Preacher allegedly killed in Ogun motor park, buried by roadside

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A graduate of Computer Science at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Oluwatosin Onadipe, was said to have died after he was allegedly hit with an iron rod by an official of a motor park in Ago, Odogbolu Local Government Area of the state for preaching.

 This is just as his body was said to have been buried by the roadside by officials of the Odogbolu Local Government Area after his body was dumped by police officers.

PUNCH Metro gathered from the father of the deceased, Raymond Onadipe, on Wednesday, that Oluwatosin left home on December 17 to attend a programme at the Redemption Camp but was unreachable after he had spoken with his brother on the phone.

Onadipe noted that after several efforts to reach him proved abortive, a case of a missing person was reported at the Ago Police Station. However, some days after, his phone rang and was picked up by someone who said he saw it on the roadside.

He said further, “On Friday, December 22, the brother tried the line again and it rang. The person who picked the call told us they found the phone on the road and that the owner could come and pick it at Ode-Remo. I was then suspicious that Ode-Remo and Ago are distant to each other and how come his phone got to Ode-Remo.

“The next morning by 6 am, I went to Ode-Remo and I reported at the police station where I was assigned with police officers to accompany me to get the phone. When I got to the point of collection, the person introduced himself as the Seriki Hausa of the community. The Seriki told us that two of his boys who went to Ijebu-Ijesa in Ago-Iwoye were the ones who saw the phone. The police arrested those who found the phone and we moved to Ago Police Station.

 “On Monday (December 25), I was called that those who picked the phone took the police to where they picked it from, but they discovered that a corpse was buried along the roadside by health workers from Odogbolu Local Government Area, which was said to be his corpse, and that I have two options of either exhuming his body or leaving it where it was buried.

 “I met with the local government chairman on the process of exhuming his body from where he was buried and presented his picture. There were disparities in the pictures I presented and the one presented by the LG chair who said they learnt it was a case of a hit-and-run accident. The disparities made me suspect foul play, but I decided to let it go and accept fate that my son was dead.”

 The father noted that the circumstances surrounding his son’s death took another turn when an eyewitness told his eldest son that the deceased was allegedly hit by an official of the Ago motor park when he was preaching on the premises on the day we last spoke with him, which the police confirmed after several back and forth.

 “When I told the police about the allegation of being hit at the motor park, they said truly they went there but they did not pick him up, and that he had no injuries on his body. Later, when one of the police teams that went to the park was asked to show the pictures taken at the scene, there was blood all over his body.

 “I queried why they left him alone and how it was possible for someone drenched in blood to walk that long distance from the park to where his body was found. I moved the case to the Area Command where the Area Commander ordered the arrest of officials of the park where my son was allegedly hit on the head and the police team that went to the park. I later learnt from the Area Command that the police actually picked him up after he was hit by the said motor park official but how he got dumped by the main road and his eventual death remained a mystery begging for an answer.

“I am appealing to the police authorities to bring the killers of my son to justice because I have been in sorrow since I learnt about his death,” Onadipe said.

 Confirming the incident to our correspondent, the state Commissioner of Police, CP Abiodun Alamutu, said the suspects had been taken into custody while preliminary investigation was on to unravel the circumstances behind his death.

 “The incident happened. The person alleged to have hit him with an iron rod and the police officers allegedly involved have been taken into custody.

We are conducting a preliminary investigation into the reported position of the family. We will come up with a statement on the issue in the next few days,” Alamutu said.

AIYEPE CENTRAL MOSQUE: LARGEST MOSQUE IN SOUTHERN NIGERIA

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Aiyepeq ijebu central mosque located in odogbolu LGA of ogun state. Aiyepu ijebu is a small town in ogun state with less than 40000 population

The Construction of Aiyepe central Mosque started in 1987 and today, the mosque stands tall and towers like a colossus amongst its comparisons. The mosque has the capacity to accommodate over 5000 and cost upon completion was put at Two Billion Naira. 

This gigantic mosque was built by the Muslims in the community with debt free. The Mosque is built on a land area of 30,000 square meters with the main mosque covering 6,400 square meters and ablution center on 850 square meters. 

