Illicit Financial Flow: HEDA Insists IOCs Must Pay Nigeria $50bn

Mohammed Shosanya

The Executive Secretary of the Human and Environmental Development Agenda, HEDA Resource Centre, Sulaimon Arigbabu, has implored the Attorney General of Nigeria to
act on the order of the Supreme Court, that the IOC should pay Nigeria the amount of over $50 billion between 2004 and 2019, when they ought to have revoked the profit-sharing formula on oil revenues.

Besides,human rights activist and lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN has said that illegal mining activities are also fuelling terrorism, because the terrorists also make a lot of money from mining to buy weapons.

The duo spoke on Wednesday during the First International Anti-corruption and Climate Change Conference with the theme; “National Stakeholders’ Engagement for Transparency and Accountability in Addressing Climate Change, Energy Transition, and Oil Licensing for Sustainable Development.” organized by HEDA Resource Centre in collaboration with Hawkmoth and supported by the MacArthur Foundation in Abuja.

The HEDA chief,who said he will write formally to the current Attorney General, lamented that Africa continues to suffer illicit financial flow.

He added:”We talked about monies that have been owed to Nigeria, over $50 billion by international oil companies, that the Supreme Court of Nigeria have actually ordered that the former Attorney General should retrieve, but nothing was done. So from this, our organization will be writing to the current Attorney General to act on that order of the Supreme Court, that the IOC should pay Nigeria the amount of over $50 billion between 2004 and 2019, when they ought to have revoked the profit-sharing formula on oil revenues.

“Corruption is a big issue. Monies are looted, recovered, and relooted.
I think also a major takeaway from today’s conversation is that the biggest argument by African governments, which is practical, is that there’s going to be a transition.

” We need a huge investment, we need a whole lot of money. And the response by most African countries, of course we’re in Nigeria, is that we have done more investments in oil extraction, in hydrocarbon extraction.
And it’s not good for the planet, we know that, but these are existential issues for us. So the counter-argument we are putting on the table is that resources actually exist outside of the hydrocarbon investment to help bring development fast, to help Africa transit in terms of our energy requirement for now and the future”.

He noted that contracted procurement in Nigeria and most Africa countries is about the most expensive in the world.

“So we are saying the African leaders need to look into what we can mobilize finances without necessarily investing, because the reality is that whether we like it or not, the world is going to eventually have to transit away from fossil fuel.”

According to Falana,; “Gold is taken out of the country. It is estimated that about $9 billion worth of gold is smuggled out of Nigeria yearly. Not by ordinary people, but by highly placed criminal elements, who even sometimes use private jets and helicopters.

“The government doesn’t listen to advice. My suggestion is that organizations like HEDA and other progressive civil society organizations, including the labor unions, will have to mobilize Nigerians to challenge those who are destroying the environment, including the government. We must now be able to challenge those who are felling trees and taking them to Europe and America.

“We must be able to challenge some traditional rulers who support illegal mining activities. We must now mobilize Nigerians to reject the companies, including oil companies, that are polluting the environment. That’s the way to go.”

TUC Seeks Reversal Of Hike In Energy Cost

Mohammed Shosanya

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria,TUC has implored the Federal Government to reverse the recent hike in petrol and electricity costs in the country.

President of the union,Comrade Festus Osifo,conveyed this in a statement made available to Premium News on Wednesday.

He maintained that the sudden hike in fuel and electricity costs will only exacerbate these challenges,leading to further hardship and potential social unrest.

He emphasized the need for the government to promote policies that will strengthens the naira and take decisive steps to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.

According to him,thegovernment must act swiftly to restore confidence and prevent further deterioration in the living conditions of its citizens.

He added:”The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria remains committed to defending the rights and interests of Nigerian workers and will continue to advocate for policies that promote social justice, fair wages, and a decent work environment”.

Lamenting the increase in fuel price,Osifo said the sudden hike, implemented without consultation with critical stakeholders, represents a blatant disregard for the welfare of the Nigerian people, particularly the working class who bear the brunt of such decisions.

He added:”The disturbing news of the increase in PMS pump price all over the country has sent a wave of apprehension and depression across the length and breathe of the nation. This is in the wake of an already existing unprecedented hardship upon citizens.

