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NSCDC Busts Alleged Illegal Juice Factory in Badagry, Arrests Two Women

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NSCDC Busts Alleged Illegal Juice Factory in Badagry, Arrests Two Women

LAGOS — Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, have uncovered an alleged illegal juice production facility in Aradagun, Badagry, and arrested two women in connection with the operation.

The facility, located on Talabi Onilegbale Street in Aradagun, Olorunda Local Council Development Area, was reportedly uncovered after about five days of surveillance following intelligence received by the Corps.

According to the NSCDC, the operation took place between Saturday, September 19, and Sunday, September 20, 2026.

The two suspects, aged 48 and 50, were reportedly arrested at the premises, where officers allegedly found cartons of a fruit drink branded Barkas Juice, production equipment, chemicals, drums, a gas cylinder and other materials.

The Corps alleged that the facility was not registered and that the product carried a purportedly fraudulent National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) registration number, 01-2166L.

NSCDC spokesman in Lagos, Oluwaseun Abolurin, said the Corps contacted NAFDAC to verify the registration details and was informed that the product was not registered.

The NSCDC further alleged that the juice was produced using water, synthetic flavourings, industrial sweeteners, colourants, dyes and other additives instead of real fruit. The Corps described the alleged production conditions as a public health concern.

A truck reportedly loaded with the products was also found at the premises, while cartons of the drink and rolls of product labels were seen inside the building. The NSCDC said the products were allegedly being distributed to markets in Lagos, Edo State and other parts of the country.

The operation reportedly encountered resistance from some youths in the area, prompting security personnel to strengthen their operation with assistance from the Nigerian Army.

However, one of the arrested women, identified by The Guardian as Morenikeji Alawiye, gave a different account. She reportedly said the business was established by her grandmother and had operated for nearly two decades. She also claimed that efforts were underway to regularise the business with NAFDAC before her arrest.

The NSCDC said investigations are ongoing and that the suspects are expected to face prosecution in accordance with the law. The Corps also said it would work with NAFDAC and other relevant agencies on the matter.

Consumers are advised to exercise caution and verify the registration status of packaged food and drinks before purchasing them.

Olejeme Sends Message of Love, Hope to Igbo Women, Calls for Unity and Empowerment

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Olejeme Sends Message of Love, Hope to Igbo Women, Calls for Unity and Empowerment

Dr. Mrs Ngozi Olejeme has called on Igbo women to remain united, hopeful and committed to supporting one another, stressing the importance of women’s inclusion and empowerment in the development of families and society.

Olejeme made the call in a message addressed to Igbo women, members of the Dr. Ngozi Olejeme Igbo Ladies Support Forum (DNOILS), Tinubu Torch Bearers (TTB) and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across Nigeria.

In the message, titled “A Message of Love and Hope,” Olejeme acknowledged the contributions of women to their families, businesses and communities, describing them as the “backbone” of their homes and communities.

She commended members of her support groups for what she described as their commitment, sacrifice and grassroots activities, particularly in promoting messages associated with the Tinubu administration and the APC.

“My beloved Igbo women, you are the backbone of our homes, the strength of our markets and the wisdom of our communities,” Olejeme said.

She expressed solidarity with women facing economic and social challenges, assuring them that their concerns and aspirations remained important.

Olejeme also urged women to continue to promote unity, love and peaceful engagement while praying for the President, peace in the South-East and stability across Nigeria.

According to her, women should remain hopeful about greater inclusion, recognition and empowerment, adding that no woman, including Igbo women, should be left behind in the nation’s development.

She further thanked members of DNOILS, Tinubu Torch Bearers and the APC for their support and described their grassroots activities as a demonstration of commitment to their respective causes.

Olejeme is currently National Coordinator of the Tinubu Torch Bearers, a grassroots political mobilisation group. She was also recently named South-South Zonal Director for Election Planning, Coordination and Mobilisation in the APC’s 2027 Presidential Campaign Council.

