How Ex-AGF Ahmed Idris, Diverted N109Billion Into Personal Account

Hayatu Ahmed, a former Chief Superintendent of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has accused a former Accountant-General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, of misappropriating public funds by manipulating government financial systems

Ahmed identified the compromised systems as the Treasury Single Account, TSA, the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System, GIFMIS, and the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System, IPPIS.

Idris, alongside Godfrey Olusegun Akindele and Mohammed Kudu Usman, were on trial for an alleged N109 billion fraud.

According to a statement by the former EFCC spokesperson Wilson Uwujaren, Ahmed, serving as the chief prosecuting officer, testified during a session at the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court that EFCC investigations revealed Idris’s involvement in diverting funds from the TSA, GIFMIS, and IPPIS.

The witness further disclosed that the diverted funds were traced to properties including Gezawa Exchange Limited, Gezawa Integrated Farms, and Kano City Mall.

“We had cause to invite several individuals who had transactions with the Gezawa Commodity and Exchange Limited and found one Baita Ibrahim Kura, of BI Kura Ibrahim, a Bureau de Change operator based in Kano,” Ahmed was quoted as saying.

“We invited him and cautioned him and he voluntarily wrote a statement, claiming he made several payments like N208 million into Gezawa Commodity Market with Jaiz bank.”

Ahmed further informed the court that Ibrahim admitted to paying N866 million to Mustapha Mukhtar of Marsc Construction Limited for the construction of the Gezawa Commodity Market and Exchange Limited.

“My Lord, investigation showed that, Ibrahim received United States dollars from the first defendant. We also found out that agitation from the nine oil-producing states, regarding derivation from the excess crude account, was tabled before the Federal Account Allocation Committee, FAAC, and the committee came up with a figure of about $2.2 billion as what was due to the nine oil producing states, and these amount was to be deducted over a 60 months period on quarterly basis,” the investigating officer said.

The EFCC witness further testified that 11.5 percent of the total amount, equivalent to N44.7 billion, was allocated to certain public officials as incentives to expedite payments to oil-producing states.

“After the determination of this committee, my lord, some companies, Akindele and Co, a company owned by the second defendant, Godfrey Olusegun Akindele, was presented under the guise of consultancy,” Ahmed said.

“My lord, until recently, the second defendant, Akindele, was a staff in the office of the AGF, and technical assistant to the first defendant. Investigation revealed that N84.39 billion was paid into Akindele’s bank accounts.”

The former EFCC officer disclosed that an additional N21 billion was deposited into Akindele’s account in February 2021, with further payments made later that year, totaling N94.39 billion.

Ahmed testified that the funds were distributed among various groups and individuals, including Peace Akomas of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, RMAFC, who was said to have received N18.8 billion.

“The second group is the AGF group and it got a total sum of N18.01 billion,” Ahmed said.

“The third group, the Commissioners of Finance in the nine oil-producing states, received N21.4 billion. The money was withdrawn by Akindele, converted to US dollars and handed over to Akomas on behalf of the group.

“The fourth group is called the Yari group. This group received N17.15 billion. The entirety of the sum was transferred to the account of Fimex Professional Services on the instruction of the representative of this group: Abdulaziz Yari, former Zamfara state governor.

“The remaining  N8.9 billion was retained by the second defendant. Furthermore, N4.29 billion was converted to US dollars by Akindele as appreciation for the consultancy contract, and the balance of N4.6 billion was given to Akindele.”

The former EFCC officer revealed that properties acquired with the misappropriated funds by the first and third defendants were located in various areas across Abuja, Kano, and Niger states.

 

 WHEN THE GODS USHER IN OBA ONISHERI WITH SHOWERS OF RAIN

By Lanre Olaleye

For days, the atmosphere in Isheri, the ancient Awori town in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos was dry and dusty, a reminder of the harmattan weather period of the year. Except for the cool morning breeze, the heat wave is generally high and intense forcing most residents to seek for respite.

They did not have to wait too long as the 11^th December 2024 official installation ceremony of Prince Ibrahim Olasunkanmi Lawal-Bello (Olanwa 1) as the 5^th Onisheri of Isheri Kingdom has brought the most sought after relief.

As customs and tradition demands, the new king is expected to tour the whole town on the 3^rd day (Eta) after his installation in company of the ‘initiated’, the chiefs, family members and relations as well as well-wishers in a ‘thank you walk’ to show appreciation for the support of indigenes, residents and critical stakeholders of the town.

It was also a day the new king is expected pay courtesy visits to the shrine of the gods and deities of the land as well as the burial grounds of past traditional rulers and prominent chiefs of the town.

Hence, at exactly 11 a.m. on Friday 13^th December 2024, swerving to the beautiful rendition of the traditional bata music, Oba Olasunkanmi clad in white apparels and accompanied by his beautiful wife, Olori Yetunde stepped out to perform his customary duty as custodian of customs and tradition of the ancient town. A symphony of admiration greeted the new king as he walked through the streets of Isheri. His youthful looks caught most attention even as many were seen discussing in low tones how the young king and his delectable wife complement each other as young couple.