“In addition, we are deeply troubled by the further hike in electricity tariffs to 250%, a service that is essential for the survival of the poorest in our society. The timing and magnitude of these increases, in the absence of any meaningful social security measures, demonstrate a lack of empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians.

“Why does it have to be the common Nigerians bearing all the pains of high cost of living while those in power enjoy increased allocation and affluence?

“The government has not made any concerted efforts to reduce the cost of governance or personal effects, nor have they focused on directing resources or effecting policies that would strengthen the naira and improve the standard of living of our citizens.

“The Congress has long posited several strategies that should be activated towards improving the strength of the Naira and give value to every kobo spent by Nigerians as this is one of the root causes of all the economic woes we face as a country today. Yet much hasn’t been done about these recommendations.

“Congress stands with the working people of Nigeria who are struggling under the weight of rising inflation, a high cost of living, and a deficient work environment that fails to provide the basic standards of decency and dignity. The sudden hike in fuel and electricity costs will only exacerbate these challenges, leading to further hardship and potential social unrest”

#EndBadGovernance Protest:NBA Gives Free Legal Services To Detainees

Mohammed Shosanya

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has offered free legal representation to #EndBadGovernance protesters with court cases in the country.

President of the NBA,Afam Osigwe,annoynced announced this on his X handle on Wednesday,and ordered NBA branches to monitor the legal proceedings against protesters across the country.

He said, “I have directed the branches of the Nigerian Bar Association to monitor the trials of the #EndBadGovernance protesters.Additionally, I have launched a pro bono support initiative for protesters who lack legal representation.

“The Nigerian Bar Association Citizens’ Liberties Committee (NBA-CLC) has been tasked with liaising closely with the chairmen and human rights committees of NBA branches in regions where protesters are currently being prosecuted. This ensures that no defendant suffers injustice”.

He said,the NBA legal team will continue to monitor court proceedings to ensure that trials are conducted with strict adherence to due process, safeguarding the legal rights of all defendants.

He added that,the Nigerian Bar Association legal teams are in courts and will continue to monitor proceedings to ensure that the rule of law is upheld, the human rights of defendants are protected, and justice is served.

Dangote Refinery Will Eliminate Fuel Scarcity- Gov. Abiodun

Mohammed Shosanya

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun said the commencement of fuel production by the Dangote refinery will strengthen the nation’s economy by eliminating constant shortages and conserving foreign exchange.

Petrol produced from the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote refinery is expected to hit filling stations in the next 48 hours as modalities with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited have been formalized.

Prince Abiodun, in a statement on Tuesday signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Lekan Adeniran, said that with the refinery coming on stream, one of the most significant challenges faced by Nigeria for more than three decades—reliance on fuel importation—will be solved.

According to the statement, with the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries also being prepared to begin production, Nigerians will heave a sigh of relief from constant fuel shortages while the economy will also receive a boost.

Prince Abiodun commended Alhaji Aliko Dangote for his determination in seeing through the multi-billion dollar projects against all odds.

He said: “This significant achievement marks a transformative milestone not only for you as an entrepreneur but also for Nigeria and the broader African continent. The establishment of this refinery represents a pivotal shift in the energy landscape of the region, showcasing the power of vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to economic development.

“The Dangote refinery is poised to be a game-changer in the production of petrol, addressing one of the most pressing challenges faced by Nigeria: reliance on imported fuel. This dependency has not only strained our foreign exchange reserves but has also hindered our potential for self-sufficiency.

“By producing petrol locally, the refinery will drastically reduce the outflow of foreign currency, thereby strengthening our economy. This move aligns perfectly with the President Bola Tinubu-led administration’s efforts to achieve economic diversification and reduce reliance on oil exports alone.

“Moreover, the economic impact of the refinery extends beyond just fuel production. It is expected to generate thousands of jobs, both directly and indirectly, thus contributing to the reduction of unemployment rates. The ripple effect of this employment generation will invigorate local economies, stimulate growth in ancillary industries, and enhance the livelihoods of countless families across Nigeria.

“In addition to bolstering local employment and economic activity, the refinery’s operations are expected to enhance energy security in Nigeria. With the capacity to produce a substantial volume of petrol, the country will be better equipped to meet its energy needs, reducing the volatility associated with fuel shortages and price fluctuations.

“This stability will inevitably create a more favourable environment for businesses and attract foreign investments, further boosting economic growth.”

