The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a man named Friday Onu, after a video showing him attacking a female commercial driver, Yetunde Amole, on the Lekki-Epe Expressway went viral.

Onu was reportedly trying to steal her car battery when the incident happened.

This was disclosed in a statement by the command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, on Wednesday.

The incident took place on Monday, around the Oriental Hotel area.

Onu was caught trying to take Amole’s car battery and when Amole stopped him, he then attacked her.

Hundeyin explained that Onu was quickly arrested by officers from the Maroko Division, but he later fell sick and had to be moved to Falomo Police Hospital.

Yetunde Amole was seen in tears, her face visibly swollen in the viral video

His statement reads, “The Lagos State Police Command is aware of a viral video circulating on social media, depicting the assault of one Yetunde Amole by a suspected thug near the Oriental Hotel area in Lagos. The command condemns this act in the strongest terms and wishes to update the public on the actions already taken.

“The incident occurred on April 7, 2025, at about 2 p.m., when the suspect, identified as Friday Onu, was caught attempting to steal Amole’s car battery. Amole courageously intervened to prevent the theft, which resulted in the suspect assaulting her.

“Following a prompt response by officers of the Maroko Division, Friday Onu was arrested shortly after the incident and detained at the division. Preparations for his arraignment were underway when he suddenly took ill. He was immediately transferred to Falomo Police Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment under close supervision.

“The Lagos State Police Command assures the public that justice will be served. The suspect will be charged in a court of competent jurisdiction as soon as police medical professionals declare him fit to stand trial.”

He added, “The command reiterates its commitment to ensuring the safety and protection of all residents and urges the public to continue cooperating with law enforcement authorities.

“We also commend Ms. Amole for her bravery and assure her and all victims of crime that their cases will be thoroughly pursued to ensure justice is served in all cases.”

On Tuesday, the woman in a viral video was seen in tears, her face visibly swollen, as she recounts how the Agbero boarded her vehicle under the guise of a passenger near the Oriental Hotel, claiming he was heading to the Nigerian Law School.

According to her, she became suspicious when she caught a glimpse of him through her rear-view mirror, allegedly attempting to remove her car battery.

She noted that when she confronted him, he reportedly launched a violent attack, beating her, tearing her clothes, and phone.

The Federal Executive Council has formally ordered the full implementation of the previously suspended Naira-for-Crude agreement with local refiners.

The Federal Government said the initiative is not a temporary measure but a “key policy directive designed to support sustainable local refining”.

The government also said the initiative is still in effect and will continue immediately, overruling the decision of the NNPCL under its former boss Mele Kyari which tenured the initiative.

The Minister of Finance Wale Edun at a meeting with representatives of the Dangote Refinery on Tuesday said the naira-for-crude is still in effect.

In a post on its official X handle on Wednesday, the Ministry of Finance said the Technical Sub-Committee on the Crude and Refined Product Sales in Naira initiative met on Tuesday to review progress and address ongoing implementation matters.

The meeting was attended by Edun, the Chairman of the Implementation Committee; the Chairman of the Technical Sub-Committee and Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji; the Chief Financial Officer of NNPCL, Dapo Segun; the Coordinator of NNPC Refineries; Management of NNPC Trading; representatives of Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals.

Others at the meeting include senior officials from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), representative of Afreximbank, as well as the Secretary of the Committee, Hauwa Ibrahim.

“The stakeholders reaffirmed the government’s continued commitment to the full implementation of this strategic initiative, as directed by the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

“Thus, the Crude and Refined Product Sales in Naira initiative is not a temporary or time-bound intervention, but a key policy directive designed to support sustainable local refining, bolster energy security, and reduce reliance on foreign exchange in the domestic petroleum market.

“As with any major policy shift, the Committee acknowledges that implementation challenges may arise from time to time. However, such issues are being actively addressed through coordinated efforts among all parties.

“The initiative remains in effect and will continue for as long as it aligns with the public interest and supports national economic objectives,” the statement read.

As part of moves to reduce the strain on the US dollars and guarantee price stability of petroleum products, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in July 2024 directed the NNPCL to sell crude oil to Dangote Refinery and other local refineries in naira and not in United States’ greenback.

However, in March 2025, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) said its Naira-denominated crude sales agreement with the Dangote Refinery was structured for six months, with March 2025 as the expiration date.

Subsequently, the $20bn Dangote Refinery temporarily halted the sale of petroleum products in Naira. “This decision is necessary to avoid a mismatch between our sales proceeds and our crude oil purchase obligations, which are currently denominated in US dollars,” the company had said.

