Fredrick Nwabufo, columnist and journalist, has asked political parties to zone their presidential tickets based on the "geography of competence and character", rather than ethnicity and religion.
Nwabufo spoke on Wednesday during a television programme titled, "Village Square Africa" on News Central TV.
Ahead of the 2023 elections, there have been calls for the next president of the country to come from the southern part of the country -- with particular reference to the south-east.
Speaking on the issue of zoning, the columnist, who is popularly known as Mr OneNigeria, said the competence and character of the next president should be the focus of Nigerians -- instead of emphasis on the region, ethnic group and religion of the next president.
Nwabufo said Nigeria needs a "Nigerian president" who will represent all Nigerians, and not a president who will represent one section of the country.
The columnist said despite the zoning of presidential tickets since 1999, the problems bedeviling the country remain the same.
"It is an interesting time; I believe we will have an election in 2023 where an incumbent president will not be running, and it makes it much more interesting because it is an open ticket," Nwabufo said.
"Any party or anybody can take it because the power of incumbency is limited in this case.
"We have clamours for political parties to cede the presidential ticket to the south, and of course, it has been a back and forth. There are arguments for and against that.
"Personally, I believe what we should be talking about now is competence. Political parties should zone their presidential tickets to the geography of competence.
"If I should rephrase that, political parties should zone their presidential tickets to the axis of competence, capacity and character.
"This is the problem we have had over the years. We emphasise ethnicity and religion. Some of the presidential hopefuls that have shown interest have been toeing that path.
"We have a problem of putting emphasis on what should be secondary and not on primary matters of competence, character, ability, antecedents and proven track record -- which should ordinarily be the issues that should guide the 2023 elections.
"But unfortunately we are seeing religion and ethnicity being the topmost issues in this season. The questions are — what has zoning done for us over the years? How has zoning changed Nigeria?
''The problem is when you cede a presidential ticket to a particular zone on the basis of 'it is our turn', the person who is coming to contest is coming to represent his region and not Nigerians.
"We should be talking about a Nigerian president not an Igbo president. That is why I totally repudiate the phrase — Igbo presidency — it is wrong to say Igbo presidency. These are some of the things we need to correct.
"We need a Nigerian president not a president of the south-east, the south-west or the north. The president that will represent all Nigerians; that will be for all Nigerians.
"We have been through this path before. When you start ceding or start amplifying ethnic agenda and issues, the person who emerges will want to favour his own side of the country because he believes that he is at the presidency to represent his region."
A Former Governor of Imo state, Rochas Okorocha has disclosed that President Muhammadu Buhari has not endorsed any 2023 presidential aspirant.
Okorocha who appeared on "Politics Today" on Tuesday evening disclosed that Buhari has not revealed his preferred candidate or given his support to any aspirant yet.
He said; "If you know President Muhammadu Buhari, he is a general and you can't predict. He is so unpredictable, you can't predict what he will do. He might pull anybody by surprise.
"That's the military training that he has but anybody that goes there, i'm sure whatever he says is what he says to be."
"If anybody comes out to say that Buhari has endorsed him, the person will not be saying the truth".
Okorocha is also an aspirant seeking the Presidential ticket of the All Progressives Congress, APC in the upcoming 2023 elections.
- PSC Chairman, Musiliu Smith, Clara Ogunbiyi in support
- Najatu Mohammed Opposes
Palpable Crisis has engulfed the Nigerian Police Service Commission over the promotion of a Former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibrahim Magu.
The commission is heavily divided over Magu's push to be promoted to an Assistant Inspector-General of Police despite being on Suspension.
This newspaper gathered that in a meeting over the matter on Tuesday, the Chairman of the Commission, Musiliu Smith and another member, Clara Ogunbiyi are mounting pressure for Magu's promotion to be approved.
However, one member of the commission, Najatu Mohammed vehemently stood against it.
With his retirement imminent on May 5th, 2022, Magu has been lobbying several members of the commission and has intensified push for Service Extension.
POLITICS NIGERIA recalls that Magu was suspended as chairman of the EFCC after a panel setup by President Muhammadu Buhari recommended his removal over allegations of Embezzlement and Fraud.
A reliable source disclosed to this newspaper that an emboldened Magu is also seeking promotion to AIG.
The Commission's chairman, Smith has particularly been under pressure from a former security chief turned traditional ruler and a frontline 2023 presidential aspirant from the South-west.
Smith is said to have served this monarch who is hellbent on ensuring that Magu gets the promotion as he will play a major role for the Presidential aspirant in the upcoming 2023 elections.
The meeting which is holding in Abuja as at the time of filing this report may likely end in a stalemate as Mrs. Mohammed has seriously opposed the move due to Magu's 'antecedents' and the fact that he is still on suspension.
‘’It’s not my problem.’’ – This was President Muhammadu Buhari’s immutable response to a question on his thoughts on the 2023 elections. Buhari has been coerced and blandished to assert himself like former President Olusegun Obasanjo who assumed the de facto office of godfather and technically installing the late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua as president in 2007. But the president has remained stolid to these sweet temptations.
Buhari has unremittingly warned members of his party – the All Progressives Congress – who are running for political office to desist from merchandising his name in their campaigns. At a meeting with party leaders in 2019, for instance, he said those running for office should work hard and convince the electorate to vote for them by dint of personal example. Using himself as a representative case, he said he ran for president multiple times but failed.
The president said he would not interfere or diddle with the electoral process to secure political advantage for anyone.
His words: “Well, what I want to promise Nigerians is that I will work very hard on ensuring free and fair elections. All those that are going to succeed the National Assembly and the presidency, they better work very hard because I will make sure I use the law enforcement agents to ensure that elections are free and fair (and that) nobody uses his office or his resources to force himself on his constituency.’’
He has again and again stated this position as regards the 2023 elections. Buhari is not the archetypal politician. He is placid and disinterested in ensconcing a political hegemony. He is empty of chicanery, and perhaps, full of childlike candour. He is politically guileless. His administration and whatever political edge that comes with it ends with him. I think this is the making of a democrat. A leader who will not want a puppet to succeed him and who will not try to maintain control of the government after him.
Buhari said he would return to Daura to tend his farm at the end of his tenure, and he appears to be working according to his word. The only way up from the presidency for Buhari is Daura. If the president stays on this path, then it will be a new precedent – sepulchring the old 2007 Obasanjo/Yar’Adua paradigm.
Buhari is very reluctant about becoming a political godfather – even when it seems political knights-errant need him to be one. During the APC leadership crisis involving Adams Oshiomhole, former national chairman, the president sequestered himself from the party and all the intrigues. He refused to be involved in the melee or take sides with any group. Some party insiders said he told them to ‘’behave themselves’’ and deal with the issues.