The first port of call was the ‘Olofin shrine- where the new king paid homage to the progenitor of the Aworis by offering libation in solemn obeisance to the ancestors of the land. Soon after paying respect and honour to the ‘owners of the land’, the heaven literally opened up with showers of rain in acceptance and affirmation of Oba Olasunkanmi’s libation.

Thereafter, the rain which started as showers soon developed into torrential rainfall as the king visited the shrine of Esu (the emissary deity in-charge of chaos and travels); Obatala (the deity of creation and purity); Yemoja (the water goddess of procreation and purity); and sango (the revered god of thunder, lightning, justice and fire). Despite, the intensity of the rain, the king went about his customary duty unhindered for four hours moving from one site to another. With the rain came the flood which literally cleanses the town of its past atrocities.

However, it was a solemn affair as Oba Olasunkanmi sauntered into the burial sites of past traditional rulers of the town beginning with his immediate predecessor, Late Oba Wahab Balogun. The mood at this particular site was solemn, a reminder of the final resting place of the king when he eventually joined his ancestors.

Interestingly, the rain subsided soon after a white ram was slaughtered in atonement for the plagues of the town and to usher in a new beginning of fruitfulness, wealth and abundance.

Indeed, the refreshing effect of the rainwas felt not only in Isheri but also in neighbouring towns and communities as the old rustic rooftops wearing new colourful looks just as plants and crops  are regaining new lease of life- a signal of better days to come.

With high expectations of a brighter rewarding future for Isheri Kingdom under the reign of Oba Ibrahim Olasunkanmi Lawal-Bello (Olanwa 1); one only hopes and pray the gods should grant the new king wisdom, guidance and long life to fulfil the onerous expectations.  

 

  Ademola Lookman: 'Newly-Crowned' African BEST Finally Steps Out  With Beautiful Girlfriend Jayda Love At CAF Awards

 The CAF player of the year winner and his gorgeous girlfriend looked inseparable at the 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech.

Super Eagles of Nigeria star Ademola Lookman has finally put all speculation to rest by stepping out with his gorgeous girlfriend, Jayda Love, at the prestigious 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech, Morocco, where he was named the best player.

The 27-year-old Atalanta, who has been a standout performer this year, who won the night's biggest prize, made a grand entrance in striking Yoruba traditional attire, surrounded by close family members.

Ademola Lookman was named the 2024 CAF player of the Year. However, what caught everyone’s attention was the presence of his American girlfriend, Jayda Love.

Lookman and Jayda, who had been the subject of quiet whispers on social media, looked every bit the elegant couple as they posed for the cameras.

Ademola Lookman and Jayda Love’s relationship

Nigeria and Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman with his MOTM award.

Speculations about Lookman’s romantic life first surfaced earlier this year when eagle-eyed fans noticed subtle clues on social media.

 

Jayda Love is dating Ademola Lookman | Credit: Facebook

After helping Atalanta clinch the Europa League title, Lookman reportedly spent his summer break with Jayda, with photos showing both individuals at similar picturesque locations.

Though neither confirmed their relationship at the time, the puzzle pieces finally fell into place with their public debut.

The University of Oklahoma alumna graduated in 2021 with a degree in Public Relations and a minor in Communications.

As per her LinkedIn profile, she currently holds a role as a system specialist at AEG Vision Corporation and has previously managed roles in beauty and wellness industries.

 Despite her achievements, Jayda has kept her private life under wraps, staying largely out of the spotlight.

 

 

 

Work Begins On 107 KM Ilara/Ilashe Road In Ogun West

. As Yayi Commends President Tinubu, Dapo Abiodun

Contractors handling the 107-kilometer Ilara-Ijoun- Eggua- Oja Odan- Ilase Road in Ogun West Senatorial district have moved to site and commence construction work on Section 1 of the road.

According to a press statement issued by his Media Adviser, Kayode Odunaro, the road, which was facilitated by Senator Solomon Adeola (APC, Ogun West) in the 2024 Budget, cuts across 4 Local Government Areas of the senatorial district namely Imeko Afon, Yewa North, Ipokia and Yewa South LGAs and is a major infrastructure development along the international borders of Nigeria with Benin Republic.

Expressing his joy at the commencement of work on the road that has been abandoned for decades Sen. Adeola appreciated the role of the President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun for their supportive roles in seeing to the commencement of work on the road adding that the synergy and complementary working relationships at the senatorial, state and federal levels is yielding positive results for the APC Renewed Hope Agenda for the people of Ogun state.

“During my senatorial campaign tour, I had a cause to transverse some portions of this road to access towns like Igan Alade, Eggua and Ijoun and it was a despicable sight to see all vehicles and my fellow human beings completely covered with red dust as to be unrecognizable. It was a pathetic sight that I pledged to ensure its reversal for good. I am grateful that my solicitations to the President and the governor of my state elicited support for my inclusion of the project in the Appropriation Act of 2024.” he stated.

