LEKKI BILLONAIRE COMMITS SUICIDE

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Nick Imudia, Former CEO of Konga Jumped to his death

In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the business world was rocked by the sudden demise of Nick Imudia, a former Chief Executive Officer at Nigeria's e-commerce giant Konga, met his tragic end in Tuesday, 25th June 2025, 

The circumstances surrounding Imudia's death are both shocking and perplexing. Sources report that he took his own life by leaping from the balcony of his upscale apartment in Lekki, Lagos. 

Before making the fateful jump, reports suggested that Imudia reached out to his brother, who resides in the United States, and had a long conversation laden with urgency, as Imudia imparted instructions on how to distribute his considerable wealth in the event of his demise.

Thereafter, the billonaire connected with his young daughter from a previous relationship and assured  her that he would always be there, even beyond the veil of mortality. 

The shockwaves of Imudia's suicide reverberate through his inner circle. Friends, family, and business associates grapple with the same question: Why? What drove this brilliant mind, this beacon of innovation, to such a desperate act? 

Yet as we mourn his loss, let us also reflect on the fragility of human existence. In a world where success and ambition often overshadow vulnerability, let us remember that kindness and compassion can make all the difference. 

May his memory inspire us to be kinder, more empathetic, and ever watchful for those silently struggling around us. 

71 Years Old Woman Contest Miss Texas U.S.A

She hope to “inspire women to strive to be their best physical and mental self and believe there is beauty at any age",

Marissa Teijo, at the age of 71, achieved a remarkable milestone by participating in the Miss Texas USA pageant. Over the weekend, she joined 74 other contestants in Houston, where Aarienna Ware ultimately claimed the crown on June 22. 

Teijo's presence stood out as she became the oldest contestant ever to compete in Miss Texas USA—a historic achievement confirmed by the organization itself¹². 

Her journey reflects the positive impact of recent rule changes that removed age limits and allowed women who are married, divorced, or pregnant to participate in the pageant.

 In an Instagram post, Teijo expressed her excitement and hope that her participation would inspire women to embrace their physical and mental well-being, recognizing beauty at any age.

HAJJ TRAGEDY: OVER 1000 PEOPLE HAVE DIED FROM HEAT IN MECCA.

More Than 1,000 Die in Haj Amid Scorching Temperatures

In a climate related catastrophy, over 1,000 people have died during this year's Hajj, according to a Reuters tally, as extreme heat hammered the nearly two million who took part in the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca. 

Egyptians suffered the highest toll so far, Security and medical sources told Reuters on Sunday that the Egyptian death toll had risen to 672 and another 25 were missing.

A total of 236 Indonesians died, according to Indonesian government data, while India's External Affairs agency said 98 Indian citizens died during haj.

Further deaths were reported by Tunisia, Jordan, Iran, and Senegal, making this year's total toll at least 1,114 people, according to a Reuters tally.

An Egyptian crisis unit tasked with investigating the situation said on Saturday it has suspended licences of 16 tourism companies and referred them to the public prosecutor, accusing them of being responsible for deaths it said were mainly among pilgrims not registered under the official system.

The unit said 31 deaths were confirmed as a result of chronic illness among officially registered pilgrims.

ILLEGAL GARAGES: LASTMA IMPOUNDS 40 VEHICLES AT OYINGBO, IJORA, IDUMOTA

To restore order and ensure the free flow of traffic, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has commenced a clampdown on illegal motor garages in the state, impounding about 25 commercial and 15 private vehicles as at the time of this report, covering Oyingbo, Ijora, and Idumota areas of Lagos.

 The operation, led by LASTMA Head of Enforcement, Mr. Kayode Odunuga under the directives of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, specifically targeted illegal garages that have been a persistent source of congestion and inconvenience for residents and commuters.

Speaking on the exercise, the Special Adviser confirmed that the operation, which began recently, is part of a broader initiative by the Lagos State Government to enhance the efficiency of the city's transportation network.

