President Trump repeats call for Canada to become the 51st US state, sparking controversy just before Canada’s snap election.As Canada heads to the polls for a snap election, US President Donald Trump once again stirred controversy by repeating his call for Canada to join the United States as its 51st state

Trump made the statement via his social media platform just hours before voting began, reigniting tensions between the two countries.

His remarks quickly drew sharp responses from Canadian political leaders, as voters decide whether to extend the Liberal Party’s decade-long rule under PrimeMinister Mark Carney or shift power to Pierre Poilievre’s Conservative Party.

Poilievre, the Conservative leader and a key contender for the premiership, swiftly rebuked Trump, urging him to “stay out of our election” in a public statement.

Carney, who took office just six weeks ago following Justin Trudeau’s resignation, echoed the sentiment, calling on Canadians to remain “united and strong” in the face of what he termed a “crisis inthe United States.”

The Lagos State government (LASG) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with an international consortium company, Belstar and ENKA, to rehabilitate and expand water supply works.The commissioner for environment and water resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said this in a statement on Monday.

Mr Wahab said it aimed to address the state’s critical water infrastructure challenges.

He said the project entails the construction, rehabilitation, and installation of water treatment facilities and distribution networks to provide a reliable and sustainable water supply to underserved communities.

Mr Wahab added that the project would see to the establishment of new waterworks to ease distribution network issues.

He said the state would ensure compliance with relevant regulations, including social and safety standards.

Mr Wahab said the project was divided into two parts: the Brown Field, which consists of the rehabilitation of existing waterworks, and the Green Field, which is the construction of entirely new waterworks in various locations.

The managing director of Lagos Water Corporation (LWC), Mukhtaar Tijani, said the LWC would collaborate with the International Consortium and provide support for development, technical inputs, and stakeholder coordination to achieve success.

He said the projects would provide potable water to communities without water and ensure the eradication of water-related diseases in the state.

The group managing director of Belstar Capital, Tewodros Polk, said the consortium would remain committed to the project.

Mr Polk said the consortium would leverage strengths and technical expertise to ensure long-term productivity and service delivery.

He promised that the consortium would utilise local subcontractors to promote capacity building and sustainable development throughout the different phases of the project.

Mr Polk said the project would be executed using the engineering, procurement, construction and finance model insured by the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation.

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has directed banks to immediately identify and close any FIRS tax and levy collection accounts not authorised under the TaxPro Max system.The TaxPro Max is a homegrown tax administration platform that facilitates tax-related activities, including registration, filing, and payment issuance of tax clearance certificates, among others.

A public notice signed by the FIRS chairman, Zacch Adedeji and made available to newsmen by his Special Adviser on Media, Dare Adekanmbi, said the decision was part of the ongoing efforts to boost efficiency and transparency in tax collection as well as ensure uniformity and seamless reconciliation of tax payments.

Entitled Directive to Close Unauthorised FIRS Tax Collection Accounts, the public notice said, “Effectively immediately, all tax and levy collections on behalf of FIRS must be processed exclusively pursuant to an assessment raised on the TaxPro Max platform.”

“All banks participating in the FIRS Collection, Remittance and Reconciliation Scheme are hereby advised to comply with this directive within the stipulated period.

“We count on your cooperation to ensure a smooth transition to this centralised system, thereby contributing to a more transparent and efficient tax collection process,” the statement said.

The statement urged taxpayers and other stakeholders to reach out to the Revenue Accounting and Refund Department (RAAD) in FIRS for any clarifications or support regarding the directive.

Australia’s Labour Party Pledges Further Increase in International Student Visa Fees if Re-electedIn response to growing concerns, Labour has pledged to cap international student commencements at 270,000 for 2025, while the opposition proposes an even lower cap of 240,000institutions, with 572,000 commencing new studies. Despite the country’s popularity among overseas students, visa fees in Australia are already substantially higher compared to other major destinations — costing about $185 in the United States and C$150 ($108) in Canada. International Student Enrolments In 2025 Amid Migration Concerns
The Australian government last year also tightened English language requirements for student and graduate visas and introduced new regulatory powers allowing authorities to suspend education providers found repeatedly breaching international student recruitment rules. universities but have also contributed to a surge in net migration, intensifying housing affordability issues across major cities. Official data shows that nearly 200,000 international students arrived in Australia in February 2025 — a 12.1% increase over the previous year and 7.3% higher than pre-pandemic levels in February 2019.In 2024, more than one million international students were enrolled across Australian

The Kano State Judicial Service Commission has taken disciplinary action against two court registrars and two Upper Shari’a Court judges over misconduct.

