alleged unlawful possession of a firearm.

The suspects, identified as Joseph Kehinde, 38, and John Joseph, 13, were apprehended along the Shagamu/Ogijo Road axis.

Police said the arrest followed a stop-and-search operation carried out on April 5, 2026, at about 11:00 a.m. in the Lafarge area. During the exercise, officers intercepted a tricycle conveying the teenager, and a search reportedly led to the recovery of a locally made pistol, a live cartridge, and a mask.

The suspect was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for the items but allegedly claimed the firearm belonged to his father. This led to the subsequent arrest of the elder suspect.

Both individuals, along with the recovered items, have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation. Police said they would be charged to court upon conclusion of the probe.

The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the operatives for their vigilance and professionalism, reiterating the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on illegal firearms and criminal activities.

He also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support security efforts across the state.

Wema Bank Unveils New Jingle for ALAT ‘Evolution’ Campaign

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Wema Bank Unveils New Jingle for ALAT ‘Evolution’ Campaign

Wema Bank has unveiled a new jingle to mark the next phase of its digital banking platform, ALAT, under the campaign tagged “ALAT: The Evolution.”

The bank said the jingle reflects a renewed focus on delivering a smarter, faster, and more seamless banking experience, with a vibrant and engaging sound designed to resonate with users.

According to the bank, the new audio identity captures the essence of the platform’s enhanced features, including voice banking, contactless payments, and improved system reliability. It is aimed at reinforcing the ease and convenience associated with the ALAT platform.

Wema Bank noted that the initiative goes beyond music, serving as a representation of its commitment to innovation and customer-centric digital solutions.

The refreshed ALAT platform is designed to simplify everyday banking by reducing delays and improving user experience, aligning with the bank’s broader strategy to redefine digital banking in Nigeria.

The bank added that as customers engage with the upgraded platform, the jingle will serve as a reminder of its focus on delivering efficient, responsive, and user-friendly financial services.

Easter: LSSTF Boss Urges Sacrifice, Support for Security Personnel

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Easter: LSSTF Boss Urges Sacrifice, Support for Security Personnel

The Executive Secretary/CEO of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, has called on Lagos residents to embrace the spirit of sacrifice and support security personnel as part of the Easter celebration.

In his Easter message, Ogunsan urged Christians to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and extend compassion to the vulnerable, while contributing to the safety and development of society.

He described Easter as a period that symbolises love, sacrifice, and redemption, encouraging citizens to support one another and promote peaceful coexistence.

The LSSTF boss paid tribute to security operatives across Lagos and Nigeria, describing them as “guardians of peace” who risk their lives daily to ensure public safety and national stability.

He called on residents to go beyond words in appreciating security personnel by supporting their welfare and cooperating with security agencies.

Ogunsan also encouraged Lagosians to contribute to the state’s security architecture through donations to the Trust Fund, noting that sustained public-private partnership remains critical to maintaining safety and stability in the state.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the LSSTF to continue providing support and resources to security agencies to ensure Lagos remains secure and economically vibrant.

Union Bank Crisis: Report Details Alleged Mismanagement by Former Directors

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Union Bank Crisis: Report Details Alleged Mismanagement by Former Directors

Fresh details have emerged on the financial challenges that affected Union Bank of Nigeria, with reports alleging widespread mismanagement and regulatory breaches by former directors and owners.

According to findings from investigators, the bank’s previous leadership allegedly concealed significant losses estimated at over ₦250 billion, while also taking on a $300 million foreign loan without adequate safeguards, leaving the institution financially exposed.

The report further alleged that funds were improperly utilised, including instances where the bank’s own resources were used to acquire its shares, raising concerns over governance and compliance with financial regulations.

Investigators also pointed to the withdrawal of over $100 million through questionable transactions, alongside the diversion of loans meant for customers into unauthorised deals. It was further alleged that inaccurate reports were submitted to lenders, undermining transparency and accountability.