The road contract that was divided into four sections for ease of implementation cuts across towns like Ilara and Ata in Imeko Afon LGA; Daramola, Tobolo, Aworo, Iyana Agbede, Ijale Ketu, Ibiyan, Ijoun, Tata, Imoto, Igan Alade, Eggua, Iselu, Ile Igbooro and Oja Odan in Yewa North LGA; Odan Itoro, Ibola Fagbohun, Abodein in Yewa South LGA and Ifonyintedo, Alari, Koko and Ilase in Ipokia LGA.

Sen. Adeola was optimistic that the project will be completed on or before the end of 2027 as a major boost to the economy of Ogun West Senatorial district and indeed Ogun state adding that it is in tandem with the national development policy of border areas of Nigeria.

 

AT 37, OBA OLASUNKANMI BECOMES

 THE YOUNGEST KING IN LAGOS

By Lanre Olaleye

Dateline: Wednesday 11^th December 2024.

The Isheri/Idimu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) secretariat complex adjacent to the popular Isheri Roundabout was the place to be as Prince Ibrahim Olasunkanm Lawal-Bello became the youngest monarch to ever mount the Onisheri-throne.

He became the 5^th monarch of the ancient Awori town after succeeding the late Oba Wahab Ayinde Balogun who died 8^th February 2022 at the ripe age of 94

His ascension to the throne followed an intensive selection process which involved the Ifa Divination rites and voting among the nine kingmakers of the ancient town. Five candidates from the Olanwa Ruling House vied for the throne among whom are Prince Hakeem Akanji Ogundeyi; Prince Atobatele Adebowale Ojunnu; Prince Sulaiman Raji Adebiyi; Prince Lukmon Jaiyeola Adebiyi and Prince Ibrahim Olaunkanmi Lawal-Bello.

At the end of the voting exercise, Prince Olasunkanmi Lawa;-Bello had a simple majority of five votes to beat his closest rival, Prince Hakeem Ogundeyi who had three votes while one of the kingmakers died before the voting exercise.

It would be recalled that the selection process was almost marred by under hand scheming purportedly orchestrated by one of the sons of the late monarch, one Prince Idris Dalogun (a.k.a Oluomo)  to subvert the popular choice of the kingmakers through a petition to the Ministry of Local Government Administration, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development alleging discrepancies in the selection process.

The Snoop gathered that the selection process soon passed the ministry’s integrity test after being found to have conformed with regulations and guidelines as contained in the Chieftaincy Laws of Lagos State. Rather, residents and critical stakeholders of bthe town were left in awe as a litigation filed by one of the candidates, Prince Hakeem Ogundeyi challenging the selection of Prince Olasunkanmi Lawal-Bello  as the Oba-elect looked poised to thwart the whole exercise.

The litigant is praying an Ikeja High Court to grant an interim injunction restraining the state government and the local government authorities from installing the Oba-elect as the new Onisheri of Isheri Kingmakers. After two adjournments, Justice A.M. Lawal  lifted the injunction placed on the respondents on the 11^th November 2024.

The lifting of the injunction put paid to all legal encumbrances inhibiting the state government from installing the new king. Indeed, exactly 11^th December 2024 after performing the mandatory seclusion rites (Ipebi) the soft-spokrn prince Iwas installed Oba brahim Olasunkanmi Lawal-Bello, Olanwa 1, Onisheri of Isheri Kingdom by the state governor. Babajide Olushola Sanwoolu ably represented by the state commissioner for Local Government Administration, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Bolaji Kayode Roberts (Bibire) and the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Bolarinwa Kikelomo

Oba Olasunkanmi, the fourth born in the family of  Late Oseni Kehinde and Alhaja Moriam Abebi was born on June 13^th 1987. He thus goes down in history as the youngest monarch (at the age of 37) to mount a traditional throne in Lagos State as well as the Onisheri of Isheri throne since its inception   

For close watchers, Oba Olasunkanmi’s ascension to the Onisheri throne is symbolic and divine. He had never lived a life of splendor and opulence. Completely oblivious of his royal blood, Ibrahim never dreamt of royalty talk less of becoming king of an ancient town like Isheri. His father, Late Oseni Kehinde Lawal-Bello did not tell him his family is from a ruling house in Isheri.

But all that soon changed sometime in 2022 after the demise of Oba Wahab Balogun. The young prince was in Cyprus on a business trip. He had a dream where he had a divine encounter with the late Oba whom he had only met once in real life. In that dream, Ibrahim pointedly asked the late king which family is next in line for the Onisheri throne? The king excitedly told him the Olanwa Ruling House would produce the next king.

Oblivious of the import of his dream, an agitated Ibrahim put a call through to his mum, Alhaja  Moriam Abeni back home. After narrating the dream, his mum told him that he is truly from the Olanwa Ruling House. She further told him the Kingmakers had even requested for nomination of candidates to the vacant throne of Onisheri. After making consultation with influential members the larger Olanwa Ruling House, Ibrahim decided to throw his hat into the ring to vie for the Onisheri throne from the Olanwa Ruling House.