She concluded her message by calling for continued unity and solidarity among women while expressing her commitment to working with them.

The message was issued by the Dr. Ngozi Olejeme Media Team.

Igbuzo Eze Title Undergoes Major Reforms to Restore Prestige, Strengthen Institution

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Igbuzo Eze Title Undergoes Major Reforms to Restore Prestige, Strengthen Institution

The Eze title in Igbuzo Kingdom is undergoing a major transformation following a series of reforms initiated by prominent title holders and stakeholders to restore its prestige, strengthen its institutional structure and preserve its cultural significance.

The reform efforts are being led by Obi (Dr.) Henry Chukwuma Ajudua, in collaboration with respected members of the Eze fraternity, including Obi Atuche and other stakeholders.

For generations, the Eze title has been regarded in Igbuzo as a highly prestigious traditional honour, traditionally associated with achievement, leadership, integrity, community service and personal accomplishment.

Many distinguished sons of the community have historically aspired to the title after making notable contributions in business, public service, professional careers and community development.

However, concerns over what some stakeholders described as a perceived decline in the exclusivity and prestige of the title have prompted calls for reforms aimed at strengthening its standards and protecting its cultural value.

Dr. Ajudua, who was conferred with the Eze title about two years ago, subsequently began championing initiatives aimed at repositioning the institution and restoring confidence in its processes.

A major milestone in the reform process was the formal registration of the association of Eze title holders with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

Stakeholders said the registration provides the body with a formal legal and administrative structure, while also paving the way for more organised coordination of its activities.

As part of the restructuring, a constitution has also been developed to guide the activities of the association and establish procedures and standards for individuals seeking admission into the body.

According to stakeholders, the new framework is intended to ensure that prospective title holders meet clearly defined requirements and demonstrate qualities considered worthy of the prestigious traditional institution.

The reforms are also expected to promote accountability, unity and responsible conduct among members while preserving the cultural values associated with the Eze title.

Members of the Eze title holders’ body said the objective goes beyond restoring the former prestige of the title, stressing that the ultimate goal is to establish a sustainable institution that can retain its relevance and integrity for future generations.

They further noted that a stronger institutional framework would help ensure that the Eze title remains associated with excellence, community service, leadership and cultural identity.

The ongoing reforms have generated optimism among some residents and stakeholders who believe that the restructuring could further strengthen the standing of the Eze institution in Igbuzo Kingdom.

If sustained, the initiative could mark a significant chapter in the evolution of the Eze title, while reinforcing its place within the traditional and cultural heritage of Igbuzo and Anioma.

Pastor Idowu Okeze Earns Praise for Transforming Lives Through Youth Empowerment in Igbuzo

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Pastor Idowu Okeze Earns Praise for Transforming Lives Through Youth Empowerment in Igbuzo

IGBUZO, DELTA STATE — Community leaders, youths and residents of Igbuzo have commended Pastor Idowu Daniel Chukwudi Okeze, popularly known as Upke Igbuzo, for his reported contributions to youth empowerment, skills acquisition and human capital development in the community.

According to findings gathered  during an independent community assessment, a number of youths who benefited from empowerment and skills acquisition programmes facilitated by Pastor Okeze through Federal Government intervention programmes have gone on to establish businesses and pursue various forms of self-employment.

Some beneficiaries, residents said, have been able to improve their livelihoods, support their families and contribute to economic activities within the community.

Residents who spoke on the initiatives attributed the impact of the programmes to Pastor Okeze’s efforts in connecting members of the community with empowerment opportunities, vocational training and other skills-development initiatives.

They described the initiatives as particularly valuable at a time when many young people continue to face challenges relating to unemployment and limited access to economic opportunities.

One community stakeholder said Pastor Okeze had consistently demonstrated an interest in the development of Igbuzo and the advancement of its people.