This action was announced in a statement by Baba Jibo-Ibrahim, the spokesperson for the Kano State Judiciary, on Monday. He said the decision was part of the resolutions reached at the JSC’s 80th meeting on April 22, 2025.

Ibrahim Adamu, principal registrar II of the Kano High Court, and Maigida Lawan, principal registrar of the Sharia Court of Appeal, were suspended.

Upper Sharia Court judges Alkali Mansur Ibrahim and Nasiru Ahmad issued a warning.

In line with its mandate, he said the commission adopted the recommendations of the investigation carried out by the Judiciary Public Complaints Committee and resolved to suspend and issue formal warnings to them.

Mr Adamu was suspended without pay for six months.

“His promotion is deferred after a finding that confirmed he verbally assaulted and attempted to use physical force against his superior officer, amounting to gross misconduct in violation of the provisions of the Kano State Civil Service Rules 2004 and the JSC Regulations.

“This is the second time Adamu has appeared before an investigative committee for violence-related actions at work, and he has been issued a series of queries,” stated the JSC.

The commission found Mr Adamu’s actions grossly unbecoming of his office and imposed the appropriate disciplinary sanctions.

Mr Lawan was suspended without pay for six months immediately after being found guilty of demanding and accepting improper gratification under false pretences.

“The commission adopted the recommendation of the JPCC, and Lawan was demoted by one grade level (from GL-13 down to GL-12),” said the statement.

He said that the commission issued a warning to Mr Ibrahim after evidence confirmed he used abusive language towards a litigant.

The JSC also issued a formal warning to Mr Ahmad for ordering the detention of a judgment debtor in a manner that suggested personal interest and compromised judicial impartiality.

The JSC reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct and corruption.

“These measures underscore the state commission’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and the rule of law,” the statement said. “All judicial officers and staff are reminded to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the honour and trust vested in them by the people of Kano State.”

The commission warned all court staff not to engage in corrupt practices, as anyone found engaging in corruption will be directed to proceed to compulsory retirement, and the JSC will not condone any act of corruption.

Religious leaders across the state should emulate past examples of intervention. Clerics must be vocal in matters of injustice and reconciliation,” he stressed.

Delivering the keynote address, Sheikh Muhammad Jamiu Oloko from Saki, Oyo State, advised religious scholars to embody patience, fairness, and the wisdom necessary for mediating community disputes.

Sheikh Oloko warned that “silence from clerics during periods of injustice could exacerbate tensions, urging preachers to consistently advocate for peace across all their platforms.In his remarks, the Mufassir of Ifon-Orolu, Sheikh Nurain Adegoke, stressed that the roots of meaningful resolution must come from within the communities themselves.

He expressed hope that continued dialogue among stakeholders would soon yield a lasting resolution to the long-standing disputes.

The Chief Imam of Ilobu, Dr Abdul-Azeez, highlighted the need for introspection within the clerical ranks, condemning the spread of inflammatory rhetoric by certain religious figures.Addressing the audience, the Mufassir of Erin-Osun, Imam Sokoto, decried the exploitation of religion as a tool for escalating conflict.

He challenged scholars to adhere strictly to the teachings of the Qur’an and to live exemplary lives rather than merely preaching.

Representing the Osun State Governor, Munirudeen Raji reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring peace and security across the affected communities.

Raji reiterated that Governor Ademola Adeleke remained dedicated to identifying and prosecuting those responsible for perpetuating He assured participants that the state government would continue to support initiatives aimed at healing divisions and strengthening communal bonds.