And during the national chairmanship tussle involving Mai Mala Buni, the president refused to move a hand. While there were plots and counterplots on the national convention, he totally unlooked. The party wobbled and tottered to purgatory, but the president was unfazed. He was even reluctant to name anyone as national chairman. The APC governors eventually had to impress it on Buhari why he should intervene and save the rocky boat.
At the meeting with the APC governors, the president was said to have nominated Abdullahi Adamu as national chairman. That was the only person he named for a position in the APC national working committee (NWC). But lists with names of certain persons for some offices purportedly endorsed by the president were already in circulation weeks to the national convention. Evidently, some acquisitive interests exploit Buhari’s name to pursue their own agenda within the party.
The president’s reason for being standoffish, according to those who know, is that he believes the party should be self-sustaining and self-governing; so that when he leaves office, the party can still function without his intervention. He just wants to go and rest in Daura after 2023.
In the build-up to the Edo governorship election of 2020, when the APC gave Godwin Obaseki the heave-ho, the governor who joined the PDP to actualise his ambition, still found support in Buhari. A few hours after his defection to the PDP, the governor was seen at the presidential villa grinning from ear to ear with Buhari.
At the 2019 governorship campaign rally in Imo, the president told residents to vote for any candidate they liked regardless of the party – this is to the stupefaction of the APC candidate and other party leaders present. His words: “You can vote for whosoever you want. Do not allow intra or inter-party affairs stop you from voting for the candidates of your choice.’’
Buhari has shown rare political expansiveness. He does not interfere in or influence elections for anyone; he does not show exceptional preference for any candidate against another. But he gives the customary support to his party’s candidates no doubt. He meets, smiles and take photographs with every candidate – whether PDP, APC or PRP.
On political matters, Buhari has really lived up to his 2015 pledge: ‘’I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody.’’
By Fredrick Nwabufo; Nwabufo aka Mr OneNigeria is a writer and journalist.
Afam Mallison Emmanuel Ukatu has been unmasked as the elusive Drug Baron behind a shipment of Tramadol worth N3 billion.
This was after investigations by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA into the activities of disgraced police officer, Abba Kyari who was nabbed earlier this year for attempting to facilitate the release of seized cocaine with $61,000.
Ukatu was arrested on board a flight to Abuja at the MM2 terminal of the Lagos airport, Ikeja on Wednesday, April 13.
POLITICS NIGERIA has been furnished with certain details about the Notorious Drug Lord, See below;
1. Ukatu was born on May 8, 1964 in Onitsha, Anambra State. He is 60 years old.
2. He is married with 5 Children
3. He holds a B.A Honours degree in Philosophy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and an MBA from Crawford University, Ogun State.
4. He is the Executive Chairman and Founder of Mallinson & Partners Limited, a Director in Cowry Assets and Management, a Director at Masters Energy Oil & Gas Limited, Director Urban Space Services, and Director, Alor Microfinance Bank Limited.
5. Ukatu is a Fellow of the Rotary Club International, Fellow, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, (MAN) a member of the Certified Institute of Cost Management of Nigeria (CICM)
6. He also owns Nispo Porcelain Company Ltd.
7. The NDLEA has been monitoring his activities for months
8. Ukatu is a major importer of high dosages of Tramadol Hydrochloride such as 120mg, 200mg, 225mg, and 250mg.
9. He owns 103 bank accounts
10. He is a certified member of the Institute of Strategic Management of Nigeria.
Billionaire drug baron behind the N3billion Tramadol deal involving the embattled suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police, Abba Kyari-led Intelligence Response Team, IRT, Chief Afam Mallinson Emmanuel Ukatu has been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA.
After months of surveillance and evading arrest, Ukatu who is Chairman of Mallinson Group of Companies was eventually nabbed onboard a flight to Abuja at the MM2 terminal of the Lagos airport, Ikeja on Wednesday 13th April.
Investigations reveal hes been a major importer of large consignments of different brands and high dosages of Tramadol Hydrochloride, ranging from 120mg, 200mg, 225mg and 250mg, all of which are illicit. Ukatu owns pharmaceutical and plastic manufacturing companies, which he used as a cover to import illicit drugs into Nigeria. This is in addition to operating 103 bank accounts, most of which are used to launder money.
Ukatu came under watch last year after five cartons of Tramadol 225mg were seized from his staff on 4th May 2021 when he sent them to sell to undercover police officers (unknown to Ukatu) from the then Kyari-led IRT of the Nigeria Police, Ikeja Lagos. The price of a carton of Tramadol was negotiated at N17million each as against the then black market value that ranged between N18million and N20million a carton in Lagos.
After the arrest of Ukatu's staff: Pius Enidom and Sunday Ibekwete, Kyaris men were then led by the suspects to Mallinson's warehouse at Ojota in Lagos where 197 additional Cartons of Tramadol 225mg were seized by the IRT Team. The monetary value of the 202 cartons of Tramadol seized from Mallinson in one day was over N3billion.
Three weeks after the seizure, the Kyaris IRT team transferred only 12 Cartons of the Tramadol with one truck and a suspect to the Lagos Command of the NDLEA, leaving 190 cartons unaccounted for. After over eight months of following the lead, anti-narcotic officers of the Agency eventually arrested Ukatu at the Lagos airport on 13th April 2022. Kyari and four top members of his team are already facing trial for a different but similar offence at a Federal High Court in Abuja.
The Peoples Democratic Party in Imo state has stated that the Governor of Imo state, Hope Uzodinma has failed to secure the lives and properties of residents and lacks the capacity to govern.
This was contained in a statement sent to POLITICS NIGERIA on Thursday signed by the party's publicity secretary, Emenike Nmeregini.
"This party, strongly views as shocking, desperate and condemnable, the statement credited to Governor Uzodinma in his Easter message, where he wondered why bandits, killers, arsonists, terrorists and militants have not been attacking and wiping out opposition figures in Imo."
"By that reckless statement, Uzodinma confirms reports that his government has hatched wicked plots to commence systematic elimination of perceived political opponents, especially those who disagree with him."
"Governor Uzodinma's open call for the elimination of members of opposition in the state, betrays his mindless, unconscionable intolerance and disdain for opposition's constructive criticisms. We call on President Mohammed Buhari to note and order an immediate investigation of Governor Uzodinma's latest outbursts and threats against innocent citizens of Imo State and do the needful. "
"This party notes, also with dismay the inexcusable failure of the APC-led administration of Governor Hope Uzodinma to address the festering insecurity in the state. This situation gets worse and the carnage only increases. In the last few days, Orlu LGA and its environs have been on fire, with gory images and videos of killings and arson dominating the cyberspace."
