₦airaland Forum

. Former security aides may face orderly room trial for not arresting ex-gov
. EFCC appeals order stopping Bello’s arrest, seeks stay of execution

The Nigeria Police Force has detained a female police officer who was the aide-de-camp to embattled former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, Saturday PUNCH has learnt.

The ADC was arrested alongside other police officers attached to 48-year-old Bello, and is being detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Their arrests and detention followed a Thursday night order by the Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, directing their immediate withdrawal from the former governor.

Senior police sources, who spoke to our correspondent on the condition of anonymity because they did not have authorisation to comment publicly on the matter, noted that the officers were arrested on the suspicion that they aided and abetted Bello’s escape from operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, who had gone to effect his arrest at his Abuja home on Wednesday.

“The ADC and the other police details attached to Yahaya Bello have been arrested and detained.

“They were arrested on the order of the IG, on the suspicion that they aided and abetted the former governor’s escape from the EFCC on Wednesday,” one of the sources told our correspondent in a telephone conversation on Friday.

Another source said, “Yahaya Bello’s female ADC and other police officers attached to him were brought to the command this morning, and they’ve been detained for aiding and abetting (the governor’s escape).”


Egbetokun had, on Thursday night, ordered the withdrawal of all police officers attached to Bello.

The order for the withdrawal was contained in a police wireless message sighted by our correspondent on Friday morning.

The document read, “CB:4001/DOPS/PMF/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.48/ 34 X ORDER AND DIRECTIVES X FOLLOWING MESSAGE RECEIVED FROM NIGPOL.

“DOPS ABUJA X BEGINS X CB:4001/DOPS/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.21/462 DTO:180955/04/2024 X ORDER AND DIRECTIVES X REF MYLET NO CB:3412/DOPS/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.1/36 DATED 15/04/2024 X AND MY EARLIER LET NO CB:3412/DOPS/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.1/30 DATED 24/01/2024 X Nigeria police have ordered the withdrawal of all men.

“Police attached to His Excellency and former Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, should acknowledge compliance and treat with utmost importance. Please above for your information and strict compliance.”

Also, the Federal Government had on Thursday night placed Bello on a watch list.

In a document exclusively obtained by our correspondent on Thursday night, the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, revealed that Bello was placed on a watchlist for conspiracy, breach of trust, and money laundering.

The Assistant Comptroller General signed the document and copied the Nigeria Customs Service, the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of the Department of State Services, and the Director of the National Internet Agency.

The document read, “I am directed to inform you that the above-named person has been placed on a watch list. Suffice to mention that the subject is being prosecuted before the Federal High Court Abuja for Conspiracy, Breach of Trust and Money Laundering vide letter Ref; CR; 3000/EFCC/LS/EGCS.1/TE/V 1/279 dated April 18, 2024.

“If seen at any entry or exit point, he should be arrested and referred to the Director of Investigation, or contact 08036226329/07039617304 for further action.

“Please, accept as always the Comptroller-General’s warmest regards and esteem.”

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had earlier declared Bello wanted for laundering the sum of N80,246,470,088.88.

The development was contained in a notice posted on the commission’s official Facebook page on Thursday, with a snapshot of the embattled ex-governor attached.

The notice read, “The public is hereby notified that Yahaya Adoza Bello (former Governor of Kogi State), whose photograph appears above is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in connection with an alleged case of Money Laundering to the tune of N80,246,470,089.88 (Eighty Billion, Two Hundred and Forty Six Million, Four Hundred and Seventy Thousand and Eighty Nine Naira, Eighty Eight Kobo).


“Bello, a 48-year-old Ebira man, is a native of Okenne Local Government of Kogi State. His last known address is: 9, Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja. Anybody with useful information as to his whereabouts should please contact the Commission.”

Bello had, on Thursday, failed to appear before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja following his arraignment by the EFCC.

The embattled former governor was arraigned in absentia before Justice Emeka Nwite alongside three other suspects, Ali Bello, Dauda Suleiman and Abdulsalam Hudu on 19-count charges bordering on money laundering.

The PUNCH had earlier reported how the incumbent Governor of Kogi State, Usman Ododo, on Wednesday helped Bello, who is his predecessor, escape arrest by operatives of the EFCC.

One of our correspondents who was at the ex-governor’s residence on Wednesday observed Ododo’s arrival with heavy security at about 2:30 pm.

At exactly 4:20 pm, Ododo’s entourage drove out with Bello in the governor’s car.

