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Eredo Council boss vows crackdown on traffic offenders in Lagos

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Crackdown on traffic offenders in Lagos

The Chairman of Eredo Local Council Development Area, LCDA, in Epe Division of Lagos State, Monsuru Akinloye, has cautioned motorists within the council against driving against traffic, popularly known as “one-way driving.”

Mr Akinloye, who issued the warning during a press briefing at the council secretariat in Eredo-Epe on Thursday, said the reckless practice would no longer be condoned.

He stressed that violators would be promptly arrested and prosecuted under existing traffic laws.

According to him, one-way driving constitutes a grave threat to lives, disrupts the smooth flow of traffic, and puts both drivers and pedestrians at risk.

“Driving against traffic is not only unlawful but a highly dangerous act capable of causing preventable accidents and needless loss of lives. As a responsible government, we remain committed to safeguarding all road users,” he stated.

The council chairman urged commercial and private drivers, as well as residents of the area, to embrace discipline on the road by strictly observing traffic rules. He emphasized that adherence to traffic laws is a collective responsibility that guarantees safer roads for everyone.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safety, order, and sustainable development.

Akinloye said his policies align with the THEMES agenda of Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat.

He appealed to motorists to drive responsibly, obey traffic regulations, and contribute to creating a safer transportation environment within Eredo LCDA.

DAILY POST recalls a deadly accident on September 1 at Ibeju Bus Stop, along the Lekki/Epe Expressway, killed six people and left nine others injured.

Credit: dailypost.ng

 

Benue Assembly dissolves leadership, appoints new principal officers

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Benue State House of Assembly

The Benue State House of Assembly has announced a change in its leadership, dissolving the former principal officers and appointing new ones to major positions.

According to a statement issued on Thursday, September 11, 2025, by Zape Michael Upaa, Press Secretary to the Speaker, Thomas Dugeri is now the Majority Leader, while Abraham Jabi takes over as Deputy Majority Leader.

Cyril Ikong has been named Majority Chief Whip and Simon Gabo becomes the Deputy Majority Whip.

On the minority side, Abu Umoro assumes the role of Minority Leader, with Cephase Dyako as Deputy Minority Leader. Samuel Jiji has been appointed Minority Whip, and Moses Egbodo will serve as Deputy Minority Whip.

The statement added that more details on the reorganisation will be made public in due course.

Credit: dailypost.ng

Police Arrest Self-Acclaimed ‘Obi Of Lagos’ Over ‘Unlawful’ Installation

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Arrest

Police authorities in Lagos State have arrested one self-acclaimed “Obi of Lagos” along with three accomplices over an alleged illegal installation.

“The principal suspect, Engr. Chibuike Azubike ‘m’, aged 65 years, an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom, Ideato North LGA of Imo State, was arrested alongside three co-conspirators: Chief Chibuzor Ani ‘m’, aged 57 years; Chief Martins Nwaodika ‘m’, aged 65 years; and Mr. Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi ‘m’, aged 41 years. All four suspects are presently in custody at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters, Ikeja,” the deputy spokesman of the Lagos Police Command, Babaseyi Oluseyi, wrote in a statement on Thursday.

Oluseyi disclosed that the group had finalized arrangements to unveil a prototype of a purported ₦1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin.

But operatives foiled their attempt to carry out the installation ceremony.

“Acting on this information, the police promptly sealed off the venue in order to forestall any breach of the peace and to protect unsuspecting members of the public from being misled,” the statement read in part.

“The suspects are currently in detention and investigation is progressing into their nefarious activities. The outcome of the investigation will be made public, and they will be charged to court accordingly,” the police said.

In the wake of the incident, the Lagos State Police Command Commissioner, Olohundare Jimoh, warned the public against impostors who attempt to exploit revered cultural and traditional institutions for selfish gains.

Jimoh described such actions as unlawful, contrary to the statutes of Lagos State, and capable of breaching the peace of the society.

Credit: channelstv.com

INEC decries ‘Premature’ campaigns by politicians, parties

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INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has faulted what it described as “premature” campaigns by political parties and candidates in the lead up to the 2027 elections.

INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, who spoke at a One-Day Stakeholders’ Roundtable on Premature Political Campaigns organized by The Electoral Institute (TEI) at its headquarters in Abuja, highlighted the commission’s major challenge in tackling the issue: a gap in the electoral legal framework.

Citing Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which stipulates the 150-day campaign period, Yakubu revealed that “there is no sanction whatsoever concerning breaches for campaigns earlier than 150 days to an election. Here lies the challenge for the Commission.”

The INEC chief said the actions, “undermine the Commission’s ability to track campaign finance limits as politicians, prospective candidates, and third-party agents expend large amounts of money that cannot be effectively monitored.”

In his keynote address at the event, a former INEC chairman, Attahiru Jega described premature campaigns as a “serious threat to elections” that “undermine the integrity of the entire electoral process.”

Jega was particularly critical of the use of third-party groups and incumbent officials.

The former INEC chief said, “premature election campaigns are actually being perpetrated by premature democrats,” and proposed that “all candidates and their parties, and especially incumbent office holders and their political parties, should be vicariously held responsible and penalized for premature campaigns for them by third parties.”

The roundtable featured presentations from the Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, the Inspector General of Police, and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), alongside contributions from the IPAC Chairman.

Meanwhile, INEC has  recognised the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by a former senate president, David Mark.

Credit: channelstv.com

Illegal sand winning wreaking havoc along Lower Volta -JSC Mediterranean Ghana 

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Illegal sand winning

JSC Mediterranean Ghana, a leading dredging company contracted to undertake restoration works on the Lower Volta, is raising alarm over rampant illegal sand winning activities along the river, warning of devastating environmental and health consequences for local communities.

At a press conference held in Accra on Tuesday, the Managing Director of JSC Mediterranean Ghana, Professor Albert Tsolu, called on the government, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Volta River Authority (VRA) to intensify enforcement operations to halt these illegal activities.

According to him, unchecked sand winning is not only destroying the ecosystem but also endangering the health and livelihoods of communities along the Lower Volta.

“These illegal sand winners are operating with augmented unprofessionalism by broadening and deepening the riverbed to unimaginable levels. This is dangerous to inhabitants who rely on the river for daily survival,” Prof. Tsolu stated.

He further cautioned that the degraded riverbanks and polluted water bodies pose serious health threats, including an increased risk of diseases like bilharzia and river blindness, which are transmitted through waterborne vectors thriving in disrupted aquatic environments.

JSC Mediterranean Ghana is currently executing a 10-year dredging contract awarded by the VRA.

Prof. Tsolu expressed optimism that the project, once fully operational, will help curb illegal sand winning and restore the health of the river ecosystem.

“The dredging project will enable free flow of water, clear clogged river channels and tributaries, and eliminate submerged and floating vegetation. This will ease water access, restore commercial fishing and support safe water transport between the southern and northern sections of the Volta River,” he explained.

He also noted that the project will create an unfavourable habitat for bilharzia-causing snails, helping prevent the spread of waterborne diseases in affected communities.

However, Prof. Tsolu expressed concern that the success of the dredging project is being undermined by continued illegal operations by some companies.

He singled out Z&J 198 Ghana Ltd and Sparking Shovels Ltd, accusing them of flouting directives to cease operations despite having lost out in a prior tender process.

“It’s disheartening to see government project contractors purchasing sand from these illegal operators. This practice is not only illegal but also acts as a disincentive to the dredging initiative meant to benefit the same communities,” he lamented.

JSC Mediterranean Ghana is therefore calling on authorities to urgently act to protect the Lower Volta, warning that failure to clamp down on the illegal trade will have long-term consequences on water quality, public health, and the sustainability of the river ecosystem.

Prof. Tsolu reaffirmed the company’s commitment to restoring the Lower Volta and ensuring that the region reaps the full benefits of a healthy, navigable and productive waterway.

Newmont Drives its Inclusion and Diversity Agenda as Ahafo North Graduates its First Female Dozer Operators

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First cohort of eight female dozer operators at Ahafo North

In a groundbreaking moment for gender inclusion in the mining industry, Newmont’s Ahafo North project has proudly graduated its first cohort of eight female Dozer Operators, marking a significant stride toward building a more diverse and equitable workforce in the industry.

