₦airaland Forum

The Help Africans Charity Network and the Assigned Guardian Angel have urged the Federal Government and wealthy Nigerians to reach out to children with special needs.

The NGOs made this appeal on Wednesday at their joint outreach programme at the FCT School For Children With Special Needs, Kuje.

Mrs. Stella Udeh, the Northern Nigeria Coordinator of Help Africans Charity Network, spoke on behalf of the partnering organizations, highlighting the crucial need for support for children with special needs.

She stated that the Help Africans Charity Network is an international non-profit organization dedicated to empowering the less privileged across Africa, and Assigned Guardian Angel focuses on providing free healthcare and support to individuals with disabilities.

Mrs Udeh explained that the partnership was informed by their shared goal of uplifting the less privileged and vulnerable individuals. She added that this gesture was being replicated in other parts of the country and across the African continent.

"Assigned Guardian Angel is a registered provider of healthcare services, founded on Christian values and ethics. With over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry, our organisation is dedicated to spreading eternal love and caring for our neighbours. We believe in the best in people and strive to make the world a better place.

"Our mission is to meet the community's demands, provide tailored holistic services, and optimise the value of living needed to close the gap in disability health provision. We aim to achieve health equality, irrespective of any disability or diagnosis. Our vision is to support and provide individualised care services, prioritize health, and encourage consumer participation.

"We are proud to partner with Help Africans Charity Network, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people in need throughout Africa. Together, we can make a positive difference in the lives of countless individuals," Mrs. Udeh said.

She emphasised that government agencies, individuals, and non-governmental organizations should come together to assist special needs children, stressing that the responsibility could be overbearing for their parents.

"I'm particularly concerned about the FCT School For Children With Special Needs because looking at the children you will see that they need attention and care. They need wheelchairs. Some of the wheelchairs they are currently using are no longer functioning well. I'm appealing to the government to supply them with more sophisticated wheelchairs. Some are still on crutches. They need wheelchairs.

"Some of these children here are with different kinds of special needs. Some are with down syndrome, some are autistic, some with cerebral palsy, and so on. So, I'm appealing to the government to give more attention to children with special needs. Because most times, the parents are overwhelmed. Some parents tend to hide those children from society due to stigmatisation. So, the burden falls back on the government to take care of these children and to provide for them," she said.

Mrs. Udeh further appealed to individuals and other Non-Governmental Organizations to do their bits in assisting children with special needs, stressing that government alone can't shoulder the responsibility.

"I'm appealing to other non-governmental organizations, individuals, religious bodies and associations to come out to support children with special needs. The burden might be much on the government but if everybody try to bring out of the little we have, it can go a long way to cater for this children. It can take away the burden from the government to a large extent. The economic condition of the country as it is, is very hard. So, if everybody can contribute a little from what they have, it will go along way in assisting the children.

"It must not be much. We have girls here, they need sanitary pads. Some of the children with cerebral palsy need cleaning agents like detergents. They need food, clothes and footwear. They need all the support that they can get. So, I'm urging other non-governmental organizations to endeavour to reach out to such schools or where you have children with special needs," she added.

Responding on behalf of the children with special needs, a student, Racheal Saviour, thanked the Help Africans Charity Network and the Assigned Guardian Angel for the gesture. She called on other organisations to come to their aid.

Food items, toiletries and other essential needs were donated to the school by the NGOs.

Tensions escalated at the National Assembly as a civic group under the banner of the Citizens WhistleBlowers Coalition (CWC) submitted a formal petition against global shipping powerhouse Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), alleging massive financial misconduct, regulatory violations, and deliberate subversion of Nigeria’s legal authority.


In what is shaping up to be one of the biggest corporate accountability showdowns in Nigeria’s maritime sector, the CWC urged the House of Representatives to launch a full-scale investigation into MSC’s operations, describing the company’s actions as a “direct threat to fair business practices and national sovereignty.”

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday at the National Assembly Complex, the Spokesperson of the group, Mr Karl Chinedu, hinted that the petition centers on three damning accusations:


1. Illegal and Arbitrary Shipping Charges:
MSC is accused of imposing excessive, inconsistent, and opaque fees on Nigerian importers, in breach of Section 125 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPC). The law mandates transparency and price stability in all business transactions.

2. ₦3 Trillion Container Deposit Scandal:
Businesses are reportedly being crippled by the non-refundable container deposits required by MSC—₦200,000 for 20-foot containers and ₦400,000 for 40-foot containers. Industry stakeholders estimate over ₦3 trillion remains unrefunded, with the CWC accusing MSC of exploiting its dominant market position to withhold funds and delay trade operations.

3. Evasion of Nigerian Jurisdiction:
In perhaps the most alarming claim, MSC is said to be securing anti-suit injunctions from UK courts to avoid facing legal actions in Nigeria. Petitioners argue this tactic not only blocks justice for Nigerian businesses but also undermines the authority of the country’s judicial system.

According to the group, despite being summoned by the House for a public hearing, MSC has so far failed to appear or issue a formal response—prompting lawmakers to reschedule the session for July 2 and threaten compulsory appearance if the company continues to disregard parliamentary oversight.

Speaking further, the CWC representative said: “MSC cannot operate in Nigeria while flouting its laws and draining its economy. This is about accountability, economic justice, and the dignity of Nigeria.”

The group further noted that even the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy has publicly called for an end to the outdated container deposit scheme, urging the adoption of more modern and transparent systems used globally.

"The House is now invoking its constitutional oversight powers under Section 88 of the 1999 Constitution, signaling what could become a defining test of Nigeria’s resolve to assert control over foreign corporations operating within its borders.

In a petition sent to the National Assembly, a copy of which was available to newsmen, the CWC detailed years ofcomplaints from importers, clearing agents, and freight forwarders who claim to have suffered massive financial losses due to MSC’s “unfair shipping practices.”

The key allegations against MSC include:


1. Excessive and Opaque Shipping Charges:
The petitioners allege that MSC imposes arbitrary and inconsistent fees, including illegal “TELEX charges” at both the port of loading and discharge, in violation of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA), 2018.

2. Deliberate Shipping Delays and Demurrage Rip-Offs:
Multiple importers, including Interglobal Technologies Limited, accuse MSC of delaying shipments to inflate demurrage fees—often holding containers at ports like Lomé, Togo, before arrival in Nigeria. This practice has led to millions in losses and forced payments under duress.

3. Non-Refund of Container Deposits:
MSC is also accused of withholding container deposits ranging from ₦200,000 to ₦400,000 per container, with some refund applications dating back to 2020 still unpaid. Stakeholders claim this has locked up billions in capital and disrupted business operations nationwide.

4. Illegal Detention and Extortion:
A notable case cited is that of Interglobal Technologies Ltd, which took legal action after MSC allegedly extorted over ₦49.8 million and detained critical equipment shipments. The Federal High Court ordered the arrest of an MSC vessel, MSC Tasmania, which was only released after a $10 million bond was deposited.

5. Tax Evasion and Regulatory Violations:
CWC is urging lawmakers to investigate MSC’s Nigerian turnover and tax compliance, citing concerns that the company’s reported €80 billion global revenue does not reflect its true local contributions. The group also flagged violations of multiple FCCPA provisions, including unfair pricing (Section 127), lack of pricing transparency (Section 115), and coercive business tactics (Section 124).

Furthermore, the petition argues that MSC’s conduct amounts to economic sabotage. “Nigeria’s maritime sector is critical to trade and development. For a foreign company to operate with this level of impunity—detaining goods, levying illegal charges, and dodging taxes—is unacceptable,” said Nafiu Ibrahim, CWC’s Program Officer for Investigations.

Quoting from court documents and industry media, CWC cited a long-standing pattern of abuse. They referenced protests and boycott threats from key trade groups such as the Nigerian Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) and the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) over unrefunded container deposits and demurrage fraud.

The management of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) led by its Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho has stated that, the $1billion reconstruction of Tincan Island Port Complex and the comprehensive rehabilitation of Apapa, Rivers, Onne, Warri and Calabar Port Complexes.

Accoreing to the management, the projects was to ensure infrastructural integrity that will bring them up with the contemporary demands of the international maritime ecosystem alongside other measures to expand the Port's capacity through the operationalisation of new Ports and advancement of green port development which has contributed a lot to Nigeria's maritime and blue economy as well as the overall economic development of the nation.

It could be recalled that, Dantsoho had last month led the NPA Management to finalize an agreement for the $1billion development of Snake Island Port to be built on an 85-hectare site within the Snake Island Integrated Free Zone.

The management further noted that, the projects was in addition to Badagry Deep Seaport, Ondo Deep Seaports and Burutu Ports which are at various stages of progress as well as the Port Community System (PCS) and the National Single Window amongst other initiatives for port competitiveness being aggressively implemented under the technical guidance of the NPA.

The NPA management added, "Apart from the commencement of actual works on the $1billion ports reconstruction, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Ports Authority with unalloyed support of the performance-driven Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola has turned the fortunes of the authority around.

It added, "One of the most notable achievements in 2024 was the substantial increase in cargo throughput. Cargo traffic surged by 45.1%, rising from 71,213,197 metric tons in 2023 to 103,336,863 metric tons in 2024. This increase reflects heightened trade activities and improved operational efficiencies. Lekki Port stood out as the leader in cargo throughput growth, recording a 2,160.8% increase, followed by Onne Port with a 9.4% rise and Tin Can Island Port with 7.3% growth. Notably, Liquid Bulk cargo accounted for the largest share at 55.6%, while containerized cargo contributed 20.9%.

"The Nigerian ports also recorded impressive gains in ship traffic. The number of ship calls increased by 5.6%, growing from 3,791 in 2023 to 4,005 in 2024. This was accompanied by an even more substantial 15.4% growth in Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT), which climbed from 123,660,278 to 142,660,418 tons. Lekki Port again led the growth trend, registering a 477.6% increase in ship calls, while Onne Port experienced a 5.8% rise.

"The total container throughput also saw a significant 9.7% increase, with 1,744,972 TEUs handled in 2024, compared to 1,591,194 TEUs in 2023. Within this category, laden containers grew by 12.2%, with export-laden containers experiencing an outstanding 53.7% rise. Transhipment container traffic saw an even more impressive 136.5% increase, indicating a growing role for Nigerian ports in regional cargo redistribution".

The NPA further noted that, service boat operations recorded 49.6% increase in activity during the period with the number of boats handled growing from 8,956 in 2023 to 13,396 in 2024.

It added, "Additionally, the Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) for service boats soared by 129.3%, jumping from 1,997,163 tons to 4,579,742 tons. This reflects enhanced offshore activities and better service infrastructure at the ports.

The operational efficiency of Nigerian ports also showed improvement. The Average Turn-Around Time for vessels decreased from 4.7 days to 4.6 days, reflecting a 1.0% improvement in port operations. Lekki Port demonstrated the highest efficiency, with an average vessel turnaround time of just 2.5 days.

"Furthermore, Berth Occupancy Rate improved from 30.1% in 2023 to 33% in 2024, signifying increased port utilization and operational effectiveness".

The management further noted that, Dantosho’s insistence on port efficiencies has culminated in Nigeria’s attainment of trade surplus of N5.81 trillion ($3.7 billion) in third quarter of 2024 as reported by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) foreign trade alert through exports predominantly consummated on the platforms of the Nigerian Ports Authority.


"Also, the successful implementation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategy for the sale of crude and other petroleum products in Naira which in addition to saving Billions of FOREX earnings hitherto lost to importation, resulted in guaranteeing national energy security, deepening balance of trade and creating direct and indirect jobs.


"The authority under Dantsoho has put Public Private Partnership modalities in motion to derive revenue from Ports Independent Power Production, Bunkering Stations, Fallow Lands for Logistics, Fresh Water Provision and Ship Repairs and Maintenance".

According to NPA, other positive measures taken which were yielding positive results include; Port Automation, Electronic Truck Call-Up among others.

A human rights advocacy group, the Initiative Against Human Rights Abuse and Torture (INAHURAT), has called on President Bola Tinubu to investigate alleged unprofessional conduct by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, in connection with a multi-billion naira alleged property fraud.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, INAHURAT accused the IGP of using his office to shield one Rebecca Omokamo Godwin Isaac, also known as Becky or Bilikisu Ishaku Aliyu, from investigation and arrest.

The said case involves alleged land document forgery, fraudulent sale of properties, and criminal trespass involving plots in Guzape and Katampe districts of Abuja.

According to the group’s legal counsel, Maxwell Chibuike Opara, the case involves the illegal sale and occupation of properties belonging to 79-year-old Hajia Collen Mero Yesufu and her family by Omokamo.

