Grammy-winning Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy sent the crowd into a frenzy on Friday night after making an unannounced appearance during Shallipopi’s headline performance at the Iconiq Fest in Lagos.

The surprise moment unfolded at the Landmark Event Centre, where Burna Boy joined Shallipopi on stage during the closing segment of the rapper’s set.

Dressed casually, the global star instantly lifted the energy at the venue, turning the performance into what has since become the most talked-about moment of the festival’s three-day debut.

The duo thrilled fans with a live rendition of “Laho II (Remix)”, after which Burna Boy went on to perform his hit single “Dem Dey.” At one point, Shallipopi hailed Burna Boy as “ODG, the highest,” a remark that drew thunderous cheers from the packed audience.

Iconiq Fest ran from December 18 to 20, with Chike, BNXN and Shallipopi headlining across the three days. Other acts on the lineup included Famous Pluto and Zerry DL, as the festival carved out a strong place for itself in Lagos’ ever-growing “Detty December” calendar.

Organisers recorded a strong turnout throughout the event, with no major disruptions reported. Burna Boy’s unexpected appearance, however, stood out as the defining highlight, instantly dominating conversations on social media and among concertgoers.

In a December already filled with high-profile shows and musical comebacks, the unplanned collaboration served as a reminder that the most electric moments in live music are often the ones no one sees coming.

The post Burna Boy surprises Shallipopi at Lagos concert appeared first on Vanguard News.

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Kogi State Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, has assured the people of the state that his personnel will do everything under the law to ensure peace and safety during the Yuletide season.

CP Kankarofi, who stated this in a message signed by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP William Ovye Aya, solicited the cooperation of citizens to ease the police’s work in their respective communities.

“As we approach the joyous Christmas season and the New Year celebrations, the Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Police Command, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, psc, mni, urges the good people of Kogi State to partner with the Police and other security agencies in making this season a safe festive period for everyone.

“He further advised citizens to be wary of strangers loitering around their homes, businesses, and public places, saying that the people should report anyone acting suspiciously to the nearest police station or via the control room numbers,” the PPRO said.

The CP also warned citizens not to engage in or tolerate illegal gatherings, cult activities, or reckless behaviour, noting that the festive mood is no excuse for compromising the peace and security of the people.

“If you travel, drive safely and responsibly: inform your family of your route, avoid picking up strangers, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, obey road safety rules, and watch out for pedestrians, especially children and the elderly.

“Activate neighbourhood watch programmes by working with community leaders and PCRC members to ensure joint vigilance. Do not leave homes unattended. Install security lights, and inform neighbours if you’ll be away,” the CP advised.

He commended the people of the State for their usual resilience and compliance with the law, saying that with these simple precautions, the people can safeguard their families, friends, markets, churches, and roads.

“Let this Christmas be a season of hope, peace, and security! If you see something, contact the nearest police station immediately. Let’s collaborate: information from citizens helps us prevent crimes. We are stronger when communities and police unite. Together, let’s make Kogi a crime-free Christmas and beyond,” the CP said.

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The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has ordered the immediate deployment of additional officers and tow trucks along the Abuja–Lokoja Road.

The deployment is to ease the persistent traffic gridlock and ensure the prompt removal of obstructions.

FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, issued the directive, according to a statement by the Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO), Assistant Corps Marshal(ACM), Olusegun Ogungbemide, on Sunday in Abuja.

Mohammed said the directive was part of ongoing efforts by the Corps to improve traffic management and guarantee the safety of road users.

This, he said, was especially during the current period of increased vehicular movement.

He explained that the congestion on the corridor was largely caused by a surge in traffic volume and the presence of multiple construction points along the road.

The corps marshal said that the actions of indisciplined and impatient motorists who drove against traffic worsened the situation.

According to him, also contributing to the gridlock is lane indiscipline and impatience as drivers violate rules especially around construction areas where diversions are created for ease of movement.

“The deployment of more personnel and towing equipment is aimed at enhancing traffic control, enforcing discipline among motorists and ensuring that broken-down vehicles or other obstructions are quickly cleared to restore free flow of traffic,” he said.

Mohammed urged motorists travelling on the Abuja–Lokoja Road during the season to cooperate fully with FRSC personnel and other traffic managers on duty.

He stressed that compliance with traffic rules and lawful instructions would go a long way in reducing delays and preventing crashes.