“Igbuzo is truly blessed to have a personality like Pastor Idowu Okeze. He is a man who constantly thinks about the progress of his people, dreams about a better Igbuzo, and works tirelessly to ensure that the community takes its rightful place among leading towns in the country,” the stakeholder said.

Residents also pointed to Pastor Okeze’s traditional title, Upkechukwunyali Igbuzo, as symbolic of his perceived commitment to community service and development.

They said his activities have reached people across different age groups and parts of the community, with particular emphasis on youth empowerment, skills development and opportunities for self-reliance.

As more beneficiaries share accounts of how they have used skills and empowerment opportunities to improve their livelihoods, supporters of Pastor Okeze say his contributions represent an important aspect of community development.

They maintained that sustained investment in skills acquisition and economic empowerment can help young people become more productive and contribute to the wider development of Igbuzo.

For many residents, Pastor Okeze’s involvement in empowerment initiatives has become part of his broader contribution to the community, particularly in the areas of youth development and human capital development.

APC Youth Leaders Rally Behind Abuah to Strengthen Oshimili North Grassroots

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APC Youth Leaders Rally Behind Abuah to Strengthen Oshimili North Grassroots

IBUSA, Delta State — Youth leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the 10 wards of Oshimili North Local Government Area have met with the Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Youth Mobilization, Hon. Chief Lucky Abuah, in a move aimed at strengthening grassroots engagement and youth participation in the party.

The delegation, led by the APC Oshimili North Youth Leader, Comrade Ikechukwu Chukwurah, paid a courtesy and strategic visit to Abuah, popularly known as “Bullet Empire,” to discuss ways of fostering unity among party youths, deepening grassroots mobilization and encouraging greater participation in political and community development activities.

Speaking during the meeting, Chukwurah described Abuah as a committed party stalwart whose experience and leadership could contribute significantly to building a stronger youth structure across Oshimili North.

He emphasized the importance of sustained youth participation in democratic and party activities, urging young members to remain actively engaged in initiatives that promote the growth of the party and development of their communities.

The youth leader also appealed to Abuah to continue supporting programmes focused on sensitizing, empowering and mobilizing young people to take active roles in governance and community development.

Responding, Abuah commended the ward youth leaders for their commitment to the APC and their efforts toward strengthening the party’s grassroots presence across the local government area.

He said youths occupy an important position in Nigeria’s democratic development and should remain organized, focused and committed to constructive engagement that promotes good governance and societal progress.

Abuah noted that his role as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Mobilization provides an avenue to support youth-focused programmes, encourage civic participation and promote initiatives aimed at empowering young people across Delta State.

He also highlighted what he described as developmental achievements recorded under the administration of the Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Innocent Esewezie, saying various projects and programmes have continued to impact residents across communities in the council area.

The Governor’s aide assured the youth leaders of his readiness to collaborate with them in strengthening the party’s grassroots structure, promoting youth inclusion and encouraging wider participation in political and developmental activities.

Goodwill messages and prayers were also offered during the meeting, while the APC Ward 9 Youth Leader, Comrade Ntoka Ikechukwu Daniel, who represented Okpanam/Ugbolu Ward 9, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to interact with the SSA.

The meeting ended with renewed commitment among the youth leaders to work collectively toward strengthening the APC’s grassroots presence, fostering unity among members and expanding youth participation across Oshimili North Local Government Area.

Court Fixes October 26 to Rule on El-Rufai’s No-Case Submission in Phone-Tapping Trial

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Court Fixes October 26 to Rule on El-Rufai’s No-Case Submission in Phone-Tapping Trial

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has fixed October 26, 2026, to rule on a no-case submission filed by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, in the ongoing trial over alleged unlawful interception of telephone communications.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik fixed the date after hearing arguments from both the defence and prosecution on whether El-Rufai has a case to answer.

El-Rufai’s counsel, Paul Erokoro, SAN, urged the court to uphold the no-case submission, arguing that the evidence presented by the Department of State Services (DSS) was insufficient to establish a prima facie case against the former governor.