“This is a scandal of epic proportions, a woman charged in multiple courts for fraud, forgery, and trespass is still being protected by armed police officers allegedly on the orders of the IGP. This is not only a betrayal of justice but a mockery of our institutions,” Opara said.

INAHURAT claims the EFCC has uncovered “disturbing evidence” of forged Power of Attorney documents, AGIS titles, CAC filings, police extracts, and fake court affidavits, all allegedly used to seize the properties in question.

The group also alleged that on March 6, 2025, EFCC operatives were prevented from arresting Omokamo at Plot 4022, Guzape District, by armed policemen guarding her.

The group further alleged that former FCT Police Commissioner, Mr. Tunji Disu, arrived in his official vehicle to remove the suspect from the scene, purportedly on the orders of the IGP.

“What kind of message are we sending to the public when the Police themselves become enablers of fraud? The President must take this matter seriously. The rule of law must not be held hostage by friendship or power play,” the lawyer said.

Despite prior denials from the Nigeria Police, the group insists that the IGP’s ties to the suspect are known within law enforcement circles.

They challenged the media and civil society to query police spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi about the relationship between Omokamo and the IGP.

The group also raised questions about the alleged secret arraignment of Omokamo on January 23, 2025, under Charge No. CR/007/2025, which they allege was deliberately hidden from the complainants and designed to “divert attention” from earlier cover-ups.

INAHURAT, however, announced that multiple criminal charges have now been filed against Omokamo and her co-conspirators.

They include a 17-count charge including forgery, criminal trespass, cheating, and offences under the Advance Fee Fraud Act, marked CR/76/2025.

The second charge, according to the group, is marked CR/77/2025, which is before the Federal High Court, while a third charge, pending before the FCT High Court, is on similar fraud and forgery allegations.

“The EFCC must now enforce the March 4, 2025 forfeiture orders without delay, Hajia Collen Mero Yesufu must get her properties back. Any further delay would be a betrayal of justice,” Opara declared.

The group called on the National Assembly to probe the IGP’s alleged interference and to hold accountable any officer found to have abused their office.

They also commended the EFCC and the Attorney-General of the Federation for standing firm amid “enormous pressure,” urging them not to relent until full justice is done.

“This is not just about one woman or a few properties, it’s about restoring faith in our justice system, we owe it to the future of this country to ensure that no one, no matter how powerful, is above the law,” Opara said.

The group vowed to continue monitoring the case and promised to expose any further attempts to sabotage the legal process.

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North), has clarified that the early endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term by the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, and other groups, is not out of fear of the planned coalition by the opposition.

He emphasised that APC, as a ruling party, has no fears, stressing that the party loves Nigerians and is doing its job very well. He stated that Nigerians in the next few years will appreciate what the President Tinubu administration is doing.

The former Abia State Governor spoke during a chat with newsmen in the National Assembly on Tuesday.

Asked whether the early endorsements of President Tinubu for a second term by the APC and others was due to fear of the upcoming coalition, Senator Kalu responded, "No, no, no. I don't think that a party like APC have anybody to fear about.
We are a ruling party. We are passionate about Nigeria. We love Nigeria. And that is why most of us are building industries all over Nigeria, so Nigerian people can have jobs, even not government. So, there's nothing like fear.

"The opposition are there. If the opposition don't criticize us for the endorsements, who would they criticize? It's their job to criticize, but it's our job to do our job. And we are doing our job perfectly very well. And I hope that Nigerian people in the next few years will appreciate what Mr. President is doing."

The pioneer Chairman of the Senate Committee of the newly created Southeast Development Commission also filled questions about Southeast endorsement of President Tinubu’s second term ambition, the President’s visit to the Vatican during the inauguration of the new Pope, his conviction for supporting President Tinubu and sundry issues.

Enjoy the excerpts...

Regarding Mr. President's visit to the Vatican during the inauguration of the Pope, some persons are saying Mr. President, being a Muslim, should have asked a Christian government official to go on that visit. What's your opinion on that? That's one leg of my question. The second leg, following endorsements, the wave of endorsements here and there, the APC has endorsed. Are we looking at the Southeast Senators following suit?

Well, is there anything else to endorse? Can you see what I'm wearing? If you look at the dress I'm wearing, you will know what it is. This is the endorsement for President. My dress is perfectly tailored to that and the Southeast caucus is fully in support. We have endorsed him about three or four weeks ago, even before any other person in any group. And I was there, chaired by the Governor of Hope, co-chaired by the Governor of Ebonyi and Deputy Speaker. We were the first that warranted for the national endorsement.

We are going to be fair, absolutely to all Nigerians. And being fair to all Nigerians means we recognize the rule of opposition. If opposition don't do what they are doing, I will not respect them. They must fight. That is why they are opposition. Should they go and sleep? The answer is no. They should be vibrant in fighting.

So, Mr. President couldn't have sent any Christian person. Mr. President is a personal friend of the Pope. They met in Chicago, if some of you don't know. And Pope personally invited him. And that is why he went.
And it would be out of place if President disobeyed the Pope. About 1.8 billion Catholics, including me. How can he disobey our Pope? It's not possible. So, President obeyed the Pope. And the Catholics will respect and will also well appreciate him for that obedience he gave to the Pope in 2027.

Your Excellency, from your experience as an administrator, tell Nigerians what convinces you that the election of the President will be better for Nigeria?

Let me be honest with you. I'm a businessman, I'm not a politician. There are only a few things that are not happening. The indices of Mr. President's policy might not be walking down the line. People are still suffering. Yes, I agree that. But it started trickling in on the macro level.
That is, on the upper level, not on the lower level. So, I'm hoping that in the next 2-3 years, the policies of Mr. President will trickle down. And Nigerians will appreciate what Mr. President is doing.

Since 1960, I'm not a psychopath. This is first President, you know, I have facts this is first President that stopped subsidy. This is first President that merged the dollar, That is why we are suffering.

Because Nigerians are not used to working hard. We are used to getting cheap money. People sleep in their houses and use telephone and get dollar and sell it at very high rate.

People sit in their houses and use their tank farms and collect paper and they make money. This is one President who has said, if you are ready to make money, make it the right way. If you are not ready to make money, you leave it.

So, I don't think, moreover, they have to vote for him because, you see, President Tinibu is not going to be a President voted by the South alone. He will be a President that will be voted by North and South. And it's also for the interest of everybody, both the North and the South, for Tinubu to come back.

We don't want this country to break. We don't want the country to break. We want the country to continue being our country.
I love the country. I'm a product of this country and I'm very proud that I'm a Nigerian. Many people are not proud.

You can see people cursing Nigeria abroad, talking about Nigeria abroad, saying bad things about their own country. It is not good, whether you are in opposition or you are in ruling party, it's not good to curse your President or curse the country. Tinubu is not the owner of this country. Is he the owner? To you journalists, is Tinubu the owner? No. We are the owners of the country. The highest he will stay is 8 years.
After 8 years, we take back our country. Buhari is a Daura now true or false? Is he not a Daura? So, one day, Tinubu will go back to Lagos in 2031. He will go back there.

If he wants to see him you go to Lagos. But mostly, what Nigerians should pray is for President to be in good health and have a long life to finish his tenure.

Since you came to the Senate, you've consistently won the best Senator award.

Now, in 2027, what should your people, Abia North expect from you?

Well, it's only you people know why you are giving me the award. Is the award not given by you people? Am I the one giving it myself? So, we are working.

In 2027, we will be shifting our program. And once everything will not be roads and schools again, we will move totally to agriculture. We would like to see an agricultural policy, totally.

When I was governor, every Abian, whether you are a civil servant or not all of them were in the farm. So, what I'm doing in Abia North you are giving me the award, was what I did as governor.

It's just Nigerians are hypocrites. They don't tell the truth. They lie. If you're opposition, speak the truth. If you're in the ruling party, speak the truth. People are afraid of saying the truth and I'm e not afraid of saying the truth.

So, for me, to work is part of my passion.

You know, you must like people, love people before you can work for people. That is it. So, to me, if you go to our constituency, there are a lot of caterpillars there working and they are still working. Wherever they cannot work very well, my foundation augments. My foundation are putting a lot of money also in the constituency.


After the IDPR, in the northwest and northeast and everywhere, the next line of action the foundation is putting money is in schools and roads. We are doing a lot for them. So, for me, it's a passion.

I don't need money to be, I don't even have bank account. So, for me, it's to spend everything I have to lift people up. All leaders must be prepared to lift people up.

Thank you very much. I wanted to say, this attire is very fitting. Will it be made available for other interested Nigerians?

This attire? It's already, people are wearing it. I'm not just the first person wearing it. Because you people have a gold eye, that you can see what I'm wearing. I'm wearing something for the president, our president, your president.

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and Dangote Industries Limited (DIL) has set sights on the development of the nation's Marine and Blue Economy sector, with plans to ensure expansion of Nigeria's export operations.

Speaking on Monday during a courtesy call to the NPA headquarters in Lagos, President of the Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), Aliko Dangote explained that as the biggest customer to the NPA, it is important that the interaction between NPA and DIL is sustained.

According to the richest man in Africa, "We are here to thank the NPA for doing a great job, because as we speak today, we are the biggest or largest customer to NPA.
"I think this kind of interaction between us and them is very, very important for the growth of the industry. So, we discussed quite a lot of issues. We also discussed issues of how to deepen the Marine and Blue Economy of the nation. And we have agreed to actually work together for the benefit of Nigeria.
"The size of our own operation at Lekki alone is going to be almost 240 ships of crude, with each ship carrying one million crude each. And then we'll have products which now will amount to over 600 ships in a year.
"Then we also have our fertilizer operation, which will be loading almost eight ships. This is an operation that has never, ever been seen in the country.
"So, it's a major challenge. But with the leadership of the NPA, we are very, very comfortable that they'll be able to deliver.
"Our operations will sink if NPA doesn't give us the services we will be needing for our operations. So, the NPA will be needing a lot of support from the Federal Government because they won't be able to do these things with their own physical hands. They need equipment. They need more Tug Boats.
"We will also be putting in some few words in necessary quarters to make sure that NPA gets all the necessary assistance from the Federal Government."
In the area of export, Aliko Dangote explained that efforts are on to expand export products outside Nigeria.
"We will soon be massively expanding our export operations. For some of you that have been to our Cement factory in Itori, we're already exporting cement out of Nigeria. We have a whole factory of six million tons for cement export.

"In the next couple of weeks, we will start exporting coal out of Nigeria. Our fertilizer export will be almost like eight cargos. The refinery operations will not export less than 25 million tons of various products. We will also be exporting almost about 600,000 to 700,000 metric tons of polypropylene. So when you are talking about export, we are going to be very big.

"In the next two years, we will be exporting almost about 16,000 tons of fertilizer. When you talk about 16,000 tons of fertilizer, it's actually about $6.5 million to $7 million revenue that will be coming into the country on a daily basis.

"With our export programme, our company will be the major supplier of foreign exchange earnings in Nigeria.
"So the operations of Nigerian ports will definitely double in the next one or two years."
In his own remark, the NPA Managing Director/Ceo, Abubakar Dantsoho explained that Aliko Dangote has come to the Authority to show appreciation for the dividends of the Naira for Crude sale policy of the Federal Government.
In the words of the NPA MD, "Alhaji AlikoDangote is here to show appreciation, especially regarding the establishment of the One Stop Shop policy on Naira for Crude deal, which is being coordinated by the Nigerian Port Authority.

"He's here to appreciate that the initiative has contributed immensely to achieving a lot of efficiency in the area of the transactions and operations between Nigerian government agencies.
"This is something that started on the 1st of October last year 2024, and so far, we have treated or operated over 57 vessels every month. "The projected volume that Dangote was looking at per annum was 600 vessels. If you do 56, 57 vessels into 12 months, you will see that we are already doing bigger than what they projected. We will continue to do our best with support from government.

"If all agencies of government can collaborate and be on the same dashboard, then efficiencies in other sectors of the economy will also be witnessed.

"We're happy that government has approved the National Single Window. We're also happy that as of today, we are 95 percent ready for the Port Community System."

On development of new ports, the Abubakar Dantsoho stated that, "There are two ways you can handle capacity improvement/expansion or deepen port capacity. You can do it on a brownfield, which is, you renovate or rehabilitate existing ports; or on a greenfield, which is build new ports.

"The last time government built a new port in Nigeria was 1977, which was Tin-Can Island Port. There is already an approval for the port modernization of both Tin-Can and Apapa ports. We are hopefully looking at maybe third quarter of this year to commence construction. That is on the brownfield.

"On the greenfield part, like I said earlier, we have deep seaport development projects that has already been approved by Federal Executive Council. We have Ibom Port, we have Bakasi, we have Olokola, we have Ondo port, we have Badagry in Lagos.