Fuel metre showing the new price of petrol per litre in Lagos on March 31, 2025

Immediately, the pump price of petrol jumped from around ₦860 to about ₦1,000, making consumers pay at least ₦70 more than what it used to cost them to buy a litre of the premium commodity days earlier.

The refinery, however, said would resume the sale of its product to the local market in Naira as soon as it received crude cargoes from the NNPCL in Naira.

Days later, President Bola Tinubu fired Kyari and the entire NNPCL Board. In their stead, the president appointed a new 11-man board with Bashir Ojulari as the Group chief executive officer and Ahmadu Kida as non-executive chairman.

The resumption of Naira-denominated crude sales, experts believe, would reduce the strain on the US dollar and guarantee the price stability of petroleum products.

Nigerians are expected to experience some relief from high, dollar-denominated imported fuel with the resumption of the naira-for-crude initiative.

…declares INC stood aloof as Rivers crisis escalates
…took side with Fubara
…failed to be proactive
…Prof Okaba not in control of those he presides over 

The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress, RIPCO has advised the Ijaw National Congress, INC to stop shedding tears over a split milk as it failed to be proactive from the onset. 

RIPCO also declared that at the tutelage stage of the Rivers crisis, INC stood aloof as it escalated beyond repairs. 

They also demanded that INC president, Professor Benjamin Okaba should step aside to allow Ijaw people receive fresh breath. 

This was contained in a statement jointly signed by leaders of RIPCO Senator George Thompson Sekibo, Leader Rivers Ijaw Peoples’ Congress, Hon. Rowland Sekibo Director General, Hon Erastus Awortu, Secretary stating that:
“The attention of the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress (RIPCO) has been drawn to the statements and communiqué issued during the emergency meeting styled “All inclusive Critical Stakeholders Meeting on the State of the Ijaw Nation, particularly regarding the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State”, held on Wednesday, 26th March 2025, at the Ijaw House in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. 

“It is generally commendable for the Ijaw community to convene and discuss issues that impact their collective existence. 

“However, it is disheartening to witness respected elders lamenting over spilt milk from a leaking bowl when they could mend the bowl before any spillage occurred. 

“While we do not wish to engage in disputes with the Ijaw National Congress or the “All-inclusive Critical Stakeholders,” it is concerning that the President of the Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba, seems to involve innocent elders in a narrative that could tarnish their hard-earned reputations.

” This situation raises questions about accountability and leadership as they attempt to address problems in which they are complicit in their escalation.

“Moreover, this narrative highlights a broader issue within their leadership dynamics. As Prof. Okaba may recognise, attempting to “close the barn door after the horse has bolted” is an ineffective response to critical situations. 

“It is disheartening when elders, who are expected to lead with wisdom and foresight, fail to act decisively during crises. Instead of taking responsibility for their inaction, they shift blame onto others, neglecting their role in preventing such crises. 

“These reactions undermine their credibility and set a poor example for the Ijaw people, who look to them for guidance and stability in times of uncertainty. 

To this end RIPCO seeks to highlight the concerning motivations behind Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba and his associates, suggesting that they may be exploiting the ongoing crisis in Rivers State for personal gain. 

“If they were genuinely committed to resolving the issues affecting the state, they would have convened the all-inclusive critical stakeholders meeting earlier rather than waiting for the situation to escalate. 

“The turmoil unfolding in Rivers State appears to align with Prof. Benjamin Okaba and his co-travellers interests, raising concerns about his dedication to preventing conflict and fostering peace. Rather than taking significant steps toward resolution, their actions seem more reactive than proactive. 

“To illuminate this troubling pattern, the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress wishes to share excerpts from Prof. Okaba’s opening speech and the Resolutions at the Critical Stakeholders’ meeting he organised, which he asserts aims to find a lasting solution to the crisis. 

1. Paragraph 5 of his speech states: “The recent imposition of emergency rule and the suspension of our dear son, His Excellency Governor Siminalayi Fubara, under whatever guise, constitute a grave assault on the principles of justice, democratic governance, and the sanctity of the people’s mandate.

” This audacious infraction on our people in Rivers State (who have been out of governance for 24 years) is not a partisan issue; it is a fundamental challenge to the constitutional framework that safeguards the rights and autonomy of every Nigerian citizen.

” It is a clarion call for the Ijaw Nation, and all advocates of justice at the national and international levels, to stand unequivocally in defence of constitutional order and the inherent right of every ethnic nationality to prosper without coercion or suppression”.