About 10 minutes after the governor and former governor left, the EFCC operatives laying siege to Bello’s home retreated from the scene.

Twenty minutes after the EFCC operatives left, the policemen, DSS operatives, Counter Terrorism Unit personnel, and other security agents guarding Bello’s house also drove off.

In a statement on Wednesday, the spokesperson for the EFCC, Dele Oyewale said, “Bello’s arraignment is coming on the heels of a warrant of arrest and enrollment order granted the EFCC by the court on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.”

The EFCC further noted that the commission’s attempt to execute a warrant of arrest lawfully obtained against Bello met stiff resistance on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.

He added, “The security cordon around the former governor’s residence in Abuja was breached by the current Governor of Kogi State, Usman Ododo, who ensured that the suspect was spirited away in his official vehicle.

“As a responsible law enforcement agency, the EFCC exercised restraint in the face of the provocation, waiting for his arraignment on Thursday, April 18, 2024. It is needful to state that Bello is not above the law and would be brought to justice as soon as possible.”

Meanwhile, in a statement on Thursday, Yahaya Bello’s media office accused the EFCC of persecution, while accusing the anti-graft agency of filing the same charges in three different courts.

The statement read in part, “The attention of the Media Office of Yahaya Bello has again been drawn to another chapter in the series of the ongoing persecution of the former Governor by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.


“Having failed woefully to achieve their motive of national embarrassment with the critical questions that greeted their earlier allegations that the former governor converted over N80bn Kogi State funds to personal use in September 2015, even before he became governor, masterminds of this unending persecution have hurriedly repackaged their script, this time dragging the name of the EFCC further in the mud.

“In a miscalculated bid to satisfy their paymasters at all costs, some desperate politicians have pushed the EFCC to approach another Federal High Court in Abuja, with the same set of questionable allegations without waiting for the determination of the two preceding cases they’ve filed in two different courts simultaneously.

“In this particular one, they tried to correct their initial blunder by saying that about N80bn was now stolen in February 2016, arguably less than three weeks after he assumed office for the first time as Governor of Kogi State on January 27, 2016.

“Looking at the curious and endless scenarios of duplicated charges, cross-charges, counter and frivolous charges, it has become crystal clear that the whole onslaught is nothing but a desperate political witch-hunt of the immediate past governor.

“We want to draw the attention of the President to the fact that the abuse of court processes and prosecutorial powers by the EFCC is assuming a dangerous dimension that the head of the commission might not even have paid attention to. We still want to assume that he is being misled into political persecution, rather than diligent prosecution by bad eggs within the system, working with criminals masquerading as politicians.

“The desperation to nail a man that has done nothing but to raise the bar of governance in his state and provide visible dividends of democracy to all, irrespective of religious or ethnic leaning, has beclouded the rational thinking of masterminds and pushed them into a consistent pattern of raising extremely frivolous and indefensible allegations against their target.”

Ododo may boycott Ondo APC primary

Meanwhile, there are fresh indications that Ododo might not turn up in Ondo State for today’s governorship primary election of the All Progressives Congress as promised.

Ododo was appointed to head the seven-man Primary Election Committee set up to conduct the shadow poll in all 18 local government areas of the state, while a former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, was chosen as his secretary.

Other members include a former Oyo Deputy Governor, Iyiola Oladokun; Senator Lekan Mustapha, Adefunmilayo Tejuoso, Margaret Duru, and Dr Sani Danjuma.

The Kogi governor was however absent from Friday’s oath-taking ceremony, which took place at the party’s national secretariat.

Defending his principal, Ododo’s deputy, Salifu Oyibo, attributed his absence to ‘security challenges’.

He, however, insisted that the governor had promised to be available in Ondo State for the assignment on Saturday.

But, a source in the newly inaugurated primary committee, who preferred not to be mentioned, told our correspondent that the governor may boycott the exercise due to the same ‘security challenges’ excuse given by his deputy.


“Ododo is not coming. Did you sincerely expect him to leave Kogi to monitor an election at a critical period when the EFCC is seeking to apprehend his mentor and predecessor? Who does that?

“Even the party knows that the promise of being in Ondo is not feasible. I am sure a last-minute arrangement is being made. Otherwise, Omo-Agege may take charge of proceeding on Saturday (today),” the source explained.

Meanwhile, Ododo’s imminent absence may unsettle some governorship aspirants, who are looking forward to the committee’s work.