The prayer area covers 2,700 square meters with four minarets, one of which is 30 meters long with 64 windows.

BREAKING: SIMAWA RESIDENTS PROTEST AT IBDEC HEAD OFFICE: CUTS BLACK CAKE TO CELEBRATE 3 YEARS OF DARKNESS.

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Residents of Simawa in the Sagamu Local Government Area of Ogun State today stormed the Headquarters of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company at Ring Road Ibadan.

Carrying different placards, the residents, dressed in black attrires bemoaned the poor services of IBEDC to the community which has led to throwing the community into darkness for three years.

Speaking on behalf of the community, Chief Kolade Segun-Okeowo, the Secretary of the Simawa Independent Power Project and the Aare Asoludero of Simawa said the community has made several appeals and entreaties to IBDEC to allow the community source for independent power since IBDEC has failed in three years to provide her with power.

Also addressing the protesters, Chairman of the Simawa Independent Power Project, Deacon Ezekiel Olaniyi Taiwo decried the attitude of IBDEC to the issue of light supply to Simawa and environs accusing IBDEC of double standards. 

Highpoint of the peaceful protest was cutting of a black cake with the Inscription "IBEDC: 3 YEARS OF DARKNESS" 

While the peaceful protest was going on, some staff of IBDEC approached the protesters and called for resolutions.

Nine escape death in Abeokuta-Sagamu road crash

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At least nine persons including three females and six males, narrowly escaped death when their vehicles collided along the Orile-Imo section of the Abeokuta-Sagamu Expressway on Sunday.

PUNCH Metro gathered that the vehicles including a Toyota car and a Mitsubishi bus, were on a high speed when they collided which led to the Mitsubishi bus tumbling and the Toyota car skidding off the highway.

An eyewitness who spoke with our correspondent on the condition of anonymity noted that the excessive speed of the drivers led to the collision.

The source said, “What I saw was that the vehicles were on a high speed when one lost control and collided with the other. I got there a few minutes after it happened.”

When contacted, the spokesperson for the Ogun State Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Florence Okpe, confirmed the accident to our correspondent on a telephone chat. She blamed excessive speeding on the part of the drivers as the cause of the accident.

“I can confirm the accident happened along the Orile-Imo section of the Abeokuta-Sagamu Expressway. There was no loss of life, although nine people were involved, six males and three females, but the three females got injured and they have been taken to the Idera Hospital in Sagamu. 

“The accident involved a Toyota car and a Mitsubishi bus. The cause of the accident is dangerous driving and speeding.

“We have continued to emphasise on the need for common-sense driving among drivers. There is high vehicular movement this Yuletide season and there will be a lot of vehicles on the road. Drivers should ensure to drive within regulated speed limit,” Okpe said.

Trigger-happy cop to face sanctions, Ogun CP visits shot actor

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The Ogun State Police Command has said the police officer whose shot accidentally hit a Nollywood actor and director, Azeez Ijaduade, in Iperu Remo in the Ikenne Local Government area of the state on Sunday will face a disciplinary action.

The state Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, exclusively made this known to our correspondent following the incident.

Alamutu told PUNCH Metro that the Nollywood actor was accidentally hit by a shot that was discharged by a police officer who had intended to disperse thugs that wanted to mob the person he was attached to.

PUNCH Metro reports that Alamutu arrived at the in-patient wards of the Babcock University Teaching Hospital around 11 a.m. on Sunday. He was ushered into the male surgical ward, where Ijaduade was admitted after the senior cop had listened to some colleagues of the victim.

Alamutu, who said the shooting was unfortunate and uncalled for, expressed joy that the actor was in a stable condition.

According to him, Ijaduade would be discharged after having been certified okay by the doctors.

He said, “It was actually an unfortunate incident, but from all indications, I have seen the victim; it was not a direct hit. Actually, some people were trying to mob the principal the policeman was attached to, and to scare them off, he had to fire some shots. It was unfortunate that the victim was within that axis. It was the shell that hit the victim.

“From all indications, he is getting better. The concerned policeman is already undergoing disciplinary procedures. What is important is for us to ensure that no life is lost. From what I’ve seen so far, he’s recuperating, but he needs to be observed for some time to ensure that no vital part of his body is affected. From the way I see him, I believe no one is affected. But that can only be certified by the medical experts.”