The corps marshal reassured road users of the FRSC’s commitment to continuous monitoring of the situation and sustained intervention to ensure smoother traffic flow and safer travel on the route.

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The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has commended Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for securing the successful revalidation of the operating licence for the Ondo Deep Sea Port, describing the development as a major milestone in the state’s economic advancement.

In a statement issued by its National Organising Secretary, Abagun Kole Omololu, Afenifere said the revalidated licence clears all administrative hurdles and provides the legal and regulatory backing required for the full-scale development of the port.

The group noted that the achievement reflects purposeful leadership, strategic planning and institutional discipline in driving projects of national and regional importance, while also boosting investor confidence.

Afenifere highlighted the strategic advantage of the Ondo Deep Sea Port, noting that its depth will enable it to accommodate very large vessels that are unable to berth at the congested Lagos ports.

Ondo: Senator Ipinsagba lauds Aiyedatiwa over seaport certificate revalidation

According to the organisation, the facility will help decongest Nigeria’s busiest maritime corridor, improve cargo handling efficiency, shorten turnaround times and significantly reduce logistics costs, positioning Ondo State as a leading hub for next-generation port infrastructure.

The group added that the economic benefits of the port will extend beyond Ondo State, stimulating industrial growth across the South-West through petrochemical development, agro-export processing, manufacturing value chains and industrial clustering.

These, it said, would translate into massive job creation, skills development, technology transfer and increased revenue for both state and federal governments.

At the regional level, Afenifere noted that the port is expected to serve as a key gateway within the ECOWAS trade framework, enhancing trans-shipment services, deepening trade integration and strengthening West Africa’s participation in global maritime commerce.

The organisation also acknowledged the support of the Federal Government and the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy for aligning the project with national economic diversification objectives under the blue economy agenda.

While commending Aiyedatiwa for sustaining momentum on the transformative project, Afenifere urged continued collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure timely completion and operational efficiency, describing the Ondo Deep Sea Port as a legacy infrastructure with the potential to deliver long-term prosperity for Ondo State, the South-West and Nigeria at large.

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A Professor of Transport Planning and Policy at the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, Prof. Samuel Gbadebo Odewumi, has been appointed Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Uyo (UNIUYO), Akwa Ibom State.

Odewumi’s appointment was approved by the Federal Government and conveyed in a letter dated December 15, 2025, signed by the University Registrar and Secretary to the Governing Council, Mrs. Blossom Okorie, following the approval of the Visitor to the university, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The letter read in part:
“Further to the approval of the Visitor to the University, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as communicated by the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, I write on behalf of the Chairman of the Governing Council of the University to convey your appointment as the Acting Vice-Chancellor, University of Uyo, Nigeria.”

According to the letter, the appointment takes effect immediately and will remain in force pending the completion of the process for the appointment of a substantive Vice-Chancellor for the university.

Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, has congratulated Prof. Odewumi on his meritorious appointment, describing it as a recognition of his distinguished academic career, administrative competence, and outstanding contributions to scholarship.

She expressed confidence that Prof. Odewumi’s wealth of experience would significantly contribute to the growth, stability, and advancement of the University of Uyo, while wishing him a successful and impactful tenure.

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The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned inter-city road transport operators against arbitrary and unexplained fare increases during the ongoing yuletide travel period, following a surge in consumer complaints across several parts of the country.

The Commission acknowledged that seasonal demand, operational pressures, and other legitimate cost factors may influence transport pricing.

However, consumers are entitled to clear, accurate, and timely information on fares before travel. Any fare adjustment must therefore be transparently communicated and applied fairly, said Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs, in a statement.

The FCCPC noted that these complaints come at a time when the pump price of premium motor spirit has reportedly been reduced in parts of the country.

While fuel costs are only one of several factors affecting transport fares, increases that are not properly explained or disclosed raise valid consumer protection concerns.

Commenting on the development, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Mr. Tunji Bello, said FCCPC is closely monitoring market conduct throughout the festive season and has intensified engagement with transport unions, park managers, and operators nationwide.

He explained that these engagements are preventive, aimed at promoting responsible pricing practices, voluntary compliance, and orderly market behaviour.