One such aspirant is Wale Akinterinwa, who spoke highly of Ododo’s qualities on the eve of the primary at a press conference in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

He said, “I expect that the Governor of Kogi State, Usman Ododo, I don’t know him, but I believe he is a man of integrity and capacity. Obviously, for choosing him to conduct the election here, the party hierarchy must know that he is capable of doing a good job.

“I expect that we will have a level playing field, and there will be free and fair primaries, hitch-free, even though people are still a bit skeptical due to certain things. But, I know that despite these obstacles, I will surmount them and come out victorious.

“The party has a structure. I believe that the people coming to conduct the primaries are also members of the party, and have an understanding of their roles.”


APC chieftain calls for Ododo’s suspension

A former National Vice Chairman of the APC, Salihu Usman, has called for Ododo’s suspension by the party’s leadership.

This call comes in response to allegations that the governor shielded his predecessor from the scrutiny of the EFCC.

Speaking in an interview on Arise TV on Friday, Usman described Ododo’s action as an impeachable offense.

He stressed the need for accountability, stating that Bello must face the allegations against him.

He said, “In a simple allegation of corruption against him, he (Yahaya Bello) is running away. As a party, we must tell him that he has a duty to go and answer to the charges being levied against him.

“It is even more scandalous, and it raises a bigger moral burden when our governor who succeeded (former) governor Yahaya Bello is shielding him and blocking him from being answerable to law enforcement agencies.


“As far as I am concerned, if proven, that constitutes an impeachable offense. I think our party should have made a pronouncement to suspend the governor from the party until this thing is brought under control.”

Oyo State Government, on Wednesday, demolished the building where the Yoruba Nation agitators led by Modupe Onitiri-Abiola are operating from in Ibadan, the state capital.

PUNCH Online reports that some masked persons, who invaded the state secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, on Saturday morning, were arrested by the joint security personnel who were drafted to demobilise them.

The building was said to be located on Toye Oyesola Street in the Ibadan South West Local Government Area of the state.

When PUNCH correspondent contacted the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, CP Fatai Owoseni (retd.), on the telephone, he confirmed the demolition but declined further comment.

“You can get more details from the Commissioner of Police,” he simply said.

Earlier today, about 29 Yoruba Nation agitators were arraigned before the Chief Magistrates Court in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, for their involvement and roles in the failed invasion of the Governor’s Office and the state House of Assembly.

The case, with charge number Mi/520c/2024, is between the Commissioner of Police and the 29 suspects.

They were arraigned on seven counts of treasonable felony, unlawful society, illegal possession of firearms, and conduct likely to cause breach of peace.

The Investigative Police Officer, Bakare Rasaq, an inspector with the State Criminal Investigation Department, Iyaganku, Ibadan, said the offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 516 of the Criminal Code, Cap 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000.

equity1:
Can she appeal this judgement and plead not guilty? Is it possible?

Fresh facts have emerged that the embattled cross-dresser, Idris Okuneye popularly known as Bobrisky who was sentenced to a six-month jail term for abusing the Naira has been transferred from the Ikoyi Correctional Center to the Kirikiri Prison by the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS).

This is contrary to reports that Bobrisky is still being held at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre.

A very reliable source who is an official of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCS) told LEADERSHIP that the popular cross-dresser is presently held at the Kirikiri Prison and was discreetly transferred since last weekend to Kirikiri.

He stated, “It is procedural that he is moved to Kirikiri since it is an expansive prison compared to what we have here.”

He added that due to security reasons, Okuneye was quietly moved to the facility where he will serve his term.

It would be recalled that Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court in Lagos sentenced the cross-dresser to six months imprisonment.

While sentencing the convict on Friday, April 12, 2024, the judge said the verdict would serve as deterrent to others who are fond of abusing and mutilating the naira.

Bobrisky is being identified as a male based on his admission at the court last week and according to reports that there is no realignment of gender or genital organs.

LEADERSHIP source affirmed that the convict has been taken to the male cell with other inmate “and so he will be treated as a normal inmate,” he said.

Controversial street hop musician, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable has appealed to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to forgive him for spraying money on his fans in the past.

Portable’s plea is coming after the six-month jail sentence handed down to crossdresser Okuneye Idris, also known as Bobrisky, for Naira Mutilation offence.

Portable once declared he gave his followers almost N2 million daily in spray paint.
The street artist asserted in a recent live chat that his actions bring kindness to people.

The head of the Zeh Nation label, appearing fearful of the consequences following footage showing him splattering cash, pleaded for forgiveness from the government and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Portable announced that he would never engage in spraying money as he encouraged his supporters to open bank accounts, adding that he would only make transfers.