In his words, "Illegal garages have been a significant challenge in our quest to maintain a seamless traffic flow in Lagos. These impoundments send a strong message to all offenders that the state will not tolerate activities that disrupt public order and endanger the lives of our citizens"

 The targeted areas, Oyingbo, Ijora, and Idumota, are known hotspots for traffic congestion due to unauthorized parking and the establishment of makeshift garages.

Hon. Giwa urged all vehicle owners and operators to adhere to the state's traffic regulations and cooperate with authorities to avoid sanctions. 

He reiterated that the government's primary objective is to create a better and more livable Lagos for everyone.

IKORODU HIGH CHIEF DONATES WORLD CLASS RENAL CENTRE TO GENERAL HOSPITAL IKORODU

High Chief Adewunmi Ogunsanya

In the next one year, the General Hospital in Ikorodu will become the proud owner of a world class renal center as the ground breaking ceremony of the state-of-the-art facility was performed recently with much fanfare. 

Supported by the Ikorodu Division Peace Initiatives Limited (IDPIL), the multimillion-naira project which finds its key benefactor in High Chief Adewunmi Ogunsanya, the Odofin of Ikorodu and Chairman of MultiChoice Nigeria, will boasts of advanced technology and a skilled professional team.

High Chief Ogunsanya, renowned for his philanthropic efforts, pledged that the center would feature top-tier equipment and be operational within a year.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Dr. Taiwo Kamorudeen Hassan, the Medical Director/CEO of General Hospital, Ikorodu, emphasized the hospital's commitment to accessible, high-quality healthcare. However, he lamented the absence of a Nephrology Department, hindering the hospital's transformation into a teaching institution. Currently, 8 to 10 kidney disease patients arrive weekly, only to be referred to Gbagada General Hospital due to the lack of a dialysis center.

Dr. Hassan poignantly stated, "Lives have been lost because our hospital lacks a dialysis center. Gbagada General Hospital's overcrowding has strained its patient bed capacity."

Gratitude flowed toward High Chief Ogunsanya and the royal fathers present at the event. Among them were the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi; the Ranodu of Imota, Oba Ajibade Agoro; the Eweye of Isiu, Oba David Raji Balogun; the Sekumade of Ipakodo, Oba Engr. Basiru Aremu Sotonwa; and the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo, Oba Orimadegun Kasali.

The proposed center's ground floor spans 600 square meters, housing an intensive care unit, a reception area, a dialysis center for six patients, consultation rooms, a nurse's station, and more. Upstairs, two wards with 16 beds, a nurse's lounge, and private offices await.

For Ikorodu residents and beyond, this dialysis center signifies a new era of healthcare excellence. No longer bound by distance, they can access life-saving kidney treatment—a beacon of hope fueled by the hospital's unwavering commitment to community well-being.

REMA "CALM DOWN" SHATTERS AFROBEAT STREAMING RECORD IN THE US. SURPASS ONE BILLION STREAMING

Rema's "Calm Down" continues to redefine the milestones of music history, now hailed as the most-streamed Afrobeats song in the United States. 

This groundbreaking track has surpassed one billion on-demand streams, a first for an Afrobeats song, according to Chart Data. Previously, Chart Data had lauded it as the "most successful African song of all time.

"The allure of "Calm Down" lies in its melancholic rhythm and subtly entrancing quality, as noted by Billboard magazine's music analysts. It's a tune that resonates persistently with listeners, compelling them to revisit the melody repeatedly.

Released in February 2022 from his debut album "Rave and Roses," Rema, born Divine Ikubor, later collaborated with American singer Selena Gomez for a remix. This version soared, reaching a billion streams on Spotify and marking a historic year-long presence on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number three. It stands as the highest-charting song by an Afrobeats artist in a lead role.