Alamutu said though there were times officers would need to fire shots to disperse crowds, he disclosed that this current one could not be justified.

He noted that the officer involved did not display professionalism, saying that was why he would be made to face disciplinary actions.

PUNCH Metro had reported the news of Ijaduade being shot by a trigger-happy policeman, as disclosed by his colleague, Abiodun Adebanjo, via his Instagram handle, @iamabiodunadebanjo, who said, “Please, we need help in Iperu. My director, Azeez Ijaduade, @kingzeez1, was shot by Nigerian police personnel. He is presently at Babcock University Teaching Hospital. Anybody with the contacts of the police IG or commissioner should reach out.”

Also, during an exclusive chat with our correspondent, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, said the officer “accidentally discharged a shot from his rifle” during the end-of-year party of a company at a hotel in Iperu.

She explained that the actor, his crew members, and other actors were at a movie shoot in the same hotel when the shell of the bullet that was fired accidentally hit the neck of the actor and he was rushed to the hospital, where he was said to be currently responding to treatment.

She confirmed the police officer, who fired the shot, had been arrested and that investigations were ongoing.

She added, “The mobile policeman has been identified, and an investigation into the shooting incident has commenced by the command,” adding that members of the public will be updated accordingly. The commander has also taken responsibility for the medical bill.

“The actor speaking to Commander Mopol 16 has confirmed that he is in stable condition; members of the public will be notified when he is discharged.”

SAGAMU UPDATE INSPIRES AND EMPOWERS SAGAMU YOUTH IN MAKEUP AND GELE INDUSTRY

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In a remarkable event that unfolded on Monday 18th, 2023, SAGAMU Update, a prominent advocate for community development, took a significant step towards empowering local talents by visiting trainees engaged in makeup, gele, and spa training programs. The visit aimed to encourage and motivate the trainees to make the most of this valuable opportunity for personal and professional growth.

During the visit, which transpired on December 20th, 2023, SAGAMU Update shared insightful advice with the trainees, emphasizing the importance of utilizing the skills acquired during the training for a brighter future. The empowering words were meant to instill confidence and determination in the trainees, fostering a sense of purpose and ambition.

SAGAMU Update expressed optimism about the positive impact these empowerment programs would have on the lives of the trainees and the community at large. By investing in the skills and talents of its citizens, SAGAMU is actively contributing to the socio-economic development of the region.

Furthermore, SAGAMU Update urged the public to support this noble initiative, highlighting that there are more empowering projects on the horizon. By rallying community support, SAGAMU aims to create a flourishing environment that fosters skill development and economic independence for its citizens.

As SAGAMU continues its commitment to community well-being, the organization envisions a future where the empowered individuals contribute significantly to the growth and prosperity of SAGAMU.

For media inquiries, please contact:

NAFDAC Lists Adulterated Wines, Drinks, Shows Steps To Verify Original Products

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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has unveiled a list of adulterated wines and drinks in circulation, even as it has enlightened Nigerians on steps to verify the original products.

This include the manufacturing of all kinds of adulterated products especially different kinds of wine from a wide variety of brands ranging from Seaman Schnapps, Henessy, Four Cousins, Carlo Rossi, Jenney, Chelsea London Dry Gin, Schnapp Dry Gin, McDowells, Black Labels, Gordons, Martell, Campari, Smirnoff Ice, Eva Non-Alcoholic Drink, Evra Non-Alcoholic Drink, Cartel, and others.

There is also date revalidation for expired products like Peak milk, Powdered milk, Ketchups, Yoghurt, Coca Cola products, packaging of fake and substandard products, which are later sold to unsuspecting members of the public for consumption.

Recall that the Agency recently intercepted counterfeiters involved in the production of a variety of beverages, including wines, soft drinks and consumables in Eziukwu Market (Cemetery Market) in Aba, Abia State.

Following an intelligence tip-off, the director-general of NAFDAC, Prof. Moji Adeyeye, in a press statement, disclosed that the Agency carried out several weeks of intelligence gathering and collation of data on the activities of these merchants of death.