Among the five candidates that contested for the throne, the young prince was the dark horse in the park. Aside being the youngest, he was less fancied. He spent his early age outside Isheri and therefore was less known by most indigenes of the town. However, it was obvious the gods of the land highly favour him as the Ifa Oracle clearly selected him as the anointed one whose reign would bring peace, progress and development to the ancient town.

Beside, for the uninitiated, Prince Ibrahim’s academic background as a qualified Chemical Engineer puts him on a higher pedestal ahead of his rivals. His success story as CEO of Bucknor Logistics, Bucknoe Enterprises and Bucknor FC of Alimosho is a compelling inspiration in hard work and industry. As a FIFA Licensed football agent, he has travelled far and wide helping to export young football talents to realize their professional dreams abroad.   

But despite these impressive academic and professional records, there were plots and scheme to thwart the course of destiny which the gods and deities of the land had placed on the young prince. With an overwhelming support across the landscape of Isheri and beyond, Prince Ibrahim Olasunkanmi has the taken the mantle of leadership of the ancient Aori town as the 5^th Onisheri of Isheri Kingdom.

 

Defamation: Court denies human rights activist Dele Farotimi bail

The magistrate court in Ado-Ekiti has denied bail to human rights activist, Dele Farotimi, in the suit filed by the Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, against him over alleged cybercrime.

Farotimi was taken to court for allegedly defaming the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Afe Babalola.

At the court hearing on Tuesday, the presiding magistrate, Abayomi Adeosun, postponed the decision on the bail application to December 20.

This happened after the police counsel, Samson Osobu, argued that the bail application submitted by the defendant was incomplete and not properly filed.

This ruling, however, contradicts the decision of the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti, which granted Farotimi bail on Monday.

The PUNCH reports that Farotimi was arrested in Lagos by the police and transported to Ekiti, where he appeared before the magistrate court on Wednesday.

He was charged with defamation stemming from statements in his book, ‘Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System’ where he alleged that Babalola had compromised the Supreme Court.

In his ruling, the Chief Magistrates Court in the Ado Ekiti Division ordered that Farotimi be remanded at the state’s correctional centre.

The 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, called for his immediate release in a post on his X handle.

Sowore stated, “It is pertinent that the Nigerian police are notified that the institution cannot continue to be used to settle personal scores, and we, the citizens of Nigeria, would no longer tolerate such a situation.

“Therefore, the police at Zone 2 in Lagos are advised to release Barrister Dele Farotimi immediately.”

Also, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, also condemned the arrest, describing it as illegal.

Falana demanded Farotimi’s unconditional release, stating, “The arrest is unlawful and we demand his immediate release from police custody.”

In defence of the arrest, the police claimed Farotimi ignored previous invitations to appear before them, citing cyberbullying and defamation as the grounds for his detention.

Osun 2026: Adeleke, Oyetola, Aregbesola Flex Muscles Over Bola Ige House

 

By Johnson Ayantunji 

Although 2026, when the election for the next governor of Osun State is some 18 months away, the battle for Bole Ige House, as the Seat of Government is called in Osun, has started, Sunday Telegraph can report.

The midterm celebration of Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State last week, has stirred up various forces, who are interested in who becomes the next governor of the State in 2026, when the tenure of the current tenant in Bole Ige Hosue, as the Government House of the State of the Living Spring is called would come to an end.

Sources familiar with happenings in the state said that there are three major contenders and forces. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with Adeleke as the arrow head; the Minister of the Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola with the support of the Presidency and his party – All Progressives Congress (APC), with the party chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who is telling anyone who cares to listen that Osun State is the next to be taken over by the APC.

It would be recalled that shortly after the ruling APC won the off-cycle election in Edo State in September, Ganduje said that the APC would capture the entire South West and the next would be Ondo and Osun states.

The Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), announced the APC as winner of Ondo State and the next would be Osun and Oyo.

Another force is the Osun Progressives led by the immediate past Minister of the Interior and an ally of the President Bola Tinubu, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.

All the three are already marshalling their forces and resources for the looming battle for Abere.

Watchers of political happenings in the state said it is going to be an interesting battle with Aregbesola expected to play a critical role, depending on where he throws his hat.

There are various calculations. Indeed, political pundits are waiting to see a gravitation of Aregbesola towards the incumbent governor again. Of course, some of his core loyalists are serving in his cabinet.

One of his die- hard loyalists is the current Commissioner of Information and Public Enlightenment, in Osun State, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi.

However, Sunday Telegraph learnt that some people were already reaching out to Aregbesola, telling him that if he wants to end the feud with his friend of many years, who is the current President of Nigeria, he should throw his hat where President Tinubu is looking at. That place is the current Minister of the Blue Economy, Oyetola.

Further, the Source said that Aregbesola himself is in a dilemma of some sort. Some of his core loyalists are telling him that if Oyetola returns, the Osun Progressives would be completely emasculated and they are telling Aregbesola that he should stay where he is and continue to play the good bride, so that anybody that is in better positioned to give the Osun progressives a better deal is where they would go.

Furthermore, the Source said that there is an interesting development. Some political juggernauts of the governor are telling him to consider defecting. The Chief Press Secretary (CPS), to the governor, Mallam Adewale Rasheed, debunked this last week in Sunday Telegraphs’ report.