“I didn’t deface the Naira, I help a lot of people, after God na government, please forgive me if you have videos of me spraying money, no more spraying of money”, he said.

Bobrisky was handed a 6-month jail term on Friday.

The judge ruled that the jail-term commenced from March 24, 2024, the day of his arrest.

Recall that the court had on April 5, 2024, convicted him after pleaded guilty to the four counts charge of abusing the Naira currency made against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Naira20:
Most Nigerians don't even know she exists.
She's trying hard to be in the news.

One would think she'd be of great help to her husband who seems to be confused.
Anyways, it's about always throwing money around no creativity.

Lexusgs430:
He should plead not guilty....... 😂🤣

SENATOR Ned Nwoko representing Delta North senatorial district, Delta State, has secured the release of four family members the Army arrested for fabricating weapons at Onicha-Olona community in the state.

The major suspect reportedly has the ability to build drones, and modify Ak-47 rifle designed to hold 30 rounds to 60 rounds, which attracted Senator Nwoko.

His desire was for the nation to provide support and develop the skills of such talented persons, and he plans moving a bill for a law to recognise and build such talents nationwide.

Nwoko, in a statement, said: “ Following my recent visit to Headquarters, 63 Brigade, Asaba, and productive discussions with the Brigade Commander, I am pleased to announce progress in addressing the situation regarding the illegal arms factory discovered in Onicha-Olona community, Delta State.

“Efforts have been made to ensure fair treatment for those involved, balancing justice with the opportunity for rehabilitation and contribution to society.

“I am pleased to reveal that through collaborative efforts, I have successfully secured the release of four family members implicated in the illegal activity.

“However, our commitment to upholding the law remains unwavering, and endeavours continue for fair judgment and potential pardon for the remaining four individuals.

“Moreover, the underlying issue highlighted by this discovery remains of paramount importance.

“We must seize the opportunity to redirect the talents demonstrated by those involved towards lawful and productive endeavours.”

babajero:
So where the plastic wey she dey brag sey she put for chest?

Residents jubilant as Kano emir returns to Durbar route unused by Sanusi

The 'Hawan Nasarawa', one of Kano's royal Sallah Durbah processions, is considered the climax of Sallah Day by residents of Fagge because of the activities conducted by the late emir in the area during the ceremony.


Residents of Fagge in the Kano metropolis were ecstatic on Friday as a Sallah Durbar event they last witnessed six years ago returned to their area.

The ‘Hawan Nasarawa’ (Durbar procession) did not pass through Fagge for the nearly six years that Muhammadu Sanusi was the emir of Kano (June 2014 – March 2020).

Before then, Mr Sanusi’s predecessor, Ado Bayero (1963 to 2014), usually rode through Fagge, stopping over at several places to receive homage and prayers from residents and notable clerics of the area before returning to his palace.

The ‘Hawan Nasarawa’, one of the Kano royal Sallah Durbah processions, is considered the climax of Sallah Day celebrations by residents of Fagge because of the activities of the late emir in the area, a resident, Nuruddeen Muhammad, said.

An indication of the importance that the people attached to the event is reflected in the fact that indigenes of Fagge residing in other parts of Nigeria and abroad would return home to witness the procession, Mr Muhammad said.

The procession usually began with the late emir paying homage to the state governor at the Government House. He would then stop over at Sabon Gari, an area of the city densely populated by non-indigenes (especially from the southern parts of Nigeria), where he would be welcomed by the community and Christian leaders, with the residents turning out in large numbers to greet him.

The emir would then move to the Sanda Maibarewa’s residence in Fagge, where he would be welcomed by Mr Maibarewa, a political ally of the late Sardauna of Sokoto and premier of the defunct Northern Region, Ahmadu Bello.

Mr Muhammad said the tradition continued after Mr Maibarewa died as the emir received the special greetings from his family.

The emir would also switch to his spare horse at Mr Maibarewa’s residence before proceeding. The residence wore a new look annually to host the emir’s stopover, Mr Muhammad recalled, adding that this was the practice for decades until Mr Sanusi shortened the procession.

“The emir then proceeded to Malam Muttaka Street for another stopover and prayers. The next stopovers were observed at Kabobo Street, Dandalin Fagge, where he received prayers from some clerics and traditional leaders before exiting the area to his palace.

“The larger part of the activities took place in the Fagge area during the durbar procession unless when it falls on Friday. (In that case), the late emir would cut off some routes, as it happened in this year’s procession, to meet the Jummat prayer at the palace,” Mr Muhammad said.