“In collaboration with other security agencies, NAFDAC carried out a sting operation in the market to burst the criminal operations taking place there. It is worthy of note that this dastard activity has been going on for a long time and they operate like a cartel threatening anyone who dares challenge them,” Adeyeye explained.

Because of the extensive operation, the agency raided over 240 shops-turned factories where the harmful products were being produced and marketed.

The DG added that the shops-turned factories were very filthy, using water from very unhygienic sources, harmful chemicals, saccharin, colouring, dirty recycled bottles, and cloned packaging materials of other brands.

The adulteration of alcoholic beverages by criminal elements in the country is done by mixing of cheaper sources of sugar and starch besides grapes or fruit, among other harmful chemicals unsuitable for human consumption.

“Over 1,500 cartons of the fake and substandard products were destroyed during the operation while 300 cartons were evacuated to NAFDAC warehouse. The street value of the confiscated and destroyed fake products is estimated at over N750,000,000. Ten people were arrested on arrival at the scene of the crime and will be charged to court after thorough investigation,” she said.

Due to the sheer magnitude of illegality going on in the section of the market, Adeyeye averred that NAFDAC had to shut the entire market down for thorough regulatory activity until an agreement was reached with all stakeholders in the market and undertaking signed that the market will never be used for such nefarious activities anymore.

She warned that drinking adulterated alcohol can cause nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, drowsiness, and dizziness, blue tinged or pale skin, irregular or slow breathing, low body temperature, unconsciousness or passing out, kidney and liver failure or even death.

“Methanol, a substance which can be used in fake vodka, may cause permanent blindness. World Health Organisation (WHO) in their Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health estimated that more than three million people died all over the world as a result of alcohol poisoning.

“Furthermore, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) ascertained that one of every 10 cancer cases in Nigeria can be traced to Alcohol and 4.7 percent of overall cancer cases in Nigeria in 2019 can be attributed to consumption of adulterated alcohol,” she disclosed.

How to identify adulterated products:

While urging Nigerians to remain vigilant, the DG has tasked consumers to always scrutinize branded drinks to distinguish them from counterfeits before consuming them.

“NAFDAC wishes to advice that the members of the public should shine their eyes during this yuletide season. We are using this medium to appeal to Nigerians to buy only NAFDAC registered drinks from reputable and licenced retailers, bars and supermarkets.

“If the product is being sold well below its normal price, or doesn’t seem to include normal taxes on liquors, then it is probably fake. Check for poor quality packaging, spelling mistakes and unusually shaped bottles. Look for the contact information and address of the manufacturer. If it is missing, the alcohol is fake.

“Inspect the seal on the bottle. If the seal is broken or damaged, then the contents might have been interfered with and are not safe to drink. Check for fake bar codes. If you have an app on your mobile that scans bar codes, scan it and see if it’s listed as the correct product and beware of bad smells! If it smells like paint stripper or nail polish remover, then it probably is!”

She assured that NAFDAC will continue to ensure that the level of counterfeit products nationwide is brought to the nearest minimum so that Nigerians will continue to consume only healthy and safe products.

“We wish to reiterate that in line with our mandate to rid the county of fake and substandard products, we shall be on the trail of these evil counterfeiters, and bring them to book. The public is enjoined to report any suspicious activity of illegal producers of adulterated products or similar activities to the nearest NAFDAC office nationwide,” Adeyeye appealed.

Disturbing Incident in Sagamu: Unlawful Detention and Threats Against 16-Year-Old Boy Sparks Outrage

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A shocking incident unfolded in Sagamu yesterday as a 16-year-old boy, visiting his uncle, found himself in an unimaginable situation. My son was reported missing after leaving to buy fuel, prompting panic among family members.

Upon investigation, it was discovered that the minor had been detained in a cell at a local station. Disturbingly, instead of protection, my son faced threats of violence and incarceration unless he confessed to being involved in fraudulent activities (Yahoo), solely based on owning an iPhone.

This appalling treatment of a minor has left the family, especially the parents, deeply distressed. "The actual criminals roam free," said Mrs Temitope, the boy's parent. "I am really tired of the unjust targeting of innocent individuals, particularly minors."