By 2025, the cumulative impact of these actions reportedly resulted in losses approaching ₦400 billion, with additional liabilities exceeding ₦147 billion.

The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN subsequently intervened to stabilise the bank and prevent systemic risks to the broader financial sector.

While the bank has since shown signs of recovery, analysts note that the situation highlights the critical importance of strong corporate governance, regulatory oversight, and transparency in Nigeria’s banking industry.

Easter: AIG Zone 2 Urges Unity, Assures Adequate Security in Lagos, Ogun

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Zone 2 Police Bust Motorcycle Theft Syndicate, Recover Five Stolen Bikes

The Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 2 Command, Onikan, Nigeria Police Force, AIG Olohundare Jimoh, has extended Easter greetings to Christian faithful in Lagos and Ogun states, calling for unity, peaceful coexistence, and heightened security consciousness.

In a statement marking the Easter celebration, the AIG described the season as a symbol of hope, renewal, and victory of light over darkness, urging citizens to embrace values of tolerance, love, and harmony in their daily interactions.

He assured residents of adequate security arrangements across both states, noting that Commissioners of Police have been directed to intensify patrols, surveillance, and visibility policing in strategic locations, including worship centres, recreational facilities, and major highways.

The Zone 2 Command also advised members of the public to remain law-abiding, adhere to traffic regulations, and promptly report any suspicious activities to security agencies.

Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to safety, the AIG wished residents a peaceful, safe, and joyous Easter celebration.

Lagos Forward Network Appoints Ore Afolayan as Director General

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Lagos Forward Network Appoints Ore Afolayan as Director General

The Lagos Forward Network, LFN has announced the appointment of Oreoluwa Afolayan as its Director General, marking a new phase of strategic growth and expansion for the organisation.

The announcement was made at a press briefing in Lagos attended by stakeholders from the public, private, and development sectors.

Afolayan brings experience spanning public policy, leadership, and the financial services sector. He previously served as Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor, where he was involved in governance and policy coordination.

He also holds an Executive MBA and has completed leadership programmes at institutions including the African Leadership Institute West Africa, the Young African Leaders Initiative Regional Leadership Center, and Lagos Business School.

Speaking at the event, Co-Convenor of LFN, Toluwase Olaniyan, described the appointment as strategic and timely. He said Afolayan’s blend of policy and enterprise experience positions the organisation to deepen its impact and expand its reach.

As Director General, Afolayan is expected to lead the coordination of LFN’s initiatives, including statewide network development across local government areas, stakeholder engagement, policy advocacy, and community-driven empowerment programmes.

The organisation said his appointment is aimed at strengthening its role as a platform for shaping conversations around governance, economic opportunities, and leadership in Lagos State.

The Lagos Forward Network operates as a civic platform focused on advancing sustainable development and inclusive growth by mobilising professionals, community leaders, and institutions toward long-term progress in the state.

Lagos Announces Road Closures Ahead of Fanti Carnival

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Lagos Announces Road Closures Ahead of Fanti Carnival

The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has announced temporary road closures ahead of the Lagos Fanti Carnival scheduled for April 6, 2026.

The affected routes include King George V Road by Mobil Filling Station, Onikan Roundabout inbound to Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Flagstaff House inbound to TBS, Outer Marina by State House inbound to TBS, Campbell Street by the Old Defence Building, and Catholic Mission Street by St. Nicholas Hospital.

Authorities said the closures will take effect from 7:00 a.m. on the day of the carnival.

According to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), alternative routes have been mapped out to ease vehicular movement.

Motorists approaching Onikan Roundabout from Obalende will be redirected towards Zone 2, while those from Bonny Camp heading to McEwen Bridge and vehicles descending from Flagstaff House towards TBS will be diverted to Obalende Bridge.

Similarly, motorists from Outer Marina heading towards TBS will also be rerouted via Obalende Bridge.