"These are new ports that the government is concerned about. Very soon we'll begin to see that these ports will become reality," the NPA MD stated.

The Federal Government has given the nod for the maintenance dredging of the $1.5bn Lekki Deep seaport channel from its present 16.5metres to 17metres in the first instance as it targets 19meters depth.

Disclosing this over the weekend during his maiden visit to Lekki port, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Abubakar Dantsoho in the company of senior management staff of the Authority, urged Lekki Port to consolidate transshipment volumes to landlocked neighboring countries.

According to Abubakar Dantsoho, "The rise in throughput volume at Lekki Port is exciting to us.

"Lekki’s capacity to berth super post-panamax vessels and deliver rapid cargo and vessel turnaround positions is a game-changer for Nigeria’s export competitiveness, particularly for agro-allied products, as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) gains traction.

"The port’s efficiency is driving steady increases in transshipment numbers, meeting the maritime needs of neighboring countries and supporting NPA’s goal of achieving economies of scale.

"This enhanced competitiveness fuels demand, boosts foreign exchange inflows, and contributes significantly to Nigeria’s year-on-year trade surplus, reinforcing the national economy.

"So it's very pleasing to note the rising export figures and we hope that the export volume is going to double or even triple in the nearest future. And because of that, we have to still reaffirm our commitment as NPA management to do what we can possibly do within our own powers and with the support of the Federal Government to ensure that this trend, this beautiful throughput trend you have shown us, continues to grow and increase.

"So what are we doing to ensure that this trend continues? We are doing about five things. Now, number one, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, with the recommendation of the Nigerian Port Authority has gotten the approval for the dredging of the channel at Lekki Port.

"This is something that we have been working towards, something that we've been discussing for almost two or three years. And finally, we give God the glory that it has happened.

"We have also syndicated a strategic partnership agreement with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) to undertake the dredging in the overriding interest of trade facilitation".

But because we wanted to also enhance the relationship and make the partnership stronger in a concerted bid to grow Nigeria's trade volumes".

"So I think that's a clear indication of how serious and how supportive we can get when it comes to issues of Lekki Port."

On automation, the NPA MD stated that, "Now, the other thing I want to mention is the automation issue that you have raised. Now, luckily for you, and most likely because you are the most current or the latest port that we have in Nigeria, it is expected naturally that all those things that are required for a modern port should be here. Lekki Port is up to date with the technologies and we are very happy about that.

"The technology that is here will be part of the main requirements for the deployment of the port community system, which is a precursor for keying into the National Single Window.

"We are hoping that other port locations or other terminals will very soon also have 100 percent capability in terms of technology deployment so that once we deploy the Port Community System, keying into it would not be an issue. So I really appreciate that Lekki Port has done well in the area of technology deployment."

On channel survey, the NPA MD explained that the contract has been awarded.
"We have awarded the contract for the survey of the channel, which is also a major requirement of the international port and harbour and navigation systems. This will give us more optimisation in the area of channel management around Lekki Port."

On Lekki Port request for a reduction in Ship Dues, the NPA MD explained that many of the equipment the Authority buys to ensure efficiency at the ports are dollarised.

"We keep buying Navigational Bouys, Tug Boats and otherd to ensure efficiency in port operations across the country. Because many of the things that we buy are dolariser, in as much as it's necessary to lessen the burden of Lekki Port payments to government, Lekki Port should also know that we need to have more money to be able to buy more of these things and also ensure that personnel who are running them are also well paid.

"When the Single window is finally deployed, and 95 percent of port processes become paperless, the revenue at the ports will triple. Electronic transaction will completely or near completely eliminate unreceipted payments in our ports.

"When this happens, it is believed that we are going to make more money. At that point, I think NPA will look at the possibility of bringing down the Ship Dues."

The NPA MD also commended the Management of Lekki Deep Seaport for sustaining superior performance and remains unwavering in its commitment to providing every necessary support to optimize the port’s potential.

Speaking earlier, the MD of Lekki Port, Wang Qiang presented several key requests for policy support to the NPA MD.

"We wish to request for an adjustment of Tariff Structure to reflect service costs and inflation, reduction in Ship Dues specifically for large vessels and feeders, to enhance port competitiveness.

"Provision of Night Pilotage Services to enable 24/7 operations and improve vessel turnaround time, amongst others," the Lekki Port MD stated.

The NPA MD also paid a visit to the $19.5bn Dangote Petrochemicals Refinery, and met Africa's richest man, Aliko Dangote.

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has dismissed recent online reports alleging widespread corruption amounting to billions of naira within the organisation, describing the claims as “spurious allegations” that are “false and lacking any credibility.”

In a statement released on Sunday, January 11, 2025, the NPA reassured Nigerians of its unwavering commitment to accountability and transparency in its operations.

The Authority provided a series of clarifications addressing the allegations.
The NPA emphasised that “the budget and expenditure of the NPA are subject to strict supervision by the Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy, the Budget Office of the Federation, as well as comprehensive oversight by the National Assembly. This makes the allegation of misapplication of budgetary provisions impossible.”

Addressing the contract for dredging works at the Warri Escravos Channel—a crucial area for Nigeria’s oil and gas operations—the NPA clarified that the procurement “followed the laid-down processes and procedures for emergency procurement as stipulated in the Procurement Act, 2007, contrary to allegations in the report.” The Authority emphasized the necessity of the dredging to combat increasing siltation and prevent “international embarrassment and significant investment losses from shipping vessels running aground.”

Similarly, the procurement of marine crafts was defended as being “carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Procurement Act, 2007.” The NPA explained that this acquisition was “initiated and undertaken in response to the need for national energy security through the implementation of the sale of crude oil in Naira to domestic refiners, which involved intensive offshore operations.”

Dismissing claims of document withholding, the management stated that “the allegation of documents being withheld for over a year is untenable, as the existing civil service guidelines governing the timeline for processing official documents make this impossible.”

The Authority also denied any financial impropriety at its London office, asserting that “the allegations concerning expenditures at the Authority’s London office are entirely false, as the dealings or transactions speculated in the report never took place.”

A significant increase in revenue for 2024 was attributed to “exchange rate gains since the Authority’s activities are denominated in FOREX in line with global maritime best practices.”

Regarding staff promotions and appointments, the NPA maintained that these actions “were undertaken to address the issue of personnel age stagnation within the Authority” and asserted that “management followed due process as outlined in the Authority’s approved conditions of service.”

Clarifying the revocation of third-party contracts, the Authority stated that such actions “were in accordance with existing laws and contractual agreements with all concerned parties.”

The allegation of low staff morale was also strongly countered, with the NPA highlighting the “resolution of all outstanding employee stagnation issues and the conduct of promotion examinations in 2024.” The statement further claimed that “management has received commendation from both in-house labor unions for these reasons, so staff morale is currently at its peak.”

It added that revocation or amendment of third-party contracts was carried out in compliance with legal and contractual provisions.

The NPA highlighted strides toward port modernization, including securing Federal Executive Council approval for infrastructure renewal and process automation through the Port Community System.

The Authority urged media organizations to seek clarifications before publishing reports, reiterating the NPA’s openness to constructive engagement, stating, “The management of the Authority wishes to advise all media organizations to seek clarification of their reports from the Authority, whose doors are always open to constructive engagements.”

The statement concluded with an assurance from the Abubakar Dantsoho-led management regarding its commitment to enhancing port competitiveness and supporting national economic growth.

The NPA urged Nigerians to support its efforts to modernise and enhance the country’s port systems as it continues to implement the Federal Government’s National Single Window project.

Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Nigerians in general, have been warned against purchasing shops at the Apo Resettlement Scheme Market, due to litigation, which has culminated into a Court Order.


Our Correspondent reports that a ‘Stop Work’ by an FCT High Court Order with Suit No. FCT/HC/467/2024, was boldly written on the walls, while documents of the
Interlocutory Order was also pasted on the property by the court bailiff on Monday, 28th April, 2025.

The construction of the market located at Apo Resettlement Centre, behind the FCT High Court, was said to have been a subject of disputes between two real estate developers, Techs & Concretes Nigeria Ltd and Manillah Integrated Partners Ltd.

Addressing Journalists at the construction site, the Project Manager of Techs & Concretes Nigeria Ltd, Ameh Kennedy Gabriel, said there was a sworn affidavit in the FCT High Court that the shops at the Apo Resettlement Scheme Market have not been sold to anybody.

Gabriel said the court has granted an interlocutory injunction, stopping every work in the site pending the determination of the substantive matter.

While commending the Judiciary for its unreserved commitment to resolving the disputes, which partly is the ‘Stop Work Order’, Gabriel said they (Techs & Concretes) will wait patiently for the final judgment of the court.

"The court has given Order and we are here to tell the world that the construction of this market here has been put on hold.

“We are speaking in line with the Court's Order that has been placed within the premises. We are legal people, we are not going to do anything illegal here.

“The Order has just been pasted, informing Nigerians that there is no construction work that will continue here henceforth.

“As far as the statutes of the court are concerned, no shop here has been sold to anybody. It's the sworn affidavit that's standing before the court”, he stated.

He emphasized that Manillah Integrated Partners Ltd must obey court Orders, stressing that nobody is above the law.

Giving a brief background of how the disputes began, the Managing Director of Techs & Concretes, Dr. Shuaibu Omeiza Musari, said, "Over a year ago, Manillah Integrated Partners approached Techs & Concrete over this project - to finance and take it over from AMAC based on the fact that the project was given to a contractor before, but the contractor could not go ahead.

“The idea was that we are the builders and sole marketers of this project which is contained in our agreement. We obliged with the agreement and took over the project.

“Unfortunately, after all said and done, to the biggest of our surprise, for us to move to the site we started noticing some funny moves - Mannila Integrated trying to shove us away.

“When we tried to engage them and make them understand we had a document to this effect. They felt they could manipulate it. So, they ran to the court thinking they could hide under the judiciary, while the project was still going on. We responded back to them in the court.

“And the court looked at the merits and demerits of the matter and decided that it's very important to stop the ongoing work on the project”.

Dr. Musari explained that Manillah Integrated, in their sworn affidavit lied to the court that they have not started selling the shops, whereas they have heard from reliable sources that it has been selling.

He noted that in the face of the law, whoever has put his money on the property has done so at his/her risk, because before the court the shops have not been sold.

"I will not like to talk much about it because the case is still ongoing in court, but for now this project will stop moving. Nobody is expected to put a single block on this project based on the Order we have received from the court", he added.

The Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited (TSSNL), Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his visionary leadership and commitment to excellence in the careful selection of seasoned professionals to the new Management and Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), led by the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojuolari, and the Chairman Ahmadu Musa Kida.

Tompolo congratulated the 11-member Board and Management, highlighting their appointment as a pivotal moment for both the NNPCL and the Nigerian oil and gas industry.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Tompolo acknowledged the significant challenges and opportunities facing the new Management and Board. However, he expressed confidence in their ability to lead the ongoing restructuring of the NNPCL to new heights.

He reaffirmed TSSNL's commitment to partnering with the NNPCL to enhance Nigeria’s oil production capabilities.

Tompolo urged the new Management and Board to remain focused, innovative, and diligent in fulfilling their responsibilities. He emphasised that expectations are high, but with their proven expertise, dedication, and the support of all critical stakeholders, he is confident they will guide the NNPCL into a new era of growth and efficiency.

The statement read, "I, High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, the Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and Chairman, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), on behalf of the Management and Staff of TANTITA, extends my heartfelt congratulations to the newly appointed 11-member Board and Management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), led by the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojuolari, the Chairman Ahmadu Musa Kida, and other members of the new Management and Board.

"Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) recognises your appointment as a pivotal moment in the journey of the NNPCL and the Nigerian oil and gas industry.

"We express our profound gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his visionary leadership and commitment to excellence, as demonstrated by the careful selection of seasoned professionals to steer the affairs of the NNPCL at this critical time.

"Indeed, this decision by Mr. President underscores his administration’s dedication to ensuring that only competent hands are entrusted with optimising the vast benefits of our nation's oil and gas sector.

"The challenges and opportunities before this new Management and Board are immense, but we are confident in their ability to drive the ongoing restructuring of the NNPCL to greater heights.

"Under their stewardship, we believe that the President’s mandate to ramp up local refining capacity and increase Nigeria’s crude oil production to 2mbpd in record time will be realised and surpassed.

"As our company has always done, TSSNL remains steadfast in its commitment to partnering with the NNPCL to secure and enhance Nigeria’s oil production capabilities. Our expertise in oil asset protection and our deep-rooted presence in the Niger Delta position us as a reliable ally in ensuring that the nation’s resources are safeguarded and utilised efficiently for the collective benefit of all stakeholders.

