News

Customs Official Allegedly Assaults Civilians Filming in Lagos Smuggling Zone

Published

3 months ago

December 3, 2024

By Adenike Lawal

A disturbing incident has been reported in the Badagry area of Lagos State, where a customs official from the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), allegedly assaulted two civilians.

The incident was highlighted by investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, who is also the founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ).

The confrontation took place in what is described as a “smuggling zone,” where the civilians were attempting to record footage of activities.

According to Soyombo’s social media posts, disturbing videos from the scene show a customs officer, identified as “Aboribo Custom,” physically attacking the men while demanding to know who sent them to film.

In one video, one of the assaulted civilians questions the officer about his motives, asking why he is filming if he is not on good terms with someone named Tunde.

The officer responds with threats and continues to beat them, while interrogating their intentions.

The dialogue between the customs official and the civilians reveals a tense and aggressive stance, with the officers trying to intimidate and silence anyone documenting potential misconduct.

The conversation also includes references to personal connections and monetary exchanges, pointing to deeper issues of corruption and abuse of power within the NCS.

Soyombo’s revelations have sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many Nigerians condemning the customs official’s actions and calling for accountability from the NCS.

In his posts, Soyombo directly questioned the agency, asking what secrets they might be attempting to conceal that would justify resorting to such violence against civilians.

He also urged the NCS to learn from past events like the #EndSARS movement, which saw protests against police brutality in Nigeria.

This incident highlights the ongoing concerns about misconduct within Nigeria’s security agencies.

Civilians often find themselves vulnerable when trying to expose wrongdoing or hold officials accountable, facing intimidation or violence in the process.

As of now, the Nigerian Customs Service is yet to respond to the incident.

The assault raises serious questions about the accountability and transparency of Nigeria’s security apparatus.

The lack of immediate action from the authorities exacerbates public distrust and underscores the urgent need for reform within these institutions.

News

Hope Restored as Dayo Israel’s Ally Donates ₦8M for 8-Year-Old Girl’s Surgery

Published

7 hours ago

February 16, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Patrick Idowu
A wave of relief and joy swept through the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, as an ally of Mr. Dayo Israel, the newly appointed Chairman of the hospital, donated ₦8 million to fund the open-heart surgery of an eight-year-old girl in dire need of medical intervention.

The generous donation was made by Mr. Ola Ayilara, the Chief Executive Officer of LANDWEY Investment, during a courtesy visit to the hospital.

In addition to covering the child’s surgery costs, Ayilara pledged to construct and maintain a new laboratory facility for the medical center, further demonstrating his commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure.

Commending the act of philanthropy, Mr. Dayo Israel described the donation as a remarkable gesture of giving back to society.

He reiterated the new hospital board’s dedication to revitalizing FMC Abeokuta, ensuring improved healthcare services and better medical outcomes for patients.

The timely intervention not only secures a second chance at life for the young girl but also underscores the impact of corporate social responsibility in strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.

News

U.S. Embassy in Abuja, Lagos to Close for Presidents’ Day

Published

8 hours ago

February 16, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Abaire Olanlesi

The U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos will be closed on Monday, February 17, 2025, in observance of Presidents’ Day.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, the U.S. diplomatic mission confirmed the temporary closure, noting that normal operations would resume on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.

Presidents’ Day, celebrated annually on the third Monday of February, honors past and present U.S. leaders. While the embassy and consulate will suspend routine operations, essential services will remain available through emergency contact channels.

The U.S. mission advised Nigerians seeking visas or consular assistance to plan their visits accordingly, as regular consular services will resume after the holiday.

News

Bishop Wale Oke Re-elected as PFN President, CAN Commends Leadership

Published

8 hours ago

February 16, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Njoku Chijioke

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has extended its congratulations to Bishop Wale Oke following his re-election as the National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).

His re-election was confirmed during the 18th Biennial Conference of the PFN, held in Abuja on February 11, 2025.

In a statement, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, lauded Bishop Oke’s leadership, describing his re-election as a testament to the confidence and trust vested in him by the Pentecostal community.

He commended Oke’s humility and accessibility, qualities that have distinguished his service to the Church.

Bishop Oke’s first term saw notable achievements, including fostering unity among Pentecostal