But Mr Muhammad, a lawyer, said Mr Sanusi cut the route throughout his reign which made the Sallah celebration in Fagge boring. He said the new emir, Aminu Ado-Bayero, returning his late father’s Durbar tradition, since he mounted the throne in March 2020, has again made the celebration colourful in the area.

PREMIUM TIMES confirmed that Mr Ado-Bayero’s durbar procession was much longer than that of Mr Sanusi. The deposed emir always headed back to the palace from the Government House via a short route through Obasanjo Way to IBB Way; Kantin Kwari; Kofar Mata and finally the palace.

But for the new emir, after leaving the Government House, he passed through Lodge Road to Muhammad Abdullahi Specialist Hospital Road; Sani Abacha Way; Sabon Gari; Fagge; Wambai Quarters and Kofar Mata from where he finally arrived back at the palace.

Because this year’s procession fell on a Friday, the emir avoided some areas so that he could return to the palace on time for the Jummat prayer. At each location the emir passed through, he received rousing greetings from spectators lining the streets.

The Hawan Nasarawa procession presents representatives of the ethnic communities in Sabon Gari in Fagge LGA with the opportunity to see the emir and deliver their Sallah greetings to him and his entourage.

On the emir’s arrival at Kofar Kwaru, his gun salute team fired a series of gunshots to indicate that the Hawan Nassarawa had come to an end.

The Sallah Durbar procession is usually held twice a year. It is a symbol of the cultural heritage of Kano and some ancient towns in Northern Nigeria.

As the Sallah festivities reached their climax on Friday in Kano, residents and tourists appreciated the rich cultural heritage of the city. The Durbar, despite the hot weather, had a long procession of horse riders and colourful displays of traditional attires.

A resident, Maryam Haruna, recalled how her father used to carry her on his shoulder to watch the late emir, Mr Bayero, pass through Fagge.

She described the Durbar as a unique and unforgettable experience.

Another spectator, Aisha Abba, said what she admired most in the Durbar were the colourful attires of the emir and his guards. She said what attracted her most in the procession was how each group of horse riders dressed in different and beautiful costumes.

The Durbar was four days of grandeur, horsemanship and equestrian parades. Beginning with Hawan Sallah, it moves to Hawan Daushe, Hawan Nassarawa, and ends with Hawan Doriya, also known as Fanisau.

Each day of the procession has its unique cultural meaning. The one that many people found most interesting is Hawan Daushe, said to have been introduced in the 14th century under Emir Muhammadu Rumfa. Hawan Daushe is historically unique to Kano but it is also practised in other towns in Northern Nigeria.

According to tradition, it began when the late Mr Rumfa accepted the request of one of his loyal guards, named Daushe, who was ill during the Sallah celebration, to introduce the Hawan Daushe to please him.

In Kano, Hawan Daushe is a Durbar procession that pays homage to the palace of the emir’s mother. It is a durbar procession for residents around the emir’s palace. It also avails the people of Kano City an opportunity to see the emir during the Sallah festivities.

The procession passes through various quarters in Kano, including Kabara Quarters, named after the famous 19th-century scholar Mallam Kabara, and Tudun Wizirchi Quarters, where scholars and influential figures lived.

The Hawan Daushe is also a demonstration of the cultural heritage of Kano and its people. It attracts tourists and residents alike to appreciate it and see it as an expression of the diverse cultural heritage of Nigeria.

This year’s Hawan Daushe, like previous ones, drew spectators from far and near including foreign diplomats and top government officials.

The emir ends every year’s durbar procession with the Hawan Fanisau when he rests at a mini palace in Dorayi.

Nigerian bankers colluded with government officials to re-loot recovered Abacha loot: EFCC

“Managing directors of the indicted banks have made useful statements to investigators digging into the infractions.’’

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has accused commercial banks of colluding with government officials to re-loot recovered loot of the late dictator, Sani Abacha.

In December 2017, the Federal Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Switzerland on the return and monitoring of the $322 million Abacha loot.

The proceeds were intended for Conditional Cash Transfer under the Social Investment Programme which began in December 2016, under ex-president Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

The looted funds were meant to provide N5,000 monthly stipends to the most vulnerable Nigerians across the country.

However, on Sunday, a spokesperson for the EFCC, Dele Oyewale, in a statement, said that the anti-graft agency opened investigations into other alleged financial malpractices from the ministry; involving the COVID-19 funds and the World Bank- assisted loan coordinated by the Humanitarian Ministry to assist poor Nigerians.