Mr. Bello clarified that price increases are not inherently unlawful. However, conduct that exploits consumers or takes unfair advantage of heightened seasonal demand may attract regulatory scrutiny under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

He further warned that practices such as inadequate fare disclosure, coercion, or coordinated pricing arrangements among operators to the detriment of consumers will be subject to strict regulatory action. Offenders, he added, face stiff penalties if violations are established.

Consumers have been advised to confirm fares before travel, retain proof of payment, and report any suspected unfair practices to the Commission via its complaint portal and official channels.

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The Nasarawa State Police Command has arrested two suspected armed robbers and recovered a locally made firearm and a stolen motorcycle during an operation in Nasarawa town.

The suspects, identified as Isaac Audu and Jamilu Yusuf, were arrested by operatives of the Nasarawa Division over allegations of criminal conspiracy and armed robbery.

A statement released on Sunday by the State’s Spokesperson reveals that preliminary investigations showed that the duo, armed with a locally fabricated gun, allegedly attacked a resident in the Foundation Area, behind the Federal Polytechnic Staff School, Nasarawa, in the early hours of Saturday, December 20, 2025.

During the attack, the suspects reportedly dispossessed the victim of an unregistered Bajaj motorcycle.

Following timely intelligence, police operatives trailed the suspects and arrested them shortly after the incident.

A locally fabricated firearm and the stolen motorcycle were recovered from them during the operation.

Confirming the arrest, the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, commended the swift response of the officers involved and urged personnel of the command to remain proactive and vigilant in the fight against crime.

He also reassured residents of Nasarawa State of adequate security, particularly during the Yuletide season, and pledged the command’s continued commitment to the protection of lives and property.

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The son of President Bola Tinubu, Seyi and his wife, Layal, have arrived at the palace of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, for a chieftaincy installation.

Naija News reports that the city of Oyo is currently witnessing an influx of political figures and traditional rulers for the installation of new high-ranking chiefs by the Alaafin.

According to Punch, the event venue is set, with several notable figures in attendance, including former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, lawmakers, and a diverse assembly of traditional rulers and chiefs.

Seyi Tinubu will be installed as the “Okanlomo of Yorubaland,” a title which translates to “the beloved child” or “the one dear to the hearts of all Yoruba people.”

The title is said to symbolise a custodian of Yoruba values, unity, and cultural heritage.

The Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Bode Durojaiye, in a statement on Sunday, also stated that the Senator representing Zamfara West and a former Governor of Zamfara State, Abdul’Aziz Yari, has been in Oyo, accompanied by a delegation of northern senators and political figures.

Yari will also be installed as the “Obaloyin of Yorubaland” on the same occasion by the Alaafin.

Durojaiye stated that the ‘Obaloyin of Yorubaland’ title represents love, compassion, justice, and a bridge between physical and spiritual realms.

Both titles are said to come with responsibilities that include promoting Yoruba culture, advising the Alaafin, fostering unity, and advancing education and social welfare.

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The President of Dangote Group, Dr Aliko Dangote has given a Kaduna based businessman Kailani Mohammed a 7-day ultimatum to retract a libelous publication made against him and his business or face N100Bn suit.

Dangote, in a letter to the businessman demanded immediate public explanation, retraction and unreserved apology from the Kaduna businessman for accusing him of engaging in an unclean business especially in 1980s in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Dangote’s letter was served on the Kaduna businessman by his lawyer Dr Ogwu James Onoja, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria of Onoja law firm in Abuja.

In the letter dated December 20, 2025, Dangote complained that the Kaduna businessman defamed him, lowered his reputation and tarnished his business engagements with the accusation that he engaged in unclean business in Port Harcourt and also queried his source of wealth as the richest man in Africa.

The offending remarks were said to have been made by Engr. Kailani Mohamed during an interview aired on Wednesday December 17th, 2025 on TrustTV news in reaction to his petition against Dr Farouk Ahmed submitted to independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission ICPC.

The letter is titled “Demand for public explanation, retraction and unreserved public apology on your libelous publication against Alhaji  Aliko Dangote, GCON” and signed by Dr. Ogwu James Onoja SAN.

It read “We are solicitors to Alhaji Aliko Dangote and we write pursuant to his express instructions regarding grievously libelous statements broadcast by TrustTV news and uttered by you during an interview aired on Wednesday, 17th December, 2025 in reaction to the petition submitted by our client to Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).”