Charles Bissue, General Manager for Ahafo North

The graduation ceremony, held at the Ahafo North site, celebrated the successful completion of a rigorous 10-month training programme under the D10T & 844K Beneficiary Mastery Programme. The programme is designed to equip trainees with technical skills, safety awareness, and operational competencies required to support mining operations at the highest standards.

“This is not just a graduation; it’s a historic achievement,” said General Manager for Ahafo North, Charles Bissue. ‘’We are proud to invest in our people, but even prouder to see them excel. These women are pioneers. They challenged themselves, endured a rigorous training programme, broke barriers, and emerged as certified dozer operators. Their determination has not only inspired us; it has set a new standard for what inclusion in mining can be. We are incredibly proud of their resilience, commitment, and excellence.’’

The training programme combined simulator-based learning, theoretical instruction, and hands-on experience with specialized equipment. It also incorporated the Minerals Commission’s certified Dozer Operator modules, ensuring that trainees received a comprehensive and industry-recognized training.

Each graduate was awarded a Certificate of Competency from Newmont, signifying their readiness to operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently in a mining environment.

In 2021, the Ahafo North project set a gender parity target in line with its Inclusion and Diversity agenda to make Ahafo North the most inclusive and diverse workplace in Newmont. The Director, People, Mina Duah said to achieve this target meant bold steps and intentional action.

‘’This graduation is a major milestone towards that vision as we present to you our first eight female Dozer Operators. We see the results of that commitment. These eight women are not just operators; they are role models for the next generation of women in mining.”

The graduation is a key milestone in Newmont’s broader Inclusion and Diversity strategy in the mining industry. It also reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to create meaningful opportunities for women in traditionally male-dominated fields.

President Mahama Kicks-Off Ghana Premier League Today

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Hohoe United

The President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama would today kick-off the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season when Hearts of Oak welcome newcomers Hohoe United FC to the Accra Sports Stadium.

Aduana FC players

President Mahama is the official Guest of Honour and will take the official kick-off to herald the start of the 2025/26 League season. There would also be a live performance from Dancehall artist Stonebwoy, to add showbiz to sports.

Basake Holy Stars FC players

Before the Hearts, Hohoe United game, there would be a curtain raiser between Black Starlets and Auroras (Hearts U-20 team).

Bechem United players

Last season’s Ghana Premier League was a true roller-coaster, with inconsistent performances across board. Bibiani Gold Stars defied the odds to emerge champions, and they will now set their sights on defending their crown.

Berekum Chelsea FC

The two traditional giants; Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko; finished 3rd and 4th respectively. While not the dominant force fans expected, they still managed to stay in the top four.

Dreams FC

The biggest surprise came from Hearts of Lions, who shocked football lovers with a 2nd-place finish, signaling that Ghanaian football has moved beyond the era of one or two dominant clubs; now, anything is possible.

FC Samartex players

Some heavyweights, however, underperformed. Defending champions FC Samartex finished 7th, while Medeama SC; winners just a year earlier; slipped to 8th. Both results disappointed fans who expected better from sides with championship pedigree.

At the other end of the table, Accra Lions, Legon Cities, and Nsoatreman were relegated. Nsoatreman’s case was particularly tragic, as the club was banned following a violent incident during a home game against Kotoko, which resulted in the killing of a devoted Kotoko supporter, Francis Yaw Frimpong, popularly known as Pooley.

Karela United players

Replacing them this season are newly promoted Hohoe United, Eleven Wonders, and Swedru All Blacks FC, who will be eager to make their mark in the top flight. With new signings and fresh managers also stepping in, this campaign promises to be one of the most competitive yet.

Players to watch

Benjamin Asare (Hearts of Oak)

The 34-year-old goalkeeper has become the heartbeat of Hearts of Oak. His consistency last season earned him a Black Stars call-up, and his outstanding displays in World Cup qualifiers against Mali cemented his reputation as one of Ghana’s finest.

Hearts of Oak players

Joining Hearts from Great Olympics in 2024/25, Asare has been a rock at the back and will be crucial if the Phobians are to mount a title challenge.

Albert Amoah (Asante kotoko)

At just 24, the Porcupine Warriors forward is one of the most exciting attackers in the league.

