NigeriaNews24

Author: Amarachi Evangel

  • Commotion In The House of Fuji Is Unnecessary In The 21st Century 

    Commotion In The House of Fuji Is Unnecessary In The 21st Century 

    By Adebayo Faleke( Bayoo), Broadcast Journalist,Author & Filmmaker.

    Once upon a sound, Fuji music was a roaring lion. Born from the soul of Yoruba oral tradition, forged in the fire of “were” music during Ramadan nights, and matured in the belly of Lagos street culture. It was the soundtrack of celebration, of struggle, of spirit. It was loud, it was local, it was ours.

    But today? The once glorious House of Fuji has become a noisy beer parlour where egos sing louder than talent and bitter rivalry replaces harmony. In fact, it’s no longer Fuji music; it’s Fuji warfare.

    In most other global music cultures, veterans become mentors, legends, pillars. In Fuji? Veterans become permanent enemies. No handshakes. No collaborations. No mentorship. Just shade, showoff, subtle insults, and Facebook live fights. One veteran sneezes, another replies with a facebook live show. One is crowned at a birthday party, the other organizes a “coronation” concert same day just to prove he’s bigger. Titles like “Mr. Music,” “King of Fuji,” “Fuji Lord,” “Oluaye,” “Paramount King,” “Alhaji Generalissimo” are tossed around like sachet water, while unity is thrown in the gutter. Meanwhile, the young Fuji musicians; the supposed future are caught in the crossfire, reduced to errand boys for aged kings still dragging microphones like it’s 1985.

    Now enter the 21st-century stage of podcasting, where microphones have become truth serum and public court, all in one. Podcasts are the new confessionals, and our Fuji stars are the new talk-happy guests who mistake public platforms for private parlours. It used to be that Fuji beefs were whispered in motorcade convoys, or subtly coded in lyrics. But now? All it takes is a free bottle of Hennessy, one wireless mic, and a camera, and suddenly, these grown men start talking like teenagers in a hostel bunk.

    Grievances that were once dead and buried resurface. Old slaps are remembered with detail. Disputes from 1992 are revived with painful precision. In the name of “just being real,” Fuji musicians now expose ancient wounds on global platforms, unable to differentiate between podcast gist and bedroom talk. They confuse microphones with mouth organs and throw maturity, decorum, and discretion into the winds.

    They forget that the internet never forgets. They forget that millions are watching, not just their fans but their future sponsors, event organizers, and even their own children. And worst of all, they forget that their words carry bullets because in Fuji, talk is never cheap. So, what happens next? The insulted party sees the clip. Pride kicks in. A “reply podcast” is rushed. Supporters pick sides. Social media catches fire. And commotion is back in the House of Fuji. All because someone couldn’t keep his mouth zipped in a podcast meant for public consumption.

    Let’s face the hard truth: when last did Nigeria produce a new Fuji star that commanded and still commanding national attention? Not local bar attention o. National. The kind of energy Fuji creator himself -Late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister,General Kolington Ayinla, K1 de Ultimate, Obesere, Pasuma, Saheed Osupa, Merenge,sefiu Alao, Ayuba once commanded. Where is the new blood? Where is the innovation? Where is the digital transition? Answer: Nowhere. Because instead of building an industry, the House of Fuji is busy fighting over thrones in a palace with no roof.

    Afrobeats artistes; many of whom are sons of the same Yoruba soil, have taken the shine. Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, Asake, Olamide; these boys united and turned their genre into an international currency. They collaborated. They supported one another. They modernized their sound. And guess what? They didn’t need to fight over who is the “Oluaye of YouTube.”or “Balogun of spotify”. Fuji artistes, on the other hand, are still arguing over who owns the title of “Musical Taliban.” At this rate, even highlife may resurrect and overtake Fuji on the popularity charts.