However, sources close to the governor said that this is on the card. That if at the end of the day, he goes to the APC, the party might give him the ticket of the governorship.

Ex-Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello Sent To Kuje Prison Until 2025

A Federal Capital Territory High Court has ordered the remand of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello in the Kuje correctional centre until January 29, 2025.

The erstwhile governor’s trial has also been adjourned till February 25, 2025.

The development comes after the court rejected Bello’s bail application, citing procedural irregularities in the filing of the application.

According to Justice Maryanne Anenih, the bail application was premature as it was filed before Bello was present in court or in custody.

Bello, alongside two others, is facing charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged N110 billion money laundering case.

The defendants, in case number CR/7781, face charges of conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and unlawful possession of property. 

According to the EFCC, the former governor is accused of misappropriating state funds to acquire several properties, including No. 35 Danube Street in Maitama District, Abuja (worth N950 million), No. 1160 Cadastral Zone C03 in Gwarimpa II District, Abuja (worth N100 million), and No. 2 Justice Chukwudifu Oputa Street in Asokoro, Abuja (worth N920 million).

The former governor has been in detention since November 25.

I’m A Law Abiding Person -Lagos Business Man Insist 

 

Following a story written by an online publication titled “Lagos Business man Ignores LASPPPA turns residential area into commercial hub, neighbours groan’, the business man and the owners of Redot Digital Marketing Consultancy and Chamuze Stores Mr.Chima Ihenacho has said that he is a law biding citizen and would not do anything to break the law.

 Speaking from his residence at No 1, Akinsipe Close off Oremeta Street, area of Lagos State, Ihenacho said that there was no time he ignored any government agency regarding the said property and he has always been in touch with them. 

 Continuing, he said he had two properties within the same premises and that he has not turned any of the property into a manufacturing company adding that what he operates is a Digital Marketing Consultancy where he attends to clients and there is nothing like noise or environmental pollution .

The Redot Digital Marketing Consultancy and Chamuze Stores owner added that due to series of petitions written by the duo of Ben Arikpo (who pastors RCCG Scent of Water Parish along Ogundana Street, Off Allen Avenue Ikeja Lagos) and Mr. Chinedu Chukwu) he had been invited by no fewer than three to four agencies including the Lagos State Physical Planning and Permit Authority (LASPPPA) the Safety Commission and others. 

"Twice my building was sealed and reopened by the agencies after thorough investigation. 'But Arikpo and Chukwu are using every means possible to drive me out of business. They have a well-orchestrated plan to bully, intimidate and blackmail me”

 “And when pressure was getting too much, I sold one of properties and relocated my warehouse to Magboro area of Ogun State and when their problems were becoming unbearable including monitoring my movement and that of my staffs, I have to instruct my lawyer to write Mr Ben Aripo through a letter dated 22 December 2023 to warn him to desist from taking pictures and making recordings of my clients movement because he had been caught on CCTV footage several times. 

"On another occasion, Mr Ben Arikpo who runs Brain RX and Dyslexia Foundation from his home and Chinedu Chukwu (a pilot) runs a car showroom along with his brother within the same premises sent an impersonator who disguised as a police officer to come harass and intimidate my staff.” 

 Mr Chima added: "When they did not succeed in their ploy to either frustrate or bully me out of my business or make me sell other building which they have been bidding for through their agents, they now result to blackmail through newspapers and online publications because the story written recently was to incite LASPPPA against me and to also indict the respected government agency ‘.

 “As a business, we employ the youths of Lagos and Nigeria and fully support the government’s drive for self development and empowerment. To be faced with this level of falsehood by two individuals who will stop at nothing to wreck a thriving business is beyond imagination.” He said.

BIGGEST FRAUD HAUL!

 Govt Top Brass Forfeits Estate With 753 Duplexes 

 The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), yesterday announced the single largest asset recovery since its inception in 2003. 

The development followed a ruling by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court on the final forfeiture of an Abuja estate measuring 150,500 square metres and containing 753 units of duplexes and other apartments. 

According to the EFCC, the estate, located on Plot 109 Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja, belonged to a government official.

 “The forfeiture of the property to the federal government by a former top brass of the government was pursuant to EFCC’s mandate and policy directive of ensuring that the corrupt and fraudulent do not enjoy the proceeds of their unlawful activities,” the statement added. 

The EFCC said it relied on Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud And Other Fraud Related Offences Act No 14, 2006 and Section 44 (2) B of the Constitution of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to push its case. 

Ruling on the Commission’s application for the final forfeiture of the property, Justice Onwuegbuzie held that the respondent have not shown cause as to why he should not lose the property, “which has been reasonably suspected to have been acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities”. 

“The property is hereby finally forfeited to the Federal Government,” the judge declared, according to the statement.

 Female Police Inspector Rewarded For Arresting Kidnapper's Leader, Recovery of N2.5m Ransom

A female Inspector from the Rivers State Police Command whose efforts were said to have led to the arrest of a notorious kidnapers leader and the recovery of the sum of N2.5 million ransom has been rewarded by the Commissioner of Police in the state, the command announced in a statement on Monday night.

