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We Will Investigate $300 Fast-track Passport Fee Allegations ~ Interior Minister

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Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo Minister of Interior, has responded to the many complaints from Nigerians in London regarding allegations of an additional $300 fee for expedited passport services at the Nigerian Embassy by announcing an immediate investigation into the matter. 

He made this announcement via a statement on his official X account on Wednesday.  

Tunji-Ojo assured that following the investigation, corresponding actions will be taken soonest as the department strives for efficient service delivery in line with global best practices. 

“My attention has been drawn to the complaints at the Nigerian Embassy in London regarding issues with passport applications. I have ordered an immediate investigation into the matters arising, and I assure you that corresponding actions will be taken soonestThe Minister’s tweet read.  

“We appreciate the patience and understanding of all affected citizens as we strive towards an efficient service delivery in line with global best practices,” it added. 

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has issued a statement denying the above claims.  

The statement, signed by the Service Public Relations Officer and released on Tuesday, emphasized that the official processing fees for acquiring a Nigerian passport abroad have remained consistent without any additional charges.  

“Being the Service directly charged with the statutory responsibility of issuing Passports at home and abroad, the NIS can attest that the Official processing fees for the acquisition of Passports have been consistent without additional charges,” the statement read in part.  

It further stated: “The Nigeria Immigration Service hereby debunks the derogatory news report as false, unfounded, and so should be disregarded in its entirety.”  

The NIS also noted that the authorized fee for procuring a Nigerian international passport in the United Kingdom is $150 for a five-year validity period and $230 for a ten-year validity period, excluding bank charges. 

Contrary to the recent post on the X accounts of the NIS claiming that there are no additional charges for passport applications abroad, several Nigerians have reported that these claims are false, supported by shared images contradicting the NIS’s statements. 

One such image displayed a slip titled “OIS Services Passport Services Acknowledgement Slip,” containing personal information for a Nigerian named “Orasanya Uyi Peter,” along with passport application and service details. The slip’s “Service Details” section clearly listed a $300 Premium Service Fee. 

A brief online investigation had confirmed that OIS, or Online Integrated Solutions, provides passport services for Nigerians abroad on behalf of the Ministry of Interior.  

On the OIS website, by selecting London in the “Track Visa Application” section, it was confirmed that the “Description of Passport Premium Service” page notes an optional expedited service costing $300.

This service ensures passport issuance within 48 hours for urgent applicants, available both online and at select centres, with the same document requirements and appointment booking necessary.

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Midnight Fire Ravages Jos Terminus Market

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By Adenike Lawal

A fierce fire swept through the iconic Jos Terminus Market overnight, reducing several sections to rubble and destroying goods worth millions of naira.

The blaze, which erupted shortly after 11 pm on Tuesday, raged for hours before firefighters were able to contain it in the early hours of Wednesday.

Traders arrived to scenes of devastation, with rows of shops gutted and livelihoods in ruins.

Eyewitnesses described a chaotic night as flames leapt through the market, intensified by tightly packed stalls and flammable goods.

Panic gripped the area as security and emergency responders battled the inferno.

Authorities are yet to confirm the cause of the fire, but investigations are expected to begin immediately. Many affected business owners are calling for urgent government support and tighter safety measures.

The Jos Terminus Market is one of Plateau State’s busiest trading centres, making the incident a major economic setback for the region.

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Abuja Reports

FCTA Destroys 601 Bikes to Enforce Ban

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By Njoku Chijioke

The Federal Capital Territory Administration has crushed 601 motorcycles impounded for violating traffic rules and operating in restricted areas of Abuja.

The action, led by the Directorate of Road Traffic Services, is part of ongoing efforts to curb traffic lawlessness and eliminate the use of motorcycles for criminal activities in the capital.

Mandate Secretary of the FCTA Transportation Secretariat, Elechi Chinedum, said the crushing was backed by legal provisions empowering the government to seize and destroy offending motorcycles.

He stressed that enforcement would remain strict to protect public safety.

Director of the DRTS, Abdulateef Bello, explained that the ban on commercial motorcycles in key parts of Abuja has been in place since 2006 due to their frequent involvement in crime and road abuse.

“This is a routine measure. We will continue to impound and crush motorcycles used in defiance of the law,” Bello said.

The FCTA has warned operators to stay out of prohibited zones or face the same consequences.

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AbdulRazaq Rallies Royals for Safer Kwara

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By Adenike Lawal

In a push for stronger security and grassroots governance, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Tuesday held a crucial meeting with the state’s top traditional rulers, calling for united action against rising threats.

Behind closed doors, the Governor and royal fathers discussed strategies to protect communities from the spillover of armed groups reportedly displaced by military operations near Kainji Park and other conflict zones.

Governor AbdulRazaq announced plans to involve traditional institutions more deeply in the state’s security structure.

He praised the rulers for their vigilance and urged them to mobilize their people for peace.

“We count on your leadership to help detect and prevent threats. Your influence is vital in keeping our communities safe,” the Governor said.

Etsu Patigi, Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Bologi the Second, speaking for the Council of Chiefs, pledged continued royal support for the administration’s development and security drive.

This engagement underscores the Governor’s vision to merge traditional wisdom with modern governance in building a peaceful and prosperous Kwara.

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