The family is now seeking answers, justice, and immediate action to ensure the safety and well-being of the son. Legal representation has been engaged to protect the minor's rights and challenge the unjust accusations.

The incident has sparked outrage within the community and beyond, drawing attention to issues of unlawful detention and abuse of power. Advocates for justice and children's rights are expressing concern over the handling of the situation and calling for a thorough investigation.

Local community leaders and organizations are rallying behind the family, offering support and demanding accountability from the authorities. This incident raises important questions about the treatment of minors and the need for reform within the local law enforcement system.

The family encourages the public to stay informed about the situation and emphasizes the importance of upholding the rights and dignity of every individual, regardless of age.

For media inquiries, please contact:

SAGAMU Update Pays Tribute to Late Asiwaju Yinka Mafe Through Transformative 6-Month Tailoring Training Program

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SAGAMU Update, with deep reverence for the late Asiwaju Yinka Mafe, is excited to announce the launch of its latest initiative – a comprehensive 6-month tailoring training program set to empower a new cohort of individuals in the art of tailoring.

Beginning January 2024, this immersive program will not only provide aspiring tailors with a unique opportunity to refine their skills but also serves as a heartfelt tribute to the legacy of Asiwaju Yinka Mafe. His commitment to community development and empowerment continues to inspire this endeavor to uplift individuals in Sagamu and beyond.

"We are proud to carry forward the spirit of Asiwaju Yinka Mafe through this program, which reflects his passion for community growth and skill development," said Adedayo Smith, spokesperson for SAGAMU Update. "This initiative is a tribute to his enduring legacy and the positive impact he made on the lives of many."

The curriculum, thoughtfully designed by industry experts, covers a spectrum of techniques, from the fundamentals to advanced tailoring, ensuring participants gain a well-rounded understanding of the craft.

Key highlights of the program include hands-on training, mentorship from seasoned professionals, and exposure to the latest trends in the fashion industry. Participants will also benefit from a supportive learning environment, networking opportunities, and a chance to showcase their creations at the culmination of the program.

Applications for the 6-month tailoring training program are now open, with limited slots available. Prospective participants are encouraged to apply early to secure their spot in this meaningful opportunity that honors the legacy of Asiwaju Yinka Mafe.

For more information on the program and the application process, please contact ‪+234 911 619 1016‬

Ogun police rescue seven kidnap victims, arrest one suspect

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Operatives of the Ogun State Police command have rescued seven persons abducted by gunmen in Fidiwo axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

It was gathered that the victims were rescued after a four-day operation led by the police.

The gunmen had on Monday attacked motorists along the highway, abducting seven passengers, killing one and injuring another.

One of the victims who narrated her ordeal to our correspondent on Friday said, the gunmen, numbering nine ambushed their Toyota Hiace bus with number plate SUL 388 ZY while they were travelling to Lagos from Akure.

The victim who spoke on condition of anonymity said, she was travelling with her family along the highway when the gunmen stopped their vehicle amid sporadic gunshots.

“The attack occurred around 5.45 pm, the gunmen, numbering about nine, two of them were wearing military camouflage stopped our vehicle. They took away seven persons, including my father and mother into the bush.

“The gunmen shot two women who were trying to escape and one of them died”, the victim said. Giving an update on the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, said one of the kidnappers was arrested while all the seven victims were rescued unhurt.

Odutola who confirmed this to our correspondent in an interview said, the kidnappers were forced to release their victims after a four-day onslaught by the police and other security agencies.

She said, “Immediately we got the report of the kidnapping incident, the state Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, ordered a rescue operation led by the DC Operations.

“The police were assisted by men of the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps and local vigilante group. The security team engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel and after four days of combing the forest, the gunmen men were forced to release all their victims, while one suspect was arrested.

“The gunmen shot a 35-year-old woman who was travelling in another vehicle. She was rushed to the hospital where she is now responding to treatment.

“A yet-to-be-identified corpse of another woman shot dead by the kidnappers while trying to escape has been recovered.”

Yuletide: FRSC warns motorists against speeding

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The Ogun Command of Federal Road Safety Corps has emphasized the need for road users to change their attitudes to stem crashes, especially on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The FRSC Sector Commander in Ogun, Anthony Uga, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Ota, Ogun.