The state police command disclosed the development on its X handle and Facebook wall, saying the Inspector, Blessing Ozii, was instrumental in busting a dangerous criminal gang which led to the arrest of the kingpin of kidnappers, whose name was given as Idris Abdullahi.

According to the command, following her exploit, she was commended by the Commissioner of Police and a ceremony to commend her and one other senior officer who also made exploits was held at the Police Officers Mess in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

The command wrote: "Inspector Blessing Ozii was recognized for her exceptional intelligence and diligence, which led to the apprehension of a notorious kidnappers leader, Idris Abdullahi. 

'"Her efforts not only dismantled a dangerous criminal operation, but also resulted in the recovery of ₦2.5 million.

"For her outstanding performance, she received the Commissioner’s Commendation Award and a monetary reward as a token of appreciation."

The Commissioner was said to have praised her efforts and encouraged her to continue to contribute her quota to the crime-fighting efforts of the command.

Nigeria’s First Private TV Station Suspends Operations

Desmims Broadcast Nigeria, owners of Nigeria’s first private television station, DITV and Alheri Radio, the oldest private radio station in Northern Nigeria, have announced the suspension of their operations due to harsh economic climate.

In a statement issued over the weekend in Kaduna, the Acting General Manager and Chairman of the Management Committee, Idris Mustapha, revealed that rising operational costs, particularly the escalating cost of power, has made it impossible for the station to continue running effectively.

“The escalating cost of power has made it impossible to operate the station effectively,” the statement read.

Mustapha further explained that the financial difficulties were exacerbated by the inability of several businesses that previously advertised on the TV station to meet their financial obligations, which significantly affected revenue generation

This development marked a significant moment in Nigeria’s media landscape, particularly for the Hausa-speaking audience, which has remained loyal to DITV and Alheri Radio over the years.

The management expressed its regret over the development and assured the public that normal transmission would resume as soon as the financial situation improves. “We sincerely regret the inconvenience this may cause our millions of viewers and listeners,” the statement added.

 

FACE OF A FORGER! 

Former Rep Member Lands In Trouble Over Alleged WAEC Certificate Forgery

Hon. Rita Odichi Orijifor, who represented Ajeromi/Ifelodun Federal Constituency between 2015 and 2019, has been arrested by the Nigeria Police over allegations of presenting a fake WAEC certificate during her tenure in the House of Representatives.

According to sources, Orijifor was apprehended earlier yesterday at her residence in Wonderland Estate, Abuja, after police officers had waited for over five hours for her to come out. She reportedly locked herself in her bedroom and made calls to influential political figures in a bid to avoid arrest. 

However, none of the figures offered assistance in this high-profile scandal, and despite some attempts to intervene with the police, Orijifor eventually emerged from her hideout and was taken into custody.

Before her arrest, Orijifor had reportedly been hiding in Akure to evade law enforcement agents, only returning to Abuja after believing the situation had cooled. However, unknown to her, the police were still on her trail.

Her troubles began when a judge in the Federal Capital Territory dismissed her application to stop the ongoing police investigation. The judge ruled that Orijifor failed to demonstrate that her rights had been violated by the authorities.

Orijifor is currently being detained at the Force Headquarters in Abuja as investigations continue. The case is expected to be a significant development in Nigerian politics, given her previous role as a federal lawmaker.

This is a developing story, and more details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.

 Olubadan Storms Genesis For Askari Fuji

Top Fuji singer, Alhaji Adeyinka Ishola Isiaka aka Askari has concluded plans to release a new single titled 'Ibadan'.

The single, according to Ishola is to promote Ibadan ,Oyo State as a town and to share some historical perspectives about the town with his audience and to correct a lot of misconception and misrepresentation about the town.

Askari a native of Ibadan and a respected Chief,  Mogaji Alare from the Agbejonku Royal Dynasty Aremo Ibadan, Askari to nko Fuji is the first police officer to play  Fuji music in Nigeria; the first ibadan- born Fuji artist to be installed a Mogaji; first Ibadan born Fuji artiste to released and  dedicate a full album to propagate and eulogize Ibadan virtues as the largest warlord city in Africa. 

He is so passionate about the song because as a Royal Ambassador of Ibadan, he sees it as a right to protect the ancient town of Ibadan and to live his mark on the sands of time for yet unborn generations.

Continuing, he said the single will be released after the  Listening Party scheduled for Genesis HAll, Molete Road, Ibadan, Oyo State on Sunday 8th December 2024 and  will be released on all online digital platforms,. There will  be limited hard copy (CD)  for the purpose of launching at the venue.

He added that the single is a  result of serious research and composition. 'it is not just a song but a statement of fact which is a must for every body irrespective of his or her town.'