“Meanwhile, the members of the council thereafter visited the three royal fathers of Ifon, Ilobu and Erin-Osun at their palaces where they all pledged with their subjects to cooperate with the state government in making sure tranquility returns to their domains,” the communique further read.

The 17th Headies Awards paid a tribute to the late Afrobeat singer Mohbad, celebrating his life, music and lasting impact on fans.

A video montage featuring his music videos accompanied a narrative that highlighted his journey and influence.

The emotional tribute described Mohbad as a star whose spirit and voice would never be forgotten, noting that his music was more than just sound, it was a movement.

The tribute reads in part: “Some voices are too powerful to be forgotten, some spirits shine so bright they leave a mark that cannot be erased. Mohbad was one of those stars. From the streets of Lagos to the heart of millions, Mohbad’s music was more than sound; it was a movement… Rest in peace, Mohbad, your light will never fade.”

Mohbad was also posthumously awarded the ‘Best Street-hop Artist’ with his song ‘Ask About Me’.

The award was accepted on his behalf by members of his family, including, his wife Wunmi, son, Liam and younger brother Adura.

The minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyeson Wike, has directed the newly appointed members of the interim management committee of the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) Golf Club to commence work immediately.Lere Olayinka, senior special assistant to the minister on public communications and social media, announced the directive in a statement in Abuja on Sunday.

Mr Olayinka explained that the committee would be chaired by Peter Deshi and Yomi Oyelola as secretary.

He identified other members of the committee as Otunba Elegbeleye, Nanwor Mamven, Ekanem Ekwueme, Arabi Bello, Lawan Aboki, Okey Nnaedozie, Fred Otobo and Julius Fadairo.

He, however, said that the committee would function under the supervision of the club’s Board of Trustees, led by Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal.

“The minister had emphasised the FCT Administration’s commitment to restoring order and efficiency to the prestigious club, which had recently experienced internal challenges.

“The minister also clarified the ownership status of the club, reiterating that it remained the property of the Federal Capital Territory Administration,” he said.

Remo Stars have clinched their first-ever Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title following a 1-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ogun State on Sunday

Heading into the match on Sunday, Remo Stars needed a win to make history, and Tornadoes made them work hard for it as the hosts only managed to break the deadlock in the 83rd minute through Olamilekan Adedayo’s long-range shot.

Remo Stars ensured the lead didn’t slip away from them until the referee’s final whistle to secure their first league title since the creation of the club in 2010 with three matches to go this season.

They are the first privately-owned club to win the NPFL title since Julius Berger in 2000.

In the results of other NPFL matches on Sunday, Sunshine Stars grabbed an important 2-0 win over Katsina United in their fight for survival and Abia Warriors beat Shooting Stars 3-1

Nasarawa United pipped Heartland 1-0; Akwa United defeated 10-man Ikorodu City 2-1; Bayelsa United were 2-1 winners against El Kanemi Warriors and Enugu Rangers lost 2-1 at home to Enyimba in Oriental Derby.

Meanwhile, Kwara United thrashed relegated Lobi Stars 4-0 while Plateau United secured a 2-1 victory over Bendel Insurance in Jos.

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has condemned another brutal attack on seven Nigerians and the kidnapping of one Ani Silas on Thursday in Springs, Gauteng Province.Akindele Olunloyo, the national publicity secretary of NUSA, said in a statement on Sunday that Mr Silas was beaten unconscious and forcibly taken from his workplace by a member of staff of a television station.

The statement said the assailant was accompanied by his media team, private security personnel and members of the South African Police Services (SAPS) Crime Prevention Unit attached to the Springs SAPS Station.

”Numerous onlookers witnessed the unprovoked attack and abduction, and NUSA has obtained video evidence showing SAPS officers standing by while this heinous act was committed,” NUSA said.

It said the behaviour by law enforcement officials represented a severe dereliction of duty and suggested potential complicity in what constituted multiple criminal offences under South African law.

“Despite extensive searches of morgues, hospitals, and police stations throughout Gauteng Province, Mr Silas remains missing.

“A formal kidnapping case (Case Number: 508/4/2025) has been registered at the Springs SAPS station.