Court Orders Remand Of EndBadGovernance Protesters

Mohammed Shosanya

The Federal Government through the Inspector General of Police, Monday, arraigned ten members of the #endbadgovernance# protesters before a Federal High Court in Abuja.

The accused persons were alleged to have committed offence of treason during the 10-day nationwide protests.

All the accused persons denied the charges when read to them.

They are; Michael Tobiloba Adaramoye, Adeyemi Abiodun Abayomi, Suleiman Yakubu, Comrade Opaluwa Eleojo Simon, Angel Love Innocent, Buhari Lawal, Mosiu Sadiq, Bashir Bello Nurudeen Khamis and Abduldalam Zubair.

Counsel for the IGP, Simon Lough, (SAN), prayed the trial judge, Emeka Nwite to remand the accused persons in prison pending their trial.

The oral applications for bail of the defendants moved separately by Abubakar Marshall, and Deji Adeyanju, were rejected by the court.

The Police lawyer, Simon Lough vehemently objected to the bail applications, considering the gravity of the alleged offences.

He cited mutiny aimed at changing democratic government by force through incitement and involvement of a British national against the Nigerian nation.

Justice Nwite ordered that the defendants be remanded at Kuje prison in Abuja and Suleja prison in Niger State and adjourned ruling in their bail applications till September 11.

He ordered that the nine male defendants are to remain in Kuje prison while the only female defendant said to be pregnant, Angel Love Innocent, was ordered to be taken to Suleja prison.

Justice Nwite said he needed time to consult the retinue of authorities cited by lawyers to the defendants to back up their bail applications.

The accused were charged for attempting to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu bewteen August 1st to 4th, this year.

The alleged treason charge was contrary to sections 96, 410 and 413 of the Penal Code.

In the charge, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), claimed the accused persons broke into the Abacha Army Barracks and openly called on the military to take over the constitutional government of President Tinubu.

Also, the IGP alleged that the suspects attempted to force their way into Also Rock during which they allegedly burnt down police station and injured some police officers.

Police also told the court that a 70- year old British citizen, Andrew Martin Wynne, now at large was largely responsible for instigating mutiny against the Nigerian government.

Besides,they were accused of inciting the Nigerian public against the government and destroyed several public properties comprising Police station, High Court complex and National Communication Commission (NCC) facilities.

We’ll Curb Cheating,FCCPC Insists

Mohammed Shosanya

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC),says it would focus attention on curbing exploitative practices and anti-competitive behaviours that distort the marketplace and harm consumers.

A statement issued by Ondaje Ijagwu,Director, Special Duties & Strategic Communication, explained that the Commission would not intervene in the regulation of prices of goods and services in the markets.

Ijagwu said: “Our recent directives are not about controlling prices but are focused on curbing exploitative practices and anti-competitive behaviours that distort the marketplace and harm consumers.”

He said FCCPC appreciated the feedback provided by the Organised Private Sector and other interested parties regarding the recent directive to businesses to cease price gouging, price fixing, and other exploitative practices.

Claring airs on the position of the Commission, the statement said,
“Price gouging is an unfair practice that takes advantage of crises or economic hardships to inflate prices arbitrarily, while price fixing occurs when competitors or market associations, without their own products, collude to set prices.

“At the FCCPC, our mandate is to safeguard consumers from unfair and deceptive practices and to ensure robust competition across all sectors.

“We categorically assert that prices in a competitive marketplace are determined solely by the forces of supply and demand. Price control is entirely outside the scope of our responsibilities. We have never considered, nor will we ever consider, intervening in the market to regulate prices.

“Any claims to the contrary are baseless and unfounded. Our recent directives are not about controlling prices but are focused on curbing exploitative practices and anti-competitive behaviours that distort the marketplace and harm consumers.

“We recognise the complexities of the current economic environment, including challenges such as foreign exchange fluctuations and fuel subsidy removal. These factors certainly impact pricing, but they do not excuse or justify exploitative practices that are anti-consumer.

“The Commission’s proposed actions in the retail sector are targeted and evidence-based, responding to specific instances where consumers are vulnerable to such exploitation.

“Discoveries made during our market surveillance and a recent disclosure by Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Cement, underscore the critical need for our oversight.