“The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress (RIPCO) considers the statement as crying over spilt milk in the light of recent events in Rivers State. 

“On June 04, 2024, a delegation of over two hundred members of RIPCO met with Prof. Benjamin Okaba in Ijaw House, Yenagoa. The primary purpose of this meeting was to appeal for his assistance in assembling a coalition of Ijaw leaders to pursue a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis in Rivers State.

” Recognising the urgency of the situation, RIPCO also held discussions with the leadership of the Ijaw Youth Council, resulting in a mutual agreement that both organisations would collaborate constructively to intervene in the crisis.

“Just a week later, Prof. Okaba visited Rivers State and met with the leadership of RIPCO to discuss and agree on the way forward. However, the anticipated path toward a peaceful resolution took an unexpected turn. Rather than championing the previously agreed upon collaborative efforts, Prof. Okaba aligned himself with Governor Sim Fubara and became engrossed in the crisis.

 “This shift in allegiance, particularly his public criticisms of His Excellency Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, further escalated the delicate situation. 

“The ramifications of this decision have been significant, undermining the collective pursuit of peace and stability in Rivers State and raising concerns about the future of Ijaw unity and leadership in addressing the pressing challenges facing them.

” It may not be out of context to assume that Prof. Okaba lacks the qualities necessary to lead the people. He does not appear to be an effective manager of those he presides over. 

2.  Paragraph 6 of his speech reads thus: “The recent unguided, disgustive, inflammatory and provocative utterances and actions taken against us by that Ikwerre-born inconsequential drunk and cheap drug addict, with the support of a few of our own Rivers Ijaw brothers, and in connivance with the powers-that-be in the three arms of our government are condemnable. 

“These actions and inactions, emanating from these highly placed and sensitive quarters, have only exacerbated our fury. These also constitute the denigration, oppression, and mockery of our collective reputation”.

The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress strongly condemns Prof. Benjamin Okaba’s recent provocative statements given above. It is particularly troubling that the Ijaw elders who were convened to seek a resolution to the ongoing crisis did not reprimand Prof. Okaba for his comments. Instead, they applauded him, indicating a troubling disconnect in leadership.

” If the Ijaw National Congress (INC) is genuinely committed to facilitating dialogue and resolving the issues in Rivers State, it must first refrain from using derisive language towards those it considers part of the problem.
 
“Such arrogance undermines the potential for constructive dialogue and alienates potential allies in the quest for peace. It is essential to remind Prof. Okaba and his team that the ability to engage in respectful and meaningful conversation is a crucial component of the negotiation process. 

“The use of inflammatory rhetoric and emotions rarely produces productive outcomes—just as a person seeking peace should communicate with humility and respect rather than resorting to provocation based on emotion. 

” If the INC truly wishes to address the crisis and pave the way for a sustainable and peaceful resolution, it must adopt a more diplomatic approach that encourages collaboration rather than conflict. 

3.  Their Resolution 2 states thus: “The INC appreciates the overwhelming support from Rivers people of different ethnic backgrounds, including Ikwerre, Ogoni, Ekpeye, Ogba, Etche, Ndoni, and Egbema, who have stood by Governor Fubara throughout this crisis. 

This solidarity reinforces the fact that the political turmoil is not an ethnic conflict and that the Ijaw Nation has not declared hostilities against any individual or ethnic group. The INC remains committed to peace, unity, and the overall stability of Rivers State and Nigeria”.

“The general public is invited to reflect on whether their Resolution 2 aligns with their actions, particularly regarding the potential for conflict against individuals or ethnic groups. 

“It is crucial to recognise that the fight against an individual or ethnic group is not only expressed through rhetoric but through actions. 

“The recent burial procession staged against a living “Nyesom Wike” in Bomadi, Delta State, serves as a striking example of how such actions can incite discord. 

“One must consider whether the Ijaw elders would be satisfied if their leaders were subjected to such condemnable indignity. This incident highlights the need for accountability among public figures like Prof. Benjamin Okaba, who should not mislead the public regarding his awareness of these provocative events.

“Prof. Benjamin Okaba and his associates must recognise that their actions contribute to a narrative of animosity towards specific individuals and ethnicities, thereby jeopardising the socio-political fabric of the Ijaw community in Rivers State. 

“The Ijaws in Rivers State, who rely on harmonious relationships with various ethnic groups for their daily existence and political stability, deserve leaders who promote unity rather than division.

” The implications of such actions extend far beyond immediate grievances, as they threaten to unravel the delicate balance of coexistence essential for all parties involved. 