“NUSA leadership has been informed that the matter has been transferred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID),” it said.

The apex body of Nigerians in South Africa demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Mr Silas on Tuesday at 12 noon.

The group also asked for full accountability for all those involved in his assault and abduction, including the

immediate arrest and suspension of the SAPS officers who failed to prevent the alleged attack.

It further demanded a formal investigation and arrest of the assailant and accomplices for their recurring pattern of violent xenophobic attacks against Nigerian nationals.

NUSA also demanded public assurance from the South African authorities that the rights of all foreign nationals will be protected as guaranteed by the South African Constitution and international human rights conventions.

The statement reminded all parties involved that South African law explicitly prohibited acts of torture, assault, and kidnapping under the Prevention and Combating of Torture of Persons Act 13 of 2013.

It quoted NUSA president, Smart Nwobi, as calling on all Nigerians in South Africa to remain vigilant and peaceful during this critical time.

“We are in communication with the Nigerian government’s foreign Missions in South Africa, international human rights organisations and the African Union regarding this grave matter,” Mr Nwobi said.

He said should the demands of NUSA not be met by the specified deadline, the Nigerian community in Springs had resolved to peacefully occupy the Springs police station.

Mr Nwobi added that the union would pursue all available legal avenues to secure justice for Silas and other victims of the attack.

The federal government on Sunday, raised alarm over the growing threat of cyber-slavery in West Africa.The minister of foreign affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, disclosed this in a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.

Mr Tuggar expressed concern over the alarming rise in cases of cyber-slavery across parts of West Africa, which he said “primarily targets Nigerian citizens, especially vulnerable youths.”

According to him, many young Nigerians, including underage teenagers, are being lured out of the country with false promises of lucrative employment opportunities abroad, particularly in crypto-related operations.

“In reality, these individuals are trafficked into sophisticated scam operations and forced to work in criminal call centres, often referred to as ‘419 cyber-scam factories,” Mr Tuggar said.

“There, under coercive and inhumane conditions, they are compelled to send thousands of fraudulent emails, text messages, and calls aimed at defrauding victims worldwide.”

He cited a recent incident where the Economic and Organised Crime Office in Accra, Ghana, rescued and detained a group of Nigerians who were forced into cybercrime activities under inhumane conditions.

“This incident highlights the severe exploitation and abuse associated with cybercrime operations.

“It also underscored the urgent need for enhanced efforts to dismantle these multibillion-dollar criminal networks and reduce the vulnerability of potential victims,” he said.

Mr Tuggar warned Nigerians, especially youths and parents, to exercise utmost caution when presented with job offers, particularly those that promise easy money, overseas travel, or remote work involving cryptocurrencies.

He advised Nigerians to verify all employment offers through official channels and to report any suspicious cases to the relevant authorities for prompt investigation and action.

“As a precautionary measure, the government is working closely with regional partners, law enforcement agencies, and international organisations to tackle this heinous crime, rescue victims, and bring perpetrators to justice,” he added.

Mr Tuggar reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to protecting Nigerian citizens both at home and abroad and raising awareness about emerging threats to their welfare and dignity.

In a groundbreaking achievement for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the Governing Council of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) has approved the elevation of Air Vice Marshal Osichinaka Chiedu Ubadike to the rank of Professor, making him the Force’s first-ever serving officer to attain this academic distinction. This marks a significant step in NAF’s pursuit of research, development, and academic excellence.

Ubadike, a distinguished academic and military officer, holds a PhD and Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from Cranfield University, alongside three additional Master’s degrees and a First-Class Bachelor’s in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the Nigerian Defence Academy. He has spearheaded key projects within NAF, including the development of the indigenous Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), enhancing the Force’s technical capabilities and operational independence.The Council also appointed retired Air Vice Marshal Paul Jemitola as Professor of Aerospace Engineering. Jemitola, a former Commandant of AFIT, holds a PhD and Master’s degree from Cranfield University, was a lead designer in the NAF UAV project, and currently serves as Acting Vice Chancellor at Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management, Lagos.