"Even Easter celebration in most parts of Orlu, Orsu, Oru East and Oru West LGAs became a festival of sorrow and blood, as gunshots, deaths, fire and pandemonium reigned across the area. All of these point to a catastrophic failure of government. They are direct consequences of an inept and clueless leadership, one that has failed to deliver the basic duty of governance - security of lives and property."
"This party regrets that even in the face of these killings and mindless attacks on private holes and public institutions, Governor Uzodinma has never seen the urgency to properly diagnose the situation and set in motion an honest, sustainable programs aimed at permanently addressing the menace.", the statement read in part.
The party accused Uzodinma of planning to 'eliminate' perceived opponents.
"It is mind-boggling, and it smacks of mischief and deliberate attempt to eliminate his perceived political foes, that while the military in Imo has blamed another group for the Easter Sunday attacks in Orlu, Uzodinma has continued to say the opposition should be held responsible for the onslaughts."
"What could be more indicative of Uzodinma's intellectual inadequacy to govern Imo than that, instead of arresting and prosecuting criminals who kill innocent citizens, he chooses to toy with the monsters, romanticize the unfortunate killings and politicize the situation. He also places no premium on the lives of Imo people, the same people he pretends to govern."
Fresh Intelligence reports have revealed that the Unknown gunmen wreaking havoc in the South Eastern parts of the country have relocated to some forests in Anambra, POLITICS NIGERIA can authoritatively confirm.
This newspaper learnt that this is part of efforts by the criminal elements to link up with Niger Delta Avengers (NDA), a militant group that sprung up in the Niger Delta Region in March 2016.
According to a top security officer who craved anonymity, this recent move by the gunmen is to expand their tentacles and leave no traces after attacks.
"Some of the unknown gunmen operating in parts of imo and Anambra are relocating to the thick forests of Amiyi and Ogwuaniocha in ogbaru LGA of Anambra state," a top security source disclosed.
Speaking on their grand plan, the source added; "First they will link up with Niger delta militants. And with the water there, attack and retreat will be easy for them and possibly difficult for security forces because of the terrain".
POLITICS NIGERIA could not immediately get the comments of the spokespersons of the Department of State Security (DSS) and the Anambra state Police command as their telephones were unreachable on Thursday.
This comes a few days after the Imo state Governor, Hope Uzodinma, threatened to deal with the criminals.
President Muhammadu Buhari Wednesday in Abuja warned of tougher security measures in restive parts of the country, with review of operations and strategy, reassuring Nigerians that the efforts that resulted in relative peace in South-South, and rescuing of North-East from the hold of terrorists will be ramped up.
Speaking at a meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the President noted that the major security challenges have remained in the North Central and North West, saying, “We are going to be very tough.’’
“I will like us to reflect on what the situation was before we came in. How many Local Government Areas were under the control of terrorists in the North-East?
“In the South-South, we all know what the situation was; now we have relative peace. With the resources at our disposal, we have done very well.
“People are very forgetful. Our main problem now is in the North West and North Central. People are killing one another in these places, what for? We are going to be very tough,’’ he said.
President Buhari urged party members to be more mindful of the pitfalls that led to the ouster of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015.
“The PDP thought that only time could remove them, and the time actually came. They thought it was impossible to lose elections,’’ he added.
President Buhari said the APC was formed by a merger of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), some members from All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the new PDP, which was a faction of the then ruling party.
“We put together a committee with clear terms of reference on how to remove the PDP from power. The PDP thought it wasn’t going to be possible. But it happened,’’ the President said.
President Buhari told new members of the National Working Committee (NWC), which had been delegated powers of NEC for a period, to work towards keeping the party together by creating more room for discussions.
“There’s no time to develop differences among ourselves. We have no time for that,’’ he added.
The President commended Mai Mala Buni-led Caretaker/Extra-ordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) and all its members for offering themselves to serve the party at a critical moment in utmost satisfaction despite all the attendant challenges, and for organizing the National Convention that produced the NWC.
“I must also sincerely thank all the aspirants for their desire to serve but had to withdraw their aspirations for the over-all interest of our Party. I consider it an honour to my person and an unwavering sacrifice for the unity of our great party as we approach the coming elections.
“I plead with all aspirants who were not elected to put in efforts in support of the leaderships of the Party to achieve our goal of success in the forthcoming elections. Furthermore I am pleading with all litigants to withdraw cases against the Party and put faith in party mechanisms.’’
President Buhari also advised party leaders against imposing unpopular candidates on the APC.
“I enjoin you all to follow due process in all the party processes and more importantly to develop more mechanisms against corruption. I call on all party members to abide by all extant laws, rules, and regulations and to leaders of our party to avoid imposition of candidates that cannot win popular elections.
“This dictatorial behavior cost us many strategic seats in the past. In the recent past this led to some of our strong members unfortunately opting to go elsewhere because of unfairly oppressive behavior of party leaders at state level.
“I must caution strongly against any tendency towards developing cliques, in–fighting within the party. We want to win well not succumb to factions on account of personal acerbities and desire to retain control at all costs. That surely is not the road to win,’’ he said.
President Buhari also congratulated the new National Chairman of APC, Sen. Abdullahi Adamu, and the entire NWC members.
“You came in at a critical time and the entire party has a high expectation from you. The critical task ahead of you remains to continue to forge the unity of purpose among party members and to keep securing needful compromises in the interest of our great party,’’ the President noted.
President Buhari felicitated with party leaders and members for successfully conducting the Ward, Local Government, State Congresses, and the National Convention, in compliance with the Party Constitution.
“I enjoin you all to recognize the place of due process in all our tasks as managers of the party. We must develop party in-built mechanisms against corruption. Our success in 2023 will depend more on our capacity to respect our own extant rules, and regulations.
“Now that NEC has vested its powers in NWC for the time being, as requested, and in compliance with the Party Constitution in the overall interest of the Party, I want to assure Mr. Chairman and the entire NWC members of my full support,’’ he said.
In his remark, the APC Chairman appreciated President Buhari for always working for the unity and survival of the party, assuring that the NWC will further unite the party, and ensure victory at the polls.
“We must succeed, failure is not an option,’’ the APC Chairman said.
The NEC meeting was attended by the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Senate President, Dr Ahmad Lawan, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, other principal officers of the National Assembly, APC governors and state party chairmen.
The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN has called for the removal of Sterling Bank CEO, Abubakar Suleiman over a controversial Easter Advert.
In a statement made available to POLITICS NIGERIA on Wednesday, signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Joseph Bade Daramola, the group called for Suleiman's Sack for 'hostility and hatred' of the Christian Faith.
"The attention of the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has been drawn to an ungodly, wicked, insensitive and deliberately provocative advertisement of the Sterling Bank comparing the Resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ to 'Agege Bread' amidst the Easter celebration."