NAN reports that 16 persons were killed in three separate accidents within six days along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The FRSC appealed to motorists to change their attitude, adding “If you are fatigued while driving from a long distance, why don’t you park and rest. “In addition, motorists should desist from traveling at night and reduce their speed to reduce carnage on the highway,” he said.

The FRSC enjoined passengers to caution any erring driver, saying passengers could even call the FRSC toll line to give the details of vehicles so that such vehicles could be apprehended.

Uga said that they had embarked on sensitisation at motor stations to educate drivers to desist from driving under the influence of intoxicating substances to stem crashes. He admonished motorists plying the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway to be cautious because of the rehabilitation of the road.

NAN

Olaoye destined to be Soun of Ogbomoso — Adeboye

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The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, on Sunday, revealed why he did not stop the new Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, who was a pastor of RCCG in the United States of America from vying for the stool.

The PUNCH reports that the State Governor, Seyi Makinde approved the selection of Olaoye as the 21st Soun of Ogbomosoland, on September 2, 2023, from Olaoye Ruling House after duly selected by the kingmakers in the ancient town.

The stool became vacant after the transition into the great beyond of Oba Jimoh Oyewumi, Ajagungbade III.

On September 8, the kingmakers in Ogbomosoland, led by Areago of Ogbomoso, High Chief Sobalaje Otolorin, installed Olaoye as the new Soun of Ogbomoso at Abata.

Pastor Adeboye, while speaking at Beulah Baptist Conference, Ogbomoso, the venue of the interdenominational thanksgiving services for the new Soun, said “I knew Olaoye was born to be king.

“When he (Olaoye) came to me to inform me about the development I told him to go and pray, he came back and said he had not heard anything. I told him to go back and pray again, and after a while, he came back and told me God had spoken. I have heard him loud and clear that I should go ahead. It was then that I told him to go because it had been destined. I knew that long ago, but I want God to speak to him directly.

“To my critics, if I said no and God said Yes, whose word is the final? God of course. So, I cannot stop him because Pastor Olaoye was destined to be a king even before he was born and thank God it is coming to fruition.” He explained. Adeboye, who took his scripture from the book of Act 15:18, advised the monarch to embrace people, promote peace and unity among his subjects.

He, therefore, anointed the king and his wife, praying for a peaceful and prosperous reign as Soun.

Responding, Oba Olaoye said, “I give the Lord all the glory for the day I met Pastor Adeboye.

“He has been a father to me. He is a spiritual father to me. He was a role model. I have traveled with him to every part of the world. I watched him closely, and I saw a genuine man of God. So, he has been a role model to him; you can imagine how excited I am today (Sunday) that the person who anointed and laid hands on me to become a pastor is the same person who lays hands on me as a King today.

“This is a new season, I believe it’s a new dawn for Ogbomoso, where there will be an opportunity, this land shall be a land where God Almighty will reign. I want everybody in this land to continue to pray for me that the lord should lead me aright.

“I will rule with equity, justice and fairness. I will not be the king to Christians alone, I will be a king to the Muslims, to the traditionalists and all over every indigene of this land and make Ogbomosoland a place where sons and daughters can be proud of. I pray for the grace and mercy to rule in the right way and do justice to everyone. I believe God will make this city a great city, the envy of many towns not only in this state not even in Nigeria but in the world at large.

“To the people of Ogbomosoland, I want to thank you all for the love you have been showing to me since I became the Soun of Ogbomosoland. Our love has been humbling to me and all I will do is that, I will use all God has given me with network, network to help this city grow better.”

Christmas shoppers condemn naira scarcity, ATMs dry up

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About a week to Christmas Day, shoppers have condemned the worsening naira scarcity, with many of them expressing frustration over their inability to make vital purchases for the Yuletide celebration.

Findings by The PUNCH on Sunday revealed that banks were still rationing cash over-the-counter, while several Automated Teller Machines visited did not dispense cash.

Our correspondents who visited ATM galleries in Lagos, Abuja, Osogbo, Makurdi, Sokoto, Edo, and Gusau, among others, observed that many of the machines had run out of cash.