The EFCC said, “Discreet investigations by the EFCC have opened other fraudulent dealings involving COVID -19 funds, the World Bank loan, Abacha recovered loot released to the ministry by the Federal Government to execute its poverty alleviation mandate. Investigations have also linked several interdicted and suspended officials of the ministry to the alleged financial malfeasance.

“It is instructive to stress that the commission’s investigations are not about individuals. The EFCC is investigating a system and intricate web of fraudulent practices. Banks involved in the alleged fraud are being investigated. Managing directors of the indicted banks have made useful statements to investigators digging into the infractions. Those found wanting will be prosecuted accordingly. Additionally, the EFCC has not cleared anyone allegedly involved in the fraud. Investigations are ongoing and advancing steadily. The public is enjoined to ignore any claim to the contrary.’’

The commission also revealed that N32.7 billion and $445,000 had been recovered from both past and suspended officials of the humanitarian ministry.

It added that the commission initiated investigations into the affairs of the humanitarian ministry inviting former minister, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, and her successor, Beta Edu, suspended by President Bola Tinubu in January for alleged abuse of office.

EFCC recovers N32.7bn, $445,000 from humanitarian ministry, faults Betta Edu, Farouq, Shehu

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has faulted suspended Humanitarian Minister, Betta Edu, her predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, and the Coordinator of the National Social Insurance Programmes Agency, Halima Shehu, while revealing that a combined total of N32.7bn and $445,000 has been recovered so far from ministry.

The commission made the development known on Sunday via its official X handle in response to rumours concerning the progress of its mobile investigations into the alleged financial misappropriation in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

The statement signed by the spokesperson for the EFCC, Dele Oyewale, read, “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has noticed the rising tide of commentaries, opinions, assumptions and insinuations concerning its progressive investigations into the alleged financial misappropriation in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

“At the outset of investigations, past and suspended officials of the Humanitarian Ministry were invited by the Commission and investigations into the alleged fraud involving them have yielded the recovery of N32.7billion and $445,000 so far.


“Discreet investigations by the EFCC have opened other fraudulent dealings involving Covid -19 funds, the World Bank loan, Abacha recovered loot released to the Ministry by the Federal Government to execute its poverty alleviation mandate. Investigations have also linked several interdicted and suspended officials of the Ministry to the alleged financial malfeasance.

“It is instructive to stress that the Commission’s investigations are not about individuals. The EFCC is investigating a system and intricate web of fraudulent practices. Banks involved in the alleged fraud are being investigated. Managing Directors of the indicted banks have made useful statements to investigators digging into the infractions. Those found wanting will be prosecuted accordingly.

Additionally, the EFCC has not cleared anyone allegedly involved in the fraud. Investigations are ongoing and advancing steadily. The public is enjoined to ignore any claim to the contrary.

“On the issue of the works of the Commission against Naira abuse, dollarization of the economy and the enforcement of all extant laws relating to them, the EFCC appreciates the avalanche of public awakening, support and involvement demonstrated so far. Increasingly, members of the public are drawing the attention of the Commission to video recording of abuse of the Naira by Nigerians from all walks of life. These gestures amply demonstrate rising consciousness of the public to the sanctity of our national currency and the need for collaborative engagement to sustain the tempo.


“To this end, the Commission will always investigate and prosecute anyone involved in the abuse of the Naira. Old videos being exhumed and flying around for the attention of the Commission are noted as the Commission is sensitive to the fact that its Special Task Force against Naira Abuse and Dollarization of the economy commenced operations on February 7, 2024. However, going forward, new videos of such infractions will be investigated and prosecuted.

At the moment, the Commission is investigating several celebrities involved in Naira abuse. Many of them have made useful statements to the Commission and many more have been invited by investigators working on the matter. The EFCC will not relent in its no-sacred-cow mode of operations and the public should be wary of running afoul of laws against the crime.”

their failure to appease the river deity, angering the river.

How I broke family tradition with first-class degree – Bricklayer

Thirty-year-old commercial motorcyclist and bricklayer, Toyinbo Hezekiah, who graduated as the overall best student from the Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, tells ABDULLATEEF FOWEWE what made him pursue education at his age and how he managed to read to achieve first-class

Did you expect to achieve a perfect cumulative grade point average when you started your degree programme at the university?