"In case the management of the Sterling Bank is not aware, the resurrection of Jesus witnesses to the immense power of God Himself. To believe in the resurrection is to believe in God. If God exists, and if He created the universe and has power over it, then He has power to raise the dead. If He does not have such power, He is not worthy of our faith and worship."
"Only He who created life can resurrect it after death, only He can reverse the mystery that is death itself, and only He can remove the sting and gain the victory over the grave (1 Corinthians 15:54–55). In resurrecting Jesus from the grave, God reminds us of His absolute sovereignty over life and death."
"The purported apology did not come from a penitent heart. How can someone in his right mind described the risen Christ as a loaf of bread. That is insulting, ridiculous and a mockery of Jesus Christ. We advised Christians to be wary of the banks and other financial institutions they are patronising."
"We learnt that the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON) has reportedly intervened in the matter with a view to impose some sanctions against Sterling Bank. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) is waiting for the decision of the organisation."
"However, in the interim, we call for the immediate removal of the Chief Executive of Sterling Bank; Mr. Abubakar Suleiman with his Management whose actions have clearly shown their hostility and hatred for the Christian faith."
The Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank Plc, Herbert Wigwe has been named in a recent investigation by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission(SEC) hearing into alleged insider trading in a Tech Unicorn, Flutterwave.
This is according to a report published on WestAfricaWeekly by Award-winning Journalist, David Hundeyin on Tuesday shed light into certain activities and allegations of Insider Trading levelled against Flutterwave and its CEO, Agboola Olugbenga or 'GB' as he is popularly called.
Agboola is facing serious allegations of Insider trading as he has been accused of forcing some of his employees who he offered stock options, of selling to companies or investment vehicles he has interests in for below market price.
He has also been accused of running Flutterwave while still employed at Access Bank Plc and using the bank's resources to secure deals and favours for the company.
The article read in Part; "Jennifer joined Flutterwave in September 2017. Coming from a senior role at a Big 4 consultancy, it took some doing to convince her to join Flutterwave in the first place. She recalls that she actually had a job offer at Access Bank before The Man stepped in. The Man here is Olugbenga Agboola, also known as “GB,” (and sometimes “Greg” - more on that later)."
"GB somehow convinced Jennifer to take the plunge into a 16 month-old fintech startup. Apparently, GB is blessed with the gift of persuasion, which becomes a recurring theme in the course of this story. Key to Jennifer’s decision to turn down an already-accepted, cushy job offer at one of Nigeria’s largest banks was the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join an early stage high growth startup and take advantage of its stock compensation plan. Over and above simply earning a salary, such shares in a sufficiently valuable startup can be financially life-changing. Flutterwave was not coy about it either. The offer was printed in her employment letter, and then in her confirmation letter 7 months later."
"She also had no problem with performance on the job, as evidenced by the following documents from her case, which is currently at the National Industrial Court where she is locked in litigation with Flutterwave."
"According to court records, Jennifer’s problems at Flutterwave began when - for whatever reason - she fell out of favour with GB despite clearly having no issues with job performance. A list of witnesses in the case summary reveals a list of Flutterwave staff who joined the company around the same time or even later, and some of whom resigned before she did. They all received the stock options promised to them. Jennifer however, did not, despite repeatedly bringing up the subject with GB."
"For legal purposes, Jennifer did not agree to be quoted directly in this story, but she did however confirm that former Flutterwave CEO, Iyinoluwa Aboyeji signed off on the letter offering her 40,000 shares, which at current market valuation, are worth roughly $2 million. This letter however, vanished into a black hole shortly thereafter, when Iyin was abruptly and unexpectedly fired by GB, leaving him locked out of all company resources including his official email. (More on that later too.)"
"GB meanwhile, continued to sign off on stock option offers for his preferred office favourites, which created a confusing situation for Jennifer. On the one hand, he continued to praise her work regularly and she consistently met or exceeded her performance targets. On the other hand, only those who kissed the metaphorical ring would get these entitlements that were written in their job offer letters."
"Perhaps more meta was the fact that even those who managed to get their stock packages ended up receiving pitiful offers that were far below market value for their shares. In February 2021 for example, this ex-employee who asked to be completely anonymous was given an offer of $3.50 per share."
"The actual market value of Flutterwave shares, as explained in a recent call with a Potential Flutterwave investor below, was closer to $20. In other words, GB only permitted this (apparently fortunate) employee to get roughly 17.5 percent of the value of his shareholding. These shares, I was reliably informed, are only permitted to be sold to an investment vehicle controlled by none of other than GB himself at the price he decides. Anywhere else, this would be classified as insider trading. In Nigeria?"
SEC Hearing and Herbert Wigwe
The United States Securities and Exchange Commission launched an investigation into Flutterwave activities after it received information of possible insider trading after it was discovered that Agboola was still an active employee of access bank when he started the company.
WestAfricaWeekly reports: "Present at a Flutterwave remote meeting while still concealing his involvement in the company from outsiders including Access Bank, he forgets that Iyin is supposed to be answering questions as Flutterwave’s “CEO,” and he jumps in to take charge of the meeting, only realising afterward that he forgot to alter his voice, potentially revealing his true identity as Gbenga Agboola to the other parties on the call. He then instructs an employee to lie that he was not the one whose voice they just heard."
"In a message from April 2017, GB remarks that he is being too popularly identified with Flutterwave for his liking. At this point, he is still pretending to be Olugbenga Agboola, Head of Digital Factory & Innovation, Access Bank, while his official Flutterwave email address deliberately does not include a name tag yet."
"In early 2018, news about this unholy arrangement got to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which has jurisdiction over the Delaware-registered corporation. Under US law, a conviction for insider trading carries a criminal sentence of up to 20 years in prison. According to several sources, GB, Iyin and - for some reason - Herbert Wigwe flew to the Washington DC for an SEC hearing where they allegedly testified under oath that GB never worked simultaneously at Flutterwave and Access Bank. To confirm whether this actually happened, I submitted an information request to the SEC under the US Freedom Of Information Act (FOIA)."
Efforts to reach the bank for comment proved abortive as calls/messages sent to it's media chief, Amaechi Okobi went unanswered.
New APC Chairman, Adamu Abdullahi has resigned from the Nigerian Senate.
He was the Senator representing Nasarawa West in the 9th Senate up until his resignation on Tuesday. This newspaper also gathered that Senator Abubakar Kyari has also resigned his position as lawmaker representing Borno North.
This is due to their emergence as executives of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the party's national convention on March 26th.
Adamu's resignation from the senate is coming barely 24 hours after Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo declared to run for President in 2023.