    In the House of Fuji today, K1 is a god but faces constant online jabs from those who feel he’s blocking others. Obesere is forever “back like he never left” but is still more famous for his “Asakasa” sound. Osupa and Pasuma could win awards for longest beef in African music history. And the “younger generation”? They are either trying to sound like their fathers or fighting to inherit their fathers’ enemies. Nobody is building. Nobody is investing in branding. Nobody is packaging Fuji for Gen Z or global stages. No proper management. No streaming strategy. Just Instagram live rants, podcast tantrums, and recycled beats.

    It’s 2025. The world is hungry for authentic African music. Traditional, percussive, powerful. Fuji should be leading that charge; exporting Yoruba drum patterns, proverbs, call-and-response rhythms. It should be streaming globally, taught in music schools, sampled by global producers. But what are Fuji artists doing? They are too busy fighting over who started what, who stole which style, who didn’t greet who at the last Owambe. Instead of forming a Fuji Academy, they are forming cliques of quarrels. Instead of organizing Fuji talent hunt, they are organizing insult sessions on streaming platforms. And so Afrobeat, which has no king, no official title holder, and no 1-hour oriki intro, continues to rise while Fuji remains a Lagos/Ibadan traffic jam music.

    The commotion in the House of Fuji is unnecessary, embarrassing, and destructive. It is holding back a genre with soul, culture, depth, and international potential. The elders must bury their egos, the younger ones must carve their identity, and the entire house must be renovated from chaos to culture.

    And please, to all Fuji musicians: a podcast is not your bedroom. Your mouth is not a weapon. And your legacy is bigger than your beef. Let’s save Fuji. Or let’s admit we failed it.

  • National Youth Council Retreat: Senate, FG Commit to Youth-Driven Development

    National Youth Council Retreat: Senate, FG Commit to Youth-Driven Development

    The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has flagged off its National Leadership Retreat, themed “Repositioning NYCN for National Impact and Youth-Driven Development,” with a clarion call for purposeful, visionary youth leadership across the country. The highly anticipated event officially began on Monday, July 14, 2025, following the arrival of delegates on Sunday, July 13, and is scheduled to run through Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

    ‎Held under the leadership of Comrade Solomon Adodo, President of the NYCN, the retreat brought together members of the National Executive Council (NEC), state and zonal coordinators, youth stakeholders, and key representatives from government and civil society. The retreat is aimed at retooling the structure and focus of NYCN in alignment with national development priorities and the aspirations of young Nigerians.

    ‎In a significant show of support, the President of the Senate, ably represented at the retreat, assured the gathering of the Federal Government’s full commitment to youth inclusion and development. The representative conveyed the Senate President’s message, pledging to walk alongside the youth to actualize their goals and dreams.

    ‎‎”The Nigerian Senate stands firmly with the youth. We are ready to walk with you to actualize your goals. Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this administration is committed to inclusivity and ensuring that Nigerian youths are not just heard, but fully involved in governance and nation-building,” the representative stated.

    ‎The Senate’s pledge echoed the core message of the retreat, the urgent need to strengthen youth structures for meaningful engagement in governance, policy development, entrepreneurship, and social innovation. According to participants, this year’s retreat marks a turning point in repositioning the NYCN as a more effective and unified body.

    ‎Delivering his keynote address, Comrade Solomon Adodo thanked all participants, facilitators, and government stakeholders for their active involvement and solidarity. He emphasized that his leadership remains deeply committed to steering NYCN with integrity, vision, and a sense of national responsibility.

    ‎”This retreat is not just another gathering; it is a movement for realignment, reawakening, and reinvention of youth leadership in Nigeria. We must lead with purpose, unity, and a renewed sense of direction. The NYCN under my leadership will remain committed to purposeful leadership and to building an institution that reflects the best of Nigerian youth,” Adodo said.

    ‎The retreat features strategy workshops, leadership training, policy review sessions, and collaborative dialogues focused on youth participation in governance, peacebuilding, and sustainable development. It also offers a platform to review NYCN’s past achievements and reposition the Council to play a stronger role in national discourse.

    ‎Under Adodo’s administration, NYCN has seen a revival in national engagement, from grassroots mobilization to policy advocacy, digital literacy drives, peace missions, and climate action campaigns. The current leadership has also led efforts to bridge the gap between government and youth voices, ensuring the NYCN serves as a bridge for inclusive growth.