“Mr. Rabiu revealed that despite BUA Cement’s effort to sell cement at a fair price of N3,500 per bag, their plan was undermined by dealers who inflated prices to as much as N7,000 to N8,000 per bag.

“This situation exemplifies the kind of exploitative conduct that the FCCPC is committed to addressing. Such practices make it difficult for ethical businesses to thrive.”

Ijagwu noted that while promotion of competition is essential for economic health, as evidenced in sectors like telecommunications, it is equally important to enforce laws against practices that undermine fair competition.

“The FCCPC remains committed to a balanced approach that respects the dynamics of a free market while ensuring that consumers are protected from harmful practices.

“We encourage all businesses to engage in ethical and lawful practices that contribute to a fair and competitive marketplace.

“The FCCPC does not seek to suppress private enterprise; our role is to ensure that the market operates on principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability. When businesses, as illustrated by the cement sector case, engage in practices that harm consumers, the FCCPC will take decisive action.

“We will continue to work collaboratively with all stakeholders; businesses, consumer groups, and other government agencies, to address both the immediate and remote causes of exploitative pricing.

“Our approach combines enforcement with cooperation, aiming to protect consumers and maintain a healthy competitive environment.

“We have granted a one-month moratorium before enforcement begins, providing businesses with the necessary time to adjust their practices and ensure full compliance with laws aimed at protecting consumers and fostering fair competition.

“The FCCPC stands firm in its commitment to enforcing the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

“We will continue to monitor the marketplace and take action against any business practices that violate the law.

“Consumers and businesses alike can trust that we will remain vigilant in upholding the principles of fair competition and consumer protection,” the statement assured.

FG Delivers 20 CNG Buses To Oyo Govt

Mohammed Shosanya

The Federal Government,has handed over 20 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to the Oyo State Government.

The Chief Executive Officer and Programme Director of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGI), Micheal Oluwagbemi, handed over the buses on behalf of the Federal Government at the Pacesetter Transport Service (PTS), Eleyele, Ibadan.

He stated that the deployment of CNG buses in Nigeria aims to address issues related to petrol importation and other challenges affecting Nigerians.

He added:“Ibadan, for generations, has always been attractive since its founding; it’s a place where commerce thrives and a state of secret billionaires. This initiative demonstrates that the state is indeed a pioneer and a fitting place to launch the CNG programme.

“President Bola Tinubu has urged us to use our gas resources to advance the transportation industry, produce more food and fertilizers, and undertake other projects that will ease life for the people.

“We are starting to take the right steps, though it requires us to endure some challenges. We cannot return to subsidising our own impoverishment. As a team, we are committed to this effort.

“We present these 20 buses as part of a sustainable partnership with Pacesetter Transport Service to generate income, as they are valuable assets. We need more such investments to ensure a more sustainable mass transit system, contributing to a brighter future for the state and Nigeria,”he said.

Receiving the CNG buses on behalf of the Oyo State Government, the Chairman and Sole Administrator of PTS, Dr Ibraheem Salami, aka Dikko, thanked the Federal Government and Tinubu for the initiative.

He noted that when he assumed office, he encountered only five operational buses, adding that the number has now increased to 81.

Dikko emphasized that CNG is the best solution to the state’s transportation issues, noting that Governor Seyi Makinde supports the project to mitigate the effects of subsidy removal.

NESG Ties Nigeria’s Economic Stability To Collaboration

Mohammed Shosanya

The Nigerian Economic Summit Group(NESG),says collaboration among key stakeholders would bring economic growth, competitiveness and stability in Nigeria’s quest for economic transformation.

Ms. Ayanyinka Ayanlowo, Acting Head, Strategic Communication & Advocacy, NESG, said this in a statement made available to Premium News on Monday.

“The call to action is clear: through collaboration, we can achieve growth, competitiveness, and stability, paving the way for a brighter future for Nigeria and the entire African continent”,she quoted in the statement.

She disclosed that the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit – Collaborative Action for Growth, Competitiveness, and Stability is billed to hold from October 14 -16, 2024 at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

According to her,the NESG has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s economic transformation for three decades.

She said:”As a private sector-led think tank and policy advocacy group, NESG has tirelessly worked to bridge the gap between the public and private sectors.

“Its mission is to foster open and continuous dialogue on Nigeria’s economic challenges and opportunities, ensuring that the country’s economic policies are inclusive, forward-thinking, and conducive to sustainable development.