The defence maintained that the prosecution had failed to present evidence strong enough to require El-Rufai to open a defence.

However, counsel to the DSS, Oluwole Aladedoye, SAN, opposed the application and urged the court to dismiss it.

The prosecution argued that sufficient evidence had been presented to warrant the former governor being called upon to defend himself.

A key issue in the proceedings was Exhibit B, which the prosecution said contained an alleged admission by El-Rufai concerning the interception of a telephone conversation involving National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

The DSS instituted the case after El-Rufai, during a television interview, said that he and another person had listened to a telephone conversation involving Ribadu. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Earlier in the proceedings, the prosecution closed its case after informing the court that it would not call additional witnesses. The development prompted the defence to file the no-case submission.

The court’s October 26 ruling will determine whether the prosecution’s evidence is sufficient for the former governor to be required to enter a defence or whether the case will be dismissed at that stage.

El-Rufai remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a competent court.

Oluremi Tinubu at 66: ACNPN Celebrate First Lady’s Service, Compassion and Commitment to Nigerians

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Oluremi Tinubu at 66: ACNPN Celebrate First Lady’s Service, Compassion and Commitment to Nigerians

The Publisher of Newsbreeze Magazine and Delta State Chairman of the Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (ACNPN), Comrade Ike Philip Abiagom, has felicitated with the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and National Chairman of the Renewed Hope Initiative, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, OON, on the occasion of her 66th birthday.

In a goodwill message issued on behalf of himself, the management of Newsbreeze Magazine and members of ACNPN, Abiagom described Senator Oluremi Tinubu as a distinguished stateswoman, compassionate mother and advocate for vulnerable Nigerians.

He commended her contributions to humanitarian initiatives, particularly efforts focused on women, children, youths, widows, farmers, persons living with disabilities and other vulnerable members of society.

According to him, Senator Tinubu’s journey from education and public administration to becoming First Lady of Lagos State, a three-term Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and First Lady of Nigeria reflects a long career in public service.

Abiagom also highlighted her advocacy for education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, youth development and social welfare, noting that her various platforms have provided opportunities for people across different communities.

He further acknowledged Senator Tinubu’s role as the wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that she has remained supportive of the President throughout his decades of public service.

“Your life of service, faith and commitment to humanity continues to inspire many Nigerians. Your compassion and dedication to uplifting vulnerable citizens remain worthy of recognition,” Abiagom stated.

He prayed that God would continue to grant the First Lady good health, wisdom, strength and divine protection as she marks her 66th birthday.

He also wished her many more years of fulfilment, peace and continued service to humanity and the nation.

“Happy 66th birthday, Your Excellency. Congratulations and best wishes as you celebrate another year of life and service,” Abiagom said.

Signed:
Ike Philip Abiagom
Publisher, Newsbreeze Magazine
State Chairman, Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (ACNPN), Delta State Council

Niger Mining Tragedy: Survivor Links IBB to Mine as Ex-Ruler Denies Ownership

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Niger Mining Tragedy: Survivor Links IBB to Mine as Ex-Ruler Denies Ownership

A survivor of the Niger State mining tragedy has alleged that the gold-mining site where suspected illegal miners were arrested belonged to former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB).

The allegation emerged following the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

The survivor, identified as Malam Babawo Tudun Nasera, made the claim while recounting the arrest and death of his 17-year-old brother, Salim, who was among those detained by NSCDC personnel.

According to reports, Nasera said the miners were working at the site when security officials arrived and ordered them to stop.

He alleged that the miners continued working because, according to him, the person he identified as the owner had instructed them to continue.

When asked who owned the site, Nasera identified the person as Babangida and subsequently confirmed that he meant former military Head of State Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida.

However, the ownership allegation has not been independently verified.

It is also unclear whether the survivor was referring to ownership of the mining operation, a mining licence or lease, the land on which the site is located, or another form of association.