Asante Kotoko players

After arriving from Great Olympics last season, he finished as the second-highest scorer with 12 goals and played a key role in Kotoko’s strong FA Cup run that secured them CAF Confederation Cup qualification. Young, clinical, and hungry, Amoah is expected to be even more dangerous this term.

Samuel Atta Kumi (Bibiani Gold Stars)

Gold Stars’ title-winning campaign was powered by the goals of Atta Kumi, who scored 11 to finish 3rd in the Golden Boot race.

Bibiani Gold Stars players

A poacher with a sharp eye for goal, he has carried his fine form into pre-season, scoring in back-to-back matches during the GHALCA Top 4. Expect him to spearhead Gold Stars’ title defense.

Teams to watch

Hearts of Oak

Under new coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani, the Phobians look revived. Despite losing early on to Kotoko, they bounced back with victories against Accra Lions in the Homowo Cup and Kotoko again in the GHALCA Top 4. With key additions like Abdul Karim (free agent from Bechem United) and loan returnees Frimpong Isaac and Asante Gideon, Hearts have depth and ambition to fight for the title.

Asante Kotoko

Kotoko endured a frustrating campaign last season, and fans have not spared head Coach Karim Zito from criticism. Determined to bounce back, the Porcupine Warriors have strengthened with Hamzata Musa (Accra Lions) and free agents Asare Fredrick (Durban City) and Donzo Morifing (Hafia). With Albert Amoah leading their attack, Kotoko remain a powerhouse capable of challenging anyone.

Bibiani Gold Stars

The defending champions, and recent GHALCA Top 4 winners, enter the season brimming with confidence. With continental football also on their schedule, Frimpong Manso’s men will gain invaluable experience in the CAF Champions League. Their strong squad depth and momentum make them genuine contenders to retain the league crown.

Early fixtures

Hearts of Oak

The league kicks-off with Hearts of Oak welcoming newly promoted Hohoe united. Hearts coach Didi Dramani has been impressive and would be looking forward to start the season with a win. Although Hohoe United is a newly promoted side, they can’t be underestimated.

Asante Kotoko

The Berekum Chelsea and Asante Kotoko match has got fans talking, as matches between these two teams has resulted in some humiliating outcomes. They have played 24 matches against Asante Kotoko, winning 10, Berekum Chelsea also winning 7 and 7 matches ended in a draw. Kotoko would be looking forward to replicate what they did last season.

Bibiani Gold Stars

One of the fixtures which have also caught the attention of many is that of the defending champions Bibiani Gold Stars and Bechem United. The GHALCA Top 4 champions of 2025, and the league winners would be looking forward to start their campaign with a win at home. Although Bibiana have being impressive of late, Bechem United can’t be underestimated as they would give the champions a tough time.

Sponsors

The GFA president, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku announced at the launch of the partnership with Adesa Production, announcing that each of the 18 clubs playing in the league would receive a million Ghana cedis before the start of the season.

Medeama SC
Techiman Eleven Wonders FC players

He also added that clubs would be given a reasonable amount of money based on their finish in the league log; promoting healthy completion and encouraging teams to strive for excellence.

Young Apostles FC players

Conclusion

With the new partnership and initiative put in place, this season would be fascinating and more enjoyable than previous seasons. New signings would also be looking forward to make their impact felt. The issue of hooliganism which took a drastic turn last season should be checked.

Nations FC
Vision FC

The GFA should put in measures that would eradicate the rise of hooliganism in the competition. Fans should also desist from just behaviors, as football is a sport that brings people together.

By Jesse Otoo

Movie Making Is Not About Having A Fine Face – Kanayo O. Kanayo 

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Kanayo O Kanayo

Popular Nollywood actor, Kanayo O. Kanayo has voiced strong concerns about the direction of the Nigerian movie industry, especially on YouTube, where he says casting is now focused on popularity and looks instead of real acting skills.

In a video posted on his social media pages, the actor said he has chosen to change his own approach. “I have decided to take my destiny in my own hands as it pertains to my platform on YouTube,” Kanayo declared.

“Movie making is not about having a fine face, it’s about being a good actor, a good performer. So, with or without a fine face, that’s what I’ve decided to do. If you don’t like it, well, that’s quite unfortunate.