    ‎Participants at the retreat expressed optimism that the resolutions and outcomes will help strengthen internal cohesion, promote leadership accountability, and advance youth-led initiatives that align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.

    ‎As the retreat continues, expectations remain high that the NYCN will emerge more united, impactful, and strategic in delivering on its mandate to represent the interests of over 70 million Nigerian youths.

  • Ambode Mourns Buhari, Hails Ex-President’s Contributions to National Unity ‎

    Ambode Mourns Buhari, Hails Ex-President’s Contributions to National Unity ‎

    • ..Says Buhari’s support for Lagos marked him as a true nationalist and visionary leader

    ‎Former Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has joined millions of Nigerians in mourning the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a statesman whose leadership embodied integrity, patriotism, and an unwavering commitment to the ideals of national unity and progress.
    ‎
    ‎In a solemn tribute, Ambode recounted the personal and institutional support Buhari extended to Lagos State during his administration, emphasizing that the former president’s actions reflected his deep appreciation for the state’s strategic importance.
    ‎
    ‎“President Buhari was a strong and ardent supporter of Lagos State,” Ambode stated. “During my tenure as Governor, he granted us significant concessions, including the permission to upgrade the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Road to a multi-carriage highway and the handover of several federal properties like the Presidential Lodge in Marina.”
    ‎
    ‎He noted that Buhari’s decisions were not merely political gestures but signs of visionary leadership anchored in fairness, equity, and a desire to see every part of Nigeria thrive.
    ‎
    ‎“President Buhari led with dignity, calm resolve, and a fear of God. His belief in the promise of our nation and his deep sense of responsibility to the people defined his time in office,” Ambode said.
    ‎
    ‎While extending condolences to the Buhari family and the nation, Ambode prayed for peace for the departed and comfort for those left behind. “On behalf of my family and myself, I offer our deepest condolences. May Almighty Allah accept his good deeds and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus.”

    ‎Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023, is widely remembered for his firm stance on anti-corruption, discipline in governance, and national cohesion.

    ‎As tributes continue to pour in, Ambode’s message highlights the enduring legacy Buhari leaves behind, a legacy of service, principle, and commitment to Nigeria’s unity.

  • CPTA Challenges Peter Obi Over Auchi SUG Death Claim, Demands Retraction and Apology

    CPTA Challenges Peter Obi Over Auchi SUG Death Claim, Demands Retraction and Apology

    The Centre for Peace, Transparency and Accountability (CPTA) has called on former presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi to retract and apologise for his claim that two students died during the Student Union Government (SUG) election at the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State.

    At a press conference in Abuja, the organisation’s Executive Director, Comrade Patrick Ogheneyero Jr., described Obi’s statement—made via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on July 5—as “inaccurate, unverified, and capable of inciting public concern.”

    “We believe the statement to be false and misleading,” Ogheneyero said. “It has the potential to cause panic, misinform the public, and tarnish the image of a reputable institution.”

    Citing an official report by the Polytechnic’s Director of Public Relations, Mrs. Angela Egele, the group said no deaths or serious injuries occurred during the election, which was declared inconclusive due to procedural irregularities. The election, they stated, was held peacefully under the supervision of security agencies and independent observers.

    CPTA issued a seven-day ultimatum for Mr. Obi to publicly apologise and correct the record, warning of possible legal action if the demand is not met.

    The group also used the occasion to commend the institution’s Rector, Dr. Salisu Shehu Umar, for his developmental strides since assuming office in February 2022. Listed achievements include the construction of new road networks, modern classroom blocks, a 250-seat lecture theatre for the School of Engineering, and upgrades to the central library and ICT centre.

    “Dr. Umar has demonstrated a strong commitment to institutional development and student welfare. It is crucial that public commentary supports, rather than undermines, such progress,” Ogheneyero added.

    CPTA urged political figures and opinion leaders to verify claims before making public pronouncements, stressing the need for responsible engagement with facts to maintain public trust in educational and national institutions.