IBB denies allegation

Reacting to the report, Babangida, through his representative, Dr Danladi Umar Abdulhameed, denied any connection with the mining operation.

Abdulhameed described the allegation as false and without foundation, insisting that Babangida had no connection whatsoever with the mining operation in question.

He also called for the report to be corrected and urged the public to disregard the allegation.

The conflicting accounts come as authorities investigate the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who were detained by the NSCDC following an enforcement operation against suspected illegal mining in Niger State.

Survivors have separately alleged that detainees were held in overcrowded conditions and struggled to breathe inside the detention facility. One survivor also alleged that an unidentified substance was sprayed inside the cell. These allegations have not been established as the cause of the deaths.

Authorities have yet to establish the definitive cause of death.

The Niger State Government has constituted an investigative committee to determine what happened and establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The Ministry of Interior has also suspended the NSCDC Niger State Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, pending investigation into the incident.

As investigations continue, the alleged ownership of the mining site, the circumstances surrounding the miners’ arrest and detention, and the actual cause of the 37 deaths remain subjects of official scrutiny.

Appeal Court Restores NDC Registration, Clears Way for 2027 Polls

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Appeal Court Restores NDC Registration, Clears Way for 2027 Polls

The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has overturned the Federal High Court judgment in Lokoja, Kogi State, which had voided the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a political party.

In a split 2–1 decision delivered on Friday, September 18, 2026, the appellate court set aside the lower court’s judgment and upheld the NDC’s registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The case followed a June 2026 judgment by the Federal High Court in Lokoja, which had set aside an earlier December 10, 2025 judgment directing INEC to register the NDC.

The lower court’s decision followed an application by the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which argued that it had an interest in the dispute over the party’s logo and ought to have been joined in the original proceedings.

Justice Isah Dashen of the Federal High Court had consequently ordered that the matter be heard afresh with the relevant parties joined.

Dissatisfied with the ruling, the NDC appealed to the Court of Appeal.

In Friday’s decision, the majority justices, Mohammed Danjuma and Muslim Sule Hassan, allowed the NDC’s appeal and set aside the Lokoja judgment.

The appellate court held, among other things, that the lower court had improperly sat in judgment over its own earlier decision. It also rejected the contention surrounding the NDC’s party logo.

However, Justice Okon Abang, the third member of the panel, dissented and upheld the lower court’s position.

Reacting to the judgment, NDC National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, welcomed the decision, saying it had upheld the party’s status as a registered political party and protected its participation in the democratic process.

The ruling comes as political parties prepare for the 2027 general elections, with the NDC having already nominated candidates for various elective positions.

The latest judgment represents a significant development in the legal dispute over the NDC’s registration, although the details and implications of the court’s enrolled judgment will remain important for the electoral process.

For now, the Court of Appeal’s majority ruling has overturned the Federal High Court decision that had voided the NDC’s registration.

2027: Minnie Igbrude Takes TTBI Delta Grassroots Campaign for Mary Alile Idele, Renewed Hope to the Next Level

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2027: Minnie Igbrude Takes TTBI Delta Grassroots Campaign for Mary Alile Idele, Renewed Hope to the Next Level

Grassroots mobilisation, women’s participation and policy communication take centre stage as Tinubu Torchbearers Initiative expands its activities in Delta State

Dame Princess Minnie Igbrude PhD, Coordinator of the Tinubu Torchbearers Initiative (TTBI), Delta State Chapter, popularly known as Campaign Kitchen, is leading the initiative’s grassroots activities in the state as the 2027 general elections draw closer.

The activities of the Tinubu Torchbearers Initiative have focused on grassroots mobilisation, women and youth participation, political awareness and the communication of policies associated with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Igbrude’s role in Delta forms part of the wider activities of the initiative, which supporters say seeks to take political and policy discussions beyond formal party meetings and into communities and organised groups.