“As Nigeria prepares for the landmark 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES #30) with the theme, “Collaborative Action for Growth, Competitiveness, and Stability,” scheduled to hold from October 14-16, 2024, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja stands as a beacon for the nation’s future trajectory.

“This theme encapsulates the essence of what is needed to propel Nigeria, and indeed Africa, towards a more prosperous, inclusive, and resilient economic future.

“The summit’s discussions and outcomes will be pivotal in shaping policies and strategies that harness Nigeria’s potential to drive continental transformation.”

Ayanlowo said since the first Nigerian Economic Summit in 1993, the platform has been instrumental in Nigeria’s economic evolution.

“Convened amidst severe economic challenges, the initial summit aimed to transition Nigeria from a state-led economic model to a dynamic, private sector-driven economy.

“This fundamental shift in economic philosophy was necessary to foster innovation, efficiency, and competitiveness.For decades, Nigeria’s economy was marked by a government monopoly in business and industry, with state-owned enterprises (SOEs) dominating the landscape.

“These SOEs, supported by significant public investments, were intended to catalyse economic growth. However, over time, it became evident that a private sector-driven approach was more effective in driving sustainable growth and development.

“The Imperative of Collaboration.As we approach the 30th edition of the Nigerian Economic Summit, NESG is poised to facilitate groundbreaking discussions that will influence the nation’s economic policies and strategies.

“The theme, “Collaborative Action for Growth, Competitiveness, and Stability,” underscores the importance of collaborative action among all stakeholders.

“Governments, businesses, civil society, and international partners must synergise their efforts to address Nigeria’s and Africa’s socioeconomic challenges.

“This collaboration is essential for stability,growth and inclusivity.

According to her,over the years, NES has been a catalyst for significant economic reforms in Nigeria, particularly in the banking sector, telecommunications, maritime and seaports, and the energy sector.

These reforms have been crucial in creating a more efficient, competitive, and diversified economy,she said

“The NES platform has also been instrumental in fostering an environment that encourages entrepreneurship and innovation, driving Nigeria’s economic growth and global competitiveness,” she said.

She spoke on Nigeria’s role in Africa’s economic landscape,saying the country’s economic performance has a profound impact on the broader African region due to its size, influence, and interconnectedness.

“The country’s large domestic market, abundant natural resources, and significant corporate footprints make it a key player in the continent’s economic dynamics.

“As the most populous country in Africa, Nigeria’s economic health influences consumption, investment, and trade patterns across the region,” the statement said.

Police Declare Briton Wanted Over Plot To Overthrow Tinubu

Mohammed Shosanya

The Nigeria Police Force Headquarters (NPF),Monday declared one foreign mercenary, Andrew Wynne, a British citizen with multiple identities and his Nigerian accomplice, one Lucky Ehis Obiyan wanted over their plot to topple President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government.

The Force Headquarters also said, nine suspects have been apprehended for receiving substantial financial backing from foreign sources to destabilize the country as global hunt for the fleeing suspects has commenced in connection with the investigation.

Addressing newsmen at the Force Headquarters, Abuja on Police investigation of a foreigner and subversive elements for attempted regime change and orchestrated violence in Nigeria during the 10 days nationwide protest against hunger, the Force Spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the suspects rented a space at Labour House, Abuja to cover his subversive activities.

The Nigeria Police Force has launched a comprehensive investigation into the activities of a foreign national and subversive elements plotting to undermine the democratically elected government in Nigeria through unconstitutional regime change and orchestrating violence across the country.

He explained that: “Following extensive intelligence gathering and collaboration with other security agencies, nine suspects have been apprehended, who received substantial financial backing from foreign sources to destabilize the country.

“Preliminary findings suggest they orchestrated and funded violent protests, disseminated false information, and engaged in other unlawful activities to create anarchy and justify their illegal plot to overthrow the democratically elected government.

“Investigations have identified a foreign mercenary, Andrew Wynne (also known as Andrew Povich or Drew Povey), a British national, who built a network of sleeper cells to topple the government and plunge the nation into chaos.

“He rented a space at Labour House, Abuja, for an ‘Iva Valley Bookshop’ and established ‘STARS of Nations Schools’ as a cover for his subversive activities. Documentary evidence and confessions revealed that Andrew Wynne issued directives, monitored progress, and provided finance and operational guidance to achieve unconstitutional regime change in Nigeria.