 Mogaji Adeyinka said because of the importance he  attached to  the single, he has invited the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin as Father of the Day, to be supported by High Chiefs, the Mogajis and other big wigs in Ibadan and other parts of Nigeria 'We are releasing the single with all the glamour it deserves "because its not just a song  but an historical research laced with best of compositions  and good musical work"

Other guests include the CEO of Ilaji Farms and  Resorts, Engr Jubril Dotun Sanusi; the Jagun Olubadan, Chief Osuolale Akeem;  Senator High Chief Sharafadein Alli; Hon Rasheed Akogun; members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII,) led by Barister Ajewole; Ambassador Club of Ibadan; Indigene for Social Awareness Club Ibadan, Azakhope Integrated Ventures led by Olori Ishola Asisat Opeyemi; Barrister  Sanni Odu; Mr Yemi Dollar; Oloye Abiola Gbonka the Balogun of Ibadan, top notch business moguls and  who is who in Ibadan and Lagos. 

Askari informed that after releasing the teaser on all social media platforms, he has been receiving lots of accolades from fans, friends and well-wishers who told him to release the single as soon as possible 'now that the D-Day is here, nothing will stop the release of the master piece.'

 

 

SIMON EKPA RECANTS!

Tells Finland Court: ‘I’m Just A Content Creator’

 Simon Ekpa, a self-proclaimed Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in exile, has denied allegations of sponsoring terrorism in Nigeria.

Appearing before a Finnish court in the Päijät-Häme district on November 21, Ekpa described his involvement with the Biafra movement as a “mere joke” and insisted he is primarily a content creator.

The Finnish Central Criminal Police arrested Ekpa in Lahti, Finland, as part of an Ekpa Recantsongoing investigation into allegations of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent. Authorities also detained four other suspects accused of financing activities linked to the charges against Ekpa. The arrests were confirmed in a statement on the Finnish police website, which detailed international collaboration during the investigation.

Ekpa’s alleged crimes date back to 2021 and center on accusations of incitement that may have contributed to the enforcement of “sit-at-home” orders in southeastern Nigeria. These orders, associated with the activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), have significantly disrupted economic activities and created tensions in the region.

While the court proceedings continue, Ekpa has faced growing international criticism and calls for accountability. His alleged role in influencing separatist actions in Nigeria has drawn attention, with observers highlighting the impact of his activities on the South East’s stability and economy.

The Finnish court is expected to evaluate the evidence presented by the prosecution and determine the next steps in the legal process. Meanwhile, Ekpa and his legal team maintain his innocence, dismissing the allegations as unfounded.

 MC Oluomo Expelled From NURTW Over Protocol Breach

MC Oluomo, former NURTW Lagos State chairman, was declared ineligible for membership by the South-west Zonal Chairman, Olalekan Salami. The decision follows a breach of NURTW protocols, including tearing his union ID and failing to submit a rejoining application. The court upheld Alhaji Tajudeen Baruwa’s leadership.

The controversy surrounding Musiliu Akinsanya, also known as MC Oluomo, took a new turn this week as the Southwest Zonal Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Olalekan Salami, announced that Oluomo is no longer a member of the union. 

The statement, made on November 19, clarifies that MC Oluomo forfeited his membership in 2022 after he publicly tore up his union identity card in defiance of a disciplinary query from the national leadership.

Salami, while addressing the press, emphasized that the NURTW constitution is explicit about the process for rejoining the union. 

According to the rules, a returning member must submit a formal application for approval and spend at least two years at the grassroots level before being eligible for any office. MC Oluomo reportedly failed to follow these protocols, making him ineligible to hold any position within the union.

Salami also reaffirmed the leadership of Alhaji Tajudeen Ibikunle Baruwa, whose presidency was recently upheld by the Appeal Court. The court's decision has further intensified the ongoing power struggle within the NURTW, with factions still contesting Baruwa’s authority.

Salami warned that the government must recognize the legitimate leadership and resist condoning any acts of disorder, especially gangsterism, which has plagued the union in recent years.

  

It’ll Be Unjust To Deny Ogun West 2027 Governorship – Ex-CPS Odunaro

Chief Kayode Odunaro served in Ogun State as Chief Press Secretary to two military administrators and Chief Olusegun Osoba at the dawn of Nigeria’s  nascent democracy. He was later Special Adviser on Communications to Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt.Hon. Dimeji Bankole. The highly revered journalist journalist was also the Chairman of the annual Federal Government-endorsed Oronna Ilaro Festival Planning Committee for four years. Currently, he is the Chief of Staff to Senator Solomon Adeola, the Chairman of Senate Committee of Appropriations. He expresses his opinion on the power equation in Ogun State in this short but enthralling chat with LANRE OLALEYE

 

 There is this notion that power has always rotated between the Egbas and the Ijebu/Remo since the inception of Ogun State in 1976. Do you subscribe to this notion?