“There was an incident many years ago when we were trying to bring up this Nollywood business, about 25 years ago. Some sponsors woke up and started branding actors: ‘this one is not a good one, this one does not sell films.’ They killed the careers of those guys,” he said.

The actor explained that YouTube producers are now creating a similar problem by giving roles only to a small circle of actors.

“Such a thing is beginning to rear its ugly head again. The acclaimed YouTube faces are beginning to bring up the same thing, killing talents in the industry,” he lamented.

He added that this “monopoly of faces” makes it hard to sustain creativity and encourage new performers.

“Some of these guys will tell you they are not free from September 2025 till August 2026. How then do we sustain the content you watch? How do we create magic? How do we encourage new actors to come into the business?” Kanayo asked.

The Nollywood veteran stressed that he wants to be chosen for jobs because of ability, not popularity. “I don’t want any producer to call me for a job because I’m a selling face on any platform. Call me because I can deliver,” he said.

Although frustrated by the trend, the actor remains hopeful. “I don’t know why when things come to Nigeria, there’s always a somersault, and this somersault is happening now on YouTube. But I want to employ my life’s philosophy to say: this too shall pass,” he concluded.

Credit: peacefmonline.com

National Film Authority to hold first National Film Dialogue on September 16

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Executive Secretary of the NFA, Kafui Danku-Pitcher

The National Film Authority (NFA) will hold its maiden National Film Dialogue on 16th September 2025 at the Cedi Conference Centre, University of Ghana, Legon.

The event will bring together filmmakers, producers, distributors, policymakers, academics and international partners to accelerate the growth of Ghana’s film industry.

The Dialogue follows the inauguration of the NFA’s new Governing Board, which has outlined a vision to engage at least one percent of Ghana’s population, about 350,000 people, in strengthening the film sector.

According to the Authority, the transformation of the industry can only be achieved when both practitioners and audiences share ownership of its future.

“This Dialogue represents more than a conversation; it is the beginning of a structured national approach to rebuilding Ghana’s film industry,” said Mr Ivan Quashigah, Chairperson of the NFA Governing Board.

“By engaging at least 1% of our population, we are laying the groundwork for an industry that is not only vibrant and innovative but also deeply connected to its audiences.”

Executive Secretary of the NFA, Kafui Danku-Pitcher, highlighted the urgency of addressing long-standing setbacks.

“Ghanaian cinema has immense potential, but to unlock it, we must address challenges such as funding, infrastructure, and global market access. The National Film Dialogue provides a unique platform to pool ideas, forge partnerships, and create policies that will shape the industry for the next decade,” she said.

The one-day programme will feature panel discussions, keynote presentations and stakeholder consultations. Topics will include film financing, market access, the role of digital platforms, and strategies for building stronger connections with audiences in Ghana and the diaspora.

The Authority says the Dialogue will not be a one-off event but the beginning of a recurring space for accountability, collaboration and fresh thinking.

The maiden edition is expected to set the tone for a long-term national movement to position Ghanaian film on the global stage while keeping it rooted in local culture and stories.

Credit: myjoyonline.com

Poor service at tourist sites affecting tourism in Ghana –Mahama

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President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has voiced his disappointment with the majority of the nation’s tourist destinations for providing what he described as “poor” customer service.

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During his encounter with the media on September 10, 2025, President Mahama stated that one of the main challenges of the tourism industry is the majority of tourist destinations’ poor customer service.

He explained that majority of the nation’s tourism sites lack professionalism and quality service.

Drawing parallels, the President noted that the situation is different in other jurisdiction.

“One of the things that affects our tourism in Ghana and West Africa is that our service is poor. You go to a restaurant and they think that they are doing you favour. You go to eat and they think that they owe you to serve them.

“But if you go to another part of the world and it is different,” he said.

President Mahama, however, called on individuals in charge of tourist centers to improve their customer service delivery.

According to him, until there is a change, Ghana will not be able to attract tourists to its various centers.

“We must identify what the tourist sites are, improve their attractiveness, and also improve the service delivery.

“Most times, you will spend so much money to set up an establishment, and instead of going for professionals, you go and haul relatives from the village to serve people… Owners of these establishments should make sure service delivery is at nearly 100 percent,” he added.

Credit: 3news.com

The Ghanaian Chronicle