  • RE: PDP’s Misguided Allegations on Pension Deductions – A Clarification of Facts

    RE: PDP’s Misguided Allegations on Pension Deductions – A Clarification of Facts

    Our attention has been drawn to a recent statement issued by the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), alleging that the Dapo Abiodun-led administration is guilty of “monumental betrayal” of workers’ trust over an alleged ₦82 billion in unremitted pension deductions and the ongoing pension reform process.

    Ordinarily, such political mudslinging, laden with half-truths, historical amnesia, and outright mischief, would not merit a response. However, in the interest of setting the records straight and preventing the further misdirection of public discourse, it is important to clarify the facts for the good people of Ogun State.

    A Misleading Figure and Misplaced Accusation
    The oft-quoted figure of ₦82 billion being parroted by the PDP is not a product of the Dapo Abiodun administration alone. It is, in fact, a cumulative pension liability that spans across multiple administrations, including that of PDP-led governments in Ogun State. It is either deliberate dishonesty or an unfortunate lapse in memory for the PDP to ignore its own role in the historical accumulation of the said obligations.

    The attempt to single out Governor Abiodun’s government as the originator or sole contributor to this backlog is not only intellectually dishonest but morally indefensible. A simple audit of the state’s pension records will clearly reveal that the legacy pension burden is an inherited challenge — one which Governor Abiodun has, in fact, taken concrete steps to address.

    Moreover, the Dapo Abiodun administration has in the last 6yrs paid billions with the view to offsetting backlogs, if they care to check the records.

    Facts Over Fiction
    If the PDP genuinely cared to consult the records, which remain publicly accessible, it would find that the Dapo Abiodun administration has, in the past six years, paid several billions of naira toward offsetting pension arrears and gratuities. While the backlog remains a challenge, it is one this administration inherited and has steadily worked to reduce; not one it created.

    The idea, therefore, that the government has remained “silent” or is guilty of “criminal negligence” is not only unfair and false, but it is also a weak attempt at politicising a sensitive and ongoing reform process.

    Reforming with Responsibility
    Far from the picture of negligence being painted, the framework for pension reform under Governor Abiodun is a well-considered component of the administration’s broader agenda for sustainable governance and workers’ welfare. Rather than continue the trend of reactive and opaque pension practices, this administration is pushing for a Contributory Pension System (CPS) that guarantees long-term transparency, accountability, and dignity for Ogun State’s workforce.

    The CPS reform is not a smokescreen as alleged; it is a necessary and consultative process aimed at building durable structures for the future. The government has engaged labour leaders and continues to work on the institutional frameworks, including the establishment of pension boards, a functional pension database, and a phased plan to address legacy liabilities.

    Sincerity Should Be Reciprocal
    While it is expected that opposition parties will scrutinize government policies, such criticism must be rooted in facts, not fantasy. It is misleading and frankly irresponsible to accuse the Abiodun administration of embezzlement or criminal negligence without providing any verifiable evidence to support such a grave claim.

    The Ogun PDP’s penchant for spinning numbers without context or sincerity of purpose does not only undermine public trust; it betrays the very workers they pretend to defend. Sincerity is not just demanded from government; it is also expected of those who wish to hold government accountable.

    Governor Abiodun’s Record Speaks
    Governor Dapo Abiodun remains committed to responsible governance, with verifiable records of prioritising the welfare of workers and retirees. From prompt salary payments to deliberate pension settlements and inclusive engagement on reform initiatives, this administration has shown a sincerity of purpose and an open-door approach to problem-solving.

    The reformed pension agenda will not be derailed by spurious accusations or politically-motivated distractions. It will proceed carefully, transparently, and in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders.

    Conclusion
    The Dapo Abiodun-led administration urges the Ogun State PDP and other political actors to engage in constructive criticism backed by facts, not propaganda. The road to reform is not paved with sentiment but with sincerity, strategy, and service. Ogun State workers deserve clarity, not chaos.