"We also take this opportunity to assure the new leadership team of our unwavering support in executing their mandate. As a critical player in the security of Nigeria’s oil assets, we stand ready to collaborate and contribute to a more secure and prosperous energy sector that benefits the entire nation and aligns with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

"As the newly constituted Management and Board embark on this critical journey, we urge them to remain focused, innovative, and diligent in delivering on their responsibilities.

"The expectations are high, but with their proven expertise, dedication and support of all critical stakeholders, we are confident that they will lead NNPCL towards a new era of growth and efficiency.

"Once again, we congratulate the entire Management and Board and wish them a successful and impactful tenure.

"May their leadership usher in unparalleled progress and transformation in the Nigerian oil and gas industry for the benefit of our great nation."

By Yemi Itodo

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has announced the appointment of Barr. Sam Ifeanyi Hart, mni, as his new Chief of Staff (CoS).

Hart replaces Hon. Toby Okechukwu who was recently appointed Executive Director, Projects of the newly established South East Development Commission (SEDC).

Prior to his appointment, Hart served as Special Adviser to the Deputy Speaker on Public Affairs and has an extensive background in training and consultancy.

Hart also previously served as Director-General, Abia State Marketing and Quality Management Agency from 2019 to 2023 after occupying other appointive positions.

He was also a member of National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies
(NIPPS), Kuru where he attended the Senior Executive Course 45, serving as Course Secretary-General.

He has also served on the Boards of several corporate and non-governmental entities.

Hart brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new role, with a distinguished career spanning law, leadership, and public service.

A lifelong learner, he holds multiple academic qualifications, including a Master's Degree in Environmental Law (LLM) and a Bachelor's Degree in Law (LLB) from Abia State University.

The new Chief of Staff is also currently pursuing a Doctorate Degree in Law.

A seasoned professional, Hart has attended prestigious institutions, including the GOTNI Leadership Centre, National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPPS), and the School of Politics, Policy and Governance (SPPG).

He is also a member of several professional bodies, including the Chartered Institute of Directors of Nigeria (M.IoD), Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators (ACIArb), and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

As Chief of Staff, Hart will provide strategic guidance and support to the Deputy Speaker's legislative activities, leveraging his expertise to drive policy initiatives and promote good governance.

In the interest of posterity and to ensure the truth prevails, it has become necessary to address the malicious falsehoods surrounding the alleged marriage between Dr. Tunde Ayeni and Ms. Adaobi Alagwu, as well as the paternity of her daughter, Omarosa Abimbola.

On behalf of our client, Dr. Tunde Ayeni, his family, and associates, we unequivocally state his position in alignment with the legally recognized ruling of the Customary Court, Dawaki, Abuja, delivered on March 11, 2025. This landmark decision reaffirms the facts and dispels any misconceptions surrounding this matter.

Over the past few months, there have been a series of social media releases by Adaobi Alagwu and her agents, friends, and associates - particularly a statement released from her legal representatives on 18th February, 2025. These releases contain false narratives and are, in fact, defamatory in content, regarding the matter between Dr. Tunde Ayeni and Ms. Adaobi Alagwu. We now, on behalf of our client, set the records straight and correct the wrong narratives that the public has been fed.

1. Marriage
There was no marriage between Dr. Tunde Ayeni and Adaobi Alagwu. This has been Dr. Tunde Ayeni's position from the beginning, which the court in Abuja, in Suit FCT/CC/CV/DK/M/03/2025, has reaffirmed in its ruling delivered on March 11, 2025. The events and what transpired on February 26, 2022, was done out of Dr Ayeni's magnanimity which the Alagwu family misrepresented to the public as a dowry. This is aside from the fact that Dr. Tunde Ayeni is legally married under the Act and thus incapable of conducting another legal union with anyone else. Neither has Dr. Ayeni ever given a promise of marriage to Adaobi Alagwu at any time.

2. Paternity of Omarosa Abimbola
In the suit filed by Dr. Tunde Ayeni at the Dawaki Customary Court in Abuja, Dr. Ayeni contended that there was no child from the alleged union, while Adaobi counterclaimed to the contrary. The court dismissed her counterclaim in its entirety. To this end, the court upheld Dr. Tunde Ayeni's position. The display of a purported DNA result by Ms. Alagwu is thus of no consequence, as it was a disputed DNA result to which Dr. Ayeni did not subscribe. Dr. Ayeni insists on not being the father of Omarosa Abimbola. Adaobi Alagwu can argue what she wants, the dignity attached to a child’s recognition is lost and unavailable from Dr. Ayeni to Omarosa.

3. Mrs. Abiola Ayeni's Knowledge
The content of Adaobi's lawyers' assertion is far from the truth and only speaks to her desperation to cling on Dr Ayeni, his influence and and all the largesse she enjoined during their brief stint. Mrs. Abiola Ayeni was never aware of any relationship between her husband and Adaobi. The DNA test process was discontinued, and a request was made for an alternative laboratory, which Adaobi declined. Therefore, the DNA being peddled around by Adaobi is disputed and cannot be relied upon. There is absolutely no value that Adaobi can derive from leveraging Mrs. Abiola Ayeni's name to this process. Furthermore, it is absurd for Adaobi and her greedy mother and her associates to continue peddling stories alluding to our client's actions to his wife or his associates especially when he has boldly signed several disclaimers and taken actions against Adaobi's relentless antics, the question to ask is where does real value lie? In the public expressions of Dr. Ayeni or that which is done in the secrecy of her mother’s home or hers?

4. Acknowledgment of the Child's Birth and Subsequent Denial
While it's true that Dr. Ayeni supported Adaobi's child's birth in the United States of America, he was not present during the birth process. He only visited a few days after the delivery of the child and signed the papers for the child all at a time he was gravely mistaken about the paternity of the child.

5. Dowry Payment
On February 26, 2022, Dr. Ayeni, in the company of one of his friends and two family members, was present at a meeting where some money was paid by him to Adaobi's family for the child to bear his name after birth. At this time, Adaobi was heavily pregnant, necessitating pressure from the father on Dr. Ayeni to honor him in accordance with Igbo native law and customs. Adaobi later gave birth to the child on June 21, 2022. Curiously, in the affidavit her lawyers filed on her behalf at the Customary Court in Dawaki, Abuja, she contended that she was not pregnant at the time the alleged payment was made to her family by our client, even when one of the pictures she displayed on social media platforms clearly shows that she was, in fact, heavily pregnant at the time, it is a well known and revered fact that in Igbo land that dowry is not paid on a pregnant woman - fact Adaobi and her greedy parents chose to overlook. This singular falsehood by Adaobi shows that she has had a sinister motive behind all the social media lies posted by her and her associates.

6. Return of Dr. Tunde Ayeni's Properties
We have been instructed by our client to recover possession of the two properties he bought and entrusted to Ms. Adaobi Alagwu. It has since been discovered that not only did Adaobi break that trust by trying to covet the properties as hers but our client was made to understand also that she inhabited her mother who left her matrimonial home to stay in one of the said properties in Abuja. The two properties are located in Jabi, Abuja:


i. DD38, Lakeview estates, off Alex Ekwueme, Jabi, Abuja
ii. No 48, Mike Akhigbe Street, Jabi, Abuja.

We have commenced the necessary steps for the recovery of the properties. We do not see any reason why Adaobi will want to hold on to properties she was entrusted with when there is nothing binding her to our client anymore. We believe the honorable thing a rational person would do is to vacate the premises and hand them back to our client without being prompted.

7 Interest In The Ayeni Name And Estate

Ms. Alagwu claims to have no interest in wealth or status, yet her actions over the past three years tell a different story. If she truly had no concern for the Ayeni name or financial benefits, or disinterested in asset disputes why did she remain silent while reaping the monetary advantages linked to this falsehood? The undeniable truth is that neither she nor her child will ever enjoy the recognition or dignity of the Ayeni name, despite her delusions. The public rejection and legal repudiation should have been more than enough to dissuade any genuine disinterest, yet she persists—revealing that it is, in fact, the influence of the Ayeni name that has kept her tethered to this fiction.

One must ask: if this involved an unknown and ordinary young man, would she still be so relentless? Would she have been so desperate as to compromise her future and reputation and self worth by accepting secret gratifications in secret egged on by her equally greedy mother whilst being so publicly shamed by Dr. Ayenis publications of denouncements? The fact that she endures public denial and legal dismissal is proof that it was never about the child, but rather the status and benefits she and her mother have long enjoyed. This official statement is a matter of public record, and any attempts to rewrite history will be met with the unyielding truth.

We do not intend to bore the public with too many stories, especially after the court has ruled in favor of our client, Dr. Tunde Ayeni. However, it is imperative to correct the deliberate misrepresentation of facts and perception that may have been created by Adaobi and her associates to distort the truth.


Signed
Legal Representatives to Dr. Tunde Ayeni

By Danjuma Isaiah


My attention as a Public Affairs Commentator and Citizen of Wukari in Taraba State has been invited to various invectives of unprecedented dimension directed at His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON by my brother, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar ostensibly to give oxygen to resurrect his endless political odyssey and sordid presidential ambition. I am weighing into this public narrative to interrogate various disruptions triggered by some notable politicians like Atiku Abubakar in our national life.

It is hardly possible to build anything out of frustration and bitterness. This is sadly the predicament of a one-time Vice President, Atiku Abubakar who is on course to being enlisted in the Guinness Book of Records, as the only person globally, who has unsuccessfully contested for President for six times spanning 33 years.

These bitterness and frustration have beclouded his reasoning. Atiku Abubakar, who is shamefully a dominant mention in every page of the corruption history in Nigeria, an insipid and serial sodomist, could have rather used the Ramadan period to seek for the atonement of his many mortal and monumental sins from the Almighty Allah, but his engagement in chicanery and unbridled umbrage in the most malicious and defamatory manner is the sad characterization of a man reputed for low family values and child abuse.

The series of pernicious lies peddled by Atiku deserve response in this era of positive and innovative Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which has invited collective actions for the growth and prosperity of Nigeria. Atiku Abubakar’s putrid and repulsive corrupt practices have made Nigerians to reject him for a record six times. A master of failure indeed!

It is an established fact that Atiku Abubakar is the most corrupt Nigerian, having been associated with every high-profile corruption allegation in the country across the private and public sectors. In 1996, the then Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha seized control of the NICOTES shares belonging to him and renamed it Integrated Logistics Services Inc.
In 2006, Atiku was indicted by the EFCC and the Federal Government Administrative Panel of Inquiry after a Special Audit /Forensic Investigation of PTDF from 1999 to May 31, 2006.
Internationally, he is known as a super conman. Atiku's association with American Congressman William Jefferson, who was jailed for 13 years in 2009 over bribery and other charges is well known to millions of Nigerians.

For those who don't know, Atiku was the subject of a probe about 15 years ago by the United States Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs chaired by Senator Carl Levin. He was indicted for using offshore companies to siphon about 40 million dollars from Nigeria between 2000 and 2008 to his fourth wife in the United States, Jennifer Iwenjiora Douglas Abubakar (now divorced).

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, whom Atiku served for 8 years as Vice President, in his book ’MY WATCH’, in the chapter, titled “Atiku and US Justice Entanglement”, gave a vivid account of “corrupt involvement” of Atiku with a company called iGATE and William Jefferson. Obasanjo equally linked Atiku to the embezzlement of $20 million, funds that were to be utilized by the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), and another $125 million to fund PTDF during 2003 fiscal year.

The immediate past governor of Kaduna state, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai has also spoken eloquently about Atiku’s corrupt adventure. In his book, ’The Accidental Public Servant’, El-Rufai gave a detailed account of Atiku’s corrupt involvement in Ericsson’s deals, the PTDF scandal, Abuja Water Treatment Plant contract and his obsession with marabouts - these marabouts that have been deceiving him since 1991 that he will be president.

A serial women abuser, Atiku has divorced two of his wives since 1971 (Ladi and Jennifer). In the case of Jennifer, even after the divorce, he threatened and bullied her out of Nigeria. Jennifer had to sell her law chambers in Nigeria and relocated to the UK. He has been after the woman in an attempt to dispossess her of her assets and properties.

A certified child abuser, Atiku's exploits with hapless boys and young men are well known. No wonder, in his eight years as vice president and many years as wealthy man (though filthy), Atiku could not boast of a school that could cater for the educational needs of the less privileged, especially boys (Almajiri's), but now runs the exotic ABTI University and a host of other businesses that are out of the reach of the common man.

In the contrary, unlike Atiku Abubakar, Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON has for over two decades, conducted himself with integrity and transparency. His accomplishments in Akwa Ibom State, in particular, and Nigeria in general, are symbolized in the countless legacies of infrastructure, human capacity development and tourists’ hub.