Their resignations were stated in letters read on the floor of the red chamber by Senate President Ahmad Lawan on Tuesday.
National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, is unperturbed by the declaration of Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, to contest for president in the 2023 election.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that emerging from a meeting in Abuja with APC Governors, Tinubu spoke to the press.
"I have no son grown enough to declare," Tinubu replied when asked his thoughts about his political 'son's' declaration this morning.
Osinbajo was Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice of Lagos State during the eight years’ reign of Tinubu as governor of the state.
The governors in attendance at the meeting with Tinubu include Governors Abubakar Bagudu of Kebbi State, Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State, Bababjide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano, Gboyega Oyetola of Osun, Mai Mala Buni of Yobe, Simon Lalong of Plateau and Abubakar Badaru of Jigawa.
Others include Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, Abdullahi Sule of Nassarawa state, amongst others.
Popular Activist and Convener of Concerned Nigerians Group, Deji Adeyanju has weighed in on the Vice president, Yemi Osinbajo's declaration to contest for President in 2023.
Osinbajo, early on Monday, via a live broadcast on Channels TV, declared his interest to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari. He disclosed that he was ready to continue the legacy of the President and the All Progressives Congress, APC.
Reacting via Twitter, Adeyanju warned Nigerians that Osinbajo was 'extremely incompetent'.
"Osinbajo & the Yoruba people supporting him may think Nigeria was created for them but how can a man serve as Vice President for 8yrs in a divided and multi ethnic nation where some regions have never held power before and now want to be president for another 8yrs?"
"And this man is even extremely incompetent."
Adeyanju's criticism is coming shortly after Ex-Presidential aide, Reno Omokri ripped Osinbajo to shreds describing his as 'Backstabber' for running against his former boss, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Former Presidential Media aide, Reno Omokri has reacted to Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo's declaration to run for President in 2023.
Omokri, in a tweet on Monday, shortly after Osinbajo's live declaration broadcast on Channels TV, expressed surprise at the VP's move adding that he has 'backstabbed' his benefactor and now fellow 2023 Presidential aspirant, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
It's common knowledge that Osinbajo was brought into power by the former Lagos Governor and APC national leader. Omokri tweeted that if Osinbajo could do that to Tinubu, who is his former boss, he would do same to President Buhari.
"Wow! So, Osinbajo is declaring? If Osinbajo can stab Tinubu, who God used to make him what he is, in the back, then Buhari better hope he never becomes President."
"Backstabbing is a habit. If Osinbajo can backstab Tinubu, he can definitely backstab Buhari after 2023!"
Osinbajo called on Nigerians to support his ambition adding that he will build on President Buhari's legacy.
The Department of State Security Services, DSS, has denied reports that its personnel attacked and killed a baker in Enugu.
The report which was published by a news medium, Punch, alleged that a young female baker, identified as Chinenye Opah, a native of Mgbowo in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State, was killed by operatives of the security agency last Friday.
However, in a swift response, the spokesperson of the service, Dr. Peter Afunanya (Phd) described the report as fake.
"This is not true. It is a completely misleading information. It is very surprising Punch could engage in spread of fake news peddled by idlers."
"The other time Punch reported that DSS staff shot a soldier in Lagos. Till now, it has not been reported to the Service that any of its staff shot anyone in Lagos or elsewhere."
"Punch can do better to verify its stories in line with the ethics of journalism or ask the simple questions as to who, where, when, why, what and how. This is a given in primary or foundational journalism."
"Then there is need for a balance and objectivity which Punch could have gotten by reaching out to the Service."
Several Schools in Owerri were shutdown in Owerri, Imo state on Monday over a threat by Unknown Gunmen.
POLITICS NIGERIA learned that the threat letter was posted in several areas of the town.
This newspaper recalls that Imo state has been having severe security problems due to the activities of the gunmen. Just last week, a police station and the home of Ohanaeze Ndigbo leader, George Obiozor were bombed by the gunmen.
This development has sent panic all through the state. The gunmen, in the undated threat letter, had warned that there should be no movement in the state on Mondays adding that the Nigerian national Anthem or Pledge must not be recited in any school or institution.
They also threatened Tricycle riders(Keke Napep) warning that none of them must be seen operating on Mondays in the state.
The letter read: "We the Unknown Gunmen has concluded that from now henceforth there will be no reciding(sic) of the NATIONAL ANTHEM OR NATIONAL PLEDGE in any school or gathering in Biafraland."
"Any school or Institution found residing Nigeria National Anthem or pledge will be short down and owner of the school will bring(sic) to justice. Whoever he may be, be guided."
"All the schools in BIAFRA LAND will only reside BIAFRA ANTHEM. Don't say we did not inform you."
"Every Monday or any other Court case must be respected accordingly seat at home order. Any group of person violating the seat at home order will be severely dealt with, who ever he/she may be warned."
"Any movement of tricycle riders (KEKE NA PEPE) TASKFORCE- AKA AGBAURO (ANY NIGERIAFORCE will face our Action no matter what it will cost us, we are out for work. Stay off on seat at home or been Monday and every Court day."
"ANY COMPANY OR ORGANIZATION found working on Monday or any Court case day will be short down(sic) forever and the owner of the company will be fish out and face our wrath."
"No any Nigeria force will bear arms for any reasons if any force found bearing any arms will face our battle. Only unknown GUNMEN is allow to handle any weapon in BIAFRA LAND be informed."
POLITICS NIGERIA has a photograph of the threat letter;
Abubakar Malami (SAN), the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice of Nigeria, has approved a request by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for the seizure of the assets of disgraced Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Abba Kyari and his co-accused.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that Kyari is standing trial on cocaine-related charges alongside four members of his former police unit, the Intelligence Response Unit (IRU), and two other persons arrested at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu State in January 2022. The NDLEA had accused Kyari of working with a drug cartel in Brazil.
He was arraigned on March 7th alongside four other police officers who are also members of the IRT team. He is facing an 8-count charge of conspiracy, dealing in cocaine and other related offences.
The seizure is coming shortly after N4.2 billion was traced to accounts owned by Kyari and his accomplices.
Punch on Monday quoted a senior justice ministry official as saying: “The AGF has endorsed the request by the NDLEA seeking approval for the confiscation of the assets of Abba Kyari, Ubua and the other police officers involved in drug dealing.
“With the approval, the drug agency can now go after their property such as real estate, bank accounts, cash, vehicles, stocks, bonds and anything of monetary value.”
Apart from the NDLEA episode, Kyari is also enmeshed in scam deals involving Ramon Abbas, commonly known as Hushpuppi, leading to him being wanted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Once again, I wish to congratulate Prof Charles Soludo on his successful inauguration as the Governor of our beloved Anambra State. I have taken time to go through his maiden speech and found it to be promising. A greater Anambra is possible if his laudable ideas are achieved.