The remix's visual companion is equally impressive, amassing nearly 894 million views on YouTube, making it the most-viewed music video by a Nigerian artist

This success has catapulted Rema into the echelons of renowned Nigerian Afrobeats artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido.

Rema has crafted his unique interpretation of Afrobeats, which he terms "Afrorave," a blend that continues to captivate a global audience.

PRESS RELEASE!!! LAGOS STATE LAUNCH LAG-UP: EQUIP YOUTHS WITH TECH SKILLS

Lagos State Ministry of Youth andSocial Development, in collaboration with GFA Technologies and Wema Bank Plc, has launched the Lagos State Upskill Programme (LAG-UP) aimed to bridge the digital divide and equip young people in the state with the skills they need for self-reliance.

Speaking at the launch event held recently at Alausa, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende explained the programme's significance in fostering innovation and enhancing learning opportunities across the state for young people and SMEs.

He said, “We must embark on this transformative journey together. Technology is shaping our present and defining our future. The rapid advancements are creating new opportunities, industries, and solutions. It's crucial to equip our youth with the skills and knowledge to navigate and thrive in this digital era”, Ogunlende stated.

He reaffirmed the State Government's unwavering commitment to investing in and supporting the development and growth of its young population, emphasising Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu's dedication to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

"The Ministry, in its efforts to achieve the Governor's T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda, will continue to implement impactful initiatives, independently or in partnership, to ensure our youth are empowered to take their rightful place as partners in development and contribute to the state's economic growth", he added.

Earlier, in her welcome address, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry,  Pharm (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu described LAG-UP as a groundbreaking collaboration that will pave the way for the future of young entrepreneurs and leaders in Lagos. She highlighted the programme's focus on providing participants with hands-on training in cutting-edge technologies, mentorship from industry experts, and exposure to real-world projects.

Oke-Osanyintolu urged participants to maximize the opportunity by giving the programme everything required to acquire the much-needed skills that will make them self-employed and be able to contribute their quota to the economic growth and development of the State,

On his part, Industry leader and CEO of GFA Technology, Mr. Debo Omololu disclosed the transformative potential of LAG-UP, saying, "The Ministry of Youth and Social Development plays a vital role in improving quality of life. When youths are employed, it benefits everyone. We should all be ambassadors for LAG-UP and work to transform the lives of our youth".

He maintained that the LAG-UP initiative demonstrates the Lagos State Government and partners'  commitment to empowering young people for success in the digital age, adding that through the initiative, participants will gain the skills, knowledge, and support they need to thrive in the ever-evolving job market and contribute meaningfully to the state's economic development.

Similarly, Wema Bank Plc's Head of SMEs, Mr. Arthur Ikeme posited that the bank's participation is part of its corporate social responsibility initiative aimed at fostering digital transformation within the community.

"He added that Wema Bank will provide technical support, offer startups to participants, and connect them with other experts in the tech ecosystem."

#AGreaterLagosRising 

#LASG

14 Illegal Pipelines and 80 Refineries Found In One week in Nigeria

Photo credit: Reuters

n the face of escalating pipeline vandalism and oil theft, Nigeria's vigilant task force has uncovered 14 illegal pipeline connections and 80 illicit refineries over the last week. This surge in criminal activity undermines the nation's Petroleum Industry Act, prompting NNPC Limited's Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, to seek judicial backing to confront these pressing challenges.

Kyari's appeal came during his address at the National Judges Capacity Building Workshop on the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, hosted by the National Judicial Institute (NJI) and INVESTIN 234 in Abuja. He emphasized the judiciary's crucial role in bolstering the collective security efforts of NNPC, law enforcement, and industry stakeholders.

Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, to seek judicial backing to confront oil theft

The GCEO's call to action includes expediting court hearings for oil-related crimes, ensuring swift justice through timely rulings, and imposing significant penalties to deter future offenses. Kyari advocates for the establishment of specialized courts or accelerated hearing processes, backed by practice directions and corresponding sanctions, to combat offenses that threaten Nigeria's sovereignty.