Just yesterday (Tuesday), the Super Eagles of Nigeria hosted The Warriors of Zimbabwe in a World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo. The stadium, which is the only FIFA approved facility in Nigeria, was built by Akpabio as governor of the state. What did Atiku do for Adamawa state and Nigeria?

The Zimbabwean delegation also flew Ibom Air and landed at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo- all legacies of the Uncommon Transformer. But where are Atiku's legacies for the people? He can only lay claim to a chain of businesses, which are products of pillaging and corrupt investments.

In all of these, it is crystal clear that Akpabio’s unflinching support for President Tinubu, who blocked Atiku’s emergence as the presidential candidate of the APC in 2015 and frustrated his return bid in 2019 and yet floored him in the 2023 general elections is the reason for Atiku’s hostile charge against the Senate President. But using Akpabio as a ladder to get to the president cannot do Atiku any good. Both Tinubu and Akpabio are united by the resolve to rejig and reset the nation and give Nigerians dividends of democracy, which Atiku as vice president worked tirelessly to undermine for personal aggrandizement.

It is also axiomatic that Atiku has started preparation for the 2027 general elections. As for Akpabio and Tinubu, they are preoccupied with state and governance issues and would not swim with the former vice president in his quest to distract the duo from delivering good governance to Nigerians. When 2027 comes, Nigerians will, for the umpteenth time give, Atiku a black eye and vote the best candidate.


(ISAIAH writes from Wukari in Taraba State).

The blatant disregard to court orders by the Nigerian Police and other security agencies got the attention of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun early this week when the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun led a delegation to pay her a courtesy visit in Abuja.

During the visit, Justice Kekere-Ekun frowned at the habitual disregard to judicial pronouncements by the force, ‘warning that continued disobedience undermines the integrity of the judiciary and public trust in law enforcements.

The CJN emphasized the need for strict compliance with constitutional safeguards, including the right to legal representation, the right to be informed of charges, and the right to be promptly brought before a court.

She also called for internal disciplinary measures within the Nigeria Police Force to prevent unlawful practices and urged the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to implement mechanisms to monitor and curb police brutality adding that officers who violate the law must be held accountable.

It is however not clear why such statement could emanate from the chief law officer of the country to his August visitor, but given to the fact that the police authority have formed the penchant for abuse of judicial processes and court judgements, the pronouncement is more than meet the eyes.

Analysts believed that it could however be a veiled reference to recent court orders restraining the police authority from arresting, detaining and sacking of some officers which the police authority have failed to execute recently.

It is however interesting that such statement could come on the heel of a recent court order granted by the National Industrial Court; ordering the police to stay put in a case between it and Mr. Abduyari Lafia.

According to report, in an ex-parte order brought before the court by U.O. Sule, SAN, on behalf of AIG Abdulyari Shuaya‘u Lafia, the court restrained the Nigerian Police Force, the Police Service Commission and Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun from taking further actions on the matter before it.

The Presiding Judge, Justice O. Y. Anuwe also granted the restraining order to include servants, agents, privies, cohorts by themselves or through any person(s) whomsoever from taking any further steps in connection with or relation to Matters arising from or in any way connected to the subject of the substantive application; including reducing the Applicant’s rank, dismissing the Applicant from the Force or meting any other punishment on the Applicant pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice.

Below is the full court order;

I have heard learned Senior Counsel on an application brought ex-parte wherein he seeks amongst other prayers, order of court for an interim injunction restraining the Respondents from taking any further steps in connection with or relation to all matters arising from the substantive application including reducing the applicant’s rank, dismissing the applicant from the Force or meting any other punishment on the applicant pending the determination of the Motion on Notice which was filed along with this motion exparte.

I have seen the grounds listed as No. 1 to 23, the affidavit in support comprising 48 paragraphs, and Exhibits numbered as A to € attached.

I have also seen the affidavit of urgency comprising 7 paragraphs deposed to by the applicant.

Having considered the totality of the application, it is hereby ordered as follows:

The Applicant’s Motion Exparte dated 11″ February 2025 and filed 12″ February 2025 is hereby granted in terms of the motion Paper.

To wit, the respondents are restrained from taking further Steps in connection with the substantive application pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice.

With this in view, there is no doubt that the Nigerian Police Force is at a crossroad owning to the fact that the international community is following developments from the force with keen interests.

If it passes the litmus test, the force will surge with pride but if fails the test, not only the force but the entire country would be made subject of ridicule before the international community.

The former chairman of the now-defunct Skye Bank, Tunde Ayeni, on Tuesday informed the Federal Capital Territory Customary Court in Dawaki, Abuja, that the woman whom he was previously entangled with, Adaobi Alagwu, resorted to blackmail after he discontinued the monthly allowance he had been giving her in October 2024.

Ayeni further disclosed that, in addition to the financial support, he had placed Ms. Alagwu in a property worth N400 million in Jabi, which he bought and put her as a trustee but has now asked her to vacate the property.

Ayeni and Alagwu have been embroiled in a paternity dispute over Alagwu’s daughter, whose paternity Ayeni has publicly denied, stating facts.

Aggrieved by the paternity claims, Ayeni initiated a legal suit, marked FCT/CC/CV/DKDK, urging the court to take judicial notice that he is not the child’s father and that no marriage exists between him and Ms. Alagwu.

However, Ms. Alagwu insisted that a Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) test conducted at a laboratory in London, United Kingdom, with report reference number 0Z5167, showed a 99.9999997% probability that Mr. Ayeni is the biological father of her daughter.

The petitioner disputed the DNA test results, alleging manipulation.

At the resumed hearing, Ayeni's counsel, Joseph Silas, informed the court that the matter was scheduled for the petitioner’s definite defense but noted that the respondent had served a preliminary objection.

Silas stated, “The matter today is set for definite defense, and we are ready to proceed. However, they served us with a notice of preliminary objection.” He added that the petitioner also had demands to make after the court ruled on the objection.

He explained that the respondent’s objection challenged the court's jurisdiction to hear the suit.

“My Lord, the respondent’s objection is that this court does not have jurisdiction because the petitioner submitted his marriage certificate with his wife to the court. However, the respondent's application is unfounded and misplaced,” Silas argued.

He emphasized that the court has jurisdiction as it is established by law. “Section 14, subsection 2 of the Customary Court Act 2007 clearly recognizes that parties who submit themselves to this court confer jurisdiction on the court.”

Silas added, “The matter before this court is not about determining the statutory marriage between the petitioner and his wife but about declaring that no marriage exists between the petitioner and the respondent following the return of a dowry paid out of ignorance of the respondent’s native law and custom.”

He further noted that the dowry had been refunded after the petitioner demanded it back, clarifying that the payment was never intended to establish a marriage.

Silas urged the court to pronounce that the parties are not married, emphasizing that Ms. Alagwu was using the assumption of marriage to blackmail the petitioner.

“This court is invited to make a pronouncement on the respondent’s false belief that she is married to the petitioner. This belief has enabled her to continue blackmailing him after he discovered the child she claimed was his was not and discontinued her N5 million monthly allowance in October 2024. He has also asked her to vacate the petitioners N400 million property in Jabi that she occupies as a trustee,” Silas stated.

In response, the respondent’s lawyer, T.G. Okechukwu, argued that the court no longer had jurisdiction to entertain the suit and urged the court to dismiss the suit.

“My Lord, the respondent filed a notice of preliminary objection dated February 26, 2025, pursuant to the rules of this honorable court. We urge the court to dismiss this suit on the grounds that it no longer has jurisdiction to hear it,” Okechukwu submitted.

After hearing arguments from both parties, the three-member panel of judges, presided over by Justice Adlin Achoru, adjourned the matter until March 11, for ruling.

Contrary to earlier announcement, the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has disclosed that, the Visa on Arrival policy will not be totally scrapped by the Nigeria government.

At a meeting between the Honourable Minister and the Director General of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, on Tuesday, Tunji-Ojo revealed that, rather, the process will be upgraded to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

Recall that, the DG of PEBEC, Princess Audu, had on Monday called for calmness over the announcement on Friday, promising to interface with the Minister to address the concerns raised.

In a statement she personally signed on Tuesday, shortly after meeting the Minister of Interior, Princess Audu explained that, the enhanced system aims to cut out inefficiencies, allowing Nigeria to better automate and control the inflow of travellers, thereby improving her business environment and attracting foreign investments.

"During the meeting, the Minister of Interior reassured that the Visa on Arrival process is not being scrapped, but rather upgraded to improve efficiency and effectiveness. This development is in line with PEBEC's efforts to simplify procedures and reduce bureaucratic constraints to doing business in Nigeria.

"The Minister further clarified that travellers will still be able to apply online for short-stay visas, with approvals being granted within 24 to 48 hours. Once approved, the visa will be sent to the applicant's email, eliminating the need for a physical sticker upon arrival. This upgrade builds upon the existing online approval system, streamlining the process and enabling travellers to receive their approvals ahead of time.

"This enhanced system aims to cut out inefficiencies, allowing Nigeria to better automate and control the inflow of travellers. With this upgrade, the country takes another step towards improving its business environment and attracting foreign investment", the statement added.

The Director General, Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, has assured foreign investors that the concerns raised by the recent cancellation of Visa on Arrival (VOA) policy by the Nigerian government would be addressed soon.

The Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had at the weekend, revealed plans by the Federal Government of Nigeria, to discontinue its visa-on-arrival policy, describing it as “unsustainable” and a potential security risk.

Visa-on-arrival is a privilege often given to frequently travelled high networth investors and visitors unable to obtain visas in their countries of residence due to the absence of Nigerian missions or embassies in those countries.

The announcement by the Honourable Minister has elicited some fears and concerns amongst beneficiaries and prospective investors in Nigeria.

But in a statement personally signed on Monday by the DG of Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Princess Audu, the foreign investors were assured of intervention by the agency, with the view to address the security issues raised thereof.

"We understand the anxiety this has caused among the foreign community and would like to assure all stakeholders that PEBEC is actively engaging with the Minister of Interior to find a solution.

"Our primary objective is to strengthen security around the VOA process while maintaining the policy, which has been instrumental in promoting tourism, trade, and investment in Nigeria. We believe that with collaboration and dialogue, we can address the security issues identified and achieve a secured and efficient VOA process that benefits all parties involved.

"PEBEC has a proven track record of driving reforms to improve the ease of doing business in Nigeria. We have implemented various initiatives to simplify procedures, reduce bottlenecks, and create a more conducive atmosphere for businesses to thrive.

"We urge the foreign community to remain calm and confident in our ability to resolve this matter. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that Nigeria remains an attractive destination for investors, tourists, and businesses alike", the statement read.

The Minister of Interior had, during the weekend, said Nigeria government would replace the Visa-On-Arrival policy with landing and exit cards, which prospective visitors will pre-fill before coming into and leaving the country.

FACT-CHECK: No evidence Nigerian lawmakers demanded $150 million bribe from Binance executive

On Friday, February 14, Tigran Gambaryan, Binance’s Head of Financial Crime Compliance, accused three Nigerian lawmakers —Ginger Onwusibe, Philip Agbese and Peter Akpanke — of demanding a $150 million bribe.

The alleged incident was said to have occurred during Gambaryan’s trip to Nigeria to resolve a dispute between the cryptocurrency exchange and Nigerian authorities.

This fact-check investigates the veracity of the claim.

The Claim
A Binance executive accused three Nigerian lawmakers of demanding a $150 million bribe to be paid into their individual crypto wallets during his dispute with authorities in Nigeria.

Background
In early 2024, Tigran Gambaryan and Nadeem Anjarwalla, both Binance executives, traveled to Nigeria to address regulatory issues between Binance and the Nigerian government.

During this period, Gambaryan alleged that he was approached by unidentified persons sent by Nigerian lawmakers who demanded money in exchange for settling the conflict.

Following this, Gambaryan was reportedly detained at Kuje Prison, where he claimed to have experienced harsh conditions. His release came after diplomatic interventions and international pressure.

However on Friday, the story took a different turn when Gambaryan allegedly accused three lawmakers of demanding a $150 million bribe to the personal crypto wallets of the legislators.

Verification
Checks revealed inconsistencies in Gambaryan’s claims. Although he had previously mentioned that unknown individuals came to his hotel room to demand money, there is no concrete evidence that the lawmakers directly requested a $150 million bribe.

Agbese, in his reaction to the claim, noted that he does not have a crypto account, neither was he present at the meeting where Gambaryan alleged the monetary demand was made.

Further checks show that the Binance executive has failed to provide evidence of the lawmakers’ alleged crypto accounts. Despite initially claiming that the lawmakers demanded to receive the $150 million through their personal cryptocurrency wallets, he has not furnished any account details to back this allegation.