“The Ijaw people must remain vigilant and discerning, ensuring that their leaders act in ways that foster peace and understanding within their ethnicity and beyond.

4.  Their Observation 5 before the Resolutions states thus: “While acknowledging Barr. Nyesom Wike’s role in the election of Gov. Siminilayi (Ijaw), the INC, urged Wike to reciprocate the goodwill by supporting Fubara’s administration, just as Ijaws had backed him during his tenure”.

If their fifth observation was indeed known before the formulation of the six-point resolution, one must question the efforts made by the Ijaw leadership from November 2023, when the crisis began, to March 26, 2025, when the critical stakeholders’ meeting convened.

It is crucial to investigate whether the Ijaw leaders or the leadership of the Ijaw National Council (INC) attempted to engage His Excellency Nyesom Wike in any dialogue to determine the underlying causes of the discord between him and his political son.

 Given Wike’s significant influence in the rise of Governor Siminilayi Fubara, it is puzzling that no concerted effort for engagement has taken place. 

The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress (RIPCO) firmly asserts that the actions of the INC leadership contradict their stated fifth observation, thereby rendering any attacks on Nyesom Wike unjustified, especially considering his support for a fellow Ijaw son to become a governor of Rivers State after 24 years.

Furthermore, Prof. Okaba and his dedicated team must recognise that when we respond to goodwill with hostility, we reduce the chances of receiving further goodwill in return. 

The principle of reciprocity is essential for fostering harmonious relationships. The INC should be mindful of the peaceful coexistence of the Ijaws with other ethnic groups in Rivers State.

The next issue that draws RIPCO’s attention in the Ijaw Critical Stakeholders meeting is the call for dialogue by the Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency Senator Douye Diri, who, in his speech, states: 
“The declaration of the state of emergency in Rivers State, alongside the suspension of the governor, the deputy governor and the state house of assembly, has generated concerns. 

“As chairman of the south-south governor’s forum, I asked the president at that time to reconsider his stance and allow for dialogue amongst the feuding parties. And in conclusion, in that publication, I stated that the time for dialogue is now. …. seeing what has happened, again, I re-instate that this is the time for dialogue because it is all a lose-lose situation for the people of Rivers State, and I call on the National Assembly and Mr President to waste no time in inaugurating the committee of eminent personalities, that will immediately intervene and bring peace and bring the constituted government of Rivers State back to office”.

This call for dialogue is commendable and reflects a necessary approach to addressing the ongoing crisis confronting the State. His Excellency’s acknowledgement of the importance of dialogue is a positive step toward finding a resolution. However, it raises pertinent questions about his engagement during the critical period since the crisis first emerged. As the foremost Ijaw leader, one would expect a more proactive stance during these turbulent times rather than wait till now. However, it is better late than never. 

It is also worth noting that the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress made several attempts to meet with him, particularly while discussing with leaders of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC). Unfortunately, those efforts were met with silence, which may have further compounded the distress of the people he represents. While it is encouraging that he has finally acknowledged the need for dialogue, he urgently needs to take immediate and decisive actions to convene this dialogue and promote meaningful engagement with the involved stakeholders to bring a lasting solution to the crisis.

Having assessed the situation in Rivers State, the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress (RIPCO) wishes to state as follows:
1. The Rivers Ijaw People‘s Congress condemnns the provocative statements made during the all-inclusive critical stakeholders meeting, emphasising that insulting and casting aspersions on perceived enemies is not the solution to the problems and cannot bring about the lasting resolution desired.

2. RIPCO further condemns the ineptitude and lackadaisical approach of the Ijaw National Congress leadership in managing the crisis in Rivers State, viewing them as incompetent in finding a lasting solution to the issue. 

3. The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress states unequivocally that the current poor leadership of the INC has not only succeeded in factionalising the once-united Ijaw nation but has also damaged the harmonious collaboration between the Ijaws and other ethnic nationalities. Therefore, RIPCO calls on Professor Okaba to step aside as President of INC before he drives the Ijaw nation into further conflicts both internally and with other ethnic nationalities.

4. The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress advises all feuding parties to take advantage of the window provided by the state of emergency and commence a roundtable discussion to find a lasting solution to this impasse.

5. The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress fully supports the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State. His action has averted unimaginable consequences, such as destroying oil and gas infrastructure and a major physical clash between the warring political groups that could have set Rivers State and Nigeria backwards.

6.  The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress congratulates His Excellency Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas on his appointment as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State and hereby pledges to give him every support in his efforts to unite the state for the common good of all.