Mary Alile Idele’s National Women Leadership Role

A central figure in the initiative’s national structure is Dr. Mary Alile Idele, who currently serves as the National Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The APC’s official website lists Idele as National Women Leader and says she is known for promoting women’s participation in politics and governance.

For supporters of TTBI, her position provides a national platform for discussions around women’s political participation, grassroots organisation and engagement in democratic processes.

In Delta State, Igbrude has continued to promote the activities of the initiative while encouraging women, youths and community stakeholders to remain informed and involved in political and civic discussions.

TTBI Delta Takes Its Message to the Grassroots

The Tinubu Torchbearers Initiative has presented grassroots engagement as an important part of its activities, with the Delta chapter focusing on community-level interaction and communication.

Under Igbrude’s coordination, the chapter’s stated areas of emphasis include women and youth participation, political awareness, voter education and communication of government policies.

The approach is aimed at encouraging citizens to better understand issues affecting the country while participating in the democratic process.

As political activities surrounding the 2027 elections increase, political parties and support groups are expected to intensify their engagement with voters and community organisations.

Highlighting the Renewed Hope Agenda

Another major component of the message being promoted by TTBI supporters is the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

In his May 29, 2026 third-anniversary address, President Tinubu said more than 2,700 kilometres of highways and major roads were under construction, reconstruction or rehabilitation.

The President also stated that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund had provided more than 1.5 million students with access to higher education, with more than ₦282 billion disbursed.

Other areas highlighted by the Presidency include rail modernisation, agriculture, power, housing, healthcare and digital development. These government-reported initiatives form part of the policy record that supporters of the administration seek to communicate to citizens.

However, the figures and achievements cited in political communication are government-reported claims and should be understood within that context.

Women and Grassroots Political Participation

Women’s participation remains a significant component of TTBI’s activities in Delta State.

The initiative advocates greater involvement of women in political education, mobilisation, leadership and community development.

The APC’s published policy framework also identifies women’s political and economic inclusion as an important component of its Renewed Hope policy platform.

Through TTBI, supporters say women should be encouraged to understand public policies, engage their communities and participate meaningfully in Nigeria’s democratic process.

Connecting Nigerians at Home and Abroad

The initiative’s activities also extend to Nigerians in the Diaspora, providing a platform for supporters to remain connected to political and development issues in Nigeria.

Supporters of the movement say communicating Nigeria’s development efforts internationally should involve presenting verifiable information about government programmes while also recognising the challenges facing citizens.

Looking Ahead to 2027

With the 2027 general elections approaching, TTBI Delta is expected to continue its grassroots activities, with Igbrude encouraging members to remain organised and engaged.

The focus includes strengthening community networks, encouraging responsible political participation and communicating information about policies and programmes associated with the Tinubu administration.

For the Delta chapter, grassroots engagement provides an avenue for members to interact with communities while promoting the political message of the initiative.

Recognition of Mary Alile Idele

The activities of TTBI Delta also draw attention to the role of Dr. Mary Alile Idele as APC National Women Leader and a national figure associated with the Tinubu Torchbearers Initiative.

Supporters commend her leadership and her involvement in promoting women’s participation in political activities.

The APC’s current national leadership listing confirms Idele as National Women Leader.

For Igbrude and members of TTBI Delta, the focus ahead of 2027 is on strengthening grassroots structures, expanding engagement and communicating the administration’s policies to citizens.

The Road Ahead

As political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to develop, the Tinubu Torchbearers Initiative is positioning its Delta chapter around grassroots mobilisation, women’s participation and political communication.

Under the coordination of Dame Princess Minnie Igbrude PhD, the Delta chapter says it will continue engaging communities and promoting awareness of policies associated with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The initiative’s activities also continue to highlight the leadership of Dr. Mary Alile Idele within the APC and the broader political engagement of women across Nigeria.

For TTBI Delta, the coming months will provide further opportunities for grassroots engagement as political conversations surrounding the 2027 elections intensify.

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