Additionally, no credible evidence has been made public to corroborate the claims of either the bribe demand or the existence of the lawmakers’ crypto accounts. Inconsistent statements from the Binance executive also cast doubt on the reliability of his allegations.

Verdict
The claim that a Binance executive accused three Nigerian lawmakers of demanding a $150 million bribe is FALSE. No verifiable evidence supports this specific allegation.

By Jessica Toochi

Some Members of the House of Representatives, have advocated for tax incentives for businesses in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to thrive.

The Lawmakers made the call at the launch of an entrepreneurial centre, Dreamskin Luxe Empire in Abuja on Friday, to commemorate the celebration of the feast of St. Valentine.

The Member representing Abuja Municipal/Bwari Federal Constituency, Rep. Obika Chinedu, who said that the FCT is a thriving environment for businesses, called on the Local Governments in the FCT to encourage small businesses through “tax rebates” instead of shrinking the business environment with multiple taxes.

He said that multiple taxes " will discourage entrepreneurship and development in the area councils. You see some of those tax administrators will collect the tenament rates, business premises and all kinds of taxes.

"They should be able to harmonise them the way the tax will not be too much to pressure businesses to close. This is because, when businesses are closed, the people that are engaged in them will fall back to the streets; and an idle mind is devil's workshop.

"So the Area Councils, it is their duty to make sure that the businesses are encouraged through tax rebates or tax reduction.

"I am appealing to the Area Council Chairmen who represent AMAC and Bwari Area Councils, to look into the way and the model they are using to tax businesses in Abuja.

"Businesses like this that have sprung up should be encouraged. Instead of taxing them more, you should give them tax incentives to encourage them to employ more people or create more businesses.

"This will help to reduce unemployment. So we should be talking to them to make sure that they don't double tax these small young businesses that are springing up."

Also speaking, Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere representing Ideato Federal Constituency, said that the Tax Reform Bills, when passed, would give strong encouragement to small businesses.

This, he said was by "ensuring that more of the tax pressure was moved to big businesses and big people who are using lots of goods and so on and so forth and then limiting the impact on small businesses".

Rep. Chinwe Nnabuife, representing Orumba North/South Federal Constituency, on her part, called for more of public/private partnership to tackle unemployment.

She said that youths empowerment would tackle restiveness and agitations thereby resulting in self-sufficiency.

"When you empower somebody, you're giving the person the go-ahead to explore, to explode, and to be self-sufficient".

Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Dreamskin Luxe Empire, Mrs. Nancy Irole, said that seeing the Spa launched was "a dream come through".

"Dreamskin Luxe Empire isn’t just a spa or a beauty lounge. It’s a place designed for Nigerians to check their wellness, as they go about their normal businesses.

"A space where beauty, wellness, and self-care come together to create an experience that leaves you feeling refreshed, confident, and completely at ease".

On his party, Member representing Faskari/Kankara/Sabuwa Federal Constituency, Hon. Mohamed Jamilu, said only government cannot provide the needed jobs for the teeming youth, calling on relevant players in the private sector to partner with the government to address unemployment, youth empowerment and in order to curb insecurity and other social vices in the society.


Photocredit: OLUWATOBILOBA SOFOLABO

A civic organization, the Initiative Against Human Rights Abuse and Torture (INAHURAT), has called on President Bola Tinubu to order an independent investigation into allegations of conspiracy, forgery, theft, criminal trespass, and fraudulent property sales in Abuja.

The case involves multiple legal battles centered on the alleged wrongful sale of prime properties—Plots 1861, 1862, and 1863 in Katampe, as well as Plot 4022 in Guzape District of the Federal Capital Territory.

These properties, allegedly sold under fraudulent circumstances, belong to Mrs. Collen Mero Yesufu, a 79-year-old grandmother.

INAHURAT identified the key suspects as Rebecca Omokamo Godwin Isaac (also known as Bilikisu Ishaku Aliyu), Homadil Realty Limited, and others. Accusing the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, of shielding the suspects from proper investigation.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Chief Maxwell Chibuike Opara, Esq., of INAHURAT, decried alleged police efforts to frustrate justice. He claimed that since December 23, 2024, the group had been raising concerns about the case, particularly the police’s role in obstructing investigations.

INAHURAT emphasized the role of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which had already launched a diligent investigation, securing a court order for the forfeiture of the properties in question. Adding that the court had also required the suspect, Bilikisu Ishaku Aliyu, to explain why the properties should not be handed back to Mrs. Yesufu.

Furthermore, INAHURAT called on the National Assembly and other relevant oversight bodies to scrutinize the actions of the police and hold any involved officers accountable. They also called on the judiciary to remain vigilant and resist any attempts to manipulate or delay justice.

"On December 30, 2024, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued a public statement on behalf of the IGP, denying any interference and dismissing our claims as "mischief." He further stated that the IGP had "no business dealing with civil matters."

"However, in response to this misleading and inaccurate statement, we convened another press briefing on January 8, 2025, where we presented credible evidence of how the IGP had actively frustrated the investigation from the moment the petition was submitted to his office.

"We provided details on how the EFCC diligently carried out a thorough investigation, prepared a report, and proceeded to court for a forfeiture order against the suspects.

"We highlighted that the court had already ordered the suspect, Bilikisu Ishaq Aliyu, to show cause why the properties should not be forfeited to the rightful owner Mrs. Collen Mero Yesufu.

"We declared our loss of confidence in the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) regarding this case due to their complicity and deliberate obstruction of justice.

"We commended the EFCC for their professionalism and dedication in handling the matter fairly and without bias.

"Following our 8th January, 2025 press briefing, and in a clear attempt to cover up their complicity, the Nigerian Police hurriedly filed criminal charges against the suspect—not in the interest of justice, but rather to divert attention from their initial efforts to frustrate the case.

"Arraigned her in court secretly without the notice of the fraud victims and bail granted to her without any objection.

"This last-minute move is a calculated strategy aimed at: Creating a distraction from the evidence already presented against them.

"Undermining the EFCC's work by taking control of a case that is already far advanced under the EFCC’s jurisdiction.

"Further shielding the suspect from proper legal consequences through manipulations within the police system.

"Given these glaring abuses of power, we are calling on: His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to order a full-scale, independent investigation into this case, including the role played by the Nigerian Police Force in attempting to derail justice.

"The Inspector General of Police to immediately hands off this matter and allow the EFCC to continue with its legally sanctioned investigation and forfeiture process.

"The National Assembly and relevant oversight bodies to scrutinize the conduct of the police in this matter and ensure that officers who abuse their powers for personal or political interests are held accountable.

"The Nigerian Judiciary to remain vigilant against any form of manipulation by those who seek to obstruct justice through delay tactics and baseless criminal charges.

"The attempt by the Nigerian Police Force to manipulate this case, obstruct due process, and protect the suspect is a direct attack on justice and accountability.

"We refuse to standby while the rights of innocent citizens, especially vulnerable individuals like a 79-year-old grandmother, are trampled upon by those entrusted with upholding the law.

"We stand firm in our commitment to exposing human rights abuses and fighting for justice, and we will not relent until this matter is properly addressed. We call on the President, the EFCC, the Judiciary, and all relevant authorities to intervene immediately and ensure that justice prevails," the statement added.

By Yemi Itodo


Sokoto-born seasoned technocrat, Mr. Ibrahim Atiku has been appointed as Deputy Clerk to the National Assembly (DCNA), with effect from February 2, 2025.

This was contained in a letter dated 19th December, 2024 and signed by the Executive Chairman, National Assembly Service Commission (NASC), Engr. Ahmed Kadi Ahmshi.

Ahmshi said the decision was taken during the just concluded 616th Meeting of the Commission, held on Thursday, 19th December, 2024; in recognition of his "hard work" and "administrative competence".

"The National Assembly Service Commission, at its 616th Meeting held on Thursday, 19th December, 2024, approved your appointment as Deputy Clerk to the National Assembly with effect from 2nd February, 2025.

"This Appointment is in recognition of your hard work and administrative competence. It is therefore expected that you will continue to uphold the confidence reposed in you.

"While congratulating you on your appointment to this exalted position, please accept assurances of our highest esteem", the letter reads.

Until his appointment, Mr. Atiku was the Director, Finance and Account, House of Representatives, in National Assembly.

He is an Alumnus of Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto, and fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management. Atiku also obtained a Masters degrees in legislative studies as well as a Ph.D. in Legislative Studies.

Atiku also attended various courses home and abroad, among them are, the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Harvard University, USA, JF Kennedy School of Government USA, Duke University USA, West African Institute of Finance and Economic management, (WAIFEM), Harvard Business School USA, RIPA International UK. among others.

Recall that the NASC had last month, approved the appointment of Barr. Kamoru Ogunlana as Clerk to the National Assembly (CNA).

Both Ogunlana and Atiku are billed to resume their respective offices Feburary 2, 2025, when the current occupants of the offices shall be due for retirement.

T[b]he Alliance for Truth and Justice (ATJ) has strongly opposed a protest organized by groups affiliated with Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, which calls for the removal of Senator George Akume from his position as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF). [/b]

The ATJ views this protest as a concerning attack on a respected leader from Benue, raising issues about unity and priorities within the state.

In an official statement, ATJ President Aloysius Gbakaan expressed disappointment over Governor Alia's actions, calling them a betrayal of Benue's unity. Gbakaan highlighted that instead of promoting collaboration among the people, the governor is fostering division by targeting Senator Akume, a prominent figure who holds an important national position.

The statement reads: “We, the Alliance for Truth and Justice (ATJ), express our deepest shock, sadness and disappointment regarding the recent action taken by the groups under the aegis of Benue Renaissance and the Gubernatorial Liaison Officers, who staged a protest demanding the removal of Senator George Akume from his position as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF). The protest which was ostensibly instigated by Governor Hyacinth Alia, indicated a disturbing and condescending attack on a fellow Benue son and a respected leader who has been elevated to serve our great nation in a key position as the SGF.

“We hereby condemn this action for the following reasons:

“1. Betrayal of Benue Unity:
It is disheartening that Governor Alia, who should be working towards unity among the Benue people, has chosen to incite divisions by targeting Senator Akume and other prominent Benue sons. This betrayal is not just a personal attack; it also undermines the collective interests of our people.

“2. Misguided Priorities:
The first assignment given to the Gubernatorial Liaison Officers recently inaugurated by Governor Hyacinth Alia - to orchestrate the removal of a fellow Benue man from a sensitive federal position - reflects a severe misjudgment of priorities on the part of the governor. Rather than focusing on the development and welfare of Benue State, Governor Alia is directing efforts towards undermining a key representative of our people.

“3. Illusion of Power:
The belief that removing Senator Akume will bring any tangible benefits to Benue State is a mere mirage. Even if the SGF position were vacated by Senator Akume, as Governor Alia desperately wants, it is unrealistic to expect the seat to be filled by another Benue son. This is an oversimplified view of political influence that tends to ignore the complexities of federal appointments.

“4. A Long-standing Bond:
Senator Akume and President Bola Tinubu share a longstanding relationship built on mutual respect and collaboration. The petty local sentiments being inflamed by Governor Alia’s loyalists cannot and should not overshadow this bond. Such sentiments can only trivialize the hard work and dedication that both leaders have invested in their respective roles.

“5. A Note of Caution:
We caution those who are complicit in this campaign against Senator Akume. Their actions are not only threatening the political stability of Benue State but also disregarding the will of thousands of Benue people who stand in support of Senator Akume as the SGF. The backlash from our people will be significant, as we will not allow the greed and ambition of a few to dictate our collective future.

“Senator George Akume is doing a fantastic job in his position as the SGF by linking the centre with our dear state in various aspects of development. What Senator Akume deserves is maximum support not distractions and the insults being directed at him by individuals loyal to Alia and the Governor’s appointees.

“6. Call for Solidarity:
We urge the people of Benue State to recognize the importance of standing together in support of Senator George Akume who is representing us exceptionally well at the national level as the SGF. We must reject any attempts to castigate our leader in order to make him look bad before the rest of the country.

“If Governor Alia has wasted his goodwill and fallen out of favour with the majority of Benue people, he should not use SGF Akume as a straw to hold onto and prevent his political ship from sinking. He should sink alone and blame only himself.

“Finally, we demand an immediate cessation of these unwarranted attacks against Senator George Akume by Governor Alia and his band of supporters. The SGF is very busy coordinating administrative affairs for Mr President and the entire Federal Executive Council and deserves to be allowed to concentrate on his duties”, the group concluded.

Nigeria’s foremost public sector turnaround expert and former Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside, is billed to speak at the 36th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), South East Zone.

Chairman of Manufacturers, representing Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi zone, Lady Ada Chukwudozie disclosed this to newsmen on Monday.