These appointments align with the vision of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, who emphasised NAF’s commitment to fostering local expertise through education, research, and capacity-building to reduce reliance on foreign technical support.

This was contained in a statement on the agency’s X handle on Sunday, April 27.
The statement partly reads: “In a landmark achievement for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and a major boost to its research and development (R&D) endeavours, the Governing Council of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) has approved the appointment of Air Vice Marshal Osichinaka Chiedu Ubadike as Professor of Aerospace Engineering. This makes him the first-ever serving officer in the NAF to be conferred the rank of Professor.

“Air Vice Marshal Ubadike, an accomplished scholar and military professional, holds a PhD and Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering and Aerospace Vehicle Design from the esteemed Cranfield University in the United Kingdom. He also possesses three other Master’s degrees from Ahmadu Bello University and the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), with a First-Class Bachelor of Electrical Electronics Engineering degree fromElectronics Engineering degree from NDA. He has led several cutting-edge research initiatives within the NAF, including his pivotal role in the development of the indigenous NAF Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). The UAV project demonstrates the Air Force’s expanding technical capabilities and strategic independence.

“In a related announcement, the Governing Council also confirmed the appointment of Air Vice Marshal (retired) Paul Jemitola as a Professor of Aerospace Engineering. Professor Jemitola, the immediate past independence.

The Council also appointed retired Air Vice Marshal Paul Jemitola as Professor of Aerospace Engineering. Jemitola, a former Commandant of AFIT, holds a PhD and Master’s degree from Cranfield University, was a lead designer in the NAF UAV project, and currently serves as Acting Vice Chancellor at Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management, Lagos.

These appointments align with the vision of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, who emphasised NAF’s commitment to fostering local expertise through education, research, and capacity-building to reduce reliance on foreign technical support.

This was contained in a statement on the agency’s X handle on Sunday, April 27.

In Lagos, the most populous city in West Africa, nothing is a waste in the hands of those who can see value in it.

Despite inherent risks, particularly those that have to do with human safety and public health, when the opportunity to make cash or profit presents itself, the love of money is prioritised above all.

While the city generates an estimated 5.46 million tonnes of waste annually, some of these wastes often find their way back to the market.

Among these arrays of wastes that find their way back to market include used wigs which have been disposed of by residents across the state, investigations by PUNCH Healthwise revealed.

Our correspondent who visited three dumpsites in Lagos including Olusosun in Ojota, Dumping in Ikorodu and Solous in Igando, saw how the scavengers sorted the used wigs and repackaged them for onward transfer out of the dump.

It was gathered that while the market for secondhand wigs, particularly those picked from the dumps, is not thriving in Lagos, it is a booming venture in the far northern part of the country.

But despite the opportunities, senior health experts warned that the unseen health risks associated with the practice far outweigh whatever the economic value such endeavors would create.

Underhand trades

In the heart of Ikorodu’s dumpsite in Ewu-Elepe, popularly known as Dumping, where the air is thick with decay and the ground littered with waste, lies the booming market for different items picked from the facility.

The scavengers and businessmen nestled in the several makeshifts erected on the dumpsite have created an enterprise in what others have thrown away.

These include scraps of metal, tattered clothes, and broken appliances. But a rather unusual sight caught the attention of our correspondent – used wigs, tangled and matted, which were being sorted by a young man.

When approached by our correspondent, the man who refused to disclose his name, told our correspondent that the used wig market is booming in the north.

He explained that while the used wigs are underpriced in Lagos, they move well in the north and have commercial value.

“It is being packed for onward transportation to the north. We will send it to the north and it will be sold out in no distant time.

“Unlike in Lagos where it is underpriced and doesn’t move well, it is well loved in the north and that is why we prefer transporting to the north to sell,” he said.

When our correspondent asked what the wigs are used for in the north, he looked bewildered, wondering why I had to ask him such.

“Na woman dey use am nah. They buy and wear it,” he said in pidgin English.

Scavenged beauty

Josephine Piyo, the deputy governor of Plateau, has called on the residents to pray for the success of the current administration in the state.Ms Piyo made the call during the child dedication of Dan Kwada, the Senior Special Assistant on Middlebelt Nationalities to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, on Sunday in Jos, the state capital.