Court Sentenced Mariam Suleiman to 5 Years Imprisonment For N2bn investment Scam

Mariam Suleiman, the Chairman and Managing Director of Famzhi Interbiz Ltd, has been handed a five-year prison term. The Federal High Court in Abuja found Suleiman guilty of orchestrating an elaborate investment scam that swindled over N2 billion from investors.

The case, which has been closely monitored by Lekki People Magazine concluded with Justice Inyang Ekwo delivering the verdict.

 Suleiman faced charges for her involvement in operating an unregistered investment scheme between 2017 and 2019, which falsely promised high returns to lure unsuspecting investors. Despite clear warnings and disclaimers issued by the SEC three years prior, declaring Famzhi Interbiz Limited's activities illegal, Suleiman continued to solicit funds from the public.

The judge ordered the liquidation of Famzhi Interbiz Ltd's assets, with the proceeds to be directed towards compensating those defrauded.

‘LAGOS’ GDP RECORDS 50 PERCENT GROWTH RATE UNDER MY WATCH’ — SANWO-OLU

From the vibrant heart of Africa, Lagos State stands as a testament to the transformative power of visionary governance and strategic partnerships. Under the stewardship of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos has witnessed an unprecedented economic upswing, with its GDP soaring by a staggering 50% in just five years—a growth rate that eclipses the economic output of over 40 African nations.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, addressing the esteemed audience at the 3rd AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum in Nassau, highlighted the pivotal role sub-national entities like Lagos play in sculpting the continent's economic landscape. With a keen emphasis on bolstering internal revenue and fostering collaborations with federal authorities and private stakeholders, Lagos has redefined the narrative of African prosperity.

The city's journey from a fiscal deficit in the military era to a beacon of investment and innovation is nothing short of remarkable. This economic renaissance can be attributed to the relentless pursuit of enhancing business operations and harnessing the technological prowess and entrepreneurial spirit of its citizens.

"Lagos' success story is not merely a local phenomenon but a blueprint for development that resonates across the continent. The state's adeptness in Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) has set a standard now emulated nationwide, proving that African ingenuity is key to solving African challenges."

The transformation of Lagos into Nigeria's most economically viable state is a narrative of resilience and innovation. Initiatives like the Eko Atlantic City stand as a global exemplar of environmental stewardship and climate action, while projects such as the Lekki Free Trade Zone and the Lekki Deep Seaport pave the way for a robust and enduring economy.

Governor Sanwo-Olu's administration has also tapped into the dynamism of Lagos' youth, fostering a culture of creativity and digital innovation that has given rise to fintech giants and a thriving tech ecosystem. This commitment to nurturing talent and providing an enabling environment has positioned Lagos as a global hub for digital technology.

Moreover, the Governor underscored the significance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a groundbreaking initiative poised to catalyze the full spectrum of trade potential across Africa. Lagos, with its meteoric rise, serves as a beacon of hope and a model for the future of African development.

TOKE BENSON-AWOYINKA: EMPOWERING WIDOWS ON A SPECIAL DAY

 

In a touching tribute of thanks, the esteemed Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, marked her birthday with a special gathering—the Widows Feast and Empowerment Programme. This meaningful celebration was hosted by the International Women’s Society at their Lekki centre, reflecting Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka's passion for service and support for society's unsung heroes.

The Commissioner mingled with the widows, sharing uplifting words and joining in activities that bolstered their skills and economic prospects. Her choice to spend her birthday this way speaks volumes of her empathy and dedication to societal upliftment.

Echoing her sentiments, the Society's President, Dame Olabisi Alokolaro, inspired the women to embrace their brilliance and uniqueness, encouraging them to continually seek knowledge to boost their financial independence.

Mrs. Banke Adeola, leading the Widows Trust Fund, highlighted their commitment to enhancing widows' lives, acknowledging their fortitude. The event saw the distribution of practical tools like sewing machines and kitchen appliances, fueling the widows' journey towards self-reliance.