I’m Toyinbo Hezekiah and I am 30 years old. I come from Igude, a village in the Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State. In the 2020/2021 academic year, I was the top student in Animal Breeding and Genetics at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, graduating with first-class honour. Many people know me as a commercial motorcycle rider and bricklayer because those were the jobs I did to support my education while in school. However, my goal was simply to become a graduate. Considering my academic background and financial limitations, achieving first-class honour was not part of my plan. However, I started with a GPA of 3.8, which is second-class upper division, and that was my lowest GPA. In the first semester of my third year, I achieved a GPA of 5.0, which made me realise that I had the potential to graduate with first-class honour. From that point, I dedicated more time to studying. It was in the second semester of my final year that my CGPA reached the first-class division with a score of 4.55.

Have you always been an exceptionally brilliant student since your early school years?


Yes, my strong passion for academics has always motivated me to overcome obstacles. I consistently achieved first position in primary school, which fostered close relationships with many teachers. This was one of the reasons why I made a great effort to attend a secondary school that was far from my village. There was even a time when a teacher approached me, and questioned if I was using magical means to study.

Did you experience any challenging periods during your university years?

Yes, there were numerous challenging times. One example was during and after exams. While my classmates relied on exam packages and support from friends and family, I had to borrow money and repay it after the exams. Instead of resting like my peers, I would immediately start working to pay off my debts and save money for the following semester. The primary difficulty was the complete lack of time for rest. Additionally, it was challenging to avoid perceiving myself as just an ordinary okada rider or bricklayer while working alongside my course mates.


What was your childhood like?

I grew up in a village solely focused on farming; there was no emphasis on education. Choosing to attend university was a personal decision that didn’t cross my mind as a child. However, as I progressed through each stage, I became more determined to achieve academic success.

How did your upbringing impact your educational journey?

My academic path is quite unexpected, influenced by both chance and divine guidance. My parents do not pursue scholarly pursuits, and those around me lack a strong academic foundation. However, I possess a genetic predisposition for intelligence, particularly from my mother. This knowledge motivates me to seek out environments that fully nurture and showcase this innate ability.

How did your parents react when they discovered that you would be graduating with a first-class degree?

I’m not sure they know what first-class means; as mentioned before, my parents have little interest in formal education. Explaining the significance of a first-class degree will require a lot of effort. However, I do know that they are always happy when I call them and mention that I am in school. Being the first person in our family to pursue higher education, they may not fully grasp the magnitude of such an achievement, but they will surely gather together for a celebration if they do.

How did you manage your education while working as an okada rider and bricklayer?

I am constantly grateful to God for the strength He has given me and how He has prepared me for the challenges ahead. However, reading every day helps with the nature of my work. During continuous assessment tests and examinations, all I do is revise instead of serious reading. However, during breaks and strikes, I tend to work more, and when school resumed, I dedicated weekends to work. I stopped working towards exams.

Would you have felt disappointed if you didn’t achieve a first-class honour?

No. I will have no regrets, even with second-class, as long as I become a graduate. The main goal was to obtain my degree. I even feared being expelled due to my financial and academic background in secondary school.

What stands out as your most memorable moment in school?

The most remarkable moment for me was when I achieved a 5.00 GPA in my third year.

What have you been occupied with since graduating?

I’m already engaged in farm work. I am engaged in rearing various breeds of chicken and offering free consultation to individuals who have a passion for farming but lack the necessary knowledge. Additionally, I am learning valuable insights from experienced farmers who have been practicing agriculture for a significant amount of time. Practical experience holds more value than mere theoretical knowledge.


Were you honoured for your performance at school?

No, not at all. It was just a standard handshake with professors during the convocation. However, I didn’t feel satisfied with the recognition. This is another reason why many undergraduates fail to fully dedicate themselves to academics. They often compare themselves to others and believe that people they know are more accomplished. This perception leads to laziness among many young people. Unfortunately, those who accuse us of laziness are the same people who instilled this behaviour in us.

What do you think when people claim that there are no job opportunities available?

This is not a new concept, and I do not want it to discourage or burden myself mentally to the point of depression. I simply strive to find happiness in whatever I do to support myself. I dislike the idea of feeling regretful about being a first-class graduate. It is also challenging for me to not view myself as an ordinary okada rider or bricklayer while working with them. However, I no longer see it as a challenge because I believe that there is a time and season for everything, and this season will pass. It becomes frustrating when these okada men try to extort money from us.

There are times when I have nothing left after paying for the daily ticket. Additionally, there is a prevailing perception that okada riders are irresponsible, which poses a challenge for me to see myself as one of them. People tend to believe that we are all the same. Moreover, attempting to change some of them proves challenging because it seems like I am trying to segregate myself as a student.

