The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has vehemently denied allegations of multi-billion naira fraud, labeling them as baseless and lacking in credibility. In a series of statements, the NPA outlined its commitment to transparency and due process, emphasizing that its financial operations are under strict oversight by several governmental bodies, including the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Budget Office of the Federation, and the National Assembly. This multi-layered supervision, according to the NPA, makes any misapplication of funds virtually impossible.

Addressing specific allegations, the NPA clarified that the emergency dredging of the Warri Escravos Channel was conducted in full compliance with the Public Procurement Act of 2007. The project was deemed critical to addressing the heavy siltation that posed a threat to safe navigation and the nation's oil and gas operations. The Authority also detailed the procurement of marine crafts, such as tugboats and pilot cutters, as part of efforts to support offshore operations linked to the domestic sale of crude oil in naira, aligning with national energy security objectives.

The NPA further dismissed claims of withholding documents for over a year, stating that such delays are incompatible with civil service guidelines. Allegations regarding expenditures by its London office were also refuted, with the Authority asserting that no such transactions occurred. The NPA attributed the reported increase in 2024 revenue to favorable exchange rate fluctuations, noting that port charges are denominated in foreign currency, a standard practice globally.

In response to allegations of staff discontent, the NPA management reported high morale among employees, citing recent promotions and the resolution of long-standing personnel stagnation. The Authority also highlighted positive feedback from in-house labor unions regarding its efforts. Through these statements, the NPA seeks to reassure the public and stakeholders of its adherence to principles of transparency, accountability, and due process in all its operations.

A suspected gas explosion in Alvaston, Derbyshire, has left a man hospitalized and a neighborhood in shock after the blast 'shook the entire street' late Tuesday evening. Emergency services were quick to respond to the incident on Eden Street, where the force of the explosion was felt nearly half a mile away, with residents describing the moment as akin to an 'earthquake'. The extent of the man's injuries remains unknown, as authorities work to assess the damage and ensure the safety of the area.

Footage from the scene captured the terrifying moment the explosion ripped through a terraced property, sending a massive plume of smoke into the air and affecting a passing car. In addition to the human casualty, a dog was injured in the blast and later rescued by search teams, receiving care from a veterinarian. The incident has prompted a coordinated response from Derbyshire Police and Fire and Rescue Services, with structural engineers evaluating the stability of adjacent properties, both of which have been evacuated as a precaution.

The community has come together in the wake of the explosion, with neighbors checking on one another and sharing their experiences of the harrowing event. One resident, Gill Jennings, recounted how the explosion 'made the ground shake' as she sat in her home, highlighting the widespread impact of the blast. As the investigation into the cause of the explosion begins, residents from 14 properties have been advised to stay away from their homes overnight for safety reasons.

Authorities have emphasized their commitment to determining the cause of the explosion and preventing future incidents. With emergency planning officers and utility representatives on site, the focus remains on making the area safe and supporting those affected. The Derbyshire community, while shaken, has shown resilience in the face of adversity, as recovery efforts continue and the investigation progresses.