Lagos on Cholera Alert: Etiosa, Ikorodu, on top alert. Commissioner issues Proactive Steps Against Threat”

In the wake of over 60 hospitalizations and five tragic fatalities due to severe gastroenteritis within 48 hours, the Lagos State Government has sounded the alarm for increased vigilance and preventive action against a potential cholera outbreak. The affected areas include Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu, and Kosofe LGA.

Health Commissioner Prof. Akin Abayomi has reported a surge in severe vomiting and diarrhea cases, particularly in densely populated urban slums with inadequate sanitation. The state has initiated a comprehensive surveillance and response strategy, with environmental health officials investigating suspected water contamination sources, especially around the Lekki Victoria Island axis.

Cholera, a highly infectious disease marked by intense diarrhea, poses a significant risk in regions lacking proper water treatment and sanitation facilities. The disease is transmitted through contaminated food or water and can lead to rapid dehydration, muscle cramps, fever, and in severe cases, collapse.

For treatment, Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) are recommended for mild to moderate dehydration, while Intravenous Fluids are reserved for severe cases under medical supervision. To prevent the spread of cholera, the public is advised to boil or chlorinate drinking water, avoid untreated ice, practice safe sanitation, and maintain rigorous hand hygiene.

The Lagos State Ministry of Health, alongside the NCDC, is providing guidance and updates on cholera prevention, treatment, and management. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspected cases through emergency hotlines 08023169485, 08137412348, or helplines 767 or 112.

Emphasizing the critical need for high hygiene standards and proactive measures, Prof. Abayomi reaffirms the government’s dedication to the health and safety of its citizens, urging everyone to embrace these preventive practices to protect the community.

EBUKA & DOZIE EZE FORFEITS 20 HOUSES AND 10 CARS TO BILLONAIRE, ARTHUR EZE

(Authur Eze)

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has achieved a significant legal victory. The Court of Appeal in Abuja has ordered the final forfeiture of an array of assets to Arthur Eze, a prominent businessman. This order includes 20 properties, 10 vehicles, and three luxury wristwatches, which were in the possession of brothers Olisaebuka and Onyeka Nnadozie Eze. The court's decision, delivered on June 7, 2024, by a panel of three justices, marks a pivotal moment in a case that has been unfolding since 2020.

The properties, all situated in the prestigious Federal Capital Territory of Abuja, are believed to have been purchased with funds misappropriated from Arthur Eze. These properties range from a seven-bedroom duplex in the Mabushi District to multiple plots of land in various prime locations within the city. The vehicles include models from Toyota, Honda, Mercedes Benz, and a Kia SUV, showcasing a fleet that reflects both luxury and utility. The wristwatches, including a golden Piaget, are symbols of opulence and were also deemed to be bought with illicit funds.

The forfeiture was affirmed after the brothers' appeal was dismissed by the court. They had failed to provide sufficient evidence to prove the legitimate acquisition of the said assets. Justice H.A. Barka, who read the judgment, emphasized that the appellants did not present any material that could challenge the findings of the lower court. Consequently, the appeal was deemed to lack merit and was dismissed, upholding the judgment of the lower court.

This legal battle traces its roots back to a petition filed by Arthur Eze in 2020. He accused Olisaebuka Eze, the administrative officer of his company, Oranto Petroleum Ltd, of theft, criminal misappropriation, and money laundering

. According to the petition, Olisaebuka, in collusion with his brother Nnadozie, siphoned off billions of naira and millions of dollars belonging to Arthur Eze. These funds were allegedly used to acquire the contested properties in Abuja and Enugu.

South-West Governors Unite in Lagos: A Meeting of Minds"

In a show of unity and cooperation, the South-West Governors Forum converged in Lagos today for a crucial zonal meeting. Host Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu welcomed his counterparts from Ondo, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, and Ekiti at the Lagos House, Ikeja, setting the stage for a productive discussion.