Reflecting on my childhood, I had a lot of freedom to spend time with my friends and engage in activities like setting traps to catch wild animals such as rabbits, giant rats, and grasscutters. Swimming in the river was always a fun time. I realised that these experiences made me tougher than those who didn’t have a similar environment while growing up. My childhood was filled with natural surroundings.

What kept you going after receiving your first-year exam grade?

Initially, I was unaware that I could achieve the grade, and that acted as my primary motivation. There were other reasons as well. I possessed a constant curiosity to learn from others, and I did not want my efforts to end with subpar grades. Moreover, I aimed to avoid making excuses for poor performance due to financial limitations. I pushed myself to study even when fatigued.

How did you go about studying?

I made it a habit to read every day. I am not a fast learner, so I started learning as early as possible. I did not wait until the last minute to begin studying for exams because I realised that strategy did not work for me. I excel in courses that involve calculations, so I allocate more time to understanding the theoretical aspects. Whenever I found a course particularly challenging, I would resort to online learning, often using YouTube tutorials as a supplementary resource. This was because some lecturers did not provide comprehensive guidance like secondary school teachers.

Did you ever feel like you wouldn’t pass a course? How did you overcome this?

There were numerous occasions in my first and second years of college when I felt overwhelmed. Specifically, I struggled with courses that involved calculations rather than simply writing. These were subjects where you had to calculate the answers instead of using pen and paper. The computer-based tests and exams at the university were designed for not only intelligent students but also for those who could think quickly on their feet. They would often have 100 questions to be answered within a 15 to 20-minute timeframe. Unfortunately, I was not skilled when it came to using computers.

How did you manage interactions with the opposite sex to avoid distractions?

To be honest, I remained incredibly focused to avoid any distractions. I found that if ladies knew the type of person I was, they would respect my boundaries and not bother me unnecessarily. In today’s society, I don’t possess anything that will make ladies want to distract me. As they say, ‘Who wants a guy like me, who works as a bike rider and bricklayer?’ Some bike riders who lack ambition and a future-oriented mindset tend to get easily distracted.


What are your plans moving forward from here?

I still have aspirations for further education. As a child growing up in a village, completing primary school was my initial goal. However, I want to continue my education beyond this level. After primary school, I desired further education, so I progressed to secondary school and eventually pursued a degree. Presently, my thirst for knowledge persists, but I strive for a balance between academic pursuits and other aspects of life. My specific interest lies in animal science, particularly breeding and genetics. I aspire to establish my farm and ultimately become a professor specialising in animal science and research.

What advice do you have for underprivileged individuals who aspire to continue their studies but lack support?

They should not wait for others to provide them with resources before they start pursuing their educational goals. They should take the initiative and begin their journey towards education, just as one does not need shoes to walk or run. They should start without shoes. When people see them running or walking barefoot, helpers will arise. Some people gave me money like N200 instead of N100 when they heard I was still a student. They should not believe that everything will come overnight. It’s a step-by-step thing. They should be trustworthy as well because some people have turned themselves into social problems because of their situation. They should stop comparing themselves to others. They should start with what they have, and use what they have to change their stories. I have paid part of my school fees if not all starting from primary school in the village. I have never compared myself to those whose parents and relatives are paying for.

Producer who awarded Bobrisky ‘Best Dressed Female’ reacts to his jail sentence.

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Eniola Ajao who sparked controversy after awarding Bobrisky ‘Best Dressed Female’ at the premiere of her movie, ‘Ajakaju’ last month, has reacted to the crossdresser’s jail sentence.

DAILY POST reported that Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court in Lagos, on Friday, sentenced Bobrisky to six months in jail without the option of a fine, for naira mutilation.

Reacting, Ajao said Bobrisky shouldn’t be going through his current ordeal.

She noted that Bobrisky has been very supportive.

On her Instagram story, she wrote: “My thoughts and prayers are with Bobrisky. He has been very supportive. He should not be going through any issue as a result of the movie.

“Maybe I should not title the sequel of #ajakajuthemovie, @ajakajumovie Ajakaju.

The gbas-gbos since the premiere and the cinema runs started are on another level; it is another Nollywood story on its own.

“I pray Bobrisky (Mummy of Lagos) gets home safely. Please EFCC, help us. We have learned our lessons; we will do better and stop spraying money. We will only do transfers.”

drlateef:
Peter Obi’s loss at the polls despite many of your prayers and vigils have not taught you a lesson. Wait and see what will happen.