    Signed:
    Akinleye Olu-Phillips
    Media Consultant to Hon. Adekunle Akinlade (Triple A)
    Date: Tuesday, 8th July 2025

  • CSOs, Youth Group Back Oil Sector Reforms, Urge Protesters to Follow Due Process

    CSOs, Youth Group Back Oil Sector Reforms, Urge Protesters to Follow Due Process

    • Says real accountability should start from states and local governments
    • Urges Youths to refrain from being used by selfish shadow parties

    ‎In a show of solidarity with Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, the League of Civil Society Groups, in collaboration with the National Youth Council of Nigeria, staged a peaceful gathering in Abuja on Monday, expressing support for ongoing reforms while calling for wider accountability across all levels of governance.

    ‎Speaking at the event, President of the League, Bassa Mohammed, emphasized that the development of the nation is closely tied to the strength and efficiency of the oil and gas industry, noting that while some progress has been made, the institutions managing the sector must continue to receive support as Nigerians monitor their activities to ensure transparency and delivery.

    ‎”We are here to say we see the efforts in the oil sector. If there is a need, we will hold them accountable. But as of today, we have not seen them going astray,” Mohammed stated.

    He, however, expressed concern over some youths being used by selfish actors in the streets of Abuja under the guise of protests, warning that such actions could lead to chaos if not properly handled.

    ‎”There are proper channels for addressing grievances, even the president can be removed by due process if need be. We cannot allow the country to be thrown into disorder just because some people want to push personal agendas,” he said.

    ‎Addressing the public outcry over the high cost of petrol and cooking gas, Mohammed explained that while the hardship is real, Nigerians must understand that the previous subsidy regime largely benefited a few powerful individuals. He said the money saved from subsidy removal should now be invested in sectors like health, education, and agriculture. He challenged Nigerians to begin holding their state and local leaders accountable, stressing that these levels of government are now receiving significantly higher allocations.

    ‎Also speaking at the gathering, Comrade Muktar Akoshile, Vice President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, urged young people to look beyond the temporary pains of subsidy removal and focus on the long-term gains.

    He pointed to various youth-targeted programs by the government and urged young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be manipulated by self-serving individuals seeking to monopolize the national space. “We are tired of seeing youths on the streets of Abuja. Let the sponsors of these chaotic protests leave young people out of their games,” Akoshile said.

    ‎Both leaders called on Nigerians to engage responsibly and constructively, stressing that nation-building requires patience, accountability at all tiers of government, and a united front against actions that could plunge the country into disorder. They however, reaffirmed their commitment to continue monitoring the oil and gas sector, supporting meaningful reforms, and holding all public officials to account, be it at the federal, state, or local government levels.

  • Human Rights Abuse Allegations: Edede Franklyen Capacity Champions Justice for Kenneth Duni Naftali

    Human Rights Abuse Allegations: Edede Franklyen Capacity Champions Justice for Kenneth Duni Naftali

    Prominent figure Edede Franklyen Capacity has taken a stand against alleged human rights abuses by government agencies, specifically advocating for Mr. Kenneth Duni Naftali, who claims to have faced intimidation, oppression, and dehumanization.

    The matter has garnered significant media attention, with coverage on major platforms like AIT, Arise News, Channels TV, and international blogs and social media outlets.

    Key Issues

    1. Alleged human rights abuses by government agencies (DSS, Nigeria Police Force, Office of the Attorney General)

    2. Intimidation, oppression, and dehumanization of Mr. Naftali

    3. Calls for justice and accountability

    The President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, faces scrutiny over his administration’s handling of the matter.

    The case is expected to have far-reaching implications for human rights in Nigeria and beyond, with the international community closely monitoring developments.

    As the case unfolds, Nigerians and the global community await the government’s response, hoping for justice and accountability.

  • CECOE Congratulates CG Bashir Adeniyi on WCO Appointment

    CECOE Congratulates CG Bashir Adeniyi on WCO Appointment

    • Commends President Tinubu, Calls for Tenure Extension

    The Centre for Ethical Conduct, Orientation and Empowerment (CECOE) has congratulated the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, on his historic emergence as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council, describing it as a major milestone that enhances Nigeria’s global image.

    Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, CECOE’s Coordinator, Dr. David Owah, described the achievement as a proud moment for Nigeria, noting that it is the first time since the WCO Council was established in 1953 that a Nigerian would lead the global body.

    Dr. Owah applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for promoting capable, ethical leadership through the Renewed Hope Agenda, adding that CG Adeniyi’s rise reflects the success of the President’s commitment to rewarding excellence and driving meaningful reforms.

    CECOE highlighted CG Adeniyi’s key reforms, including record revenue growth, strengthened anti-smuggling operations, improved border security, and the introduction of modern digital systems that have simplified customs procedures and boosted Nigeria’s competitiveness in global trade.

    The group called on the Presidency to grant CG Adeniyi a tenure extension, stressing that leadership continuity is essential to sustain current reforms and fully harness the benefits of his global influence. CECOE warned that changing leadership now could slow Nigeria’s progress and reduce its international leverage.

    Describing its call as a patriotic appeal, CECOE urged all stakeholders to support CG Adeniyi’s continued leadership, saying his success is proof that Nigeria thrives when merit is prioritized. The group also commended President Tinubu for fostering a system that rewards competence and urged him to consolidate these gains by retaining CG Adeniyi in office.

    CECOE concluded by expressing confidence that with CG Adeniyi’s continued leadership, Nigeria is positioned for even greater achievements in customs administration and global trade.

  • Property Demolition: CSO Asks Peter Obi To Base Claims On Facts, Lauds Lagos Govt*

    Property Demolition: CSO Asks Peter Obi To Base Claims On Facts, Lauds Lagos Govt*

    A civil society organization, Campaign for Dignity in Governance has expressed disapproval regarding comments made by former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, who criticized the Lagos State government following the demolition of a property belonging to his brother without verifying the facts.

    In a statement on his X account, Obi voiced outrage over the incident, claiming it reflects a broader pattern of impunity and a disregard for the rule of law in the country. He alleged that the building was demolished without prior notice, a court order, or any engagement with the rightful owner of the property.

    In response, the Lagos State Government had swiftly denied any involvement in the demolition of the property located in the Ikeja area, stating that neither the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) nor any other government entity carried out the demolition.

    The CSO released a statement signed by its Convener, Comrade Razaq Olokooba, urging the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party to verify his claims before making allegations and to avoid dragging the Lagos government into the controversies surrounding his brother’s demolished property in Ikeja.

    Olokooba emphasized that before making unsubstantiated accusations and framing the demolition as possibly politically motivated, Peter Obi should have verified who authorized the demolition.

    He commended the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) for promptly issuing a clear denial in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, along with support from Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, Special Adviser on eGIS and Urban Development, under whose supervision LASBCA operates.

    “We join other Lagosians and Nigerians who are deeply concerned about the demolition of Peter Obi’s brother’s property in Ikeja. However, we are also troubled by unverified comments attempting to implicate the state government in this controversy,” Olokooba stated.

    “It is worrisome that someone of his stature did not confirm the facts with the authorities before attempting to involve the state government in his brother’s property issues.”

    He pointed out that it is premature and simplistic to imply political animosity in this situation without waiting for a thorough investigation to conclude. “Mr. Peter Obi was mistaken in this instance.”

    Unfortunately, Obi’s statement resonated with supporters who believe the Labour Party’s candidate in the 2023 presidential election is a victim of systemic intimidation. Therefore, we urge Obi’s supporters to verify the facts and refrain from uncritically endorsing every narrative put forth by politicians.

    “We are pleased that the Lagos State government has promptly launched an inquiry into this controversy. We also welcome that Peter Obi’s brother has taken legal action to challenge the demolition. We can follow the proceedings of the case and await its outcome.

    “The administration led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has demonstrated remarkable capacity across various sectors in the state and has prioritized infrastructural development. Consequently, we are confident that he will not support any form of illegality that could undermine Nigeria’s commercial capital, either for personal or political reasons,” Olokooba emphasized.