The dedication was held at the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), Bishara 1, Adebayo Street, Jos North Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.

Ms Piyo decried the current security challenges in the state and called on residents to pray and support the government to overcome them.

The deputy governor, who maintained that the governor means well for the state, said he had put modalities on ground for the safety of all citizens.

“We want to thank the Plateau people for the support they have so far accorded this administration.

“We need your prayers for Plateau to succeed; there are evil plans against the state, so your prayers will go a long way.

“The governor means well for the state; he respects the people; he is doing everything possible to promote peace and tranquillity in the state,” she said.

Earlier, Mr Kwada described Mr Mutfwang as a detribalised and great leader, insisting that his developmental strides were visible for all to see.

In his sermon, Reverend Ayuba Asheshe, the general secretary of ECWA, called on all government officials to be faithful to their oath of office.

Mr Asheshe, who commended Mr Mutfwang for his efforts in promoting peace and unity in the state, however, called on the government to intensify efforts towards securing rural communities.

The Kaduna State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Agency has begun medical screening for all its intending pilgrims expected to perform this year’s holy pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.The agency’s spokesperson, Yunusa Abdullahi, told journalists on Sunday in Kaduna that the screening exercise began on Sunday.

He said, “All the registered intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj must undergo compulsory medical screening this week.”

According to Mr Abdullahi, the exercise is designed to assess the health status of the intending pilgrims ahead of the spiritual journey.

“The screening includes mandatory pregnancy tests for the prospective female pilgrims,” he said.

Mr Abdullahi clarified that the process was not intended to disqualify anyone but to ensure appropriate medical support, particularly for pilgrims with diabetes or hypertension.

He added that the pilgrims would receive two meals daily throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.

Mr Abdullahi emphasised that only tests conducted in government-approved hospitals would be accepted.

“The medical and pregnancy tests are compulsory. Any pilgrim who refuses to undergo them risks forfeiting his Hajj seat,” he warned.

“Intending pilgrims have been advised to collect their medical cards from their registration officers before visiting the designated hospitals for the screening,” Mr Abdullahi said.

The clergyman made the call in his homily during church service on Sunday. He emphasised the importance of emulating Jesus’ teachings on forgiveness.

He painted a scenario where unforgiveness leads to a lack of peace and unity amongst family members, colleagues, and the congregation, pronouncing curses at each other.

“How can you still claim to be a Christian when you vow not to forgive your spouse, children, siblings, parents, or colleagues for the wrong they had done against you?

“Things are not working well for most people because of the curses placed on them by someone they had offended. Hence, there is the need for Christians to forgive unconditionally as our Lord Jesus Christ admonished us.

“Unfortunately, unforgiveness is also common in the house of God, between clergymen and members. This must change for good to attract divine blessings,” he added.

He also advised those who have committed sin or offence to seek forgiveness from God and to practice reparation by asking for forgiveness from the persons they had offended.

The priest urged unconditional forgiveness, aligned with the Catholic Church’s teachings on mercy and reconciliation.

“By forgiving others, Christians can experience God’s love and forgiveness, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship with God,” he said.George Shenge, parish priest of St. Augustine Catholic Church Ombi 1 Lafia, Nasarawa State, has urged Nigerians to practice unconditional forgiveness to receive God’s blessings.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has intercepted a shipment of 46 wraps of cocaine weighing 547 grams hidden in body cream packaged for Saudi Arabia.This is contained in a statement by the NDLEA Director, Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi on Sunday in Abuja.

Mr Babafemi said that the intervention came barely a week after NDLEA officers of the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation (DOGI) uncovered 20 parcels of cocaine.

He said the drugs were concealed inside religious books to Saudi Arabia at a logistics company in Lagos.

He stated, “The recent seizure was made on Wednesday, April 23 at a courier firm in Lagos. Another consignment intercepted on the same day includes: 1.8kg pentazocine injection and 60 grams bromazepam tablets heading to Canada.’’

Meanwhile, at the Seme border area of Badagry Lagos, three Ghanaian ladies were on Sunday, April 20 arrested at the Gbaji checkpoint by NDLEA operatives.