“Our client is a widely reputable international businessman. He is the richest black man on earth and he has the largest business conglomerate in Africa.

“Our client, through dint of hard work, integrity, diligent and perseverance over the years earned for himself the reputation and honour he is reckoned with all over the world.

“Our client’s attention has been drawn to statements made by you during the televised broadcast on TrustTV on the aforementioned date in reaction to our client’s petition submitted to Independent Corrupt Practices and the other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate and possibly prosecute Engr. Farouk Ahmad if found wanting, wherein you made false, reckless, malicious, scandalous and libelous publications concerning our client as a man that has monopolistic tendencies, corruptly enriched himself in business and engaged in economics cerbutach.

“Your statement also portrayed our client as a very cruel businessman whose stock in trade is vendetta and campaign of calumny to bring down others and exert monopolistic powers.

Among others you started as follows: “Can Dangote tell us the source of his money in the 80s when he was in Port Harcourt. Who is clean? Every time you want to monopolize, you bring allegations against people. Let him come and prove it. In the 80s we are aware of what happened in Port Harcourt and how he got his money. Nobody came out and said all these things”.

“These statements are false, scandalous and gravely deliberately impute unlawful or morally questionable conduct to our client and are calculated to expose him to public hatred, ridicule, suspicion and odium.

“By your reckless and unguarded defamatory statement and assertions, our client’s reputation has been greatly lowered in the sight of reasonable members of the International Community, including his business partners, associates and various governments of nations of the world where our client carries on business.

“Take Note that our client categorically states that at no time in his life has he carried out any business, commercial activity or wealth generating enterprise in Port Harcourt, whether in the 1980s or at any other period whatsoever as you alleged.

“Your assertion are therefore entirely fictitious, unfounded, malicious and without doubt, render you susceptible to both civil and criminal defematory action.

“In view of the gravity and depth of the allegations made by you against our client, you are hereby demanded to do the following within 7 days upon receipt of this letter:

“That you publicly explain on the same TrustTV platform and to the same audience, when, where and in what capacity our client was allegedly involved in any unclean activity or any activity whatsoever in Port Harcourt as claimed by you.

“That in the absence of verifiable facts capable of substantiating your assertions, you immediately and unequivocally retract the said statement in their entirety.

“That you issue a full, clear and unreserved public apology to our client which must be broadcast with equal prominence as your original publication.

“To pay our client the N100Bn only in damages for loss of reputation, character defamation and public redicule our client has been subjected to since the said statements were published.

“That you give a written undertaking to desist from making or publishing any further false or defamatory statements concerning our client.

“Be advised that allegations of this nature made without proof on a national media platform are indefensible in law and amount to a gross abuse of the right to freedom of expression which will culminate in both civil and criminal liability.

“Take further notice that should you fail to comply with the conditions stated above and within the time frame, our client shall, without further recourse to you, institute a legal action at a competent court of law against you and claim aggravated damages.

“This is without prejudice to our client’s right to make a formal report against you to the law enforcement agencies for your investigation and and prosecution for criminal defamation,” the letter said.

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Yoruba nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has warned that he would return to Nigeria to defend his people if the government continues to fail in its duty to protect them from attacks by suspected armed Fulani assailants.

Igboho issued the warning following the killing of two residents of his hometown, Igboho, in Oyo State.

In a statement, Igboho said the latest incident confirmed the concerns he had raised over the past four years about what he described as persistent killings and violent attacks on Yoruba communities by armed Fulani elements.

He lamented that despite repeated appeals and warnings to authorities, the security situation had continued to worsen, forcing many indigenous residents to abandon their ancestral homes for fear of being killed.

“Today, two innocent people have been killed in Igboho. This is exactly what I have been warning the government about for years,” he said.

“Nothing has changed, and our people continue to suffer attacks while those responsible roam freely.”

Igboho accused the government of failing to adequately protect lives and property, saying insecurity had become a daily reality for residents of Igboho and neighbouring communities.

He stressed that the continued killings showed a breakdown of security and justice in the area.

The Yoruba activist called on both the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to take immediate and decisive steps to stop the attacks and restore peace.

According to him, failure to act would leave him with no option but to return home to personally defend his community.

“I am calling on the government to act now and protect the lives and properties of the people of Igboho,” he said.

“If nothing is done, I will come back home to defend my people.”

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