Accompanied by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hazmat, Sanwo-Olu received the visiting governors, including Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Dapo Abiodun, Seyi Makinde, Ademola Adeleke, and Biodun Oyebanji. The closed-door meeting, which began at 12 noon, aims to tackle pressing issues affecting the region and Nigeria as a whole.

This gathering of the South-West Governors Forum, the umbrella body for the six governors, promises to foster collaboration and drive progress in the geo-political zone. As the meeting continues at Governor Sanwo-Olu's office, expectations are high for meaningful outcomes and a united front from the South-West governors.

Global University Rankings: Nigeria Left Behind

Quacquarelli Symonds a leading higher education analytics firm that publishes annual world university rankings, evaluating institutions based on academic excellence, reputation and global diversity, released its recent ranking to the astonishment of many Nigerian scholars as Nigerian universities were not found anywhere in the top 1000 names of the best universities in the world 

According to the latest Quacquarelli Symonds World University Rankings for 2025, featuring over 1,500 institutions across 105 countries, The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), is the best in the world, followed by Cambridge, Imperial College London, University of Oxford, Harvard University, respectively as the top citadels of learning across the ranked countries. 

Others are Stanford University, ETH Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore, UCL London, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Pasadena, United States.

The University of Cape Town, South Africa, ranked 171 is the highest ranked African country, followed by the University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa ranked 267, and Stellenbosch University, South Africa ranked 296.

Other African universities at the 1000 of QS ranking are the University of Johannesburg, South Africa ranked 312, Cairo University, Giz Egypt ranked 350, University of Pretoria, South Africa ranked 354, and the American University in Cairo, Egypt ranked 410.

The University of Kwazulu-Natal, Pinetown, South Africa ranked 587, Ain Shams University in Cairo, Egypt ranked 592 and Addis Ababa University Ethiopia ranked 771

The University of Ibadan and University of Lagos are the only two top Nigerian higher institutions both ranked in the 1100-1200 groups.

Sanwo-Olu Unlocks Dream Homes: 270 Affordable Flats Inaugurated in Egan-Igando Estate

 

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has inaugurated 270 units of two-bedroom flats at the Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Estate in Igando-Ikotun Local Council Development Area (LCDA).

 The project, located in the Ikeja Division of Lagos State, is the first cluster of a larger development that will consist of 101 blocks of 846 home units, including one, two, and three-bedroom apartments on a 17.358-hectare land area.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Governor Sanwo-Olu pledged to complete the remaining home units in Clusters Two and Three of the Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Estate, which will benefit more residents regardless of their background. He emphasized the importance of community ownership and urged residents to protect the project from vandalism.

The Governor also expressed his administration's readiness to partner with the private sector to develop more affordable housing estates in Lagos State, providing decent accommodation for suburban dwellers. This initiative aligns with the state government's commitment to addressing the housing deficit and ensuring that residents have access to quality and affordable housing.

"Lagos State Government Paves the Way for Progress in Ijede Community"

In a groundbreaking ceremony, the Lagos State Government has officially launched the construction of a 1.3-kilometer road in Ayubu-Bashorun Street, Ilupeju Community, Ijede LCDA, Ikorodu. This milestone project marks a significant step towards achieving Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu's vision of transforming Lagos into a 21st-century economy.

As the Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, flagged off the project, he emphasized the administration's commitment to rural development and the importance of community collaboration. The road construction, slated for completion within 12 months, aims  to enhance road networks, reduce travel time, and curb rural-urban migration.

The Chairman of Ijede LCDA, Honourable Motunrayo Alogba, and community leaders, Baale Oko-Ope and CDA Chairman, Alhaja Hon. Kehinde Fesomu, expressed their gratitude and pledged to support the project's success.

As the construction begins, the community is filled with hope and anticipation for a brighter future. This project paves the way for progress, connecting people and places, and fostering a stronger, more vibrant community.