Mr Babafemi said that they were arrested while attempting to smuggle a combined 4.8kilograms of Ghana Loud, a strong strain of cannabis into Nigeria.

He said, “The suspects arrested include: Haziza Zubairu, 42; Samirat Mustapha, 43; and Jamila Salifu, 26.’’

In another development, in Kano, a 60-year-old grandma, Safiya Shamsu was on Friday, April 25 nabbed at Samegu area of Kumbotso LGA with 5.6kg skunk, a strain of cannabis.

Mr Babafemi said that another suspect Muntari Labaran, 35, was taken into custody following the seizure of 100 litres of codeine syrup from him at Yelwa area of Dala LGA.

“A total of 3,814.9kg skunk was destroyed on two farms in Ugbodu community, Ovia North East LGA, Edo State on Thursday, April 24. This happened when NDLEA operatives raided the plantations where three suspects: Samuel Samson, 26; Daniel Peter, 20; and Abel Edah, 31, were arrested. The War Against Drug Abuse, (WADA), social advocacy activities by NDLEA Commands equally continued across the country in the past week. Some of them include the sensitisation lecture delivered to students and staff of Dan-Doro Community Arabic Secondary School, Doro, Katsina state and St. James Anglican School, Badariya, Kebbi state as well as Federal Government Girls College, Tambuwal, Sokoto.

“Others are members of Oganiru age grade, Onitsha, Anambra, while the Lagos State Strategic Command of NDLEA paid WADA advocacy visit to the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, HRM Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi, among others,” Mr Babafemi said.

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Minister of State for Science, Technology and Innovation, Chief Henry Ikoh has debunked declaring interest to run for the 2027 governorship seat in Abia State.

Reports had it that Chief Ikoh, had in a key stakeholder’s meeting with members of the APC in his country home, Ahuwa Oboro, Ikwuano Local Government Area of the state indicated that he might join the race for the governorship seat of state if the opportunity arises.

Sources in the party in Ikwuano disclosed that the former minister who had previously contested for the governorship seat of the state, suggested that he would consider running again should the political terrain favor such a move.Our correspondent reports that the rumours that the former Minister had declared interest to run for governorship generated argument over his chances of emerging the APC governorship candidate as the reports have it that the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu will be in the 2027 governorship race.

The Nation reports that politicians in the state who aspire for various political positions in 2027, have started various political engagements, including consultations with critical stakeholders in the party from ward level to the state, ahead of the parties primaries and among others.However, when contacted, Chief Ikoh in an exclusive telephone interview with our correspondent disassociated himself from reports making the rounds that he had declared his interest to run for the governorship seat in the state.

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 16-year-old boy, Solomon Ibiwoye, after he was found in possession of a firearm in the Ebute-Ero area of the state.

Police spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed this in an X post on Sunday, commending vigilant residents whose alert led to the arrest.

“Kudos to observant Lagosians who noticed 16-year-old Solomon Ibiwoye with a firearm and discreetly alerted Ebute-Ero Police Division,” Hundeyin wrote.

He added that a subsequent search of the teenager’s residence led to the recovery of a locally fabricated firearm and an unexpended cartridge.One more firearm off the streets,” he said, assuring all that investigations into the matter are ongoing.

The police spokesperson also reiterated the importance of public vigilance in crime prevention.

“See something, say something!” he stated.Hundeyin did not disclose the circumstances under which the teenager came into possession of the weapon or whether he was linked to any criminal gang, but assured that the matter was being thoroughly investigated.

The Nottingham Forest right-back, Ola Aina, who picked up a calf injury during a Premier League clash against Manchester United in March, is expected to return for tomorrow’s FA Cup semifinal against Manchester City.

He was expected to return for the Forest’s recent game against Everton, but that was not the case.

According to Paul Taylor of The Athletic, the fullback could finally feature in tomorrow’s match.

“I have been told elsewhere that Aina has a chance to be involved,” he said.

Also, the Forest boss, Nuno Espirito Santo, has not written about the player from the City clash.