One area that caught my attention is his pledge to rebuild Okpoko which is in the Anambra North Senatorial District I represent in the National Assembly. To give effect to his promise, Governor Soludo, visited Okpoko on his first day of resumption of duty; thus keeping to his campaign pledge. Prof Soludo does not hail from my district but his initial disposition has presented him as someone that will be a Governor for Ndi Anambra. Okpoko has signposted him as detribalised and actually cosmopolitan. This is cheering.
Okpoko is a manifestation of long years of State government neglect. Okpoko should be a sore on our collective conscience. She deserves the best of our attention. She would not have turned a slum if timely attention was given to her by previous administrations. But she never got the attention she sure needed. It is for this reason that in my seven years of representation at the National Assembly, I have remained committed to the cause of Okpoko people.
Handicapped by dearth of funds, politics of appropriation and lean resource allocation, I have continually and zealously projected Okpoko. Even when it looked like every attempt is a drop in an ocean, I never got tired. As a mother, I desire that the children and youth who live in Okpoko get the best; that pregnant women have access to best medicare. Consequently, I initiated and ensured the execution of social amenities. Outside attracting government presence I had on many occasions used my personal resources to achieve set goals. I have engaged in road constructions, award of scholarships and other life changing ventures. But Okpoko needs more. Only deep finances obviously possessed by the executive arm of government can make the difference for Okpoko. Prof Soludo is here to exemplify it.
It is not all about cries and woes. Okpoko is work in progress. I cease every opportunity that comes my way to push for Okpoko; to change the narrative. As the Governor sets out to work on Okpoko, he should know about a few things. Okpoko has a mixed population of people from everywhere. It is a melting point of cultures; cultures of the unimaginable in attitude, behaviour and orientation. Everyone who is a Nigerian lives in Okpoko. It is not just Anambra people. So the approach must be rooted in a strong synergy and collaboration of stakeholders. As a first step, the Governor needs to consult with sister Governors and even state legislators (at least Speakers of Houses of Assembly) of the South-East. How and when they (Governors and legisltors) are able to commit to the Governor's vision will help. The new strategy will of course displace populations and his colleague Governors need to be carried along so they help to manage the fallout. No one should blackmail the Governor or misunderstand his good intentions. Or even try to play ethnic politics when the works start in earnest.
Our brand new Governor may wish to know that a great deal of work has been done in and for Okpoko. For instance, i have commissioned many reasearches on the settlement. As well known, it has the highest concentration of people in the state. It has the highest poverty rate in the state. Shockingly, it has the highest number of widows in the state due to the dangers the men are exposed to. It has the highest number of many awful things...drugs, crime and social vices. But it is redeemable. There are many good people in Okpoko community. There are many hardworking, innocent, honest and trusted people in Okpoko.
To further buttress need for a multi-stakeholder approach, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) under Mr Boss Mustapha approved yet to commence distillation and erosion site reclamation works in the community. Governor Soludo can find this useful and reach out more. I can imagine his enthusiasm. I share same with him. He needs to identify the appropriate stakeholders and and work with them for a common purpose.
I wholeheartedly welcome his resolve to rebuild the community. I am delighted that his urban renewal efforts will be demonstrated with Okpoko. My Constituents will cooperate with him. I also pledge my support to him. Together, we shall achieve. The time to partner for Okpoko is now. Achieving that partnership with Governor Soludo is imperative. Okpoko deserves the best. Okpoko needs us. I never abandoned her. We welcome all men and women of goodwill to join hands with me and our Governor to do more for Okpoko. A safe Okpoko is a safer Anambra. And indeed a safer Nigeria. Ndi Anambra Dalunu!!
Long Live Anambra State! Long Live Nigeria
Senator Stella Oduah, Senator Representing Anambra North Senatorial District National Assembly Abuja 20th March, 2022
On Wednesday, March 16, 2020, Bola Tinubu, presidential aspirant and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), met with the party’s Senate Caucus at the National Assembly.
The ex-governor of Lagos State visited the lawmakers to seek their support, counsel and partnership for his 2023 presidential bid which he described as a “lifetime ambition.”
He had earlier met with President Muhammadu Buhari in January and informed him of his ambition to run for the office in next year’s election. Speaking at the meeting with the lawmakers, Tinubu said he cannot run the race by himself hence, his decision to seek the backing of the National Assembly – which he said will help him successfully actualise his ambition.
A visit with a new bride?
Tinubu didn't meet the lawmakers alone. He went with some former senators in his entourage including Adedayo Adeyeye (Ekiti), Abu Ibrahim (Katsina) and Iyiola Omisore (Osun). While other senators in the entourage did not get much talking, having Omisore in the league of Tinubu's supporters reminds Nigerians that politics is simply a game of interest.
"Tinubu will regret any attempt he makes to cause violence in Osun state before, during and after the election. Tinubu should just continue his fake life in Lagos and leave us alone in Osun in the interest of peace."
The above quote was made by Omisore in 2014 ahead of the state governorship election. It was one of the many instances where the Ife-born politician had openly criticised Tinubu.
Interestingly, the table turned in 2018 when Omisore, a former deputy governor of the Osun state, agreed to help the ruling party win a close election that brought in Tinubu's cousin, Governor Gboyega Oyetola.
How Aregbesola fell out of Tinubu's dynasty
The rift arose from claims by Aregbesola’s loyalists that Oyetola had excluded them from his government and had instead accommodated Omisore and his supporters.
Oyetola appointed the running mate of Omisore in the election, Lawal Olayemi, as Commissioner for Youths, Sports and Special Needs. Omisore has since become a key adviser to Oyetola.
Aregbesola swallowed his cough and kept mum about his fight with Oyetola because of the duo's connection to Tinubu. Hence, they avoided washing their dirty linen in public.
That remained the case until Omisore officially defected to APC in February 2021. His supporters escorted him to the registration point at his unit in Moore, Ile-Ife with chants of “Oyetola for second term” and were welcomed into the party by the deputy governor, Benedict Alabi.
Expectedly, Aregbesola was not so welcoming of Omisore to the APC and had to speak in parables a week later, insinuating the party had admitted 'killers and miscreants' into its fold. This comment was a reference to Omisore’s alleged role in Bola Ige’s assassination, despite the courts acquitting him of the charge.
The Outburst
After years in silence, Aregbesola later spoke out about his feud with Oyetola. He openly criticised the governor and also campaigned for Moshood Adeoti as his preferred candidate for the forthcoming election in Osun.
Aside from this, Aregbesola launched a scathing attack on Tinubu, saying the same treatment the APC leader and his group meted out to former Lagos State governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, will be given to Oyetola because “he had derailed from the master plan too.”
