Akwa Ibom state Police Command has said that some locally made firearms have been recovered during stop and search operations along Ikot road in the state .

A statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer in the state DSP Timfon John and made available to Journalists in Uyo on Thursday stated that the recovered firearms was in a determined effort to rid the state of illegal firearms and criminal elements .

The statement reads in parts:” Operatives of the Command intercepted a Mercedes Benz C300 with customized plate number FORBES JR, leading to the recovery of a locally fabricated firearm and two live cartridges.

“The operation, which took place at the Control Post in Ikot Ekpene, was part of the Command’s intensified stop-and-search strategy aimed at curbing crime and enhancing public safety.”

He said the vehicle had three male occupants who were identified themselves as: Nsisong Paul Okon, 27, native of Itak Village in Ikono local government area ,Francis Forbes, 62 from Ikot Akpa Edok Ndiya Village and Prince Forbes, 27, of Ikot Akpa Edok Ndiya Village from Ikono local government area respectively.

However, John disclosed that the state Commissioner of Police, CP Baba M. Azare has ordered a full-scale investigation into the matter.

“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command reaffirms its zero tolerance for unlawful possession of firearms and remains resolute in ensuring the safety of lives and property across the state”.

President Bola Tinubu has instructed lawmakers of the Lagos State House of Assembly to allow the impeached and reinstated Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, to continue leading the house.

The President made this position known when he met with the lawmakers at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday.

As reported earlier, this is the first time President Tinubu is meeting the lawmakers since the crisis began in the house January 13, 2025.

One of the lawmakers told newsmen that ” Obasa is staying. We will obey the president. What we had was a family meeting. The President condenmed Obasa’s actions but blamed us for not carring him (Tinubu) along during the impeachement execrise”.

However, the lawmaker said President Tinubu warned Obasa to carry everyone along.

” He also warned him (Obasa) that if there were any future complaints from any quarters, he would be gone. “The President said he should let peace reign; and so based on that, we have accepted.”

On the pending matter in court, the source said: “The President has instructed him to withdraw it.”

The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), has issued a strong call to residents to remain vigilant and actively engage in prescribed guidelines against the spread of HIV and AIDS in the state.

Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in tackling the HIV epidemic during a virtual interview. “Individuals must take responsibility for their own health as well as that of the community,” she said.

“HIV remains a major public health concern, and prevention is our most powerful tool. We urge all Lagos residents to adopt safe practices, get tested regularly, and seek medical support where necessary. Ending HIV transmission requires a united front, and together, we can achieve an HIV-free generation.”

Dr. Animashaun encouraged residents to adopt practices that minimize the risk of HIV transmission, including:

– Engaging in safe sex practices
– Avoid the sharing of sharp objects like needles and blades
– Undergoing regular HIV testing for early detection and management
– Seeking immediate medical support when necessary

She emphasized the need to intensify efforts in raising awareness geared towards prevention, treatment, and fulfilling collective responsibility in practising safe sex and ensuring everyone is properly informed on how the virus is transmitted.

“We urge all Lagos residents to adopt safe practices, get tested regularly, and seek medical support where necessary. Ending the transmission of HIV is not solely the responsibility of the government and health institutions but requires a united effort from all citizens to ensure everyone is well-informed.”

The Chief Executive Officer reiterated the agency’s commitment to the Health and Environment Mandate of the THEMES PLUS AGENDA. The agency has been instrumental in coordinating HIV & AIDS control programs, including public awareness and sensitization, and regular free screening and counselling services across the state.

“As an agency, we are dedicated to educating the public and implementing health initiatives that align with our mission. We remain steadfast in our commitment to this cause and will continue to work diligently towards creating a healthier and safer community for all.”

Dr. Animashaun noted that HIV testing and counseling services remain free at all designated healthcare facilities in the state, highlighting the government’s commitment to providing accessible and affordable healthcare, particularly in the control and management of HIV in the state.

She expressed optimism that through unity and proactive engagement, Lagos can work towards achieving an HIV-free generation. The agency will continue to educate the public and promote health initiatives, especially in the management and control of HIV in the state.