The state government advised residents and motorists to plan their journeys in advance and cooperate with traffic officials, while expressing regret over any inconvenience caused.

Adeniyi Backs Team Nigeria Ahead of Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

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Adeniyi Backs Team Nigeria Ahead of Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Wale Adeniyi, has pledged support for Team Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games following his appointment as one of the country’s official ambassadors.

The announcement, made by the National Sports Commission on April 1, 2026, is part of efforts to mobilise national support for the Games by engaging key stakeholders across public and private sectors.

Adeniyi’s inclusion highlights the growing role of public institutions in sports development, positioning the Nigeria Customs Service as a strategic partner in advancing the country’s global sporting ambitions.

The ambassadorial team includes notable sports administrators such as Saleh Ahmadu, Dr Amos Adamu, Patrick Ekeji, Alhassan Yakmut, and Gbenga Elegbeleye, alongside accomplished former athletes like Daniel Igali and Blessing Oborodudu.

Speaking on the development, Adeniyi described sports as a unifying force capable of driving youth engagement and enhancing Nigeria’s international image. He emphasised the need for strong collaboration among stakeholders to ensure optimal performance at the Games.

“The success of Team Nigeria will depend not only on the athletes but also on the strength of the support system around them,” he said, adding that the ambassadorial initiative would help build collective responsibility for success.

The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, scheduled to hold from July 23 to August 2 in Glasgow, will feature athletes from across the Commonwealth competing in events such as athletics, swimming, boxing, cycling, and gymnastics, including para-sports.

Ecobank Assures Customers of Seamless Banking Services During Easter

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Ecobank Assures Customers of Seamless Banking Services During Easter

Ecobank Nigeria has assured customers of uninterrupted banking services throughout the Easter public holidays, reaffirming its commitment to seamless and secure financial transactions.

The bank said all its digital platforms, including mobile and online banking channels, USSD services, ATMs, PoS terminals, and its network of over 35,000 Xpress Point agents nationwide, will remain fully operational during the festive period.

Speaking on the bank’s preparedness, Victor Yalokwu, Head of Products & Analytics, Consumer and Commercial Banking, said customers would continue to enjoy a wide range of services, including funds transfers, bill payments, airtime top-ups, and cardless withdrawals.

He noted that the bank has strengthened its systems to handle increased transaction volumes typically associated with festive periods, ensuring fast, reliable, and secure services.

Yalokwu also advised customers to take precautionary measures while carrying out transactions, including avoiding sharing sensitive banking details, refraining from using public Wi-Fi for financial activities, and remaining cautious of suspicious messages.

He reiterated the bank’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, while wishing customers a peaceful and enjoyable Easter celebration.

Ogun Police Arrest 15, Clear Road Obstructions in Anti-Gridlock Operation

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Ogun Police Debunk Kidnap Allegation, Confirm ‘Suspects’ as Serving Officers on Official Duty

The Nigeria Police Force, Ogun State Command, has recorded success in its ongoing Operation “No Traffic Gridlock” in Ifo, with the arrest of 15 individuals and the removal of road obstructions along major highways.

The operation, carried out on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, targeted areas prone to traffic congestion, particularly the Abekoko and Old Bank axis along the Abeokuta–Lagos Expressway.

Police said the exercise focused on illegal trading activities and makeshift structures obstructing traffic flow and violating environmental regulations.

During the enforcement, officers dismantled and evacuated planks, shanties, and wares blocking the highway, deploying over six trucks for the operation. Fifteen individuals who reportedly defied lawful directives were arrested and are expected to be charged to court upon completion of investigations.

Commending the officers for their professionalism, the Commissioner of Police reiterated the Command’s commitment to maintaining public order and ensuring free movement across the state.

CP Ojajuni warned that individuals or groups found obstructing public roads would face legal consequences and urged traders and transport operators to comply with traffic and environmental laws in the interest of public safety.