On Friday, many bank customers could not get access to cash OTC in many baking halls across the country. This was despite assurances from the banking regulator, the Central Bank of Nigeria, that more cash had been released for economic activities.

Meanwhile, The PUNCH checks over the weekend showed that many poultry sellers and local stores were insisting on cash as a means of payment for their goods.

A roadside trader in Abule Egba, Lagos, who simply identified herself as Mama Sule, told one of our correspondents that “many customers who want to buy onions are saying they don’t have cash. I don’t have a bank account, so I can’t accept transfers; sadly, It is affecting my business.”

Also, another trader in Olowoira, Lagos, said, “I am still insisting on cash for payment because I have experienced failed transactions before. If you have cash, I will sell to you.”

A Christmas shopper, Remi Arowolo, said, “I was traveling from Abeokuta to Lagos, I saw cheap tomatoes on the road and when I stopped to buy, they said they could not accept transfer from me; they insisted on cash. I wanted to buy them in large quantities ahead of Christmas, but I could not buy them.”

Also, a Point of Sale operator in the Mokola area of Ibadan, Oyo State, who simply identified himself as James, said, “I cannot get enough cash for my business; my business is suffering. I am not making a profit and Christmas is near, no money to spend this Christmas. It is sad.”

However, some sources in the bank who would not want to be named, said the banks could only give out cash if they had.

A top bank official of one of the commercial banks said, “We are still rationing cash to customers, but if the cash supply increases, we will give out. We don’t have enough even for our ATMs. Maybe if the CBN released more cash, we should have more.”

When our correspondent visited some ATMs in Abuja on Sunday, none of them was dispensing cash to customers.

The ATM galleries belonging to GTBank, Zenith Bank, Stanbic IBTC and UBA located along Airport Road did not dispense over the weekend, although security officers at the facilities said the cash had been withdrawn by some customers. In the Ojodu area of Lagos, one of our correspondents visited ATMs belonging to First Bank, EcoBank, Union Bank, Access Bank, Zenith Bank and GTCO, on Ogunnusi Road; none of the ATMs had cash on Sunday.

Some bank customers, who were around the ATMs, expressed frustrations for their inability to get cash.

When our correspondent visited a branch of Sterling Bank along Ikotun-Idimu Road on Sunday afternoon, customers were seen stranded as the bank’s ATM did not dispense cash.

One of the customers who did not want her name mentioned, said, “We have been here for a long time now, and the ATM didn’t dispense. I am not the only one here, we are more than five. I wanted to collect some cash to enable me to transport myself to my house in Ayobo, but this is not dispensing. I don’t know what happened.”

Another customer who simply identified himself as Harry, said “This is frustrating, coming back from church, I decided to stop here and get some money to buy some items for the week but the ATM is not dispensing.  I had visited some other banks, but the ATMs were not dispensing cash.

Also when The PUNCH team visited a Zenith Bank branch on the same stretch, it was observed that though there was little or no queue at the bank, the ATM was not dispensing.

Also, when one of our correspondents visited the Guaranty Trust Bank at Omole Phase 2, Olowora, Lagos, it was discovered that none of the five ATMs at the GTBank branch was dispensing cash.

The security officer who resumed on Sunday afternoon said he met the ATMs empty.

However, customers were able to make e-payment transfers with the machines. Some of our correspondents observed how two customers used the facility for e-transfers.

Mrs Esther Akinbo, a businesswoman in the Ojodu area of Lagos told The PUNCH that there was severe scarcity of cash over the weekend, a situation that hampered her Christmas shopping.

As a result, she said she could not make vital purchases ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

She said, “I don’t go to ATMs because my card has expired but that has never been an issue. But since last week, cash seems to have dried up and customers are no longer paying in cash and prefer to do transfers, so it has now become a problem.

“I have also minimised my cash spending, but I hope we don’t see a repeat of the scarcity issue we had early this year. The painful part is that I couldn’t get cash to shop for Christmas too. I need things for Christmas for my family,”

Another Christmas shopper, who identified himself as Mr Tunde Ogunde, condemned the cash scarcity, saying the situation had marred his preparation for Christmas.