“He mobilized and deployed several billions of naira to his Nigerian collaborators, urging them to mobilize the public to violently storm police facilities and military barracks, anticipating a bloodbath that would instigate international condemnation of the Nigerian government.

“These acts are in clear violation of the Terrorism (Prevention) Act 2011 and other relevant laws.”

According to the Force Spokesperson, “Since the commencement of investigations, Andrew Wynne has fled the country. He and one of his local coordinators, one Lucky Ehis Obiyan have accordingly been declared wanted and global hunting for them has commenced in connection with this investigation.”

Adejobi, however, disclosed that, “The ten other suspects already apprehended have been arraigned before a competent court of law today, Monday, September 2, 2024, for Criminal Conspiracy, Terrorism Financing, Treasonable Felony, Subversion, and Cybercrime.

“They include; Angel Love Innocent (F), Opaluwa Eleojo Simeon (M), Michael Tobitoba Adaramoye AKA Leni (M), Suleiman Yakubu (M), Buhari Lawal (M), Mosiu Sadiq (M), Abayomi Adeyemi (M), Abdulsalam Zubairu (M), Nuradeen Hamis (M), and Bashir Bello (M).

“These acts are in clear violation of the Terrorism (Prevention) Act 2011 and other relevant laws.”

Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun,has since activated the INTERPOL tools and other global policing networks to support ongoing domestic investigations aimed at locating and apprehending the suspects at large.

He also assured the general public that the Force will leave no stone unturned in dealing with and bringing to deserved justice, any individual or group threatening our national security and peace or promoting any movement with the motive of truncating our democratic government through unconstitutional means.

He said:”We recognize and remain committed to protecting citizens’ constitutionally guaranteed fundamental and democratic rights to peaceful assembly and free expression.

“However, we advise citizens to be wary of subversive elements who weaponize and commercialize protests for personal financial and ideological benefits.

“Contrary to disinformation, the invitation extended to certain individuals within the NLC leadership has nothing to do with rights advocacy and activities of the Union leadership but is aimed at clearing the relationship between the individuals and Andrew Wynne who in addition to plotting unconstitutional regime change is also financing terrorism in Nigeria.”

Following the interaction between the Police investigation team and the NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, the Force Spokesperson stated that, “There is now a clearer understanding of the focus of the ongoing police investigation and the depth of Andrew Wynne’s subversive network and activities.”

He added that:”No nation will tolerate attempts by foreign elements to interfere in its internal affairs, threaten national security and organize and fund local elements to instigate uprisings aimed at destabilizing the country and engendering violent and unconstitutional regime change.

“The Inspector-General of Police appeals for the cooperation and support of all law-abiding citizens in the ongoing investigation. He assures anyone with information leading to the arrest of any of the suspects declared wanted will be appreciated and rewarded handsomely.”

Oyo Goes Tough On Traffic Offenders,Arrests 52

Mohammed Shosanya

The Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), has embarked on a special enforcement exercise, which led to the arrest of 52 traffic offenders.

The apprehended offenders were duly fined,a statement by the Chairman, OYRTMA, Major Adekoya Adesagba (rtd.),said.

It indicated that most of the offenders engaged in one-way driving; light violation, while others were found selling cars by the road side.

Adesagba said these are illegal activities that pose significant risks to road safety.

According to Adesagba, this highlights the need for continued public education and enforcement efforts to combat these dangerous acts and promote a safer and more orderly transportation system in the state.

In a related development, the agency has embarked on a sensitization campaign for Park Management System (PMS) and road users in a bid to ensure compliance with traffic regulations and enhance road safety across the state.

The initiative, led by the Chairman, Major Adekoya Adesagba (Rtd), was carried out by all Zonal Commanders, who were tasked with sensitizing commuters in their respective zones.

According to Adesagba the sensitization program is aimed to educate PMS and road users on the importance of adhering to traffic rules and regulations, as well as the consequences of non-compliance.

Adesagba stressed that his agency is committed to providing a conducive environment for motorists and road users, while also ensuring that traffic regulations are strictly enforced.”

By sensitizing PMS and road users, the government hopes to reduce road accidents, traffic congestion, and other related issues, thereby promoting a safer and more efficient transportation system in the state.