“That was how it was in Lagos at the time; a governor derailed and the party members unseated him using the ballot boxes. As it was in Lagos yesterday, so shall it be in Osun today. What is good for the goose is also good for the gander,” he said.
"We came back home to reposition our party to where it was meant to be because we followed the lead of our leader that we thought was a noble and reliable fellow. We followed him dutifully with all sense of loyalty,” he continued.
Though Tinubu did not respond, many of his supporters rebelled against Aregbesola's attack on the national leader of the party. Alimosho APC party members performed a mock-up last burial rites, complete with coffin bonfires and burial polos, that signal the end of Aregbesola's political reign in Alimosho.
Omisore benefiting from feud
Omisore appears to be reaping political capital from the feud as sources told POLITICS NIGERIA that Oyetola sees him as a strategic ally in Osun East senatorial district to defeat Aregbesola who also comes from the area.
Sources said Omisore wants to return to the senate in 2023 and believes that his support for Tinubu will improve his chances. While he has not denied this, there are reports that he has shown interest to contest for the position of national secretary of the APC.
Confirming the development, Osun commissioner for Intergovernmental Relations, Taiwo Akeju, said Governor Oyetola and other stakeholders of the ruling party in Osun State are in support of Omisore’s ambition.
The Nigerian Presidency is currently monitoring the activities of Kaduna state Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over alleged plans to scuttle the forthcoming national convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC), POLITICS NIGERIA exclusively gathered.
Sources in the Presidency told this medium that El-Rufai's recent controversial post on the Progressive Governors Forum WhatsApp Platform has put him in a negative light.
El-Rufai had in the past week reacted in an audacious way to Buhari's return of Yobe Governor, Mai Buni, as the Caretaker and Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) Chairman as against El-Rufai's preference, Niger state Governor, Sani Bello.
The President claimed the decision was part of efforts to save the party from extinction and a repetition of the 2019 episodes in Zamfara. Buhari also sounded a note of warning to Governors sowing the seed of discord in the party to stop their antics and work for the collective interest of the party.
Controversial Whatsapp Message
Governor El-Rufai, in the leaked whatsapp message which had since gone viral, said he was done with the "charade", apparently referring to the President’s decision to return Buni.
"Your Excellences, unity is impossible to attain when leaders that are in office, because we consented to it, are consistently erratic, capricious, corrupt, and deceitful.
"Let’s restate that I am done with this charade, unless concrete, honest and transparent steps are taken to implement our agreed plans under a leadership we trusted," he wrote on the Governors' Forum platform.
Multiple sources said the message has been brought to Buhari’s attention, adding that the President did not take it lightly.
"The President felt really uncomfortable with the message and was really surprised that someone like El-Rufai could dare him. That's why El-Rufai has been placed under heavy security monitoring."
According to one of the feelers who confided in our reporter, El-Rufai has reportedly succeeded in getting some of the Governors on his side and they are planning to boycott the March 26 national convention.
"They've been discovered to be planning to scuttle the national convention. Himself and a few other governors. He asked Governors loyal to his camp to boycott all the activities leading to convention. They're insisting that the president should choose between Buni and them. That as long as it's Buni that will conduct the elections, they will boycott it."
It was a result of the revolt, that the screening of the Chairmanship aspirants did not commence on Saturday as earlier scheduled, another source at the party secretariat said.
POLITICS NIGERIA contacted El-Rufai's spokesperson, Muyiwa Adekeye, for his reaction but he was yet to respond to telephone calls or texts put across as of press time.
BUA group has issued a statement on a fire incident that occurred at its Diesel Depot in Sokoto State.
The statement read; "We wish to use this medium to inform the public of an isolated fire incident which occurred at a diesel storage tank farm situated in the vicinity of one of our factories in Sokoto. This incident occurred whilst routine maintenance work was ongoing on one of the storage tanks by a third-party contractor."
"Immediately the incident occurred, our emergency management and mitigation services were alerted, and a swift response activated, which prevented any escalation of the incident or damage to our main plant and equipment."
"We are however able to confirm the regrettable loss of 3 workers of the third-party contractor, who were in the immediate area of the incident."
"Whilst we are yet to ascertain the exact cause of the fire outbreak at the depot which had adequate safety and control mechanisms in place, members of the Federal Fire Service, State Fire Service, and our Fire department are working together to put the incident under total control."
"We would also like to note that operations at the plant and production which were shut down in the aftermath of the incident as a precautionary and preventive measure, have since resumed at the factory - which was unaffected by the incident. We will keep the public informed through this medium of any new development."
The Department of State Security Services, DSS, has uncovered a sinister plot by some elements to stoke violence in North Central Nigeria.
In a statement sent to POLITICS NIGERIA, signed by the spokesperson of the agency, Dr. Peter Afunanya Phd, these elements plan to cause an ethno-religious crisis and heat up the polity.
The statement read; "The Department of State Services (DSS) hereby alerts the public of a sinister plan by some elements to stoke violence in parts of the country particularly the North Central. The aim is to cause ethno-religious crisis, ignite reprisals and heat up the polity. In a bid to achieve this, the sponsors have mobilised foot soldiers and held several meetings in and outside the target areas."
"The Service is also aware of a plot to use students, striking University teachers, labour unions, disgruntled individuals and strategic groups as well as exploit the global energy situation to carry out a mass protest like the ENDSARS. This is despite ongoing efforts by Government to address the issues."
"While the Service views the machination as unpatriotic, it is on the trail of the agents of destabilisation who are desirous of using violence to achieve ulterior goals. Though it has emplaced measures to disrupt these tendencies, it warns the ring leaders and their cohorts to desist from acts capable of causing a breakdown of law and order. The public should be rest assured that the Service will, in conjunction with other security agencies, go after the sponsors of this scheme and ensure the law takes it course."
"Citizens are advised not only to engage according to rules but should resist persuasions to be used to destroy their own country. Those who may wish to go contrary to the law will, however, face the consequences."
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has denied reports that a former governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano has been released.
It was widely reported on Friday morning that Obiano who was arrested by the anti-graft agency last night was released after interrogation.
However, POLITICS NIGERIA discovered this to be false. Speaking to our correspondent on Friday Morning, the EFCC's Head of Media and Publicity, Wilson Uwujaren disclosed that the former governor was still in their custody.
"He has not been released. its fake news. He is in our custody and is being moved to Abuja", he disclosed.
Obiano was arrested a few hours after handing over to the new state governor, Charles Soludo. He was intercepted at the Murtala Mohammed airport in Lagos on his way to Texas, USA around 8:30 pm on Thursday.
A Reliable Source who pleaded anonymity disclosed that Obiano is being investigated for fraud and embezzlement of public funds.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Thursday night arrested the former Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano at the Murtala Muhammad International Airport Lagos.