The event, which holds at the BON Sunshine Hotels, Enugu, Enugu State between 27th to 28th November, 2024; is under the Chairmanship of Chief Martin Agbaso, MFR, (Ochudo of Igbo Land); while the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, RT. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, and Honourable Minister of State, Labour and Employment, RT. Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha are Special Guests.

According to Lady Ada, "the event will feature insightful discussions and showcase the innovation and productivity of our region".

She stressed that, Dr. Peterside is the Keynote Speaker for the AGM, while Dr. Nnaemeka Obiareri will serve as the Guest Speaker for the epoch event.

"We at Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Eastern Zone, are thrilled to unveil our amazing Keynote Speaker for our upcoming AGM , Enugu 2024. At MAN, we continue to add value, propelled by knowledge.

"Our AGM 2024 will be a revelation of the new spirit of propelling the economy through industrialization, particularly non-oil sector manufacturing . It will be an AGM like no other, bringing all key stakeholders under one roof to talk about a new Nigeria that is possible with manufacturers driving the change .

"Today, we spotlight the amazing Dr Dakuku Peterside, Nigeria's foremost public sector turnaround expert, author of two books, columnist , change agent and leadership Coach . We are proud to have Dr Peterside lead the engagement to see manufacturing contribute more to the GDP of the country", she said.

Also on his verified Instagram page, Dr. Peterside confirmed he would be attending the 36th AGM of MAN in Enugu State, as Keynote Speaker.

He wrote: "At the upcoming Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) Eastern Zone Annual General Meeting (AGM) on November 28, I am honored to speak on the theme ‘Revitalising Nigeria's Economy through Manufacturing-Driven Non-Oil Exports'.

"l am grateful for this opportunity to share ideas and thoughts on why the economy of our country is in distress, what can be done to get us out of the distress, and why industrialists, industries, and manufacturing concerns must play a key role in getting us out of the distress.

"Why the economic geography of Nigeria needs to change; why manufacturing is lagging behind; and what can be done to increase manufacturing contribution to GDP, national revenue, and employment creation.

"What needs to be in place for manufacturing to contribute maximally to economic growth? We can navigate through these economically challenging times if we are ready to press the reset button, and we can still build a compelling and fulfilling future. Come with me on this journey, and together we can help our country industrialise".

A former DG/CEO of NIMASA and a syndicated columnist, Dr. Peterside is a former Rivers State Commissioner for Works and a former Member of the National Assembly, where he served as Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum (Downstream) from 2011 to 2015.

During his recent assignment as Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Peterside was credited with initiating and delivering the most impactful turnaround in NIMASA’s history. While serving as the DG of this prominent maritime agency, he was elected as Chairman of the Association of African Maritime Administrations (AAMA), making him the first Nigerian to head that continental body".

The 2024 AGM is said to deliver actionable strategies and insights to place manufacturing in its rightful place in the national economy; as MAN Eastern Zone is set to drive positive change, and contribute to the ongoing transformation of the economy.

By Edwin Adakole

The Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO), once hailed as a symbol of promise and progress for the Idoma people, now teeters on the edge of institutional collapse. In what should be a time of growth and development, FUHSO is instead embroiled in a crisis driven by lawlessness, disregard for protocol, and, alarmingly, silence from key figures within the Idoma community.

This ongoing crisis centers around the imposition of Prof. Ediga Agbo, who, despite not being a staff member or a Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC), was appointed Acting Vice-Chancellor (VC) in violation of the clear directives set forth by the National Universities Commission (NUC). This disregard for established protocols not only tarnishes FUHSO’s reputation but also erodes the foundational principles upon which the university was built.

The Disregard for NUC Protocols: A Blow to Institutional Integrity

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has mandated a clear protocol for leadership transition across Nigerian universities: when a VC’s term ends, they must hand over to the most senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor. In the case of FUHSO, Prof. Stephen Abah, an accomplished academic and bonafide son of Idoma, holds the position of DVC (Academics) and ranks highest in seniority. His appointment as Acting VC was, therefore, not only rightful but also aligned with NUC guidelines.

FUHSO is no ordinary university. It was established as a specialized institution dedicated to the health sciences—a vital part of Nigeria’s higher education landscape, and a stepping stone for Idoma’s future in medical and scientific excellence. It’s a university whose primary mandate is to produce medical professionals, and its standards must reflect that specialized purpose. Yet, in a shocking turn of events, Prof. Ediga Agbo—neither a member of FUHSO’s staff nor a qualified medical professional was imposed on the university as Acting VC.

This act was not just a violation of protocol; it was a direct affront to due process and transparency. How can an unqualified leader hope to sustain or improve an institution that is already struggling with its own growth and development?

The Ripple Effect of Negligence and Impunity

The consequences of Agbo’s leadership reach far beyond administrative challenges. Agbo’s tenure thus far has included the removal of respected faculty members from critical meetings, the seizing of official vehicles from staff without justification, and even the locking of university gates in an attempt to prevent rightful university leaders from entering. Reports indicate that police and hired thugs now roam the campus, harassing and intimidating any staff members perceived as loyal to the legitimately reinstated Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Innocent Ujah.

This hostility and lawlessness have turned FUHSO from a sanctuary of learning into a militarized zone where students and faculty alike live in fear. Campus facilities remain virtually abandoned due to the fear of violence. Every day the crisis persists, Idoma loses one more step toward self-reliance, development, and a brighter future.

Crisis in Leadership: How FUHSO’s Governing Council Threatens Its Future

Governing councils are meant to guide universities towards growth and stability, but at the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO), the council under Engr. Ohieku Abdulsalami has brought about chaos instead.

Rather than respecting established protocols, the council appears to be running amok, blurring lines of authority and encroaching on daily operations in ways that threaten FUHSO’s core mission and integrity.

This overreach has manifested in decisions that defy both protocol and law. The appointment of Prof. Ediga Agbo as Acting Vice-Chancellor, despite him not being a staff member or the institution’s most senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, starkly violates National Universities Commission (NUC) protocols, which require an outgoing VC to hand over to the most senior DVC. At FUHSO, this is Prof. Stephen Abah, DVC (Academics), who was rightfully elected by the university senate. Yet the council bypassed him, imposing Agbo and creating a leadership crisis that has sparked tension and disrupted campus life.

The effects of this turmoil are undeniable. Faculty and students operate under fear of reprisal, classrooms stand empty, and security forces now patrol a campus once dedicated to research and teaching. FUHSO’s mission—to advance health sciences and serve as a beacon for Idoma and the nation—is jeopardized by this instability. The governing council’s actions are not merely administrative missteps; they are active threats to the institution’s future.

It’s time for accountability. The FUHSO governing council must answer for these disruptive actions, which risk not only the university’s reputation but its very ability to function. Silence from community leaders and stakeholders is no longer an option. FUHSO’s future depends on a return to order, respect for university governance, and a commitment to its foundational mission. Anything less risks destroying what this university stands for.

The Targeted Attacks on Prof. Stephen Abah: A Tribal Undercurrent

Prof. Stephen Abah’s character and qualifications make him a natural leader for FUHSO, an institution that serves as a beacon for the Idoma people. Yet, his ascension to Acting VC has made him a target. It’s been noted that Prof. Abah, an “Enone”—a sub-clan within Idoma—faces attacks from those who deem leadership within FUHSO the exclusive domain of “Enochi.” The caste-driven conflict is preventing an Idoma institution from fostering unity and excellence, damaging the credibility of a university that should be a pillar for all Idoma, not a select few.

Agbo’s appointment and the ensuing attacks on Prof. Abah represent more than just a leadership crisis; they signify a perilous tribal and political power struggle. This struggle, bolstered by a wealthy “Enochi” financier, has fostered an environment in which due process is subverted, unity is eroded, and impunity reigns.

The Dire Consequences of Silent Complicity

This unchecked lawlessness poses severe consequences for FUHSO, the Idoma people, and Nigeria’s higher education landscape. Without urgent action to restore order, FUHSO will be unable to fulfill its mission as a specialized health sciences institution.

Here’s what Idoma stands to lose:

1. Credibility in Health Sciences Education:

Allowing an unqualified Acting VC to lead FUHSO risks diluting the university’s focus on health sciences, hindering its ability to attract qualified staff and deliver top-tier education.

2. Threat to Students and Staff Safety:

The administration’s use of thugs and police to intimidate those supporting Prof. Abah has created a climate of fear on campus. Reports of harassment, gate lockouts, and confrontations have left the campus desolate, disrupting academic activities and posing a threat to students and faculty alike.

3. Erosion of Idoma’s Legacy:

FUHSO was built to serve as a lasting legacy for the Idoma people—a source of pride and a pathway for the next generation of medical and scientific professionals. Failure to uphold due process and unity erodes this legacy, reducing FUHSO to a mere pawn in personal and political agendas.

4. Stifling of Idoma’s Growth and Unity:

Silence from Idoma’s leaders in the face of such blatant injustice does more than allow chaos to continue; it implies acceptance. This crisis represents a critical moment for Idoma leadership, a chance to assert the value of integrity, unity, and excellence over division and impunity.

A Call for Accountability: Idoma’s Leaders Must Speak Up

The current trajectory of FUHSO’s administration, enabled by silence from within Idoma, puts the institution’s survival at risk. Idoma leaders—cultural, political, and community figures alike—must rise to the occasion. By remaining silent, they tacitly allow FUHSO’s future to be dictated by outsiders and undermine the very institution built to empower their youth.

The law, the NUC’s mandate, and the will of the FUHSO community unequivocally recognize Prof. Stephen Abah as the legitimate Acting VC. Agbo’s imposition, lacking any legal or ethical grounding, must be contested by all who value the rule of law.

This crisis is a defining moment for FUHSO and for Idoma itself. Will its leaders defend the principles of unity and integrity, or will they allow the erosion of a vital educational institution? Silence is not neutrality; it is complicity in the destruction of an institution that could empower generations.


(Adakole, President of Idoma Integrity Network, writes from Otukpo)

By Andrew Longyem

As the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) prepares for its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting later this month which may produce the next National Chairman of the party to take over from Ambassador Iliya Umar Damagum who has been acting in that capacity since the substantive National Chairman, Senator Iyorchia Ayu was ousted, some names have been mentioned as possible replacements for Ambassador Damagum. One of the names on the lips of key members of the party is a young, ebullient and charismatic leader from Benue State, Engr. Conrad Terhide Utaan. His other name is Nom-Or (meaning a man of courage).

Utaan, a humble, humane, proactive and brilliant Engineer cum seasoned administrator has emerged from the horizon as a beacon of hope, competence, and unity for the PDP at a time the party is witnessing internal challenges that require a man with the right temperament, credentials and mien to be trusted by all. With a rich tapestry of experience in both engineering and politics, Utaan stands out as the most suitable aspirant for the PDP National Chairmanship seat, poised to lead the PDP into a new era of success and relevance.


A Proven Track Record of Leadership

Born on the 13th of September, 1977 to the family of Elder and Mrs. Sylvester Tsegba Utaan of Ndzorov, Guma Local Government, Engr. Utaan’s journey began in Makurdi, Benue State, where his early education laid a solid foundation for both his academic and political pursuits. His leadership skills were first showcased during his university years at the Federal University of Agriculture, where he served as President of the Student Union Body and later as the Director of Sports. This early involvement in student governance honed his ability to unite diverse groups towards common goals—a skill crucial for the leadership of a national party like the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

Utaan’s subsequent forays into politics demonstrate his commitment to public service and party development. His nomination as a candidate for the House of Representatives election in 2015 further cemented his status as a key player in Benue State politics, despite not securing the seat.


A Visionary for Development

Utaan’s tenure as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Benue State on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) highlighted his ability to translate vision into action. Under his leadership, numerous healthcare facilities and essential infrastructure were established, directly impacting the lives of countless people in the state. His elevation as the Focal Person of the National Social Investments Programme in Benue State during the administration of Governor Samuel Ortom was equally impressive, where he successfully launched various social intervention initiatives, demonstrating his capacity to implement programmes that resonated with the needs of the populace.

These experiences have over the years equipped Engr. Utaan with the insights necessary to lead the PDP in crafting policies that are not only appealing to the electorate but also grounded in real-world needs and sustainable development.


A Unifying Force for the PDP

The PDP is at a crossroads, requiring a leader who can bridge divides and foster unity within its ranks. Engr Utaan, having experienced politics at different levels in his blistering public service career, embodies the type of inclusive leadership that can attract diverse membership while promoting party cohesion. His ability to engage with various stakeholders—from grassroots members to party stakeholders —positions him as a candidate who can harness the collective strengths of the PDP for successes in future elections.

Utaan’s educational background as a COREN certified Engineer, coupled with his memberships in professional bodies like the Nigerian Society of Engineers, underscores his commitment to excellence and accountability. These attributes are imperative for leading a party that must regain public trust and confidence in its ability to govern effectively.