It is not a matter of subscription but a fact of history that under democratic dispensation and indeed some part of military era, leadership of the state has always rotated between the Egbas in Ogun Central Senatorial District and the Ijebu/Remos in the Ogun East Senatorial district. From the first democratic administration of Chief Olabisi Onabanjo to Chief Olusegun Osoba, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and now, Prince Oladapo Abiodun, ultimate political power in Ogun State since its creation have oscillated between the two aforementioned senatorial districts and their major ethnic configuration of Egbas, Ijebus and Remos to the exclusion of Ogun West senatorial district of Yewa and Awori. But if your question relates to my view or support for such an arrangement, I will out rightly states that it is an unjust and inequitable situation that something must be done to redress urgently in the over 48 years history of Ogun State. And of course, the situation has its implication for the uneven development of the state as a whole and the underdevelopment of Ogun West in particular. For the state, it is clear that whatever development the fact of political leaderships has conferred on the two ruling senatorial districts, is detracted by the low-level development of the remaining senatorial district. More like a man keeping his courtyard and living rooms clean while the kitchen and backyard is left in a state of squalor. The total outlook is negative for such a household. Holistic development of all parts of Ogun State is ultimately in the interest of all Ogun State indigenes and the earlier power is allowed to rotate among all the senatorial districts and its people the better for its development and the sense of equity, fair play and justice.

Has Yewa/Awori been part of the power bloc in Ogun State?

Unfortunately, the Yewa and Awori people of Ogun West were always at the fringes of real power in Ogun State. Effectively, the closest they got to the seat of power was deputy governor under Otunba Daniel and now, under Prince Abiodun. But effectively the highest elective position attained by Yewa and Awori was the senatorial seat. And from time to time they are appointed to such workaholic positions as Secretary to State Government as perhaps the highest tokenistic position available. This absence from the power equation is a great injustice against Yewa and Awori and contradicts the national outlook of prominent Ogun State citizens like the Soyinkas, the Ransome Kutis, the Williams etc who are/were noted for fighting injustices at the national level while injustice is festering in its backyard in Ogun State. The situation should be a source of worry for any genuine lover of equity, justice and fair play among brothers and sisters.

Do you think Yewa/Awori clamour for governorship in 2027 is realistic?

I will like to think it is now more realistic than it has been in the previous years when Yewa and Awori people had contested for a lot of reasons. One reason is that people learn from experiences of previous attempts and can see through mistakes, flaws and conspiracies that saw Ogun West coming second or third place in the race. Another reason is the possible desire of the party leadership at the national level to redress decades of political injustice among its members in a state. The calculation here for the party is to be seen as a party of equity and justice for its members. It is therefore not inconceivable for all political parties to decide that for equity and justice sake, the governorship ticket should be ceded to Yewa and Awori aspirants after almost five decades since the creation of the state. The ruling political party in the state and at the national level, All Progressives Congress, (APC) are likely to buy this argument not only for its justiciability and equity but its electoral value and calculations. From the records, this was one of the major considerations of the party in the recently conducted and won election in Edo State. The candidate of APC that won the election and now sworn in as governor Senator Monday Okpebholo was chosen for the simple reason of redressing an albatross in the power equation of Edo State as his senatorial district has been shut out of the power equation for decades. Ogun state happens to be about the only state in Nigeria that is afflicted with this albatross and it is realistic to think that come 2027, the situation will be remedied. 

There are speculations that top politicians in Ogun Central (Egbas) are not ready to concede the governorship to Ogun West (Yewa) in 2027. If this is true, would this not affect Yewa/Awori's gubernatorial ambition in 2027?

 Well, as it is individuals cannot be prevailed upon not to exercise what is their rights under the constitution. But such individual ambition must not be cloaked under any overarching ethnic, religious or any other colouration when the basis for such is negated by the fact of history and a sense of justice, equity and fair play. In this instance, any ambitious person from Ogun Central have to contend with the fact of history that Egba sons had occupied the position of governor for upward of 14 years in the state’s history of democratic rule under Aremo Olusegun Osoba and Senator Ibikunle Amosun with Senator Amosun handing over to the incumbent from Ijebu/ Remo in Ogun East. And the speculation that top politicians from Ogun Central are not ready to concede the governorship to Ogun West remains in the realm of speculation. I am aware that majority of the key political players in Ogun Central have not made any public utterance indicative of opposition to concession to Ogun West. And they are unlikely to as this may question their integrity with many of them having rooted unsuccessfully for Ogun West to become governor in the past. Doing so at this point with additional years of injustice to Ogun West may question their initial belief and support for same. So as said, anyone from Ogun Central aspiring to contest for governorship is doing so on the strength of his ambition and not on the basis of justice and equity.

Again, the Aworis are also reportedly showing strong interest in the governorship in 2027. Don't you think there is need to harness shades of interest as far as Yewa/Awori governorship ambition is concerned?

Aworis are major stakeholders not only in Ogun West politics but indeed in the politics of Ogun State. Any aspirant from Aworis in Ogun West is welcome to contest provided the aspiration is backed by capacity, credibility and antecedents that are acceptable to all Ogun State at large for the occupation of the Government House in Abeokuta. As stated, the time is now ripe for Ogun West to redress an unbalanced situation with the experience of hindsight of yesteryears. At every event all the people of Ogun West will jointly put out their best hands to govern Ogun State based on proven antecedents and performance. But certainly, Ogun West is not in short supply of aspirants from Yewa and Awori and efforts are on to present a candidate that will inspire confidence of the two other senatorial districts to concede to Ogun West.