He was arrested at about 8.30pm.
This development is coming hours after Obiano handed over to Charles Soludo, who is the new governor of the state.
He was on his way to Texas, USA when operatives intercepted him. It can also be recalled that his wife, Osodieme Ebelechukwu was in the news earlier today for fighting with Bianca Ojukwu, wife of former Biafran warlord, Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu.
Obiano has been on the EFCC's radar for a while now over allegations of fraud and embezzlement.
Early on Thursday, a report emerged that notorious Fraudster, Ramon Olorunwa Abass alias Hushpuppi committed a $400,000 Fraud from a Jail Cell in the US.
The Report went viral across social media with major news websites rehashing the story.
However, in a drive for accountability and Truth, POLITICS NIGERIA decided to further investigate the report knowing fully well how US inmates are not allowed much access to the internet.
CLAIM: A report from NEWSWIRENGR, published on Thursday morning with the headline; "Hushpuppi commits $400k fraud from inside US prison", appeared on social media. The story was quickly syndicated across several media platforms and social media handles on Twitter and Facebook.
The report claimed that Abass, who is incarcerated, had laundered over $400,000 using credit cards.
"US prosecutors presented documents before the United States District Court of California on Wed 16th March 2022 with fresh evidence indicting HushPuppi of committing fraud and money laundering in U.S Federal correctional facility."
"Between 28th Jan and 4th Mar 2022, security officers at the US Federal correctional facility, observed more usage of the internet by Hushpuppi. Knowing that Hushpuppi was arrested for internet related crimes, they obtained a warrant to record Hushpuppi activities. A dedicated system was setup for him and his activities were recorded for 7 days."
"It was found that Hushpuppi was actively buying EIP debit cards from an underground cyber criminal marketplace called StimulusCard (“https://stimuluscard.com/”). While being recorded, Hushpuppi bought a total of 58 EIP debit cards with a total value of $429,800 on the site and laundered the money through one AJ."
FACT: Speaking to the BBC, Director of Media Relations, United States Attorney's Office, Central District of California, Mrozek Thom said that the report was FALSE.
"After took a look at the document inside recent media accounts, The U.S. Attorney's Office in Los Angeles, that filed the case against Mr. Abbas, filed no such document.
"We have checked with the FBI agent who supposedly authored the document, and it was confirmed to be fake".
Also a cyber security expert; Gary Warner, has revealed that the document was 'Fake'. Warner is a Director of Research in Computer Forensics at the University of Alabama. He tweeted on Thursday; "People are asking me if it is true that #Hushpuppi laundered $400,000 in #Stimulus cards from in prison."
"The document they show is an edit of a June 2020 Affidavit. The new version is fake, intended to get people to visit a scammer EIP website."
VERDICT: The Report that Hushpuppi perpetrated a $400,000 fraud from prison is FALSE.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has arrested a notorious fraudster on the Wanted list of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, Kelechi Vitalis Anozie.
Anozie was masquerading as a pastor in Owerri, Imo state. A statement sent to POLITICS NIGERIA signed by the Head, Media and Publicity of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Wilson Uwujaren, the suspect was arrested alongside four others.
"Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested Kelechi Vitalis Anozie, a suspect on the watch list of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI."
"He was arrested on March 10, 2022, following credible intelligence linking him to alleged conspiracy, wire fraud and money laundering."
"Anozie and four other suspects: Valentine Iro, Ekene Ekechukwu (alias Ogedi Power), Bright Azubuike (alias Bright Bauer Azubuike) and Ifeanyi Junior, are alleged to have defrauded one F.F who lives in Illinois, United States, the sum of $135,800 US Dollars and another $47,000."
"Anozie is the Founder of Praying City Church located in Owerri, Imo State."
Fresh information reaching the POLITICS NIGERIA Newsdesk now reveals that a heavy shoot-out occurred this morning in Lagos Island between thugs and officials of the National Drug Law enforcement agency.
Eyewitness reports reveal that the agents had come to effect arrests and seize hard drugs when they were attacked by thugs. Several gunshots rang out as the agents battled to bring order to the area.
This development is coming a few days after music stars, Zinoleesky and Mohbad were picked up by the agency for being in possession of hard drugs. Although they have been released, Several Nigerians queried why they were manhandled and arrested without a warrant.
In a swift response on Friday, the agency's spokesman, Femi Babafemi disclosed that the ID card of an NDLEA agent serves as an 'arrest' warrant.
Videos seen by this newspaper reveal that several sustained gunshot injuries.
Ex-Vice President, Atiku Abubakar met with Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo in Abeokuta on Saturday, POLITICS NIGERIA has gathered.
According to reliable sources, the meeting which held behind closed-doors may be related to the former's 2023 presidential ambition.
Although he has not formally announced his intentions to run, Atiku has been consulting with various stakeholders across the country for several weeks now and is keen to become the nation's number 1 citizen in 2023.
Atiku, a Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate in 2019, arrived the penthouse residence located within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, Ogun State, around 10:00am and went straight into a meeting with Obasanjo.
He is also expected to meet the Alake and Paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo.
Former Militant and Ex-leader of the movement for the Emancipation of the Niger-Delta, Asari Dokubo has threatened to kill Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.
Dokubo, while responding to reports that he was 'beaten' by some members of the group, threatened that the day such happens, he will practically go to court and kill Kanu with his bare hands.
In a video shared on Facebook, monitored by POLITICS NIGERIA, Dokubo said; "You can think o, You can talk, but the day you attempt all this your lies that you are lying, I will practically go and kill Nnamdi Kanu even in the court, even with Nigerian Military and all the Nigerian security agencies around."
"I will not send anybody, i will practically go there and kill him with my own hands"
Dokubo, a former warlord has been in a running battle with members of IPOB for months. Formerly an ally until he fell out with Kanu over accusations that he embezzled N20 million.
He also revealed that he has been killing members of the group.
Some Daredevil armed robbers have attacked some commercial banks in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State.
POLITICS NIGERIA learned that the incident took place on Thursday afternoon.
According to the spokesman of the Edo State Police Command, Bello Kontongs, the attack led to substantial damages to the affected banks, noting that details about the incident will be communicated later.
Eyewitness report that the robbers were very co-ordinated in the attack. A Lexus-350 jeep(in silver colour) fully loaded 'cash' was sighted heading towards Ubiaza old road in the town.
"The sporadic shots by the armed robbers caused panic in the town. The robbers came prepared. People are just running helter-skelter”, another source said.
Politics › Nwabufo: Parties Should Zone Presidential Ticket On Competence Not Ethnicity by aminulive(op): 12:07pm On Apr 29, 2022
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