A Commitment to Family and Society

Beyond his political and professional achievements, Engr. Utaan is a devoted family man, married to his college fiancé and is a father of five. This personal commitment reflects values of dedication, responsibility, and integrity—traits that resonate deeply with the Nigerian electorate. Utaan’s understanding of the challenges faced by families across the nation places him as a relatable and empathetic leader, capable of addressing the concerns of every party member and other Nigerians.


The Right Choice for PDP

Engr. Conrad Terhide Utaan’s blend of political experience, professional expertise, and personal values makes him the ideal candidate for the PDP National Chairmanship. By choosing Utaan, the PDP will not only get a leader with a rich history of service but also reaffirm its commitment to overcome its challenges and march forward. Utaan is not merely asking to replace Ayu because he hails from the same Zone as the former National Chairman. He is offering the PDP a veritable alternative that can work in the interest of all party members.

The time has come for the PDP to make a decisive choice, and Engr. Conrad Terhide Utaan is that choice!


(Longyem, a public affairs analyst writes from Jos, Plateau State).

The G-14 group of elders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State has told a former of the state, Senator Gabriel Suswam that he lacks the powers to dissolve the it, but can only resign his membership.

The group says it exists as a voluntary, non-statutory body of the PDP with the objective of complementing the work of the statutory organs of the party towards fostering unity, harmony and its continual growth and cannot be unilaterally disbanded as claimed by Senator Suswam.

The G-14 in a statement on Saturday, September 28, 2024 signed by its Chairman, Dr. Laha Dzever and made available to journalists explained that the group was formed in 2015 when the PDP lost the Governorship and two Senate seats in Benue and was in disarray with the view of repositioning the party.

The statement reads, “Our attention has been drawn to remarks credited to former Benue State Governor, Senator Gabriel Suswam, to the effect that he has disbanded the G-14 Group of Elders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and replaced it with another body.

“We understand that those remarks were made at a meeting he held with leaders and members of our great party last Thursday in Makurdi, and following due consultations with members of the G-14 , we make the following clarifications:

“That G-14 is a voluntary, non statutory body functioning in the PDP with the singular objective of complementing the work of the statutory organs of the party towards fostering unity, harmony and its continual growth. This objective essentially was the motivation behind the founding of the group in the year 1998 and remains its propelling force.

“That G-14, by its nature and formative history, is not in the ownership of any individual and cannot be so disbanded, as is being claimed Senator Suswam purports to have done. Senator Suswam is a member of the G14, like every other member , and can only resign his membership if and when he no longer sees the need to continue with such membership. He has neither the proprietary right nor locus whatsoever to disband G14.

“That for emphasis, G-14 came into existence and embarked on a mission to rescue PDP in the aftermath of the disastrous loss of the 2015 elections under the leadership of Senator Suswam then as governor, including his own Senate seat. The group in pursuit of its Rescue Agenda had invited Senator Suswam as the Leader of the PDP in Benue State then, to take a place on its leadership structure as a Co-Chairman alongside the substantive Chairman in the person of Elder Dr. Laha Dzever.

“That as is the established tradition, the Co-Chairmannship status in the group rightly fell to His Excellency, Chief Samuel Ortom when he emerged as Leader of the PDP in 2018, a position hr has been discharging to date with utmost sense of responsibility and statesmanship. This remains to date the leadership structure operational in G-14 and the status of the group remains unchanged as a voluntary group of party elders drawn from the 14 local government areas of the Benue North-East (Zone 'A') and Benue North-West (Zone 'B').

“That as elder statesmen and women of proven integrity in the PDP, we are mindful of the unfortunate circumstances of the crisis which has befallen our dear great party, PDP, lately, and do see a need now, as we saw in 2015, to rise to the occasion to rescue PDP. The G14 will not relent in its efforts to rebuild the party, to reposition it to reclaim power in 2027, and for the restrengthening of the common bonds which hold us together as a political family, and our shared values under the same political umbrella. We, therefore, will at all times tow the path of peace and oneness of purpose.

“That we are aware of Senator Suswam's contributions to this great party, the PDP, and as elders we understand the pressures which the current crisis in our party has occasioned on its leaders, Senator Suswam, inclusive. We, therefore, understand that he may have made such remarks purporting to disband G-14 without thinking clearly enough through it. For under different circumstances, Senator Suswam as a lawyer will be mindful that he is not either the PDP State Chairman nor the National Chairman of PDP and he is not in a position to disband G-14 but only has the right to resign his membership from G14.

“That we remain more than ever committed to the ideals which motivated the founding of G-14 and in line with those ideals, we will redouble our efforts to find lasting solutions to those issues causing crisis in our great party. We will explore all avenues open to us to seek the achievement of reconciliation, peace and stronger unity in the ranks of the PDP in Benue just as we did in 2015 when PDP lost power to APC.

“That we call for a de-escalation of tensions by leaders and members of our great party, no matter their grievances, and for all of us to take deliberate steps towards the convergence of ideas and efforts to place PDP above individual interests. The dialogue table, as always, remains superior to weapons and the passions of war.

“That G-14 will continue to work with the statutory as well as conventional organs of the party towards the attainment and sustenance of its best interests at all times. We acknowledge the exceptional sacrificial support being given to the running of the party in state by its College of leaders led by His Excellency Chief Samuel Ortom; Senate Minority Leader, Senator Patrick Abba Moro and State Caretaker Chairman of the party, Senator Napoleon Bali and the Caretaker State Working Committee.

“That in line with the best interests of the party, we acknowledge and express confidence in the work of the National Working Committee of our great party under the leadership of Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagun. We urge all party men ana women to sustain their loyalty to the party in the faith that we will weather the storms of crisis currently with us and emerge stronger than ever” it concluded.

A group of Nigerians has taken Cashcraft Asset Management Company Limited to the National Assembly over a failed investments totaling more than N8 billion.

The group in a petition to the House of Representatives, demanded the intervention of the parliament to help it recover the trapped funds.

The petition was sponsored on its behalf by a member representing Awka North/South Federal Constituency of Anambra State in the House of Representatives, Hon. Professor Obiageli Lilian Orogbu.

She told the House in plenary that the Nigerians involved in the investment were 9,326 and prayed the parliament to ensure that the Cashcraft Asset Management Company Limited was compelled to fulfill its contractual obligations to the subscribers.

Honourable Orogbu further disclosed that the company, a duly licensed stock broker by the Nigerian Stock Exchange, (NSE) had marketed an investment portfolio described as Personal Earning and Annuity Scheme which they embraced and invested their hard earned money.

She noted that it was regrettable that the the company after extorting so much money from those innocent Nigerian failed to offer them both return on their investments and the capital they invested.

Professor Orogbu consequently urged the House to direct its Committee on Public Petitions to take over the matter and ensure that Cashcraft fulfill its part of the obligations to the subscribers stressing that some of the victims were already going into depression because of the failed involvement.

••• Presents N500k Cheques Each To 45 Students

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on Thursday, flagged-off the distribution of 16,800 bags of fertilizers to the people of Akwa Ibom State.

This intervention was in fulfillment of his promise of qualitative and effective representation to the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District

He also used the flag- off ceremony to personally present the second tranche of cheques of N500,000 Naira each to 45 students of tertiary institutions on the platform of the Godswill Akpabio Scholarship Scheme.

Speaking at the ceremony in Ukana, Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio charged the beneficiaries under the aegis of the Godswill Akpabio Back To Farm Initiative ( GABFI), to ensure judicious application of the substance for better yields in the next harvest season.

A statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, quoted the Senate President, as saying, " when I was campaigning to be your Senator, I promised to give you quality and effective representation by influencing life changing projects, human capital development and empowerment to you people. Today, we are gathered here to fulfil that solemn promise I made while asking for your votes.

"Today's flag-off has nothing to do with political party affiliation. It is meant for farmers across party lines. It is intended to ensure that there is food security in Nigeria. Hunger knows no political party. It is my hope that in the next harvest period, we will have enough to eat and to spare."

According to Akpabio, "the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Tinubu -led administration is to ensure that we eat what we produce and produce what we eat. I thank Mr President for supporting the back to land programme by approving the release of free fertilizers to the local farmers. I hereby, flag- off this distribution on behalf of our president."

The distribution of another 16,800 bags of rice was also flagged-off by the President of the Senate, who directed that it be shared across all the three Senatorial districts in the state.

Akpabio was accompanied to the flag- off, presentation and distribution ceremony by his wife, Mrs Unoma, the Deputy Senate Whip, Onyekachi Nweboyin, Senators Eteng Williams and Ita Enang.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3HC2WFx2L4

The ongoing legal proceedings against businessman Akintoye Akindele appear to have stalled, raising questions about the status of the case.


Akindele faces multiple criminal investigations and is under scrutiny by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigerian Senate, and the House of Representatives over a $35 million investment in his Atlantic Refinery project by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

Reports suggest that the refinery project may be a "white elephant" venture, with little to show for the significant investment. While initial interest in the case was high, progress seems to have slowed. Akindele is reportedly out of the country, citing medical treatment as the reason for his absence.

However, there have been multiple sightings of Akindele in various countries, raising doubts about his health claims. He was recently spotted in London’s West End and has also been seen in France and Portugal, where he reportedly attended a celebrity wedding.

Akindele is also accused of falsely telling people their funds were being invested in businesses. However, the money allegedly never reached the intended ventures.

Earlier this year, the Inspector General of Police filed a four-count charge against Akindele, accusing him of diverting $5,636,397.01 and N73,543,763.25 from Summit Oil International Ltd. The alleged offenses, detailed in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CR/570/2023, occurred between 2017 and 2021.

In addition, Akindele was sued by the Nigerian Police Force for attempting to bribe the investigative team handling the case. He allegedly offered N150 million to officers investigating a petition submitted by Summit Oil International Ltd. regarding allegations of criminal conspiracy, diversion of funds, and theft.

In a related development, popular artist and entrepreneur Lanre Dabiri, also known as Eldee, shared his personal experience with Akindele in an interview with Teju Babyface. Eldee alleged that Akindele entered into a partnership with him to build an entertainment company, raised funds from investors, but never provided the money to the business. According to Eldee, the company collapsed due to lack of funding, while investors were told the venture had failed. Eldee claims this pattern has been repeated multiple times.

Akindele has also been accused of misleading young entrepreneurs by promising to raise funds for their businesses, only to take unpaid shares in these companies without delivering on his promises.

With Akindele currently on bail abroad and his legal proceedings in limbo, observers and those with vested interests in the case are questioning whether he will ever face justice. Many are calling for his prosecution to proceed and for him to be held accountable if found guilty of the numerous allegations against him.

The ongoing legal proceedings against businessman Akintoye Akindele appear to have stalled, raising questions about the status of the case.

Akindele faces multiple criminal investigations and is under scrutiny by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigerian Senate, and the House of Representatives over a $35 million investment in his Atlantic Refinery project by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

Reports suggest that the refinery project may be a "white elephant" venture, with little to show for the significant investment. While initial interest in the case was high, progress seems to have slowed. Akindele is reportedly out of the country, citing medical treatment as the reason for his absence.

However, there have been multiple sightings of Akindele in various countries, raising doubts about his health claims. He was recently spotted in London’s West End and has also been seen in France and Portugal, where he reportedly attended a celebrity wedding.

Akindele is also accused of falsely telling people their funds were being invested in businesses. However, the money allegedly never reached the intended ventures.

Earlier this year, the Inspector General of Police filed a four-count charge against Akindele, accusing him of diverting $5,636,397.01 and N73,543,763.25 from Summit Oil International Ltd. The alleged offenses, detailed in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CR/570/2023, occurred between 2017 and 2021.

In addition, Akindele was sued by the Nigerian Police Force for attempting to bribe the investigative team handling the case. He allegedly offered N150 million to officers investigating a petition submitted by Summit Oil International Ltd. regarding allegations of criminal conspiracy, diversion of funds, and theft.

In a related development, popular artist and entrepreneur Lanre Dabiri, also known as Eldee, shared his personal experience with Akindele in an interview with Teju Babyface. Eldee alleged that Akindele entered into a partnership with him to build an entertainment company, raised funds from investors, but never provided the money to the business. According to Eldee, the company collapsed due to lack of funding, while investors were told the venture had failed. Eldee claims this pattern has been repeated multiple times.

Akindele has also been accused of misleading young entrepreneurs by promising to raise funds for their businesses, only to take unpaid shares in these companies without delivering on his promises.

With Akindele currently on bail abroad and his legal proceedings in limbo, observers and those with vested interests in the case are questioning whether he will ever face justice. Many are calling for his prosecution to proceed and for him to be held accountable if found guilty of the numerous allegations against him.