    In a rebuttal, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, stated: “We find it disturbing that Mr. Peter Obi would make such allegations without verifying the facts.

    “The Lagos State Government is committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of all residents. We will not tolerate any acts of lawlessness or violations of existing laws. Any individual or group found involved in s*uch acts will be brought to justice.

    “We urge the public to disregard Mr. Peter Obi’s claims and can assure them that the Lagos State Government will continue to work tirelessly to maintain law and order in our great state,” Omotoso asserted.

    “We will not be swayed by baseless allegations or attempts to undermine our efforts,” he concluded.

  • Lagos Jazz Festival to Celebrate Rashid Lombard, Icon of African Culture and Music

    Lagos Jazz Festival to Celebrate Rashid Lombard, Icon of African Culture and Music

    • Rashid Lombard Remembered: Lagos Hosts Special Jazz Tribute for South African Legend
    • Africa Unites in Jazz: Lagos Honors Cape Town Festival Founder Rashid Lombard

    The Lagos International Jazz Festival (LIJF) will this weekend host a powerful tribute in honour of late South African cultural icon, Rashid Lombard, whose legacy shaped African jazz and global cultural activism.

    The Tribute Showcase Jam Session, presented by Inspiro Productions, will hold on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at LIVE Lounge, 15 Idejo Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, beginning at 5:00 PM. The event is free to the public.

    Honouring a Giant of African Jazz

    Rashid Lombard, a revered photojournalist, anti-apartheid activist, and founder of the renowned Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF), passed away on June 4, 2025, at the age of 74. Widely known as a chronicler of South Africa’s struggle and a champion of the arts, Lombard’s influence transcended borders.

    His most enduring contribution remains the CTIJF, established in 2000 as a partnership with the Netherlands’ North Sea Jazz Festival. The event has grown into Africa’s largest jazz festival, drawing over 40,000 international visitors annually, and creating a vital platform for African and global jazz talents.

    Global Tributes

    Following his death, tributes have poured in from global leaders, musicians, and cultural institutions.

    South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described Lombard as:

    “A cultural icon who not only documented our history of struggle but made history in his own right. His fearless documentation of apartheid’s cruelty and his creation of Africa’s biggest jazz festival placed South Africa on the global cultural map.”

    Lagos Pays Homage

    In Lagos, the jazz community—led by Ayoola Sadare, CEO of Inspiro Productions and convener of the Lagos International Jazz Festival—joins the international outpouring of love and remembrance.

    “For African jazz, and for me personally, Rashid Lombard was more than a pioneer — he was my mentor, my friend, my father figure,” said Sadare. “He gave so much of himself to nurture others. His vision lit the path for my journey in cultural production. I owe this to him.”

    Sadare, who first met Lombard in 2005 through journalist Nseobong Okon-Ekong, credits the late icon’s mentorship as the spark behind LIJF. “He taught me that you’re never too old to dream again. His impact on my life and work is immeasurable.”

    A Night of Jazz, Joy, and Legacy

    Sunday’s concert promises a dynamic evening of live music, featuring some of Nigeria’s finest jazz and soul performers, including Bright Gain, Victor Ademofe, Gloria Ibru, Wale Adeyemi, Herbert Kunle Ajayi (HKA), Agba Joshu, Jesse Bangz, Samuel Ayunke, Zosu, Mikifa, A Stringz, and more.

    “This is not just a concert — it’s a cultural statement,” said Sadare. “Rashid’s light continues to shine through every note, every rhythm, and every young artist he inspired.”

    Pan-African Solidarity in Song

    Lombard believed deeply in jazz as a unifying force for Africa. The Lagos tribute reflects this spirit, bridging two cities — Lagos and Cape Town — in a shared celebration of creativity, resilience, and African excellence.

    “Admission is free. The memories are priceless,” reads the official LIJF invitation. “Join us as we celebrate the life, music, and legacy of a true son of Africa — Rashid Lombard — forever in our hearts.”